ODMA has announced OSHOW24 is returning to Sydney in 2024 at the iconic Hordern Pavilion in Moore Park, following the success of the 2022 event.
The boutique optical trade event will run from 17-18 May (Friday and Saturday) and is being timed to coincide with the Optometry NSW/ACT Super Sunday clinical conference event set for 19 May.
“The Hordern Pavilion Sydney works so well for this event – it provides an intimate boutique feel, the venue rental price means that the event is financially viable for both the association and the all-important exhibitors,” Optical Distributors and Manufacturers Association (ODMA) CEO Ms Amanda Trotman said.
“The public transport links and affordable parking are much appreciated by the trade fair visitors, plus there is so much to enjoy within the Moore Park precinct.”
The 2024 event will build on the 2022 show, with some concepts remaining. This includes a level playing field for exhibitors with a cap on the maximum number of booths and few custom-built stands.
Trotman said new additions are in the pipeline too.
“Keep your eyes out for our marketing and communications as there will be some welcome new aspects to OSHOW in 2024. We certainly want to make the most of showcasing all the great new product that will have been released since O=MEGA23, given both SILMO Paris and MIDO Italy will have been held by the time our event takes place,” she said.
Visitors can expect additional opportunity for networking in a funky relaxed environment, Trotman said, with a focus on style and fashion, a new Frames Central area, tailored items for practice managers and dispensers, plus vendor sponsored information sessions. These are some examples of new initiatives.
“Everyone from the optometry practice team will find something of interest and will be able to get involved in this event. Valuable connections will be made, and great product and services will be showcased, from lenses, to equipment, optical frames, sunglasses, children’s and sports eyewear,” she said.
Hours will also be extended for those practitioners who cannot visit during practice opening hours.
OSHOW22 featured 130 booths, with almost 1,000 unique buyers visiting the event. Held shortly after lockdowns lifted from the pandemic, ODMA expects 2024 to be larger.
OSHOW24 is being held near the end of the financial year and to back up to the planned ONSW/ACT Super Sunday event.
“This will enable those people, especially from out of Sydney or NSW, to travel in and enjoy the city over a weekend and be able to visit both events easily, as we appreciate how valuable everyone’s time is. OSHOW is owned by the Australian optical industry, it has been developed for the industry, by the industry and we certainly look forward to welcoming the industry to our next major event,” Trotman said.
More details available at www.o-show.com.au
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