MAGIC is First Show in Mandalay Bay’s 350,000 Square Foot Expansion

August 23, 2015

The first show to take advantage of all of the extra space at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center was one it long-time clients, UBM Advanstar’s MAGIC, which ran last week in Las Vegas.

The $70 million project added 350,000 square feet onto the center, allowing shows like MAGIC to not only expand, but also opening up more space for shows looking in the city.

“We have enjoyed working with the professionals at Mandalay Bay throughout the years and appreciate their willingness to help us create the most positive, productive experiences for our customers,” said Tony Calanca, executive vice president of Exhibitions for UBM Advanstar.

He added, “Mandalay Bay changed their construction plans to meet our growth needs, and we are proud to have MAGIC be the first show in the new expansion.” 

Based on customer demand, the resort built new exhibit space, a 20,000 sq. ft. foyer and underground parking in this first phase.

The second and final phase of the expansion will transition existing space into a 70,000 sq. ft. carpeted ballroom to accommodate new corporate partners and associations, as well as achieve greater utilization of the entire facility.

“The opening of our convention center expansion is another exciting milestone in the multi-year transformation of our resort,” said Chuck Bowling, president and COO of Mandalay Bay.

He added, “The response to booking the space has exceeded our expectations, and we believe this investment will increase visitation to Las Vegas, driving incremental business to MGM Resorts’ portfolio and the city overall.”

Construction began in October 2014 and upon completion of this project in January 2016, the Mandalay Bay Convention Center will boast more than 2 million total square feet and 900,000-plus sq. ft. of contiguous exhibit space.

This new space elevates its ranking in North America to No. 5 in both total square feet and exhibit space.   

Stephanie Glanzer, vice president of Sales at Mandalay Bay, said, “In addition to the convention center expansion, we recently announced and are undergoing our 3,000-room remodel.  These updates combined with numerous other new offerings and venues solidify Mandalay Bay as a top choice for corporate groups and trade shows of all sizes.”

He added, “One of our larger shows, MAGIC, is a valued loyal customer and we are pleased to welcome them as our first group into the new space.”
 
Adding onto what already is the largest convention center solar array in the world, the expanded Mandalay Bay Convention Center is incorporating an additional rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) array spanning 8 acres.

Upon completion in Fall 2015, the added portion of the array will generate approximately 1.9 MW with an approximate annual production of 3.4M kilowatt hours.

Covering more than 28 acres, the combined array will generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of 1,300 homes.

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One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.