Rachel Wimberly
Rachel Wimberly is EVP of business development and M&A for Tarsus U.S. She also oversees TSNN and Corporate Event News.
Please Stop Asking If Attendance ‘Was Down’ at Shows Running Right Now
August 20, 2021
Since the beginning of July, I have been to several trade shows and events all over the U.S. and inevitably when I talk to people afterward, one of the very first few questions they ask is "how many attendees and/or exhibitors were at the show?"
Jennifer Hoff, president of Taffy Event Strategies and Trifecta Events, said that after she and her team recently ran the Coverings trade show in Orlando, she was asked the same thing about attendance at the event.
“I told them ‘You are asking the wrong question!’” Hoff said.
In the middle of a pandemic, with a show that has a heavy international presence, of course there were not the same number of buyers and sellers as a normal year, but Hoff added, it was an incredibly vibrant and very engaged showfloor.
For any buyer who decides to go to a show right now you can pretty much bet they are motivated ones who are there to place orders and get business done.
I have been to two Tarsus Group shows recently – Foam Expo in Novi, Mich., and the OFFPRICE Show in Las Vegas – and before both shows, the teams were crossing fingers and hoping the buyers who registered showed up on the exhibit floor.
Both shows did not have the same showfloors as normal, but the buyers still came and beat expectations. And, they not only came, but they also were very engaged and order writing was busy.
As a result, the exhibitors were happy that they had taken a chance and made the investment to be at the show.
If anything, I have heard from other shows that the main complaint they actually are receiving right now from the attendees is they wished MORE exhibitors would have been on the showfloor.
So, please stop asking show organizers how many attendees and exhibitors there are right now, but ask them instead: what was the energy on the showfloor? Was business getting done?
I will absolutely guarantee you – the exhibitors and attendees who ARE coming to shows are very grateful for the opportunity to finally meet face-to-face again.
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.
Add new comment