News

Nov 26, 2018
Events are mirrors of the organizations and industries they serve, reflecting their values and priorities. Therefore, it’s no surprise that green initiatives have flooded the events industry as more and more companies include sustainability goals and practices in their missions. And just as sustainable practices can be good for business, reducing costs and potentially raising customer loyalty, for example, they can also be great for events for many of the same reasons.  Britt Zarling, vice president of corporate communications at Fiserv, notes that the company’s corporate values apply to all… more
Nov 26, 2018
The United Nations defines sustainability as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. However, there has been some murkiness as to what exactly that means with regard to events and what the definition of sustainability is for the events industry.  U.K.-based meetings and events company BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E) has put together a "Green White Paper" that attempts to help put an industry wrapper around the concept. Fueled by survey data, the paper discusses the differences between “green meetings,” corporate… more
Nov 26, 2018
As the desire for sustainable meetings and events grows, so does the need for sustainable cities in which to hold them. The city of Brussels, Belgium was ranked ninth in the 2009 European Green City Index and now, a decade later, the city is well on its way towards its goal of becoming the “Green city of Europe” by 2024. “As Europe’s leading terminal for international high-speed trains, Brussels is becoming a greener place to meet,” said Elisabeth Van Ingelgem, director of the Convention & Association Bureau at visit.brussels.  She continued, “The city was voted the number one… more
Nov 21, 2018
Several trade show organizing, venue management and event services companies have been busy renewing contracts and snagging new business with a host of industry suppliers. Independent show management company, ConvExx, has been selected by the National Confectioners Association to handle attendee and exhibitor services for the annual Sweets & Snacks Expo. ConvExx’s responsibilities will include registration and attendee services, exhibitor outreach, housing oversight and assistance with the show’s special programs, such as the Most Innovative New Products Awards. “ConvExx is excited to… more
Nov 21, 2018
The social media platforms of Vision Expo West 2018 reached an all-time high with a double-digit percentage increase across impressions, engagements and video views compared to the year before.  Held Sept. 26-29 at the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Las Vegas, Vision Expo West and its East Coast edition, Vision Expo East, are B2B conferences and exhibitions for eyecare and eyewear professionals presented by co-owners Reed Exhibitions and The Vision Council.  In the 30 days following the Show, reports indicate impressions, engagements and video views climbed up by the thousands,… more
Nov 20, 2018
Data has never been such a big focus for corporate marketers, according to The Freeman Data Benchmark Study, a new report by brand experience company, Freeman. In fact, data plays a critical role in all aspects of corporate marketing, the study shows, from developing successful marketing strategies and campaigns to deciding where to allocate budgets and best reach target audiences. Released earlier this month and produced in partnership with Chief Marketer, the report examines how brands are leveraging data across the entire marketing mix, demonstrating that data is becoming a top priority… more
Nov 20, 2018
Known as the largest and most influential North American gathering of policy, technology and market leaders in energy grid storage, Energy Storage North America (ESNA) concluded its sixth annual conference and exhibition designed to empower collaboration on the global intersection of power and transportation. Held Nov. 6-8 at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, Ca., ESNA 2018 hosted approximately 2,000 attendees, representing more than 800 organizations and more than 30 countries.  Produced by Strategen and Messe Dusseldorf North America, and part of the larger World of Energy… more
Nov 20, 2018
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) concluded its IAAPA Attractions Expo 2018 on a high note by shattering its own attendance records and boasting the largest trade show floor in the event’s history.  A record 42,000 global attractions industry professionals from around the world converged Nov. 12-16 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando to learn, buy and network at the annual Expo, which doubled as IAAPA’s centennial celebration. “There is no better way to celebrate IAAPA’s centennial anniversary than with a remarkable and record-breaking… more
Nov 19, 2018
As part of a nearly $9 million marketing plan following Hurricane Michael and this year’s red tide blooms, VISIT FLORIDA has relaunched Florida Now, a landing page that provides real-time information from destinations across the state and is designed to encourage the continuation of tourism and event bookings to Florida.  Relaunched Nov. 1, the new landing page features a collection of Hurricane Michael recovery information and updates including an interactive map with photos, videos, twitter feeds and webcams.  “Following Hurricane Michael, VISIT FLORIDA has been working with both the… more
Nov 19, 2018
Last week, an overwhelming majority of voters from the City of Miami Beach approved the lease of public land for a privately-funded convention headquarter hotel that will be connected to the newly renovated and reimagined $620 million Miami Beach Convention Center.  The yes vote on ballot item No. 388 sets the completion of Greater Miami’s convention center district in motion, according to City officials.  “The City of Miami Beach residents have spoken loud and clear,” said City of Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber. “A super majority of nearly 64 percent is no easy feat and this is a huge… 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.