Harvey Norman Commercial Victoria is hosting its first brand expo across a three-evening event series this week at its Selection Centre in Port Melbourne. 

The exclusive industry-only event, HNCV BrandExpo 23, showcases the latest products and technology from Harvey Norman Commercial’s global brand supply partners across appliance, sanitary ware and HVAC to 300 attendees each evening with members of the building, architect and design community in attendance.   

Event MC and TV presenter, Brihony Dawson and Yves Dalcourt (Miele) presenting the Miele lucky door prize – a Triflex HX2 Pro vacuum valued at RRP $1,199.

Described as a ‘brand experience’ rather than a traditional expo, the event is an opportunity to interact with product, enjoy food and beverages by renowned celebrity chef, Shane Delia, live entertainment, high-end door prizes, and to hear from some of Australia’s most highly sought-after industry speakers.  

Kevin Ke (ASKO) presenting the ASKO lucky door prize – a wine climate cabinet valued at RRP $14,999.

On Wednesday evening, Paralympic tennis and basketball player, Dylan Alcott AO took to the stage to share some pivotal moments in his life, including how he has overcome adversity, and how the appliance and bathware industries can be more inclusive through accessible design. 

Harvey Norman Commercial Victoria director, Glenda Bailey said the event was also an opportunity to re-launch the Selection Centre.  

“We had completed our Selection Centre at the end of 2019 but shortly after, because of Covid, we had to close down for nearly two years, so for us this is our beginning again,” she told Appliance Retailer. 

Gabriele Flisi (Smeg) with the new Smeg Linea Neptune Grey induction cooktops.

“After all of this time, we are launching the Selection Centre again with our suppliers and clients to share and enjoy the space together. The reaction we have received has been ‘Wow this is an amazing space’ which is great. Even though some might have visited before, they have not seen how it has been rejuvenated – right through to the Hollywood-style lights out the front for this event.  

Glenda Bailey (HNCV) and Yves Dalcourt (Miele).

“Everyone has enjoyed coming here to see people they have not caught up with for a while and to look at the latest new products. I challenged every supplier to make sure that their display features the best products available and they have done just that.”  

Kurt Hegvold (Electrolux), Scott King (HNCV) & Hass Mahdi (Electrolux).

Electrolux managing director for Australia and New Zealand, Kurt Hegvold said, “Glenda and the team are very important to Electrolux. The way that Glenda is running the Victorian Harvey Norman Commercial business is outstanding and we are seeing phenomenal growth in partnership – it is extremely important for our entire business across all brands from Vintec, AEG, Electrolux and Westinghouse – they are a key player in our growth strategy, and we are thrilled to be a part of a wonderful event and the venue is absolutely stunning.”

Leon Wolf preparing coffee for guests on the La Pavoni machine.

Smeg general manager – professional division, Leon Wolf said, “La Pavoni is on show for the first time in front of the design community and to get into the specifications of new café builds – so it is a great opportunity to get in front of the right people and showcase the brand in a new way.

“The commercial side of the business is performing well and hospitality is still in growth – there is a great pipeline of new projects providing us with the ability to sell cooking, coffee and cleaning products into new commercial projects. We are seeing smaller footprint coffee machines going into restaurants and bars but we are seeing growth in hotel chains that are undertaking big refits in time for events such as the Olympics in Brisbane in the near future.”

Feature image: HNCV general manager, Ashley Chen and director, Glenda Bailey.