Leigh-on-Sea Business Expo Roaring Success

October 24, 2025

Leigh on Sea was buzzing with entrepreneurial energy this week as over 50 local businesses from across sectors converged at the second annual Business Expo. The event, held at Belfairs Methodist Church Hall (Eastwood Road North, SS9 4NG) and organised by Southend on Sea City Council’s Business-on-Sea team in partnership with Leigh-on-sea.com.

The Expo offered a lively marketplace showcasing the full breadth of local enterprise—from independent retailers, digital agencies, service providers and start-ups to more established firms. Visitors could stroll the rows of exhibitor stands, explore what goods and services are available locally, and engage directly with business owners and entrepreneurs. In addition to the exhibition stands, dedicated guidance was offered on vital business issues: for example, the team from Eastern Cyber Resilience Centre, (ECRC) was on hand to give free expert advice on cyber-resilience and how small businesses can guard against data breaches and cyber-attacks.

This kind of event plays a pivotal role in strengthening the local business ecosystem. It gives businesses, big, small and emerging a platform to network, form new partnerships, and share ideas. The hosting council flagged the Expo as part of its wider strategy to support local enterprise, increase procurement from local suppliers, and build civic pride.

For visitors, it’s a reminder of the richness of local enterprise in Leigh-on-Sea, and a chance to discover services and products right on their doorstep. For businesses, it’s an opportunity to raise their profile, meet customers, and make connections they might not otherwise get.

Over 50 business exhibitors represented an impressive cross-section of the local economy underscoring the diversity of trade in Leigh-on-Sea.

The early 7 am start meant attendees could network over refreshments before the main footfall picked up, creating a less hectic environment for meaningful conversations. Free admission removed barriers for both residents and smaller enterprises to attend, making it inclusive and community-focused.

With the success of this year’s event, local businesses and the Southend City Council alike will likely look to build on this momentum when planning for next year’s event.

The Leigh-on-Sea Business Expo provided a dynamic and inclusive platform for over 50 local businesses to present themselves, share their expertise, network with peers and connect with the local community. More than a trade fair, it represented an active step towards building a more connected, resilient and vibrant local economy in Leigh-on-Sea.