On 10 March, the Events Industry Council (EIC) released the Futures Landscape Report 2025. This forward-looking report provides a comprehensive analysis of the key factors that are likely to influence the global business events industry in the coming years. The report is based on a survey of global event industry stakeholders, as well as insights from a think-tank workshop comprised of more than 60 of EIC's member associations, strategic partners and volunteer leaders.
The report explores 12 key themes including Accessibility, Advocacy, Business Models, Climate Risk, Diversity and Inclusion (DEI), Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG), Infrastructure, Mobility, Risk and Security, Talent and Workforce Development, Technology, and Wellbeing. These themes are considered critical to the future of the industry.
The report notes that the following macro forces will have a profound impact on human behaviour over the next decade:
Economic dynamics: the growing gap between rich and poor in developed countries and the rising middle class in emerging markets.
Technological change: The spread of artificial intelligence and machine learning has brought enthusiasm for technology-driven solutions, while raising concerns about the potential impact.
Demographic change: regions such as the Americas and Europe face ageing populations and slowing growth, while Africa and Asia drive global population growth.
Political Landscape: The rise of nationalist and populist movements has led to highly polarised and divided societies across the globe, which has impacted event planning, with more than half of planners reconsidering the location of their events in light of local or state laws.
Health and Wellbeing: The health industry is undergoing a revolution, with people recognising the benefits of health while dealing with the challenges of modern life, such as pollution and stress.
Climate Change Response: Despite facing strong opposition from the fossil fuel industry, the majority of the global population recognises and feels the effects of climate change.
The report encourages event professionals and organisations to understand and reflect on these macro forces and to prepare for future challenges and opportunities in a positive, inclusive and forward-looking manner. Specific recommendations include:
Turn challenges into growth opportunities: broaden audiences through advocacy, accessibility, DEI and talent initiatives. Increased representation can facilitate business growth, but requires genuine intent.
Increase resilience through proactive risk management: climate risk, ESG issues, security, infrastructure and liquidity all pose potential risks to future events. Event planners need to embrace innovation and flexibility in their operating models and prepare for extremes to ensure event continuity and participant experience.
Moving from short-termism to long-term strategy: dealing with talent shortages, burnout and growing financial pressures requires a new long-term mindset that invests in and prioritises employees. Recognise the interconnections between talent shortages, wellbeing, technology and business models and develop strategies that balance short-term needs with long-term industry health.
The EIC's Future Landscape Report 2025 provides a holistic view of the events industry, helping professionals and organisations to better address the challenges and opportunities ahead. The report highlights that through reflection and preparation, the events industry can continue to lead innovation and collaboration in the future, with confidence and purpose.
Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China 