The 26th Expert Annual Trade Show took place on Wednesday, 5 August 2026, at Emperor’s Palace in Gauteng, bringing together more than 400 visitors and 80 exhibitors for a day focused on innovation, collaboration, business and connection.
With this year’s theme, “Connections Matter,” the event highlighted the relationships that drive the appliance, electronics and furniture industries forward. Expert South Africa, the country’s largest independent buying group, once again provided a platform for suppliers and retailers to meet face-to-face, strengthen partnerships and explore new opportunities.
Bringing the Industry Together
The Trade Show brought suppliers, Expert and independent retailers together under one roof. Exhibitors showcased the latest products and innovations across:
- Hi-Tech, TV & AV
- Major & Small Appliances
- Mobile & IT
- Gaming
- Furniture, Outdoor & Bedding
Beyond the products on display, the real value of the event was in the conversations, discussing market trends, discovering new products, exploring business opportunities and finding solutions for the evolving retail environment.
Welcoming New Suppliers
The support of Expert’s supplier partners was central to the success of the 2026 Trade Show. We were particularly pleased to welcome 20 new suppliers to the event, bringing fresh brands, products and opportunities to our dealers.
With 80 exhibitors participating, retailers had the opportunity to connect directly with leading brands, discover new products and strengthen existing supplier relationships.
Suppliers also contributed more than R100,000 in prizes, adding to the excitement of the day.
What set this year apart was the strong alignment with future-forward values
Best Stand Awards
The Trade Show also recognised exhibitors who went the extra mile to create engaging and memorable displays with the Best Stand Awards.
Congratulations to our winners:
- Small Exhibit: DNA Health
- Medium Exhibit: Wahl
- Large Exhibit: Samsung
Their creativity, presentation and attention to detail helped bring the Trade Show floor to life.
Rewarding Business
The Expert Trade Show Incentive gave dealers an additional reason to make the most of the event. The 18 dealers with the highest overall value of orders placed during the incentive period will win a four-night, all-inclusive trip for two to the five-star Trou Aux Biches Beachcomber Golf Resort & Spa in Mauritius.
Two Expert dealers also won a trip to China, compliments of Haier, giving them the opportunity to experience the country’s technology and innovation landscape first-hand.
More Than a Trade Show
“Connections Matter” was more than a theme, it reflected the foundation of Expert’s success. Strong supplier partnerships provide access to innovation and competitive products, while strong relationships between Expert, its dealers and their customers create the trust and opportunities that help independent retailers thrive.
With more than 400 visitors, 80 exhibitors, new suppliers, exciting products and a day filled with meaningful conversations and opportunities, the 2026 Expert Annual Trade Show celebrated the strength of the Expert network.
As the industry continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: we are stronger when we connect.Because in business, in retail and in relationships, Connections Matter.
