Naylor Acquires Appointment-based Global Exchange Events
March 12, 2013
Association management company Naylor has bought Global Exchange Events – a producer of appointment-based events “exchange events”, which includes 10 events that were produced last year and another 13 that are planned for this year.
"Adding exchange event expertise and capability is a logical extension of the Naylor menu of print, digital and event offerings, and we now have market-leading expertise in what is a rapidly emerging type of event," said Alex DeBarr, Naylor president and CEO.
He added, "Exchange events can be a high value offering for associations and their members and supplier members. It brings industry leading suppliers together with key members in a model that can include strong non-dues revenue opportunities."
NaylorCMG is located in Fairfax, Va., and GEE will remain a separate division run from its Darien, Conn., headquarters.
NaylorCMG manages 17 trade shows for associations, including Graph Expo, Motorcoach Expo and NPE2012.
Global Exchange Events takes part in a popular trend referred to sometimes as a “reverse trade show” during with an equal number of high-level buyers and suppliers from within the same industry take part in prequalified 20 minute appointments.
Features of these events include fees to suppliers that are less than a traditional booth on an exhibit floor, educational conferences and keynotes and there may or may not be an actual showfloor.
GEE founder and president, Robert Ingraham, will join Naylor as executive vice president of Naylor/Global Exchange Events. Ingraham has a long history in the trade show industry, working for companies such as Reed Exhibitions, Advanstar Communications and The McGraw-Hill Companies.
GEE has worked with Naylor before managing its Builder Exchange Event, which launched in 2011.
Other GEE events include Wealth Investment Exchange, Retail Technology Exchange and Condé Nast Traveler Exchange.
GEE also utilizes its own proprietary matchmaking software, AppointmentMatch, to ensure the events run smoothly, according to company officials.
"This type of event can compliment an existing trade show or be run as a stand-alone event. Being able to set appointments in advance really provides exhibitors with an unbeatable return on their investment," Ingraham said.
He added, "We’re excited to be part of the Naylor family and look forward to working with associations and market-leading companies in our existing and future market sectors."
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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