Industry
Tourism Trends Reshape Events
The global tourism industry is experiencing significant shifts in 2025, presenting both challenges and opportunities for meeting and event planners. Understanding these trends is crucial for crafting successful events that resonate with today's travelers.
One Month Into REAL ID
It’s been just over a month since the REAL ID Act finally took flight—literally. For the meetings and events industry, the ripple effects have been swift, sometimes jarring, and surprisingly revealing.
When the World Shifts, So Must We
A recent study by The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau, in collaboration with the European Society of Association Executives (ESAE), reveals a sobering reality: 88% of associations believe geopolitical instability will impact their operations — and 85% say it already has.
American Airlines and DFW Airport To Build New Terminal
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), already a powerhouse in global connectivity, is set to solidify its position as a premier gateway with an ambitious expansion plan for Terminal F. American Airlines and DFW Airport have unveiled a significantly enhanced vision, nearly doubling the initial investment to approximately $4 billion.
Border Wars
Is international travel to the United States really in free fall? For the meetings and events industry—an ecosystem that thrives on international collaboration and cross-border attendance—the answer isn’t just academic. It’s existential.
MGM and Marriott Offer Planners and Attendees Dual Loyalty Perks
MGM Resorts and Marriott International have added powerful new incentives for those booking meetings and events across Las Vegas and beyond. Under the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy umbrella, the two hospitality giants are rolling out expanded loyalty benefits designed to reward both planners and attendees—a rare dual-track approach in the industry.
AI Arrives to Streamline Event Contracts
The often-clogged arteries of commerce – contracts – are about to get a high-tech intervention. Docusign, a leader in the digital signatures space, is stepping into the age of artificial intelligence, unveiling a suite of "AI contract agents"
Balloon Payments
The recently released Global DMC Partners (GDP) Meetings & Events Pulse Survey, finds that budgets have tightened in 2025. Downward trending budgets and rising costs is one of the key challenges facing the industry this year.
Stage Presence
Regional theaters around the country might be an inexpensive source of on-site entertainment for meetings and events. For example, instead of a generic awards dinner, your attendees could enjoy a bespoke performance by a local company, tailored to your event's theme.
Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) 2025
On Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) 2025, April 3rd, the industry celebrated with a global movement highlighting the impact of meetings, trade shows, conferences, and events, featuring events, open houses, and advocacy efforts across six continents.
