- over 60 visitors came along to gain advice, insight and have a really good mingle with other small business owners in the South Manchester area. Unfortunately our ‘freebies’ for the day were stuck in China awaiting their flight over to the UK, so if you did come along then we promise to have everything sent out to you as soon as possible. For those who are interested in joining the SMBA we will be holding a special Visitors Day in May, so watch out for further information.

The current financial climate has meant that many new businesses have emerged – and the trend for cashing in items of gold jewellery is one of the better known ones. NetworkM have been successful in providing the telephony infrastructure to handle the high demand for one company in Manchester. They have also worked closely with a group of companies to show sports programmes in pubs and clubs via the internet. Owner Mike Donovan has said “These days, it’s about working in different ways than we have traditionally done – it’s what the clients demand. Our latest venture is to provide a Business Continuity Centre in Manchester using fixed wireless technology – we provide everything from the desks to the computers so if an office building is rendered disabled the business can still function. New technology allows us to offer unique solutions.”

With just three weeks to go before our fantastic Business Clinic takes place, there’s a real vibe of excitement in the air which promises to make the event on April 20th a resounding success. The Federation of Small Businesses, Altrincham Chamber of Commerce and Manchester Business Link have all been in touch to get involved – even the Mayor has said he’ll be coming down during the afternoon to speak to our members and hear what we’re doing to help small, local businesses flourish in these difficult times. Keep an eye in the papers over the next few weeks as our media activity increases – and make sure you have the date in your diary to come over and see how we can help you.

Congratulations to our new Chair for the next six months, Frazer Fearnhead, who has assembled his Committee and is ready to build on the success that outgoing Chair Matt Townsend created during his time at the helm. It’s always good when the newer members of the group get actively involved as they bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm for the benefit of everyone. Congratulations to Matt also on his election as a Board member of the group.