As meeting planners deal with seismic changes post-pandemic there has been a resurgence of in-person meetings in 2023. As we delve deeper, we see the way we conduct meetings continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements, changing work dynamics, and the need for more efficient collaboration. In this blog post, we'll explore the top meeting trends that are shaping the way we communicate and work together in this year and beyond.

1. Hybrid Meetings Take Center Stage

The global shift towards remote work brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has forever altered our approach to meetings. In 2023, hybrid meetings, which combine in-person and virtual participants, have become the norm. This trend allows for greater flexibility, enabling team members from diverse locations to collaborate seamlessly which in the end maximizes engagement. Video conferencing tools and advanced audio systems are being adopted to ensure a seamless experience for both remote and in-person attendees. 

Top tip: Look for the most advanced hardware when planning your next Hybrid Meeting.  The Owl Labs conference camera and event space with large video walls are your best options and can ensure that your next hybrid meeting runs seamlessly for any delegates, wherever they may be.  

2. Quality Event Space

In-person events are not only back, but they’re also thriving. But the return to in-person events is happening more rapidly and at a greater volume than anticipated. Consequently, the spike in demand for venues means that there is greater competition for available event space. Rising venue costs and the ongoing staffing shortages impacting venues also complicate the search for suitable, quality venues. In 2023, early planning to source the right venues for your events will be crucial.

Top tip: Holiday Inn St. Catharines is undergoing a complete facelift in 2023 and offers Niagara’s newest most modern event space.   The main Ballroom is fully flexible and can host events from 10 to 1000 people and should be the first place to contact when looking for an event in Niagara.

3.  Cost Savings and Efficiencies

Rising inflation, combined with high demand and increased event costs, will mean organizations will need to increase their event spending. A 2022 CWT report estimated the cost-per-attendee for meetings and events to be 25% higher than in 2019, with this set to rise by another 7% in 2023. With a potential recession looming, businesses will focus heavily on making cost savings and finding efficiencies across their event programs. The need to control costs will also place greater emphasis on event organizers to prove event ROI as it becomes increasingly critical to demonstrate the impact and business value of events.

Top tip: Heart of Niagara offers planners simple meeting packages at each of its hotels that allow planners to quickly budget and book an event without fanfare.  This allows you to spend more time on planning logistics and less time dealing with hotels.  

4. Green Meeting Venues

As organizations become more environmentally conscious, sustainable meeting practices are gaining traction. Companies are opting for virtual meetings whenever feasible to reduce travel-related carbon footprints. Additionally, eco-friendly materials, digital documents, and virtual swag bags are being embraced to minimize the environmental impact of meetings and conferences.

Top tip: Parkway Conference Centre is one location in Niagara that embraces sustainable Green Meetings. Where possible leftover food is donated to local shelters.  Water is provided in containers, not plastic bottles whenever possible.   Reusable linens versus disposable is always provided.  Environmentally friendly cleaning products are used in meeting areas and recycle bins are provided. All though small these initiatives all help reduce the carbon footprint for sustainable meetings.

5. Team Building for Everyone

Corporate team building has surged in popularity post-pandemic due to its role in reconnecting remote teams. With more companies incorporating remote work, teams often face a lack of real engagement due to isolation and communication challenges. As businesses continue to embrace hybrid models, team-building activities provide opportunities for in-person bonding, enhancing morale, and fostering collaboration. These activities address the emotional toll of the pandemic, rebuilding camaraderie, and increasing overall productivity by rejuvenating team spirit and interpersonal dynamics.

Top tip: Bowling continues to be one of the most fun options for team building.  Over at Parkway Social they even offer VIP bowling areas which are perfect to wrap up a strategic planning meeting or even just on their own.   Check out Heart of Niagara which also partners with wine tour operators and local team-building facilitators that offer bespoke, indoor or outdoor programs such as the popular Amazing Race.

Niagara: Ontario’s Playground

The meeting landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by the need for flexible collaboration, technological innovations, and a focus on sustainability and cost efficiencies. Embracing these trends can help businesses foster better communication, increase productivity, and adapt to the changing dynamics of the modern workplace. By staying attuned to these developments, organizations can continue to thrive in this new era of collaboration with quick retreats to the Niagara region.