Orange County Convention Center Finishes 2021 on a High-Note

Following the unprecedented impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) has experienced an exceptional first quarter – finishing 2021 on a high note. The Center of Hospitality has welcomed many long-standing clients and new conventions and trade shows, after many went virtual last year. As the OCCC and hospitality industry embrace 2022, the focus remains on working with both new and existing clients to ensure the Center is doing Business Better than Usual.

From October through December 2021, the OCCC generated an estimated $370 million in economic impact for Orange County across 42 events, with approximately 221,500 attendees.

In October, the Specialty Tools and Fasteners Distributors Association (STAFDA) hosted its 2021 Annual Convention and Trade Show at the OCCC from Oct. 24-26, 2021. Relocated from another destination, STAFDA welcomed nearly 2,400 industry leaders generating an estimated economic impact of $6.1 million for the Orange County community.

In November, the Center had the pleasure of hosting the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo, the global leader for all leisure and attractions professionals. After foregoing an in-person event in 2020, IAAPA hosted more than 28,000 international amusement park and attraction industry professionals. This event is expected to create an economic impact of approximately $79.6 million for Orange County.

IAAPA

Finally, the OCCC will round out the quarter by hosting its furry friends at the American Kennel Club (AKC) for its National Championship presented by Royal Canin. This year’s event will showcase the country’s top canine athletes. From Dec. 14 through Dec. 19, AKC will bring approximately 25,000 attendees for an estimated economic impact of $64.2 million to the Center.

After an unprecedented year, the OCCC is thrilled to be experiencing a steady event calendar and looks forward to a strong 2022. By continuing to leverage regional partnerships and enhanced safety protocols, the Center remains focused on instilling confidence and maintaining its long-held reputation as a leader in the conventions and trade show industry.

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.