NEW YORK, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Sibec, the fitness industry’s premier one-to-one business meetings event, will convene top decision makers from global fitness brands and suppliers May 12-15, 2025 at the luxurious Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The invitation-only event connects qualified fitness facility operators with innovative suppliers of equipment, technology and design solutions. Participating operators, including industry giants Equinox, Xponential Brands, and Gold’s Gym, are carefully selected based on their substantial purchasing power and strategic growth initiatives. 

This year’s expanded global focus brings together buyers and suppliers from multiple continents, fostering international business development opportunities. Beyond the curated one-to-one meetings, attendees will engage in interactive product demonstrations, fitness classes, and strategic networking activities. 

“Sibec’s intimate format creates an environment where meaningful business relationships flourish across borders,” said Jess Tyler, Vice President and Market Leader of Questex’s Wellness Brands. “Our carefully structured program enables deep understanding between partners, laying the foundation for lasting business partnerships.”

For more information on attending Sibec, click here. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, click here. 

Follow Sibec 2025 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, reaching a wide cross‐section of participants from fitness and wellness products, manufacturers and distributors, to club owners, directors, and managers. With one-to-one appointments, multiple networking opportunities, and education, Sibec events provide the perfect meeting ground for the world’s most elite and qualified buyers of fitness equipment and industry suppliers 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: 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
Sibec 2025
[email protected]

NEW YORK, Jan. 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex Hospitality today announces Cameron Sperance has joined as Content Director, Travel. In this newly created position, Sperance will oversee content and grow audiences across digital including Luxury Travel Advisor, Meeting Spotlight, Travel Agent Central and Hospitality Investor as well as live events Luxury Travel Advisor’s ULTRA Summit and Global Meetings & Incentive Travel Exchange (GMITE).

Sperance has spent more than a decade covering hospitality business and real estate news. Prior to Questex, Sperance was a senior hotels reporter at The Points Guy. He previously covered the hotel industry for Skift and Bisnow. He is also a former guidebook writer who has authored three editions of the Moon Boston travel guides. His work and commentary have been featured in Barron’s, The Boston Globe, Boston Herald, The New York Times and The Washington Post and he serves on the National Association of Real Estate Editors’ board of directors.

“We are thrilled to welcome Cameron to the Questex team. His industry expertise aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering valuable insights to the Travel industry. He will be instrumental in shaping the content strategy and direction of our Travel portfolio moving forward,” said Alexi Khajavi, Group President Hospitality and Wellness, Questex.

About Questex 
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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
Jennifer Rosen
Senior Marketing Director
[email protected]

Booking.com Confirmed as Global Distribution Partner to Offer Booking.com Bar & Networking Pavillion

Young Leader Award Submissions Open through 7 February

LONDON, Jan. 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s International Hospitality Investment Forum EMEA (IHIF EMEA), the premier meeting place for hospitality investment in EMEA, today announces leaders from Marriott, Accor, IHG, Hyatt and Radisson will unite to shape the future of the hospitality industry. IHIF EMEA’s 27th edition takes place 31 March – 2 April at the InterContinental and Pullman hotels in Berlin. Register here.

“2025 will be a defining moment for dealmakers and operators alike, where navigating tightening financial markets, embracing technology-driven efficiencies, and unlocking sustainable investment returns will separate market leaders from the rest. This year’s forum is about resilience, innovation, and action — providing the insights, partnerships, and capital connections attendees need to not just survive but thrive in a transformed global market. Attendees will gain inspiration from business leaders and learn how to turn ideas into actionable strategies in order to capitalise on the biggest opportunities and successfully navigate future business challenges across economic, social, and workforce environments,” said Joe Stather, VP/Market Leader, Operational Real Estate. “We are thrilled to welcome Booking.com as a Global Distribution Partner. Booking.com connects owners with consumers through its extensive international reach and leading insights. We understand the vital importance of networking, knowledge sharing and collaboration to drive the industry forward and their pavilion will be the perfect place for the hospitality ecosystem to connect.”

