The Bay Business Association (BBA), representing businesses across Yaverland, Sandown, Lake, Shanklin and Luccombe, recently celebrated its first anniversary during an annual general meeting (AGM) held at the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary.
During the event, the BBA committee reflected on a hugely positive first year, with the organisation growing to 141 members and continuing to strengthen the voice of Bay businesses across the Isle of Wight.
Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the association supports a wide range of organisations, from start-ups and freelancers through to established businesses and charities. The BBA remains focused on helping promote the Bay as a thriving, resilient and forward-thinking place to live, work and visit.
Over the past year, the association has delivered a growing programme of networking events hosted at unique Island venues and businesses.
These have included a tour and networking at the multi-award-winning Luccombe Hall hotel in Shanklin, Shanklin Rowing Club, a first-look tour of the new Breakwaters development in Sandown, an inspirational tour and networking at ICR Touch’s Sandown headquarters and a behind-the-scenes experience at Hydromar to see waterjet cutting technology in action.
Alongside its free networking events, the BBA has also provided practical support for local businesses through AI workshops, discounted advertising opportunities across Island media and access to a free high-resolution image library for members to use within their own marketing.
The association is now focused on continuing to grow its membership and strengthen connections between businesses across the Bay, while also providing a strong and constructive voice for positive change in the area.
Businesses based within the Bay area can join the BBA free of charge by visiting www.thebaybusiness.org Membership is also open to businesses outside the Bay for £75 per year.
