Global awards program celebrates the creative vision, technical innovation, and teams behind the world’s most outstanding live experiences

NEW YORK, Aug. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Forge’s LDI and Live Design today announce the return of the Excellence in Live Design Awards, recognizing the creative projects redefining what’s possible across live entertainment, events, and experiences worldwide.

Returning with an expanded global focus, the Excellence in Live Design Awards will spotlight exceptional work across concerts and touring, theatre, broadcast, corporate events, immersive experiences, venues, and production design.

The reader-judged awards invite the global live design community to showcase the creativity, collaboration and technical expertise behind today’s most memorable experiences – from the designers and producers who envision them to the technologists, manufacturers and production teams who bring them to life.

“The Excellence in Live Design Awards have a long history of recognizing the extraordinary creativity and technical expertise that define this industry,” said Marian Sandberg, VP and Brand Leader, Forge. “Bringing the awards back gives us an opportunity to shine a global spotlight on the people, teams, and projects pushing live experiences forward – and to celebrate that work alongside the industry at LDI.”

Entries may be submitted by anyone involved in an eligible project, including designers, producers, architects, consultants, owners, manufacturers, suppliers, venue, and event teams.

Celebrating the Best in Live Design

From massive stadium tours and theatrical productions to immersive installations, broadcasts, corporate events, and innovation venues, the Excellence in Live Design Awards reflect the extraordinary breadth of today’s live entertainment and experiences industry.

Following the entry period, eligible projects will be presented to the Live Design and LDI communities for a public vote, giving industry professionals the opportunity to recognize the work they believe represents the very best in live design.

Awards will be presented across nine categories:

• Architainment/Immersive Experience
• Concert – Arena/Theater – Primary venue capacity under 20,000
• Concert – Stadium Tour – Primary venue capacity 20,000+
• Corporate Event
• Live For Broadcast
• Theatre Production
• Venue – Club/Lounge
• Venue- Hotel/Restaurant
• Venue – Theatre/Performance

Finalists and winners will receive exposure across LDI and Live Design, putting their work in front of the global community of designers, producers, technologists, manufacturers, and entertainment professionals these brands serve.

The program will culminate at LDI 2026 running December 2-8, 2026 in Las Vegas, where winners will be recognized and celebrated alongside the live entertainment design and technology community.

Entries Now Open
The Excellence in Live Design Awards are now accepting entries for qualifying projects.

Key Dates:

Entries Open: August 26, 2026
Entry Deadline: September 30, 2026
Public Voting Begins: October 1, 2026
Winner Announced: November 13, 2026
Winners Recognized: LDI 2026 in Las Vegas

Designers, creative teams, producers, venues, manufacturers and other industry professionals are encouraged to submit the work that deserves to be seen—and recognized—by the global live design community.

To explore the categories, review eligibility and judging criteria, and submit an entry, visit Excellence in Live Design Awards | LDI 2026

About LDI

For nearly four decades, LDI® (Live Design International) has connected the live entertainment, design, and technology community with the latest innovations, education, and inspiration driving the industry forward. LDI brings together designers, programmers, engineers, production professionals, manufacturers, and technology leaders from around the world to discover new solutions, exchange ideas, and shape the future of live experiences.

LDI 2026 takes place December 2–8, 2026, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, with the Expo Hall open December 6–8.

About Live Design

Live Design is a leading resource for entertainment design and technology professionals, covering the people, projects, products, and ideas shaping live entertainment and experiences worldwide. Through news, in-depth features, industry insights, and education, Live Design connects the creative and technical professionals behind the world’s most innovative productions and experiences.

About Forge

Forge is a leading global B2B events and media company, connecting buyers and sellers across high-value industries through live events, trusted media brands, digital products and year-round communities. Powered by first-party data, technology and deep market expertise, Forge helps businesses discover opportunities, build the right relationships and stay engaged well beyond the event itself. It is a company guided by a single purpose, Moving Markets.

For more information, visit forgelive.com.

Media Contact:
Charlene Soucy
LDI
csoucy@questex.com

NEW YORK, Aug. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Forge’s Hotel Management reveals the annual “Thirty Under 30” winners, spotlighting emerging talent shaping the future of hospitality.

Each year, Hotel Management invites nominations from across the hospitality industry to spotlight rising talent deserving of recognition for their dedication and impact. Eligible nominees must be 29 or younger as of December 31, 2026, currently working in any area of the hotel sector — operations, management, ownership, technology, asset management, consulting, training, or sales and marketing. Candidates are required to have completed a significant project for their hotel or organization and be acknowledged by their leaders as emerging industry trailblazers.

