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Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino is set to open the Convention Center’s 350,000-square-foot expansion this week, with its first group already taking over the new space. The $70 million expansion will let Mandalay Bay grow current shows and attract new groups.
The resort built new exhibit space, a 20,000-square-foot foyer and underground parking in this first phase. The second and final phase of the expansion will transition existing space into a 70,000-square-foot carpeted ballroom to accommodate new corporate partners and associations.
Construction began in October 2014 and upon completion of this project in January 2016, the Mandalay Bay Convention Center will have more than 2 million total square feet and more than 900,000 square feet of contiguous exhibit space. This new space elevates its ranking in North America to No. 5 in both total square feet and exhibit space.
“In addition to the convention center expansion, we recently announced and are undergoing our 3,000-room remodel,” Stephanie Glanzer, vice president of sales at Mandalay Bay, said in a statement. “These updates, combined with numerous other new offerings and venues, solidify Mandalay Bay as a top choice for corporate groups and trade shows of all sizes. One of our larger shows, MAGIC, is a valued loyal customer and we are pleased to welcome them as our first group into the new space.”
MAGIC, the world’s largest fashion marketplace, has been a long-time client of Mandalay Bay and has been able to grow its show to match the resort’s growth. Tony Calanca, executive vice president of exhibitions for UBM ADVANSTAR, noted that the company has worked with Mandalay Bay for years. “We appreciate their willingness to help us create the most positive, productive experiences for our customers. Mandalay Bay changed their construction plans to meet our growth needs, and we are proud to have MAGIC be the first show in the new expansion.”
The resort’s high-density Wi-Fi has been added to the new space to accommodate more attendees, provide unique custom solutions based on the needs of the group and allow for advanced presentations. The system’s benefits include the convenience of a one-time log-in for convention-goers during their stay and new “seamless” connectivity throughout Mandalay Bay, from the convention center to public indoor and outdoor spaces to the guest rooms. A distinct capability that sets this Wi-Fi apart from all others is convention attendees will stay connected with the same Wi-Fi when visiting any MGM Resorts destination along The Strip from Mandalay Bay to The Mirage, including MGM Grand, Bellagio and ARIA.
Further solidifying what already is the largest convention center solar array in the world, the expanded Mandalay Bay Convention Center is incorporating an additional rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) array spanning 8 acres. Upon completion in Fall 2015, the added portion of the array will generate approximately 1.9 MW with an approximate annual production of 3.4M kilowatt hours. Covering more than 28 acres, the combined array will generate enough electricity to power the equivalent of 1,300 homes.
Mandalay Bay and the Mandalay Bay Convention Center hold coveted Five Key ratings from the Green Key Eco-Rating and Meetings Programs. In addition, TripAdvisor has awarded the resort Gold in its GreenLeaders Program. Mandalay Bay integrates environmentally responsible practices into its operations including the recycling of more than 80 percent of all convention materials. From sustainable service ware and organic, sustainable menus to zero waste recycling, Mandalay Bay’s Convention Service Managers offer a number of options to help each group conduct green and socially responsible meetings.
Las Vegas has been the No. 1 trade show destination in North America for 21 consecutive years, and this significant investment demonstrates Mandalay Bay’s continued commitment to the city of Las Vegas.
