360 AGENCY

This Hispanic-owned agency specializes in “culturally intrinsic experiences” that resonate with younger audiences—and earn big returns. The “Haz Ruido” drive-to-retail campaign with AT&T featuring reggaeton superstar Maluma offered exclusive concerts in key markets, and earned more than 125 million impressions and 600,000 engagements on social media. And its AT&T “Be the Glow” activation program that highlighted the intersection of black culture, socially conscious art and music and technology, generated more than 1 billion total impressions on social media.

CORE 1: Multicultural Events
CORE 2: Guerrilla/Street Marketing
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 100% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Office of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Samsung
WEB: the360agency.com
RFP CONTACT: Ammar Mahmood, [email protected]

ACTIVENT

This group is on a roll: A string of long-term clients. Winning four of the last five RFPs it has participated in. Steady, double-digit annual growth seven out of the past eight years—on top of being a, now, eight-time It Lister. Flexed its sports and entertainment chops this year with the Insane Inflatable 5K events for Pure Protein, and a pre-game show and tailgate experience for FOX Sports’ Big Ten Network, complete with partner brand fan activations by GEICO, Slim Jim and more.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Guerrilla/Street Marketing 

FOCUS SPLIT: 85% B-to-C, 15% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: FOX Sports/Big Ten Network, The Nature’s Bounty Co., Puma, Volkswagen of America, Yasso
WEB: activentmarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Tom Jacobs, [email protected]

ADVANTAGE

A banner year that involved a major move to Stamford, CT’s waterfront also included winning business from Microsoft Office, Boston Beer Company and TD Bank. Created a lifestyle experience program for Genesis called “City Love Tour” that involved executive talks, tech demos, food and beverages—experiences that left 93 percent of attendees saying they’d consider purchasing the luxury vehicle in the future. What we love: Advantage is an active participant in parent company Interpublic’s Women Leadership Network focused on helping women advance in their careers.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Frontier Communications, Hyundai Motor America, LG Electronics USA, L’Oréal, Microsoft Corporation
WEB: advantagemrktg.com
RFP CONTACT: John Lane, [email protected]

ADVOC8

This 18-month-old Washington, D.C.-based startup tripled in size and revenue from year one to year two. The team’s background in political campaigns means executing on short timelines, in impossible circumstances, is “the norm.” Among work this year: Touring with Facebook in Europe, activating Google and Comcast at Aspen Ideas Festival, producing CNN and Great Big Story’s multi-day b-to-b-to-c experiences at SXSW. Offerings include a 6,000-square-foot warehouse for scenic and a/v, and a video production team. Need we say more? A one to watch.

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 79% B-to-C, 21% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Axios, Business Roundtable, Comcast NBCUniversal, Google, Turner
WEB: advoc8.com
RFP CONTACT: Jordan Kinne, [email protected]

AGENCYEA

One of the last great independent b-to-b event agencies has transformed over the years from Windy City event boutique shop to a strategic, bankable, scalable, trusted Tier 1 event agency—churning out launches, meetings, conferences and everything in between. With more than 100 people at the Chicago headquarters and new strategy, bolstered creative and emerging data and analytics offerings, this year’s 10th anniversary truly shows off what you can accomplish in a decade. Among reasons to celebrate: the onboarding of new clients including Samsung, GitHub and the Obama Foundation. Fergus and Gabrielle… congrats.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Developer Conference/Events
CORE 3: Worldwide Event Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 15% B-to-C, 85% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: CLIF Bar, Google, Hilton, Intuit, MillerCoors
WEB: agencyea.com
RFP CONTACT: Lucy Stratton, [email protected]

ALLIED EXPERIENTIAL

Strong social media integration in every program. Experience in the big properties (CES, SXSW, Comic-Con). Scalable strategies that leverage its 22 offices nationwide. Relishes in the smallest details (ambassadors) and activates the biggest ideas (augmented reality projection). Now has a dedicated LGBTQIA division, Allied Pride, which helps clients reach and become part of the diverse and growing LGBTQIA community. Launched a new dedicated influencer division, Elevate. Recent work of note: a three-day takeover of L.A. Live for International Prematurity Awareness Day with “Imagine a World” for March of Dimes.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: Pop-up Stores
CORE 3: P.R. Events

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS  INCLUDE: Amazon, Car2Go, March of Dimes, Netflix, Panera Bread
WEB: alliedexperiential.com
RFP CONTACT: Matthew Glass, [email protected]

ANNEX EXPERIENCE

Recently rebranded from Havas Impact, and part of the Havas Worldwide network, this group has all the benefits of a small agency combined with the benefits of a large company and agency partnerships. Its mission: maximize the cultural relevance of brands. Last year helped adidas launch numerous product lines, including a very colorful blowout event for adicolor; celebrated Hamburger Helper’s 40th anniversary with an event in Brooklyn; created the experiential component of M&M’s Flavor Vote Campaign and took Nature Valley to the streets on Giving Tuesday.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: P.R. Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 90% B-to-C, 10% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: adidas, General Mills, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Peet’s Coffee, Reckitt Benckiser
WEB: annexexp.com 
RFP CONTACT: Paul Fitzpatrick, [email protected]

AUGUST JACKSON

This 15-year-old agency experienced 65 percent year-over-year growth in 2017. Specializes in educational institution experiences, and to that end, acquired Feats, an event strategy, design and production company specializing in higher education. The new mission as part of its rebranding: “To empower the world’s most important organizations to build even stronger communities of purpose.” What we love: employee milestone benefits, like the three-year “Rockstar for a Night” experience; and generous five- 10- and 15-year travel bonuses.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Internal Employee Events
CORE 3: College/Campus Campaigns 

FOCUS SPLIT: 20% B-to-C, 80% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Abbott Vascular, CARE, Constellation Brands, Duke, DXC Technology
WEB: augustjackson.com
RFP CONTACT: Regina Farrington, [email protected]

BMF MEDIA

This “collective of cultural engineers” prides itself on connecting brands with media, influencers and artists. To that end, created the p.r.-rich Mastercard House during Grammy Week that earned more than 250 million media impressions and 40 million engagements. Also hosted a “Road to Rewards” press trip with Barclaycard and Uber for editors, bloggers and influencers in Cali with surprise and delight field trips, like a “Rosé all Day” tasting and lunch at Nobu. Expanded offices to London representing a commitment to clients active in international markets, and created a research and analytics division with Leif Christensen as director, tasked with formulating insights-driven best practices.

CORE 1: Launch Events
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: P.R. Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Dell, FX, LACMA, Marriott, Mastercard
WEB: bmfmedia.com
RFP CONTACT: Ed Starr, [email protected]

BRAND CONNECTIONS

This agency specializes in elevating retail activations with the use of mobile technology and virtual shoppers and—especially for beauty brands—creating year-round programs and in-store event series. An example of that elevation: an activation for Nivea Men as a sponsor of El Clasico futbol match in Miami featuring Real Madrid and rival, Barcelona, that offered free shaves, VR, sampling and real-time content. The results: 20,000 consumers engaged, 3,500 social photos, 314,000 in live-stream reach and 10,000-plus giveaways distributed. Smooth.

CORE 1: In-Store/Shopper Events
CORE 2: Sampling
CORE 3: Guerrilla/Street Marketing 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Beiersdorf, Johnson & Johnson, L’Oréal Paris, Unilever, Walgreens
WEB: brandconnections.com
RFP CONTACT: Dave Chatoff, [email protected]

BROADSTREET

Last year produced the most shows in a single year in its history. Added new clients. Added new teams. Added meeting planning and logistics to its capabilities. Handled Samsung’s b-to-b National Sales Meeting, and a rally-style event for Pernod Ricard at the Chicago Athletic Association with fully functional hoops, banners, cheerleaders and trick shots. Oh, and produced an opening experience with a ballroom-sized VR experience for a national sales meeting of a global pharmaceutical company. Broadstreet’s tagline: “Provoke. Collaborate. Lead.” Nothin’ but net.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 3: Internal Employee Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 15% B-to-C, 85% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Konica Minolta, Pernod Ricard, Revolt, Samsung, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals
WEB: broadstreet.com
RFP CONTACT: Claudia Rodriguez Tressler, [email protected]

HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COMPANY?

For over 30 years, Broadstreet has created exceptional experiences in the delivery of strategic communication planning, meetings and events, employee engagement, digital and social media, brand experiences, learning and performance improvement programs and creative content.

We help corporations communicate better. We help people gain a deeper understanding of their brands. We help brands engage and inspire. We create programs and platforms that help influence and ultimately shift perception and behavior: What people think and what they do.

We help close the gaps that exist between teams, between corporate mission and vision, and its culture, between brands and consumers, between performance and high performance. We approach these challenges with highly targeted demographic, ethnographic, intellectual, and emotional communications experiences that inspire, engage, educate and influence business and consumer audiences.

HOW HAVE YOU CHANGED YOUR OFFERINGS OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS?

Our offerings have evolved by keeping our ears to the ground, following trends, and staying in touch with everything from pop culture to sport and academia. With that insight, we have focused on creating environments for self-discovery with more intimate, personalized, and bespoke experiences.

Additionally, we’ve added services to become more of a one stop shop for clients and to be able to manage every moment of the audience’s experience. We now have a logistics and meeting planning team that manage travel, hotel, F&B, as well as basic meeting services.

WHAT ARE THREE WAYS YOUR AGENCY EVOLVED OVER THE PAST YEAR?

Communication strategy, the ability to help brands tell compelling and memorable stories that move people both intellectually and emotionally, has always been our differentiator at Broadstreet.

We use proprietary methodologies to help clients uncover objectives and key messages that connect to their audience’s needs, wants, fears and desires.

These efforts are captured in our new tag line: Provoke. Collaborate. Lead.

We provoke the status quo, ask the unasked question, foster new forms of communication and create opportunities for small, but incremental changes.

We collaborate with our clients to create unique experiences that embed themselves in the conscious and subconscious of the audience for days and weeks beyond the event.

We empower our clients to lead through this approach to strategic communications and, in doing so, change the way audiences think, the way they feel and, ultimately, what they do.

WHAT TYPES OF THINGS DO YOUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT YOU, YOUR AGENCY, YOUR PEOPLE?

When you ask our clients about our work, you are bound to hear different things from different people. Some may tell you they’ve never had a company leave as deep and lasting impact on their sales force. Others may tell you we help them uncover, design, and deliver unique, passionate and memorable stories about their mission, their vision, their brand and their purpose. Others may mention that our production efforts are herculean.

We have two approaches to the design of our projects; the first we call the 6.78% Difference. Our ideas are 6.78% different. The number is made up, but the approach is to design a meeting or event that is not so different that it takes the audience out of its comfort zone, but different enough so that they recognize familiar messaging through a different lens.

The other is Think INSIDE the Box. It’s easy to think outside the box, when there are no limitations, but that has nothing to do with the real world. We think of the box as a brand, our client’s brand. Ideas may grow, expand the box, and even spill outside, but they must be rooted from within. This is not a mandate to narrow creativity, but a movement to refocus creativity within the four walls of our client’s brand.

WHAT PROGRAM FROM THE LAST 12 MONTHS ARE YOU ESPECIALLY PROUD OF AND WHY?

Several of our programs over the past year have hit deep emotional tones with our clients’ audiences. They talk about them months later. We believe it’s a combination of our methodologies, our strategic approach to communications and our passion for creating exceptional experiences that transforms the way our clients think and feel about the projects we create.

CADENCE

The tech chops here are solid. Its mobile app offerings include augmented reality, and passive Bluetooth tracking and gamification—tools that allowed client Mercedes-Benz to access a variety of post-show analytics; and an AR scavenger hunt for its Diageo client (gamers competed to collect specially designed coasters that, when viewed through the app, featured holographic drinks… nice). Keeps its pulse on industry trends: After spotting a wellness thread among brands in the CPG space, the group created a new capability vertical in nutrition.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Trade Show Programs
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activations  

FOCUS SPLIT: 46% B-to-C, 54% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Compass Group, Cracker Barrel, Diageo, Mercedes-Benz USA, PepsiCo
WEB: cadence-inc.com
RFP CONTACT: Amanda Winkler, [email protected]

CRAMER

Do we need to say it again? Well… if we must: One of the best b-to-b shops not enough brands are working with. The Martin family’s still-independent Boston event agency has deep roots in content, long benches of producers and one of the industry’s hottest tech toolkits—virtual reality, augmented and mixed reality, wearables, haptics, generative AI…you name it (ouch, we just touched that toolkit and it was hot). From internal events and meetings to external launches and conferences, when you’re working with Cramer—you’re working with family, baby.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 3: Developer Conferences/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 10% B-to-C, 90% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Fidelity, IBM, Sanofi Genzyme, Siemens, UBS
WEB: cramer.com
RFP CONTACT: Scott Connelly, [email protected]

DRIVESHOP

“Every car is a hot rod for somebody.” That’s the core belief behind this powerhouse of automotive experiences. They take ride-and-drives to the next level. For Kia, launching a never-been-done-before experience for its Stinger line at the SEMA show in Vegas, then taking the vehicles on the road on a head-to-head comparison with Porsche, BMW and Audi. Expanding its service offerings to include hosting stand-alone brand immersion test drive experiences designed for lifestyle and social media influencers to attend, capture and share content.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Automotive Ride & Drives
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Press Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: General Motors, Kia Motors America, Mazda North America Operations, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo Cars North America
WEB: driveshop.com
RFP CONTACT: Todd Liedeke, [email protected]

DriveShop was tasked with developing an integrated experiential marketing plan around the introduction of the highly anticipated Kia Stinger, an authentic gran turismo. This vehicle was a game changer and introduced the brand to a consumer segment that might not otherwise consider a Kia. Historically, the brand has been known for producing mass- market transportation rooted in value. It was DriveShop’s job to shift that perception. The task was to concept, design and execute unique and engaging methods to draw customers to see and experience the Kia Stinger firsthand. Working with the Kia experiential team, DriveShop developed two key integrated programs that worked together to showcase the Kia Stinger as well as elevate the Kia brand. The programs started with a featured event at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and followed up with a national Stinger Experience Tour.

SEMA

DriveShop’s concept was to surprise and delight the audience with a demonstration of the Stinger’s performance capabilities. DriveShop worked with the SEMA team to develop an autocross course that featured a 0 to 60 acceleration demonstration as well as a cornering section that displayed the vehicle’s maneuverability and handling. The consumers were able to take a Stinger for a for a test drive on this course to feel firsthand the power and capabilities of the vehicle. If that wasn’t enough, DriveShop upped the stakes by adding a drifting course. Professional drivers took consumers on a thrilling ride that included multiple spins in the drift box.

