News

Apr 10, 2024
Exclusively sponsored by Honeycomb Strategies. Thinking of a sustainability certification? Many events and venues are. Certifications legitimize your organization’s efforts, and there are many worthwhile programs to consider. One notable and popular program, the Events Industry Council's (EIC) Sustainable Event Standards assess organizations in detailed, points-based criteria and awards applicants with a Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum rating for their percentage of compliance. Events, venues, general service contractors, vendors/suppliers can certify, with slightly different criteria for… more
Apr 09, 2024
Cvent CONNECT, an annual user conference that drew 10,000 meetings, events and hospitality professionals in 2023, in-person and online, unveiled its full 2024 agenda and its first keynote speaker, Blackstone Global Head of Portfolio Operations Jennifer Morgan. As the co-CEO of SAP, she is the first female to lead a company on the DAX, a stock market index consisting of the 40 major German blue-chip companies trading on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Previously held in Las Vegas, the 2024 edition of Cvent CONNECT is moving to San Antonio for the first time and will be held June 10-13 at the… more
Apr 08, 2024
What’s the state of the exhibition industry in the Asia-Pacific region? In a TSNN exclusive, we interviewed Mark Cochrane, regional director of Asia-Pacific for UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, to get the scoop on the annual in-person Regional Conference held March 7-8 at the Parisian Macao (pictured). Serving in his role for nearly 14 years, Cochrane shared his insider’s view on what’s trending in the region for exhibitions. Here are excerpts from our conversation. Watch or listen to the full interview here. Regional outlook: It’s almost universally optimistic news,… more
Apr 05, 2024
After a nearly 20-year tenure at NYC Tourism + Conventions, Fred Dixon has been appointed president and CEO of the U.S.’s official destination marketing organization, Brand USA, effective July 15. He is succeeding Christopher Thompson, who announced his retirement in July 2023 and has held the role of president and CEO since 2012. Bringing more than 30 years of experience along with a proven track record of leadership in the travel industry to his new role, Dixon currently serves as president and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions, New York City’s official destination marketing organization, a… more
Apr 04, 2024
Spring has sprung in the trade show and events industry, with organizations and suppliers far and wide touting staff promotions, executive team expansions and seasoned industry professionals joining their ranks. Here’s our roundup of the new hires and promotions. Edlen  Edlen Electrical Exhibition Services announced several promotions among its executive team members. Promoted to executive vice president, Zach Wetterling joined Edlen full-time in 2018 and has been responsible for the day-to-day operations in the company’s Mandalay Bay office in Las Vegas. He has worked with the Edlen team… more
Apr 03, 2024
For organizers who are truly serious about sustainability and lowering the environmental footprint of their trade shows, meetings and events, incorporating plant-forward menus is more than a culinary trend — it’s a strategic choice that aligns with broader societal shifts, especially among younger generations. By making this change, event organizers can not only enhance the attendee experience but also cut carbon and costs while contributing to a more sustainable and equitable world.  The demand for plant-based options is growing steadily, driven by a combination of health concerns,… more
Apr 02, 2024
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) recently revealed its final attendance data for CES 2024, the association’s annual tech mega-event in Las Vegas. According to an audit by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM), the trade show and conference drew 138,739 participants, including buyers, booth personnel and media, revealing a 20% increase year over year (YOY). Last year’s show attracted 117,841 total participants, according to the CES 2023 Audit by AAM. Buyer numbers increased from last year but not at the same clip. In 2024, industry attendees representing buying organizations were verified… more
Apr 01, 2024
As spring takes hold across the U.S., event companies have been busy completing and announcing fresh acquisitions and strategic partnerships to bolster their businesses and expand their market share. Here’s our latest roundup of recent business deals and partnerships happening in the trade show industry. Newport International Boat Show Joins South Florida Ventures Portfolio The Newport International Boat Show (NIBS) has joined the growing portfolio of high-end boating and yachting events managed by South Florida Ventures, a luxury lifestyle division of Informa Markets. The company acquired… more
Mar 29, 2024
How does the event industry compare against other industries? In part one of our series, we shared an analysis of the KPMG 2023 CEO Outlook — the annual survey of 1,300 CEOs of the world’s largest businesses conducted by KPMG International. What is the current mindset of CEOs in the event industry? In part five of our series, general service contracting leaders shared what their top business concerns are now and moving into 2024, and how they and their organization are addressing them.  Did you miss any part of our series? Catch up on critical insights from thought leaders who represent the… more
Mar 28, 2024
Connect is building upon its reputation as a leading provider of experiences, business opportunities and inspiration through an enhanced media coverage offering. Effective immediately, Connect’s portfolio will expand to include:          •       Trade Show News Network (TSNN), the prestigious online news outlet covering the exhibition, trade show, and events industries since 1996          •       MeetingsNet, the award-winning publication for market-segmented meeting decision- makers planning meetings          •       Corporate Event News, the media brand that reaches corporate event… more
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.