5 Things You Need to Know About IAEE’s Expo! Expo! in Los Angeles
December 4, 2024
In less than two weeks, thousands of exhibition and event professionals from across the globe will gather in Los Angeles for the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) Annual Meeting and Expo! Expo!
The influential gathering of trade show organizers and suppliers will be held December 16-19 at the iconic Los Angeles Convention Center.
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first timer, planning your schedule ahead is critical to maximizing the experience on the ground.
What do you need to know before you go? We caught up with IAEE VP Events and Experiences Jason Ware to get the skinny on what not to miss.
Here's our exclusive guide to the top highlights—perfect for pre-event planning. Watch or listen to our full interview here.
1. Walkability of the Event
One of the most advantageous features of this year's Expo! Expo! is its walkability, said Ware. Nestled within the L.A. Live and the Los Angeles Convention Center campus, attendees will have the luxury of easy access without the need for additional transportation once they check in at one of the headquarters hotels.
2. Unmissable Keynote Speaker
Prepare to be inspired by Sebastian Terry, renowned for his engaging blend of humor and insightful storytelling, Ware said. Set to captivate the IAEE audience in a keynote session at 10:30 am PT on Tuesday, Dec. 17, Terry promises to deliver what may be one of the most memorable general sessions to date.
3. Rich Educational Opportunities
Education at Expo! Expo! is more robust than ever, structured around timely content and trends with sessions spread from Monday through Thursday. Don’t miss the Innovation and Sustainability education theaters on the trade show floor, offering easily accessible knowledge-packed sessions for on-the-go learning.
TSNN’s Danica Tormohlen will be part of a panel discussion at 3:15 pm PT on Monday, Dec. 16. The session, “How Women in the Trade Show Industry are Building Opportunities for the Future,” also features HIMSS Global Conference & Exhibition Senior Conference Lead Elizabeth George, RX US Head of Strategy and M&A Toni Piela, and MAD Event Management President Martha Donato.
4. Largest Gathering of Show Organizers
With participation outpacing last year’s total attendance of 1,850 industry professionals, this year’s event promises an unmatched conclave of industry thought leaders ready to share and absorb the latest trends and insights, said Ware.
5. Star-Studded Opening Night
Set against the glitz of Hollywood, this year’s IAEE and TSNN Awards will shine at the Novo Theater on opening night at 7 p.m. PT on Monday, Dec. 16. This glamorous event marks the first dual awards program. After the honorees hit the red carpet, attendees will have a chance to check out the Grammy Museum or enjoy high-energy entertainment—a refreshing twist that sets the tone for the nights in L.A.
Main image: Mark Holtzman West Coast Aerial Photography
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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