Conference takes place February 26-28 at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego, CA

NEW YORK, Jan. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Vibe Conference, the premiere on-premise beverage conference for beverage executives, today announces generational expert, Kim Lear, Founder, Generational Researcher and Writer from Inlay Insights, will present the keynote address “Decoding Generational Trends to Shape the Future of Your Business” on February 27.

Every generation brings value to the workforce and marketplace. Lear’s presentation will highlight how the marketplace is adapting to new generational norms that upend tried and true consumer behavior. She will provide attendees with a closer look into who the generations are, the trends emerging as they adapt to new life stages and the communication tactics that bring people together.

Previously, Lear was the content director at BridgeWorks, a research firm dedicated to generational and millennial trends. Her undergrad research focused on baby boomers and longevity, and her post-grad work centered on millennials and social media trends. Prior, Lear was head of research on the book Gen Z @ Work. She also wrote the popular Substack, Kids These Days. Lear has authored whitepapers on generational wealth transfer, retirement trends, and Gen Z’s impact on higher education. Lear serves as an advisor to FORE, an AI startup focused on predictive analytics for attrition and volunteers for The 78 Cents Project, an organization dedicated to helping young women develop strong presentation skills.

“I am looking forward to meeting with beverage leaders at Vibe. Using a generational lens, we’ll gain critical insights into where we’ve been, how we got to where we are today, and where we may go from here. The study of generations isn’t about one person—it’s about a shared culture. Ask yourself, ‘If I were born in a different time, would I see this differently?’” said Lear

Tim McLucas, Vice President, Bar & Restaurant Group said, “We are delighted to welcome Kim to deliver the keynote address at Vibe Conference. Her generational insights are highly valued and will supply our beverage executives with key data and information to apply to future strategic planning.”

To learn more about Vibe Conference, visit: https://www.vibeconference.com. To submit an Operator qualification form by the deadline of February 9, 2024, click here. Stay connected with Vibe Conference and industry news at https://www.barandrestaurant.com/chains.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Donna Bruns (for companies A-L) donna@vibeconference.com, or Fadi Alsayegh (for companies M-Z), falsayegh@questex.com.

About Vibe Conference
Vibe Conference is the premier event for chain and hotel adult beverage executives and suppliers. The top on-premise conference is held annually and involves high-level content, tastings and networking opportunities. The 2024 conference will be held February 26-28 at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego, CA.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Michelle Osborne
Vibe Conference
mosborne@questex.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3d6da161-68c1-4b68-9d39-ee6ab0fc546b

 

NEW YORK, Jan. 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex today announces Alexi Khajavi, President, Hospitality, Travel and Wellness has joined the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Board of Directors, a group that includes some of the most influential leaders from all sectors of the lodging industry, including brands, owners, real estate investment trusts (REITs), management companies, branded properties, independent hotels, and state associations.

Khajavi leads the Hospitality Group at Questex, an information services and event company with deep expertise in the hospitality industry that operates Hotel Management, with more than 564,000 readers who are engaged in optimizing hotel operations. This comprises the largest US distribution in the market. Questex also produces global events, including The International Hospitality Investment Forum (IHIF), with nearly every global hotel chain CEO in attendance, and several specialty curated buyer/seller events such as Hotec Design.  

As a member of the board, Khajavi will be part of vital discussions concerning a broad range of industry and AHLA related issues. AHLA is the largest hotel association in America and remains deeply engaged in policy issues affecting hoteliers at all levels of government. In 2023, AHLA advocacy efforts led to:

A clarification in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) eligibility guidelines that will save hoteliers an estimated $14 billionA $9 increase in the continental U.S. per diem rate that will generate an estimated $300 million for hoteliersThe release of an additional 64,716 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for fiscal year 2024

Learn more about AHLA’s Board of Directors here.

“I am excited to join AHLA’s Board of Directors,” said Khajavi. “Joining this esteemed group is an honor, and I am eager to collaborate with fellow industry leaders in shaping the future of hospitality. Together, we’ll drive innovation, champion excellence, and elevate our collective impact on the dynamic landscape of the hospitality sector.”

“I am thrilled to welcome Alexi to the AHLA Board of Directors,” said AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers. “Year after year, AHLA raises the bar for hospitality advocacy and member services thanks in large part to the amazing leaders from all sectors of our industry who serve on our board. We have assembled another slate of extraordinary executives in 2024. Alexi’s guidance and counsel will be instrumental to delivering advocacy victories for our members in 2024.”

