grcc annual report 2012

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THE GREATER RICHMOND CONVENTION CENTER 2 0 1 2 ANNUAL REPORT WHERE VIRGINIA MEETS THE WORLD

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Greater Richmond Convention Center's Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2012

TRANSCRIPT

THE GREATER RICHMOND CONVENTION CENTER

2012

ANNUAL REPORT

WHERE VIRGINIA MEETS THE WORLD

2

Table of Contents

Statement of PurPoSe 3

meSSage from the general manager 4

accomPliShmentS 5

facility overview 6

our team 9

organizational chart 10

PartnerS 11

lodging 12

how are you doing? 13

client SatiSfaction SurveyS 14

financial Performance 15

market Segment reSultS 16

Signature eventS 17

green initiativeS 20

caPital ProjectS 21

community involvement 22

cuStomer teStimonialS 23

future outlook 24

3

Statement of Purpose

The mission of the greater richmond convention center

is to serve as a catalyst for economic activity within the Richmond Region. This activity

is generated by providing exceptional customer service, and by showcasing events of

trade and commerce, large conventions, meetings and exhibitions.

Delivering a first-rate experience for the customer is our foremost priority. Building

long-term relationships and establishing the trust of our diverse client base is at

the heart of everything we do. It is this pursuit of excellence

and customer satisfaction that enables our dedicated team to be a true partner

with the stakeholders in the Richmond Region.

3

Message from our General Manager

4

John (“Jack”) F. Berry, President and CEO Richmond Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau401 North Third StreetRichmond, Virginia 23219

Dear Jack,

We entered our 2012 fiscal year cautious but optimistic. Our optimism faded a little bit as the economy showed signs of weakening in the 3rd quarter; however, we found the final quarter of the year brought strong results and catapulted us to the return of revenue at near record levels.

I am extremely pleased to report that attendance eclipsed the 300,000 mark for the first time in two years, expenses came in under budget by $156,791 and revenues exceeded budget by $316,906 for a year end surplus of $473,697. Customer service continues to be a high priority for our staff. Staff responded to our call by maintaining a 98% customer satisfaction rating throughout the year.

We know that the pending presidential election and uncertainty in the European financial markets could further strain our economy and our business but we remain committed to finding new events and helping existing events grow. The Global Spectrum team is eager to help drive forward the positive momentum that is upon us.

On behalf of the Global Spectrum team, I present you with this Fiscal Year 2012 Annual Report which summarizes our accomplishments. We are looking forward to a brighter future and another successful year for the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

Sincerely,

Michael A. MeyersGeneral Manager

5

AccomplishmentsIn FY 2012, the Greater Richmond Convention Center hosted 377 events with an attendance of 305,458 and revenues nearly equalling our record year of 2008 before the economic downturn.

Revenues were posted at $2,661,935.

Facility OverviewHISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

In 1990, the Metropolitan Richmond Convention and Visitors Bureau (MRCVB) on behalf of Metropolitan Richmond governments approved a study that evaluated the merits of expanding the existing Richmond Centre. The findings in that study led to the belief that an expanded Richmond Centre should be pursued.

In 1995, a second feasibility study was commissioned by the MRCVB and conducted by KMPG Peat Mar-wick to serve as a cost-benefit analysis for expansion of the Richmond Centre.

On January 9, 1998, the Greater Richmond Convention Center Authority (GRCCA), a political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia, was created pursuant to the Public Recreational Facilities Authority Act, Chapter 56 of Title 15.2, Code of Virginia. The political subdivisions participating in the incorpora-tion of GRCCA are the City of Richmond and the Counties of Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover. GRCCA is governed by a five-member commission comprised of the chief administrative officer of each of the four incorporating subdivisions and the President of the Retail Merchants Association of Greater Richmond. The purposes of GRCCA are to facilitate the expansion of the Richmond Centre facility and to construct access, streetscape, or other on-site and off-site improvements, and to operate and maintain the convention center. Each political subdivision participating in the Authority has designated certain revenues from the transient occupancy tax for expansion of the convention center.

