B4
About
B4 provides platforms for our growing and diverse community of members to connect, learn, raise their profile, inspire and be inspired to become better businesses.
B4 members share the same values – they understand that any successful business, now and in the future, will need to build long-lasting, trusted relationships and embrace collaboration, reciprocation and integrity.
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Nine in ten businesses think sustainability will impact their future operations,...
Virgin Money launch new Mobiliser Fund to help support the transition
Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire urges local businesses to continue collaborating
Blenheim Palace was the stunning setting for B4’s fifth annual Platinum Dinner in the awe-inspiring Saloon as Marjorie Glasgow BEM, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, attended as B4’s guest of honour, courtesy of local charity, Oxfordshire Community Foundation (OCF).
Gala Dinner for Ukraine at Blenheim Palace
On Saturday evening, invited guests and dignitaries convened at Blenheim Palace for a wonderful fundraising event aimed at supporting Ukrainian students to help them access intensive, short-term bootcamps in innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Stables Studio: All Purpose Events Hub & Creative Studios
Welcome to The Stables Studio – your all-purpose events hub and creative studio located in the tranquil countryside, just a short drive from Oxford, Birmingham, and London. Whether you’re hosting a private event, a business meeting, or a creative workshop, we provide the perfect setting for ideas to flourish.
Ingram: We’re in the strongest position we’ve ever been
Tom Ingram is bullish about his prospects of reclaiming the biggest prize in national motorsport this weekend (5-6 October), as he prepares to go toe-to-toe for title glory in the British Touring Car Championship season finale at Brands Hatch.
Frilford Heath International – September 2024
Leading Oxfordshire Golf Club puts on amazing showcase of golfing and non-golfing activities for the business community.
B4: Your Gateway to Business Success
Are you looking to take your business to new heights? Want to connect with Oxfordshire’s top decision makers, learn from industry experts, and enjoy exclusive benefits? Look no further than B4 Membership.
Wootton Science Park unveils £35 million masterplan for new SME science...
Hartwell Plc, the automotive and property development company, has unveiled emerging designs to deliver new carbon efficient lab and workspace buildings for small and medium sized science and technology companies and amenities at Wootton Science Park to the south-west of Oxford.
B2B Networking in the UK? Welcome to B4
Connecting Multisector Business Owners, C-Suite, Decision Makers
Unveiling B4 HUB: A New Era of Benefits for B4 Members
In the dynamic landscape of business, connections are the cornerstone of growth and success. At B4, we’ve always believed in the power of collaboration and support within our community. Only last week we saw the power of four of our Platinum Members coming together as the fantastic team at Sobell House stepped up the launch of the incredible OxTrail 2024 at Oxford Brookes University with the support of Darcica Logistics and Aston & James.
Nigriello to leave Unipart after 25 years
Chairman of B4, Frank Nigriello, who has been Group Corporate Affairs Director at Unipart for over 25 years, is to leave Unipart this month.
Unlocking Leadership Insights: B4 Platinum Quarterly Breakfast at Blenheim Palace
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, connection and collaboration are paramount. For the past 17 years, B4 has been at the forefront of creating a collaborative and supportive community for businesses. Established in 2006 with the mission to ‘Build Bridges Between Businesses,’ B4 actively connects individuals who value community and collective growth.
B4’s Premier Burns Night Extravaganza: A Night of Scottish Festivity and...
On 25th January, B4, committed to actively connecting people in business through a collaborative and supportive community, proudly hosted its inaugural Burns Night in collaboration with Gavin Webster of the McKay clan and The Holiday Inn, Oxford. This event highlighted B4’s vision to create meaningful connections and foster a sense of community among its members.
HENLEY FESTIVAL REVEALS SENSATIONAL LINE-UP FOR 2024
Featuring… NICOLE SCHERZINGER, DAVE STEWART’S EURYTHMICS SONGBOOK GLADYS KNIGHT, RYLAN! Late in Pure Heaven HOUSE GOSPEL CHOIR, MINISTRY OF SOUND IBIZA ANTHEMS WITH ELLIE SAX,
NIGEL KENNEDY, SAM RYDER
MARK WATSON, ANGELA BARNES, SARA PASCOE, MARCEL LUCONT, DARA Ó BRIAIN & much more…
B4 Presents: CEO & Leaders Company Visit and Roundtable at Astroscale...
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, connections are the lifeblood that fuels innovation and growth. B4, the dynamic organisation dedicated to fostering collaborative and supportive communities, is thrilled to announce an exclusive event that delves into the challenges and triumphs of scaling up a business. This unique occasion, featuring Sharon Parker-Lines, Deputy Managing Director & Senior Vice President Business Operations, Government & Regulatory Affairs of Astroscale, promises to be an insightful exploration of the journey towards sustainable growth.
B4’s PLATINUM 50th Celebration Breakfast at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons
B4, the premier business network in Oxfordshire, hosted a milestone event today – the PLATINUM 50th Celebration Breakfast at the iconic Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons. It was the culmination of a year of significant growth of its Platinum Membership, reaching an impressive half-century.
A Look Back on 2023 and what to Expect in 2024 from...
2023 has been a bumper year of over 70 events for B4 across our two communities in Oxfordshire and Shropshire with 2024 promising even more in terms of a bumper events calendar and some exciting new additions to the increasing list of benefits for B4 Members.
Strategic Focus on B4 Platinum Sees 6X growth in one year
Up until January of this year B4 had enjoyed the support of a small group of Platinum Members who in turn enjoyed priority access to high-quality dinners at wonderful venues including Blenheim Palace, Saïd Business School, Nicholsons and Oxford University colleges.
FANTASTIC INAUGURAL B4 SHROPSHIRE PLATINUM QUARTERLY AT WESTON PARK
B4 Shropshire’s Victoria Charnley hosted the first Quarterly Breakfast at the amazing Weston Park on 28th November in the opulent splendour of Weston’s beautiful dining room.
Sustainability in business: from ambition to action
At October’s B4 Sustainability Ecosystem members were unanimous that attaining net zero carbon emissions by 2050 was an important target in our drive to reduce our carbon footprint, address climate change and implement a sustainable business approach. However, while the environmental and social aspirations to ‘be better’ and ‘do good’ were clear, many did not know what the carbon footprint of their business was or felt unsure what the steps should be to convert strategy into direct actions. As session lead Toby Newman from environment consultants, Enistic, explained: “If it can’t be measured, it can’t be improved.”
Action Packed 2nd B4 Platinum Quarterly at Blenheim Palace
The second B4 Platinum Quarterly held in the beautifully renovated Orangery at Blenheim Palace saw 80 business leaders from across Oxfordshire enjoying the superb hospitality of Blenheim Palace, the opportunity to make and build fantastic connections and hear from four great speakers.
PREMIER FOOTBALL STARS SUPPORT OXBRIDGE FOUNDATION
Football stars Andriy Shevchenko and Oleksandr Zinchenko have backed the launch of a charity (Oxbridge Foundation) which will fund scholarships for Ukrainian students affected by the war.
Top networks merge to connect thousands of Oxfordshire businesses
Two of Oxfordshire’s premier business networks are to merge connecting nearly 2,250 companies in the county.
Green light for Bicester Motion’s new £50 million Innovation Quarter to...
Detailed designs for seven new, prestigious HQ buildings which total 212,030 sq ft (19,698 sq m) and will be built at Bicester Motion’s new Innovation Quarter have been given the green light by Cherwell District Council.
Boostworks Appoints Former Vodafone Board Director as Executive Chairman
Mark Bond, previously Head of Customer Operations at Vodafone leads Boostworks Board
A Growing Desire for Better Business
The Better Business Ecosystem is raising awareness and showcasing the wide variety of ways businesses can have a more positive impact on society, communities and the environment, by embedding great business practices across their companies.
People Value Limited Becomes Boostworks Limited
Boostworks Empowers the Modern Workforce: Fostering Engagement and Recognition in Today’s Demanding Workplace
B4 Summer Events – A Look Back
After a whole month without events in August and just the one in July (although it was a big one!), B4 events return in September with something for everyone. But let’s take the opportunity to look back over some of the highlights of an early summer with B4.
Beautiful B4 Summer Supper in The Yurt
We couldn’t have asked for more at B4 Platinum Supper in The Yurt at the wonderful Nicholsons ….. beautiful weather, stunning food, exemplary hospitality and outstanding company.
24 Hour Football Indulgence in Manchester
If you’re a football fan then this one’s for you. Could you cram in an overnight stay at the wonderful Hotel Football, the Great Manchester Run, a tour of The Etihad Stadium and gate-crashing Manchester City’s Premier League title celebrations in 24 hours? Here’s how we did it…..we even had to do ‘the Poznań’!
The B4 Better Business Ecosystem
The B4 Better Business Ecosystem with Grant Hayward and Sam Kandiyali
Why joining a community of business leaders can enhance your reputation and credibility
I read a LinkedIn post recently that reassured business owners that if they’d managed to keep their businesses going during recession, Brexit, COVID and the cost-of-living crisis that they deserved a huge pat on the back and shouldn’t ‘beat themselves up’. Easier said than done when costs are rising and doing business seems to get harder rather than easier, but the sentiment was well-placed.
Judging for the 2023 Oxfordshire Business Awards is complete, and a...
Finalists have been announced across the 12 Award categories, including Purposeful Business, Marketing Excellence, New, Small and Large Business. All of the finalists will be in for the chance of winning the overall Business of the Year Award which this year, is sponsored by Thomas Franks.
Why it’s important for Business Leaders to be exposed to new...