AHLA and Questex joined forces in 2023 to launch The Hospitality Show, a bold new event for the entire hospitality ecosystem that empowers the industry to operate hotels more efficiently and profitably. The inaugural event brought together more than 3,800 attendees from across the entire sector, including senior executives of hotel brands, owners, operators, management companies, developers, investors, and technology partners, for two days of education, networking, and curated buying experiences. This year’s event will be held October 28-30 at the Henry B. González Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. For more information, please visit www.thehospitalityshow.com.

About AHLA
The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the largest hotel association in America, representing more than 30,000 members from all segments of the industry nationwide – including iconic global brands, 80% of all franchised hotels, and the 16 largest hotel companies in the U.S. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., AHLA focuses on strategic advocacy, communications support, and workforce development programs to move the industry forward. Learn more at www.ahla.com.

About Questex 
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here. 

Contact: Alexandra Aldridge, Marketing Director, Questex 212-895-8284 aaldridge@questex.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d0abce9-9681-4000-824a-80cb79b6ab8e

Top-tier Exhibitors and Brands Line the Halls Offering Professionals-Only Prices

NEW YORK, Jan. 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s International Beauty Show (IBS New York) and the International Esthetics, Cosmetics, & Spa Conference (IECSC New York) return to the Javits Convention Center March 3-5, 2024, with an extraordinary list of hundreds of exhibitors selling must-have brands and products at professionals-only prices.

The co-located shows offer unique opportunities for brands to get in front of thousands of hair stylists, colorists, barbers, nail technicians, makeup artists, lash specialists, estheticians, spa and salon owners & managers, and wellness professionals. The events are the perfect launchpad for new products and services.

The IBS New York 2024 exhibit floor will feature hundreds of high-profile brands, including: Andis, Aqua Hair Extensions (new!), Chi by Farouk, DNA Hairtools, HALOCOUTURE Extensions, Hattori Hanzo Shears, Korea Pavilion (new!), Myavana, Nail Alliance, Pibbs, Pureo Natural Products, Sutra, Turbo Power and many more! For the full list to date, click here.

IECSC New York 2024 exhibiting brands will include: Celluma, Circadia, Dermalogica, Eminence Organic Skin Care, HydraFacial, Face Reality Skincare, FarmHouse Fresh, Glymed Plus, LightStim, Silhouet-Tone USA, Procell Therapies, Repechage and more! The full list can be found here.

Attendees may register to attend the Shows by clicking here. Exhibit Hall passes include all free classes at IBS, all free Product-Focused Education at IECSC, and unlimited access to each Exhibit Hall. Master Classes, Hands-on Workshops at IBS and the curated conference sessions at IECSC are available for additional fees. All paid conference sessions include 3-day Exhibit Hall entry to both expo floors. Press may apply for a media pass here.

All professionals are encouraged to register by February 4th to receive their badges by mail in advance of the show. This will enable a quick entrance upon arrival and allow for more time to experience the show. 

SHOW HOURS:
Sunday, March 3: 10:30am – 5:00pm; Monday, March 4: 10:30am – 5:00pm; and Tuesday, March 5: 10:30am – 3:30pm

INFO:
For more information on IBS New York, visit ibsnewyork.com. Stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

For more information on IECSC New York, visit iecscnewyork.com. Stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Upcoming Events
Additional networking and educational opportunities for beauty and wellness professionals are available at IBS Las Vegas and IECSC Las Vegas, taking place June 22-24, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Visit ibslasvegas.com or iecsclasvegas.com for more information. Also, IECSC Florida will take place October 13-14, 2024 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Visit iecscflorida.com for more information.

About IBS New York
Produced by Questex and presented by American Salon, IBS New York is the longest running professional beauty event in the country. IBS New York is for professionals only and reaches a wide cross‐section of participants including salon owners and managers, hair stylists, hair colorists, makeup artists, nail technicians, beauty and hair product manufacturers and distributors. Connecting serious beauty professionals with the best in the industry, the show brings hundreds of top beauty brands together under one roof for free educational classes by industry legends, workshops, and exclusive show-floor discounts. For more information, visit ibsnewyork.com.

