Associations, From the World

2018 IACC Report on the meeting room of the future

May 2018

IACC 2018

Fast internet and flexible spaces are among the main trends emerging from the 2018 IACC Report.

IACC (International Association of Conference Centres) has presented the 3rd annual report on the hottest topics of the International meeting industry and the arrangement of the perfect meeting room.

This year’s research confirms that there is a rising demand for flexible spaces that can host both traditional and dynamic meetings. It’s expected that venues will play an increasingly important role for event participants.

Another industry trend is the desire to invest in technologies. 78% of the interviewees said that they’ve bought a new device in the last year, abandoning the occasional rental.
The technology requested by planners is also changing: the investment in video conferencing systems has decreased from 85% (2017 report) to 53% in just one year.
Even the purchase of smart boards is decreasing, while there has been a strong increase in the interest in virtual reality technology: this year, 24% of the respondents (vs 6% in 2017) said they now offer it at their events.

Speaking of technology, a fast WiFi connection is still firmly in first place in the planners’ request lists. Venue managers have stated that high quality internet will be the most important meeting element for the next 3-5 years.

Other trends mentioned in the report include eco-friendly practices and initiatives for the participants’ health and well-being.

Full report here >>>

In 2016, IACC identified the main meeting package trends >>>

IACC is the only global professional association representing small and medium-sized companies focused on meetings, training classes and conventions. All members share a global protocol (criteria and standards).
Today, it counts 300 members in 25 countries in the Americas, Europe and Australia.