From the impressive pool of 2026 nominations, 30 outstanding professionals were selected by the senior editorial staff for their commitment, leadership and achievements. They are:

1. Nicole Ames, Director of Front Office, Caribe Royale Orlando
2. Guilherme (Gil) Basilio, Area Director of Revenue, InnVentures
3. Ben Bloss, Assistant General Manager, Food & Beverage, Universal Orlando Resort-Universal Epic Universe
4. Madeline Campbell, Revenue Manager, Brittain Resorts & Hotels
5. Austin Cardona, Director of Facilities, Greens Group LLC 
6. Tiana Conforti, Senior Catering Sales Manager, The Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook
7. Carly Daste, Director of Human Resources, Remington Hospitality
8. Naomi Frost, CEO & Founder, Frost Hospitality LLC
9. Yoami Garcia, Assistant Director, People & Culture, Fairmont Austin
10. Madison Haynes, Task Force Director of Sales, Ivy Hospitality
11. Justin Hynes, Accountant, OTO Development
12. Lizette Jimenez, Assistant Director of Sales, First Hospitality
13. Santiago La Roche, General Manager, Casetta
14. Idelsi Macchio, General Manager at Courtyard by Marriott New York World Trade Center Area, Concord Hospitality
15. Zelena Maldonado, Assistant General Manager at Hampton Inn& Suites Orlando Airport at Gateway Village, Mckibbon Hospitality
16. Dylan Mizenko, Market Director of Sales, McKibbon Hospitality
17. Sergio Molina, Food & Beverage Manager at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, HM Alpha Hotels & Resorts
18. Shelby Monaghan, Digital Marketing Manager, Highgate
19. Emma Moore, Regional Director of Digital Marketing, LBA Hospitality
20. Maya Devi Neupane, Marketing Manager, L’Ermitage Beverly Hills
21. Alannah Paren, Director, CRM & Lifecycle Marketing, EOS Hospitality
22. Rhea Patel, Vice President, AAAR Hotels
23. Shivam Patel, Hotel Broker, Associate, and Hotel Owner-Operator, Motel 6 Delano | T&S Hotel Advisors
24. Alfonso Perez-Vega, General Manager, Brown Palace Hotel, Highgate
25. Erica Purtill, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Brand Activations, Makeready
26. Keval Rama, Senior Associate, Auro Hotels
27. Rouman Rizk, Guest Services Manager, HM Alpha Hotels & Resorts
28. Kayla Sawyer, Revenue Manager, Highgate
29. Andrew Williamson, Vice President, CHMWarnick
30. Joe Yarbrough, Senior Financial Analyst, OTO Development

The 2026 Thirty Under 30 winners are featured online and in the September issue of Hotel Management. Visit https://www.hotelmanagement.net/operate/hotel-managements-thirty-under-30 to learn more.

Hotel Management’s 2026 “Thirty Under 30” Awards are sponsored by DIRECTV HOSPITALITY.

Esther Hertzfeld, Executive Editor, Forge Hospitality said, “We’re thrilled to recognize these rising stars who embody the creativity and vision shaping what comes next in the hospitality industry. We look forward to celebrating these leaders at The Hospitality Show this Fall.”

The “Thirty Under 30” Awards are part of Forge’s broader commitment to developing the next generation of hospitality leaders. Building on this mission, Forge will debut The Hospitality Show’s Emerging Leaders Program at the 2026 event, taking place November 2-4 in Miami.

Designed for hospitality’s rising leaders, the Emerging Leaders Program will connect young professionals with peers, mentors and industry executives while providing opportunities to build the skills and relationships that can accelerate their careers. Programming will include educational sessions and candid conversations with seasoned executives and next-generation leaders on topics ranging from AI and leadership to F&B trends, professional development and more. All Access registration for attendees under 30 is available for $199. To register visit https://www.thehospitalityshow.com/hospitalityshowcom/register

About Hotel Management, a Division of Forge Hospitality Group
Hotel Management creates content for the hospitality ecosystem with one shared goal of operating hotels efficiently and profitably. Hotel Management is a leading B2B centralized source for the latest news, trends and analysis across the hospitality industry. Stay up to date on breaking news in global and local development, technology, investment, operations, food & beverage, design and more.

