Experts & Opinions

Sep 06, 2023
Diversity and inclusion in the workplace aren’t new concepts, but companies that organically realize these aspects in their culture undoubtedly see varied viewpoints and perspectives worked into their day-to-day operations. For some companies, this is simply part of their fabric and is quietly woven into their culture.  The practice of inclusion attracts a diverse group of people with unique perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that can positively weave into the work of your team and execution of events. Here are some ideas for fostering a more inclusive and diverse workplace at your… more
Aug 30, 2023
This year, there’s been a significant increase in the trade show activity. Show managers and exhibitors are busier than ever. However, the concerns of 2019 are still here this year, plus two more: security and sanitation. During the event planning process, be sure to take a holistic approach. Here are some questions or insights to ponder.  Overall Concerns for Show Managers According to the UFI & Explori Global Visitor Insights report, managers need to address the following visitor pain points:  Seating: Does the convention center have enough seating for attendees to rest or network… more
Aug 23, 2023
More than 90% of digital display dollars in the U.S. will be transacted programmatically in 2023, according to eMarketer estimates.  What is programmatic advertising? The use of automated technology for media buying, as opposed to traditional — often manual — methods of digital advertising.                                                                   Programmatic online advertising offers trade shows massive reach across millions of websites, videos and apps. Understanding all the solutions under the programmatic online umbrella, best practices in execution and the changing privacy… more
Aug 16, 2023
With the post-COVID comeback of in-person trade shows, exhibitors need something to break through the noise and stand out from the competition. Stand in your booth at the next show and watch the sea of attendees flowing past you, looking for a reason to stop and listen to what you have to offer. A booth decked out with the right promotional signage and giveaways can be the bait that helps you reel them in. And with the right strategy, you make an indelible impression during the show and long after it shuts down.   See What’s Out There Today’s product choices are more creative and compelling… more
Aug 09, 2023
Companies are ready to invest significant budgets to participate in exhibitions, as events can comprise a large concentration of a target audience. But how to make these investments as effective as possible? The main task of a booth or a brand zone is to interact with a target audience, depending on the purpose of participation in an exhibition, to find partners, clients or potential employees. The marketing role of a booth is to be bright and original to attract as many visitors as possible. To solve this task effectively, the booth should be visually attractive, functional and interactive… more
Aug 02, 2023
Inflation impacts all industries, and the event industry is no exception. An economic downturn means higher venue prices, even as the end of the COVID-19 state of emergency causes a greater demand for face-to-face events. And event professionals and teams are caught in the crossfire, forced to find ways to cut costs while still delivering ROI for event attendees. These pressures, in turn, can lead to burnout and turnover.  Fortunately, there is a solution for thriving in the face of adversity: resilience, a kind of professional flexibility. It is the ability to snap back from difficulties.… more
Jul 26, 2023
Making events easily accessible and inclusive for neurodiverse participants — like those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and others — should be an essential consideration when planning any event, large or small. Let’s dive into how events could be tweaked to cater to everyone, no matter how your participants interact with the world around them. Understanding Neurodiversity Before planning any changes for your upcoming event, it’s important to understand what neurodiversity means and then consider the various types of neurodiverse individuals who may attend your event. Neurodiversity is a… more
Jul 19, 2023
I can’t believe it's been more than 20 years since I stumbled into this industry. I had no idea what I was getting into. I remember feeling like I'd joined the circus – moving from city to city, building events and tearing them down and creating amazing, unique experiences for the guests. I've traveled all over the U.S., and every time I tell people what I do for a living, they assume I've seen so much of this country. But the truth is, my pictures are inside venues, my memories are on the show floor, and my traveling companions are mostly my industry peers.  One of my most vivid memories… more
Jul 12, 2023
Personalization is the key to capturing consumer loyalty and creating strong customer ties. When you truly understand your audience’s unique preferences, you can create memorable experiences that keep them coming back for more.   This level of personalization can best be achieved with data-driven strategies that you tailor to the individual needs of your audience. While there are various approaches to mastering personalization, field marketing has become one of the most powerful tactics to affect it. When properly implemented, it can engage customers, build trust and ultimately boost your… more
Jul 05, 2023
If you are an exhibitor in the food and beverage industry, you’ve probably noticed a shift in food and beverage marketing trends toward personalization over the past few years. This trend began with small businesses but has since been adopted by major corporations. Personalization enhances connection by providing each trade show guest with a unique experience. There are many ways to personalize a food or beverage product. One of the ways you could implement personalization is to print names or photos onto individual packaging or even the product itself. Implementing an effective food and… more
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.