After two years of being forced onto the sidelines due to the pandemic, the largest regional business event in the UK is set to finally return in May.

Business Vision Live is expected to pull in more than 3,000 people when it returns to the Kent Event Centre in Detling.

And organisers say they expect the free-to-attend one-day business-to-business event to generate between £20m-25million of business for those taking part.

Originally known as Kent Vision Live, this year's networking extravaganza will mark its 15th birthday. It changed its name to reflect the wide audience it now attracts from across the South East.

Organised in partnership with Kent County Council, the KM Media Group, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, SELEP and more, this year’s programme includes an opening keynote from the BBC’s Ben Thompson.

The TV presenter will share his unique perspective on the short, medium and long-term prospects for British businesses and their ability to meet the challenges of widespread social and economic change.

He had originally been scheduled to appear at the 2020 event. But both it and the planned show in 2021 were derailed by Covid restrictions.

In addition to exhibition space, there will also be talks from key figures on topical issues; ranging from the EU to the environment.

Focus topics include: The latest infrastructure developments in Kent, effective remarketing strategies, emerging technologies, workforce productivity post-pandemic, employer branding, the gig-economy, practical steps to make your business greener and more.

In addition, there will be a Big Networking Breakfast before the main event and the Lunchtime Panel Debate.

This year’s focus is on 'celebrating business success' where invited attendees can learn from successful businesses in Kent who have grown via international growth, diversification, organic growth, acquisition or investment in skills and technology.

This free session, with lunch included, is by invitation only, with limited availability.

Business Vision Live takes place on Wednesday, May 11. Registration is free and open now at businessvisionlive.com

It is organised by Pembury-based Revolution Events.