Learn what planners want from hotels and venues in 2026
The issues facing planners have changed. The Northstar/Cvent Meetings Industry PULSE Report gives suppliers proven insight into evolving planner sentiment. Topics include:
- The state of meetings and events.
- The importance of rebuilding relationships.
- How planners are evaluating venues.
Top Findings
67% of planners are actively booking or sourcing new events
65% of planners believe recession and inflation will most affect events in the next 6 months.
71% of planners say face-to-face events are more valuable than other initiatives
Tip for Suppliers: MICE business is crucial for the hospitality industry, providing a predictable business segment amidst budget cuts and escalating geopolitical tensions. Unexpected cancellations in leisure and transient segments can disrupt revenue and profitability, but MICE business ensures stability. Cvent helps hotels build a strong MICE business pipeline, increasing exposure and access to planners to win more RFPs and mitigate cancellations from other key business segments.
Tip for Planners: Ensure you have visibility into all events happening across the organization and can easily measure their impact. If you need to pivot or make adjustments, you'll understand where and when they happen, the cost, and the value. Event management software can help you gain these insights across the entire event lifecycle.
Resources to Meet the Moment
Myth-Buster Maze
Think you know the 2026 meetings and events landscape Play the game to test your industry IQ.
Download the report
Top 9 Event Trends to Track in 2026
Discover the global event trends shaping planner sourcing decisions and where new opportunities are emerging.
Explore the trends
Use AI for Improved Personalization in Hospitality
Discover how AI can enable personalized and impactful interactions with your guests and clients.
Download the eBook

