Popular Glasgow venue celebrates record-breaking 40th year
The popular Glasgow venue has seen unparalleled growth in visitor numbers, revenue, and event diversity.
In the 2024–2025 financial year, the SEC hosted 50 exhibitions, with 14 new events added to its most diverse portfolio of events to date.
Read more: Talented singer-songwriter announces Glasgow gig
The venue also reached record levels of new revenue, driven by a 430 per cent year-on-year increase in new business, contributing to a 35 per cent rise in turnover and a 28 per cent uplift in gross profit.
Highlights of the year included 'Beyond Van Gogh', the SEC's longest-running event at 47 days, which captivated 50,000 art lovers with its immersive experience.
Beyond Van Gough (Image: Supplied)
Beyond Van Gough (Image: Supplied)
The global fitness competition, HYROX, brought 40,000 competitors and supporters to Glasgow, with plans set to expand in the years to come.
The UK's largest renewable and low-carbon energy exhibition and conference All-Energy reached a new milestone, achieving its biggest edition to date.
The SEC also hosted events of cultural significance, such as the Titanic Exhibition, which highlighted Glasgow's historic connection to the ship, and the Halal Food Festival, which engaged both the local Muslim community and foodies from across the city.
Dan Thurlow, director of exhibitions at the SEC, said: "This has been an extraordinary year for events at the SEC.
Dan Thurlow (Image: Supplied)
"We've not only welcomed back some of our most successful exhibitions but also introduced exciting new shows that reflect the evolving interests of our visitors.
"Glasgow's accessibility, combined with the SEC's world-class facilities, continues to make it a premier destination for event organisers and attendees alike.
"As we approach our 40th anniversary, we're stronger than ever, and we're excited to build on this momentum in the year ahead."
The SEC's success is further emphasised by its commitment to sustainability, with the venue achieving Gold Standard in Green Tourism and implementing initiatives like its Sustainable Food Strategy.
Gareth Rapley, portfolio director for energy and marine at RX Global, organisers of All Energy, said: "The SEC has been an outstanding partner in helping us maintain our position as the UK's leading renewable energy event.
"Their support, combined with Glasgow's accessible location, has enabled us to attract a diverse audience from over 80 countries to date.
"The extension of our partnership announced earlier this year is a testament to the strength of their offering."
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