Meetings Mean Business Set to Launch First-ever Global Meetings Industry Day
July 25, 2015
Following on the heels of the North American Meetings Industry Day, Meetings Mean Business will launch the first-ever Global Meetings Industry Day April 14 next year, which will showcase the impact that business meetings, conferences, conventions, incentive travel, trade shows and exhibitions have on people, business and communities.
“GMID will unite the meetings industry in a way that has never been done before,” said David Peckinpaugh, MMB co-chair and president of Maritz Travel. “The growth and success of our industry are critical to the world’s economy and we look forward to communicating our value on the global stage.”
GMID marks the expansion of North American Meetings Industry Da, held earlier this year in the United States, Canada, Mexico and parts of Latin America.
NAMID included 88 events across the continent as well as robust conversations online and 3.2 million social media impressions.
Proclamations of support were issued by the governor of Wisconsin and mayors of Toronto, Buffalo and Washington, D.C.
A NAMID billboard was featured all day in Times Square and Caesars Entertainment “Turned the Strip Blue” in Las Vegas with NAMID logos and signage. In Mexico, a collaboration agreement was signed between the federal government, the tourism board and all 11 Meetings Industry Associations.
In 2016, MMB will again join forces with the Convention Industry Council (CIC) and other industry partners to host advocacy events and rallies, issue proclamations and champion the value of the meetings and events industry on social media.
“By recruiting individuals and organizations from every corner of the globe, we’ll demonstrate the critical role our industry plays in building personal relationships, driving positive outcomes and supporting strong communities,” said Michael Dominguez, MMB co-chair and senior vice president of corporate sales at MGM Resorts International.
He added, “During NAMID, we saw three countries stand together with one loud and powerful voice advocating for our industry. Next year, we’ll do one better and bring together industry partners across the globe to stand with us.”
According to Karen Kotowski, CEO of Conventions Industry Council, the goals of GMID will be similar to not only to those of NAMID, but also the first Meetings Industry Day, launched by Meeting Professionals International more than twenty years ago.
“Our core objectives will be to define and shape the meetings and events profession in the future, help raise the industry’s profile and discuss the economic impact of meetings with people outside the industry, who are impacted by it every day,” she said. “We’re eager to engage everyone in the meetings and events community – from the grasstops to the grassroots – to demonstrate our value and strength.”
Stuart Taylor, Canada Chapter Business manager for Meeting Professionals International added, “GMID isn’t just about creating a series of industry events. It’s about elevating and empowering our community to raise awareness of our impact – economically, environmentally, socially and intellectually. I am thrilled to be involved in this effort.”
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.
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