About Forge
Forge is a leading global B2B events and media company, connecting buyers and sellers across high-value industries through live events, trusted media brands, digital products and year-round communities. Powered by first-party data, technology and deep market expertise, Forge helps businesses discover opportunities, build the right relationships and stay engaged well beyond the event itself. It is a company guided by a single purpose, Moving Markets.

For more information, visit forgelive.com.

Media Contact
Esther Hertzfeld
Executive Editor, Forge Hospitality
ehertzfeld@questex.com

NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The fourth annual Broadband Nation Expo, produced by Forge’s Fierce Network and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), is building major momentum for its 2026 event taking place November 18-20 in New Orleans. Nearly 100 speakers have been added to the agenda and leading companies across broadband and digital infrastructure will participate at Broadband Nation Expo and the inaugural Data Center Excellence Summit. Together with Forge’s Fierce Network and TIA, they will explore the technologies, policies, workforce strategies, and investment priorities needed to expand broadband access, strengthen digital infrastructure, and support the growing demands of the AI economy.

Broadband Nation Expo is the nation’s largest meeting ground for the U.S. broadband, digital infrastructure, and connectivity ecosystem – bringing together the decision-makers building, funding, deploying, and operating the networks that will power America’s future. The co-located Data Center Excellence Summit convenes industry leaders to scale the infrastructure behind the AI economy. Together, these events create a collaborative forum where industry, government, and technology leaders work together to address the opportunities and challenges shaping America’s digital future.

“Broadband Nation Expo and the co-located Data Center Excellence Summit continues to build incredible momentum, with new speakers and new sponsors. The energy around this year’s event is unmistakable. We’re thrilled to see the community coming together in bigger and more impactful ways,” said David Drain, Show Director, Broadband Nation Expo.

Broadband Nation Expo and Data Center Excellence Summit Speakers
The Broadband Nation Expo and co-located Data Center Excellence Summit conference programs offer a lineup of industry leaders, experts and thought-provoking discussions focused on the future of broadband, AI and digital infrastructure. With three tracks: Built to Last, Hybrid Horizons and Data Center Excellence, attendees can expect a dynamic program packed with insights, ideas and opportunities to engage with the industry.

Keynote speakers include:

• Justin Colwell, EVP, Technology Strategy & Innovation, Charter Communications
• Phil Read, Senior Director of Global Colocation Product Management, Equinix
• Gino Tozzi, Global Head of Data Center Infrastructure Quality, Google
• Rob Ward, SVP, Global Network Engineering, Lumen Technologies

Other confirmed speakers include:

