AFC BUSINESS TAKES MEMBERS FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH

Building the right network is the key to commercial success.

AFC Business, the free business club organised by AFC Bournemouth, has gone from strength to strength since its launch in December last year, reflecting the vibrant business community in the region. The Club already has over 250 members ranging from blue chip companies to smaller local organisations. Members receive a number of benefits including discounted corporate packages at AFC Bournemouth, the chance to promote themselves to other business members and access to regular competitions and corporate events. These have included breakfast seminars and evening networking events, and the last event mixed business with football as members enjoyed a BBQ and watched the Cherries’ thrilling 3-3 draw against Derby County. Just as the football team has been promoted to League One, so too has AFC Business enjoyed a time of growth and development. The next AFC Business event is a breakfast meeting on Wednesday 8th September in partnership with Jaluch, which will focus on achieving sales growth through leveraging the right business relationships. The breakfast will also see the launch of a charity partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support. The Official Partners of AFC Business are Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors CGJ Partnership, HR and Training Service Providers Jaluch and Bournemouth Chamber of Trade & Commerce. Partner of CGJ Partnership, Richard Osborne, said: “As a keen supporter and Vice President of AFC Bournemouth I am delighted that my firm is an official partner of AFC Business. Although a newly formed club, its membership has grown rapidly and it has provided the ideal opportunity to initiate and develop new business relationships through its networking events.” Elisabeth Fitch, Regional Director from Jaluch added: “We’ve found that AFC Business is a great way to meet business leaders in the area to share knowledge and support each other in delivering growth across the region. As the focus of businesses remains on maintaining revenues in a tough climate, we’re expecting a full house at the seminar in September and a lively atmosphere to facilitate learning and debate.” AFC Bournemouth’s Commercial Director Rob Mitchell said: “AFC Business was set up to unite the business community with the brand of AFC Bournemouth and our superb venue Dean Court. It has proved very successful in attracting non football fans to the club and has enabled people to meet and do business together.” President of Bournemouth Chamber of Trade & Commerce Nigel Hedges commented, “We’re thrilled to be involved in this brilliant business club. Dean Court is a superb venue and a great place to do business.”