SEMA Show Supercharges with Record Number of Exhibitors
November 1, 2012
Burning rubber, work-of-art rides and a Hackathon were just part of the action at the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show that took place Oct. 30-Nov. 2 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
The anchor of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week, this more of an immersive automotive experience than just a trade show attracted 130,000-plus attendees, spanned just over a million net square feet and set a record with 2,257 exhibitors, about a 100 more than the best show in 2007.
"This a blockbuster show," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications.
Hurricane Sandy, which hit the East Coast a day before the show opened and caused thousands of flight cancellations, didn't seem to have significantly affected attendance at SEMA, MacGillivray said.
"We are lucky that the airlines and hotels have been very flexible to accommodate people,” he added. “Also, many attendees came early. With a catastrophic storm, there's that much more relief that people see value in our show and are finding ways to get here."
Even with all the hot rods and muscles cars in the limelight, much of the attention went to mobile electronics and vehicle technology.
"Automobiles now are rolling computers," MacGillivray said. "As an industry, we need to be able to demonstrate that we can do for consumers who are trying to modify their vehicles. We currently have 10 automakers at the show. Some mobile electronics exhibitors have more launches here than at other shows."
The new SEMA Vehicle Technology Center in the middle of the Central Hall offered attendees educational sessions about what's hot on the tech front as well as ways to leverage new technologies and business opportunities in integrating consumer and automotive electronics.
Google, for example, presented a keynote on Self-Driving Car Technology, highlighting the company's pilot project with self-driving cars cruising the streets of San Francisco. It also is preparing to launch a new project in Ann Arbor, Mich., with vehicles being able to sense each other wirelessly and warn drivers about potential collisions.
Back at SEMA, super geeks could show off their mobile app programming skills in Pioneer's Hackathon geared at promoting integrating between mobile apps and vehicle technology, with more than $50,000 in prizes at stake.
Steady recovery also seemed to be the buzz on the packed showfloor lined with shiny rims, wild custom machinery and revved-up concept rides.
Exhibitor Mike Galvin with Featherline Inc. is planning to bring a 53-foot semitrailer to their space next year to better compete amid the sensory overload.
"It draws more people in," said Galvin, a 20-year show veteran. "The quality of the traffic is still up there but the amount has been less. If it wasn't a good show, I wouldn't have been coming back all these years."
Canadian attendee Mark Drinkwalter, with Marken Performance and Restoration, has been attending the show since 1995.
"I come to get new catalogues, see new products and reconnecting with the vendors," he said. "It seems busier than last year. There's so much to take everything in."
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.
Add new comment