Busy business expo in Portsmouth sees packed day of networking

The event took place at the Pyramids, in Southsea, yesterday.

Hundreds of people went to the day to join in, network and to listen to some of the expert guest speakers.

Organiser Matthew Larcome, from B2B Expos, said: ‘It has been busy. We have had 70 exhibitors at our fifth year.

‘We come back each year to give businesses in Portsmouth an event where they can come together, network and find out what other businesses in the area are offering.’

Exhibitors included representatives from hotels, such as the Marriott Hotel Portsmouth, law firms, solicitors like Large & Gibson in Southsea, recruitment agencies, PR businesses, security companies, and even drain unblocking businesses like Metro Rod, and many more.

One of the exhibitors was South Downs College. Joanna Mortimer and Jemma Hanley, business account managers, were talking to visitors about the courses on offer.

Ms Hanley said: ‘It’s been great. We’ve had lots of people to chat to. They have been keen to talk to us about how we can help with internal training and with hiring apprentices. This is the first year we’ve had a stand and it’s definitely been well worth it.’

Another exhibitor was Brian Langford, a business development executive, at Lucketts, a coach company in Fareham.

He said: ‘It has been exceptionally busy and very well organised. This is one of the best events of its kind. It is great to speak with the Portsmouth public.’

Robin Lander Brinkley, from Maxwell Communications, was using the event to network. He said: ‘It is great. It is the only Portsmouth event and it is important as it showcases the city’s businesses.’