Sexpo aka The Sex Expo has rebranded for this year's instalment. Organisers say it remains hot, now more inclusive.
Sexpo, aka The Sex Expo, has a new name.
From this year’s instalment, the annual event will be known as The Love Expo.
It’s a move to circumvent censorship, allay prejudice from prudes and usher in a new look and feel of inclusivity, organisers said.
“After years of being called The Sex Expo and constantly fighting censorship from banned adverts to social media shutdowns, it became clear that the name itself was limiting how people saw us,” said spokesperson Sarah Dean.
“We weren’t being silenced because of what we did but because of what people thought we did.”
A rose by any name would smell as sweet. That’s what the bard, aka Shakespeare, told us in Romeo and Juliet. And that is what The Love Expo organisers are banking on. The naughty will be there, still. And then some.
Naughty will still be there
Dean said the name change marks a new era built around inclusivity, freedom and connection.
“Love is bigger and more inclusive than sex alone. It connects every one of us. The new identity represents vibrant energy, cheeky fun and unforgettable entertainment,” she said.
“The Love Expo still celebrates the same sense of openness and curiosity that made Sexpo famous. It’s just now framed through a lens that everyone can relate to.”
The change, she said, also reflects how visitors have changed.
“When we first started, it was seen as daring, something you whispered about. Now, it’s something you proudly post on social media about,” Dean said.
“Our visitors today are diverse, open-minded and curious. They come as couples, with friends, and even alone, knowing it’s a space that welcomes everyone.”
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Dean said that the name change has not altered the event’s purpose.
“It’s always been about authenticity and freedom. Love Expo gives adults a space to live freely and celebrate love in all its forms without fear or judgment. It’s not about pushing boundaries. It’s about removing unnecessary ones.” She added that the adult industry has also matured.
“It’s not just about pleasure anymore. It’s about wellness, confidence and connection,” she said. “People want to learn more about themselves and their partners. They want to understand intimacy, improve relationships and have fun doing it. The Love Expo reflects that change.”
Love Expo more inclusive
This year’s Love Expo plans to build on its successes while adding a soupcon of fresh.
“Visitors can expect spaces that celebrate every kind of love and identity, from body positivity and LGBTQ+ pride to conversations about confidence, communication and consent,” Dean said.
“We have carefully chosen our exhibitors and experiences to make people feel safe, inspired and empowered. Whether you’re single, in a relationship or simply curious, it’s about feeling at home.”
Dean said that more than half a million people have attended since the first show in 2007.
“It’s humbling to see how many South Africans have made it part of their social calendar,” Dean said.
“Every year the excitement builds, and every year we find new ways to surprise and delight people.”
Since its first instalment, Dean said she has seen a gradual change in attitudes toward sexuality amongst the public but also a healthy measure of criticism lingers.
“We’ve seen vandalised billboards, digital blackouts and even pushback from traditional media, which shows there’s still a conservative streak out there,” she said.
“But every year, thousands of people show up expressing who they are without apology. That tells a different story. The fact that this event continues to grow shows how far we’ve come.”
The Love Expo takes place from 28-30 November at Time Square in Pretoria.
