October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    22 Oct 2026

    City / country

    Southampton, United Kingdom

    Venue

    Utilita Bowl

    Time

    10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for Hampshire Business Show 2026

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    Notable exhibitors

    Companies exhibiting at Hampshire Business Show 2026 include Academy HR, ActionCOACH Bristol & Bath, Adsmart from Sky, AKM Advisory and Allica Bank.

    • Academy HR
    • ActionCOACH Bristol & Bath
    • Adsmart from Sky
    • AKM Advisory
    • Allica Bank

    Event overview

    Overview

    Hampshire Business Show is the South Coast's premier B2B networking event, bringing together up to 1,000 business professionals, exhibitors, and industry leaders.

    Join us at The Ageas Bowl on Thursday 22nd October 2026 for a full day of networking, seminars, and exhibitions.

    With over 100 exhibitors, industry-leading speakers, and dedicated networking zones, this is an unmissable opportunity to elevate your business to the next level.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Date: 22nd October 2026
    2. 2Location: Utilita Bowl, Southampton
    3. 3Expected Exhibitors: 100+
    4. 4Networking Opportunities: High-quality connections
    5. 5Industry-leading Speakers: Presenting on business growth

    Why visit

    Visitors will have the chance to meet decision-makers, attend seminars led by industry experts, and network with high-quality businesses offering solutions to their challenges. This event is a gateway to new opportunities and partnerships. Date: 22nd October 2026. Location: Utilita Bowl, Southampton. Hampshire Business Show is the South Coast's premier B2B networking event, bringing together up to 1,000 business professionals, exhibitors, and industry leaders.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors can showcase their products and services to a targeted audience, gain visibility among decision-makers, and establish valuable connections that can lead to significant business growth and ROI. The Hampshire Business Show is crucial for fostering business relationships and driving growth in the South Coast region. It connects local businesses with decision-makers and suppliers, enhancing the regional economy.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Business professionals from various sectors
    Decision-makers looking for new suppliers
    Marketing and digital agencies
    Finance and legal service providers
    Technology and IT firms
    Consultants and business support services

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Marketing agencies
    Finance and legal service providers
    IT support and technology firms
    Business consultants
    Property and facilities management companies
    Lifestyle and hospitality brands

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Marketing and digital services
    Legal and financial services
    IT and technology solutions
    Business consultancy and support
    Property management and facilities services
    Lifestyle and hospitality products

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    Utilita Bowl

    SO30 3XH Southampton, United Kingdom

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Free registration

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    22 October –10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
    Register

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Acquentis Limited

    EmailCallWebsite

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    100 exhibitors

    Forecast — not final

    Testimonials

    Had another enjoyable and productive time at the Hampshire Business Show this week. A professionally run event with a great cross section of business professionals both on the stands and attending. Was well worth exhibiting and looking forward to exhibiting again next year

    Steve Page · Exhibitor · Business In Surrey · 2025

    Having attended the Hampshire Business Show many times, we decided to exhibit this year to increase our visibility locally and identify new leads. The footfall was steady and the quality of attendees very good, thanks to the pre-show marketing from Josh and his team. I would recommend.

    Suzie Munday · Exhibitor · Hambleside Merchandise · 2025

    The Hampshire Business Show really did exceeded expectations! It was our first time exhibiting - and the day was a complete success. Constant conversations, high quality leads and a genuinely supportive atmosphere from everyone we interacted with.

    Meg Patel · Exhibitor · Fit Teams · 2025

    Another fantastic show with great connections made. We sponsor Hampshire Business Show every years and our experience of working with the team is brilliant. See you next year!

    Stephen Deller · Exhibitor · Oxford Innovation · 2025

    We have secured a significant client as a result of exhibiting at The Hampshire Business Show which has given us a significant ROI. Thanks for a great event and we will be back next year.

    Adam Myers · Exhibitor · Verve HR · 2025

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    Hampshire Business Show is the South Coast's premier B2B networking event, bringing together up to 1,000 business professionals, exhibitors, and industry leaders. Join us at The Ageas Bowl on Thursday 22nd October 2026 for a full day of networking, seminars, and exhibitions. With over 100 exhibitors, industry-leading speakers, and dedicated networking zones, this is an unmissable opportunity to elevate your business to the next level. The Hampshire Business Show is crucial for.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitors can showcase their products and services to a targeted audience, gain visibility among decision-makers, and establish valuable connections that can lead to significant business growth and ROI. The Hampshire Business Show is crucial for fostering business relationships and driving growth in the South Coast region. It connects local businesses with decision-makers and suppliers, enhancing the regional economy. Exhibitor categories include Marketing agencies, Finance and legal service providers, IT support.

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    Southampton, United Kingdom

    Why it matters

    Attending Hampshire Business Show 2026 on 2026-10-22 to 2026-10-22 in Southampton lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Digital buyer journeys

    Digital buyer journeys describe how business buyers research, compare and shortlist suppliers online before and during a show.

    02

    Sustainability in procurement

    Sustainability in procurement is the practice of factoring environmental performance into supplier selection and purchasing decisions.

