As we enter another four weeks of lockdown, it is apparent that business as we know it will continue to be in turmoil and it is clear that live events will not be the same for the foreseeable future.
Currently, the only option is to meet online so in-person and face-to-face meetings are not possible. However, when live events do become an option again what restrictions could be in place?
Smaller events
We believe that live events will be possible in 2021 but they will have less capacity and only small events will be possible. Venues will have to reduce their capacity until a vaccine is available. Having the option to run live events will be great news for the industry however smaller numbers will mean an effect on the event’s revenue.
Security at events will increase
If a vaccine is still not available when live events start up again then it is likely that testing or some screening will be needed to help stop the spread of COVID-19. This will affect the registration/check-in process at events. Recent news has suggested that 15-minute COVID-19 tests will be administered onsite at sports events to test spectators and get sports fans back to watching live sport asap.
Growth in Hybrid events
There will be a growth in hybrid events where both face-to-face and an online option will be available to the delegate. This will enable large-scale events to take place but the online aspect will assist with the possible restrictions on event capacity and international travel.
A business will increase regional meetings
As remote working has been embraced by many companies across the UK, there may be a need for regular regional team catch-ups. These may be team-building activities or communication events on a smaller scale. These are likely to be small in size but more regular than in previous years.
While most of the above possibilities are less than desirable, they are worth considering. We are trying to predict what lies ahead so that we can make sure our staff are on hand to support the events industry post-COVID-19.
If you would like to discuss how we can provide assistance with your online event and/or live event post-COVID-19, then please get in touch today.