In 1999, GRCCA engaged C.H. Johnson Consulting to prepare a feasibility study that included estimates of revenue available to pay debt service, and an analysis of the financial operations of a new convention center. It was the opinion of the consultants that the projections of Authority Tax Revenues and estimated financial results of operations contained in the report were reasonable and achievable to support a new convention center. On November 19, 1999 ground was broken and construction of the Greater Richmond Convention Center began.

The new Center was to be built in two phases. Phase I, opened May 17th, 2001 and consisted of a grand ballroom, meeting space and administrative office space. On July 1, 2001, GRCCA engaged Global Spec-trum, the fastest growing firm in the public assembly facility management field, to manage and operate the Center.

During the construction of the Center, the meeting and exhibition industry was experiencing unprecedent-ed growth. The economy and tourism in particular were seeing some of their best times and many cities across the country decided to build convention facilities to reap the economic benefits these venues could generate. On September 11, 2001, a large-scale terrorist attack took place on American soil. The economy was crippled and the hospitality and tourism industry was devastated. Studies conducted to support the construction of many convention facilities were deemed to be no longer valid as the devastating events and circumstances following the terrorist attacks were not foreseen in the reports.

Phase II of the new convention center was scheduled to open in the fall of 2002. Due to construction de-lays, it opened on February 28, 2003. It included exhibit space, additional meeting space and operational support space.

6Exhibit Hall ABCD Registration Lobby

Facility Overview Facility Overview

7

A tremendous amount of competition not accounted for in the 1999 feasibility study emerged following the decision to build the new Center. New facilities which were not contemplated in the 1999 feasibility study that have opened are as follows:

• Hampton Roads Convention Center, Hampton, VA April 28, 2005• Virginia Beach Convention Center, Virginia Beach, VA. Phase I – August 18, 2005• Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center, Fredericksburg, VA January 28, 2006• Virginia Beach Convention Center, Virginia Beach, VA. Phase II– January 2007

• Boo Williams Sportsplex, Hampton, VA (135,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility with athletic equipment including eight basketball courts which can also convert to 12 volleyball courts or eight indoor hockey courts, a fitness center, a 200-meter eight-lane indoor track, a technology center, offices, and a merchandise and concessions area. The venue has a 4,000 person seating capacity and the floor space can be configured to accommodate almost any indoor sports activity.) March 14, 2008• Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Prince George’s County, Maryland April 25, 2008• Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, NC September 2008• The Westin Richmond December 18, 2008• Frank B. Lotts Conference Center, Midlothian, VA March 6, 2009• Richmond Center Stage, Richmond, VA September 2009• Meadow Event Park, Doswell, VA October 2009• Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa, Short Pump, VA December 4, 2009• Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond, VA (Aggressively Began Seeking Additional Banquet Business)• The Westin Richmond Added a Third Ballroom to their Space November 2011• Residences at the John Marshall Renovation of Two Historic Ballrooms December 2011

Facility Overview

8

In December 2005, the United Way building adjacent to the Center’s parking deck was purchased by a developer. The building has been vacated and the 75 space parking lot located directly across from the Center’s parking deck began to sell public parking at $5.00 per vehicle, one dollar below the Center’s rate. Use of this lot for public parking continues to have a negative impact on the Center’s parking revenues.

In October 2007, the Philip Morris Research Park opened in the BIO Tech Park adjacent to the Center. This $300 million dollar facility has resulted in additional use of the Center by Altria/Philip Morris, although their use of the Center has declined as a result of the economic melt down.

In January 2008, we saw the CDA controlled 1,500 space parking garage attached to the Center begin to offer $5.00 parking for special events. The garage had previously only charged for parking at an hourly rate not to exceed $18.00 per day. This change has also had a negative impact on our revenues. The rates charged by the garage are not consistent and vary from weekend to weekend. The garage now appears back to only charging an hourly rate; however we field many complaints from consumers who have to pay upwards of $12.00 - 19.00 to park in order to attend events at the Center.

The 1999 feasibility study projected that an additional 525 hotel rooms should be built in downtown Richmond within close proximity to the convention center in order to help it succeed. On February 11, 2009 a new 249 room Hilton Garden Inn opened its doors adjacent to the Center. These rooms will be the first to complement the Center. In March 2009, the hotel began to sell 110 condominiums on its upper levels. Occupancy of these units should be a positive factor for growth of food and entertain-ment establishments in the area over time. To date, the Hilton Hotel has had a positive impact on better hotel rates due to the downturn in the economy and their competition with their neighbor hotel, the Richmond Marriott. Sales of the condominiums have been slow and have no positive impact yet for the Center.

