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GREEN MEETING NEWS
GMIC – Atlanta accepted as official GMIC Chapter
ATLANTA — The Green Meeting Industry Council approved the Atlanta Chapter as an official chapter of the organization. GMIC Atlanta filed and was accepted as an incorporated affiliate through the state of Georgia on October 16, 2009.
As one of the first city-affiliate chapters of the global GMIC organization, the Atlanta chapter formed in January 2009 and currently has more than 65 active members. Members are comprised of industry professionals who have joined together to build a cohesive and innovative green meeting environment in Atlanta. The chapter’s goal is to work with national leaders to build on Atlanta’s reputation as one of the greenest cities in America for meetings and events.
“It is truly an honor to work with a group of people who are intent on inspiring and fostering ideas toward sustainable efforts, not only in their meetings and events, but also in their homes and offices,” says GMIC Atlanta president Audrey Davies. “Our monthly educational and networking events are designed so that eyes are opened to the simple steps we all can take, as well as to encourage others to incorporate green practices.”
GMIC Atlanta seeks to promote sustainable practices within the Atlanta area meetings and hospitality industry in order to minimize the negative impact on the environment. This is accomplished through education, networking, and the collaborative efforts of the chapter’s stakeholders, balancing economic and environmental objectives. The goal is to serve as a resource for all in the meeting and hospitality industry through education, research, collaboration, and community involvement.
An affiliation with GMIC provides access to leading experts and resources in the “green” movement across the country. Supporting businesses or individuals have access to a wide range of resources and tools to connect with the industry’s greenest event planners and suppliers.
Nielsen Business Media sells eight titles
NEW YORK — After weeks of speculation and rumors, Nielsen Business Media confirmed this morning that it is selling The Hollywood Reporter, Billboard, Adweek, Brandweek, Mediaweek, The Clio Awards, Backstage and Film Journal International. The buyer is a newly formed company, e5 Global Media LLC. This joint venture includes investment from Pluribus Capital Management and Guggenheim Partners. Pluribus Capital was recently formed by publisher James Finkelstein as a vehicle for managing media companies; Guggenheim Partners is a global diversified financial services firm.
In addition to the titles and awards shows, Nielsen is selling to e5 the Film Expo business that includes ShoWest, ShowEast, CinemaExpo International and CineAsia.
Nielsen claims it remains committed to its remaining fleet of trade shows but that it will continue to look for “the strategic fit of other publications.” Since acquiring these print brands several years ago, Nielsen’s larger analytics and media services businesses always seemed an uncomfortable fit with print publishing.
The companies did not disclose terms of the deal but the transition will begin immediately, and the publications’ operations will remain in their current offices in New York and Los Angeles. The deal is scheduled to close on Dec. 31.
PEOPLE MAKING NEWS
Bartlett joins board of TradeshowLogistics
ATLANTA — TradeshowLogistics has announced the addition of Butch Bartlett to its board of directors.
Bartlett, who has more than 30 years experience in the trade show and event industry, will work with the board to expand the company’s marketing, sales, and strategic growth plans.
Bartlett was attracted to TradeshowLogisitics because it is a privately held business that emphasizes long term planning and maintains a responsive, nimble organization. He feels strongly that the industry can benefit from TradeshowLogistics’ unique UNcontractor business model.
“TradeshowLogistics has reinvented the way tradeshows are produced and their innovative approach offers a tremendous value proposition to both exhibitors and show organizers,” Bartlett said.
Bartlett began his career with Andrews-Bartlett, where he served as President and CEO from 1976 until 1993. When Andrews-Bartlett was purchased by GES in 1993, Bartlett continued as Senior Executive VP for almost five years, then became a consultant to the firm. Bartlett is also a member of the board of directors of SmartSource, a national computer and A/V rental company. His broad experience includes starting new companies, consolidating divisions and launching new products and services. At TradeshowLogistics, he will apply his expertise to strategic development, the creation of new opportunities and increasing the recognition of the TL brand.
B.J. Enright, President of TradeshowLogistics, says Bartlett’s experience will allow the company to explore new business concepts.
“Butch’s deep understanding of the tradeshow and events business ensures that we will continue to meet our customers’ diverse and evolving needs.”
3D Exhibits makes consultative deal with Dr. Bill Trombetta
 ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill.— 3D Exhibits, an award winning exhibit and event design, fabrication and management agency, has entered into an exclusive consultative agreement with Dr. Bill Trombetta, professor of pharmaceutical marketing at St. Joseph’s University.