IHIF EMEA serves the hospitality investment community by delivering unparalleled thought leadership through keynotes, general sessions, workshops and networking events that equips attendees with actionable strategies to drive growth and innovation. New speakers added to the programme include:

Anthony Capuano, President and CEO, Marriott International will present the session “Driving growth: A global CEO’s perspective on market opportunities and the value of partnerships.”Dex Hunter-Torricke, Emerging Technologies Expert and Former Communications Executive at SpaceX & Facebook, will deliver the megatrends keynote “Visionary leadership for communications, technology, society in a dynamic era.” Jon Sopel, renowned British journalist, political presenter, podcaster and author will present the session “Strategies for a shifting world: Anticipating and managing geopolitical risk.”

Attendees will gain insights from over 200 leaders on global trends shaping the EMEA hospitality landscape. New speakers added to the programme include:

Gilda Perez-Alvarado, Chief Strategy Officer, Accor Federico Gonzalez, President and CEO, AccorSamir Amichi, Head of Real Estate Acquisitions Europe, BlackstoneTugdual Millet, CEO, Covivio HotelsMark Hoplamazian, CEO, Hyatt HotelsElie Maalouf, CEO, IHG Hotels & Resorts

View the conference programme here.

IHIF EMEA brings senior leaders from across the hospitality ecosystem together
IHIF EMEA brings together 2,500 industry professionals, including 600+ investors managing over $340 billion in assets under management. Representatives from leading investment firms, top hospitality brands and operators and advisory companies are confirmed to attend IHIF EMEA.

The investor community will be attending including representation from AccorInvest, AXA Group, Blackstone, Bain Capital, Brookfield, Covivio, Invesco Real Estate and Schroders.

Plus, advisory companies including CBRE, Horwath HTL and JLL will take part in the event.

Booking.com Bar & Networking Pavilion helps attendees connect with the right people
IHIF EMEA is prioritising networking, knowledge sharing and collaboration. Booking.com is partnering with IHIF EMEA as a Global Distribution Partner to create the Booking.com Bar & Networking Pavilion, a dynamic space for both dedicated meetings and spontaneous networking opportunities. With a central bar and café located at the heart of the IHIF EMEA Pavilion, it’s a place where ideas flow, deals happen, and connections will be made.

Young Leader Award
The Young Leader Award, established by The International Society of Hospitality Consultants (ISHC) and IHIF EMEA, celebrates young leaders in hospitality. The awards programme recognises outstanding young professionals (under 35) who are reshaping the hospitality industry through innovation, financial impact, leadership and positive social and environmental change.

Click here to nominate a candidate. Applications will be accepted through 7 February.

For more information about IHIF EMEA 2025 and to register, visit https://www.ihifemea.com. Advanced rate registration ends 31 January.

To register for a media pass, email Meryl Franzman at [email protected].        

For sponsorship opportunities, click here.

Stay connected with IHIF EMEA on X and LinkedIn and follow #IHIFEMEA25.

About IHIF EMEA
The International Hospitality Investment Forum EMEA (IHIF EMEA) is the premier event for hospitality investment professionals. By uniting influential hospitality leaders from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, IHIF EMEA aims to shape the future of the hospitality industry with three-days of content, networking, insights and deal-making. IHIF EMEA takes place 31 March – 2 April 2025 at the InterContinental and Pullman hotels in Berlin.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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 Contacts
Kirsty McKenna
IHIF EMEA
[email protected]        

Meryl Franzman
IHIF EMEA
[email protected]        

Submissions open through February 15, 2025

NEW YORK, Jan. 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Fierce Electronics, in collaboration with Sensors Converge, today announces the launch of the Fierce Electronics 40 Under 40, a new initiative celebrating the brightest and boldest young professionals shaping the future of the electronics industry.

This prestigious program will spotlight 40 exceptional professionals under the age of 40 who are redefining what’s possible in the world of electronics through their groundbreaking innovations, technical expertise, and visionary contributions. From advancements in semiconductor technologies, to revolutionary breakthroughs in IoT, sensors, and AI, these rising stars are transforming industries and paving the way for a smarter, more connected world.

“Innovation thrives in the hands of the next generation,” said Marian Sandberg, VP & Market Leader, Questex. “With the Fierce Electronics 40 Under 40 program, we’re thrilled to shine a light on the talented young professionals whose ingenuity and passion are driving progress and redefining the future of electronics. If you know an extraordinary engineer or leader under the age of 40, we want to hear their story.”

Nominations for the Fierce Electronics 40 Under 40 Awards are open now through February 15, 2025. Candidates can be nominated by colleagues, mentors, peers – or even nominate themselves. To submit a nomination, click here.

