Planning an event is tough.
Event planning is a complex process that involves many moving parts. From organizing the guest list to coordinating vendors and entertainment, event planners must be skilled in a variety of areas. To better understand the industry and make informed decisions, we have curated a list of most insightful, interesting, up-to-date event planning statistics you need to be aware in 2023
With this information, you can make better decisions and create more successful events.
Top Event Statistics for 2023
Event statistics are not just numbers; they are storytelling tools that provide nuanced insights into what’s resonating in the market and what’s falling flat. From growth rates and attendee numbers to sustainability efforts and tech adoption, the statistics of this year paint a compelling narrative.
1. Events are back and estimated to reach $2.2 billion by 2028
Before the pandemic in 2020, the event industry was valued at approximately $800 billion. It has already made an aggressive comeback since then and is projected to continue growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.5% until 2028. This growth is primarily driven by corporate events, with music concerts and festivals following closely behind.
The event industry market includes event organizers, event planners, event technology providers, venue operators, suppliers, exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees.
2. 70% of events and 87% of meetings are being conducted in person
Over two-thirds of events and meetings have reverted to in-person formats, with some internal and small-scale meetings even surpassing attendance levels seen in 2019.
3. Increased adoption of technology in the event planning industry
78% of event planners are using more technology compared to the pre-COVID. The primary motivations for this increased use of technology include reducing escalating costs, capturing event ROI (Return on Investment), addressing staffing issues, streamlining various systems, and gauging attendee interests throughout the event lifecycle.
4. Notable rise in corporate spending on in meetings & events.
In 2023, an average of 65% of companies worldwide reported an increase in meeting and event spending. This trend is fairly consistent across regions: North America at 65%, Europe at 66%, Latin America at 63%, and Asia at 67%. What’s particularly encouraging is that, according to American Express, 10% of these companies have reported a significant spending increase of more than 11%