FANCOURT

The changing face of business events

Are you involved in business events (meetings, incentives, conferences and events)? If so, you know the sector is going through interesting – and changeable – times.

The business events industry is evolving for a number of reasons. Along with adapting to the new demands imposed by Covid-19, the global workforce is undergoing a transition all of its own. Below, we highlight some changes to expect when it comes to business travel, both now and in the future, as well as provide some reasons why Fancourt is the go-to choice for business events on the Garden Route.

Safety protocols are taking centre stage

Nowadays, when you arrive at your accommodation (as part of a business or warm, welcoming hospitality and plenty of big smiles – despite not being able to see them underneath the masks! Yes, safety is a top priority as the world continues to battle against the coronavirus.

From sanitising your hands before entering the premises to filling in a wellness questionnaire to declare any symptoms that you may be experiencing, these Covid-related changes are significant, and the reality is that they are here to stay.

Perhaps the biggest change relating to business events in 2021 is the need to consider much smaller gatherings. This is why so many businesses and employees are selecting venues and accommodation leisure trip), you will still be greeted with that allow for outdoor corporate gatherings, and why beautiful surroundings have become even more essential and in demand than ever before.

The evolution of the global workforce

According to statistics, Millennials are estimated to make up around half of the global workforce; and Generation Z also makes up an impressive 24 per cent. In other words, the workforce has undergone a drastic shift over the course of the last decade, as have the expectations and demands of the average employee and business traveller. So, what sets the Millennials and Generation Z apart from Generation X and the Baby Boomers?

• A greater emphasis on experience: Generation Z and Millennials, also commonly referred to as the ‘now’ generation, expect more from a business trip than a few insightful meetings and conferences. They want to soak up the many perks and wonders of the destination, too. In-between networking and making important business decisions, they want to take surfing lessons at the beach and head off on a challenging hike to sample the fresh air and savour the scenery.

• ‘Greener’ travel: The next most crucial thing on the list for generation ‘now’ is corporate travel that puts the environment first. They want to fly on ‘greener’ airlines and stay at eco-friendly guesthouses. They want to do their part at the chosen location by potentially spending an hour or two volunteering for a good cause. They want to support local and ‘give back’. • Tech-savvy: Most Millennials and all of Generation Z have grown up with technology already heavily integrated to their lives – so they expect the same when it comes to travel. They use their smart devices to book and check in for flights, to take virtual tours of potential venues, and to cut costs as they go.

The changes brought about as a result of Covid-19, paired with today’s evolving workforce, means that the face of business events is undergoing a complete makeover, and industry experts, businesses, and corporate travel suppliers need to adapt accordingly.

If you are in the process of planning a business event for the first time since lockdown and you want to adhere to all safety protocols, all the while catering to corporate traveller demands, here are a few reasons why you can’t go wrong with Fancourt.

Fancourt for business events

Fancourt is nestled in the shadow of the spectacular Outeniqua mountains. Surrounded by 613 hectares of lush countryside it makes for stunning views and plenty of opportunity for outdoor pursuits. It’s not called the Business Playground of South Africa for nothing!

Fancourt places a huge emphasis on going above and beyond to ensure the safety of all guests and provides access to stunning and spacious conference venues, ideal for practicing strict social distancing. Following a meeting or conference, corporate travellers can venture off on a nature trail for some exercise or chat to our friendly staff to organise an afternoon of wine tasting at one of the local vineyards.

Other ‘experiential’ ideas to consider for adventurous employees include Big 5 game drives, an unforgettable beach braai, boat cruises along the Knysna Lagoon, and, of course, a challenging round of golf at one of South Africa’s top golf courses, including The Links, Montagu, and Outeniqua.

Tick all of the boxes relating to heightened traveller expectations by choosing Fancourt for business events in 2021 and beyond.