Navigating the Turbulence: A Candid Discussion on the Current State of the Events Industry
Wednesday, September 18, 2025 | 🕛 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM ET | Virtual (Zoom)
A must-attend conversation for anyone in the business of bringing people together.
From inflationary pressures to shifting global policies, the events industry is facing one of its most turbulent and transformative periods in recent history. Join MPI Ottawa for a timely and thought-provoking panel discussion that explores the economic, political, and logistical challenges reshaping how we plan, deliver, and experience events today.
This dynamic session will unpack the real-world impacts of:
- Trump-era tariffs and global trade uncertainty
- Rising operational and transportation costs
- Labour shortages across sectors
- Ongoing supply chain disruptions
- Evolving border policies and travel restrictions
Meet the Panel:
Moderated by Claire Smith, Secretary of Meetings Mean Business Canada and VP of Sales and Marketing at the Vancouver Convention Centre, the panel brings together three distinct industry voices:
- An Association Planner: navigating shifting expectations and budgets- Heather Dow, Events & Management Plus
- A Hotel Professional facing rising costs and resourcing challenges- Jamal Jordan, Hyatt Hotels
- A Customs Broker & Transportation Expert managing border logistics and regulations- Dianna Labbe, Consult Expo
Together, they’ll offer grounded insights and actionable strategies for adapting in today’s unpredictable landscape.
Who Should Attend:
- Meeting & event planners
- Hoteliers & venue professionals
- Suppliers & service providers
- Transportation & logistics professionals
- Students & emerging professionals
- Anyone impacted by the evolving events ecosystem
What You’ll Gain:
- A deeper understanding of the current macro forces impacting events
- Practical strategies for mitigating risk and managing rising costs
- Ideas for improving resilience in your planning and operations
- The opportunity to engage with industry leaders and ask your questions
Registration:
- FREE for MPI Members
- $25 for Non-Members
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