What do meeting professionals hate more than uncertainty? That is a trick question. Other than running out of coffee, trying to sign contracts years out and arranging travel in a world where costs are the only thing rising faster than attrition rates is the definition of “stressful.” To clear up the scene in front of our event windshields, we asked industry veteran Scott Graf to shine the high beams on what lies ahead.
Graf is the former Global CEO of BCD Meetings & Events, built one of the world’s top event and incentive travel companies, has led massive global expansion and strategic acquisitions and is now on the board of the newly merged 360DG and CSI DMC company. His POV? Fewer, smaller international events for the foreseeable future and more consolidation.
Read More: CSI DMC and 360 Destination Group Announce Merger
Smart Meetings: How do you see the current geopolitical uncertainty impacting international events?
Scott Graf: In short, there will be fewer and smaller international events for the foreseeable future and when they do happen, there will be less lead time. The geopolitical landscape changes week-to-week and even day-by-day. For decision-makers, many international corporate events come down to a risk-reward evaluation.
Is the reward of the cool destination, the inspiration, the motivation and the recognition the attendees are going to experience worth the risk of the travel, the on-site execution and the variables in that location? Safety and security must be a top priority for corporate leadership and therefore I believe “risk” will outweigh “reward” at a higher rate than it would have in the past.
“Safety and security must be a top priority for corporate leadership and therefore risk will outweigh reward at a higher rate than it would have in the past.”
SM: Do you foresee more consolidation in event companies and DMCs in particular?
SG: Yes, I do. The broader meeting and events industry still has many excellent providers and quite a few of them have owners who are likely looking for either how they can monetize their business or transition out of ownership.
Secondly, there were some wonderful post-Covid booking/revenue extremes in terms of travel, meetings and events but I believe that’s leveling out—a ripe time for consolidation. Make no mistake, the DMC industry will be watching the 360DG and CSI DMC merger very carefully and I think there will be increased consolidation discussion and movement over the next 12 to 24 months.
SM: What drove you to come back at this time in this role?
SG: I have great respect for both 360DG and CSI DMC. They’ve demonstrated long-term success in this industry, and both have committed and dynamic leadership that’s well positioned to fast forward the combined companies into the future. I was pleased to be considered and am happy to contribute to their healthy growth in the coming years. In the spirit of lifelong learning, this opportunity allows me to connect with some very intelligent and committed industry leaders. I know that I can add value, but I also know that I can learn from each of them, and that is extremely positive for me.
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SM: What do planners get wrong about DMCs? How will they be able to deliver even more value in the future?
Hope Valentine, president, CSI DMC and 2024 Smart Women in Meetings Industry Leader Award Winner: Planners often underestimate DMCs, viewing them as logistical vendors rather than strategic partners. This misconception overlooks their deep local expertise, creative capabilities, and ability to deliver unique, immersive experiences. While some assume they can replicate DMC value through online research, DMCs offer insider access, real-time problem-solving, and curated solutions that go far beyond what’s available on the surface.
Shelly Archer, president, 360DG: As the industry evolves, DMCs will continue to add value through tech integration, sustainability leadership, risk management, and by collaborating earlier in the planning process to create more meaningful, culturally rich events.
PQ: “Keep a healthy perspective on what we’re doing and why we’re doing it.”
SM: What soothing words do you have for planners who might wake up in the middle of the night with a nightmare that their event is over budget, their attendees can’t get visas and the CEO is stuck at the airport?
SG: There are no silver bullets for any of those things because they have happened in the past and they’ll continue to happen in the future. That’s the nature of the industry. However, I think it’s critically important to constantly keep a healthy perspective on what we’re doing and why we’re doing it. We’re operating inspirational and educational events that help drive businesses forward. To that end, when these unfortunate scenarios creep into a planner’s life they should:
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- Ensure safety and security.
- Assess back up plans that are already in place or current options to remedy the situation.
- Own the moment and communicate clearly and quickly -do not hide the issue.
- De-brief, learn and move on.
