Working spaces – exploring the demand

A vibrant business breakfast which focused on how to find and create space for Frome businesses to start, thrive and grow, was hosted by bespoke kitchen designer, Shaker & May, who are based in Commerce Park, on 4th April.

Space for businesses is a particular issue for Frome, and, as they grow, there is a dearth of space for them to move into.

At the breakfast, Jeremy Smalley, a local resident who runs a regeneration and planning consultancy business, summarised the results of a survey, commissioned by Frome Town Council, that dealt with this important topic.

He pointed out that, out of the 19,000 people who have jobs, only 8,000 of those work in Frome. He also drew attention to the 1,000 businesses in Frome and that if they are able to grow and remain in the town, then it would provide increased employment within the local area.

Jeremy said, “The best way to create employment is to support existing businesses – through provision of space, fast broadband, cross-selling of services to each other, transport and access to advice, training and support.”

Highlighting the importance of marketing Frome as a place to live and work, Jeremy suggested that the businesses of Frome could get together to think through how they could jointly market Frome.

The next business breakfast will address this very question and will be held in the Council Chamber at the recently-opened Frome Town Hall on the 2nd May. The next event will focus on how to get the most out of local media. For more information on the Frome Business Breakfast, or to sign up to the mailing list, please contact Charlie Orr via orrc@frometowncouncil.gov.uk