PCMA’s Convening Leaders Annual Meeting Breaks Attendance Records in Chicago

It may have been cold in Chicago in the second week of January, but that didn’t stop a record amount of attendees from coming to the Windy City for the Professional Convention Management Association’s Convening Leaders annual meeting.

From Jan. 11-14, there were 4,128 convention managers and suppliers who packed McCormick Place West, taking part in educational sessions, keynotes and a bevy of networking and charity events throughout the city.

The 2015 event topped the 2014 record-breaking one in Boston, which drew nearly 4,000 attendees.

Professional Convention Management Association Gives Back to Chicago Community

The Professional Convention Management Association not only brought thousands of convention managers to Chicago for a few days of networking and education last week during its Convening Leaders annual event, but it also gave back to the local community through several programs.

“These programs are one way of expressing our sincere thanks to this tremendous community. After our members leave, we hope these donations will leave a lasting impact on the communities, who need assistance in the Chicagoland area.” said Deborah Sexton, president and CEO, PCMA

Creating Fun Engagement at North American International Auto Show

At last week’s North American International Auto Show Charity Preview in Detroit’s Cobo Center, at which more than 14,000 attendees dressed in tuxes and evening gowns took part, an interesting thing happened on the showfloor.

Several of the exhibitors, which were the largest car manufacturers from around the world, had really fun, interactive and engaging things to do that not only showed off their products, but also created buzz.

International Association of Exhibitions & Events Has Busy 2014

The International Association of Exhibitions & Events had a very busy 2014 as evidenced by the list of accomplishments it had throughout the year.

"2014 was an incredibly busy year for IAEE," said IAEE President and CEO David DuBois, CMP, CAE, FASAE, CTA. "I am very proud of the committees, task forces and staff who have worked tirelessly to fulfill objectives set forth in our strategic plan, including our two main pillars of focus – Education and Advocacy." 

Education Highlights

Penton Acquires iNET Interactive with Events, Web and Data Services

Penton has acquired iNET Interactive, an event and digital information company that focuses on the cloud, hosting and data center segments of the technology sector and includes HostingCon and Data Center World trade shows.

These segments are expected to experience annual growth of 25-30 percent in the years ahead, according to industry experts.   

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NO WISH IS TOO BIG AT THE ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER
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
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