When hotel properties can’t find enough qualified workers to meet their needs, hotel-based meetings and events feel the effects. As challenges persist, a number of industry players are introducing solutions.

It’s the fourth year of Smart Meetings’ list, and more than 20 PCMA members were selected as Rising Stars, Stellar Performers, Innovators, Visionaries, Industry Leaders or Entrepreneurs. Among them is Michelle Crowley, PCMA’s vice president for global growth and business transformation. She was identified as an Industry Leader.

PCMA began its “ambitious” APAC program with a collaboration that helped extend its reputation for providing high-quality education.

Respondents to this year’s survey anticipate that they will have more attendees and exhibitors at their events this year vs. in 2018. It remains to be seen whether market forces will temper expectations.

Luca Favetta, PCMA’s regional business director for EMEA, spoke to Brussels-based HQ magazine about regional educational differences and how to create relevant content and ensure knowledge retention.

The new hotel brand, launching first in Indianapolis, Atlanta, and Orlando, will fill a gap at the upper end of the meetings-hotel space, said Hilton CEO Chris Nassetta.

At April’s Blockchain Revolution Global event, the spotlight will be on enterprise leaders and applications — moving away from a focus on cryptocurrency.

At Melbourne gathering, executives consider what tech challenges will mean for the business events industry and are urged to harness their power to transform communities.

What will associations be talking about most this year? Association management and services company SmithBucklin explores that question in its 16th annual Circuit publication.

The “Check Out Suite” will reward guests who want to share more time with their families and less time on sharing status updates.

The self-proclaimed ‘AI Growth Capital of Europe’ draws some of the globe’s key AI events.

As Airbnb eyes opportunities to attract more event attendees and other business travelers, roadblocks loom on the horizon.