Green continues as top meeting trend

A continued emphasis on green meetings, the lightning-fast pace of technology and a move towards more diverse recreational choices were among the “Top Ten Meeting Trends” outlined by Benchmark Hospitality International

“We’re pointing out the obvious.  Interest in properties with sustainable hospitality or green programs is huge,” said Benchmark of the top trend. “Our new prediction … Go Green … or Go.”

Some other trends:

• Conservation across the board, including paper. “Everyone wants to save a grove or two of trees by going paperless, and the Internet is the tool to block the buzz saw.   More than 80 % of RFPs, proposals and contracts are now delivered and returned online,” according to Benchmark. 

• There’s a move towards more healthy food and avoiding high-fat snacks.

• Teambuilding is hotter than ever. These initiatives are now often driven by the destination and the preference is for outdoor, physical activities.  Caving, spelunking, rock climbing are becoming more popular. The trend is also towards group activities supporting social causes.

• Fewer meetings with a greater number of attendees per meeting, for enhanced cost efficiencies, is the current trend in the marketplace.  Meeting package pricing, however, remains solid, according to the report.

• The demand for the meeting packages is as strong for 2008 as it was throughout 2007. 

• For non-meeting activities, walking and biking through natural forests, touring historic sites, climbing mountains and mesas, descending into canyons, and even shopping –- activities once reserved for personal time only are now being encouraged as part of the group experience. 

Benchmark operates 30 award-winning resorts, hotels, condominium resorts and conference centers in locations throughout the US and Asia.

Report by David Wilkening