Expo Planned for Latino Consumers

The Mid Valley Chamber of Commerce will host its second annual Latino Consumer Expo at the Panorama Mall on Saturday.

Organizers are hoping the free event will attract Latino residents interested in learning about local organizations and companies.

Nancy Hoffman, the chamber’s executive vice president, said about 5,000 people attended the event last year and even more are expected this year. Increased advertising and word-of-mouth should help, she said.

“We cover Van Nuys, Panorama City and North Hills and there is a large, growing Latino community here,” Hoffman said. “One of the chamber’s goals was to move to target marketing and this is an opportunity to make contacts with the Latino community.”

More than 45 exhibitors have signed up to showcase their products and services. The event has attracted a mix of nonprofit organizations and various businesses.

“You don’t have to be a Latino business to participate,” Hoffman said. “This is for any business that wants to do business with the Latino community.”

Activities will include hourly prize drawings. Entertainers will dance and play music.

The expo will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the mall, 8401 Van Nuys Blvd.