Small Independant Businesses
Pre-BID consultation had highlighted the problems our numerous small businesses face in receiving advice, guidance and training to keep abreast of industry changes and obligations. This, together with high running costs in the town centre, was threatening the future of the office-based economy.
A recent All-Party Parliamentary report highlighted that small shops have been taken for granted and their real value has not always been recognised. There is widespread belief that many small shops across the borough will have ceased trading by 2015, with few independent businesses taking their place. This results in villages and towns soon losing their identities, the loss largely the result of a heavily unbalanced trading environment.
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Improving the success of small businesses
Kingstonfirst realises how important it is to provide support for small business as part of the BID. From the outset, there was a concern that all businesses should be engaged with the improvements in the town and an acknowledgement that some 'office-based' firms offering services rather than retail would not perceive a direct benefit from BID funds used to promote the area and making it cleaner, safer and better. For them, these initiatives would be on a theoretical 'nice to have list' rather than on a commercial 'must have' wish list.
Adding value in real terms
So Kingstonfirst has been working with Kingston Chamber of Commerce to offer courses and training, via a series of monthly business briefings and seminars launched in 2005 for small businesses in the Kingstonfirst BID area. This programme is designed to provide additional services which add value, in real commercial terms, to small service providers, in much the same way as the core BID initiatives are designed to increase footfall and repeat visits of customers for the retail business community. In 2005, the Chamber organised 10 seminars on subjects ranging from management skills to face-to-face selling. These events, which were free to Kingstonfirst subscribers and 15 to other Chamber members, took place at the offices of Coleman CTTS in Kingston Hall Road. Typically, 20-30 businesses attended each seminar, and there has also been plenty of opportunity for owners to network and (where possible) sign up for a range of other government-funded services that are available via Kingston Chamber.
Future plans
In 2006, the Chamber plans to expand this service to include a special helpline for owners who want a quick answer to an immediate business problem; to continue a special range of marketing-orientated seminars and workshops; and to deliver a training support service to the restaurants, cafes, hotels, clubs and bars in the town.
The hospitality sector
On going business advice and assistance with a wide range of training. Master classes on customer service - call the Chamber to book an appointment with an advisor. Master class date to be finalised.
Small business
'Action Plan' Going For Growth - Team Building and Getting the most from your people.
29 June. Half day seminar - FREE to BID subscribers and firms employing 4-20 staff.
Skills development
Skills on site and information, advice and guidance for small independent firms in the BID area. Help with skills development and training on your premises.
Marketing
Marketing seminars for small businesses.
Every fortnight in May, June and July. FREE for BID subscribers, first come, first served.
Networking
Monthly business breakfast organised by the chamber.
First Thursday of every month. FREE places each month for up to 5 BID subscribers.
Call to reserve a place 020 8481 0450.
Networking lunch on 15 June at Monty's in Fife Road. FREE places for up to 10 BID subscribers.
For more information and to receive regular e-shots from Kingston Chamber, contact Lisa Gagliani, Chief Executive, Kingston Chamber of Commerce
Tel: 020 8481 0450
Email: lisa@kingstonchamber.co.uk
Web site: www.kingstonchamber.co.uk