The event replicated the show’s London format, which has been developed over 106 years. EventCity provided 20,000 square metres of floor space to create the north-west England consumer exhibition.
More than 300 businesses exhibited over seven dedicated sections – interiors, home improvements, gardens, technology, food and housewares, shopping and woman. The show’s celebrity ambassadors, which included Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis and interior designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, were in attendance. BBC MasterChef judge Gregg Wallace also opened a pop-up restaurant within the venue.
The success of the show has meant it will revisit Manchester for a special Christmas event on 14-16 November, and will also return in 2015 on 5-7 June.
Lee Newton, managing director of Media 10, said: "We always knew Ideal Home Show at EventCity, Manchester, would be a success but the actual figures from the debut show have really blown us away. Both pre and on-the-door sales have performed above and beyond what we originally predicted, which is testament to the region and demand for quality events such as the Ideal Home Show.
"Initial feedback from both visitors and exhibitors has been hugely positive which we're extremely proud of given that this is the first time that we've attempted exporting Ideal Home Show to the north of England."
Andy Orr, managing director of EventCity, added: "Everyone at EventCity is immensely proud to have been part of the Ideal Home Show's success. The quality and range of exhibitors and the amazing theatres have all added up to give the huge attendance and an incredible experience."
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