The Events Industry Council (EIC) unveiled its Futures Landscape Project at a press conference at IMEX Frankfurt today (May 15), a comprehensive initiative aimed at understanding and influencing the critical trends shaping the business events sector.
The project, a year-long collaborative initiative, aims to equip industry leaders with the tools and knowledge needed to anticipate and influence future trends, ensuring that the industry can continue to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.
Ana María Viscasillas, board chair of EIC and past vice president for COCAL (Confederation of Latin American Associations of Congress Organisers), detailed the project’s scope: “This project is a combination of efforts from our members and partners, focusing on critical issues and trends that impact our industry. Our goal is to influence these trends positively, and prepare our industry for future challenges.”
The project will involve a series of consultations with EIC members and partners, leading to the development of a comprehensive survey designed to gather broad input from stakeholders. It will also draw on the collective insights and expertise of more than 50 association and corporate members, and hundreds of volunteers worldwide. This data will inform the final report, set to be released by end 2024 which will offer a roadmap for the industry to navigate future trends proactively.
Amy Calvert, president and CEO of EIC, also highlighted the industry’s resilience and recovery post-2019 and 2020. She noted the significant progress reflected in EIC’s latest barometer report and emphasised the catalytic impact of business events in driving industry-wide changes.
She noted: “The power of business events lies in their ability to foster innovation, collaboration, and economic growth. The Futures Landscape Project is a testament to our commitment to preparing our industry for the future, fostering sustainable practices, and driving positive change.”
Sherrif Karamat, president and CEO of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) and EIC’s immediate past chair, further highlighted the economic significance of the business events industry, which would rank as the 13th largest country by GDP.
“Our industry’s economic impact is immense, but our responsibility extends beyond economic contributions to include social and environmental stewardship. We are committed to achieving the highest standards of sustainability and advocating for our industry’s positive societal impact,” he added.
Senthil Gopinath, ICCA’s CEO and EIC’s chair-elect, pointed out: “EIC’s initiatives, like the economic impact study and climate resiliency work, provide invaluable data and insights. These efforts are essential for advocating the importance of our industry globally, and ensuring that we continue to make a positive impact.”
