Shepard Exposition Services Acquires US Expo & Convention Services

January 30, 2014

Atlanta-based Shepard Exposition Services has acquired US Expo & Convention Services, which has offices in Phoenix and Tucson, Ariz.


"US Expo's reputation as an above-and-beyond service-provider is a perfect cultural fit for our organization and our Blue Diamond Customer Service Program,” said Carl Mitchell, Shepard's president.


He added, “Also, it will strengthen our existing national operations network by adding these key markets to our growing western operations.”

US Expo’s operations will be integrated into Shepard’s within the next 30 days, adding to Shepard’s expanding national footprint.

Maurya Palmer, US Expo's founder and owner said, "The market in the southwest U.S. is beginning to explode. For us to take advantage of the opportunity, while maintaining our commitment to superior service, we needed to join forces with a group of people who share the same values. Shepard provides that fit along with significant operational resources."

Shepard services five shows on the most current TSNN Top 250 trade show list, including the ATA (Archery) Trade Show and SGIA (Specialty Graphics) Expo.


"We've always calibrated our growth based on our ability to have the right people in the right place delivering our own style of personal service,” said Richard Maples, Shepard executive vice president of sales.

He added, “Maurya and her team are the perfect match for Shepard, and our customers, as we continue our growth in the western United States.”

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MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.    Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.    Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.   The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.    MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.     MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.