Businsses invited to connect at upcoming Sunderland networking event

A Sunderland consultancy firm is hosting a range of networking events in Roker to bring local businesses together and showcase the venues the seaside resort has to offer.

86 Consultancy is holding three networking workshops as part of its Roker Round event, starting at Fausto Coffee, in Marine Walk, on Thursday, June 11, from 2.45pm until 5pm.

Sally and Andy Williams, co-founders of 86 Consultancy.placeholder image
Sally and Andy Williams, co-founders of 86 Consultancy.

Roker Round is a series of events taking place in June, September and November, where guests can enjoy a complimentary welcome taster and the chance to experience the space and atmosphere of the hosting venue.

Sally Williams, co-founder of 86 Consultancy, said: "The idea behind Roker Round was to create a more relaxed style of networking – something less formal and more community-driven.

86 Consultancy is holding three networking events as part of its Roker Round, starting at Fausto Coffee, in Marine Walk, on Thursday, June 11, from 2.45pm until 5pm.placeholder image
86 Consultancy is holding three networking events as part of its Roker Round, starting at Fausto Coffee, in Marine Walk, on Thursday, June 11, from 2.45pm until 5pm.

"By moving between venues, guests get the opportunity to experience different spaces, support local spots and make genuine connections along the way.”

86 Consultancy provides business support to hospitality businesses, and was founded by husband and wife, Sally and Andy Williams.

Sally said: “Roker has always been a big part of my life. As someone who was born there and whose family still has strong roots in the area, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the community.

"My husband, Andy, also shares my love for the area. Over the last few years especially, we’ve seen so many fantastic independent venues open across Roker.

"We wanted to create something that helps showcase everything the area has to offer while bringing independent businesses and residents together.”

As part of Roker Round, guests can expect a relaxed couple of hours filled with conversation and complimentary tasters, and have the chance to discover a range of venues Roker has to offer.

Tickets for the event are free but spaces are limited to “keep the event relaxed and conversational”.

86 Consultancy will also be hosting events at Marina Vista, in North Dock, and These Things Happen, in Harbour View.

Sally said: “Talking to businesses in Roker, we heard that since the opening of the bridge and the regeneration of the city, footfall has gravitated toward that area.

"We want to shout about how amazing Roker is and what it has to offer.”

Free tickets can be booked online at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/86consultancy/2217551.

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