MGA TMA attends IHG Expo

1,200 delegates representing IHG’s brands (Mitre 10 & Home Hardware) 800 suppliers and IHG staff, converged on the Gold Coast for the two day event.

Festivities kicked off with welcome drinks at The Star on Monday evening. Everyone was happy to be together again in person after COVID-19 halted the last two events.

Tuesday morning saw the group meet at the Convention Centre for a presentation from CEO of IHG, Annette Welsh, IHG’s senior executive team, and Metcash Group CEO, Doug Jones. The sector saw tremendous growth during COVID-19 and Annette and team presented on their plans to further grow and develop the business with new member growth strategies, store upgrades, growing the DIY category with a shopper led range, and meeting consumers demand for digital solutions.

Following the business session, doors opened for Expo and delegates filed in to grab a deal or two.

MGA TMA had a number of members drop in to the stand, as well as nonmember enquiries. Our business card draw winner, Barry Rosenberg from Provan’s Mitre 10, received a place at our Timber Product Knowledge training course.

MGA TMA members attending as Expo exhibitors included Davids Timber, Neville Smith Forest Products, Tilling Timber, Porta and Meyer Timber.

The 2023 IHG Expo culminated with the IHG Awards of Excellence on Wednesday night, and were entertained by Tim Campbell performing The Little River Band’s “Playing to Win”, joined by

Catriona Rowntree on stage both as MCs for the evening’s awards.

Congratulations to deserving members nominated for awards over the course of the night.

Special mention to winning members:

» 2022 Blue Blood Award: Peter Davie, Wilsons Mitre 10, Bacchus Marsh VIC

» CEO Recognition Award: David Woodman, Woodman’s Mitre 10, Beenleigh QLD

» 2022 Store of the Year Medium

Format: Pontings Mitre 10, Warrnambool VIC

» 2022 Garden Centre of the Year: McLaren Vale Mitre 10, McLaren Vale SA

» 2022 Trade Centre of the Year: Provans Mitre 10, Clifton Hill VIC