Nobody likes a ‘know it all’ and let’s face it, there’s no such thing. At the other end of the scale, many of us don’t create enough time to take on board new ideas, innovation and creativity in whatever format. How many times have you been recommended to read a book, get sent the link, go on Amazon, maybe even buy it but it just sits on your bookshelf? Come to think of it, as an aside, just think about that for a second….I wonder what the actual percentage of books purchased are actually read? Frightening thought!
Business Leaders Enjoy B4’s First Supper Club
Business leaders from Oxfordshire enjoyed B4’s first Supper Club recently. B4 holds events in fantastic venues across Oxfordshire and Shropshire, but we’ve got our very own venue which, with the imagination of our fabulous Events Manager, Tina, has been transformed into our very own private dining room. With furniture hired in from our good friends at BHK Rentals (www.bhkrentals.co.uk) and an immaculate eye for detail, it truly was a fantastic transformation and exceptional use of space as the B4 dining room came to life.
Business Fundraiser at Silverstone
We were delighted to host 50 business leaders for our B4 Platinum Dinner set against the backdrop of iconic British motorsport history at @Silverstone Museum last month. Thank you to all of our guests who helped raise over £2,000 for British Heart Foundation. Here’s what our guests had to say about the evening:
Leading Thames Valley law firm announces four newqualifiers
Leading Thames Valley law firm, Gardner Leader, has announced its latest round of newly qualified solicitors, with four more members of its team receiving their Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) certification as the firm continues to nurture the best legal talent in the region.
Midweek Stay at the Kings Head, Cirencester
We made the, just short of, one hour trip to Cirencester from Oxford as the sun was setting and the light fading fast. On arrival, we found a parking spot in the centre of this quaint market town, directly opposite the impressive Kings Head.
What makes an expert? Here are some of the key traits...
To be considered an expert in a particular field, a person typically needs to have a deep and comprehensive understanding of that field. This requires a combination of education, training, and practical experience.
Co-Working at Courtyard by Marriott
Enjoy complimentary coffee and cake while you work. No booking required (registration optional), just come and turn up- to keep up to date with future co-working days please connect with the Courtyards LinkedIn page.
The Rise of Remote Working: Challenges and Opportunities
One of the biggest impacts of COVID-19 has been the rise of remote working. Like everything, this has sparked both challenges and opportunities. Speaking to Members of the B4 community in one to one conversations and our recent events at B4 HQ, we’re hearing a number of common themes, both positive and negative.
The Benefits of and How to Move to a 4-day Working...
This Friday, 24th February, B4 Platinum Members You HR, lead by owner and founder Jonna Mundy, will be presenting on the benefits of a 4-day working week.
Forbes: The 10 Biggest Risks and Threats For Businesses in 2023
It doesn’t seem so long ago that we were considering risks to business in isolation. First it was the recession of 2009, then Brexit, then Covid trumped all.
Unipart sells Intertruck business
Unipart Group has sold its Intertruck business to Sampa.
“My Bank Balance is Red and My Customers are Blue, please...
Today for the less romantically inclined of you out there, is Valentine’s Day. Some regard today as a commercial gimmick, others a chance to shine or, if you’re a Tottenham fan, the chance to have a romantic break in Milan with a few mates.
HENLEY FESTIVAL REVEALS UNMISSABLE LINEUP FOR 2023
5 – 9 July 2023 | henley-festival.co.uk | #HenleyFestival | @henleyfestival
Can Your Business Learn from the Super Bowl?
Last night’s Super Bowl, won by the Kansas City Chiefs, was one of the most-watched television events of the year in the United States, with over 100 million viewers tuning in to watch the game. Many companies see the Super Bowl as an opportunity to reach a large audience and gain market share with half-time adverts costing an eye-watering $7 million! Here are some common strategies that companies use to leverage the Super Bowl to gain market share:
Oxford Brookes students enhance financial trading skills with new virtual trading...
Students at Oxford Brookes University can gain experience of trading on the financial markets by making mock transactions, thanks to a newly installed computer suite.
Let’s talk turkey!
Hot off the press – some topical food for thought with a distinctly seasonal flavour and certainly something for businesses to chew over and digest to ensure that they keep abreast of the latest thinking in branding and have a tried and tested recipe for success that isn’t bland for the new year ahead.
By PHIL STRACHAN – The Think Brand not bland Guy
Agnes Smith Advice Centre Appeal
How we are helping the poorest in Oxford? At the Agnes Smith Advice Centre in Blackbird Leys, we have provided benefits and debt advice to more than 1400 residents over the last year, keeping people in their homes and helping them keep warm and fed.
We are at the heart of one of the most deprived communities in the UK and people come to us when they don’t know where else to turn.
YASA secures new facility at Catalyst Bicester
YASA, the pioneering electric vehicle motor manufacturer, has taken the last available unit in phase 1 of Catalyst Bicester, the new advanced manufacturing and technology business community in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
Shropshire Estate Agent boost for Severn Hospice
A £1500 cheque donation from county estate agent, Samuel Wood has helped boost funds for Shropshire charity Severn Hospice.
Is the ‘Great British Resignation’ slowing?
With demand for workers outstripping supply and ‘the great resignation’ showing no signs of abating, Britain is facing some huge recruitment challenges.
Leading Oxfordshire business community ‘summer solstice’ launch event in Shropshire
Leading national business membership community B4 held its official launch at Hencote Vineyard and Restaurant in Shropshire at a special champagne event on the summer solstice.
How could Boris Johnson’s resignation impact business?
More than 55 MPs have resigned within the past 48 hours, leaving Boris Johnson no choice today but to leave a role which he has today called “the best job in the world.”
T Levels – the next level qualification
Hear from members of B4’s Skills Ecosystem about T Levels and how they can support your business.
Bank of England raises interest rates for fifth consecutive time
B4 members comment on the impact it could have on their businesses.
Inaugural B4 Shropshire lunch May 22
B4 Shropshire held its first lunch event for 22 invited delegates at The Lion & Pheasant Hotel in Shrewsbury last week, following a successful meeting for the founding members last month.
What would be the most valuable solution to help your business?
Well, that’s a million-dollar question if ever we asked one, but it’s an interesting concept to wrap some grey matter around.
Love AND Business?
No, they’re not two words you would often hear or say in the same sentence, but for Alan Wick, ‘love’ underpins his approach to business and always has. B4’s Richard Rosser had the absolute pleasure of finding out more about this engaging business coach based in Sussex who has, thankfully, recently joined the B4 community.
The B4 Academy sponsored by Oxford Innovation welcomes applications from local...
B4 Platinum Members, Oxford Innovation, have generously sponsored the new B4 Academy which will give up to ten local start-ups complimentary B4 Membership, worth up to £1,500+VAT, for 12 months.
Unlock More Capital Growth With VCTs
David Hall is the Chair of the VCTA (Venture Capital Trust Association), having succeeded Stuart Veale in the role in January this year. He is the Managing Director of VCTA member YFM, where he is involved in all aspects of the business, including fundraising and the management of investments. He also chairs the Investment Committee and directly oversees YFM’s investment in software firm, Matillion.
Fit for Work, Fit for Purpose, Fit for Life
The importance of wellbeing has increased with people working from home. Almost all of us had to change the way we work and contemplate what the future looks like. It’s been a key priority for Aston & James to align themselves with the changing workplace wherever you choose to work.
Choose Courtyard In Oxford City Centre
Courtyard by Marriott Sales Manager, Christina Irons, talks to B4’s Richard Rosser about this magnificent hotel located in the heart of Oxford City Centre.
World’s Five Highest-Paid Athletes Racked in More than $600M in 2021
The year 2021 has been a pretty good year for the world’s best athletes, who earned hundreds of millions of dollars through their lucrative sports contracts and heavy endorsement deals.
Celebrating National Inclusion Week
This week we are celebrating National Inclusion Week. This week’s theme is #UnitedForInclusion and looks to share inclusion in all its forms. National Inclusion Week asks us to consider three questions:
These are the 5 best side hustles, according to business experts
One in four people in the UK currently have a side hustle, which generates a huge £72 billion for the UK economy.
The leadership needed next year, by Rita Trehan, CEO of DareWorldwide
With summer ending, many of us will be starting to look back on the last year and its lessons. All being well, the new year will be the first ‘normal’ year of business since 2019, giving leaders space to build the learnings of the pandemic into their work.
The Food and Drink Federation Announces Winners of Awards 2021
The Food and Drink Federation (FDF) Awards 2021, which took place last night at The Royal Lancaster in London, brought together over 500 guests to celebrate the efforts of the UK food and drink industry over the last year.
More hybrid working to bring 3.8 million Brits into employment
Hybrid working could bring nearly 4 million people “locked out” from work such as parents, carers and disabled people into the workforce and enable part-time workers to work more hours adding £48.3bn to the UK economy each year, according to a major new study by Virgin Media O2 Business and the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr).
UK’s recovery plans must address gender inequality as four out of...
Gender equality must be at the heart of the UK’s green and fair recovery, according to a new PwC report that underlines the extent to which women’s career progression and opportunities continue to be disproportionately hampered by the pandemic.
GMB southern region’s NHS members overwhelmingly vote NO on government’s pay...
The Health Secretary must now meet with GMB Union to avoid a winter of chaos
Employers urged to give staff the tools they need for the...
A third (36%) of UK employees who work from home say they are more productive in the office, with 42% saying it’s because they have better equipment at work.
