In the latest Northstar/Cvent Meetings Industry PULSE Survey, conducted in partnership with Phocuswright, planner optimism has increased dramatically: The percentage of planners who are more optimistic than they were two months ago has nearly doubled since the March PULSE Survey.
The new research indicates meetings demand is strong — and that planners must navigate significant cost-related and geopolitical challenges to execute those business events. Among the findings:
- Booking activity is strong, with new bookings the highest they've been in two years for this time period. Many new events are being planned 7-9 months out.
- The trend toward smaller meetings seems to have stalled, with slightly more planners expecting to exceed last year's attendance and more planners seeking larger room blocks.
- The percentage of planners who are feeling an impact from the war in Iran has increased, even as efforts are playing out to end the conflict. Increased transportation costs are causing issues for many.
- Higher costs, constrained budgets and rising airfare remain top-of-mind among planner concerns.
For more insight into planner sentiment, expectations, experience with AI and event tech investments, download a free copy of the Northstar/Cvent Meetings Industry PULSE Survey report.
You can also view results from the EMEA Pulse Survey
About the Survey
The Northstar/Cvent Meetings Industry PULSE Survey was first launched in 2020 to track changes in planner sentiment and expectations throughout the pandemic. Northstar continues to survey event planners regularly to assess how current challenges and trends are shaping the industry. Produced in partnership with meetings technology provider Cvent, the survey has expanded beginning in June 2026 to include research collaboration with Phocuswright, a division of Northstar Travel Group and the market leader in travel industry research.