Fam trips under fire? Sparks set to fly at the Industry Great Debate 2026
If you thought January was the month for easing gently into the year, think again...
The AIEA Industry Great Debate 2026 is back – and if the speaker line-up is anything to go by, this year’s showdown at the Cambridge Union Chamber is set to be the spiciest yet.
On Thursday 15 January, six brave souls from across the events world will step up to argue one of the sector’s knotty, nostalgic and sometimes controversial topics: “This house believes the integrity of familiarisation trips is being compromised.”
And if their pre-debate comments are any indication… we’re in for a night.
Meet the speakers
Team Opposition (disagreeing with the motion)
Emma Waycot, Vine Tree Connections, is stepping out from behind two years on the organising committee and into the spotlight, and she couldn’t be more energised.
Emma Waycot
Emma Waycot
“I’ve watched this debate evolve into such an iconic date in the diary. This year, I wanted to step up to the stage on a topic I feel genuinely passionate about,” she says.
“I’m bringing a positive mindset and a strong belief in the value of fam trips - the relationships they create, the financial impact, the human connection. When done with integrity, they’re still absolutely vital to our industry. And with the atmosphere of the Cambridge Union? It’s surreal, honestly. A privilege.”
Andrew Woods, Leonardo Hotels, and Peter Jackson from Red Blaze Trust round out the Opposition, and Jackson, in particular, is ready for battle.
“My driver now is to give back to the industry that’s fed and clothed me for over 35 years,” he explains. “Events like this let us air knotty issues in a safe space. I’ll be listening, learning, and applying the insights - but let’s be honest, the primary objective is to win. My mother would have been proud.”
Peter Jackson
Peter Jackson
Team Proposition (agreeing with the motion)
Chris Clarke, Purple Dog Solutions, starts strong by admitting the whole idea terrifies him - which, naturally, is why he said yes.
Chris Clarke
Chris Clarke
“What is it they say… ‘do something that scares you every day’? Well, this terrifies me,” he laughs. “But I’ve lamented about this topic more times than I can count, so now I can’t be accused of lobbing bricks from the sidelines. I just hope I don’t come across as the industry moaner - because I genuinely believe fams have value… when they’re not just ‘bums on seats’ exercises.”
Catherine Chaulet, president and CEO of Global DMC Partners, and Katie Niland from The Belfry, complete the Proposition team - and Katie is shaping up to be very quotable on the night.
“I simply couldn’t say no to Kerry and Sabine - they’re dangerously persuasive!” she admits. “I’m thrilled, and slightly amused; they know exactly what they’ve let themselves in for. I love a good debate, and I’ve got a clear stance on this year’s topic. The Cambridge Union has seen icons - and now they’re getting me… oh dear!”
Katie Niland
Katie Niland
Why this debate matters
Beyond the humour and the theatrics, every speaker agrees: this is an industry that thrives on conversation. And fam trips - their value, their evolution, their ethics - spark some of the biggest.
These debates shine a light on uncomfortable questions, spark genuine reflection and remind us that growth happens when we challenge perspectives rather than whisper about them in hotel lobbies.
Once the final foot-vote is cast, the conversation will spill over into The Orator Bar - where, if history repeats itself, the “real debate” begins.
Tickets are free, capacity is limited, and the opinions will be limitless.
Register now - because this edition of the Industry Great Debate is shaping up to be unforgettable.