A free event next month will bring together a panel of experts to help tourism operators plan for success and futureproof their businesses amid continuing uncertainty and challenges around rising costs and staffing issues.
Hosted by ITV’s Kate Walby, the free masterclass and panel discussion is being spearheaded by four of Cumbria Tourism’s leading strategic partners – Armstrong Watson, Burnetts Solicitors, H&H Insurance and The Cumberland – giving businesses direct access to industry expertise from a wide-ranging legal, financial, insurance and banking perspective.
Some of the key issues under the spotlight at Roundthorn Country House near Penrith on Thursday May 23, from 10am to 2pm, will include sustainability, resilience, achieving growth and succession/exit planning for business owners.
As well as accessing a team of experts with years of industry experience, there will be a focus on the latest marketplace trends and a chance to hear from three leading innovators in Cumbria’s tourism and hospitality industry.
The three award-winning guest speakers will be: Hrishikesh Desai, of Farlam Hall Hotel & Restaurant, Jess Manley, of The Ya, and Muncaster’s Ewan Frost-Pennington.
Refreshments and lunch will also be also included, along with the chance to network with other forward-looking tourism-related businesses.
Chris Clement, business development director at H&H Insurance Brokers, will be talking about the importance of having the right insurance cover in place for your business, as well as offering practical advice on how to deal with any potential claims.
He said: “No one knows what the future may hold but having the essential cover you need will ensure that you are in the best position to deal with the unexpected. It’s about having the peace of mind that your business is protected so you can future-proof your business and plan for success.”
Matt Hutton, Armstrong Watson LLP hospitality, leisure and tourism sector lead, said: “We are looking forward to taking part in this unique event to share our own sector accountancy, financial and business advisory expertise.
“With over 400 clients operating within the tourism and hospitality sector, we have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by those at the centre of this vital part of Cumbria’s economy.
“We recognise that it can be difficult for business owners to dedicate the time and resources to future planning, but we will lean on our extensive experience to share thoughts and guidance on how businesses can financially prepare their businesses for the future to ensure sustainability and growth for generations to come.”
Michael Walby, corporate partner and head of corporate at Burnetts Solicitors, added: “The tourism sector is very important to us, so we are delighted to be taking part in this event alongside other Cumbria Tourism Strategic Partners. We hope that the businesses present will benefit from our guidance on what we are seeing in the market when it comes to future proofing tourism businesses and planning for the future. There are a number of important legal considerations that apply from a business, property and employment perspective, and we will cover each on the day”.
Martin Rankin, commercial business development manager at The Cumberland will be talking about succession planning, and the importance of having plans in place for the future of your business.
He said: “Here at The Cumberland we are proud to have been supporting the hospitality sector for over 20 years. We’ve worked with clients to develop an understanding of the challenges facing the hospitality business owners and operators and are keen to share our own knowledge and learnings. We are looking forward to the event where professionals from a range of services will share their knowledge and expertise when it comes to planning for the future. At The Cumberland, we value working better together and this event is the opportunity to do just that.”
To book, visit www.cumbriatourism.org/upcoming-events
