News

Jul 02, 2019
As event destinations search for more recession-proof market segments to generate strong economic impact for their communities, the convention industry is taking a serious look at the rapidly growing world of esports, aka competitive video gaming.  This year alone, the global esports industry is set to surpass the $1 billion mark, with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. And with many association and corporate events continuing to grapple with flat budgets and shrinking attendance, an exploding industry such as esports, with its broad appeal and growing fan base, has become all the more… more
Jul 02, 2019
Digital marketing company Feathr has acquired Springful, a digital marketing agency based in Gainesville, Fla.  Feathr provides a marketing toolkit designed for the needs of events and associations, which is used by more than 1,000 events across the globe. The Springful acquisition comes after an increased demand for Feathr Concierge, a managed services program that allows the Feathr Services team to help customers set up accounts, plan campaign strategies, design collateral and ad creatives, and launch and optimize campaigns.  “We are delighted to welcome Springful into the Feathr family… more
Jul 02, 2019
The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), The International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC), and The International Congress and Convention Association will collaborate more closely in the future to generate better benefits for their respective members, as well as the international meetings industry.  “With our Global Alliance, the three of us choose value for our members [and] choose collaboration over competition,” said Craig Newman, president of UFI. The global alliance effort among the three associations was announced last week. “We are all organizations with a… more
Jul 01, 2019
May and June have been busy months on the hiring front. From many new promotions and hires at CVBs around the country to expanded sales teams, new association leadership, DMO development and more, the future of the trade show and meetings industry looks bright. Philip Schlitz has joined Chestnut, New York-based brand experience agency MC2 as the company’s first corporate vice president of strategic business development. Also at MC2, Ben Nazario (pictured at right) joined the leadership team as California division president. Prior to his most recent role as chief sales officer at Sparks, he… more
Jun 27, 2019
The second in the Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s “Head of Marketing Insights” series, “Aligning Exhibit Sales for Success” takes a close look at the B2B exhibitor’s decision-making process, pinpointing the areas where marketing leaders see the most value in these exhibitions.  The report, which is based on survey data from marketing executives at North American organizations that use exhibiting as channel in their marketing mix, examines how brand marketers build an exhibit program. It also offers suggestions on how show organizers can position sales efforts to align with these… more
Jun 26, 2019
For the second year in a row, Bizzabo was awarded Best Event Technology Solution of 2019 at the annual Software & Information Industry Association CODiE Awards.  The SIIA CODiE Awards recognize companies producing the most innovative business technology products across the globe.   SIIA, the principal trade association for the software and digital content industries, announced the full slate of CODiE winners during an award ceremony at InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco hotel this month. “We’re thrilled to have retained our leadership position as the best event technology… more
Jun 26, 2019
We live in a time of immediate gratification where we can tap a few keys and have the world’s information at our fingertips. An era full of busy times, busy lives and a growing concern of impatient business professionals who all want immediate gratification has made the greatest impact on the consumer market, as we’ve seen the advent of digital marketplaces and their propagation into our daily lives. This can cause friction when the technology of instant gratification is not prepared to manage the dynamic and varying needs of buyers in the B2B world. That begs the question: How do we, as… more
Jun 26, 2019
With China’s population aged more than 60 surpassing ¼ of a billion this year and set to add a further 10 million to its ranks every year through 2025, CHINA AID reflects the rising success of elderly care focused businesses in China and the quickly developing senior care market seeking to meet the surge in demand. Produced by Shanghai Intex Exhibition Company and Tarsus Group, CHINA AID is the nation’s key gateway to its fast-expanding elderly care, mobility and rehabilitation markets, this year seeing growth of almost 20 percent in its show size, while increasing its exhibition attendance… more
Jun 25, 2019
International Association of Exhibition and Events has announced Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association, as the recipient of its prestigious 2019 Legend of the Industry award. He’ll officially be recognized at the Krakoff Leadership Institute event, planned for Aug. 5-6 at Lowes Miami Beach Hotel in Florida. This honor recognizes an IAEE member who’s demonstrated remarkable innovations and leadership in the industry. KLI attendees will have the opportunity for face-to-face conversations with Shapiro at the event. In his role at CTA, which he has held for 28… more
Jun 25, 2019
For the third year in a row, Cobo Center has kicked off its Cobo Cares program, which offers free exercise, networking and community engagement opportunities to local workers and residents in Detroit and Southeast Michigan. Launched in early May, the 2019 Cobo Cares season offers 13 exercise activities at the convention center through October, including Zumba, yoga and workout classes coupled with opportunities to give back to local nonprofit agencies that support needy area citizens. “The Cobo Cares program is a wonderful way to gather together and give back to our community while having… 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.