'Many factors to consider' as events and meetings return - Marriott
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'Many factors to consider' as events and meetings return - Marriott
A new survey from Marriott Bonvoy has revealed a 50-50 split between respondents who intend to proceed with offline events as travel restrictions are eased and those who will continue with the virtual format.
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Marriott InternationalOne of the virtual meetings held through Marriott International.
There is still uncertainty about how best to proceed with business meetings and events in the APEC region, despite the easing of restrictions of travel in some jurisdictions, new research has found.
A Marriot Bonvoy survey more than 500 respondents, including event and meeting planners, administrative support staff and those in management roles across multiple industries in APEC, found that while meetings and events are slowly returning, there is many factors to consider when it comes to the planning stages.
Of those surveyed, half said they would continue with offline events, but there was also a high volume of concerns around government regulations (45 per cent), and safety and hygiene standards of venue (30 per cent), amongst many others.
Marriott Bonvoy Business Travel and the Future of Meetings survey - At a glance:
- 50 per cent of meeting planners in Asia Pacific plan on hosting physical events.
- 36 per cent of the respondents are planning to host more hybrid events – this means combining physical and livestreaming elements to maximise reach, across geographical restrictions.
- 70 per cent of respondents prefer domestic destinations.
Source: Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott International Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China) President Rajeev Menon said the "new world" resulting from the pandemic had required a different elevated experience for guests across dvarious sectors and markets.
“We are seeing leisure travel slowly returning, followed by business and then groups," he said.
Source: Marriott Bonvoy
"And with our Commitment to Clean initiative, we are ready to welcome guests back to our hotels around the world, providing them with a safe environment that aligns with expert protocols to travel and connect with confidence.”
Source: Marriott Bonvoy
While offline events might be a popular choice, 36 per cent of the respondents in the survey said they were planning to host more hybrid events, which combine physical and livestreaming elements to maximise reach.
Up 70 per cent of respondents said they would also prefer domestic destinations.
Source: Marriott Bonvoy
Mr Menon said events conducted in a hotel could help to create a well balanced ambiance and atmosphere for both live and online audiences.
"Dedicated onsite staff can also help to address any event needs quickly and ensure that the event runs smoothly," he said.
Click here to view further results from the survey.
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