May 22, 2024
Sponsored content by MeetRibbon Trade shows are very different from where they were five years ago, influenced by younger attendees, technological advancements, and the shifting needs of exhibitors. This roundtable brought together two distinguished thought leaders to discuss the critical needs of associations in the trade show realm. The discussion provided valuable insights into how trade shows can adapt to better serve their participants. Please find highlights below and watch the full roundtable here. MeetRibbon’s Co-Founder and CEO Vinit Patil moderated our panel of experts including… more
May 22, 2024
Produced by the National Association of Broadcasters, the premier advocacy association for U.S. radio and television broadcasters, the NAB Show is held annually in April in Las Vegas, where it has taken place since 1991. As the largest show for the broadcast, media and entertainment ecosystem, the massive event attracts thousands of content professionals each year. Who, When & Where: NAB Show, April 13-17, Las Vegas Convention Center New leadership: The 2024 edition marked a passing of the torch for NAB leadership, with Executive Vice President and Managing Director, NAB Global… more
May 21, 2024
After taking the stage at Connect Spring Marketplace 2024 in Las Vegas, Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) President Michael Dominguez joined us in our podcast booth on the show floor at the Venetian Convention & Expo Center to share his experience as the leader of a global sales organization for independently operated or owned hotels and resorts, cruise ships and destination management companies.  With more than 250 members, ALHI oversees a wide range of luxury brands – ranging from the Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas to Turtle Bay Resort in Hawaii. AHLI’s member hotels… more
May 20, 2024
After more than three decades of operating on the Las Vegas Strip, the Mirage Las Vegas will be shutting its doors on July 17. The landmark 3,044-room resort will undergo a three-year renovation and construction project that will transform the tropical-themed property into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas. Expected to open in spring 2027, the new hotel-casino will feature a guitar-shaped, 660-foot hotel tower, similar to its sister property in Hollywood, Fla. “We’d like to thank the Las Vegas community and team members for warmly welcoming Hard Rock after enjoying… more
May 17, 2024
When Usher took the stage on Sun., Feb. 11, at the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Promotional Products Association International (PPAI)  Show Manager Ashley Van Der Stuyf was one of 129.3 million people who tuned in to watch the performance. Once she took a look at the elaborate staging and production, she understood why the NFL canceled the association’s contract to host a party at the venue scheduled for less than a month before the big game. But it wasn’t an easy pill to swallow when she got the news on Nov. 8, about 60 days out from the Ultimate Tailgate… more
May 17, 2024
Since the TED conference was launched by Founder Richard Wurman in 1984, it’s estimated that TED Talks have been seen or listened to more than 30 billion times, according to Head of TED Chris Anderson.  Over the last 40 years, business leaders, politicians, celebrities and musicians have been compelled to the TED stage. For the first half of its existence, the annual conference brought together a few hundred people every year to think about Technology, Entertainment, Design (TED) and all that connected them, said Anderson in a blog.  Just under 20 years ago, online video gave the… more
May 16, 2024
Offering world-class education, innovative firefighting apparatus and fire industry technology, products and services for fire and rescue professionals from across the globe, the 2024 Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) International achieved a blazing success with its most highly attended event in its 89-year history. Organized by Clarion Events, the annual trade show and conference is also one of Indianapolis’s largest conventions. Who, When & Where: FDIC International 2024, April 15-20, Indiana Convention Center & Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis  Show size: The event… more
May 14, 2024
Informa, the international B2B events, B2B digital services and academic markets group (which owns Trade Show News Network and Exhibit News Now), recently issued an update on trading, key appointments and progress on its TechTarget combination. When the world’s largest trade show organizer makes a move, market analysts and industry leaders take note.  Here are three takeaways that impact the events sector. Expecting to reach 2024 financial forecast: ”All Informa’s businesses are performing ahead or in line with 2024 targets, delivering growth and momentum which sees us delivering at the… more
May 13, 2024
  Effective communication is the linchpin that ensures success and client satisfaction. Lauren Stroud, senior manager of events at MCI USA with 7 years of industry experience, shares her insights on how clear and strategic communication can transform the event experience for clients, attendees and organizers.  1. What are the benefits of effective communication for clients when planning events? Effective communication is essential in event planning, serving as the foundation for successful execution and stakeholder satisfaction. Here are five key benefits: •    Aligned expectations: It’… more
May 13, 2024
This spring, U.S. convention and event venues far and wide have announced new and expanded partnerships, sustainability and cultural achievements, and pending expansion projects. Here’s our latest roundup of venue news to keep you up to date.  ASM Global Ditches Plastic, Extends Naming Rights Deal During the Acura Grand Prix, ASM Global Acts kicked off its partnership with r.World to introduce reusable service ware in venues throughout the ASM Global’s North American portfolio of 93 convention centers. Debuting in April at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, the initiative… 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.