Sep 11, 2018
The 2018 International Manufacturing Technology Show kicked off this week in Chicago by breaking new records for booths and exhibiting companies, as well as the most exhibit space ever reported in the show’s 91-year history.
Taking place Sept. 10-15 at McCormick Place, IMTS 2018 is boasting 2,123 booths representing 2,563 exhibiting companies spanning 1,424,232 square feet of expo space.
As of Sept. 7, the number of pre-registered visitors for the biennial show exceeded 113,000, which also is on pace for a possible record, according to officials from the Association for Manufacturing… more
Sep 11, 2018
In the wake of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements, addressing workplace harassment has never been more important or timely, including in the events industry. To address this pressing issue, the Events Industry Sexual Harassment Task Force will be hosting its first webinar on Sept. 26 at 11 a.m. ET, which is free and open to the public, with attendance within the events industry encouraged.
Titled “Understanding and Eliminating Workplace Harassment,” this interactive webinar will define workplace harassment, review the different types of sexual harassment and give participants a chance to make… more
Sep 07, 2018
Is the U.S. still attractive to the international market? In the face of the current Administration’s “America First” policy, how are trade shows being affected?
Those are questions we’ll be asking on our next #Expochat, set for Sept. 12 at 1 p.m. ET. Join us for what is sure to be a lively Twitter discussion as we examine the repercussions of the U.S.’s strained ties with its traditional allies and trading partners and how it’s impacting the trade show industry.
During this week’s chat, Moderator Stephanie Selesnick will be asking the following questions:
What is the current perception… more
Sep 07, 2018
The trade show industry continues to modestly grow into the second quarter of this year, according to the Center for Exhibition Industry Research.
The performance of the industry, as measured by the CEIR Total Index, posted a moderate year-over-year gain of 1.6 percent, even though it underperformed the macroeconomy.
“The growth of the exhibition industry should pick up the pace during the second half of the year as the economy remains strong despite uncertainties surrounding an escalating trade war and the political environment,” said CEIR Economist Allen Shaw, Ph.D., chief economist for… more
Sep 06, 2018
Following the combination of Informa and UBM, Informa Exhibitions has appointed Mark Temple-Smith as managing director for the Group’s Fashion Exhibitions business, which includes leading brands such as WWDMAGIC, COTERIE, PROJECT and PROJECT WOMENS, which all run twice a year in Las Vegas during MAGIC.
“We are pleased to have Mark take on this essential role as we focus on rolling out such an initiative so important to the fashion marketplace and dedicating the right resources – management, technology and branding – to supporting our customers’ success,” Informa Exhibitions CEO Charlie… more
Sep 05, 2018
Beginning in January of 2021, the Western & English Sales Association (WESA) will be relocating its International Western/English Apparel & Equipment Markets to the Dallas Market Center.
Known as the producer of the world’s largest trade events for the equestrian industry, the biannual event is moving from Denver Mart in Denver, Colorado, a venue it had called home for decades.
To be held each January and August, the WESA Markets in Dallas will be the largest global showcase of western and English resources as well as the global marketing headquarters for many of the largest… more
Sep 05, 2018
The trade show industry mergers and acquisitions market does not look to be slowing down any time soon, with another deal being announced today: GS Media and Events bought eight recreational vehicle, Boat & Outdoor Sports Consumer Shows from RJ Promotions for an undisclosed sum and ITE Group proposes to sell off part of its Russia division to Shtab-Expo.
“This acquisition for GS Events expands their reach into several new markets and makes them the dominant producer of RV related consumer shows,” said Nick Curci, president of Corporate Solutions. “GS Events was the natural buyer of… more
Sep 04, 2018
Just before the long holiday weekend in the U.S., two companies made portfolio sales that covered several conferences, a trade show and digital products.
AC Business Media sold its business-to-business portfolio that was comprised mainly of publications and one trade show to Florida-based private equity firm Boyne Capital.
The assets included in the sale are the following 12 publications, the DHI ConNextions trade show for the non-residential door and hardware industry, one digital marketing services brand, several related websites and digital products.
“This acquisition for Boyne… more
Aug 30, 2018
As the exhibitions industry continues to surge full speed ahead, more and more destinations are recognizing the need to upgrade, revamp and expand their convention centers in order to compete for major trade shows and events.
These days, myriad facilities are celebrating ground breakings, undergoing new construction projects or anticipating grand openings, while others have put their plans on hold. Here are some of the major U.S. convention centers proposing, building and completing bigger, better, state-of-the-art spaces.
Caesars Forum
On July 16, Caesars Entertainment broke ground on … more
Aug 29, 2018
The most recent edition of the 2018 Connect meetings series, which collocated Connect Association, Connect Corporate, Connect Sports, Connect Expo and Connect Specialty and was held Aug. 23-25 in Salt Lake City, Utah, added several new dimensions to the traditional hosted-buyer model of 1:to:1 meetings between industry suppliers and meeting planners.
“If you’ve got different buyer groups, you’ve got some scale and some opportunity for a lot of cross-fertilization and learning and a different experience that some people like,” said Doug Emslie, managing director at Tarsus Group, which owns a… more
Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here.
New Wave Experiences
Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024.
Enhanced Technology
Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space.
Refreshing New Design & Fine Art
The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights.
Sustainable Spectacles
Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles.
The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.