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The fourth annual Orillia and Lake Country Business Expo scheduled for Oct. 23, 2014, is already receiving an overwhelming response and registration is just beginning.
The event, which began as a business-to-business expo, has evolved over the years to include consumers; a growing number of which are consciously striving to use local business and services.
“Supporting our area small businesses is a win-win for the local economy,” said Laura Thompson, City of Orillia Economic Development Officer and member of the Expo’s organizing committee. “The event is a great opportunity for local businesses and consumers to network, connect, and hopefully create lasting partnerships.”
Last year’s Expo received an outstanding response and sold out early, with 106 participating exhibitors, 40 more on the waiting list and more than 800 Expo attendees. Feedback from the exhibitors had a 99 per cent satisfaction rate. Based on suggestions from last year, improvements to the 2014 Expo are underway, including the availability of two types of booth spaces, enhanced marketing to consumers and more sponsorship opportunities.
Organizing partners for the Orillia and Lake Country Business Expo include representatives from the Business Enterprise Resource Network (BERN), Orillia Area Community Development Corp. (CDC), Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Orillia District Chambers of Commerce, Chippewas of Rama First Nation, Townships of Oro-Medonte and Ramara, and the City of Orillia Economic Development Office, as well as business leaders Ken Forbes (Orillia Trim and Door) and Eleanor Tinney (Advantage InTravel).
Sponsors are quickly coming on board with commitments from Casino Rama, Orillia Bowl, Mann Financial, Meridian Credit Union, Barrie Automotive Flea Market, Effigy Design, Artech, Pixels and Print and Orillia Trim and Door.
“We are very excited to have Scotiabank sponsoring the exhibitors’ lounge again this year,” said Ken Forbes, chair of the Expo’s organizing committee. “The lounge is very unique to our show and allows exhibitors a space to network and engage in business-to-business promotion.”
Businesses can register for the Expo taking place at Casino Rama on Thursday Oct. 23 from 2 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Registration opened May 1 and forms are available at www.orilliabusinessexpo.ca. For more information contact Forbes at 705-329-1084 or by email at info@orilliatrim.com.
Photo Cutline: Laurie Neill of White Lions Tea House takes part in the interactive “Shop Local” display at the 2013 Orillia and Lake Country Business Expo
