Nearly two dozen South Surrey and White Rock business owners took part in the 2011 Small Business Trade Show Friday.
Organized by the South Surrey White Rock Chamber of Commerce, the noon to 7:30 p.m. event was created as an opportunity to network, learn about local shops and services and showcase. It followed a series of “elevator-pitch” training seminars that were offered to chamber members.
Doug Hart, interim executive director of the chamber, said the effort was the first trade show held at the White Rock Community Centre. It drew “a good cross-section” of White Rock and Surrey businesses, he said.
“We want to try and start doing new things,” Hart said.
For Jaynee McKenzie, the trade show was an opportunity to help promote a fitness business, Trainers, and her boyfriend, who is a trainer. As well, it was a chance to see what is available in the local community.
“It’s so nice, just networking with other businesses,” McKenzie said. “It’s really neat to see what our city offers.”
David Roberts was on hand promoting the Whitecaps. He lauded the trade show’s “grassroots community feel.”
Jacquie Lougheed, with Birdies & Buckets, said she appreciated the training seminars as they offered a “chance to bring up your skills.”
“I got energized for new ideas,” Lougheed said.
The trade show is anticipated to become an annual event.