Businesses from across the region had a chance to meet and network at the annual Check-In at Stansted Business Exhibition.
The expo, organised by the Stansted Airport Chamber of Commerce, took place on Thursday, June 29 at the the airport's Novotel Hotel.
The event was sponsored by London Stansted Airport, Uttlesford District Council, Global and Localiq, and was described as having a "real buzz" as businesses made connections.
Julie Budden, chair of the Stansted Airport Chamber, said: "I’d like to thank everyone who attended the expo – exhibitors, sponsors, suppliers, staff and visitors for making the event a fun, energetic and successful event.
"It was lovely to receive extremely positive feedback from exhibitors as they packed away their stands with a number already putting their companies down to sign up to next years expo."
The event attracted not only businesses from across Essex, but also from Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, London and Suffolk.
Daniel Burford, community engagement manager at Stansted Airport, said: "We were delighted to see Check-in at Stansted return to the Novotel and to see so many local businesses able to showcase their products and services to buyers.
"The event provided a great opportunity for exhibitors to network as well as learn and share best practice.
"With more than 12,000 employees across 200 companies, London Stansted is a key enabler of economic growth and productivity in the region, and we are committed to supporting local SMEs and businesses and ensuring they continue to benefit from our success."
At the event, a speed networking session was run in association with Glenys Chatterley from EBN (Effective Business Network), with an aim to make networking fun and informal.
Mind in West Essex was nominated as the charity of the year for the second year running, with just under £300 made in raffle donations on the day. Many raffle prizes were donated by the exhibitors.
Jade Bolton, fundraising coordinator at Mind in West Essex, said: "We are truly grateful to be chosen for a second year as Check-in Stansted's charity.
"All the funds raised at the Business expo will go towards our community projects and activities which supports the wellbeing and mental health of people in Uttlesford, Harlow and Epping Forest.
"Like last year, we've received fantastic product donations from local businesses as well as generous donations towards our raffle on the day.
"Thank you to everyone who supported us, your donation will help us to continue our vital projects.
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"Also, a huge thank you to Nicola and Julie at Check-in Stansted for choosing us as your charity."
Exhibitors and visitors also gave positive feedback about the event. Nicola Westcott from Westcott Wills, who exhibited for the first time, said: "There was a great buzz at #CIAS2023 and Westcott Wills enjoyed listening to people’s thoughts on our fun quiz!
"It was my first time exhibiting at CIAS, and I will definitely be back next year."
Next year's Check-In at Stansted business expo is planned to take place on Thursday, June 27, 2024.
To book a stand email Julie Budden at julie@check-in-stansted.com.
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