The Sydney Convention and Visitors Bureau (SCVB) announced the creation of a new national business events exhibition – The Australian Events Expo – to be held on May 16-17 next year.

The new event supersedes the SCVB’s long-running trade show, Sydney on Sale, in a natural progression to the national stage.

Announcing the move, SCVB Managing Director Jon Hutchison said the Australian Events Expo would be open to exhibitors from around the country.

“This will be the only national events exhibition based in Australia’s meeting capital, Sydney, so it’s a very exciting development for our industry.

 “We believe the Expo will play an important role in driving future growth for the business events sector.”

Interstate convention and visitor bureaux had already indicated their support for the new Expo, while major industry players were also enthusiastic about the concept, he said.

“Our new show will build on the industry recognition that Sydney on Sale has achieved over the past 17 years, but will go much further to attract a wider audience.”

Mr Hutchison said the Australian Events Expo would feature a strong contingent of interstate exhibitors, broadening its appeal for Sydney-based visitors, as well as interstate attendees.

“The show will also offer a more extensive hosted buyer program and more pre-scheduled appointments in order to deliver greater benefits to exhibitors,” Mr Hutchison said.

Trade show organiser ETF will manage the Australian Events Expo, following its appointment last year to oversee the 2006 Sydney on Sale - the Events Expo.

Mr Hutchison said the SCVB had considered the concept of a national show for several years.

“Now with ETF on board we have a manager that can focus on the development of a national expo and deliver a great event – the time is right.”