Jul 24, 2017
A few years after Providence Equity Partners bought U.K.-based Clarion Events, the trade show company has changed hands again to another private equity firm – Blackstone. “We are delighted to invest in Clarion and back Chairman Simon Kimble and CEO Russell Wilcox in the company’s next chapter,” said Lionel Assant, head of European Private Equity at Blackstone. He added, “Clarion’s leading position in its markets combined with its strong management team will enable the company to continue growing both organically and through M&A. Blackstone has a significant track record of investing in… more
Jul 24, 2017
  There has been a lot of discussion in the IT world of trade shows relating the ability for all partners involved in the success of a show demonstrating the ability to share data and intelligence through an API (Application Programming Interface). Lacking this expertise – on both sides – eliminates you from the discussion of being a leading player in the exhibition marketplace. Join us and Terence Donnelly of Experient on this Wednesday’s #Expochat July 26th, 1pm ET where we’ll answer the following questions: ·        What is an API? Not… more
Jul 21, 2017
International Conference Development (lCDevents) is gearing up to launch Pet Connections Expo, a new pet industry trade show set for Oct. 3-4 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Penn. Designed to be an affordable alternative for independent retailers, vendors and other pet professionals, the event intends to provide a more intimate and relaxed community environment where pet retailers can network, share experiences and learn how to compete with the online and large brick and mortar stores in order to succeed in their businesses, according to Bill Doherty, PetCon Expo show… more
Jul 19, 2017
The Meetings Mean Business Coalition has re-launched Worth Meeting About, an industry campaign designed to showcase the importance of face-to-face meetings for business and society. With an expanded lens that uses major world events, case studies and personal testimonials to highlight the industry’s role in driving progress and innovation, the coalition’s refreshed campaign will harness digital tactics and storytelling to emphasize the message that, “when it’s important, it’s Worth Meeting About.” “Worth Meeting About brings to life the value behind meetings and the progress… more
Jul 18, 2017
The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) has chosen Pittsburgh and San Francisco to host its 2019 and 2020 Convening Leaders, respectively. The event is the association’s annual education conference that attracts more than 4,200 event professionals. “Convening Leaders is the premier industry event for leading business event professionals,” said Deborah Sexton, president and CEO of PCMA. She continued, “Our participants and partners attend this event every January to network with their colleagues from around the globe and seek out innovation for their upcoming programs. Both… more
Jul 18, 2017
American Society of Association Executives will honor six associations with the 2017 Summit Award, which is the highest recognition under The Power of A Awards. The six organizations will accept their awards on October 4 during the 18th Annual Power of A — Summit Awards Dinner at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.  The winners were selected by the Power of A Awards Judging Committee, and the committee received 149 entries. The awards are part of The Power of A  campaign, which ASAE launched in 2009 to increase awareness about issues that… more
Jul 18, 2017
Paris-based Comexposium has acquired MFV, which includes franchise trade shows and conferences in the United States (International Franchise Expo in New York, Franchise Expo West in Los Angeles, Franchise Expo South in Dallas); Franquicias Feria International, the leading annual event in Mexico; and The Franchise Show in London. A portfolio of developmental events in Latin America and Europe also are part of the acquisition. “We are delighted to welcome the Franchise events to Comexposium’s growing North & Latin American footprint,” said Steve Corrick, CEO of Comexposium Americas He added… more
Jul 17, 2017
Freeman has become a key investor data-driven event personalization company Feathr’s most recent round of funding. Feathr’s proprietary technology allows organizers and marketers to leverage their data by combining sources like registration, CRM, social followers and website analytics to launch effective multi-channel campaigns across email, landing pages, online advertising, social media and chatbots. “The Freeman Digital Ventures group is pleased to be an investor in Feathr as we believe Feathr’s offering can be beneficial to our clients allowing further personalization for events and brand… more
Jul 14, 2017
U.S. business-to-business trade show and conference producer, Emerald Expositions, has selected Denver as the official home of its three annual Outdoor Retailer trade shows: Outdoor Retailer + Snow Show, Outdoor Retailer Summer Market and Outdoor Retailer Winter Market. As the largest U.S. trade shows representing outdoor gear and clothing retailers and manufacturers, the events are expected to draw more than 85,000 attendees and $110 million economic impact annually to The Mile High City, according to show officials. The shows’ relocation, which kicks off Jan. 25-28 with the Outdoor Retailer… more
Jul 14, 2017
When a room filled with trade show organizers and suppliers gathers July 20 at the Washington Marriott at the Metro Center in Washington, D.C., for Transform USA, they will have the opportunity to take a deep dive into topics that are top of mind right now – data, analytics and digital. The inaugural event is co-presented by UK-based trade show industry research firm AMR International and U.S.-based vent producer Lippman Connects. “I would like everyone to leave Transform USA with a new sense of security because they now have a road map that is relatively risk free based on what they… 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.