IN BRIEF
of IMEX Group, and Ray Bloom, Chairman of IMEX.
INDUSTRY PULSE
CHICAGO, IL — IACC has launched IACC MultiPOD meetings, a framework for hosting one meeting with in-person groupings of participants in two or more different locations. IACC identified three critical features of a multi-located meeting: venue capabilities, strong technology and production delivery, and collaboration between all parties. “Given global restrictions on travel and limits on the number of people who can gather in person, many business events will take place regionally in smaller groups,” noted Mark Cooper, IACC CEO. “However, that does not diminish the desire for inperson live experiences and to foster cross-fertilization of ideas across countries and continents.” Partnering with PSAV and ElectroMedia Design (EMD), IACC
has developed a specification document and venue pledge that must be committed to by any of the 400 IACC-certified venues in 25 countries wishing to host a POD meeting. DALLAS, TX — Meeting Professionals International (MPI) recently announced that its longtime strategic partner, IMEX Group, has donated $250,000 to mirror ongoing efforts toward assisting distressed MPI members. Most of the donation has been offered as a grant to the MPI Foundation, whose One Million to Meet campaign aims to raise $1 million by the end of 2020 to accelerate the recovery of meeting and event professionals around the world. “COVID-19’s abruptness made face-to-face interactions an unfathomable situation. To watch our
Paul Van Deventer
community and our members struggle when these are the individuals representing a top 10 global economic driver is heart wrenching,” said Paul Van Deventer, President and CEO of MPI. “Unsolicited support, like this, demonstrates how acts of generosity and kindness between organizations can aid in a united mission toward recovery. Our members, our industry and our world benefit from gracious people like those at IMEX Group; we don’t take this for granted and know that we are indeed stronger together.” In recognition of their donation, MPI is providing “Industry Champion” credentials to both Carina Bauer, CEO
MONTEREY, CA — The Monterey County CVB has hired Teresa Savage as its new Vice President of Business Development. “The meeting and conference industry is going through the greatest transformation it has ever experienced,” said Rob O’Keefe, President and CEO of Monterey County CVB. “We’re thrilled to have an industry leader with significant experience growing this business, both at hotels and with DMOs, to help us redefine our future.” Previously Vice President of Sales for Visit Napa Valley, Savage brings more than 20 years of hospitality sales experience in California,
Teresa Savage
including a stint at Monterey Marriott Hotel, during which time she served on the Marketing Committee for the Monterey County CVB.
IACC MultiPOD supports one meeting with in-person groupings of participants in various locations 6
NASHVILLE, TN — Effective Oct. 1, Nashville entered Phase 3 of its Reopening Plan. With an approved plan from Metro Public Health, events can now be held at 30 percent capacity, up to a maximum of 500 people. Masks are required at all events, and in all public spaces. Restaurants and Continued on page 8
FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2020 FALL
