may 24 2010

One of our clients, Kate Lowden, takes photographs and from these produces large prints and cards. Kate has worked hard to set up a range of sales outlets across the region and is now planning to expand her product range. Kate was recently introduced to a local business in Hexham by the TEP facilitator, Mark. The business is Upper Teas cafe. Upper Teas is owned and run by Debra. Mark noticed that Debra displays work on the cafe wall space produced by local artists, so he introduced Kate to Debra and there is now one wall displaying some of Kate's photography. Debra is pleased to have the added value of great pictures displayed in her cafe and Kate now has another outlet and display for her work. This is a simple example of the principles of the TEP and the Sirolli Institute. There are always people in every community who have useful skills and there are always others in that same community who are willing to help and support them to succeed. If you would like to see Kates pictures you can pop into Upper Teas which is above the bakers at 13 Catlle Market Hexham. You can see more about Kates business in our success stories page.

april 29 2010

Waitrose have supported the TEP by helping us host events and celebrations for clients and panel members. So we were pleased to be invited to an event aimed at improving links with the community and organised by Waitrose and the Hexham Business Forum.

We were shown into the large hall in the Wentworth centre in Hexham and Patrick from Waitrose introduced members of his team who explained their role in the business. They are all described as partners and continue to live the vision of their founder John Lewis. He believed that there was a way to run a business which would allow the employees to take an active part in the way the business grew and operated.

The presentations from the staff really gave a feel for the level of commitment to the business held by the partners. Their passion for ethical and responsible sourcing shone through. It was refreshing to see real people describe their work with such care and dedication.

We were then shown round the stock rooms and operating area of the Waitrose store. Again this was led by the partners. And again it was easy to see the benefits of including the staff in the management of the business. They seemed genuinely concerned to ensure that they operate in an effective and efficient manner.

Thanks to all the team at the Waitrose store and the members of the Hexham Business Forum for hosting the event.