Europe: Research by Cvent reveals that duty of care remains the top priority for event planners, with health and safety considerations as most likely to influence the selection of a venue.
Cvent commissioned independent research company Censuswide to survey more than 700 event planners, managers, coordinators and directors across France, Germany, Netherlands, Spain, and the UK.
Nearly six in ten event planners are struggling to reschedule in-person events in 2021 because of insufficient health and safety protocols at venues. However with a majority (52 per cent) expecting to spend more in 2021 than 2019, it highlights opportunity for hotels with high health and safety standards to attract business.
Hybrid events are also likely to grow in popularity through 2021 and beyond. Over three-quarters of surveyed planners are considering hosting a hybrid event next year, adding an online element to the experience.
Venues are expected to be ready to support hybrid events, therefore technology also ranked as an important consideration on both the planning and delivery side. 77 per cent of respondents said reliable, fast connectivity and A/V equipment is valued most highly in terms of enabling a hybrid experience.
“As the world plans for recovery, hotels and venues will play a critical role in the successful return to in-person events, and this year’s Planner Sentiment and Sourcing Report will help hospitality professionals throughout Europe maximise the impact of their sales and marketing efforts,” said Chris McAndrews, vice president of marketing for Cvent Hospitality Cloud. “While it has been a challenging year, the results of this study show planners are looking ahead to a brighter future. As such, it is vital that venues continue to adapt to meet new planner expectations so that they’re well-prepared to thrive in the years ahead.”
