Getting to know you

VISITORS from Spain and the Czech Republic gave an international flavour to Littlehampton Business Partnership s to Know You exhibition.

But while the visitors will leave these shores with a good impression of the range of businesses in the area, the exhibition was all the more valuable for the links built up on the home front.

Around 40 companies and other organisations took up the opportunity to promote themselves and find out more about their partnership colleagues.

All set up stands at Littlehampton Community School and, for more than three hours, the hall was buzzing with activity and conversation.

"It was a very successful event," said partnership co-ordinator Jane Cammiade.

"People were pleased to be taking part in an event involving local businesses, unlike many exhibitions when they are from all over the country.

"The atmosphere was much more relaxed, too, with the emphasis on friendship and working together, rather than just competing and closing deals.

"I think people were surprised by the diversity of business activity in this area, from small manufacturing and established industries to high-tech firms providing internet services."

As well as the companies, exhibitors included Arun Council for Voluntary Service, Arun Counselling Centre, the Education Business Partnership and other support agencies.

The full story can be found in the Gazette, December 6.