Family Business Conference 2018

Pioneer Foodservice | Family Business Conference 2018 | John Stevenson | Carlisle, Cumbria

The Family Business Conference was held at The Castle Green Hotel in Kendal on Thursday 11th October. The conference brought together family businesses looking to learn from and network with other successful family businesses.

Due to our successful win at the Cumbria Family Business Awards in March, we were invited to take part in the event. David Jenkins, our sales director, went along to represent our business.

Local MP, John Stevenson, gave the opening address talking about the effect Brexit will have on the economy and stating that family businesses are vital to our local development. He said: “You raise aspirations, encourage independence and contribute to local services and products. I want to thank you for your contribution to the local and national economy but also recognise the ‘added value’ of your commitment to the local community.”

Denys Shortt OBE, head of family business DCS based in Oxfordshire, gave an inspirational talk about how he took his business from zero to £200m sales.

David Jenkins and Chris Lamont, a partner in the Cumbrian accountancy firm Lamont Pridmore took to the stage later in the morning. Chris quizzed David about our business; the history, plans for the future and challenges that we face. In a candid interview, David talked about how we have grown from a market stall in Carlisle city centre to a successful foodservice and retail company employing over 350 staff.

Representatives from Story Contracting and Homes, James Cropper, Grasmere Gingerbread and Roland Hill were also guest speakers and participants.

Event organiser, Sue Howorth of The Family Business Network, said the event had been “fantastic”.

Pioneer Foodservice | Cumbria Family Business Conference 2018
Pioneer Foodservice | Cumbria Family Business Conference 2018