Expomedia Group Plc and strategic media partners Axel Springer, have completed their first joint venture exhibition in , Lakáskultura Élőben (12 – 14 March 2004).This home decorating and interiors event has set the standard for other local and prospective international organisers to follow, with over 35,000 registered visitors during the 3 day show at the newly refurbished Sports Arena in Budapest.  As a hugely successful first year event, Lakáskultura has been short listed as one of the launches of the year at Expomedia Group and has also aided a resurgence in magazine sales for the Lakáskultúra title, the 25 year old brand daddy of home interiors in Hungary, which is circulated by Axel Springer.

Lakáskultura was a first for consumer exhibitions in the market, providing a unique showcase for exhibitors and a comprehensive and stimulating environment for visitors.nbsp; Special features at the show included room sets of current industry trends never before seen at local events, an interactive area that encouraged the consumer to participate actively in home interior related activities and a cookery theatre organised by the world famous Gundel restaurant.

“This event has opened the door for Expomedia Group to emerge as leading organisers in the local market, delivering worthwhile and interactive events for the consumer,” explains Oliver Strommer, Managing Director BNR, the local subsidiary of Expomedia Group.   “We have already confirmed over 50% of available space for next year through on-site bookings and have exciting plans to deliver even more features and activities for 2005 and beyond.”

“We are delighted with the success of the Lakáskultura exhibition and our co-operation with Axel Springer,” comments Mark Shashoua, CEO Expomedia Group. “The results of this event underline one of our key messages, that consumer and trade exhibitions can be successfully launched in new and challenging markets, with the right mix of organiser, media and venue co-operation.”

Lakáskultura 2005 takes place from 11 – 13 March at the Sports Arena in Budapest.

For further information please contact: sonya.gillespie@expocentres.com