Dec 05, 2017
Full-service event production company, Shepard, has acquired McCUNE Audio-Video-Lighting, a California-based provider of audio-visual and entertainment services for the events industry. The acquisition will help expand Shepard AV, the Atlanta-based company’s audio-visual division. “It’s an exciting time for Shepard AV,” said Stuart Danneman, executive vice president of Shepard AV. He continued, “This acquisition will help us accelerate our growth in the western region and allow us to continue providing the highest level of service standards to all our current customers.” With 75 years… more
Dec 04, 2017
Looking for that perfect gift for someone? There are two really great books available written by trade show professionals that would make a perfect addition for anyone’s bookshelf. The first book – “Lessons of an Entrepreneur: How to Grow, Take Risks and Survive” - was written by The Expo Group Founder and Chairman Ray Pekowski. “Other the years, as I have shared stories of starting up a business and the challenges overcome to reach our level of success, many people have encouraged me to write a book,” Pekowski said. He added, “Since publishing the book, I have really enjoyed hearing… more
Nov 30, 2017
The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) has released an updated version of its popular report, How the Exhibit Dollar is Spent. Originally published in 2014, the 2017 report relays how exhibiting expenditures break down and identifies where spending has remained constant – versus increasing – compared to 2016 levels. “CEIR is pleased to update these metrics,” said Cathy Breden, CEO of CIER. “Exhibitors, organizers and suppliers alike will benefit from understanding where exhibitors spend their marketing dollars on trade shows.” She continued, “It is a resource that helps… more
Nov 30, 2017
Emerald Expositions Events acquired Connecting Point Marketing Group from lower-middle market private equity firm Corridor Capital, mezzanine investor Aldine Capital Partners and management. Founded by Nancy Splaine and Kim Haulk in 2004 in Rye, N.H., CPMG organizes and hosts nine senior executive level business-intensive trade events focused on innovation for the hospitality, restaurant, healthcare, grocery and retail industries. These four-day events are curated, invitation-only forums that bring together leaders in each vertical market. Events include RestaurantPoint East and West,… more
Nov 28, 2017
In response to industry demand, Converters Expo will be launching a sister trade show in Charlotte, NC. Set to debut Feb. 6 at the Charlotte Convention Center, Converters Expo South will bring together converters and packagers of paper, film and nonwovens with companies looking for the latest in efficiency, techniques, advances, products and equipment. The inaugural event is expected to attract approximately 300 attendees and 59 exhibiting companies spanning just under 20,000 square feet of expo space, according to show officials. “The Carolina-Georgia area is the second largest ‘… more
Nov 22, 2017
For the sixth consecutive year, Human Rights Campaign (HRC) has rated MGM Resorts International as among the nation’s leading companies for workplace equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) employees. Based on the company’s policies and practices relating to LGBTQ employees, MGM Resorts earned a perfect score on the 2018 Corporate Equality Index (CEI), an annual HRC survey that evaluates major companies for their non-discrimination and benefits policies and practices with respect to LGBTQ employees. “Diversity and inclusion are bedrocks of our company culture and… more
Nov 21, 2017
The inaugural Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show, Outdoor Retailer’s first combined trade show with SIA Snow Show in Denver, now is the largest annual U.S. trade show and conference for the outdoor and snowsports industries, boasting a sold-out exhibit floor. Set for Jan. 25-28 at the Colorado Convention Center, the massive event will feature a revamped show format with approximately 1,000 brands spanning three floors, new show features and for the first time, consumer access to select marquee events. “The positive response to the combined show has exceeded all expectations,” said Marisa… more
Nov 20, 2017
Are you attending IAEE Expo! Expo! this year?  Have you started planning for your visit?  Don’t stress! Below are five beneficial things you can do today to prepare for a productive trip to San Antonio. And then you’ll be able to kick back and enjoy Thanksgiving without worrying about preparing for the Show. Visit the Expo! Expo! 2017 Website On the website you will find a full schedule of activities, who is exhibiting, what sessions are available, programs for young professionals, programs for first time attendees, tools for networking, San Antonio information and so much more! This should… more
Nov 20, 2017
International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) will hold its annual Expo! Expo! in San Antonio, TX November 28-30. The organization will bring in experts from both inside and outside of event industry to examine data, sales strategies, new technology and much more. In “pit stops”, “tech huddles”, workshops and more, trade show and event organizers will have more than 50 learning opportunities during the three-day event. “As with every year at Expo! Expo! I hope that attendees walk away with meaningful connections, ideas for the new year and actionable insights to incorporate… more
Nov 16, 2017
The 9th Annual 2018 TSNN Awards: Celebrating Trade Show Excellence will head Aug. 10-12 to Louisville, Ky., to celebrate the top U.S. fastest-growing trade shows in net square footage and attendance just days after the massive transformation of the Kentucky International Convention Center in downtown Louisville is unveiled. The completely renovated center is just one piece of an extensive development project that includes several new hotels and renovations to existing ones, such as the Marriott Louisville Downtown, the host hotel for award attendees, as well as a bevy of new distilleries and… 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.