‘Continually buzzy throughout the show’, ‘brilliantly organised’, ‘engaged with some really exciting new retailers including some large national accounts’, ‘a unique opportunity to open accounts in the South West that you don’t see at the national shows’, ‘loads of amazing contacts’. These are just a few snippets from exhibitors who took part in this year’s Source trade show in Exeter on the 3rd and 4th of February.
Visitors to the show had plenty to say too – ‘Excellent selection of businesses’, ‘suppliers stands were really good’, ‘good deals on products’, ‘great opportunity for networking and finding out about new products’, ‘so good to have all these exhibitors under one roof’. 95% of visitors said they’ll be back next year and would also recommend the show.
“What a couple of days of enquiries, sales, planning, networking, collaboration and engagement!” commented Mike Anderson, MD of the show’s organisers, Hale Events. “The Source is a trade show that really delivered this year for visitors and exhibitors.”
The Source trade show was complemented in 2026 by the Westcountry Tourism Conference; which saw 200 delegates attend to listen to speakers communicating best practice in tourism for the SW and beyond, helping their businesses, and the Taste of the West Awards ceremony; that welcomed 200 guests, who were there to celebrate the best food, drink, retail and hospitality in the South West of England.
“We were so pleased to co-locate and help host these events.” added Mike. “It’s great to see the whole of the South West food & drink sector coming together and celebrating what the region has to offer.”
Next year The Source trade show takes place on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd February 2027. For more details, take a look around the website or call 01934 733456. You can also follow The Source on Facebook and Instagram for updates @SourceFoodDrink.
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