Isle Of Wight Chamber’s Business Expo In Ryde Hailed A Sunny Success

More than 60 exhibiting businesses and hundreds of visitors took part in IW Chamber’s Business Expo yesterday (Wednesday), held at Ryde School.

The business networking event has been hailed as a huge success, with a record number of exhibitors and attendees.

Sponsored by WightFibre, the event is a landmark day in the business community calendar, providing informal high-quality networking, with free entry, open to all.

This year’s event saw Expo relocate to the grounds of Ryde School, with more than 60 Island businesses taking stands in a specially erected marquee.

The venue proved a hit with exhibitors and attendees alike, with excellent facilities and food provided.

Steven Holbrook, IW Chamber’s Chief Executive, said:

“The sunny weather was the icing on the cake for an already buzzing event.

"We saw a steady stream of visitors across the day and we know that people stayed for longer this year.

"It was great to see so many new faces and new businesses choosing to exhibit this year."

Attendees were able to chat to businesses from a wide range of Island businesses and organisations, from the local authority to corporate service providers, technology firms, media, transport, food and drink, hospitality and the charity sector.

WightFibre’s Chief Executive, John Irvine, spoke at the opening of Expo, saying:

“We want to support the Island community, including the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, which is a not for profit organisation.

"Our sponsorship helps the Chamber to make Expo a bigger event and to reach more people.

"It’s a great day for the business community.”