Mar 06, 2017
By Elizabeth Johnson “Get the right message, in front of the right people, at the right time.” It’s a common phrase, practically a mantra for today’s marketer. And the key to achieving that goal is data. Event-producing organizations cover the spectrum of sophistication when it comes to data driven marketing. Some are at the beginning of implementing a robust data collection system and others are using data to plan future content, develop marketing strategies and find new audiences. “Conferences and tradeshows live or die by the quality of their data,” said Kevin Miller, president and chief… more
Mar 03, 2017
It goes without saying that trade shows and events are incredibly tough on the environment, producing massive amounts of waste and carbon emissions each year. According to MeetGreen, the typical conference attendee creates more than four pounds of waste and just under 400 pounds of CO2 emissions per day. As a show organizer, you know you should do your part to help the planet by taking your events in a more sustainable direction, but you’re concerned that going green will not only be more labor intensive, but also more expensive. But what it if was possible to make big changes and decrease… more
Mar 03, 2017
ConvExx, long-time show management company in the auto aftermarket space, has acquired Mobile Tech Expo from Kevin Halewood. "Mobile Tech Expo is the premier showcase for the paintless dent repair, detailing and automotive mobile service industries, and we look forward to continuing that mission", said Chuck Schwartz, ConvExx CEO. He added, "We understand and appreciate the Show's principles, and look to build upon what has been built as we strive to best serve the mobile automotive aftermarket." Its founder, Kevin Halewood, will remain with ConvExx and continue as show director of Mobile… more
Mar 02, 2017
As part of its ‘Events First’ strategy, U.K.-based UBM made huge leaps in 2016, as it continues to realign its overall portfolio with the completed sale of its PR Newswire division and the acquisitions of Allworld Exhibitions, Content Marketing World and Business Journals, Inc., to name a few. The company’s annual earnings report recently was released, indicating the events division was up last year to $874 million, compared with $775 million in 2015. In North America, 2016 revenues were up to $363 million, compared with $303 million the year before. UBM’s CEO Tim Cobbold took time from his… more
Mar 02, 2017
U.K.-based Informa's Global Exhibitionsdivision bought Yachting Promotions, the operator of some of the largest yachting and boat shows in the U.S., for $133 million. “With this acquisition, Informa Exhibitions becomes the world’s leading yacht show organizer,” said Charlie McCurdy, Informa Exhibitions’ CEO. He added, “Combining the world’s premiere show, based in Europe, with these five shows in North America creates a scale player in this attractive and growing vertical, further strengthening our relationship with leading yacht brokers and builders, providing good opportunities for cross… more
Mar 01, 2017
In a year when two of its largest biennial shows – Labelexpo Europe and Dubai Airshow - did not run, U.K.-based Tarsus Group scored like-for-like revenue growth of 8 percent and across the portfolio buyers increased by 7 percent on a like for like basis in 2016, well ahead of the company’s target of 5 percent. “Our 'Quickening the Pace' growth strategy continued to deliver in 2016. Organic growth was strong at 8 percent, and we grew our buyer attendance, a key metric for us, by a very encouraging 7 percent,” said Douglas Emslie, Tarsus Group’s managing director. He added, “Strategically, we… more
Feb 28, 2017
MCI recently acquired Network Media Partners, a proven sales management organization specializing in customized media sales, event planning and management, digital and print design and marketing services for associations. As MCI continues its growth strategy in the USA, the addition of Network Media Partners accelerates the company’s leadership in delivering a comprehensive suite of innovative, growth-centered solutions for associations, according to MCI officials. “Associations of all sizes and types face increasing economic and market headwinds. Network Media Partners has industry-leading… more
Feb 28, 2017
The Meetings Mean Business Coalition, a cross-industry communications and advocacy initiative, is introducing a platform for industry professionals in every corner of the globe to better advocate for the power of face-to-face meetings. A newly created licensing agreement will allow partners in countries and regions outside of the United States to use MMB branding, messaging and research to form one strong, cohesive voice for the industry.  “We are thrilled to welcome more international partners into the MMB family through this global expansion,” said Paul Van Deventer, CEO of Meeting… more
Feb 27, 2017
The Center for Industry Research released its latest CEIR Total Index Report that indicated growth of the trade show industry declined during the fourth quarter of 2016. Driven by a 1.8 percent drop in real revenues, the performance of the industry posted a modest year-on-year decline of 0.4 percent, after 25 consecutive quarters of year-on-year growth. "The decline was a temporal set back as economic fundamentals still point to moderate growth for the exhibition industry" said CEIR Economist Allen Shaw, Ph.D., chief economist for Global Economic Consulting Associates. The dip occurred only… more
Feb 26, 2017
Using freelance or contract labor isn’t new to the trade show industry. Contract floor managers, for example, have been a staple of the show business for decades. But as freelance work becomes a more popular option and a go-to resource for companies in the general economy, it’s likely to be a more acceptable and accessible option for both organizers and suppliers in the exhibition industry. In this week’s #Expochat, Michelle Bruno will lead a discussion on the challenges and opportunities associated with freelance workers. Here are the questions: How do you define a freelancer/contract worker… 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.