• Vince Aragona, CEO, Neo Network Development
• Navid Ariaban, Managing Director, FTI Consulting
• Berge Ayvazian, Senior Industry Analyst and Consultant, Wireless 20/20
• Egest Balla, Analyst, Wire & Cable, CRU Group
• MJ Barton, Tribal Affairs & Strategic Growth, Trans-Tel Central, LLC
• Eric Bathras, Chief Technology Officer, Maryland Department of Information Technology
• Angela Bennink, General Manager, Kitsap Public Utility District
• Koby Biran, CEO, Xtream Communications, LLC
• Scott Blorstad, Sr. Project Manager, HITT Contracting
• Robert Boyle, CEO & Founder, Planet Networks
• Mike Brigman, CEO, Bridged Broadband
• Butch Brock, CSO, Dragonfly Internet
• Stephen Rose, CEO, Render Networks
• David Bronston, Special Counsel, Phillips Lytle
• Ken Budd, CEO, 702 Communications; Aurora Fiber Optic Networks
• Rick Cimerman, Vice President, External & State Affairs Lead, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association
• Steve Coran, Attorney, Lerman Senter PLLC
• Elizabeth Coyne, Editor-in-Chief, Fierce Network
• Gene Crusie, CEO, Surf Internet
• Sarah Davis, Vice President, Market Development, Fidium
• Brandon Dinsmore, Founder & Executive Director, NDN Development Group
• Bob Faber, Senior ICT Consultant, Salas O’Brien
• Josh Forman, Co-Chair, Digital Infrastructure Practice, Greenberg Traurig
• Ken Frankel, VP of Sales, F-Secure
• Eric Frederick, Chief Connectivity Officer, Michigan High-Speed Internet Office
• Jeff Freyer, Senior Vice President, Grain Management
• Leo Garcia, Director, Office of Broadband, FloridaCommerce
• Heather Gate, Executive Vice President, Digital Inclusion, Connected Nation
• Bobbie Gilbert, Chief Government Affairs Officer, Ripple Fiber
• Diana Goovaerts, Executive Editor, Cloud, Data Center and AI, Fierce Network
• Robert Griffin, Broadband Director, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
• Ronnie Hammond, Director, Office of Statewide Broadband, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
• Linda Hardesty, Executive Editor, Fierce Network
• Caleb Henry, Director of Research, Quilty Space
• Brian Horton, Senior Director, Head of Wireless Business, CCI Systems
• Glen Howie, State Broadband Director, Arkansas Economic Development Commission
• Veneeth Iyengar, Executive Director, Connect LA
• Alan Jones, CNO, C Spire
• Anitha Kapu, Director of Engineering (Manufacturing & Quality), Crusoe
• Anis Khemakhem, Chief Commercial Officer, Clearfield
• Bob Knight, Commissioner, Economic & Community Development, Town of Ridgefield, Connecticut
• Jeff Kohler, Co-Founder, Rise Broadband
• Bob Kolasky, Senior Vice President, Cyber and Critical Infrastructure, Exiger
• Spencer Laney, Director of Deployment, TWN Communications
• Matt Larsen, Owner and CEO, Vistabeam
• Jaimie Lenderman, Practice Leader, Omdia
• Sam Love, Chief Policy & Strategy Officer, NCTA
• Mike Lubin, Senior Advisor and VP, ViaSat
• Bree Maki, Executive Director, Office of Broadband Development – Minnesota
• Kimberly Maki, CEO, Influential Voices, LLC
• Ravi Teja Reddy Mandala, Senior Site Reliability Engineer, Oracle
• Sue Marek, Editorial Director, Ookla
• Carol Mattey, Principal, Mattey Consulting LLC
• Kimberly McKinley, Chief of Staff, TAK Broadband
• Allyson Mitchell, General Manager, Mohawk Networks, LLC
• Jason Mittler, Manager, FPUAnet, Fort Pierce Utilities Authority
• Matt Myers, Chief Operations Officer, All West Fiber
• Melissa Newman, SVP, Government Affairs, TIA
• Sam Pavlick, Sales Manager, Actifai
• Mark Pearson, Broadband Interstate Coordinator, Communities Unlimited
• Jessica Pittard, President & CEO, BDI Datalynk
• Matthew Plaster, Senior Advisor for Strategy, NTIA
• Donald Ray, Chief Development Officer, BAM Broadband
• Mike Regan, VP, Business Performance, TIA
• Brandy Reitter, Executive Director, Colorado Broadband Office
• Martin Renkis, Executive Director, Data Center Infrastructure, Johnson Controls
• Peter Robins-Brown, Assistant to the President, Louisiana AFL-CIO
• Paroma Sanyal, Principal, The Brattle Group
• Steven Schwerbel, Director of State Advocacy, WISPA – The Association for Broadband Without Boundaries
• Carla Shearer, CEO & General Manager, SCTelecom
• Parker Slaybaugh, VP, LINK Public Affairs
• Tom Stroup, President, Satellite Industry Association
• Bill Stueber, Partner, Telecom Partners Group
• Roger Timmerman, CEO, UTOPIA Fiber
• Thomas Tyler, Co-Founder, C207 Partners
• Kevin Uyeno, Vice President, Chief of Staff, Pivot-Tech Development, Inc.
• Drew Van Dopp, CEO, Maryland Broadband Cooperative
• Brian Vo, Chief Investment Officer, Connect Humanity
• David Waite, Principal, Fifty Elm
• Joseph Wender, Executive Director, SHLB Coalition
• Kenny Williams, District 9 Staff Representative, Communications Workers of America (CWA)
• John Windhausen, Principal, Telepoly
• Warren Woodward, Director of Broadband Services, XMission Internet
• Michelle Yirka, SVP Business Development, Chisholm Broadband
• David Zumwalt, President & CEO, WISPA

Additional speakers and sessions will be announced in the coming months.

Leading companies across broadband and digital infrastructure commit to events
Broadband Nation Expo and the co-located Data Center Excellence Summit continues to attract an impressive roster of sponsors from across the broadband, communications, and digital infrastructure sectors. Together, these organizations are helping convene the conversations needed to address deployment challenges, strengthen network resilience, expand workforce development, and prepare infrastructure for the next era of growth and AI adoption. They include:

• Returning Marquee Partner CommScope
• Platinum Partner: NCTA
• Gold Partner: Render Networks
• Bronze Partners: 1Finity; Actifai; AFL; CCI Systems; Clearfield; F-Secure; Luck Grove; Maxcell; and Ribbon.
• Exhibitors and Supporting Partners: Avion Networks; BDI Datalynk; BHN/Tango; Essentia; FiberOptic.com; Google Fiber; Intracom Telecom; MP NexLevel, LLC; Network Connex; Ooma; Praxedo; SNO Smarter Fiber Neworks; Sunrise Telecom; Trileaf; Vecima; Wesco; and Zyxel Communications.
• Industry Association Partners: ACA Connects; Fiber Broadband Association; ISE; NATE; and SCTE.