Through this new partnership, Dr. Trombetta will support 3D clients with research-based input and strategic insights which 3D Exhibits will develop into face-to-face marketing strategies for clients in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
Dr. Trombetta will work with 3D clients to develop new strategies and marketing plans based on the assessment of a product, its target market, and how it dovetails with the company’s brand. Dr. Trombetta’s real-world research and experience will provide clients with fresh insights and accurate information that will facilitate the development of highly targeted—and increasingly successful—face-to-face marketing programs.
“In today’s complex and competitive marketplace, the stakes are too high to make marketing decisions based on gut feelings, straw polls, and casual observation. Dr. Trombetta’s strategic input and accurate research will give our clients an edge over the competition,” says Gene Faut, president of 3D Exhibits.
Dr. Trombetta is a respected expert on pharma, medical device, and healthcare marketing. He contributes regularly to Pharmaceutical Executive and has presented to audiences including the Pharmaceutical Education Research Institute, the Harvard Business School Alumni Association of Philadelphia, and the Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association’s Annual Meeting and Convention Marketing Summit.
San Diego North CVB adds VP of sales for National team
ESCONDIDO, Calif. — The San Diego North Convention & Visitors Bureau has hired hospitality industry veteran, Larry Kaufman, as vice president of sales. Bringing over 24 years of hospitality experience to his new position, Kaufman will be responsible for overseeing the Bureau’s seven-person national sales team based in Carmel Valley.
Kaufman, a 15-year San Diego resident, most recently worked for Noble House Hotels and Resorts in San Diego for six years as the area director of sales and marketing for the Paradise Point Resort & Spa, Hilton Mission Bay and Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs properties. Prior industry experience includes Starwood Hotels & Resorts as the area director of sales and marketing for 11 years, as well as, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts and Marriott Hotels & Resorts.
The national sales team, which has doubled in size over the last year and a half, markets the 2,000 square mile San Diego North resort region to meeting planners to assist in bringing groups, conferences and events to the region. With extensive hospitality experience, each team member is responsible for a designated niche market, identifying emerging markets and consistently creating a personalized and tailored experience for corporate, meeting and event planners.
Focusing on the San Diego North region, the Bureau’s sales department provides invaluable resources for meeting planners and hospitality venues; helping them save time and money through a complimentary, customized planning approach.
“Having worked for a variety of hotel properties throughout my career gives me a unique insight into how important the CVB’s role is in bringing group business into the San Diego North region,” said Kaufman. “We have the benefit of specializing in San Diego’s resort region and concentrating our efforts on the uniqueness of the brand and the variety of upscale amenities mixed with open spaces and natural beauty to deliver a preferred conference experience,” said Kaufman.
“Kaufman’s extensive hospitality experience, knowledge of emerging markets and leadership skills are the perfect mix as we continue to broaden our reach and market San Diego North as a preferred destination for small to medium sized group business,” said Cami Mattson, president and chief executive officer.
TECHNOLOGY NEWS
Cyclonix introduces world’s first exhibit rental App for iPhone
MORGAN HILL, Calif. — Cyclonix Inc, a creator of dynamic brand architecture, has launched the world’s first exhibit rental app for the iPhone. iCyclonix will enable event marketers to browse the Cyclonix catalog of custom modular and rental solutions 24/7 from wherever their busy schedules take them.
“Our clients are busy people, so we do whatever we can to reach out to them via their choice of technology,” says Marty McGreevy, president of Cyclonix.
The landmark app streamlines the custom modular and rental exhibit design process by providing an image-rich array of cost-effective exhibit solutions. Exhibitors can painlessly select from a wide variety of trend-setting designs customized for a personalized, show-stopping brand statement—either to purchase or rent at a substantial savings versus purchasing an exhibit.
The catalog includes everything from 10-foot-by-10-foot in-lines to large, two-story exhibits, as well as properties applicable to private events, expos and partner pavilions. The full range of available options includes graphic murals, plasma mounting capability, lockable storage and private meeting areas. A user-friendly, pictorial accessories section provides one-stop-shopping that includes signage, lighting, furnishings and promotional items. Via the nation-wide Exhibit Rental Network Cyclonix serves all major convention cities, enabling customers to realize further savings. Learn more at www.cyclonix.com.
