The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Business Expo once again underlined its status as a key fixture in the region’s business calendar, bringing hundreds of business leaders together for a celebration of connection, collaboration and opportunity.
Held at the University Arena in Worcester in October, the 2025 Expo welcomed more than 950 visitors and 150 exhibitors, transforming the venue into a vibrant showcase of enterprise from across both counties. For many attendees, it was not just a chance to be seen, but an opportunity to build relationships that would continue long after the stands were packed away.
From early-morning networking through to the final conversations of the afternoon, the Expo delivered access and meaningful engagement across the local business community. A networking breakfast set the tone, pairing informal conversation with relevant and interesting talks before the exhibition floor opened and the arena filled with a steady flow of entrepreneurs, decision-makers and business leaders.
Across the day, exhibitors reported strong footfall and high-quality conversations, with businesses of all sizes represented – from start-ups and micro firms to established organisations looking to strengthen their regional presence. Attendees explored a diverse mix of products and services, discovered potential new suppliers and partners, and took part in seminars and workshops led by
industry experts.
Post-event statistics show that every business attending made new connections, while 84% secured warm leads or direct sales – a clear endorsement of the Expo’s value as more than just a date in the diary.
For many, it was the organisation and atmosphere that stood out. Heather Westgate of We Are Marketing said: “Really impressed with the standard of the Expo. From a great networking breakfast with relevant and interesting talks to a full Expo, catching up with people and meeting new people.”
Darren Iley from AVE highlighted both the structure of the day and the content delivered, adding: “The Chamber of Commerce Business Expo was an exceptionally well run event. The team ensured that all delegates had many opportunities to connect with business leaders through a series of networking events and also delivered brilliant keynote speakers with inspiring stories linked to their business journeys. I can’t wait to visit again next year!”
First-time visitors also felt the benefit. Nicola Gossage from Cake-tastic said: “My first Expo and I loved it. Loads of happy attendees, and new connections made. Really well organised by the Chamber Team, and I can’t wait to return next year!”
Beyond individual success stories, the Expo offered a snapshot of the breadth and ambition of the local economy, with conversations on the exhibition floor reflecting shared challenges and opportunities across sectors and county boundaries.
Following the success of the 2025 event, the Chamber has confirmed that the Business Expo will return on 1 October 2026. The next edition will once again bring together businesses, entrepreneurs and community leaders for a full day of networking, learning and growth, continuing to celebrate and strengthen the region’s business community.
A range of exhibition options will be available, ensuring the Expo remains accessible to organisations at every stage of their journey. Pricing for Business Expo 2026 includes:
Double stand: £469 + VAT for members, £569 + VAT for non-members
Single stand: £269 + VAT for members, £369 + VAT for non-members
Charity stand: £199 + VAT
Micro stand: £199 + VAT
Food and drink stand: £49 + VAT
With strong attendance, measurable outcomes and positive feedback from businesses across both counties, the Chamber Business Expo continues to play a central role in connecting and supporting the regional business community – with October 2026 already shaping up to be another unmissable date.
