The UK events sector is buoyant, but there is a need to address 'skyrocketing' client expectations, according to a new report by BCD M&E.
The agency's 8th annual What’s Trending 2025 report looks at key trends shaping the industry with region-specific insights alongside an international perspective. It also highlights five essential
destinations, specifically geared toward incentive travel.
Writing in the report, Helen McCabe, UK managing director of BCD M&E, said: "The mood across the UK is buoyant, as volume and
opportunities have returned to levels we saw pre-pandemic. Clients continue to want to hold meetings,
though we’re increasingly having to boost creativity to combat flat budgets or very small
increases and deliver more for their money.
"There’s a need to address skyrocketing expectations, in that
every year we add more value to a customer’s experience or event, and we must build upon
that the following year. The question becomes: How do we continue to evolve and go from good to
great, when “great” one year is just “good” the next?"
She added that the consolidation of agencies throughout the UK is creating "a new picture" for BCD M&E, and revealed that procurement being involved in purchasing meetings and events
is now the norm.
On the venue side, McCabe said that the reduction of the leisure market has added additional pressure for meetings
and events, with venues standing firm on the acceptance of client demands. Destination-wise, she added that London is a hot spot, but the expense of holding events in the capital is "tipping some organisations out of the city".
The full report dives into topics such as how geopolitical influences, the need for personalisation, sustainability goals and evolving technologies impact an organisation’s approach to its meetings and events programmes.
“Looking ahead to 2025, the meetings and events industry is set for strong growth, but we can’t ignore the geopolitical and economic landscape shaping strategies,” said Bruce Morgan, global president of BCD M&E. “There is a continued need for cost control while delivering creative and impactful solutions. I’m optimistic and energised that we’ll continue to push forward – led by our greatest asset, our people.”
Download the full report here.