In early 2008, the country began to see economic factors that suggested a recession may be forthcom-ing. A severe recession did occur. In the fall of 2011, the national economy began to show signs of a slow recovery; however, in the first half of 2012, the recovery began to reverse itself. The price of oil which impacts business travel and the cost of many items has risen steadily. The year 2012 is also a presidential election year in which the outcome could impact the economy and our business.

Philip Morris USA Research Park

Our Team

9

FINANCE

ADMINISTRATION

EVENT SERVICES

OPERATIONS

SALES & MARKETING

SECURITY

SALES & MARKETING

Organizational Chart Partners 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 Contracted Services

GRCCA

General ManagerExecutive Assistant

Global Spectrum Regional Vice President

AssistantGeneral Manager

ARAMARK Food & Beverage General Manager

Senior Sales Manager

Food & Beverage

Office Manager

Director of Safety & Security

Director of Operations

Lead Security Guard

Maint.Manager

Housekeeping/Setup Manager

(2)

Lead Housekeeping/ Setup Worker

F/T (6)

Housekeeping/ Setup Workers

F/T (10)

Maint. Tech F/T (3)

Maint. Laborer F/T (2)

Director of Sales & Marketing

Director of Finance &

Administration

Director of Event Services

Senior Sales Manager

Sales Coordinator

Staff Accountant

Box Office/ Parking Manager

Projections, Inc. Audio-Visual

Manager

OpenBand Telecom Manager

Event Managers (3)

Assistant Box Office/

Parking Manager

Contract Administrator

On-Call Housekeeping/ Setup Workers

Food & Beverage

Chef

Food & Beverage

Director of Operations

Food & Beverage Floor Supervisors (2)

On-CallEvent Staff

Security Guards F/T (5)

On-Call Maint.

Laborers

Sales Manager

On-Call Event

Cashiers

Administrative Assistant

On Call Staff

Accountant

Computer/ Network Support

Manager

Marketing Manager

On Call Event Manager

Director of Sales

Food & Beverage Sous Chef

Sales Assistant

The Global Spectrum Staff at the Greater Richmond Convention Center remains dedicated to being professional ambassadors representing the Greater Richmond Convention Center and the Richmond region.

10

Partners

11

Richmond Metropolitan Convention and Visitors BureauThe Richmond Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau (RMCVB) bears the task of growing the economy of the Richmond Region by attracting conventions, meetings and visitors and ensuring that all have a great experience. The vision of the RMCVB is to be a world-class organization known for their superior service and innovative marketing. The RMCVB provides the lead role in marketing and selling the Richmond Region and the convention center as a prime destination for large conventions and tradeshows. The RMCVB focuses on business that requires booking at least eighteen months out, whereas Global Spectrum focuses primarily on business that books no more than eighteen months in advance.

ARAMARK CorporationARAMARK, an internationally renowned full-service food and beverage management company, has created culinary memories at convention centers in many of America’s largest and most diverse cities. Through great food and a well-managed facility, ARAMARK understands that ensuring a memorable experience goes far beyond the food served. From the regional and national support network, to unparalleled sales programs, to inventivecullinary teams, ARAMARK brings a wealth of experience to every convention center they manage.

Projection Presentation TechnologyProjection Presentation Technology is a full-service audio visual provider in 15 cities across the country. Currently, Projection has in-house audio visual operations in 15 convention centers and several hotel properties nationwide. For nearly four decades, Projection has been providing the meetings industry with the right equipment, in the right location, at the right time. As the in-house provider for the Greater Richmond Convention Center, Projection is the one-stop source for audio visual, data, computer, production, audience response systems and simultaneous interpretation solutions. No matter the size or nature of the event, they deliver personal service and expert insight, and their technicians welcome the opportunity to work with you.

OpenBand of VirginiaOpenBand of Virginia, LLC (OpenBand) is a wholly owned subsidiary of M.C. Dean, Inc., a mid-Atlantic company with over 50 years experience in systems design, integration, construction and lifecycle support. OpenBand is a converged-services provider, offering broadband communications packages throughout the mid-Atlantic. OpenBand serves the Greater Richmond Convention Center as their exclusive provider for all data and voice services. OpenBand differentiates itself from other broadband service providers with its vision, product focus, stability and service.

