As 2016 winds down and planners begin scheduling for 2017 meetings, Kindred Resorts & Hotels, a collection of independent hotels and resorts focused on the group and meetings market, has announced its findings on 2017 event trends based on the results of a survey of the brand’s 64 properties.
“Across the board, 2017 booked business is up and the group trends we are seeing are centered around experiences and health,” said Bree Brostko, managing director of Kindred Resorts & Hotels. “Meeting planners are looking to break off from the traditional boardroom conferences and offerings and get outside, experience the destination and truly get a taste of the local culture and cuisine.”
Kindred Hotels & Resorts noted the following trends, based on its survey:
Projected revenue is trending up
According to the survey, 61 percent of properties met their 2016 projected revenue for group business and 66 percent of properties reported that booked revenue for 2017 is trending up from the previous year, with the strongest projected quarters being the second and third (39 percent each).
Experiential programming is on the rise
One anticipated meetings trend for 2017 is the increase in outdoor programming and experiential, destination-focused teambuilding activities. Groups are more and more wanting to get out of the boardroom and explore the destination, partaking in authentic, local experiences, whether it be paddle boarding on Lake Austin, snowshoeing in Colorado, hiking in Vermont or golfing in Pebble Beach.
Community service activities continue to be a popular option for groups.
Wellness is expanding to F&B options
Kindred’s properties also cited the increase in wellness and healthy, local culinary offerings for meetings and coffee breaks. Thirty percent of those surveyed noted that soda requests are decreasing, and as an alternative, meeting attendees are requesting beverages such as water, smoothies or organic juices.
Gluten-free menus have been the most requested dietary option (61 percent) followed by vegetarian (32 percent). Responding to this rising health trend, many of the Kindred hotels offer sustainably grown and locally produced food, organic gardens, specialized menus, healthy cooking classes and more.
Formal events are becoming less common
The survey notes that formal events are on the decline, as well as the more traditional meeting breaks and conference rooms. Guests are favoring receptions and casual beach barbecues or clambakes over more formal seated dinners with suit and tie requirements. Additionally, with so many meeting and break-out venue options from rooms with views to renovated barns, upscale guesthouses, luxury boats, gardens and more, the need for a traditional meeting room is no longer as necessary for productivity.
