Events and venues deserves an expert voice.

Opinion piece arguing that widespread AI use increases reliance on digital interactions and reduces spontaneous human contact, making face-to-face events a growing source of trust and connection. The author says AI improves efficiency in events but cannot replicate signals like body language, humor and shared experiences that build business relationships.

Consider hosting or highlighting in-person elements and trust-building experiences at events to differentiate from AI-driven digital interactions.

Consider: How could your venue measure whether specific in-person features (networking formats, tactile demos, live facilitation) increase attendee trust or deal-making compared with virtual formats?

Billboard reports on this development. Read the source and add your perspective on what it means for your industry.

Consider: What does this development mean for businesses or customers in events and venues?

An opinion piece argues that as AI makes basic information widely available, industry events regain value by enabling conversations that surface real implementation experience, risks and contextual insights. The author suggests events should shift from information delivery toward facilitating decision-focused discussions between providers, users and specialists.

Consider how event programming, exhibitor training and networking formats might be adapted to prioritize deep, decision-oriented conversations over basic product demonstrations.

Consider: What concrete session formats or exhibitor practices would best create space for candid implementation discussions between vendors and experienced users?

GhanaWeb reports on this development. Read the source and add your perspective on what it means for your industry.

Consider: What does this development mean for businesses or customers in events and venues?

A Festival & Outdoor Event Guide 2026 compiles industry insights, expert perspectives, supplier listings and ideas for festival, sporting and cultural outdoor events. The guide highlights challenges such as rising costs, shifting audience expectations and a stronger emphasis on sustainability, and aims to offer solutions and inspiration for planners and suppliers.

Event organisers and venue operators can use the guide for supplier contacts, innovation ideas and strategic considerations around costs, audience needs, and sustainability.

Consider: Which specific supplier categories or technologies in the guide should event operators prioritise for reducing costs or improving sustainability at large outdoor events?

Share practical expertise grounded in the linked industry sources and your own experience.

Consider: What should customers understand before making an important decision?

Share practical expertise grounded in the linked industry sources and your own experience.

Consider: Which priorities will matter most over the coming years, and why?