News

Jan 16, 2017
More than 1,200 association executives, consultants and industry professionals converged at the 2016 ASAE Technology Conference & Expo for three days of networking, education, insights and information about the latest trends, technologies, and strategies needed to take their organizations in a more forward-thinking direction. Held Dec. 12-14 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, MD, the association’s 11th annual event offered 32 high-level education sessions, a host of networking opportunities and an expo that featured135 exhibiting companies spanning… more
Jan 13, 2017
SmartSource Computer & Audio Visual Rentals has launched two new technology solutions designed to transform traditional event touchscreen displays into interactive, larger-than-life formats – the iTab Core and Giant Smartphone. The iTab Core turns any touchscreen display into a giant iPhone or Android phone, facilitating access to various apps, social media and games, as well as branding and marketing messages that can be easily uploaded and displayed in real time. Designed to promote digital engagement and customer interaction, the intuitive screen allows users to manage content… more
Jan 12, 2017
CES, the world’s largest consumer technology trade show, had yet another record-breaking year. Held at the Las Vegas Convention Center and venues throughout the city Jan. 5-8, the 50th annual event for the global technology industry boasted a 2.6 million net square foot showfloor occupied by 3,800 exhibitors and more than 175,000 attendees, including 55,000 from 150 countries. Final attendance figures will be released after the show’s independent audit late this spring, according to officials from the Consumer Technology Association, which owns and produces the show. Last year, CES attracted… more
Jan 11, 2017
The Craft & Hobby Association has transformed its CHA MEGA Conference & Trade Show into Creativation, a refreshed, reimagined event for the crafting industry. Set to debut Jan. 19-23 at the Phoenix Convention Center, the rebranded and reinvented show will feature new programs, learning opportunities and networking events; a targeted focus on innovation, collaboration and creative entrepreneurs, and at the heart of it all, a completely redesigned trade show floor. As the annual trade show and conference for the global creative products industry, the event brings together manufacturers… more
Jan 11, 2017
For the second year in a row and much to my chagrin, I was unable to attend the Professional Convention Management Association’s Convening Leaders annual meeting.  This year, it was held in the great city of Austin, Texas, and had three days packed with education and networking events. Of course, I had serious FOMO (fear of missing out) – but lucky for me, PCMA holds an online digital event powered by INXPO that streams throughout their live event. In my humble opinion, it is bar none the best digital event out there that coincides with a live event. Here are just a few of the reasons… more
Jan 10, 2017
One week after Will Secombe stepped down from the top post at Visit Florida in the midst of a controversy surrounding a $1 million promotional contract paid to musician Pitbull, Ken Lawson was named the bureau’s new President and CEO.  The announcement was made following a unanimous vote of the Visit Florida Board of Directors during a meeting Jan. 10 in Orlando.  Lawson, who currently serves as the secretary of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), will assume his new position with Visit Florida Jan. 11. “The work VISIT FLORIDA does to promote… more
Jan 10, 2017
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will open its January fairs next week, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The 43rd Hong Kong Toys & Games Fair, the 8th Hong Kong Baby Products Fair and the 17th Hong Kong International Stationery Fair will run from 9th to 12th January, while the 15th Hong Kong Licensing Show will be held from 9th to 11th January. The Stationery Fair is organised by the HKTDC and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and the others are organised by the HKTDC. Positioned as Asia’s largest toys & games fair, the event will feature a record of… more
Jan 10, 2017
The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) announced its development strategies and action plans for 2017 to support the development of its MICE industry. There will be three development strategies: Strategy 1 – To generate revenue towards prosperity; Strategy 2 – To drive the country with innovation towards stability; and Strategy 3 – To drive growth for the mutual benefit of all parts of society towards sustainability. In addition, TCEB has expanded its missions to include three other priorities for 2017: 1) To promote TCEB’s role as a fostering partnerships to enhance… more
Jan 10, 2017
  Recently, NASDAQ-listed Global Sources and Shenzhen Globex e-Services Inc., an integrated e-commerce service provider, announced plans to co-develop an integrated electronic solution to allow more efficient cross-border trade between mainland China-based exporters and overseas buyers. The new service, expected to launch in early 2017, will include electronic customs declaration and clearance; integration of customs, banking and shipment information; as well as completion of tax refund applications directly to the exporter’s account. Oliver Wu, General Manager of Globex, commented, “We… more
Jan 10, 2017
The recently concluded BAUMA CONEXPO INDIA – 4th International Trade Fair for Construction Machinery, Building Material Machines, Mining Machines and Construction Vehicles reported more participants than the previous edition in 2014. Running from 12th to 15th December 2016, at HUDA Ground in Gurgaon/Delhi, the event attracted more than 31,000 participants. A total of 647 exhibitors showcased their latest construction machinery products at the four-day event. Organised by bC Expo India, a joint venture of Messe München and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), BAUMA CONEXPO INDIA… more
Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact