ECA announces 2025 elected officials and board of directors
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Exhibition & Convention Alliance (ECA) has announced its 2025 elected officials and board members. ECA's officers are elected by the Board of Directors for one-year terms ending on December 31, 2025: Hervé Sedky (Chairman), President and CEO of Emerald — on behalf of the Society of Independent Exhibition Organizers (SISO) Mark Bogdansky (Vice Chairman), Vice President of Trade Shows and Community Engagement, Auto Care Association — on behalf of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) Chris Griffin (Treasurer), President and CEO, Crew XP — representing the Association of Experience Designers and Producers Fernando Fischer (Secretary), President, RX Americas – on behalf of SISO related. Exhibition and Convention Alliance releases 2025 Public Policy Agenda Additionally, the Alliance’s 2025 Board of Directors will provide fiduciary and strategic leadership to its Alliance partners: Mike Carlucci, COO, Clarion Events North America—on behalf of IAEE Beth Cowperthwaite (ex-officio), Senior Vice President, Communications, Emerald Janet Dell (ex-officio), Freeman CEO Martha…
Cheers to our journey – IAEE
Editor's note: Originally published in the December 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. As my term as IAEE President draws to a close, I reflect on the remarkable growth our industry will experience in 2024. This year has been defined by our collective commitment to sustainability, advocacy, collaboration, technology innovation, and workforce development—pillars that will continue to shape our future. Sustainability has become at the forefront of our industry’s priorities. I see initiatives across the industry that reflect our determination to make positive changes in this area, such as the IAEE’s recently released How to direct a sustainable exhibition. This development demonstrates how implementing sustainable practices is not just about environmental stewardship but a strategic advantage that drives innovation, attracts young professionals and improves operational efficiency. This year’s advocacy efforts have been impactful, highlighted by ECA’s Legislative Action Day, which brought industry leaders face-to-face with U.S. policymakers. We continue to make significant progress on key issues, from pushing for…
Visit the TSE Women’s Observation Group at the Expo! Expo! 2024
LOS ANGELES – At this year’s World’s Fair! Expo! , some of which trade show director (TSE) 2024 Women to Watch shared their insights into the events industry and some of the superpowers that have helped them rise to the top at the “Women to Watch: Emerging Leaders’ Perspectives on the Future of the Events Industry” educational conference. TSE's outstanding women are recognized for their professional achievements, industry influence and business acumen and celebrated at the annual TSE Gold 100 Awards & Summit. TSE Vice President of Sponsorship and Engagement April Walsh moderates the discussion between Jacqueline Retzer Director of Event Management Jacqueline Retzer toy associationAshley Kempson, CMP, DES, Director of Meetings and Convention Operations National Automobile Dealers AssociationNatalie Santiago, Digital Project Manager take overand Amanda Ciccatelli, senior director of U.S. event marketing at HLTHlearn about their strategies for success, advice for young professionals, and more. key skills First, panelists shared traits they believe contributed to their success. Santiago believes…
RX launches guide to industry inclusive events
CHICAGO — RX has released an inclusive event guide for external use so organizers, associations and other stakeholders can learn about its strategies for promoting inclusive experiences at events. Broken into different stages of the event life cycle—pre-event, on-site, special events and education, networking opportunities, post-event, and speaker/panel prep checklist—the guide provides actionable strategies for each part of the show. It also goes a step further, giving tangible reasons for taking the action and providing first-hand accounts from program directors on how DEI efforts are impacting their programming. From creating a sense of belonging and community to mitigating business risks, integrating inclusion efforts into the overall business or consumer activities listed in the guidance can have many positive impacts. trade show director spoke with RX Director of Inclusion and Diversity Ray Rhodes to learn more about this resource and why industry stakeholders should check it out. MADDY: First of all, we've been hearing about DEI for a while, but there's…
ISC East grows through quality education and performance
CHICAGO — ISC East 2024, presented by RX and its primary sponsor the Security Industry Association (SIA), in partnership with the New York Chapter of ASIS, brings together the security and public safety industries for a premier event in the Northeast. This year's show reportedly had nearly 6,000 visitors, another year-over-year increase, with more than 200 exhibitors in the Javits Center's 31,000 square feet of exhibit space. ISC East also reported a 40% increase in participation in the SIA Education@ISC East programme. During this year’s planning, the ISC team worked with its newly formed SIA Education@ISC Advisory Committee, a team of industry experts to provide key guidance on emerging trends and relevant technologies to best plan for 2024. educate. The program has doubled in size from 2023, with the number of sessions increasing to over 70 and over 150 speakers. “At ISC Security Events, we know that trends and solutions in safety and security are constantly evolving, so we make…
Explore climate change and events with Helen Shepherd,
