Up Norway creates custom corporate work retreat
Up Norway creates custom corporate work retreat

In an era where remote working is redefining the way teams operate, Norway is becoming a top destination for corporate vacations. upper norwayis a sustainable luxury travel curator who is changing the concept of team-building retreats with custom experiences designed for corporations, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. From exclusive quaint fishing villages to creative getaways in the picturesque Lofoten Islands, these carefully curated getaways are more than just a change of scenery. They combine productivity with Norway's rich cultural and natural landscape. Groups of 1 to 100 people can break away from digital distractions and reconnect among stunning fjords, charming villages and Norway's vibrant food scene. These retreats are tailor-made for corporate teams looking to blend work and leisure while embracing Norway’s sustainability-focused lifestyle. Whether it's a secluded music and writing retreat or an outdoor adventure designed to inspire creativity, Up Norway experiences showcase the country's spirit of mindfulness and innovation. This is a great opportunity for meeting planners and incentive…

Planner’s Hottest Corporate Holiday Party Trends for 2024
Planner’s Hottest Corporate Holiday Party Trends for 2024

Company holiday parties are constantly evolving. Gone are the days of large, formal gatherings. Instead these reflect key trends moving toward more intimate, personalized and engaging experiences. Here's a rundown of the top corporate holiday party trends for 2024 that planners should consider to ensure their clients' events are both memorable and meaningful. Smaller, more intimate gatheringsOne of the standout trends for 2024 is the demand for smaller, more intimate events. As companies continue to prioritize connection over spectacle, large rave parties are being replaced by gatherings that focus on relaxed atmosphere and meaningful interaction. Planners should consider venues that create a more personal atmosphere and offer thoughtful décor and diverse food options to encourage conversation and engagement among guests. Casual interactive diningThe days of traditional sit-down, plated dinners are officially a thing of the past. Instead, guests gravitate toward lively, reception-style dining options that foster conversation and socializing. From snacks to food stations (with an open bar), holiday parties…

Five businesspeople holding plant
Best of 2024: Corporate Social Responsibility | Smart Meetings

Listen to audio Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has steadily grown into an important part of conferences, and more planners than ever are meeting CSR requirements, innovative programs, and a wealth of opportunities for those seeking these goals. In 2024, we see the role of CSR continue to expand, with new nonprofits and initiatives reimagining what CSR means. Meaningful Conference: The role of corporate social responsibility in real-world impact We review the latest data on corporate social responsibility and its impact from global and local perspectives, and dive into new innovative partnerships, tips for meeting professors, and case studies in one of America's most beautiful places. “Team Dedication” Initiative 2 Do-gooders Revitalize CSR Activities We learned from 2 Guys Doing Good, a Cause Business Alliance that integrates team building and corporate social responsibility activities, how to combine these two elements that conference professors often The primary factor to consider. Steven G. Foster, co-founder of 2 Guys Doing Good, writes: It’s important…

Five businesspeople holding plant
Best of 2024: Corporate Social Responsibility | Smart Meetings

Listen to audio Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has steadily grown into an important part of conferences, and more planners than ever are meeting CSR requirements, innovative programs, and a wealth of opportunities for those seeking these goals. In 2024, we see the role of CSR continue to expand, with new nonprofits and initiatives reimagining what CSR means. Meaningful Conference: The role of corporate social responsibility in real-world impact 2150112349 We review the latest data on corporate social responsibility and its impact from global and local perspectives, and dive into new innovative partnerships, tips for meeting professors, and case studies in one of America's most beautiful places. “Team Dedication” Initiative 2 Do-gooders Revitalize CSR Activities We learned from 2 Guys Doing Good, a Cause Business Alliance that integrates team building and corporate social responsibility activities, how to combine these two elements that conference professors often The primary consideration. Steven G. Foster, co-founder of 2 Guys Doing Good, writes: It’s important to…

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Corporate Holiday Party
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Corporate Holiday Party

Choosing the perfect venue for your company holiday party is a crucial decision that will set the tone of the event. The venue affects not only the atmosphere, but also logistics, budget, and overall experience for attendees. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a venue, along with the pros and cons of different types of venues. Five Bullocks | Photo Credit: Eatertainment Special Events and Catering Factors to consider when choosing a location capacity and spaceThe venue should be able to accommodate all guests comfortably. Consider the number of attendees and make sure there is enough space for networking, meals and any planned activities. Avoid spaces that feel cramped, as this can make people uncomfortable, but don’t choose spaces that are so spacious that they feel empty, which can be equally off-putting. BudgetCreate a budget and find the right venue. Be sure to consider hidden costs such as service fees, taxes and potential overtime. Having a clear…

