Technology

RainFocus Survey Reveals In-Person Events Reign Supreme for Corporate Conferences

Published

1 year ago

December 5, 2024

Data highlights eagerness to attend in-person events and breaks down swag preferences by generation

LEHI, Utah, Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — RainFocus™, provider of the next-generation event marketing platform, today released new data findings that reveal overall sentiment toward corporate events, as well as generational differences. The survey results indicate that an overwhelming majority of respondents prefer in-person events. The study also highlights the importance of an event swag strategy that focuses on the value these items can deliver to different generations of event attendees.

“It’s crucial for marketers to understand generational preferences and differences in corporate settings. As younger generations continue to make their way into the business world, marketers need to tailor experiences that resonate with each group to ensure higher engagement and satisfaction,” said Ashleigh Cook, CMO at RainFocus. “When planning corporate events, event planners and marketers should recognize and understand the different values of each generation to create a unique, inclusive event that drives collaboration, innovation, conversion, and overall success.”

The Increase of Travel and In-Person Experiences
The survey data indicates a clear preference for in-person events, with 73% of respondents rating in-person events as their preferred format, followed by hybrid events and virtual events. For event marketers and planners, this finding showcases the value of hosting an in-person event format and illustrates that respondents are willing to travel. More than half (54%) of respondents said they are very likely or somewhat likely to volunteer to attend a conference, trade show, or business event that requires travel. This percentage increases for younger demographics, with 77% of Gen Z and 63% of Millennials at least somewhat likely to travel for events, compared to 34% of Boomers. As event marketers begin to plan for a new year of events, the demographics of their attendees is an important consideration to garner the most attendance and engagement.

Generational Insights Inform Swag Options and Increase Engagement
According to the RainFocus survey, 25% of respondents said that notebooks and planners are the most valuable swag items, followed closely by tech items at 19%. Attendees are looking for items that are helpful and practical to their everyday lives. Nearly half (49%) prefer traditional giveaways (such as merchandise or drinkware) over digital giveaways, with Gen Z the only generation noting a preference for digital options (such as gift cards or online services).

Gen Z (55%), Millennials (56%), and Gen X (52%) find more value in premium event giveaways such as an iPad or speaker, and are more likely to visit a booth or participate in a survey for the chance to receive a premium item. The survey also found that 82% of respondents keep their giveaways for at least one month after an event, and 31% keep an item for more than a year.

Overall, the survey data highlights that swag continues to have a place at corporate events but may need to be evaluated to ensure it aligns with the brand’s target audience and their preferences.

For more information on the survey findings, please see the blog post and infographic.

Survey Methodology
The survey was commissioned by RainFocus and conducted by Dynata, the world’s largest first-party data company. The survey was conducted in September 2024 of 1,000 U.S. consumers 21 years and older to understand overall preferences and sentiment towards corporate events and event giveaways.

About RainFocus
RainFocus is the next-generation event marketing platform built to capture and analyze unprecedented amounts of first-party data for exceptional events and optimized engagement throughout the customer journey. RainFocus powers flawless experiences with secure, scalable solutions to support the entire event lifecycle. The platform integrates with sales and marketing technologies, simplifying event registration, content management, and exhibitor activation across in-person, virtual, and hybrid experiences, all from a single dashboard. Leveraging real-time data, RainFocus provides actionable insights to drive personalization, accelerate qualification and lead conversion, and close deals. For more information, visit www.rainfocus.com.

Additional Resources

Join the conversation with RainFocus on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.Visit RainFocus.com to learn more about our event marketing and management platform. If you’re ready to get started, request a demo.Discover RainFocus On Demand, the go-to learning destination for event industry leaders to discover the latest trends, thought leadership, and best practices, delivered on demand – any time, anywhere. Learn more.Are you interested in joining the RainFocus Partner Program? Apply today.Grow your career and help reshape the events industry at RainFocus. Apply here.

Media Contact
Sheena Lakhani
sheena.lakhani@rainfocus.com

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SOURCE RainFocus

Technology

GIGABYTE Named Official PC Monitor Sponsor of FINAL FANTASY XIV Fan Festival 2026 in Anaheim

Published

41 minutes ago

April 23, 2026

LOS ANGELES, April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — GIGABYTE, the world’s leading computer company, today announced its role as the Official PC Monitor Sponsor of the FINAL FANTASY XIV Fan Festival 2026, taking place from April 24 to April 25 at Anaheim Convention Center in California, USA. As part of the sponsorship, GIGABYTE will power the event’s PvP tournament stage with its MO27Q2A OLED gaming monitors, delivering an immersive and competitive gameplay experience for both players and fans.

At the center of the showcase is the GIGABYTE MO27Q2A, the OLED gaming monitor engineered to elevate the experience of FINAL FANTASY XIV. From richly detailed environments and dramatic lighting effects to fast-paced raid mechanics and PvP encounters, the MO27Q2A enhances every aspect of gameplay with deep contrast, vibrant color accuracy, and ultra-fast 0.03ms response time. Its OLED panel brings Eorzea to life with true blacks and exceptional clarity, while 280Hz high refresh rates ensure smooth, responsive performance during intense battles, making it an ideal display for both competitive play and immersive exploration.

Beyond the MO27Q2A monitor, GIGABYTE’s expanding monitor lineup continues to deliver cutting-edge display technology for gamers and creators alike. Featured models include the MO27U2 and MO32U, offering high-resolution visuals and immersive performance for both competitive and cinematic experiences, as well as the GO27Q24G, designed for smooth, responsive gameplay with high refresh rates and versatile performance in the budget friendly segmentation.

