Traders believe that participating in major agricultural exhibitions in the Southwest holds greater significance beyond financial gains, even though these events contribute millions to the local economy.
Many individuals faced the damp conditions to attend the first day of the Royal Cornwall Show in Wadebridge on Thursday and explore the range of exhibits available.
The South West Business Council projected that the event, scheduled to continue through Saturday, together with the Devon County Show at the Westpoint Arena near Exeter, would contribute a total of £80 million to the local economy.
However, merchants based in Wadebridge stated that although these statistics underscored the significance of such events, numerous additional advantages made them essential for trade.
The chairman of the South West Business Council, Tim Jones, stated that events such as the county fairs significantly contribute financially to the area.
He suggested that the £80 million figure could potentially be "rather modest," considering the ongoing exposure these programs provide to companies once they conclude.
Mr. Jones stated, "I recently spoke with a major specialized construction contractor who mentioned that even after half a year, they were still benefiting from projects initiated due to contracts signed at the Royal Cornwall Show back in the previous year."
Philip Stansfield, who leads the Cornish Cheese Company as its managing director, mentioned that they participate in around 45 county fairs annually. He noted that among these events, the Royal Cornwall Show turns out to be the most profitable one for their business.
While it generates substantial revenue, he noted that meeting current and potential customers as well as displaying new products offered even greater advantages for the business.
"What we earn here goes beyond just making some money; it has additional value," Mr Stansfield stated.
The aim is to showcase our brands, distribute samples, and get people interested so they might continue purchasing them beyond the event, not just during this exhibition.
Nick Vincent from the agricultural equipment company Vincents mirrored Mr Stansfield's sentiments.
"In this industry, transactions often happen between individuals, and these exhibitions play a crucial role in that process," he stated.
"It can really stimulate business for the rest of the year and over the next few years."
Kim Conchie, a non-executive director at the Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, expressed his belief that locations such as Cornwall flourished due to the connectivity these events offered.
He stated: "These events are nearly becoming an additional issue for the high streets since visitors are choosing to spend their money here instead of visiting their nearby city centers."
This is a significant initiative aimed at consumers.
Leaders from British Wool, which represents farmers involved in collecting, grading, and marketing wool, stated that events like the Royal Cornwall Show and the Devon County Show serve as great showcases for their sector.
Gareth Jones, who leads member engagement, stated: "These events offer us a chance to connect with our sheep farming members and assess contests like the fleece and wool evaluation, which honors excellent wool production standards.""
The National Farmers' Union (NFU) noted that the platforms with their featured shows presented an excellent chance for expansion within the agricultural sector.
A representative from the National Farmers Union stated, "There is genuine interest among people regarding farming, and these events offer a significant stage for the sector as well as an opportunity for farmers to engage with the public about their work. It also allows attendees to have fun, socialize, and conduct business."
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- Why Cornwall adores its 'genuinely agrarian' exhibition
- Prince William will attend the Royal Cornwall Show.
- The Devon County Show sets a new attendance record
Related internet links
- Royal Cornwall Show
- Devon County Council
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