Forres Business Association forms steering group to plan group's future
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THE local business community has taken a step towards reforming a trade group.
Forres Business Association (FBA) caretakers Joanna Taylor, Claire Doughty and Jane Duncan Rogers, 11 members and three non-members, have discussed the future of the organisation suspended in 2018.
Joanna, who runs Rafford Consulting Ltd, said: “Everyone wants to see FBA continue. It was suggested that it should be for the whole area, and that we need to make sure we do not duplicate anything. A steering group has been set up and we will arrange another meeting to present our findings.”
The steering group also includes Claire, Alan James, Graham Murdoch, Shaun Moat, Carrie Custodio and Gavin Ellis.
Claire, who owns a publicity company, thought the meeting helped everyone understand some of FBA’s history.
She said: “It was explained that it has gone through changes, but originally focussed on the town centre and its shopkeepers. What people want now is an organisation that will represent businesses of all kinds. The landscape has changed with the Enterprise Park, industry at the Greshop, commercial activity online and a trend for running businesses from home.”
She added: “The steering group will recommend how FBA will incorporate, having explored the merits of a company limited by guarantee or a community interest company. This will then be put to the members. There will also be housekeeping, then we need to grow the membership.”
Carrie Custodio, owner of High Street coffee shop 1496, is new to FBA.
She said: “Businesses will thrive if we work together. Owners bring a variety of knowledge and experience which can lift the town.”
Email claire@clairedoughtypublicity.uk to join, offer ideas or for more information.
