Three days before the official General Election campaigning began the Rt Hon Michael Fallon MP and Secretary of State for Defence opened the West Kent B2B at the River Centre, Tonbridge. Welcomed by the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Mr Fallon, who is the MP for Sevenoaks, began his campaigning early telling the capacity conference room how a Conservative Government would continue to help businesses in the local area to succeed.
Prior to the event Mr Fallon commented on the importance of business networking exhibitions and conferences such as the West Kent B2B, “Businesses in Kent are making a major contribution to our growing economy and creating jobs for local people. But there is more to do to help firms whether it is to start exporting or to harness the potential of technology to move into new markets. I’m delighted that West Kent B2B is leading the way in identifying barriers to growth and offering practical steps to help boost the local economy.”
Full conference and exhibitor programme
Following the official opening David Taylor took to the stage to talk about the ongoing challenge facing all businesses in todays’ society. With 5 generations living in the UK ranging from veterans to Generation Z, businesses more than ever need to be able to market across these audiences and David’s speech offered the audience some insights into how to manage this. Hilary Steel and Justin Urquhart Stewart also took keynote speeches and the day enjoyed a range of workshops that were specifically curated for the West Kent business community.
Over 60 exhibitors were showcasing their products and services – with new and returning exhibitors to the show the exhibition halls were kept busy.
A great day for West Kent businesses
The event, which is sponsored by Caxtons, chartered surveyors saw local, regional and national businesses attend. Jo James, Chief Executive, of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce commented, “I have spoken to many of the delegates and exhibitors and they have all had an amazing day. Making lots of new business contacts and learning through the speaker sessions and workshops. It really has been a great day for West Kent businesses and we look forward to returning in 2016.”
The Best of Kent Shows returns with the Kent B2B on the 7th July at Ashford International Hotel, Ashford. Now in its 29th year the Kent B2B is the longest running exhibition and conference in Kent. This year’s event will see keynotes from former Porsche & BMW MD Kevin Gaskell and Warren Knight’s Think #Digital First. The Annual Dinner, which takes place in the evening, will welcome Guy Browning as speaker offering wit and wisdom on “Office Politics – Seriously Funny”.