Global Experience Specialists Overall Q3 Revenue Down, Same-show Revenue Up

November 1, 2015

Negative show rotation was a key factor in Global Experience Specialists’ overall U.S.-based third-quarter revenue posting a 14.6 percent decrease to $143.5 million, compared with the same quarter last year with $168.1 million.

Even with the dip, the good news was same-show revenue continued to surge with 4.7 percent growth in the third quarter, compared with the same quarter last year.

“GES delivered better results in the third quarter than we had previously anticipated. We continued to see stronger same-show growth, short-term bookings and sales to corporate clients,” said Steve Moster, Viad’s president and CEO, GES’ parent company.

He added, “Our acquisitions of onPeak, Blitz and N200 are performing well and we continue to have success cross-selling these new services into our client base. We expect strong execution and favorable industry conditions to continue, resulting in meaningful year-over-year growth during the fourth quarter.”

Moster said the same-show growth also was “stronger than expected.”

The same-show growth has been a result of not only the show itself growing, but also selling more into the actual show, he added.

“Same-show growth bodes really well for the exhibition industry overall,” Moster said.

Cross-selling some of the new services, including registration into the Middle East division, as well as to existing clients, such as Labelexpo Americas, was a boost for GES as well.

In addition, clients, such as Solar Power International that already had AV services and signed on also for general service contracting 2016-2018, continued to add to GES’ success.

Moster said the company also was “building more of a presence in the consumer and corporate” areas.

One such effort is a Walt Disney, five-city “Frozen Fall Festival” tour and another is an America’s Cup fan experience exhibition that tours to different ports.

Overall, Viad Q3 revenues dipped 14.6 percent to $255.9 million, compared with $299.8 million from the same quarter last year.

These results beat expectations, Moster said, “Our Marketing & Events Group continues to deliver better than expected performance. As a result, our income per share before other items came in above our prior guidance for the quarter.”

Add new comment

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.