New name, same commitment

Specialised Exhibitions has changed its name to Montgomery Group Africa as part of consolidating the company’s regional divisions under a unified management structure. The rebrand brings together operations across South, East, and West Africa under a single organisational structure.

“This transition is more than a name change – it’s a reflection of where we’re headed. By bringing our teams together under one identity, we’re building the clarity, strength, and agility needed to grow with purpose across all regions,” says Gary Corin, who continues as MD following the transition to Montgomery Group Africa.

“By simplifying structures and aligning leadership under one cohesive vision, Montgomery Group Africa will enhance collaboration, improve resource allocation, and enable faster decision-making. This transformation will not only strengthen support for regional teams but also unlock greater opportunities for innovation, consistency, and long-term growth across all markets,” adds Corin.

“This move marks a significant milestone in the company’s evolution – building a stronger foundation to better serve clients, empower teams, and deliver lasting impact in the communities in which we operate.”

Celebrating 130 years in 2025, Montgomery Group is the UK’s longest-running independent events organiser. A fifth-generation family-owned business, its portfolio includes over 50 events and co-locates across 15 countries, with a team of more than 150 event professionals.

“Montgomery Group has proudly organised events across Africa since launching Specialised Exhibitions in South Africa in 1968,” notes Damion Angus, Group MD and chairperson of Montgomery Group. “Since then, the Montgomery presence has expanded to include events in Botswana, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Zambia, Libya, and Zimbabwe – alongside our well-established portfolio of trade exhibitions throughout South Africa.

“Bringing the full African events portfolio under Montgomery Group Africa supports the vision of an ambitious new phase of growth across the continent. We have strong, experienced teams in every region who are energised by the opportunities this consolidation unlocks.”

The move will see Propak Africa, Propak Cape, Propak West Africa, and Propak East Africa leading as the largest packaging, plastics, print, food processing, and labelling exhibitions across Africa. East Africa’s principal event for the security, fire, and safety industry – Securexpo and its co-locates – will complement a growing portfolio including Securex Expo, A-OSH Expo, Facilities Management Expo, and Fire Expo – hosted annually in Johannesburg and launching for the first time in Cape Town in October.

Corin, MD for South Africa, has additionally taken on the role of MD for West African events. Angela Kinyua continues to lead as MD of the East African events.

“Our locally based marketing team is leading the rollout of the Montgomery Group Africa brand across the African region,” says Corin. “This includes overseeing all marketing communications and collateral development. The team is working closely with our East and West African marketing teams, drawing on their valuable regional insight and experience to ensure a consistent and impactful brand presence across all markets.”

The name change does not affect daily operations. Registered business entities in each region remain unchanged, and all current invoicing and banking details will continue as usual.