TAKING a theme of “getting fit for tough times in business”, the organisers of this year's Suffolk Business Exhibition, ISSBA (Ipswich & Suffolk Small Business Association) and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, are arranging a series of confidential advice sessions for visitors.

TAKING a theme of “getting fit for tough times in business”, the organisers of this year's Suffolk Business Exhibition, ISSBA (Ipswich & Suffolk Small Business Association) and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, are arranging a series of confidential advice sessions for visitors.

The annual event, this year between 1 pm and 7 pm on April 29 at Trinity Park, has been an important date in the business calendar for more than 10 years. The major sponsor of this year's exhibition is Suffolk County Council.

Chair of ISSBA, Kim Brown, said: “It's clear that this event is going to be a massive success. We have just a couple of stands left, and the rest have sold in record time. It's clear why. These are difficult days for businesses and as such we decided to do everything we could to support them.

“We asked several leading businesses in the region to provide others with a helping hand - some free and impartial advice. We've lined up Picasso HR, CPW Computing, LB Group, Corazon IT, Phoenix London and Suffolk County Council, who will all be offering advice on a confidential basis.”

The six organisations will provide specialist advice on accounting problems and tax advice, websites, HR issues, computers, networks and software, through to customer management and pitching for Suffolk County Council contracts. There is no obligation and no cost attached, and the aim is to support other local businesses through tough times.

Mrs Brown added: “It's a terrific opportunity for any business, established or brand new, or for anyone who is considering setting up, to take advice from experts. As such we anticipate that demand will be strong.”

Other sponsors of the exhibition include: Archant, BBC Suffolk, Scrutton Bland, Jackaman, Smith & Mulley, Business Link, Ipswich Borough Council, CJV Digital, Dummett Copp, LloydsTSB, React Computer Partnership and Hansa Hire.

The event also includes seminars featuring high profile speakers and will be officially opened by the Mayor of Ipswich.

For more information about the exhibition, see the events area on the website www.issba.co.uk or www.suffolkchamber.co.uk or www.boleyn-events.com.

To register to attend the event, visit www.suffolkbusinessshow.digintel.co.uk . For a digital brochure about ISSBA text suffolk and your email address to 61211.