Stats: 34% of Companies Are Planning In-Person Meetings

Delamar Hotels in West Hartford, Southport and Greenwich Harbor, CT, and Traverse City, MI, has released the results of a new survey, finding that more than one-third of meeting planners are scheduling on-site events this year with 40 percent planning meetings into 2022. The majority of future gatherings include networking receptions, while the number of board of directors, executive leadership and sales training meetings as well as employee retreats were evenly split. The online survey was conducted in October 2021 among a cross section of 500 corporate meeting planners in the Northeast. 

The survey found that 44 percent split their time between home and office; 34 percent are planning meetings now with 40 percent scheduling into 2022. Thirty-five percent of the meetings will be networking receptions and 79% cited hybrid meeting capability and technology among the most important factors in choosing a meeting venue.

The survey showed that COVID-19 precautions remain top of mind with 46 percent responding that attendees must show proof of vaccination or negative COVID test; hotel staff must wear masks and social distancing must be practiced between tables and at receptions. Thirty-eight percent expect hotel staff to be tested regularly or have been vaccinated, while 30 percent said that attendees must wear masks.

Regarding team-building and recreational activities, over 30 percent emphasized on the importance on having access to progressive culinary programs, outdoor spaces and onsite spa services.

Dedicated to meeting the needs of planners and in response to survey findings, Delamar Hotels has enhanced its special event offerings to include new experiences and programs. Its luxury properties offer private venues, technology and protocols with an aim to conduct meetings safely. In addition, Delamar recently formed a partnership with Lime Rock Park, a natural-terrain motorsport road-racing venue. Lime Rock offers unique and fun opportunities for team-building special events and entertainment.

Further examples of recreational and team-building programs offered by Delamar Hotels includes culinary experiences led by an award-winning chef, mixology classes and wine pairing dinners, as well as fun experiences coordinated through local partners such as tastings at nearby breweries and vineyards, yoga, bowling, axe throwing, paint and sip, and more. Also, Delamar Hotels are in central locations within near proximity to museums, cultural activities, beaches and boutique shops.

For more information visit www.delamar.com.

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