Emirates Pavilion ready to welcome visitors at Expo 2020 Dubai
Expo 2020 Dubai’s must-see aviation attraction is gearing up to open its doors to the public on 1 October. Located in the Opportunity District, and within walking distance of the Al Wasl Dome, the Emirates Pavilion offers a preview for the future of commercial aviation, reframing the role that science and technology will play in the next 50 years of air travel, as it welcomes visitors to experience two floors of interactive multi-sensory installations.
New study reveals the top UK cities for Start-Ups in 2021
Without a doubt, the pandemic has changed our economy forever; and it may not have felt like the most obvious year to launch a business, but with Britons locked down entrepreneurial spirit seems to be inflated as 2020 saw a 12.3% increase in new businesses, the highest growth on record.
Workers to gain right to request flexible working from first day
Following the news that staff in the UK are set to gain the right to request flexible working from the first day in a job, Philip Richardson, partner and head of employment law at Stephensons Solicitors LLP has provided the below legal comment:
Business owners cautioned to protect their personal assets as insolvencies reach...
Following news of an 18 month high in registered company insolvencies , Purbeck Personal Guarantee Insurance, the UK’s only provider of personal guarantee insurance is urging the owners of small and medium sized businesses to ensure their personal assets such as their home, bank account and savings, are protected if their business should become insolvent.
Quant Insight expands with $10m funding to empower investors with world-first...
Quant Insight (Qi), a new quantitative financial market analytics and trading insights provider, today announces a major scale up after four years of research and development and over $10m in funding from three investment rounds.
Why the UK energy market is in distress
In response to the emerging UK energy crisis, Hirbod Assa, Senior Lecturer in Finance and Fintech at the University of Kent’s Business School explains how this happened
Businesses Digitising at a faster rate post lockdown
Accounting software provider has launched Dext Commerce to help simplify sales data for a growing number of digital businesses selling through ecommerce platforms.
TAE Technologies commercialises breakthrough Power Management technology developed for fusion to...
TAE Technologies, the world’s largest private fusion energy company, has announced the formation of a new division dedicated to power management. TAE Power Management’s groundbreaking technologies will enable the next generation of electric vehicles and accelerate the uptake of electrified energy and storage systems.
Blenheim 7k Fun Run
Run, jog or walk for charity or for fun at the World Heritage site, Blenheim Palace, Woodstock in Oxfordshire, the stunning venue for the annual Blenheim 7k on 10 October, sponsored by Freeths Solicitors and the Oxford Business Park.
The Future of Work is Here at the Historical Oxford House
Modern flex offices spark creativity in fully restored 1930s Art Deco film building.
From Paper Mill to Co-Working Space
Mill House Wooburn opens to support start-ups, freelancers and small businesses in Buckinghamshire.
Responsible Business
Businesses have a responsibility to their communities, to be supportive and at the very least not actively cause harm. Here you will find content relating to businesses being a Force for Good, supporting charities and their local communities.
B4 Community Working Together: XIST2 provide new website for Oxford Town...
In another short video capturing a successful working relationship between B4 Members, Oxford Town Hall’s Marketing & Development, Cath Poucher, talks about the successful relationship with fellow XIST2 who assisted with their new website and other marketing collateral.
B4 Pass Provides New Benefits to Oxfordshire Companies
B4, Oxfordshire’s leading business to business network is celebrating its 15th anniversary with a wide range of new benefits for its growing digital audience, including the B4 Pass.
B4 Community Working Together: Carbon Colour provide new signage for Stagecoach’s...
As part of Stagecoach Oxfordshire’s Depot improvement plan, Robert Betterton, Stagecoach’s Fleet Engineer needed a local reputable firm to assist with the design and production of new signage for depots in Oxford, Banbury and Witney. As B4 members, Robert looked to the B4 community for support and found Carbon Colour and Managing Director, Nigel Allen. […]
UK SMEs are failing to measure marketing ROI
The Marketing Centre’s M360 assessment highlights the need for business leaders to grapple with marketing metrics -If it moves measure it, and if you measure it, it will move.
Top tips for working with your best mate this Best Friends...
Working with your best mate could get messy but for entrepreneur pals Jack Griffiths and Joel Pierre it’s the key to their business success.
Managing Expectations | The Business Brunch
Knowing how to approach another organisation to promote your services is never easy, especially during a pandemic when we’re all juggling so many balls. But, when it comes to approaching larger organisations, what tips can SME’s learn from the large organisations to give them a chance to at least be in the conversation?
Bravo BB!
Despite a brief flirtation with the hospitality sector in late 2020, it really has been far too long! We were delighted to accept Brasserie Blanc Operations Manager, Chloe Smith’s, invitation to enjoy a Saturday night out….and what an absolute pleasure it was.
Britain’s visitor economy facts
Since 2010 tourism has been the fastest growing sector in the UK in employment terms. Britain is forecast to have a tourism industry worth over £257 billion by 2025.
Optimising your social media platforms
We are living in a world that revolves around social media, it’s used in all aspects of life, but over recent years businesses have started to take this as an opportunity to increase exposure, gain a following and share what they do to a wider audience. Social media is now a huge part of business and if you aren’t on it you’re potentially missing out on thousands if not millions of people to connect with and countless opportunities.
Re-Energise Your ‘Mojo’
Back in November, B4 member Jackie Jarvis asked other members how they energised their ‘Mojo’. Now, as we hopefully approach, fingers crossed, the permanent end of lockdown, we revisit this article with Tim Wraith of Sobell House giving us an injection of his ways to keep going. Many of us will feel battered and bruised from the personal and professional challenges we have endured over the last 12 to 14 months, so how does Tim keep going? We also revisit what our members said last year in Jackie’s article.
Oxfordshire’s most renowned venues are ready and waiting to welcome you...
Freedom is here!! It’s time to start making plans and getting excited about moving back to a slightly more ‘normal’ world, with lockdown restrictions easing we are now able to visit wonderful venues such as Blenheim Palace, Oxford University colleges and The Ashmolean Museum.
Managing Expectations | The Business Brunch
Knowing how to approach another organisation to promote your services is never easy, especially during a pandemic when we’re all juggling so many balls. But, when it comes to approaching larger organisations, what tips can SME’s learn from the large organisations to give them a chance to at least be in the conversation?
Humming soon: Milton Park unveils plans for the Bee House, Oxfordshire’s...
MEPC Milton Park in Oxfordshire, one of Europe’s largest science and technology communities, has unveiled plans for the Bee House, a new state of the art building which will be Oxfordshire’s newest and largest flexible co-working building.
Magdalen College seeks Strategic Partner to accelerate TOSP development
Magdalen College Oxford, owner of The Oxford Science Park (TOSP), one of the UK’s leading parks for science and technology companies, has announced that it is seeking a strategic partner with which to accelerate development of the Park.
“Do I Not Like That”
The late, great Graham Taylor must have been muttering this phrase from above recently as the 12 European ‘Football Giants’ – hereafter forever known as the ‘Giant Greedy Bastards’ – gave birth to the most ill-conceived and short-lived ‘grand plan’ there has ever been – the European Super League (ESL).
“Do I Not Like That”
The late, great Graham Taylor must have been muttering this phrase from above recently as the 12 European ‘Football Giants’ – hereafter forever known as the ‘Giant Greedy Bastards’ – gave birth to the most ill-conceived and short-lived ‘grand plan’ there has ever been.
Announcing a new show, exclusive to B4TV: “Your Introduction to the...
Brought to you by B4 & Europa School in association with Unipart and ELS.
£100 million project starts at Catalyst Bicester with David Lloyd sale...
The first phase of new buildings at Catalyst Bicester, the £100 million new advanced manufacturing and technology business community and include a David Lloyd Health and Racquets Club in Bicester, Oxfordshire is to start following infrastructure and enabling works.
“Do I Not Like That”
Charlie Shillito, Richard Rosser, Nick Humphreys and Brendon Cross discuss the fallout from the recent European ‘Football Giants’ ill-conceived and short lived ‘grand plan’.
How to Build a Brand
On this episode of The Business Brunch, we are joined by guests Andrew Wilkinson, Managing Director of OWB Creative, Simon Barker, Partner and Head of IP & Media and Rhian Banks, Managing Associate IP & Media of Freeths as they discuss the key factors to consider when building a brand.
Your Finances in 30 Minutes
On this episode of The Business Brunch, we are joined by experts Ria Shepheard, Garry White and Giles McKean from Charles Stanley Wealth Managers as they discuss inflation and the impact on consumables, interest rates and their impact on individuals and the global economy, savings versus investments and an overview of equity investments.
Introducing The Rebel Business School
On this episode of The Business Brunch, Richard Rosser, CEO of B4 is joined by guest Simon Paine CEO and Co-founder of Rebel Business School as they discuss how Rebel has helped over 11,500 people get into the world of business.
Merkko builds on lockdown growth with a productive pair of Mercedes-Benz...
Builder’s merchant boss Ian Duckitt was looking to match the payload potential of his outgoing 26-tonne crane trucks – yet each of his new Mercedes-Benz Arocs offers an extra tonne of carrying capacity.
Introducing The Rebel Business School
In this episode of The Business Brunch we’re joined by Simon Paine, founder of The Rebel Business School and wearer of many hats! Simon chats to us about what lead him to create The Rebel Business School, his concerns with current business education for young people, and how the past 12 months have affected his business and many others.
Investigating The Paranormal: Live!
A virtual ghost hunt with Haunted Happenings. Oxford Castle & Prison has joined forces with Haunted Happenings to bring ghost hunters the most Spooktacular event of 2021 to screens across the globe.
