VDVO Congress 2025 in Bonn to reboot MICE industry with fresh focus on AI, sustainability and Gen Z
The Association of Event Organizers e.V. (VDVO) is gearing up to host its highly anticipated annual industry meeting, the VDVO Congress 2025, on September 4, 2025, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn. Under the theme "Ctrl + Alt + Event – Restart for the Industry," this event promises to be a pivotal gathering for decision-makers, practitioners, and experts across the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Events (MICE) sector. VDVO, in partnership with Maritim Hotels and Speaker's Excellence, aims to ignite a fresh momentum within the industry, reflecting on current trends and future potentials.
The congress agenda is crafted to offer a rich blend of keynote speeches, interactive workshops, and exclusive networking opportunities. A particular emphasis will be placed on pressing contemporary topics such as artificial intelligence, sustainability, event psychology, and the impact of Generation Z on event dynamics. Notable figures slated to contribute include Gunar Bergemann and Günter Mainka, who will share insights on innovations and trends in the MICE market. Bergemann brings a wealth of experience from his leadership in event marketing within a major German hotel group, while Mainka, often dubbed the 'Event Pope', is celebrated for his dynamic and award-winning contributions to the events and marketing industry.
Further enhancing the congress will be Karl-Heinz Land, a distinguished digital evangelist and author, renowned for his expertise in digital transformation and AI. Land's participation underscores the event's commitment to forward-thinking perspectives that challenge and inspire industry professionals to embrace digital innovation courageously. Complementing these discussions, Clemens Arnold will lead a workshop focused on sustainable event management practices, aligning with the sector’s growing environmental consciousness. Teresa Katz will engage attendees with her exploration of Generation Z's values and motivations, offering crucial insights into how the younger generation is reshaping consumer and participant behaviour in events.
The congress also includes a vibrant social dimension. On September 3, the day preceding the main event, members will convene for their annual meeting starting at 4 p.m., culminating in a gala evening. This celebration will feature a welcome drink, the prestigious "MICE Achievement Award" ceremony, entertainment, and a DJ, facilitating high-level networking in a relaxed and festive atmosphere. The following day’s programme will run from 8:30 a.m. and includes deep-dive sessions like drum conversations, coffee breaks, and a closing session designed to consolidate learning and connections.
Choosing the Maritim Hotel Bonn as the venue is a strategic decision reflecting the organisers' dedication to quality and convenience. The hotel is well-equipped to host large-scale industry events, boasting spacious meeting rooms, modern technological amenities, and comfortable accommodation. Its central location in Bonn offers excellent accessibility and proximity to local attractions, providing an ideal setting for immersive conference experiences.
Speaker's Excellence, a renowned agency specialising in high-calibre speakers, trainers, and coaches, is facilitating the speaker line-up. Their involvement assures a professional delivery of diverse expertise designed to inspire and inform the MICE community, reinforcing the VDVO Congress's reputation as a premier industry event.
Overall, the VDVO Congress 2025 is positioning itself as an essential platform for exchange and innovation in the event sector, addressing key challenges and opportunities as the industry seeks to reboot and evolve in a rapidly changing landscape. Executives and professionals in the sector can expect to leave the event with actionable insights, strengthened networks, and renewed enthusiasm for shaping the future of events.