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A GROUP launched a few weeks ago for businesses in Haverhill and the surrounding area has already helped members secure an additional £100,000 worth of work.
Business Network International. is a business referral organisation and the Haverhill chapter, chaired by Larry Dilloway, of Ensors Chartered Accountants, in Hamlet Road, Haverhill, is one of the latest to open across the United Kingdom.
Members have breakfast meetings at Taste of China (formerly the Birdbrook Tavern) every Thursday to discuss ideas, promote their businesses and suggest business leads for fellow chapter members.
Membership is limited to one representative from each profession or trade, so members aren't competing with one another for the business.
Members include a web site designer, general builder, photographer and partner in a dry cleaning company.
"We also need a decorator, electrical contractor, local estate agent and manufacturer, explained membership co-ordinator Greg Street.
The group was started in a small way with a few core businesses in November last year and launched in March.
The chapter now has about 30 members with room for up to 45.
Last week 36 business referrals were made, bringing the total number since the launch to almost 500.
Visitors are welcomed at the meetings and Mr Dilloway explained it was open to all - providing the person's particular trade or profession wasn't already represented.
The aim of BNI, which was started in America, is to help members increase their profits.
Haverhill meetings are structured with an agenda each week. There is time for members to promote their own businesses, including any special offers that week, and pass on referrals and testimonials.
Members also have a chance to discuss their business in greater detail when it is their turn to do a presentation.
Last week Tim Radford of Haverhill-based Solutions In Recruitment outlined their work.
Another member is Graham Bashford of M and M Leisure, Sturmer Road, Haverhill. "It's useful because I can share ideas with other businesses in the local area, this helps to keep trade in town, he said.
He thought the meetings were the way forward for businesses and good for the town with more funds being spent locally.
Those interested iun finding out more can turn up at any of the weekly meetings, at 7am.
Those who subsequently join pay a subscription charge and monthly or weekly fee to cover the cost of breakfast.
Larry Dilloway is chapter director, Gary Watson finance director, Kevin Brimsden education co-ordinator and Greg Street membership co-ordinator.

E-Mail Link: info@bni-haverhill.com