About IECSC
Produced by Questex, the International Esthetics, Cosmetics and Spa Conferences (IECSC) are for professionals only and reach a wide cross‐section of participants from spa and wellness product manufacturers and distributors to spa owners, directors and managers, estheticians, massage therapists, cosmetologists, medical estheticians, and dermatologists. With dynamic trade show floors, in-depth conference programs, and presented by American Spa, the IECSC events provide the perfect meeting ground for the world’s most elite and qualified spa professionals looking to meet the top skin, cosmetic and wellness companies. For more information, visit iecsc.com.

About QUESTEX
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality, and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here. 

Media Contact
Amanda Brokaw
IBS New York and IECSC New York
Amanda@brokawpr.com

New programming and growth in attendance expected to attract global capital flows into the North American hospitality industry

NEW YORK, Jan. 25, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex, a leading information services and event company, today announces the opening of registration for the NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference (NYU IHIIC) to be held on June 2-4, 2024 at the Marriott Marquis in New York.

As the newest addition to the Questex Hospitality portfolio, NYU IHIIC brings active U.S. and global investors from private equity to institutional capital and family office, together with CEO’s from major hotel companies, leading financiers, advisors, asset managers and operators representing more than $57 billion in assets under management. This year’s event theme “Driving Alpha” will surface opportunities for those with expertise of the hotel/hospitality sector to drive profitability through operational innovation. A share of proceeds from the event will help fund student scholarships at the NYU School of Professional Studies (NYU SPS) Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality and further support the program’s mission of educating and preparing future leaders and innovators for careers in global hospitality management, travel, and tourism. Register here.

“The NYU International Hotel Industry Investment Conference has been the touchstone for hotel investment and development in the Americas for over 40 years. We’re delighted to organize this year’s event, especially at a time when expectations are high for the transactions market to unlock. We expect a historic attendance of capital all looking to deploy and do deals,” said Alexi Khajavi, Group President Hospitality, Wellness and Travel, Questex.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
The 2024 NYU IHIIC program will deliver unparalleled thought leadership through keynotes, general sessions, workshops, and networking events. Top industry executives, from CEOs of hotel brands to various investment and real estate executives will discuss the latest trends, economic influences, and projections. Program features include:

Leaders from outside hospitality: keynotes and interviews of leaders from key companies outside hospitality including airlines and financial services, to share insights on initiatives in their industry sectorsCapital Talks: a panel of investors in the opening General Session to hear investors’ sentiment in the industryNew breakouts: Branded Residential, Food and Beverage, Green Money, CasinosIncreased representation from the investment community: as an event dedicated to hospitality investment, the program will include more of those who lead the marketsSpotlight stage: with brief presentations and case studies; providing solutions-focused content, rising stars and industry talent

EXPANSIVE NETWORKING
Building upon the tremendous success of the previous year’s forums, this year’s NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference evolves with the help of expert show management, expanded networking, Questex’s best-in-class marketing and database platform, and a new brand look and feel. Networking opportunities start before the show begins with seamless online registration, matchmaking, and show planning tools to facilitate connections, collaboration and deal making. During the event, various enhancements such as cocktail receptions, coffee bars, lunches, meeting spacings, VIP lounges and diverse selections of food and beverages will contribute to an appealing overall event vibe.

“Continuing on the legacy of the premier hospitality finance and development event, Questex is building an impressive program with forward thinking investors, owners and developers inside and outside of the Americas,” said Nicolas Graf, chaired professor and Associate Dean of NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality. “In addition, the Conference offers significant networking opportunities for industry professionals and NYU students.”

Jonathan M. Tisch, Executive Chairman of Loews Hotels & Co., and Chair of the NYU Conference, commented, “This year’s NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference is on track to deliver enhanced information, innovation and inspiration to conference attendees and students alike. I look forward to hearing from accomplished leaders, visionaries, and influencers of global hospitality as they come together to be the catalyst for positive change and sustainable industry growth.”

To register to attend the NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference, click here.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Andrew Walmsley awalmsley@questex.com.

