On 5th June, Sudbury Town Hall buzzed with activity as it hosted the annual Sudbury Business Expo from 3pm to 6:30pm. Preceding the main event, a lively speed networking session started at 1pm, bringing together 22 businesses and professionals. Each participant had the opportunity to engage with everyone in the room, fostering valuable connections.

Sponsored by Wayman and Long, with additional support from Generate Leads Online, Indigo Ross, and Polyspiral, the Expo was free to attend for visitors. Its primary goal was to facilitate in-person networking and collaboration among the local business community, a much-needed return to face-to-face interactions. Over 100 people attended, demonstrating the event’s significant draw.

The Expo featured three informative seminars:

1. Tim Teather, Economic Lead at Babergh: He discussed grants available for small businesses in the area. Teather remarked, "I'm thrilled to have participated in the recent Sudbury Business Expo. The speed networking sessions enabled us to connect with incredible new people and the stall allowed us to show the current business support and grant offering. It was a fantastic opportunity to share ideas, forge new partnerships, and strengthen existing relationships."

2. Justine Paul, Suffolk Market Events: She shared her experiences in running a business and highlighted the importance of markets to the local economy and community.

3. Peter Basford and Steve Chadwick, Business Growth Coach Network: Their engaging talk covered strategies for enhancing customer service and understanding why customers leave, providing attendees with actionable insights for business growth.

The Sudbury Business Expo, now in its sixth year, has become a cornerstone event for local businesses and professionals looking to connect, grow, and learn. The range of exhibitors was diverse, including digital marketing firms, printers, photographers, business consultants, hotels, solicitors, and virtual assistants to name a few.. Long-time participants such as Coversure, Polyspiral, and Wayman and Long were also present.

Having started its life at the TGS Conference Centre at Great Cornard, the Expo has been held at various venues, including AFC Sudbury and Stoke by Nayland Hotel, before finding its current home in the town centre. This central location has made the event more accessible and convenient for both businesses and clients. Over the years, the Expo has seen increasing footfall and longer attendee engagement, reflecting its growing impact and appeal.

The Expo was organised by thebestof Sudbury, led by Penny Wilby. With over 25 years of marketing experience and a decade at the helm of thebestof Sudbury, Penny has been instrumental in promoting local businesses and organising networking events. She is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM).

For businesses looking to get involved and benefit from the extensive networking and marketing opportunities provided by thebestof Sudbury, reaching out to Penny Wilby is highly recommended. Her expertise and dedication make her a valuable resource for any business aiming to grow its local audience.

For more information on future events and how to participate, contact Penny Wilby at thebestof Sudbury and join the hub of all things local in Sudbury.