Atlanta Closes Out 2014 with Record Number of Meetings, Jump in Hotel Occupancy
January 6, 2015
Last year was a good one for Atlanta, with the city’s convention and visitors bureau unveiling that the city not only had a record number of citywide conventions, but it also hit milestones in hotel occupancy.
Atlanta hosted 21 major citywides in 2014 that generated more than $750 million in direct economic impact and drew nearly a million convention and event attendees, according to the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.
By year-end, occupancy levels for Atlanta neared 70 percent, a high not seen in the city in more than a decade.
As of November 2014, Atlanta ranked No. 1 for the highest growth rate in occupancy among the top 25 U.S. markets, according to Smith Travel Research (STR).
Atlanta’s convention hotels also experienced 11 percent occupancy growth from group meetings in 2014, which outpaced the top 25 U.S. metros that averaged four percent growth.
“These positive lodging numbers serve as evidence of Atlanta’s momentum in attracting new and return business,” said William Pate, president and CEO of ACVB.
He added, “Atlanta’s unparalleled accessibility and $1.5 billion in new development make the city a convenient and exciting destination for planners.”
Last year’s shows in Atlanta also saw strong attendee numbers. At the close of the year, 21 of the 23 largest conventions that met in Atlanta in 2014 met or exceeded their attendance goals.
American Coatings biennial Show met in Atlanta for the first time and experienced a 16 percent increase in attendance and 20 percent increase in exhibit space, compared with their 2012 show, which was held in Indianapolis.
Return clients also experienced growth. International Woodworking Fair (IWF), which meets biennially, attracted more than 23,450 attendees.
In addition, biennial supply chain and manufacturing giant MODEX welcomed a record 23,000 attendees in 2014.
This year looks to be off to a strong start as well. This month, conventions will draw approximately 200,000 attendees and garner an estimated $200 million in economic impact.
Major shows that will jumpstart Atlanta’s business for the year include AmericasMart International Gift and Home Furnishings Market, one of the largest markets of the year, and the annual International Production and Processing Expo (IPPE), which was named one of TSNN’s fastest-growing shows at the TSNN Awards held in November in Cleveland.
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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