Exhibits, Inc.The Greater Richmond Convention Center does offer the services of Exhibits, Inc., our preferred decorator. Exhibits, Inc. is a full-service convention decorator, offering products and services to make your event a success. As a full-service convention decorator, Exhibits, Inc. can also help provide floral rentals, audio visual and sound systems, special theme decoration, heavy-equipment and rigging and so much more.

Lodging

12

The Greater Richmond region offers its visitors a wide variety of lodging accommodations, with a total inventory of over 17,000 guest rooms. Of these, over 1,900 guest rooms are within ten blocks of the Greater Richmond Convention Center, including: the 407-room Richmond Marriott Downtown, connected via skywalk to the Center, and the Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Downtown, with an additional 250 rooms adjacent to the GRCC. Overflow accommodations can be provided by the Omni Richmond Downtown; Crowne Plaza; Doubletree Hotel; Holiday Inn Express and The Jefferson Hotel, Richmond’s premiere five-star, five-diamond property. For a more intimate stay, The Linden Row Inn with its 70 historic rooms and The Berkeley Hotel, a 56 room boutique hotel, round out the downtown inventory.

Since opening in 2009, the 250-room Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Downtown has offered a much needed hotel and dining option to our guests. Built in the space once occupied by the famed Miller & Rhoads department store, the hotel also gives its visitors a preview of the regional landscape by featuring the building’s original marble floors and restored millwork in the lobby. The Hilton Garden Inn Richmond Downtown provides complimentary wireless Internetservice throughout the property and has been a great addition to the revitalized area.

Connected to the convention center, the Richmond Marriott Downtown’s recent renovation of their guestrooms, lobby, fitness center and restaurant provides a greatly improved product for our guests. The renovation also included a new and improved Starbucks. The opening of T-Miller’s Sports Bar and Grill, a state-of-the-art restaurant and lounge with outdoor seating and a fire pit on Broad Street, continues to be a well received addition to the dining options in the area.

How Are You Doing?

13

Global Spectrum employees at the Greater Richmond Convention Center continue to emphasize the “How Are You Doing?” customer service philosophy. The national Global Spectrum campaign was designed to increase customer service and create a fun and exciting atmosphere for all guests and employees. Guests are greeted at every turn with a friendly smile and, “How are you doing?” The “How Are You Doing?” customer service program employs 10 goals to help maintain a first-rate facility by providing top-notch service to our customers. The “How Are You Doing?” program encourages the staff to go out of their way to make sure every visitor feels at home at the GRCC and during their stay in the Richmond Region. Global Spectrum wants every visitor’s first and lasting impression to be a positive one.

TOP 10 PRINCIPLES

Customer FirstUse all resources available to serve internal and

external customer interactions.

Golden RuleTreat co-workers and customers with complete

respect, fairness and courtesy.

ListenAsk open-ended questions, be attentive and

clarify understanding to improve accuracy of responses.

Think YesConsistently demonstrate a can-do approach in

thoughts and actions.

Be ProfessionalRepresent Comcast Spectacor in an ethical and

positive manner with all interactions.

Positive AttitudeSolve problems creatively by making decisions that

positively impact the entire organization.

24-Hour RuleAct with an appropriate sense of urgency when re-

sponding to any and all requests.

Everybody SellsSuggest and implement new ways to drive and

improve our business.

EnthusiasmWork with a passion towards achieving

individual, team and organizational growth and success and encourage others to do the same.

Do It Now!Put a plan into action. Create solutions.

Complete a task. Tackle issues immediately. People don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan!