STINGER EXPERIENCE TOUR

In development of the Stinger Experience Tour, DriveShop aimed to showcase the power and dynamic driving capabilities of the Stinger as well as show how the Stinger measures up to the competition. This tour stopped at a total of nine locations throughout the US and featured a uniquely developed auto cross course for each city. The Stinger Experience Tour took different trim levels of the Kia Stinger and offered side-by- side comparisons with the Audi A5, BMW 640i and Porsche Panamera models. Participating guests were paired with a professional right-seat driver for individualized instruction and were then allowed to choose any of the competitor vehicles to compare features and functionality. If the consumer wanted an additional thrill, they could have the professional driver complete a “hot lap” in the Kia Stinger. The tour was scheduled on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with Fridays being dedicated to local Kia dealer teams. The event series also featured multiple appearances from celebrities and professional athletes.

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and there are requests to continue the program.

ELITE MARKETING GROUP

These are your data people—hugely focused on data capture and customer acquisition stats. From secure and compliant software solutions to a full range of tech hardware like tablets, touch screens, kiosks, digital walls, immersive experiences, interactive vending machines and virtual assistants. Boasts a 4,000-square-foot IT lab to support existing programs and test new solutions. Landed some notable consumer brand clients this year, including Dannon, Smuckers, and Nickelodeon, for whom it’s activating a summer mobile tour for “Sunny Day Kids” visiting big-box retailers across the country.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: Sampling
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: DanoneWave, Delta, Malibu Beer, Nickelodeon, Smuckers
WEB: elitemg.com
RFP CONTACT: Matt Klein, [email protected]

ENGINE SHOP

The sports and lifestyle agency a growing number of brands consider their secret weapon is on a tear this year with expanding wins (Under Armour, Michael Kors, American Family Insurance), new Big Apple digs (Chelsea) and larger assignments from flagship clients Anheuser-Busch and Mercedes. Brian Gordon may have sold the shop (to Bruin Sports Capital), but he’s coming in earlier than ever and rolling up those sleeves even higher to take his labor of love to the next level.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Launch Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 85% B-to-C, 15% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: American Family Insurance, Anheuser-Busch, Greyhound, Mercedes-Benz USA, Microsoft
WEB: engineshopagency.com
RFP CONTACT: Gord Lang, [email protected]

EPSILON

Their consumer activations are on point. Helped The Laughing Cow brand on its “Kick It Soccer” program targeting young athletes and “Snack Like You” program that leveraged mom ambassador Snack Squads to sample product at local events in their communities. Activated the award-winning and millennial-friendly John Dewar and Sons Traveling Whiskey Emporium sampling event that resulted in 9,000 customer interactions and 10,200 cocktails served. And supporting their programs: capabilities in tour websites, email campaigns, analytics and sponsorship digital team support.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Bacardi USA, Bel Brands USA, DexYP, GSK, Mercedes-Benz USA
WEB: epsilon.com
RFP CONTACT: Stephen Materna, [email protected]

EVENT MARKETING STRATEGIES

This 40-year veteran works with medium-sized companies to corporations, some of whom it’s worked with since its inception. Closed on a major office move this year allowing room for the team to grow and expand. Guerrilla marketing and sampling services continue to be its bread and butter—the program this year for Allegiant Air, for instance, reached 57 cities in a span of five days. That’s 242 staffers, four in each city, and supplying staffing software, field marketing supervisors and brand ambassadors. Also, recently handled a year-long sampling effort with Pepsi.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Guerrilla/Street Marketing

FOCUS SPLIT: 90% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AEP Ohio, Allegiant Air, Mattress Recycling Council, Nationwide, PepsiCo
WEB: eventmarketingstrategies.com
RFP CONTACT: Maggie Ellison, [email protected]

One of the most successful of airlines, Allegiant is also one of the least known. Seeking to change this, Allegiant alongside Event Marketing Strategies (EMS) developed and executed the Get Away Your Way #GetawayCar Sweepstakes—a national campaign with the primary goal to drive reach and awareness for Allegiant as an airline option for potential consumers in 80 of the 118 markets in which Allegiant currently serves.

5 DAYS – 80 CITIES – 57 CARS

Centered on the #GetawayCar, 57 mid-sized SUVs decaled with Allegiant branding and sweepstakes information hit the road from the east to west coast, covering 80 U.S. cities over a five- day span. Teams aimed to get potential customers jazzed about Allegiant and offer them an opportunity to win the ultimate airline grand prize: flights for life!

To accomplish such a feat, street teams of four were assembled, trained and outfitted in Allegiant branded t-shirts and jackets. Paired with their #GetawayCar stuffed with premium item giveaways, sweepstakes handouts and register-to-win slips in hand, the campaign launched Wednesday, January 10th. Simultaneously, over the five-day activation, 57 teams across the country drove the #GetawayCar around cities within their specified market each day. Teams were provided daily suggested routes consisting of local popular events and venues that attract high volumes of foot traffic. Locations ranged from local college campuses, sporting events and concerts to parks, landmarks, restaurants, coffee shops and strip malls.

At each destination, the team parked the #GetawayCar and jumped out surprising and delighting bystanders with the Get Away Your Way #GetawayCar Sweepstakes. Generating excitement, they handed out an assortment of beach themed branded premium items including palm tree gel packs, ice scrapers, beach totes, lip balm, koozies, sunglasses, and water bottles. Teams also engaged curious participants by educating them on Allegiant and inviting them to register-to-win through social media and paper entries.

On-site teams and participants posted the #GetawayCar whereabouts via public social media channels, buzz spread the word about the sweepstakes, attracting local fans to spot the #GetawayCar for their chance to win. The buzz even caught the attention of local media crews who broke news of the event through local news and TV stations.

For its first ever national experiential marketing campaign, the Allegiant Get Away Your Way #GetawayCar Sweepstakes was an enormous success. Results based on key performance indicators were impressive. Earned media was calculated upwards of 33,124,429 impressions. Over 1,125 social media mentions via Twitter & Instagram were captured with overall reach totaling 1,658,569 impressions. Qualified on-site register-to-win paper entries totaled 22,788, with another 16,324 registering online. Plus an additional 777 qualified entries were captured via social media. These results combined with the media attention gained and buzz generated during the campaign exceeded Allegiant’s awareness goals. With the help of EMS and our field team, we were able to put Allegiant on the map, making their presence known in cities across America.

EVENTAGE

That tiny house sampling program for Nestea? They custom built that. Columbia University Cancer Center’s first-ever awareness program, Velocity? They built that, too—from the recruitment to the fundraising to the logistics for the organization surrounding the cycling program, which ultimately raised $1.4 million. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, launched Project Kindness: 20 Acts for 20 Years. They’re matching up with clients to do good in the world, including arranging for brand client Yonex to donate 20 sets of tennis equipment to New York Junior Tennis & Learning’s Serve and Connect program. Nice.

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Cause Marketing 

FOCUS SPLIT: 70% B-to-C, 30% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AB InBev, New York Road Runners, Yale New Haven Health, Weber Shandwick, Yonex
WEB: eventage.net
RFP CONTACT: Matt Glass, [email protected]

EVENTIVE

Flexed its b-to-b chops this year with the CIGNA Health Improvement Tour, producing two custom clinics on wheels that provided free health screenings and wellness counseling to underserved neighborhoods. More than 10,000 screenings were conducted, accounting for three million social media impressions. For client GALDERMA, transformed a medical education event into a “festival of hands-on experiences.” On the b-to-c side, rejoined the beer business with craft brewer Oskar Blues, famous for Dale’s Pale Ale.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 70% B-to-C, 30% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Cigna, Galderma, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Oskar Blues Brewery, PNC Financial Services
WEB: eventivemarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Amy Beth Stern, [email protected]

EVENTNEXT

Name a vertical, and these guys activate in it, from automotive to technology to telecom, media, consumer products and more—b-to-b to b-to-c. Was awarded agency of record for experiential marketing on all Fiat Chrysler Automotive brands, after posting year-over-year growth of at least 20 percent on every campaign activated for them. Will now increase its headcount significantly, including adding regional business directors. Recently was awarded the evergreen school campaign for the Chrysler Pacifica, Cars 4 Classrooms, managing the enrollment of schools, on-site events and test drives.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Sampling
CORE 2: Automotive Ride & Drives
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: All Whites Egg Whites, Brooks, Fiat Chrysler Automotive, Puratos, Sense
WEB: eventnext.com
RFP CONTACT: Yvon Russell, [email protected]

THE CHALLENGE

To lead the creative and strategic development, production and implementation of a multi-platform mobile experience showcasing Brooks Running cutting edge Run Signature gait analysis system at premier running events across the nation. EventNext was also challenged with structuring a tour schedule based around top tier running events in markets with the highest growth potential for new consumers.

THE IDEA

To broaden the appeal of Brooks running shoes among Brooks’ already thriving relationship with specialty running retailers in key markets. runners of all abilities through Run Signature, a new fitting method that utilizes leading-edge technology to assess the way a runner’s body wants to run and recommends the right shoe to fit their run. Challenging the traditional approach, Run Signature is more holistic and individual, combining the biomechanics and desired experience of runners.

THE EXPERIENCE

EventNext facilitated a one of a kind mobile running lab for Brooks to showcase their state of the art Run Signature system. The Run Signature mobile trailer was equipped with two and treadmills where consumers could experience their own custom analysis with one of Brooks’ expert Gurus’. The goal was for Brooks to help every runner find their stride, their signature run.

THE RESULT

Through Run Signature, Brooks was able to empower runners to choose the experience they wanted from their run, based on the data they gather about how their body moves. Since the program’s inception in May of 2016 the Run Signature Tour has performed over 17,000 Run Signature Analysis and generated over 90,000 leads. While at the same time, the campaign has been surprising and delighting runners of all ages and abilities with prizes and the chance to participate in the Brooks “Run Like the Wind” prize booth for a chance to grab the golden Brooks Running ticket for a free pair of shoes! All of these effort successfully continue to strengthen Brooks’ sponsorship as the official footwear and apparel partner of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series as well as further strengthen Brooks’ already thriving relationship with specialty running retailers in key markets.

EWI WORLDWIDE

With the addition of Jorja Rapelje as vp-events, the Detroit-based company known for its large-scale exhibit programs reignites a push into consumer and b-to-b events. Well regarded for its culture and employee programs, which include rooftop barbecues and fashion shows. Our fave? The Volunteer Days benefit, which gives all employees a day off to offer their time in local communities. Celebrating 40 years in business, all under the same ceo (Dominic Silvio)—virtually unheard of in this business.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Trade Show Events
CORE 2: Pop-up Stores
CORE 3: Press Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Amazon, Audi of America, Ford Motor Company, Kia Motors America, Subaru of America
WEB: ewiworldwide.com
RFP CONTACT: Sara Frey, [email protected]

To become one of the hottest automakers in the U.S., Subaru needed to engage a variety of audiences in a range of locations. From auto shows to outdoor festivals, we helped the fun and outdoorsy brand deliver an events program that draws media and enthusiasts alike.

In our nearly two-decade partnership, we’ve exhibited in more than 1,000 shows, unveiled a dozen vehicles, developed interactive worlds, and popped up at fan-favorite events like Subiefest.

Together, these activations have helped Subaru set their brand apart and achieve unparalleled growth. Just this month, the automaker celebrated its 79th consecutive month of sales gains.

FACTORY 360

This full-service agency was founded by a client-side marketer, and has more than 20,000 brand ambassadors as direct employees. Recently added a p.r. service to help amplify experiential activations for clients. 2018 has been a banner year so far: added Uniqlo, HomeAway/VRBO and AARP to its client roster; hired five new full-time employees; entered into a strategic alliance with Because Experiential Marketing, a London-based creative experiences agency, to expand its international capabilities. What we love: parents are encouraged to have their children visit during the day, flexible hours, and Homer the beagle office mascot.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Pop-up Stores
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AARP, E&J Gallo, JTI/Logic, Salesforce, Uniqlo
WEB: factory360.com
RFP CONTACT: Will Burch, [email protected]

FIRST

An agency with global reach specializing in the “classics”—conferences, investor meetings, analyst days, galas, awards nights, sales meetings, incentives trips and networking receptions. And of course, putting a nontraditional spin on all of them. Think: NewFronts, Upfronts, press launches full of “glitter bombs” but with strategic backbones. Executing in complex venues like Pier 26, Rockefeller Center and others? Easy. Acquired Clive to increase boots on the ground in London and Dublin. Recently expanded its New York City offices by 7,000 square feet.

CORE 1: Launch Events
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Sales Conferences/Meetings 

FOCUS SPLIT: 5% B-to-C, 95% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Fresenius Medical Care North America, Mastercard, New York Times, Oath, Unicef USA
WEB: firstagency.com
RFP CONTACT: Jeremy Woolf, [email protected]

FREEMANXP

The independent global experience agency continues to expand globally into all industry segments. Enhanced the interactive offerings with the acquisition of Helios Interactive and jumped into the sports and entertainment space with the purchase of BaAm Productions. Bolstered registration and tech toolkits with the acquisition of Info Salons and added some design oomph with the purchase of e4 Design. Recently launched the Freeman Design Insights Panel, which tracks preferences and consumer behaviors and uses a collective of 7,500 affluent “panelists” as a trend bellwether.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 3: Trade Show Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 15% B-to-C, 85% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AT&T, Atlassian, Brocade, Marketo, Microsoft, Splunk
WEB: freemanxp.com
RFP CONTACT: Jayda Fisher, [email protected]

CAPTURING AN AUTOMOTIVE WONDER

The PHOTOFAIRS is a top international art fair focusing on artistic imagery. It was created to serve the growing demand for a collection of contemporary photography in China and Asia Pacific. Porsche, the automobile manufacturer specializing in high-performance sports vehicles, was the show’s chief partner. Porsche wanted to show visitors the “fascination” for the Porsche brand in the show’s largest exhibiting space with a booth of 700 square meters.

MORE THAN JUST A VEHICLE

To tell the story through a mix of local and international artists who have collaborated with the brand, we curated the artwork, selected the featured photographers, and created an art-focused experience for visitors to discover Porsche under a different perspective. Porsche values came to life through the display of portraits, abstract photography, and street photography.

ENGINEERING AN EXPERIENCE

The exhibition was divided into four spaces: Passion, Precision, Vision, and Creation. Each area was dedicated to telling the stories behind “Fascination.” Seven artists were featured, including two Chinese artists who gave a preview of their artwork for the upcoming PHOTOFAIRS show. In addition, Porsche organized a photography competition a month before the exhibition and visitors were asked to vote for their favorite photographs.

