President’s Column

Poole’s first £3million work-play space on track to open in the new year

Construction work is well underway at Poole’s coworking space, ‘FOUNDRY’, which is set to open to members and guests early in the new year.

The £3million pioneering workspace will be a base for up to 250 people when it opens in the Dolphin Centre in 2023 and offers flexible and affordable options for all sectors. From the county’s business leaders, untethered co-workers, and budding entrepreneurs from all business sectors. FOUNDRY is for everyone and creates a diverse environment for people to come together to work, network and socialise.

Adam Walker, Co-Founder of FOUNDRY, said: “It is a really exciting time as the build of FOUNDRY continues to progress, and we’re now in the position to be able to share what our team has been busy creating for the aspirational business community of Poole.”

“We are creating an aspirational and vibrant workplace that people are proud to work from that reflects the pride that locals feel for the town.” www.foundryuk.com

Adam Walker, Co-Founder of FOUNDRY

by Caron Khan

Happy New Year!

Looking back at 2022 I would like to congratulate Ian and his team on a very successful year. We have shown that Dorset Chamber can continue to thrive even in the toughest climate, and in an incredibly competitive marketplace for membership organisations. This is what defines a dynamic Business Chamber and is why I am so incredibly proud to have served as President.

I would also like to recognise our board of Directors. We are fortunate to have an impressive selection of business leaders who give up their precious time to bestow their expert advice and perspective, without which the Chamber would not be where it is today.

Looking ahead in my third year as President, I will be honoured to continue to support the initiatives we’ve started, to further strengthen and evolve the Chamber for the benefit of all. I’m also excited that the Chamber’s popular events are back in full swing post pandemic. We’ve hosted over 70 events over the past 12 months, with thousands of businesspeople attending, making Dorset Chamber the most attended and active business community in the region. We also have the return of the Dorset Business Awards for 2023 – with a brand-new look! Myself, Ian and the board have gone back to the drawing board to create an even better event experience, and we can’t wait to see you all there.

To finish, let me thank you all for your loyal membership over the last 12 months. I truly believe that for the Chamber, its members and Dorset’s business community at large, 2023 holds wondrous possibilities – if we continue to work together, support one another, and lead the way as dynamic, forward-thinking business leaders. Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year.