Stay connected with the NYU International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About the NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality
The NYU School of Professional Studies Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality, now celebrating nearly 30 years of academic excellence, is a leading center for the study of hospitality, travel, and tourism. Founded in 1995, the Tisch Center was established in response to the growing need for hospitality and tourism undergraduate and graduate education. Its cutting-edge curricula attract bright, motivated students who seek to become leaders in their fields The Tisch Center recently launched the Hospitality Innovation Hub (HI Hub), which will foster entrepreneurship and creative solutions for the industries it serves. For more information, visit sps.nyu.edu/tisch.

About Questex
Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

For more information on Questex, visit questex.com. Stay connected to Questex on LinkedIn.

CONTACTS:

Kate Spellman kspellman@questex.com

Michael DeMeo michael.demeo@nyu.edu

NEW YORK, Jan. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Sibec EMEA, Europe’s longest running one-to-one event for the fitness industry, will return for its 26th edition 4-7 November 2024 at the Fairmont Monte Carlo, Monaco.

“Sibec EMEA is a powerful, productive event for professionals in the fitness industry,” said Rob Shannon, Global Event Director, Sibec Events. “Through our unique platform, we foster relationships with a perfect combination of one-on-one meetings and networking to promote enduring business connections.”

For two and a half days, leading global fitness suppliers and major owners and operators from health, fitness, and leisure in Europe, the Middle East and Africa will discover one of the most opulent and sophisticated destinations in Europe, while conducting their business in an intimate, unparalleled networking experience pioneered by Sibec.

Attendees will participate in a minimum of 16 one-to-one appointments, pre-selected based on criteria best suited for their individual businesses. Throughout the event, suppliers will have the chance to meet with all buyers in attendance via meals, organized networking activities and events, cultural receptions organized around the host destination, and valuable education, all of which encourages relationship building, and personal and professional growth.

For more information on Sibec EMEA, click here. Suppliers interested in reserving a place, please click here. Buyers interested in a fully hosted position should click here to apply.

Stay connected on: LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram

About Sibec
Organized by Questex, Sibec events are the longest running one-to-one events for professionals in the fitness industry and reach a wide cross‐section of participants from fitness and wellness products, manufacturers and distributors to club owners, directors, and managers. With a minimum of 16 one-to-one appointments, multiple networking opportunities, and education, Sibec events provides the perfect meeting ground for the world’s most elite and qualified buyers of fitness equipment and supply looking to meet the top global companies.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality, and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Carrie Harper
Marketing Manager
Charper@questex.com

NEW YORK, Jan. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Class will soon be in session when Questex’s International Beauty Show (IBS New York) and the International Esthetics, Cosmetics, & Spa Conference (IECSC New York) return to the Javits Convention Center March 3-5, 2024. An extensive array of expanded educational opportunities, led by prominent industry artists and educators, celebrity stylists and beauty and wellness influencers, will be offered for attendees looking to grow their business and customer base.

“Education is a top priority at our Shows and this year’s expanded line-up, featuring the debut of our innovative Master Class series, will not disappoint,” said Elizabeth Fantetti Trevorrow, Partnership & Event Director, Questex’s Beauty & Spa Group. “Additionally, our conferences are crafted to equip entrepreneurial spa and beauty professionals with the necessary tools for success in today’s technology-driven market, offering insights into the most innovative approaches to boost revenue for their businesses.”

IBS New York now offers a full roster of Master Classes in addition to Hands On Workshops. Master Classes are designed to provide an in-depth look at the latest skills, techniques, and styles led by elite industry artists. With an emphasis on demonstrations, business tips, and insider knowledge, attendees will leave each class ready to elevate their services, captivate their clientele with new skills, and increase profitability. Hands-On Workshops are 3-hour sessions tailored to enhance expertise, covering a wide range of topics, from Cutting & Styling to Makeup & Artistry, and each provide attendees with a mannequin head to practice their new skills. Attendees who purchase two or more classes will save $40.

Plus, all attendees are welcome to take part in over 100 demonstration classes, included free with an Exhibit Hall pass.

Featured IBS New York Classes and Instructors:

Master Classes

Hairvolution: Shaping the Future of Haircutting, Sam Villa & Roger Molina, Sam Villa Hair: These industry heavy hitters will demo the latest cutting and hairstyle trends.  Bridal to A-List Glamour: High-End Hair Styling Master Class, Monae Everett, Monae Artistry: Join Celebrity Hair Stylist Monaè Everett to explore the union of bridal elegance and A-list glamour, focusing on styling curly and coily hair. 

