As the 2010 holiday season fast approaches, the tourism industry in Torbay is being invited to attend a special exhibition aimed at boosting business over the coming months. The event follows the success of the 2009 Tourism Exhibition and Briefing, but this year there is an added bonus: Marketing Solutions, organisers of the South Devon Business Exhibition, are collaborating with the English Riviera Attractions Partnership to introduce a combined tourism and business exhibition, in association with the Federation of Small Businesses, the English Riviera Tourist Board and the Riviera International Centre.

The inaugural South Devon Business and Tourism Exhibition will take place on Thursday 18th March at the Riviera International Centre, from 10am until 5pm. The event follows an informal “drop in, drop out” format, with various business-related seminars taking place throughout the day including, at 11am, tourism-specific strategy updates from Tourism Project Manager Carolyn Custerson and Marketing Manager Georgina Bowen from the English Riviera Tourist Board.

Tourism delegates will be provided with the perfect opportunity to network with colleagues, find out what’s new for 2010 from local attractions and pick up a programme on forth-coming events. The Arena will host stands from bay-wide businesses including specific hospitality-related companies offering advice for accommodation providers.

Georgina Bowen, Marketing Manager at the English Riviera Tourist Board, said “The combined exhibition gives us an exciting opportunity to collaborate with South Devon businesses and stage a constructive and vibrant event in support of the tourism trade on the English Riviera. This shows a positive direction for business in the bay.”

Entry to the event is free of charge for tourism representatives, with lunch and a parking pass included free for those who pre-register. Places can be booked by emailing Lydia Stone at the English Riviera Tourist Board at lydia.stone@torbay.gov.uk.
There are also opportunities available for businesses wishing to exhibit at the event and showcase what they have to offer the industry. A booking form can be requested from Jenny Thompson at the Riviera International Centre on 01803 206307.