SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND)-Â "Everything is sourced right here in the great state of Illinois!" Kayla Graven, Illinois Department of Agriculture Domestic Marketing Manager, said.Â
Graven greeted hundreds walking into the Orr Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds today for the Illinois Product Expo.
The Expo is celebrating it's 26th year of bringing small businesses and locally sourced foods to new eyes. With a wide variety of vendors, this is the perfect one-stop-shop to sample new products. From sauces, to meats, to healthy snack options, vendors brought their very best of agriculture to the table.
"This is an important way for us to get to consumers, because you don't have the option to buy our products at the grocery store..." explained Lisa Ellis, the Executive Director with Illinois Grape Growers and Vendors Alliance. "I think now, more than ever, supporting local businesses is critical to their survival."
From well-known state favorites, to first-time exhibitors, the event hopes to bridge the gap between local businesses and consumers.
"It's going to save our local businesses..." Ellis said. "I just think that's one of the great things that the Illinois Product Expo does!"
The Expo will continue to run Sunday, March 2nd from 10am to 3pm. It is located in the Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds. Admission is $5 per person (children 10 and under are free).
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