    03

    Automation and labour efficiency

    Automation and labour efficiency cover the technologies and services that reduce manual work, downtime and staffing pressure.

    04

    Regional supply-chain resilience

    Regional supply-chain resilience is the push to build supplier networks that withstand disruption.

    05

    Hybrid engagement models

    Hybrid engagement models combine live, in-person events with digital follow-up such as webinars and online catalogues.

    Food trade fair circuit

    Book hotels and meetings 8–12 weeks before opening day; peer shows in the same sector often fall in adjacent months.

    Buyers covering food often plan Hampshire Business Show 2026 alongside regional peer shows to compare products, pricing, and service coverage across markets.

    Pre-show

    Confirm exhibitor meetings and product demos for Hampshire Business Show 2026.

    Show week

    Hall walk-throughs, live demos, and supplier negotiations.

    Peer events are widely known sector fairs; verify dates on each organiser website before booking.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · GBP

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    SOU

    Southampton Airport

    Closest airport to Utilita Bowl. Southampton Airport Parkway station is linked to the venue by direct buses (routes AB1/UB1) and free event shuttle buses.

    About 5-6 km (approximate)

    to venue

    About 10-15 minutes by road (approximate)

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    Hilton Southampton - Utilita Bowl

    upscale
    About 210 m, at the venue to venue

    4-star hotel directly adjacent to Utilita Bowl.

    Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27, JCT.7 by IHG

    midscale
    About 370 m to venue

    3-star hotel a short walk from the venue.

    Premier Inn Southampton Airport hotel

    midscale
    About 4.1 km to venue

    3-star hotel near Southampton Airport.

    Premier Inn Southampton City Centre hotel

    midscale
    Southampton city centre to venue

    3-star hotel in the city centre with transport links to the venue.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Rail plus shuttle bus

    Estimated costFree shuttle bus on major event days; local rail fares otherwise typically about GBP 3-6 (approximate)
    Best forSouthampton Airport Parkway or Hedge End station to Utilita Bowl

    The venue runs free buses from Southampton Airport Parkway and Hedge End stations on major event days; buses run continuously before and after.

    Bus

    Estimated costStandard local bus fare, typically about GBP 2-3 (approximate)
    Best forSouthampton Airport Parkway Station to Utilita Bowl (routes AB1/UB1)

    Direct bus routes link Southampton Airport Parkway Station with Utilita Bowl.

    Taxi / ride-hail

    Estimated costAbout GBP 10-20 depending on origin and traffic (approximate)
    Best forSouthampton city centre or airport to Utilita Bowl

    Drop-off and taxi options are available at the venue; roads around Utilita Bowl can be busy on event days.

    Car and parking

    Estimated costOnsite or Park & Walk parking; third-party parking from about GBP 4.30 per day
    Best forUtilita Bowl, just off the M27

    Book parking in advance where possible; the venue is located just off the M27 and is serviced by M27 transport links.

    taxi

    Estimated costGBP 35–70 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
    Best forSouthampton Airport (SOU) to Utilita Bowl

    About 10-15 minutes by road (approximate); Closest airport to Utilita Bowl. Southampton Airport Parkway station is linked to the venue by direct buses (routes AB1/UB1) and free event shuttle buses.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa not required
    ATA Carnet: check with organiser
    Official visa page

    Weather

    October in Southampton is mild but changeable and typically the wettest month of the year, with around 100-103 mm of rain spread over roughly 13 days. Daytime highs average about 14°C (occasionally up to 21°C) and overnight lows fall to around 8°C (occasionally near 0°C). Pack a waterproof jacket and layers.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    UK mobile networks provide strong 4G and 5G coverage across Southampton. Visitors can buy a prepaid SIM or a travel eSIM on arrival (UK SIM and eSIM options are widely available for 2026 trips). Check venue Wi-Fi availability with the organiser for data-heavy demonstrations.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Business dress

    Smart casual is typical at UK trade shows unless meetings require formal attire.

    Arrival

    Arrive early on day one for badge collection and venue orientation.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: SOU

    Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Southampton; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.

    Visa

    Most visitors need either a UK Standard Visitor visa (for business activities such as attending the show, meetings and negotiations, for up to 6 months) or, for visa-exempt nationalities, a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Check your nationality on GOV.UK before booking travel.

    Estimated cost: GBP 135 for a 6-month Standard Visitor visa; visa-exempt visitors may instead require a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) - check current fees on GOV.UK.

    Processing: Varies by nationality; UK Visas and Immigration advises applying several weeks before travel and allowing around 3 weeks for a Standard Visitor visa decision.

    Business meetings, conferences and negotiations are permitted under the Standard Visitor route. Carry your event registration or invitation and accommodation details for border checks.

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Check-in (recommended)

    2026-10-22

    Check-out (recommended)

    2026-10-23

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Southampton Airport (SOU): About 10-15 minutes by road (approximate). Allow road or rail time to Utilita Bowl; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.

    Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Utilita Bowl: Hilton Southampton - Utilita Bowl; Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27, JCT.7 by IHG; Premier Inn Southampton Airport hotel.

    Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Southampton; confirm local availability before travel.

    Public transit: Travel to Utilita Bowl is by bus, rail plus shuttle, taxi or car. Direct bus routes AB1 and UB1 run between Southampton Airport Parkway Station and Utilita Bowl, and the venue runs free buses from Southampton Airport Parkway and Hedge End railway stations on major event days.

    Parking: On-site parking is available at Utilita Bowl; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: October 2026

    Temperature: Daytime highs average about 14°C, occasionally reaching 21°C; overnight lows fall to around 8°C, occasionally near 0°C.

    Seasonality: October is Southampton's wettest month, with roughly 100-103 mm of rain over about 13 days. Expect unsettled, showery weather.

    Packing: Pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella, warm layers and comfortable walking shoes; UK weather in October changes quickly. Business casual dress is typical for the expo.

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    1

    Confirm you can attend and check visa or UK ETA requirements — Most visitors need either a UK Standard Visitor visa (business, about GBP 135) or a UK ETA if visa-exempt. Check GOV.UK for your nationality before booking.

    2

    Register for your free visitor ticket — Register via the official Hampshire Business Show site (hampshirebusinessshow.com) to secure your free ticket and badge.

    3

    Book flights to the nearest airport — Southampton Airport (SOU) is closest to Utilita Bowl; London Heathrow and Gatwick are alternatives with onward rail links.

    4

    Book a hotel near the venue — The Hilton Southampton - Utilita Bowl and Holiday Inn Express Southampton M27 are within walking distance; Premier Inn properties near the airport and city centre are alternatives.

    5

    Plan local transport to the venue — Utilita Bowl is just off the M27 and is served by buses and event shuttle services from Southampton Airport Parkway and Hedge End stations.

    6

    Download the show programme and floorplan — Review the exhibitor list and seminar schedule to plan which stands and keynote sessions to attend.

    7

    Shortlist seminars and keynote speakers — Sessions run on the show day (10.00am-3.00pm); note times and rooms as the programme is published.

    8

    Pre-schedule meetings with exhibitors — Use the show app to book appointments with attendees and exhibitors in advance.

    9

    Arrange travel insurance and payment method — UK currency is the pound sterling (GBP); card payments are widely accepted.

    10

    Check the weather and pack accordingly — October in Southampton is often wet; pack a waterproof jacket, layers and comfortable shoes.

    11

    Prepare business cards and meeting materials — Bring business cards, a charged phone and any company literature you need.

    12

    Confirm badge collection and arrival time — Plan to arrive early on 22 October 2026 for registration and venue orientation.

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Per diem × 2£150.00
    Estimated total£150.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each. Your recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 6

    What is your primary role?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    SME owners, sales and marketing managers, and procurement or operations professionals from Hampshire and the wider South Coast who want to meet suppliers, generate leads and attend keynote sessions in a single day.

    Min. budget

    $450.00

    Timeline

    2-4 weeks to register for a free ticket, book travel and reserve accommodation near Utilita Bowl.

    Risks

    Peak demand for hotels close to Utilita Bowl around the show date

    Roads around the venue are busy on event days, so plan extra travel time

    Free tickets may be limited, so register early

    exhibit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Regional B2B service providers, professional services firms and suppliers targeting Hampshire SMEs and decision-makers who want a stand and face-to-face lead generation.

    Min. budget

    $2,500.00

    Timeline

    2-3 months to book a stand, arrange design and build, staff travel and marketing.

    Risks

    Stand space and premium locations can sell out

    Hidden stand costs (electrics, furniture, rigging) add to budget

    Lead follow-up quality determines return on investment

    skip

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Businesses outside the Hampshire and South Coast B2B market, or those with no sales, supplier or networking objectives that the show serves.

    Timeline

    Not applicable.

    Risks

    Missing regional networking and supplier introductions available in one day

    Book with

    Partners

    Recommended providers

    Visa

    UK Visas and Immigration

    Gallery

    Photos

    Official imagery from Hampshire Business Show 2026
    Official imagery from Hampshire Business Show 2026

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    B2B
    Business-to-Business, referring to transactions between businesses.
    2
    Networking
    The action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.
    3
    Exhibitor
    A company or individual that displays products or services at an event.
    4
    Seminar
    A meeting for discussion or training on a specific topic.
    5
    ROI
    Return on Investment, a measure used to evaluate the efficiency of an investment.
    6
    Lead
    A potential sales contact or opportunity.
    7
    SME
    Small and Medium-sized Enterprise, typically a business with fewer than 250 employees.
    8
    Keynote speaker
    A lead speaker who delivers the main address of the event and sets its theme.
    9
    Expo
    A large exhibition where companies showcase products and services to visitors and buyers.
    10
    B2B matchmaking
    A service or app that pairs buyers and suppliers for pre-scheduled meetings based on shared interests.

    Trust footer

    Sources

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    References

    1

    Publishers

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    Date checked

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    Hampshire Business Show

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