Celebrating Excellence at Sensors Converge 2025
The 40 Under 40 will be announced and celebrated during the 40th Anniversary Sensors Converge event, taking place June 24-26, 2025 at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA. The milestone event gathers the global electronics and sensors community to explore cutting-edge technologies, share insights, and connect with innovators shaping the future. Those featured will gain unparalleled recognition as thought leaders and changemakers, with features across Fierce Electronics’ digital platforms and exclusive opportunities to connect with the industry’s most influential leaders and organizations.

Sponsorship Opportunities
Fierce Electronics 40 Under 40 offers unique sponsorship opportunities for organizations looking to support and align their brand with the next wave of innovation in electronics For sponsorship inquiries, click here.

For More Information
For more details about the program, eligibility requirements, and the nomination process, visit here.

About Sensors Converge
Sensors Converge (www.sensorsconverge.com), formerly known as Sensors Expo & Conference, got its start 40 years ago bringing together the design engineering community to network, share ideas, and define the future roadmap for the sensors industry. Sensors Converge is part of the Fierce Technology Group, a division of Questex, which also produces the Best of Sensors Awards, Fierce Electronics and Fierce Sensors, as well as daily content and newsletters on Fierce Electronics at www.fierceelectronics.com.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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
Charlene Soucy
Sensors Converge and Fierce Electronics
[email protected]        

Luxury Travel Advisor sees writing on wall and will co-locate with leading MICE event for the benefit of advisors and suppliers

NEW YORK, Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Luxury Travel Advisor’s ULTRA Summit, produced by Questex, will take place May 5-7 at Chateau Elan located in Braselton, Georgia, just north of Atlanta.

As the vanguard of the luxury travel industry, the ULTRA Summit will co-locate with the Global Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange (GMITE), creating a dynamic event that unites the luxury leisure and MICE travel markets. This collaboration is driven by extensive industry research, which underscores the growing intersection of these sectors and the increasing demand for integrated experiences.

Attendees will benefit from exclusive one-to-one appointments, high-value networking, and expert-led content, including insights into key industry trends such as the rise of bleisure travel, evolving customer expectations, and the demand for authentic, experiential offerings. By combining these two premier events, this co-location delivers actionable strategies and unparalleled opportunities to expand business in an increasingly interconnected travel landscape.

For global luxury suppliers, ULTRA Summit offers a chance to showcase their destinations, properties, and services to a hand-selected audience of pre-qualified, North American luxury travel agency owners, managers and independent contractors. For advisors, the event is an exclusive opportunity to discover new offerings, forge meaningful partnerships, and stay ahead of industry trends—all in a single, efficiently curated environment.

New Luxury Travel Industry Day: A key addition to the 2025 agenda is the “Trends & Topics” day on May 7, where thought leaders from across the hospitality and travel sectors will discuss pivotal topics such as global politics and travel policies, the growth of bleisure, and the demand for authentic travel experiences, with a focus on the luxury market. This day also offers enhanced networking with attendees from the co-located Global Meeting & Incentive Travel Exchange (GMITE) which include meeting planners, incentive buyers and suppliers.

“The ULTRA Summit is more than an event; it’s a reflection of where the travel industry is headed,” said Jill Birkett, VP/Market Leader, Questex Travel. “By integrating MICE and leisure, we’re not only meeting the needs of today’s buyers and suppliers but also setting the stage for the future of travel. The addition of the ‘Trends & Topics’ day underscores our commitment to providing a holistic platform for industry advancement.”

For more information or for suppliers who wish to reserve a place, visit ltaultrasummit.com. Luxury travel advisors may apply to be fully hosted by clicking here.

Stay connected on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and X.

About Luxury Travel Advisor
Luxury Travel Advisor was founded in 2005, as the only outlet created for the very important luxury segment. Luxury Travel Advisor boasts a readership of 15,000 hand-selected travel advisors who belong to Virtuoso, Signature, American Express, Ensemble and Internova, as well as those hard-to-reach independent luxury travel advisors across the United States and Canada. The readers of Luxury Travel Advisor sell to the most affluent consumers across the world and the ULTRA Summit is the intimate, in-person event where those advisors collaborate with top suppliers on how to navigate a successful business plan for the future. The Dossier newsletter publishes news from LuxuryTravelAdvisor.com twice a week and reaches a broad audience of luxury travel professionals worldwide.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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:
Jennifer Rosen
Sr. Marketing Director
[email protected]
+1 212-400-6233

NEW YORK, Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Vibe Conference, the leading on-premise beverage conference for beverage executives, today announces the finalists for the 2025 Vibe Vista Awards. These prestigious awards recognize outstanding performers in the beverage industry, celebrating excellence in the creation, training, execution, management, and ongoing success of beverage programs.

