The British Business Forum (BBF) held its 16th annual 'Introduction to Kuwait Exhibition' yesterday at the Hilton Hotel in Mangaf. The exhibition which lasted from 11am to 9pm was attended by hundreds of prospective clients and visitors from across Kuwait. The primary objective of the event was to introduce and help British businesses to reach out to both local and expatriate communities and create and enhance contacts.

Yesterday's exhibition featured a wide variety of activities, included a musical performances, a raffle draw and handouts of various freebies for visitors. British Ambassador to Kuwait Frank Baker inaugurated the event at 2pm, lauding the longstanding commercial and economic ties between Kuwait and the UK in his opening speech.

Equally important is the presence of so many British expatriates who have all chosen to make their home in Kuwait," he said. "The strength of the various British societies, institutions and businesses here is proof of our strength and continuous ties." The ambassador also praised the exhibition, calling the many activities on offer "surprisingly impressive.

In his speech at the event opening, BBF Chairman Paul McKay welcomed visitors, encouraging them to support all 70 participating companies. "We strongly believe that more you put into something the more you get out, so we encourage you to get involved," he said.

Arthur Barber, the BBF's Vice Chairman noted that this year's exhibition offers wide-ranging benefits to members, including certain discounts on annual membership fees, and also from local hotels, restaurants and other businesses, as well as numerous other special offers.

He also announced the upcoming business excellence awards ceremony, which is set to take place early next year, explaining that the award is "given to outstanding British business in Kuwait." The BBF, a non-profit organization, was created to foster British business interests overseas and win more business for the United Kingdom.

This year's exhibitors included: Top to Toe, the National Bank of Kuwait, the International Clinic, Alghanim Travels, Agapanthus, the Kuwait Writers Workshop, KSPATH, Canadians in Kuwait, the Kuwait Irish Society, TQ Logistics Services, Kuwait Mantas Dive Club, Kuwait Caledonians, the Aware Center, the Kuwait Offshore Sailing Association, the British Ladies Society, the British Embassy, the British Council.

The Homestead, the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dar Al-Athar Al-Islamiyah, Baloonyland, the Animal Care Center, Kaizen Center, British Guides in Foreign Countries, Protecting Animal Welfare Society, Expat Express Kuwait, London Limo, Wataniya Telecom, Burgan Bank, KES Band, Gulf Bank, Gulf Net, British Academy of International Arts, Inchcape Shipping, Center for Continuing Education, Kuwait National English School.

BD Wealth Management, BMI, Equity and Bond Associates, St Paul Anglican Church, Kuwait English School, Gulf Insurance, Little Gym, Kuwait Times, Maidan Clinic, Saracens, Hilton Hotel Kuwait, Global Freight, DeVere Group, Holiday Inn Salmiya, Movenpick Al-Bida'a Resort, BLS Tea Garden and Entertainment by BAIA. Please visit www.bbfkuwait.com for more information. - Kuwait Times