Northstar

Newsline Research PHOTO AND ILLUSTRATION CREDITS: GETTY IMAGES 4 NOV-DEC 2018 MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS MCMAG-ASIA.COM 10% Yes, many do 50% Yes, some do How has attendees' overall alcohol consumption at your events changed in recent years? Alcohol and the Attendee WORDS LOREN G. EDELSTEIN 34% of planners say people are drinking less at events W hile most planners think alcohol is important to the success of a meeting or event, one-third of the 115 respondents to M&C's latest poll report that attendees' consumption has declined in recent years. Health concerns could be one reason: About half believe that alcohol is more dangerous that most people realise. 49% Alcohol is more dangerous than most people realise. 46% One drink per day poses no health risk. 18% Alcohol, in moderation, has considerable health benefits. 9% The health benefits of alcohol outweigh the risks for light to moderate drinkers. 9% Even light to moderate alcohol consumption increases cancer risk. Which of the following statements do you believe to be true? How important is alcohol to the success of your events? 23% Extremely 54% Somewhat 19% Not very 4% Not at all Do you believe an open bar encourages people to drink more than usual? DO YOU FEEL THAT ATTENDEES TEND TO DRINK TOO MUCH AT MEETINGS? SOURCE: M&C RESEARCH SURVEY OF 115 MEETING PROFESSIONALS 37% No, not really 3% Not at all 14% Not really 2% Not at all 37% Yes, absolutely 47% Yes, to some extent 34% People are drinking less. 9% People are drinking more . 57% No noticeable change Which of the following measures have you taken to limit alcohol consumption? 59% Served wine and beer only 54% Provided 1-2 drink tickets 32% Limited open bar to two hours 29% Limited open bar to one hour 15% Didn't serve alcohol 11% Offered "mocktails" and special nonalcoholic drinks 3% Provided three or more drink tickets 2% None of the above 16% Other Which of the following have you done for intoxicated attendees at your meetings? 50% Provided transportation for them 46% Cut them off from bar service 37% Escorted them to their rooms 20% Asked them to leave the event 7% Sought medical help for them 7% Called security 18% None of the above 14% Other

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