The first Penwortham Business Network event has taken place at Lime Bar and Lounge in Liverpool Road to help support business owners and managers in the area.

On Thursday 17 March, more than 40 guests attended to discuss new ideas and opportunities for future collaborations.

The event was hosted by Jemma Lloyd of Vincents Solicitors, Michael Bailey of Michael Bailey Estate Agents and Carol Rialas from Lime Bar and Lounge. The meet-up drew people from a vast range of local businesses.

After the hosts outlined the aims and ambitions for the group, guests were invited to introduce themselves and promote their business.

The Penwortham group’s aims are to strengthen and support local business; provide information on local issues and opportunities; build a positive network to create good in our community; instigate and promote local events and fundraising. 

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Jemma Lloyd, head of Vincents’ Penwortham branch, said: “We were delighted to welcome more than 40 people to the first meeting of the Penwortham Business Network. It was wonderful to be together in the same room getting to know each other and sharing info on everything that’s great about our town. 

“There was a strong feeling from people wanting to offer their help and support for community activities like the Christmas markets, the summer gala and other local causes, which is something we’re going to explore in more detail at the next meeting, which we hope to hold in the next few weeks.”

A new Facebook group for the network, which currently has 200 members, will be used to share meeting dates and for members to link up between events.

Michael Bailey said people have missed in person events like this and feedback from the first event was positive.

He said: “Everyone appreciated the chance to meet up face-to-face again at last, and there is definitely demand for this sort of network in the town.

“It was good fun and people were asking for the date of next meeting to be brought forward from the end of April as was our original plan. We’re just making arrangements and will announce it as soon as possible. 

“The Facebook page has also taken off and been really active with people using it to continue making their own connections, something which will hopefully prove genuinely beneficial for local businesses.”

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Lime Bar and Lounge owner Carol Rialas said: “It was fantastic to welcome so many familiar faces back to Lime, and to meet so many new people at the event. There was a lot of energy and positivity in the room and it feels like together we can be a real force for good in the town.”

The organisers have already planned a second event due to demand from guests, which will take place on Thursday 7 April from 9.15am at Lime Bar and Lounge.

To keep up-to-date on future events and make contact with other businesses in Penwortham, join the Penwortham Business Network Facebook group.

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