Observer Women in Business exhibition success

THE area's first Women in Business Exhibition was held at the Cooden Beach hotel on Friday, and the general consensus was that, despite torrential rain, it was a resounding success.

Organised by the Observer Group and sponsored by NatWest bank, the one day exhibition, designed to enable local women to showcase their business expertise, was supported by twenty six local companies.

The wide range of exhibitors taking stands and promoting their product range included estate agents, solicitors, hair and beauty treatment, cleaning contractors and mortgage advisors.

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In addition to the exhibitors display stands, a demonstration area, adjacent to the main exhibition, had a full programme of presentations by exhibitors throughout the day.

These included make up and hair demonstrations, cookalong with Pampered Chef, mortgage advice, life coaching, and advice on the property market.

Helen Usher of family run Hastings estate agents Stace & Co said most comments from the people who had visited the exhibition had been "really positive." And she had been happy to offer her professional advice for those worried about the current state of the housing market.

She said: "The current economic climate is tough at the moment but it's all about people's confidence. For some it's a great time to buy with the stamp duty being lower and the prices of some properties are up to thirty percent cheaper than they were previously."

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Janet Powell of H&H confectionery in Sackville Road said she had enjoyed meeting and talking to people about her business which she runs with husband Robin.

Robin and Janet make a lot of their products by hand on the premises.

She said: "This is the first time I've ever done anything like this and it's been really good. A lot of people have talked to me about what we do. The exhibition has a nice mix of stands, and it's been nice talking to other women in business and networking."

Geraldine Brooks of Design Crew said she will definitely attend any future women in business events.

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She said: "Despite the weather keeping a few people away I would absolutely do it again. It's a great way of promoting women."

Sarah White of Battle based Telham Training said the exhibition had a "lovely positive feeling about it", and added: "A lot of effort has gone into today and it's good to see local people supporting

it."

NatWest have recently launched a female relationship service and manager Nancy Stewart said she felt the exhibition was a move in the right direction for lady entrepreneurs, something that the bank are actively supporting.

She said: "We want to get our name out there to let people know that we support small business accounts."

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And for those thinking of starting a new business, NatWest are currently offering an incentive of two years free banking.

Elaine Robinson, Senior Business Manager at NatWest, said she was "delighted" to be involved in the event and wants to help women "gain confidence around starting their own business and developing their idea."

She added: "In 2009 we will be looking to host more events and explore alternative ways in which we can provide additional advice and support to our clients."