News

Feb 15, 2018
Two leading event industry associations recently have released important research reports this month. The International Association of Exhibitions and Events released Personally Identifiable Information – Data Security, a 17-page report that provides a thorough overview of various aspects and considerations regarding personally identifiable information (PII) for the non-technical reader. “How data is handled should be a high-level priority for all exhibition industry organizations,” said David DuBois, IAEE president and CEO. “Understanding the importance of PII and the many considerations… more
Feb 15, 2018
With better than expected results, GES closed out not only the fourth quarter of 2017 with a revenue jump of 6.8 percent, but also an increase of its full-year results, with top line growth up 7.4 percent. “GES finished 2017 with stronger than expected fourth quarter revenue growth of 6.8 percent, while operating income was near the bottom end of our prior guidance range due largely to higher costs in our ON Services audio-visual business,” said Steve Moster, president and CEO of Viad, GES’ parent company. He added, “For the full year, GES delivered top line growth of 7.4 percent.  We… more
Feb 15, 2018
It’s no secret that younger audiences have different approaches to learning. While Baby Boomers prefer personally focused learning and classroom environments, Gen Xers are fiercely independent, self-directed and would rather learn on their own time. Millennials prefer technology and social media and expect to have the infrastructure available to work anywhere and everywhere. Now, we also have Gen Z in the mix: the generation of instant gratification. Born into a world where everything is digitized, they expect their environment to deliver a “wow” experience – and if it doesn’t, they’ll just… more
Feb 14, 2018
Concept3D, provider of location-based software and 3D services, including 3D modeling, virtual reality (VR), interactive maps and virtual tour software, has launched the Colorado Convention Center’s new interactive 3D map and virtual tour platform. On the new platform, the CCC’s 584,000 square feet of meeting and event space are mapped in highly detailed 3D renderings atop interactive software, offering event attendees, visitors, employees, exhibitors, vendors and event planners the ability to easily navigate the facility as well as find their way to and from nearby and regional locations… more
Feb 14, 2018
The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) has selected global design and consultancy firm, Arcadis, to oversee a capital improvements construction program to enhance four of MCCA’s convention and event facilities. As Owner’s Project Manager (OPM), Arcadis will act as an extension of MCCA staff and lead construction management and administration activities to plan, initiate, manage and execute capital projects at Boston’s John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center; the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center; the Boston Common Garage and the MassMutual Center in Springfield… more
Feb 13, 2018
International exhibition organiser, Messe Stuttgart’s Chinese subsidiary in Nanjing, the Nanjing Stuttgart Joint Exhibition (Messe Nanjing) appointed Hans Stoter as its new managing director, effective 1st January 2018. Hans Stoter was previously managing director of Koelnmesse China and he has over 18 years of experience working in management positions in the Chinese trade fair industry. The company stated that the appointment will further strengthen Messe Stuttgart’s position in the China market. The company plans to expand its own existing events as well as launch new trade fairs in China… more
Feb 13, 2018
Last week, Hong Kong Fashion Week for Fall/Winter concluded its 49th edition at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), attracting some 14,000 buyers from 76 countries and regions. Running from 15th to 18th January, Fashion Week is organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Approximately 1,400 exhibitors from 13 countries and regions showcased a wide variety of fashion products. During the four-day fair, more than 20 fashion shows were held as well as a number of other seminars and presentations. HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau, stated, “We… more
Feb 13, 2018
The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2018 was held in Chiang Mai this week running from 22nd to 26th January. During ATF, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) launched the ASEAN MICE Conference which aims to connect Southeast Asia’s business events stakeholders. The conference featured prominent speakers from Thailand and around the region. Delegates shared data, ideas, perspectives and business event related statistics from across Southeast Asia. In addition to the conference, TCEB also organised a networking event bringing together NTO officers and business events stakeholders… more
Feb 13, 2018
The Philippines released details regarding its MICE Roadmap designed to attract more business events to the country. Some of the new measures include reducing the cost of organising business events as well as addressing a variety of other issues that hamper the development of the local business events industry. To reduce the cost of doing business, the Philippines have eliminated its “common carriers” tax and billings tax. Both the government and private sector will form a technical working group to develop policies, improve infrastructure, and share data aimed at supporting the industry.… more
Feb 13, 2018
Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd has acquired Thailand Lighting Fair and Thailand Building Fair to expand the worldwide portfolio of its Light + Building brand of trade fairs. Powered by Messe Frankfurt since their inception in 2015, the two fairs now will officially form part of the Light + Building family that totals 14 fairs around the globe. “The Light + Building brand of shows is well-recognised around the world for its high quality event format and its power to attract the best in the industry. Adding the Thailand Lighting Fair and Thailand Building Fair to this growing… 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.