Chicago—Helen Sheppard, Director of Global Sustainability at RX, speaks trade show director An overview of how climate change is impacting exhibitions and how event professionals can successfully navigate this moment. ANDREW: How do you predict the impact of climate change on the events industry? Helen: We may already be seeing the effects of climate change on our activities. Extreme weather events do not necessarily occur more frequently in different parts of the world, but they are more severe. Scorching weather in India disrupted events and there were flooding in Dubai...unusual for the region. In the United States, tropical storms in Florida are causing damage. We must anticipate that these extreme weather conditions may cause disruption to our activities. I also think that the industries we serve are experiencing the negative impacts of climate change – that’s where the events industry can provide support, because we have the opportunity to help our clients address these challenges… (and) be a knowledge partner…
TSE Trends Report: Climate Change and Events
CHICAGO — Sixty-five percent of respondents to a survey by the International SOS Foundation said their organizations have been impacted by extreme weather in the past five years. As the impact and importance of climate change increase, trade show director (TSE) spoke to two sustainability thought leaders – Helen Sheppard, Global Sustainability Director at RX, and Alexandra Failla, Corporate Sustainability Manager at Diversified Communications – to discuss how global warming is challenging the events industry, and how professionals can succeed. How will climate change affect events? Activity interruption Helen Sheppard, RX Global Sustainability Director "Extreme weather events are not necessarily happening more frequently, but they are more intense," Shepard said. "The intense heat in India has disrupted activities and we've had flooding in Dubai... which is unusual for that part of the world. . Across the U.S., tropical storms are causing damage in Florida." Failla shared a similar sentiment. "An increase in severe weather events may cause disruption to event…
Meet the women to watch in 2024: Jackie Retzer
CHICAGO — Women in the trade show and events industry are helping to drive our continued innovation and excellence. The Trade Show Executive's (TSE) Women's Watch program recognizes this through its annual winners category. TSE spoke with one of this year's most noteworthy women—Toy Association Director of Event Management Jackie Retzer—about her career, lessons learned, and her thoughts on the trade show and event landscape. MADDY: Can you tell us how you got into the trade show industry? Was it a straight path, or was it unexpected? Jackie: While I never planned to get into the trade show industry, I’m so glad I did! I interned at a PR firm during college and then got a job offer from the Toy Association. Here I am tasked with helping run the annual Toy of the Year Awards Night. As time went on and I took on more responsibilities, this is where my love for activities really began! After a while, the…
Clarion Events North America promotes Liz Irving to CEO
SHELTON, Conn. — Clarion Events North America has promoted Elizabeth (“Liz”) Owen from president to chief executive officer. During his tenure as president, Owen helped the company open new revenue streams and doors to impactful business opportunities and instilled a culture of accountability and collaboration. Irvin will continue to report to Greg Topalian, chairman of Clarion Events North America, and will oversee all divisions except the newly formed Clarion Connect division. “Clarion’s success has always been rooted in the creativity, passion and dedication of our employees,” Irving said. “My goal is to continue to foster a culture of innovation, inclusion and excellence – one that inspires everyone to bring their best ideas forward. As we navigate an ever-changing environment, my top priority is to empower The team is able to deliver exceptional value to our clients through meaningful experiences, cutting-edge solutions and a relentless focus on results. "I see Clarion as not just a business, but a catalyst for progress.…
Meet the women to watch in 2024: Anita Y. Mui
CHICAGO — Since 2018, trade show director (TSE) annually recognizes a select group of women who are helping to shape the future of the industry through its Women Watch program. The Class of 2024 is an exceptional group of up-and-coming women who are making a significant impact on their organizations through their work, from operations, marketing, pricing to sales. TSE spoke with one of the most noteworthy women of the year, RX US Director of Strategic Pricing Anita Y. Mui, about how she ended up in the events world, her strategies for avoiding burnout, and why strategic pricing was the perfect choice for her. MADDY: Can you tell us how you got into the trade show industry? Was it a straight path, or was it unexpected? Anita: I was laid off from my position as a Senior Financial Analyst in the healthcare industry in 2010 at a time when there was massive cost cutting across the industry. I was lucky…
RX shares the power of influencer marketing
CHICAGO — Trade show and event marketers are harnessing the power of influencer marketing at their shows. When talking to 2024 trade show director When female followers spoke about their predictions for the future, some cited an increase in influencer marketing, specifically connecting with younger event attendees. The power of influencer marketing is amplified by a new report from RX: The Power of Influence, which focuses on the travel industry but reveals some interesting statistics about influencer marketing and social media for the entire exhibition industry to take note of. Key statistics to highlight According to the Influencer Marketing Center and Viral Nation’s State of Influencer Marketing report, The global influencer marketing industry is expected to be worth $24 billion by the end of 2024. This is a significant increase from $16.4 billion in 2022. Survey Monkey reports that 29% of Gen Z are more likely to purchase from companies with social media presence, and 47% use social media as…
Everything in the expo is sparkling! Expo!
