Types of Corporate Events

Corporate events come in many shapes and sizes. Some are designed for employees, others for clients, and some for the wider industry. Knowing the difference helps when you are planning your own event or thinking about a career in the industry.

Internal corporate events

These are events run by a company for its own people. They might include:

• Team building days
• Staff training sessions
• Town halls and company briefings
• Awards evenings

The goal is usually motivation, communication, or recognition.

Client-facing corporate events

These events are outward-looking and focus on clients or stakeholders. Examples include:

• Product launches
• Networking receptions
• Shareholder meetings
• Customer appreciation events

Here the aim is to build relationships, showcase work, or strengthen trust.

Conferences

Conferences bring together a mix of employees, clients, and sometimes the general public. They feature speakers, breakout sessions, and opportunities for networking. The focus is often on knowledge sharing and thought leadership.

Trade shows and exhibitions

Exhibitions are slightly different. They are large-scale events where multiple companies gather to showcase their products and services. A good example is DSEI in London (Defence and Security Equipment International). It is not a corporate event in the strict sense, but it sits under the wider business events umbrella. Exhibitions like this create opportunities for sales, partnerships, and networking across whole industries.

Why it matters

Each type of event has its own planning challenges, but they all share a need for clear goals, solid logistics, the right technology, and a team that knows how to deliver. Whether you are organising an internal staff meeting or running a stand at an exhibition like DSEI, the principles of success remain the same.

If you want to explore more about the industry as a whole, have a look at our guide on Getting Into the UK Events Industry.