Resilient Business Events

From March 9–11, Team Germany participated in Successful Meetings University (SMU) at the Marriott Marquis in New York City. The event once again proved to be a valuable platform for continuous networking and meaningful exchange between meeting planners and suppliers. In an environment where change is constant, these moments of in-person connection are more important than ever. 

Across conversations in New York, a consistent message emerged: while the global landscape is increasingly complex, business is not slowing down—it is adapting. Planners are adjusting strategies, shifting programs, and staying alert to rapid changes. As a result, collaboration between planners and suppliers continues to deepen, with both sides working more closely and in greater alignment. 

Following SMU, the delegation continued to Atlanta for two days of targeted sales calls. 

Partners including Maritim Hotels, Frankfurt Airport Marriott Hotel/Sheraton Frankfurt Airport Hotel & Conference Center and H World International  (Steigenberger) used the opportunity to engage directly with clients and further position Germany and its hotels as a strong and reliable current and future destination for meetings and events.

Throughout the week, one theme remained central: relationships matter. Whether reconnecting with long-standing partners or meeting new contacts, the openness, curiosity, and engagement of the U.S. planner community stood out. 

As the pace of change continues, maintaining close communication and shared understanding across the industry will remain key in navigating the times ahead. 

As an owner-managed family business, Maritim Hotels has played a key role in the German hotel industry since its founding in 1969.

For more than 50 years, Maritim has been your trusted partner throughout Germany and in select international destinations for all services related to hotel stays, meetings and events, catering, and incentives. Hosting an event at Maritim means benefiting from years of experience, warm service, and professional support. Put your trust in Germany’s most popular event chain, and we’ll make your event a complete success.

Michael Rogerson: mrogerson.vklon@maritim.com

The dual-brand hotel brings together two of Marriott International’s most renowned premium brands, Sheraton and Marriott, under one roof and is ideally located at Frankfurt Airport - directly connected to the ICE train station, Terminal 1 and, via SkyLine, to Terminal 2 + 3. With 58 flexible event spaces, a total of 1,017 guest rooms, two restaurants, two bars, including a smokers’s lounge, a lobby café, two club lounges, and a 400-square-meter fitness area, the hotel in the Rhine-Main region ranks among Europe’s top event and business hotels.

Paul Aher: paul.aher@frankfurt-airporthotels.com

H World International is part of H World, one of the largest and fastest-growing hotel groups in the world. The umbrella brand combines the strengths of established brands with international hotel expertise. Within this dynamic brand family—comprising Steigenberger Icons, Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts, Jaz in the City, MAXX, IntercityHotel, Zleep Hotels, and Ji Hotel—there is the perfect option for every guest and every need. The nine unique brands are united under the umbrella of H Rewards—the booking platform and unique loyalty program with more than 230 million members worldwide.

Anne Madden: anne.madden@deutschehospitality.com