Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Shepard Exposition Services Both Score Show Contracts

July 8, 2012

Two suppliers – the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and Shepard Exposition Services – both scored lucrative events contracts.

Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference 2012 will take place July 8-12 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

An estimated 15,000 attendees representing technology companies in 156 countries will take part in the event, according to show organizers.

WPC 2012 is set to be three times bigger than the last time the event was in Toronto in 2004.

"Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Conference is one of the world's most prestigious and advanced conferences; being selected as a venue is a testament to our ability to host major events," said Barry Smith, president and CEO of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.  

He added, "We welcome the boost to our local economy - an estimated $39 million in visitor spending - and the incredible opportunity to showcase our city and vibrant information technology sector."

Because of the size and sophistication of WPC, participating venues are coordinating efforts to create Toronto's largest ever 'Campus Network'.

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Air Canada Centre, Intercontinental Hotel, and the Sheraton Centre Hotel will be coordinating to run on the same computer network, providing participants with access to shared files, data, and information.

"Partners play a significant role in the Microsoft ecosystem and WPC is our chance to thank them and celebrate our mutual achievements," said Kati Quigley, senior director of Worldwide Partner Community Events for Microsoft.

She added, "With Toronto serving as our setting for this year's WPC, we will enable partners to collaborate with each other, while simultaneously showcasing our vision and strategies that can help them ultimately drive revenue in the coming year."

Shepardalso recently reached an agreement with Exponation to produce Digital Signage Expo and LightShow/West, along with their new event, LightShow/East.

Digital Signage Expo is the world’s largest international trade show dedicated to digital signage, interactive technology and out-of-home networks.

Digital Signage takes place annually in the spring at the Las Vegas Convention Center.   LightShow/West is a biennial event that is held in October at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

“We are excited about the opportunity to produce these three major events,” said Kevin Bird, Shepard’s director of sales and marketing.

He added, “We look forward to what we think will be a long-standing partnership.

Add new comment

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.