Riviera Connect Expo 2025: A Record-Breaking Celebration of Business, Tourism and Collaboration

The English Riviera was buzzing with energy on Thursday 16th October 2025 as over 800 people gathered at the Riviera International Centre for the third annual Riviera Connect Expo — a landmark event uniting the Bay’s tourism, hospitality, and business sectors for a day of inspiration, innovation, and collaboration.

Jointly organised by the English Riviera BID Company and the Torbay Business Forum, the Expo has become one of Torbay’s most significant business showcases, celebrating the Bay’s entrepreneurial drive and growing confidence.

This year’s event broke records again, with 822 visitors, over 110 exhibitors, and an action-packed programme of speakers, panels, and networking. Free parking was provided courtesy of Ocean BMW, and a vibrant mix of businesses filled the halls with conversation, connection, and creativity.

A Morning of Inspiration

The day began with a sell-out Torbay Business Forum breakfast, welcoming 250 attendees to hear guest speaker Andrew Clancy, founder of Coreus Group and C Squared Construct. His talk, “Redefining Success: Growth, Leadership & Disruption,” inspired the audience with insights on resilience and excellence.

“Riviera Connect 2025 really captured the best of Torbay’s collaborative spirit,” said Steve Reynolds, Chair of the Torbay Business Forum. “It’s not just an Expo — it’s a coming together of the people and businesses who make the English Riviera thrive.”

The morning also included a moving tribute to Pippa Craddock, much-loved marketing professional and friend of the business community.

Innovation and Inspiration

Throughout the day, the Riviera International Centre buzzed with activity. Highlights included the Hi Tech Cluster, podcasts hosted by Superb Media, and speed networking sessions by Devon Women in Business. The Expert Roundtables were a hit, with local professionals including Vic Williams, Jess Wiggins, Sam Webber, and Grace Jolley, plus the inaugural #TorbAI Roundtable — Torbay’s first AI-focused forum.

On the Speaker Hub and Main Stage, sessions covered digital marketing, regeneration, leadership, and tourism. Presenters included Insignia Creative, Bigwave Marketing, The Samphire Club, the Devon & Torbay Combined County Authority, and Chalk & Ward.

Regeneration, Tourism and the Global Stage

Torbay Council, a proud sponsor, showcased regeneration projects and business support services. David Carter and Chris Wheeler presented “Shaping Torbay’s Future: Regeneration in Action,” highlighting how collaboration is driving transformation.

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, followed with “The Future of the English Riviera,” celebrating strong visitor trends and national TV campaign success.

“It’s so encouraging to see such energy, collaboration and pride in our destination,” said Carolyn Custerson. “Events like Riviera Connect demonstrate the power of partnership.”

The day concluded with Brendon Prince, announcing that the World SUP Championships will come to the English Riviera in 2026 — a huge boost for the region’s visitor economy.

Powered by Partnership

Riviera Connect supported two local charities — Children’s Hospice South West and The Mare and Foal Sanctuary — raising hundreds of pounds.

The event’s success was made possible by sponsors and partners:
Gold: Bigwave Marketing
Silver: Insignia Creative, Torbay Council, South Devon College, Wollens, Kents Cavern, The Redcliffe Hotel, Ocean BMW, Hotel Indigo, MD Elite
Bronze: Konsileo Insurance, OTB Interiors
Partners: enlightenHR, Seen In Design, Clear Sky Publishing, Talking Slides, Bays Brewery, Hunts Cider, Devonia

Behind the scenes, South Devon College students and the Riviera International Centre team ensured a seamless day.

“The energy and collaboration this year were extraordinary,” said Kelly Widley, Event Organiser. “To already have sponsors re-signing for 2026 shows just how much Riviera Connect means to our community.”

The day ended with drinks hosted by Hunts Cider, Bays Brewery, and Vivino, and live music from Arena Torquay — the perfect finale to a record-breaking event.

📅 Save the Date — Riviera Connect Expo returns Wednesday 7th October 2026.