THE Salisbury Big Business Event is back for a fourth year after attendees raved about how useful previous events have been.

The event, to be held from April 21-23 at The Guildhall, is set to offer some fantastic opportunities for businesses of all shapes and sizes to network, showcase and engage with both the public and the wider business community.

The event is organised by Salisbury City Council, Wiltshire Council, The Federation of Small Businesses, Salisbury Chamber of Commerce, Blue Frontier, Salisbury Journal and Salisbury Business Improvement District.

Organisers are now putting the finishing touches to an exciting schedule of seminars, networking events and workshops.

This year the event is spreading into the Guildhall Square over the course of the three days and will host popular events such as the Journal’s Recruitment Fair, the Federation of Small Business Trade Fair and a Made in Salisbury and Wealth of Wiltshire Market.

More than 700 business representatives took part in the third annual Salisbury Big Business Event last year.

Happy customers included Susi Mason, of Casa Fina in Salisbury, who said: “I visited the Big Business Event for the first time this year and it started strongly with Andy Reid's inspirational and moving talk.

“The biggest audiences seemed to be in the talks and workshops around social media, demonstrating perhaps that I am not alone in feeling that I have a long way to go before I am comfortable with this marketing tool!

“I was impressed by the breadth of the talks and workshops and the opportunities to network and came away from the event reenergised and determined to put into practice some of the vital business lessons that I had learnt.”

Anna Spooner, who runs a pop-up and online toy shop, said: “Fantastically well-run and useful event. Strong focus on all the latest business development and business promotion opportunities in the virtual world.

“Essential help for new and existing businesses alike.”

Hugh Vivian, of RockSALT, Limited said: “It was the first time that I’ve had a speaking slot at SBB.

“The support that I received before and during the event was extremely helpful and professional, from receiving updates on attendee numbers, to website info, to help with room set up. The team were really great and made it a thoroughly enjoyable and memorable event; thanks very much.”

Tony Luckett, of Accessory Depot, said: “We decided to take three days out of our usual business activities to see what we could learn from Salisbury Big Business.

“It has proved to be a breath of fresh air, good speakers, and interesting workshops on a wide range of core business subjects. The two evening speakers were both great – loved the Levi Roots one.”

Ali Osbourne, of Ali Unlimited, said: “What an amazing event, so many diverse speakers and great business advice. Pearls of wisdom galore, interesting networking opportunities and so much free knowledge.

“Thank you so much – I am really inspired.”

There is plenty of opportunity for businesses to get involved in this year’s event.

For more details go to salisburybigbusiness.co.uk.