Is Intelligent Engagement at Convention Centers a Trade Show Trend?

April 17, 2019

Arlene Shows

Arlene Shows (yes – that’s her real last name!) is the Marketing Director for TSNN & TSNN Awards and a passionate networker in the events industry.

Why should all event profs stay on top of industry trends? Here’s a solid reason: Business to business trade shows generate a significant amount of revenue for business, consumers and e-commerce globally, and it’s expected to grow past nearly $16.8 billion by 2021, according to PwC.

It’s our job at TSNN to report these tips and trends to our audience, especially when it involves how event professionals interact and engage with the world around them.

Recently, we were inspired by a webinar discussing how to maximize ROI on venue experience with intelligent digital technology, produced by Samsung SDS.

We were educated by an impressive group of speakers; Joseph Lanners, director of customer experience and innovation at Samsung SDSA; Hugh Sinnock, president of HKS Strategies; Jenelle Brewer, director of customer experience at Las Vegas Convention Center; and Joaquin Quesada, deputy director of sales and services at Anaheim Convention Center.

Now, we’re inviting you to take a deeper dive with us into ways to optimize exhibition halls and meeting rooms with this technology to improve engagement.

This content will not only help you provide a better customer experience but also provide an opportunity for you to maximize revenue for every show.

5 Key Takeaways (Listen to the full webinar recording below for a broader education):

1. Venue renovations are on the rise and attendees are engaging with new technologies; they’re succeeding with some, not succeeding with others.

2. Trade show industry growth and a strong economy enable convention centers and venue operators to invest in new and emerging technology. For the first time since 2008, the industry has surpassed the pre-recession growth rate for all major indicators and is tracking closely with GDP.

3. Technology and digital signage trends are adding the most value for hospitality experts (and the convention and event industry) including dynamic “infotainment,” wayfinding through geolocation, and smart ad sales.

  • Convention centers are working on incorporating wayfinding systems to create a seamless and cohesive customer journey.
  • Smart ad sales technology is creating additional revenue sources for venues, thereby supporting expansion and renovation efforts.

4. Ultimately, technology is having an impact on every major area of the business on both the customer experience side and behind-the-scenes venue management.

5.  Exhibitors have an expectation for more, whether it be bigger, better or faster, and venues are expected to deliver.

Thanks to the convention center executives and thought leaders who discussed how they’re innovating their spaces and creating better visitor experience by leveraging technology – please continue to inform us!

Listen to the free webinar here.

Samsung SDS is a paid advertiser with TSNN

 

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Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.