PLANS are under way to make Cumbria's longest-running trade show bigger and more diverse than before.

Now in its 44th year, the Lakes Hospitality Trade Show takes place on March 13 and 14 next year.

Organisers have doubled the size of the exhibition marquee and already 60 per cent of the main hall has been booked, with enquiries coming in all the time.

The two-day event, at Junction 36 Rural Auction Centre, is organised by The Lakes Hospitality Association and Cumbria Tourism to stage the 44th Lakes Hospitality Trade Show on 13 and 14 March 2019 at the Junction 36 Rural Auction Centre.

The event will build on the success of this year’s show, which saw well over 1,200 delegates welcomed through the doors during the two-day event.

The 44th show will see 136 stands for hospitality businesses including tourist attractions, food and drink suppliers and support services such as IT technology and catering equipment.

The show will also include a special ‘taster’ counter for start-up businesses to help nurture some of the newest innovators in the region’s hospitality sector.

Alongside the expanded exhibition space, there will be a programme of workshop sessions and seminars.

Profits from the show will be ploughed back into the tourism sector, with charitable contributions for key visitor events during the year.

Cumbrian hotelier and director of the Lakes Hospitality Trade Show, James Tasker, said: “It’s a real testament to the strength and depth of the region’s hospitality sector that even after four decades, this event remains so popular with diverse, forward-thinking businesses who want to showcase their brands and build meaningful relationships across the industry.

“What’s particularly encouraging is the growing support we’re receiving not just from businesses in the Lakes, but also in North and West Cumbria, as well as parts of Lancashire.

To survive and prosper, it’s essential we all take an outward-looking view and keep making new connections beyond our immediate local areas.”

Managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, added: “I am constantly blown away by what a vibrant and innovative sector we have and it’s great to be part of the ever-expanding Lakes Hospitality Trade Show. It’s a fantastic way for businesses to network, share knowledge and inspire each other."

For more information about the show or to book a stand, visit www.lakeshospitalitytradeshow.co.uk