Experiential Agencies Gravel XP and GES Events Join Forces
December 2, 2019
Experiential marketing and live event production agencies Gravel Experiential and GES Events are teaming up. The two companies will work together to broaden their existing client base with a focus on corporations searching for top-notch event production in new and emerging markets.
While both GES Events and Gravel XP offer similar services, the two are also complementary in many ways. Gravel XP has a long history supporting U.S.-based events in specialized industries including consumer packaged goods, alcohol and spirits, pharmaceutical, technology and consultancies. Its services are amplified by the breadth of resources and global expertise that GES Events can offer. As part of the extensive GES portfolio, GES Events produces flagship events, corporate events, branded experiences and entertainment experiences, and manages experiential programs for brands across a diverse industry base.
“Leaning into the expertise of GES Events allows Gravel XP to provide a larger service offering to our clients, specifically as it relates to corporate events on a larger scale,” explains Kristin Quinn, chief growth officer for Gravel XP. “We are thrilled to be able to help clients with their events anywhere on the globe and know that we have a like-minded partner to support us.”
The strategic partnership is designed to help both companies enhance their client-engagement capabilities while also offering more customized experiences for new customers.
“Our clients’ success demands breakneck speed and the ability to stand out from other companies, and we are committed to providing them with unique solutions along with the very best service and value,” says Dan Hilbert, executive vice president of GES Events. “Gravel XP is a high-caliber partner, offering tremendous experience, coupled with a passionate and agile team that delivers out-of-the-box thinking and at the speed of today’s marketplace.”
According to GES Events and Gravel XP officials, the two agencies plan to grow the existing Gravel XP client base and also keep a close eye on high-growth industries such as emerging technology, finance, healthcare and alternative energy.
The Chicago-based Gravel XP is a certified women-owned business, which is good news for prospective clients that care about increasing diversity spend.
“Partnering with Gravel XP provides another opportunity for GES Events to extend our client base in new and emerging markets, as well as with businesses that are actively working to increase their engagement with a diverse supplier,” says Hilbert. “We see this as an opportunity to maximize our reach in an ever-changing and rapidly-paced experiential events landscape.”
Quinn added, “Our relationship with GES Events developed because we both share a strong commitment and culture in doing the very best for clients, events and for ourselves. It’s a perfect match. We couldn’t be more thrilled about this partnership, and we can’t wait to see what 2020 brings our way.”
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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
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