Sept. 30, 2004 — Want to see the latest in luxury pet items? Check.
Looking for a way to connect with your customers using Microsoft Office 2003? Check.
Maybe you want to know more about good real estate buys, grow your business, and network with other business managers? Check, check, check.
This weekend the St. Thomas-St. John Chamber of Commerce is holding its 20th annual Business Expo, a consumer trade show where dozens of businesses will be on display.
"This is the best opportunity for any business looking to expand public awareness of its goods and services," said Joe Aubain, executive director of the St. Thomas-St. John Chamber of Commerce.
Since it began 20 years ago, the Chamber of Commerce Expo has always displayed ways to streamline your business and be on the cutting edge of technology. In 1984, it was launched as a Computer Fair, a one-day event that gave many managers an introduction to high-tech business practices. "The Computer Fair was quite a defining moment for businesses in the Virgin Islands," said Aubain. "Many business managers discovered how modern technology could be utilized for their own use."
The Expo eventually expanded beyond computers, adding home and garden furniture and accessories. Through the years almost every kind of business has been represented. The trend of staying a step ahead of what mainstream businesses are doing has continued.
As for what business owners have planned for their booths this year, Aubain says that’s anybody's guess. But if past years are any indication, there should be some interesting displays. "There have been new cars, new boats and engines, always exciting technological advancements on display and an every increasing selection of furnishing from around the world, new services to fit our changing world and things you don't know about yet but soon won't be able to live without," Aubain wrote in a press release.
In addition to the exhibits, 12 free professional enhancement seminars are scheduled for Friday and Saturday. "You're looking at tools to make doing business easier, especially when it comes to Microsoft or the 90 Minute Manager. Also tools on improving customer service. You even get help for non-profits with Solutions for Managing Fundraising," said Aubain. "We try to do a variety of seminars to appeal to a broad range of people."
The St. Thomas-St. John Chamber of Commerce Business Expo kicks off Friday evening from 5 to 8:30 p.m. with a special Chamber After Hours Meeting. It continues Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the University of the Virgin Islands Sports and Fitness Center. The show is open to the public and admission is free. Space is limited for the seminars. Please call the Chamber at 776-0100 to reserve a spot.
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