Nuneaton & Bedworth Business Networking Event Proves a Success

More than 100 business delegates in Nuneaton and Bedworth came together to hear how they can build a stronger local economy at an event designed to raise awareness of opportunity in the borough.

Speakers including Councillor Julie Jackson, leader of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council and Craig Humphrey, Managing Director of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership Growth Hub, said the borough has made huge strides in terms of building business links and raising investment over recent years.

The importance of improving town centres was pushed during the Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Support Expo, while speakers from successful local businesses such as Joco Interiors were highlighted as examples to follow.

Held at Ambleside Social Club in Ambleside Way, Nuneaton, the event was organised by Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council and Warwickshire County Council.

Craig Humphrey said: “The Growth Hub was established for a good reason and we have seen the benefit of the work we have put in with businesses all over Coventry and Warwickshire, with Nuneaton and Bedworth being no exception to that.

“Our unique selling point is the close relationship the businesses we work with have with our account managers, which research has proven to increase productivity

“One of our newest account managers, Gary Thyeson, has brought £400,000 of funding to Nuneaton and Bedworth businesses in just six months.

“We want to do more, I know what it is like to run a business and have all sorts of worries hanging over you, but the local  support infrastructure is strong and now is the time to make it stronger.”

The event, which also featured a speech from Chris Egan, Senior Development Officer with Warwickshire County Council, regarding the recent success of the OVO Energy Women’s Tour and the upcoming OVO Energy Tour of Britain in September, doubled up as a networking opportunity for those in attendance.

Councillor Julie Jackson said: “We are in a period of positive growth for business in Coventry & Warwickshire that includes Nuneaton and Bedworth.

“We are most definitely open for business, we have transport links which are second to none, we have magnificent universities on our doorstep, fantastic colleges and increasingly we are seeing the cultural appeal of our city improve.

“My aim as Leader of the Council is to improve the town centres so we can realise our full potential.

“We want to work with business owners to help ensure this happens.”