Sep 24, 2017
The Foundation of the Food Processing Suppliers Association (FFPSA) presented a donation of $100,000 to the Greater Chicago Food Depository during PROCESS EXPO last week. The donation, a result of its DEFEAT HUNGER Campaign, included food products donated by PROCESS EXPO exhibitors and money raised through virtual donations, which is the equivalent of 400,000 meals, and will be used to help fight hunger in the Greater Chicago Area. The presentation took place during PROCESS EXPO, a trade show dedicated to all segments of the food and beverage processing industry, that took place at… more
Sep 24, 2017
NACE Automechanika, a show dedicated to high-end technical and management-related training for automotive collision and service repair shops, returned to Chicago July 26-29. More than 360 leading suppliers displayed new automotive service and repair technologies, while connecting to nearly 8,000 attendees who took part in activities throughout Automotive Service and Collision Repair Week. "NACE Automechanika succeeded in bringing buyers and sellers together on the show floor and in the training rooms, where we provided four days of high-quality education to automotive service and collision… more
Sep 22, 2017
Move over photo booths and gamification – virtual reality could soon be taking the event entertainment world by storm. From exploring underwater worlds and creating large 3D drawings to battling alien spaceships or brain-eating zombies, virtual reality games and experiences at events provide attendees with immersive and engaging experiences that not only help make events more fun, but also more memorable. Geared specifically toward corporate meetings, conventions, trade shows and private parties, VR Arcade NOLA is a mobile virtual reality entertainment company that offers interactive VR… more
Sep 22, 2017
FABTECH 2017 is adding a new twist to its opening keynote presentation by embracing the popular TED Talks concept. Featuring short, inspirational talks given by industry visionaries relaying messages about transformation, growth and the future of manufacturing, the “FABx Tech Talks” will kick off the keynotes on the first day of the annual trade show and conference for the metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing industries. Set for Nov. 6-9 at McCormick Place in Chicago, the event is expected to attract more than 50,000 attendees and 1,700 exhibiting companies spanning more than… more
(L to R) Louisville CVB's Karen Williams, Connect's Cjris Collinson, Louisville Mayor's Chief of Staff Ellen Hesen
Sep 22, 2017
Louisville’s nearly $1 billion in tourism infrastructure improvements, which includes expanding the Kentucky International Convention Center and opening the Omni Louisville Downtown, has attracted yet another big-name event – Connect Marketplace. Connect Marketplace is a leading event in the meetings, events, travel and tourism industry and will be held in Louisville Summer 2019. "We are more than excited to partner with our friends at Louisville CVB by bringing our largest Connect event of 2019 to its unique and inviting city," said Chris Collinson, president of Connect. He added, "… more
Sep 20, 2017
In this day and age, association and event professionals are forever tasked with finding new and innovative ways to attract new members, drive show attendance and engage their audiences before, during and after their events. As storytelling has become an essential part of branding, video has established itself as a powerful and captivating platform, with content that can be easily shared and used over multiple marketing tactics. No one knows this better than mdg, which has been busy building its suite of marketing services over the past decade by incorporating of new tools, technologies and… more
Sep 19, 2017
As a full-service trade show exhibit provider, TradeTec Skyline relies heavily on the creative talent of professional designers. Yet, it goes without saying that a creative industry can’t survive without new generations of young professionals moving into the field. To keep its industry thriving, TradeTec makes a practice of giving back to the design community by fostering the development of up-and-coming designers via regular educational events designed to teach college students how to take their education into the professional world, as well as inspire them to apply for the company’s design… more
Sep 18, 2017
TSNN, the top online news source for the trade show industry, launched Corporate Event News (www.CorporateEventNews.com) - a brand new web site and enewsletter for corporate event professionals. This new online hub for industry news, insights, and original content will focus on the information, education and tools for high level corporate meeting and event marketers. Led by Rachel Wimberly, 7-year president and editor-in-chief for TSNN and newly appointed president of Tarsus Media, the free-access Corporate Event News site and free weekly e-newsletter (subscribe HERE) will feature… more
Sep 15, 2017
To commemorate the completion of its $140 million expansion and renovation project, the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio did what most event facilities would do: host a grand reopening celebration to show off its newly expanded and beautified digs. But instead of just carrying out the usual fanfare at this special event, held Aug. 31, the downtown Columbus facility had another surprise up its sleeve: the reveal of a giant, 3-D interactive art piece. “As We Are” is a 14-foot, 3-D human head-shaped sculpture made from ribbons of ultra-bright LED screens. Created by… more
Sep 14, 2017
Clarion Events appointed Greg Topalian CEO of Clarion UX and LeftField Media. The event veteran’s 20-year career has included launching New York Comic Con in 2006 and founding boutique event company LeftField Media in 2014. With his reputation for building dynamic cultures in the markets he serves, Topalian’s people-first approach and ability to attract and retain top talent have propelled the growth of his events both organically and through acquisition, according to Clarion officials. “We see a great future for the Clarion UX business,” said Simon Kimble, chairman of Clarion Events. He… 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.