A recent study conducted by Athena, the Art Deco events venue in Leicester, sheds light on the top priorities for event planners in 2024. The findings reveal that independent venues, hybrid events, inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability are the key focus areas for planners this year.
Melanie Else, Events Manager of The National House Building Council, emphasises the growing interest in independent venues due to their adaptability, flexibility, and bespoke services. She notes that planners are increasingly considering independent venues to maximize value and provide a unique experience for clients.
Else also highlights the rising popularity of hybrid events, acknowledging the challenge of keeping up with evolving technology standards while delivering high-quality experiences for both in-person and online participants.
In addition, key priorities for 2024 include a focus on inclusion, accessibility, and sustainability. Else notes that emotional well-being initiatives are being integrated into event planning to prioritise the holistic experience of attendees.
Hira Ram, head of events at Athena, predicts a stronger emphasis on sustainability, with event planners prioritizing eco-friendly practices, including zero-waste initiatives and conscious sourcing of materials.
Ram observes a growing pressure on venues to deliver diverse and immersive events, with immersive technologies expected to become mainstream. The resurgence of face-to-face events is also evident, with a renewed understanding of the benefits they bring in building relationships and fostering meaningful discussions.
Linda Willmott, director of events agency Willmott Associates, emphasises the importance of face-to-face interactions for building relationships, citing a recent Christmas party at Athena as an example.
Summing up the research, Ram concludes that the events industry is set to focus on delivering experience-first events within budgets. With an emphasis on personalized experiences and a holistic approach to attendee well-being, the industry is poised to establish new standards for excellence and innovation in 2024. Athena, as a landmark Art Deco venue, is well-equipped to contribute to this evolving landscape with its combination of original features, state-of-the-art technology, and a capacity for hosting events ranging from 120 to 1,500 guests. The venue has a rich history of hosting corporate events for major global and national brands, further solidifying its place in the events industry.
Credit: Event Industry News – Link can be found here
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