‘Lets Talk Shop’ DRAGONS DEN STYLE!

BOOST FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES WITH THE

More help and advice is on the way for local businesses in Cheshire East, thanks to the work of the Council’s Recession Recovery Group.

‘Let’s Talk Shop’ is an event aimed at independent retailers such as pubs, cafes, restaurants, hairdressers and shops in our Market Towns and rural centres.

It will take place at the Ramada Encore Hotel on the Crewe Business Park on Thursday, March 18, from 6pm until 9.30pm.

The event is free and will feature a keynote speech by entrepreneur Rachel Elnaugh, one of the original ‘Dragons’ in the BBC television series Dragon’s Den.

Bill Smith, a retail business guru from the South Lakes Development Trust, will host an interactive presentation giving an insight into how to make positive first impressions when a customer visits your business, for example:

• How to maximise the space available in a premises
• How to make customers aware what is on offer.
• How to identify innovative retail opportunities.

Bill and Rachel along with Cheshire East Council’s Head of Regeneration, Caroline Simpson, will host a question and answer session. This will give retailers an opportunity to share their experiences and ideas and get helpful information and advice.

Let’s Talk Shop is funded by Cheshire East Council’s Recession Recovery Group.

Bookings are on a first come, first served basis. Local independent retailers are urged to book early to avoid disappointment by email eastsupportbackford@cheshireeast.gov.uk or by telephone on 01270 686374/686377.

A similar event is to be held in Macclesfield during April. The date for this has yet to be finalised.

Cheshire East Councillor, Jamie Macrae, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Prosperity said:

“Cheshire East Council recognises how the continuing recession is affecting local independent retailers. For this reason, it is vital that the authority does all that it can to continue to provide the best advice and guidance to assist this sector of our economy at a local level.

“This event is aimed at boosting the confidence of local, independent retailers and recognising that many small business owners can become isolated during periods of economic downturn. This is about creating a space for open and honest discussion. I am sure those who attend will find it highly motivating. ”