Choose Chicago Prepares for Event Industry Recovery with Healthy Meetings Chicago
February 8, 2021
The city of Chicago is getting ready to lure back meetings and convention business in 2021 with a little help from digital technology. Launched Jan. 21 by Choose Chicago in collaboration with the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority, Healthy Meetings Chicago is an interactive digital platform designed to showcase the health and safety advantages of hosting events at the McCormick Place Campus.
Currently available in Phase 1 for desktop or laptop viewing, the new platform illustrates the extensive new protocols and processes put in place by the city’s convention center and hospitality industry to ensure the safety of its guests, according to CVB officials.
“Welcoming delegates and event attendees back responsibly remains at the core of our mission and client partnerships,” said Glenn Eden, board chair of Choose Chicago. “This comprehensive program is designed to provide our partners with the tools to take full advantage of the significant steps McCormick Place, Chicago’s two airports, host hotels and our industry have taken to create a safe experience.”
Designed to model the journey an attendee will experience upon arriving in the city for a future meeting or event, the interactive digital walkthrough begins at either at O'Hare International Airport or Chicago Midway International Airport. It then continues “using” the city’s many transportation options (including rideshare, taxicabs and public transit), checking into s hotel, arriving at McCormick Place and exploring the city’s attractions and dining options. Meanwhile, digital modules highlight the advanced sanitation and health measures taking place at each step along the way.
The CVB touts safety measures including UVC lights technology and HEPA air filtration systems, sanitized and cleansed airplanes on-site COVID testing and touchless check-in at the airports,.
Once on the McCormick campus, event participants can also feel reassured that the Marriott Marquis Chicago has been certified by Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean protocols, and by the presence of six on-site hygiene managers and the use of electrostatic cleaning methods at Hyatt Regency McCormick Place.
“The team at McCormick Place has been working tirelessly to ensure that we meet and exceed best practices,” explained Larita Clark, CEO of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority.
As they digitally explore McCormick Place, event planners and future attendees will learn about the facility’s use of science-based cleaning system, Kaivac, in highly trafficked areas, and that each expo hall possesses its own individual ventilation system to circulate outside air in. The facility ensures that each event is customized to group needs, focusing on simplifying registration and the event execution process while upholding health and sanitation standards.
Lastly, a final section of the digital platform provides an overview of post-meeting recreational activities, including numerous outdoor dining options and indoor attractions abiding by the CVB’s Tourism and Hospitality Forward safety measures.
“While much has changed, what has not is supporting our clients, their delegates and exhibitors leading to the successful planning and implementation of organizing and hosting a major convention, trade show or meeting,” said David Whitaker, president and CEO of Choose Chicago. “Healthy Meetings Chicago will be at the core and an initial building block of fulfilling that pledge and responsibility.”
The entire McCormick Place Campus holds the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s GBAC STAR accreditation, the gold standard for clean and safe facilities.
To learn more and experience the Healthy Meetings Chicago, go here.
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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.
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