LEADING companies from across the south will unite for one of the region’s biggest corporate extravaganzas.

Scores of firms will gather in Southampton when the South Coast Business Works returns to the city’s Novotel hotel, West Quay Road, on Wednesday, February 11.

The Daily Echo event – now in its fifth year – is the ultimate networking opportunity for companies from all backgrounds to build new relationships, share their experiences and plan for the future.

Visitor registration is now open with hundreds expected to attend the all-day event featuring a mass exhibition, guest speakers, workshops and seminars.

Centrepiece to the show will be the return of its flagship Question Time Business Panel, this year hosted by Lee Peck, of Lee Peck Media.

He will be joined by a panel of top bosses from across the region discussing the area’s economic climate and its future opportunities.

Trethowans Solicitors are returning for the third year as principal sponsors alongside event partners Destination Southampton.

Hampshire Chamber of Commerce has boosted the bill by joining as partners for the first time.

Chamber chief executive Stewart Dunn said: “We are delighted to be partnering this year’s event.

“The exhibition is a perfect showcase for the area to display the rich wealth of businesses, innovation and talent within the region.

“It is ideal for businesses to network and strengthen local procurement between companies that both strengthen the economy and increase jobs for local people.”

Trethowans managing partner Simon Rhodes said he was relishing the show and added: “Business Works is a fantastic event for businesses and offers so much free information and advice.

“This is our third year of being principal sponsor and we are really looking forward to it.

“It’s fantastic to have the Chamber involved as they have both international and regional experts.

“Business will be able to benefit hugely from its involvement.”