18 small businesses will be awarded fully funded exhibition stands within the #SBS Village at Spring Fair 2027, a 50% increase, marking the largest intake since the partnership with partnership with Theo Paphitis began in 2019.
The initiative continues to champion the UK’s most exciting small businesses, providing a platform to showcase products, connect with buyers, and accelerate growth within the retail sector.
‘Year on year, the SBS x Spring Fair competition gives our winners a brilliant free opportunity to showcase their products, meet new people and grow their businesses. This year, we have even grown the opportunity – offering 18 stands in the #SBS Village, rather than our usual 12. I’m always inspired by the passion, creativity and hard work my winners bring, and it’s a real pleasure to meet them in person and hear their stories. Spring Fair is full of opportunity, and I can’t wait to meet the winning 18 at Spring Fair 2027,’ says Paphitis.
The collaboration between #SBS and Spring Fair has supported more than 80 small businesses over the years.
‘Working with the #SBS team has been an incredibly rewarding partnership and we’re proud to be deepening our investment in new and emerging retail businesses by increasing the number of fully funded stands from 12 to 18. Supporting the next generation of retail is central to what we do, and this collaboration has enabled over 80 businesses to benefit from truly business-changing opportunities. The impact is tangible. And Theo’s passion and commitment are evident in everything he does, from speaking at our events to championing winners year-round. The annual #SBS showcase remains a real highlight, driving confidence, visibility and meaningful growth for every winner,’ says Fay Tranter, Spring Fair event director.
Applications can be made through the theopaphitissbs.com website.
