World of Concrete Sees Jump in Exhibit Space, Attendees
February 1, 2012
After a tough couple of years grappling with the downturn in the economy, Hanley Wood Exhibitions’ World of Concrete had a stellar show when it ran Jan. 24-27 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, with upticks in exhibit space and attendees, compared with the 2011 event.
The show drew 52,088 total professional registrants, an increase from 48,554 last year, and showcased just more than 1,200 indoor/outdoor exhibitors on a 552,500-plus net square foot showfloor, an increase of 40,000 net sq. ft., compared with the 2011 show.
“There was a very positive and optimistic buzz on the showfloor,” said Jackie James, WOC show director.
She added, “WOC 2012 has been a huge success, and based on the feedback we have received from both exhibitors and attendees, we have no doubt the economy is recovering and the commercial construction industry is well on its way to a great 2012!”
Exhibitors at the show also gave it high marks: “Our first year at World of Concrete was beyond anything we imagined,” said Stuart Johnson, president of Phoenix Curb Machines.
He added, “We left the show with sales, distributors, solid leads, multiple media interviews and valuable connections.”
What helped bolster the show’s international attendance was the fact its participated in the U.S. Commercial Service’s International Buyer Program for the seventh year.
World of Concrete and the U.S. Commercial Service cooperated in the global promotion of the show to bring international buyers and U.S. exhibitors together to expand business both domestically and overseas, according to show officials.
The show featured several events for attendees to choose from, including the Concrete Construction Challenge and the Concrete Producer’s Challenge, in addition to SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500 National bricklaying championship.
The show also had a robust education program, including sessions hosted by the Masonry Contractors Association of America, which held its annual convention at WOC.
This year’s show also marked the debut of its mobile appthat allowed attendees to find exhibitors, seminars and events, speaker information, and more from iPhones, iPads, Androids and BlackBerry devices.
Users also were able to connect to World of Concrete Facebook and Twitter feeds, hotel/transportation options, local restaurants/venues and more.
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.
Add new comment