SISO, Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) Forge Alliance to Bring Members Closer Together
November 5, 2014
IEIA, the Indian Exhibition Industry Association, and SISO, the Society of Independent Show Organizers, have agreed to share knowledge and information among their respective exhibition industry members.
"This agreement will offer our members an unprecedented opportunity to grow their respective brands outside of the USA with the knowledge and assistance of our international partners, making their expansions efficient and cost effective,” said Rick McConnell, Chairman of SISO.
He added, “At the same time, SISO will act as the eyes and ears of the U.S. market as IEIA members seek opportunities outside of their primary markets. It's a win-win for both of our Associations' members."
SISO and IEIA recognize that by working together they can assist their respective members to understand the business climate and culture of the other party's area of geographic emphasis.
Shri Rakesh Kumar, IEIA President, said, "This agreement will encourage a new synergy as both associations, recognizing the unique benefits of the global exhibition industry for enhancing world trade, cooperate in promoting the industry, maximizing networking opportunities and heightening the general public's awareness of the value of the exhibition industry."
SISO, created in 1990, has more than 160 members primarily based in the United States. IEAI founded in 2006, currently has 70 members that organize international exhibitions, operate venues and provide exhibition services.
SISO members are all independent (for profit) show organizers, whereas IEIA members may also include national and international associations of the exhibition industry, venues and suppliers.
While IEIA and SISO are industry associations with similar objectives, the membership of both consists of exhibition-related organizations that essentially operate in different geographic regions.
As a result, the two associations recognize that the benefits of membership in the two entities can be considered complementary.
With this agreement, IEIA and SISO have agreed to work together for the mutual benefit of their members and the advancement of the global trade show industry.
Association members will benefit from a greater exchange of ideas, research and data related to the exhibition industry in their respective geographic regions.
The members of each association will gain from the assistance and support that will be shared, as they grow their brands into countries outside their traditional areas.
Partner Voices
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.
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