Congress Tourism Market Size (2023-2028):

The Global Congress Tourism Market was worth US$ 968.7 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to reach a valuation of US$ 1568.4 billion by 2028 and is predicted to register a CAGR of 8.4% during 2023-2028.

Market Overview:

Congress tourism, also known as MICE tourism (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), is a specialized branch of tourism centred around organizing and hosting various business-related events and gatherings in different locations. These events include conferences, meetings, conventions, trade shows, and exhibitions, bringing together professionals, experts, and delegates from diverse fields. The main goals of congress tourism are to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, networking opportunities, and collaborations among participants while promoting a destination as an ideal location for hosting such events. It serves as a significant economic driver for both the tourism sector and the local economy of the hosting destination, generating revenue from accommodations, transportation, dining, and other services. Congress tourism often involves partnerships between event organizers, convention centres, hotels, and local authorities, contributing to a destination's reputation and development.

Market Drivers:

The growth of businesses and industries worldwide fuels the Congress Tourism Market. As companies expand, professionals need places to come together, exchange their ideas, and work together. This growing market demand drives the congress tourism market as destinations that can offer meeting spaces, accommodations, and event support become increasingly sought after. As businesses continue to expand their global footprint, the need for hosting conferences, meetings, and exhibitions rises, driving the market growth of congress tourism in various destinations.

Globalization plays a significant role in driving the Congress Tourism Market. With businesses expanding their operations internationally, there's a growing market demand for global meetings and gatherings. Professionals from different countries need to come together to discuss strategies, share insights, and foster international collaborations. The Congress Tourism Market thrives on providing the infrastructure and support required for professionals to meet and work together across borders, contributing to the advancement of businesses on a global scale.

Market Restraints:

The Congress tourism market faces significant challenges due to Economic uncertainties and downturns during periods of financial instability. When businesses and organizations face financial challenges, they often look for ways to cut expenses, and one of the areas they may reduce spending is travel and hosting large events. This can lead to a reduced market demand for congress tourism services as companies look for cost-saving measures. 

Market Opportunities:

Hybrid events present a promising opportunity in the congress tourism market. They expand the reach of gatherings and make them accessible to a wider audience, including those who prefer remote participation. This innovation enhances event flexibility and attendee engagement, attracting more participants and driving the demand for venues and services equipped to host hybrid events. As the trend towards hybrid meetings continues to grow, the businesses in congress tourism can tap into this evolving landscape to boost their offerings and meet the changing needs of clients and attendees.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Congress Tourism Market:

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the congress tourism market. Initially, Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and health concerns led to widespread event cancellations and postponements. Many businesses and organizations turned to virtual meetings instead of traditional in-person gatherings. This sudden shift to online events challenged the congress tourism industry, causing a significant revenue decline in the market size. However, it also spurred innovation in virtual and hybrid event formats, which created new opportunities. Safety measures like enhanced sanitation and social distancing protocols became crucial for in-person events. As vaccinations progressed, there was a gradual return to physical gatherings, but the industry continued to adapt to a changing landscape. The pandemic also accelerated the integration of technology into congress tourism, emphasizing the importance of hybrid event capabilities and health precautions in the industry's recovery.

Market Key Developments:

• In 2021, Eventbrite offers a range of event management tools, including virtual event capabilities. They provide features for hosting and monetizing virtual events, making them accessible to a wide audience.
• In 2021, GES implemented the "Health & Safety Commitment" for in-person events, incorporating measures like temperature checks, contactless registration, and crowd management solutions.
• In 2021, Zoom expanded its offerings to include Zoom Events. It provides a platform for hosting and managing virtual and hybrid events, integrating with their video conferencing tools.

CONGRESS TOURISM MARKET REPORT COVERAGE:

Market Segmentation:

Congress Tourism Market - By Event:

• Conferences and Conventions

• Meetings
• Trade Shows
• Symposiums
• Incentive Travel 

Conferences and conventions dominate due to their ability to attract diverse audiences, provide comprehensive content, and offer exhibition opportunities. These events facilitate networking, knowledge exchange, and business interactions, making them essential for professionals from various industries. Their adaptability and international appeal further contribute to their prominence in the congress tourism market.

Congress Tourism Market - By Venue:

• Hotels and Resorts
• Convention Centers
• Universities and Educational Institutions
• Cruise Ships
• Online/Virtual 

Convention centers dominate the Congress Tourism Market due to their state-of-the-art facilities, versatility, and strategic locations in major business hubs. They offer spacious auditoriums, meeting rooms, and advanced technology infrastructure, making them ideal for various events. Their ability to host international conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions contributes to their dominance.

Congress Tourism Market - By Age Group:

• Below 15 years
• 16 to 25
• 26 to 45
• 46 to 55
• above 55 

The 26 to 45 age range dominates the Congress Tourism Market due to their career-focused mindset and key decision-making positions in organizations. They actively seek opportunities for professional growth, networking, and knowledge enrichment, making them central to conferences, conventions, and trade shows where important business decisions are made.

Market Regional Analysis:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-pacific
• Middle East and Africa
• Latin America

North America holds a dominant position in the Congress Tourism Market due to its robust economy, extensive business activities, and a concentration of multinational corporations. Major cities like New York, Chicago, and Las Vegas are renowned destinations for large-scale conferences and conventions, drawing professionals from around the world. 

Followed by North America, Europe congress tourism market is leading with the largest share of the market with a growing number of key players in the emerging countries. Hosting prestigious events in major cities like London, Paris and Frankfurt, the demand for this market is growing eventually. 

Asia Pacific is likely to have the fastest growth rate in the coming years.

Economic growth, an expanding professional workforce, and increasing globalization contribute to the region's prominence. Business hubs like Shanghai and Tokyo are magnets for major conferences and conventions.

The Middle East is making strides, but variations in economic development and political stability can impact its dominance. Nevertheless, cities like Dubai are establishing themselves as significant congress tourism destinations.

Latin America shows promise, particularly in nations like Brazil and Mexico. However, economic fluctuations and security concerns pose challenges to its dominance in the market.

Market Key Players:

1. Marriott International
2. Hilton Worldwide
3. Accor
4. InterContinental Hotels Group
5. Hyatt Hotels Corporation
6. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
7. Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group
8. Choice Hotels International
9. Best Western Hotels & Resorts
10. American Express Meetings & Events