Attendees at the recent Strata Insights event were presented a preview of some of the most important tech trends that will shape the events industry in 2024 and beyond.

Speaking to an audience of event industry leaders at the event at The Ned on 7 December, Chris Vernon-Smith, creative director of On Event Production Co (a subsidiary of Strata) showcased three key trends along with practical examples of the technology available and how it can be used.

Tech Trend #1 – Personalisation
Opportunities now exist to personalise content to individuals dynamically, matching the mood and environment. Two examples were presented:
3D Audio Beam forming – such as the HOLOPLOT speakers used at ABBA Voyage. This beams highly directional sound to a specific audience or space. In a conference environment, the speaker could be translated into a different language instantaneously in different parts of the room.
Facial recognition – unobtrusive face recognition technology can gather attendee data with no need to scan badges or QR codes. (This can be GDPR compliant in a fully opted in closed environment). Room engagement could also be measured based on facial expressions meaning an event speaker could detect the mood of an audience through feedback from the tech, changing their energy or delivery accordingly.

Tech Trend #2 Sustainability

Two examples of tech that can help the events industry become more sustainable were presented:
PET eco-fabric – uses dye sub printing and water-based inks to significantly reduce emissions compared to traditional print. For every roll of material that goes through the printers 3,000 bottles are saved from ending up in the ocean or in landfill.
Green mobile power – is now delivering the power output and duration to make it usable for large scale outdoor events.

Tech Trend #3 Immersive Tech

Two ways in which immersive tech can transform event experiences were showcased.
LED film – improvements in LED resolution, power and price point means translucent screens on a massive scale can now add new dimensions to event spaces, product launches and exhibitions.
The Vegas Sphere – mapped with flexible LEDs and functioning as a giant video screen inside and out, produces video which dynamically changes throughout a show. Flexible LEDs can be used on projects of all sizes not just enormous Vegas venues!

Giles Cattle, director of creative strategy and business development at Strata said: “This was the third in our ‘Making Moments Matter’ Insight Series. First, we looked at globalisation, then we followed-up with our Big Budget debate. This time we gathered experts, leaders, and visionaries to showcase the predictions and trend insights that will be shaping event brand and marketing in 2024 and beyond. It was an incredibly thought-provoking event and attendees went away inspired.”

Speakers and panel attendees also included Greg Clayton, head of Markets, Brands and Shoppers Insights at Ipsos, Jen Bonassera, global events director at Charlotte Tilbury, Kristian Cholmondeley, MD at Jeep and Fiona Macnish, head of global events at M&G Investments.