The second of this year’s Small Business Fairs was held in Andover High Street on Friday, 19 June and was heralded a success by those who took part.
If we could, we would attend a small business fair every week, said Peter Sherwood-Clarke from Cooking2Cooling. There is a really good small business network in Andover and the support we get from other small businesses at events such as these is overwhelming. It’s a double whammy, support from your peers and open access to customers that would normally cost you hundreds or thousands of pounds to reach, just for a tenner – bargain!
Sarah Blocksidge of Bodyzone 24 agrees;
It is a fabulous way of getting your name out in to the community and networking with other local businesses. We have already gained new clients.” Amongst the other 20 businesses attending the fair were The Body Shop at Home, Valley Leisure, Barker Son & Isherwood and Tapin Tyres.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Ian Carr said;
The business fairs help to make Andover High Street a vibrant and attractive place to come to for locals and visitors alike. You never know what new business or trade that you may come across. “For small businesses it helps them to grow their market and reach more people at low cost, as well as network with other likeminded business owners.
Natalie Bryden of Martial Art World supports this view;
The Andover Business Fair is a great opportunity to liaise with other local businesses in order to promote a business within the heart of the local community. With the fair located in Andover town centre many local residents visit the stalls whilst carrying out their errands.
The next Small Business Fair will be held on Friday 11 September, 2015. If you are a local business that is interested in finding out more, or would like to reserve a pitch for just £10, please contact Heather Whittam: hwhittam@testvalley.org.uk