News
Jan 05, 2012
U.K.-based Tarsus Group recently released its 2011 full-year trading update, with not only 8-percent growth in revenue, but also the company’s board expects adjusted pre-tax profits for the year ending Dec. 31 to be in line with its expectations.
“The year ended well, resulting in record revenue and profitability,” said Douglas Emslie, Tarsus Group managing director.
He added, “Cash flow was strong, with net debt halving.”
Highlights for 2011 in the company’s U.S. division include the February and August editions of the Off-Price Shows in Las Vegas… more
Jan 05, 2012
The Madison, Wis.-based World Dairy Expo, annually held at the Alliant Energy Center, has so much pent-up demand for indoor exhibition space, a new, temporary Trade Center will be erected that will house an additional 130 booths.
The show has been at capacity for several years, according to World Dairy Expo show management.
“World Dairy Expo management is optimistic that the Alliant Energy Center will expand over time,” said John Rozum, the show’s sales manager.
He added, “The demand for indoor space has become so high that it was decided to take action and add… more
Jan 04, 2012
Graeme Selby, a 36-year veteran of the exhibition industry, has stepped down from his post as chairman of Diversified Exhibitions Australia, according to its parent company, Diversified Business Communications.
Selby was managing director of Australian Exhibition Services (AES) from 1982 until 2005, when he became chairman, and focused on spearheading business development opportunities in Australia, India, Hong Kong and China.
“When Diversified had the good fortune to acquire AES in 2000, we were even more fortunate to have Graeme Selby join our team,” said Nancy Hasselback… more
Jan 04, 2012
In a few short days, I will be joining many of the most passionate and committed professionals in the face-to-face industry. Convening Leaders, (Professional Convention Management Association's) annual convention, begins this weekend in San Diego and I look forward to the experience every year. But, what I am realizing is that the best way for me to engage at Convening Leaders this year is to act as if it’s the first time I have attended. It’s time for me to challenge how I typically approach educational forums.
I can’t recall what year I started to attend this… more
Jan 04, 2012
Alan Liebensohn was promoted last month to executive director of the New York International Automobile Show from his position of business manager, a post that he held for seven years.
Prior to joining the auto show, Liebensohn was a consultant in the trade show and exposition industry for companies such as George Little Management, Biz Bash Media, COSEP and Curves for Women.
In addition, Liebensohn previously was the director of conferences and trade shows for the gaming industry’s premier international trade show & conference, the World Gaming Congress & Expo.… more
Jan 04, 2012
1105 Media hired Daniel McKinnon as vice president of government events, which includes the annual flagship government technology FOSE show, which is on tap April 3-5 at the Walter E. Washington (D.C.) Convention Center.
“We are delighted to welcome Daniel,” said Neal Vitale, president and CEO of 1105 Media. “After an outstanding career with Messe Frankfurt, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team.”
He added, “We look forward to his contributions as we expand our array of government-focused trade shows and conferences.”… more
Jan 04, 2012
Matthew Rotchford, long-time sales and events manager for the Portland Expo Center, has been named facility director after a national industry search, according to Metro Visitor Venues, which oversees the center.
He replaces former Director Chris Bailey, who retired in September, after 17 years managing the regional venue.
Metro general manager of visitor venues Teri Dresler said the decision best supports the facility’s expansion into new markets.
“By far, Matthew demonstrated the perfect combination of drive, innovation, flexibility and financial stewardship for this… more
Jan 02, 2012
AIPC - the International Association of Congress Centres, in conjunction with the IMEX Group, has chosen five aspiring convention center managers to receive a scholarship to participate in the 2012 AIPC Academy.
"AIPC sees professional development as a key part of our association mandate, and the investment we have made in creating the AIPC Academy as one of the most highly regarded educational programs in the industry is evidence of this,” said AIPC President Edgar Hirt.
He added, "However, we recognize that in these financially challenging times, not all centers are in… more
Jan 02, 2012
Trade shows aren’t the greenest of environments in the world, but the Consumer Electronic Association’s International CES, Jan. 10-13 at several venues around Las Vegas, is making an effort to be as sustainable as possible.
“Our green and recycling efforts at the 2012 International CES are unprecedented for the largest annual event in the western hemisphere, covering more than 1.8 million square feet and welcoming more than 140,000 attendees,” said Gary Shapiro, CEA’s president and CEO.
He added, “We’ve worked hard to ensure that we are using… more
Jan 02, 2012
When the Professional Convention Management Association’s annual meeting kicks off Jan. 8-11 at the San Diego Convention Center, there’s plenty in store – from The Learning Lounge to the collocated Virtual Edge Summit to innovative keynotes, educations sessions and networking opportunities.
This year, Velvet Chainsaw Consulting is working with PCMA once again to organize part of the 2012 Convening Leaders Learning Lounge.
There will be more than 100-plus education opportunities from Big Ideas TED-style presentations to “How To” iPad sessions to “Bring… more
Partner Voices

Dallas already boasts 35,000 hotel rooms, award-winning global cuisine, and a walkable downtown. But we are just getting started.
Visit Dallas is thrilled to announce that the city of Dallas is doubling down with a massive new convention center and entertainment district. Featuring 800,000 square feet of exhibit area, 260,000 square feet of meeting rooms, and 170,000 square feet of ballroom. The center will connect business travelers with dining and shopping options in the popular Cedars District means more places to get down to business, and even more ways to unwind.
“Dallas is already a great meetings and conventions destination, with the accessibility of two major airports, affordable labor, and an outstanding hotel product,” said D. Bradley Kent, Visit Dallas senior vice president and chief sales officer. “The new center and Convention Center District will enhance Dallas’ competitive position and are exactly what our customers’ need and have been asking for."
What’s New – AT&T Discovery District
Located in the heart of Downtown Dallas, this new district on the AT&T corporate campus is tailor-made for groups of all sizes. It boasts a multi-sensory experience, including outdoor event space, the AT&T Theater, and multiple dining outlets including JAXON Beer Garden and The Exchange, a bustling food hall.
Hotels Coming Soon
Names like the JW Marriott (Downtown), lnterContinental Dallas (Uptown), and Hotel Swexan (Uptown) are adding luxury amenities and bountiful event spaces. The projects will debut in 2023 and beyond.
JW Marriott
This new, 15-story, 283-room hotel will open in the heart of the city’s downtown Arts District this year. The property features a 25,000-square-foot grand ballroom, as well as a spa, restaurant, lobby bar, fitness center, and a rooftop pool deck and bar.
InterContinental Dallas
Located in Cityplace Tower in Uptown, InterContinental Dallas will feature sweeping panoramic views of the Dallas skyline. Guests will enjoy spacious, high-end rooms and amenities, including more than 21,000 square feet of event space.
Hotel Swexan
Hotel Swexan, a new, 22-story luxury property, is rising in Uptown’s Harwood District and will make its mark on the Dallas skyline. Opening this year, it is a sculptural building with cantilevered upper floors, as well as a 75-foot rooftop infinity-edge swimming pool and a hidden underground lounge.