Business

RDS hosts first large event since pandemic with return of Ideal Home Exhibition

Value of trade shows and exhibitions to economy is €3.9bn annually, says venue chief

The event is expected to be attended by more than 25,000 people over the bank holiday weekend. Photograph: Ideal Homes Exhibition

Fri Oct 22 2021 - 20:24

The RDS held its first large scale exhibition since the pandemic on Friday with the opening of the Ideal Home Exhibition.

The event is expected to welcome more than 25,000 people over the bank holiday weekend with consumers set to get ideas and advice on everything from interior design, to furnishing and decor to energy saving and home builds. ,

Speaking at the opening, RDS chief executive Geraldine Ruane, said: “We are delighted to welcome back the permanent tsb Ideal Homes Exhibition to the RDS, which is the first of many that will be returning to us. The economic value of trade shows and exhibitions to Irish economy is €3.9 billion annually and as Ireland’s premier events venue, the RDS is at the heart of this activity and . . . we look forward to playing our role in the recovery of the country as we move forward from the pandemic.”

Event organiser Sean Lemass said the strong numbers were expected due to the big surge in people investing in their homes since the onset of the pandemic.

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“People coming to the show need to know that with the Government and Nphet [National Public Health Emergency Team] having lifted most restrictions with vaccinations being over the 90 per cent mark, that they are free to attend. The RDS Simmonscourt is a very large venue with plenty of space,” he said.

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