There is more than just technology that influences the evolution in event planning. Non-technological trends, particularly in the realms of inclusiveness  and sustainability, are becoming equally pivotal.  Today's attendees and stakeholders seek  experiences that not only inspire and engage, but  also resonate with their ethical standards.

These technological and non-technological trends predict a steep development in the world of event planning, promising enhanced event experiences and outcomes for both attendees and hosts. But they also set new standards. So, how can we conceptualise, organise, and execute events that live up to these standards?

This whitepaper explores which trends to keep up with, for those who want to organise future-proof events that will impress every attendee. 

Did you pick Amsterdam as the ideal destination for your next business event? Good choice. Your guests will surely be impressed with the many cultural and historical treats the city has to offer. But how to decide on which venue to go for? The considerations below might help you make this decision. An important one, because the right venue impresses attendees from the very start of the event, setting the tone for a successful execution.

1. Understanding your requirements

Before you begin your search, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what you need from a venue. Consider the type of event you are hosting, the number of attendees, the technological requirements and any specific logistical needs. For instance, a gala dinner will have different venue requirements compared to a tech conference. Create a checklist of must-have features to help guide your search and evaluate potential venues.

2. Location, location, location

In Amsterdam, location is not just about geography; it’s about the experience. The right venue should be accessible to your attendees, whether they are local or international. Look for venues that are well-connected by public transport, especially those near major hubs like Amsterdam Centraal or easily accessible from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Additionally, consider what the surrounding area offers. Venues like the Beurs van Berlage, located in the heart of the city, provide guests with a taste of Amsterdam’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene, enhancing their overall event experience.

3. Excellence in service

The level of service provided by the venue can significantly elevate the event experience. Some venues (like the Beurs van Berlage) provide high-end service as a standard, ensuring every detail is managed with precision and care. A vital aspect to consider, as it directly affects the smooth running of your event and satisfaction of your guests.

4. Technical capabilities

Ensure that the venue can support all your technical needs, from high-speed Wi-Fi to state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment. Venues equipped with cutting-edge technology ensure a smooth, professional experience, regardless of the complexity of your event needs. Keep in mind that some venues will charge extra for certain technical services, including basic necessities such as lighting and electricity. 

5. Quality catering services

Catering can make or break your event. Venues that offer high-quality, flexible catering options can greatly enhance the attendee experience. Inquire about menu options, ability to accommodate dietary restrictions and the quality of the food and service. 

6. Ethical standards

Sustainability and inclusivity are increasingly trending in the world of business events. Selecting a venue that prioritises these topics, will reflect positively on your event and brand. Look for venues with inclusive initiatives and green certifications, to make sure your event advocates the same ethical values your brand does.

7. Notable venues in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is home to several prominent venues that cater to a range of event types and sizes. The Amsterdam RAI is one of the largest conference and exhibition centres in the Netherlands. It’s located in the south of the city and is often used for major trade shows and large-scale conferences. The Westergasfabriek, with its industrial charm and flexible event spaces, is to be found at the west side of the old city and offers a distinctive setting for creative and cultural events. And then of course there is our own beautiful Beurs van Berlage, a historic gem located in the heart of Amsterdam. Our former stock exchange building combines classic architectural grandeur with modern facilities, making it a prestigious choice for a variety of events. The Beurs van Berlage is renowned for its exceptional service and A-location, just footsteps away from Amsterdam’s central train station.

Whether you’re hosting a corporate meeting, a large conference, or a formal banquet, the right venue will ensure your event is memorable and successful. And regardless of which venue you choose eventually, one thing is certain: the unique charm of Amsterdam will surely enchant every attendee. That’s a gift that comes with our beautiful, unique and vibrant city.

Amsterdam, renowned for its unique historic heritage and vibrant cultural scene, is more than just a top tourist destination. With its unique blend of architectural charm and innovative vibe, it’s also a prime location for hosting business events. Are you considering Amsterdam as the destination for  your next event? Here’s why it should be the top destination on your list.

1. Rich cultural experience

Amsterdam offers a broad spectrum of cultural attractions; from world-famous museums like the  Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, to historic  sites such as the Anne Frank House. These cultural offerings not only enhance the appeal of the city as  an event destination, but also provide enriching  experiences for attendees during their downtime.

2. Strategic location

Amsterdam’s geographic location in Europe makes it a gateway to other major European capitals, with excellent air, rail and road connections. Schiphol Airport, just a short train ride from the city centre,  is one of Europe’s busiest airports, offering flights to over 300 destinations worldwide. For those who prefer the greener choice of travel, there are high  speed railway connections to and from  international destinations like Paris, London,  Berlin and Brussels. A convenient option, dropping off visitors directly in the heart of the historic city. It almost couldn’t get easier for international attendees to travel to and from Amsterdam.

