Meetings & Events Trends
Discover the latest Meetings & Events Trends and prepare for the year ahead
BCD Meetings & Events Annual Trends Report: What’s Trending 2026
Make sure you’re prepared for the coming year in meetings & events with ‘What’s Trending 2026’. As the industry faces global changes, you’ll discover how economic fluctuations, evolving technologies and behaviours are reshaping M&E strategies and budgets.
This report highlights essential insights, including the importance of creating immersive experiences and the growing need for agility in planning. Don’t miss your chance to explore regional trends and sector highlights that are set to define the future of corporate meetings and events. Fill out the form below to access the full report and stay ahead of the curve!
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Top Global Trends for 2026
1. Budgets Under Pressure: Planners aim to achieve more with less.
2. Evolving Event Delivery: Emphasising immersive experiences and personalisation.
3. Shift in Operations: Increased focus on compliance and the use of technology.
Gain a deeper understanding of these evolving trends that will shape the M&E industry in 2026. Download the full report by completing the form at the top of the page to stay informed and strategic in your planning.
Regional Insights from the Report
NORAM
- U.S. companies are increasingly focusing on domestic events.
- Local sourcing becomes critical due to rising costs and tariffs.
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“The experience and the quality of meetings is under greater scrutiny going into 2026.”
– Charlene Rabideau, SVP & Managing Director, NORAM
UK
- A tighter budget means focusing on high-impact, immersive experiences.
- Hybrid meetings gain traction during economic uncertainties.
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“Data will increasingly drive UK event needs, outputs and successes.”
– Helen McCabe, Managing Director, UK
EMEA
- Positive growth anticipated despite geopolitical tensions.
- Sustainability remains a pivotal concern for planners.
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“The M&E sector remains strong, and for larger events, we see lead times increasing for the first time in many years.”
– Mikael Ek, SVP & Managing Director, EMEA
APAC
- Cautious growth expected with a focus on compliance and cost-effective events.
- Experiential-led events are on the rise.
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“Buyers should favour suppliers who are more collaborative and flexible in 2026.”
– Sanjay Seth, SVP & Managing Director, APAC, BCD M&E
LATAM
- Growth opportunities despite challenges in key markets like Argentina and Mexico.
- There is an increasing focus on efficiency and value for money.
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“Buyers in the region are increasingly focusing on cost optimisation, flexibility and a more personalised service.”
– Ana Paula Hernandez, SVP & Managing Director, LATAM
“Corporations are laser focused on how events move the dial on their business in 2026. This is a breath of fresh air for suppliers – we’ve wanted this outcome for decades.”
Melissa Moten – VP Experience & Event Solutions, The Collective