In Case You Missed It
When it comes to recent coverage on BizBash's Meetings & Trade Shows vertical, readers can find a rundown of C2 Montréal, which built connections through spontaneous stunts and thought-provoking activities this year. Guests found themselves unexpectedly crashing a "wedding" and helping program an AI-generated prime minister, among other unique programming at the creativity-focused conference.
We also took a deep dive into how event professionals and speakers can use more inclusive language in their marketing materials, programming, and other event communications. “An inclusive event experience is not just about ‘checking the boxes’ of gender-neutral restrooms and traditional ADA compliance, but a thoughtful and considerate approach applied to the program holistically,” explained Lynda DeMartino, owner and principal of Elite Hospitality Consultants LLC and the former diversity, equity, and inclusion lead for the Deloitte Global CEO team.
Planning a meeting in Hawai'i? This month, BizBash also delved into how groups can help nurture and show respect for the islands, in light of reports of overtourism. “Coming out of COVID, the original thought was, ‘Let’s get heads in beds,’” Kainoa Daines, senior director of brand for the Hawai'i Visitors and Convention Bureau, told us. “But it quickly became apparent that wasn’t the right approach. What we were really looking for were mindful travelers—visitors who would respect our culture and environment and look for ways they could connect with islanders on a meaningful level.”
Here are five more things you should know about this month...
1. Destinations International's Annual Convention kicks off this week in Dallas.
The temps might be high (like, really high) in the 214 right now, but that's not stopping Destinations International, which commenced its (sold-out) annual convention today at Omni Dallas Hotel. The theme for 2023 is "The Year of RE: Reimagine," highlighting the ever-changing landscape of destination issues and why DMO leaders today need to work with stakeholders on innovative approaches to crisis response and the evolution of digital marketing platforms. Keynote speakers on the docket include Dallas Mavericks CEO Cynt Marshall, acclaimed journalist and author Charles M. Blow, business consultant Hattie Hill, and Peloton instructor and Under Armour ambassador Emma Lovewell.
2. PCMA announces its inaugural U.S. and Canada advisory board.
At the end of June, PCMA unveiled the 26 names comprising its inaugural U.S. and Canada advisory board. These event profs represent industry agencies, business event strategists, and suppliers. The purpose of the board is to "support PCMA’s efforts to amplify the importance and influence of business events throughout the U.S. and Canada," according to a press release.
Each member of the group will serve either a two- or three-year term, and they represent organizations like the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, MGM Resorts International, Encore, Maritz Global Events, and the American Association of Orthodontists.
“Emerging from the pandemic has brought opportunities as well as new challenges for the global business events industry,” PCMA and CEMA President and CEO Sherrif Karamat said in a statement. “If we expect our industry to transform, we need to lead that transformation. I am thrilled to see the level of engagement and enthusiasm exhibited by this diverse group of leaders as we work to drive economic and social transformation for the region.”
See the full list of names here.
Infrastructure improvements to Cleveland's convention center will include new escalators and stairs.Rendering: Courtesy of Destination Cleveland
As part of a $49 million investment, the LEED Gold-certified Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland (HCCC) is getting a face-lift. When completed in summer 2024, the facility's available space will increase from 475,000 square feet to around 553,000 square feet. Planners can expect new flexible meeting rooms, a new outdoor terrace, and an expansion of the junior ballroom to double its current size. Infrastructure improvements include new escalators, stairs, restrooms, and meeting room tech.
"Cleveland continues to exceed expectations as a meetings and convention destination," Destination Cleveland chief sales officer Gordon Taylor III told BizBash. "The expansion of the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland reflects the city’s growing popularity and reputation as an ideal host location. With new spaces, including an outdoor terrace and increased meeting rooms, the enhanced center will provide greater options and flexibility for event planners.”
4. Atlantic City gears up for a busy Q3.
What do pickleball, gardening, and martial arts have in common? They'll all be the focus of conferences and events booked in Atlantic City this summer. The destination's DMO, Visit Atlantic City, and the Atlantic City Sports Commission recently shared the city's expected economic impact for Q3 and the exciting summer convention programming on its calendar.
“As the ultimate sun, fun, beach, and boardwalk destination, summer is always an exciting time in Atlantic City,” said Larry Sieg, president and CEO of Visit Atlantic City, in a press release. “With a host of newly opened restaurants and attractions beckoning visitors, in addition to all the major events taking place, we are expecting a jampacked season and recommend guests book early. We are already hearing from partners that accommodation demand is strong, and we only expect it to grow in the weeks to come.”
Sporting events on the docket include Boardwalk Boxing, Amerikick Internationals, the USA Pickleball Indoor National Championship, and the US Open Pool Championship. Conferences and conventions on the calendar include the Visit Atlantic City Airshow, New Jersey Cannabis Convention, and the Arett Lawn and Garden Show 2023.
5. Knowland report says meetings and events volume grew 30% in June.
The newest report from Knowland, a data-as-a-service provider on meetings and events for hospitality, showed some optimistic stats. According to the report, June meeting and event volume is up 30.3% over June 2022. The top 25 markets in the U.S. are 90% recovered for year-to-date June 2023 performance, compared to 2019. The cities that showed the most growth were Austin, Texas, at 74% and Nashville at 42%.
