Mr. Khalid Mansoor, Chairman Karachi Chapter talks to Engineering Post
The Pakistan HVACR Society managed to host another landmark edition of its annual HVACR Expo and International Conference, an event that has become the most influential platform for the heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration industry in Pakistan. In an exclusive interview with Engineering Post, Khalid Mansoor, Chairman Karachi Chapter, Pakistan HVACR Society, shared insights into the scope, vision, and strategic importance of the upcoming expo.
The PHVACR Expo is widely recognized as a comprehensive industry showcase, bringing together leading HVACR companies from across Pakistan as well as international manufacturers and solution providers. “This expo has grown into a truly global platform where local and foreign companies exhibit their latest products, technologies, and innovations,” said Khalid Mansoor. He explained that alongside the exhibition, the society also organized an international conference, which plays a crucial role in technical knowledge-sharing and professional development within the sector.
This year’s event revolves around the theme MEP Retrofit, a subject of increasing relevance for Pakistan’s built environment. According to Khalid Mansoor, the focus on retrofitting reflects the industry’s response to rising energy costs, sustainability challenges, and the need to upgrade aging infrastructure. “MEP retrofit is no longer optional. It is essential for improving efficiency, reducing operational costs, and ensuring compliance with modern standards,” he noted, adding that the conference sessions will address practical case studies, emerging technologies, and global best practices.
A notable change introduced this year is the shift in the event schedule. Traditionally held in June, the expo has been moved to February. Khalid Mansoor described this decision as both practical and strategic. “By shifting the expo from June to February, we are ensuring more comfortable weather conditions, which significantly improves the overall experience for exhibitors and visitors,” he said. “More importantly, companies now have more time on their hands to properly discuss, demonstrate, and showcase their products without the pressure of extreme temperatures.”
Karachi’s central role in the national HVACR ecosystem further enhances the importance of the expo. “All the major consultants and almost all major industries are located in Karachi, which is why this expo becomes critically important for everyone connected to the HVACR value chain,” Khalid Mansoor explained. The overwhelming response from the industry clearly reflects this importance. He revealed that when online booking for exhibition stalls was opened, all available stalls were booked within the first 20 minutes. “This response shows the level of trust the industry has in PHVACR Society and the value they see in this platform,” he said.
To ensure maximum footfall and industry participation, the organizing committee has adopted a multi-pronged marketing approach. “We are using billboards, social media, and other modern marketing tools to reach a wider audience,” Khalid Mansoor shared. He added that members of the organising committee are also in direct contact with exhibition teams across Karachi to ensure strong engagement from consultants, contractors, and industrial stakeholders.
Special emphasis is being placed on security arrangements, particularly for foreign delegates and exhibitors. “We are arranging foolproof security measures for international participants,” Khalid Mansoor stated. “In this regard, we are in close coordination with local security agencies, and proper escort, card access, and protocol vehicles have been arranged to ensure a safe and seamless experience.”
The strong industry backing, a timely and relevant theme, and enhanced organizational planning will definitely ensure the success of the expo.
