Today HBA Global Expo launched a Social Networking App that enables visitors to find and connect with the attendees and companies that matter most to them. The HBA Global Expo and Conference, taking place June 19 to 21, 2012, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York, is the largest gathering of ingredient suppliers, packagers and retails to the global beauty and wellness industries. Powered by Vivastream, the app is designed to increase the volume and effectiveness of networking for visitors and exhibitors at HBA Global.

Utilizing the complimentary Social Networking App, users can register their interest in a wide range of topics ranging from Anti-Aging to Wellness. Within each selected topic, they can then indicate whether they are interested in learning more about the topic or if they can provide help. The app uses this data along with profile information garnered from tight social media integration to determine points of commonality and then builds for each user a personalized, top 50 list of “Who To Know” at the show. As usage increases, the app gets smarter and dynamically updates these lists to hone in on the people and companies that matter most.

“The HBA Social Networking App has evolved out of customer feedback requesting that attendees, exhibitors, and speakers have the ability to find the perfect matches for their needs in an environment with so many potential leads,” said Jill Birkett, director of UBM Live’s Beauty & Wellness Portfolio. “With this social application, we are putting a powerful tool into hands of our visitors to help them easily find and connect with others that will help them achieve their objectives.”

Howard Zonder, SVP of Market and Audience Development, UBM Live noted: “Events like HBA Global Expo draw thousands and sometimes tens of thousands of visitors which can make it challenging for even the most seasoned attendees to meet all of the right people and visit all of the most relevant exhibitors. Tools like the HBA Social Networking App empower our visitors to maximize their time and efforts at the show.” To build your HBA Global “Who To Know” list, visit www.vivastream.com/events/hba-global-expo.