Association Show News

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Apr 22, 2024
In celebration of Earth Day 2024, we want to share highlights from our latest podcast interview with Honeycomb Strategies CEO and ASM Global Chief Sustainability Officer Lindsay Arell. These 10 takeaways highlight the multifaceted approach to sustainability in events, encompassing operational changes, partnerships, transparency and a broader industry shift towards sustainable practices. Integration of Sustainability Practices: Natural Products Expo West is one trade show that’s leading by example. The trade show has successfully integrated sustainability practices into nearly every aspect of… more
Apr 22, 2024
While 61% of exhibitors claimed unpredictable costs have a major influence on their decision to attend an event, 93% believe the quality of expected attendees is the most impactful outcome, even when compared to external constraints, according to “Event Excellence by Design,” a new report that takes an inside look at exhibitor objectives and provides show organizers with insightful data to help them design more impactful event experiences. Lead quality remains the No. 1 measure of success, even more than last year. When exhibitors were asked how they measure the value their organization… more
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Apr 17, 2024
More than 300 independent trade show executives, suppliers and industry media convened April 1-4 for the 2024 Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) CEO Summit at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Amelia Island, Fla. The pre-registered attendance was the highest ever for this event, said SISO CEO Vincent Polito. The previous attendance record was set in 2019 when 295 industry leaders gathered in April at The Sanctuary in Kiawah Island, SC. SISO welcomed 35 first-time attendees, said Clarion Events CEO Lisa Hannant, who is serving as this year’s SISO chair after Arc CEO Americas Mary Larkin… more
Apr 16, 2024
Three major U.S. trade shows reported successful – and in two cases, growing – editions in Las Vegas, Orlando and Philadelphia last month. Take a look at our roundup of major U.S. trade shows held in March. The NGA Show  Who, When & Where: The NGA Show, March 10-12, Caesars Forum Convention Center  Key metrics: 3,600 grocery retail industry professionals (a new attendance record), 350+ exhibitors and sponsors, spanning 55,725 square feet. Looking Back: The exhibit hall grew substantially from the prior year, which saw 290 exhibiting companies and more than 45,000 sq. ft. Best new… more
Apr 15, 2024
While exhibition rates are more broadly aligning with inflation this year, specific areas, such as material handling rates, continue to outpace inflation, according to the findings of the Annual Survey of Exhibition Rates. The Exhibitor Advocate — a non-profit organization dedicated to providing industry stakeholders with expert advice, research and tools to amplify the voice of exhibitors — has released its latest survey that analyzes labor and equipment costs across 24 major U.S. cities. This year’s report demonstrates that while trade shows continue to be a valuable sales and marketing… more
Apr 08, 2024
What’s the state of the exhibition industry in the Asia-Pacific region? In a TSNN exclusive, we interviewed Mark Cochrane, regional director of Asia-Pacific for UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, to get the scoop on the annual in-person Regional Conference held March 7-8 at the Parisian Macao (pictured). Serving in his role for nearly 14 years, Cochrane shared his insider’s view on what’s trending in the region for exhibitions. Here are excerpts from our conversation. Watch or listen to the full interview here. Regional outlook: It’s almost universally optimistic news,… more
Apr 05, 2024
After a nearly 20-year tenure at NYC Tourism + Conventions, Fred Dixon has been appointed president and CEO of the U.S.’s official destination marketing organization, Brand USA, effective July 15. He is succeeding Christopher Thompson, who announced his retirement in July 2023 and has held the role of president and CEO since 2012. Bringing more than 30 years of experience along with a proven track record of leadership in the travel industry to his new role, Dixon currently serves as president and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions, New York City’s official destination marketing organization, a… more
Apr 02, 2024
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) recently revealed its final attendance data for CES 2024, the association’s annual tech mega-event in Las Vegas. According to an audit by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM), the trade show and conference drew 138,739 participants, including buyers, booth personnel and media, revealing a 20% increase year over year (YOY). Last year’s show attracted 117,841 total participants, according to the CES 2023 Audit by AAM. Buyer numbers increased from last year but not at the same clip. In 2024, industry attendees representing buying organizations were verified… more
Apr 01, 2024
As spring takes hold across the U.S., event companies have been busy completing and announcing fresh acquisitions and strategic partnerships to bolster their businesses and expand their market share. Here’s our latest roundup of recent business deals and partnerships happening in the trade show industry. Newport International Boat Show Joins South Florida Ventures Portfolio The Newport International Boat Show (NIBS) has joined the growing portfolio of high-end boating and yachting events managed by South Florida Ventures, a luxury lifestyle division of Informa Markets. The company acquired… more
Mar 29, 2024
How does the event industry compare against other industries? In part one of our series, we shared an analysis of the KPMG 2023 CEO Outlook — the annual survey of 1,300 CEOs of the world’s largest businesses conducted by KPMG International. What is the current mindset of CEOs in the event industry? In part five of our series, general service contracting leaders shared what their top business concerns are now and moving into 2024, and how they and their organization are addressing them.  Did you miss any part of our series? Catch up on critical insights from thought leaders who represent the… more
Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.