Popup business advice caf� comes to Pontefract

Businesses in Wakefield are encouraged to attend a Popup business event on 24th November at the King’s Croft Hotel in Pontefract, where they will find local experts waiting to give practical answers to questions on a range of business topics. It is totally informal, more like a caf� than a conference and is completely free.

Pat Coffey, Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) growth manager for Wakefield, will be there to explain the support available to local businesses. They will be joined by local experts who have volunteered their time to share their knowledge on social media; branding; tax and accountancy; staff development and training; marketing; developing new products; access to finance and how to try new markets.

Andrew Wright, chair of the LEP business, innovation and growth (BIG) panel and MD of Reliance Precision Ltd and said:

“Whether you are starting-up or a more established operation, the Pontefract Popup is great way to speak to a range of local experts on issues that impact on your business, all in one morning. There is a wealth of support out there and local events like this are an informal, low-risk way of answering your questions and sampling the support available to help boost the performance of your business.”

Dan Conboy, Managing Director of Wakefield-based Statement agency, and one of the local experts who will be giving advice at the event said:

“According to recent Google research, 90% of customers will use search in their buying process, so having a great digital strategy is key in order to reach more of your future customers. The challenge most businesses face is knowing what to do and how to measure the impact. I’m looking forward to meeting businesses at the event and providing advice on how they can best use digital and eCommerce to grow.”

There is a wide range of support available and local businesses are already benefitting from LEP assistance. Wakefield-based Conservatory Outlet, a home improvement company, have taken advantage of a LEP grant to invest in the skills of their workforce. The business has grown rapidly and continuously, and sights are set on surpassing £20 million turnover by 2018. One of many contributing factors to The Company’s success is a high quality finished product which is manufactured in accordance with ISO 9001 Quality Management System.

Karen Starkey, HR Manager of Conservatory Outlet explains: “We were keen to optimize our auditing skills and capabilities, as well as increase staff knowledge of planning, performing and reporting on an effective audit. Thanks to the skills funding from the LEP, four of our staff were able to undertake the Internal Auditor Training, enabling us to continue to uphold our ISO 9001 accreditation.”

If you are a business keen to find the best in local expertise and how the LEP can help your business, come to the Popup event at the Kings’ Croft Hotel, from 09.00-12.20. To book please email businessgrowth@the-LEP.com , or book here.

If you cannot make the event, but would like an informal chat about business support, please contact our team on 0113 348 1818.