Conferences and conventions are one of the fastest growing areas of the events industry. This is a substantially important industry, yet research into many dimensions of this sector is in its infancy. This timely book, uniquely presents a ‘state of the art’ synthesis of the research on both demand and supply sides of the industry as well as insights into how current and future trends are affecting conferences and conventions.

This volume provides a critical review of the players involved in conferences and conventions; conference and convention destination image and impacts; and current and future trends. The players in the industry include attendees/delegates, professional conference organisers, and association meeting planners. On the destination side, conference venues and facilities, along with convention and visitor bureaux are examined, as well as how convention destination image can be developed and improved. Further, this section considers the economic, social and environmental impacts of conferences and conventions. The final section considers some of the major trends that are likely to impact on the conference and convention industry, including climate change, new technologies and risk and crisis management. To reflect the international nature of the conference and convention industry, case studies and examples from different geographical regions are included throughout.

By identifying gaps in our knowledge, and presenting a collection of themes to guide future research, this book not only adds to our current knowledge, but will underpin the advancement of knowledge in the future. This book is essential reading for all those interested in Events.