What Economic Downturn?

Last month, the Natl. Business Travel Assn. and Destination Marketing Assn. Intl. shows both broke attendance records. Following suit, Meeting Professional Intl.’s World Education Congress also posted record-breaking numbers with close to 4,400 registered attendees. MPI President and CEO Bruce MacMillan said, “It’s just phenomenal. We couldn’t be more excited.” The uncertain economy was a factor in the higher numbers, he added. “People want to get together and look for a solution,” MacMillan said. “There’s wisdom and crowds.” He also credited Las Vegas as a great draw and, in particular, the work of the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority and Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. Bill Hornbuckle, Mandalay’s president and COO, told the MPI crowd, “You came in such numbers. Gosh, golly, gee, thanks!”

Source: TSW's e Daily Aug 12th Edition