Las Vegas Scores Record-breaking Visitor Attendance in 2012; Sees Upticks in Events Held, Convention Attendees
February 10, 2013
Coming out of one of the worst economic periods in United States’ history, Las Vegas scored its highest visitor attendance record yet in 2012, and, while convention attendance was only up 1.6 percent from the prior year, the number of meetings and conventions held in the city were up more than 13 percent, compared with 2011.
Las Vegas welcomed 39.7 million visitors in 2012, approximately 500,000 more visitors than the previous high of 39.2 million set in 2007.
The record visitation generated more than $40 billion in economic impact for the local economy last year, according to Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority officials.
"The record visitation is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our resort partners and every employee who works in the industry," said Rossi Ralenkotter, president and CEO of the LVCVA.
He added, "Tourism is the economic leader for Southern Nevada and the entire state, so we are encouraged to see positive signs of continued growth for the industry. With more than $2 billion of reinvestment in the destination, Las Vegas is well positioned for continued growth in 2013 and on the threshold of hosting more than 40 million visitors."
Convention attendance also saw its highest uptick in four years in 2012, with 4.9 million delegates attending a convention, trade show or meeting, reflecting a 1.6 percent increase, compared with 2011.
Las Vegas also hosted 21,615 meetings, trade shows or conventions in 2012, up 13.6 percent from the 2011 total of 19,029.
The 2012 total is the highest number of meetings and conventions held in Las Vegas since 2008.
Driving some of these positive numbers was likely the National Mining Association’s quadrennial MINExpo International, held in September at the Las Vegas Convention Center and drawing 1,890 exhibitors, also up nearly 45 percent, and attracted more than 52,000 attendees, an increase of 41 percent.
The Consumer Electronics Association’s International CES, held each year in January at several venues around Las Vegas, had its largest show in history in 2012, with 156,153 in overall attendees.
“The 2012 International CES was the largest in show history and was bursting with innovation as the world’s most important technology event,” said Karen Chupka, senior vice president, events and conferences for CEA, said at the time.
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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