Suffolk Show 2012: ‘Bumper’ year for sponsorship

THE level of sponsorship support for the Suffolk Show is breaking records, according to organisers.

In spite of the double-dip recession, sponsors are lining up to support the popular county event, and demand for hospitality has been “exceptional”, they say.

Suffolk Agricultural Association has confirmed its sponsorship support budget has already been exceeded by �6,000 with more than three weeks to go before the two-day spectacular, which takes place at Trinity Park, Ipswich, on June 7 and 8.

The association says it is “thrilled” at the corporate interest in this year’s programme.

“We have been pleasantly surprised by the eagerness of sponsorship support this year, particularly given that we are in difficult financial times,” said Suffolk Agricultural Association executive director Christopher Bushby.

“Our typical estimation for sponsorship revenue would be anywhere between �100k and �115k, but this year we have already received �6,000 over the budget and have enjoyed support from several new names including Taylor Wimpey East Anglia, Ashton KCJ, Anglia Farmers and Howes Percival Solicitors.”

Last year’s show was hailed as “the biggest and best ever”, attracting around 90,000 visitors over two days.

The Sponsors Ringside Club is a popular feature with corporate organisations, the association says. Hospitality demand has been exceptionally high this year and as a result, all available places in the club have already been filled for both days.

“It is great news for us to see corporates so keen to use our hospitality opportunities or to take up sponsorship packages,” said Mr Bushby.

“It really is true that the Suffolk Show is an exceptional business arena and the interest level we are seeing this year means that companies of all size – be the ones who have engaged with us previously or not – are really catching on to that reality and are determined to be a part of the networking action throughout the two days of our county event.”

Another recession-buster has been the Hopkins Homes’ sponsored Lifestyle Pavilion,

Exhibitor Rosie Hunter said: “We’ve clearly noticed over the last couple of years that, although there is a great deal in the press about economic downturn, people really do still want to spend on their homes and things which continue to enhance their home environment.”

 

She added: “Suffolk Show is a great opportunity for independent businesses like Rosie Hunter Interiors to see existing and new customers.

“Having exhibited for the past 15 years at the Suffolk Show, I have achieved a loyal customer base who have become friends, appreciating our service and genuine approach.

 

“There’s enormous loyalty among Suffolk customers and I know that at this year’s Show I’ll be engaging with customers who I’ve helped on and off over many many years.”