Event Lead Exchange (ELX) CEO Nicola Kastner warned the risks of the event industry came from recent political tensions.
“I’m worried. After having a conversation with event leaders (ELX) members and industry peers, it’s clear that President Trump’s recent policies could pose a significant risk to the conference and event industry. To be clear, this is not a political statement. It’s a call to consciousness,” she wrote on Thursday.
In less than 24 hours, the Post had 28,000 impressions, 351 reactions and more than 100 comments.
“I never had a post that took off like this,” Toronto’s Castner told the Skift conference. “This shows that there is real action in our industry.” UK-based Elx is an invitational community for the head of corporate global events.
Meet with professionals and share their concerns
Comments, including planners at the meeting, planners who lost their jobs due to federal layoffs, and those urging industry associations to take action include:
Monique Rochard-Marine, Cordis’s global head of business services and operational efficiency: “Many of us have already undertaken expectations that exceed expectations and have fewer resources. It’s 200% at 50%. Now we have these new obstacles to increase.”
“The ripple effect of policy changes can be far-reaching. From limiting global participation to increasing financial pressure. We should develop strategies now. Find ways to adapt, advocate and maintain the future of the industry.
Additionally, SAP marketing head Elaine Benfield commented: “Political factors play a crucial role in shaping company events and meetings. My concerns? This is just the beginning. Companies are preparing for influence, and constant back and forth sources make plans for strategic companies nearly impossible.”
Fiona Richardson, senior director of global events at Altair, proposed more virtual events. “Depending on visa restrictions and policy changes, tightening budgets and international engagement have become more uncertain, so hybrid and virtual events are crucial to maintaining industry inclusiveness and global connectivity,” she said.
Event industries need to be united
These concerns echo past industry struggles. During the pandemic, the Exhibition and Conference Alliance (ECA) is a coalition of eight industry associations that aim to advocate for the conference department.
“We need an alliance like this right now,” Castner urged. “The challenge won’t go away. We have to be ready to browse what is being thrown at us.”
