Danene Dustin, senior global sales executive for Morris Meetings & Incentives, tells Meeting Spotlight that she’s seeing an increase in per person program budgets for 2024 and 2025, as well an increase in unique incentive programs. We caught up with Dustin as part of our ongoing Buyer Q&A series. Check out the full conversation below.
Do you think the luxury MICE market is different from the overall MICE market? If so, why?
I do think luxury MICE is different. I have both luxury and more budget-conscious clients in this realm, and the luxury clients want all the bells and whistles from high-end properties, with excursions, décor and entertainment at their Welcome/Farewell functions, as well as gifting experiences. Their overall program budget is much higher than others not in the luxury sphere.
What makes a meeting or incentive “luxury” in your experience? Is there an example of a luxury service or a “special touch” you’ve created or experienced?
My previous answer gives examples of a more luxurious program but in addition to that list, I feel that when you have those guests staying at a more high-end property, the service is also elevated, the F&B is typically higher quality and so you really do get what you pay for when those higher end properties/venues are utilized.
Do you have or have you had a mentor relationship? How has this impacted you?
No one has formally mentored me in my current career, but I have absolutely learned so much from my colleagues here at Morris Meetings & Incentives and from vendor partners, especially about best practices in the industry on proposing program, client relationship building, onsite practices, etc.
What do you believe will be a game-changer for the MICE industry in 2024?
I have read that the market in North America is expected to grow considerably between 2024 and 2031, due to the high adoption of advanced technology. Being in MICE sales myself, I am also personally seeing an increase in per person program budgets for 2024 and 2025, most likely due to inflation, and I am also witnessing more “out of the box” thinking in the requests for incentive program destinations and activities.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career?
To stay absolutely calm under pressure, no matter the situation and to slow down, stop and think before communicating with anyone, to alleviate making mistakes.
What is your vision for the MICE industry?
To bring to pass the projected financial growth in the industry and to convert more organizations to the idea of incentivizing their top people with trip experiences, rather than bonus checks, etc.
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