At right, MCEC celebrating a big win
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre was recently awarded Best Venue Team at the 2016 Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia Awards for Excellence, for the team’s superior execution of the bi-annual Australian Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association, held at the venue in July.
The complex event, which welcomed a record attendance of 8,692 people in 2016, is the largest exhibition of its type and hosted over 140 exhibitors across 19,500 square metres of exhibition space.
MCEC’s strong project management support, adaptable approach and willingness to find solutions to complex problems were key factors which contributed to the win.
MCEC Chief Executive, Peter King said the award was great recognition of the dynamic and versatile team at MCEC, who pushed the venue’s capabilities and worked together to grow the exhibition and attendance numbers.
“Our objective right from the outset was to go above and beyond simply providing a functional space for the event,” said King. “The team spent two years meticulously planning each component of the event with the AWISA planning team, to ensure the intricate event ran seamlessly in its first return to Melbourne in 26 years. This terrific collaboration not only successfully delivered an operationally challenging event, but helped to drive show revenue and delivered an outstanding customer and exhibitor experience. MCEC’s solution-focused team offered suggestions and advice to facilitate the eight-day bump-in (the longest in MCEC’s history), unprecedented electricity requirements, intricate exhibitor displays and safety compliance, all actively contributing to the event’s success.”
Consequently, AWSIA 2016 recorded a 50 per cent increase in visitation compared to 2014, with more than 2,000 visitors attending multiple days of the exhibition.
“This award is also a real testament to the customer-centric approach we have taken as a business over the last few years. Our team has truly embraced this approach and I could not be prouder – they are incredibly deserving of this win. I would also like to congratulate all the finalists and winners at last night’s awards, including the other six events held here at MCEC which received recognition,” Mr King added.
The EEAA Awards for Excellence honor organizers, venues, suppliers and people working in trade and consumer shows across Australia and New Zealand.
For more information please contact: Megan Levvey, Communications Coordinator, mlevvey@mcec.com.au +61 (0)3 9235 8205.