TUNED TO PERFECTION

The three-day exhibition at Shanghai Exhibition Centre attracted more than 30,000 visitors and over 50 galleries from 28 different cities. The exhibition showcased the super sports cars in various artistic layouts, demonstrating Porsche’s passion and commitment to the race track.

FUSION MARKETING

They do it all, across channels: creative, location management, concert production, talent management, security, run of show, travel, digital support, venue branding, post-event duties and much more. Brought Bud Light to the NFL Draft, helped FOX launch new shows at the Super Bowl and launched the all-new National Soccer Hall of Fame (Stay tuned, they say. We’re intrigued.). Handled the super smart Michelob Ultra fitness series, marrying beer with wellness. Placed a big focus recently on event content, doubling the size of its content team.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 70% B-to-C, 30% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Anheuser-Busch InBev, Campari America, FOX Entertainment, Nestle Purina, Valvoline
WEB: thisisfusion.com
RFP CONTACT: Eric Schneider, [email protected]

G7 ENTERTAINMENT

They “believe in the power of the fan.” Born out of a music marketing and experiential background, G7 has evolved its offerings to include corporate talent booking and production and full-service activation for brands with a specific focus on the music, sports and lifestyle event spaces. Last year handled activations at 151 festivals for our current clients, and also won new clients: Mike’s Hard Lemonade (experiential AOR), Cayman Jack and YETI. All of this success resulted in a 73-percent increase in full-time staff in the Nashville office. Boom.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Talent Booking & Production 

FOCUS SPLIT: 51% B-to-C, 49% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Cisco, Fiat Chrysler Automotive Group, Nissan North America, Sazerac, Spotify
WEB: g7marketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Maranda McGeary, [email protected]

At G7 Entertainment Marketing, WE BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF THE FAN.

We are fan-first thinkers, doers and evangelists. Our philosophy is to approach our work through the lens of unforgettable fan experiences blending strategy and creative to emotionally connect; understanding that when brands put fans first, everyone wins. This statement informs how we go to work in the development of our marketing and activation strategies for each client and opportunity.

Born out of a music marketing and experiential background, over the past ten years, G7 has evolved to become a fully integrated entertainment marketing agency specializing in entertainment strategy, talent booking, and event production & activation. Our unique perspective has earned us a position as a thought- leader, idea engine and expert on bringing brands to life with a variety of clients spanning across various industries including automotive, spirits, technology, CPG and lifestyle brands.

By putting our extensive entertainment marketing knowledge and experience to work for our clients each and every day, we have been fortunate to create moments that move hearts, minds, and business results for long standing clients such as Sazerac, Ram Trucks, and Salesforce.

The past year has been an exciting one for the team at G7, growing personnel by 73%, and welcoming popular brands into the fold including Fujifilm, YETI, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, Spotify, and Nissan. Over the past twelve months, our event activation teams, comprised of 26 in-house and 10 field personnel, have been busy executing 15 mobile tours resulting in brand activations at 300+ music, food & wine, lifestyle & cultural festivals and global music tour stops, allowing our clients to engage directly with tens of millions of fans and for our beverage clients specifically, to deliver over 440,000 unique samples to consumers.

We’d like to highlight a recent execution for Spotify. After successfully managing the official grand opening of Ole Red, Blake Shelton’s new bar/restaurant/music venue in downtown Nashville, we led the complete rebranding of the 5-story building in under 5 hours overnight to mark the official kickoff of Spotify’s Hot Country 4-day takeover event during CMA Fest 2018. The multi-day event was a complex logistical endeavor featuring performances by 54 of the hottest Country acts. G7 worked with Spotify and Opry Entertainment Group to book and advance all scheduled and surprise talent, handling on-site production and VIP activities, and the creation and distribution of over 65,000 pieces of branded merchandise. Not only did we think this was one of the hottest events in town during CMA Fest, Rolling Stone agreed and featured our activation in their “Top 30 Best Things at CMA Fest 2018” for Best Lineup.

Within G7, we have one of the top corporate, roster agnostic, talent booking teams in the industry, whose expertise, strong industry relations, and negotiating power allows us to work with our trusted partners across management, agency, and labels to find the most ideal talent fit for each client’s needs in order to deliver the best event for their audience whether that be a music performer, comedian, speaker, or interactive artist. Over the past year, some of our 150+ booking highlights include Bruno Mars, Michelle Obama, The Chainsmokers, Natalie Portman, and Imagine Dragons.

Always wanting to deliver more than what is tasked of us, our team works cross-functionally to deliver added value to each project. This has been especially true with some of our ongoing, trusted relationships with clients such as Mack Trucks and Cisco. Recently we built upon a talent booking opportunity with a Cisco corporate event by aligning the brand with multi-platinum, Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter and musician John Legend. By finding shared beliefs between Legend’s charity LRNG, focused on education and learning initiatives for all people and closing the equity gap by transforming how young people access ad experience learning, and Cisco’s Spark Board technology, we were able to foster the perfect partnership for Cisco’s Connected Education platform that extended well beyond Legend’s performance at Cisco’s Chairman’s Club event.

All of this great work could not be possible without the talents of our dedicated team and support and trust of our clients.

We get a rush out of doing work that we love with the people we love to work with. We celebrate being part of the dynamic and growing cultural and business phenomena that is Nashville today, working hard to leave our mark while also giving back to the community. We are obsessed with our clients’ business and are passionate about blending that obsession with personalized service. While being boutique has its benefits, we also harness the global resources afforded us by being part of Project Worldwide, a network of 14 independent agencies in service of creativity.

We are proud of our growth while remaining humble and hungry for more.

GEOMETRY

The global agency dedicated to transforming trial—whether it be simple samplin’ or complex national field efforts or elite high-touch, moment-making campaigns. Offers incredible localized reach across 150 markets managed by 3,200 multi-generational, ethnically diverse, certified W-2’s field reps. Structurally, agency is framed around four Centers of Excellence: experiential, digital commerce, cross-cultural and retail. Interesting way to kick-off program development? Geometry’s Precision Key Workshop, in which multi-discipline teams use data and trends to identify your “beautiful problem” that needs solving. That’s beautiful.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Sampling
CORE 2: Nightlife/On-premise Events
CORE 3: P.R. Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: American Airlines, Beam Suntory E&J Gallo, General Mills, Grace Farms
WEB: geometry.com
RFP CONTACT: Dan Eisenberg, [email protected]

CHEERIOS MOMENTS OF GOOD: SURPRISING PEOPLE IN WALMART STORES AND THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES WITH UPLIFTING POSITIVITY

Part of the anxiety of being a good mom is making good food decisions in light of competing demands. The Walmart millennial mom loves cereal for herself and her family. But with so many breakfast options out there, she’s not buying as much as she used to. When she does, she buys based on price & taste. It’s a choice devoid of any uplifting, higher order emotional good.

Cheerios brings wholesome goodness to breakfast and beyond. To get her from basing her purchase on price to adding Cheerios to her Walmart shopping list, she needed to see how that wholesome goodness could uplift spirits with positivity.

Cheerios launched a nationwide effort to emotionally connect moms with Cheerios through Moments of Good: unexpected, interactive pop-up events and experiences that rewarded Walmart shoppers and those who were doing good in their local communities.

The Moments spanned categories such as education, military, and social give backs. To amplify the experience and achieve a truly emotional impact, a ‘ruse’ was created to surprise each recipient of each Moment of Good.

In Kansas, for the Louisburg High School Marching Band that was headed to the Rose Bowl Parade for the first time, Cheerios worked with the school Principal to surprise the band and its Director of almost 20 years. During what seemed to be a standard morning assembly, Cheerios interrupted it with the presentation of a $25,000 check to help with the bands’ travel to Pasadena, CA.

In Claremore, OK, Walmart shoppers in line were surprised with an acapella group – disguised as customers in the checkout line – singing the Cheerios jingle and awarding $100 Walmart gift cards to pay for shoppers’ purchases.

In Houston, TX, Cheerios took a barren plot of land badly damaged by recent hurricanes and turned it into a beautiful public vegetable & pollinator garden to benefit the city and students of the Zina Garrison Academy.

And in Oak Grove, KY, home to the Ft. Campbell military base, we surprised military service people, their friends, and families with a Walmart parking lot pop-up event where shoppers could pick, pack and send unique care packages to loved ones serving our country. Items were packed in shipping boxes that could be customized with stickers and Cheerios artwork. Plus, attendees could enter the Cheerios Social Video Box to post their thank you videos on to social media.

The campaign was extremely successful delivering a +25% sales increase in the first month of the program with double-digit growth on Cheerios over the length of the program. Content captured from events resulted in 5MM digital impressions and delivered over 1MM Moments with Walmart shoppers via the 11 total individual Moments executed in the campaign.

These events truly delivered good to deserving people in local communities. And, created millions of sharable moments that reconnected mom with the wholesome goodness and positivity Cheerios can bring to the table.

GEORGE P. JOHNSON

Project Worldwide’s largest holding, in its own words, “has developed a proprietary experiential ecosystem for data-driven experiential marketing.” On the heels of the global Nissan account, opened a second office in Nashville. Also opened a new office in Dallas in support of the Toyota and Lexus work. Launched a new cause effort called Project Pledge, which matches employee charitable donations and has generated more than $2 million in company-funded donations to date. The program will continue.

CORE 1: Worldwide Event Programs
CORE 2: Trade Show Programs
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 35% B-to-C, 65% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Google, IBM, Mastercard, Nissan, Salesforce
WEB: gpj.com
RFP CONTACT: Scott Kellner, [email protected]

GES EVENTS

In their own words: “Our mission is to deliver high-value, high-impact experiences to event attendees and the people they influence. We are in the business of changing hearts and minds.” New clients include Disney, Caterpillar and Plexus; and renewal accounts include Mary Kay, LPL Financial and Tableau. Established a dedicated event strategy and measurement team and invested in new staffers focused on design, general session production and client engagement. Plays exceptionally well in the sandbox with other agencies.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Consumer Events
CORE 3: Developer Conferences/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 98% B-to-C, 2% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Caterpillar, Dentons, MKTG, Plexus, Tableau
WEB: ges.com
RFP CONTACT: Sally McComic, [email protected]

GIANT STEP

With a stake in AuDigent, an audience-building and data-mining platform built around the music, entertainment and pop culture verticals, now affords clients the ability to align their brands and audiences with some of the world’s biggest influencers. What they’ve been up to: launched a record label for W Hotels, produced UPROXX’s first-ever NewFronts presentation, opening the event with a silent disco breakfast; and helped Spotify re-launch its new Viva Latino platform during Grammy Week.

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: Pop-up Stores
CORE 3: Buzz/Influencer Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 88% B-to-C, 12% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: GAP Inc. (Old Navy), Hudson Rouge (Lincoln Motor Company), Leesa, Marriott (W Hotels), Spotify
WEB: giantstep.net
RFP CONTACT: Maurice Bernstein, [email protected]

GMR MARKETING

Thirty-six in-house offerings. Fifteen activations for eight clients at the 2018 Winter Games. Seventeen programs for nine clients at Super Bowl LII, including for the NFL itself—hello. These are your global consumer event activation people. Produces reams of proprietary research, including a study on the impact of human emotion in experience marketing, “Experiential EQ.” What we love: GMR University, an online, 24/7-accessible with more than 750 courses for employees to enroll in both in-person or virtually.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Nightlife/On-premise Events
CORE 3: Worldwide Event Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Comcast, Esurance, MillerCoors, NFL, P&G
WEB: gmrmarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Becky Petska, [email protected]

GRANDESIGN

Launched its experiential division nearly 10 years ago and has blossomed into a $100 million company with 120 clients (Warner Bros., Amazon, Zappos, among them) and 55 full-time staffers. What they’ve been up to: Executed a beer drop for the entire city of Philadelphia for the Super Bowl parade in 72 hours. Pulled strings with the military for “American Idol” helicopter flights across L.A. carrying 15-foot-tall cutouts of judges ahead of the premiere. Acquired full exclusivity and control of San Diego Comic-Con’s “Interactive Zone” for fans.

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 99% B-to-C, 1% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Anheuser-Busch, Disney, Time Warner, Viacom, Zappos
WEB: grandesign.com
RFP CONTACT: Christie Decker, [email protected]

GROW MARKETING

With senior leadership hailing from iconic retail brands, this woman-owned and operated group headquartered in San Francisco understands how every aspect of any marketing campaign needs to come together to achieve big goals. They rock experiential programs for the world’s biggest brands. Among new clients: Nike, Target, Google, Under Armour, and Pernod Ricard. And this agency continues to grow—recently launched a new division, Root + Rise, devoted entirely to employee engagement and bolstering brand health, bolstering Grow’s b-to-b offerings.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Pop-up Stores 

FOCUS SPLIT: 60% B-to-C, 40% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Google, KinderCare, Pernod Ricard USA, Target, Under Armour
WEB: grow-marketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Tami Anderson, [email protected]

Unlike Any is Under Armour’s most expansive global women’s campaign to date, honoring the incredible feats of female athleticism in the purest sense. To unveil the campaign to international media, influencers and consumers, Grow developed a theatrical and progressive launch with artful design, athlete and poet appearances and immersive engagements Unlike Any.

HAVAS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Has executed successful programs in 189 countries (just seven short of every country in the world). This year, hit the trifecta with long-time client Coca-Cola: simultaneously activating the brand’s sponsorship of the Olympic Torch Relay and the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympic Games and sponsorship of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour. Placing strong focus on sponsorship and partnership consulting. And its access to proprietary data and insights as part of the US Media Group is helping clients uncover new ways of engaging consumers across media and creative.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Worldwide Event Programs
CORE 3: Buzz/Influencer Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: LVMH, The Coca-Cola Company, TracFone, Turner Broadcasting System, Under Armour
WEB: havas-se.com
RFP CONTACT: Daniel Dao, [email protected]

HENRY V

Activates for a diverse client base, including automotive, sportswear, food & beverage, tech, healthcare and education. Handles fully staged corporate meetings (like adidas’ F18 sales meeting for 700-plus attendees in a converted warehouse in L.A.) to mobile tasting tours (like one for Tillamook in new markets in Texas). You name it. Upped its creative services offerings with internal creative directors, an expanded video and photography team, live-streaming services, 360-degree cameras an upgraded tech and integrated app capabilities.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Sampling
CORE 3: Press Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 45% B-to-C, 55% B-to-B 
CLIENTS INCLUDE: adidas, Daimler Trucks North America, Kaiser Permanente, KinderCare Education, Tillamook County Creamery Association
WEB: henryvevents.com
RFP CONTACT: Katja Asaro, [email protected]

HMT ASSOCIATES

With a suite of creative CPG activations, this agency’s work this year has been quite tasty. Helped Cub Foods tackle the competition during football season with retail events and the Ultimate Tailgate Party. Helped Swedish Fish candy engage its 15- to 35-year-old movie-loving target with the Bryant Park Outdoor Film Festival sponsorship and digital extension with a GIF booth and Snapchat filter. And activated the global OREO Dunk Challenge at 8,000 U.S. stores, media events and sweepstakes.

