We hope everyone has had a relaxing and restful August. The Summer holidays are a perfect opportunity for everyone to take a breath and gear up for a productive Autumn.
Whilst our team have been enjoying the weather, we can’t say it’s been a quiet August here at the Essex Chambers. We’ve had an unprecedented summer season, as event bookings have gone crazy! If you’d like to join the businesses already attending our fantastic range of upcoming events, you can find more information in the Dates for your Diaries section below.
Before we must endure the back-to-school madness, take a moment to enjoy this issue of Grapevine, packed full of the latest news from across the county.
Festival of Business – Exhibition FULLY Booked!!
We are beyond thrilled to announce that we have SOLD OUT of exhibitor stands for our premier flagship event, the Festival of Business!
The Summer Marque at Chelmsford City Racecourse will be bursting with over 100 exhibiting businesses on Wednesday 5 November at the biggest showcase in the event’s history.
The full exhibitor list will be revealed soon!
Commiserations to anyone who missed out on participating in the expo but there is still plenty of opportunities for visitors to attend for FREE!
Not only will be visitors be able to explore the amazing businesses we have in the exhibition, the day will also be packed with inspirational speakers and fantastic Festival Features, including:
🎙️ Headline Speaker – George Clarke, renowned architect and TV presenter.
🗣️ Panel Discussion - Devolution in Essex: What It Means for Business
🛍️ Goody Bags – First 500 visitors will receive an exclusive Festival Goody Bag which contains great giveaways
🎟️ Prize Draw – Visitors can win some amazing prizes!
🚌 Nominated Festival Charity – Open Road – Explore the SOS Bus and learn about the key role they play in our community.
📸Betsy the Caravan Photo Booth – Capture the fun of the day with your very own photo souvenir taken in Devoted Events charming, converted vintage caravan.
💧Come and Meet Sandy – The Essex & Suffolk Water Engagement Van
With more still to be announced, the Festival of Business is an event not to be missed! Why not make it a day out for the whole office so everyone can celebrate the strong entrepreneurial spirt in Essex.
To secure your FREE Visitor tickets, please visit www.festivalofbusiness.co.uk.
Happy 2 Year Work Anniversary, Jo!
In other news, congratulations are in order for our LSIP Executive Director, Joanne Giles, who recently celebrated her second year with the Chambers!
In just two years, Jo has become an integral part of the team and the Essex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP).
With over 27 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, Jo brings unmatched insight and energy to everything she does. Her work building strong partnerships between educators and employers has helped elevate the Essex LSIP as a standout national example.
From launching impactful initiatives to driving forward long-term change, Jo’s dedication continues to shape the future of skills development in our county.
Here’s to many more years!
Dates for your Diaries
🖥️ September Virtual Networking – Wednesday 10 September
🛎️ Network with Colchester City Council at the Delta Hotel Colchester – Tuesday 16 September
🦅 Tariffs, Trade & Transatlantic Tensions - What UK Exporters Need to Know Now - Tuesday 23 September
👩⚖️ Autumn Employment Law Update 2025 Webinar – Wednesday 1 October
🦐 Networking with Southend United - Thursday 2 October
🛑 Conflict Management Workshop with Essex Police - Thursday 16 October
💡 Devolution for Essex - What you need to know Webinar - Wednesday 29 October
🍓 Tiptree Festive Networking - Thursday 20 November
🚫 Preventing Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Webinar - Wednesday 26 November
🎄 Christmas Networking Breakfast at Braxted Park – Thursday 11 December