Businesswomen’s networking group trumpets value of franchising

L-R Melanie Tonge, Suzy Orr and Sarah Hulme

A businesswomen’s networking group is celebrating its third anniversary by franchising the model.

Unique Ladies has groups in Manchester city centre, Bolton, Preston and Liverpool and was created by Chorley businesswoman Suzy Orr.

Orr, who runs Windoworld with husband Ronnie Orr, became disillusioned with available networking organisations.

“I wanted a group which didn’t involve membership fees and which provided inspirational speakers and genuine networking opportunities,” she explained.

The formula proved successful. She launched her firstly monthly group meeting at the Lancashire Manor Hotel in East Pimbo near Wigan before adding more groups by demand.

She launched the Manchester group, originally at The Lowry, two years ago and this has gone from strength to strength.

“I realised, though, that I was spreading myself very thinly throughout the groups,” explained Suzy, “and I wanted to ensure the future and quality of Unique Ladies’ meetings so I opted for franchising.”

Melanie Tonge has already taken over the Preston group, which meets alternately at the Guild Lounge at Preston North End FC and Society 1 in central Preston.

Sarah Hulme, who runs a business in the beauty industry, has taken over the Manchester group which meets at the Banyan Kitchen in central Manchester. Her first meeting in charge is tomorrow (Friday, February 2) when Stockport-based champion bodybuilder Jo Peruzza will be the main speaker.

Hulme said: “I’m delighted to be taking over the Manchester group and look forward to meeting many more North-west businesswomen who realise that networking is a great way to gain new contacts and create new business.”

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