News

Jun 02, 2014
Orlando is the place to be for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions’ Attractions Expo, with the organization signing on thru 2025 in the sunny Florida destination. The weeklong event is the largest conference and trade show for the worldwide attractions industry, and it generates approximately $51.3 million for the Orlando-area economy. “IAAPA Attractions Expo continues to grow year after year and that’s a testament to the power of Orlando as the ideal location for our global conference and trade show,” said IAAPA President and CEO Paul… more
Jun 02, 2014
JCK Las Vegas,the world’s largest diamond and jewelry trade show, rolled out the red carpet May 30- June 2 at Mandalay Bay Convention Center, showing that diamonds are, indeed, forever. At the time of consolidation of the jewelry industry, the show boasted strong attendance and exhibitor numbers and took over just about every inch of available space. “While it’s a healthy industry, jewelry industry is certainly not growing in terms of a number of stores opening,” said Yancy Weinrich, group vice president of Reed Exhibitions’ JCK Portfolio. “Since moving to… more
Jun 02, 2014
The Center for Exhibition Industry Research Predict Conference, on tapSept. 11 at the Intercontinental Hotel Chicago, will feature a new, fast-paced format.  The format will mirror an action-packed financial news show, featuring lively interviews, substantive conversations and provocative discussions, providing economic insights and new perspectives about the exhibition industry, according to event organizers. The focal point will be the CEIR Index and the 2014 CEIR Index Report: 2013 Results, which provides an objective measure of the annual performance of the exhibition industry… more
Jun 01, 2014
The paint and coatings industries, as well as hospitality design, all are experiencing good times right now, which translated to busy showfloors at two recent events - the American Coatings Show and HD Expo. The American Coatings Show found success with its move to Atlanta this year, with the show breaking attendee and exhibitor records when it was held April 7-10 at the Georgia World Congress Center. The fourth edition of the American Coatings Show attracted more than 8,700 attendees and 480 exhibitors from 70 countries. The 2014 event generated an increase of 16 percent in attendance,… more
Jun 01, 2014
Exhibitors constantly are trying to find the next big thing that will make show attendees, who’ve seen it all before, stop in their tracks and take notice of the exhibitor’s booth. A new display unit by Pufferfish out of the United Kingdom just may be that next big thing. Pufferfish, the maker of PufferSphere spherical display systems, has a new smaller display called the PufferSphere M. This new sphere is powerful enough to stand out in a bright environment, such as a trade show floor. Nichole Potts, sales manager at Freeman said, “Projection mapping is all the rage now,… more
Jun 01, 2014
“People look at your brand’s voice as a true representation of its heart and soul.” - Lori Randall Stradtman, Online Reputation Management for Dummies (www.social-media-design.com) Brands with positive reputations attract more customers, have longevity and deliver higher than normal ROI to organizations. Many brand management teams pay a lot of attention to their customers’ feedback in direct interactions, but most neglect to proactively manage their brand’s online reputation. When a crisis erupts all of a sudden, such teams are caught off guard, and then it… more
Jun 01, 2014
“People look at your brand’s voice as a true representation of its heart and soul.” - Lori Randall Stradtman, Online Reputation Management for Dummies (www.social-media-design.com) Brands with positive reputations attract more customers, have longevity and deliver higher than normal ROI to organizations. Many brand management teams pay a lot of attention to their customers’ feedback in direct interactions, but most neglect to proactively manage their brand’s online reputation. When a crisis erupts all of a sudden, such teams are caught off guard, and then it… more
Jun 01, 2014
Exhibitors constantly are trying to find the next big thing that will make show attendees, who’ve seen it all before, stop in their tracks and take notice of the exhibitor’s booth. A new display unit by Pufferfish out of the United Kingdom just may be that next big thing. Pufferfish, the maker of PufferSphere spherical display systems, has a new smaller display called the PufferSphere M. This new sphere is powerful enough to stand out in a bright environment, such as a trade show floor. Nichole Potts, sales manager at Freeman said, “Projection mapping is all the rage now,… more
May 30, 2014
The ballroom at the JW Marriott in Washington, D.C., was filled with the who’s who of the association and for-profit trade show world; all gathered together to take part in the record-breaking 13th edition of the Exhibition & Convention Executives Forum held May 27-28. Sam Lippman, who is president and founder of Lippman Connects and runs the event, said that the 216 registered attendees were a record, as well as the number of sponsors this year and supporting publications. “The 13th time is not the curse, it’s the charm!,” Lippman said. “The speakers… more
May 28, 2014
The Archery Trade Association has targeted Louisville again for its annual event – ATA Trade Show – in 2016, 2019 and 2024 at the Kentucky Exposition Center after visiting the city in 2013. The event is expected to draw 10,000 attendees with an estimated $17 million economic impact over the multi-year deal. “Louisville is a vibrant, accessible city that’s well suited to handle our national and international companies and their staff,” said Jay McAninch, ATA president and CEO.  He added, “The Kentucky Exposition Center offers abundant floor space and,… more
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.