Interview
Vegas : a catalyst for innovation
Lisa Messina , chief sales officer of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority ( LVCVA ), takes us on a journey of exploration of this extraordinary destination
lease share some
P insights into the strategies you ’ ve employed to position Las Vegas as a premier destination for hosting business events ? I try to ensure that when I talk about the destination , I highlight the number of rooms and sheer amount of meeting space that allow for easy planning and hosting , but also the other elements that really set us apart . The A-list entertainment residencies , world-class dining , extraordinary night life , incredible sporting events . No other city in the world can offer what we do in terms of energy and excitement and those factors absolutely contribute to why it ’ s smart to do business here in Vegas .
Also , the constant reinvestment in our community . The Las Vegas Convention Canter West Hall expansion and the upcoming North / Central Hall renovations , the opening of new properties and venues like Resorts World Las Vegas , Fontainebleau , and the Sphere , along with investments in infrastructure like the Las Vegas Loop .
The destination being what it is and always offering new and exciting experiences for our guests , striving to innovate and push industries forward is why we see close to a 10 % jump in attendance when events and conferences are held here .
Las Vegas has successfully hosted numerous high-profile business events . What unique advantages does the city offer compared to other major event destinations ? Las Vegas is uniquely equipped to handle events of any size , style , and purpose due to the sheer availability of accommodations and venues . The destination offers over 150,000 hotel rooms and over 1m sqm of meeting and event
Above : Lisa Messina
space providing immense flexibility .
Add in an ever-evolving roster of entertainment and sporting options , world renowned dining , unique attractions , and outdoor excursions , it ’ s easy to see why Vegas remains a top choice for meetings and events year after year .
The F1 Grand Prix is a significant addition to Las Vegas ’ s event calendar . How do you envision this event contributing to the city ’ s appeal as a global business hub ? F1 is wildly popular on the international stage and being able to host our very own race underlines that Las Vegas is a premier international destination capable of attracting visitors from every corner of the world .
International travellers make up a crucial segment of the overall Las Vegas visitation each year . So being able to offer more events that appeal to a variety of markets is exciting and key to the continued success of the destination .
Not only is the Las Vegas Grand Prix the largest event on the Las Vegas calendar , it ’ s one of the most anticipated events in the world of sports . These races typically attract 500k + attendees with millions more watching from around the world so we are keenly aware that all eyes will be on the city .
We plan to showcase the destination by doing what we do best , hosting a next-level event unlike anyone has ever seen . Not only will the race take place at night along the world-famous Strip , but the experience will be elevated with touches of ‘ Only Vegas ’ elements .
The UFI Global Congress is a highly anticipated event in the exhibition industry . Could you tell us what it means for LVCVA to host this prestigious congress ? Here at the LVCVA , along with all
32 Issue 5 2023 www . exhibitionworld . co . uk