Image Source: Everything Experiential
India's event industry grapples with a critical challenge: despite advanced digital tools like QR codes and apps, paid registrations fail to gain traction due to deep-rooted cultural and systemic issues. Free access models dominate, sponsor-driven events prevail, and trust gaps undermine technology, hindering revenue growth and professionalization. This blind spot limits scalability amid booming demand for experiential marketing.
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The Indian events sector, valued at billions, thrives on scale but stumbles on monetization through paid entry. Legacy practices of complimentary passes and VIP culture prioritize prestige over participant value, creating friction in a market shifting toward premium experiences. Technology exists—digital badges, UPI payments, apps—but human overrides erode efficiency, reflecting broader institutional mistrust.
Key Highlights
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High power-distance culture leads to excessive gatekeeping, with guards questioning verified badges instead of guiding attendees.
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Sponsor-funded free events foster entitlement, making paid models a tough sell despite post-pandemic willingness to pay premiums.
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Logistics prioritize organizer visibility over seamless flow, turning conferences into displays rather than peer convenings.
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Regulatory complexities and venue shortages compound issues, but core problem lies in lacking participant-centric design.
Sources: Everything Experiential, Chauthi Duniya, LinkedIn
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