Tim McLucas, Market Leader, Hospitality Group at Questex, commented “Congratulations to the 2025 Vibe Vista Awards finalists! We are thrilled to honor the top innovators in the on-premise beverage industry at Vibe Conference this March in San Diego. This year, we are especially excited to introduce the inaugural award for Best Overhaul of Beverage Program, acknowledging remarkable transformations in beverage offerings.”

The 2025 Vibe Vista Award finalists (listed alphabetically) are:

Best Wine Program:

Coury HospitalitySeasons 52Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel

Best Adult Alcohol-Free Beverage Program:

Hyatt LifestyleLazy Dog RestaurantsRoyal Caribbean International

Best Overall: Hotel:

HEI Hotels & ResortsKimpton Hotels & RestaurantsMarriott International

Best Overall: Multi-Unit Chain Restaurant:

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & BarHooters of AmericaLazy Dog Restaurants

Best Beverage Menu:

Bar LouieMarella Cruises & The Apollo GroupVirgin Voyages

Best Spirits Program:

BJ’s Restaurant & BrewhouseDelta Sky ClubPrincess Cruises

Best Beer Program:

BJ’s Restaurant & BrewhouseMarella Cruises & The Apollo GroupPENN Entertainment

Best Overall: Cruise Line:

Princess CruisesRoyal Caribbean International

Best Beverage Limited Time Offer:

Delaware NorthPacifica HotelsVirgin Voyages

Best Overhaul of Beverage Program:

Hyatt HotelsMaggiano’s Little ItalyTaco Mac

The category for Best Overall: Casinos will not have an award this year due to not meeting the minimum number of submissions.

The Vibe Vista Awards entries were evaluated on the basis of positive beverage sales initiatives, operational innovations, and training and service programs that uphold high-quality standards.

The distinguished panel of judges include:

Brian Warrener – Judging Chair, Associate Professor & Director of the Center for Beverage Education & Innovation, Johnson & Wales UniversityDale J. Venturini – Former President & CEO, RI Hospitality AssociationMichael Sabitoni – Associate Professor & Dept. Chair, Food & Beverage + Travel & Tourism Studies, Johnson & Wales UniversityBrian Van Gyzen – Associate Professor, Johnson & Wales University

Award winners will be announced at Vibe Conference, which takes place March 3-5, 2025 in San Diego, CA.

About the Vibe Vista Awards
The Vibe Vista Awards are part of the Vibe Conference, an annual event that brings together top beverage executives from across the industry. The awards celebrate the best in beverage program creation, execution, and results, highlighting those who set the standard for excellence.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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:

Michelle Osborne
Senior Marketing Director
[email protected]
(617) 219-8305

The Nation’s Longest-Running Professional Beauty Event and Preeminent Spa Show Return to the Javits Center, March 23-25, 2025

NEW YORK, Jan. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The International Beauty Show (IBS New York) and the International Esthetics, Cosmetics, & Spa Conference (IECSC New York) will return to the Javits Convention Center March 23-25, 2025. The co-located events, produced by Questex, and presented by American Salon and American Spa respectively, attract over 30,000 beauty, salon and spa professionals will feature an expanded lineup of education, speakers and exhibitors – more than ever before.

“Given our over 100-year history of IBS New York and 28-year history of IECSC New York, the impact these shows have made on the professional beauty and spa industry motivates and inspires us to continue to evolve with new experiences and offerings,” said Elizabeth Fantetti Trevorrow, Partnership & Event Director, Questex’s Wellness Group. “The shows empower professionals across the beauty and spa industries to thrive at every career stage by offering high-quality education, a one-stop marketplace, industry insights, and networking opportunities that foster their success and support their overall well-being.​”

New Premium Education Experiences for 2025:

For 2025, both events have introduced Premium and VIP Pass experiences which include combined educational sessions and 3-day admission to both expo floors, fast-track badge pick-up, and an exclusive swag bag.

