Donna M. McGovern. CMP
Senior Convention/Congress Manager
The CementWorks Advertising Agency
New York
Is the duration of your meetings either shrinking or expanding? Why?
The majority have stayed the same; although one convention shortened its duration in 2009. It removed a half day.
Is the attendance at your meetings shrinking or expanding? Why?
The attendance at the meetings is slightly less. I believe it’s due to the economic situation.
Did you have a smaller budget to work with last year? If so, how much do you estimate it was decreased?
My budget was decreased by 30 percent in 2009.
How are possible perception problems affecting your meetings and your planning of meetings?
We have been using the Marriott vs. The Ritz-Carlton, and additional social events have been limited.
Are there any destinations or facility types that are now considered “off-limits” due to perception problems or the current economic climate?
Upscale hotels.
Have government regulations or actions affected your programs? If so, how?
Yes, the new PhRMA guidelines prohibiting premium giveaways at the convention booth has significantly reduced traffic at all conventions.
How do you think 2010 will shape up for the meetings industry? Where do you see costs (hotel, restaurant, venue prices, etc.) going? Do you think your budget and/or attendance will increase or decrease? Why?
I think the meetings in 2010 will taper off at the beginning of the year and slowly pick up. I feel hotel costs, venue prices, etc., will continue to be discounted in order to foster the working relationships they have with their clientele. My budget has already been decreased by 30 percent for 2010; however, we will be attending the same number of conventions. Due to the budget cuts, the booth size will be smaller.