Price proposals at convention centres are getting more tailored than before. Photo Credit: iStock/Quarta_
Dynamic pricing, bundled packages, and off-peak discounts – long a staple in the hotel industry – are increasingly being adopted by convention centres as they navigate ongoing economic pressures. At the same time, venues are investing in technology beyond traditional event infrastructure, including in-house apps to enhance attendee engagement and streamline operations.
These trends were highlighted in the 2025 AIPC Membership Survey, conducted by the International Association of Convention Centres, which pointed to rising prices and strategic innovation as key industry developments.
So, how are convention centres adapting their pricing strategies? Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) says its approach is rooted in flexibility and tailored to client needs.
“We tailor our pricing and packages based on the unique requirements of each event, ensuring clients receive the best value while aligning with their objectives,” said Robert Hatton-Jones, deputy general manager at KLCC. “This personalised approach allows us to remain agile and responsive to market dynamics.”
Unlike in the past, when festive or holiday seasons saw month-long lulls, Hatton-Jones notes that today these periods rarely last longer than two weeks. For events during these times, KLCC offers a range of seasonal packages to accommodate different budgets while delivering customised experiences.
At Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre in New Zealand, proposals are similarly tailored to clients’ event needs and budgets. The centre also maintains flexibility during high and low seasons, while taking into account other events scheduled in the same period.
Packages often consolidate multiple services, explains Hatton-Jones, such as combining venue hire with AV, IT, and F&B, or are designed based on event type and the existing client relationship. Packages may be defined by seasonal demand, new business, or long-term partnership criteria, for example.
Technology is also transforming the experience. Last month, Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre launched its smart networking app, Events PRO, for congresses and corporate events. The app allows attendees to plan meetings in advance, receive suggestions for the most relevant networking contacts, and get notifications for keynotes and networking breaks. Exhibitors can manage their calendars, secure meetings, and capture leads, while the app’s QR code doubles as a digital entry pass.
As convention centres continue to innovate in pricing and technology, these strategies show how venues are evolving to remain competitive, agile, and client-focused in an increasingly complex events landscape.