Record attendance and strong feedback highlight Expo’s growth

The Global Sourcing Expo (GSE) in Melbourne has concluded with outstanding success, attracting more than 4,700 visitors and showcasing a diverse array of Australian fashion and retail brands. The event, held from November 19 to 21, demonstrated significant growth, with total visits increasing by 29 per cent compared to 2023, and unique visits rising by 24 per cent. The Expo, which featured over 1,000 exhibitors from 20 countries, has proven to be a key platform for international suppliers and local buyers to network, share insights, and strengthen business relationships.

According to the Expo’s organizers, 95 per cent of visitors held decision-making authority or could make recommendations, highlighting the event's value for industry leaders. Moreover, 83 per cent of attendees attended to discover new manufacturers, products, or sourcing regions, reinforcing the event's relevance in today's globalized marketplace.

Marie Kinsella, CEO of the International Expo Group, emphasized the growing demand for an event that unites global suppliers and buyers. "The steady year-on-year increase in visitors is a clear indication of the value that the Expo provides in bringing the industry together for networking, knowledge-sharing, and relationship building," Kinsella said. "Even just days after the event, we’ve already received several repeat exhibitor inquiries for the 2025 Expo, with participants providing positive feedback on their return on investment."

Exhibitor and attendee feedback reflect event’s success

Exhibitors and attendees alike praised the organization and value of the event. One exhibitor noted, "The event was exceptionally well-organized, and the support from the team was outstanding. The venue was excellent, and the foot traffic was great, leading to valuable interactions and exposure." Another attendee shared their appreciation for the Expo's diverse range of international exhibitors, saying it was "a great platform for sourcing goods and connecting with suppliers from various marketsall under one roof."

The event also included the co-located Footwear & Accessories Show and the China Clothing Textiles Accessories Expo, which further expanded the range of exhibitors and products. Visitors appreciated the opportunity to meet suppliers face-to-face, allowing for more personalized interactions and a deeper understanding of product quality and offerings.

Additionally, industry trade associations such as the Handloom Export Promotion Council India and the Taiwan Textile Federation were present, offering valuable insights and resources for both exhibitors and visitors. These partnerships highlight the Expo’s role in fostering connections across multiple sectors within the fashion and retail industry.

Global Sourcing Seminars provide insight into key industry trends

The Expo's success was further enhanced by its Global Sourcing Seminar program, which brought together over 30 industry experts to discuss pressing issues and trends, such as AI in manufacturing, clothing recycling, and sourcing strategies. Kinsella noted, “Each session was well-attended and provided invaluable perspectives from the best in the industry.”

These seminars allowed attendees to gain crucial knowledge on the future of sourcing, equipping them with the tools needed to stay ahead of evolving market demands.

Looking ahead to the 2025 Global Sourcing Expo

As the 2024 GSE event calendar concludes, the focus now turns to the 2025 expos. The International Expo Group has already announced the dates for the 2025 events: Sydney will host the Expo from June 17–19 at the ICC, while Melbourne will follow with its event from November 18–20 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Kinsella concluded, "It’s our goal to continue to offer the Expo as a destination where the sourcing and buying market can find global partners, suppliers, and innovative products to enhance their supply chains and business strategies." The 2024 Expo's success has set the stage for even greater things in 2025, ensuring the event remains a vital component of the global sourcing and fashion industries.