More than 30 business representatives from Oban attended a networking event to find out more about joining Lochaber Chamber of Commerce.
Frazer Coupland, the chamber’s chief executive officer, led the session at The Rockfield Centre on December 5 to gauge interest from those there that crossed hospitality and consultancy trades to The Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) at Dunstaffnage.
The session followed proposals from Lochaber Chamber of Commerce to support businesses in Skye and Lochalsh, Wester Ross and Argyll as well as its own area.
During the event, the Lochaber Chamber shared insights into its recent strategy review and explained how its proposed expansion plans would work.
Huge opportunities would include making business connections, new trade links and access to practical business assistance.
Mr Coupland said if the expansion went ahead to include Oban, it would support the work BID4Oban is already doing. The two organisations would be able to collaborate.
One of the biggest benefits to businesses joining would be having their voices heard louder by politicians and decision-makers, added Mr Coupland.
“We have the political ear for lobbying. We can take on the role that many in the business community don’t have the time to do for themselves, making sure our voice is heard and acted on by those who can help towards making positive changes,” he said.
BID4Obanchief executive officer Andrew Spence said he was “very keen” for an extended Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, where there could be partnership working.
Mr Coupland said he felt “very encouraged” by the response from businesses at the Oban meeting.
For more information about the membership and work of Lochaber Chamber and the wider Scottish Chambers of Commerce network visit www.lochaberchamber.co.uk.
Consultation events with businesses are also being held in Portree and Ullapool.
Caption: Lochaber Chamber of Commerce chief executive officer Frazer Coupland with BID4Oban chief executive officer Andrew Spence at The Rockfield Centre.
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