Fritz Sajovitz of Paradise Coffee (left) collects the Best Decorated Booth Award from Chamber of Commerce CEO, Wil Pineau (right).

The 17th Chamber of Commerce Business Expo, held at the Family Life Centre for the second year, was once again an extremely successful event. The Grand Opening on Thursday drew hundreds of business executives eager to see what the exhibitors had to offer, while enjoying a delightful performance from Vivendi Cabaret and sampling hors de oeuvres.

“Technology and communications has allowed us to remain connected in Cayman and across the globe, but there is nothing more powerful in business than a face-to-face interaction, ” stated Chamber of Commerce President-Elect, Jim O’Neill in his opening remarks.

“The Business Expo connects people and allows both businesses and consumers to establish a relationship. During these challenging economic times, it is much more important for each of us to learn more about what local businesses offer consumers right here at home.”

Led by this year’s Title Sponsor, LIME, 41 sponsors treated visitors to prizes, giveaways and the excellent discounts that the Expo is famous for. Lucky winners walked away with a computer desk from Cabinets & Furnishings, round-trip tickets from both Continental Airways and Cayman Airlines, an executive physical from Baptist Health and a Bubba Grill from Home Gas Ltd. to name a few. Friday and Saturday were plagued by rain, but the community still turned up to see Cayman’s largest business showcase.

Paradise Coffee, a 2nd year exhibitor in the Expo was awarded the “Best Decorated Booth” prize for their coffee-shop themed booth, and the Health Services Authority was awarded the “Best Decorated Classroom” prize. Criteria for judging the booths include originality, presentation, effectiveness, attractiveness, accessibility and overall appearance. In addition to a year’s worth of bragging rights, both recipients will receive 50% off their booth in the 2010 Expo.

“The Cayman community has come together and shown overwhelming support for local businesses again this year” said Chamber CEO, Wil Pineau, CCE. “By buying local, we are all helping to maintain the strength of our economy, creating jobs and enabling local businesses to compete.”