CORE 1: In-Store/Shopper Events
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Sales Conferences/Meetings 

FOCUS SPLIT: 87% B-to-C, 13% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Back to Nature, Coca-Cola, Kraft Heinz Company, Mondelez International, Stonyfield
WEB: hmtassociates.com
RFP CONTACT: Patti Conti, [email protected]

iDEKO

This group has your production needs covered. Logistics, coordination and technical execution? Done. Fabrication? They own their own shop. Trucking? They own their own fleet. Rentals? They’ve got the gear. Permit expediting? They’ve forged strategic city agency relationships. Scouting? They’ll track down the most unique traditional and non-traditional spaces. Among experiential work this year: Hallmark Channel’s public art activation for “Countdown to Valentine’s Day” at Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan, and Nike’s underground dance party in an abandoned New York City Subway station.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: Multicultural Events
CORE 3: P.R. Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 60% B-to-C, 40% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: City of New York, Hallmark, Match MG, Nike, Red Bull
WEB: idekoproductions.com
RFP CONTACT: David Knee, [email protected]

IMAGICORPS

Operates its own 50,000-square-foot production facility where it designs, engineers and fabricates exhibits, displays, kiosks and more. Developed the Digital Transformation showcase, event vignettes to showcase Microsoft technology that have been scaled up or down in cities across the country. One vp at Microsoft said the program “made me think about what we can do in ways I never considered.” Other projects this year: a 20-foot ocean shipping container pop-up store for National Association of Convenience Stores and 60-foot by 100-foot booth for Xbox at GameStop Expo.

CORE 1: Trade Show Programs
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Pop-up Stores 

FOCUS SPLIT: 5% B-to-C, 95% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AMP Agency, Fluke, Microsoft, Momentum Worldwide, PACCAR
WEB: imagicorps.com
RFP CONTACT: Thomas Hutchinson, [email protected]

IMAGINATION

Like a cross between McKinsey and IDEO, Imagination is equal parts right and left brain. The experiential marketing agency that refuses to be defined as an experiential marketing agency continues to refine the realm of live with some of the deepest strategies, the most mind-minding designs and teams staffed with some of the most elite marketers on the planet. With 13 offices in nine countries, celebrating its 50th birthday with some of the most complex, integrated, connected brand experience programs in its history.

CORE 1: Trade Show Programs
CORE 2: Press Events
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Brown-Forman, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, NFL, Shell
WEB: imagination.com
RFP CONTACT: Kurt Sabin, [email protected]

IMG LIVE

Activated on behalf of eight separate clients at this year’s Super Bowl. Created large-scale consumer activations at each of the country’s top music festivals—including the buzzed about Marriott VIP overnight glamping experience at Coachella. Last year, activated in all 50 states and 19 countries. Also grew its presence in esports and MMA properties. Added UFC, Topgolf, ELeague, T-Mobile, Chivas, Under Armour and Eurosport to the client roster. Opened new offices in London, Singapore and Australia. Added 59 new hires. Busy? You bet.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: P.R. Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 81% B-to-C, 19% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Coca-Cola, DirecTV, Marriott/Starwood, Under Armour, Visa
WEB: imglive.com
RFP CONTACT: Hilary Kidwell, [email protected]

IMPACT XM

The launch of XM-IQ is transforming this 45-year-old agency into a behavioral science powerhouse—we’re talkin’ about a technology-powered attendee engagement platform for improving results at trade shows, conference and activations, for b-to-b and b-to-c events. So far, the platform has delivered over 15 million participant interactions tracked through nearly every type of venue and event. This year, brought on 25-year-plus veteran Thomas Frisby as vp creative and marketing and expanded facilities in Toronto and Las Vegas, adding 85,000 square feet of space.

CORE 1: Trade Show Programs
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Consumer Activations 

FOCUS SPLIT: 15% B-to-C, 85% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AT&T, BASF, Bayer, Nutanix, Under Armour
WEB: impact-xm.com
RFP CONTACT: Charles Sanchez, [email protected]

INFINITY MARKETING TEAM

This nimble team out of Culver City, CA, is owning festivalization with client HP and the immersive, millennial-friendly lounges at Coachella and Panorama music festivals. Making a name for itself in esports, to boot, with the proprietary tournament The HP Omen Challenge: PUBG Edition, again for HP. Achieved record-setting attendance for the Digital Artistry House at SXSW… Again, for HP. One-stop shopping with this group includes fabrication, furniture rental and digital chops. Once client said: “Once you hire Infinity, just pick up your feet and open a bottle of wine as you know everything will be done to perfection.”

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Launch Events
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: P.R. Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Banc of California, Credence MedSystems, HP, Intel, Twentieth Century Fox
WEB: infinitymarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Chad Tons, [email protected]

The OMEN Challenge: PUBG Edition became the greatest, game- changing OMEN Challenge that was ever live streamed from TwitchCon. It was the first time a custom setting was created for a multi-player ‘battle royal’ game with 40 participants.

By creating an atmosphere where all players could be easily viewed by both the live audience and the online viewers, the OMEN Challenge: PUBG Edition succeeded where other PUBG tournaments had not. It took the capabilities of the OMEN line of products to create this revolutionary viewing experience.

The OMEN Challenge: PUBG Edition was a two-hour battle royal tournament that featured 40 all-star Twitch streamers competing in a PUBG tournament, a game that requires a combination of skill, strategy and teamwork. PUBG blends the survival, exploration and scavenging aspects of a survival game with the concept of a last player standing game.

To put on the tournament, HP created the enormous OMEN Challenge Coliseum, a 10,000-square-foot elaborate gaming center with four (4) two-story structures that contained 20 custom soundproof interactive gaming pods. The Coliseum’s center stage, which boasted a 25’ LED screen, was positioned within the giant multi-level pod structures of the arena. In this prime location, prizes were awarded and the OMEN Challenge’s hosts – Twitch personalities Josh Sutherland and Shidosha Hodges – conducted player interviews.

With strobe lights streaming and the custom pods glowing an OMEN red, 40 all-star Twitch players burst into the Coliseum with WWE-style entrance music and call outs. They prepped their OMEN-clad gaming pods before battling in front of a capacity crowd that was screaming and cheering them on to be the last one standing.

Over the course of two matches, each of the 20 two-person teams in the OMEN Challenge tried to complete a series of challenges designed by HP for the chance to win a variety of unique awards. These tasks best synergized OMEN products with PUBG game play actions and results.

Staggeringly successful results from the HP OMEN Challenge demonstrated that HP succeeded in gaining credibility among Enthusiast gamers for the OMEN brand while also increasing awareness and consideration of the OMEN family of products.

Between the Twitch and OMEN by HP channels, close to one million viewers watched the live OMEN Challenge for more than 1.6 million minutes.

TwitchCon had an attendance of 50,000 attendees. Of those, a stunning 87 percent (43,256) visited the OMEN Challenge Coliseum to take part in the OMEN by HP activities.

Through the OMEN Challenge: PUBG Edition at TwitchCon 2017, HP has revolutionized the live gaming environment. For battle royal-style multi-player games, HP created the perfect event for all audiences – Enthusiast gamers, people watching the tournament in person and people watching the live stream. With HP’s OMEN products powering the tournament and all the activations, HP achieved record-setting results in increasing its brand awareness and credibility among the Enthusiast gaming community.

INFRARED

For more than two decades, those killer travel-based incentive experiences and hospitality programs have always been the bread and butter for Kelly Weinberg and team—whether employees are going to meet U2 in Dublin or wrapping top clients in a Final Four evening out. Non-travel work is on the rise, as evidenced by the programs for Dead Pool 2 and The Meg. And b-to-b spinoffs are also now fully in the mix, with Infrared handling 20th Century Fox’s partner meeting.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 35% B-to-C, 65% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: 20th Century Fox, Acer, American Heart Association, City National Bank, Turner Broadcasting
WEB: weareinfrared.com
RFP CONTACT: Kelly Weinberg, [email protected]

INNOVATIVE GROUP

This team of “solutionists” does it all—production, community-building, on-site activations, staffing, sponsorship, procurement and VIP hospitality. Its fleet of tour vehicles can help accomplish this all on the road. Among them: the MAXimus truck asset that handled Gordon Ramsay’s “24 Hours to Hell & Back” tour, offering a self-sustaining, state-of-the-art kitchen that doubles as a concert stage; and the GameDay Tradition for hosting luxury VIP hospitality and tailgating opportunities. Beep, beep.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Launch Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: American Express, Celebrity Cruises, Gordon Ramsay Group, JPMorgan Chase, Mecum Auto Auctions
WEB: innovativegroup.agency
RFP CONTACT: Camie Dunbar, [email protected]

INSPIRA MARKETING GROUP

This company led by Jeff Snyder has expanded quickly in 10 short years. Now claims four offices across the country, including its swoonworthy headquarters in coastal Norwalk, CT, as well as 300 full-time employees. This year, Katy Bohinc joined as head of data and innovation, and also Marc Borelli as creative director, among hires. What we love: millennial-friendly programs like Hefty’s larger-than-life inflatable party cup and tailgate parties at MLB stadiums with the #PartyHefty tagline that reached 123 million people beyond the footprint.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: Nightlife/On-premise Events
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Diageo, Henkel, Mondelez International, Nestle, Reynolds Consumer Products
WEB: inspiramarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Jeremy Litchfield, [email protected]

INVISIBLE NORTH

This six-year-old group of creators produced the first-ever Propel Co:Labs Fitness Festival born from the Propel Co:Labs pop-ups, a global, multi-market program that has earned PepsiCo one billion impressions. For Hunter Boots, created that buzzed-about Scottish Highlands greenhouse in Grand Central Terminal, complete with rain and fog. Took HBO to college campuses to promote the network’s original programming. For Puma, transformed a warehouse in Miami during Art Basel to introduce a new sneaker line. Oh, and this first quarter won LinkedIn’s trade marketing business. Just as lush as its business, is its SoHo offices complete with tropical gardens.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: P.R. Events

FOCUS SPLIT: 50% B-to-C, 50% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: HBO, Hunter Boots, LinkedIn, Microsoft, PepsiCo
WEB: invisiblenorth.com
RFP CONTACT: Geoff Renaud, [email protected]

INVNT

Headquartered in New York City with 80 full-time staff, seven offices, and a global network for specialists, talent and vendor partners, lists storytelling as its “raison d’être.” Founders Scott Cullather and Kristina McCoobery recently purchased the agency from its former parent company, Time Inc., marking a new chapter as an independent. Opened international offices in Sydney and Stockholm, bringing the total number of offices up to seven. Handled Samsung’s Galaxy Note8’s UNPACKED 2017 event with Cheil for 1,700 attendees, media, VIP, customers—and 46 million watching the live-stream around the world.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: P.R. Events
CORE 3: Launch Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 30% B-to-C, 70% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: ESPN, General Motors, PepsiCo, Samsung, Subway
WEB: invnt.com
RFP CONTACT: Scott Kerr, [email protected]

VISION

Following the Galaxy Note7 disappointment, the stakes could not have been higher for Samsung as they prepared to unveil the Galaxy Note8 at their UNPACKED 2017 event. Managing Samsung as a client, Cheil and INVNT teamed up for the first time – Cheil taking the lead on the creative for the event overall and INVNT overseeing the production, event logistics, show production and show direction. Together, they developed a vision for a groundbreaking launch that dazzled the 1,700 guests –comprised of media, VIPs, customers and super-users – and wow the millions of people watching the live stream around the world.

CREATIVE PERSPECTIVE 

The Galaxy Note8 Tagline “Do Bigger Things” inspired the entire approach to this event. We went bigger and pushed the limits of how a product launch could look and feel.

UNPACKED 2017 filled the 55,000 square foot Drill Hall at the historic Park Avenue Armory in New York City. The hall was divided into a 1,700-seat amphitheater for the main presentation, and a product demonstration area where the guests experienced the Note8 for themselves.

Cheil conceptualized the amphitheater that consisted of an 80-foot square ultra-high-resolution LED floor – the largest ever produced – and two angled LED screens that were each 80 feet wide by 40 feet tall, totaling over 45 million pixels. The perspective created by these intersecting screens allowed us to push the limits of the visual experience to places unseen by audiences. Cheil designed graphics and photography to flow seamlessly from floor to wall, often filling all three screens to create beautiful three-dimensional vistas. Videos and animations were designed to make it appear – from the audience/camera viewing angle – as though the product was floating in space. Further reinforcing the mind-altering graphics was a highly complex 3.1 audio system and enormous lighting rig resulting in the perfect immersive balance of aural and visual elements.

INVNT installed seating that enveloped the stage, creating an ‘arena’ setting that added to the energy of the live presentation.

For the equally important global live stream audience of 46 million people, Cheil and INVNT carefully plotted every camera angle to guarantee an incredible viewing experience. Bringing this to life in the 150+ year old building was the biggest challenge. An installation team of hundreds needed to work for 10 days+, loading in over 70 equipment semitrailers, rotating in shifts 24-hrs-a-day. INVNT handled event logistics, re-engineered the floor and ceiling of the venue, worked with the NYPD, local residents and the Mayor’s Office to obtain the necessary permitting, and also handled security, food & beverage, exterior and interior branding and build-outs, VIP areas, guest and registration management. INVNT’s creative team worked with Cheil to shape and perfect the show into 45 minutes of precise and flawless live brand storytelling.

RESULTS

UNPACKED 2017 was a technologically and visually groundbreaking launch that set the standard for similar events. Samsung’s ‘comeback’ wowed audiences everywhere. Journalists gushed over the power of the visual presentation, while social media exploded with imagery and comments from people who couldn’t believe what they had seen. In addition to the 46 million who watched live, the event, posted on YouTube, has been viewed by over 16 million people since that date, and the event generated over 2 million engagements with Samsung on Facebook and Twitter and earned 825,000 social media impressions.

