Experiential Agencies Gravel XP and GES Events Join Forces
December 2, 2019
Experiential marketing and live event production agencies Gravel Experiential and GES Events are teaming up. The two companies will work together to broaden their existing client base with a focus on corporations searching for top-notch event production in new and emerging markets.
While both GES Events and Gravel XP offer similar services, the two are also complementary in many ways. Gravel XP has a long history supporting U.S.-based events in specialized industries including consumer packaged goods, alcohol and spirits, pharmaceutical, technology and consultancies. Its services are amplified by the breadth of resources and global expertise that GES Events can offer. As part of the extensive GES portfolio, GES Events produces flagship events, corporate events, branded experiences and entertainment experiences, and manages experiential programs for brands across a diverse industry base.
“Leaning into the expertise of GES Events allows Gravel XP to provide a larger service offering to our clients, specifically as it relates to corporate events on a larger scale,” explains Kristin Quinn, chief growth officer for Gravel XP. “We are thrilled to be able to help clients with their events anywhere on the globe and know that we have a like-minded partner to support us.”
The strategic partnership is designed to help both companies enhance their client-engagement capabilities while also offering more customized experiences for new customers.
“Our clients’ success demands breakneck speed and the ability to stand out from other companies, and we are committed to providing them with unique solutions along with the very best service and value,” says Dan Hilbert, executive vice president of GES Events. “Gravel XP is a high-caliber partner, offering tremendous experience, coupled with a passionate and agile team that delivers out-of-the-box thinking and at the speed of today’s marketplace.”
According to GES Events and Gravel XP officials, the two agencies plan to grow the existing Gravel XP client base and also keep a close eye on high-growth industries such as emerging technology, finance, healthcare and alternative energy.
The Chicago-based Gravel XP is a certified women-owned business, which is good news for prospective clients that care about increasing diversity spend.
“Partnering with Gravel XP provides another opportunity for GES Events to extend our client base in new and emerging markets, as well as with businesses that are actively working to increase their engagement with a diverse supplier,” says Hilbert. “We see this as an opportunity to maximize our reach in an ever-changing and rapidly-paced experiential events landscape.”
Quinn added, “Our relationship with GES Events developed because we both share a strong commitment and culture in doing the very best for clients, events and for ourselves. It’s a perfect match. We couldn’t be more thrilled about this partnership, and we can’t wait to see what 2020 brings our way.”
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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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