Since its inception in early 2023, the LS8 Meet-Up has rapidly evolved into a thriving local networking group. Fuelled by coffee, croissants and charity, the group is dedicated to fostering strong connections between North Leeds businesses. The events take place at the Leeds Deli in Roundhay, which provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere alongside a delicious breakfast.
Teresa Davidson, a partner at Winston Solicitors and family law specialist, has been the driving force behind the LS8 Meet-up events. In response to the final meet-up of the year, she said:
"We're thrilled with the growth and success we've achieved in such a short time. It's testament to the incredible businesses and professionals in North Leeds and their dedication to strengthening our local community. We look forward to continuing to build valuable connections and making a positive impact."
Our roots are important to us, here at Winston Solicitors, and supporting our local community is part of our ethos. Facilitating these events has allowed us to support North Leeds businesses and the wider community in several ways.
North Leeds Businesses Have Made Some Great Connections
At the core of the LS8 Meet-Up’s mission is the belief that "people buy from people." The group’s primary objective is to create a close-knit community where North Leeds businesses and professionals actively support, engage, and collaborate with one another. The bi-monthly breakfast events offer a relaxed platform for members to develop lasting relationships, exchange ideas, and contribute to the economic growth of North Leeds.
A distinguishing factor of the LS8 Meet-up's success is its informal approach. This isn't your average breakfast networking, where people are only interested in the hard hustle. While formal networking can yield some great results, this is a space for deeper connection. Lasting friendships between local North Leeds businesses have been built over a Leeds Deli breakfast at the LS8 Meet-up groups.
"It has been good to meet people. It has increased my confidence at networking. It has been a great opportunity to build future relationships.” - Liz Earley, Liz Early Acupuncture
One thing you can be sure of is that nobody leaves with a handful of faceless business cards they don’t want or need. It’s all about quality over quantity.
Charities in North Leeds have Benefitted from the LS8 Meet-Up Group
In addition to its focus on North Leeds businesses, the LS8 Meet-up group prides itself on giving back. Each networking event includes a raffle, and all proceeds go to the chosen charity for that particular event. The raffle winner chooses the charity for the following meet-up, which means there has been a good circulation of great causes to donate to. Choosing a charity isn’t the only reward for winning the raffle draw, and winners also walk away with a wonderful selection of delights from the Leeds Deli.
To date, the group has raised £450 for five local Leeds charities and generated several volunteers to lend a hand. The March LS8 Meet-up raised money for Cash for Kids, May’s charity was Zarach Leeds, and July Leeds Mind. In September, we donated to Leeds Hospitals Charity / Rob Burrow Centre for MND and our ultimate North Leeds networking charity of the year was St Gemma's Hospice Leeds.
Sophie Westmoreland, Corporate and Events Fundraiser at Leeds Mind, offered further insight into the LS8 Meet-ups saying:
“The mix of really local businesses with a genuine interest in connecting! Plus the warm atmosphere and hosting by Winston Solicitors. We received a lovely donation, got to spread the word about Leeds Mind and got some sign-ups to our events. It’s great that you can go in a morning and then fit in other things for the rest of the day!”
North Leeds Businesses are Also Integral to the Success of the Meet-ups
Tucked away in the leafy suburbs, a hop skip and a jump from the bustle of Street Lane in Roundhay, The Leeds Deli offers the perfect environment for informal networking. A combination of soft lighting, appetising food, and great coffee creates an intimate atmosphere that encourages conversation. With ample parking, outdoor seating and easy access from all North Leeds locations.
In addition, anyone who attended the LS8 meet-ups over the year received a small gift of appreciation. For this, we chose The Biskery, a local business that specialises in creating beautiful, sweet treats that get your message across.
Here’s to Another Great Year of LS8 Meet-Ups for North Leeds Businesses
Feedback for the LS8 Meet-up has been fantastic and many have already seen the benefit of the contacts they’ve made.
" I've really enjoyed coming, not all networking events give you the chance to chat to people in a relaxed manner without the pressure to have tons of referrals... looking forward to coming back next year." - Luke Senior, Just Mortgages
Popularity of LS8 Meet-up for North Leeds businesses is evident, with a growing waiting list to join its events. We look forward to another bumper year of networking in 2024.
Are you part of a North Leeds business? For more information about the LS8 Meet-Ups, please contact Leonie Donne ldd@winstonsolicitors.co.uk
