Kent Business Newsletter - Issue 24

Your connection to Kent's business community

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Kent Business Newsletter
December 08, 2025

Hi Kent Business Community

There’s so many local business stories, we’ve decided to put out TWO newsletters this week! One extra one here today and the usual one will still be coming your way Thursday morning!

Folkestone’s Clifton Hotel leads this week’s highlights after marking its first year under the voco brand with a full day of celebrations and a showcase of its multimillion pound refurbishment. Maidstone’s N2 Sweet Lab continues its rise with two major awards and growing demand for its artisan chocolate creations. Dartford’s congestion challenges return to the spotlight as Europa and the town’s MP push for progress on the Lower Thames Crossing. Kent firms are urged to tighten their tipping policies before tougher rules land in 2026. Two local manufacturers also take centre stage as they join a regional programme driving digital transformation across the South East.

Got a business launch, win or story to share? Send it to [email protected] and we’ll help spread the word - for free!

If you missed previous editions you can catch-up here.

This Week’s Kent Business News

➡️ Folkestone’s Revamped Clifton Hotel Marks a Year of New Energy and Local Pride

A year after reopening under the voco brand, Folkestone’s historic Clifton Hotel has wrapped up a whirlwind first year with a full day of celebrations, complete with Sri Lankan dancers, ice sculptures and flowing English sparkling wine. The hotel, part of Leaf Hotels Group, has undergone a multimillion-pound transformation, blending seaside charm with modern luxury.

Owner Menon Rajamenon called it “a vibrant, welcoming space that reflects Folkestone’s creativity and warmth.” Guests also toasted the group’s latest move - the purchase of nearby Terlingham Vineyard, known for its award-winning sustainable wines. From restored grandeur to local business ties, the Clifton’s revival feels like more than a makeover - it’s a statement.

➡️ Maidstone’s N2 Sweet Lab Scoops Awards and Spreads Its Chocolate Magic

It has been a golden year for N2 Sweet Lab, the family-run dessert studio bringing a playful, scientific twist to chocolate in Maidstone. The King Street shop, founded by husband-and-wife duo Ned and Nina, has picked up two major accolades: the Excellent Customer Service Award at the High Street Heroes Maidstone 2025 and a Sustainability Award from UWTSD London.

Known for its colourful bonbons, small-batch chocolate bars, and immersive workshops, N2 Sweet Lab has grown from a lockdown kitchen project into one of Kent’s most creative artisan spaces. From ethical sourcing to corporate gifting and community events, every detail reflects their mix of craft, care, and curiosity.

➡️ Dartford’s Gridlock in Focus as Europa and MP Push for Progress

Europa Worldwide Group has hosted Dartford MP Jim Dickson for talks on how to tackle the town’s long-running congestion crisis. From its huge 27,000 sq. m logistics hub beside the Dartford Crossing, Europa handles over 40,000 shipments a month, making it a major player in local trade and traffic alike.

The company backs the long-awaited Lower Thames Crossing, the £10 billion project set to connect Kent and Essex via a new tunnel under the Thames. Construction is due to start in 2026 and promises to double road capacity, easing the daily gridlock that costs UK businesses an estimated £200 million a year.

➡️ Kent Firms Urged to Get Tipping Act Ready Before 2026 Crackdown

Kent’s hospitality and service businesses are being warned to get their house in order over tipping rules, as stricter legislation looms for 2026. Accountancy firm Azets says many employers still risk fines and employment tribunals if they fail to pass on 100% of tips, gratuities and service charges to staff, as required by the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023.

The firm’s Kent-based experts say companies must now keep detailed records and involve staff in shaping fair tipping policies. From 2026, these rules will get tougher, with new consultation and review requirements built into law.

➡️ Kent Firms Take the Lead in Digital Manufacturing Revolution

Two Kent manufacturers, Art4Site from Wye and Ancestors Group from Folkestone, are among the first wave of businesses joining Made Smarter’s new leadership programme to supercharge digital transformation across the South East.

The 14-week Leading Digital Transformation course, run by the University of Salford with Made Smarter South East, helps business leaders harness new tech to boost productivity, cut waste and future-proof their operations. From robotics tours at Middlesex University to peer sessions tackling real business challenges, participants are learning how to turn digital ambition into action.

For Art4Site and Ancestors Group, the experience has already sparked new ideas and practical changes. Others are being urged to follow suit. Curious how Kent’s manufacturers are rethinking the future of work?

Below are several of this week’s networking events in Kent.
You’ll find the full list at www.KentBusinessEvents.co.uk

Synergy Networking Events
Ashford

New Fox Inn, Ashford

When: 8th December 2025 from 6.30pm - 8.30pm

Location: New Fox Inn, Ashford

Details: Join us for a fantastic evening of Synergy Networking in one of Ashford’s community-driven venues The New Fox Inn. Connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, this is the place to be. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your network and grow your business!