JACK MORTON WORLDWIDE

IPG’s event agency offers specialized expertise across several sectors including employee engagement, broadcast design and public events. New this year, introduced a Storytelling Workshop used to educate the company’s clients (and its own staff) about the importance of storytelling—reinforcing the story arch, exploiting storytelling techniques and their effect on human behavior and emotion. Also making extra efforts to enhance its technology offerings via a Boston tech lab and continued partnership with its Genuine Interactive unit. Oh, and the immersive work with Royal Caribbean? Worth taking a look. A long one.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 45% B-to-C, 55% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: General Motors, Google, IBM, Proctor & Gamble, Subway
WEB: jackmorton.com
RFP CONTACT: Cassandra Hegarty, [email protected]

CHALLENGE

Toilet paper is a commoditized category where brands are often treated as interchangeable. Up against an ever- increasing landscape of private labels, Charmin needed to capture attention and spark brand love by delivering proof of its brand promise: “Enjoy the Go.”

INSIGHT

In a world where it seems like everything is on-demand, mobile-first and designed for ever-elevating consumer expectations, there’s one thing that we all do – and all dread – when we’re out and about: “the go.” Acceptable public bathrooms are backwardly scarce and uninviting. They’re hard to find and even harder to enjoy.

IDEA

Along with agency partners Publicis, MSL and Genuine, we created Charmin Van-GO — the first-ever on-demand mobile bathroom service.

We put the cleanest, most comfortable and most enjoyable bathroom experience money could buy (including, of course, plenty of Charmin) on wheels, then served up access through a mobile app that lives up to the standards of today’s most popular on-demand ridesharing services.

EXPERIENCE

Mashable signed on to exclusively announce Van-GO’s arrival to the world. Then, Charmin Van-GO hit the streets of NYC, where clean, enjoyable public bathrooms are virtually nonexistent. If you had to go, all you had to do was pull out your phone and use our web app to order it up. Within minutes of launch, the orders were rolling in. The experience began by rolling out the Charmin white carpet, then continued as we armed “goers” with poo-blications, let them answer our bathroom phone (Nature was on the line – calling) and didn’t stop until they came out smiling — probably because the bathroom was bigger and nicer than most NYC apartments!

IMPACT

The response was monumental. Not only did we achieve our goals for the brand, we surpassed them beyond what Charmin had ever experienced previously:

• 9% lift in earned media coverage compared to similar previous efforts, including 51 original stories via The Today Show, Drudge Report, People, Yahoo! and many more
• 73% higher Public Relations recall than historical brand benchmarks
• 8% more efficient media metrics than historical brand benchmarks, leading to increased impressions and campaign reach
• 3,000% increase in social impressions versus previous efforts, and Charmin shattered any competitive share of voice online

Van-GO proved to be best performing social campaign in the history of the brand. All of that made for a go that the brand – and consumers – found very enjoyable.

KINDLE COMMUNICATIONS

Steady, organic growth has guided this company, which handles an equally steady roster of clients. Expanded westward in pursuit of biotech and tech industry business with KIN SF in the Bay Area, adding to its expertise in healthcare, pharmaceutical, foodservice and energy sectors. For the third year in a row, executed AbbVie’s massive National Sales Meeting with 4,000 attendees, on-site experiences like an AR climbing wall, Velcro wall and a charades showdown. Added employee perks, including profit sharing, to boot.

CORE 1: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 2: Internal Employee Events
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 5% B-to-C, 95% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Amgen, AbbVie, Astellas Pharma, McDonald’s, Zebra Technologies
WEB: kindlecommunications.com
RFP CONTACT: Colette May, [email protected]

KUBIK

Thirty-five-year vet Kubik can dream up experiences and build them, too. Its state-of-the-art, 175,000-square-foot manufacturing facility is operated by master craftsmen. Is building up retail partnerships with global brands and expanding its automotive clientele with the addition of Volvo and Genesis, on top of environmental projects that are increasing its culturally focused experiences with museums and galleries. IT upgrades this year will elevate efficiencies and client interactions. Technology chops include visual effects, VR, real-time, and 2D and 3D motion, rounding out its full-service experiential offerings nicely.

CORE 1: Trade Show Programs
CORE 2: Worldwide Event Programs
CORE 3: Corporate Briefing Centers 

FOCUS SPLIT: 88% B-to-C, 12% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Mars Inc., HP, Hyundai and Genesis, Nissan, Samsung
WEB: thinkubik.com
RFP CONTACT: Elliot Kohn, [email protected]

LEADDOG MARKETING GROUP

Formalized its creative strategy department focused on spearheading collaborations between big brands and innovative cultural partners like Diet Coke and The Infatuation, REI and Sofar Sounds, NFLPA’s One Team Collective and WHOOP, and Bermuda Tourism Authority and Man Repeller. Handled the hospitality-focused OneCourt House at NBA All-Star Weekend for players, securing activations with Intel, Monster, and Pernod, and exceeding revenue expectations by 220 percent. Handled English Premier League club Chelsea F.C.’s Champions Tour.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Sampling
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 89.8% B-to-C, 10.2% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: adidas, Audi, Coca-Cola, National Football League Player’s Association, Netflix, Volkswagen
WEB: leaddogmarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Danit Aronson, [email protected]

LEGACY MARKETING PARTNERS

Legacy has experienced a significant expansion in its wine, champagne and off-premise retail programs. This year, expanded offerings in sports and entertainment sponsorship consulting and production. Added AR, VR and 360 activations, animated GIF/cinemograph creation and IoT to expand into cutting edge digital activations. Like the Jameson Love Thy Neighborhood Brewery Fest, featuring food music, and wearable RFID tech that allowed consumers to track their event experience, learn about the beer they sampled and access downloadable music from on-site performers.

CORE 1: Nightlife/On-premise Events
CORE 2: Sampling
CORE 3: Launch Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Constellation Brands, Filippo Berio, Knauf Insulation, L&W Supply, Pernod Ricard
WEB: legacymarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Nate Stillman, [email protected]

LEO EVENTS

Is growing its b-to-b services for Fortune 500 companies—produced 342 events in 2017, including Walmart’s shareholders, holiday and year-beginning events. B-to-c projects are growing as well. Based in Tennessee, with offices in Chattanooga, Memphis and Nashville, but has worldwide reach having executed this year events in five countries, including one in Prague for ExxonMobil. Full-time staff has grown 300 percent in five years. What we love: the full-time carpenter on staff “because you just never know where imagination can lead.”

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 3: Worldwide Event Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 10% B-to-C, 90% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AutoZone, ExxonMobil, Hilton, Software AG, Walmart
WEB: leoevents.com
RFP CONTACT: Cindy Brewer, [email protected]

YOU HAVE A STORY. AND WE’RE STORYTELLERS. MEET LEO.

In the past six years alone, LEO has produced more than 1,000 events and programs for 300 clients, including Sherwin- Williams, Walmart, ExxonMobil, Hilton Garden Inn and AutoZone. Its future “blueprints” look promising, too, with new corporate office space going up in downtown Memphis.

Hear for yourself what makes LEO stand out among the crowd.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? 

Everything. But especially our people and culture. We have a team of creative thinkers and skilled professionals who reject mediocrity and reach for the extraordinary. They always push for something better, and they place a premium on customer service and hospitality—guess you could say it stems from our Tennessee Southern roots.

SPEAKING OF TENNESSEE, WHERE ARE YOUR OFFICES?

LEO is Memphis-based with offices in Nashville and Chattanooga. Our core focus is on meeting and event management, creative content and brand development, and production. We also have a division dedicated to festivals/public events.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THIS BUSINESS?

We began 16 years ago and today, we work with an international roster of programs and clients of all sizes, mega to mid. We’ve produced events and shows in 23 countries in the past five years.

DO YOU HAVE A SWEET SPOT?

Sure, but we’re a very versatile, experienced agency. Whether we’re bringing people together to learn or sell, entertain or celebrate, we move them to connect to the moment and to one another. You know those moments, the ones worth posting, sharing and reliving. If you’re asking for a specific client mix, then we’d say B2B events are what we produce most. We’re doing something really interesting in this space. Have you heard about KAABOO, our music festival, and why this kind of experience matters to B2B brands?

WHY DO FESTIVALS MATTER TO B2B BRANDS?

We’ve seen a shift in how companies think about events and meetings. And with more than 32 million people attending music festivals each year in the U.S., clients are turning to the festival model to differentiate themselves, showcase products and concepts, and build brand loyalty beyond a simple sponsorship. It’s a model that’s ahead of the curve on using trends and technology to engage, and we’re in the mix of it.

Three years ago, LEO invested in KAABOO, a three-day curated “mix-perience” that combines music and tastemaking experiences in a clean, comfortable setting. It started in Del Mar, California, and now is in the Cayman Islands and Arlington, TX. We’re very proud of our work with KAABOO. Our clients increasingly desire to create an experience to build those followers or buyers, or instill employee pride or corporate culture. That’s where we come to the table with ideas—ideas gleaned from our festival experience. Our team looks at everything—from set design and ambience, entertainment and talent procurement, breaks and activities and speaker lineup—taking each transition and element line-by-line and working out the attendee experience at every move.

WHAT’S BEEN THE BIGGEST CHANGE YOU’VE SEEN IN THIS INDUSTRY?

This comes as no surprise, safety and security. But it’s an area that we’ve always been well prepared to handle. Our seasoned experience with public events and live experiences has given us a depth and breadth of insight into this issue. In fact, we recently shared what we know in a white paper published by this magazine.

But we’ll add this: While we’ve been in the event business long enough to know that there is no such thing as a foolproof event safety plan, we do know there are ways to protect attendees and staff from external threats, whether they come from weather, cybersecurity or terrorism.

WHAT PROGRAMS HAVE YOU RECENTLY DONE?

We just wrapped production of Walmart’s annual shareholders’ meeting in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Five meetings over three days for 14,000 associates from 27 countries and the U.S., with all the elements of a Grammy Award–level music show perfectly synced with top corporate executive reports, employee recognition and goals for the new year. And now we’re off to the busiest fall we’ve ever had!

MAC PRESENTS

Music is a booming sector with more audiences engaging in it than ever before—and with live events and experiences serving as the No. 1 way to reach them. This “stockbroker for music and culture,” specializes in pairing the biggest brands with the biggest names in entertainment. Clients like Citi, Capital One, Nielsen Entertainment and Uber; artists like Foo Fighters, Rolling Stones and Billy Joel; and strong p.r. relationships with Rogers & Cowan and national outfits like the “Today” show, “Ellen” and Billboard, means many millions of impressions for client programs.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Abercrombie & Fitch, Capital One, Citi, Nielsen, Uber
WEB: macpresents.com
RFP CONTACT: Marcie Allen, [email protected]

The future of music festivals was born in 2017 when Foo Fighters teamed up with Capital One for the band’s first self-curated rock ’n’ roll extravaganza, Cal Jam ’17. Providing exclusive cardholder access to Cal Jam ’17, Capital One sought to drive passionate brand advocacy among cardholders and nationwide envy from noncustomers, while super-serving Foo Fighters’ massive audience.

Foo Fighters, meanwhile, were gearing up for a massive 2017 that would include new album Concrete & Gold (produced by Grammy winner Greg Kurstin) and a headlining U.S. arena tour in addition to Cal Jam ‘17 (which also featured Queens of the Stone Age, Cage The Elephant, Liam Gallagher, and over a dozen others). The band was looking for a partner to help bring its rock revival message to the masses.

PRE-EVENT

Capital One signed on as the official sponsor of Cal Jam and the Foos’ North American Concrete & Gold Tour, with its first-ever dedicated music pre-sale scheduled for the week after the tour announcement in June of 2017. Capital One amped up excitement for the pre-sale via a heavy push from paid media both digitally and at rock radio to target 25-to-54-year-old males. The radio promotion alone reached over 21.5 million paid-media impressions. Generating 100 million impressions for the brand, more than a half-dozen major national press outlets called out the Capital One pre-sale in their coverage of Cal Jam. Capital One and Foo Fighters also worked with Rolling Stone to create a Cal Jam sweepstakes that attracted 2M+ impressions. Both the pre-sale tickets and the entire tour sold out quickly.

AT EVENT

At Cal Jam on October 7 in California’s Glen Helen Regional Park, MAC Presents produced Capital One’s first-ever music festival activation — a Capital One Cardholder Lounge that brought the Foo/Capital One partnership to life. Inside, Capital One spread the FOMO with rock ‘n’ roll decor, a throwback arcade, live rock-music murals from artist Rock DeMarco, a social media-driven photo booth, and custom caricatures from Napkin Killa. Thousands of giveaways included Foo Fighters’ new album, which had just hit No. 1 on the charts.

Tying all of the Cal Jam experiences together, Capital One reinvented the meet and greet with a pair of exclusive Cardholder Lounge appearances from top-billed Cal Jam talent — Grammywinning U.S. rockers Cage The Elephant and British glam-rock band The Struts — who happily chatted, took photos, and played games with delighted cardmembers and their guests.

To enhance awareness, both bands as well as Foo Fighters themselves promoted the lounge on social media, tagging Capital One, to the tune of 20M+ impressions and a nearly constant capacity crowd in the lounge during the whole festival.

Cal Jam ’17 was a rock spectacular unlike any other festival. Capital One and Foo Fighters broke barriers, turning 30,000 attendees into passionate brand advocates, and earning Billboard’s coveted 2017 Concert Marketing & Promotion Award.

