Jul 02, 2015
Just days before Comic-Con International kicks off its annual convention, San Diego likely is breathing a huge sigh of relief, with its biggest event signing on to stay in the city through 2018.
With 130,000 attendees expected July 8-12 at the San Diego Convention Center, the event has grown so large, there was talk that it might move somewhere else when the current contract expired next year.
But, even with hotels booked for miles around and the halls filled to the brim with exhibits, the show will stay put.
“We are thrilled to be the home for Comic-Con International for two additional years… more
Jun 30, 2015
Nearly six years have passed since the $600 million expansion project was completed on the Phoenix Convention Center, providing attendees with nearly 900,000 square feet of event space.
Just steps away from downtown Phoenix, the convention center sits on a 26-acre campus and is linked to downtown and several hotels via the new light rail system.
The expansion provided several elements that positioned the convention center for the future. There is more than 300,000 sq. ft. of continuous exhibition hall space that connects the North and West Buildings, including 190,000 sq. ft. of virtually… more
Jun 29, 2015
Launched in 1992, Anime Expo, which promotes Japanese Pop Culture and the arts related to Japanese Animation, recently signed on to be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center through 2019.
The show, on tap July 2-5 and owned by the Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation, the show is billed as the largest anime convention in North America, with 100,000 attendees expected at this year’s event.
In 2014, the show attracted 80,000 attendees, and in 2013, the show drew 61,000 attendees.
“2015 marks Anime Expo’s 24th year and we are excited for another… more
Jun 26, 2015
The trade show industry continues to be busy, with several promotions and new hires within supplier and show management companies.
Rick McConnell, who already was president of Informa Exhibitions U.S. Construction & Real Estate, has expanded his role to include being named president of Informa Canada as well.
“McConnell’s tradeshow career, expertise in growing businesses and strong leadership skills made him the natural choice for this dual role in managing and growing these North American teams,” said Will Morris, CEO of Informa Exhibitions.
He added, “With his outstanding track record,… more
Jun 25, 2015
Following the trend of dropping the lengthier monikers, the Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau now is called Visit Anaheim.
After more than 20 years as AOCVCB, the bureau streamlined its name and introduced a new brand.
“A year’s worth of brand exploration, consumer, meetings and travel trade research told us clearly that we needed a name and brand that is reflective of our organization’s mission,” said Jay Burress, president & CEO, Visit Anaheim.
He added, “Visit Anaheim is a name that travel enthusiasts and conventioneers can easily find and understand. It evokes a… more
Jun 25, 2015
Even though Tropical Storm Bill was making land and approaching Austin, Texas, HITEC 2015 packed just as strong of a punch. The show June 15-18 at the Austin Convention Center and topped last year’s numbers, with more than 6,000 attendees, a sold out exhibit floor of 86,000 square feet and 823 exhibitors.
“We have seen standing room only in several boot camps, we sold out for exhibitors, and we see how important technology has become in the hospitality sector,” said Steven Stout, director of meetings and special events, HFTP.
He added, “There is a whole new world to keep up with, and IT… more
Jun 22, 2015
After 27 years with Reed Exhibitions, Chairman Mike Rusbridge will retire at the end of 2015. Chet Bruchett was promoted to CEO of the company earlier in the year.
“Mike’s achievement at Reed Exhibitions has been outstanding,” said Erik Engstrom, RELX Group CEO. “Over the two decades he has led the company and built the world’s largest exhibitions business, delivering consistent growth over 20 years. I wish him well for the future.”
Rusbridge joined Reed Exhibitions as its CEO Europe in 1988, becoming president of Europe and Asia in 1994 and appointed Chairman & CEO in 1996.
During… more
Jun 21, 2015
For the sixth year in a row, Healthcare Convention and Exhibitors Association partnered with a local charity at the site of their Annual Meeting, which was held June 20-23 in Denver.
Urban Peak helps youth experiencing homelessness and youth at risk for becoming homeless overcome real life challenges by providing essential services and a supportive community.
Their goal is to empower them to become self-sufficient adults.
HCEA Annual Meeting attendees had the opportunity to help Urban Peak in a number of ways, including a community service project, “Chip for Charity” golf outing and “Dots for… more
Jun 21, 2015
When PACK EXPO Las Vegas kicks Sept. 28-30 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, it will be collocated with Pharma Expo – which will have the latest manufacturing advances for the pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, nutraceutical and medical device industries.
Pharma EXPO is produced in partnership by PACK EXPO owner and organizer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, and the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE).
Together, the two shows will provide access to 2,000 processing and packaging solutions providers and 30,000 attendees.
“Co-locating… more
Jun 21, 2015
Asia was one of the major highlights of the 18th edition of Vinexpo 2015 in Bordeaux, and plans are well underway for the upcoming editions of the exhibition: Vinexpo Hong-Kong (May 24-26, 2016) and Vinexpo Tokyo (Nov. 15-16, 2016).
The Vinexpo brand has had a presence in Asia since 1998, and continues to grow and support the business goals of wine and spirits professionals in that part of the world.
Considered Asia’s business center, Hong Kong is a promising market for the wine and spirits industry. The 2016 Vinexpo Hong Kong will be a major international… 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.