Partnership opportunities for Broadband Nation Expo and the Data Center Excellence Summit can be explored by contacting Scott Gruntorad at sgruntorad@questex.com.        

New to the 2026 event, the Fierce Network Innovation Awards Reception & Ceremony will take place on November 19. The Awards program and ceremony will celebrate the companies, leaders, technologies, and innovations transforming connectivity and advancing the future of broadband, cloud, wireless, and beyond. 

For additional information and registration, visit Broadband Nation Expo and Data Center Excellence Summit.

Stay connected with the latest updates by following Broadband Nation Expo on LinkedIn and X.

About Broadband Nation Expo
Broadband Nation Expo is the premier industry event uniting the entire broadband ecosystem – from service providers and policymakers to technology innovators and community leaders. The event serves as a catalyst for collaboration, driving solutions to bridge the digital divide and ensure universal high-speed internet access. Produced in collaboration with the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), Broadband Nation Expo will take place November 18-20 in New Orleans, LA.

About TIA
The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) advances trusted digital infrastructure for a connected world. Representing more than 400 companies globally, TIA brings industry and government together through standards development, government advocacy, certifications, and industry programs to support resilient, innovative infrastructure.

About Forge
Forge is a leading global B2B events and media company, connecting buyers and sellers across high-value industries through live events, trusted media brands, digital products and year-round communities. Powered by first-party data, technology and deep market expertise, Forge helps businesses discover opportunities, build the right relationships and stay engaged well beyond the event itself. It is a company guided by a single purpose, Moving Markets.

For more information, visit forgelive.com.

Media Contact
Katie Williams
Broadband Nation Expo
kwilliams@questex.com

Corporate Brand Debuts with a Market-Led Strategy, Newly Appointed Board of Directors

NEW YORK, Aug. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Forge, the new corporate brand uniting Emerald and Questex LLC, debuted today as a leading global B2B events and media company serving customers through live events, digital media, data and year-round communities. The move follows Apollo-managed funds’ (“Apollo Funds”) acquisition of the two companies in July 2026. Forge begins with one market-led strategy and a newly appointed Board of Directors.

Forge brings together Emerald’s scaled portfolio of trade shows, conferences and commerce-driven solutions with Questex’s differentiated events, media brands and 365-day digital engagement model. The combination offers customers a single partner that stays engaged before, during and long after an event concludes. The name reflects the work itself. “To forge is to bring distinct strengths together, through pressure and precision, to build something stronger than either could be alone.” Forge brings that idea to life by creating relationships and connections that help customers anticipate what’s next and move their industries forward. This purpose is captured in the company’s new brand promise, “Moving Markets.”

As the new corporate parent brand, Forge sits above the company’s individual event and media brands, which will continue to operate under their existing names, now backed by the scale, technology and investment of the combined platform.

“Today marks the beginning of Forge, a company built on the strengths of Emerald and Questex,” said Paul Miller, Chief Executive Officer of Forge. “Together we are now the largest B2B events and media company in North America, and one of the largest in the world. We’re helping customers see what is ahead and connect with the people who matter most to them, backed by the data, talent and scale to deliver measurable value year-round. Under Apollo Funds’ ownership, we will keep investing in our products, our people and the markets we serve. That’s what it means to move markets.”

As previously announced, Paul Miller leads Forge as Chief Executive Officer, supported by the executive leadership team named in July 2026. Forge also announced its newly appointed Board of Directors, bringing together leaders who have built and scaled some of the world’s most recognized events, media and information businesses. Along with Paul Miller and representatives of Apollo Funds, the Board’s independent directors include:

• Andy Bird, former President of Walt Disney International and former CEO of Pearson
• Lara Boro, former CEO of The Economist Group and former CEO of Informa Intelligence
• Simon Kimble, former CEO and Executive Chairman of Clarion Events

The Board will guide Forge’s long-term strategy as the company invests in its portfolio and expands the markets it serves.

