Innovative restaurateur seeks NW Business Masters title

A RESTAURATEUR from Cheshire is in the running for the inaugural North West Business Masters awards.

Ben Rafferty who runs the Residence Restaurant & Bar in Nantwich has been put forward in the North West Innovator category.

He says the business has prospered at a time when many pubs are closing down because of the company’s focus on quality, service and innovation.

“Innovation starts at the heart of every new employee through training. Training is the heart and soul of our success,” said Mr Rafferty.

The firm has also played a key role in Nantwich’s festivals and struck up relationships with the town’s schools and charities.

But diversification is also essential to the firm’s future growth. Mr Rafferty has spent the past two years working on plans to extend Residence’s Grade II listed building to include a banqueting suite for 120 people and 18 bedrooms.

“Innovation is a change in the thought process for doing something, this epitomises my business strategy and I continue to challenge everything that has brought us success in the first place to see if there is a way of improving, modifying or developing it,” said Mr Rafferty.

Made a difference? Defied the odds? Had a good year? You could be a winner. Nominations are now open for the first ever North West Business Masters. Click here for more information.

The North West Business Masters awards lunch will take place at The Point at Lancashire County Cricket Club on April 7 next year. All six categories are open to individuals or businesses based in the North West.

•North West Newcomer: Best new business initiative in the region
•North West Grit: Overcoming adversity and making a real difference
•North West Pride: Most meaningful philanthropic initiative by a business, organisation or leader
•North West Innovator: Most creative or original business thinking
•North West Ambassador: Greatest contribution to business in the North West
•North West Adviser: The best professional adviser working in the region.

Click here to book tickets for the North West Business Masters.