AI, human connection and the future of events: the conversations shaping The Meetings Show 2026 

Moving beyond AI as a gimmick   

For many speakers, one of the biggest conversations will be around how technology can enhance - rather than replace - the human experiences that sit at the heart of events.   

Claudia Stephenson, managing director at INVNT EMEA, says: “As AI and immersive innovation radically redefine the ‘experience economy,’ our industry is at a critical inflection point.”   

Her session with Peter Clarke will explore how the industry can move “from passive observation to true co-creation”, using technology “not as a gimmick, but as a conduit for deep human connection”.   

“This show is the essential playground for those of us looking to bridge the gap between creative spark and commercial impact,” she adds.   

That focus on fresh thinking and new approaches is echoed by Remotely Human’s Gerrie Hawes, who says: “The Meetings Show is brilliant for finding fresh ideas. Meeting content doesn’t have to be serious to talk about serious subjects. Sometimes playful content is exactly what’s needed to provoke vital conversations.” 

The enduring value of face-to-face 

While technology continues to transform the industry, exhibitors and buyers say the importance of bringing people together remains central. 

Maria Tsierkezos, director client growth & marketing at Nteractive, says: “What I am really looking forward to is the energy of the conversations. The Meetings Show is one of those events where you actually leave with new ideas, fresh perspectives and people you genuinely want to keep talking to long after the event ends.” 

For international buyers, the opportunity to connect with the European meetings community remains a major draw. 

Jenny Judge, director of conferences at The L Suite, says: “As a US-based events professional, I’m thrilled for the rare opportunity to connect in-person with vendors across Europe that align with my company's ambitions for overseas events easily in one place.” 

She adds: “The Meetings Show is gearing up to be an incredible environment for those of us in the industry to exchange ideas, build meaningful relationships, and be inspired alongside our fellow event professionals.”

Beyond logistics: designing experiences that matter 

The show will also reflect the changing expectations of planners, with greater emphasis on wellbeing, accessibility and the wider delegate experience.

Rachel Phillips, sales director at The Celtic Collection, says: “The expectation has shifted. Buyers are looking beyond the traditional conference set-up towards experiences that actively shape energy, focus and connection across the day.

“At The Celtic Collection, we’re seeing growing demand for meetings that balance business with wellbeing in a more thoughtful way,” she adds. 

Accessibility and inclusion will also be high on the agenda, with ICC Wales using the show to highlight its work in creating more inclusive events. 

Amy Phillips, head of sales at ICC Wales, says: “This year I’m particularly looking forward to spotlighting our ongoing work on accessibility and inclusion in events.”

Alongside Dr Shani Dhanda and M&IT editor Paul Harvey, she will discuss findings from the venue’s ‘Access All Areas: Closing the Accessibility Gap in Events’ research and explore “how the industry can turn insight into meaningful action”.