IBS New York features over 100 expert-led sessions, including hands-on workshops with industry leaders Presley Poe, Candy Shaw, and Sean Casey. IECSC New York offers 40+ specialized classes covering emerging trends in skincare, wellness, and business development.

Show Highlights:

On-Floor Free Education
All attendees are welcome to take part in over 100 demonstration classes at each Show, included free with the Exhibit Hall pass.

What’s New For You Zone
A can’t miss area to try a new line, engage with a first-time exhibitor, or be one of the first to test a newly launched product! 

The Business District
The Business District is a new prime show floor destination for salon and spa professionals seeking solutions to enhance their business operations. 

The Fades & Blades Barber Battle, powered by Level 3 and sponsored by Rolda, Cocco and Andis, will be held on Sunday, March 23rd and will pit twenty-four barbers in a friendly competition The first, second and third place winners will be recognized with prize packages. The show also offers hours of tailored content exclusively for the barber community. More information on Education and Exhibitors can be viewed here.

Powerhouse Pavilion
The Powerhouse Pavilion on the expo floor has been restyled for 2025 as a dynamic classroom with panel discussions hosted by leading industry educator, barber, school owner and activist, Rodrick Samuels.

The Glam & Go Showcase Stage
New in 2025 and located on the IBS New York Show floor, the Glam & Go Showcase Stage will be the place where the biggest names in beauty bring their latest innovations and show you how to master the hottest trends your clients are craving.

400+ Brands on the Expo Floor
The IBS New York and IECSC New York exhibit floor will showcase premium brands including, DNA Hairtools and Extensions, Farouk, HALOCOUTURE Extensions, Lashbox LA, Level3, Pibbs Industries, Circadia, Eminence Organic Skin Care, HydraFacial, Parlux, Turbo Power, FarmHouse Fresh, Geneo, MerryLaz, Silhouet-Tone USA, Procell Therapies, Repechage and many more! For the full list of exhibitors, click here.

Attendees may register to attend the Shows by clicking here.

Exhibit Hall passes include all free classes at IBS New York, all Product-Focused Education at IECSC New York, and unlimited access to each Exhibit Hall.

Press may apply for a media pass here.

SHOW HOURS:
Sunday, March 23: 10:30am – 5:00pm; Monday, March 24: 10:30am – 5:00pm; and Tuesday, March 25: 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 21-23, 2025, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Visit ibslasvegas.com or iecsclasvegas.com for more information. Also, IECSC Florida will take place September 28-29, 2025, at the Palm Beach 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: 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
[email protected]

LDI 2025 Announced for December 3-9 in Las Vegas

NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Live Design International (LDI) 2024 delivered an unforgettable experience, bringing together over 13,000 global live event and entertainment design technology professionals and over 350 exhibitors. Packed with groundbreaking gear and technology, unparalleled education, and industry-defining moments, LDI 2024 proved why it remains the ultimate gathering for live entertainment and production technology.

A Milestone Year for LDI 2024
Bursting with cutting-edge technology, unmatched education programs, and unforgettable networking opportunities, LDI 2024 reached new heights. The event featured the largest professional training program in its history, a 50% increase in LDInstitute™ classes, more than 125 LDInnovation™ Conference sessions, and a 10% larger exhibit floor showcasing over 350 exhibitors.

“LDI 2024 was a vibrant celebration of the creativity, innovation, and community that power the live entertainment industry,” said Jessi Cybulski, Show Director, LDI. “With outstanding professional training, an electric show floor, and countless opportunities to connect, this year’s event exceeded expectations. We can’t wait to see what the industry will create in the coming year and showcase at LDI 2025.”

LDI 2024 Highlights:

