The 2025 Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Crystal Awards shortlist is a testament to the global innovation, creativity, and excellence flourishing within the incentive travel industry. This prestigious award recognizes the most impactful and transformative programs that drive business results, enhance corporate culture, and inspire employee engagement.
From the bustling cities of the United States and Canada to the ancient wonders of Türkiye, India, Egypt, and Italy, this year’s nominees represent a diverse global landscape. Their programs showcase the growing importance of incentive travel in fostering a thriving business environment, attracting top talent, and boosting employee morale.
The 2025 Crystal Awards shortlist also underscores the industry’s commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Nominees have demonstrated innovative approaches to these critical areas, reflecting a shift towards responsible travel practices that prioritize environmental protection and community engagement.
Annette Gregg, CEO of SITE, highlights the significance of the awards, emphasizing that they are not only about recognizing excellence in travel but also the power of incentive travel as a tool for positive change. “This year’s nominees have truly exemplified what our industry stands for,” Gregg says, recognizing the commitment to ethical and impactful travel experiences.
The upcoming Crystal Awards Gala, scheduled for March 4, 2025, during the SITE Global Conference in Tulum, Mexico, will culminate in a celebration of the nominees’ achievements and the announcement of the category winners. This prestigious event will bring together industry leaders, travel professionals, and innovators to network, collaborate, and discuss the future of incentive travel.
Cate Banfield, President of Wynford and Chair of SITE’s Crystal Awards Committee, expresses her pride in leading the committee, emphasizing the extraordinary caliber of submissions. “The shortlisted nominees showcase the creativity, innovation, and resilience of our industry in delivering impactful experiences,” she says, expressing anticipation for celebrating their achievements in Tulum.
The Crystal Awards categories encompass a wide range of incentive travel experiences, from those focused on environmental sustainability and CSR to programs that have overcome significant challenges to deliver exceptional results.
The 2025 SITE Crystal Awards nominees represent a new standard of excellence in incentive travel. By delivering innovative, sustainable, and culturally enriching experiences, these programs have contributed to the overall growth of the industry and helped companies achieve their business goals. From philanthropic efforts like the Joy in Giving President’s Club to the EcoVenture coastal cleaning initiative, these programs demonstrate a commitment to fostering employee engagement while positively impacting the communities and environments they interact with.
In addition to recognizing socially responsible programs, the awards also highlight companies that have faced and overcome adversity. For example, the Atlantic Packaging Sales Incentive Trip in Canada showcases how the Creative Group overcame logistical challenges to deliver an impactful experience for its participants.
Each of these programs embodies the spirit of incentive travel, which is to reward, inspire, and connect employees with their organizations through immersive and meaningful travel experiences. These programs go beyond traditional business trips, offering unique opportunities for participants to engage with their colleagues, enjoy new cultures, and create lasting memories.
The 2025 SITE Global Conference, taking place in Tulum, Mexico, will provide a stunning backdrop for the Crystal Awards Gala. Known for its beautiful beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and luxury resorts, Tulum is an ideal destination for this prestigious event, attracting participants from around the world. The conference will offer a platform for networking, education, and collaboration, with a focus on the future of incentive travel and its role in driving corporate success.
The IMEX Group, a leader in the global meetings and incentive travel industry, is proud to sponsor this year’s awards gala. By supporting the Crystal Awards, IMEX reinforces its commitment to recognizing the best in the incentive travel industry and promoting innovative approaches to creating memorable and impactful experiences.
As the world continues to navigate changing business landscapes, the role of incentive travel remains vital. By bringing together industry leaders, creative minds, and forward-thinking companies, the SITE Crystal Awards continue to set the bar for excellence and innovation in incentive travel, ensuring that these programs remain a key driver of employee engagement, corporate success, and positive social impact.