New Expo event will unite business and power a brighter future

The Bay is set to come alive with the energy of the business, hospitality, and tourism sectors as Riviera Connect, a new business, tourism and hospitality 'Expo', takes place on October 3.

This exciting new event will be held at the prestigious Riviera International Centre in Torquay, offering a dynamic platform for professionals and entrepreneurs to come together, learn, network, and explore innovative business solutions.
Riviera Connect is a game-changer that aims to empower and inspire businesses, leveraging the power of collaboration to drive growth and success in the English Riviera area.
This not-to-be-missed event is organized by the well-respected Torbay Business Forum and the English Riviera BID company, both of which have a proven track record of hosting successful expos. By joining forces, they are bringing together the best of both worlds to create an unparalleled experience for attendees.
It’s very much in line with the Torbay Story, promoting the forward- thinking, positive and compelling story of our diverse range of local businesses uniting together.
One of the most exciting aspects of Riviera Connect which runs from 10am to 5pm, is its free admission and free parking, making it accessible to all. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a vast array of exhibitors, each showcasing their products, services, and innovative solutions for the business, hospitality, and tourism sectors. With a focus on fostering invaluable networking opportunities, Riviera Connect provides the perfect platform for professionals to connect, collaborate, and forge new partnerships.
Distinguished speakers from various industries will take the stage to share their insights and expertise, including a fascinating session on utilizing Artificial Intelligence for business growth. This keynote address by Insignia promises to shed light on the latest AI trends and how businesses can leverage this cutting-edge technology to gain a competitive edge.

From building a brand that thrives, and a guide to paid advertising by Bigwave Marketing, to staying legal in tourism and hospitality with Wollens, helping businesses effectively manage their eCommerce supply chain by Whilst, and growing your direct bookings with freetobook, this speaker programme is packed with invaluable information with something for all sectors. 
The expo will give the hospitality and tourism sector a chance to reflect on their 2023 summer season and use the business connections they have made and what they learn to implement new ideas to maximise 2024. This includes an update and insights from Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer of the English Riviera BID Company.
In addition to the captivating speakers, Riviera Connect offers a range of engaging workshops designed to equip attendees with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today's fast-paced business landscape. From unlocking the potential of LinkedIn for professional networking led by Vic Williams, Linked In trainer and host, to harnessing the power of TikTok for business promotion hosted by Bigwave Marketing, these workshops will provide practical strategies that can be implemented right away.
The Torbay Development Agency will be raising awareness of their economic development work. The event will include a new Enterprise Zone, with reduced price exhibition stands available to new businesses (criteria applies, see website for more details).
The event will also showcase various business support programmes available to Torbay businesses, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as part of the UK Government’s Levelling Up Agenda, including:  

Start-Up Torbay Delivered by TDA Business Advisor, Kim Thornton, the programme offers bespoke business support and looks to foster entrepreneurial spirit by giving people the confidence, skills, and practical advice they need to start a business or grow their existing business.  

IMPACT Torbay Delivered by innovation experts Studio Zao, the programme helps businesses and entrepreneurs to create new commercial opportunities through innovation. Participants can benefit from a wide range of initiatives designed to spark creativity and overcome challenges including hackathons, and accelerators. There are also opportunities for grant funding as part of this support.    

Make it Net Zero Torbay Led by manufacturing and business development experts SWMAS, the programme helps companies across Torbay to reduce costs, develop decarbonisation plans and work towards a net zero future. Participants can also benefit from a grant scheme designed to help businesses turn their plans into reality. They will also be administering grants to some businesses as part of the support they are offering.  

The organisers are proud to announce the esteemed sponsors who are supporting Riviera Connect, making this event possible. Leading the way as the Gold sponsor is Big Wave Media, a renowned marketing and creative agency dedicated to helping businesses thrive in the digital age. Their expertise and commitment to excellence make them the perfect partner for this ground breaking expo.

Joining them as Silver sponsors are the English Riviera BID company, Torbay Business Forum, enlighten HR, Insignia, Wollens, TDA, and South Devon College. These organizations have demonstrated their unwavering support for the local business community and have played a pivotal role in driving growth and innovation in the English Riviera region.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to our Bronze sponsors, Ocean BMW and Interline, for their valuable contribution and commitment to fostering business excellence in the English Riviera.
As the day draws to a close, Bays Brewery would like to welcome our visitors to have a drink and opportunity for some informal networking from 4pm.

The collaboration and support of these esteemed sponsors exemplify the spirit of Riviera Connect and highlight the collective effort to create an event that brings together the best minds and resources in the business, hospitality, and tourism sectors.

"We are thrilled to present Riviera Connect as the premier business expo in the English Riviera," said Kelly Widley of the English Riviera BID company. "By combining the resources and expertise of the Torbay Business Forum and the English Riviera BID company, we are confident that this event will be a catalyst for growth and collaboration within our vibrant business, hospitality and tourism community.
“We are very excited to be launching this new event in partnership with the Torbay Business Forum and look forward to seeing many tourism and hospitality businesses attending. It's going to be a great day,” said Carolyn Custerson.
“Riviera Connect’ is our exciting new EXPO, designed to bring businesses together from all sectors across Torbay and South Devon and showcase the best that we have to offer."

The Torbay Business Forum is extremely proud to be working in collaboration with the English Riviera BID Company to bring this event to life.” Steve Reynolds, chair, Torbay Business Forum.

Riviera Connect is not just an expo; it's an opportunity to connect, learn, and transform your business. Mark your calendars for October 3 and join us at the Riviera International Centre in Torquay. Admission and parking is free (remember to register), and the potential for growth is limitless.

For more information, book an exhibition stand (before September 22), to register your attendance, or book to listen to one of our speakers or attend a workshop, please visit