ASSOCIATION MANGEMENT
WAEA picks Kellen for full service association management
NWE YORK, N.Y. — The board of directors of the World Airline Entertainment Association (WAEA) has selected Kellen Company as its association management company. Kellen Company is a global AMC with operations in New York, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Tucson, Brussels and Beijing.
A not-for-profit organization founded in 1979, WAEA is the official global association of more than 90 commercial airlines and 250 airline suppliers and related companies committed to excellence in the passenger inflight entertainment and communications experience.
“Kellen Company’s extensive experience in association management, global presence and seasoned team make it ideally suited to help the WAEA better meet the needs of its members,” said WAEA President, Patrick Brannelly. ”Kellen is an industry leader in non-profit management and we are confident that we have engaged a strategic partner that aligns perfectly with our mission.”
Effective January 1, 2010, WAEA will be headquartered in New York City, where Kellen Company will manage all aspects of WAEA, including financial services, strategic planning, education, government affairs, communications and events management. Kellen will apply its proven recruitment and retention strategies to enhance the WAEA membership experience, reinforcing WAEA’s leadership within the industry and maximizing opportunities for membership development and growth worldwide. Holly Koenig, a 22 year veteran of the association management industry, will serve as Executive Director.
“Kellen Company has more than 45 years experience managing associations,” said Peter Rush, chairman and chief executive officer, Kellen Company. “We look forward to applying our unique understanding and well-established best practices in association management to assist WAEA in accomplishing its goals now and for the continued enhancement of the inflight industry.”
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Resort Destination News
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Cesar Pelli, one of the principal artichects of Aria Resort & Casino, address the crowd during a dedication cermony of the centerpiece of City Center in Las Vegas. /Photo Vincent Hernandez TSE |
Aria Resort & Casino opens forever
changing the Las Vegas Strip
LAS VEGAS — Under a canopy of fireworks illuminating the night sky, ARIA Resort & Casino opened its doors this wee and welcomed its first guests.
Located at the heart of CityCenter, ARIA is the centerpiece of this extraordinary urban resort destination. Its debut signifies the official grand opening of this city-within-a-city, following two weeks of celebrations for the reveals of Vdara Hotel & Spa, Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas and Crystals retail and entertainment district.
Featuring an unprecedented combination of striking architecture, sustainable design, high-end service and spectacular amenities, the stunning ARIA has dramatically altered the skyline of the world’s most famous boulevard and will forever change the perceptions of the Las Vegas Strip.
Articles this week:
Also read exhibit expert Barry Siskind’s column
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Association News: IAEE Board
IAEE welcomes new board members; Elects Meyer 2010 Chair
 ATLANTA — The International Association of Exhibitions and Events announces the results of this year's election to its board of directors.
At the Annual Business Luncheon held Dec. 10, Chair Margaret Pederson passed the gavel to incoming Chair Chris Meyer, CEM, CMP, vice president of Sales for the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, who will serve through 2010.
Meyer has been in the exhibitions and events industry since 1984. He has extensive experience in the hotel, meetings and sales area. He is currently Vice President of Sales for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.
Prior to joining LVCVA, he held numerous sales and marketing management positions with multiple hotels, resorts and casinos in Las Vegas. He is a 1984 graduate, University of Nevada, Las Vegas majoring in Business Administration / Management Information Systems. He is also involved in MPI, Las Vegas Hospitality Association, Destination Marketing Association International and the Las Vegas SKAL Club.
"The coming year is going to be critical for the convention industry and IAEE," Meyer said. "We must continue to build on the solidarity that has developed in the industry in response to the challenges of the past year. We have to continue to communicate the importance and value of face-to-face meetings and the impact our industry has on company bottom lines and the economy as a whole. We are seeing positive signs about the future of the industry, but we must continue to work hard to maintain our reputation and value to corporate America."
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Association News: CEIR
New board members announced
 ATLANTA — The Center for Exhibition Industry Research announced its 2010 officers Dec. 9 during Expo! Expo! IAEE's Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Atlanta, Ga.
Carrie Freeman Parsons, vice chair of Freeman will serve as 2010 chair; Chris Brown, executive vice president of Conventions and Business Operations for the National Association of Broadcasters as vice-chairman; Terri Tonioli, senior vice president of Strategic Account Management for Experient, Inc. as secretary/treasurer. Nancy Hasselback, CEO of Diverisifed Business Communications will remain on the board to fill the role of Immediate Past Chair.
