Trade Show News

Apple Hospitality REIT is focusing on artificial intelligence and integration to unlock efficiencies in hotel operations, addressing profitability challenges and leveraging technology. The article, published ahead of The Hospitality Show 2026, discusses strategic revenue management and automation in the hospitality industry.

CodeTogether has been selected as one of the Southeast's most promising tech companies to be showcased at Venture Atlanta 2026, a premier technology innovation event. Venture Atlanta connects the region's fastest-growing technology companies with top-tier investors and strategic partners, having helped launch over 1,000 companies and raise more than $8.8 billion in funding.

Despite Atlanta welcoming 300,000 visitors and generating millions in tourist spending during the World Cup, hotel occupancy rates in June and July 2026 fell compared to the previous year. Hotel booking levels reached 63% in June (a 4% decline from 2025) and 57% in July (a 10% decrease). This decline is attributed to daytime matches and easy travel options, which led to shorter tourist stays.

Following the 2017 demolition of the Georgia Dome, approximately 200,000 tons of concrete rubble were repurposed as the foundation for new downtown Atlanta projects, including the Signia by Hilton Atlanta convention hotel. This hotel, which opened in January 2024, serves the adjacent Georgia World Congress Center, demonstrating sustainable waste management and new facility development.

New data from the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau indicates that the FIFA World Cup in Atlanta did not boost hotel use as expected, with reservations at metro Atlanta hotels being lower than the previous year for July. Convention hotel bookings and occupancy within a mile of the Georgia World Congress Center also saw decreases. This report contradicts initial predictions of a significant economic impact on the hospitality sector.

The Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) announced on September 24, 2026, that four individuals, including former Georgia World Congress Center General Manager Mark Zimmerman, will be inducted into the 27th annual Atlanta Hospitality Hall of Fame on November 19 at Hyatt Regency Atlanta.

The Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) will induct four individuals into the 2026 Atlanta Hospitality Hall of Fame on November 19, recognizing their significant contributions to shaping Atlanta as a world-class city for visitors. The honorees include Camille Russell Love, Jim Sprouse, Dexter Warrior, and Mark Zimmerman, whose dedication has impacted the city's arts, lodging, commercial real estate, and overall hospitality landscape. This event celebrates achievements that drive Atlanta's convention and tourism business.

A preview of Trade Show Executive's (TSE) Pardon Our Dust report indicates that the trend line for trade show facility construction is reaching equilibrium. While venues considering construction saw a slight rise, the overall pace of convention center expansions is leveling out across the industry.

The Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) hosted Kennesaw State University students for a behind-the-scenes tour, offering insights into event management and operations. Students gained an inside look at the Global Security Exchange (GSX) and engaged with GWCC team members, learning what it takes to bring major events to life. This initiative highlights the GWCC's role in industry education and its ongoing event activities.

General contractors and trade partners gathered at the Gas South District Convention Center for the Associated Builders and Contractors of Georgia Fall Meet & Greet. Companies like Adams Group and Alston Construction were present to build relationships and discuss upcoming projects in the Georgia market.

The Hyatt Regency Atlanta is scheduled to host several conferences in October 2026, including the 2026 NAASF Annual Franchise Conference, the 2026 AACAP/CACAP Annual Meeting, AILA Fall Conference 2026, NAPFA Fall 2026 National Conference, and the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) National Convention 2026.

The Travursity Travel Showcase will host a "Night at the Movies" event for travel agents in the Atlanta region on October 28, 2026. This event aims to introduce travel suppliers' latest products and enhancements in a unique theater experience.

A wrap-up report on September 24, 2026, detailed GSX 2026, held from September 14-16 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. The event featured over 500 exhibitors across more than 190,000 square feet, showcasing advancements in physical security technology, with a focus on AI and integrated security operations.

GSX 2026 concluded its three-day event at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, bringing together over 500 exhibitors across more than 190,000 square feet of exhibit space. The ASIS Int'l-presented event featured over 200 education sessions, with prominent themes including AI, integrated security operations, video, and access control. The show provided insights into the future of security technology and industry trends.

The Atlanta Franchise Show is scheduled for November 14-15, 2026, at the Cobb Convention Center. The event will feature local and national franchise companies across various industries, offering educational seminars on topics like franchise law and financing.

The Atlanta Convention Center at AmericasMart was mentioned in a recent discussion about convention centers worldwide undergoing expansion. This indicates its continued relevance and potential for growth within the global exhibition industry.

The Cobb Galleria Centre's $190 million renovation and expansion project, set to be completed in early 2027, was highlighted on September 22, 2026. The project will add approximately 108,000 square feet of new meeting and event space, including a 31,000-square-foot ballroom.

The Cobb Galleria Centre is undergoing a $190 million renovation and expansion project, with the exhibit halls and ballroom reopening in January 2026 after a temporary closure in late 2025. The project, slated for completion in early 2027, will add approximately 108,000 square feet of new meeting and event space, including a 31,000-square-foot ballroom, and a new arrival area and parking deck.

The Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) is celebrating its 50th anniversary, reflecting on its evolution from a 350,000-square-foot exhibit space in 1976 to a world-class convention campus. The post highlights past expansions, including Building C in 2002 and the Signia by Hilton Atlanta in 2024, which have continuously reshaped the campus and driven business tourism in Atlanta. The GWCCA continues to be a major convention destination.

The Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) campus continues its development, highlighted by the Signia Hilton hotel which connects to the GWCCA, creating a world-class convention center campus. This ongoing growth positions Atlanta as a premier national convention city.