A table of food catered for a meeting
How to enhance your next corporate catering event

Listen to audio Redefining event catering with chef-driven menus, health-focused products and immersive dining experiences. During the event, one thing always stands out to attendees: the food. Planners often try to improve themselves from event to event, looking for ways to wow and inspire their guests. Smart Meetings spoke with Suzanne Halperin, Head of Meetings & Events, Luxury & Lifestyle, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts, to better understand the trends she’s seeing emerging in the F&B world and how IHG What new functions has the group added to the catering industry? their dining experience. Suzanne Halperin Head of Luxury & Lifestyle Meetings and Events Americas, InterContinental Hotels Group Hotels & Resorts smart Meeting What kind of dining experience is IHG creating for guests and groups? Suzanne Halperin Across IHG’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio, we understand that the traditional approach to meetings and events is changing dramatically, especially when it comes to food. At our hotels, we are committed to elevating…

guest room balcony at White House Napa for New and Renovated feature image 10/2/24
New and refurbished: meet the boutique

Listen to audio Inspire your attendees with new and renovated boutique hotels It's time to stop daydreaming and start living your dreams. Hosting a meeting, event or incentive getaway is easy for you and your attendees at any of the new and renovated hotels below. Everything is luxurious and private, with ample opportunities to relax; each destination has upscale amenities and exciting activities, as well as opportunities to get out and about. A long history, both inside and outside Charleston Ansonborough Hotel Lobby Historic South Carolina Luxury Inn, Charleston Ansonborough Hotelcelebrating its grand opening after a multi-million dollar renovation and rebranding. Originally built in 1901 as a three-story stationery warehouse and later opened as a hospitality venue under its original name, The Ansonborough Inn, the hotel offers 45 spacious guest rooms in the heart of Charleston's oldest neighborhood. Local legend has it that Lord Anson, a British Royal Navy officer, founded the neighborhood in the 1700s and won a card…

Dining at the Hotel Lilien (Photo by Hotel Lilien).
Hotel acquisitions and leisure retreats can elevate corporate events

Hotel acquisitions offer a variety of advantages that can improve the success of your client’s corporate event or leisure activity. Not only will they have exclusive control and access to the hotel’s amenities, but privacy is also guaranteed, creating the promise of a more personalized experience. site Going beyond the mundane, there are several attributes to consider here. W Punta Mita Hotel, Mexico If you are looking for a unique space to host a corporate event or group retreat, W Punta Mita exist Mexico Offering beachfront, private pool suite collections, refurbished rooms and resort buyout options Wow Suite on the top floor. With 20 private rooms, this private room will make your clients feel like they have booked a boutique hotel within a large luxury resort on the Mexican Riviera. Rooftop views from the E-WOW Suite at W Punta Mita. Each suite has a private pool, designed to provide exclusivity and privacy for any event. Wow The penthouse comes with…

people standing in room with colorful event design
The secret role of aesthetic decoration in corporate activities

Listen to Audio The corporate events space is saturated, and companies are faced with a challenge: ensuring their gatherings stand out and are memorable. While content, speakers, and networking opportunities are critical, one often underestimated element can set an event apart—the décor. More than just a backdrop, décor can significantly impact the success of an event, influencing everything from attendee engagement to brand perception. Imagine walking into a room that exudes your brand’s energy, innovation, and attention to detail. Attendees form an impression before they even open their mouths. Decor acts like a silent ambassador, communicating your commitment to excellence. When a space is thoughtfully designed to incorporate brand colors and themes, it creates a powerful first impression and sets a positive tone for the entire event. Thoughtful design doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. However, it’s an intangible but important element that often gets put on the back burner – especially when it comes to budgetary concerns. That…

people standing in room with colorful event design
The secret role of aesthetic decoration in corporate activities

Listen to Audio The corporate events space is saturated, and companies are faced with a challenge: ensuring their gatherings stand out and are memorable. While content, speakers, and networking opportunities are critical, one often underestimated element can set an event apart—the décor. More than just a backdrop, décor can significantly impact the success of an event, influencing everything from attendee engagement to brand perception. Imagine walking into a room that exudes your brand’s energy, innovation, and attention to detail. Attendees form an impression before they even open their mouths. Decor acts like a silent ambassador, communicating your commitment to excellence. When a space is thoughtfully designed to incorporate brand colors and themes, it creates a powerful first impression and sets a positive tone for the entire event. Thoughtful design doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive. However, it’s an intangible but important element that often gets put on the back burner – especially when it comes to budgetary concerns. That…