CEIR welcomes new directors David Audrain, CEM, president of Messe Frankfurt Inc.; Jonathan "Skip" Cox, president of Exhibit Surveys, Inc.; John Jastrem, president of GES Exposition Services; Don Pazour, CEO of Access Intelligence, LLC; Bob Priest-Heck, CEO of Immersa Marketing; and Barry Smith, president and CEO of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
Continuing directors are Mary Pat Heftman, senior vice president of conventions for the National Restaurant Association and Stephen Pitt, executive director of Member Services, Convention & Expo for the National Automobile Dealers Association.
Other members include: Ex-officio Member Greg Ortale, president and CEO of the Greater Houston, CVB; CEIR President and CEO Doug Ducate, CEM, CMP; and Executive Director Cathy Breden, CAE, CMP.
Members of the CEIR board of directors are selected by a nominating committee chaired by the immediate past chair of CEIR. Any person or organization may submit a nomination. Members of the board serve three years in staggered terms to ensure continuity in the governance of the organization.
Association News: ASAE & The Center
Leadership Academy selects 25 young professionals for second class
 WASHINGTON, D.C. — ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership has recently selected 25 students for the second class of its Leadership Academy, a program that focuses on preparing young professionals for executive positions in the association and nonprofit industry.
The Academy aims to develop young professionals into leaders and prepare them to serve their organizations in the changing work environment to proactively address 21st century workforce issues.
“The future of the association community lies in young professionals, who are continuing to advance through the ranks of management and lead organizations in the association and nonprofit community,” said ASAE & The Center President and CEO John H. Graham IV, CAE. “Now is the time to prepare young professionals and cultivate their talents.”
Convention Industry Council launches initiative to promote
face-to-face meetings
 ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Convention Industry Council has launched a grassroots industry initiative to promote the benefits of face-to-face meetings. The “Face Time. It Matters” campaign will debut in January with a logo, slogan and marketing materials on Web sites of the CIC’s 34 member organizations, in trade and partner consumer advertising and at various industry shows and events.
The campaign was created in response to findings from a recent Ypartnership national survey of corporate and association meeting planners where 35 percent of respondents cited “image/publicity/public policy” considerations as a reason they expect to book fewer face-to-face meetings in 2010.
“We’re very excited about the launch of this grass roots campaign,” says Gregg Talley, Chief Strategy Officer for the CIC. “The Convention Industry Council and its members will utilize the message to promote the irreplaceable benefits of human interaction and relationship building that may only be realized only through face-to-face meetings.”
Company Expansion
Diversified Business Communications continues global expansion with three new shows
 PORTLAND, Maine — Diversified Business Communications, a U.S.-based trade show, publishing and eMedia company, is continuing its global expansion with three recent acquisitions.
Its expansiion included acquiring Infocast India, Spar Research in the U.S. and the dmgworldmedia trade event portfolio in Australia.
“We recognize that companies that continue to grow in periods of recession gain market share and become stronger as the economy turns around,” said Nancy Hasselback, President and CEO of Diversified Business Communications. “The recent economic climate has presented us with a number of great opportunities to diversify and fulfill our vision.” [MORE]
Labor News
San Jose Council grills convention center operator over Teamsters deal
SAN JOSE, Calif. — An exclusive agreement with San Jose Teamsters to handle work at the city's convention center has spawned such negative national publicity that the City Council now wants the group that brokered the deal to reconsider it.
The council also wants Team San Jose, which manages the convention center and several downtown theaters, to produce an outreach plan that would explain to potential convention customers the merits of whatever strategy they ultimately pursue.
In a 9-2 vote, council members on Dec. 8 told the group, an affiliation of hoteliers, labor leaders and the city's convention and visitors bureau, to return to its executive board and discuss the agreement signed with the Teamsters on Aug. 1. Council members Ash Kalra and Madison Nguyen voted against the proposal.
[MORE]
Company Accolades
3D Exhibits wins EDDIE Award
 ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. — 3D Exhibits, an award winning exhibit and event design, fabrication and management agency, captured first place in the 2009 EDDIE Awards. 3D Exhibits earned this honor with “Perspective Matters,” a self-promotional integrated marketing campaign implemented at EXHIBITOR2009.
Sponsored by the Exhibit Designers & Producers Association (EDPA), the annual EDDIE Awards recognize exhibit industry suppliers for excellence in their marketing and self-promotion.
