Passing the Baton for Business Success in North Tyneside
Innovative initiative showcases the power of local collaboration
A unique initiative designed to celebrate and promote business-to-business collaboration across North Tyneside is gathering pace thanks to the vision of the North Tyneside Business Forum.
Inspired by the spirit of the Olympic torch relay, Angela Tuplin, Managing Director of NE Display, and Chair of the Forum, commissioned and designed a bespoke athlete’s baton which is being passed from one North Tyneside business to another whenever work, support or collaboration is exchanged.
The aim is simple, to demonstrate that North Tyneside’s business community is thriving and that local firms are actively supporting one another.
Angela said: “When the Olympic torch travelled around the country, it created a real sense of excitement and community. I wanted to capture some of that energy and create something that physically represents businesses working together.
“North Tyneside has a vibrant business community and this baton is a visible symbol of the connections being made every day. It’s something people can get behind and share on social media, helping us shine a light on the fantastic businesses we have here.”
The baton’s journey has already taken it through a diverse range of local companies. It began with coffee specialists Afuera and has since passed through businesses including Baristcoracy Coffee Roasters, APS Detailing, NE Display and a growing number of firms across the borough.
One of the latest recipients is Sangeeta Loomba of Namaste Taste of India at Newcastle Quays Retail Park. Sangeeta is currently working with the newly arriving Cue and Darts Lounge on plans for collaborative curry and games nights once the leisure venue opens later this summer.
Sangeeta said: “It’s a lovely idea because it shows businesses supporting each other. We’re looking forward to working with the Cue and Darts Lounge and helping bring more people into Newcastle Quays.”
The baton was then passed to public relations consultant Keith Newman of Highlights PR, and member of the Forum management team, who has been helping promote Sangeeta’s business through media coverage and photography. Keith will now continue the relay by passing the baton to Ask Mrs Watson founder Kate Watson who supplies IT advice to the company.
Colin Howes, owner of the Cue and Darts Lounge, said the initiative perfectly reflects the way his business operates.
“We always try to use local trades and suppliers wherever possible. Keeping things local benefits everyone and helps strengthen the community.
“Our new venue at Newcastle Quays will offer pool, snooker, interactive darts, food and drink in a family friendly environment, and we’re excited to be working with neighbouring businesses such as Namaste Taste of India.”
Angela hopes the baton will continue to travel throughout the borough, creating a growing chain of collaboration and goodwill.
“It doesn’t have to be a major contract,” she said. “It could be a collaboration, a referral, a business exchange or simply an act of kindness. The important thing is showing that businesses are working together and supporting each other.
“The more people who get involved, the stronger the message becomes North Tyneside is a great place to do business.”
As the baton continues its journey from company to company, it is becoming a powerful symbol of a borough where businesses don’t just operate side-by-side, they actively help each other succeed.
The North Tyneside Business Forum is run by a management group made up of members from various industry sectors in the Borough and gives support in the form of networking, events and signposting for growth and development. Membership is free and open to any business of any size with a trading address within North Tyneside. The Business Forum is supported by but not run by North Tyneside Council.
The Forum is FREE to join and is for any business with a trading address in North Tyneside.
Follow the baton journey: www.northtynesidebusinessforum.org.uk/baton-journey
E: business.forum@northtyneside.gov.uk www.northtynesidebusinessforum.org.uk
T:0191 643 6000
ENDS
Photo: Keith Newman and Kate Watson (Steve Brock Photography)
PR and Media keith@highlightspr.co.uk