3 Products to Cut Down on Germs at Trade Shows and Events
July 23, 2020
With concern over germs at perhaps an all-time high, event organizers must rethink areas that are traditionally high-touch at conferences and trade shows. These three companies have options to help decrease the risk of spreading the coronavirus at events.
Antimicrobial Handrails
Ad Rail USA — which is working with major events including CES, RECon, AAFP, AWS Public Summit, Microsoft Inspire, NADA, VMWorld and others — has an antimicrobial handrail media that can significantly cut down germs on escalators. The handrail graphics include a special additive in lamination that has been tested effective against 99.9 percent of bacteria, according to Gianni Cotteta, president of Ad Rail USA. The company launched in 2008 for malls and airports, then expanded to convention centers and events about six years ago—but this product is now seeing more interest than ever. “I've been telling our customers about our antimicrobial benefit for 12 years,” says Cotteta. “However, up until now, revenue has been the main focus and key driver for our clients.” The added benefit here is that these handrail graphics can be branded, providing a perfect sponsorship opportunity.
Sneeze Shield Registration Counters
Registration is typically a high-contact situation at trade shows. To make these areas safer, Kansas City-based Liberty Exposition Services has debuted a new design for registration counters with plexiglass barriers as a response to the pandemic. “Our main goal was to ensure that show management, exhibitors and attendees feel safe and comfortable once they step foot on the show floor again,” says Madison Styhl, a sales associate with Liberty. “These sneeze guards create a protective barrier between staff and those who are registering for the event.” The first event to use the new design was at the Interface conference at Overland Park Convention Center in Overland Park, Kansas. In addition, Liberty also offers hand-sanitizing stations, social distancing floor clings and plastic barriers.
Germ-Free Pens
Branded promotional pens are a ubiquitous staple at trade shows, but with the possibility of many hands touching them at registration or in expo booths over the course of an event, they may not be as safe to use or give away anymore. Jackson, Tenn.-based The Pen Guy offers a line of antimicrobial, antibacterial pens made with special additives that help prevent the spread of bacteria and allergens. According to company CEO Gary Austin, having a mindful strategy to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria at live events is more important than ever. “Our special line of antimicrobial and antibacterial pens uses a unique manufacturing process to prevent the spread of bacteria and allergens, and provides you with a creative, health-conscious way to share your business brand and story,” he says.
What new products are you turning to in planning future trade shows to keep your exhibitors, staff and attendees safe? Tell us in the comments below.
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.
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