RESULTS

• 100M Press impressions (coverage included Rolling Stone, Variety, Los Angeles Times, Forbes)
• 21.5M+ Radio impressions
• 20M+ Social impressions for the Cardholder Lounge alone
• 97% Positive sentiment on social for Cardholder Lounge
• 20% of Cal Jam’s 30,000 attendees visited the Capital One Cardholder Lounge

MANIFOLD

Founded by a team of experiential marketers from Yahoo, this group thrives on bringing together groups across client organizations for successful campaigns. Seasoned producers with decades of combined experience managing complex schedules, budgets, logistics, venue search, vendor negotiation, registration, fabrication, construction, labor unions, fire marshals, and on. Last year, experienced its biggest revenue growth year to date, a nearly 35 percent increase from the previous year. Launched major campaigns for Bumble and Uber. Added satellite offices in Seattle and Austin. Hey, they’re hiring…

CORE 1: Launch Events
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 21% B-to-C, 76% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Bumble, General Electric, GitHub, LinkedIn, Uber
WEB: wearemanifold.com
RFP CONTACT: Lauren Worley, [email protected]

MATCH MARKETING GROUP

Implementation of a shiny new “Data Driven Experience” design model, and the team of data scientists and analysts that run it, make for laser-focused targeting, impactful creative and robust ROI. Led a cause marketing initiative for adidas to support World Oceans Day to the tune of 449 million social impressions, proving Match doesn’t just do well, it does good. And with an omni-channel approach—automotive, insurance, fashion, CPG, lifestyle, you name it—you can rest assured your bases are covered.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Automotive Ride & Drives 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: adidas, Ford Motor Company, Nestle Nespresso USA, Nissan North America,
Progressive Insurance
WEB: matchmg.com
RFP CONTACT: Jason Wozny, [email protected]

MELT

The partner that works best in what it calls “niche-oriented categories”—this Hotlanta agency offers a healthy experiential menu spanning sports and entertainment sectors. Thrives in the collegiate market: Melt has activated 16 straight Final Fours for Coke, six seasons for the ESPN College Game and now touches everything from football and hoops to baseball and FIFA. Expanding into esports and culinary events; bumping up its digital and fabrication chops and fine-tuning shopper and in-store offerings.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: College/Campus Campaigns
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 90% B-to-C, 10% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Cam Newton Lifestyle and Branding, The Coca-Cola Company, The Fair Life Milk Company, The Intercontinental Hotel Group, KIA Automotive
WEB: meltatl.com
RFP CONTACT: Vince Thompson, [email protected]

MIRRORBALL

Knows how to get inside consumers’ heads thanks to a new consulting and insights division dubbed “morehuman.” The proprietary framework of neuroscience, behavioral psychology and anthropology taps into subcultures and the science of emotion to evoke positive memories. To boot, an internal Cultural Investigation Squad keeps Mirroball current on underground cultural trends. An NBA All-Star Weekend Crossover event let fans warm up for a game alongside a life-sized simulation of Steph Curry, helping lure 12,500 attendees—a 300 percent increase from 2017.

CORE 1: Proprietary Brand Events
CORE 2: Pop-up Stores
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5 % B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Arizona Beverages, Brown-Forman, HEINEKEN USA, Nestle Waters, TBS
WEB: mirrorball.com
RFP CONTACT: Michael Blatter, [email protected]

MIRRORED MEDIA

Thirty-year-old ceo Justin Lefkovitch rounded up a team of entertainment and marketing alums with a background in music to form Mirrored Media in 2010 and hasn’t looked back since. The millennial-focused agency enjoys continued growth fueled by a hands-on approach. Video content creation chops, hologram technology and social media savvy keep campaigns relevant for a young target. The company mantra describes it best: “It’s better to have a small piece of something large and substantial than a large piece of something small and insignificant.”

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: P.R. Events
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 100 % B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Awesomeness, BMW, Cheetah Mobile, Fullscreen, NBCUniversal
WEB: mirroredmedia.com
RFP CONTACT: Matt Skala, [email protected]

MKG

The 15-year-old vet embraces a “come as you are” mentality that celebrates diversity both internally and in its campaigns. Case in point: An LGBTQ-focused Absolut campaign at Coachella conveyed a “Naturally Proud” theme that underscored the brand’s commitment to acceptance with touchpoints including a larger-than-life rainbow arch and a Kiss and Tell satellite bar, helping attract over 34,000 attendees. And with parent company Pineapple Co. just a phone call away, and sister brands in fabrication and social impact, MKG’s services are all in the family.

CORE 1: Launch Events
CORE 2: Pop-up Stores
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 87% B-to-C, 13% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: MillerCoors, Google, Netflix, Pernod Ricard, Target
WEB: thisismkg.com
RFP CONTACT: Christine Capone, [email protected]

MKTG

The New York City-based Dentsu Aegis-owned agency is pumping up support of work-life balance in its offices with a new employee-targeted program called Get A Life. Staffers are given $500 to spend on their own personal development—whether it be surf lessons, a gym membership or an academic course or class. The agency “feels that supporting our folks outside the office and encouraging them to try new things is imperative.” Beefing up its b-to-b offerings as b-to-c clients have asked for some of MKTG’s “special sauce” to plus-up their business events.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Nightlife/On-premise Events
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 68% B-to-C, 32% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AT&T, Diageo, IBM, National Hockey League, Nike
WEB: mktg.com
RFP CONTACT: Bryan Duffy, [email protected]

The G-Store is the living embodiment of the fact that Gatorade is more than a hydration company.

For two days in January, Gatorade brought a fuel store – all Gatorade, all the time – with a surprising stockroom, to New York City. Attendees toured the “G-Store” through an augmented reality product experience that highlighted the full breadth of Gatorade’s product portfolio – including its latest hydration, energy, recovery, endurance products and more.

The store’s stockroom represented a journey through three key pillars of the sports world: Science, Sweat and Sports Culture.

Guests entering the stockroom were transported into a Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI) lab, where they learned how GSSI is working with athletes to help optimize their health and performance through research, hydration and sports nutrition. It’s important to remind athletes that all of Gatorade’s products – from performance bars to whey protein powder and more –are science backed and created from athlete insights to help athletes perform at their best.

Leaving the lab, they entered a fully functional workout space where trainer, Joe Holder, hosted live workouts. Joe is a respected trainer who has a reputation for training that requires pro-level work ethic and intensity. He represents high stakes commitment necessary for people that are serious about maximizing their athletic performance.

Finally, guests walked into the world of sports culture. There, famed sports fashion designer Dante Beals crafted swag, and guests had the opportunity to participate in a photo shoot with photographer, Raven Varona. We worked with Dante and Raven because they represent how sports and athletes impact culture beyond the game. One of the primary ways athletes express themselves and show off their personalities is through fashion – it’s a key piece of sports culture. Raven has a unique ability to portray the depths of her subjects’ personalities in a way a game broadcast never could.

At the G-store guests received a complete view of the life of an athlete, from the work it takes to help them perform, to their life outside of the game. Results included: 90+ media placements, 91MM+ impressions, trending in NYC’s Instagram story, and extensive online coverage from outlets including Complex, Harper’s Bazaar, Refinery 29, Bleacher Report, and more.

MODERNE COMMUNICATIONS

There’s always been something about Joe Mastrocovi’s family-owned New York shop—since our first It List in 2003, the team has been spinning a creative mix of grassroots, nightlife and pop-up programs. Still scrappy, they have thought of every scenario and every back up plan, “from B through Z.” From the program that took the golden arches into hot nightclubs to make sure consumers went to Mickey’s D’s after last call to those massive Amazon pop-ups in Gotham and San Fran to its proprietary network of hyperlocal multicultural venues, Moderne keeps on keepin’ on.

CORE 1: Guerrilla/Street Marketing
CORE 2: Sampling
CORE 3: In-Store/Shopper Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Amazon, Comcast, Disney, Lornamead, The Onion
WEB: modernecommunications.com
RFP CONTACT: Sarah Chin, [email protected]

MOMENTUM WORLDWIDE

Talk about staying power—one of this industry’s original experiential marketing agencies continues to rock. Currently operates across sponsorship, experiential, music/entertainment and shopper channels. Of course that flagship American Express account gets a ton of press, awards and attention. But we’re loving the work for SAP, Verizon and longtime client Coke. Expanding into esports quickly, incubating new technologies and investing in new insights, products and offerings. Beat out 30 agencies when it won AOR status for Chevron’s experiential portfolio.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Nightlife/On-premise Events
CORE 3: Trade Show Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: American Express, SAP, United Airlines, U.S. Army, Verizon
WEB: momentumww.com
RFP CONTACT: Richard Black, [email protected]

MOSAIC

Introduced a new corporate mantra: “Make the World a Better Experience.” Continues to operate one of the largest field networks, biggest b-to-c creative teams and most aggressive crosses into b-to-b events—on the heels of work on Oracle’s massive multi-year reimagination of OpenWorld. New Contender AI-powered omnichannel tool refines planning and analysis. Continues to lead the trend of using experiences as content feeders for the rest of the marketing mix and content as feeders for live engagement—an infinity loop Mosaic has mastered.

CORE 1: In-store/Shopper Events
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Guerrilla/Street Marketing 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Anheuser-Busch InBev, Nestle, Oracle, Samsung, Shopify, Walmart
WEB: mosaic.com
RFP CONTACT: Nicole Yelsey, [email protected]

MOTIVE

The former Grand Ex winner’s still got it. If every agency was this much fun to work with, RFPs would be the best part of your job. The Denver creative shop remains the master blaster of big ideas and super spinner of hyper-connected experiences that blend influencers, brands, content and purchases. From sports and entertainment to grassroots and retail, is just as comfortable with small and nimble programs as it is with the high-profile Super Bowl work that wins the awards.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: Events for Content
CORE 3: Guerrilla/Street Marketing 

FOCUS SPLIT: 100% B-to-C
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Anheuser-Busch, Edrington, Jaguar Land Rover, Moët & Chandon, PepsiCo
WEB: thinkmotive.com
RFP CONTACT: Krista Nicholson, [email protected]

DEW X NBA– CLOSER THAN COURTSIDE

After two years building and deepening a connection with NBA fans as an official league sponsor, Mtn Dew turned its focus to amplifying the lifestyle that surrounds pro hoops with the launch of Closer Than CourtsideTM: an access-driven platform designed to bring fans nearer to the game they love, both off and on the court. And it used NBA All-Star 2018 in Los Angeles as an opportunity to break through every ounce of clutter—owning the moment by curating a fresh take on hoops culture.

One block from the Staples Center, Mtn Dew Kickstart constructed Courtside Studios: a two-day, multi-level experience that celebrated the spirit of the game and its off-court culture with the signature Hollywood showmanship unmatched by other brands.

Constructed from matte black shipping containers, Courtside Studios delivered access on three distinct levels. First, guests walked onto a slick half-court with live games between fans, influencers and even NBA players. Adjacent to the court was Studio 3: an interactive experience that gave fans a chance to grab Mtn Dew Kickstart and slam it down on a pedestal to see if they’d be taking home one of several exclusive items curated by streetwear platform StockX.

Up a level, Studio 2 served as the springboard for Mtn Dew Kickstart’s ongoing promotional partnership with megastar Kevin Hart: an interactive audition booth where fans could step onto the hardwood and react to prompts, seeing Kevin’s pre-recorded “live” reactions in real time. Once finished, the audition booth produced a customized video that fans could share as an entry into a competition to join Kevin Hart courtside at the NBA Playoffs.

Finally, on top of Courtside Studios was the main attraction: Studio 1. Part variety show, part live broadcast hub, Studio 1 played host to a revolving door of talent—including NBA All- Stars Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love and Bradley Beal; NBA All-Star participants Donovan Mitchell, Kyle Kuzma, Brandon Ingram, Jamal Murray, Andre Drummond; and, NBA legend Paul Pierce. Hosting duties were handled by television personality Terrence J, internet sensation King Bach, LA promoter extraordinaire Denise Jones, and, in a moment of show-stopping force, Kevin Hart himself.

Live crews captured 16 hours of action at Studio 1 for a suite of digital content, cut overnight and broadcasted throughout the weekend, giving the event scale and reach to hundreds of thousands of fans beyond the LA footprint. Along the way, DEW received mass amounts of praise from not only the 6,500+ visitors, but media outlets alike—making this arguably the most disruptive happening outside of the game itself.

Most importantly, it solidified and deepened the relationship between Mtn Dew, the NBA, and fans that love them both, serving as a dynamic kickoff to another year of authentic sponsorship from the brand. This is what it means to go Closer Than Courtside.

MVP COLLABORATIVE

A friendly Midwest attitude and a full suite of services give clients the flexibility of a boutique and the muscle power of a large agency, translating to fast yet efficient campaigns. A new Event Tracker and Online Event Dashboard tracks outdoor event attendance via smartphone signatures, while the addition of a state-of-the-art video studio helps drive brand storytelling. A knack for leveraging uncommon venues continues to help clients escape the ballroom. Its work for new client AAA is extensive, from football stadiums to hockey rinks to festivals.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 43% B-to-C, 57% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AAA, Ascension Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Comcast, General Motors/OnStar
WEB: mvpcollaborative.com
RFP CONTACT: Karl Siegert, [email protected]

NA COLLECTIVE

Newer to the scene but packing just as much punch as its competitors, N/A is a new breed of agency that focuses equally on its creative, production and technical efforts—and enlists an expert from each discipline to drive its campaigns. Known for its edgy ideation (they built a skate park on a barge for Nike in fewer than five weeks), clients have come to expect the unexpected. Or as Twitter’s head of global events put it: “Thank you for your genius creative ideas, your practical solutions and figuring out a way to make the team’s (often insane) requests a reality.”

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Pop-Up Stores 

FOCUS SPLIT: 70% B-to-C, 30% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: LG, NBC Bravo, SoundCloud, Tommy Hilfiger, Twitter
WEB: na-collective.com
RFP CONTACT: Chiara Adin, [email protected]

NCOMPASS INTERNATIONAL

If large-scale global programs with quick turnaround times are what you’re after, these are your peeps. Added 17 employees and several new clients in 2017 while extending existing programs like the Toyota Green Initiative, a sustainability program focused on the African American market. Reinvigorated its safety protocol in both the physical and digital worlds, including implementation of state-of-the-art cyber security measures. A “no a$$holes” policy means staff and clients alike get nothing but R-E-S-P-E-C-T.

CORE 1: Launch Events
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Worldwide Event Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Activision, AT&T, Best Buy, Electronic Arts, General Mills
WEB: ncompassonline.com
RFP CONTACT: Matt Mayer, [email protected]

NEWBRIDGE LIVE

All hail the campus event gurus. With a network of over 2,300 colleges and universities, and access to more than 4,000 venues, Newbridge is your go-to source for reaching college students. Developed and executed L.L. Bean’s first-ever student ambassador program in addition to producing grand opening events for five of the retailer’s new locations, ultimately exceeding goals by more than 500 percent. Beefed up its digital strategy to offer more compelling content, foster influencer relationships and drive more valuable social interactions.

CORE 1: College/Campus Campaigns
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Sampling 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: BMW ReachNow, Dorm Room Movers, Kodiak Cakes, L.L. Bean, Razer Computers
WEB: newbridgemg.com
RFP CONTACT: TJ Nolan, [email protected]

NEXT MARKETING

After 25 years, the independently owned agency is still hungry for fresh ideas, and consistently delivers them. Or as one client put it, “These guys are relentless. They are in my ear constantly with new ideas and ways to evolve my program.” Created a high-speed 4D simulator to promote Cox Communications’ partnership with the Drone Racing League, and developed an internal group tasked with discovering emerging technology startups. Internal TMZ-style trend tanks keep employees sharp and campaigns sharper.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Sampling 

FOCUS SPLIT: 60% B-to-C, 40% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: CDW, Community Coffee, Cox Communications, General Tire, Hewlett Packard Enterprise
WEB: nextmarketing.com
RFP CONTACT: Henry Rischitelli, [email protected]

NEXT/NOW

Mixed reality. Facial tracking. Gesture control. You name the technology and NEXT/NOW will supply it. A new backend registration and analytics system offers clients in-depth reporting and ROI analysis, while an obsession with refining its collective processes guarantees air-tight campaigns every time. Produced a photo experience for Pandora’s annual concert in New York featuring personalized, projection-mapped photo backdrops displaying the fan’s name and favorite event artist. Nearly 1,200 attendees lined up to snag the unique souvenir.

