News

Aug 27, 2019
Destinations International’s latest in-depth report, the 2019 DestinationNEXT Futures Study, identifies major opportunities and trends forecasted to shape the future of the global industry for destination organization leaders.  The study is funded by the Destinations International Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering destinations throughout the world by providing education, research, advocacy and leadership development. Built on the 2014 and 2017 Futures Studies, the 2019 report determines the updated trends and strategies needed to keep destination organizations… more
Aug 27, 2019
Community Brands has launched a new suite of integrated event tech solutions designed to help organizations simplify the event management process while delivering an impactful attendee experience. The unveiling comes after months of development of new capabilities through strategic product investment and acquisitions.  Earlier this year, the company acquired event technology firms Core-apps, Attendee Interactive and TripBuilder Media, bringing in new capabilities for exhibitor management, speaker and abstract management, and mobile attendee experience. These new organizations represent the… more
Aug 26, 2019
Around 4,000 industry professionals will converge in Louisville, Kentucky, this week for Connect Marketplace, a trade show and conference for those who work in meetings, events, travel and tourism, Set for Aug. 26-28 at Kentucky International Convention Center — around the one-year anniversary of the facility’s renovation and re-opening — the annual hosted-buyer event will present an array of engaging content, lively networking opportunities. The signature reverse-style trade show portion of the event will connect planners with suppliers from CVBs, hotels, convention centers and technology… more
Aug 22, 2019
Outdoor Retailer will not produce Winter Market, slated for Nov. 5-7, instead uniting the show with Snow Show to create one winter trade show in January. Called the Outdoor + Snow Show, the new show will be held Jan. 29-31 at Colorado Convention Center in Denver. The news has been well received by Outdoor Retailer’s audience, who will now only have to mark their calendars for one show this winter. This is a return to the original format for Outdoor Retailer shows, which included one market in the winter and one during summer (the next Summer Market is scheduled for June 23-25, 2020, also in… more
Aug 21, 2019
This year’s SISO Event Innovation Battlefield, featuring five event tech companies, was a fierce competition, but the audience of more than 200 trade show executives ultimately handed the grand prize to Resiada and its room block management software. Best described as a cross between “American Idol” and “Shark Tank,” the seventh annual presentation and competition took place on the last day of the annual SISO Leadership Conference, held Aug. 13-15 at Detroit’s Cobo Center.   Designed to redefine the meeting and event housing management experience, Resiada’s integrated software streamlines… more
Aug 20, 2019
Mary Pat Heftman, who has overseen the National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show for two decades, will be honored as the 2019 TSNN Awards Industry Icon honoree, on tap Nov. 15-17 in Dallas. “I am honored to be receiving the TSNN Industry Icon Award, and I am grateful for the support, mentoring and inspiration of my family and so many leaders and colleagues throughout my career,” Heftman said. She added, “I continue to be motivated by the power of tradeshows and the economic and social impact they have on our communities and all industries. Looking forward, I remain… more
Aug 20, 2019
The fashion industry is evolving fast, and the biannual MAGICfashion trade show is keeping up, with everything from on-trend iridescent signage to mobile app registration to sustainability practices.  For the first time in more than 10 years, all the shows comprising this massive marketplace –  dubbed “One MAGIC” – were held together at the Las Vegas Convention Center Aug. 11-14, eliminating the need for buyers to hop between venues as they had in the past.  “The timing is right for us to move the entire fashion community together and I think we’ve accomplished that,” said Tom Nastos, chief… more
Aug 19, 2019
It’s no secret that trade shows and conferences produce a sizable amount of waste that becomes destined for the dumpster after just a few days in the spotlight. Having witnessed this problematic pattern for years, event management and production firm Decibel Event Management has partnered with Reborn Clothing Co. to help tackle event waste by upcycling signage, graphics and other single-use textiles into one-of-a-kind, durable products. According to David Sonntag, Decibel CEO, the company’s new UpCycling Initiative is designed to not only keep surplus textiles out of landfills but also… more
Aug 19, 2019
Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio, was home to the 2019 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exhibition last week, Aug. 10-13. More than 5,400 association professionals and industry partners convened to participate in 110 education sessions, explore 710 expo hall booths and hear powerful keynotes. “The theme for this year’s event of learn and play with purpose resonated in every aspect of the meeting,” said Susan Robertson, interim president and CEO of ASAE. “From the design of the main stage and convention center to the content covered by our speakers, attendees were compelled to… more
Aug 15, 2019
Atlantic City has a long and rich history. The New Jersey city has been home to the Miss America pageant since 1921, and its 5-mile boardwalk, constructed in 1890, is the oldest in the country and the longest in the world. Best known for its casinos, boardwalk and beach, the city also has much to offer in the way of teambuilding activities. From beach yoga on to spa experiences, a waterfront cruise, beer pairings and chocolate making, there are plenty of options to suit any group’s needs. Music, Pampering and Dining at the Hard Rock Hotel My window at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino… 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.