Harlow firms prepare for annual business exhibition

LOCAL firms looking to promote their services and budding entrepreneurs keen to forge new contacts are being advised to visit next week’s Harlow Business Exhibition.

Following the success of the town’s first dedicated business event last year, the organisers of Tuesday’s gathering are confident it will be even bigger with extra trade stands and a series of seminars running throughout the day.

The exhibition is the idea of Harlow & District Chamber of Commerce vice-chairman Ian Hudson, Dave Smith of website thebestofharlow, NatWest business manager Khaled Khan and Mick Granger of The Blue Group (pictured right).

"We have more than 80 companies booked in for the business stands this year and anticipate over 500 people to attend," said Mr Granger.

"After the success of last year’s exhibition we know that this year will be even better and hope that as many people as possible will come down to see how it can benefit them.

"It is a completely free event which is ultimately about putting Harlow on the map and strengthening the local economy for future generations to come."

Harlow MP Robert Halfon, who has been invited to open the exhibition, described it as one of the most important days of the year for businesses in the area.

"Small businesses in the area are thriving right now and I only hope that we have many more events of this kind to encourage continued business investment in the area."

Louise Oliver of exhibition promoters SR Events added. "There is nothing else like this in Harlow so it really is an invaluable opportunity for any local business people to meet others, network and hopefully pick up some new clients."

Entry to the exhibition, which runs from 10am-5pm at Harlow Stadium in Roydon Road, is free. Anyone interested in attending can register on the event website at www.harlowbusinessexhibition.co.uk or sign up on the day.

There will also be a car valeting service, funky casino and raffle in aid of Harlow Fields School and College.