Saucy underwear supremo Jacqueline Gold will be the star speaker at a two-day exhibition for small-to-medium-sized businesses.

The Ann Summers boss will explain how to spot a gap in the market, to build a profitable business and to stand out from the crowd on the High Street.

B2B South East, being held at the Brighton Centre, will give delegates an insight into running a successful business - from people who have made it to the top.

Richard Duvall, the founder of online bank Egg, will outline his ideas on the future of personalised consumer services including his new venture Zopa.

Zopa is an online exchange which lets borrowers and lenders communicate over the internet, cutting out traditional banks to negotiate a better deal.

The event will include a forum which will debate the challenges facing small and medium-sized businesses covering everything from HR to financial management.

More than 120 business will be showcasing products and services at the event, which promises to be the South-East's biggest business event of the year.

Nick James, managing director of event organisers B2B Portfolio, said: "B2B South East will provide both exhibitors and visitors with a forum to network and share ideas with their peers as well as offering all the advice and services that regional businesses need. There are still a number of exhibition opportunities available, however it is advisable to book early as the last two events, B2B London and B2B Thames Valley were completely sold out."

B2B South East starts on Wednesday, October 26.

Admission is free. Contact Mark Atherton on 0845 2263050 for more details.

Wednesday, August 17, 2005