UK trusts as an effective tax planning tool
On this episode of The Business Brunch, we are joined by tax advisors Jonathan Walton and Owen Kyffin of Whitley Stimpson as they share their knowledge about how UK trusts can be a very effective tax planning tool to help reduce the amount of tax payable on certain events in relation to income tax, capital gains tax (CGT) and inheritance tax (IHT).
Meet Donna Torres of Xero
On this episode of The Business Brunch, join guests Jo Bentley of The Henley Coaching Partnership, Stephen Cook of V Purposeful Strategy, Stephen Spencer of Stephen Spencer + Associates, Stewart Elliston of Freeths and Emma Bullock of Chapman Robinson & Moore as they interview special guest Donna Torres of Xero.
The Future for Young Professionals
On this episode of The Business Brunch, we are joined by guests Sian Hewitt and Claudia Lacey of Freeths and Lois Jones of Boardman Hawkins & Osborne LLP, as they discuss their own individual experiences of the past 12 months and how they’ve found balancing work and home life…
The Future for Young Professionals
Join members of B4’s Professional Services Hub as they chat about the future for young professionals and whether their careers may not pan out as they had envisaged due to the ‘new way’ of working.
Al-Fresco dining and live music returns to Hard Rock Cafe London...
Live & unplugged sets every week at Hard Rock Cafe’s iconic London restaurants.
Meet Donna Torres of Xero
B4 members join Donna Torres, Director of Small Business at Xero, for a roundtable discussion about all things Xero.
The Oxford Living Wage
On this episode of The Business Brunch, we are joined by guests Cllr Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council, Carmel Conway, Economic Projects Officer at Oxford City Council, Matt Peachey, Economic Development Manager for Oxford City Council, Jake Backus, Co-founder of Common Ground Cafe and Emily Scaysbrook of Hoyle’s Of Oxford and B4’s CEO, Richard Rosser as they discuss the benefits of the Oxford Living Wage.
Where can you work in the future that’s good for you?
On this edition of The Business Brunch, we are joined by B4 members Mike Jennings of The Jennings Group, Jonathan Finnerty of Green Unit and Rowan Waller of Wallers Estate Agents as they discuss where we all work in the future that’s good for us.
B4 Cambridge – An introduction to the B4 community
On this edition of The Business Brunch, we introduce two new B4 members from Cambridge – Ian Mather who is the Chief Executive Officer at Cambridge United Football Club and Chairman of Cambridge Arts Theatre and William Rooke, Partner at Carter Jonas. Richard Rosser CEO of B4 is your host for this first edition of The Business Brunch featuring a new B4 community outside of Oxfordshire.
Building back better transport for Oxford
On this edition of The Business Brunch, we are joined by guests Hayley Beer-Gamage, Chief Executive of Experience Oxfordshire, Dave Harrison, Senior Public Transport Planner from Oxfordshire County Council, Phil Southall, Managing Director of Oxford Bus Company and Andy Morison Head of Customer Experience at Oxford Bus Company as they talk about how public transport has been affected, how it’s had to adapt to a pandemic world and what we need to do to attract the local and wider population back to Oxford.
365 Days of Lockdown
B4 Members share their experiences of the last 12 months, both personal and professional.
We’ll meet again… but how will we feel?
On this edition of The Business Brunch, we are joined by Stephen Spencer from Stephen Spencer + Associates, Wendy Ball from the Ashmolean Museum, Jon Young from BVA BDRC and Tagore Ramoutar from The Oxford Artisan Distillery as they discuss how people will react and what measures businesses should take to help visitors return to enjoy attractions and hospitality venues again.… what meeting again in the post Covid world will look and feel like.
Celebrate health & Fitness offers local businesses free employee mental and...
At a time when it’s never been more important for businesses to support the mental and physical health of their employees, local Health, Wellness and Fitness company Celebrate Health & Fitness is offering Milton Keynes businesses access to free, no-obligation Health Checks, Fun To Get Fit classes and Mental Health Lunch and Learn sessions.
Research and Development Tax Relief Claims
Jonathan Walton and Owen Kyffin of B4 members Whitley Stimpson were joined by their client Nigel Nerurkar of fused4 to focus on research and development.
The New Normal for Networks
The thing the pandemic could have killed is going viral. B4 Non-Executive Chairman, Frank Nigriello, looks at how networks are making and breaking the rules for 21st Century companies.
Sponsorship and Sales – How They Work Together
On this episode of The Business Brunch, we are joined by Jason Ratcliffe from Jatta Management and James White from James White Sales Success as they discuss the correlations between business and sport and how to go about getting the right sponsorships.
Bitcoin Beats
On this edition of The Business Brunch join Brad Mills who is an early adopter of Bitcoin and Hamilton Gilpin from Bitcoin Beats as they discuss and give you an insight into the world of Bitcoin.
The Home Office of the Future
On this edition of The Business Brunch, join Paul Ballinger from STL Communications, Kellie Peters from Databasix and Neill Lawson-Smith from CIS, as they discuss the pros and cons of working from home and what the expectations are from customers.
International Women’s Day – 8th March 2021
To celebrate International Women’s Day we ran two special editions of The Business Brunch as we were joined by a cross-section of inspirational women from the B4 community as they discussed their own personal experiences and challenges within the workplace, both positive and negative.
On International Women’s Day, IPSE warns of “disproportionate financial struggle” of...
On International Women’s Day, IPSE (the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed) has warned that female freelancers face a “disproportionate financial struggle” during the pandemic.
Europa School Students Searching for Businesses to Help Save Work Experience
We, a group of year 11 students at the Europa School in Culham, have been working together during lockdown to try and organise a replacement for our lost work experience. Alongside the Careers Department, we are hoping to find the support of local businesses, to help us bring this experience to life. This event is being launched during National Careers Week when schools and businesses are focussed on how they can all work together to improve Careers Education across the country.
The Past, Present, and Future
How have businesses dealt with the devastating effects of Covid and Brexit and what challenges and opportunities do businesses face in the future?
Reward, Recognise & Retain
How important is the well-being of your team to you? And what have you been doing as a business to ensure your employees are happy?
What is a B Corp?
On this Business Brunch our guests Grant Hayward from Collaborent, Helen Denny from The Myers-Briggs Company, and Kate Sandle from B Corp UK, discuss the B Corp movement, how B Corps operates, and why it’s both good for them and for a better world.
The 9 Building Blocks For Recovery
We’re definitely not out of the woods yet but we’re certainly in a position to start ‘cautiously’ planning for the future. Representatives from B4’s Professional Services Hub got together to discuss what advice they’re giving their clients to build the foundations for recovery and what they’re doing in their own businesses to get in shape to hit the ground running.
B4 Appoint Non-Executive Chairman
B4, Oxfordshire’s long established business networking group, recently announced plans to expand its new and largely digital services nationally. With the national network already attracting members from Brighton to London and Cambridge to Manchester, B4 are building on the excellent team foundations already in place with the appointment of Frank Nigriello as non-executive chairman.
Who are the policy makers?
Ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors in the House Of Lords? Well, you have come to the right place! Join special guest Baroness Judith Jolly from The House Of Lords, Paul Morgan from Naomi House & Jacksplace, and Jo Faulkner-Harvey from Homeless Oxfordshire, as they provide an insight into the House Of Lords.
Loving Lockdown? The Joys of Being a Working Parent
Feeling trapped and overwhelmed with family and work life? On this edition of The Business Brunch we are joined by Jessica Mason from Chapman Robinson & Moore, Nicola Wallbank from Julian Taylor Solicitors, Howard Feather from NatWest and Katerina Kurgane, also from Chapman Robinson & Moore as they talk about the pressures of being a parent in lockdown and how they are managing to cope with work and home life.
Digital Poverty
Many of us take connection to the internet for granted…we have phones, laptops and plenty of them. We all know what it’s like when we lose our mobile or, heaven forbid, internet connection. So imagine living in a world where you don’t have a phone, a laptop or internet connection… how would you get by?
The Home Office of the Future: A Checklist
If you’re not doing it all of the time, you’ll be doing it some of the time and if you’re not doing it at all you’ll be the envy of many who don’t have a choice. ‘Working from home’ sounds great and it was always the ultimate working blag… “yeah, sure you are”.
British start-up OX unveils 2021 project taking total grant funding to...
The latest financial backing will support its mission to deliver a green mobility-as-a-service platform for the world’s fastest growing markets.
The Real Meaning of Business
Business has always evolved, but it is now changing like never before, accelerating over recent years and fuelled even more by the extraordinary events of the past year. So, what are these changes, why are they happening and what now is the real meaning of business? Some will say it’s to generate profit or wealth. But that’s just one result and not the main reason for many.
Brexit’s Impact on Fashion Exports
Brexit’s impact stretches far and wide, but one area many of us may not have considered is the fashion industry. Jodie Evans, Fashion Business Manager at Olivia May Ltd is joined by Managing Director, Ann
Whorrall and Operations Manager, Olivia Knight who discuss the impact of Brexit on their business, their customers, fashion exports and future strategy.
LGBT History Month
February is LGBT History Month, a great time for businesses to think about how inclusive they really are for LGBT employees and what they can do to become more so.
LGBT History Month
February is LGBT History Month, a great time for businesses to think about how inclusive they really are for LGBT employees and what they can do to become more so.
LGBT History Month
February is LGBT History Month, a great time for businesses to think about how inclusive they really are for LGBT employees and what they can do to become more so.
