Apr 23, 2019
America’s Center Convention Complex in St. Louis is about to get a major makeover. On April 16, the St. Louis City Council joined the City of St. Louis’ Board of Aldermen in approving the AC Next Gen Project, an estimated $175 billion plan that will update, modernize and expand the multi-venue complex to ensure its place as an economic and employment driver for the region.
The ACCC currently comprises the 42-year-old Cervantes Convention Center, St. Louis Executive Conference Center, The Dome at America’s Center and Ferrara Theater.
Proposed last fall, the project will include the addition… more
Apr 18, 2019
In an exhibit hall full of brands all vying for the attention of the right buyers, it can be hard for many exhibitors stand out from the pack, especially at large shows where it’s easy to get swallowed in a sea of booths and sensory overload. That’s why staying abreast of the latest exhibit trends that best support your marketing strategy can go a long way in helping you get your fair share of attention on the expo floor.
We consulted a few bright minds in the world of trade show exhibit design to get their ideas about the newest, out-of-box design trends worth implementing in your next expo… more
Apr 17, 2019
Toronto’s Vantage Venues and The Globe and Mail Centre played host to the 38th edition of IACC’s Americas Connect conference April 10-11, which brought in 230 delegates.
The theme of this year’s event was “Radical Innovation —Change Everything!” and as such, the education and networking opportunities took a new form. For example, organizers banned speakers from having PowerPoint slides with more than one word. In his address, Keynote Pablos Holman, a former computer hacker turned inventor, encouraged attendees to be disruptors of the events industry..
“We vowed to be different, and I… more
Apr 15, 2019
Back in April 1970, the first-ever Earth Day was started as a way to protest the negative impacts of industrial development on the environment. Now, nearly 50 years later, Earth Day is a globally recognized event, with an estimated 1 billion people in 192 countries taking part in the world’s largest civic-focused day of action. Monday, April 22 this year is the official day of celebration, but anyone in the events and travel industry can take inspiration from these programs and events to keep a more planet-focused mindset year round.
With that in mind, here’s a round-up of what hotels,… more
Apr 11, 2019
The National Pork Producers Council’s board of directors canceled World Pork Expo 2019 out of an abundance of caution, as African swine fever (ASF) continues to spread in China and other parts of Asia.
World Pork Expo, held each June at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, hosts approximately 20,000 visitors during three days, including individuals and exhibitors from ASF-positive regions.
African swine fever affects only pigs and presents no human health or food safety risks. There is currently no vaccine to treat the swine disease.
“While an evaluation by veterinarians and other… more
Apr 10, 2019
If we’re being honest, trade show managers don’t always conduct daily business with their exhibitors in mind. A recent webinar held by The Expo Group brought to light some ideas for improving lines of communication between these two groups, and one aspiration of note was building a show website that better suits the exhibitors’ needs.
“Why don’t we get our software developers to think like an exhibitor?” That was a question posed by industry journalist Michael Hart, who led the webinar along with The Expo Group’s Dana Freker Doody.
“There are a few things [exhibitors] need to know, such as… more
Apr 05, 2019
This year continues to be a bustling one for event companies forming new business partnerships and continuing existing ones.
Global event solutions company MCI Group landed a multi-year contract with ANA Enterprise, which comprises the American Nurses Association, the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Nurses Foundation.
MCI will provide full strategic event management services including conference management, exhibit sales and sponsorship management, abstract and speaker management, a unified registration and housing platform, marketing solutions and mobile apps,… more
Apr 03, 2019
Companies within the events and tourism world continued with a flurry of hires in March, showing the economy and outlook for the industry looks strong.
Freeman has named a new president: Phil Molyneux, a technology engineer with deep experience driving major consumer brands like Sony and Dyson, succeeds Bob Priest-Heck, who is now CEO of Freeman. In addition, Carrie Freeman Parsons, granddaughter of Freeman founder Buck Freeman, will succeed her father Don Freeman as the next chair of the company. She’s been involved with the business since 1985. Following her transition, her father will… more
Apr 02, 2019
Connect Travel, a division of Connect (a Tarsus Group company), has expanded its fast-growing portfolio even more with the acquisition of multiple assets from North American Journeys.
Three RTO Summits (East, West and Orlando), Active America China, as well as the Inbound Report and TourOperatorLand.com will join the Connect Travel portfolio, which includes the Connect Travel Marketplace, Connect Tour and the Connect THRIVE Summit.
“North American Journeys has been an innovator in B2B tourism marketing since 1996,” said Will Seccombe, president of Connect Travel.
He added, “We look… more
Apr 01, 2019
Cincinnati, Ohio-based event production services provider Fern has acquired Seattle-based Triumph Expo & Events and Portland-based DWA Trade Show & Exposition Services.
The two event services companies will both operate under the Fern brand, while the leadership from both organizations will be integrated into the existing Fern leadership team.
Not only will Fern’s move into the Pacific Northwest allow the company to serve this growing market for its existing customers more effectively, but also the acquisitions of Triumph and DWA represent a natural integration of shared… 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.