THE 2017 Big Bolton Business Expo turned out to be the biggest and most successful held so far by marketing and support organisation thebestofbolton.

Mr David Ramsden, from the organisation, said he was “delighted” with the event held at The Bridge Conference Centre in Bradford Street and that it surpassed the previous six Expos in scale and success.

“All the stands were sold several weeks before the event,” he stated. “On the day, there were 85 business exhibiting there, and we had more than 600 people pre-registered to attend,” he stated. “The atmosphere was terrific!”

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Lynda Byrne, and her Consort, Cllr John Byrne attended, visiting stands and talking to exhibitors. Ten local charities were also given the opportunity to exhibit free at the popular annual event.

Free teas and coffees were provided by Rijo42 along with pasties from Carrs Pasties and a welcome drink sponsored by Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme.

All visitors were given goodie bags and there was speed networking for exhibitors. The main sponsor was RBS and other sponsors were Bolton Tuition Centre, Fieldings Porter, Print Hub Design and Corner House Design and Print.

The event proved busy and successful for the companies there, making new contacts, customers and suppliers. As Sherrie Charlton from Bolton Tuition Centre stated: “There was a great, constant footfall and lots of interest.”

Asif Timol from Room Four Dessert commented: “Each Expo seems to get better and better!” And Chris Dawes from digital company Scruffy Monkey added: “We thought it was a great event. We are delighted with the business and opportunities generated.”

Stated Mr Ramsden: “The Expo demonstrates the vibrant business community that exists in Bolton and the hunger for events like this. It’s very satisfying to see so many successful businesses, and so many people keen to do business.”

Caption: VIP GUESTS – The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Lynda Byrne pictured at the Big Bolton Business Expo with, left, Gaynor Ramsden and, right, David Ramsden from thebestofbolton