This week’s industry news looks at rising meeting costs, new hotel and event options, airline upgrades and the growing push to measure the impact of meetings beyond hotel spend. Here’s the news shaping the meetings industry this week.
Meeting demand is growing, with planners showing renewed interest in larger events, according to the latest GBTA forecast. But rising F&B, production and labor costs are putting added pressure on budgets. READ MORE
The economic impact of meetings extends beyond hotel spending, according to BCD Meetings & Events’ Rebecca Jones. In a recent Prevue interview, Jones discussed how meetings can support local communities—and why the industry needs to pay attention. READ MORE
Four Seasons Resort Cabo San Lucas has added a new event venue, Casa Del Sol. Set along the Sea of Cortez, the venue features a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces designed to connect events with the surrounding landscape. READ MORE
Plans to convert a vacant 19-story office tower in downtown Phoenix into a 340-room JW Marriott are moving forward, adding a new hotel option for groups within walking distance of the Phoenix Convention Center. READ MORE
American Airlines is expanding premium seating across its narrowbody fleet. The airline is also adding “next-generation seatback entertainment” to every seat. READ MORE
The agenda doesn’t define great meetings. In this Expert Advice column, Vimari Roman challenges planners to focus less on generational preferences and more on designing moments that foster belonging and meaningful participation. READ MORE
