UFI Joins Forces with EMECA to Form European Exhibition Industry Alliance
June 18, 2012
EMECA, the European Major Exhibition Centres Association, and UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, have signed an agreement to create the European Exhibition Industry Alliance.
This new alliance will bring together Europe’s leading exhibition associations in a coordinated effort to promote awareness of the vital contribution that the exhibition industry plays to economic development and job creation, according to UFI officials.
At the top of the EEIA’s action list is the promotion of the exhibition sectors’ common interests towards the framework setting authorities in the European Union.
“The exhibition industry is making a vital contribution to Europe’s growth agenda, and we need to make sure this is much more clearly understood across the EU,” said Arie Brienen, UFI President.
He added, “It makes sense that the key industry groups should work together to present a single face and single voice to ensure that we’re heard in Europe. UFI has members in 24 of the 27 EU member countries, while EMECA represents the largest and most powerful exhibition centres across the region.”
The EEIA mandate calls for the alliance to actively present a strong and clear voice on all exhibition industry related issues to the European Commission, the European Parliament and other important European stakeholders.
Dr. Piero Venturelli, EMECA president, added, "EMECA is very happy to join forces with UFI. The European trade fair sector is a key player in the international exhibition market. Our 19 EMECA members are proud to be part of this exciting new venture. With our office in Brussels, we are already in the heart of Europe. Together with UFI, we will be even stronger.”
EMECA and UFI will cooperate closely to develop the work scope of the new Brussels-based industry alliance.
The EEIA will monitor EU issues and inform members about relevant developments. The fostering of a European operational environment favorable to the exhibition industry sector is the alliance’s ultimate objective.
With a start date of July 1, it is anticipated that EEIA will be fully operational before the final quarter of 2012.
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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