In April 2026, the third, updated edition of Business Events by Dr Rob Davidson, Managing Director of MICE Knowledge, was released on the publishing market. Published by Routledge, the book is considered one of the most comprehensive studies of the global meetings and business events industry, presenting current trends, challenges and future directions of the sector. The author, well known to the Polish MICE community, has visited Poland on numerous occasions, actively supporting the development of competencies and the professionalisation of the meetings industry.
Business Events is an extensive publication of nearly 500 pages, combining both theoretical and practical perspectives. It is aimed at students of tourism and event management, as well as professionals working across the MICE sector. The book covers all key market segments, including corporate meetings, association conferences, political events, incentive travel, exhibitions, corporate hospitality, and SMERF events.
The structure of the book is based on a clear division into thematic chapters, analysing the most important areas of the meetings industry. Particular attention is given to strategic issues, including MICE destination marketing, education, sustainability, ethics, and new technologies. The publication demonstrates how these elements influence the competitiveness of destinations and the quality of events delivered on a global scale.
The third edition has been significantly expanded and updated to reflect the dynamic changes within the industry. Among the new content is a chapter dedicated to the functioning of the meetings sector in times of crisis, including an analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the events market and its recovery processes. The author also introduces new educational tools, such as “Discussion points” sections and expanded practitioner commentaries.
Case studies
An important component of the publication is the inclusion of international case studies, presenting examples of events delivered in various parts of the world – both in mature and emerging destinations, such as China, South America and the Middle East. As a result, the book serves not only as a comprehensive knowledge resource but also as a source of inspiration for organisers and destinations seeking to develop their MICE offering.
Of particular note is the inclusion of a case study on Poland in the latest edition. Ro Davidson refers to the activities of the Poland Convention Bureau in the field of digital marketing, presenting them as an example of a modern approach to MICE destination promotion. The case study demonstrates how the use of digital tools, consistent communication and a strategic approach to destination branding can effectively enhance a country’s competitiveness in the international meetings market.
An additional value of the publication lies in the “It’s my job” sections, which give a voice to young professionals working in the meetings industry. Their experiences and perspectives provide a valuable complement to the market analysis, illustrating the practical dimension of working in the MICE sector and the evolving expectations regarding careers in the industry.
Practical compendium of knowledge
The third edition of Business Events is a current, comprehensive and practical compendium of knowledge on the global meetings industry. For the Poland Convention Bureau and a wide range of MICE professionals, the publication represents a valuable source of inspiration and a tool supporting the development of modern, competitive destinations in an increasingly dynamic market environment.
More information about the book: routledge.com/Business-Events/Rob-Davidson
