More than 15,000 International Buyers Expected at SEMA Show
June 30, 2013
The SEMA Show, produced by the Specialty Equipment Market Association, has expanded rapidly into international markets, with more than 15,000 overseas buyers expected at the Nov. 5-8 show at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
“As global demand for the industry’s products soars, there is huge opportunity for our members,” said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications.
He added, “We have a comprehensive international relations program to help U.S. manufacturers connect with buyers in the most relevant markets.”
The SEMA Show offers several resources to assist international buyers:
Online registration– The online registration site includes a designated “International Visitors” tab that features basic information about the Show in seven different languages. An “International Travel Support” tab is also available to connect visitors from key countries to travel information specific to their location. International buyers also are able to seamlessly generate personalized Letters of Invitations that can be used for requesting visas.
Badge pickup– International visitors are able to pick up their badges onsite at International Registration, where interpreters are on hand ready to assist.
Center for International Commerce— Centrally located within the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Center for International Commerce (CIC) is available to international buyers and includes private meeting rooms, a lounge area, interpreters and complimentary WiFi.
Exhibitor Directory– To help international buyers, the SEMA Show directory includes a list of exhibitors that currently export outside the United States. The list makes it easy for international buyers to hone in on the companies with whom they are most likely to do business.
Networking– At the Show, SEMA hosts the International Happy Hour. With 1,000 international buyers, exhibitors and media, the event is the world’s largest international networking gathering of specialty equipment companies.
In addition to the resources available at the SEMA Show, the association’s international relations program includes trade missions to key countries throughout the year, international research to identify developing markets and working with international officials on legislative issues.
SEMA recently was honored for its’ international outreach efforts with the President’s “E” Award for making a significant contribution to the expansion of U.S. exports.
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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