A Buzzing Expo Hall: The expo floor was alive with energy for three days, featuring over 350 state-of-the-art exhibits where attendees experienced the latest gear, technologies, and trends shaping the future of live entertainment. For more information on exhibiting companies and products click here.Keynote Excellence: Visionary speakers like Thibaut Duverneix (Gentilhomme); Sharon Huizinga (Rock Lititz); Emily Malone (Disguise); and Craig Winslow (Experiential Designer) captivated audiences with their insights into the future of entertainment technology.Expanded Training Programs: This year’s educational offerings reached unprecedented levels, including 75 LDInstitute™ classes, 125 LDInnovation™ Conference sessions, and 200+ industry-leading speakers. Attendees participated in hands-on technology training, in-depth case studies, and behind-the-scenes tours, including expanded Rigging Training, the Stage Managers’ Academy, and the Architectural Lighting Design Focus.Unrivaled Networking Opportunities: From A La Carte Lunches and Brunches to exclusive After Dark parties hosted by Tao Group Hospitality, LDI 2024 fostered invaluable connections among industry professionals.Behind-the-Scenes Access: The Backstage Las Vegas Tours offered attendees rare insights into tech-savvy venues like Speigelworld’s DiscoShow culminating in a live performance of Cirque du Soleil’s Mystère, with its all-new lighting design.Fierce Battle of Busk Competition: An electrifying showdown over three days of intense busking training and competition, sponsored by industry leaders such as ACT Entertainment, AV Stumpfl/Pixera, ACME, Chauvet, Elation, ETC, hazebase, LINK, Pathway Connectivity Solutions, RCF, and StagePro, kept attendees on the edge of their seats.Inspiring the Next Generation: The Foster the Future program continued to champion emerging talent through initiatives like the Young Career Professionals Program, the Pat MacKay Diversity in Design Scholarships, and hands-on event production opportunities for aspiring industry professionals.

What attendees and sponsors had to say about LDI 2024:
“As far as the quality of programming and the quality of showroom floor, it’s definitely some of the top memories I’ll have when it goes to conferences and attending events,” said Michaela Ternasky-Holland, Creator, Immersive, Spatial, & Interactive Experiences (VR, AR, AI).

“It’s been really, really great to come back and experience LDI and just seeing the growth that has happened in just a short amount of time, both in the size of the overall event and then also the technology. If you’re thinking about coming to LDI or getting into this industry, I would certainly recommend you taking advantage of this amazing opportunity that happens every year. Just great exposure to many of the manufacturers, all of the technology that you see on any of the events that are happening out there is here at the LDI conference. Even better are the people and the relationships that make all the live events in the industry happen. It’s all about the people and the products, and it all happens here at LDI,” said Shane Smith, Sr. Director Technology, LMG, Inc.

“It’s the perfect opportunity to see a showcase of the latest and greatest in tech, and also network and meet with the movers and shakers who are in this exciting field. As a first-time attendee when the Expo Floor opened, I was like a kid walking into a candy store. It was just incredible. The lights, the sounds, the noises, the people, the technology. Yeah, this is a great experience,” said Brian Crane, Founder, Crane Light & Design.

“This is the conference that I go to because all of my friends are here. I was a lighting person back in the day. And this is the place that I come to see all the new technology, the new equipment. And now that I’m working more on the rigging side of things, I get a chance to come and talk about that this year,” said Kristi Ross-Clausen, Director of Education and Training, TheaterHealthandSafety.com.

“LDI is a wonderful thing every year where all the vendors come together and you get an opportunity to see all of the new things out there. But, also, it’s really a meeting of the minds where you get all the people who are actually creating this cutting-edge technology into one space. So, it’s a great place to talk to people, pick up on what’s coming up as far as ideas goes and what people have in the pipeline,” said Tyler DeLong, Managing Partner, DeLong Rigging Solutions.

“LDI to me is the mecca for theater technology around the planet. If you want to broaden your horizons and know more about your craft, whatever that craft is, whether it’s rigging, whether it’s lighting, whatever it is, you come to LDI to see the latest products, to talk to the leaders in the industry and learn more about what it is that they do that makes them successful. It’s honestly just a great place to get together with the OGs in the industry to swap stories, meet new people, encourage the young ones today to get into the business and help it grow, because this business is growing exponentially every day,” said Tracy Nunnally, Owner, Vertigo.

“This is my favorite show. Not only do a lot of our customers come here, you have end users and production companies from some of the leading companies. So, we’ve met so many incredible contacts here. Many touring companies have come to visit our booth, and we’re really excited for them to use INFiLED with some of the top performers in the country. Such amazing contacts, just a real incredible place, and really just a fun place to be. So, I definitely recommend everyone to be at LDI,” said Larry Lipsie, Senior Sales Manager, INFiLED.

“It’s been a great show. We’ve had a lot of really great interactions with tons of different people. Attendance has been really good this year,” said Will Komassa, President/CEO, Blizzard Lighting LLC.

