CEIR Releases Updated Report Examining Exhibit Spending

The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) has released an updated version of its popular report, How the Exhibit Dollar is Spent.

Originally published in 2014, the 2017 report relays how exhibiting expenditures break down and identifies where spending has remained constant – versus increasing – compared to 2016 levels.

“CEIR is pleased to update these metrics,” said Cathy Breden, CEO of CIER. “Exhibitors, organizers and suppliers alike will benefit from understanding where exhibitors spend their marketing dollars on trade shows.”

Emerald Expositions Events Acquires Connecting Point Marketing Group

Emerald Expositions Events acquired Connecting Point Marketing Group from lower-middle market private equity firm Corridor Capital, mezzanine investor Aldine Capital Partners and management.

Founded by Nancy Splaine and Kim Haulk in 2004 in Rye, N.H., CPMG organizes and hosts nine senior executive level business-intensive trade events focused on innovation for the hospitality, restaurant, healthcare, grocery and retail industries.

How Mixing Retro Approaches with Cutting-Edge Technology Engages Audiences

Submitted by lpsavas@tsnn.com on Tue, 11/28/2017 - 13:18

Have you noticed how certain styles always come back? Retro trends eventually circle around and become a hot commodity once again – from vintage board games to mid-century architecture and even acid-wash jeans (yes, really). And while retro trends may start out in consumer spaces, sooner or later they translate to the business-to-business space as well.

MGM Resorts International Launches New Upgraded Convention Wi-Fi Network, Supports Largest Cisco Live Event

MGM Resorts International has recently partnered with Cisco Systems and Mobilitie to upgrade and double its wireless infrastructure, resulting in the largest, technologically advanced system in the industry and the first in-house, high-density Wi-Fi network capable of supporting high-level events with sophisticated technology needs.

Human Resources Management Association of Chicago Selects SmithBucklin for Management

The Human Resources Management Association of Chicago (HRMAC) has selected SmithBucklin, an association management and services company, to provide full-service association management. Elizabeth Summy, CAE, serves as HRMAC’s chief executive officer, and its headquarters is at 330 N. Wabash, Chicago.

IAAPA Attractions Expo 2017 Shatters Attendance Record

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions had a record 39,000 registered attractions industry professionals gather in Orlando to learn, buy and network at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2017.

"The success of this year's show is a true testament to the continued growth and strength of attractions around the world," said Paul Noland, IAAPA president and CEO.

Karen Gonzales Named IAEE’s Director, Partnership Relations

Karen Gonzales, CMP has joined the staff of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events as director, Partnership Relations.

In this role, she will assist with selling exhibit space for Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting & Exhibition and manage the sponsorship and advertising programs for IAEE, as well as fundraising for Exhibitions Mean Business. Gonzales will also engage in outreach and attendee acquisition for the Center for Exhibition Industry Research Foundation’s initiatives.

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.