ICCA, IMEX Survey: Global Trade Associations' Meetings Report Positive Growth

September 4, 2013

By all indications, meetings organized by global trade associations continue to see positive growth, according to 92 respondents who took part in theInternational Congress and Convention Association’s and IMEX Group’s latest survey.

Seventy-seven percent of the respondents who took part in the joint annual survey, conducted during the IMEX event’s Association Day in Frankfurt, Germany, organize meetings with more than 500 attendees and 17 percent organize meetings with 5,000-plus attendees.

More than 32 percent of the 92 respondents reported higher attendance for their 2013 events than in previous years (4 percent more than in 2012 and 2011).

Thirty-seven percent of the respondents indicated no change (compared with 38 percent in 2012); 24 percent reported slight reductions (compared with 31 percent in 2012) and less than 7 percent reported a "significant" fall in numbers (compared with 3 percent in 2012).

Even so, the associations were not completely immune to economic turmoil.

When asked if the continued global economic turbulence had any negative impact on their association and/or events in 2013, almost 57 percent said it did.

When this question was asked in 2012, this percentage was almost 60 percent, which means the international association meetings sector definitely has been impacted, but remains resilient and still shows growth.

“We have been tracking and working closely with the association sector, together with ICCA, for over 10 years, and even through the economic turbulence of the past few years, the sector has remained resilient and cautiously optimistic,” said Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group.

She added, “It is good to see the sector continuing this upward trajectory and beginning to display a slightly stronger confidence level. For our exhibitors and for the meetings industry as a whole, this is great news.”

The future also looks bright, according to respondents.

Almost 30 percent of associations will be running more meetings in 2014 than in 2013 (compared to 22 percent in 2012); while less than 7 percent plan to organize fewer meetings (this percentage was 11 percent in 2012).

Almost 47 percent are projecting higher attendances than in previous year (40 percent in 2012), compared with nearly 9 percent, who expect their delegate numbers to fall (10 percent in 2012).

“ICCA has been tracking international associations for half a century, so we’re absolutely convinced of the long-term dynamism of this market sector, but obviously the uncertain and volatile financial and economic environment of the last five years has had an impact on delegate numbers and sponsorship support for many association events,” said Martin Sirk, ICCA CEO.

He added, “It’s great news to see that the sector has regained its optimism, and we anticipate that associations will become increasingly important in every destination’s meetings mix.”

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.