Global DMC Partners' 2025 Connection: Shaping the Future of Events

From June 12 to 15, 2025, the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in The Bahamas became a hub of innovation and networking as Global DMC Partners (GDP) hosted its annual Connection event. This exclusive gathering brought together 225 industry leaders from 31 countries, all eager to explore future trends and collaborate in shaping the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) industry. Under the leadership of GDP’s President and CEO, Catherine Chaulet, participants delved into a comprehensive program that highlighted the current challenges and opportunities within the sector.

Key Trends and Insights

Chaulet's keynote address set the tone for the event by underscoring the robust growth anticipated in the MICE sector, forecasted to see a staggering 59% increase in business tourism through 2033. This growth is expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the overall travel and tourism sector, which already boasts an impressive $11.7 trillion contribution to global GDP. However, the session also touched on the reality many planners face—53% are dealing with rebookings due to political uncertainties and other unforeseen disruptions. Over half of the attendees reported that rising inflation and unpredictable costs are major hurdles when planning for the long term.

This year’s theme, "Future-Proofing Events," resonated throughout the conference as industry leaders engaged in dynamic discussions. During a panel discussion moderated by Chaulet, topics revolved around strategies to remain adaptable to tighten budgets, increased turnover, and the need for compressed lead times. A common thread among the discussions was the emphasis on flexibility and proactive communication among planning teams, clients, and DMC partners. Their insights revealed that a collaborative approach fosters creativity and ensures the delivery of impactful experiences without overspending.

Innovative Solutions and Strategies

As the event progressed, sessions like "Beyond the Obvious" highlighted alternative meeting destinations that offer rich cultural experiences at a fraction of the cost of traditional venues. Another popular session, "Spark Your Creativity," showcased inventive ideas, from interactive grape stomping festivals to unique branded gifting lounges during events. The findings underscored the growing importance of personalization in meetings, with 72% of organizations stating that they utilize events to enhance employee engagement. Moreover, 84% of Gen Z and Millennials expressed a desire for genuine connections through live events, adding a new dimension to event planning.

Sustainability was also a focal point at this year’s Connection, illustrated through the Making an Impact initiative sponsored by the Baha Mar Foundation. Attendees participated in a beach cleanup that combined community effort with environmental responsibility. This initiative reinforced the idea that purposeful engagements could coexist with playful activities, fostering camaraderie while advocating for the preservation of The Bahamas’ natural beauty.

Looking Ahead

As the conference drew to a close, excitement grew for the next gathering, which will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, from January 8 to 11, 2026. This announcement captured the enthusiasm of participants, signaling a forward-thinking approach to the future of meetings and events. With insights gathered from this year’s Connection, industry leaders returned to their respective organizations armed with innovative strategies and collaborative solutions to tackle the evolving MICE landscape.

To learn more about Global DMC Partners and their initiatives, you can visit their website at Global DMC Partners.