Insights from Industries on Event Planning Under the New Normal
by Marriott International
Photo Credit: JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu
The results of the Marriott’s Event New Normal Survey, which took place from 20 May to 15 July, came out on 15 July, indicating the readiness of corporations across Asia Pacific to move forward and enter a “new normal” after the COVID-19 pandemic. We are happy to report that we received 536 responses from meeting planners across various sectors who contributed their time and credible opinion to help us generate these valuable insights.
Government regulations on travel restrictions and social distancing are key concerns
With the pandemic’s reach felt deeply by global communities in terms of health and economic impact, the world is looking more than ever to smart choices on safety and hygiene. Across different industries, our respondents are considering what the safest and best foot forward is as they emerge from the pandemic and plan for future meetings and events. Key concerns from participants include compliance with government regulations on travel and social distancing and hygiene standards.
Hybrid meeting to connect internal teams is priority
As meeting planners and corporations look to safe and sustainable strategies post-pandemic, what emerges is a new normal that may include getting national/regional core teams together at a nearby scenic and convenient location to avoid international travel. For international teams, connecting these local “pods” across a well-serviced, well-supported network may be the way forward for event booking, and a viable strategy that our respondents are actively considering.
As we step into the new normal and into the latter part of 2020 and 2021, businesses are seeking to rebuild and reconnect with core teams and customers both locally and around the world via business meetings and customer events, and unlocking innovative ways to do so while ensuring a clean and well-run event for all participants will be the key to success.
Marriott’s commitment
We at the Marriott group are committed to helping businesses rebuild post-pandemic, where participants can enjoy offsite bonding and relationship building at our elegant, best-in-class venues and gourmet catering, and where bookers can be ensured seamless cross-regional planning and fully serviced tech support expertise across our global network of beautiful venues.
As Craig S. Smith, Group President (Asia Pacific) at Marriott International, noted, “[We] will travel again. A full rebound may not happen anytime soon, but already some markets in Asia Pacific are showing early signs of recovery. […] As we slowly recover, we must be mindful that today’s new normal is here to stay and that means changes are in store for the travel sector.”
Key takeaways from the Survey:
How do we help you plan meetings and events in the new normal?
- Touch-less technologies & spatial design: Reducing the need for physical contact for guests, maintaining social distancing by ensuring sufficient space in seating
- No co-mingling with other event guests at meals: Grab & Go food and beverages, canned & bottled beverages only, and plated service to restrict contact with other guests
- Flexible spatial arrangements: We will provide outdoor spaces (where possible), and with our enhanced cleaning protocol, you and your guests can be assured as to our longstanding commitment to providing a safe and clean environment for your event
- Deep cleaning of guest rooms & safe mobile check-ins: New technologies in deep cleaning, sanitization kits, mobile check-in procedures ensure your ease of mind while staying at our venues
Learn more about our commitment to meeting and event cleanliness here.
Book your next event with us. Let us take care of the rest.
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