Sydney’s exhibition industry is in for a “challenging” year ahead, with a 35% increase in new shows as the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre prepares to close its doors later this year, the Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia has said.
New EEAA data released at AIME this week revealed that the number of new shows has jumped by more than a third, with 27 new expos to be launched this year alone.
Organiser optimism has also jumped 64%, and 62% of suppliers have reported increased turnover during the last financial year.
EEAA general manager Joyce DiMascio described the figures as an encouraging sign, but added that the growth comes at a “difficult time” for Sydney.
“This will set a challenging year ahead for industry and government to ensure the growth rate of the industry continues as we prepare to transition major shows from Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre to Sydney Harbour Expo @ Glebe Island,” she said.
“It is vital that all parties, especially the NSW government agencies, work together to ensure business continuity and a quality experience are delivered at the temporary site,” she added.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, DiMascio also highlighted the need for the industry to work collaboratively to achieve adequate recognition.
“It’s very hard to cut through with government with many voices, so together we have to work hard to build a story of our impact,” she said. “We can prove the weight we have and the impact we have for the economy of Australia.”
