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| What the Association is all about | Current
Committee (as at Mar 2007) |
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Formed in 1997 by a group of local business people, the Bembridge Business Association was to soon lead a campaign to prevent the closure of the Lloyds TSB bank branch in the village. Its success in helping to save the branch in 2000 made national news and established the BBA as a thriving and active organisation dedicated to protecting the interests of its members. Recognising that local businesses are the lifeblood of any community, the BBA seeks to create a greater awareness of the many services and products offered by its members. Today, it represents over 120 diverse local business, ranging in size from a major aircraft manufacturer to a wide range of retailers, restaurants and accommodation providers. In conjunction with the Bembridge Harbour Development Company, the BBA produces a free annual full-colour 52-page guide for the Bembridge area. With a rapidly-increasing circulation orders for 2007 have already reached 30,000 the Guide is funded through advertising, and is distributed to Bembridge residents and visitors, as well as visitors arriving by sea or through Bembridge Airport. Many copies are also sent to South Coast yacht clubs whose members are increasingly choosing Bembridge Harbour as a sailing destination. For members, activities include regular meetings with invited speakers, and include several social events throughout the year, providing an ideal opportunity to meet fellow business people and discuss common problems. At Christmas,
the BBA hosts a popular social evening and is responsible for organising
many of the village centre's Christmas lights, as well as arranging a
special switching-on ceremony. |
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