“It’s been a fantastic show. We’ve seen all kinds of people here from students who are just starting out in their careers in the entertainment technology world, all the way up to the most seasoned professionals that we’ve ever seen at this show,” said Ryan Hindinger, Market Manager CT&LE, ACT Entertainment.

Looking Ahead to LDI 2025
LDI 2025 will take place December 3-9, 2025 at the West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV, with the conference starting December 3 and the expo floor open December 7-9. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Kelly Turner, Director of Sales, at [email protected].

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 will take place December 3-9, 2025, at the West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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
Charlene Soucy
LDI
[email protected]        

NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s Fierce Network, a mega portal designed to meet the needs of decision makers throughout the global communications industry, today unveils the winners of the 2024 Fierce Network Innovation Awards. Building on the esteemed legacy of the Fierce Innovation Awards: Telecom Edition, this program recognizes the visionaries and innovators shaping the future of the network communications landscape – from wireless to broadband to cloud.

The Fierce Network Innovation Awards honor groundbreaking companies, technologies, and individuals that are revolutionizing the communications industry. These innovations demonstrate exceptional potential to drive cost savings, enhance customer engagement, and transform network capabilities.

The 2024 Fierce Network Innovation Awards Winners

AI

AI Empowered Receiver Design for 6G Wireless Communications: InterDigital

Analytics/Automation

Rakuten AI for Telecom: Rakuten Symphony

Business Services

MetTel SD-WAN: MetTel

BSS/OSS

Rakuten Symphony OSS Product Suite: Rakuten Symphony

Cloud Networking (Public, Private or Hybrid)

Rakuten Cloud: Rakuten Symphony

Cloud Data Center

Nokia Event-Driven Automation (EDA): Nokia

Customer Engagement

TNS Enterprise Branded Calling: Transaction Network Services

Digital Divide

Aqualinq: Aqualinq

IoT

CDM – Cognitive Digital Mine: Nokia

Network Test and Measurement

RADCOM Virtual Drive Test: RADCOM

Next-Gen Deployment Fiber/Wireline

Aqualinq: Aqualinq

Security

SingVerify and Enterprise Mobile Protect: Singtel

Sustainability

The Ocient Hyperscale Data Warehouse™: Ocient

Top Changemaker

Rahul Atri, Managing Director, Rakuten Symphony India and President, OSS BU, Rakuten Symphony

Wireless – Fixed Wireless

Redefining Retirement Living Through 5G mmWave FWA Connectivity: Airspan Networks

Wireless – Mobile Evolution

Intrado Locate Before Route (LBR): Intrado

Wireless – Private Wireless Networks

Celona 5G LAN: Celona

Wireless – Wireless RAN

Opportunity for 50% greater spectral capacity using Cohere’s Universal Spectrum Multiplier Software xApp to relieve Congested Low & Mid Band FDD spectrum during O-RAN base station update: Cohere Technologies and Vodafone

“Congratulations to this year’s Fierce Network Innovation Awards winners, the innovators shaping the future of network communications,” said Elizabeth Coyne, Editor in Chief of Fierce Network. “We commend them for this recognition and acknowledge their outstanding work.”

Winners were selected by an esteemed panel of industry leaders as judges, including analysts and service providers, ensuring that only the most innovative and impactful contributions were recognized.

For more information on the awards program, visit https://awards.fierce-network.com/. For partnership inquiries, reach out to Scott Gruntorad at [email protected].

About Fierce Network 
The global communications, enterprise and cloud networking and infrastructure industries is converging as the separation between wireless, wireline and cloud ceases to exist while the world’s operators shift toward cloud-native, intelligent, automated networks driven by artificial intelligence. Fierce Network is tracking this sea change by delivering a mega portal of hard-hitting industry news and analysis, designed to meet the needs of today’s decision makers. Fierce Network covers artificial intelligence (AI), automation, fixed and mobile broadband, cloud infrastructure, application modernization, security and more to help readers analyze the day’s news and show them what they need to know and why they need to know it. Fierce Network also produces special reports that take stock of the industry’s services and finances and shed light on industry trends. To learn more, visit https://www.fierce-network.com. 
  
