FCM Meetings and Events Unveils Global Trends Report, Signaling a Powerful Rebound for Corporate Events, Incentive Travel, and Sustainable Business Tourism in 2025

Published on June 19, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

FCM Meetings & Events has just unveiled its first-ever Global Trends Report—and it’s making waves. The report signals a powerful rebound for corporate events, incentive travel, and sustainable business tourism in 2025. This isn’t just another industry update. It’s a clear roadmap for what’s next in global business gatherings.

Meanwhile, the data reveals more than just numbers. It highlights a major shift in how organizations approach connection, collaboration, and corporate culture. FCM Meetings & Events confirms what insiders have sensed for months—corporate events are not only back, they’re evolving fast.

From incentive travel to sustainable business tourism, every trend points to innovation, purpose, and growth. The Global Trends Report dives deep into these changes. It uncovers the mindset of a rapidly transforming events industry.

So what’s fueling this powerful rebound in 2025? What does it mean for planners, brands, and destinations? The answers are in—and they’re worth your full attention.

In a transformative moment for the global travel and tourism sector, FCM Meetings & Events (FCM M&E) has released its first-ever Global Trends Report, delivering deep insights into how corporate meetings, incentives, and events are rapidly evolving in 2025. The data is in—and it’s clear: business events are not just bouncing back—they’re leading the charge in reshaping the future of global travel.

Developed in collaboration with Cvent and spanning insights from professionals across 28 countries and 22 industries, the report sheds light on the behaviors, budgets, and innovations driving a bold new era of face-to-face engagement. The findings serve as a timely wake-up call for the travel, hotel, and event industries still adapting to post-pandemic realities.

Corporate Meetings Are Officially Back—and Bigger Than Before

The numbers speak volumes. Since 2022, global corporate events have consistently grown year-on-year. By 2024, more than 28% of companies were dedicating at least half of their travel and expense budgets to meetings, events, and conferences. This isn’t just recovery—it’s resurgence.

Moreover, 47% of companies globally invested in medium-to-large-scale events, hosting 50 to 150+ attendees. In the Americas, 42% of firms allocated larger budgets for in-person gatherings, showing clear appetite for meaningful, collaborative experiences.

Engagement Is Now the Core Currency

Forget standard agendas and predictable PowerPoints. Today, engagement is the real ROI. According to the report, 56% of event professionals say that driving connection—among employees, clients, and stakeholders—is now the number-one reason to host an event.

Human connection is no longer a side benefit. It’s the foundation of effective business interaction. And as hybrid work models continue, in-person meetings provide the emotional and creative recharge modern teams need.

Travel Budgets Are Rising Alongside Expectations

FCM’s findings reveal a major trend: companies are not just spending more—they’re spending smarter. 43% of those with budget visibility reported plans to increase event investment by 10% or more in 2025. Another 39% expect spending to hold steady, showing high confidence in the strategic value of events.

In the Americas, travel budgets per event trip are averaging between $1,600 and $1,800, covering flights, hotels, and transportation. With an average event length of 4.2 days and bookings made 22 days in advance, planning is becoming more agile, yet deliberate.

In-House Event Planning Is on the Rise

To meet growing demand, many companies are bringing planning in-house. The professional services sector leads this trend, followed by travel, real estate, and media industries. Dedicated planners ensure better alignment between brand goals and event experiences—and help teams react quickly in dynamic market conditions.

This shift also reflects a broader professionalization of the meetings industry, where event strategy is now a core business function, not an afterthought.

Sustainability and Tech Are Reshaping the Event Ecosystem

One of the most emotionally resonant findings from the report is the increasing prioritization of sustainability. 65% of planners rank avoiding single-use plastics as their top eco-priority. Meanwhile, venue selection is evolving, with companies choosing spaces that support broader climate and corporate responsibility goals.

On the tech front, attendee apps are leading the charge in digital transformation. These tools enhance the guest experience while helping planners gather real-time feedback and adjust on the fly. Several companies are even piloting AI integrations to analyze engagement patterns and tailor content delivery.

This dual focus—on planet and performance—shows that the events industry is finally entering a values-driven, tech-enabled future.

Incentive Travel Reclaims Its Power

Corporate rewards are evolving—and incentive travel is taking center stage again. 41% of industries now include travel experiences in their event offerings. The food and financial services sectors lead in usage, followed closely by retail.

These trips aren’t just perks. They’re tools for retention, motivation, and culture-building. And in a competitive hiring landscape, they’re becoming essential.

Pre- and Post-Event Experiences Are Gaining Attention

Interestingly, the report highlights a growing emphasis on event lifecycle strategy. While 28% of planners prioritize enhancing the onsite attendee experience, 24% are now focused on pre- and post-event activation.

This includes personalizing pre-event outreach, offering post-event content, and leveraging analytics to fine-tune future planning. In short, the event is no longer just a moment—it’s a journey.

The Road Ahead: Opportunity and Urgency

For hotels, airlines, and tourism boards, the implications of FCM’s report are huge. Corporate events are not only back—they’re evolving rapidly. Those who adapt quickly will reap long-term benefits. From designing event-ready hotel spaces to offering tech-enhanced guest services, the opportunities to align with rising demand are everywhere.

Destinations that invest in eco-conscious venues, digital tools, and unique incentive experiences stand to win repeat business and deeper corporate partnerships.

Moreover, this is a chance for the travel industry to rebuild with purpose. To shift away from transactional events and toward transformative ones. To support human connection, community building, and collaborative growth.

Final Takeaway: Events Are More Than Logistics—They’re Leverage

The global meetings and events space isn’t just a support function anymore. It’s a strategic engine that drives innovation, culture, and long-term business value. FCM’s Global Trends Report proves what many in the industry have sensed for years: the future of travel is experiential, connected, and intentional.

For brands, planners, and travel partners alike, now is the moment to rise, reinvent, and deliver.