New York has recently announced the launch of a digital platform, called Excelsior Pass, to track an individual's recent negative PCR or antigen test result or proof of vaccination to help fast-track the reopening of businesses and event venues. The platform is voluntary and would work in a similar way to a mobile airline boarding pass.

To get a gauge on the industry for 2021 and beyond, Meeting Spotlight spoke with John Williams, president of American Guest, which offers corporate clients tailored incentives, events, meetings, and VIP travel experiences. Williams expects virtual/hybrid meetings to become "king" and also discussed how companies became more supportive of each other.

How has your segment of the industry changed over the last year?  

The events industry of New York City came together virtually and live for the first time for many months when the event "The Future is Now" took place at etc.venues’ 360 Madison Avenue as a result of a partnership between etc.venues and event agency NECTR.

M&R Hotel Management, a U.S. management company with operations across five states, has selected Magnuson Hotels, a "fast-growing franchise alternative," to rebrand its 285-room Magnuson Grand & Conference Center Somerset-Bridgewater located in New Jersey. 

As recovery across the country continues, Acela service on the Northeast Corridor resumed June 1 on a modified schedule with the restoration of three weekday Acela roundtrips utilizing the new safety initiatives for customers and employees that Amtrak has implemented.

As a welcome back to our customers ready for travel, Acela fares are available for as low as $69 in select markets through June.

Las Vegas Sands has announced that it will donate 2 million medical masks and 20,000 protective suits to help healthcare professionals, first responders and nonprofit organizations in the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

The service will be available on United Airlines flights between New York / Newark and London Heathrow. Details here.

Air New Zealand and United Airlines have announced plans to launch the first and only nonstop service between New Zealand and the East Coast of the United States. More here.

Plans call for the partnership to launch in early summer 2020, with bookings opening early next year. Details here.

The luxury hotel brand said it plans to have more than 100 properties in operation around the world by 2021. Find out more.