Experts & Opinions
Nov 01, 2023
Creating a network of valuable trade show contacts requires a holistic approach. Preparation and follow-up are equally vital as on-site performance. Networking at trade shows works in the same way it does in other aspects of life. The only difference is that you have a true ally on your side during the trade show: a fantastic display with convincing booth workers.
Trade shows exhibits have always been essential for industry professionals to forge valuable connections, promote products and expand business horizons. Success hinges on innovation and efficiency, and networking at trade shows is… more
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Oct 25, 2023
The live events industry is roaring back to life, but this trend is more than just the post-pandemic surge in attendance. Customers don’t want the typical massive trade show or small business conference. They are increasingly demanding an experience.
Attendees are craving uniqueness, such as concierge service, VIP booths, gourmet food, virtual check-ins, mobile apps and much more. But how do you make your conference or corporate event stand out from the noise?
As the CEO of a major California event rental company, I oversee a company that services more than 12,000 annual events, and we’ve… more
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Oct 18, 2023
Sustainability is not just a trend within the trade show industry, it’s a foundational aspect of our operations. A task force of exhibition industry leaders recently released a report, revealing significant data encouraging us to adopt more environmentally conscious practices.
Emerald Carpets, an Exhibition Services & Contractors Association (ESCA) member and industry partner, has contributed to this shift with its recent white paper on carpet usage. Initially adopted for economic reasons in the 1970s, reusing carpets has become a cornerstone of sustainability, making it the premier eco… more
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Oct 11, 2023
As awareness of climate change increases, the public and private sectors face growing pressure to take action. This need for change is being driven not only by consumers but also by legislative and governing bodies.
Germany, for instance, recently introduced an act requiring large companies to observe social and environmental standards across their supply chain.Despite growing concern for sustainability, the term “sustainability” itself has become a buzzword that risks losing its true meaning. To enact true change, organizations must align with sustainability goals rooted in reality. This is… more
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Oct 04, 2023
Like every other industry, event professionals are both cautiously and optimistically watching as artificial intelligence and the ever-growing ecosystem of tools it empowers begins to shape and transform event planning. AI offers some obvious advantages and benefits for event planners, who are often inundated with data, extensive logistical and scheduling issues, communications needs, and many other processes which could stand to be streamlined by tech.
However, are there also drawbacks for event management platforms and professionals as AI continues to expand into the space? Here are some… more
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Sep 27, 2023
Artificial intelligence (AI) has undoubtedly been a hot topic of many event and conference agendas lately, but are we missing a trick?
There is no doubt that there have been significant advancements in AI technology and how it can support event businesses with marketing content, matchmaking and transcriptions, for example. However, one area is being overlooked: data and insight.
Exhibit managers and trade show organizers have faced a significant challenge over recent years: grappling with the overwhelming amount of data generated by their events and online activities, and knowing what to… more
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Sep 20, 2023
As the events industry continues to experience a significant bounce back after the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s no surprise that not everything is coming back easily. For some companies, it’s navigating the rapid surge back to in-person events after spending significant time and resources on developing virtual or hybrid infrastructure.
For others, it’s identifying new preferences of attendees for how event software is integrated into their event experience. Likewise, new expectations around the purpose of events and personalization of the event experience are also throwing event planners for a… more
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Sep 13, 2023
I try to go to Burning Man when I can and that may shock a lot of my peers and network. At first blush you might think it's all about drugs and nudity but this is NOT what Burning Man is about.
When Bob Priest-Heck and I joined forces at Immersa Marketing (many moons ago), our focus was on community. I asked him if I could go and "audit" Burning Man, and he agreed. I partnered with Cindy Shine and Shannon Malliet, and we made our way to Black Rock City, Nev. There were many lessons gathered on this pilgrimage as we tried to understand the difference between creating a "moment" vs. creating… more
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Sep 06, 2023
Diversity and inclusion in the workplace aren’t new concepts, but companies that organically realize these aspects in their culture undoubtedly see varied viewpoints and perspectives worked into their day-to-day operations. For some companies, this is simply part of their fabric and is quietly woven into their culture.
The practice of inclusion attracts a diverse group of people with unique perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that can positively weave into the work of your team and execution of events. Here are some ideas for fostering a more inclusive and diverse workplace at your… more
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Aug 30, 2023
This year, there’s been a significant increase in the trade show activity. Show managers and exhibitors are busier than ever. However, the concerns of 2019 are still here this year, plus two more: security and sanitation.
During the event planning process, be sure to take a holistic approach. Here are some questions or insights to ponder.
Overall Concerns for Show Managers
According to the UFI & Explori Global Visitor Insights report, managers need to address the following visitor pain points:
Seating: Does the convention center have enough seating for attendees to rest or network… more
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Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.