The return of in-person business sessions is gaining momentum year on year. After years of postponements and hybrid alternative models, the conference, meeting and events sector is showing strong signs of recovery. According to one recent study, the number of in-person event visits rose by 21.3 % from 2022 to 2024 — even if volumes do remain some 11.2% below pre-pandemic levels. Similarly, data from the International Trademark Association (INTA) shows that their 2025 annual meeting had more than 9,800 registrants, the largest since the height of the COVID-19 disruption.
For venue planners, interior designers and event space fit-out specialists, this resurgence offers a timely opportunity to refresh the environments where people meet, learn and collaborate. As2026 approaches, several key trends are emerging:
Experience-led formats and smaller gatherings
Longer keynotes and one-way speaker events are taking a back seat to immersive, interactive formats. Organisers are favouring panels, workshops and break-out groups rather than the more formal and traditional theatre-style format.
Well-being and sustainability focus
Attendee health, both physical and mental, are an increasing consideration for events going forward. Along with venue sustainability credentials and shorter, sharper conference formats, the new norm is driving a different approach for 2026.
Hybrid-capable yet premium in-room experience
While virtual/hybrid elements remain, in-person attendance is increasingly reserved for higher-value attendees, meaning the physical space must deliver elevated standards of quality, flexibility and comfort.
Configurability and modular design
More is being asked of spaces in this new-look era; they must adapt from plenary to break-out to informal networking without major reset or rebuild implications. Furniture and fittings that can flex with the agenda are essential.
In this landscape, the Mars chair by Boss Design presents itself as an ideal solution for event and public-space environments. Whether you’re outfitting a co-working office, break-out zone, conference auditorium, café area or networking roundtable, the Mars chair delivers configurability, project-friendly lead times and British craftsmanship.
It’s the right time to invest in furniture that supports flexibility, quality and design integrity. Designed and manufactured in the UK, Mars offers a contemporary aesthetic with exceptional versatility – it can be specified with injection-moulded perforated plastic backs or fully upholstered versions to suit a variety of environments. Its light yet robust construction makes it ideal for frequent re-arrangement, stackable configurations and multi-purpose use.
Boss Design
February 2026
