Southampton entrepreneurs unite for region’s largest business expo

The Hampshire Business Show is set to return to The Utilita Bowl (formerly Ageas Bowl) in Southampton for its fifth year on Thursday, October 24.

This year’s main event sponsor is Zappie, a Southampton-based business telecommunications company.

Led by 25-year-old Jamie Pidgley, Zappie is among the fastest growing telecoms firms in the UK, boasting a turnover of over £4 million in its first 18 months.

The company has recently employed 50 local individuals and supports around 400 businesses.

Josh Mitchell, the founder of The Hampshire Business Show, is also a local entrepreneur. He launched the event in 2019 to connect businesses from across the region.

Josh expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership with Zappie, stating: “We are very excited to announce our partnership with Zappie for The Hampshire Business Show.

“This event is dedicated to offering a platform where local businesses can connect, network, and discover solutions to their challenges. Zappie’s rapid rise is a testament to their exceptional service, and we are proud to collaborate with them in showcasing the best of our local business community.”

Jamie Pidgley shared his excitement as well, saying: “Zappie is thrilled to be part of the Hampshire Business Show, a premier B2B expo that highlights the strength and innovation within our local business community.

“Being based in Southampton, we are deeply connected to the dynamic economic landscape of Hampshire.

“This event offers us an invaluable opportunity to meet other businesses. We are excited to contribute to and grow alongside the vibrant business ecosystem here in Southampton.”

The Hampshire Business Show will feature 100 exhibitors and expects to welcome around 800-1,000 attendees. Previous keynote speakers have included prominent figures such as Baroness Karren Brady of “The Apprentice,” Mark Wright, the winner of “The Apprentice,” and Jenny Campbell from “Dragons’ Den.”

Josh highlighted the event’s impact, saying: “HBS is a place where B2B businesses from across the region come to do business. We are proud of the many stories we hear of new client/supplier relationships and collaborative relationships which are born as a result of the show.”

Free tickets for the show can be booked at www.hampshirebusinessshow.com.