Business · Salisbury
Salisbury prepares for inaugural South Wilts Business Festival
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published

Business owners, jobseekers and school leavers are being encouraged to register for the first South Wilts Business Festival, which arrives at Salisbury City Hall this September.
Salisbury City Hall is set to host the inaugural South Wilts Business Festival on Wednesday, 30 September, aiming to connect the local business community with prospective employees and students. Organisers have confirmed that around 60 businesses and organisations will be in attendance to offer networking opportunities, apprenticeship advice, and direct recruitment pathways.
Andy Rhind-Tutt, President of the Salisbury and District Chamber of Commerce, stated that the event is designed to move beyond traditional trade exhibitions. Instead, the festival intends to facilitate meaningful conversations between local employers, buyers, and those entering the workforce for the first time.
The event is free for the public to attend, though attendees are required to register in advance. The day will commence with a 'Chamber Coffee & Connect' session, followed by a series of talks covering topics such as tourism, business funding, and local culture. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage with significant regional employers, including the Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust, Salisbury Reds, the British Army, and Wiltshire College.
Specifically, the afternoon programme, beginning at 2pm, will focus on 'Meet the Employer' sessions. These are intended to help local school leavers and those seeking a career change identify vacancies and apprenticeship opportunities within the region. External displays featuring vehicles from Grist Environmental and Salisbury Reds will also be present outside the City Hall.
In addition to recruitment, the festival will serve as a platform for the 'Salisbury 800 Schools Legacy Challenge', a project encouraging students to contribute ideas for the city's future as it approaches its 800th charter anniversary in 2027. The event will conclude with a reception to launch the 2027 Business Excellence Awards.
Organisers are urging those interested in the local economy, whether they are small business owners or individuals seeking their first role, to attend and explore the opportunities available on their doorstep. Further details and the required registration link can be accessed via the Eventbrite portal by searching for the South Wilts Business Festival.
Source: Salisbury Journal — Salisbury · View original