More than 150 businesses have reserved places at the launch of the Design Hub, on June 3 at the John Innes Centre, near Norwich.

More than 150 businesses have reserved places at the launch of the Design Hub, on June 3 at the John Innes Centre, near Norwich.

"The response so far clearly shows that businesses in Norfolk are interested in finding out how good design can boost profits," said Alan Eklid, project manager with Norwich specialist i.p.21, which is running Design Hub, supported by the East of England Development Agency.

Speakers at the event include leading designer Wayne Hemingway, founder of fashion label Red or Dead, Tim Gluyas of Canard Designs, and Harry Rich of the Design Council.

"As important as listening to the speakers will be the opportunity to see the work of leading local design consultancies who will be exhibiting at the event and discussing how design can make a difference," said Mr Eklid."

Exhibitors include:

Turton CMS, a Norwich design consultancy with 20 years' experience of taking clients' products to market.

Laplace Instruments from Cromer, which will give a preview of an innovative electronic test device, developed with a DTI Smart Award and due for launch in August.

John Barnard, a long-established, leading Norwich furniture designer.

Creative Construction, a North Norfolk construction company specialising in using reclaimed and natural materials such as wool.

Miv Watts, a West Norfolk interior designer, who played a major part in the restoration of the Victoria Inn at Holkham, now a thriving business.

Ogle Models, from Hertfordshire, which has been m

Canard Designs, a Leicester design house which translates innovative concepts into marketable products.

Places are free by calling the box office on 01603 630000 (Mon-Sat 9.30am-6pm) or £25 on the door, subject to seats remaining.