ES. Your career has spanned multiple industries and continents, from co-founding GRS Research & Strategy to partnering with leading event tech companies. What has your journey been like and how have your experiences shaped your expertise in the events industry?
Enrico Gallorini. It’s true, I’ve worked in different countries and across various sectors, but if I look back at my career, it has always been connected to the world of human interaction.
My “natural” path would have been an academic one, but I found myself starting my first business at the age of 19, providing services for university students, including organizing events. My next venture, a strategic research company in the automotive sector, also ended up involving large-scale events. Somehow, events have always been a guiding force in my career, attracting me with their unique blend of strategy and human connection.
Technology is an opportunity, not a threat, and it can be used to make events more inclusive, sustainable, and unforgettable. Keep investing in people, because in the end, they are what make every event unique.
ES. You’ve recently launched a book about the power of events. Could you tell us more about it? What inspired you to write it, and how does it explore the importance of events in human evolution and their role in shaping the future of the industry?
Enrico Gallorini. In-Person explores the crucial role events have played in shaping human history, from early rituals to modern trade shows. I was inspired by the belief that, even in an increasingly digital world, the value of live experiences remains irreplaceable. In the book, I examine the evolution of events, their cultural impact, and how they will continue to shape the future of the industry, especially as technology and innovation redefine the way we connect.
ES. How do you see the events industry evolving in the next decade, especially as we navigate a more digital and hybrid future? What are some of the key shifts you anticipate?
Enrico Gallorini. In the coming decade, I expect events to become increasingly hybrid, with a seamless integration between physical and digital experiences. Personalization will be a central focus, enabled by data and AI, allowing us to tailor experiences to individual attendees’ needs. I also foresee a greater role for augmented and virtual reality, creating immersive environments that enhance participation and interaction, making events more engaging than ever.
ES. As someone who collaborates with governmental entities, how do you balance the need for innovative solutions with the operational realities of such large-scale events? What challenges have you encountered, and how have you navigated them?
Enrico Gallorini. Working with governmental entities requires striking a balance between innovation and practicality. Large-scale events demand careful attention to logistics, security, and resource management. The main challenges often involve bureaucracy and slow decision-making processes. To navigate these issues, it’s crucial to have a clear vision, communicate effectively, and propose solutions that are not only realistic but also capable of significantly improving the event experience.
ES. Given the current technological advancements, from AI to virtual reality, how do you see the relationship between technology and human interaction evolving in the context of events?
Enrico Gallorini. Technology is redefining human interaction in events, but it cannot replace the value of face-to-face encounters. I believe the future lies in using technology as a tool to enhance and enrich live experiences.
AI, augmented reality, and virtual reality can create new engagement opportunities, making events more interactive and personalized. However, the human element will remain central—technology should serve real connections, not replace them.
ES. In your experience, how can events continue to offer impactful, meaningful experiences for attendees in an increasingly virtual or hybrid environment? How can we ensure that these new formats maintain the emotional and social connections that in-person events have historically provided?
Enrico Gallorini. Hybrid events need to focus on creating authentic moments of interaction that go beyond passive participation. Immersive technologies can help build exciting experiences, but it’s essential to provide opportunities for spontaneous and meaningful connections, such as live discussions, group activities, and informal networking. The key is to maintain a balance between digital content and real-world interaction.
ES. Sustainability and social responsibility are growing concerns in the events industry. How do you envision events evolving to meet these global challenges, and what are some actionable steps organizers can take to ensure long-term sustainability?
Enrico Gallorini. Sustainability is set to become a central pillar in event planning. Organizers can take concrete steps to reduce environmental impact by using recyclable materials, selecting sustainable venues, and adopting technology to minimize waste. Including social responsibility initiatives, such as supporting local causes or promoting diversity and inclusion, can further enhance the value of events and meet growing public expectations.
ES. Lastly, what message would you like to share with the industry?
Enrico Gallorini. My message to the industry is to embrace change with courage. Events will continue to be one of the main drivers of human connection, but we need to innovate, adapt, and find new ways to create meaningful experiences, keeping the most valuable asset we offer—human interaction—at the forefront for the betterment of humanity. Technology is an opportunity, not a threat, and it can be used to make events more inclusive, sustainable, and unforgettable. Keep investing in people, because in the end, they are what make every event unique.
