S WALES: United Merchants' annual Unimer Day saw over 400 delegates at the trade show and corporate networking event, held at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, earlier this month.
Suzanne Millward, Unimer's marketing manager, said: "We're celebrating the phenomenal success of what must be considered the most successful Unimer Day in our history so far. We have had a record number of delegates, and I am delighted that so many new members were able to join us this year. The support for our Unimer Day, from merchants to suppliers' has been tremendous. I am pleased to say that the positive comments we have received have exceeded our expectations."
Over 130 merchant companies showed their support for the event by arriving at the Celtic Manor for the trade exhibition. Nearly 80 suppliers showcased their products. There were also Meet the Merchants sessions, dinner and networking opportunities.
"The 'Meet the Merchants' sessions are still proving to be extremely popular and all Unimer members and suppliers took advantage of the opportunity to meet up during these intense 'business speed-dating' sessions of pre-booked appointments.
"The Unimer Day at Celtic Manor is a unique combination of business opportunities, trade exhibition and corporate entertainment," said Ms Millward.
During the gala dinner, Howard Grant, managing director of Unimer plc, took the opportunity to thank all members and suppliers for their support over the year. He also said that Unimer has achieved outstanding results, and an annual growth "that has exceeded the industry growth rate".
The Unimer Day ended on Thursday 7 July with team and networking events to enable members to carry on networking more informally and relax after the previous day's business sessions. The golf on the world-renowned Twenty Ten golf course also proved popular with merchants and suppliers.
"Positive feedback indicates that the Unimer event is highly appreciated for its more informal business and networking opportunities, with ample time for suppliers and merchants to discuss their current and potential business in more detail," Ms Millward explained.
"This is considered invaluable to build new and to further existing business relationships.
"This year, we had a number of merchants and suppliers returning after some year's absence, and it is clear that the increased focus of this event to build sustainable and mutually beneficial business relationship is important to both our merchants and suppliers alike."
In 2012, the Unimer Day will be held on 11-12 July at Celtic Manor.