CORE 1: AR/VR/360 Video
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: In-Store/Shopper Events

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: LG, Octagon, Pandora, Webber Shandwick, Wunderman
WEB: nextnowagency.com
RFP CONTACT: Mark Matthews, [email protected]

NVE EXPERIENCE AGENCY

Keep your eye on this one. From strategy and design, execution to amplification, on-site digital to online social oomph—Brett Hyman’s independent experiential agency is en fuego in every way and on every level. Those slick consumer pop-ups, influencer programs and high-design immersions. Those tight b-to-b launch events, press programs and trade show activations. And with big benches of designers, strategists and producers in L.A. and New York ready to rock for a swelling client roster, we can’t wait to see what’s next. Enough said.

CORE 1: Launch Events
CORE 2: Buzz/Influencer Events
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events

FOCUS SPLIT: 50% B-to-C, 50% B-to-B
LIENTS INCLUDE: adidas, Amazon Prime, Anheuser-Busch, LVMH, NBCUniversal
WEB: experiencenve.com
RFP CONTACT: Jenny Bronstein, [email protected]

OCTAGON

Over 30 years of experience in the biz has made sports marketing part of Octagon’s DNA. With a global presence and plenty of long-term clients (BMW has been a customer for 29 years—handles its 12,000-square-foot golf experience), it’s no wonder the agency’s event portfolio is stronger than ever. Launched “Passion Drivers,” the first-ever study to go beyond the demographics and illustrate and quantify why fans are passionate about esports, ultimately determining that esports enthusiasts fit into one of four fan categories (hint: “nerd” wasn’t one of them).

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 50% B-to-C, 50% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Allstate, BMW of North America, Mastercard, Meijer, Walmart
WEB: octagon.com
RFP CONTACT: Caroline O’Hea, [email protected]

ON BOARD EXPERIENTIAL

Combining the hustle of the East Coast with a West Coast mentality, the 23-year-old agency builds dynamic experiences driven by an entrepreneurial spirit. Brings a b-to-c vibe centered on storytelling to its rapidly growing b-to-b business, which includes press events and product launches for the likes of Facebook, Uber and Apple. Developed a team exclusively dedicated to its technology clients, and continues to gain expertise in IT and data security to keep client data safe. A full brand makeover is in the works—stay tuned.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Press Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 40% B-to-C, 60% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Activision, Facebook, JPMorgan Chase, Kellogg’s, Nike
WEB: obexp.com
RFP CONTACT: Dylan Foster, [email protected]

OPUS AGENCY

Our own pick for this year’s b-to-b “agency to watch” is making all the right moves. From big league hires to major league pitches to the new push to own the world of event strategy, sweety pie Monte Wood’s growing team has their eyes focused on only one thing—taking Opus to the next level. Shattered the record for largest corporate event in Las Vegas with long-time client Amazon Web Services. The acquisition of former It List fave MAS Event + Design? Hot stuff.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Worldwide Event Programs
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 3% B-to-C, 97% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Amazon Web Services, AnitaB.org, Dell Technologies, Microsoft, Salesforce
WEB: opusagency.com
RFP CONTACT: Kristin Waters, [email protected]

OSBORN BARR

Bets the farm on its knowledge of rural American markets, with a focus on keeping agricultural and rural industries ahead of the technology curve. Celebrated the big 3-0 with the launch of a comprehensive “Farmers of Tomorrow: Generation Z’s Future in Agriculture” study, ultimately identifying four major elements shaping the future of farming. Added an Insights + Data department that leverages a variety of research an analytics platforms to inform and optimize the customer experience.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Trade Show Programs
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 17% B-to-C, 83% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Monsanto, Morton Buildings, National Corn Growers Association, The GSI Group, United Soybean Board
WEB: osbornbarr.com
RFP CONTACT: John Meyer, [email protected]

PEN&PUBLIC

With a commitment to exploring new mediums and traveling off the beaten path, disruption is the name of Pen&Public’s game. Added talent procurement services to its roster, furthering its mission to discover new ways to reach consumers. A revolutionary press event for GoPro sent the media out into the wild to experiment with use cases for its latest cameras, racking up 276 million earned media impressions along the way. The agency’s overarching approach? When they go right, make a hairpin turn left. Nice.

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Buzz/Influencer Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Facebook, L’Oreal, Netflix, Samsung, W Hotels
WEB: penandpublic.co
RFP CONTACT: William Cheatham, [email protected]

PERFORMANCE MARKETING GROUP

Never one to take the one-size-fits-all approach, PMG thrives on customization, and with sports aficionados at the helm, its abundant sports marketing campaigns are a labor of love. Added a major OEM player to its portfolio in 2017, and executed experiences at prominent motor sports events like the Daytona 500 while managing Medtronic spinal surgeon training sessions and Trane sales meetings. Plans to invade CES for the first time in 2019 with two 53-foot trailers and a one-of-a-kind strategy.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Sampling
CORE 3: B-to-B Meetings/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 65% B-to-C, 35% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: General Motors/Jack Morton Worldwide, Ingersoll Rand, Medtronic, Roche Diagnostics, Trane
WEB: PMGincorporated.com
RFP CONTACT: Bill Bissmeyer, [email protected]

In the fourth quarter of 2017, PMG was tasked with developing a larger program for one of our current clients in Roche Diagnostics. They had operated a 40’ unit for their Tissue Diagnostics division over the previous three years and wanted to add another business unit to the display.

In going through the decision-making process with Roche partners, we presented three potential solutions:

• Build-out a second small unit for their Molecular Diagnostics division. With another unit, you are more flexible in the locations that choose attend for events as well as cover more events since the units do not need to remain together.
• Roche could utilize a single slide-out 53’ trailer that they had in their inventory from a previous tour. By utilizing a trailer in their inventory, they could reduce the overall costs of a build-out and utilize an asset vs. having it sit without a purpose. This would allow for a larger presence at events and both business units could utilize the single unit. Some flexibility of having two separate trailers and some locations will not work with the larger unit, but Roche’s would level the playing field with their competition and the types of units they are operating.
• Build out a 53’ double slide-out unit. With this option Roche would get additional floor space, gain an office in the interior, and you will have more flexibility. They would be able to host more people at each event and might have the opportunity to place it more regionally and have customers come to a central location versus going to individual hospital or lab.

In the end, the client chose to go with the existing 53’ single slide-out. This reduced the need to sell the unit and allowed for a smaller budget for refurbishing and initial launch. By partnering with the Molecular Diagnostics division, the Tissue Diagnostics division gained the needed funding which allowed for the larger unit. With the additional square footage in the unit the clients added five additional pieces of equipment along with a virtual reality system into the space.

The bigger space that allows Roche Diagnostics to carry their full lineup of both Tissue Diagnostics and Molecular Diagnostics. The unit speaks to a wide range of both current and potential customers. The wider scope of existing and potential end users makes the unit much more cost effective then having two smaller units while having a bigger overall presence on the road and at each event site.

The client has been very happy with the overall build-out of the unit and we have collaborated to ensure that every detail is accounted for and this unit will be on the road for many years to come. The new unit complements the existing 53’ single slide-out unit that PMG operates for Roche as well. The client will be able to showcase the wide variety of systems in their portfolio by joining both units at select events, which is an added bonus for the client.

PROPAC AGENCY

With more than 25 years of retail expertise under its belt, Propac leverages shopper marketing programs that target consumers at every stage of the process. Boasts an on-site warehouse and recently added video production to its array of services. Executed a Walking Taco Mobile Tour for retail behemoth Walmart featuring a branded food truck, recipe card hand-outs and a pre-event teaser campaign, ultimately dishing out 11,000 Doritos Walking Tacos and 10,000 PepsiCo beverage samples.

CORE 1: In-Store/Shopper Events
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Sales Conferences/Meetings 

FOCUS SPLIT: 90% B-to-C, 10% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: BSN Sports, Dean Foods, Frito-Lay North America, Interstate Batteries, PepsiCo
WEB: propac.agency
RFP CONTACT: Chase Daigle, [email protected]

PROSCENIUM

What started out as a six-person operation literally working off of folding tables has evolved into an event marketing powerhouse—but the employee-owned agency has never lost its personal touch or family vibes. Sidelined ideas for new services in 2017 to concentrate on content creation and production, picking up four new employees to help carry the load. Produced T-Mobile’s educational seven-city #UNSTOPPABLE tour, reaching over 14,000 employees with an “in-store” immersion powered by a 128-foot-wide by 18-foot-tall LED wall.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Sales Conferences/Meetings 

FOCUS SPLIT: 20% B-to-C, 80% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Harley-Davidson Motor Company, HEINEKEN USA, Lowe’s, T-Mobile, TD AMERITRADE
WEB: proscenium.com
RFP CONTACT: Connor Chadwick, [email protected]

After many years of being in traditional theatres, in 2017 HEINEKEN USA wanted something new. So we went to the Dallas Convention Center and designed an immersive environment for their audience of 1,500 distributors and employees.

Inside the massive convention hall we created a room within a room where we could control the visuals, the auditory experience, the lighting and the overall feel. We created a “black box” that was 280’ x 300’ complete with bleacher seating in a custom 270° layout. The raked seating surrounded a massive 80’ x 40’ stage on three sides. We then immersed our audience in super high definition 4.4mm LED. The set featured a giant 40’ x 60’ LED wall in the center, and two 80’ x 16’ LED screens on the sides.

And, the piece de’resistance, the entire 80’ x 40’ floor was also LED!

Why all the LED? Well, HEINEKEN USA owns hundreds of brands and, as part of their conference, they present many of them. Each brand has a different look, feel, color scheme, brand identity, and personality. The encompassing LED allowed us to completely change the environment with the simple push of a button. And it was incredibly immersive, connecting the audience to the content and to the brands in a powerful way.

And make no mistake, this wasn’t like clicking through a typical Power Point presentation. Every single look was a full-canvas, 270° work of art that delighted the audience at every turn. The three-sided seating created an intimate environment so the speakers felt very connected to the audience. The presenters walked unique patterns along the floor, presented in pairs, and even conducted panels from every corner of the set.

The entire audience was always either just a few feet from the presenters, or able to see their faces on IMAG, captured by one of our six cameras.

HEINEKEN USA’S messaging and personality shined through brilliantly as Execs chose music for each other, high-fived, hugged, playfully “interrupted” each other, and showed up in each other’s videos. This team is a family, and we made sure the distributor partners knew what an integral part of the HEINEKEN USA family they are.

RETAILCOMM

These masters of grand opening experiences have pulled off over 2,500 retail launch events, operating under an “Out Work. Out Think. Out Serve.” philosophy. Doubled its creative team, added data collection services and launched a customer loyalty program. Showcased its sports and tech chops with RFID ticketing, 360-degree baseball swing GIF experience for DICK’S to wow coaches and administrators at the Little League World Series. A charitable component made it a home run.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Grand Openings
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Guerrilla/Street Marketing 

FOCUS SPLIT: 90% B-to-C, 10% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: DICK’S Sporting Goods, PepsiCo, Pet Supplies Plus, Reebok, Regency Centers
WEB: retailcomm.com
RFP CONTACT: Matthew Cox, [email protected]

DICK’S Sporting Goods champions a long-standing sponsorship of Hood to Coast, “the mother of all relays,” where, annually, more than 1,000 teams of 12 runners each race from the soaring peak of Mt. Hood to the sandy shores of Seaside, Oregon, spanning 199 miles on foot in less than two days.

In 2012, the sponsorship became a consumer experience, in partnership with retailcomm. What started as a few pop-up tents and signage quickly became a logistically vast production. In 2017, DICK’S boasted consumer engagement at six major touchpoints across the 199-mile course, each staffed and activated for 36 hours straight.

To conquer the mother of all relays, retailcomm pulled off the mother of all productions. Through a multi-part activation, runners, volunteers, vendors, drivers, clients and consumers across the Pacific Northwest experienced the DICK’S Sporting Goods brand through emotional, physical and visual touchpoints for four days straight. Activations took place on and off the course, from Portland-area DICK’S stores to on-course locations up to 200 miles away.

To plan and execute the expansive event, retailcomm enlisted 11 account team members, 68 laborers, 28 brand ambassadors and one giant Sasquatch character, standing seven feet tall. Playing off of the legendary Bigfoot tale, retailcomm instigated a social murmur of Sasquatch sightings in the Pacific Northwest in 2015. Each year since, the larger-than-life creature emerged at Hood to Coast, spooking runners along the course and making celebrity appearances at the finish line.

1,200 production hours later, the massive event cultivated brand experiences through sun-up and sun-down, day and night. Halfway into the course, runners checked into Tent City, a DICK’S- sponsored overnight stay, available for participants to catch a few “z’s” in one of 400 camping tents before hitting the pavement again. DICK’S loyalty and rewards members camped in luxury with “sleep better bags,” complete with ear plugs and eye masks for an exceptional evening rest.

Elsewhere along the course, runners recovered with free KT Taping services and cheered on teammates with DICK’S-branded cowbells. When the last feet crossed the finish line, runners relished in complimentary foam rolling and a post-race beachside celebration.

Capping off the project, retailcomm hosted 36 DICK’S corporate employees for a full-service hospitality weekend, arranging travel, lodging, race logistics and equipment, food and fun from Pittsburgh to Seaside and back.

In 36 hours, a mountain of sweat, little sleep and a ton of fun became the experience of a lifetime for the client, hundreds of team drivers, 4,000 race volunteers, 12,000 runners and residents across the Pacific Northwest for years to come.

REVOLUTION

From the Indy 500 racecar parked in its lobby to the custom neon sign lighting up its offices, rEvolution knows how to make a splash. Prides itself on its platform-neutral strategy, an approach centered on serving brands rather than leagues or athletes. Upped the ante on its global footprint and broadened its influencer network in 2017. A 13-market PAW Patrol Tour for Spin Master featuring a life-sized replica of the show’s semi-truck earned 111 million p.r. impressions and a sweet interview on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.”

