Questex Launches Free Virtual Event Series for Bar and Restaurant Industry
October 14, 2020
While the live U.S. trade show industry remains on pause, some event producers are doing what they can to support the challenged industries their shows represent by becoming community resources in the virtual space. Case in point: Questex, which has created online programming for its Nightclub & Bar Show and VIBE Conference audiences via Evolve, a free, six-month-long virtual event and engagement series designed to help restaurant and bar owners, operators, investors and suppliers achieve success into 2021 and beyond.
Geared to help exhibitors, sponsors and suppliers reconnect until the industry is able to gather face-to-face, Evolve will offer a wide range of education, sales, marketing, networking and engagement opportunities, says Tim McLucas, vice president of Questex’s bar and restaurant group.
“Owners, operators and suppliers are all suffering, and at this time, no one can say for sure when live events will resume,” McLucas said. “We recognize these challenges and understand that this unique crisis requires a unique solution to support the industry at its time of need.”
Beginning in November, Questex’s bar and restaurant team will visit six bars and restaurants throughout the U.S., speaking to local operators about the key lessons they have learned and ideas they’ve created to help maintain or build new business during the pandemic. The captured content will then be presented in a live, interactive virtual event format over two half-days each month for six consecutive months.
Evolve’s content will include current and relevant education to save, support or grow a business; multiple one-to-one sales meeting and networking opportunities with owners, operators and investors; marketing opportunities via live product demonstrations of new industry innovations, and access to free skills development and certification programs.
The series will also cover six themes, on the following schedule:
1. Technology
On-location recording: Washington, D.C.
Virtual event air dates: Nov. 10 and 17
2. Operations
On-location recording: Seattle
Virtual event air dates: Dec. 7 and 14
3. Marketing
On-location recording: Austin, Texas
Virtual event air dates: Jan. 13 and 26, 2021
4. Food and Beverage
On-location recording: Las Vegas
Virtual event air dates: Feb. 9 and 22, 2021
5. People and Staffing
On-location recording: New York
Virtual event air dates: March 8 and 22, 2021
6. Guest Experience
On-location recording: Los Angeles.
Virtual event air dates: April 12 and 26, 2021
This new virtual event series is part of the company’s core business strategy of serving the needs of its event communities through a multi-channel approach that spans live events, webinars and virtual events, according to Questex CMO Kate Spellman.
“For the past two years, Questex has been laser-focused on connecting buyers and sellers in the right place, at the right time with the right information,” Spellman said. “We have taken this premise with all of our [event] communities… building on communicating and helping our audiences run their businesses throughout the year [and] giving them the information they need, when and where they need it.”
Originally set for Oct. 19-21 this year, the next in-person edition of the Nightclub & Bar Show will take place June 28-30, 2021, at Las Vegas Convention Center.
Learn more or register for the free Evolve virtual series here.
Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!
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.
Add new comment