Durham Oktoberfest 2017 has opened its doors to hundreds of people ready to network and do business.
The event – the tenth since the show launched – was opened by County Durham Engineering and Manufacturing Chairman David Land and Phil Wilson MP.
Around 1,000 people are expected through the doors with over 100 companies exhibiting.
David Land said: “This is our tenth event and it’s fantastic to see so many companies involved. The event sold out and we could have welcomed even more exhibitors which is testament to the popularity of Oktoberfest and the fact it is a proven platform to winning new business.
“I’m delighted that we’re also able to welcome Phil Wilson, our local MP, and organisations including the University of Sunderland, the Rail Alliance, Maven North East and the Department for International Trade.
“I’d also like to thank all of our sponsors and partners, without whom our event would not be possible.
“So please, have a great day and here’s to news of lots of contracts being signed as a result of Oktoberfest.”
For the first time Oktoberfest features an Incubator Zone with 21 companies who have never previously been involved exhibiting.
The project is a joint initiative between the Oktoberfest team and Durham Business Opportunities Programme (DBOP) and is being delivered by LEC Communications and Design with ERDF funding.
There is also an Education Zone where budding engineers from regional colleges and universities can showcase their skills to businesses.