Brentford Chamber celebrates its 2014 AGM
Once again we had a fabulous AGM in the Hock Cellar at Fuller’s, sampling their new world beers like Chimay and Sierra Nevada, as well as Fuller’s own brews. Thanks go to the Griffin for once again providing a splendid buffet. We were welcomed by the newly arrived Operations Director, Steve Wilkinson and in turn welcomed Alessandro Marchesini, President of Rotary Club of Chiswick and Brentford, with whom we are continuing to rebuild our relationship.
Financially we made a small surplus for the year and added 7 new members.
The current executive were all re-elected into the same positions, as was the auditor and solictiors.
Those present voted that London Borough of Hounslow become an honorary member, in recognition of the closer relationship that exists between Brentford Chamber and the Council.
Members present also approved the following, with the aim of increasing membership: Guests may attend freely twice, after which they will be charged to attend (£10/£20 as appropriate). Members are limited to 2 attendees per company per event, with additional charged as guests.
While we welcome the opportunity to circulate news and event information from non-members we would prefer that they join as members so are introducing an advertising charge of £50.
In a change to past procedures, those executive members present gave a brief update on their role in Brentford Chamber.
Joanna Russell introduced the ACE Awards, ACE For Achievements, Contribution and Excellence within the community, promoting its spirit. These ACE awards should be the antithesis of the usual more formal business awards rewarding the people and businesses who contribute to the community in numerous different ways. Our remit is to make it fun and inclusive and also to bring into the light all the people who assist in making Brentford such a great place to live and work. We will be looking for funding and sponsorship to make this as good as it can be. The time and work we put in is voluntary. If you would like to help financially or physically please let us know.
Donald Kerr discussed the recent promotion of Brentford FC, after decades of frustration, much like Brentford Town. Investment on and off the pitch over the past few years has helped the club win promotion into the Championship, get closer to a new stadium, and develop training academy to grow new footballers. Brentford Town Centre needs that same initial investment to get it growing.
Brian Johnson introduced his Mentoring Scheme for the Entrepreneurs’ group in the University of West London. Mentoring involves giving help and guidance to budding entrepreneurs as they develop their business ideas. Four of our members have offered their help so far. More are welcome.
Tim Luckett has served on the executive for 16 years including being President, talked about the changes in Brentford, the mix of businesses in Brentford and the constant evolution of Brentford Chamber as it adapts to current circumstances and needs. Brentford Chamber’s profile has increased over the past few years to allow businesses in Brentford look to the Chamber to voice their concerns and desires.
Peter Hughes, President prior to Suzie, talked about the Chamber’s contribution to planning applications over the years, in supporting applications like Lionel Road and eventually Kew Bridge and the role in trying to assist developers to design suitable plans. Lack of suitable communication and consultation has led to many mistakes over the years and that doesn’t seem to have changed.
Garth Buckle, who also serves as Honorary President of Spark! discussed the many companies locally who work with young people, as well as the work Spark does, bringing business and students together with innovative ideas that benefit both parties. Volunteer now!
Suzie Betlem, President discussed the many events held over the year and thanked those concerned. Companies like Brompton Bicycles as well as smaller ones like RedRoutemaster have been struggling to find land to run their business from, showing the need to keep commercial land available in Brentford. Our Brentford Dragons events have been most spectacular, hosted twice by UWL and then The Holiday Inn; thanks go toDeborah Hall for her amazing presentation skills, and hard work in preparation for all the Dragons Den events.
In the past two years Suzie has discovered the hidden enterprises of smaller businesses and the self-employed artisans that are available in Brentford and has used them for her own business projects. Kris of CS Interiors is to be commended.
There are many plans for the year ahead. Brentford Chamber has new connections with the officers at Hounslow Borough, in particular the Regeneration Team led by Brendon Walsh and we will be actively working with them, to make sure Brentford keeps its integrity and grow successfully and with prosperity.
Guest Speaker, Brendon Walsh, Director of Regeneration, Economic Development and Environment at London Borough of Hounslow spoke briefly about his career and commended the valuable opportunities Chambers provide for small sole traders, offering them support and networking. Part of his job is to help promote Hounslow and LBH have produced a Rough Guide to Hounslow and a promotional video [which was viewed].
Available at the AGM and now online:
Brentford Chamber Annual Review, including presentation (which can be downloaded)
The following AGM documents (pdf) can be downloaded:
2014 Brentford Chamber AGM Minutes
2014 Brentford Chamber AGM Audited Accounts for 2013-2014