Why We Gather: Behavioral, emotional and cultural drivers defining 2026 meetings and events, Melia, ITB and more...

Why We Gather: Behavioral, emotional and cultural drivers defining 2026 meetings
Thursday, 22nd January 2026

Trends Report special section explores how the digital era is redefining in-person connection and the attendee motivations reshaping meetings and events.

Nearly half (49%) of respondents say meeting new people and bonding with their team will be the main reason they attend work events in 2026, underscoring the shift toward purpose-driven gatherings that fuel collaboration and career momentum >>

Meliá announces nine new hotels across Malta and Gozo
22 Jan 2026 : The announcement follows the opening of five other hotels in the region, including the brand-new Hotel Ben Marsalforn Affiliated by Meliá, in November 2025 >>

Airbnb co-founder to speak at ITB Berlin Convention
22 Jan 2026 : With interest in nature tourism growing across Europe, ITB Berlin 2026 is for the first time entering into a Premium Partnership with Airbnb in order to promote nature stays and boost development in rural regions >>

Minor Hotels sharpens growth agenda for 2026
22 Jan 2026 : Record year of signings drives new phase of expansion focused on portfolio diversification and asset-light growth >>

HIGHLIGHT ARTICLE

When Hospitality Goes Overboard
Thursday, 22nd January 2026

Restaurants rely on satisfied customers for repeat visits, leading many to continuously raise their service standards to meet and exceed customers’ expectations.

However, service quality that is too high can backfire, with behaviours such as kneeling and excessive politeness arousing suspicion and discomfort in diners >>

Beyond OTAs: The Four Core Layers That Define AI Visibility for Hotels
Why AI-driven discovery rewards structure, authority, and coherence more than distribution scale >>

In case you've missed it: Global eNewsletter of January 21, 2026
Vietnam retail market analysis 2026, White label operator Revo Hospitality files for insolvency and more >>