News

Aug 18, 2013
The Center for Exhibition Industry Research’s latest Index Report for the second quarter was just released, and the good news is for the 12th consecutive quarter, the trade show industry continues to grow, though that growth has slowed. Year-over-year growth increased 1.2 percent overall, which is down slightly, 0.3 percent, compared with the second quarter of last year. The growth also lagged behind that of the GDP numbers in the second quarter that saw a 1.4 percent increase. "Overall, the second-quarter results continue on a positive upswing, and they confirm that the… more
Aug 18, 2013
As part of the final piece of the Sunshine Act that went fully into effect Aug. 1, all pharmaceutical, medical device, biological, and medical supply manufacturers have to report to the Health and Human Services (HHS) any "payment or other transfer of value" to physicians, including any giveaways at medical and pharmaceutical trade shows and meetings. These requirements apply if a manufacturer sells or distributes at least one covered drug, device, biologic or medical supply. For organizers, it just adds one more layer of data collection, but fortunately, technology company… more
Aug 18, 2013
Even before “Superstorm Sandy” struck the Eastern seaboard of the United States, officials in the conventions and meetings business in Atlantic City had been brainstorming about a way to bring more events into their town. The hurricane brought a tremendous amount of damage in its wake, but, according to Gary Musich, Atlantic City CVA’s vice president of convention development, much of the city was spared. “There was no damage to any of the hotels or the convention center,” he added, “There was some flooding, but that’s it. There also was no damage… more
Aug 18, 2013
Thousands of independent pharmacists converged Aug. 7-10 in Seattle for Cardinal Health's annual Retail Business Conference, with the theme Discover New Horizons for improving their businesses and for delivering quality, personalized care to patients. "RBC is the industry's best opportunity to celebrate independent pharmacy and to encourage owners to discover new opportunities to move their businesses forward," said Steve Lawrence, senior vice president of Retail Independent Sales for Cardinal Health.  He added, "This event is one of the largest gatherings of… more
Aug 18, 2013
Some shows still are offering printed show directories, while others include an online exhibitor directory as part of their event website or mobile app. Creative Portal Services is looking to take that a step further with a 365 day a year web vendor portal. “Thank of it as a giant buyers guide. It can be scaled to any size association,” said Pete Fenlon, executive sales manager for Creative Portal Services. Fenlon said there are advantages to an organization, and the suppliers who serve the organization’s members, when implementing the portal. One advantage is in… more
Aug 18, 2013
When your show management team is looking for a mobile app one of the first questions they should ask is “What will the attendees use the app for?” Every year, a2z Inc. published mobile apps for numerous leading trade shows, enabling us to gain significant insight into how audiences use apps before and during the event. In comparing data for mobile apps deployed this year for ten events of varying sizes, we found, not unexpectedly, that the No. 1 accessed feature in the mobile app was the Exhibitor List. The Session List and Session Details tied in the second place for the most… more
Aug 18, 2013
Some shows still are offering printed show directories, while others include an online exhibitor directory as part of their event website or mobile app. Creative Portal Services is looking to take that a step further with a 365 day a year web vendor portal. “Thank of it as a giant buyers guide. It can be scaled to any size association,” said Pete Fenlon, executive sales manager for Creative Portal Services. Fenlon said there are advantages to an organization, and the suppliers who serve the organization’s members, when implementing the portal. One advantage is in… more
Aug 18, 2013
When your show management team is looking for a mobile app one of the first questions they should ask is “What will the attendees use the app for?” Every year, a2z Inc. published mobile apps for numerous leading trade shows, enabling us to gain significant insight into how audiences use apps before and during the event. In comparing data for mobile apps deployed this year for ten events of varying sizes, we found, not unexpectedly, that the No. 1 accessed feature in the mobile app was the Exhibitor List. The Session List and Session Details tied in the second place for the most… more
Aug 14, 2013
Atlanta-based Urban Expositions has further expanded into the restaurant and foodservice industries by scooping up three shows from Reed Exhibitions and one more from the New York State Restaurant Association. The Reed shows are the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show, Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo and Expo Comida Latina, as well as the association’s International Restaurant & Foodservice Show, which was managed by Reed. "We have been searching for strategic opportunities to grow our retail/hospitality sector and these shows perfectly reflect the profile and… more
Aug 13, 2013
After a 15-year run as the telecom provider for the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, which oversees the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Cashman Center, Smart City Networks lost the lucrative contract to Cox Nevada Telcom, following a 14-1 vote by the LVCVA board on Aug. 13. Smart City came in second, followed by A&T. According to LVCVA board meeting notes, Cox Nevada Telcom was awarded a seven-year contract, with the option of a three-year extension, and will subcontract with showNets to provide on-site services to show management, exhibitors and attendees. “The… 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.