As we head into 2023, AVD is preparing to take advantage of the many compelling trends in our industry. These include heightened expectations for in-person meetings, the expanding roles for virtual and hybrid, continuing supply chain issues, and the need for long-range planning of meetings.
Corporate Events Seek to Impress
Excitement and eagerness are mounting for in-person meetings. Companies crave high-energy presentations, face-to-face networking, and the impact that comes with splashy, high-tech design. AVD can create huge scenic LED walls that offer a ready canvas for many possibilities. Even a 20-foot space can feature four different options–switching from images to video to PowerPoint in that same space. We can generate captivating, immersive effects for any sized show or budget.
Hybrid Will Continue to Be Important
No matter what the in-person headcount may be, the majority of meetings will incorporate hybrid. It allows clients to pivot during emergencies or last-minute changes, and also reaches viewers off-site, meaning that the client can include more people without having to invite additional attendees. Hybrid increases participation and flexibility for all events.
Virtual Has a Niche
Even as in-person meetings proliferate, purely virtual meetings have a permanent place in the landscape. Ideal for smaller meetings, virtual has another useful niche as a planning tool. Meeting virtually is highly beneficial when organizing and preparing for larger, technically complex corporate events.
Supply Chain Woes
Supply chain issues will continue: trucks and drivers are booked way ahead of time. AVD has its own trucking partnership, so we are protected from shortages to some degree. However, with labor in short supply we also make sure to plan ahead when booking drivers.
Equipment shortages are another concern to keep an eye out for. At AVD, we have our own comprehensive warehouse of equipment, so our customers can be reassured they will be able to get everything they need. We understand how to anticipate shortages and are able to facilitate solutions for our clients to help avoid headaches or delays.
New Hot U.S. Meeting Locations
While all the usual cities (Dallas, Orlando, Chicago) are still hosting corporate events, smaller cities have become a frequent option for smaller or regional meetings. Omaha, Nashville, and Charlotte are booking up, as meetings focus on getting teams together for networking and morale. Groups of 65-80 people represent a growing segment of the business, and some of the venues in these cities are getting booked a year or two ahead of time. This puts extra emphasis on the need for advanced planning, but assessing venus can be tricky for clients as they try to predict their needs so far in the future.
For guidance on what capabilities to look for in a site, reach out to an AVD team member. As a trusted collaborator, we help clients evaluate details including ceiling height, power sources, bandwidth, rear/front projection, and more. Early conversations about these variables yield better outcomes. These can be complicated decisions, but AVD’s professional advice gives event planners the confidence they need to sign with a new venue.
Keep on Top of AV Trends With AVD
Whatever the setting, AVD will bring a sense of thrill and wonder to any meeting. Our equipment, experience, and creativity allow us to capitalize on the latest industry trends. If you have questions about hybrid capabilities, choosing a site, or if you simply want to create some awe at your next meeting, call (973) 993-8500 to speak with an AVD team member, or visit our site to learn more about the types of hybrid meeting experiences we offer.