Throughout the district there are a number of membership groups that have been formed for the purpose of supporting local businesses. These groups give opportunities for networking and the sharing of ideas.
Stratforward Business Improvement District is charged with delivering a comprehensive marketing strategy to increase and develop events and festivals, operate a Town Host programme, introduce new street entertainment, and offer a range of business support initiatives.
One of Stratforward's key objectives is to bring more people into Stratford-upon-Avon Town Centre, make them stay longer, spend more and leave happy.
Stratford Business Forum (SBF) is a membership club, with packages that suit any size of business. Currently running at over 175 members, SBF is becoming a worthwhile asset to businesses and services in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The business club offers monthly events that include Breakfast Meetings, Networking Groups, and Sector Forums with speakers who are business leaders. They have annual Business Shows with a Stratford Business Week. Other services include business development and training.
The Alcester Chamber of Trade and Commerce (ACTC) is a self-funded organisation that represents the interests of businesses in Alcester and with a B49 postcode.
The purpose of ACTC is essentially to promote and protect the business community of Alcester, with an elected committee that meets monthly and runs the Chamber on a voluntary basis. Each of the committee members has a designated responsibility and a number also represent voluntary organisations in the town. They work closely with the Town Council, Court Leet and other organising bodies within the town.
The Southam Business Forum is an informal business group led by Peter Rollason of Rollasons Solicitors, organised in partnership with Southam College and supported by Stratford-on-Avon District Council. The Business Forum is held on the second Wednesday of each month.
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