The Future of Clubhouse
Our host for The Business Brunch, Imisi Adefala of Inspiring Action Media was joined by his guest, Adham Alimukhamedov of Stick2Win to discuss the future of Clubhouse, an invitation-only audio-chat social networking app launched in 2020 by software developers Alpha Exploration Co. As of December 2020, it was valued at nearly $100 million with latest valuations exceeding $1 billion. What does the future hold?
Ignite Sport UK partner with Oxford City FC, The Oxford Food...
Four community spirited Oxfordshire companies have joined forces with schools to help families with vital supplies during the latest lockdown – and have appealed for help.
Top Of The Posts at B4
We showcase the best performing B4 member news, articles, podcasts and videos so you can see what content the wider world wants to see – it’s also a great reflection of the amplification certain members are giving their posts.
Replacing a Leader
You won’t have missed the news last week that Jeff Bezos is preparing to stand aside as chief executive of Amazon. The move will come into effect in the third quarter of 2021 when he will hand over the reins to Andy Jassy, who heads up Amazon’s cloud computing arm. So how do you prepare? Are you thinking of standing down as leader for a slower pace of life or are you preparing yourself to lead? What does a business need to do to prepare for such a change to ensure the wheels keep turning, or is it a great opportunity to make fundamental changes?
The Disney Way
Frank Nigriello’s loyalty and long service towards his employer, Unipart, is possibly matched only by his undoubted admiration and genuine fascination for all things Disney. So when Stephen Spencer made a passing reference to Disney as possibly his optimum case study when it comes to his area of expertise, customer experience, it didn’t take a rocket scientist to work out that these two could be TV gold….and so it proved.
Building a Foundation for Success
James White, the ‘Small Business Sales Expert’, interviews David Harris who, in 2016, sold his business for an eight figure sum. So how did he do it and what’s his advice to any business with aspirations to sell?
What’s Your Story?
It’s National Storytelling Week and PR and marketing expert Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies hosted a discussion about the importance and essence of storytelling with independent communication consultant, Lucy Eckley, together with independent social media and digital marketing consultant, Paul Sutton…so absolutely no pressure summarising a discussion about storytelling given by three storytelling experts!
Children, Young Carers & COVID
Over the past year the world we once knew has become very different for all of us. We’ve all faced personal and professional challenges on a different scale and there’s no real light at the end of the tunnel. But most of us reading this will be of a certain age, we’ve lived our lives to some extent, we’ve experienced things we can, for the time being anyway, no longer experience. Not everyone can handle that, no matter how insignificant those experiences are in the grand scheme of things, they’re important to someone.
Overcoming Our Biggest Challenges
It’s been almost a year of turbulence, a year like no other, certainly a year none of us will ever forget. But, as days turned into weeks and the weeks turned into months, the realities of a new business world came into view. When would we see our colleagues again? Would we ever be together under the same roof? Can our business survive this? When B4 members from the Professional Services Hub got together recently, the stand out concern for them was the wellbeing of their colleagues.
Winners and Losers in business – 2020 / 2021
There’s no doubt that for every business success story in 2020 there have been adequate tales of woe grabbing the national headlines and felt through all levels of business. But why have the winners done so well and why have the losers been hit so hard?
B4 Embarks on National Expansion
B4, Oxfordshire’s leading business to business network, launched in 2006 and celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2021, has now launched nationally, providing businesses across the UK with fantastic opportunities to connect and secure excellent profile across B4’s growing digital audience.
Businesses focus on employability skills
With employability looming as one of the major issues for 2021, a group of Oxfordshire business representatives have started working on how the next generation of employees can be better prepared for work.
A Leap of Faith needs Reliable Partners
Having wandered relatively blind into the world of webinars early in lockdown, B4 quickly got to grips with delivering regular content from members on a daily basis, culminating with BIO2020 which saw 102 live webinars delivered over three days.
Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging
Numerous studies show that Black, Asian and minority ethnic employees still face significant barriers in the workplace. From recruitment and progression to reaching leadership positions, there are strategies that organisations can adopt to improve team representation from entry level all the way through to boardroom.
Inclusion and Diversity at GWR
Great Western Railway has worked collaboratively with colleagues to establish an Inclusion and Diversity Strategy and Action Plan that creates an environment where all colleagues feel comfortable to bring their whole selves to work. Over 600 colleagues and Trades Union representatives worked with us to develop the strategy that aims to achieve our vision where: We are progressive. We are one family. We are inclusive. First time, every time.
B4 Community Building Day
It’s B4 Community Building Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Professional Services Day
It’s B4 Professional Services Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
The NEXUS Programme – Your opportunity to support
The NEXUS Programme is for responsible businesses who recognise that they have a part to play in nurturing the wider business community. The NEXUS Programme gives B4 Members the opportunity to provide member benefits to charities, social enterprises, co-ops, fair trade organisations, start-ups and small businesses or sole traders. B4 NEXUS launched in 2019 giving […]
B4 People and Strategy Day
It’s B4 People and Strategy Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Sustainable Business Day
It’s B4 Sustainability Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Retail, Leisure & Hospitality Day
It’s B4 Retail, Leisure & Hospitality Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Day
It’s B4 Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Property Day
It’s B4 Property Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
Business Services & Tech Day
It’s Business Services & Tech Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
Workplace Wellbeing Day
It’s Workplace Wellbeing Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Sales & Marketing Day
It’s Sales & Marketing Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Responsible Business Day
It’s Responsible Business Day at B4. So we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
What’s the point of purpose?
And what does it mean for people in business and profit? We asked some B4 members to share their understanding of what this means to them, their businesses and the world today.
24 Days of B4 – Community Advent Calendar
The B4 Community has come together to bring you 24 nuggets of wisdom in the lead-up to Christmas. What’s behind each door… Click to find out!
B4 Property Day
It’s Property Day at B4 so we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 Professional Services Day
It’s Professional Services Day at B4 so we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so.
B4 ONE: EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION broadcast live on Wednesday 25th...
B4 ONE, hosted by Richard Rosser and Lydiah Igweh, will focus on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion with a live broadcast from the Ashmolean Museum in the heart of Oxford.
B4 People & Strategy Day
It’s People & Strategy Day at B4 so we’re highlighting some recent and not so recent articles and press releases posted by B4 members over the past year or so. Some content is pre-COVID but still relevant so get stuck in for great advice from our growing community of experts.
Interview with Angus Horner of Harwell Science & Innovation Campus
We were joined by Angus Horner, Director of Harwell Science & Innovation Campus in South Oxfordshire. Harwell is home to organisations, institutions and businesses shaping the world of today and tomorrow, a campus where world-class people work in world-class facilities to solve global challenges. Angus is focused on providing real estate, marketing, collaboration, networking and […]
The B4 Community Is Here To Support You
As the country goes into its second period of lockdown, we wanted you to know that the entire B4 community is here to support you.
Oxfordshire businesses invited to join free Small Business Leadership Programme
The Small Business Charter and The University of Leicester invite Oxfordshire business to join our free Small Business Leadership Programme.
B4 announce You HR as their official HR Partner
B4 is delighted to announce that long standing HR provider, You HR Consultancy, have been appointed as B4’s Official HR Partner.
The New B4 Website is Now Live
Packed full of content including videos, articles, press releases and podcasts, the new B4 website is a fantastic resource for all businesses….but, that’s just the beginning. As our new network of Hubs begins to generate collaborative content, in the form of webinars and articles, the site will become an increasingly referenced website for the business […]
Employee Volunteering Best-Practice Guide
Employee volunteering provides significant benefits to businesses and employees, as well as having a significant impact on charities and at the heart of local communities. Some of the professional skills employers and staff might take for granted are priceless to charities and community organisations – according to the NCVO almanac, the value of volunteering is estimated at £22.6bn per year.
Work Experience Best-Practice Guide
Work experience is a placement offered by an employer on their premises, during which school or college students carry out tasks more or less as an employee would. The placement can last for a week or longer, and includes an emphasis on the learning aspects of the experience.
Maintaining Mental Health and wellbeing when working from home
From a Coaching perspective, within this topic I look at different ways we can personalise good practice, evidenced based approaches, developmental thinking, active listening and reflective learning, both to our individual lives and our individual experiences.
B4 One: Virtual Wellbeing, Is It Achievable with Deborah Humphrey
As the first national lockdown eased some people have returned to the office; others, for many reasons, have remained working virtually.
B4 One: How to achieve workplace wellbeing with a disparate workforce
Sridhar Iyengar from Zoho Corporation talks to B4 about the challenges of dealing with COVID and the benefits of using Zoho for your company.
B4 ONE: Workplace Wellbeing broadcast live from Blenheim Palace
A day of empowering webinars to boost engagement, motivation, performance & health in the workplace
Big Foot Communications steps in to support B4 ONE
Big Foot Communications is delighted to be supporting B4’s first ‘B4 ONE’ bi-monthly all-day webinar.
UK Prime Minister Meets the Team Behind the UK’s Forthcoming Vaccines...
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited the construction site of what is rapidly becoming the UK’s Vaccines Manufacturing and Innovation Centre.
Application for the Government’s Kickstart Scheme by the B4 community
Together with other B4 members including ELS, Oxford Duplication Centre, Studio 8 and NX, we have made an application for the Government’s Kickstart Scheme which provides funding for employers to provide six-month work placements for 16-24-year-olds that are currently claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment.
Sun Rum – one man’s passion to create a legacy
Matt England is the man behind Sun Rum, the artisan Lymington-based rum producer who has spent most of his working life in the hospitality sector and decided on creating his own brand having been inspired by anothers quest in the spirits business. B4’s Richard Rosser had the pleasure of interviewing the incredibly focused and passionate owner of a brand which could well be making a splash in your lives…and quite a lot of fun in the process making some of Matt’s keynote cocktails!
