ICC Sydney Shines At Global Exhibitions Day With 131,800 Attendees

Published on May 20, 2024

As the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by ASM Global, gears up to celebrate Global Exhibitions Day on June 5, it has announced that 131,800 attendees are expected at 16 different exhibitions throughout the last quarter of the fiscal year 2023/24. These events will ignite activity across burgeoning sectors such as manufacturing, construction, food services, and clean energy.

This surge in exhibition activity coincides with the Australian federal government’s enhanced commitment to boosting manufacturing and clean energy initiatives under the newly introduced “Future Made in Australia Act.” This act, funded by taxpayers, is designed to bolster Australia’s position on the global stage.

ICC Sydney CEO and Group Director – Convention Centres, ASM Global (APAC) Geoff Donaghy said exhibitions were an extremely important market segment for Australia that catalysed investment, networking and provided an unparalleled platform for innovation on the expo floor. 

In anticipation of Global Exhibitions Day, it’s crucial to recognize the profound influence these events have on stimulating business and supporting the local economy, which benefits significantly from the influx of attendees and the engagement of suppliers.

“Not only are opportunities created for businesses in key growing markets such as construction, manufacturing or renewable energy, but the economic impact of these shows and the audiences they attract are enjoyed right across the country,” Mr Donaghy said. 

During a three-day event at ICC Sydney, the Australian Manufacturing Week expo attracted 6,000 participants, featured 270 exhibitors, and offered 15 speaker sessions, all supported by the Government of New South Wales.

Kim Banks, Head of Events at Australian Manufacturing Technology Institute Limited (AMTIL), said: “The Australian Manufacturing Week exhibition is at the centre of a week-long celebration of Australia’s manufacturing industry. ICC Sydney was the perfect location to host manufacturing professionals who witnessed a part of technological evolution with the latest machinery on display – all while networking with the innovators and companies who are at the forefront of manufacturing excellence.” 

Moreover, the Sydney Build Expo, orchestrated by Oliver Kinross, expanded its reach in 2024 to cover six exhibition halls, drawing 50,000 participants who interacted with over 600 exhibitors and 500 speakers discussing topics from technical advancements to sustainability and mental health. James McKenzie, Managing Director APAC of the Sydney Build Expo, highlighted that in May 2025, the event plans to utilize the entire Exhibition Centre of ICC Sydney, marking a significant expansion.

ARBS 2024, scheduled for May 28-30 at ICC Sydney, will occupy four halls and cater to professionals in the HVAC&R and building services industries, emphasizing the critical role of such events in fostering trade and innovation.

Subsequently, three home construction shows—the ArchiBuild Expo, Design Show, and Kitchen + Bath Show—will take place between June 13-15 at ICC Sydney, anticipated to draw a collective audience of 5,000 visitors.

“Sydney Build Expo plays a critical role in bringing together construction professionals of diverse disciplines all under one roof. As the premier construction industry event driving productivity, we engage partners that align with our values, are committed to maximising the impact of our event and take pride in servicing our rapidly expanding audiences. Our success was due in large part to the exceptional service we received from our venue partner ICC Sydney, and we look forward to continuing to innovate our event alongside them,” Mr McKenzie said. Oliver Kinross is part of Nineteen Group Ltd. 

ARBS Exhibitions, CEO, Amanda Searle says, “ARBS 2024 will be the biggest yet. Featuring over 340 local and international exhibitors and an anticipated 9,000 visitors, the event will showcase leading-edge technology and practices in sustainable HVAC&R and building services. ARBS is proud to demonstrate how we actively contribute to the ‘Future Made in Australia’ vision, highlighting this sector’s vital role in advancing sustainable and efficient building technologies.” 

Furthermore, a trio of food and beverage exhibitions—Food Service Australia (May 19-21), Naturally Good (June 3-4), and Good Food & Wine (June 21-23)—are poised to surpass previous attendance records. The Global Sourcing Expo Sydney will run from June 12-14, and the Craft & Quilt Fair will take place from July 3-6, each showcasing innovations in retail and commerce.