Palladium Cares focuses on people, community and planet
Palladium Hotel Group Celebrates Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative

In the past year, Palladium Cares has helped people, communities and the planet through 486 projects, including opening training centers and working with local NGOs. In just one year, Palladium Hotel Groups’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative has Palladium CareSignificant progress has been made in several projects in Europe and the Americas. With a mission of People, Community and Planet, the program aims to improve the quality of life inside and outside the company, promote employee well-being, support local communities and promote environmental sustainability. Initiatives include opening training centers, providing employee scholarships and working with local non-governmental organizations (NGOs). In 2023, Palladium carried out a total of 486 activities, including 156 environmental activities, 190 internal company activities and 140 external activities. Gloria Juste, Senior Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Palladium Hotel Group, said: "We are proud of the impact that Palladium Cares has had in Europe and the Americas since its inception, advancing our mission in the regions we…

6 Tips for Crisis Preparedness for Corporate Events
6 Tips for Crisis Preparedness for Corporate Events

Max Brown, senior director of production management for corporate events at Production Resources Group. Max Brown, senior director of corporate event production management at Production Resource Group, said being prepared for a crisis can help avoid it. The key to crisis management is preparation, says Max Brown, senior director of corporate event production management. Production Resource Group (PRG). For example, at last year’s Formula 1 Grand Prix Opening Ceremony in Las Vegas, PRG not only supported the debut of lighting, sound, and seven mobile set units, but also developed a comprehensive plan to quickly respond to any unforeseen obstacles. This included everything from dealing with inclement weather to ensuring structural safety to resolving technical glitches, just to name a few. Here are Brown’s top preparation tips to help planners stay one step ahead and create a safe and stress-free experience for attendees: 1. Unconventional venues. Off-site and non-traditional venues can add charm and excitement to an event, but these venues…

6 Tips for Crisis Preparedness for Corporate Events
6 Tips for Crisis Preparedness for Corporate Events

Max Brown, senior director of production management for corporate events at Production Resources Group. Max Brown, senior director of corporate event production management at Production Resource Group, said being prepared for a crisis can help avoid it. The key to crisis management is preparation, says Max Brown, senior director of corporate event production management. Production Resource Group (PRG). For example, at last year’s Formula 1 Grand Prix opening ceremony in Las Vegas, PRG not only supported the debut of lighting, sound, and seven mobile set units, but also developed a comprehensive plan to quickly respond to any unforeseen obstacles. This included everything from dealing with inclement weather to ensuring structural safety to resolving technical glitches, just to name a few. Here are Brown’s top preparation tips to help planners stay one step ahead and create a safe and stress-free experience for attendees: 1. Unconventional venues. Off-site and non-traditional venues can add charm and excitement to an event, but these venues…

Malaysia: Corporate Renewables Brief
Malaysia: Corporate Renewables Brief

brief On 26 July 2024, the Ministry of Energy and Water Transition (“Petra”) announced the launch of the Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS), scheduled to start in September 2024. The scheme aims to enhance corporate access to green electricity supply through an open grid access system, where third parties can supply or purchase electricity from the grid system at a predetermined system access fee. The CRESS programme is part of the GREENS MADANI programme, the government’s programme to enhance renewable energy in niche sectors, and aims to support high priority energy transition aspirations. content CRESS Framework General CRESS Participation Conditions Benefits and impacts of CRESS Observations Under CRESS, eligible renewable energy (RE) generators and corporate companies can arrange for green electricity supply through the existing supply system on mutually agreed terms. Companies can source renewable energy directly from identified renewable energy generators with third party access (TPA) by participating in the New Enhanced Dispatch Arrangement (NEDA) market, or through…

Caesars Entertainment releases 2023 CSR Report
Caesars Entertainment Releases 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility Report

As an industry leader in corporate social responsibility, Caesars continues to achieve ambitious and diverse goals. More than 23 years ago, Caesars Entertainment Corporation established its Code of Commitment to “adhere to the highest ethical and legal standards, conduct business with honesty and integrity, and respect internationally recognized human rights wherever we operate.” Today, the company has become an industry benchmark for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in many meaningful ways. Commenting on Caesars Entertainment's recently released 2023 Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Heather Rapp, Caesars Entertainment's Senior Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility, said: "At Caesars Entertainment, we are committed to continuing to grow, diversify and achieve our corporate social responsibility goals. We are in a period of progress as we achieved and exceeded our interim emissions reduction goal three years ahead of schedule, and as a result of this work, we are able to implement new, more ambitious goals this year. Our success in the environmental impact category inspires us…