2015 SISO Leadership Conference Will Focus on Millennials, Climbing CEO Ladder, Building Attendance

The 2015 Society of Independent Show Organizers’ Leadership Conference will not only take a look at what the Millennials really want, but also what it takes to be a CEO and how the SXSW grew into the massive festival it is today, among a host of other topics.

“This Leadership program is the most comprehensive we have ever had for younger professionals taking on more responsibility,” said SISO Executive Director Lew Shomer.

Tarsus Expands Southeast Asian Portfolio with Cambodia, Myanmar-based Shows

Adding to its expanding portfolio in Southeast Asia, U.K.-based Tarsus Group acquired 50 percent of the AMB Group via a joint venture vehicle - AMB Tarsus Exhibitions Sdn. Bhd. - from Andrew Siow and Richard Yew.

“AMBT is an excellent strategic acquisition and allows Tarsus to build scale in South East Asia with an entrepreneurial partner,” said Tarsus Group Managing Director Douglas Emslie.

He added, “Many of the ASEAN economies are growing strongly and the AMBT joint venture will offer us first-mover advantage in some key sectors in these exciting markets.”

Comic-Con International Opts to Stay on in San Diego Through 2018

Just days before Comic-Con International kicks off its annual convention, San Diego likely is breathing a huge sigh of relief, with its biggest event signing on to stay in the city through 2018.

With 130,000 attendees expected July 8-12 at the San Diego Convention Center, the event has grown so large, there was talk that it might move somewhere else when the current contract expired next year.

But, even with hotels booked for miles around and the halls filled to the brim with exhibits, the show will stay put.

Anime Expo Signs on for Five Years at Los Angeles Convention Center

Launched in 1992, Anime Expo, which promotes Japanese Pop Culture and the arts related to Japanese Animation, recently signed on to be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center through 2019.

The show, on tap July 2-5 and owned by the Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation, the show is billed as the largest anime convention in North America, with 100,000 attendees expected at this year’s event.

In 2014, the show attracted 80,000 attendees, and in 2013, the show drew 61,000 attendees.

Tropical Storm Bill Could Not Dampen HITEC Engagement

Even though Tropical Storm Bill was making land and approaching Austin, Texas, HITEC 2015 packed just as strong of a punch.  The show June 15-18 at the Austin Convention Center and topped last year’s numbers, with more than 6,000 attendees, a sold out exhibit floor of 86,000 square feet and 823 exhibitors.

“We have seen standing room only in several boot camps, we sold out for exhibitors, and we see how important technology has become in the hospitality sector,” said Steven Stout, director of meetings and special events, HFTP.

United Fresh Donates Nearly 40,000 Lbs. of Produce to Greater Chicago Food Depository

When the recent United Fresh 2015 annual convention and expo wrapped up at Chicago’s McCormick Place, United Fresh donated 39,019 lbs. of produce and 207 lbs. of assorted dry food to the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Volunteers helped collect donations from the convention floor, which is filled with fresh produce companies, to benefit those in need serviced by Greater Chicago Food Depository partner agencies such as food pantries, soup kitchen, and other emergency feeding centers.

ASAE’s 2015 Marketing, Membership, & Communications Conference Breaks Attendance Records

The American Society of Association Executives’ (ASAE) 2015 Marketing, Membership, & Communications Conference (MMCC), held June 1—2, at the Walter E. Washington (D.C.) Convention Center, recorded the highest number of participants in its history, With more than 1,000 attendees and more than 60 exhibiting companies.

2nd Annual Exhibitions Day Has Record 112 Participants on Capitol Hill

The Exhibitions Mean Business’ 2nd Annual Exhibitions Day, held June 9 on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., brought together 112 participants from 19 states to participate in industry-related events, including nearly 100 meetings with policy influencers and members of Congress.

The meetings focused on key issues that could affect the more than $71 billion contribution the trade show industry has to the GDP.

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.