Fast-growing networking group Rekindle attracted yet more businesses when it trialled a new format.
The group, which attracts businesses from Swindon and North Wiltshire to its monthly meetings, used its April event to showcase some of its members’ businesses.
Instead of just one presentation, eight company owners were given the chance to speak. There was also an exhibition area with firms showcasing their products and services.
Rekindle’s meetings at Stratton House Hotel in Cirencester regularly attract more than 50 delegates. It aims to help connect mature professional businessmen and women with owners of small businesses in a friendly, business atmosphere.
Founder Virginia Stourton said the new format had been a great success.
“I wanted to try this format, with the extra speakers and exhibition area, so we could give more businesses a chance to show what they can do,” she said. “We won’t use this format every month, but it worked very well.
“I am passionate about success, and helping business people profit from the experience of others. I started my business in 1970, when we didn’t have mentors or coaches, and I just had to get on with it.”
Speakers at the meeting were independent financial adviser Sharon Marson; Michael Trigg, of coaching firm Presentation Maestro; photographer Lis McDermott; Annabel Czyba of personal stylist and image consultancy House of Colour; Jeremy Townsend of health supplement supplier Picture of Health; Angela Tomkins of professional development and wellbeing consultancy Red Squirrel; and HR specialist Anna Gage.
Exhibitors included Graham Dawson of Lead Change, which specialises in experiential learning with horses; personal trainer Ben Jackson; Sally-Anne Jones of curtain pole designer McCormick Weeks; and Ellen Roome of mortgage and insurance advisers Finance Roome.
Rekindle meets every month between 11.30am to 2pm for lunch and networking. It is free for members and £10 for non-members. The next meeting is on May 27. To book, visit www.rekindlethespirit.co.uk/events
Pictured: Some of Rekindle’s members at its last meeting
