Event Planners Prioritize Meaningful Connections in 2026
In 2026, a significant shift is observed in the meeting and event planning landscape, according to recent data from Encore. The emphasis is now on cultivating sincere human connections among attendees. In their 2026 Planner Pulse report, Encore has revealed that 59% of planners consider fostering connections as the foremost priority, surpassing both personalization and innovation, which came in at 27% and 15%, respectively. This shift in focus reflects a desire to create experiences that are not just enjoyable but also deeply meaningful.
The research builds on insights gleaned from the earlier Experience Design Report, which underscores the priority of connection and identifies further opportunities for planners to design more thoughtfully around this objective. Jill Hunt, Encore's Vice President of Customer Experience and Insights, points out that while technology continues to transform how we interact, it simultaneously enhances the value of in-person connections. "Event professionals recognize that audiences wish for genuine engagement. They're making deliberate design choices to facilitate those interactions more naturally and effectively," she states.
A striking finding from the report is the effectiveness of breakout sessions in fostering connections. While 80% of planners believe that smaller groups contribute positively to attendee interactions, only about 55% currently employ this strategy. Breakouts are seen as valuable for nurturing meaningful exchanges, networking, and collaboration, yet the effectiveness of these sessions can be influenced by clear facilitation, defined objectives, appropriate timing, and budget considerations.
In the realm of personalization, planners are increasingly adopting tailored approaches for events. Approximately 75% of surveyed planners customize every or most of their events using various tools such as surveys, registration data, and stakeholder discussions. This shift aligns with the understanding that personalization can serve as a vehicle to achieve deeper connections among attendees.
Moreover, innovation is steadily becoming an expectation rather than a differentiator. Event professionals express a keen interest in incorporating novel ideas that address real problems within the event framework. However, the report highlights that two primary enablers—capacity for investment and access to resources that simplify the learning and research processes—are crucial for fostering innovation. An overwhelming 85% of those surveyed cited budgetary constraints as a central factor influencing their decisions about innovation.
Encore is set to delve deeper into the findings of the Planner Pulse report at the IMEX America event, scheduled for October 13-15 in Las Vegas. Attendees visiting Encore's Education Hub, booth B4387, can expect sessions that focus on enhancing connections, personalization efforts, and leveraging emerging technologies. Additionally, Encore will showcase an engaging experience titled "Unlock Your Design DNA," which invites participants to explore the intersection of intentional design, technology, and authentic human interactions, paving the way for more impactful live experiences.
For those interested in further insights, the complete Planner Pulse Reconnection Report is available for download, providing a comprehensive overview of the trends and insights shaping the future of event planning.
Encore stands as a pioneer in event production on a global scale. The company dedicates itself to supporting meeting and event professionals through advanced event technology and production services. Recognition of Encore's commitment to exceptional customer experiences is evident in its recent accolades, including a spot on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® in 2026. The organization's headquarters are located in Schiller Park, Illinois, and it operates in 23 countries, spanning North America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and the Asia Pacific. Discover more about Encore and its offerings at encoreglobal.com, and connect with them on LinkedIn.
The research builds on insights gleaned from the earlier Experience Design Report, which underscores the priority of connection and identifies further opportunities for planners to design more thoughtfully around this objective. Jill Hunt, Encore's Vice President of Customer Experience and Insights, points out that while technology continues to transform how we interact, it simultaneously enhances the value of in-person connections. "Event professionals recognize that audiences wish for genuine engagement. They're making deliberate design choices to facilitate those interactions more naturally and effectively," she states.
The Role of Breakout Sessions
A striking finding from the report is the effectiveness of breakout sessions in fostering connections. While 80% of planners believe that smaller groups contribute positively to attendee interactions, only about 55% currently employ this strategy. Breakouts are seen as valuable for nurturing meaningful exchanges, networking, and collaboration, yet the effectiveness of these sessions can be influenced by clear facilitation, defined objectives, appropriate timing, and budget considerations.
In the realm of personalization, planners are increasingly adopting tailored approaches for events. Approximately 75% of surveyed planners customize every or most of their events using various tools such as surveys, registration data, and stakeholder discussions. This shift aligns with the understanding that personalization can serve as a vehicle to achieve deeper connections among attendees.
Moreover, innovation is steadily becoming an expectation rather than a differentiator. Event professionals express a keen interest in incorporating novel ideas that address real problems within the event framework. However, the report highlights that two primary enablers—capacity for investment and access to resources that simplify the learning and research processes—are crucial for fostering innovation. An overwhelming 85% of those surveyed cited budgetary constraints as a central factor influencing their decisions about innovation.
Engaging with the Findings at IMEX America
Encore is set to delve deeper into the findings of the Planner Pulse report at the IMEX America event, scheduled for October 13-15 in Las Vegas. Attendees visiting Encore's Education Hub, booth B4387, can expect sessions that focus on enhancing connections, personalization efforts, and leveraging emerging technologies. Additionally, Encore will showcase an engaging experience titled "Unlock Your Design DNA," which invites participants to explore the intersection of intentional design, technology, and authentic human interactions, paving the way for more impactful live experiences.
For those interested in further insights, the complete Planner Pulse Reconnection Report is available for download, providing a comprehensive overview of the trends and insights shaping the future of event planning.
About Encore
Encore stands as a pioneer in event production on a global scale. The company dedicates itself to supporting meeting and event professionals through advanced event technology and production services. Recognition of Encore's commitment to exceptional customer experiences is evident in its recent accolades, including a spot on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® in 2026. The organization's headquarters are located in Schiller Park, Illinois, and it operates in 23 countries, spanning North America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and the Asia Pacific. Discover more about Encore and its offerings at encoreglobal.com, and connect with them on LinkedIn.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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