FCM Meetings & Events‘ Ideas Exchange (IDEX) was back for a third round, this time focusing on the ‘Social’ part of Economic, Social and Governance (ESG).

Hosted at the Porter House Hotel in Sydney last week, the thought-provoking event saw a group of industry professionals come together to participate in discussions in the ‘S’ of ESG, which examined social responsibility and knowing your supply chain.

Held within the hotel’s stylish and intimate meeting rooms, the discussions were led by thought leaders from Flight Centre Travel Group, FCM Meetings & Events, Accor Australia and Etihad Airways. 

FCM Meetings & Events general manager Simone Seiler said the in-person event was based on the concept of a salon that provided a highly interactive environment for informal learning and discussion, with the aim to inspire collaborative action. 

“We wanted to challenge expectations and reimagine how we traditionally meet to optimise the experience and encourage immersion, participation, and collaboration,” Seiler said.

“The travel industry is moving into a new world where businesses are placing a greater emphasis on ESG when it comes to planning meetings, events, and conferences – that’s where us as specialists can really make a difference in this space when it comes to planning and booking,” Seiler said.

“The IDEX event focused specifically on knowing your supply chain and taking social responsibility at every level. ESG issues can carry significant reputational and operational risks in the complex arena of procurement. What does a ‘good’ supply chain look like in events and travel?

“It’s important to have robust processes and controls embedded across an organisation in relation to supply chain health and safety and human rights. Key to this are processes to perform due diligence on all new business initiatives and suppliers – not just at the initial point of entry, but also through regular monitoring of their progress.”