DATE:  10 December 2008

PARTNERS

Furama Palace, the Business Broker Project

BACKGROUND

The idea came from a Brindley Place/Mailbox lunch network established in Birmingham. The initiative introduced local business people to local restaurants in the hope that giving them a ‘taste-before-you-buy’ experience would encourage them to come back outside work with their family and friends for a social occasion.

The first Let’s Do Lunch in July 2008 was very popular, and the business brokers wanted to repeat the success, as positive feedback confirmed that delegates found it very beneficial for their businesses, in particular the networking opportunities. This event took place in a different restaurant and included a speed networking session.

As was the case with the first Let’s Do Lunch the business brokers sponsored the event, which was free of charge to local organisations from any sector. Attention was drawn to the free services and support provided by the business brokers in addition to further relevant events.

OBJECTIVE

• For the network to help to create a demand for the restaurants on their doorstep

• At a time of increasing financial pressure it was even more important for businesses to get the opportunity to make new contacts and maintain relationships with existing contacts

• As a bonus the local restaurant provided a relaxed atmosphere and pleasant surroundings for a break away from the office or factory, which was encouraging delegates to feel even more comfortable networking with other businesses

• Businesses were generally encouraged to work together to boost business through community engagement and to share best practice

• The slogan used was ‘Make lunch work for you’

THE ACTIVITY

The event, which was being held at Furama Palace in the ST4 area of Stoke on Trent, had been fully booked, and a waiting list had several entries as well. Local businesses had booked for the event with no more than two delegates per organisation. This limit had been set by the business brokers in an attempt to maximise the mix of as many different organisations as possible.

The agenda included:

12.00 – 12.30  Speed networking

13.00 – 14.00 Seated lunch session – Chinese food was being served

14.00 – 14.30 Informal networking
 
IMPACT

• 50 organisations booked one or two delegates on to the event, a total of 65 delegates

• The restaurant was situated in an area, which had recently undergone regeneration work, including turning the hospital into a university hospital and major transport infrastructure improvements

QUOTES
“This was the first time I have attended a speed networking event and I really enjoyed it and made a couple of good contacts.”
Michael McDonald, Inspired Film and Video Ltd

“A well organised event, many thanks”
Karen Cotton, Beacon for Business

“First one I have attended will attend more in the future”
Gary Hanmer, ASC Financial Management Ltd