Andrea Doyle

Hundreds of workers employed by food services company Sodexo at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando who were ready to strike have reached an agreement that includes a historic minimum wage increase from $13 to $18 an hour and a pension.

Gathering meeting professionals for a reception after a long day at a conference is okay, but what if an activation was added where they take home something they will enjoy for years to come?

Vegas is investing in a trifecta of Formula 1, the Super Bowl, and the opening of the highly-anticipated MSG Sphere to attract an even bigger share of business events.

Accessibility is a buzzword in the business events industry but is there a true effort to ensure all attendees, including people with disabilities, can participate?

During the World Economic Forum in Davos, attendees were required to get tested for Covid onsite. A negative test granted access, while a positive test led to the attendee’s badge being deactivated.

Emerald has acquired its third female-led company in the past year. With diversity, equity, and inclusion a focus, 50 percent of Emerald’s leadership team identifies as female and 20 percent as a person of color. 

To make your events truly inclusive, representation alone will not do it. They must reflect the diversity of your world.

Over 3,300 meeting professionals descended upon Columbus, Ohio, this week for PCMA Convening Leaders injecting about $6 million into the economy. The pressure was on as these planners could bring hundreds of millions of dollars in future meetings business to the city.

Booking a big-name speaker for your event attracts attendees. But if that speaker has to cancel, it's crucial to have a contingency plan in place. PCMA Convening Leaders led by example.

Chris Nassetta, CEO of Hilton Hotels, a featured speaker during PCMA Convening Leaders, predicts the business events industry will exceed the high water mark of 2019 this year.