On Saturday 26th March, 60 local children launched 33 brand new businesses at Orpington’s Children’s Business Fair (CBF), the first event of its kind to be held in Greater London.
Organised by Lee Lam of CBF and supported by Orpington 1st, the fair was hosted by Hope Church at their Community Hub in The Walnuts Shopping Centre.
The businesses sold a range of products including home baked goods, flowers, jewellery, candles, accessories, and bookmarks, with total revenue reaching £3000.
Over 1,000 people visited the fair, including The Mayor of Bromley Cllr. Russell L Mellor and consort, Gareth Bacon MP, and Orpington Ward Councillors Kim Botting and Pauline Tunnicliffe.
Judges - Sharon Baldwin of Orpington 1st and Hal Khanom – Head of economic development at Bromley Council, awarded prizes for ‘Judges Choice’ ‘Best Stand’ ‘Best Product’ and ‘Best Sales Pitch’ to Tie Tastic, Shoots & Roots, My Little Evil Eye, and DIY Doughnuts, respectively.
Lee Lam from CBF, said, “It was fantastic to see so much support for our first Children’s Business Fair in Orpington and we would like to thank the Mayor of Bromley for helping us celebrate these young entrepreneurs. It was wonderful to see the children brimming with confidence as they sold to the general public and learned vital lessons on problem solving, resilience and collaboration, and we cannot wait to see them all again in July.”
Orpington 1st BID Manager Chris Travers said, “Orpington 1st is delighted to have partnered CBF for this brilliant initiative. The passion and professionalism displayed by these young entrepreneurs shows that we have tremendous potential, and given the appropriate opportunities, Orpington has a bright future.”
A second fair is planned for 16th July. Look out for details.
Lots more photos on our Facebook page
