Emerald’s Surf Expo watersports and coastal lifestyle marketplace is launching Surf Expo Connect in conjunction with its upcoming show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, on Sept. 8-10. Surf Expo Connect provides a seamless way for both buyers and exhibitors “to create meaningful new business connections, make the most of face-to-face time and reach new vendors and customers.“

For buyers, the free Connect with Brands tool allows buyers to research brands and products, create a “must-see” list, email brands, and reserve one-on-one time with them using the calendar system to request an appointment. For exhibitors, the Connect with Buyers tool, included with each exhibitor booth, allows them to search registered buyers by location, title or product categories. Exhibitors can also see a list of attendees who have shown interest in their company, message buyers, view appointment requests and manage meetings in the calendar function. Each exhibitor at Surf Expo qualifies for 30 free emails and 30 appointment requests to buyers and can expand the plan if desired, subject to charge.

Connect is available now for registered buyers and exhibitors on the Surf Expo website at www.Surfexpo.com.