What to expect at the Brighton Business Expo (and how to prepare)

If you’re heading to the Brighton business expo, get ready for a lively day full of opportunities. Whether your goal is to find new leads, make connections, or boost your profile, a good business show can be valuable if you plan ahead.

Here’s what you can expect at the Brighton business expo, plus some practical tips to help you get the most out of your visit.

Insightful speakers

A major benefit of the Brighton Business Show is the chance to hear from a great line-up of inspiring speakers.

On the day, you’ll hear from speakers such as:

Mia Neupauerova Shepherd – exploring how unresolved conflict quietly impacts performance, culture, and wellbeing

Camille Pierson – showing how energy, wellbeing, and even fun can unlock better results at work

Lynda Goncalves – breaking down the upcoming 2026 employment law changes and what they mean for your business

Jenny Legg – delivering a powerful and eye-opening session on cardiac arrest response and workplace awareness

In addition to these sessions, the keynote speaker (to be announced) will offer even more inspiration and a new point of view.

Tip:

Look over the schedule before the event and pick out the sessions you don’t want to miss. This helps you balance learning, networking, and time at your stand.

The networking breakfast

One of the highlights of the Brighton expo is the networking breakfast, and it’s well worth attending.

This early session offers:

  • A more relaxed, less crowded environment
  • Quality conversations before the main event begins
  • The chance to meet exhibitors, speakers, and attendees on a more personal level

Many of the day’s best connections happen here.

Tip:

Get there early, bring your business cards, and prepare a quick introduction.

What to expect on the exhibition floor

The main expo floor is where things get busy. You’ll find:

  • A wide range of Sussex businesses (and some from further afield)
  • Service providers across marketing, finance, tech, and more
  • Opportunities to discover new suppliers or collaborators

You can expect a lively atmosphere, lots of conversations, and plenty of chances to meet new people.

Tip:

Don’t feel you have to talk to everyone. Focus on having a few good conversations instead.

Tips for making the most of the expo

1. Go in with a Clear Goal

Are you looking for leads, partnerships, or visibility?

Having a clear goal will help you stay focused all day.

2. Prepare Your Elevator Pitch

Be ready to clearly explain:

  • What you do
  • Who you help
  • Why it matters

3. Follow Up Quickly

The real value of an expo often comes after it’s over.

Send your follow-ups within a day or two, while the conversations are still fresh in everyone’s mind.

Tips for creating a stand that attracts attention

If you’re exhibiting, think of your stand as your shop window. First impressions really matter.

Keep It Clear and Simple

Visitors should instantly understand what you do.

Keep things tidy and focus on sharing one clear message.

Make It Visual

Use:

  • Bold branding
  • Simple graphics
  • Easy-to-read messaging

Keep in mind that people walk by quickly, so you only have a few seconds to catch their attention.

Be Approachable

It might seem obvious, but it’s easy to forget:

  • Smile
  • Stand up (don’t sit behind the table)
  • Start conversations

Have a Conversation Starter

Instead of “Can I help you?”, try:

  • “What brings you here today?”
  • “Are you looking to grow your business this year?”

This helps start a real conversation.

Offer Something Memorable

This could be:

  • A useful freebie
  • A short demo
  • A competition or giveaway

Give people something to remember you by after they leave.

Why the Brighton Business Expo is worth attending

Brighton’s business community is thriving, and the expo shows that energy. This isn’t just another event-you’re stepping into a space full of:

  • Ambitious entrepreneurs
  • Established local businesses
  • Decision-makers ready to connect

There are plenty of opportunities, but your success depends on how you prepare and your mindset.

Be ready

Plan your day, talk to the speakers, make the most of the networking breakfast, and approach each conversation with a clear purpose.

If you do these things, you’ll see real results from the show.

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