Firms ready to ride out recession | Northland News | Local News in Northland

Northland businesses ended their first expo determined to ride out the global recession, organisers say.

More than 80 participants contributed to the overall success of the inaugural Northland Business Expo staged at the Kensington Stadium on Friday and Saturday.

Organisers Mitch and Shirley Weimer are ecstatic but exhausted after the expo.

"We are determined to build on the excellent foundations set this year. A thorough de-brief will ensure that positive changes are implemented so the 2010 expo brings even more quality business to Northland," Mr Weimer said.

The expo offered numerous opportunities to network, as well as quality seminars aimed at assisting in healthy business growth through various topics such as marketing, branding, investment, insurance, technology, sound business advice and many more, he said.

John Hewinson was the winner of the BizBooster Package valued at over $15,000, and spot prizes were drawn throughout both days of the event.

Logo Mojo, a silver sponsor of the Expo, received most awards, both People's Choice and the Overall Best Exhibit. Owners Lynn Render and Michael Jeeves are thrilled to have had the opportunity to be a part of the first Northland Business Expo.

"This is such an important event for the local businesses, which is why we wanted to be involved on a sponsorship level. To receive the awards was an incredible privilege for a new business such as ours and we would like to thank everyone for their support and making it possible," Mr Jeeves said.

Sudbury's came close second through its innovative approach and sophisticated gourmet Menu of Services with dishes such as Cashflow Chowder, Stir Fry Revenue and Flambe Strategic Flan.

Conex was the winner of the Most Original Stand Award, Waldron Financial Services took the Most Interactive Site Award, and First Mobile was voted the Most Inviting Site of the Expo.

The awards were presented at the Friday evening event, giving the added opportunity for networking among the exhibitors and their guests.

The expo is set to become an important annual date in Northland's business calendar, and the plans for an even better event are already in motion for 2010.