Kent Vision Live 2017

On Wednesday 10th May, 3000 people from 300 businesses gathered at the Kent Showground in Detling to share and gather inspiration, ideas as well as business advice for growing and managing a successful business.

Kent Vision Live is a B2B exhibition and the largest event of its kind in the UK. During its 12 successful years of running, it has gained a prominent role in the Kent business calendar. The overriding theme of Kent Vision Live 2017 was Brexit which was highlighted in a special lunchtime panel ‘What will Brexit mean for YOUR Business?’. The panel included CEFEUS' Dr Amelia Hadfield, University of Kent's Richard Whitman, Brachers LLP's Erol Huseyin and Ellen Walsh from Grant Thornton UK LLP, and was chaired by the Chief Economist and Director of Policy James Sproule from the Institute of Directors.

The special invitation-only event saw the panel each make introductory remarks regarding the UK's decision to leave the European Union and the various effects it could have on the local businesses, with Dr Hadfield focusing on the publication of the CEFEUS report 'Kent and Medway: Making a success of Brexit' in December 2016 and the current draft report focusing in on SMEs, policing and rural economy. Dr Hadfield highlighted that “Kent SMEs still require further support in identifying the practical short and long term impacts of Brexit. Political uncertainty and economic volatility are not a good mix for businesses. Our work at the Centre for European Studies will continue to assess the impacts and opportunities facing the sector, as we move into the UK-EU Brexit negotiations”.

Questions from the audience centered on immigration, and in particular, the threat of losing of low-wage workers could have on the county, and security concerns, in particular on the Le Touquet Treaty which could potentially be reversed. Dr Hadfield pointed out that the Treaty was part of a trio of tripartisan treaties between the UK, France and Belgium which focused on the ports and travel between the countries by Eurostar, Eurotunnel and ferry. In particular, she highlighted the security concerns of checkpoints being moved back to the UK, and the negative effect this could have on both imports and export on the country and specifically Kent. The questions posed to the panel were very specific which indicates the increasing awareness of Kent businesses regarding Brexit and its opportunities as well as challenges. All in all, the panel discussion was well attended and left the attendees more informed about the topic. 

For information about event read more here.