Shaping the future with flexibility and adaptability in the MICE industry!

Consumers today, have an established voice and their opinions matter. Organisations that offer meetings, incentives, conferences and events must be aware of their guests and delegates’ requirements to be more flexible and adaptable in this space.

It is vital that venues offer customer-centric MICE packages that addresses the need of individual groups. “The hospitality industry can no longer focus on the tourism industry as one market, but it should be a priority to offer groups tailor-made solutions when it comes to quoting on meetings, conferences, events or incentives,” says Minister Kganyago, Business Events Marketing Manager at the ATKV Resorts.

We exist in highly techno savvy business times where customers see conference amenities such as Wi-Fi, presentation technology, video-conference equipment and augmented reality tools as a non-negotiable. The hospitality industry can no longer see these aforementioned services as optional or “added value” but should include these amenities in all sales packages.

The South African delegate is spoilt for choice as our country offers some of the most beautiful settings in which conference and meetings can take place – it is therefore vital that we are flexible with our offering and adapt to new business models that will not only secure business but will ensure that customers make return visits.

Conference delegates are a lot more concerned about what memories they can build when attending conferences and meetings. Delegates do not only choose a venue, but they are also looking for a destination that can offer them an experience like no other.

Organisations will need to apply this change quickly to survive and should see the value of continuously keeping your eyes on research of the latest technological developments and trends within the industry. The initial financial investment may be substantial but will in the long run, reap rewards.

The tourism industry has endless possibilities so there is no reason to be reactive and await new opportunities, but rather be innovative. Let’s rather shape the future by applying flexibility and adaptability within our meeting rooms!