industry-news

Trade Show Moves: Monthly Recap of Who’s Working Where Now

In October, event organizers, associations, and suppliers welcomed new talent and promoted seasoned professionals as the trade show industry continues a bustling fall and turns its attention toward a strong finish to a busy year. In addition to the news that Julie Coker has been tapped to lead NYC Tourism + Conventions, here’s our recap of trade show moves in the last month. 

Raccoon Media Group Acquires Two Trade Shows, Unveils Animal Health Division with New CEO

Raccoon Media Group, a global events and media company, has acquired PATS (Pets & Aquatics Trade Show) and BETA International, forming a new Animal Health Division as part of its growing portfolio. Heading the new division is Nicole Cooper, who joins Raccoon Media Group as CEO, Animal Health Division.  

TSNN Exclusive: Interview with Visit Orlando CEO Casandra Matej Reveals Exciting Developments and Opportunities for Events

What’s trending for meetings and trade shows in Orlando, Fla.? At IMEX in Las Vegas, we sat down with Visit Orlando CEO Casandra Matej, who shared some insights about the city's growth and its continued dominance as a top destination for events and meetings in North America, as ranked by Cvent.

Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.