ISSBA Launch Initiative to Support the Hospitality and Leisure Industry

Members of the Ipswich & Suffolk Small Business Association (ISSBA) in the hospitality and leisure industries have been invited to join a Focus Group set up to offer mutual support, share news and updates, and discuss ideas.

Throughout the pandemic, ISSBA has worked hard to support the local business community. As a membership organisation, they are always happy to hear ideas and suggestions from their members. Shortly before Christmas, a member (in a different industry) suggested setting up a focus group to support these sectors as they have been some of the hardest hit by COVID-19. The committee thought this was a great idea and the group was formed.

Headed up by ISSBA committee member, Amanda-Jane Frank, the group launched this week with an online meeting to chat about how the group could offer maximum effectiveness. As well as regular online meetings, they will also be using a WhatsApp group to share updates, thoughts and questions in real time.

Amanda-Jane said ‘As the Group Sales Manager of Cameron Ventures Group, owners of a portfolio of hotels in our region, I have seen first-hand just how hard our industry has been hit. I was delighted to be asked to head the Focus Group up and am excited to see how the group evolves.’

Graham Barton, ISSBA Chair, added ‘ISSBA has maintained an ethos throughout the pandemic of supporting local businesses and I am proud of how we have remained ahead of the curve with our ideas and initiatives. This group will offer a huge benefit to some of the hardest hit businesses during these difficult times.’

The group is exclusively for ISSBA members but memberships start from just £44 plus VAT per year so if you are interested in becoming involved, visit www.issba.co.uk to find out more.