By David Vitrano
L’Observateur

RESERVE – Smaller local businesses got the rare opportunity to meet with representatives from area industrial and commercial giants Thursday as the River Region Chamber of Commerce held its second Reverse Trade Show at the National Guard Readiness Center in Reserve.
The show’s aim was to put these larger companies in touch with local businesses that may be able to supply goods or services.
“The trade show primarily allows large industries to open their doors to smaller businesses, and it helps them to better understand how to become a qualified supplier. It allows smaller businesses the opportunity to meet with industries that they may not have had the chance to meet. Many small businesses don’t know what they need in order to work with a larger company,” said Sheila Butler, who helped organize both last year’s initial show and this year’s show.
Vendors at the show included En- tergy, St. Charles Parish Government, Valero,
Air Products,
Dow,
E. I. Dupont,
IMTT,
St. James Parish Government,
Mosaic,
Marathon,
St. John Economic Development,
Zen-Noh Grain and
Momentive Specialty Chemicals.
Attendee Jeffrey Stolier of WDG Architects and Engineers said he enjoyed the event and hopes that attending will prove advantageous.
“I guess we’ll see down the road,” he said.
Those manning the booth seemed equally appreciative.
“I think it’s very informative,” said Marathon procurement representative Lenie Laiche, noting the value in learning what the local community has to offer.
Her colleague, Kim Louque, agreed.
“It’s an awesome way to network,” she said.
 Government,
Valero,
Air Products,
Dow,
E. I. Dupont,
IMTT,
St. James Government,
Mosaic,
Marathon,
St. John Economic Development,
Zen-Noh Grain and
Momentive Specialty Chemicals.
Attendee Jeffrey Stolier of WDG Architects and Engineers said he enjoyed the event and hopes that attending will prove advantageous.
“I guess we’ll see down the road,” he said.
Those manning the booth seemed equally appreciative.
“I think it’s very informative,” said Marathon procurement representative Lenie Laiche, noting the value in learning what the local community has to offer.
Her colleague, Kim Louque, agreed.
“It’s an awesome way to network,” she said.