The Brighton Business Show: Is it an expo or a conference?

The answer is simple: The Business Show is an expo for businesses based in or trading around Brighton and Sussex, and sometimes from even further away.

At the expo, you’ll make real connections with:

  • A wide variety of businesses all in one place
  • Face-to-face chats with key decision-makers
  • Real chances to find new leads and build partnerships

While it’s not exactly a conference, the show does include some key conference features like keynote speakers, seminars, and workshops.

Not only is the show an opportunity to meet and greet, it is a place where you can learn and expand your mind.

That means you get the best of both worlds:

  • The energy and opportunity of an expo
  • The insight and learning of a conference

Instead of sitting in sessions all day, you can dip in and out of expert-led talks, gaining valuable knowledge without missing out on networking and exhibiting.

Why Seminars and Speakers Matter

The seminar program isn’t just a side feature or a distraction.

These sessions:

  • Give you practical advice you can use right away
  • Offer new perspectives that challenge your thinking
  • Start conversations that keep going even after the talk ends

The speakers really help make the whole event special.

Start your day right by tackling unresolved conflicts

Before the expo floor opens, the day kicks off with a networking breakfast at the HB Restaurant.

During breakfast, Mia Neupauerova Shepherd will give an insightful talk called: Unresolved Conflict: The silent killer of organisational success.

Mia’s session addresses a challenge many businesses avoid: having difficult conversations.

She’ll share:

  • How unresolved conflict impacts wellbeing and performance
  • Practical ways to address issues early
  • How creating a culture of resolution helps both people and profits

It’s a powerful way to start your day, packed with essential advice.

Keynote session: 10:40am – 11:10am

Watch this space, we have an exciting speaker almost ready to be confirmed, with the session taking place in the Gap Solutions Lounge.

This session will:

  • Inspire and motivate you
  • Challenge the usual way of thinking
  • Set the tone for the rest of your day

Keynotes are always a highlight. They bring energy, fresh perspectives, and big ideas to the event.

Morning Seminar Sessions

11:30am – 12:10pm

“The Serious Business of Having Fun”

Speaker: Camille Pierson

Camille Pierson, founder of Float Spa in Hove, offers a fresh take on workplace performance.

Her session explores how:

  • Fun and laughter can boost productivity
  • Energy and connection lead to better results
  • Wellbeing is key to long-term success

With more than ten years of experience, Camille combines science, mindset, and real-life insights in a talk that’s practical and engaging.

12:30pm – 1:00pm

“HR Flexible Support to Take Your Business to the Next Level”

Speaker: Lynda Goncalves

Lynda Goncalves, Managing Director of Sussex HR, will explain the employment law changes coming in 2026.

This session covers:

  • Key legislative updates your business needs to prepare for
  • Practical steps to help you stay compliant
  • Action plans to protect and future-proof your business

If you run a business, this session is a must.

Afternoon Seminar Session

1:20pm – 2:00pm

“Changing Our Shocking Behaviour – One Bra at a Time”

Speaker: Jenny Legg

Jenny Legg, founder of Training Legs First Aid and the Bra Off Defib On campaign, gives a powerful and memorable session about how removing a bra could save a woman’s life.

This talk highlights:

  • The hesitation people feel when responding to cardiac arrest in women
  • Why this delay can cost lives
  • How awareness and training can change outcomes

It’s engaging, eye-opening, and very important, all delivered in Jenny’s unique style.

Expo and speakers: the best of both worlds

So, is the Brighton Business Show an expo or a conference?

At its core, it’s an expo, but with top-notch speakers, insightful seminars, and a networking breakfast, it also offers the depth and value of a conference.

You can learn, connect, and grow, all in one place.

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