GES Scores 12.2 Percent Revenue Jump in Q2

GES’ second-quarter revenues were up 12.2 percent to $320.1 million from $285.4 million during the same period the year before.

“GES delivered second-quarter results that surpassed our prior guidance, with a revenue increase of 12 percent year-over-year and an adjusted segment EBITDA margin of 12.5 percent,” said Viad’s president and CEO Steve Moster.

He added, “The upside to guidance was broad-based and fueled by industry growth, solid execution by the GES team and our efforts to position GES as the preferred global, full-service provider for live events with a comprehensive suite of offerings. Our U.S. base same-show revenue growth was better than anticipated at 7.5 percent and we continue to realize strong international revenue growth from new business wins.”

Moster took time to answer some questions about what’s impacting GES’ results right now, the Poken and ON Services acquisitions and where the company is seeing growth.

TSNN: There were a few things noted as reasons for the positive results, one was show rotation - what shows can you point out as having an impact?

Moster: Our largest non-annual event during the quarter was the Paris Air Show.  In addition to positive show rotation, we saw broad-based growth across most shows with strong same-show revenue growth of 7.5 percent in the U.S. and significant new business wins internationally.

TSNN: How has the response been with Poken? Have clients had feedback from attendees as well? 

Moster: Many of our clients are familiar with Poken and have shown interest in activating it at their event.There is also a lot of excitement among our team members about being able to provide this event engagement tool to clients. The pairing of Poken with our existing registration software provides event organizers even more insightful analytics and reporting to drive enhanced event performance. And we are seeing good traction in selling the combined offering.

TSNN:  I saw that U.S. same-show growth still has a strong showing. Where is the spend going? Actual space? Marketing? other services? 

Moster: Our base same-show revenue in the U.S. grew by 7.5 percent which was larger than expected. We’re seeing broad-based growth across events, including increased net square footage and higher spending by exhibiting companies.

TSNN: Any new business you can talk about? I saw mention of international ones?

Moster: Some new wins include:

-           GSMA’s Mobile World Congress America

-           American College of Surgeons’ Clinical Congress

-           ASTRA/Marketplace and Academy

TSNN: How has the acquisition of ON Services impacted overall offerings to GES clients?

Moster: With the addition of ON Services, GES can provide clients and event participants with cutting-edge live event audio visual solutions from conception through execution - from large-scale entertainment experiences and complex general sessions to sporting events, conferences, and exhibitions

TSNN: Where are you seeing the most growth within GES?

Moster: We continue to see solid industry growth. Shows are up across the board, and GES’ ability to provide a full suite of live event services is accelerating our growth.

Add new comment

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.