Australia’s gift and homewares industry is gearing up for Reed Gift Fairs Melbourne (August 7-11) at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Melbourne Showgrounds.
For the first time, the fair is an official part of Energise Enterprise, Victoria’s Small Business Festival, which runs throughout August.
Reed Gift Fairs Exhibition Director Omer Soker says more than 850 exhibitors will have their products on display for the five-day fair. “In the lead up to Christmas, this is a pivotal purchasing opportunity for the Australian retail industry,” says Soker.
“Demand from companies wanting to exhibit this year outstripped the space available, so we have created innovative new areas to house them.”
ExhibitA showcases new exhibitors
ExhibitA launches at the Showgrounds, offering retailers the chance to see new exhibitors showcasing fresh designs and products. The ExhibitA Walkway is also a new addition, filled with new exhibitors and providing a link to the other pavilions.
“The new pavilion is a great way for retailers to see what is new and exciting in terms of products from our first-time exhibitors. The walkway is also a great way for exhibitors to greet retailers which will add a really welcoming touch,” says Soker.
The Melbourne Showgrounds will also feature a new red carpet designer section providing mainstream buyers access to 70 unique exhibitors, with hundreds of high-quality and stylish products on offer.
Energise Enterprise helps small businesses
“We’re really excited to be a part of Energise Enterprise – it’s a fantastic initiative aimed at promoting business and entrepreneurship throughout Victoria. As part of our offering, we’re hosting a Small Business Speedy Solutions pod at the fair. This will feature a series of short video clips that will provide both exhibitors and retailers with the information they need to run their businesses more effectively,” says Soker.
The Small Business Speedy Solutions pod will be at Melbourne Showgrounds in the exhibitA exhibition area, and will provide information on managing cash flow, creating business plans and more.
Last year, the total visitation was 36,084* with $78,531,297** being spent onsite by buyers.
The next fair following Melbourne August will be held in Sydney from September 11-14. As the final buying opportunity in the retail calendar, the event provides inspiration, ideas and expert advice on increasing sales, just in time for the Christmas season. For more information visit: www.reedgiftfairs.com.au
For more information, interviews with Omer Soker or fair pictures, please contact:
Cene Dimeska, Porter Novelli
Tel: (02) 8987 2115 or 0421 984 031
Email: cdimeska@porternovelli.com.au
* Visitor statistics are based on Infosalons single visit figures.
** Research conducted by Micromex Research