With 2024 drawing to an end, the IMEX team is in a reflective mood. It’s a year that’s been uncertain and unsettling for so many of us.
True to our brand, we’re on a mission to raise you up and help the global events community feel uplifted; grateful for who we are, what we do and how we’re mostly just trying to make a more positive impact on the world.
In the spirit of infusing some optimism and holiday cheer, we’re taking a light-hearted look ahead to 2025.
What we’re saying hello to:
- Ah, the good old days! Expect Nostalgia to make an even stronger comeback in 2025. When the world around us looks wobbly, we tend to look back to the cosy, familiar ‘feels’ of the past. Old bands reunite to huge fanfare (Oasis!) and the OG takes on new meaning and momentum (Top Gun). Even fashion looks back harder – so dig out your Y2K shiny silver jumpsuit and let’s get jumping! Who can blame us?
- Right here, right now - Next Gen becomes the Now Gen. According to the latest Freeman Trends Report, Gen Z has officially overtaken Boomers in the workforce. This means the Next Gen is actually the Now Gen and they’re shaping trends, driving innovation and calling for authentic connections. In 2025 we’d love the global events industry to rise up together and welcome them in. Because we need you, ‘nowers’.
- Future Dusk anyone? The Pantone Color of the Year is always a significant event in the world of design. For 2025, Pantone's predicted Color of the Year is Future Dusk, a blend of deep violet and midnight blue. Remember when Peach Fuzz was met with skepticism and now it’s everywhere? Future Dusk is coming whether you love it or loathe it. We like the sound of this moody blue.
- Communal resilience – Ensuring that we’re equipped to cope and adapt to the world and, crucially, ensuring that we make space for others to do the same. The Neu Project Resilience Space at IMEX America was the epitome of communal resilience - open to all, this soothing environment gave people the physical and mental space to decompress. Megan Henshall , Co-founder of Google Xi, calls it “an invitation for people to take what they need and extend their self-care.”
- It’s ok to have fun! We’re human and humans are made to experience moments of awe and joy - together. It’s one of the reasons some of IMEX’s silliest – and heartfelt – social videos have gained so much love this year. We’re not averse to raising a smile and making fun of ourselves if you smile back with us. After all, there’s no point in laughing alone! Expect us to be putting more ‘oi’ into joy in 2025.
So there you have it. IMEX’s not-so-serious look ahead at the world in 2025. Whatever comes, let’s approach it with good intentions, a spirit of optimism and a collective desire to make a positive impact on the world.