Editor's note: Originally published in the November 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. Only six weeks left until the Expo! Expo! The IAEE Annual Meeting and Exhibition in Los Angeles, as featured in this issue, is an ideal venue for those eager to end the year on a high note for professional development and valuable industry connections. We're excited to be back in Hollywood after ten years and love using fun Hollywood-themed language to detail what we have. However, please be assured that we take our commitment very seriously to delivering a great event that is worthy of attendees’ time and investment. That's because of the Expo! Expo! Embodies the highest ideals of the IAEE. As I've emphasized throughout the year, workforce development places a heavy burden on executive leaders because we are tasked with applying today's resources to the best of our ability to meet tomorrow's needs. Ensuring that our organizations and the team members we rely on…
Lifelong learning is the key to success
Editor's note: Originally published in the October 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. Last month, I discussed how executive leaders can strengthen their organizations by investing in the professional development of their employees. This month, I want to turn my perspective to the value of personal and lifelong learning. The benefits professionals gain by actively pursuing learning ensure our industry continues to innovate, adapt and deliver exceptional experiences for years to come. This investment in continuous learning benefits not only individual career development but also our collective progress for several reasons. Technological advances, changing consumer preferences and global trends keep our industry on its toes. Professionals who prioritize continuous learning are better able to adapt to change because they can quickly master new concepts, techniques, and methods, allowing them to adjust their strategies and remain effective in their roles. Continuous learning also exposes professionals to diverse perspectives and innovative solutions from across the industry and beyond. This expanded knowledge…
Dive deeper into RX’s strategy: Q&A with Chief Strategy Officer
CHICAGO — RELX's global exhibition division, RX, is a growing business consisting of more than 400 events in more than 40 industry sectors around the world. RX reports impressive full-year 2023 revenue growth, with underlying revenue up 32% for the first nine months of 2023, and RELX reports first-half results with underlying revenue up more than 7% and adjusted underlying operating profit up By more than 10% for 2024, the business is expected to perform strongly again in 2024. This year, the RX also received recognition trade show director Gold 100 and Fastest 50 awards and summit events. Both of RX's projects rank among the top five leading show organizers by net square footage, and RX has also been honored with two Fastest 50 Awards and three Golden 100 Awards, including the 2023 ISC West The greatest trade show. trade show director RX Global Chief Strategy Officer Peter Lindsay asked for his insights into RX’s overall strategy and its ability…
Discover professionalism with Megan Hurley
CHICAGO — A typical day in the events industry may look different for every professional, whether at a showroom in Las Vegas, an office in Chicago or working remotely from home. Regardless of one's schedule, however, professionalism is key in every work environment and can help people succeed in their roles, stand out and find new opportunities. trade show director (TSE) discusses professionalism with Meghan Hurley, RX US Director of Human Resources and RX Rewards Partner. ANDREW: Is professionalism different in the events world compared to other industries? Megan: It’s a little different – the work we do requires us to go to these interesting places, and when people come into the industry and are immediately sent to a place like Las Vegas, sometimes it’s hard to remember that you’re still an employee . You work during the day and interact with colleagues and customers after get off work. It's a little different than other industries because you have to…
This year’s Cannes Yachting Festival was a complete success
Cannes - the prestigious RX cannes yachting festival After six successful days, the conference concluded on September 15th. It is reported that the number of visitors was 55,000, the same as last year. A global audience from more than 130 different countries attended the conference. With the Bay of Cannes as a backdrop, more than 700 motor boats, sailing boats, monohulls and multihulls are on display in the Old Port and the Port of Canto. International boat manufacturers showcased their products on the water, including more than 120 world premieres. Equipment manufacturers and service companies were established on the outer pier and within the Palais des Festivals. related. NEC's new division Pendigo Events adds PerformX Live and BoatLife "This year's offering delivered on its promise both on land and in the water. Our 640 exhibitors appreciated the facilities on offer and the quality of visitors met expectations," said Sylvie Ernoult, Director of the Cannes Yachting Festival. One of the new…
The rest of the puzzle
