News

Sep 07, 2017
Summertime ended with a flurry of new and existing business being contracted between suppliers and event organizers in the trade show industry, ranging from Event Advisory Group to SmithBucklin to Spargo and National Trade Productions. National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) has contracted with Event Advisory Group (EAG), an event consulting firm, to continue supporting the organization to improve the performance of their event portfolio based on the recommendations EAG made after conducting their unbiased 360° Review this past spring. Realizing the importance of implementing EAG’s… more
Sep 07, 2017
Attendees brought their appetites for food and knowledge to the 2017 Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo, which took place August 27-29 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. More than 10,000 restaurant and foodservice industry professionals were on hand to explore the 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, boasting over 400 exhibitors, 220 of which were new to the show. Newly appointed Event Director for Urban Expositions, Tom Loughran, was pleased with the turnout despite the record heat hitting the Southern California area. “We have seen exceptional turnout for the show and a… more
Sep 07, 2017
Social Tables has released a free version of its Event Planner Essential, a digital platform that helps organizers and planners bring events to life while allowing them to collaborate with event stakeholders, venues and each other in real-time. By giving event professionals access to this complimentary event planning package, Social Tables hopes to empower more planners to bring people together face-to-face, regardless of event technology budgets. “Whether you’re a professional planner who needs a powerful yet easy-to-use tool to design your event, a parent volunteering at the registration… more
Sep 06, 2017
HMP, a healthcare education and events company, has acquired Imedex, a privately held global medical education company that hosts meetings in oncology, hematology and gastroenterology. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The transaction not only advances HMP’s global footprint as a major producer of healthcare events for the global healthcare community, marking a significant step in executing its “events first” strategy, but also positions it in key strategic healthcare verticals. “The acquisition of Imedex aligns perfectly with our strategy and represents an extremely important… more
Sep 06, 2017
The Minneapolis Convention Center has been awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for Existing Buildings: Operation & Maintenance (EBOM). Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the LEED rating system is the foremost program for buildings, homes and communities that are designed, constructed, maintained and operated for improved environmental and human health performance. “Sustainability is a priority at the Minneapolis Convention Center, and we are proud to be LEED Certified,” said Jeff Johnson, MCC executive director. “It is our… more
Sep 05, 2017
Destinations International and Travel Alberta recently announced a Memorandum of Understanding for the implementation of the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) program in Alberta Canada beginning in 2018. The CDME program is offered by Destinations International and is the tourism industry’s highest individual educational achievement. The certification program is part of Destinations International’s educational programs that elevate destination organizations’ credibility and effectiveness. CDME has a focus on vision, leadership, productivity and the implementation of… more
Sep 05, 2017
Just more than a week after Hurricane Harvey wreaked devastation on the Texas Coast, Hurricane Irma now is hurtling toward a possible strike in Florida, prompting organizers to start postponing events or ending them earlier than scheduled. With the state of Florida declaring a state of emergency in 67 counties, the opening of the Miami International Auto Show, originally scheduled to open Sept. 9 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, has been postponed. “Our priorities are to provide any assistance that helps our community better prepare for this hurricane,” said Richard Baker, president… more
Aug 31, 2017
After a slow start to the year, the second quarter of 2017 in the U.S. trade show industry jumped into high gear, posting 2.9-percent overall growth, compared with the same quarter last year, according to the Center for Exhibition Industry’s latest Index Report. Also, in the first time since the fourth quarter of 2016, the trade show industry out-performed the macroeconomy, with real GDP growing 2.2 percent year over year. "The increase in the second quarter validates our prediction that economic fundamentals continue pointing to moderate growth for the exhibition industry," said CEIR… more
Aug 31, 2017
Technology companies with new products or services relevant to the meetings, incentive, conference and events (MICE) industry have until Sept. 8 to enter the ibtm world Tech Watch Award. The Tech Watch Award 2017 winner will be announced at ibtm world 2017, taking place Nov. 28-30 at Fira Barcelona in Barcelona, Spain. Designed to recognize the achievements of up and coming technologies in the meetings and events space, the highly competitive Tech Watch Award gives technology companies the opportunity to showcase their products to thousands of global buyers, influencers and media in the… more
Aug 30, 2017
Mobile app technology can be an incredible tool for show organizers, especially those platforms that help event professionals streamline their events. As a result, you don’t have to look far these days to find a slew of mobile apps specifically designed to help improve all aspects of the event planning and execution ecosystem. Designed to simplify the attendance tracking process for educational sessions of all sizes, Expo Logic has created TrackPod, an interactive session-scanning mobile app that uses the camera on a mobile device to keep track of session attendees. “This app is expected… 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.