The German Convention Bureau (GCB) e. V. and the Fraunhofer Institute for Industrial Engineering IAO announced the launch of the Research Centre for Future Meeting Studies (RCFS), a new initiative set to redefine the future of business events.
Building on the successful legacy of the Future Meeting Space innovation network, which the two organisations initiated in 2015, the RCFS expands the scope of research with a stronger international focus, a new structural framework, and broader opportunities for industry participation. Its central mission: to advance business events as an evidence-based communication tool within organisations, while supporting all stakeholders across the entire value chain in creating sustainable, inclusive, and user-centred event experiences.
“Our aim is not only to analyse the event formats of tomorrow, but to actively shape them and establish future-proof standards,” said Matthias Schultze, Managing Director, GCB. “The RCFS is the natural evolution of the Future Meeting Space network. With this initiative, we are creating a central hub for pioneering research on the events ecosystem, laying the foundation for lasting innovation and transformation in Germany’s meetings and conventions sector.”
Guided by an interdisciplinary Advisory Board and developed in close consultation with research partners, RCFS projects will tackle both immediate challenges and emerging trends in the events industry. “Using the most appropriate research methods for each case, we will explore a wide spectrum of topics—from generative AI and labour shortages to humanoid robots and new communication formats,” explained Dr. Stefan Rief, Head of the Organisational Development and Work Design Research Unit, Fraunhofer IAO.
The RCFS offers stakeholders two levels of engagement designed to meet diverse needs. The Research Fellowship serves as a low-threshold entry point, granting access to current research results, expert discussions, and the RCFS network, with results shared both through online exchanges and at an annual in-person event. For deeper involvement, the Advanced Research Tracks build on the Fellowship by enabling participants to engage with selected topics through workshops and research trips. This format delivers exclusive insights and targeted knowledge transfer, offering direct value to participating organisations while fostering innovative solutions.
Central to the RCFS approach is co-creation with industry partners and the integration of global perspectives. “We especially welcome the participation of international stakeholders active in Germany’s meetings and conventions sector, as their insights will help us integrate diverse customer perspectives across borders,” added Schultze.
With its evidence-driven focus and collaborative structure, the Research Centre for Future Meeting Studies is set to become a leading hub for innovation, foresight, and transformation in the global events ecosystem.
