The very successful Expowest Cornwall took place from 3rd – 5th March, at the Royal Cornwall Showground, in Wadebridge, and over those three days more than 2700 buyers came to taste, test, sample and order the best that Cornwall has to offer. Over 150 exhibitors took this early season opportunity to display and demonstrate their wares to both regulars and new customers. One fifth of them have already rebooked, meaning that the 2016 show is 30% full already!
Changes for this year included improved catering facilities, live music, and new stands. Exhibitors showcased products covering the whole of the hospitality and catering market; from tableware and furniture, catering equipment and services, to coffee and speciality food products. With a friendly and relaxed feel, lots of business was done in a really positive and sociable atmosphere.
“It’s great to meet up with old and new suppliers and put faces to names rather than just talking on the phone or emailing and to actually see and taste products on offer. This was only our 2nd time at the show but again we found it incredibly useful, really informative and a great inspiration for the start of the season, met some really friendly helpful suppliers.” Amelia Mills, Spero’s Beach Cafe & Restaurant.
“Came back from @expowest_uk with some different ideas & some delicious new treats!! Looking forward to them arriving!” @butterbunbude.
“A great show, well attended as always and we have taken both orders and plenty of enquiries to follow up on. The enquiries have been of high quality and serious about their forthcoming projects. It is also a great opportunity to catch up with past customers and to get to know new ones”. David Moore, Barton Reed.
“Thank you @expowest_uk for organising a great show. A great way to do business #ourexpo” @PayrollSW.
“@expowest_uk Many congratulations on another great event! :-)” @AustellPrint.
“The show keeps us up to date allowing us to explore new developments, new products, new suppliers, and gives us a chance to discuss possibilities with suppliers and innovators”. Roger Fentem, Cornish Valley View B&B.
The Demo Area had a mix of presentations from professional chefs and business focused talks, and there was something for everyone. With demos from chefs such as Adrian Oliver from Margot’s Bistro, Steve Marsh from Greenbank Hotel, and experts such as butcher Gavin Roberts from Two Brothers Foods and Jamie Foster of Foster & Griffin Solictiors, there was plenty to entertain, and also to sample!
While always successful, Expowest Cornwall continues to innovate and is predicted to grow over the years to come. In the words of one visitor “My husband and I thought it was the best one we have been to.”
Next year’s show will run from 1st – 3rd March 2016. You can keep up to date with news about the show at www.expowestcornwall.co.uk or why not follow the show on Twitter at @expowest_uk, #ourexpo.