In an independent online survey carried out by market research company on behalf of The QEII Centre has found that the economic value of distraction during meetings and events has risen to an estimated GPB 20.7 billion.

Based on a survey of over 1,000 UK desk-based workers, the research builds on findings from The QEII Centre’s inaugural 2023 Distracted Economy report. It reveals that the cost of distraction in online and face-to-face meetings and events has increased from £19.9 billion in 2023 to GPB 20.7 billion.

In The QEII Centre’s new Distracted Economy report, 80 percent of desk-based workers admit to losing concentration during meetings. About 55 percent are more likely to be distracted in online meetings compared to 16 percent for in-person meetings and 27 percent who find both equally distracting.

The report also finds that senior managers are not immune, with 17 percent of senior managers and owners losing focus for half or more of in-person meetings compared to 10 percent of mid or junior managers.

Against these challenges, the report offers tangible solutions to help event planners and venues tackle the issue.

“As one of the UK’s leading conference and events venues, holding over 400 events each year, we understand the shifting meetings and events landscape, as well as the hugely important role that venues and event planners play in creating engaging and productive meeting experiences,” said Mr. Mark Taylor, chief executive, The QEII Centre.

“It is our hope that these findings inspire event planners and venues to create exceptional experiences and design meetings and events that engage delegates, enhance productivity and achieve business goals.” 

Highlights of the Distracted Economy:

• Eight in 10 desk-based workers lose concentration in meetings for some of the time
• 24 percent is the average proportion of time people are distracted during in-person meetings
• 17 percent of senior managers and owners lose focus or concentration for half or more of in-person meetings compared to 10% of mid or junior managers
• 55 percent of people are more likely to be distracted in an online meeting, versus 16 percent in an in-person meeting and 27 percent who find both equally distracting
• The top three causes of distraction are boredom (25 percent), tiredness (24 percent), and having a busy mind (23 percent)
• 56 percent of respondents expect to attend more in-person events in 2025 than they did in 2019