At Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, in February, attendees could use their N.F.C.-enabled devices to access event information and download materials at kiosks, redeem food coupons at catering outlets, and participate in a treasure hunt. Organizers estimate 51,000 N.F.C. transactions were made during the four-day event. In addition, users could create an N.F.C. photo badge within the event’s mobile app, which expedited entry to convention facilities. Sponsor Incipio offered its Cashwrap N.F.C.-enabled cases for free so iPhone users also could participate.
Now available in Toronto through the Idea Hunter, Original Beverage Toppers are edible disks that can be branded with corporate logos, colors, and taglines. The discs float on top of hot, cold, iced, or frozen drinks and are easy to apply.
Orlando Culinary Tour is a new option for teambuilding and corporate outings. Led by Jamie McFadden, chef and owner of Cuisiniers Catered Cuisine & Events, the tour is intended to educate participants on the emerging food scene of Central Florida and teach wine pairing, gardening, cooking, and entertaining. Guests travel via motor coach to Quantum Leap Winery, East End Market, Txokos Basque Kitchen, and McFadden’s teaching lab. Each stop includes tasting opportunities and hands-on experiences. Tours can be customized based on group interests, and a guide travels with guests from start to finish.
Located in New York, artisanal dessert catering boutique Bake-tique 212Â has been a favorite of event professionals since 2013, but the shop is now expanding to serve a wider clientele like at-home hosts. The bakery specializes in events such as charity affairs and birthday parties, with a menu of unique treats like ghuvikelz (a filled pastry), one-bite smidgens with marshmallow and chocolate, and mini pies that are the size and shape of a cookie.Â
