The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) has released its latest Economic Impact Report. The data shows sustained post-Covid growth across its membership in 2024.
The results were based on responses from 59 member organisations – around half of ABPCO’s membership. It is the second year of reporting, offering year-on-year benchmarks.
Key findings
- 62% of members managed event portfolios worth over £1 million.
- 10% exceeded £10 million.
- 80% managed portfolios over £500,000.
- A total of 1,020,000 delegates were welcomed across 6,336 events.
- The sector delivered 7,500 event days.
- 75% of events were in person (down slightly from 82% in 2023).
- £42 million was spent on exhibition space (up 47% from 2023).
- £48 million was secured in sponsorship income (up from £45 million in 2023).
- Employment rose by 2.5% across member organisations.
Sector breakdown
ABPCO members are aligned with government priority sectors:
- Professional and business services: 47%
- Life sciences: 44%
- Creative industries: 23%
- Advanced manufacturing: 15%
- Clean energy: 11%
Looking ahead to 2025
- 49% expect to run more events.
- 36% expect increased delegate numbers.
- 50% expect to spend more.
- Over 1,400 bookings still need to finalise destinations.
- 10,000+ bookings are yet to confirm a venue.
Dr James Musgrave, Head of UK Centre for Events Management, who conducted the research, said:
“ABPCO members have sustained their post-Covid rebound. In 2024 they delivered more than one million delegates and drove substantial economic value across the country. The signs for 2025 remain strong.”
ABPCO represents UK-based PCOs working on association and not-for-profit conferences. The data reflects responses from both in-house and agency organisers.