Hands-On Workshops

The Art of Holistic Haircolor, Alex Mason, Holistic Hair Miami: In this class, attendees will learn the art of creating organic lived-in hair color that effortlessly grows out for months, maintaining its seamless beauty.French Cutting with Candy Shaw, Sunlights: Candy Shaw’s coveted French Cutting system will open attendees’ eyes to a whole new world of possibilities using your shears.

Powerhouse Pavilion Panel Discussions

New York State and Beyond – What Bill S6528A Means for You & Texture, Moderated by Keya Neal: Our distinguished panelists will explore what this new law means for you as a hair care professional, how the new generation of stylists will benefit, and what established stylists can do to not be left behind.Deep Conditioning: Exploring Solutions to Bring Equitable Change in Beauty, Moderated by Faatemah Ampey: This discussion will get to the root of creating a more equitable space in the beauty industry and will provide strategies and solutions for artists and companies.

Free Classes (included with Exhibit Hall Pass)

Systematic Cutting, John Mosely, Andis: Mosley will share how to best approach your fade in a step-by-step and systematic way.Bridal Glow Unleashed: The Power of South Asian Makeup Techniques, Barbie Patel, CinderellaBridez: Attendees can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of South Asian bridal makeup and unlock the secrets to unleashing the bridal glow.3 Steps to Weeding Out the Wrong Clients (Even When They Are Friends/Family!), Dawn Bradley, Rock Your Business: With simple and easy-to-implement steps, beauty biz expert, Dawn Bradley, will be share her no-fail system to break up with clients who are toxic.Core Cutting Principles, Ben Brown, Hairbrained: Deepen your understanding of the core principles that help you develop and successfully haircut: the how, why, and where. 

IECSC New York will offer spa professionals their own curated Conference Education – a diverse range of paid classes featuring hand-picked speakers with unique expertise, all aimed at providing the essential knowledge and insights to elevate and grow businesses. Purchase three classes to enhance your show experience and unlock a $15 discount.

IECSC also offers 90+ FREE Product Focused Education sessions and workshops led by top exhibitors offering a deep dive into a specific products or services.

Featured IECSC New York Classes and Instructors:

Radiant Skin: Melanin Care Mastery, Carolyn Hubert-Black: Designed for skincare and massage professionals, this class covers history, science, personalized care, and safe ingredient knowledge for melanin-rich skin.Retail in the Round, Patti Biro; This interactive class focuses on the 5 Key Elements of a successful retail display and how to assess current displays for impact and engagement.How to Succeed as an Acne Therapist, Douglas Preston: Join esthetician and acne expert Douglas Preston to learn how begin or advance your career as an acne treatment pro.Panel Discussion: Unveiling the Path for New and Emerging Talent, Marcia Bird: Attendees will hear directly from a panel of new professionals with career pathway advice. Invaluable for students and new graduates!Radical Inclusion: Genuine Practices that Impact Your Business, Despina: Business owners will leave with an action list of practices they can implement immediately to create an inclusive environment.The Pigmentation Situation; Exploring all Angles with Savanna Boda, Savanna Boda: In this class attendees will learn how to identify different types of pigmentation in the skin and learn skin-care influencer, Savanna Boda’s, exclusive tips and tricks on how to treat them.Gut health: what goes wrong, how it affects skin, and how to explain this to your clients, Tracey Loughran: Naturopath and nutritionist Tracey Loughran shares her experience of eighteen years in clinical practice treating thousands of people for gut and skin issues.

For the full list of IBS New York classes click here.

For the full list of IECSC New York classes click here.

Attendees may register to attend the Shows by clicking here. Exhibit Hall passes include all free classes at IBS, all free Product-Focused Education at IECSC, and unlimited access to each Exhibit Hall. Master Classes, Hands-on Workshops at IBS and the curated conference sessions at IECSC are available for additional fees. All paid conference sessions include 3-day Exhibit Hall entry to both expo floors. Press may apply for a media pass here.

All professionals are encouraged to register by February 4th to receive their badges by mail in advance of the show. This will enable a quick entrance upon arrival and allow for more time to experience the show. 

