SINGAPORE – Reed Exhibitions subsidiary ReedPOP! claims the first Singapore Toys, Games And Comic Convention to be run under its management is on course to hit forecast targets.
The organiser claims the three-day event, which ended 12 December, drew more than 21,000 paying visitors by the end of Saturday, despite charging them entry for the first time. The annual event, now in its third year, was held at the Suntec Convention Centre and was initially hoped to attract around 30,000 to 45,000 visitors.
Despite charging an entrance fee for the first time - SGD$15 (US$11.5) per visit, or $25 for a three-day pass, toy and comics fans appear not to have been deterred.
Vice-president of business planning and development at Reed Exhibitions, Paul Lee, said the local market is showing an increased interest in comics, games and toys, adding that the decision to charge enabled Reed to give the fans what they want.
"It's a huge investment on our part. This is like a relaunch of the show. We want to become like San Diego Comic Con really quickly, so that the ultimate pop culture experience in Asia can be felt right here in Singapore," he said.