Client Satisfaction

14

4.944.94 4.94 4.93 4.91 4.78 4.94 4.78 4.97 4.85 4.92 4.77 4.81 4.92 4.88

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Client Satisfaction Financial Performance

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Market Segment Results

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Market Segment Results FY2012Conventions comprised 4% of our total events, and these events produced nearly 14% of event net revenue in FY2012 (down from 23% LY). Trade shows, while only representing 3% of our events, generated 8% of bottom-line revenue. Consumer shows comprise 5% of our events and these events accounted for 18% of total event income. Special events continues to be our largest event segment at 50% of the total number of events hosted, and although many tend to be smaller events, the segment has grown from 16% of net income LY to 21% in FY2012. Meetings were the second largest event segment at 22% representing 18% of revenue. Banquets comprised 11% of our total events, but are less lucrative for the building itself as rental income is reduced to help boost food and beverage income. Sporting events represent a growth segment at 5% (up from 2% in FY2010) of our events and account for 15% of revenue (up from 13% LY and only 8% in FY2010).

Number of Events

4% 3% 5%

50%

22%

11% 5%

Conventions Trade Shows Consumer Shows Special Events Meetings Banquets Sporting Events

Net Event Income

14%

8%

18%

21%

18%

6%

15%

Conventions Trade Shows Consumer Shows Special Events Meetings Banquets Sporting Events

Market Segment Results Signature Events

17

Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln Movie Casting Call July 21-22, 2011

Critically acclaimed film director and producer Steven Spielberg’s upcoming 2012 film Office Seekers, based on a book about President Abraham Lincoln, hosted casting calls in our facility. We were entertained by the wide variety of talent that Richmond had to offer. One open call attracted over 900 men with long hair and full beards, while another sought out women and African-American men with horse riding skills. It was fun to be a part of the action taking place Downtown and throughout the Region.

Going on Faith Travel Conference 2011August 22-25, 2011

The Going on Faith Conference is an association of 3,000+ religious travel planners serving the religious travel community. As a show host, we put our best foot forward with the intent of impressing the planners so much that they would return to their clients and recommend our facility and Region as a future convention site. The RMCVB drove the planning process and volunteered throughout the event to promote the Richmond brand and our customer service values.

National Tactical Officers Association Annual ConferenceSeptember 16-19, 2011

We were honored to host the NTOA’s 28th Annual Tactical Operations Conference and Trade Show here at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. The tradeshow consisted of 185 vendors followed by the general session kick-off with over 675 attendees. NTOA is comprised of highly-skilled tactical officers from all branches of the military, Homeland Security Dept. and intelligence agencies.

Signature Events

18

Richmond Unite – Keynote Speaker Sir Richard Branson September 8-9, 2011

#DSRPT11 (that’s Twitter speak for Disrupt 2011) was a pleasure to have at the Center. The conference was a high-profile and creative fundraiser featuring keynote speaker Sir Richard Branson along with other “disrupters of thought.” Local youth charities benefitted from the proceeds of each event. Mr. Branson lends his name and likeness to the Unite cause nationwide as a means of taking the fundraising efforts of a region to the next level.

U.S. Marine Corps TBS Birthday BallNovember 5-6, 2011

Greater Richmond Convention Center Hosts Thousands of Marines and a Special Guest!

The Greater Richmond Convention Center was proud to host two Marine Corps Balls in November 2011. Thousands of Marines and their guests attended these events and one lucky Corporal was accompanied by a special celebrity guest! Justin Timberlake came through on his promise to escort U.S Marine, Corporal Kelsey DeSantis to her annual Marine Ball. He wrote about his experience and said, “I was truly moved. Thank you for inviting me and thank you for being my hero!” Our exhibit hall space was transformed with newly constructed chandeliers for the benefit of this event, and as a selling feature for future galas.

The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA)December 1-6, 2011 and May 2-7, 2012

NACA's American Dream Event provides the best home ownership programs in America for homeowners with an unaffordable mortgage, and for home buyers to access the best mortgage rate possible. These events draw great attendance, with thousands of homeowners receiving same-day solutions to save hundreds, and sometimes over $1,000 per month. We were privileged to host this event again in the Spring.

Signature Events

19

Office of Congressman Eric Cantor BreakfastMarch 2, 2012

House majority leader, Eric Cantor, joined us at the Greater Richmond Convention Center to host his Annual Breakfast with his special guests; Senate candidate George Allen, who served as the event’s emcee, and Florida Senator Marco Rubio. The event drew 1,650 attendees along with Democrat Dwight Jones, Mayor of Richmond and we moved it from the Grand Ballroom to the Exhibit Hall this year to all for the growth in attendance.

