16th Annual Hispanic Business & Consumer Expo 2009

April 17, 2009

 By Glenn R. Leong

 Photo by Gary Lau

Despite fewer booths and a downsized event, the 16th annual
Hispanic Business and Consumer Expo still offered many opportunities
for vendors to showcase their products and services. Numerous
visitors attended the free three-day event at the Orange County Convention
Center from April 17-19, 2009, which allowed the public to view
and sample products, pick up freebies, and browse row after row of
displays from businesses, government agencies and civic groups.

At the entrance to the cavernous hall, visitors received a large tote
bag and map. They were then greeted by the sounds of live Latin
music and a visual array of booths and displays. The Orlando Magic,
Universal Orlando, Disney World, Humana, Sam’s Club, JetBlue, and
many other businesses, large and small, offered a wide range of information,
drawings, and presentations by company representatives.
Free health screenings, a live music stage, free food and drink booths
and the Orlando Fashion and Beauty Show were popular attractions.
Concerns about the ongoing recession did not appear to slow down
the throngs of visitors, including families with children, who came over
the weekend to inspect over 300 exhibitors and their products
and services. The annual event is organized and run by the Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando to promote business
opportunities. Hispanics own approximately 25 percent of businesses
in Central Florida. Organizers estimated attendance to be
about 30,000.

The Asian American Chamber of Commerce sponsored a booth,
which advertised its upcoming monthly networking events, signed up
new members, and made valuable contacts with other businesses and
agencies. Daily drawings for Pei Wei Asian Diner gift certifi cates and
free handouts from Asia Trend Magazine and China Garden Restaurant
kept the Chamber’s booth busy.

To become AACC member, please register online at
www.asianamericanchambercfl.org

Want the pictures? Send us the photo number
and pay $2-each and shipping fee

Details contact Asia Trend Magazine