News

Nov 30, 2017
The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) has released an updated version of its popular report, How the Exhibit Dollar is Spent. Originally published in 2014, the 2017 report relays how exhibiting expenditures break down and identifies where spending has remained constant – versus increasing – compared to 2016 levels. “CEIR is pleased to update these metrics,” said Cathy Breden, CEO of CIER. “Exhibitors, organizers and suppliers alike will benefit from understanding where exhibitors spend their marketing dollars on trade shows.” She continued, “It is a resource that helps… more
Nov 30, 2017
Emerald Expositions Events acquired Connecting Point Marketing Group from lower-middle market private equity firm Corridor Capital, mezzanine investor Aldine Capital Partners and management. Founded by Nancy Splaine and Kim Haulk in 2004 in Rye, N.H., CPMG organizes and hosts nine senior executive level business-intensive trade events focused on innovation for the hospitality, restaurant, healthcare, grocery and retail industries. These four-day events are curated, invitation-only forums that bring together leaders in each vertical market. Events include RestaurantPoint East and West,… more
Nov 28, 2017
MGM Resorts International has recently partnered with Cisco Systems and Mobilitie to upgrade and double its wireless infrastructure, resulting in the largest, technologically advanced system in the industry and the first in-house, high-density Wi-Fi network capable of supporting high-level events with sophisticated technology needs. To accomplish this feat, MGM Resorts’ technology partners designed, provided and installed the advanced wireless network that is now available throughout all MGM Resorts destinations’ meeting and convention spaces in Las Vegas (except for Circus Circus) and… more
Nov 28, 2017
In response to industry demand, Converters Expo will be launching a sister trade show in Charlotte, NC. Set to debut Feb. 6 at the Charlotte Convention Center, Converters Expo South will bring together converters and packagers of paper, film and nonwovens with companies looking for the latest in efficiency, techniques, advances, products and equipment. The inaugural event is expected to attract approximately 300 attendees and 59 exhibiting companies spanning just under 20,000 square feet of expo space, according to show officials. “The Carolina-Georgia area is the second largest ‘… more
Nov 27, 2017
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events unveiled the results of the elections for its 2018 Board of Directors. IAEE also welcomes incoming Chairperson of the Board Daniel McKinnon, CEM. McKinnon is vice president, Client Solutions – Global at FreemanXP. “I am deeply honored for the opportunity to apply my years of experience as both a show organizer and supplier partner to the greater good of the industry which I could not be more proud to serve,” McKinnon said. He added, “I am eager to continue the great work of those who came before me, and look forward to an… more
Nov 26, 2017
The Human Resources Management Association of Chicago (HRMAC) has selected SmithBucklin, an association management and services company, to provide full-service association management. Elizabeth Summy, CAE, serves as HRMAC’s chief executive officer, and its headquarters is at 330 N. Wabash, Chicago. Founded in 1915, HRMAC is Chicagoland's premier resource for advancing workplace strategy and leadership. HRMAC’s membership is composed of nearly 750 Chicago-area organizations with a network of over 7,000 HR professionals from every business sector, representing small private companies to multi… more
Nov 26, 2017
The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions had a record 39,000 registered attractions industry professionals gather in Orlando to learn, buy and network at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2017. "The success of this year's show is a true testament to the continued growth and strength of attractions around the world," said Paul Noland, IAAPA president and CEO. He added, "Achieving this record-breaking attendance as we kick off IAAPA's 100th anniversary celebration is a remarkable milestone in our association's history. We thank all of our attendees, exhibitors, members, and… more
Nov 26, 2017
Karen Gonzales, CMP has joined the staff of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events as director, Partnership Relations. In this role, she will assist with selling exhibit space for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition and manage the sponsorship and advertising programs for IAEE, as well as fundraising for Exhibitions Mean Business. Gonzales will also engage in outreach and attendee acquisition for the Center for Exhibition Industry Research Foundation’s initiatives. “I am honored to join the IAEE Team! This role allows me to engage and expand global… more
Nov 25, 2017
Expo! Expo! 2017 is days away, and we are all geared up to share with you how “The Journey is Sweeter with a2z”. While we can’t divulge all the juicy details just yet, here is a quick preview of the delicious experience that’s in store for all Expo! Expo! attendees in a2z’s booth #707. Get a Sneak Peek at a2z’s Exciting New ReleasesEvery year, we add many new and innovative features to our core solution. These are always designed to help show organizers reduce tedious manual work, accelerate and augment revenue, as well as provide enhanced value to their audience. Despite being known in the… more
Nov 22, 2017
For the sixth consecutive year, Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has rated MGM Resorts International as among the nation’s leading companies for workplace equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) employees. Based on the company’s policies and practices relating to LGBTQ employees, MGM Resorts earned a perfect score on the 2018 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), an annual HRC survey that evaluates major companies for their non-discrimination and benefits policies and practices with respect to LGBTQ employees. “Diversity and inclusion are bedrocks of our company culture and… 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.