Johannesburg is unique in having four major venues as other cities in SA and, indeed, most cities in other countries only have one such venue.

Moreover, the big convention and exhibition centres elsewhere are mostly owned by public sector bodies, such as city councils, whereas Johannesburg's "Big Four" are funded by the private sector, with the resultant benefits of commercial management that is service and delivery driven.

Each of the four major venues has unique features and markets:

Sandton Convention Centre: Located in the heart of Sandton's business district, with over 22 000m² of convention, exhibition and special event space, 10 600 secure parking bays, conveniently located entertainment centres and over 30 hotels nearby, Sandton Convention Centre is Southern Africa's most technologically advanced convention centre, offering purpose-built facilities to cater to your every need. Contact: (011) 779-0000 or visit www.saconvention.co.za

Gallagher Estate: Conveniently located in Midrand, halfway between Johannesburg and Pretoria, Gallagher Estate is southern Africa's largest conference and exhibition centre offering a refreshing and captivating venue with 27 500m² exhibition space, 12 000 parking bays ,19 luxurious multi-purpose conference venues, a multi-purpose auditorium, estate ballroom and executive boardrooms combines with stringent international security standard. Enjoy your breaks under a natural forest canopy. A venue for all occasions. Contact: +27 11 266 3000 or visit www.gallagher.co.za

The Dome: The fourth largest spherical structure in the world, the Dome offers magnificent function rooms with a private entrance which joins the main arena with 15 000m² of exhibition space. Situated next to the Northgate shopping complex and in close proximity the Montecasino, Hotel InterContinental Palazzo hotel at Montecasino, the Fourways shopping district and the Sandton CBD and hotels, the Dome offers state-of-the-art security with complete freedom to delegates to pursue their interests. Contact: +27 11 794 5800 or visit www.thedome.co.za

Expo Centre - NASREC: The Expo Centre, situated to the South of Johannesburg and easily accessible from the major highway network, is one of he biggest complexes of its kind in the world. Situated on a 51-hectare site, it offers over 42 000m² of interlinked exhibition space and outdoor display areas in close proximity. These are supplemented by conference facilities and breakaway rooms as well as numerous restaurants and fast-food outlets. The Centre has its own railway station and offers secure parking for 25 000 vehicles. Contact: +27 11 494 5616 or visit www.expocentre.co.za.