Following the success of hosting two editions of the world-renowned Global Sourcing Expo in 2023, the International Exhibition & Conference (IEC) Group has once again added a Sydney and Melbourne Show to the 2024 line-up.
“We’ve seen the huge demand that both cities have for our unique global offering and are looking forward to an exciting year ahead, with double the opportunity to bring local buyers and some of the best exhibitors from around the world together for a three-day sourcing extravaganza,” comments IEC Exhibitions Director Julie Holt.
“It’s important to note that while the Sydney and Melbourne shows may offer some of the same exhibitors, each edition of the Global Sourcing Expo is unique, with an array of surprises in store for those who choose to attend both events,” Julie adds.
Registrations have opened for Global Sourcing Expo Sydney, which is set to take place from 12-14 June 2024 at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney.
To ensure that Global Sourcing Expo Sydney remains at the forefront of international trends and is in-tune with the latest developments in India, Julie recently attended Bharat Tex 2024 in New Delhi.
“The organisers of Bharat Tex truly spared no expense in creating an incredible event that was not only visually captivating, but informative and aligned to the changing needs of the Indian textile industry and supply chain. I gained a deeper understanding of the issues facing local manufacturers and suppliers and how they’ve innovated in response,” Julie shares.
“India’s focus on all levels of the value chain for future development is a clear signal to the global industry that opportunities for partnership are rife, and I have no doubt that India will continue to serve as a global powerhouse,” she adds.
At Bharat Tex 2024, Julie connected with many of the Global Sourcing Expo’s valued Indian Export Council and Trade Association partners, who will continue their strong association with both the Sydney and Melbourne editions of the GSE this year.
‘A platform for international exhibitors to meet their perfect buying partner’
The origins of the Global Sourcing Expo date back to 2010, when Australian demand for high-quality international products began to emerge at scale. Today, the Expo offers exhibitors in the fields of apparel, textiles and homeware the opportunity to directly target thousands of trade buyers and industry professionals in two of the country’s thriving fashion capitals and consumer markets.
“There are very few events of this nature where global exhibitors can connect with buyers not only from some of Australia’s beloved retailers like Kmart, Target, THE ICONIC, Aldi and TK Maxx, but also with buyers from boutique and emerging brands,” says Julie. “We’re proud to share that 56% of visitors surveyed after our 2023 shows confirmed that they had placed orders with exhibitors, with a further 86% saying that they’ve connected with new suppliers at the event.”
Julie and her team are expecting over 400 exhibitors from a broad range of countries at the 2024 Global Sourcing Expo in Sydney, many of whom are considered the leaders in their respective markets. “Exhibitors also have the unique advantage of benefiting from an extensive marketing campaign in the run-up to the event, maximising their exposure and helping them get their foot in the door of the lucrative Australian and New Zealand markets which have a high buying propensity for the exhibit categories.”
Exhibitors range from vertically integrated multinational organisations, small and medium enterprises and established exporters with diverse operations and an increasing focus on sustainability practices. Buyers can also connect with leading global trade organisations and export organisations at the expo.
“The Global Sourcing Expo provides an opportunity for buyers to consider the look and feel of internationally-produced products for themselves and have direct conversations with exhibitors about their production capabilities, delivery timelines, certifications and other key elements that influence purchasing decisions. We are proud to offer a platform that connects vendors and suppliers with buying partners from Australia and New Zealand,” says Julie.
The immense value of these shows is enhanced by its accessibility, as it continues to be free to all members of the industry looking to expand their supplier networks and discover global trends and new sourcing opportunities.
“The positive feedback we received from exhibitors following our 2023 editions showcased the huge appetite for global connections and the expansion of sourcing opportunities on Australia’s doorstep. This year we will build on that success and deliver immense value to all participants,” Julie concludes.
About the Global Sourcing Expo Sydney 2024
Global Sourcing Expos Sydney and Melbourne provide a dedicated show platform to connect global manufacturers, producers, service providers and fashion labels with trade buyers and industry professionals from Australia, New Zealand and beyond.
The Show will feature 500+ world-class exhibitors in the categories of apparel, accessories, homeware and textiles. As one of the only shows in Australia to directly target wholesale and retail buying groups, this is an ideal opportunity to enter the Australian market.
“The Global Sourcing Expo connects the world!”
When and Where for Sydney Show: Wednesday 12 – Friday 14 June 2024, International Convention Centre, Sydney, Australia.
When and Where for Melbourne Show: 19-21 November 2024, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.