Christina Hernandez
Christina Hernandez is new media coordinator at GES, where she manages GES’ corporate blog and their social media community.
2013 International CES – Three Insights from the Man Who Runs It
January 12, 2013
There’s no doubt in my mind that it takes a strong, outspoken and extremely intelligent leader to command an organization like the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA). The International Consumer Electronics Show is the largest showcase in the technology industry, and when it comes to consumer electronics, they ARE the leader. Last year’s show boasted more than 153,000 attendees who interacted with 3,100 exhibitors covering more than 1.8 million square feet.
Who does it take to lead an organization of such size and caliber?
Adweekdescribes Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA, as a policy guy who speaks out on issues that could impact future technology growth and development. What’s his outlook on next week’s show?
Here are my top three takeaways from his recent interview with Adweek.
1. Advertising- Madison Avenue says CES is the most important show for them. It’s important to see trends and where your customers are. This also goes for our industry and how we advertise on the show floor. CES is THE show and it is a great showcase of how advertisers reach non-traditional consumers in a creative way.
2. What’s Hot-Ultra HD will be hot this year with four times the resolution of current HD. Also, car technology never goes out of style. CES will be home to seven of the 10 largest car manufacturers in the world. Mobile remains a red hot trend. Finally, keep your eyes open for new healthcare products because there’s almost a 25-percent increase in companies showcasing them at this year’s show.
3. Washington Policy-According to Shapiro, 95 percent of attendees find this topic irrelevant because they are there to do business, but they have policy sessions because it’s an important part of the big picture that’s, “technology.” He wants the technology industry’s voice to be heard and in 2012 these sessions did just that. The Stop Online Privacy Act and Protect IP Act had major spotlights in last year’s discussions. Three weeks after these sessions, both bills were dead. CES’ policy panel with Sen. Ron Wyden and Rep. Darrell Issa made all the difference. This year’s sessions will include more lawmakers than ever (about a dozen).
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.
Add new comment