In the ever-evolving theatre of global corporate events—where once death by PowerPoint was a weekly ritual—the curtains have risen on a surprisingly theatrical comeback. The meetings and events industry is not just recovering; it’s rolling out the red carpet and doubling down on connection, creativity and, dare we say it, actual human interaction.
The freshly released inaugural FCM Meetings & Events 2025 Global Trends Report, produced in partnership with event-tech juggernaut Cvent and backed by FCM Consulting (the boffins at Flight Centre Travel Group), paints a picture of a global industry waking from its Zoom-induced coma.
The headline act? Professional services are now the MICE maestros, hosting more events than any other sector—an impressive 50 per cent share, no less.
“They’re running the show because of sheer volume and the need to control cost while engaging clients meaningfully,” said Simone Seiler, Global General Manager of FCM Meetings & Events. “They’ve also got more in-house event planners than most, which tells us just how seriously they’re taking it.”
The report, an eye-watering amalgamation of insights from 28 countries and 22 industries, unpacks the return of large-scale in-person meetings, the rise of technology in planning, and a distinctly strategic shift towards engagement-first thinking.
“Engagement is now the beating heart of the business event,” said Seiler. “80 per cent of respondents said it was the top priority. Not content, not cocktails—connection. That’s what drives results.”
And if the pulse is strongest anywhere, it’s thumping loudest in the Asia-Pacific.
Asia-Pacific: The Powerhouse Region with Purpose
In the region affectionately known to consultants as APAC, corporate planners are kicking goals with the precision of a Tokyo train schedule. The report reveals 47 per cent of planners in the region are backing larger events, with 32 per cent planning to spend more in 2025.
“They’re not just adding people for the sake of numbers,” Seiler clarified. “It’s intentional. It’s strategic. It’s about building brand equity, deepening relationships with stakeholders, and bolstering internal culture.”
In contrast, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) see just 28 per cent intending to increase spending. In the Americas, only 26 per cent will open the corporate wallet a little wider next year. APAC is the overachieving sibling at the family reunion.
Digital Darlings: Virtual Tools Meet Budget Reality
Not every planner has the luxury of an overflowing war chest, mind you. Almost 40 per cent of respondents admitted they don’t even know what their events budget is this year—a predicament Seiler dubs “Schrödinger’s Budget”. It exists. And it doesn’t. Simultaneously.
“Uncertainty is the new certainty,” she quipped. “So planners are getting creative—leaning on digital tools to improve efficiency, ditching the fluff, and focusing on what really matters: delivering impact.”
Will Kataria, Senior Director and Country Head at Cvent Singapore, added: “The adoption of online sourcing and virtual site visits has skyrocketed. It’s not just a pandemic habit—it’s now essential. Planners want flexibility and speed, and that’s exactly what digital tools deliver.”
From Spreadsheet to Showstopper: The Rise of People-First Events
In sectors like media, tech, travel and real estate—where a handshake can still mean more than a signature—events are less about pageantry and more about meaningful engagement.
More than 56 per cent of respondents said “people engagement” was the primary purpose of meetings and events. That number skyrocketed to over 60 per cent in real estate, finance, and travel.
“These industries are realising that tech can support the connection—but it can’t replace it,” Seiler said. “The live event is the heartbeat. It’s where creativity flows and relationships stick.”
Bleisure and Beyond: Incentive Travel’s Glorious Return
No corporate trends report would be complete without the buzzword of the year: bleisure. Equal parts ‘business’ and ‘leisure’, it’s the stylish cousin of “work trip”—only now it involves vineyard lunches and optional hot air ballooning.
“Incentive travel is back and it’s a big-ticket morale booster,” Seiler explained. “68 per cent of companies told us these experiences improved motivation and deepened team relationships.”
And if you’re the CEO staring at your staff retention numbers like they’re a sad stock portfolio, Seiler has a tip: “Get your people on a plane. It’s good for culture, good for business, and better than another stale lunch-and-learn.”
Significant Events Are Back—but Size Isn’t Everything
Globally, 47 per cent of companies are investing in medium-to-large events with 50–150+ attendees. More people generally means more investment—but, Seiler warns, not necessarily more impact.
“Just because it’s big doesn’t mean it’s brilliant,” she said. “Smaller events still have their place—but they’ll need to work harder, punch above their weight, and leave a stronger impression.”
The Americas, though facing trade challenges and regional uncertainties, are showing signs of recovery. Domestic corporate travel is up slightly—a flicker of promise amid fluctuating tariffs and a cautious economic climate.
The Future: Personal, Purposeful, Powerful
Seiler’s final word? This is not your grandfather’s conference circuit.
“The future of meetings and events will belong to those who prioritise personalisation, accessibility, and responsible travel,” she said. “Cookie-cutter conferences are out. Memorable, meaningful experiences are in.”
As the world stumbles out of its pandemic-induced social hibernation, FCM’s Global Trends Report serves not just as a data digest, but as a rousing rally cry for planners everywhere: ditch the gimmicks, keep the humanity, and never underestimate the power of a well-timed standing ovation.
