Growing UK games expo chooses the NEC

The event has previously been held entirely at Hilton Birmingham Metropole, but as a result of increasing visitor numbers, the organisers have taken the decision to move a large part of the show to a bigger venue.

UK Games Expo is the UK’s largest annual Hobby Games Convention and offers gaming enthusiasts and families the chance to try out new table top games, attend seminars and join in with tournaments. 

The 2016 and 2017 editions of the show will primarily be held in the NEC’s Hall 1, but will continue to utilise space at Hilton Birmingham Metropole for enthusiasts to continue their gaming into the evening. 

Event Director for the UK Games Expo, Richard Denning, said: “We have a fantastic relationship with the Hilton but the show has simply become too big to be held solely at the venue. The NEC offers the flexible space that we need to grow, and sits just a stone’s throw away from the Hilton so we will still benefit from the great central location which is easily accessible for visitors across the UK. We look forward to working with both venues to deliver a truly great event.”

The NEC is located with a three-hour drive time of 40% of the UK population and is physically connected to Birmingham International Railway Station.

David Gallagher, New Business Development Manager at the NEC, said: “We are expecting around 10,000 visitors to the NEC over three days at the 2016 event but we are confident that we can help that figure grow by working with the organisers to add new and exciting features utilising our flexible space.”

UK Games Expo becomes the fifth new contract win of the year for the NEC. Organisers of Fleet Management Live, UK Drone Show and Vaper Expo will host their launch shows at the Birmingham venue, whilst The Autism Show is extending its reach with the launch of a Midlands edition.