Testimonials & Case Studies

“We thought it might be a bit strained but it wasn’t like that at all. With the format that was adopted you very quickly weigh up the prospective opportunities and the discussion goes forward from there.”

Steve Voke of Leeds-based consultants firm Burtenshaws

“These sort of focused forums can expose the potential for business development almost immediately and we’ve learnt that there are firms out there that can help us as well as those that can benefit from our expertise. That is the whole objective of networking.”

Steve Ellmore, MD of Ellmore Construction Group.

"This is a very novel way of approaching networking and it's certainly beneficial from our perspective. Of all the opportunities to get together within the industry the ‘speed dating’ approach makes it a more memorable occasion.”

Linda Hollings of architects Rance Booth & Smith

Case Studies

Two firms that have definitely struck up a rapport are Yeadon-based Ellmore Construction and QAD Architects of Wakefield.

Ellmore Managing Director Steve Ellmore takes up the story: “We’ve already met three times outside of the networking events to discuss potential business development and we will definitely be working together in the future.

“The format for each event makes it easy to get a quick snapshot of what a firm can offer and you can then go into more detail after the individual presentations,” added Steve.

Paul Wainwright of QAD Architects is in agreement: “Where do you get to strike up productive business relationships in such an efficient way? Other less specific networking events can be hit and miss but this has been refreshingly productive.

“The bond we’ve built with Ellmore is one of a number that we are looking to develop and this is crucial for a young one-year-old business such as ours,” added Paul.

Beckwith Design of Shipley is another architectural practice to have struck up an invaluable link through the regular events. Beckwith’s Richard Paynter commented: "In our case we have now strengthened our links with Quarmby Construction and this could prove to be a very fruitful partnership for the future."