News
Jul 03, 2019
You could say Amy Calvert began her new role as CEO of Events Industry Council by jumping in with two feet. After taking the helm on May 20, her first day on the job was at IMEX Frankfurt. A little overwhelming, perhaps—but overall “it was awesome,” says Calvert. “It was a really fine and appropriate place to begin my career with EIC.”
Now less than two months in, she’s still making a big splash, carrying the enthusiasm and excitement she has brought with her since the beginning. We caught up with Calvert, who came to EIC from Visit Baltimore, to learn how she’s doing, what she’s planning… more
Jul 02, 2019
As event destinations search for more recession-proof market segments to generate strong economic impact for their communities, the convention industry is taking a serious look at the rapidly growing world of esports, aka competitive video gaming.
This year alone, the global esports industry is set to surpass the $1 billion mark, with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. And with many association and corporate events continuing to grapple with flat budgets and shrinking attendance, an exploding industry such as esports, with its broad appeal and growing fan base, has become all the more… more
Jul 02, 2019
Digital marketing company Feathr has acquired Springful, a digital marketing agency based in Gainesville, Fla.
Feathr provides a marketing toolkit designed for the needs of events and associations, which is used by more than 1,000 events across the globe.
The Springful acquisition comes after an increased demand for Feathr Concierge, a managed services program that allows the Feathr Services team to help customers set up accounts, plan campaign strategies, design collateral and ad creatives, and launch and optimize campaigns.
“We are delighted to welcome Springful into the Feathr family… more
Jul 02, 2019
The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), The International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC), and The International Congress and Convention Association will collaborate more closely in the future to generate better benefits for their respective members, as well as the international meetings industry.
“With our Global Alliance, the three of us choose value for our members [and] choose collaboration over competition,” said Craig Newman, president of UFI.
The global alliance effort among the three associations was announced last week.
“We are all organizations with a… more
Jul 01, 2019
May and June have been busy months on the hiring front. From many new promotions and hires at CVBs around the country to expanded sales teams, new association leadership, DMO development and more, the future of the trade show and meetings industry looks bright.
Philip Schlitz has joined Chestnut, New York-based brand experience agency MC2 as the company’s first corporate vice president of strategic business development. Also at MC2, Ben Nazario (pictured at right) joined the leadership team as California division president. Prior to his most recent role as chief sales officer at Sparks, he… more
Jun 27, 2019
The second in the Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s “Head of Marketing Insights” series, “Aligning Exhibit Sales for Success” takes a close look at the B2B exhibitor’s decision-making process, pinpointing the areas where marketing leaders see the most value in these exhibitions.
The report, which is based on survey data from marketing executives at North American organizations that use exhibiting as channel in their marketing mix, examines how brand marketers build an exhibit program. It also offers suggestions on how show organizers can position sales efforts to align with these… more
Jun 26, 2019
For the second year in a row, Bizzabo was awarded Best Event Technology Solution of 2019 at the annual Software & Information Industry Association CODiE Awards.
The SIIA CODiE Awards recognize companies producing the most innovative business technology products across the globe.
SIIA, the principal trade association for the software and digital content industries, announced the full slate of CODiE winners during an award ceremony at InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco hotel this month.
“We’re thrilled to have retained our leadership position as the best event technology… more
Jun 26, 2019
We live in a time of immediate gratification where we can tap a few keys and have the world’s information at our fingertips. An era full of busy times, busy lives and a growing concern of impatient business professionals who all want immediate gratification has made the greatest impact on the consumer market, as we’ve seen the advent of digital marketplaces and their propagation into our daily lives. This can cause friction when the technology of instant gratification is not prepared to manage the dynamic and varying needs of buyers in the B2B world.
That begs the question: How do we, as… more
Jun 26, 2019
With China’s population aged more than 60 surpassing ¼ of a billion this year and set to add a further 10 million to its ranks every year through 2025, CHINA AID reflects the rising success of elderly care focused businesses in China and the quickly developing senior care market seeking to meet the surge in demand.
Produced by Shanghai Intex Exhibition Company and Tarsus Group, CHINA AID is the nation’s key gateway to its fast-expanding elderly care, mobility and rehabilitation markets, this year seeing growth of almost 20 percent in its show size, while increasing its exhibition attendance… more
Jun 25, 2019
International Association of Exhibition and Events has announced Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, as the recipient of its prestigious 2019 Legend of the Industry award. He’ll officially be recognized at the Krakoff Leadership Institute event, planned for Aug. 5-6 at Lowes Miami Beach Hotel in Florida.
This honor recognizes an IAEE member who’s demonstrated remarkable innovations and leadership in the industry. KLI attendees will have the opportunity for face-to-face conversations with Shapiro at the event.
In his role at CTA, which he has held for 28… 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.