Bid to boost Rossendale business

Date published: 28 August 2010

Rossendale firms looking to generate new business can do so over a brew and bacon sandwich, at one of the UK’s fastest growing networking clubs.

Business Over Breakfast, known as BoB Clubs, is celebrating after becoming the longest standing networking club in the valley. The club meets at breakfast every fortnight, giving local businesses the chance to build up contacts and exchange referrals and leads.

Since it first opened its doors more than two years ago, BoB Clubs has grown to more than 20 members, many of which are local independent businesses.

Tracy Heatley, who organises the meetings at Do Dah’s every other Wednesday, said: “We’ve already had some excellent success stories to come out of the club through members passing referrals.

“The meetings take place bright and early with a 7am start – but this means it doesn’t disrupt the rest of your working day, and we provide a hearty breakfast to kick-start the day.”

As spaces continue to fill the club will soon reach its full capacity, according to Tracy. “There are still slots available, although we only allow one member from each industry or profession to join each club, so it doesn’t cause conflict with other members when it comes to providing leads and referrals.”

Lisa Thompson, who runs Rawtenstall based web building firm ISSL, took up membership at the start of this year. She says joining BoB Clubs was one of the best business decisions she made. “Within weeks I had more than covered the cost of my membership through contracts I had won, which all came as a direct result of my membership.

“Not only have I built up some great contacts at the club, but members have been able to put me in touch with other businesses. I’ve been passed so many leads and referrals and worked with firms who needed a website building from scratch or their existing one needed updated. As a result I’m incredibly busy and my business is going from strength to strength.”

Fortnightly meetings take place at Do Dah’s, Bank Street, Rawtenstall on Wednesday at 7am. Each member and visitor has the opportunity to present a 60 to 90 second elevator pitch about their business and define their ideal customers, in a pressure free and informal environment.