A conference, an expo and the return of the Dorset Business Awards will all be included in Dorset Chamber’s Dorset Business Festival which will run from 10 to 12 October.

Lester Aldridge is lead partner for the summit at the Hilton Hotel in Bournemouth town centre.

Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said: “It is the first event of its kind in the chamber’s history as a celebration of success and a consideration of the major issues facing businesses today as well as the long awaited return of the Dorset Business Awards following the Covid pandemic.

“As a longstanding chamber supporter and leading local business, Lester Aldridge is the perfect partner for the festival whose enthusiasm for the event matches our own. It promises to be a superb showcase for Dorset and our business community.”

There will be a topic-based business conference on 10 October, the expo on 11 October and the revamped Dorset Business Awards on 12 October.

The conference will be hosted by presenter and former BBC Breakfast business correspondent Declan Curry. It will also feature a keynote speaker as well as discussions with expert panels.

Topics are likely to include technology and the environmental, social and governance agenda. There will also be networking opportunities.

The expo will include stands, presentations and networking while the Dorset Business Awards – returning after four years – will be presented in 10 categories following judging by an independent panel of business leaders and experts.

Visit the chamber website at https://dorsetchamber.co.uk/ for more details about the festival and email sarah.milton@dorsetchamber.co.uk to become involved.