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the September 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. As I noted last month, new technologies are transforming our industry in ways that have our undivided attention. However, executives must focus on considerations beyond the shiny new thing, such as the ongoing pursuit of top talent. Over the past few years, executives have had countless discussions about attracting young professionals to our industry and, like puzzle pieces, how they can contribute to our greater success. Clearly, we need new perspectives and innovative thinking to stay ahead in today’s fast-changing business environment. The obvious solution is that new employees are eager to share their innovative ideas and visions for the future. There’s no doubt that we’re interested in them; the question is, how do we get them interested in us? Feedback from young professionals provides us with valuable insights into how organizations can engage their interests. Not surprisingly, scheduling flexibility is a significant factor. Many value…
Highlights of the 15th TSE Gold 100 Awards and Summit
Santa Barbara, California — 15day The annual Trade Show Executive (TSE) Gold 100 Awards and Summit celebrated the largest trade show of 2023 over a week at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in sunny Santa Barbara. Approximately 200 show organizers and vendors spent time networking, learning from other leaders at the Education Summit and enjoying experiential events while celebrating the Gold 100 winners and Grand Prize recipients at the Gold 100 Awards Gala. Beautiful views, golden connections This year’s event welcomed attendees in Gold 100 style with a variety of networking and experiential activities. The annual Gold 100 Chairman’s Dinner was hosted by Rick Simon, Chairman of TSE and President and CEO of United Services, and was held at The Wine Collective with food from The Lark. Located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone, the dinner was designed to welcome attendees who arrived early. Attendees can also tour Vega Vineyards and Farm and enjoy the beauty of Santa Barbara. Attendees…
The road less traveled in the digital landscape
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the August 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I chose the road less traveled.And that has made a big difference.” Today, I find these lines from Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken” particularly moving. Written in 1915, I can’t help but think that if Frost could have addressed the issues of today’s digital world, these “roads less traveled” seem endless and are both exciting and confusing to the masses currently facing them. Technology is evolving at a rapid pace, and trade shows are at an exciting crossroads. Our options are shifting from enticing concepts to powerful tools that can reshape the way we conceive, plan, and execute events. Industry leaders must realize their potential and create exceptional attendee experiences that drive success. At the forefront of this digital revolution is artificial intelligence (AI), a force for change across industries. From smart chatbots and virtual assistants to predictive…
Proud of fostering DEI
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the June 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. Pride Month reminds us of the importance of creating inclusive spaces within our organizations, where every team member feels valued and recognized. As we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community this month, we have the opportunity to reflect on how we can create a company culture that truly values diversity, equity, and inclusion. Diversity goes beyond the differences we see; it encompasses the myriad perspectives, experiences, and identities that make each of us unique. As executives, it is our responsibility to recognize, embrace, and build successful collaboration among team members despite these differences. By fostering a culture that not only recognizes but actively celebrates our differences, we empower our teams to bring their authentic selves to work and contribute to our shared success together. To build an inclusive corporate culture, executives must first understand the importance of leading by example. Our behaviors, actions, and policies should communicate our…
The Power of Collaboration – IAEE
Editor’s Note: Originally published in the July 2024 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine. On behalf of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events® (IAEE), I would like to celebrate and congratulate Trade Show Executive (TSE) has been committed to faithfully serving professionals representing all facets of our industry for over 25 years. Over the years, IAEE has maintained a close relationship with TSE through various partnerships and reciprocal agreements. During this time, we have experienced extraordinary growth in our industry and supported each other in breaking new ground. Looking back at our decades of collaboration, I can't help but realize that this exemplifies the indelible benefits of collaboration between industry organizations. We are all committed to bringing people together, building connections and driving innovation. Collaboration plays a vital role in accelerating growth, increasing productivity and shaping the future of our industry. Bringing together diverse perspectives, expertise and resources enables the development of breakthrough ideas, solutions and experiences that push…
Explore the latest exhibition information and industry trends at ASAP Expo Magazine. Your one-stop platform, bringing together global exhibition highlights, industry trends and in-depth analysis, to help companies accurately connect with the market and seize business opportunities.
