11.11.2005
The University of Brighton congratulates all the ProfitNet Member companies on successfully completing a year long programme.
Members of ProfitNet, the peer support programme for businesses operating in the Hastings and Bexhill area, will be toasting the first successful year of ProfitNet at a celebration on Wednesday 23 November at the White Rock Theatre, Hastings, hosted by the University of Brighton.
Over 70 businesses will be celebrating on the night because through the free programme (developed by the university) businesses have enjoyed many benefits including new business, developing new processes, sharing common tools and exploiting joint venture opportunities.
The programme uses the Learning Networks model developed and delivered by CENTRIM (Centre for Research in Innovation Management), to get businesses in the same sector (some of them initially competitors) to work together to find solutions to common business problems. On average this technique leads to a 31% increase in turnover.
"I've been both surprised and delighted to witness the level of openness exhibited by participating businesses," said ProfitNet Coordinator Anjuu Trevedi: "This programme has been extremely successful because Members have been committed to the programme and each other, they have used their combined knowledge, talents and resources to help each other with problem-solving and innovation."
"Business directors and MD can feel isolated, especially if they are micro businesses. ProfitNet provides a forum where business people can share and support each other on common strategic issues and develop a genuine trust and a level of open communication that extends beyond regular networking opportunities. My role as a project Coordinator and facilitator is to support these networks with resources and expertise so that the lessons learnt can be put into practical application."
ProfitNet member and Managing Director of ScreenPlay Productions which specialises in the development and creation of commercials for TV and cinema Jan Jung said: "ProfitNet has so far been invaluable not only by guiding me through the difficult period of starting up a new company in a new country but also by introducing me to like-minded people and companies with whom I've discussed mine and their big and small - but common problems. ProfitNet makes be feel good and confident about doing business."
Marketing Manager at Stamco Timber, and a ProfitNet member, Emma Pearce said: "Stamco has gained numerous benefits from the ProfitNet programme which have all had a positive and significant impact on driving our business forward at a crucial time in its development and during a challenging economic environment. The ProfitNet group has been able to share and support each other on common strategic issues and developed a genuine trust and level of open communication that extends beyond regular networking opportunities. Stamco has particularly benefited from learning about Lean Manufacturing and low cost training opportunities and gaining leads from external suppliers or key projects that strengthen our competitive position."
To ensure that each session was relevant and productive, the participants were placed into focused sector based groups such as manufacturing, business start-ups (up to 3 years old), construction/technical services, creative industries, hotels including restaurants and social enterprises.
Sponsored by the European Regional Development Fund (SEPIA - South East Programme for Innovation Action), this ground breaking programme takes place once a month, for a three-hour session, at the University Centre Hastings in Havelock Road, Hastings.
ProfitNet is now recruiting new members. Please contact Anjuu Trevedi for more information: a.trevedi@brighton.ac.uk
Contact: Marketing and Communications, University of Brighton,
01273 643022