Interview with Mike Feerick of Alison.com
About this session: Mike discusses his journey as a social entrepreneur, and some of the key learnings he has picked up along the way. He can discuss how to build a financially successful business focused on meeting a huge global social need.
B4 Inspiration: Interview with Mike Feerick
Mike discusses his journey as a social entrepreneur, and some of the key learnings he has picked up along the way. He can discuss how to build a financially successful business focused on meeting a huge global social need.
Can we compete in an Amazon world and not compromise on...
Building a successful business is hard, building one that’s ethical is impossible. That’s the conclusion I came to in 2019 when, after 3 years of nurturing Curiosity Box, a customer told me our boxes were too expensive.
Business for the New World Order with Simon Biltcliffe, of Webmart
How will business be run in a post COVID-19, digital-first world, where people are the most important part of your business because you can scale the disparate talent and the competitive advantage of the talent that you own in the new world order that is coming around.
Opportunities for business to be a force for good with Lizzy...
Business done right is a force for good in our society. Now more than ever, social and environmental responsibility are essential parts of doing business, whether here in the UK or elsewhere in the world.
The Future of Leadership with Stephen Morris of Open Square Consulting
Work continues to rapidly shift. A few years ago, technologies and innovations like big data, AI, machine learning, Blockchain and cloud were relatively unknown, yet today they’re ubiquitous, and with recent events, essential.
Spending for Good – Your buying power can make a positive...
OSEP CIC is a Social Enterprise, set up to support purposeful businesses, social enterprises, social entrepreneurs and enterprising charities across Oxfordshire and it is delighted to have partnered with Blenheim under the B4 Nexus programme.
Get More Customers To Your Website With Google Ads with Becky...
Want to stand out and attract new customers in today’s tough marketplace? You’re in luck.
Mindfulness and Resilience with Sophie Maclaren of Awaris
How to navigate lockdown and emerge stronger, wiser, and more able. This is a period we and our children will remember for the rest of our lives- this workshop invites you to make it meaningful.
The Journey to Zero-Carbon Homes with Ian Pritchett of Greencore Construction...
This talk describes the journey Ian Pritchett and his various companies have been through over the last 30 years, recognising and understanding Climate Change.
Re-launching your business post global crisis with Mark Spolander of MODUS...
Modus Accountants will be hosting an interactive session on preparing you and your business for re-launch and thriving post lockdown.
Customer Journey Mapping – The what, why and how! With Graham...
How easy are you making it for your customers to do business with you, and has COVID-19 made this harder?
Future-proof your business with Tom Cheesewright of Book of the Future
You can be great at what you do and still fail, if what you do isn’t what the customer wants any more.
Best Practice Guide to Open and Inclusive Recruitment
A step-by-step guide for Oxfordshire employers to unlock potential through diverse recruitment. This guide is designed to support you to adapt your organisation’s recruitment practices in order to access talented and motivated candidates from disadvantaged groups – to help you reach the widest possible pool of talent. These include ex-offenders; young people who are ‘NEET’ […]
Best Practice Guide to Long-Term Charity Partnerships
Whilst many businesses support charities on an occasional basis or via a ‘Charity of the Year’ initiative, some choose to build deeper and more permanent relationships with a particular cause. When done well, this partnering can see a business involved in a charity’s strategic direction, sharing skills, knowledge and networks on an ongoing basis.
Building Back Faster, Greener, Fairer with Peter Holbrook, of Social Enterprise...
What is the relationship between business and society? Are profit-maximising models any longer compatible with our post-Covid world? Climate chaos, population growth, growing inequality, habitat loss, political instability continue to threaten us with even greater likely consequences than COVID19.
The Future of Food with Amanda Burningham, MasterChef Quarterfinalist
Taking the latest research and findings from leading global data platforms and media owners, this session will touch upon the key trends affecting the food and culinary landscape.
Establishing the High Pay Off activities for growth that must control...
Take this opportunity to reflect on your current circumstances, consider your business and spend some valuable time working on the step change required to ensure you have the business your hard work deserves.
10 things I’ve learned whilst running a social enterprise with Georgina...
Georgina launched the children’s book review website https://toppsta.com six years ago after running the ebook business for iTunes for 5 years.
How to exceed your customers’ expectations beyond the lockdown with Graham...
How have you been made to feel as a customer during the lockdown?
B4 Podcast: Interview with Richard Rosser
Emma Gascoigne talks with Richard Rosser of b4 magazine.
Our Employee Ownership Journey with Alexandra Rae of Wise Investment
Employee ownership is still relatively unusual but is starting to gradually become more mainstream and something business owners consider as an alternative exit strategy.
Getting your Grant Claim Right with Steve Neal of Shaw Gibbs
UK businesses driving innovation and development can claim Grants through various bodies such as Innovate UK, Horizon 2020 and now the Coronavirus Future Fund.
Circular business models: How to make more money by selling less...
I’ll be sharing examples of businesses – from local to global – that make more money with circular business models without having to make new products.
Fitch Brew Co Heads to the USA
Andy Deeley and Emily Fitch-Deeley, co-founders of cold brew coffee and teas producer, Fitch Brew Co, may be familiar to many of our readers having appeared at BIO2018 and, more recently, in NX Magazine. They’ve been ever present on social media, chronicling their amazing growth and, recently, overseas expansion. It’s great to see hard work paying off for such an industrious and likeable couple….oh, and by the way, at the same time that their expansion news hit, Emily gave birth to a new Deeley… congratulations!
Getting back to business with Ambi Silk of CQR Consulting
In the aftermath of this unprecedented event, planning your return back to business as usual can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
How Entrepreneurs Sell: What they do that you don’t but probably...
Paul will discuss the findings from his recent research project exploring how successful entrepreneurs approach the process of selling.
Why creativity is essential for business success, more so now than...
Why creativity is essential for business success, more so now than ever before with Iain Lewis of Torpedo
B4 Digital Magazine – Issue 62 OUT NOW
There’s a lot of obvious things that we could all say about the last three months, the lessons learned, changing working practices, getting to know our colleagues, customers and associates better remotely than we did in person….the main thing is that we’re all focused on a positive future having experienced the biggest reboot any of us will ever go through.
Unleashing the power within people with Sam Bishop of Sam Bishop...
“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” Alice Walker
4 ways to build a fitter business with Emma Jones of...
In this talk, Enterprise Nation founder Emma Jones, will offer ways in which business owners can build a business that not only survives the next 6-12 months, but thrives.
Oxfordshire’s Visitor Economy – the then, the now and the future...
Oxfordshire has in recent years benefited from a valuable and thriving visitor economy that was worth over £2billion and supported nearly 40,000 jobs across the county.
Best Practice Guide to Charity of the Year Initiatives
About Charity of the Year initiatives are popular with businesses wanting to back different causes regularly. The business typically chooses a different charity to support each year, offering staff volunteering time, sponsorship and fundraising support. But how do businesses know they are providing the help that charities really need? This guide looks at how your […]
How I moved my business online with Joy Foster of TechPixies
Joy Foster, founder and Managing Director of the Award-Winning Online Social Media Training Company TechPixies will talk about how she moved her social enterprise from a face to face training company online in 2018 and the impact moving online has had for her company.
Government’s Self-Quarantine Plan Threatens South East Econoomy
The UK government’s plans for 14 days self-quarantining of arrivals, will spell disaster for the aviation industry in the South East – GMB
BIO2020 – a Hopin success!
Over 90 speakers and 400 delegates in three days using a brand new platform …… surely this event had ‘DANGER do not enter’ written all over it?
What it means to run a business in uncertain times with...
Charly Cox is the Founder of the Climate Change Coaches, who help people to change their mindsets so that they can get into action in the face of big existential crises.
How to build a resilient consulting brand in challenging times with...
2020 began as an exciting new decade, full of promise for independent consultants.
Managing CX from Crisis to Recovery: 6 ways to engage with...
“Ten years of change in one week” was how the New York Times characterised the way the Coronavirus pandemic has swept through society.
How laughter can change the way you think with James Ainsworth
How laughter can change the way you think with James Ainsworth.
How we can stimulate a faster and better economic recovery in...
Oxfordshire Voice and guest speakers take a look at how we can stimulate a faster and better economic recovery in the aftermath of COVID-19.
Talking to Yourself with Lucinda Whiteley of PIVOT
Neil Cowling, podcast producer extraordinaire, Lisa Pilkington of BBC Radio Oxford fame and actress and broadcaster Sue Elliot-Nicholls join Lucinda Whiteley of Novel Entertainment in the first of a brand new series of webinars on Tuesdays at 18:00, to talk about talking to yourself on radio, podcast and in real life.
BIO2020 Official Charity Partner – SpecialEffect
It is our huge pleasure to confirm that SpecialEffect will be BIO2020’s official charity partner.
How to go from Crisis to Recovery with Lindsay Willott of...
Like most businesses, as the lockdown began, you probably experienced 10 years’ worth of change in a single week.
How to maximise your cashflow through R&D relief and funding with...
Vincent Seddon of TBAT Innovation talks about how to maximise your cashflow through R&D relief & funding.
The Future of Money with Ian Woollard of The Academy Partnership
The Virus Pandemic led to a £200bn issue of government bonds to the Bank Of England. My talk will help understand why this happened and what are the implications.
