We’re bringing you the best industry updates from the week, every week, to keep your spirits up during the pandemic. This week, cities near and far prepare to welcome back attendees in the ballroom and on the trade show floor.
Seattle Welcomes Indoor Meetings for Phases 2 and 3
On Sept. 21, Washington state modified its reopening plans to permit meetings and business events to be held indoors at a reduced capacity of 30% or 200 guests (whichever is less). Venues must enforce social distancing, mask wearing and have achieved GBAC Star accreditation to participate. Washington State Convention Center (WSCC) has released a Safety First Overview outlining its new safety guidelines to welcome attendees back into the building, along with a virtual event studio which will allow meeting planners to broadcast virtual and hybrid meetings.
“We are grateful to Governor Inslee and state officials for recognizing the critical role of meetings and business events during this time,” said Tom Norwalk, Visit Seattle President and CEO.
Miami Beach Convention Center is MBCC Ready
Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) announced new health and safety measures this week to support the return to live events as buildings across Miami-Dade County in Florida reopen at reduced capacities. MBCC Ready highlights the convention center’s recently renovated 1.4 million sq. ft. of flexible event space as means to achieve socially distanced events indoors and out.
“The health, safety, security and wellbeing of all who enter our venue has always been our top priority,” said MBCC General Manager, Freddie Peterson. “The health measures at the MBCC will not only reduce the risks of transmission during this current pandemic but will support a healthier building long into the future. It is a long-term investment for a short-term crisis, reassuring our staff, vendors, guests, clients and planners, and restoring confidence in our venue and all that we do.”
Germany Deems International Trade Shows Essential
Last week, Germany deemed travel to international trade shows essential in a momentous change for the global events industry. Read our full story on it here.
Happy States
WalletHub released its report on 2020’s Happiest States in America—and despite the mental health toll from the pandemic, many states are as happy as ever. The data comprised everything from employment rate to positive COVID-19 testing rate to income growth to come up with the 20 happiest states in the country. These are the top 10.
