SARCDA Celebrates Half a Century in Business

In 2018, SARCDA celebrates its 50th anniversary – a remarkable milestone, which cannot be claimed by many in an industry which tends to see exhibitions come and go as trends change.

SARCDA exhibitions were conceived in 1968 by the Community Pharmacist Sector of the Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa, which still owns SARCDA Exhibitions today. Initially, SARCDA offered gifts, toys and décor items to pharmacies seeking to boost their “front-of-house” sales. Over the past five decades, the exhibitions have become South Africa’s only retail, gift, toy, décor and design trade shows, catering for the broader retail trade industry. One of the cornerstones of SARCDA’s success has been its strict trade-only policy, which necessitates that buyers verify their trade status before being admitted to its exhibitions. SARCDA Christmas, takes place in August each year; occupies 17500 m² of space; and attracts over 400 exhibitors and 10000 buyers. SARCDA International is the smaller of the two exhibitions, occupying 10500m² of space; and attracting some 200 exhibitors and … buyers. Both exhibitions take place at Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand. Contact: SARCDA