The Suffolk Show has succeeded in attracting a sizeable number of first-timers to the event - underlining its popularity, a survey has revealed.

Data from last year's show reveals that almost 40% of visitors return every year while more than 20% had never attended the Suffolk Show before. The majority of visitors spent more than six hours there.

The show - which returns to Trinity Park in Ipswich on May 29 and 30 - is continuing to position itself as a major event for the business community - as well as the wider public.

This year it has attracted more than 80 sponsors as well as more than 800 trade stands.

Crucially, last year’s survey found that 10% of visitors thought it was “a great place to do business”.

As well as networking opportunities, the event is offering exclusive hospitality packages.

Suffolk Agricultural Association (SAA) - which organises the event - offers a range of membership options where businesses can host clients or colleagues or arrange meetings with a "wow-factor" alongside the Collins Grand Ring. 

Suffolk Show Membership allows entry and a member badge for one person to both Show days - and forward parking in the Foxhall and Bucklesham car parks.

Vice-President (VP) Membership offers entry for one person and a guest, premium car parking inside the main gate showground entrance, and complimentary tea and coffee served throughout the day along with a number of other benefits.

Members and VPs have access to the show’s Ringside Club - sponsored by Birketts and Brewin Dolphin - on the south side of the Collins Grand Ring.

Businesses which are in the club can book a table for formal dining under a marquee, informal food options including ‘grab and go’ food, and exclusive access to bars, member toilets, and competition ring grandstand seating.

Membership fees fund a range of agricultural education programmes in primary and secondary schools across Suffolk.

These include Tractors in Schools where farmers deliver interactive talks and demonstrations in the playground with a working tractor and the Suffolk Agricultural Apprentice of the Year Competition aimed at the industry’s young stars.

Show director John Taylor said the show was a "great opportunity" to bring together the county’s business leaders.

This helped to fund the SAA's year-round charitable initiatives and educational programmes delivered in Suffolk schools and supported the next generation to continue the county’s crucial role in food, farming and agriculture, he said.

“The Suffolk Show provides such a unique experience for businesses through networking with tradestands and through our exclusive membership options," he said.

"The show is almost upon us and I’m very excited to welcome all visitors once the gates are open.”

Those looking to become a member can find more details at: https://suffolkshow.co.uk/membership