AEG Ogden to manage Pavilion at 2012 World Expo

Australian Pavilion Services (APS), an AEG Ogden subsidiary venture company, has been contracted to provide management services for the Australian Pavilion at the 2012 International Exposition in Yeosu, Korea.

The contract, issued by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will see APS provide day to day management services for the pavilion, and have the rights for the delivery of retail services including merchandise and food and beverage.

APS Director, Peter Loxton believes that an important part of the contract will be to maximise the quantity of Australian products for sale through the pavilion retail outlets.

Loxton, who has worked in management roles at previous Australian Pavilions including the 2005 World Expo in Japan and the 2010 World Expo in China, said the team was aware of the gravity of the task at hand and was looking forward to presenting Australia to the rest of the world, stating "Expos are about showcasing the best of what each country has to offer and the staffing and operations of the pavilion are an important part of that. We are aiming to provide a balance of relaxed, friendly, yet professional services reflective of the Australian culture."

AEG Ogden Chairman and Chief Executive Harvey Lister said his company was proud to be involved in showcasing Australia to the world, adding "there are few bigger events than a World Expo. AEG Ogden will utilise its venue management expertise in operating the Expo pavilion to enhance the presentation of Australia to a huge international audience.

"The Australian pavilion will become part of AEG Ogden's growing 'Family of Facilities' in the Asia Pacific region and will do us proud on the world stage next year."

A recruitment program seeking bilingual Korean and English speaking staff in Korea and Australia has already commenced, and, in association with Marie Claire magazine, a competition is being held for the design of the fabric to be used for pavilion staff uniforms.

The Yeosu Expo will run from 12th May to 12th August next year with the theme will be 'The Living Ocean and Coast' bringing countries together to share knowledge and technology concerning the ocean and coast, and highlighting its role as a resource and the importance of its preservation.

For more information about opportunities at the Australian Pavilion, visit www.expo2012.com.au