News
Aug 16, 2017
With over 500 million users, LinkedIn’s potential to be a powerful tool for finding and engaging with relevant professionals is obvious. However, what isn’t obvious to many professionals is how they can tap into that potential and take full advantage of what LinkedIn has to offer.
After about a decade of using (and experimenting with) LinkedIn, I’ve developed a system for myself that’s works – in fact, about a third of my business now comes from LinkedIn. Here are some of the actions I’m taking and features I’m focusing on:
1. Set Realistic Expectations
LinkedIn isn’t magic. It’s a tool… more
Aug 15, 2017
When nearly 200 for-profit trade show executives and suppliers to the industry gathered Aug. 1-3 in Philadelphia, they were treated to a few days filled with not only with top-notch education sessions about everything from when or when not to launch and the latest event tech out there, but also valuable networking opportunities with their peers.
“This year’s program had a strong marketing focus to it, and we saw more marketing director types than usual. But the majority of the attendees continue to be from our core focus, vice presidents and show directors,” said SISO Executive Director… more
Aug 12, 2017
Trade Show News Network (TSNN), the No 1 online news site for the trade show industry in the U.S., unveiled its newly designed web site and suite of TSNN e-newsletters.
“TSNN reaches more than 150,000 trade show and event professionals through our TSNN web site and newsletters every month,” said TSNN President and Editor-in-chief Rachel Wimberly.
She added, “We were thrilled to work with ASP on the design and Fantail on the implementation of this engaging, resourceful, informative and beautifully designed site.”
ASP also re-designed TSNN’s e-newsletters, and EXPOmktg implemented the… more
Aug 10, 2017
Embracing its strategy to be an end-to-end solutions provider for their existing and potential clients, MCI acquired Dallas-based Wyndham Jade, an event and travel management company specializing in integrated convention housing and registration, site selection, meeting management, incentive programs and business travel management, serving both associations and corporations.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The addition of Wyndham Jade becomes a key component of MCI USA’s Meetings, Conventions and Incentives platform serving both associations and corporations and further accelerates… more
Aug 10, 2017
The Savannah International Trade & Convention Center was awarded LEED Gold certification for Existing Buildings by the U.S. Green Building Council, making it the first convention center in Georgia and one of a handful of U.S. convention facilities to attain a gold level rating.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a green building rating system for the design, construction, operations and maintenance of sustainable buildings.
“The Savannah International Trade & Convention Center is committed to environmental and social responsibility and has established itself as… more
Aug 08, 2017
National Trade Productions has launched a rebrand of its NTP Events client exposition management division that includes a new visual component, vision and mission statement.
The intention behind the rebranding process is threefold: to distinguish NTP Events from its parent company; to develop a distinct identity that accurately reflects the importance of its client management services and to clarify the division’s corporate structure to the exhibitions and events industry, according to Christopher Harar, who took the helm as NTP Events president in February of last year.
“The tagline, ‘We… more
Aug 08, 2017
In response to growing customer demand, SmartSource Computer & Audio Visual Rentals has expanded its Las Vegas operations center.
Designed to maximize productivity, efficiency and safety, the company’s new 39,000 square foot space features a new production center with advanced information technologies to support upgraded internal networking and equipment configuration.
“SmartSource’s Las Vegas location is doubling the size of its operation in response to steady growth in the local market, enabling the company to be more responsive in supporting our larger trade shows and events, as… more
Aug 07, 2017
The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) named Jonathan “Skip” Cox a the 2017 KLI Legend of the Industry.
Each year, IAEE selects a KLI "Legend of the Industry" whose contributions, innovation and leadership truly have been unique and remarkable.
“I am truly honored to be named the IAEE Legend of the Industry for 2017,” Cox said. “I have been involved with IAEE and the exhibitions industry for the span of my career, and it is humbling to have my service to the industry recognized by IAEE and its board of directors.”
Cox joined Exhibit Surveys, Inc… more
Aug 06, 2017
The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) recently issued a design and feasibility Request for Proposal (RFP) for master planning services for the 70-acre campus of the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center (BCEC) in South Boston.
“It has been a dynamic and disruptive decade in our industry which has mirrored the dramatic changes that have occurred in South Boston,” said David Gibbons, MCCA's executive director.
He added, “This is an exciting and appropriate time for the Authority to evaluate where we stand in the convention marketplace. We are asking our customers what… more
Aug 05, 2017
The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Nominating Committee met on Aug. 25 in Chicago to determine the final slate from the extraordinary nominee applications for the 2018 open board officer and director positions.
After vigilant due diligence and deliberation, the committee offers the following slate of candidates for leadership positions on the 2018 PCMA Board of Directors.
According to the PCMA Bylaws, this official announcement of the proposed slate is to be sent to the membership by Oct. 1.
The nominating process, according to the Bylaws (Article XII, Section 1(d… 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.