Inaugural ABE Expo South West to Take Place in September in Bristol

A new fixture is set to join the UK’s professional event calendar this autumn as the Aesthetics Beauty Education (ABE) Expo South West prepares for its inaugural launch. Scheduled for 17-18 September 2026, the two-day event will be hosted at Ashton Gate Stadium, positioning itself as a strategic hub for the region's expanding wellness and clinical sectors.

The expo is the brainchild of entrepreneur Hayley Azzopardi, who developed the concept after identifying a significant gap in the regional market for a high-calibre, multi-disciplinary professional gathering. Unlike traditional trade shows, the ABE Expo aims to bridge the gap between the medical, aesthetic, beauty, and education sectors through a programme of technical demonstrations and peer-to-peer networking.

With Bristol increasingly recognised for its health-conscious community, the choice of venue reflects a move to decentralise industry access from London. The event expects to host over 1,000 visitors and more than 90 exhibitors, providing local businesses with direct access to national brands and technical advancements without the need for extensive travel.

The exhibition floor will feature a curated selection of skincare, injectables, aesthetic devices, and salon equipment. Complementing the commercial aspect, a dedicated conference will feature over 30 expert speakers covering clinical standards and business development strategies.

Commenting on the launch, CEO Hayley Azzopardi emphasised the importance of elevating standards across the regional landscape:

"The Aesthetics Beauty Education Expo is set to redefine the South West's aesthetic and beauty landscape. This ABE Expo brings together the aesthetic and beauty sectors in a spirit of collaboration, innovation, and shared growth. With a focus on modern advancements, it shines a spotlight on the South West, creating meaningful opportunities for local businesses to connect with high-calibre brands and solutions. By making leading innovations more accessible, the expo supports professionals across the region in integrating elevated standards, products, and practices into their everyday working environments and clinics."

Event Highlights

  • Technical Education: A two-day conference featuring leading voices in aesthetic medicine and beauty services.

  • Networking: An exclusive VIP networking party on the evening of Day 1 and a dedicated lounge for professional collaboration throughout the event.

  • Awards Ceremony: The second evening will conclude with an awards ceremony held in the Ashton Gate hall, celebrating excellence within the local industry.

The ABE Expo South West represents a calculated effort to unify the professional community, from medical practitioners and skin specialists to salon owners and educators. By fostering a collaborative environment, the event aims to drive sustainable growth and innovation within the region's professional beauty and clinical sectors.

Natalia Kulak