As we close out 2024, we’re celebrating a year of growth, connection, and success at the Spelthorne Business Forum (SBF). Together, we’ve achieved new milestones, introduced impactful initiatives, and welcomed new faces to the team, all of which are driving SBF forward as the leading platform for local businesses in Spelthorne and beyond.
This year, SBF has grown to 1,000+ members, an increase on last year, and our community engagement has reached new heights with over 30,000 emails sent and an outstanding 41% open rate, it’s clear that we’re delivering the news, resources, and opportunities you value most.
But it doesn’t stop here. 2025 is set to be even more exciting, and we can’t wait to share what’s in store!
Meet the Team Powering SBF’s Success
This year, we’ve seen significant progress thanks to the dynamic team behind the scenes. Their energy, expertise, and dedication have been instrumental in SBF’s growth and the delivery of real value to our members.
- Tracey Carter– has been involved for 15 years and been chair for the past 5. Tracey heads the operations and drives delivery for members.
- Karen Porter – has been the force behind SBF’s operations, ensuring events run seamlessly and that every member gets the support they need. Her focus on member relationships has kept our community thriving and engaged.
- Christabel Flaherty, founder of Marketing Muse – Christabel has elevated SBF’s digital presence, creating content and campaigns that resonate and add value to our community. Thanks to her expertise, our engagement rates are above national averages, and SBF has never been more visible online.
SBF as a community interest company are advised by a board, our board members are:
- Terry Collier – Deputy Chef Executive of Spelthorne Borough council
- Mike Ramlakhan – Owner of Timeliness IMS limited
- Richard Meddelton – Owner of RHM advisory
- Tracey Carter – Spanning a long career supporting businesses in Spelthorne through her work with parliament, the FSB and Spelthorne borough council.
These are volunteer roles so huge thank you for their time unpaid to help make sure the SBF continues to grow and thrive.
Together, Karen, Christabel, Tracey and the rest of the team are ensuring that every member feels connected, informed, and part of something truly special. Their work has made SBF not just a business network but a community where local businesses thrive.
2024: Success Through Events and Initiatives
From festive celebrations to industry briefings, 2024 was packed with events that brought Spelthorne businesses together. We hosted 10 events attended by over 400 local professionals, providing opportunities to network, learn, and grow.
Event Highlights:
- SBF AGM (June): 100 attendees came together to celebrate our shared vision and achievements.
- Business Networking (July): Partnering with HSBC and FSB, we facilitated connections for over 70 local businesses.
- Summer Social (August): Celebrating with local businesses at Thames Side Brewery.
- Riverboat Networking (October): Sponsored by Heathrow Airport, this event was a creative way to connect and collaborate.
- Christmas Networking (December): A joyful evening with live music, great food, and collaboration with Staines BID and CPG.
Every event reflects our commitment to helping you build relationships, access opportunities, and grow your business.
Exciting Developments for 2025
1. The Wayfinder Launch 🚀
We’re thrilled to be officially launching Wayfinder.biz, Spelthorne’s ultimate online business directory. Thank you to our members for helping us trial the pilot site, your valuable insights and feedback has helped us develop a really valuable tool for businesses. Using Wayfinder is your chance to get discovered locally, boost your visibility, and connect with customers and businesses across the borough. Stay tuned for the official launch, your business deserves to shine!
2. Business Plan Competition 🌟
The idea stemmed from the former local MP Kwasi Kwarteng and supported by Spelthorne Borough Council, the Business Plan Competition is now proudly hosted by SBF. This exciting initiative will celebrate innovation, empower local entrepreneurs, and provide real opportunities for businesses to grow. If you’ve got a winning idea, this is your moment to shine, watch this space for details!
3. Bigger and Better Events 📅
We’re re-introducing the “Bulldog Breakfast” series, alongside our seasonal networking events, socials, and expert briefings. More opportunities to connect, collaborate, and learn making SBF events the can’t-miss moments on your calendar.
4. Membership Growth 📈
In 2025, we’re aiming to grow our membership to create more impact in the community. By enhancing our events, social media presence, and partnerships, we’re creating more reasons to join SBF and take advantage of the support, community, and opportunities we provide. Dont forget its free to be a member so please recommend us to your contacts to join this fantastic network. BOLD.
5. Community Engagement 💬
With a stronger focus on community we will be making it easier than ever to get involved, we want to hear your thoughts and opinions to help us shape the support we can offer to be even more valuable. Follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn and become part of the conversation!
Our Partners: The Backbone of Our Success
We want to say a heartfelt thank you to our incredible partners and sponsors, whose support has been instrumental to SBF’s achievements this year:
- Azets
- HSBC
- Heathrow Airport
- Spelthorne Business Hub
- Staines BID
- CPG
- FSB
- Jaguar Land Rover
- British Airways
- Spelthorne Borough Council
From sponsoring events to sharing expertise and resources, these partnerships have enabled us to deliver even more value to our members. If you’d like to partner with us in 2025, we’d love to hear from you! Together, we can make a bigger impact.
Financial Update
SBF has achieved a strong financial position this year, ensuring we can reinvest in our members and deliver even more in 2025. Introducing small event fees at selected events has helped us create sustainable, high-quality experiences while keeping membership completely free. To secure our future we will be looking for more patrons and sponsors for 2025 if you want to know more about opportunity to raise your profile please contact us.
Get Involved: Let’s Shape the Future Together
We’re building something special at SBF, and we want you to be part of it.
Whether you’re already a member or thinking about joining, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Join us in 2025 for events, opportunities, and connections that will take your business to the next level.
Thank you for being part of the SBF
From the entire team and everyone behind the scenes thank you for making 2024 a fantastic year. Your energy, passion, and commitment inspire us every day to continue to be a strong, dynamic, connected business community in surrey.
Let’s make 2025 the best year yet—together!