About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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
Charlene Soucy
Senior Director, Marketing
Fierce Network Research
[email protected]        

Registration Now Open for the Premier Event for Hospitality Leaders Shaping the Future of the Industry

LONDON, Dec. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Questex’s International Hospitality Investment Forum EMEA (IHIF EMEA), today unveils the 2025 conference programme. IHIF EMEA is THE market leader in bringing together the innovators and game-changers within the industry and acts as a beacon for driving investment into hospitality.

In 2025, the event empowers global decision-makers, investors, hotel brands, operators and innovators to shape the future of hospitality across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). The event theme “Own the Moment” underscores IHIF EMEA as a unique platform to navigate the evolving business landscape with curated tracks and deep content for three days of networking, insights and deal-making. IHIF EMEA’s 27th edition takes place 31 March – 2 April at the InterContinental and Pullman hotels in Berlin. Register here.

Why now? With relatively impressive demand fundamentals, macro tailwinds, and increasing liquidity, hospitality stands out as a resilient, high-growth asset class with increasing investor interest and capital allocations. Plus, 2025 is widely anticipated to be the year when transactions resume after a few years of low activity. Now is the time to seize the moment, prepare for the new deal cycle and shape the future of hospitality investment. With IHIF EMEA’s long standing legacy and refreshing approach, the event is poised to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities in the hospitality sector. The programme is upheld by three key pillars of ideate, invest, perform, tailored to the needs of the leader, the strategist, the deal maker and the asset manager.

IHIF EMEA is expected to attract over 2,500 leading hotel brands, operators, developers, government representatives, advisors and professional services, including over 600 global investors across a range of capital types. IHIF EMEA will offer tailored networking sessions to connect attendees with operating partners, capital partners, rising talent and investment opportunities.

“As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, IHIF EMEA serves as a vital platform for connecting stakeholders, fostering innovation and unlocking new investment opportunities. With over 25 years of experience organising events rooted in this sector, we go deep into asset management topics, where other conferences do not, and we explore the themes that are mission critical when investing in an operational asset class,” said Joe Stather, VP/Market Leader, Operational Real Estate. “Whether you are a seasoned IHIF EMEA veteran or a first-time participant, our event is designed to empower leaders to navigate change and capitalise on growth in the dynamic EMEA market.”

IHIF EMEA 2025 Highlights:

A rejuvenated programme, underpinned by three anchor points: Ideate, Invest and Perform. Attendees will gain insights from over 200 leaders on global trends shaping the EMEA hospitality landscape including: Sebastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO, AccorMiguel Casas, Managing Director, Stoneweg HospitalityPaul Harnedy, EVP, Cedar Capital Partners Guy Heksch, Chief Operating Officer, Omnam Group Ruslan Husry, Owner & CEO, HRG Hotels GmbHDavid Kellett, Managing Director, Invesco Real EstateDavid Ling, Global Head of Hospitality Investments, City Developments LimitedGwen Martignoni, Vice President – Underwriting, Amante Capital  Julia Simpson, CEO, World Travel and Tourism CouncilMark Hoplamazian, President & CEO, Hyatt Hotels CorporationTugdual Millet, CEO, Covivio Hotels  Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, Minor HotelsJon Sopel, British journalist, presenter, author and podcaster Dex Hunter-Torricke, one of the world’s leading advisors in communications, technology, society

Additional speakers will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

A vibrant exhibition hall: Meet with 85+ leading companies on the exhibition floor as they introduce their latest ventures, investments and innovations redefining guest experiences and operational efficiency.New and unique networking events: Connect with executives, investors and operators to foster partnerships and collaborations via strategic roundtables, interactive sessions, an investor lounge, content-led networking sessions and unique networking events.

For more information about IHIF EMEA 2025 and to register, visit https://www.ihifemea.com. Advanced rate registration ends 31 January.

For sponsorship opportunities, click here.

Stay connected with IHIF EMEA on X and LinkedIn and follow #IHIFEMEA25.

About IHIF EMEA
The International Hospitality Investment Forum EMEA (IHIF EMEA) is the premier event for hospitality investment professionals. By uniting influential hospitality leaders from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, IHIF EMEA aims to shape the future of the hospitality industry with three-days of content, networking, insights and deal-making. IHIF EMEA takes place 31 March – 2 April 2025 at the InterContinental and Pullman hotels in Berlin.

About Questex
Questex helps people live better and longer. Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better: 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 Contacts
Kirsty McKenna
IHIF EMEA
[email protected]        

Meryl Franzman
IHIF EMEA
[email protected]