SHOW HOURS:
Sunday, March 3: 10:30am – 5:00pm; Monday, March 4: 10:30am – 5:00pm; and Tuesday, March 5: 10:30am – 3:30pm

INFO:
For more information, on IBS New York, visit ibsnewyork.com. Stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

For more information on IECSC New York, visit iecscnewyork.com. Stay connected on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Upcoming Events
Additional networking and educational opportunities for beauty and wellness professionals are available at IBS Las Vegas and IECSC Las Vegas, taking place June 22-24, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Visit ibslasvegas.com or iecsclasvegas.com for more information. Also, IECSC Florida will take place October 13-14, 2024 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Visit iecscflorida.com for more information.

About IBS New York
Produced by Questex and presented by American Salon, IBS New York is the longest running professional beauty event in the country. IBS New York is for professionals only and reaches a wide cross‐section of participants including salon owners and managers, hair stylists, hair colorists, makeup artists, nail technicians, beauty and hair product manufacturers and distributors. Connecting serious beauty professionals with the best in the industry, the show brings hundreds of top beauty brands together under one roof for free educational classes by industry legends, workshops, and exclusive show-floor discounts. For more information, visit ibsnewyork.com.

About IECSC
Produced by Questex, the International Esthetics, Cosmetics and Spa Conferences (IECSC) are for professionals only and reach a wide cross‐section of participants from spa and wellness product manufacturers and distributors to spa owners, directors and managers, estheticians, massage therapists, cosmetologists, medical estheticians, and dermatologists. With dynamic trade show floors, in-depth conference programs, and presented by American Spa, the IECSC events provide the perfect meeting ground for the world’s most elite and qualified spa professionals looking to meet the top skin, cosmetic and wellness companies. For more information, visit iecsc.com.

About QUESTEX
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality, and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here. 

Media Contact
Amanda Brokaw
IBS New York and IECSC New York
Amanda@brokawpr.com 

Winners will be Announced at the Conference in February

NEW YORK, Jan. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Vibe Conference, the premiere on-premise beverage conference for beverage executives, today announces the 2024 Vibe Vista Award finalists. Vibe Vista Awards recognize the top performers in the beverage industry through the creation, training, execution, management, and on-going positive results of beverage programs.

Tim McLucas, Vice President, Bar & Restaurant, said, “Congratulations to the 2024 Vibe Vista Awards finalists. We had many strong entries again this year, and we look forward to announcing the winners at the Vibe Conference in February in San Diego.”

The Vibe Vista Award finalists (listed in alphabetical order):

Best Overall: Casinos

Delaware NorthGila River Resorts & CasinoPENN Entertainment

Best Overall: Cruise Lines

Celebrity CruisesNorwegian Cruise LineVirgin Voyages

Best Overall: Hotels

Four Seasons Hotels & ResortsHilton Managed HotelsTempo by Hilton

Best Overall: Multi-Unit Chain Restaurants

BJ’s RestaurantsKincaid’sSSP AMERICA

Best Spirits Program

Coury HospitalityNorwegian Cruise Line- Prima ‘66Virgin Voyages

Best Wine Program

Crystal CruisesRoyal Caribbean InternationalVine Hospitality

Best Beer Program

Hooters of AmericaMarella CruisesOld Chicago Pizza + Taproom

Best Adult Alcohol-Free Beverage Program

Hyatt LifestyleTempo by HiltonVirgin Voyages

Best Beverage Limited Time Offer

Royal Caribbean InternationalSSP AMERICAVirgin Voyages

Best Beverage Menu

Norwegian Cruise LineRoyal Caribbean InternationalVirgin Voyages

Vibe Vista Awards entries were judged by a panel of Johnson & Wales University beverage faculty, staff and alumni, together with Technomic and SevenFifty Daily and Beverage Media Group.

Awards were judged on positive beverage sales initiatives, efficient operational innovations and training and service programs producing high quality standards. They include:

Brian Warrener, Associate Professor & Director of the Center for Beverage Education & Innovation, Johnson & Wales University (Judging Chair)Michael Sabitoni, Associate Professor & Dept. Chair, Food & Beverage + Travel & Tourism Studies, Johnson & Wales UniversityBrian Van Gyzen, Associate Professor, Johnson & Wales UniversityDonna Hood Crecca, Principal, TechnomicJulie Heseman, Director, Research & Insights, TechnomicCourtney Schiessl Magrini, Editor-in-Chief, SevenFifty Daily & Beverage Media Group

Winners will be revealed at the Vibe Conference on February 27.

