3 Event Trends in 2022 That Will Affect Meetings and Group Business

From the beginning of 2020 when the pandemic hit, events have had to shift and scale in order to survive. With major social issues having a big impact on 2022 event trends, we wanted to dig deep into what to expect when it comes to in-person and digital events, corporate responsibility and sustainability, and an influx of people leaving their jobs. At Piovra Group, we consider ourselves event management professionals, so we like to be ahead of the trends so that we can best guide our clients as we navigate the landscape together.

In-Person and Digital Events

While most are foreseeing that in-person events will return in 2022, there is still uncertainty around what that looks like. With social distancing still being a main focus at events, things like capacity and event space floor plans will need to be considered. Special event venues and additional services could also see a spike in demand so making sure timelines and budgets are set in motion is a must.

With in-person events returning, there will be heightened awareness around health and safety. Whether you’re looking for a smaller meeting space in California or a larger conference venue, making sure attendees feel confident and safe attending will be crucial. Providing enough sanitation stations in comparison to attendance and taking a closer look at seating arrangements are great examples of how hosts can get ahead of safety.

While in-person events are predicted to make a come-back, the landscape for events has very much changed. There is now higher demand for a hybrid mix of in-person and virtual events. Not only is this format more sustainable and affordable, but it allows an event to reach a wider audience. With virtual reality experiences being more accessible and affordable, we foresee this being a trend that stays for a while. This increases the quality of production for events and is great for entertaining, demonstrations and interactive tours.

Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability

Consumers are hyper-focused on more sustainable business practices and maximized effort for corporate responsibility. That can translate into the event space in a few different ways. We always think it’s important to see what you have already. Do you have items, décor, props and furniture that can be reused and recycled so you are not starting from scratch every time? Can you add social value by donating to certain programs that are aligned with your business beliefs? Can you give back to the community by offering free lectures or teaching a skill set? These are great ways to start becoming more corporately responsible and sustainable. 

This can also come to life in a more literal way as well. Can you have smaller events so you don’t need as many materials? Can the events be closer in proximity so that people don’t have to drive as far? Can you encourage virtual attendance so there are less people in-person? These are easy fixes right off the bat that can contribute to your success. 

Influx of Resignations

Another trend that is affecting meetings and group business is an influx of resignations. Employees are no longer simply concerned with how much they are being paid. They want to know how their role contributes to the company’s success, how work-life balance is incorporated into the culture, and whether personal health and mental health are prioritized. Finding and retaining talent will be difficult and often leaves planners feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.

Event professionals will need to set boundaries to prevent burning out altogether. Companies will need to make sure they are treating employees with respect, providing generous compensation, offering benefits and promoting a healthy and engaging company culture that makes employees stick around. If not, you will be subject to scrutiny as any other company would be. 

At Piovra Group, we are always here to discuss with our clients the trends we are seeing in the market. We want to be a helping hand as we navigate this ever-changing landscape of events together. Get in touch with us to book your next private or corporate event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you think it’s a miss to only have people in-person for events?
A: Quite frankly, yes. We feel you would be reducing your attendance numbers by opting out of providing a digital way to join. You can reach a larger audience this way.

Q: What do you think is the quickest way we can begin to focus on sustainability?
A: We would say recycling and reusing. Managing your inventory and seeing what can be repurposed will reduce your overall waste.

Q: If we do not have a thriving company culture, how do we start?
A: Making your employees feel valued. Can you add surprise and delight throughout their day? Do they get a monthly email showing the impact their teams have made this month? Showing your employees you care goes a long way.