The UK’s largest regional business event was a hit again this year, as thousands of companies flocked to the Kent Event Centre last month.

Kent 2020 Vision Live took place on May 13 and focussed on the theme of ‘Delivering Growth’, hoping to provide insights, ideas and advice to develop a sustainable organisation as the economy finds its feet.

This was the first event hosted since the brand was acquired by Revolution Events – and is said to have been a success.

The day kicked off at 7.30am, as new opportunities were available at Kent County Council’s ‘Networking Breakfast’, promoting the development of young people in the work place using apprenticeship schemes, and other initiatives.

Free seminars with some of senior speakers of renowned companies such as Gu Puds, the line of luxury desserts, were hosted in order to further support the theme of growth.

James Adverdieck, founder of the pudding company, spoke with honesty about the pros and cons of building a multi-million pound organisation, even touching on how he fell out of love with his brainchild, selling up to Noble Foods for around £32 million back in 2010.

Also speaking was Rohit Talwar, an expert in social and technological trends such as Artificial Intelligence, and 3D printing – which look set to make a substantial contribution to the business landscape over the next decade.

The total number of visitors increased up to just under 3,300, making this year the highest attendance in the ten year history of Kent 2020 events.

Exhibitors also reported this year to be the best in footfall and response to their stalls.

Research conducted by Facts International revealed that around 79% of visitors were senior decision makers, and 97% cinsidered their time at Kent 2020 to be valuable.

Richard Tribe, joint managing director of organisers at Revolution Events said: “Feedback from exhibitors and visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, with most participants gathering dozens or even hundreds of new contacts and really serious sales leads.”“The high quality of this year’s free seminars and the improved comfort of the exhibition halls made a significant difference to the overall visitor experience.”

Planning is already underway for next year, and the date has been set for Wednesday, May 11.

To find out more about the day, or for more information on upcoming events visit www.kent2020live.co.uk.