CORE 1: Sports Marketing
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 88% B-to-C, 12% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Continental Tire, General Tire, Nickelodeon, Northwestern Mutual, Spin Master
WEB: revolutionworld.com
RFP CONTACT: Larry Mann, [email protected]

RIDDLE & BLOOM

Connecting with hard-to-reach millennials and Gen Z on their own terms is the backbone of the “ideas and access” agency, well-versed in the influencer space and its many nuances. Added a full service digital team and increased its in-house database of active college students by 20 percent in 2017. An on-campus event series for Vera Bradley featuring a larger-than-life claw crane game generated 1.5 million social impressions and 19 hours of game participation. And its annual College Census Survey, among research efforts, offers in-depth insights into what makes the selfie generation tick.

CORE 1: College/Campus Campaigns
CORE 2: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 3: Guerrilla/Street Marketing 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95% B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Best Buy, Comcast, GEICO, Microsoft, Nestle
WEB: riddleandbloom.com
RFP CONTACT: Darren Ross, [email protected]

SOHO EXPERIENTIAL

Whether it’s a laundromat takeover or a smart mirror dispensing cosmetic tips, SoHo has a way of designing one-of-a-kind experiences that stray from the “norm.” Added trade shows, CRM programs and an influencer initiative to its repertoire, and broadened its range of clients, to help shed its reputation as solely a wine and spirits agency. A pop-up launch event for Lancôme featured first-of-its-kind facial recognition and gestural technology to deliver a virtual makeup try-on experience that generated 10 million (good lookin’) social impressions.

CORE 1: Nightlife/On-Premise Events
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Pop-Up Stores 

FOCUS SPLIT: 90% B-to-C, 10% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Barilla, Citibank, L’Oreal, Proximo Spirits, Rémy Cointreau USA
WEB: sohoexp.com
RFP CONTACT: Jeff A. Boedges, [email protected]

SPARKS

Just when you thought Sparks hit its high score last year, the agency goes from white-hot to supernova… on the heels of big wins (Mars, JPMorganChase, Gilead Pharma), big investments (doubling the L.A. digs and adding a second San Fran office) and the company’s biggest work ever—seriously, did you see that Hey, Google experience at CES? With strategy, creative, fabrication, technology, production and execution all truly under one roof, has cemented its place among the world’s elite global event agencies.

For more perspective, click here.

CORE 1: Developer Conferences/Events
CORE 2: Trade Show Programs
CORE 3: Sales Conferences/Meetings 

FOCUS SPLIT: 30% B-to-C, 70% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Anheuser-Busch InBev, eBay, Google, LEGO, Peloton 
WEB: wearesparks.com
RFP CONTACT: Kristy Elisano, [email protected]

Marie Claire Brings a First-to-Market, Hands-On Retail Pop-Up Experience to SoHo

Marie Claire magazine partners with Mastercard to launch The Next Big Thing Concept Shop, a first-to-market, hands-on retail pop-up experience. The shop, open to the public from September 23–October 12, 2017, brings to life the latest innovations in fashion, beauty, entertainment, technology, and wellness. Located at 120 Wooster Street in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood, the Marie Claire Next Big Thing Concept Shop offers consumers the opportunity to experience a new way to shop, powered by Mastercard technology.

“Since its inception, Marie Claire has led influential and important women on the path to discovery, proving that curiosity is the best currency,” said Marie Claire Vice President/Publisher Nancy Berger. “We’re excited to share what’s new and what’s next, while offering New Yorkers to experience the future of shopping with our partners at Mastercard.”

The Next Big Thing Concept Shop brings the pages of Marie Claire to life with three zones named after popular sections in the magazine: @Work, the get-ahead guide to career, style and success; @Play, the go-to guide to going out, staying in and getting away; and @Peak, the wellness resource for being on your game, in the zone and at your best. Neiman Marcus stylists provide advice and tips on the latest selection of top designer fashion available at the store. Smart mirrors from Oak Labs makes accessory recommendations for outfits brought into dressing rooms. Clarins presents its Sensor Mirror Pro, a virtual skincare mirror, developed by MemoMi that suggests revitalizing next-generation products to achieve radiant skin. San Francisco-based retailer b8ta provides a mix of apparel, accessories, activewear, gadgets, and more.

Program highlights:

• The Headshot Truck is the world’s first-ever mobile photography studio for taking professional headshots and LinkedIn profile pictures.
• Alyson Charles aka #RockStarShaman speaks on mindfulness, spirituality and finding your inner Zen.
• Baristart’s Michael Breach, New York-based coffee and latte artist, is on-site on #NationalCoffeeDay to draw foam portraits.
• Inscape offers a guided, meditative relaxation session.
• Sundays Nail Studio technicians are on site offering nail-art, manicures and meditation. 

The Next Big Thing Concept Shop coincides with the Marie Claire October issue. It features a six-page guide to products and technologies to enhance the way readers work, exercise, eat, and live their lives. “The Marie Claire reader is super curious about technology and innovation and what is the next big thing,” said editor in chief Anne Fulenwider. “She’s also super busy. In the October issue and pop-up shop, we’re offering things that can help you hack your busy life. The busy woman loves technology. It’s the story of our age.”

SUPERFLY

These kings of music festival experiences and “culture junkies” are on a mission to shape how the world connects through live experiences. Renowned as the creators of the Bonnaroo Music + Arts Festival, the agency added two new festival properties to its portfolio—Clusterfest and Lost Lake Festival—with a third in the works for September. Beefed up its content services and signed on as Citi’s social AOR for global entertainment. Continues to infiltrate the scorching-hot world of esports.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Worldwide Event Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75 % B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Citi, Dropbox, Intel, Oath, Vox
WEB: superf.ly
RFP CONTACT: Rich Goodstone, [email protected]

SWITCH

The independently owned shop continues to redefine how digital is incorporated into live experiences with the support of a video and motion graphics department and AR/VR content team. Developed a cloud-based proprietary data collection and analytics tool dubbed okapi to help tailor clients’ data capture needs. Reintroduced Busch to the racing scene and underscored its legacy with a mobile museum, limited-edition Busch Racing posters, custom fold-out bar display and live appearance from pro driver Kevin Harvick. Still knows how to party after 35 years in the biz.

CORE 1: Sampling
CORE 2: Sales Conferences/Meetings
CORE 3: Sponsorship Activation 

FOCUS SPLIT: 50% B-to-C, 50% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: 5-hour ENERGY, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Ascension Health, Bosch, Hershey
WEB: switch.us
RFP CONTACT: Chris Jobst, [email protected]

SYNERGY

With its sights set on personalized experiences and purposeful campaigns, Synergy continues to thrive on its “milestone marketing” platform, spotlighting pivotal moments in a brand’s history. Amplified development of large-scale employee events and festival production and stays true to its Synergy 150 proprietary event checklist. Launched M&M’s Caramel with an AR arcade that turned Times Square billboards into interactive games, and pulled off a swanky rooftop brunch for influencers for Crispin Rosé.

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 3: Launch Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Gannett/Asbury Park Music + Film Festival, MWW, Johnson & Johnson, WCBS, Weber Shandwick
WEB: synergyexperiential.com
RFP CONTACT: Bill Holtz, [email protected]

TEAM ENTERPRISES

This TEAM of creative misfits carries a strict “no egos” policy that keeps clients coming back year after year. Made moves to incorporate more research and data analytics to drive its marketing strategies and added a social media manager to boost its digital efforts. Is in the process of building an in-house art studio and editing suite for its creative and production departments. Earned over half a billion (yes, billion) impressions by leveraging immersive live theater for its Havana Club experiences.

CORE 1: Buzz/Influencer Programs
CORE 2: Nightlife/On-Premise Events
CORE 3: Sampling 

FOCUS SPLIT: 100% B-to-C
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Bacardi, BMW Group, Lavazza, MillerCoors, Spotify
WEB: teamenterprises.com
RFP CONTACT: Kristen Herlihy, [email protected]

TH PRODUCTIONS

Enjoying its most lucrative year ever, TH continues to execute campaigns that drive engagement and serve as solutions to niche marketing hurdles. Grew its teams to enhance its analytics and data collection capabilities. Leveraged a partnership with Ogilvy to produce Art with Watson: Hidden Portraits, an expo that helped consumers uncover insights on notable thinkers from the past through contemporary artists using IBM Watson technology. And on the consumer event side, helped develop and produce the delicious Stackateria pop-up for Pringles.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Pop-Up Stores 

FOCUS SPLIT: 85% B-to-C, 15% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: 72andSunny, Dyson, Edelman, Ogilvy + Mather, Puma
WEB: thproductions.com
RFP CONTACT: Erin Gannon, [email protected]

THE MARKETING ARM

The longest-running social media agency in the U.S. helps align brands with influencers with its Celebrity DBI, an index that quantifies and qualifies consumer perception of celebrities. Another proprietary tool, MAPS, serves as an online portal that allows field teams to upload real-time data from the ground at each of the agency’s 10,000 annual events. An upscale Cheetos pop-up restaurant run by celebrity chef Anne Burrell featured 11 Cheetos-filled dishes and playful décor. Reservations were booked up within six hours, leading to an 8,500-person wait list.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: College/Campus Campaigns
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 90% B-to-C, 10% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AT&T, Frito-Lay, Nintendo, Nissan, State Farm
WEB: themarketingarm.com
RFP CONTACT: Cady Dicus, [email protected]

THE MICHAEL ALAN GROUP

The b-to-b work has surged—they’re regularly called upon to “un-conference” the usual conference formats for corporations in the technology and healthcare spaces. But its consumer programs continue to be on-point, like the buzz-generating relaunch for MTV’s “TRL” with experiences like a custom food truck and Times Square billboard photo-capture that got millennials starting the countdown. Now provides strategic road mapping for event content, including holistic event theming, storyboarding, scripting, video production, speaker coaching and presentations.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Press Events
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 35% B-to-C, 65% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Geopath, Microsoft, Northwell Health, Walgreens, Viacom
WEB: michael-alan.com
RFP CONTACT: Elizabeth Jones, [email protected]

THE TAYLOR GROUP

Kickin’ it since 1931, the agency employed a “digital first” mantra in 2017 inspired by its interactive tech capabilities, including VR, AR, mixed reality and interactive social walls and mosaics. Added a design studio to support its technology demos and completed work on the Canadian Science and Technology Museum, one of the world’s most prestigious technology institutions. Made waves with Intel at CES with a 5G “super highway”—160 feet of LED tubing hanging overhead that spanned the length of the exhibit space.

CORE 1: Trade Show Programs
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Developer Conferences/Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 30% B-to-C, 70% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: BMW, Celgene, Intel, Miele, Samsung
WEB: taylorinc.com
RFP CONTACT: Alph Leydon, [email protected]

THE VISIONARY GROUP

In addition to forming strategic relationships in the esports space and adding live streaming to its list of services, TVG has rerouted its organization to move in a decidedly tech-forward direction. Built an Instagrammable oasis for Pandora and T-Mobile’s influencer event at Coachella featuring a custom fabricated floral entry tunnel, braid and glitter bars, dj sets and a “Trojan Horse” moment featuring a larger-than-life piñata. Clients dig its bleacher-style conference room built in-house.

CORE 1: Mobile Tours
CORE 2: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 3: Launch Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 100 % B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: ESSENCE, Pandora, PMK*BNC, PopSugar, Viacom Networks
WEB: visionarygroupla.com
RFP CONTACT: Gabrielle Kessler, [email protected]

TOUCH WORLDWIDE

Whether it’s a Fortune 100 company or a humble non-profit, Touch’s retention rate (spanning five to 20 years) proves its clients are in it for the long haul. Expanded its services to include video production shot in 6k and aims to produce more documentary-style storytelling for its corporate video productions. Values cause-related campaigns and has expanded its work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to improve graduation rates for disadvantaged youth. Fun fact: Champagne Fridays at the office are a thing.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Press Events
CORE 3: Sales Conferences/Meetings 

FOCUS SPLIT: 75% B-to-C, 25% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: Alaska Airlines, Moët Hennessy, Starbucks, The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Ubisoft
WEB: touchworldwide.com
RFP CONTACT: Mike Quinlan, [email protected]

UNITED ENTERTAINMENT GROUP

The sports and lifestyle agency is known for its monthly “first look” performances in both of its U.S. offices, allowing the team to stay current on the latest artists. Employs former film studio leads, late night TV and online platform specialists. Opened an office in Tokyo to expand its global footprint and continues to evolve f(IQ), a proprietary technology stack used to strategically weave influencers into live experiences. Produced a runway show for Taco Bell’s first-ever fashion collaboration with Forever 21 featuring superfans instead of super models.

CORE 1: P.R. Events
CORE 2: Launch Events
CORE 3: Buzz/Influencer Programs 

FOCUS SPLIT: 80% B-to-C, 20% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: ASICS, eBay Inc., The North Face, Unilever, Yum! Brands
WEB: uegworldwide.com
RFP CONTACT: Angela Filippone, [email protected]

VOLITION

Woman-owned Volition (formerly Blue Flame) takes pride in its talent procurement, as evidenced by a live production team comprised of Broadway-trained show managers. Secured six new clients, opened a second fabrication shop, added in-house digital content development and streamlined its registration process in 2017. Let consumers experience the Puppy Bowl IRL with a 15,000-sq.-ft. footprint featuring a 600-sq.ft. tweet wall, live webcast, custom-built mini stadium and 60-foot Manhattan skyline installation.

CORE 1: B-to-B Meetings/Events
CORE 2: Trade Show Programs
CORE 3: Mobile Tours 

FOCUS SPLIT: 4% B-to-C, 96 % B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: American Heart Association, Google, Palantir Technologies, Salesforce, Uber
WEB: volitionagency.com 
RFP CONTACT: Charlie Smith, [email protected]

WASSERMAN

Fierce about measurement and bold enough to tell clients what they need to hear, the agency achieved a seven percent increase in its year-over-year growth in 2017. Added offices in China and Dubai, and launched Unlock, a proprietary social media platform that provides real-time insights on consumer behaviors across more than 330 million social profiles. Showcased its tech savvy with a 3D projection-mapped display on Chicago’s Tribune Tower that helped draw 23,000 attendees to Target’s MLS All-Star Game Rally.

CORE 1: Sponsorship Activation
CORE 2: Mobile Tours
CORE 3: Launch Events 

FOCUS SPLIT: 95 % B-to-C, 5% B-to-B
CLIENTS INCLUDE: AT&T, G.H. Mumm, Microsoft, Target, United States Olympic Committee
WEB: wassermanexperience.com
RFP CONTACT: Fred Porro, [email protected]