Global Sourcing Expo recorded 3500 visitors over the course of its three-day event in Sydney, with a Melbourne edition set for November.
IEC CEO and Global Sourcing Expo organiser Marie Kinsella said a number of major retailers attended the sourcing event, which included suppliers from 19 countries.
“We’re thrilled to share that the Sydney event attracted major decision-makers, trade buyers and agents, leading manufacturers and brands as well as major retail groups and wholesalers.
“Key trade visitors included representatives from household brand names such as Kmart, Target, Asics, Aldi, TK Maxx, Bras N Things and The Iconic.
“A common observation we heard from these visitors is that the Expo was a great opportunity to meet suppliers, see and feel the quality of their products first-hand without having to travel far and possibly return disappointed.”
The Sydney Expo secured 435 exhibitors from 19 countries, including Pakistan, Indonesia, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and the United States. Also in attendance were global trade organisations such as the Federation of Indian Export Organisations and the Export Promotion Bureau Bangladesh.
Co-located with the China Clothing, Textile and Accessories Expo, many of the attendees were designers, wholesalers, importers, manufacturers and those working for both independent retailers and retail chains.
The Global Sourcing Expo will return from November 21 to 23 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.
"We are excited to have the opportunity to bring the Expo to more visitors by expanding to Sydney and are thrilled at how well-received this decision has been. Melbourne will always be particularly special to us as the birthplace of the Global Sourcing Expo and the unofficial Fashion Capital of Australia,” Kinsella said.
The Melbourne event is co-located with the Footwear & Accessories Show, where 150 global footwear and accessories suppliers and manufacturing partners will exhibit.