Under the ownership of Apollo Funds, Forge will continue investing in its people, products and technology to extend customer engagement beyond the event itself. The Forge brand will begin rolling out across events, websites and customer touchpoints over the coming weeks and months.

To learn more about Forge, visit forgelive.com.

About Forge

Forge is a leading global B2B events and media company, connecting buyers and sellers across high-value industries through live events, trusted media brands, digital products and year-round communities. Powered by first-party data, technology and deep market expertise, Forge helps businesses discover opportunities, build the right relationships and stay engaged well beyond the event itself. It is a company guided by a single purpose, Moving Markets.

For more information, visit forgelive.com.

Contact:

Kate Spellman
Chief Commercial Officer
Forge
kspellman@questex.com

100+ conference sessions added to the industry’s premier event for entertainment design and technology; Event takes place December 2-8 in Las Vegas

NEW YORK, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Live Design International (LDI), the premier event for live entertainment technology and design professionals, today unveils its full 2026 LDInnovation™ Conference program, featuring more than 100 conference sessions. The LDInnovation Conference joins the LDInstitute with an industry-leading lineup of A-list speakers spanning lighting, audio, projection, media servers, staging, automation, immersive technologies, AI, broadcast, film, AR/VR/XR, and live production.

Taking place December 2–8, 2026, with the Expo Hall open December 6–8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, West Hall, LDI will once again bring together the creative and technical minds shaping the future of live experiences.

From award-winning designers and touring professionals to creative technologists, engineers, programmers, and production leaders, LDI offers attendees unparalleled opportunities to discover emerging technologies, gain practical skills, and connect with the global live event community.

The LDInnovation Conference Pass will feature 100+ sessions that embrace the unexpected:

• The Art Of Programming: A full day of sessions on the art and technology of lighting consoles, coordinated by Rane Renshaw, lighting design & programming, Rane.Design
• When Architectural Lighting Met Entertainment, featuring George Tellos, lighting designer, LightingArt
• Running on Empty: Movement, Stress, & Mental Health in the Entertainment Industry with Amy D. Luxe, Multidisciplinary Designer, LoboLux Design
• The Team of One: An AI-Native Concept Studio for Creative Directors with Stuart Fingerhut, Senior Creative Director, Hartmann Studios
• Lights, Camera, Render: Inside the Virtual Production Process: A panel moderated by lead designer Dennis Size, The Lighting Design Group
• From Screen to Space: How Cinematic XR is Reshaping Live Experience Design with Marti Romances, Co-Founder/Creative Director, Territory Studio

“Every year, LDI brings together the people and ideas that move our industry forward,” said Jessi Cybulski, Show Director, LDI. “The 2026 program reflects where live production is headed—from AI-powered workflows and immersive experiences to next-generation production technologies and hands-on professional education. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your technical skills, discover new solutions on the show floor, or learn directly from the industry’s leading experts, there’s truly something for everyone.”

Additional LDI 2026 Highlights:

• 75+ LDInstitute™ professional training courses, offering intensive, hands-on education led by respected industry experts.
• 200+ industry speakers representing the world’s leading productions, venues, manufacturers, studios, and creative teams.
• A dynamic Expo Hall showcasing 250+ companies bringing their newest products and technologies across lighting, audio, staging, projection, media servers, broadcast, AV, rigging, and production services.
• Dedicated networking events, immersive experiences, live demonstrations, and interactive activations throughout the week.
• Specialized tracks covering AI, media servers, networking, lasers, projection mapping, stage management, rigging, live audio, broadcast, film and television, and much more.

Registration is now open, with early bird pricing on LDI passes available through October 16. Attendees can also choose from LDI’s pass options, including VIP Passes, LDInnovation Conference Passes, and Expo-Only Passes.

For complete conference details, course information, and registration, visit www.ldishow.com.

Key Dates:

Pro-Training takes place December 2–8, 2026
LDI Expo Hall open December 6–8, 2026

For more information on exhibiting companies and products, visit www.ldishow.com.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Kelly Turner, Director of Sales, at kturner@questex.com.

Follow LDI on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, X, YouTube and TikTok.  

About Live Design International (LDI)
Established in 1988, Live Design International (LDI) is built on a 36-year history as the essential trade show and conference for global live design professionals. Attendees come to LDI to see the latest gear and entertainment technology in action, covering audio, lighting, projection, video, staging, special effects, and XR. It is also a great opportunity to refresh knowledge and professional training, in addition to networking and finding inspiration from colleagues, manufacturers, and distributors at the vanguard of entertainment technology. For more information, visit http://www.ldishow.com/. LDI takes place December 2-8, 2026, in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contact
Charlene Soucy
LDI
csoucy@questex.com        

DALLAS, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Vibe Conference, the leading event for on-premise beverage executives, announces its 2027 Advisory Board, bringing together influential leaders from across the restaurant, hotel, cruise, airline and beverage sectors.

