News

Nov 26, 2021
Members of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) released a white paper underscoring the importance of event organizers posing key questions to suppliers and vendors when processing their customers’ data. The creation of the white paper became crucial since the pandemic has significantly accelerated the adoption of digital solutions by event organizers over the last 18 months, according to Douglas Emslie, group CEO of Tarsus Group.  “As a result, there has been a substantial increase in the data ‘we’ are collecting on our customers and their behaviors, as well as an… more
Nov 24, 2021
As the excitement builds to be reunited once again for “The Show of Shows” in Philadelphia Dec. 7-9, full-service event production company Shepard is making notable strides for the greater good, while inviting IAEE Expo! Expo! attendees to do the same as well as share their next steps for the future during this pivotal time. As part of its Shepard GO (Go Outwardly) philanthropic initiative, the company believes Expo! Expo! is the ideal place to unveil its new alliance with Soles4Souls. The organization turns unwanted shoes and clothing into opportunity by putting them to good use—providing… more
Nov 24, 2021
The co-chairs of the Meetings Mean Business Coalition (MMBC), an industry-wide coalition created to showcase the undeniable value that business meetings, trade shows, incentive travel, exhibitions, conferences and conventions bring to people, businesses and communities, recently provided an update about next year’s Global Meetings Industry Day. Set for April 7, 2022, GMID is the meeting and event industry’s annual day of advocacy that shines a light on the positive impact that conferences, conventions and trade shows have on people, businesses and the economy. “For the seventh consecutive… more
Nov 23, 2021
The Golden State’s official marketing organization was popping plenty of Mumm Napa cuvee at IMEX America 2021 in Las Vegas earlier in November, as it officially unveiled a $4.5 million initiative to invest and market in the professional meetings and events space for the first time in its history. “We're here today to celebrate that California has reopened and is ready for business, and we really feel like 2022 is going to be a monumental year for the state, said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California, before revealing the state’s new “Meet What’s Possible” campaign, which… more
Nov 23, 2021
As the trade show industry continues its return to in-person and exhibiting companies look forward to re-emerging at live events next year, some organizations may be taking a hard look at their exhibit properties and how they can make sure that all visitors remain safe and socially distanced. To understand how companies can design eye-catching exhibits that also adhere to the latest health and safety guidelines, TSNN consulted with the experts—in this case, Adam Deming, creative director of exhibit design at Skyline, to find out what exhibitors should be keeping in mind as they prepare to… more
Nov 22, 2021
After more than two years without an in-person show in North America, InfoComm brought the pro audiovisual industry together once again to connect, learn and celebrate the industry’s resilience in the face of adversity. Held Oct. 22-29 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., the annual technology trade show and conference welcomed 7,335 in-person attendees, who gathered face-to-face to interact with technology, meet and conduct business, learn about the latest trends and celebrate industry leaders. “InfoComm is the home for commerce, networking and learning in the AV… more
Nov 19, 2021
In another move aimed at boosting the industry’s recovery through the full return of in-person professional meetings and events, the Meetings Mean Business Coalition (MMBC) and the U.S. Travel Association announced the full integration of the coalition under the U.S. Travel umbrella. With the assimilation, MMBC will strengthen its critical mission of uniting the meetings and events industry with one strong and powerful voice. The coalition will benefit more directly from U.S. Travel’s robust public affairs resources and advocacy network while providing greater value to coalition members as… more
Nov 19, 2021
Raised in a small university town in North Carolina, where both of his parents were English professors, Joe Davy was self-taught when it came to tech smarts, which have been top of mind for him since childhood.  “I learned to program on our 386 PC desktop at home using a manual for a Tandy 2000 computer that I found in a box of free books at my parents’ office,” he said.  Davy’s early interest in technology and programming eventually turned into an interest in business and entrepreneurship. “I was lucky to meet a few life-changing mentors and friends who shaped me into who I am today,” he… more
Nov 17, 2021
The flurry of new hires in the events industry continues unabated, particularly at destination marketing organizations and industry associations. Check out who’s landing new career opportunities or moving up the ladder: Arlington CVB Following a nationwide search, the Arlington CVB (ACVB) has tapped Brent DeRaad, current president and CEO of Visit Tucson, as its new president and CEO, effective Dec. 6. He is replacing Ron Price, who has served as the ACVB’s president and CEO since 2013. Price resigned in May to head up Visit Phoenix.  DeRaad brings more than 20 years of hospitality… more
Nov 17, 2021
Organizing a safe, productive and memorable event for thousands of attendees in a new pandemic world is one thing—doing it for your industry and proving it was a testament to its resiliency and ability to successfully recover is another. The energy and excitement were palpable at IMEX America 2021, held at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas Nov. 9-11, as attendees disembarked from shuttle buses and eagerly proceeded into the event. They happily showed proof of COVID-19 vaccination on their smart phones before heading onto the show floor to reunite with industry colleagues,… more
Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact