Southend Council is launching the city’s first-ever Southend Business Show 2026 this September.
The event will bring businesses, residents and partners together to drive growth and create new opportunities across the local economy.
Taking place on Thursday 17 September 2026, from 9.30am to 3.00pm at the Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre (Freedom Leisure Centre), the show will be one of the city's flagship business events, celebrating Southend;s ambition and economic strength and creating new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Designed as a high-energy, inclusive platform, the expo will showcase the strength and diversity of Southend's business community - from micro-enterprises and start-ups to major employers - while connecting organisations to local supply chains, skills, and talent.
Visitors can expect a vibrant programme of networking, workshops and exhibitions, including a session led by Sales Geek's Lisa Ansell on standing out in a competitive market, and facilitated networking hosted by Networking Essex.
The event is open to both businesses and residents, offering a unique chance to discover local opportunities, build connections and engage with the city's thriving economic ecosystem.
Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, Music and Tourism, said: "The Southend Business Show is a powerful celebration of everything that makes our city's economy vibrant, diverse and ambitious.
"By bringing businesses of all sizes together with residents, partners and investors from all sectors, we are creating real opportunities for collaboration, innovation and growth.
"This event reflects our commitment to supporting local enterprise, strengthening skills and ensuring Southend continues to thrive as a dynamic place to live, work and do business. Thank you to our sponsors and all the businesses taking part."
Sponsored by local partners
The event is made possible through the generous support of leading local sponsors:
- Muddy Wood
- Surgical Holdings
- BTMK
- Formara Print and Marketing
- Dedman Gray
- Azets
Supported by Freedom Leisure Centre, Southend Leisure & Tennis Centre
Businesses, residents and partners are all invited to attend and be part of Southend's premier business showcase.
Book your place today and spread the word.
Event details
Date: Thursday 17 September 2026
Time: 9.30am to 3.00pm
Venue: Freedom Leisure Centre, Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre, Eastern Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 4FA