In the rapidly evolving world of events, staying informed is not just helpful, it’s essential. As attendee expectations shift, technology advances, and budgets tighten, event organisers and venue managers must understand the latest industry data to make informed decisions that elevate the event experience.
Here’s your guide to the key stats every event organiser and venue should know in 2025, alongside actionable insights on how to apply them.
1. Personalisation Drives Engagement
Stat: 80% of attendees say they’re more likely to engage with personalised event experiences. (Source)
Takeaway: Personalisation is no longer optional. Attendees expect events to cater to their preferences, behaviour, and needs.
What You Can Do:
- Use data from registration forms to customise agendas and recommendations.
- Offer personalised welcome messages, badges, or swag.
- Implement smart scheduling tools that let attendees tailor their day.
2. Hybrid Events Are Holding Strong
Stat: 59% of event professionals plan to host more hybrid events in 2025 than they did in 2024. (Source: Bizzabo 2024 Event Outlook Report)
Takeaway: Hybrid isn’t fading, it’s evolving. A hybrid format expands reach, boosts inclusivity, and supports content longevity.
What You Can Do:
- Invest in robust AV and streaming solutions.
- Design online and offline experiences with equal intention.
- Use analytics to measure both in-person and virtual engagement.
3. Attendee Travel & Accommodation Remains Critical
Stat: According to a 2024 Skift report, 78% of business travellers said hotel location is a key factor when deciding whether to attend an event.
Takeaway: Poorly located accommodation can damage event perception and reduce attendance.
What You Can Do:
- Partner with a specialist accommodation platform to secure discounted, nearby hotels.
- Embed hotel booking into the ticketing journey.
- Share hotel options early, with clear maps and perks.
4. Sustainability Is Becoming a Core Requirement
Stat: 73% of attendees say sustainability influences their decision to attend an event. (Source: Eventbrite Sustainable Events Guide)
Takeaway: Your audience is paying attention. Sustainable events aren't just good for the planet, they're good for business.
What You Can Do:
- Offer digital-only programmes and reduce printed materials.
- Choose venues with sustainability certifications.
- Track and report your sustainability impact.
5. Mobile is the Default Experience Hub
Stat: 91% of attendees prefer accessing event content via mobile apps. (Source: Cvent 2024 Mobile Engagement Report)
Takeaway: Mobile apps are now the central nervous system of your event. They inform, engage, and connect.
What You Can Do:
- Develop or customise an event app with schedules, networking tools, maps, and accommodation details.
- Push personalised notifications and real-time updates.
- Offer gamification elements to drive participation.
6. Networking Is Still the #1 Reason People Attend Events
Stat: 76% of event attendees list networking as their top priority. (Source: Statista, Global Meetings Industry Survey)
Takeaway: Facilitating meaningful connections should be at the heart of your event design.
What You Can Do:
- Create dedicated networking spaces and structured formats (speed networking, hosted sessions).
- Enable AI-powered matchmaking via your app.
- Offer informal breakouts and lounges near accommodation or food areas.
7. ROI is Scrutinised More Than Ever
Stat: 61% of CMOs say event ROI is being more closely monitored post-pandemic. (Source: Forrester Events Marketing Survey 2024)
Takeaway: You must demonstrate value to attendees, sponsors, and stakeholders.
What You Can Do:
- Set clear KPIs early (attendance, engagement, lead quality).
- Use QR codes and mobile tracking for booth visits.
- Offer post-event data dashboards to sponsors.
8. Event Tech Budgets Are Increasing
Stat: 49% of organisations expect to increase their event tech budget in 2025. (Source: Endless Events State of Event Tech 2025)
Takeaway: Organisers are recognising the value of smart tools that streamline experiences and unlock data.
What You Can Do:
- Prioritise tech that enhances attendee experience (not just ops).
- Consider platforms that integrate registration, content, networking, and accommodation.
- Choose scalable tools you can use across multiple events.
9. Group Travel Is Underserved, but Valuable
Stat: A 2024 GBTA report showed that 64% of exhibitors prefer group accommodation bookings, yet only 38% of organisers offer them. (Source: GBTA 2024 Trends in Event Travel)
Takeaway: There’s a gap—and an opportunity—for venues and organisers to offer group-friendly hotel solutions.
What You Can Do:
- Provide custom room blocks with incentives.
- Communicate clearly with exhibitors about accommodation options.
- Consider adding travel support services to your event offering.
10. AI Is Here to Stay
Stat: 52% of organisers are already using AI tools to enhance planning and marketing. (Source: Freeman Trends in Event Tech 2025)
Takeaway: From chatbots to personalised content, AI is changing how events are designed and delivered.
What You Can Do:
- Use AI to analyse attendee preferences and behaviours.
- Implement AI for content summaries, FAQs, or customer service.
- Explore automated lead scoring and follow-up for sponsors.
Final Thoughts: What This Means for You
The world of events continues to evolve—but data gives us the clarity to evolve with it. These 2025 stats tell a clear story: attendees want seamless, personalised, and sustainable experiences; organisers need better tools and measurable ROI; and event accommodation remains a make-or-break factor.
If you’re running events or managing venues, now’s the time to rethink how accommodation fits into the broader attendee journey. With the right partnerships and tools, you can turn a logistical detail into a strategic advantage.
📩 Want to explore how our accommodation platform helps leading events deliver better experiences and data? Let’s talk.
Share this post
