MANSFIELD — More than 100 local businesses participated in the 11th annual Richland Area Chamber Business Expo on Thursday at the Richland County Fairgrounds.
“It’s bigger and better than ever before,” said Jodie Perry, president of the Richland Area Chamber of Commerce.
In celebration of St. Patrick’s Day, many of the vendors sported green booths.
Perry said the expo provides an opportunity for businesses to interact with local consumers.
“It’s a chance for them to make connections, and for the consumers to do a little checking out and seeing what’s going on here,” she said.
Peggy Wright of Ontario said she’s attended the expo for last five years.
“It’s pretty nice,” she said. “It’s pretty well-organized.”
Betty Hoke, another Ontario resident, said she’s also attended previously, but the event captures her interest.
“You find out about a lot of the businesses in the area, pick up a few freebies, get some ideas, see people that you know,” Hoke said. “It’s fun.”
Perry said last year’s event drew 500 to 600 people. She was anticipating a similar turnout this year.
“We’re expecting a busy day,” she said.
Wednesday night the chamber had an “Expo Eve Business After Hours (BAH)” for its members and their employees. Perry said that event drew about 250 to 300 people.
“That was a great way to kick (the expo) off,” she said.
The expo featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony with elected officials and the national anthem sung by Miss Ohio Sarah Hider.
Attendees who donated a nonperishable food item to the food drive, sponsored by Graham Automall, could enter to win a prize.
Perry said businesses have benefited from the expo.
“One of our sponsors said he received a lot of leads last year from the expo and got a lot of great business out of it, she said. “I think the vendors get out what they put into it.”