3D Exhibits utilized a combination of direct mail, e-marketing, and in-exhibit consultation to demonstrate that its team understands its clients’ perspective—and translates that understanding into creative, cost effective event marketing solutions that produce measurable results.
Venue News
World’s largest JW Marriott hits key construction milestone
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The JW Marriott Indianapolis – the largest JW Marriott in the world - has been topped out, marking the completion of a major exterior construction milestone on this landmark property that is changing the face of downtown Indianapolis, and is the centerpiece of the unique, new Marriott PlaceSM Indianapolis development.
“We are on schedule to open the JW Marriott Indianapolis in February, 2011,” said Cory Chambers, director of sales and marketing for Marriott Place. “As the largest JW Marriott in the world, with more than 1,000 rooms and 104,000 square feet of meeting space, this property will offer flexibility and amenities not found anywhere else in the Midwest.” In fact, the 40,500-square-foot ballroom in the JW Marriott Indianapolis will be the largest ballroom in the region.
2009 Int'l Pool | Spa | Patio Expo
PHOTO/2009 Pool | Spa | Patio Expo
Expo draws a full house to Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas
DALLAS – Proving to still be the most trusted source for leading-edge products, education and networking, the 2009 Int’l Pool | Spa | Patio Expo recently concluded its 2009 event amid much energy and excitement.
Held November 16-18 in the Bayside Halls at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada USA, the show exceeded the expectations of attendees who found a wide collection of products, services and technologies, while exhibitors were pleased with solid attendance.
Total attendance was 9,118, with 825 less verified attendees than the 2008 show. Attendees included pool/spa builders/installers, retailers, service companies, landscape architects/design agencies and manufacturers.
“We greatly appreciate the attendees and exhibitors who supported the International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo this year,” said Donna Bellantone, Director of the Expo. “The show floor was busy with buying and selling activity, while the conference seminars and special events were at capacity or standing-room only.”
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Create a lasting memory
for your customers
By Barry Siskind
One of my favorite places to buy books is Amazon.com. If you are one of millions of book buyers like me, you are familiar with the typical Amazon.com listing.
Their history is noteworthy. Amazon started selling books on the internet in 1995. Over the past decade they have grown to the point that they sell more books, DVD’s, CD’s M3P’s software, videogames, electronics, apparel, furniture and toys on-line than anyone – anywhere in the world. Why? Becasue they have a formula that works.
Picture an Amazon.com listings and think of it as above and below the line.
Above the line you find the title, price, shipping dates, inventory levels, number of pages, publisher, language, ISBN number, and the details about what’s inside the book. There’s no fault here. Everything you need to know is clearly spelled out. But that’s not why people buy books particularly if it is an author they hadn’t heard about before.
[CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF SISKIND'S COLUMN…]
Exhibit Industry Council
TradeshowLogistics joins EIC
 ATLANTA — TradeshowLogistics has become a Supporting Member of the newly formed Exhibit Industry Council, an advocacy group established to define and promote exhibitor-focused best practices for trade shows, conventions, and private events. The EIC seeks to unite all industry stakeholders around best practices that increase exhibitor value and validate show metrics, including: exhibitor cost control, standardized show kits, standardized work rules, meaningful show metrics, and safety first.
B.J. Enright, President of TradeshowLogistics, says the objectives of the Exhibit Industry Council reflect TradeshowLogistics’ UNcontractor business model. “The Best Practices outlined by the Exhibit Industry Council have always been business as usual for TradeshowLogistics – full disclosure, pricing transparency and providing exhibitors with better service and lower costs.”
Jim Wurm, president of the EACA, praises TradeshowLogistics as the first general contractor to support the EIC. “TradeshowLogistics is clearly part of the future vision that we believe is necessary to improve the exhibitor’s event marketing value proposition. We are pleased and proud to have them as part of our team,” says Wurm.
TradeshowLogistics is the UNcontractor, a general contractor committed to making tradeshows more valuable for Show Management. TradeshowLogistics’ approach combines comprehensive planning and management with proven technology, and makes it possible for show management to generate new profits from the show floor, gain greater control over their show’s production, and provide exhibitors with better service and lower costs. TradeshowLogistics is led by Bonnie Aaron, CEO, and B. J. Enright, President. Both Aaron and Enright have held executive positions with GES and Andrews-Bartlett. To learn more about TradeshowLogistics visit http://www.tradeshowlogistics.com. |