University of Virginia Sorensen Institute Civility Gala 2012April 17, 2012

We were once again proud to host the Annual Sorenson Institute Gala on April 17, 2012. All nine living Virginia Governors were in attendance. Our current Governor, Bob McDonnell was there, as well as Linwood Holton, Jr. who served as Governor a decade ago. They came together and spoke on various topics of past and current day politics.

Virginia Governors pictured (starting from right to left):Bob McDonnell, Tim Kaine, Mark Warner, Jim Gilmore, George Allen, Douglas Wilder, Gerald Baliles, Chuck Robb & Linwood Holton, Jr.

Richmond’s "Get Healthy, Stay Healthy" Health ExpoApril 27-29, 2012

The 'Get Healthy - Stay Healthy' Health Expo, a kickoff to Mayor Jones’ Healthy Richmond Campaign, provided a unique opportunity for metro Richmond to visit with vendors on preventative health, delight in healthy nutrition and to immerse themselves in an active lifestyle. The free event provided access to much needed expertise in the health and wellness fields to Richmond families.

Virginia Technology Student AssociationMay 3-6, 2012

The Virginia Technology Student Association hosted Technosphere at the Greater Richmond Convention Center where a large crowd of middle and high school students gathered for a competitive conference focusing on science, engineering, technology and mathematics education and challenges.

Green Initiatives

Virgina Green Certified

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The Greater Richmond Convention Center is certified Virginia Green by the Commonwealth of Vir-ginia. Virginia Green is a campaign run by the state to promote environmentally-friendly practices in Virginia’s tourism industry. The GRCC staff is dedicated to environmental responsibility and actively

communicates their green commitment to meeting and event planners and visitors. The Greater Rich-mond Convention Center participates in a wide variety of green initiatives.

RECYCLING AND WASTE REDUCTION- Active recycling of paper, plastic, aluminum and cardboard, as well as glass, grease, toner cartridges,

newspaper and fluorescent lamps- Items are collected in pre-function spaces, offices, meeting rooms and all back-of-house spaces

- Purchases items from vendors and service providers with a commitment to the environment- Purchases durable equipment and furniture

ELIMINATE USE OF STYROFOAM AND REDUCE DISPOSABLES- Use of recycled paper for administrative offices

- Use of bio-degradable products in concession stands- Use dishware, glassware and silverware to minimize use of disposables

WATER EFFICIENCY- Retro-fitted all of its water fountains with filters and signage to

encourage attendees to use them rather than individual plastic bottles, reducing waste

- Restrooms have low-flow toilets and other water-saving devices- Landscaped property with drought-resistant plants

ENERGY CONSERVATION- Incandescent lamps have been switched to energy-efficient fluorescent lighting wherever possible in

the facility- State-of-the-art energy management systems for HVAC and lighting

throughout the building- Lighting and HVAC systems programmed based on event schedules to

minimize usage during nonpeak times and conserve energy- Non-essential items turned off when spaces not in use such as

escalators, televisions and similar items

SUPPORT OF GREEN CONFERENCES AND EVENTS- Recycling containers are provided to any and all meeting and show organizers

- Encourages the use of public transportation by providing walking maps of the city to promote area businesses around the center

- Uses Green Seal Certified cleaning products

Green Initiatives Capital Projects

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Increased Security:The Greater Richmond Convention purchased three new Pelco DVR systems this year to help

increase our security monitoring for our facilty. This will allow us to install 11 new cameras, record more information and increase storage.

Operations Team being trained on the new vacuum!

The Greater Richmond Convention Center received a face-lit in early 2012 with the installation of new carpet throughout the building. We also purchased and new and improved vacuum to help keep our

new carpet looking great!

Community Projects

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Each year, the Greater Richmond Convention Center volunteers in a number of charitable events around the Richmond Region. Through partnerships with various organizations, the GRCC is able to give back to the local community in many different ways. Listed below are community service projects the GRCC staff has participated in during the past year:

AUGUST 2 | BRIGHT BEGINNINGSThe YMCA Bright Beginnings is a program that happens every summer to provide children from Richmond City Schools with the necessary supplies such as shoes, clothing, backpacks and other school supplies, for the upcoming school year. 18 staff members donated their time to shop and eat dinner with the children at a local Target.

