Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 140 Years of Business with Successful Exhibition Launch Event at The Hold

The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the successful launch event for the C140 Exhibition at The Hold in Ipswich. The event celebrated the Suffolk Chamber’s 140th year of business and marked the beginning of a two-week journey through 140 years of business evolution within the county.

The C140 Exhibition, a cornerstone of the Chamber's commemorative project, offers a captivating exploration of Suffolk's vibrant business landscape through four key themes: Diversity, Trade and Infrastructure, History and Heritage, and The Future. The launch event provided attendees with a sneak peek into the immersive experience awaiting visitors over the coming weeks.

Guests were treated to engaging presentations, interactive demonstrations, and insightful discussions that showcased the Chamber's pivotal role in shaping Suffolk's economic development. The Celebrating Diversity initiative, a highlight of the exhibition, outlined Suffolk's diverse economy and the Chamber's commitment to fostering inclusivity and innovation.

Among the exhibits was the story of visionary Suffolk business leaders, including names like Ransome, Grimwade, Jefferies, and Packard, who came together with a shared purpose to forge a collective force for the greater good of Suffolk’s community. At the heart of this initiative was the Ipswich Dock Commission, known today as ABP Ports, who recognised the power of unity in safeguarding trade into Ipswich, and their foresight laid the groundwork for the Suffolk Chamber's inception.

"We are delighted by the turnout and enthusiasm at the launch event for the C140 Exhibition," John Dugmore, Chief Executive of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce commented at the event. "It was inspiring to see businesses and members of the community come together to celebrate Suffolk's rich business legacy and the Chamber's contributions to its diversity and evolution.

“As guests were invited to reflect on the past 140 years, they were also reminded of the resilience, innovation, and adaptability that define Suffolk's business community. From humble beginnings to the thriving ecosystem we see today, the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is proud to be a beacon of growth, innovation, and collaboration, nurturing businesses and fostering prosperity within our community.”

The launch event also provided an opportunity for networking and collaboration among attendees, fostering connections and partnerships that will continue to benefit Suffolk's business community long after the exhibition concludes.

“The success of the launch event sets the stage for an engaging and impactful exhibition that will resonate with visitors from all walks of life,” Catherine Johnson, Suffolk Chamber’s president added. “We look forward to welcoming businesses, schools and the local community to The Hold in Ipswich over the next two weeks for an unforgettable journey through time.”

For more information and updates, visit the C140 website c140.suffolkchamber.co.uk/ or follow Suffolk Chamber of Commerce on social media.