By Natasha McLeod, CEO of Chichester BID
There is something about September that changes the rhythm of Chichester. The summer crowds begin to ease, the evenings draw in and businesses start looking towards what is often the busiest and most important part of the year.
At Chichester BID, we’re doing the same; looking ahead but also making sure there is plenty happening in the city centre right now.
One of the things I value most about the BID is the opportunity to bring businesses together. Individually, businesses can do a huge amount, but collectively we can create a much bigger impact. That might be through our popular Chichester Restaurant Week (12–16 October), bringing 30 cafés, restaurants and pubs together to encourage people to try somewhere new, or through our Christmas in Chichester campaign, which this year will have a touch of Neverland, thanks to our collaboration with Chichester Festival Theatre.
We’re also investing in the businesses behind the city centre. In October, we’re running a free Growth & Resilience programme for independent businesses, looking at practical ways to increase sales, improve profitability and make better business decisions.
November will see the return of the Chichester & District Business Awards for a second year. The BID was delighted to work alongside the Chichester Observer and Chichester District Council to bring the awards to fruition last year, creating an opportunity to shine an important spotlight on the brilliant businesses across our city centre and wider district. There is so much talent, innovation and commitment among our local businesses and it is important that we take the time to celebrate it.
And sometimes it’s simply about creating opportunities to connect. Our networking events give businesses the chance to meet, share ideas and tell us what is happening on the ground. Those conversations, alongside our wider consultation with businesses, have helped shape our Business Plan and priorities for the next five years.
This autumn marks an important moment for Chichester BID, with a ballot taking place in November. At the heart of our Business Plan is a simple ambition: Supporting Business. Strengthening Chichester. We hope businesses will support a fourth term, enabling us to continue working together to make Chichester a great place to work, visit, shop, eat and do business.
Chichester works best when we work together. The BID is one part of that partnership, connecting businesses, amplifying their voice and helping turn good ideas into things that people can see, experience and enjoy across our city.