OCTOBER 14 | LEE DENIM JEAN DAYLee Denim Jean day is held once a year to collect money in support of cancer research, specifically breast cancer research. 28 GRCC and RMCVB staff members wore jeans in support of this day and donated $180.

NOVEMBER 14 | FALL DRIVE VIRGINIA BLOOD SERVICESGRCC held a blood drive at the Center. 26 GRCC staff members and local partners registered to donate blood and we collected 28 pints of blood for the Virginia Blood Services.

DECEMBER 16 | CAN FOOD DRIVE FOR CENTRAL VIRGINIA FOOD BANKThe can food drive is held every year to keep Central Virginia’s shelves packed with nutritious food for the hungry. GRCC and RMCVB staff donated canned and non-perishable foods totaling 360 lbs.

FEBRUARY 2 | RICHMOND PUBLIC SCHOOLS JOB SHADOW DAYStudents from a local middle school visited the GRCC to learn about the hospitality industry. GRCC staff members volunteered to speak with the students regarding their positions. Students were also given a tour of the facility and invited to eat in the food court.

MAY 1 | VOLUNTEERS HELP SETUP JUNIOR LEAGUE OF RICHMOND’S 67TH BOOK & AUTHOR DINNERFive GRCC staff volunteered to help setup an annual event. They were able to assist in the Author book display, arrangement of centerpieces and placement of program booklets.

JUNE 8 | SUMMER DRIVE VIRGINIA BLOOD SERVICESGRCC held a blood drive at the Center. 15 GRCC staff members and local partners donated blood and produced 14 pints of blood for the Virginia Blood Services

Community Projects Customer Testimonials

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“Everyone was great to work with. We had a wonderful experience. Thanks to all!”Retail Merchants Association/2011

“The entire staff at the GRCC was wonderful. Always accessible! We always enjoy our experience at the GRCC”Richmond Public Schools / September 2011

“We had a great experience especially appreciated GRCC’s flexibility up until the day of our event”

Church Hill Activities/ December 2011

“As always a great TEAM at GRCC to work it and get the job done!” VCU Department of Nurse Anesthesia / December 2011

“Best location in Town!” Boy Scouts of America / February 2012

“The GRCC has been the home of the River City Rollergirls for a while now and we couldn’t think of a better place to call home.”

River City Rollergirls / February 2012

“Your entire team deserves kudos for their attention to customer service and details, plus their friendly, can-do attitude was incomparable.

They made our experience most enjoyable…I honestly can’t wait to return!” Motor Trend International Auto Show / March 2012

“I am so lucky to have worked with the entire team on this project. From AV to food set up, the team amazed me at how professional, understanding and fun they made this experience.”

Sunglass Hut/ March 2012

“Great, Great, Great Experience. Planning was fantastic.” Ardex Americas / April 2012

“Great Event. The best recognition event we have ever had. Everyone at the Center was out-standing – service was excellent and the attention to details on every level of our event was

fantastic. You all made everything so easy – Thank you!United Way / April 2012

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Future Outlook

The Greater Richmond Convention Center experienced an encouraging surge in business in the final quarter of FY2012 and we feel optimistic that we may see

continued economic improvements in the future that will positively affect business levels. Our team will remained focused on exceeding our financial

projections and acquiring new business for the Center in FY2013.

We are honored to host exciting new events this year including the Salon Centric annual convention in September, the Conclave of Richmond Pipe Smokers, and

the River City Charities Pink Tie Gala in October, Student Ministries of Virginia in December, VCU Energy and Sustainability Conference sponsored by Trane in April,

and a new volleyball tournament in June hosted by Triple Crown Sports. We are also proud to welcome back the Mary Kay Career Conference in March and USA

Fencing Association North America Cup in April.

The staff will continue to focus on our “How Are You Doing” customer service principles while maintaining our green initiatives and emphasizing cost-effective operations. We will work closely with our partners and stakeholders in the region to retain our existing business and to seek new revenue sources for the center in

the coming year.

Global Spectrum looks forward to maintaining strong ties with our regional partners, and we are honored to continue as your chosen operating partner. We

look forward to a successful year in 2013.

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Future Outlook

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wh e r e vi r g i n i a m e e t S t h e wo r l d

403 north third Street • richmond, virginia 804.783.7300 • richmondcenter.com