BIO2020 LIVE to take place 2nd to 4th June
Whilst the world adapts to huge shifts in all aspects of our lives, the B4 team have been working hard to ensure that BIO2020 LIVE will take place from 2nd to 4th June.
How to build a future-proof business with Tom Cheesewright of Book...
Applied futurist Tom Cheesewright works with global brands to help them to see what’s next and prepare for tomorrow.
Interview with Sam Ricketts, Manager of Shrewsbury Town FC
Sam is manager of League One football club, Shrewsbury Town. Although the current season is under lockdown, and may not be completed, Sam is one of the only managers in the world to deny Liverpool, the current European and World Club Champions and, until the current crisis, runaway leaders of the Premier League, a win when his team held Liverpool to a 2-2 draw in the fourth round of the FA Cup, before losing 1-0 in the replay.
Running a business is a marathon not a sprint with Richard...
Richard Knight will be sharing his insights and experiences in business over the last 33 years and how it helped him to run the London Marathons in 2004 and 2005.
Life Hacks For Optimal Performance with Spider Chan
The human body has been equipped with tools for our longevity, health and wellbeing to sustain us through our entire lifetime to thrive and not just survive. Over the decades we have “lost” the ability to tap into the foundation of these tools, which I call Life Hacks.
Stress management for improving creativity and productivity with Jeremy Howick
It’s impossible to be creative or productive when you’re in crisis—in stress.
Take 2: An open letter to professional footballers from the people...
Every morning, football fans listen to the radio and hear how difficult it is for professional football players to take a cut during this period to help those in desperate need of support…key workers, individuals who can’t get food, charities…the list goes on.
Self-employed legislation amidst COVID-19 with Mark Spolander of Modus Accountants
Self-employment legislation amidst COVID-19 with Mark Spolander. Mark takes a look at self employed legislation amidst COVID-19.
Support for the Business Community
We know the next three months, and who knows potentially longer, will be a difficult time for us all. We need to support each other and our wider communities and ensure that we are sharing initiatives and support for those that need our help the most.
Finance for all reasons
As I touched on in my previous article the ability to raise finance from the right people at the right time is of paramount importance.
In Conversation With Actor Paul Blackthorne
Paul Blackthorne is an English actor. Although born in Shropshire, England, he spent his early childhood on British Military bases in both England and Germany and briefly attended school in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. Blackthorne broke into acting via television commercials in England.
The Road To Remote with Alex Minchin of Zest Digital
Alex Minchin of Zest Digital talks to us about “The Road To Remote” becoming an office-less company.
Every Day’s A School Day
I remember, only ten days ago, saying to someone that it would be good to put the business on hold ‘for about three months’ so we could focus on doing some work on the new website, processes etc…. Those words came back to haunt me this week and I got my wish.
COVID-19 Government Briefing Roundup
Government Briefing Tuesday 31st by Michael Gove The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster
Business Experience Learnt Over 50 Years
After graduating from Southampton University in 1964 with a 2:1 in Mechanical Engineering, I turned down the offer of further research into my thesis project, and elected, after much persuasion, to join the family business.
Have your say: Transport issues in Oxfordshire
Everyone is dependent on transport in some way, shape or form. Even if you work from home and conduct all of your work remotely, your work will in some way rely on transport. In Oxfordshire, the transport network is suffering from overload at peak times and doesn’t provide for safer and more environmentally friendly modes of transport such as cycling as well as it could.
Blending the best of both for everyone
In the Chinese New Year, 2020 is the year of rat and whilst the rat might perhaps not be everyone’s favourite little animal it is one whose determination might inspire many of us as we look to achieve our organisational goals for the new decade ahead.
The Kingham Wow!
The Kingham Plough has a fantastic reputation for excellent food and hospitality made famous by chef patron and Great British Menu winner, Emily Watkins. Now under the ownership of experienced hospitality operators, Matt and Katie Beamish, B4’s Richard Rosser found that Emily’s legacy was in safe hands with a wonderful night’s stay and sumptuous meal.
Spiced Roots
All too infrequently you have a culinary experience which makes a mark, which excites the taste buds and which gives you confidence that service and product are still held in the highest regard….but then being a rare occurrence is the reason these experiences are so special.
Oxfordshire Voice: A Focus on Transport
Oxfordshire Voice (OV) approaches its first year anniversary with much still to do, but that was always going to be the case with such a high bar set from the outset. There’s a growing sense of permanence amongst the OV partners with a strong board established and sub boards set up to bolster admin and governance, establish a communications strategy and focus on some of the key issues in more detail, starting with the formation of a transport sub group.
Why have we changed the way we think at BIO?
With a theme of #CHANGETHEWAYYOUTHINK, we’re setting up an event which is designed to help you find out more about making your business a more responsible business, learning from the excellent examples being set by lots of fantastic Oxfordshire businesses.
B4 Blenheim Dinner at Halloween
Sixty B4 members and guests were treated to a wonderful evening of fine dining and entertainment in the saloon at Blenheim Palace on Wednesday 30th October. Our host, Blenheim CEO, Dominic Hare, welcomed guests with an engaging update on progress to date and plans for the future.
NEXUS launch inspiring Oxfordshire’s business community
On Thursday 10th October, NEXUS, a new programme designed by B4 (Oxfordshire’s leading B2B networking organisation) to inspire collaboration within Oxfordshire’s business community, was launched at Jurys Inn.
The B4 Business Podcast launches with digital debate
B4 has launched a new monthly business podcast featuring business leaders discussing topical issues. The first episode is available now to listen to on Soundcloud presented by Emma Gascoigne from Big Foot Communications and joined by guests Frank Nigriello, Corporate Affairs Director at Unipart Group and Simon Biltcliffe, CEO of Webmart. In the 20 minute podcast, Frank and Simon discuss the opportunities and threats of digitalisation and stress the importance of working with schools to help plug the digital skills gap.
Blue Paper in the hands of local government
The culmination of ideas and outcomes from the first four OV forums is in the hands of local authorities – Your voice is being heard!
OV Blue Paper Handover
Oxfordshire Voice and some of the key founding members of the organisation have been meeting recently to mark an important and symbolic event.
Engaging The Next Generation
Oxfordshire Voice has been set up to find solutions for the key challenges facing Oxfordshire businesses. Whilst many solutions have and are being implemented by businesses on a daily basis (flexible working, car pooling etc….) to overcome these challenges, larger policy related changes may well take years to implement.
Putting the Villa in Vilamoura!
Just a three hour flight from London and a 30 minute drive, Vilamoura is a fantastic destination for a short break or a longer, more relaxing holiday. With an abundance of fantastic restaurants, beaches and leisure activities on your doorstep, it’s an unmissable destination if you’re looking for the perfect getaway.
B4 is More Than Networking
We’ve often wondered what makes B4 stand out from the crowd, and after many years we feel we might finally have the answer: B4 is more than networking.
BIO2019 Official Recap
BIO2019 Encapsulates the Vibrancy of Oxfordshire’s Business Community
BIO puts Oxfordshire at the centre of the business stage
Oxfordshire is poised to consolidate and strengthen its place at the heart of business in Britain – Brexit or No Brexit.
B4 Meet Karthik Ramanna, of University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of...
We sit-down with Karthik Ramanna, Professor of Business & Public Policy and Director of the Master of Public Policy Programme at the University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government.
Under 30’s Network Learn Secret Tips on Marketing to Gen Z
On Friday 15th March, a range of business professionals aged between 17 and 30 joined NXT for an evening of networking at Metro Bank located in the centre of Oxford.
Business Leaders and Town Planners Launch Initiative to Tell More Home...
When it comes to housing Oxfordshire’s workforce that’s the new message from a cross-section of the county’s planning and business community.
B4 Oxfordshire Housing Crisis Documentary
A short documentary that explores Oxfordshire’s current housing difficulties. Representing the views of businesses, council members, MPs and the residents of Oxford.
Becoming The Best Leader You Can Be with John Knights
John has a Senior Executive Coaching Award from The Oxford School of Coaching & Mentoring, lectured at the University of Oxford on leadership development and was Honorary Lecturer at the University of Chester in the field of Work Based Learning.
BIO2019 to take place at MINI Plant Oxford on Thursday 6th...
Having enjoyed excellent events at Saïd Business School and The King’s Centre over the past five years, BIO is moving to a fantastic new space at MINI Plant Oxford on Thursday 6th June 2019.
B4’s Night to Remember in The Saloon at Blenheim Palace
What an unforgettable and privileged night B4 members and their guests enjoyed in the incredible surroundings of The Saloon at Blenheim Palace in October. Sixty guests enjoyed a champagne reception in the Great Hall before the Saloon’s doors opened to reveal beautifully set tables, complete with Halloween table decorations supplied by event stylist, Tina Rosser (of TJR Event Styling and Management) and B4’s oldest member, an immaculately dressed skeleton.
Hotel du Vin Henley
We enjoyed a welcome break at the fabulous Hotel du Vin, a cosy retreat in the heart of Henley, snuggled alongside the banks of the River Thames.
Fantastic B4 Classic Event at Oxford Town Hall
On 21st November B4 members and guests were welcomed to our first Classic Event at the stunning Oxford Town Hall. Guests explored this beautiful and historic building and enjoyed a selection of complimentary drinks and canapés courtesy of Lamb Catering. Accompanied by speeches from B4’s Richard Rosser and David Hunt, Commercial Manager of Oxford Town Hall.
Oxfordshire Voice Forum: Why is it so hard to recruit in...
Oxfordshire Voice Forum at Pembroke College, Oxford. Thursday 15th November 2018.
