Local business networking group Spitfires, part of the global networking referral organisation BNI, celebrated its 7th anniversary at its weekly meeting held at the Warren in Hayes today (Friday 23 February). The group also celebrated passing almost £3m worth of business between its members over the past 12 months and has set a target of £4.5m for 2024.
Suzanne Elsey, one of the founding members who runs a property development business said, “The BNI philosophy is built on the principle of givers gain where we are committed to helping one another. We take time to understand and get to know one another’s businesses so that we can confidently recommend fellow members to our individual network of contacts. It’s completely different to other networking organisations that I’ve experienced. And while it’s business focused there is a huge sense of camaraderie and fun. Members run businesses of all kinds and range from those starting out on their business journey to those who are well established. We offer so much more than networking, it’s a supportive environment where members hone their business skills and grow in confidence.”
Travel business owner Bambos Charalambous added, “Since joining a year ago the referrals from the Spitfires membership has generated 70% of my turnover. I would encourage any business owner looking to grow their business to join.”
The celebration was bitter-sweet as the members also said their farewells to founder member Hannah Gray who is leaving to pursue a political career. Hannah, twice former Mayor of Bromley was key in starting Spitfires and has contributed significantly to the success of the group now ranking as the second most successful group in the UK. BNI has been established almost 40 years. There are over 600 chapters (groups) of BNI in the UK.
For more information please email spitfires@bniselondon.co.uk
