An entirely new concept in networking which has generated tens of millions of pounds worth of business for entrepreneurs in other parts of the country has been launched in Preston by two North West businesswomen.
The Business Network Central & East Lancashire opened its doors to potential new members at a launch event held at The Preston Marriott Hotel in October and founders, businesswomen Karen Tems and Helen Riley, are delighted at how well the format has been welcomed. With more than 100 businesses attending, over 40 joined on the day, with many more stating their intension to take out membership before the second event in November. This positive start to the new Business Network underlines Helen and Karen’s conviction that the new organisation will play a key role in helping companies protect themselves from the challenging economic conditions.
The Business Network Preston hosts Karen Tems & Helen Riley
Karen, who runs a Bury-based learning and development company, said: “The Business Network model has worked exceptionally well in other parts of the country over the past 15 years, helping members make valuable contacts and pass business.”
“Now we have brought that tried and tested formula to Central & East Lancashire at a time when the current economic slowdown has affected many businesses. By bringing business owners and decision makers together at our monthly meetings, we believe we are offering them an opportunity to build alliances, fight back and win new business.”
“The Business Network’s structured two hour lunch meetings provide an ideal forum for businessmen and women to meet, talk business and do business in comfortable surroundings.”
Alasdair Swan - Director of Derian House Childrens Hospice - Receiving a cheque from Karen Tems - Partner of The Business Network Preston
Karen’s business partner, Helen Riley who runs a marketing consultancy in Cheshire, said both businesswomen had experienced first hand the benefits of membership of the Business Network in Manchester.
“The Network’s monthly meetings mean that members build up a network of trusted colleagues and friends who can help with everything from business introductions to locating high quality suppliers. Both Karen and I have benefited greatly from membership.”
Julie Graham from Distinction Marketing (Centre) with Karen Tems and Helen Riley of The Business Network Preston
“So when the opportunity to run our own network came up we jumped at the chance and chose to launch here in Lancashire, an area in which we have both worked and in a county that Karen actually calls home.”
Doors open to Central & East Lancashire’s second Business Network meeting at 11.45 am on Wednesday 18th November at Preston’s Marriott Hotel. Visitors enjoy an open networking session, after registration, before sitting down to a two course lunch. The meeting finishes at 2.00 pm. For anyone coming to the launch event there is also the opportunity to attend a Free Seminar on Marketing being delivered by Julie Graham from Destinction Marketing. This will run from 10.00 am for tea, coffee and registration for a 10.30 am start.
For more information please contact: Helen on 07812 585 402 or via helen.riley@business-network.co.uk, or Karen on 07967 350 509 or via karen@business-network.co.uk.
[...] The Preston Launch [...]