MCEC’s record year

By Kate Mani

The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) has reached record-high financial year results for the fifth year in a row.

MCEC recorded a total operating revenue of $80.1 million and a contribution of over $969.1 million to Victoria in 2016/17.

The results are attributable to the 1026 events held at the MCEC during the last financial year, including 75 national and international conventions and 77 exhibitions.

The rise in popularity of MCEC’s Plenary concert venue has also played a role, with concert and entertainment events increasing by more than 50 per cent compared to the 2015/16 financial year.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren said that the results were an encouraging sign for MCEC’s 2018 expansion and future visitor numbers.

“The visitor economy is one of our greatest strengths, and MCEC plays a vital role in driving economic growth and creating jobs in Victoria,” he said.

“MCEC will be able to host even more events and attract more people through their doors once our expansion is complete.”

More than two million visitors have attended MCEC in the past year for various events and the venue has received a high satisfaction rate of 85 per cent and $3.1 million in increased revenue.

MCEC’s Chief Executive Peter King believes that the venue’s upwards trends will continue with the expansion project, with an expected increase in revenue of 70 per cent by 2022.

“Our business is going through an exciting period of growth. Our infrastructure is expanding, our employee numbers are increasing, and our customer list is growing,” he said.

Throughout the expansion project and upgrades to the current venue, focus will remain on increased employee and event numbers, with continued significant investment in employee training, safety and security.

“MCEC has become a real community asset, thanks to our involvement in major public events such as the Good Friday Appeal,” Mr King said.

“Melburnians deserve just as much acknowledgment as international delegates for our venue’s success.”