IAPCO foresees a good 2010 after a difficult 2009-06-08

Between the 95 members of IAPCO, 5170 meetings were organised during 2008, compared to less than 4000 in 2007. These meetings attracted 1,968,518 delegates and 425,078 m2 exhibition. The greatest increase was in the number of corporate meetings managed. But in 2009, members forecast a drop of about 20%, as a result of the economic downturn. But for 2010, the figures look to return to a growth pattern.

A survey during Q1 of 2009 on how members were viewing and reviewing their business was undertaken. Whilst around 50% were restricting travel and making savings in the workplace in anticipation of a downturn, no members planned to restrict either education or marketing. The most greatly felt change was the postponement of decisions, delays in signing contracts and a general reluctance by clients to commit to anything before they had to; 65% of members were already seeing a drop in sponsorship and exhibition support.

According to IAPCO, the strategic value of meetings is evident, but there will be a shift in emphasis. Corporate meetings are playing a strong role in the recovery of the market; they represent a potential power to recover from the crisis. Corporations at times such as these need to strengthen their brands and motivate their workforce. Meetings and events, an essential element in the business marketing mix, are important drivers for the economy bringing together people, enhancing innovation, stimulating creativity and providing the platform for the exchange of ideas and imagination.