News

Mar 04, 2020
We recently wrote about why event industry organizations should implement green teams — cross-functional groups that identify and implement ways to help the organization operate in a more environmentally sustainable fashion.  While a green team might typically be internal to one specific organization or venue, in the events world, the best results come from extending those teams to encompass all key stakeholders responsible for executing a specific event. In many cases, while these green teams are still voluntary, the responsibilities are seen as being part of the job function and may not… more
Mar 03, 2020
While trade shows throughout the globe are continuing to cancel due to fears of COVID-19, some major events in the U.S. and Germany are forging ahead. They’re leveraging strong and transparent communication plans to reassure concerned attendees and exhibitors that their health and safety remain a top priority.  CONEXPO-CON/AGG & IFPE CONEXPO-CON/AGG & IFPE will be taking place as planned at Las Vegas Convention Center, March 10-14. According to a statement on its website, the show is not only closely monitoring the latest updates from the Centers for Disease Control and the World… more
Mar 02, 2020
The COVID-19 coronavirus has now caused more than 3,000 deaths worldwide from a confirmed 89,253 cases. As this outbreak continues to lead to cancellations and postponements of business events, use these resources to stay informed on the latest news. IAEE Access the organization’s official statement as well as evolving resources on understanding novel coronavirus’ impact on the industry. SISO The Society of Independent Show Organizers is collecting resources and statements here addressing shows that are canceling or rescheduling, as well as news updates directly impacting events. UFI… more
Feb 28, 2020
Reed Exhibitions has acquired two signature events from Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America) — the North American-based ITS World Congress and Annual Meetings — bringing together two respected names in the events and mobility industry. ITS American will continue to lead, manage and deliver content for both events, while Reed plans to bring its global reach and resources to ITS America members and stakeholders through personalized matchmaking, marketing and lead-gen opportunities for exhibitors. “I am delighted to announce this landmark acquisition and look forward to… more
Feb 27, 2020
The first quarter of 2020 has been a bustling time for the trade show industry, with event producers and solutions providers signing a bevy of new clients and renewing deals. Here are some of the latest: Corcoran Expositions Lands Five New Shows Independent trade show organizer Corcoran Expositions recently signed trade show management agreements with five events. They include three American Society of Microbiology shows: Clinical Virology Symposium, ASM Microbe 2020 and the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS 2020), as well as American Geophysical Union’s… more
Feb 26, 2020
Ripples from the impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus continue to be felt by the meetings industry. Today, Reed Travel Exhibitions announced that it has postponed the inaugural IBTM Asia Pacific. Originally scheduled for Apr. 6-8, the event has been rescheduled to Apr. 13-14, 2021. The location (Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands) will remain the same. According to Reed officials, the decision was made based on the latest advice from its partners, and after in-depth discussions with customers and hosted buyers regarding the coronavirus. “This is not a decision we have taken lightly,” said Shane… more
Feb 26, 2020
When I first learned about Chicago Planner Master Class, I was intrigued. Put on by Ateema Media & Marketing, this series of events designed specifically for professional event planners and event marketers isn’t a typical talking-head education session or a loose networking opportunity. Instead, events (which take place several times a year) are structured as a brief introduction from a partner sponsor followed by 10 roundtable discussions on topics pre-selected by attendees. I attended my first one last week and not only did I learn a lot, I was also impressed with the layout and flow… more
Feb 25, 2020
InfoComm 2020, the largest professional audiovisual expo and conference in North America, is gearing up to introduce the Live Events Experience (LEX), a new showfloor feature and interactive tech platform designed to connect and inspire the live events community. The LEX Stage will feature a wide array of event AV technology at this year’s InfoComm, set for June 13-19 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees will see stage performances, get behind-the-scenes access to an interactive tech area, and hear technology professionals discussing top-of-mind industry topics, according to… more
Feb 24, 2020
The latest round of people announcements is all about girl power. Check out the latest promotions, new hires and appointments of (mostly) women across the industry this month:  Catherine Chaulet is now president and CEO of Global DMC Partners, a network of independently owned destination management companies. Serving as president of the company for six years, her promotion to CEO came as a result of her strong leadership skills.  Julie Coker, president and CEO of Philadelphia CVB, will depart from her role in March to take on a new position as president and CEO of San Diego Tourism… more
Feb 21, 2020
The ever-expanding tourism market is getting two new shows this year, one geared toward consumers with a job fair component, and one for business events professionals. Take a look.  Exceptional Experiences in Barcelona Reed Travel Exhibitions will launch Exceptional Experiences, a two-day conference and ideas showcased on experiential marketing and live events, in Barcelona later this year. Set for Dec. 2-3 at Fira Barcelona Gran Via conference center in Spain, the show will take place alongside the business events trade show IBTM World and bring together the creative live events community… more
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.