Expos, Meetings and Conventions Need New Resources

As event professionals and destinations adjust, adapt and evolve in these uncharted waters, it is imperative that substantial resources be put in place for all of the people responsible for planning and executing trade shows, expositions and conventions. An example is Mohegan Sun, which built an industry-leading, COVID-19 Resource Center with a combination of pictures from recently held successful events (the property reopened on May 1, 2020) along with several widely available and informative documents, such as an evolving operational framework:

https://mohegansun.com/content/dam/mohegansun/PDF/meetings/MoheganSun_Meetings-OperationsFramework.pdf

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Understanding  the Safety Resources You Need

The backbone of any trade show or meeting-specific safety protocol is the overall safety plan. https://mohegansun.com/content/dam/mohegansun/PDF/Misc/MSCT-safety-operational-plan.pdf

Convention centers, resorts and hotels are incredibly expansive; so, the logistics of closing and reopening effectively are a major undertaking with myriad considerations. In the case of a Tribal Nation, by being located on a reservation, the resort has access to the resources of the Tribal Government, which includes an established health department. Here, the knowledge and guidance of the health department, which has worked in conjunction with state and federal health organizations throughout its history, are the foundation in establishing safety guidelines and protocols.

The Power of Partnerships

Mohegan Sun’s 10,000-seat Arena regularly hosts global acts, from Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z to Bruce Springsteen and Dave Matthews Band, not to mention various professional and college sporting events. This high-profile venue pivoted at the height of the pandemic to leverage existing relationships with sports partners in order to operate bubble residencies for both Bellator MMA and SHOWTIME Boxing for each promoter’s string of nationally televised fights. The original time frame of the residency was mid-July through late September 2020.

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The ViacomCBS team was so pleased with the facility’s safety protocols that they extended the residency into 2021. The successful execution of these residencies allowed Mohegan Sun to attract incredible opportunities in both entertainment and meetings and conventions capacities, and it has also allowed the resort a platform in which to boost its public relations and marketing messaging by informing audiences of these successes.

The key is to be flexible and to adapt when forces largely out of our control are presented.

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.