For more than two decades, Vibe Conference has served as a gathering place for the on-premise beverage community to exchange ideas, build meaningful relationships and discover strategies that drive beverage program success. In 2027, Vibe heads to the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, February 22–24, offering a new backdrop for the industry’s premier networking and educational event while preserving the close-knit community and high-level connections that define the experience.

Representing expertise across beverage strategy, operations, innovation, marketing and sales, the 2027 Advisory Board will bring real-world perspectives directly into the development of the event. Their collective insight will help shape Vibe’s programming around the most important challenges, opportunities and trends impacting today’s on-premise beverage landscape.

“Vibe connects the people who are shaping the future of on-premise beverage,” said Brandy Rand, Vice President, Hospitality Group at Questex. “Our Advisory Board is an essential part of what makes Vibe an industry-leading experience. We’re thrilled to bring together this respected group of beverage innovators.”

Members of the 2027 Vibe Conference Advisory Board include:

• Chander Bhola, Global On-Premise Key Accounts, SAZERAC
• Terry Boyer, President, Patrick Henry Creative Promotions
• Nick Briggs, Manager, Food and Beverage Operations, American Airlines
• Lynsey Buege, VP, National & Regional Accounts – On Premise, Campari Group
• Cindy Busi, VP Enterprise Beverage Strategy and Innovation, Darden Restaurants
• Drew Bussiere, Director National Accounts On Premise, Mark Anthony Group
• Antonio Carranza, Corporate Beverage Director – Americas, Hyatt
• Stephanie Craig, Director of Hospitality & Entertainment, Red Bull North America
• David Crooch, GM, Diageo Non-Alcoholic Beverages, Diageo Non-Alcoholic Brands
• Maurice DiMarino, Wine & Beverage Manager, Cohn Restaurant Group
• Stephanie Dold, Beverage Director, Disney
• Jenn Dougherty, Director, Commercial Marketing Strategic Accounts On-Premise, Suntory
• Ed Eiswirth, Senior Director of Beverage Operations, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines
• Nate Grover, Executive Director, Bar & Beverage, Applebee’s
• Indre Jasaityte, Director, Beverage, BJ’s Restaurants
• Jennifer Kellogg, VP, Food + Beverage, U.S. & Canada, Marriott
• Andrea Langus, Director, Beverage, Brinker International
• Brian Lebredo, Director of Beverage, Texas Roadhouse
• Jen Lougee, Senior Manager, F&B Operations, Topgolf
• Yvette Mathis, Head of Restaurant Chains & Large Groups, Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages
• Patrick McGinn, Vice President of Account Management & Partner, IMI Agency
• Steven Messer, Sr. Director, On-Premise, Bacardi USA
• Arthur Mooradian, Chief Operating Officer, Berg Hospitality Group
• Lisa Norberg, Division Sales Manager National Accounts, On-Premise, American Beverage Marketers
• Robbi Jo Oliver, Divisional Vice President Wine & Spirits/ Learning & Development, Mastro’s Restaurants/Landry’s
• Alex Prieto, VP, National & Key Accounts, Constellation Brands
• Todd Schuessler, Head of National Accounts, Pernod Ricard
• Desiree Springer, Vice President, National Accounts On-Premise, Fifth Generation Distilled Spirits, Inc.
• Nels Storm, VP, F&B Product Strategy, AMC Theatres
• Zachary Sulkes, AVP, Beverage Operations, Carnival Cruise Lines
• Ken Taylor, Senior Vice President, MarkeTeam
• Brian Webb, Founder & CEO, Better Beverage Bureau
• Kurt Wilson, Senior Director On Premise, The Boston Beer Company

Registration and additional event details will be announced soon. For more information, visit www.vibeconference.com

About Vibe Conference

Bringing together national and regional chain restaurant, hotel, cruise, airline, and concessionaire beverage executives with the suppliers shaping the market, Vibe delivers the industry’s most innovative conference program. Each year, the application-only event features ROI-driven content, curated tastings, and exclusive experiences designed to spark profitable partnerships and inspire the future of on-premise beverage programs. 

