More than 100 businesses came together under one roof for Southend's first-ever Business Show.
The inaugural event, held at the Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre (Freedom Leisure Centre), saw 108 exhibitors and over 300 delegates gather to celebrate the city's entrepreneurial spirit and growing reputation as a destination for investment and innovation.
Throughout the day, businesses, entrepreneurs, investors and support organisations connected with one another, sharing expertise, exploring partnerships and generating valuable new leads. The event highlighted the breadth of talent across the city and demonstrated the important role local businesses play in Southend's economy.
Building on the success of the Southchurch and Leigh-on-Sea Business Expos, the Southend Business Show expanded the concept citywide, bringing together organisations from across Southend and reinforcing the council's commitment to supporting enterprise, developing skills and creating the conditions for economic prosperity.
Cllr Matt Dent, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture, Music and Tourism, said: "With a total of 108 stalls, the event was a fantastic success. Bringing local businesses together in one place provided a valuable opportunity for them to showcase their work, make new connections and strengthen their networks.
"It was great to see such positive energy throughout the day. Although this was the first time the event had been held, I could certainly see it becoming an annual fixture in Southend's business calendar.
"People often think of Southend primarily as a seaside destination, but events like this demonstrated the incredible breadth and quality of businesses operating across the city. It showed that Southend is a place where entrepreneurs can start, grow and succeed in business."
Exhibitors from a wide range of sectors attended the event, reflecting the diversity of Southend's economy. Many praised the welcoming atmosphere, the quality of networking opportunities and the chance to engage with potential customers, suppliers and partners. Representatives also highlighted the value of meeting other local organisations, exchanging ideas and building new professional relationships.
A highlights video from the day can be viewed on YouTube.
The event was supported by local sponsors including Muddy Wood Projects Ltd, Surgical Holdings, BTMK, Formara Print and Marketing, Dedman Gray and Azets, whose backing helped make the city's first dedicated business showcase possible.
Following the positive response to this year's event, the Council's Economic Development team will review feedback from exhibitors and delegates as plans begin for an even bigger and better Southend Business Show in 2027.
We would like to thank all the businesses, partners and residents who helped make the inaugural event such a memorable occasion and who continue to contribute to Southend's dynamic and ambitious business community.