The 2025 sben Annual Networking Event, held on Tuesday 24th June at the Beaconside Conference Centre in Stafford, hailed as the most well-attended sben event ever, drawing a fantastic crowd of sustainability-minded professionals from across Staffordshire and beyond.

With a great turnout of delegates and a huge variety of supplier stands, the event focused on showcasing Staffordshire’s Green Supplier Directory — an outcome of the Staffordshire Green Skills for Growth project funded by Innovate UK. This useful tool has been designed to connect the people of Staffordshire with local providers of sustainable products and services.

A Morning of Inspiration and Connection

The event kicked off with a lively networking breakfast, setting the tone for a morning filled with energy, collaboration, and discovery. Attendees heard from sben chair, Adam Whitehouse who reenforced the growing strength of the network and our target of reaching 1000 members very soon. Then our key speaker, Jason Howlett took to the stage, sharing insights into the future of sustainable business practices and the importance of supporting our local suppliers in the process.

This was followed by structured networking activities that sparked new connections and meaningful conversations. Delegates enjoyed hopping between tables, introducing themselves and actively engaging with each other, discussing different topics.

One of the standout features of the event was the diverse range of green suppliers on display. From energy efficiency solutions and alternative heating systems to solar panel providers, waste management experts, and training specialists, the supplier showcase offered something for every business looking to improve its sustainability and reduce costs. Search for suppliers yourself by using the directory here: Green Suppliers Directory – Staffordshire Business & Environment Network

Positive Feedback and Lasting Impact

Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the event’s organisation, the range of the suppliers, and the valuable opportunities to network and learn. Several businesses made new contacts that could lead to future collaborations, and many left with actionable ideas to implement in their own businesses.

One delegate said it was an “Excellent event, all delegates were so welcoming, friendly and informative”. Others said, “Great event with great companies exhibiting” and “The event was a good mix of networking, learning and listening. Well run and organised!”. We couldn’t be happier to help businesses connect in an enjoyable and meaningful way – A resounding success for Staffordshire’s green business community.

Looking Ahead

As the Staffordshire Business & Environment Network continues to champion green growth in the region, the success of this year’s event is a clear sign that the appetite for sustainable business solutions is stronger than ever.

If you missed out this year, be sure to attend next year’s event—it’s not just a networking opportunity, it’s a catalyst for change.

Oliver Fox