About Questex

Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contacts:
Sarah Belizaire	Greg Cohen
(646) 552-1118	(917) 714-8237
sarah.bb@bbcomms.global	greg.cohen@bbcomms.global

Questex’s 2026 Consumer Hotel Habits Report, powered by Datassential, finds travelers will pay more for upgrades, flexibility, and breakfast while exposing untapped loyalty opportunities.

NEW YORK, Aug. 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hotel stays remain a near-universal habit, with 80% of U.S. adults staying in a hotel at least once a year, but what keeps guests coming back has sharpened around a few clear priorities, according to the newly released Questex “2026 Consumer Hotel Habits Report” powered by Datassential. The study points to concrete, revenue-driving opportunities for operators willing to act on them.

The essentials still win. Cleanliness and comfort continue to outrank every other factor in the guest experience. Ninety-seven percent of guests say room cleanliness is important, while 94% rank comfort as a top priority, reinforcing the value of quality beds, effective temperature control, and quiet rooms. When it comes to amenities, high-speed Wi-Fi remains the clear must-have, with 86% of guests rating it essential. Parking is also one of the most valued amenities, with 97% of guests saying they use it when it’s available. The findings show that core conveniences continue to matter more than high-tech perks.

Guests will pay if the offer is clear. 74% of guests would pay extra for an in-room upgrade, most often a better view or more space, with willingness highest among men, Millennials, and Gen Z (up to half of younger guests would pay for a bigger room). Flexibility is its own upsell as roughly 8 in 10 guests would pay more for, or would consider paying for, flexible cancellation, led by younger and higher-income travelers. The findings suggest hotels have an opportunity to position flexible cancellation as a premium add-on rather than including it by default.

Value beats “cheapest.” While price is the top booking driver (71%), only 7% of travelers define good value as the lowest price. Instead, 72% say value means the right balance of price and quality. Location also plays a critical role in booking decisions, with 86% of guests rating it as important, alongside convenient access to transportation and parking.

Own breakfast; rethink the rest of F&B. Interest in on-site dining varies by daypart, but breakfast is the clear opportunity. Fifty-seven percent of guests frequently order breakfast on-site, about twice the rate of any other meal. Guests also overwhelmingly prefer a casual restaurant or café (80%) over fine dining (27%). At the same time, 69% of guests order through third-party delivery apps, many of whom also use room service. The findings suggest hotels should either make room service as fast and convenient as delivery apps or partner directly with those platforms.

The biggest opportunity is loyalty. About 82% of guests say they would stay loyal to a hotel brand that consistently meets their expectations, yet only 55% are enrolled in a loyalty program. The gap is widest among younger and lower-income travelers. The most valued rewards are also the simplest, with 71% of guests preferring free stays and 61% valuing complimentary upgrades. The report suggests hotels can strengthen loyalty by making rewards more immediate, such as enrolling guests at booking or check-in and offering an instant, relevant perk.

“Guests are pointing to exactly where to invest including clean, comfortable rooms, reliable Wi-Fi, a strong breakfast, and a loyalty program that pays off fast,” said Brandy Rand, Vice President of Hospitality at Questex “The operators who win in 2026 will nail the fundamentals and make it effortless for guests to see the value they’re paying for.” Rand will present additional findings during The Hospitality Show, taking place November 2-4, 2026, at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Methodology: Findings are based on an online survey of 1,519 U.S. consumers age 21+ who stay in hotels at least once every few years, fielded in May 2026.

About Datassential
Datassential is the global authority for food and beverage intelligence, helping brands, operators, and retailers make confident decisions in a complex and fast-changing industry. Founded in 2001, the company delivers trusted food intelligence through its all-in-one platform, Datassential One, which brings together menu, consumer, and sales intelligence alongside AI-powered analysis. More than 90% of the leading foodservice and consumer packaged goods companies rely on Datassential to understand market change and stay ahead of what’s next.

About The Hospitality Show
The Hospitality Show is an event for the entire hospitality ecosystem with one goal: operating hotels more efficiently. Produced by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Questex, the event brings together top industry leaders, senior executives of hotel brands, owners, operators, management companies, procurement specialists, and their teams. The Hospitality Show 2026 takes place November 2-4, at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami, FL.

About Questex
Questex fuels exceptional business connections—where every buyer and seller interaction matters. Through live events enriched with data insights and active year-round digital communities, we deliver measurable results. It happens here.

Media Contacts:

Sarah Belizaire (646) 552-1118 sarah.bb@bbcomms.global	Greg Cohen (917) 714-8237 greg.cohen@bbcomms.global