Some people say ‘Never mix business with pleasure’ – but they were proved wrong when a pioneering new project doing exactly that was launched with great success last month.
Called 'Get Fit For Business’ (GFFB), it mixes business with sport, and it’s already won the backing of all the major organisations in our area, including the local council, chamber of commerce, businesses and our local MP.
The brainwave of Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce and Crewroom, GFFB invited local folks to try their hand at stand-up paddleboarding on the Thames at Putney, and then to join in some business networking over a glass of wine at Crewroom.
It proved a huge hit with many local professionals who turned up to give it a go. The media came along too and published favourable reports afterwards praising the initiative.
Steve Pinto, CEO of the Wandsworth Chamber, was one of the first to enthusiastically take to the water. He cut a dash in his floral ‘Beach Boy’ shorts (pictured below), and didn’t fall in the water once during his trial session.
“Overall this was a very positive start to the campaign,” Steve said afterwards, “and we will be looking to grow this event in future as it will be taking place on the last Tuesday of every month. For my own part, I thoroughly enjoyed the evening and although I came close to getting wet, I will definitely be there for the next event.”
Crewroom Founder Kate Giles (herself a local business entrepreneur) said: “After the paddleboarding, we served drinks on our balcony overlooking the water and lots of positive networking was going on. Everyone joined in the spirit of the occasion, which proved a great success.”
And Jane Ellison, MP for Battersea, Balham and Wandsworth, added: “I’m supporting ‘Get Fit For Business’. Being physically active is not only good for your health – and fun – it’s also good for business as active people are more productive. I encourage all employers to do what they can to support the health and wellbeing of their workforce.”
So whether you are a budding business entrepreneur, an employee or just someone who's keen to grow their business connections and enjoy some sport at the same time, it's time to get your diaries out!
The next date for Get Fit For Business will be on Tuesday July 28. To reserve your place, click here or call 07807 767 999 for more details.
Lots of fun is guaranteed, with taster sessions provided by paddleboarding firm Active360 from 5pm, followed by business networking at Crewroom.