Exhibitors at this year's Australian Business Events Expo (ABEE) reported firm business deals, suggesting a growing confidence in the MICE industry.

"We'll definitely be converting solid business from the Expo this year. It has been a great experience for us," Staging Connections business development manager Tanya Brown said.

The expo, held at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre last week, attracted thousands, a result which many attribute to the MICE industry's recovery from the recent economic downturn.

"It's probably the busiest tradeshow I've seen," Doltone House business relationship manager Julie van der Weegen said.

"I think the market is really picking up and gaining momentum."

An enormous chandelier formed a centrepiece to the show and lured visitors from ABEE's neighbouring sister show, RSVP Sydney.

Visitors to both shows were encouraged to walk between ABEE and RSVP in an effort to bring the full spectrum of the events industry together.

ABEE will return to the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre on 10-11 August 2011.