While planners consistently referenced budget parameters as their biggest challenge, in a surprise shift "location" led as the most important consideration in selecting a venue.
ENGLEWOOD, COLO. – US management company, Destination Hotels & Resorts, has released the results of their annual ‘State of the Meetings Industry’ survey. The inaugural edition of the study identifies six key trends for meetings and group travel in the coming year. Utilizing a diverse dataset of industry experts, the survey included responses from more than 380 meeting planners specializing in a variety of group segments including corporate, government, and Association.
The results, compiled into a single research whitepaper yielded six specific trends for hotels and resorts to take note of for the coming year, and one overarching theme: cautious optimism.
“In almost every segment, we’re seeing positive indicators that 2013 will be a growth year for groups and meetings,” stated Andre Fournier, vice president of sales & marketing of Destination Hotels & Resorts. “More than 30% of planners expect an increase in the number of meetings for 2013. Most planners felt budgets have stabilized, with 20% anticipating increased budget flexibility in the coming year,” notes Fournier.
Examples of identified 2013 trends and focal areas detailed in the Destination research whitepaper include:
- Location, Location, Location – While planners consistently referenced budget parameters as their biggest challenge, in a surprise shift “location” led as the most important consideration in selecting a venue (with “rate,” “flexible space” and “amenities” following closely behind).
- Technology – More than 36% noted an increase in technology integration with meetings compared to a year ago, with strong indications that the trend will continue.
- What’s on the Table Matters More than Who’s in the Kitchen – Surprisingly, after years of seeing big-name chefs attach their moniker to hotel and resort restaurants, meeting planners were very clear on one thing: they don’t care. Less than 10% cited a ‘signature chef’ as an important factor in how they evaluate culinary options. What do they care about? Diverse culinary offerings, smart, well-planned meals and Complete Meeting Packagesthat focus on health and nutrition (43%) as well as specialized dietary offerings (35%).
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
