American Society of Association Executives Unveils Sneak Peek of Xperience Design Project

The American Society of Association Executives recently hosted a successful pilot for their newest event, Xperience Design Project (XDP).

Held Dec. 16, the exclusive, one-day, sneak peek of XDP was at the Gaylord National® Resort & Convention Center, and it brought together more than 80 association meeting, marketing, programming, and technology professionals, as well as industry partners to test and fine-tune the new format.

The inaugural event, May 23-24, will attract upwards of 1,800 total guests, according to ASA officials.

IAEE Announces New Certified Exhibition Program

During its annual meeting and exhibitions, Expo! Expo!, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events unveiled launch of its newest initiative, the IAEE Certified Exhibition Program, a certified exhibition designation that they say will set the “Gold Standard” for exhibitions and events, as well as establish a broad set of best practices that all events with exhibitions should adhere to.

2017 IAEE Chairperson Ryan Strowger Assumes Gavel at Expo! Expo!

Today, 2016 IAEE Chairperson Julie Smith, CEM, CTA passed the baton to 2017 IAEE Chairperson Ryan Strowger, CEM at the Annual Networking Luncheon and Awards Presentation, held during Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Anaheim. 

“I am honored to serve as the 2017 Chairperson and continue the incredible work of my fellow IAEE members,” Strowger said.

Fresh Produce Association Rebrands Events to United FreshTEC and United FreshMKT

United Fresh, the association for the fresh produce industry, will not only expand its innovation platform, but also it will move its annual conference and expo June 13-15 into the larger West Hall at Chicago’s McCormick Place.

The event will debut new expo features in convenience and fresh foods, robotics and supply chain technology, and conference sessions bringing attendees and exhibitors together with subject matter experts to help grow their businesses. 

Ohio School Boards Association Attracts 9,000 to Greater Columbus Convention Center

The largest educational trade show and second-largest education convention in the nation returned to the SMG-managed Greater Columbus Convention Center, as more than 9,000 attendees attended the 61st annual Ohio School Boards Association Capital Conference and Trade Show Nov. 13-16.

“This is the time that we get to shine for our members,” said Jeff Chambers, OSBA director of Communication Services.

Ohio School Boards Association Attracts 9,000 to Greater Columbus Convention Center

The largest educational trade show and second-largest education convention in the nation returned to the SMG-managed Greater Columbus Convention Center, as more than 9,000 attendees attended the 61st annual Ohio School Boards Association Capital Conference and Trade Show Nov. 13-16.

“This is the time that we get to shine for our members,” said Jeff Chambers, OSBA director of Communication Services.

Ohio School Boards Association Attracts 9,000 to Greater Columbus Convention Center

The largest educational trade show and second-largest education convention in the nation returned to the SMG-managed Greater Columbus Convention Center, as more than 9,000 attendees attended the 61st annual Ohio School Boards Association Capital Conference and Trade Show Nov. 13-16.

“This is the time that we get to shine for our members,” said Jeff Chambers, OSBA director of Communication Services.

UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, Hires Two New Team Members

As the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, UFI serves around 50,000 employees of exhibition organizers, venues, service providers and industry associations in close to 90 countries around the world.

To deliver and improve the growing roster of events, committee activities, and other industry initiatives, the association is bringing on board two new hires: Nicolette Elia-Beissel, and Jana Hofmann.

UBM Buys The Battery Show and Collocated Events

U.K.-based UBM scooped up a new show in the U.S., The Battery Show North America, from another UK-based company - Smarter Shows.  

The Battery Show and collocated events will be part of UBM’s Advanced Manufacturing Group.

“The Battery Show has tremendous synergies with UBM’s existing advanced manufacturing business and we see great opportunity for growth on both sides as the brands serve many of the same industry sectors - including medical, aerospace, consumer goods, electronics and automotive, to name just a few.” said Scott Schulman, CEO, UBM Americas.

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.