Top Tips For selling Your Company with James Hunt of Everyman...
Top Tips For selling Your Company with James Hunt of Everyman Legal.
Delivery of fast Broadband is still Too Slow says Oxfordshire Voice...
Are sluggish data speeds hampering Oxford’s aspirations to become a ‘Smart City’?
Fantastic B4 Classic Event at Rhodes House
On 6th September B4 members and guests enjoyed an evening of networking with drinks and canapés at the stunning home of the Rhodes Scholars, Rhodes House. With a pre-event Masterclass from Hayley Monks of Think Inspire Create who presented guests with a wonderful and appropriate topic for discussion: “The Future of the Workforce – Does the quality of the human interaction become more important as automation grows?”.
Oxford & Oxfordshire World Class & Connected
Oxford and Oxfordshire were top of the 2017 Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities index and the 2018 Arcadis ‘Investing in Britain’ report names Oxford as the 2nd best city in the UK for Growth Potential. As Oxfordshire’s leading business networking community, B4 aims to play a key role in this growth.
Magnificent B4 Classic Event at 141 Park Drive, Milton Park
On 10th May B4 Members and guests enjoyed an evening of networking in the fantastic, innovative venue 141 Park Drive, Milton Park. Followed by speeches from B4’s Richard Rosser and Milton Park’s Philip Campbell. The evening provided our guests an insight into the people behind Milton Park, how the place is run and the latest news and developments within this fascinating science and business park.
Jamals Saffron
Two of Oxford’s finest restaurants have come togerther to create, what could be the ultimate Indian restaurant in Oxford.
First NX Event A Great Success
Guests were blown away by the first NX event for under 25’s held on Friday 6th July.
BIO2018 – The Best Yet! For Oxfordshire Businesses
BIO2018 on Wednesday 23rd May at The King’s Centre in Oxford was a massive hit with sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and delegates as Oxfordshire’s biggest networking day of the year took a giant leap forward.
A True Leader
Oxford was last year ranked, for the second consecutive year, by PwC as the UK’s highest ranking city in their recent Good Growth for Cities report. Although it’s easy to pick holes in what is wrong with Oxford, it’s just as easy to overlook the long list of positives.
The Void : Star Wars, Secrets of The Empire at Westfield,...
I hadn’t thought this one through very well had I! What was meant to be a belated 21st birthday treat for my son Ed (once a Star Wars fan, always a Star Wars fan), could have turned into a very expensive day out. However, I’d managed to book this unbelievable experience on one of only two days in the year when the shops were all shut…Easter Sunday! Genius!
Perfect B4 Classic Event at Pint Shop Oxford
On 19th April over 70 B4 Members and Guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of relaxed networking in the cosy yet modern setting of Pint Shop with speeches from Ross Phillips, General Manager of Pint Shop, Richard Holmes, Co-Founder of Pint Shop and Richard Rosser, CEO of B4, followed by an interactive hop and beer tasting activity hour.
3 Year B4 Partnerships: Our Latest Partner You HR Consultancy
B4’s latest 3 year partner is You HR Consultancy MD Jonna Mundy tells B4 why this 3 year partnership is so important for the future growth of her company.
Superb B4 Platinum Dinner at Said Business School
On 22nd March B4 Members and Guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of fine dining in the impressive Thatcher Business Education Centre (TBEC), Saïd Business School with an interesting talk from our Guest Speaker, Nadine Hatten of Nielsen.
Delightful B4 Classic Event at Milton Hill House
B4 were pleased to welcome B4 Members & guests to delightful Milton Hill House. Guests were served canapés and drinks, followed by welcome speeches from B4’s CEO Richard Rosser and Ben Sanders, General Manager of Milton Hill House.
Social Media & Your Business
Web-based social networking can create extraordinary exposure for your organisation, and is currently a significant piece of every marketing procedure. The advantages of utilising social networking are so great that anybody not utilising this financially savvy asset is passing up a major opportunity for an incredible showcasing chance.
A Warm Welcome to B4
The introduction to B4 for new members has always been an area we wanted to give some attention to and partnering with our new neighbours at The Manor Country House Hotel, we had the perfect opportunity to do just that.
Marvellous B4 50th Edition Celebration at Blenheim
Marvellous B4 50th Edition Celebration at Blenheim
Fabulous B4 Classic Event at Hartwell House Hotel & Spa
B4 were proud to welcome B4 Members and their guests back to the fantastic Hartwell House Hotel & Spa, following numerous events B4 have previously held there. Guests enjoyed an evening of relaxed networking, with drinks and canapés in a stunning setting, with speeches from Richard Rosser, CEO of B4 and Matthew Johnson, General Manager of Hartwell House Hotel & Spa.
B4 50th Timeline
At a meeting with John Kennedy, then of Darbys (now Knights), Colin and Richard Rosser agreed to launch a quarterly business magazine aimed at giving Oxfordshire businesses a profile in high quality print. John came up with the name B4, standing for Building Bridges Between Businesses and commented.
Royal Lancaster London Refurb Lives Up To Expectations
We have been fortunate to visit Royal Lancaster on several occasions with B4 over the past five years, but this trip was especially eagerly awaited following its £80 million renovation. B4’s Richard Rosser reports.
Fantastic B4 Classic Event in the brand new, high tech Sultan...
B4, in association with Conference Oxford were proud to invite B4 Members and their guests to experience the delights of Oxford’s newest venue: the sleek and modern Sultan Nazrin Shah Centre at Worcester College on Thursday 7th December, with speeches from Prof. Sir Jonathan Bate, Provost of Worcester College, Richie Carter, Contracts Manager of Beard Construction, Mike Naworynsky, Home Bursar of Pembroke College & Chairman of Conference Oxford and Richard Rosser, CEO of B4.
Wonderful B4 Christmas Dinner & In Oxford Awards Ceremony 2017
B4 invited Platinum members and guests to celebrate the winners of this year’s In Oxford Awards at the B4 Christmas Dinner, held at the prestigious Divinity School. The event included an opportunity to connect with a wide range of Oxfordshire’s leading businesses and enjoy the hospitality of Oxford Fine Dining, with speeches from Alice Ogilvie, Head of Venue Services at Bodleian Libraries, Cllr Price, Leader of Oxford City Council and Richard Rosser, CEO of B4.
B4 Launches New Member Induction Lunches at The Manor Country House...
As part of a review of all of our processes at B4, we are delighted to announce a series of new member lunches that will be held at The Manor Country House Hotel, starting in January 2018.
Excellent B4 Classic Event at The Oxford Artisan Distillery
B4 The Oxford Artisan Distillery (TOAD) welcomed B4 Members and their guests for a tour of the newly opened distillery, the first of its kind in central Oxford. The event included casual networking with drinks and canapés, with speeches by Tom Nicolson, CEO & Chairman of TOAD and Richard Rosser, CEO of B4.
B4 Advisory Board Meets for the First Time
Following on from the success of the B4 Focus Group at Rhodes House in September, a group of B4’s most trusted members met in the spectacular surroundings of the Ashmolean Museum to discuss the future of B4.
Focus on the future for B4
Prior to the B4 Classic Event at Rhodes House in September, 30 B4 Members from a wide range of sectors gathered to tell us what we do well and what we could do better. As part of an ongoing assessment of B4 and how we can improve what we do for our members, the next stage of the process is the formation of a B4 Advisory Board.
Grand Designs
Richard Rosser caught up with Kevin McCloud, the man behind TV’s Grand Designs and the Grand Designs Live exhibition which took place in October, to pick his brain on what “design” (exterior or interior) can mean for you and your home, and share his thoughts on the current housing market in Oxfordshire.
50th Cover Shoot at Blenheim Palace
Thank you to everyone for attending the B4 50th Edition cover shoot at Blenheim Palace and to Dominic Hare (CEO) and Heather Carter (Operations Director) at Blenheim Palace for hosting. Considering guests came from all quarters of Oxfordshire, it was a wonderful turnout for early on a Friday morning, demonstrating the warmth and support for B4. Thank you to Clark Wiseman of Studio 8 and to all the B4 team.
Excellent B4 Platinum Dinner at Macdonald Randolph Hotel
B4 Platinum Members and their guests enjoyed a fantastic evening at Macdonald Randolph Hotel on Thursday 12th October with our host, General Manager, Gurval Durand and guest speaker, Blenheim Palace CEO, Dominic Hare. Excellent food, superb service and a fitting tribute to the late Michael Grange.
G-Smatt Europe agree video screen sponsorship for BIO2018
Since being introduced to G-Smatt’s EVP, Dr. Orhan Ertughrul by Avril Chaffey, we have built an excellent relationship, introducing Orhan and his team to the B4 Network.
Holiday Inn, Newbury Racecourse and Hawkwell House Hotel play host to...
B4 Members were treated to three events this summer starting with Speed Networking at The Holiday Inn in Oxford, followed by two excellent Platinum Dinners at Hawkwell House Hotel and Newbury Racecourse.
How to improve your holiday snaps!
Over the last 8 years working for B4 I’ve seen plenty of our Editor Richard Rosser’s attempts at holiday photography. Richard, like a lot of us, is not bad at photography. Many of us know some basics about lining up a shot and getting a good background in here, but perhaps looking at some basic professional practices could lead to some more impressive snaps for everyone and a much lovelier way of remembering your family holidays!
A guide to resolution
OR, why we ask for a bigger picture from you! This brief guide will (hopefully) explain why we can’t use certain images for print, and what this Image Resolution thing is all about. We want you to look your best.