News
Jan 24, 2016
In the latest Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s 5-year Census Report, the number of annual business-to-business and business-to-consumer events in the United States increased 3.5 percent to 11,427.
The 2015 CEIR Exhibition Industry Census tracked the overall number of B-to-B and B-to-C shows held in the U.S., Canada and Mexico to be 13,447, accounting for just more than 107 million attendees and 1.9 million exhibitors.
"The Census, along with the yearly Index are two of the most powerful research tools offered to the exhibition industry by CEIR," said CEIR President and CEO, Brian… more
Jan 24, 2016
The George R. Brown Convention Center (GRBCC) in Houston has extended its partnership with Smart City for an additional 5 years after a competitive bid process.
The new contract will allow Smart City to provide additional services and upgrades for the venue. Smart City has served as the organization’s technology provider since 1995.
“Smart City has worked hard to provide the most high-quality services throughout its history with the George R. Brown Convention Center, and we look forward to building on our services at the iconic venue for many years to come,” Haley said… more
Jan 24, 2016
The George R. Brown Convention Center (GRBCC) in Houston has extended its partnership with Smart City for an additional 5 years after a competitive bid process.
The new contract will allow Smart City to provide additional services and upgrades for the venue. Smart City has served as the organization’s technology provider since 1995.
“Smart City has worked hard to provide the most high-quality services throughout its history with the George R. Brown Convention Center, and we look forward to building on our services at the iconic venue for many years to come,” Haley said… more
Jan 22, 2016
Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) named Don Welsh, CEO of Choose Chicago, as the new president and CEO.
DMAI retained the executive recruiting firm SearchWide to manage the search process for a new CEO last fall.
“After a thorough search process that included a stellar group of candidates, we are thrilled that Don has accepted this position,” said Bob Lander, chairman of the DMAI board of directors and CEO of the Austin CVB.
He added, “We are confident that he will lead DMAI in becoming the premier trade association for destination marketing organizations both in the… more
Jan 21, 2016
The New Year signaled an even bigger uptick of hiring in January not only in companies based here in the U.S., but also some well-known ones overseas.
The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority’s (MCCA) newly minted Executive Director David Gibbons made two key senior executive decisions by naming Fred Peterson as the new deputy director and Dennis Callahan as the general counsel for the organization.
Peterson served as the interim executive director from July 1, 2015, until Dec. 31, 2015, while also fulfilling the duties of director of facilities operations.
Callahan, similarly,… more
Jan 19, 2016
The first-ever “Global Exhibitions Day” - a global initiative that unites exhibition organizers, venues, associations and service providers from countries all around the world - will launch June 8.
Driven by Paris-based UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, and Dallas-based IAEE – The International Association of Exhibitions and Events, a growing list of associations and industry players have pledged to join forces to promote the industry and to highlight its achievements.
“There are many great national and regional initiatives, addressing exhibitors, visitors, policymakers… more
Jan 19, 2016
The Association for Women in Events (AWE), launched last March, is officially opening its doors and accepting applications for membership starting Jan. 20.
AWE’s mission is clear: to be an inclusive community dedicated to the professional advancement of women in all facets of the events industry.
“When presented with the AWE mission statement, I knew right away that I wanted to become a Charter Member of the Leadership Society,” said Stephen Peeler, vice president, Development of ASAE Foundation.
He added, “I encourage my friends, peers, former coworkers, fellow association members from… more
Jan 17, 2016
Aria Resort & Casino has collaborated with Crave Interactive, a guest service software company, to create the largest-ever installation of the provider’s in-room hotel tablets.
The tablets will offer a hyper-tailored guest experience with new amenities such as digital in-room dining orders, one-touch spa service requests and an endless stream of news in multiple languages.
The new tablets have been created specifically for ARIA to highlight its array of services. Here are some of the features:
· Dining. Guests can order from a full in-room dining menu,… more
Jan 17, 2016
Freeman has expanded its digital service offerings with the acquisition Boise, Idaho-based Klowd.com, an audience engagement technology developer of event-focused second screen technology.
“Our clients have positively responded to second screen technology, embracing the ability to increase audience engagement, create conversations and amplify content in real time,” said Richard Maranville, Freeman’s chief digital officer.
He said, “Paired with its data and analytics engine that allows our clients to measure the impact of their content and presentations, we felt it… more
Jan 17, 2016
Freeman has expanded its digital service offerings with the acquisition Boise, Idaho-based Klowd.com, an audience engagement technology developer of event-focused second screen technology.
“Our clients have positively responded to second screen technology, embracing the ability to increase audience engagement, create conversations and amplify content in real time,” said Richard Maranville, Freeman’s chief digital officer.
He said, “Paired with its data and analytics engine that allows our clients to measure the impact of their content and presentations, we felt it… 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.