Sustainability, Savings and a Shared Vision for Blackpool

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us for the latest Fylde Coast Responsible Business Network meeting. As always, there was a fantastic energy in the room, with businesses from across the Fylde Coast coming together to share ideas, learn from one another and explore ways to create a positive impact in our communities.

This month’s event focused on sustainability, a topic that we haven’t explored in depth through the network before, despite recognising how important it is to businesses of all sizes. With growing pressures on organisations to operate more efficiently, reduce costs and demonstrate their social and environmental impact, it felt like the perfect time to start the conversation.

We were delighted to hear from Steve Williams from Force Technology and Michael Dugdlae of Trident, who shared practical insights into how organisations can begin or develop their responsible business journey. One of the key takeaways from their presentations was that sustainability doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small, manageable changes can often lead to significant benefits, not only for the environment but also for the bottom line. The link between responsible business practices, cost efficiencies and long-term organisational growth sparked some excellent discussion and provided plenty of food for thought for those in attendance.

Thanks also to Georgia Thomas and Helen Spinks-Dear from Blackpool Council. Their contribution highlighted the importance of partnership working between businesses and local authorities. It was encouraging to hear their perspectives and commitment to supporting the local business community, and I know they left with valuable insights that will help inform future support and initiatives.

One of the highlights of the morning was undoubtedly our guest speaker, John Robb. We’ve been hoping to welcome John to the Responsible Business Network for some time, and he certainly didn’t disappoint. His career journey was both fascinating and inspiring, offering a unique perspective shaped by years of experience and achievement.

What resonated most strongly, however, was John’s passion for Blackpool. Having been born and raised in the town and started his journey here, it was inspiring to hear him speak so proudly about his roots and his continued belief in the town’s potential. His enthusiasm for Blackpool’s future was infectious and served as a powerful reminder of the talent, ambition and opportunities that exist right here on our doorstep.

John also spoke passionately about Blackpool’s City of Culture bid, highlighting the transformative impact it could have on the town, its residents and the wider Fylde Coast. His message was clear: this is an opportunity that deserves the support of businesses, organisations and individuals alike. To ‘back the bid’ please click here.

So, while we hope attendees left the event with practical ideas around sustainability, energy savings and improving organisational efficiency, I also hope they left feeling inspired by the ambition and potential of our area. The Responsible Business Network is all about bringing people together, sharing knowledge and creating positive change, and this event certainly delivered on all three.

Thank you once again to everyone who attended, contributed and helped make the morning such a success. We look forward to welcoming you to our next event and continuing these important conversations.

If you’d like to learn more about the Fylde Coast Responsible Business Network or get involved in future events, we’d love to hear from you.