News

Apr 10, 2016
More than 260 for-profit show organizer CEOs, trade show industry suppliers, association leaders and guests gathered for the Society of Independent Show Organizers’ CEO Summit, held April 3-5 at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego, to not only take in high-level educational sessions, but also do plenty of networking. David Audrain, who stepped into the role of SISO executive director earlier this year, said there were two main goals that the organization had for attendees coming to the event. “Our first goal always for the SISO CEO Summit is to provide an event where the … more
Apr 10, 2016
At a recent workshop for our clients, we asked attendees what impact mobile devices have had on their exhibits sales processes. In response, many of them mentioned how having an online contract for their events, specifically one that is responsive to multiple device platforms, has helped sales executives to process transactions anytime and anywhere. Some show organizers have roaming teams that walk the show floor on the last day of the event, to visit exhibitors that missed their booth selection appointment. With the contract already pre-populated in the system, all that an exhibitor needs to… more
Apr 10, 2016
At a recent workshop for our clients, we asked attendees what impact mobile devices have had on their exhibits sales processes. In response, many of them mentioned how having an online contract for their events, specifically one that is responsive to multiple device platforms, has helped sales executives to process transactions anytime and anywhere. Some show organizers have roaming teams that walk the show floor on the last day of the event, to visit exhibitors that missed their booth selection appointment. With the contract already pre-populated in the system, all that an exhibitor needs to… more
Apr 09, 2016
Tom Corcoran is CEO of Corcoran Expositions, Inc., one of the largest independent trade show organizers in America, having produced more than 700 expositions in 100 cities over their 25+ years in business. Corcoran organizes events that range from beer to brain surgery. In 2015, an impressive 7,000 companies purchased more than 1.1 million square feet of exhibit space, of which 3,000 were new exhibiting companies. Before this, Corcoran managed the National Restaurant Association annual trade show for 11 years and grew the National Restaurant Hotel-Motel Show from 900 exhibiting companies to… more
Apr 08, 2016
The first quarter of 2016 saw a busy hiring period, with companies ranging from audio-visual to for-profit show management to convention and visitors bureaus. Surf Expo, the largest and longest-running boardsports and beach/resort lifestyle trade show in the world, has named Rod Tomlinson as sales manager for the Surf Category of the show. He is replacing Ryan Nettleton. Tomlinson was most recently a sales executive for Interbike, the largest bicycle trade event in North America, also owned and operated by Emerald Expositions. “Surf Expo is excited to bring Rod Tomlinson to our sales team… more
Apr 07, 2016
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events™ proudly congratulates Jacqueline Russo, vice president of Kuehne + Nagel, Inc., as this year’s recipient of the IAEE Woman of Achievement Award. This award recognizes a woman who has led the way in the advancement of women in the exhibitions and events industry, exhibited outstanding leadership, and made significant contributions to the industry and her community. With more than 20 years of experience in the exhibitions and events industry, Russo has been a dynamic leader within IAEE. Her dedication marked her as the first supplier… more
Apr 05, 2016
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events has added another new chapter in Asia, the IAEE India Chapter. The IAEE Board of Directors approved the creation of this new chapter during its meeting, held March 31 at the HITEX Exhibition Center in Hyderabad, India. “This is another important step forward in the internationalization of IAEE,” said IAEE President and CEO David DuBois, CMP, CAE, FASAE, CTA. He added, “We have been met this week with great enthusiasm about our member benefits and CEM Learning Program, and it is very rewarding to see the expansion of our global impact."… more
Apr 04, 2016
Destination Marketing Association International Chairman Bob Lander and President and CEO Don Welsh announced a strategic realignment of the organization in preparation for what they called “a renewed commitment to focus on member and partner needs.” DMAI has vacated nine positions for further evaluation as it moves forward with the realignment. Welsh stepped into the leadership post in March, after holding the top spot at Choose Chicago. Charles Jeffers, COO and interim CEO since September 2015, will remain with the organization through the end of May 2016 to assist with a seamless… more
Apr 02, 2016
InformEx is the home of chemistry innovation. This dynamic event has been held for more than 30 years to build partnerships among buyers and sellers of fine and specialty chemicals. The three-day event fosters profitable partnerships and innovation in the high-value chemical industry. To support the valuable partnership development that is such a cornerstone of this event, the show organizers added a2z’s Connect™ to the event’s offerings this year. Connect is a cloud-based networking solution that facilitates matching exhibitors and attendees with like-minded… more
Apr 02, 2016
InformEx is the home of chemistry innovation. This dynamic event has been held for more than 30 years to build partnerships among buyers and sellers of fine and specialty chemicals. The three-day event fosters profitable partnerships and innovation in the high-value chemical industry. To support the valuable partnership development that is such a cornerstone of this event, the show organizers added a2z’s Connect™ to the event’s offerings this year. Connect is a cloud-based networking solution that facilitates matching exhibitors and attendees with like-minded… 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.