IMEX America drew a record 13,000 people from 150 countries this year.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
The 2018 show's overall theme was "legacy," and many discussions revolved around the impact event planners can have on the world. A "legacy wall" on the show floor asked attendees to write down what their legacy will be.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
Signage on the walls of the Sands Expo boasted about steps organizers have taken to make IMEX more eco-friendly—such as fully compostable serviceware and reduced vinyl signage.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
As in the past, many panels were held in igloo-shaped rooms. Headphones allowed guests to hear over the busy show noise.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
During a Thursday morning keynote by Jessica Gibbons, C2 International’s executive director of global partnerships, and Klik by PixMob’s Adekambi Laleye, the discussion delved into ways new technology and updated event formats can create attendee surprise, personalization, and connection. The ultimate goal, they said, is to always put attendees at the center of the experience.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
C2 also brought this idea to life in its Cloud Lab, a fog-filled igloo on the show floor. The space was designed to transport attendees into a surreal world where they could clear their minds and heighten their learning.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
Hilton's booth embraced the hotel company’s three-year-old “meet with purpose” initiative that focuses on C.S.R., locally sourced food, and environmentally responsible meeting practices. Visitors to the booth could grab floral pins to wear; for each pin taken, Hilton donated $1 to a local domestic violence shelter.
Photo: Claire Hoffman/BizBash
Many booths featured on-theme activities or costumed staffers, such as this booth from Hawaii, which gave out leis.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
New this year was the Tech Zone, curated by tech experts from the Meeting Pool. Daily tours gave planners an overview of the latest innovations in event technology.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX
One fun experiential element (and photo op) came from German company Dundu. Translating to “you and you,” Dundu offers oversize, illuminated puppets that encourage teambuilding; groups need to work together to keep them upright and moving.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
Wellness was a big component once again this year. More than 700 attendees showed up for a 5K run on Wednesday morning, and mindfulness expert Lee Papa led meditation sessions.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
Smart Monday, a pre-IMEX day of education sponsored by M.P.I., emphasized the need for experiential components with a carnival theme this year. The day featured out-of-the-box meeting breaks, like a larger-than-life coloring book and a session with therapy dogs.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
Before the keynote on Monday, Play With a Purpose created an audience icebreaker.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
Smart Monday attendees had a chance to interact with Sophia, the A.I. robot.
Photo: Courtesy of IMEX America