3. Inclusive and welcoming atmosphere

Amsterdam is known for its open, tolerant society which embraces diversity. This inclusive  atmosphere makes it a welcoming destination for  international visitors, offering a safe and supportive environment for events catering to a global audience.

4. Quality accommodations

The city offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to boutique guesthouses, ensuring comfort for all budgets and preferences. As one of the most popular citytrip  destinations in Europe, there are a variety of accommodations to choose from, close to whichever event venue you might choose. Some  venues (like the Beurs van Berlage) collaborate  with top-grade accommodations and offer tailored hotel services, taking this part of the organisation completely out of your hands.

5. Sustainable initiatives

Amsterdam is a leading city in environmental sustainability, which can be seen in its cycling culture, use of renewable energy and recycling techniques. Venues across the city are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices, helping you reduce the environmental impact of your event. 

6. Excellent dining and entertainment

The dining scene in Amsterdam is as diverse as its population, featuring everything from high-end  restaurants to charming street-side cafés. It is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment options, providing countless  opportunities for informal networking and  relaxation after business hours.

7. Innovation hub

Amsterdam is a thriving hub for many sectors, including technology, creative industries, life sciences and sustainability. This innovative culture is the perfect foundation for modern events, using state of the art technology including virtual reality,  augmented reality and artificial intelligence.

8. Premier-class event venues

Choosing Amsterdam as the location of your next event, leaves you with many top venues to choose from. A-listed venues like the Beurs van Berlage provide versatile spaces that can accommodate events of all sizes and scopes. Each space can be specifically tailored to your unique needs. Experienced staff will make sure your event is elevated to the highest standards in the event business, leaving you unburdened and your guests astonished.

Whether it’s the excellent connectivity, state-of-the-art venues, commitment to sustainability, or the rich historical backdrop,  Amsterdam offers all the elements necessary to host a memorable and effective business event. Are you curious about how high-class venues like the Beurs van Berlage can boost your business event to excellation?

Contact us at +31 (0)20 531 33 55 or mail via events@beursvanberlage.com.

After more than two decades of dedication and leadership, Michiel Lindenbergh is saying goodbye to the Beurs van Berlage. Michiel began his career at the Beurs with the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra, one of the tenants at the time. Following the privatisation of the Beurs in 2008, he tirelessly worked to transform the Beurs van Berlage into a leading centre for conferences and events, both nationally and internationally.

During his 23 years at the Beurs, Michiel played a crucial role in the development of various initiatives that have changed the face of the conference market in Amsterdam and the Netherlands. He was a board member and co-founder of the Dutch Venue Association, a long-time board member and chairman of the congress platform of CLC Vecta, an active member of ICCA, and the founding father and chairman of Unique Venues of Amsterdam. His efforts have helped Amsterdam, and by extension the Beurs van Berlage, secure a prominent place on the global map of event locations.

As Commercial Director, Michiel successfully formed and led the commercial team for many years, making a significant contribution to the strategic direction and competitiveness of the Amsterdam Conference Centre. In this role, the Beurs became a 'one-stop shop' for congresses and events, where clients can find all aspects of an event; from catering to hotel accommodations, significantly increasing customer satisfaction.

In his recent role as Special Projects Director, Michiel Lindenbergh has particularly focused on establishing the foundation “Stichting Palazzo Pubblico Amsterdam”. This foundation aims to raise subsidies, sponsorships, donations, and funds to organise social, public, and cultural activities and finance restoration projects. Through these initiatives, the foundation helps keep the national monument Beurs van Berlage accessible and in optimal condition for the public.

Marcel C.B. Schonenberg, Managing Director: “The Beurs van Berlage and its community are extraordinarily grateful to Michiel for his years of service and dedication. His influence will continue to be felt in the ongoing growth and success of the Beurs. We wish Michiel all the best for the future.”

Inclusivity has become a key value for leading businesses around the globe. A positive development that also influences modern business events. An understandable trend, because managing inclusiveness on your event impacts the satisfaction of attendees, as well as the overall event success. So, what can you do to welcome every single attendee? In this article you’ll find a list of recommendations to ensure guests of any gender, ethnicity, age, ability, and beyond feel more than included at your event.

