A POPULAR business network is celebrating bringing together 400 members as it reaches its fourth anniversary this month.
The free Saddleworth Business Network was set up in 2012 to bring businesses based in the area together to support and work with each other.
The group holds regular informal networking events and hosts a popular Facebook group where businesses can promote themselves and interact with each other.
Lots of strong business links have been made, with members working together on projects and to supply goods or services – and some have even combined forces to set up businesses.
Carol Oldham, Saddleworth Business Network Leader, said: “Our network supports a wide range of businesses across Saddleworth and Lees and membership is diverse with most types of services and shops represented.
“We are delighted to reach 400 members and hope in time to increase this further.
“One of our key aims is to encourage people to shop locally where possible and to keep their hard-earned money in the local economy.
“During our four years we have worked together on a number of initiatives to promote this, including Small Business Saturday, where we offered a range of discounts at Saddleworth businesses.”
The network has recently introduced a morning networking event for members on the first Tuesday of every month from 9.30am – 11am at Reclamation Room at Lee Street in Uppermill.
“Many of our members are self-employed and work non-traditional hours, to fit round family and other commitments,” continued Carol.
“Being a sole trader can be very isolating, so our sessions provide a break to meet others in the same boat.
“Uppermill business Reclamation Room have been very supportive of what we are trying to do and have generously allowed us to meet in their stunning café Scona.”
For more information or to join Saddleworth Business Network, visit their website www.saddleworthbusinessnetwork.co.uk or find them on Facebook or email carol@saddleworthbusnessnetwork.co.uk
There will be a break over Easter so the next morning networking event will be on Tuesday, May 3. All businesses in Saddleworth and Lees are welcome.
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