Global DMC Partners hosted its signature Connection 2025 event from June 12 to 15 at Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in The Bahamas. The annual gathering brought together 227 attendees representing 31 countries. This included 88 invited clients and 63 DMC partners. Over three days, participants explored the forces shaping the meetings and events industry.
From the opening keynote by President and CEO Catherine Chaulet, the tone was direct and data-driven. She examined the global economic outlook, geopolitical disruptions, and what they mean for business tourism. With the MICE sector expected to grow 59 percent by 2033, events continue to play a pivotal role in the $11.7 trillion travel economy. At the same time, 53 percent of planners are dealing with rebookings due to instability. Inflation and unpredictable costs are also making it harder to plan ahead.
“We are more resilient than ever,” Chaulet said. “This industry has matured. We’re collaborative and agile.”
The keynote launched an honest discussion on how the events space is evolving. Chaulet moderated a practical session titled “Future-Proofing Events” featuring professionals from all corners of the field. The panel included Heather Fishbein from Sunbound, Matt Franks from DRPG, Ed Holdcroft from 2B UK, Braedan Quigley from Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, and Marcella Sherwin from Isagenix International.
They addressed the daily realities of planners: tighter budgets, shorter lead times, and higher expectations. Flexibility, trust, and early teamwork emerged as key themes. Everyone agreed that one strong shared experience can be more impactful than several disjointed activities. The conversation highlighted the benefits of targeting secondary markets and using brand collaborations for consistency and value.
“The secret is treating your DMC as a true partner,” Sherwin said.
Personalization was a top trend across many sessions. With 72 percent of organizations now using events for employee engagement and 84 percent of Gen Z and Millennials craving in-person connection, events are being redesigned for impact. A session titled “Beyond the Obvious” introduced planners to cost-effective locations with strong cultural value. “Spark Your Creativity” focused on unique ideas like midsummer festivals, grape stomping, and floating sushi bars.
Another key session titled “Work Smarter, Not Harder: AI in Action” explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping planning. Attendees were introduced to tools beyond ChatGPT, such as Perplexity, Claude, and Midjourney. These platforms help planners uncover new insights and boost both creativity and productivity.
“AI is not here to replace anyone,” said speaker Anne-Marie Enns of the Applied AI Association. “But the planners who embrace it will lead the next chapter.”
One-on-one appointments allowed planners to build real relationships with DMCs and sponsors. These sessions created a platform for exploring new destinations and forming lasting connections. Up to six meetings per day were scheduled, with a focus on purpose-driven engagement.
In the spirit of impact, attendees also took part in a beach cleanup organized by the Baha Mar Foundation. The effort brought planners and partners together to give back to the local environment. It combined team bonding with meaningful action.
Beyond sessions and service, optional activities helped attendees recharge. Flamingo yoga, catamaran trips, sound healing, and food tours added balance and cultural depth to the program.
Celebrating Excellence at Global DMC Partners Connection
The event closed by recognizing standout performers. Awards included:
- S. Partner of the Year: Quill Creative Event Design
- International Partner of the Year: CTI Italy
- Stellar Performer: Ed Holdcroft, 2B UK
- Teamwork Award: Emotionstore DMC
- Achievement Awards: INNOVATX Events, Chicago Is, and Between the Coasts Events
- Global Planners of the Year: Aline Whitman of LinkedIn and Sean Hoff of Moniker
Sunbound DMC, Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, and Titan Hospitality delivered flawless support throughout the event. From tailored local experiences to world-class service, they proved how destination partnerships can elevate the planner experience.
Looking forward, Chaulet revealed Lisbon, Portugal as the next host city. GDP Connection 2026 is scheduled for January 8 to 11.
“Lisbon offers heritage, hospitality, and quality of life,” Chaulet said. “It will be the perfect setting for what comes next.”
Planners interested in attending the 2026 event are encouraged to reach out to their GDP sales advisor.
To learn more about the global network of DMCs and service partners, visit www.globaldmcpartners.com.
