Pharmaceutical Meetings: Trends You Should Know About

  • By Jessica Elmore
  • •
  • 24 Feb, 2018
  • •
Planning an effective pharmaceutical meeting requires far more expertise than planning events in other industries. Government regulations set strict guidelines about spending and record-keeping for pharmaceutical events. The good news is venues are going above and beyond to attract clients in the pharmaceutical industry. Here are three trends you should keep in mind when planning a pharmaceutical event:

Destination: Find deals in mid-sized European and North American venues

The political climate, economy, and other social factors impact how desirable locations are for pharmaceutical meetings. For example, the continued prevalence of Zika in Brazil is a deterrent even with the current surplus of available hotels. For the first time in years, the supply of hotel venues in North America will exceed demand in 2018. Buyers will have more options and bargaining power. Despite concerns over Brexit, Europe also remains a strong market for pharmaceutical meetings. In particular, Germany is becoming very popular in 2018. If you’re looking to stretch your budget, going for mid-sized venues in Europe and North America may yield some great options. Being flexible with date and location can also help you find a great deal.

Aesthetic and Tech: Expect a surge in minimalism

Pharmaceutical meetings are gearing more toward collaboration and minimalism. This means less “stuff” on the meeting tables and an increased focused on multi-tasking technology. Be on the look-out for modern venues with big, open spaces that facilitate discussion. For technology, consider utilizing electronic paper, or E-paper, technology. E-paper is a display device that doesn’t emit light and mimics the look of ink on ordinary paper. Many people find E-paper more comfortable to read, which makes it a good option for individual tablets and projection displays. E-paper is also green: it can hold static images without electricity. As an added benefit, participants won’t need access to electrical outlets, so no more tripping over cords.

Food and Beverage: The traditional banquet is in decline

When planning meals for your pharmaceutical meeting, take note that the traditional banquet is no longer the standard. Instead, participants want interactive meal experiences. Hotels are responding to this demand by partnering with notable restaurants and updating their in-house restaurants. Family style meals are on the rise. Specific meal requests are also the norm rather than the exception. Every menu should include interesting vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. These “alternate” choices should be just as interesting and tasty as the standard dish. The ideal menu for a pharmaceutical meeting is local, organic, and infused with the culture of the location. Customization is key.

Planning a pharmaceutical event is no longer just about complying with laws. Your attendees are also expecting an exciting, efficient, and enjoyable experience. If this all seems like too much to handle, consider hiring a professional event planner. elm Planning will keep up with changing trends to help you pull off a successful, unique pharmaceutical meeting.

How Does the Pilot Shortage Affect Your Travels?

By Jessica Elmore • July 20, 2022

During the pandemic, thousands of pilots were offered early retirement packages in order to cut labor bills due to the lack of travel demand. Now that travel for pleasure and business is rebounding from the pandemic, approximately 14,000 flights in the US were recently cancelled or delayed due to the lack of pilots, carriers, and other staff.

Meet our newest edition to the elm Planning/nest Event Rentals team!

By Jessica Elmore • August 24, 2020
We are beyond excited to introduce our newest member to the elm team. Get to know, Claire O'Brien, our Program Coordinator/Event Designer.

The Future of Meetings and Events Post Coronavirus 

By Jessica Elmore • June 18, 2020
Now that gatherings are reconvening, it’s crucial for event and meeting planners to properly convey their reaction and implementation of changes regarding their events.

How Hotels are Ensuring Health and Safety in Response to COVID-19

By Jessica Elmore • May 13, 2020
Hotels are revamping their cleaning measures to restore customer confidence and bring guests back to their properties.

Airlines Efforts to Make Flying Safer 

By Jessica Elmore • April 29, 2020
In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, airlines are stepping up their efforts to provide a safe and healthy environment for crews and passengers before takeoff and after landing.

Ways the Travel Industry is Giving Back During COVID-19 

By Jessica Elmore • April 14, 2020
The coronavirus outbreak has dealt the hospitality and travel industry a huge blow. Here's how companies are stepping up and providing aid during these unprecedented times.

Traveling Smart 

By Jessica Elmore • March 10, 2020
Coronavirus has those traveling on edge. In order to protect yourself, you need to be aware of the virus, adhere to travel advisories, avoid impacted areas and exercise preventive measures.

Looking Back at 2019

By Jessica Elmore • January 6, 2020
Elm has had a busy 2019. Take a look to see what we've been up to this year.

How to Keep Common Travel Ailments from Ruining Your Trip

By Jessica Elmore • November 14, 2018
Traveling does not have to make you sick - if you take simple precautions then you have a good chance of staying, and coming home, healthy.

The Evolution of the Ever-Changing Airplane Seat Continues

By Jessica Elmore • October 10, 2018
Airlines are constantly creating ways to save space and maximize passenger counts. The airplane seat is ever-changing and that's not about to stop now.
More Posts