industry-news

Society of Independent Show Organizers Names Vinnie Polito Its Next CEO

The Society of Independent Show Organizers (SISO) has named Vinnie (Vincent) Polito as its next CEO, with his firm, VP International, chosen to take over as the management company for the organization.

Polito will be replacing David Audrain, CEO of Exposition Development Company (ExpoDevCo), who has run the association with his team for the past seven years.

IMEX America 2022 Promises Business at Its Best and 'Pathways to Clarity' for an Industry Moving Forward

Riding a wave of optimism following a momentous IMEX Frankfurt 2022, held May 31 to June 2, and being honored in June with the AEO Excellence Awards Best International Trade Show-Americas for its resoundingly successful IMEX America 2021 in Las Vegas last November, IMEX Group has set its sights on its next grand gathering: IMEX America 2022.

Amid a Healthy Rebound, Puerto Rico Unveils Fresh Branding Initiative and New Developments

Puerto Rico is no stranger to crises, having faced and overcome major challenges such as the Zika virus outbreak and Hurricane Irma over the past several years. COVID-19 has been no exception, with the destination showing its profound resiliency as it emerges from the pandemic.

Brad Dean, president and CEO of Discover Puerto Rico, recently highlighted some of the promising numbers along with a newly launched branding initiative for event attendees and venue developments.

Latest UFI Global Exhibition Barometer Indicates Industry Bouncing Back, Highlights Global Outlook for 2023

UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has released its latest flagship Global Exhibition Barometer research report, designed to take the pulse of the global exhibition industry, with results pointing to a continued wave of positivity. 

Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact