As the curtains closed on another unforgettable IMEX event in Las Vegas, the ETHOS Event Collective team had countless reasons to celebrate. From strengthening industry connections to enhancing our skills and bonding with our colleagues, this year’s experience was nothing short of remarkable.
For many, this was their first time learning about ETHOS Event Collective. Above all, what sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to use our events to make a positive impact on the communities where we live and work. Each year, as we gather at IMEX, we ensure that "Corporate Social Responsibility" is more than just a buzzword. It's a cornerstone of our experience. This year was no different as we dedicated time to give back, encouraging fellow attendees to join us in using their businesses as a force for good.
Our giveback initiative was a branded reusable water bottle activation with a QR code. Each time attendees scanned the QR code, a $4 donation was sent to charity: water to help fund a water project in Bangladesh. Not only did this initiative encourage the spirit of sustainability at this year’s event, but it also was a testament to our clients on how simple integrating a CSR into an event could be. In addition to having a new reusable water bottle, attendees will also be able to view our public impact report from the event to see the impact they made by choosing to reuse.
Join us as we relive the highlights of our week in Las Vegas, celebrating the connections we forged, the skills we honed, and the good we did. If you haven’t yet attended the event for yourself, you must know that IMEX 2023 was more than an industry event; it’s a pillar of support to the meetings and events industry that showcases the power of coming together, learning, and making a meaningful impact.
What is IMEX?
IMEX, short for "The International Meetings and Events Exhibition," is an annual event that stands as a cornerstone in the calendar of event professionals worldwide. This global exhibition showcases a comprehensive array of services and destinations essential to the meetings and events industry. It is a platform where event planners, professionals, and suppliers come together to connect, learn, and explore trends that are shaping the future of the industry.
As the event industry continues to evolve, IMEX plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth and development of this dynamic sector. It offers an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into emerging trends, access innovative event technologies, and build connections with experts and peers. Attendees have the chance to expand their knowledge, find inspiration, and network with like-minded professionals, making IMEX an indispensable event for anyone passionate about the world of meetings, events, and conferences.
IMEX caters to a diverse audience that includes event planners, marketing professionals, suppliers, meeting and incentive travel professionals, and all those involved in planning, organizing, and executing events, from corporate gatherings to large-scale conferences. Whether you're a seasoned event industry veteran or someone taking their first steps in the field, IMEX provides a platform to enhance your skills, broaden your network, and stay at the forefront of an ever-evolving industry.
Feedback and Reflections:
Gathering from across the nation to convene in the vibrant and eclectic city of Las Vegas added an exciting dimension to our event. The three-day extravaganza unfolded at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center, an ideal setting for the assembly of countless event professionals. As seasoned IMEX attendees, our team has had the privilege of witnessing the continual evolution of technology and accommodations that enhance the event's efficiency. This year, a noteworthy change was the adoption of personal iPads in lieu of traditional scanners, a change that significantly improved convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Looking ahead, our experienced team has gathered some valuable insights to elevate your future IMEX experience. Tips as simple as wearing comfortable shoes, stashing protein bars for quick nourishment, incorporating comfortable insoles for footwear, and using under-eye patches for a well-rested appearance can make a world of difference. In our role as exhibitors, we believe that next year, creating a comprehensive schedule encompassing flight arrivals, meal breaks, and evening functions is essential to ensure booth coverage and prevent individuals from being burdened with end-of-day cleanup duties.
One of the less favorable aspects this year was the timing of the event. An extension of two hours was introduced, one in the morning and one in the evening, which may have been the cause of reduced attendance on the final day. It was our team's consensus that reallocating this time for valuable follow-ups with newly established connections from the previous day, rather than extending the event with much-needed refills of coffee, would have provided more significant value for all attendees.
Partnerships and Collaborations:
The event saw an impressive turnout, fostering valuable connections and enabling high-quality appointments. Notably, collaborations at IMEX took center stage, as the connections forged with industry leaders and the partnerships established laid the foundation for exciting future ventures.
These connections are poised to enrich our portfolio of event solutions, ensuring that we can provide our clients with more comprehensive and tailored services.
One standout achievement was our collaboration with Choose Chicago for their client reception, a partnership that not only allowed us to exhibit our event planning expertise but also offered an opportunity to celebrate the dynamic city of Chicago. Collaborations like this are what make IMEX such a wonderful opportunity for industry professionals, and they are a whole lot of fun.
Community Impact:
Our participation in IMEX went beyond business; it was about making a meaningful impact. As part of our ongoing commitment to give back, we were thrilled to unveil a partnership with Fill It Forward. Through this collaboration, our aim was to make a positive contribution by reducing single-use plastic waste and promoting sustainability during this year's event.
At the event, attendees had the opportunity to grab their own reusable water bottles and utilize a QR code to make a $4 donation to charity: water. This engaging activation showcased a seamless way to incorporate corporate social responsibility (CSR) into client events while contributing to vital clean water initiatives. By "filling it forward," we nurtured a culture of environmental responsibility, ensuring that every sip of water contributed to a greater cause.
Our efforts throughout the event left a lasting impact, benefiting not only our clients but also our communities and the environment. We're excited to share more about our philanthropic initiatives in 2024, so stay tuned for additional details on how we plan to continue making a difference. Find the video on this initiative here.
Final Thoughts
As always, we're thrilled to connect with new partners, clients, and industry peers. If you're eager to embark on the journey of creating unforgettable events or experiences or if collaboration is on your mind, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team.
The ETHOS Event Collective team extends a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated IMEX team, whose unwavering efforts make this event possible. We also express our gratitude to the enthusiastic attendees whose presence adds excitement to this gathering. Finally, our sincere appreciation goes out to every individual who took the time to visit our booth, joining us in promoting the spirit of sustainability at this year's event. Your support and engagement have made this experience truly memorable.
To begin planning your next corporate event, get in touch with one of our destination experts. For more details about IMEX and to stay updated on their future events, please visit their official website.