The latest results from the National Outdoor Events Association (NOEA) May 2026 Confidence Monitor suggest the events industry may be entering a ‘new normal’ phase of ‘instability’.

According to the latest data, which now compares insight from March, April and May, concern levels are easing following last month’s rapid rise, and businesses are now adapting to ongoing cost pressures and operational challenges.

The latest monitor found that levels of deep concern have fallen, with those describing themselves as “very concerned” dropping from 35.5% in April to 9.1% in May. Meanwhile, over half of respondents (54.6%) described themselves as “a little concerned”, suggesting that while pressure remains, sentiment has shifted from immediate crisis toward adaptation.

Similarly, the number of organisations saying that they had become more concerned since the previous month fell from 67.8% in April to 45.5% in May, while the proportion saying conditions had remained the same doubled.

However, NOEA is cautioning against reading this as a sign of recovery. Businesses continue to face persistent financial and operational pressures, with fuel and transport costs remaining overwhelmingly the most significant challenge, cited by 90.9% of respondents. Calls for government action also remained consistent, with reducing VAT on fuel again emerging as the sector’s most urgent policy ask.

The data also revealed a subtle shift in the nature of concern. While previous monitors highlighted immediate challenges such as cancellations, demand concerns and surcharges, businesses are increasingly looking ahead toward staffing pressures, procurement challenges and the impact on longer-term planning and future contracts.

Susan Tanner, CEO, NOEA, commented: “Over the last few months we’ve seen concern rise sharply across the industry. This latest monitor suggests a subtle but important shift. The pressure hasn’t gone away, but businesses appear to be adapting. Event organisers are incredibly resilient; they adjust quickly and continue delivering under difficult conditions.”

The challenge is that resilience shouldn’t be mistaken for comfort. Costs remain high, uncertainty remains, and many businesses are beginning to accept these pressures as part of their everyday reality. There is a sense that the industry is moving from crisis mode into adaptation mode, but we cannot allow that acceptance to reduce the focus on the challenges businesses continue to face.”