To learn more about Vibe Conference, visit: https://www.vibeconference.com. To submit an Operator qualification form, click here. Stay connected with Vibe Conference and industry news at https://www.barandrestaurant.com/chains.

To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Donna Bruns (for companies A-L) donna@vibeconference.com, or Fadi Alsayegh (for companies M-Z), falsayegh@questex.com.

About Vibe Conference
Vibe Conference is the premier event for chain and hotel adult beverage executives and suppliers. The top on-premise conference is held annually and involves high-level content, tastings and networking opportunities. The 2024 conference will be held February 26-28 at the Town and Country Resort in San Diego, CA.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Michelle Osborne
Vibe Conference
mosborne@questex.com        

NEW YORK, Jan. 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex, the owner of World Tea Expo and World Tea News, today announces it is partnering with Australian Tea Masters, the leading organization for global tea training and tea education, to expand the World Tea Academy education hub.

Australian Tea Masters extensive tea experience together with its wide global network provides an opportunity to expand World Tea Academy’s educational options, and provide enhanced choice and value for students, in the fast-growing tea market.

Since 2011, Australian Tea Masters had been devoted to promoting the art, culture and knowledge of tea. With a goal of building a community of tea lovers and professionals who value and understand the excellence of high-quality teas as well as the tea farmers who produce the tea, this is the perfect collaboration for Questex.

Australian Tea Masters will be responsible for operational management of World Tea Academy and will introduce expanded choices of classes and educational opportunities for tea professionals to learn, collaborate and engage with the global tea community.

As part of this collaboration, new World Tea Academy features include:

Launch of a new website, which provides improved flexibility for completing classesAbility to complete classes on demandChoice of online classes, plus new in person education in select locationsOpportunity to attend the annual World Tea Expo, which takes place March 18-20, 2024 in Las Vegas, with special discounted rates for students, and World Tea Academy meetups

Classes are now available on-line at www.worldteaacademy.com. Additional new opportunities will be launched soon.

“We are immensely proud to be joining forces with Questex and the World Tea Academy,” said Sharyn Johnston, CEO, Australian Tea Masters “This partnership marks a landmark moment for us, offering an extraordinary opportunity to showcase our deep commitment to tea education on a global stage. Our unwavering dedication to providing tea education has always been at the core of our mission. Through this collaboration we anticipate expansion in both our reach and available resources. Our online platform represents the forefront of tea education, and we are fully committed to continually enriching our range of courses and we can bring our expertise to a respected platform for tea education welcoming tea enthusiasts and professionals from all corners of the globe to engage in a rich, dynamic learning environment. We’re particularly excited about bringing our unique blend of traditional and contemporary tea knowledge to a wider audience. This is an opportunity for us to inspire connect and elevate the tea industry as a whole.”

Tim McLucas, VP and Market Leader of the Bar & Restaurant Group at Questex added, “We’re delighted to partner with Australian Tea Masters to enhance the World Tea Academy and widen the opportunity for tea education internationally. Building on the success that Sharyn Johnston and her team have demonstrated within the global tea industry, Australian Tea Masters is uniquely positioned to support the growing demand for online tea education, plus provide new opportunities for professionals to meet and learn in person and connect face to face with the tea community including producers, retailers, suppliers and other key industry stakeholders.”

Stay connected with World Tea Academy on Facebook, X and Instagram.

About Australian Tea Masters
Australian Tea Masters is a leader in tea education. Since 2011, Australian Tea Masters has been devoted to promoting the art, culture and knowledge of tea. Our ultimate goal is to build a community of tea lovers and professionals who truly value and understand the excellence of high-quality teas and the tea farmers who produce the tea. Through our programs of education and certification in all thing’s tea related we have become the resource for individuals and companies globally to increase their knowledge of the tea industry.

About World Tea Academy
World Tea Academy is the leading provider of tea education, that supports the educational and learning needs of today’s global tea industry. Our choice of courses and certifications provides the most up to date and industry recognized programs that cater to both individual and business needs, in today’s fast growing industry. 

World Tea Academy is part of the World Tea portfolio of products and events including the annual World Tea Expo, and World Tea News, educating and informing a global tea audience in both online and in person formats. 

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: travel, hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer: life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences. We live in the experience economy – connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Michelle Osborne
World Tea Academy
mosborne@questex.com