1. Design inclusive event sessions

An inclusive event considers the diverse needs of its attendees, recognising that people have different ways of learning, participating, and engaging. Without thoughtful planning, certain groups may feel excluded or find it difficult to fully participate. Common examples are:

• Attendees with visual impairments, who may struggle with presentations that rely heavily on visual aids without verbal descriptions. Similarly, those with auditory impairments may find sessions challenging if there is no sign language interpretation or captioning available. Here’s what you can do:
  ○ Offer audio descriptions for visual content
  ○ Ensure all videos are captioned
  ○ Provide sign language interpreters or use technical applications that offer the spoken information in written text forms.
• Individuals who are neurodiverse or have cognitive disabilities, might find fast-paced, information-dense sessions overwhelming. To avoid this, consider:
  ○ Designing sessions with clear, concise information
  ○ Allow attendees to take breaks and provide quiet rooms, where attendees can retreat if they feel overwhelmed
  ○ Offer materials ahead of time for pre-session review
• Introverts might find large group discussions or activities that require speaking up in front of everyone challenging. Small group discussions or activities and event apps that allow for anonymous Q&A sessions can help. This way, you give those uncomfortable with public speaking a voice, ensuring their insights are heard and valued.
• Participants for whom the event’s primary language is not their first language, could struggle to keep up with the pace of presentations or to engage in discussions. To include non-native speakers you can:
  ○ Offer simultaneous translation services
  ○ Ensure that materials are available in multiple languages, including glossaries for technical or industry-specific terms
  ○ Encourage speakers to talk clearly and at a measured pace
  ○ Use technical applications that translate spoken information into written text, translated in the desired language.

2. Embrace gender inclusivity

The commitment to inclusivity on your business event includes a modern understanding of gender. If you want to ensure your event is gender-inclusive, you could consider the following measures:

• Provide options on registration forms for attendees to specify their pronouns including he/him, she/her, they/them, and an option for attendees to specify if they use pronouns not listed. Use these pronouns on nametags, conference materials, and within event apps to respect and affirm everyone’s gender identity.
• Convert some of the restrooms to gender-neutral facilities. Set up clear signage and communication prior to and during the event about the location and availability of these restrooms.
• Train your event staff on gender inclusivity, including the use of correct pronouns, understanding of gender diversity, and how to create a welcoming environment for all attendees.
• Ensure that your event’s content, including panels, speakers, and presentations, addresses or is mindful of gender issues where relevant. Striving for a gender-balanced list of speakers and presenters also reflects a commitment to inclusivity.

3. Cater to all attendees with diverse culinary options

Catering at events goes beyond merely providing food; it’s an opportunity to make all attendees feel welcomed and valued by acknowledging diverse dietary needs. Inclusive catering recognises a spectrum of dietary restrictions, preferences, and cultural practices. A few ways to ensure everyone enjoys your event’s catering services are:

• Broad dietary options
  Make sure there are options to choose from for everyone, offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and kosher choices.
• Clear communication and labelling
  Verify that the catering service labels all food items with ingredients and potential allergens, as well as symbols indicating if they meet specific dietary criteria. This transparency allows attendees to make informed choices and feel confident in the food they consume.
• Culturally diverse menu selections
  Incorporate a selection of dishes that reflect a variety of cultural traditions and cuisines. This not only caters to attendees from different backgrounds, but also enriches the dining experience for all participants, offering a taste of global diversity.

4. Establish a clear code of conduct

Setting expectations for conduct reinforces your event’s commitment to inclusivity. Outline expected behaviours, emphasising the importance of a respectful environment. Your event’s code of conduct should:

• Explicitly prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind including discrimination based on gender identity and expression.

• Provide clear guidelines for reporting and addressing grievances.

• Demonstrate a commitment to a safe and inclusive environment.

5. Prioritise accessibility

A truly inclusive event is accessible to everyone. Choose venues that are welcoming to all attendees, including those with disabilities. This involves:

• Ensuring all areas are wheelchair accessible and making sure they are easy to navigate for everyone, including attendees with visual impairments
• A schedule with sufficient breaks, which allows everyone to move comfortably between locations
• Offering virtual access to sessions for those who cannot physically move between spaces quickly

Building an inclusive event is about creating an environment where diversity is not just accommodated, but celebrated. The goal is to create an event at which everyone, regardless of their personal or physical challenges, can participate fully, learn, and contribute to the success of the event.

Are you hosting a business event in the near future? Ask us about our inclusivity facilities or other services. Contact us via +31 20 531 33 55 or via events@beursvanberlage.com.

Strategically located in Europe, Amsterdam benefits from excellent connectivity to the rest of the world through the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, one of the busiest and most efficient airports globally. Furthermore, Amsterdam’s compact size and efficient public transportation system, including its iconic canals, make moving around the city both convenient and enjoyable for visitors.

Choosing Amsterdam as the destination for your business event is therefore an excellent choice. But other than the obvious plusses that Amsterdam has to offer, what can you do to give your business event just that little extra? How do you make your event not only the perfect sales pitch for your business, but also the most memorable business trip your guests could ever wish for?

This whitepaper offers tips, suggestions and must-do’s for event planners looking for top-service on their Amsterdam based business event.