Experts & Opinions
Feb 26, 2016
The start of the year is always a good time to look ahead. Here is a brief look at five trends affecting our industry – trends that we at UFI believe will be discussed and debated in 2016:
The state of the global economy
This, of course, always belongs on such a list. Our latest UFI Global Barometer shows a mixed outlook for the exhibition industry. The barometer, based on a survey sent to leading organisers worldwide, shows positive turnover expectations in 2016 for the large majority of companies in North America and Europe – with the notable exception of Russia.
In Asia-Pacific, the… more
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Feb 26, 2016
Push notifications are commonly used by mobile apps in every industry to engage users with real-time messaging. Mobile devices are a crowded space, however, and understanding the best way to leverage push alerts is vital to ensure attendees continue to accept communication from trade show hosts and enjoy real value in return. The following concepts go beyond the basics such as event promotion and last-minute updates to focus on creative options best suited to maximize benefits for hosts and attendees alike.
Utilize Deep Links
Standard push notifications are effective for quick alerts… more
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Feb 20, 2016
When Reebok first announced its sponsorship of the Ultimate Fighting Championship last year, the alliance, to me, felt reminiscent of exclusivity deals the NBA, NFL, MLB, and other global sports leagues typically sign with established fitness companies.
However, there were a few important twists that made it different, including the revenue structure and approach to apparel. Most of all, the brand’s impeccable timing made the deal really shine — both as an important marketing move for the company and as a case study on timing for the broader marketing community.
In a culture… more
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Feb 20, 2016
Marketers who browse trade show calendars can be quickly overwhelmed by the array of choices, both in the U.S. and around the world. As a trade show exhibit firm, we hear the same question over and over: What shows are best for my industry? We wish we had an easy answer, but the truth is that you have to do a lot of legwork before you can answer that question accurately.
We recommend a four-step process for determining the best trade show exhibitions for your business.
1. Develop a marketing plan with measurable objectives.
2. Define your best… more
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Feb 13, 2016
The entertainment industry can teach marketers a lot about incorporating fandom into a company’s strategy. From Beliebers to Kardashian followers, America is the land of the superfan. Diehard aficionados are the first ones to download a new album, tune in to the latest episode, or buy a concert ticket. But the fandom phenomenon isn’t limited to the entertainment industry.
In other spaces, fandom equates brand advocacy, a power that can’t be underestimated. That passion and sense of community can yield a sort of citizen army for brands. Apple, for instance, wasn’t really… more
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Feb 13, 2016
Chances are, you’ve attended trade shows and conferences. You’ve walked the aisles, heard the speakers, and networked. Then it’s your turn. Your company has asked you to represent your company at the next trade show. Although I was able to learn a lot from walking trade shows and asking others for advice, there’s so much to learn and often, key pieces of information are overlooked. Here are 9 things I wish I knew before exhibiting at a trade show that will hopefully help any “newbies” exhibit like a pro!
1. Give yourself double the amount of time you think you need to prepare.… more
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Feb 06, 2016
With constant enhancements in technology and the continuous fight to remain competitive, there has been a surge in ways to increase event revenue. With this surge we are seeing a dramatic shift in the way content is being consumed at events. Virtual and hybrid events in the form of conferences, job fairs, and trade shows are becoming the norm, adding a new approach to traditional events.
If you’re thinking about hosting one yourself, here are 5 benefits to going virtual.
1. Extend the Life of your Event
One of the most helpful elements of a virtual event is the fact that it has an… more
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Feb 04, 2016
Wireless access is something every show organizer needs but few understand. Here are some great tips to think about before and during an event to ensure your attendees stay connected.
In Advance of the Event
• Know your requirements before you talk to a venue or managing vendor. Consider all of the space you're using and the needs in each room. Don't omit any relevant space.
• Are your attendees device heavy? Many now carry two or three devices and use wireless for all of them. This is important information for your venue/vendor.
• Consider last year's complaints as… more
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Jan 24, 2016
In the era of big data and tight budgets, every expense needs to be justified. Moreover, measurement of all marketing programs is expected, especially for trade shows and events.
Tracking the number of impressions from any particular marketing channel was much more difficult 10 years ago than it is now. With the advent of online marketing, return on investment data has moved from a loose requirement to a firm expectation.
The expectation has moved from “Trade shows are the way we reach our customers and create awareness” to “Tell me how many new customers we added to our database during… more
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Jan 17, 2016
Making the workplace or tradeshow floor greener is a common goal, and it’s a good goal. Green changes help the planet and can even make the workflow or tradeshows more efficient and even more enjoyable. The New Year is always a time for evaluating the past and looking towards the future, so I decided to put together a list of 5 ways you can make your workplace or tradeshow greener in the New Year.
5 New Year’s Resolutions for A Greener Work Day or Tradeshow
1. Ready, Set, Recycle! - Start a recycling initiative at the office or at your next tradeshow. Get bins and place them where… more
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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.