Las Vegas Scores Record-breaking Visitor Attendance in 2012; Sees Upticks in Events Held, Convention Attendees
February 10, 2013
Coming out of one of the worst economic periods in United States’ history, Las Vegas scored its highest visitor attendance record yet in 2012, and, while convention attendance was only up 1.6 percent from the prior year, the number of meetings and conventions held in the city were up more than 13 percent, compared with 2011.
Las Vegas welcomed 39.7 million visitors in 2012, approximately 500,000 more visitors than the previous high of 39.2 million set in 2007.
The record visitation generated more than $40 billion in economic impact for the local economy last year, according to Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority officials.
"The record visitation is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our resort partners and every employee who works in the industry," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president and CEO of the LVCVA.
He added, "Tourism is the economic leader for Southern Nevada and the entire state, so we are encouraged to see positive signs of continued growth for the industry. With more than $2 billion of reinvestment in the destination, Las Vegas is well positioned for continued growth in 2013 and on the threshold of hosting more than 40 million visitors."
Convention attendance also saw its highest uptick in four years in 2012, with 4.9 million delegates attending a convention, trade show or meeting, reflecting a 1.6 percent increase, compared with 2011.
Las Vegas also hosted 21,615 meetings, trade shows or conventions in 2012, up 13.6 percent from the 2011 total of 19,029.
The 2012 total is the highest number of meetings and conventions held in Las Vegas since 2008.
Driving some of these positive numbers was likely the National Mining Association’s quadrennial MINExpo International, held in September at the Las Vegas Convention Center and drawing 1,890 exhibitors, also up nearly 45 percent, and attracted more than 52,000 attendees, an increase of 41 percent.
The Consumer Electronics Association’s International CES, held each year in January at several venues around Las Vegas, had its largest show in history in 2012, with 156,153 in overall attendees.
“The 2012 International CES was the largest in show history and was bursting with innovation as the world’s most important technology event,” said Karen Chupka, senior vice president, events and conferences for CEA, said at the time.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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