News

Aug 15, 2016
SuperZoo, a pet retail trade exposition and conference produced by World Pet Association, recently wrapped its largest show to date at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, with a more than four percent increase in attendees and eight percent increase in companies attending over 2015, as well as nearly 1,200 exhibitors participating. The redesigned exhibit hall, with an additional 85,000 square feet of exhibit space, saw more than 820 new products make their debut as part of the popular New Product Showcase. More than 90 education sessions covered a wide variety of topics including: staff training,… more
Aug 14, 2016
As president and CEO of International Association of Exhibitions and Events, David  DuBois not only travels a lot, but also he is responsible for the management of 23 full-time professional staff, producing the annual business operating plan and budget, overseeing the support of all meetings of governance units, leading business development, directing fund raising efforts, advocating for the industry and the organization’s members, providing organizational leadership and strategic counsel to the board. Also, he serves as the association’s representative with industry coalitions, partner… more
Aug 14, 2016
A large number of expo organizers today are turning to technology to facilitate onsite and online booth space selection to book more space in shorter time span, make processes easier and expedite revenue collection. Because it's so critical to the long-term growth of your organization and events, a lot of care and due diligence needs to be put in making the choice of technology and resources to use for your exhibits sales. If you looking for an effective online and onsite exhibits contract and sales technology solution, here are some of the critical factors that should be a part of your… more
Aug 13, 2016
The first National Material Handling Show launched by the Materials Handling Industry (MHI) in 1948 was a result of new methods used to transport goods during World War II. That first show in Cleveland had 60,000 net square feet and approximately 3,000 attendees. During the early years, the annual event moved around to various ‘industrial’ locations, including Detroit, Cleveland, Buffalo, Chicago, Baltimore, and San Francisco. Detroit’s show in 1974 was the first to hit six-figure net square footage. Exhibits included industrial trucks, cranes, monorails, shelving, loading dock equipment… more
Aug 13, 2016
Visit Anaheim, the official destination marketing organization (DMO) of Anaheim, released the first video of an 18-part series showcasing the diverse craft brew and local dining scene. The video series was created to show an authentic and unexpected side of the local food and beer scenes, providing an inside look into classic and newsworthy menu items through unique collaborations with chefs and brew masters. Each video created will highlight local foodie and beer favorites, like today’s video featuring Noble Ale Works, released to celebrate National IPA Day. The video series… more
Aug 12, 2016
Developing a personal brand and preparing for the future are themes running throughout the education program at IMEX America this year. How to communicate and develop a personal brand delivering immediate impact, as well as how to anticipate and prepare for the future are challenges facing many industry professionals both in and out of the office. Education sessions at IMEX America, taking place Oct. 18-20 in Las Vegas, have been tailored to help meet those challenges. With three days of business meetings and networking, IMEX will offer an opportunity to connect with like-minded… more
Aug 12, 2016
Emerald Expositions scooped up a few more trade shows with the acquisition of the Swim Collective and Active Collective events from their founder Shannon Leggett.   “The Collective trade shows have grown strongly over the last few years under Shannon’s leadership, and we are excited that they will now join Emerald’s Specialty Sports and Apparel Group, which includes leading trade shows such as Surf Expo and Outdoor Retailer,” said Darrell Denny, executive vice president of Emerald Expositions. He added, “The Collective shows are truly must-attend events and share many like qualities with… more
Aug 11, 2016
Expanding its portfolio of offerings even more, GES, a global full-service provider for live events, has acquired ON Event Services, a leading provider of live event audio visual production services that includes audio, video, lighting, mapping and scenic design. In addition, ON Event Services produces high-end entertainment events and provides in-house audio visual services to hotels, arenas, and conference centers. This expansion enables GES to serve more fully the live event needs of clients with industry-leading audio visual and event production services that engage participants and… more
Aug 09, 2016
As the long summer days begin their slow turn into fall leaves and back-to-school times, companies in the trade show industry have continued to grow their businesses with new and returning business contracts. Middle East event organizer F&E, a Tarsus Group company, has appointed GES as official supplier in an agreement until the end of 2019. The agreement includes delivering services for F&E’s aerospace portfolio – the MEBAA Show and the Dubai Airshow, taking place at DWC, Airshow Site; collocated shows Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) and MRO Middle East - plus education… more
Aug 09, 2016
The Destination Marketing Association International Annual Convention saw their attendee numbers rise, with 1,500 taking part in its recent event held Aug. 1-3 in Minneapolis. Attendees spent the time engaging in general sessions, discipline-focused roundtables and networking. Throughout the program, DMAI’s association and foundation leadership recognized and celebrated those whom have demonstrated commitment and promise towards the continued success of destination marketing worldwide.  This year, 42 industry representatives received their CDME certification; 18 DMOs were honored for… more
Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact