Held on Thursday, 3 September at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event was Brisbane Economic Development Agency’s (BEDA) 19th annual flagship business events showcase, connecting industry to drive new business and more events for Brisbane.

With 18 businesses making their Brisbane Pop-Up debut, this year’s event showcased the growing depth, diversity and strength of Brisbane’s business events offering.

Brisbane Pop-Up puts local venues, hotels, suppliers and experiences face-to-face with the organisers and decisionmakers who choose where future conferences, meetings, incentives and corporate events are held.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the record turnout showed the strength of Brisbane's own business events industry.

"Brisbane has everything you need to put on a world-class event, and the best part is so much of that talent is homegrown," Cr Schrinner said.

“From our venues and hotels to caterers, AV crews and event suppliers, Brisbane businesses are the ones making these events happen.

"More than 300 attendees and 80 local exhibitors show the incredible depth of talent we have right here in Brisbane.

"Whether you're planning a conference, gala or corporate event, there’s no need to look interstate. When Brisbane businesses can deliver.

"Booking locally means backing local businesses, supporting local jobs and keeping more of that investment right here in Brisbane.

“It also means more great events and experiences that add to our reputation as Australia’s lifestyle capital.”

BEDA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Ryan said the record turnout reflected the strength of Brisbane’s business events sector and BEDA’s ambition to grow the city’s share of the market.

“This year’s record registrations show Brisbane’s business events industry is ready to compete – and ready to win more business for Brisbane,” Mr Ryan said.

“Brisbane Pop-Up creates the connections that turn into business, bringing the people who can choose a destination together with the businesses that can deliver exceptional events.

“Every event BEDA secures for Brisbane creates a ripple effect across the economy, from hotels and restaurants to venues, transport operators, event suppliers and the hundreds of local businesses behind every successful event.”

Participating businesses included Emporium Hotel, The Tivoli Group, Moreton Hire, Ghanem Group, Glo Events and Tassis Group.

Business events are a major contributor to Brisbane's visitor economy, which was worth $17.8 billion last year. As high-yield visitors, conference and convention delegates spend 57%* more per night than leisure travellers, delivering significant benefits to local businesses and the broader economy.

From hotels, restaurants and transport providers to retailers and attractions, the value of each business event is felt across the city, supporting jobs, driving economic activity and showcasing Brisbane on a national and global stage.

To learn more about hosting a business event in Brisbane, visit: https://choose.brisbane.qld.au/events/business-events