Website: Click here

Simply Business Club
Gillingham

Avenue Tennis, Gillingham

When: 9th December 2025 from 7.15am - 9.30am

Location: Avenue Tennis, Gillingham

Details: Simply Business Club offers #ConversationalNetworking which means the attendees stay engaged throughout the meeting, giving and receiving advice, support and making some great connections. Referrals and collaborations happen naturally with no scripts. No suits of armour. Just great people having real conversations.

Website: Click here

Kent Invicta Chamber
Virtual Business Networking

Online

When: 9th December 2025 from 10.30am - 12pm

Location: Online

Details: Join the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce for Virtual Business Networking – this month with a festive twist. You’ll take part in three breakout sessions designed to help you connect, exchange ideas, and spark useful conversations. Each breakout room gives you around four minutes to introduce yourself – share your name, what you do, and your thoughts on the discussion topic. After that, you can join the conversation or raise your own questions in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Our hosts will guide the session so it stays focused and enjoyable.

Website: Click here

Synergy Networking Events
Tunbridge Wells

Royal Wells Hotel, Tunbridge Wells

When: 9th December 2025 from 6.30pm - 8.30pm

Location: Royal Wells Hotel, Tunbridge Wells

Details: Join us for a fantastic evening of Synergy Networking at our Tunbridge Wells event at Royal Wells Hotel! Connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, this is the place to be. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your network and grow your business!

Website: Click here

Property and Poppadoms Networking
Ashford

Koyla, Ashford

When: 9th December 2025 from 6.30pm - 9.30pm

Location: Koyla, Ashford

Details: Join us every second Tuesday of the month for an engaging evening of property discussions and delightful dining. Our inclusive community welcomes all, whether you’re an experienced investor or just curious about real estate. Enjoy delicious food while exploring a range of property topics, from trends to tips. Mark your calendar for a well-rounded experience that caters to every level of expertise.

Website: Click here

BBN Networking
Medway

Chatham Town FC

When: 10th December 2025 from 6.30am - 9.30am

Location: Chatham Town FC

Details:
Join us for the BBN Medway Business Networking Breakfast, held every other Wednesday at Chatham Town FC – one of Kent’s most historic and welcoming venues.

Our Medway networking group brings together business owners, professionals, and entrepreneurs from across the region to connect, collaborate, and grow their local networks. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast meeting designed to help you build meaningful business relationships while promoting your services within the Medway business community.

Website: Click here

Inner Circle Networking
Ashford

Elwick Club, Ashford

When: 10th December 2025 from 10.30pm - 12pm

Location: Elwick Club, Ashford

Details:
Join us for the next Inner Circle Networking event at The Elwick Club, Ashford. This monthly networking event is designed for professionals who want more than a quick exchange of business cards. It’s a space to build genuine connections, share ideas, and turn conversations into real opportunities – all within a friendly, structured format.

Whether you’re a business owner, freelancer, entrepreneur, or corporate professional, you’ll find a welcoming environment that helps you expand your network with purpose.

Website: Click here

Kent Invicta Chamber - Business Talks
Christmas Food Tasting At Macknade’s
Faversham

Macknade, Faversham

When: 10th December 2025 from 2pm - 4pm

Location: Macknade, Faversham

Details:
Join us for the Christmas Special Business Talks Networking event at Macknade, hosted in their beautiful Apple Loft event room. This festive networking morning brings together local professionals for quality connections, lively conversation, and a taste of Macknade’s finest seasonal treats.

Enjoy a selection of Christmas favourites including Panettone, cheese, and wine, all sourced from Macknade’s renowned range. This is a relaxed, sociable way to grow your network and celebrate the season in style.

Website: Click here

Christmas Business Networking Party
Whitstable

Crescent Turner Hotel, Whitstable

When: 10th December 2025 from 6.30pm - 11pm

Location: Crescent Turner Hotel, Whitstable

Details:
Join Synergy Networking Events, Simply Business Club and Kent Kinnections Members and their partners to celebrate another year of building successful business relationships, finding people we know, like and trust and passing them business.

Social events are a great way to know fellow networkers on a deeper level as you chat in a friendly, social atmosphere with a platter of food for the main and desert whilst listening to our entertainment in the form of Karl Dawson.

Karl will be singing for part of the evening and sitting to enjoy the meal with everyone before the dancing starts.

Website: Click here

Simply Business Club
Face to Face Networking
Folkestone

The Workshop, Folkestone

When: 11th December 2025 from 7.15am - 9.am

Location: The Workshop, Folkestone

Details:
Join us for Simply Business Club Folkestone, the home of genuine, conversational business networking. These in-person breakfast meetings bring together entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals from across Kent to share ideas, build relationships, and collaborate in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Each session starts with a friendly introduction from the organisers, followed by engaging discussions and structured networking designed to help you make meaningful connections. You’ll meet like-minded professionals, exchange insights, and discover opportunities to grow your business through conversation, not pitches.

Website: Click here

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