MARSHALL TWP, Allegheny County — Visitors got a chance Monday to sample foods, try out products and learn about businesses at the business expo sponsored by the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber.

The annual expo at the Doubletree by Hilton Pittsburgh North hotel featured more than 100 booths and displays.

About two hours into the four-hour event, Jim Boltz, chamber executive director, said there seemed to be a good turnout.

“I’ve heard a lot of positive feedback in talking to people as they are leaving,” he said.

Last year, chamber officials estimated that 350 people attended. This year they were hoping for 500.

Some of the exhibitors were new businesses looking to spread the word about what they offer.

Big Frog Custom T-shirts and More on Route 19 in Cranberry Township showed off its custom-printed clothing.

The franchise has been open for about one year. Customers can get a design or logo printed on just about anything, said employee Shelley Stevenson

“If you can wear it, we can print on it,” she said.

Other new businesses at the expo included Magnolia on Main traveling clothing boutique and Jason’s Deli in Cranberry.

For Battery Giant on Route 19 in Cranberry, the event was a chance to tell people that they should recycle their batteries.

Battery Giant sells batteries, but it also takes in any type of used batteries for free, said sales manager Dan Ninehouser.

It sends most of those batteries to a recycling plant in Ohio.

“Some we get money for, and some we pay to get rid of,” he said.

Tin Man Sweets on Main Street in Evans City was one of several businesses offering free samples. The bakery has award-winning cakes and cookies, said owner Justin Wroblewski.

It has been to the expo before and received good exposure, he said.

“We always get a good turnout,” Wroblewski said. “Some people try a sample and say it’s the best cake they’ve ever tasted.”

JoAnn Pieszak of Adams Township said she came to the expo to peruse the booths. She picked up free items to give to her grandchildren.

“It’s very nice. We’re here to see what there is,” she said.

Barbara Kramer of Fombell said she and her husband have been to the expo before and enjoy looking at all the exhibitors.

She said she enjoyed a sample of Mexican food from Franklin Inn restaurant in Franklin Park, Allegheny County.

“The food samples were delicious. It’s outstanding, a very nice event,” she said.