Staying ahead of the curve in MICE business
SKIL Events has a range of unique selling points and strengths in the MICE business that distinguish it from the competition. Their dominance lies in their unmatched ability to source exceptional venues for events. With a global logistics capability in-house, SKIL Events is empowered to efficiently manage transportation and ensure seamless event operations. Ramanpreet Singh, Vice President-Growth and Strategy, SKIL Events, asserts that their team is commended for generating and implementing unique and creative ideas and concepts that leave a lasting impression on attendees.
In 2023, SKIL Events observed a significant increase in MICE inquiries, with the market showing a threefold rise over the previous year. Resultantly, the organisation has capitalised on this surge in demand and has been acquiring new clients regularly. “Even in the face of high demand, we maintain a focus on sustainable growth and selectively choose clients, predominantly favouring premium clients to ensure quality service,” says Ramanpreet.
The post-COVID landscape has introduced challenges of its own kind while organising MICE events. Addressing these issues, Ramanpreet says, “Among these challenges are increased costs for various aspects of event planning, which have nearly doubled due to higher demand and limited supply. Additionally, issues related to human resources, turbulent airfares, complex tax structures, unregulated infrastructure, and capacity, persist within the industry. However, our organisation excels in these areas, as they are our core differentiators. With our expertise in logistics, venue sourcing, and trained staff, we have managed to stay ahead of the curve. This has significantly boosted aspirations of our brand, attracting numerous applications from potential employees regularly.”
With the use of technology and innovations, and with virtual and hybrid events taking over in a big way, the MICE business has evolved by large proportions. SKIL Events, prioritises technology and innovation, using engaging ideas such as virtual and augmented reality-based experiences to enhance guest interactions and overall event experiences. “Technology and innovation are being used judiciously at SKIL Travel. We have adapted our events to incorporate virtual and hybrid formats. Hybrid events allow thousands of guests to join remotely, while we use various engaging tech-based ideas for on-site attendees. Our guests enjoy experiences like the Virtual Paparazzi Wall, Augmented Reality-Based Games, the signature Champaign Wall, Mosaic Wall, Interactive Table Tops, LED Entrance Arches and Standees, and more, enriching their overall event participation,” states Ramanpreet.
In line with their commitment to growth, SKIL Events is investing substantially in the MICE business. Their turnover in the events space is expected to triple compared to the previous year, highlighting their dedication to expansion and progress. The rapid expansion of their teams aims to meet the growing demands and expectations of their clients.
India, with its abundance of diverse tourist attractions, presents an excellent opportunity to establish itself as a world-class venue for MICE tourism. The government’s focus and promotion of regional destinations through global familiarisation (FAM) tours will reinforce MICE tourism on a major scale in India, believes Ramanpreet. Active efforts to bid for more international exhibitions and events would draw attention to the country as a preferred destination. Moreover, improvements in infrastructure for hosting global concerts and other large-scale events would enhance India’s appeal to international business and leisure travellers.
“The Indian MICE industry looks at a promising future. There are several tailwinds that are aiding rapid growth in demand, like the industry’s adaptation to virtual and hybrid event formats, which indicate a positive trajectory. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of new-age innovations will promise elevated guest experiences. However, a favourable regulatory environment and continued investments in infrastructure, along with skilled manpower, will be essential for the sustainable development of the MICE industry in India,” opines Ramanpreet.
With a commitment to delivering magical experiences, SKIL offers a range of services that cater to every aspect of corporate event planning. SKIL’s expert team provides concept and theme recommendations that align with the client’s objectives, which the team subsequently proceeds to design and give shape to, creating end-to-end creatives that bring the concept to life.
“These are exciting times for the MICE industry in India, presenting abundant opportunities for growth and success. Choosing expert players in the industry, like our organisation, can ensure a seamless and sustainable journey toward achieving event excellence. As we move forward, we remain committed to delivering exceptional service and creating unforgettable experiences for our clients and, in turn, their attendees,” concludes Ramanpreet.