Manchester Central is celebrating its 40th anniversary as an events venue, having generated an estimated £2.6 billion for Greater Manchester's economy over the past four decades.
The venue has welcomed around 12 million visitors across more than 4,100 exhibitions, conferences and events since opening as the Greater Manchester Exhibition Centre (GMEX) in 1986.
According to Manchester Central, event delegates and visitors have helped deliver significant economic benefits to the city, with every £1 spent at the venue generating a further £6 in spending across Greater Manchester's hotels, restaurants and visitor economy.
Today, the venue attracts around half a million visitors each year and is estimated to contribute approximately £150 million annually to the regional economy.
Originally opened by Elizabeth II on 21 March 1986, the former Manchester Central railway station quickly established itself as one of the city's leading event venues. Over the years it has hosted everything from exhibitions and political conferences to concerts by Oasis, The Smiths, New Order, Tina Turner, U2 and Metallica, as well as television productions including The X Factor and Ninja Warrior UK.
It also played a key role during the 2002 Commonwealth Games before rebranding as Manchester Central Convention Complex in 2007.
To mark its 40th anniversary, Manchester Central is bringing back its Open House venue tours, giving members of the public the opportunity to explore the building's historic architecture, including its iconic vaulted arches and clock, while learning more about its 140-year history from members of the venue team.
Lori Hoinkes, chief executive of Manchester Central, said: "As Manchester Central celebrates 40 years of events, these figures provide an amazing insight into the tangible impact that the venue, its various output and its overall impact have had on not just the city itself but the local economy. The past four decades have seen us play host to thousands of events from all over the globe – and we can't wait to continue doing so for years to come.
"Our Open House tours are a great opportunity for locals, visitors, Manchester heritage fans and even those looking for a place to host their next event to get a closer look at this Manchester landmark. They're for everyone – and we can't wait to welcome people through our doors later this month."
Manchester Central's Open House tours will take place on Wednesday 29 July, with members of the public able to book free slots in advance. The venue is also encouraging visitors to share their memories using the hashtag #40YearsOfEvents.
