Industry Unites to Spotlight the Power of Global Exhibitions

June 7, 2021
Industry Unites to Spotlight the Power of Global Exhibitions

Trade show, exhibition and the event professionals took a moment to celebrate the industry’s worth and influence before a grand kickoff of shows begins to flood the global marketplace.

Organizers from about 110 countries and regions participated in Global Exhibition Day via social media, meetings, videos, webinars and contests. The message was simple: “exhibitions are the fastest of fast tracks to economic recovery,” noted a press release distributed by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.

Meanwhile, in a more targeted campaign, nearly 170 influential industry advocates petitioned leading U.S. lawmakers to support the Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act, legislation that, among other benefits, eases tax burdens to facilitate the complete return of business events, conferences and trade shows.

Organized by the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance, Legislative Action Day kicked off with a webinar featuring one senator and three members of Congress:

  • Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nevada
  • Rep. Steven Horsford, D-Nevada
  • Rep. Darin LaHood, R-Illinois
  • Rep. Jackie Walorski, R-Indiana

“Our industry has tremendous advocates, and every single one of their voices is critical in helping get all of us back to business and back to work nationwide,” said Tommy Goodwin, ECA’s vice president of government affairs. “We thank all of the industry leaders who were part of ECA Legislative Action Day and encourage everyone across the industry to reach out to their members of Congress and encourage them to support the Hospitality and Commerce Job Recovery Act.”

One of the pandemic’s silver linings is that it has led to coalitions between would-be competitors to advocate for the events industry.

“GED 2021 definitely is a unification of the industry, presenting the opportunity to share hope and optimism, and to focus on the important role of exhibitions in reconnecting and rebuilding communities and economies,” said UFI President Anbu Varathan. “We’ve seen thousands of event professionals celebrating across the globe, and saying how proud they are to be part of the industry and how much they value face-to-face events. This memorable day raises awareness, as we demonstrate our passion, purpose and power!” 

Exhibitions typically generate $551 billion in business sales annually, and visitor and exhibition costs add another $334 billion in tourism-related dollars. Many destinations are banking on the full-scale recovery of events over the next few years. All eyes will be on Las Vegas this month, as it reopens with World of Concrete and a series of additional events, including MPI’s World Education Congress.

While there is positive momentum, work remains. Attendance figures are not likely to match pre-pandemic levels and the hospitality industry is struggling to fill needed job vacancies as an influx of leisure and business travelers make up for lost time.

Goodwin called for ECA members to continue communications with legislative leaders to support the hospitality bill. 

Said Kai Hattendorf, UFI’s CEO. “We are business event professionals, and the best prepped sector in the world to set up and run exhibitions and business events safely, with top-class procedures in place. Exhibitions are ready for you, and are better than ever!”

 

Don’t miss any event-related news: Sign up for our weekly e-newsletter HERE and engage with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram!

 

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.