Chicago – Richard “Rick” Simon, President & CEO of United Service Companies, will serve as Chairman of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Association (MMA) for the next two years, it was announced at the business group’s annual meeting in mid-February.
Simon is the Chairman of Trade Show executive and United Service Companies is the parent company of Trade Show Executive (TSE).
The non-profit MMA includes 750 member companies and leads the promotion and preservation of Chicago’s famed Magnificent district. The bustling downtown stretch of high-rises, major hotels and upscale retail that has long been a draw for trade show attendees in town for events at nearby McCormick Place.
“The Magnificent Mile is the front door to Chicago for nearly all of the visitors who come to our great city,” said Simon. “I am very happy to be associated with this historic location and all of the people who are part of it.”
The MMA said in its announcement: “Rick has been leading Chicago’s welcoming committee for the tens of millions of visitors that have come to Chicago for these events and who eventually visit our Magnificent Mile. These groups generate sales and grow prospects for our member businesses. So, in a big way, Rick Simon is constantly planning for our future.”
Simon is a familiar face and longtime colleague to show organizers who contract with United for booth cleaning, security and other show services. He is active in major industry associations and is the official host of TSE’s Gold 100 and Fastest 50 Awards & Summits. This year’s Fastest 50 takes place April 19-21 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, a familiar downtown destination for trade show organizers and a popular host of past Fastest 50 gatherings.
The Magnificent Mile Association works with city officials, merchants and developers to ensure that the dynamic area remains a major tourism and shopping destination by keeping it aesthetically pleasing and accessible to the public. “In 2016, we estimate our district’s hotel room night revenue alone approached $1.3 billion; and that generated more than $70 million in Chicago hotel tax revenue,” said outgoing Chairman John McCarthy. “Add in the results for our thriving medical, education, dining, shopping, and services communities and we show this district as a powerful job provider and economic engine for Chicago.”
Reach Rick Simon at (800) 248-8558 or rsimon@unitedhq.com