To further celebrate the partnership, GIGABYTE will be hosting a special social media giveaway in collaboration with the FINAL FANTASY XIV team, featuring 30 exclusive merchandise prizes. Fans can participate via a Gleam-powered campaign by following GIGABYTE and FINAL FANTASY XIV social channels for a chance to win. The giveaway will run from April 23 to April 30, inviting the community to engage and celebrate the event together.

With its focus on OLED innovation, high refresh rates, and gamer-centric features, GIGABYTE continues to push the boundaries of display performance, empowering players to experience their favorite titles with unmatched precision and immersion.

For more information on GIGABYTE monitors and the giveaway experience, please visit the official event page to learn more.

Media Contact:
GIGABYTE USA PR Team
City of Industry, California
gbtusa_marketing@gigabyteusa.com

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SOURCE GIGABYTE

Technology

Fun Services Announces Full Integration of Cliffhanger Productions Amusements Operations Beginning 2026

Published

41 minutes ago

April 23, 2026

TOTOWA, N.J., April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fun Services is proud to announce the full transition and integration of Cliffhanger Productions Amusements operations under the Fun Services brand, effective January 1, 2026.

Following the acquisition of Cliffhanger Productions Amusements contracts in 2023, Fun Services has continued to operate and service events under the Cliffhanger name during a multi-year transition period. Beginning in 2026, all clients, events, and bookings will be managed directly through Fun Services.

This transition marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth, reinforcing its commitment to delivering high-quality amusement rentals, event services, and customer support across the region.

“Over the past few years, we’ve worked closely with Cliffhanger clients to ensure a seamless experience,” said Anthony Lombardi III, CEO of Fun Services. “As we move into 2026, we’re excited to officially bring all operations to Fun Services, allowing us to expand offerings, streamline service, and continue building strong relationships with our clients.”

Fun Services will continue to provide the same popular attractions and event equipment that clients have come to expect, including:

Mechanical ridesCarnival game trailersInflatablesFull-service event setups

Clients can expect enhanced booking processes, expanded inventory options, and continued reliability backed by the Fun Services team.

Anthony Lombardi, Owner of Fun Services, added, “This transition allows us to grow while maintaining the quality and consistency that Cliffhanger clients are used to. Our focus remains on making every event successful, safe, and memorable.”

All existing contracts and relationships will be honored, with no disruption to scheduled events. Clients will now work directly with Fun Services for all future bookings, inquiries, and event planning needs.

For more information or to book an event, please contact:

Fun Services
(973) 450-9610
info@njfunservices.com
https://eventsbyfunservices.com

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SOURCE Events by Fun Services

Technology

Alchemy Technology Group Acquires IOvations to Grow Its Northeast Presence

Published

41 minutes ago

April 23, 2026

HOUSTON, April 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Alchemy Technology Group, an IT advisory, consulting, and reseller firm and a portfolio company of Avance Investment Management, has acquired IOvations, a Burlington, Massachusetts-based cybersecurity solution provider.

The acquisition expands Alchemy’s cybersecurity portfolio and further extends its geographic reach into the Northeast, giving customers access to deeper expertise in cloud security, advanced threat detection, and Zero Trust architectures. IOvations brings long-standing customer relationships and proven experience helping organizations build modern security strategies.

“IOvations is a perfect fit in our acquisition strategy,” said Wes Davis, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Alchemy Technology Group. “They have a terrific, longstanding customer base in a dynamic growth market for us. We love quality businesses built on the same core principals as Alchemy: trusted relationships, elite domain expertise, and a history of execution.”

For IOvations’ customers and partners, joining Alchemy provides access to a broader set of capabilities while preserving the specialized security focus they rely on today.

“Becoming part of Alchemy strengthens our ability to support our clients and their evolving needs,” said Jim Sacco, CEO and Founder at IOvations. “Our clients will gain access to expanded expertise in cloud, data, digital workspace, AI, and application development, while continuing to work with the same IOvations team they know and trust. Culturally, there is a strong alignment around our client-first approach, focusing on positive outcomes, investing in technical talent, and building long-term relationships.”

This transaction marks Alchemy’s second acquisition in as many months. With the support of Avance, Alchemy intends to continue its strategy of building a national platform through targeted acquisitions that complement its strong organic growth.

About Alchemy Technology Group

Alchemy Technology Group is an award-winning reseller of next-generation technology solutions and a provider of high-touch consulting and advisory services. Focused on critical software solutions such as cybersecurity, digital workspace, data, cloud, application development, and AI, Alchemy was purpose-built to go beyond the offerings of a traditional VAR and take a truly client- and vendor-centric approach. For more information, visit www.alchemytechgroup.com.

About IOvations

IOvations is a Burlington, Massachusetts-based cybersecurity solutions provider focused on helping customers protect critical systems, data, and users. The company specializes in modern security architectures with a focus on Zero Trust strategies and protecting critical infrastructure. IOvations works closely with customers to design and operate practical, resilient security programs that keep pace with evolving risks and regulatory requirements. For more information, please visit www.iovations.com.

About Avance Investment Management

Avance Investment Management is a private equity firm with a passion for building great businesses in partnership with talented founders and management teams. Avance focuses primarily on thematic investments within the Services, Technology, and Consumer areas in the U.S., seeking attractive opportunities with catalysts for growth and fragmented spaces with consolidation opportunities. Avance’s team has a long history of partnering with founder-owned businesses, industry executives, and management teams and aims to add value to each investment through the application of its STAGE™ value creation framework. Avance has offices in New York and Miami. For more information, please visit www.avanceinv.com.

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SOURCE Alchemy Technology Group, LLC