Find The Perfect Local Networking Event
For You And Your Kent Business…
Our new sister-site Kent Business Events is now live!
Below are just a few of this week’s networking events in Kent.
You’ll find the full list at www.KentBusinessEvents.co.uk
Hi {{first_name | Kent Business Community}}
Welcome to Thursday’s edition of the Kent Business Newsletter.
This week we cover big deals, new laws and fresh investment across Kent.
Avenue Tennis in Medway has been sold to David Lloyd Leisure in a Brachers-advised deal, expanding the group’s Kent footprint. We explain what it means for the club and its founders.
Employers are urged to prepare for major changes under the Employment Rights Act 2025, with new day one rights and wider workplace protections arriving in April.
You’ll also read about a new MRI-led health clinic model targeting Tunbridge Wells, the latest Innovation Showcase at Discovery Park with the University of Kent, Hendy Group’s backing of the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon, Stannah’s new commercial website, and how Hendrix Training built a business around confidence.
➡️ Got a business launch, win or story to share? Send it to [email protected] and we’ll help spread the word - for free!
➡️ Would you like to feature your business in the new ‘Kent Business Spotlight’ section of the Kent Business Newsletter (for free!) - click here
If you missed previous editions you can catch-up here.
In this issue: Kent Business News | Kent Business Spotlight | Cyber Advice | Kent Business Events | Kent Business Radio
This Week’s Kent Business News
➡️ Avenue Tennis Sold To David Lloyd Leisure
Avenue Tennis, a major Medway fitness and racquets centre, has been sold to David Lloyd Leisure in a deal advised by Brachers LLP. The club, founded in 2015, has grown into a large multi-court site with fitness studios, a wellness suite, coaching programmes and personal training. David Lloyd will make it its sixth Kent club, with plans for more investment, wider coaching routes and stronger family facilities.
Brachers also coordinated the linked sale of the site’s real estate, ensuring the operating business and property transferred cleanly at the same time. Shareholders Colin and Glen Jarvis praised the Brachers team for clear communication and steady handling through a complex process. Brachers’ partners said the deal reflects the strength of what Avenue Tennis has built.
➡️ Kent Employers Get Ready For New Employment Rules
Kent employers were briefed on the biggest shakeup in employment law for years as Furley Page specialists walked more than 40 local businesses through the details of the Employment Rights Act 2025.
Many of the changes take effect on 6 April, and speakers Andrew Masters and Patrick Glencross warned that plenty of employers still have gaps in their understanding. Key updates include day 1 entitlement to Statutory Sick Pay, new day 1 rights for paternity and parental leave, and wider protections around bereavement. Employers also face new rules on third party harassment, trade union rights, collective redundancy compensation, fire and rehire procedures, tribunal time limits, unfair dismissal, flexible working, and zero hours contracts.
The seminar also flagged new funding for occupational health training, giving small business managers a chance to spot health issues earlier.
➡️ New Health Clinics Aim To Reset UK Muscle And Joint Care
A new national healthcare brand is launching its first UK clinics this spring and is already recruiting ambitious partners in Royal Tunbridge Wells. First Contact Health Clinics says millions of people live with muscle, bone, joint and nerve pain, yet most never seek help. The company argues that long waits and confusion about where to turn keep people stuck. Its model centres on MRI-led diagnosis delivered in local high street clinics, run by physiotherapists who own their practices through a joint venture structure.
Founders Peter Watson and Andrew Walton say the goal is to build a trusted network that can diagnose and treat common pain conditions quickly and consistently. The team plans a nationwide rollout from 2026, supported by advanced clinical tech and a strong operations framework.
➡️ Discovery Park And University Of Kent Host Third Innovation Showcase
You’ll hear how University of Kent researchers are turning early work into practical results at this year’s Innovation Showcase on 5 March. The event brings together academics, industry partners, clinical teams and funders to share what recent UKRI Impact Acceleration Account projects have achieved so far. Speakers from Innovate UK and the Medical Research Council will join a panel on the realities of IP transfer and taking research to market, supported by Appleyard Lees.
There is also a networking session designed to help you meet new partners at Discovery Park and across Kent. Organisers say the day gives you a clear sense of what is moving forward and where new opportunities may appear next.
➡️ Hendy Group Backing Keeps Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon Moving
Hendy Group played a central role in this year’s Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon, using its headline sponsorship and support vehicles to keep the event smooth and affordable. The business supplied the official lead car and three vans, helping organisers manage logistics across the 13 mile route. Hendy colleagues also took part, raising money for the Hendy Foundation and its work with local charities.
A push to bring more women into the race shaped this year’s event, with Hendy backing the #WorksForWomen campaign. Around 1,500 runners took on the one lap course, which wound through six Kent communities before returning to Tunbridge Wells. Organisers say Hendy’s long standing support keeps entry costs accessible and strengthens the event’s community focus.
➡️ Stannah Lifts Unveils Streamlined Product Website
Stannah has launched a new commercial website designed to help you find the right lift quickly and with more confidence. The platform replaces a decade-old site and focuses on simple navigation, clear product pages and consistent technical data. You can now view the full product range in one place, compare specifications with less effort and access documentation without digging through multiple menus. Each product page gives you cleaner, more structured details, making it easier to assess lift types, configurations and visual options.
Stannah says the goal is to support architects, contractors and consultants who need accurate information to meet building regulations and keep projects moving. The updated system also lets the company add new products and technical content with far less friction.
Kent Business Spotlight…
From Drama To The Boardroom: How Hendrix Training Built Confidence Into A Business
When journalist Steve Hemsley and actor Lucy Morgans published Boost Your Child’s Confidence in 2008, they uncovered something bigger. The same drama techniques that help children thrive could also transform how adults communicate at work. Hendrix Training was launched in Tunbridge Wells soon after.
Early clients came through Steve’s HR and media network, with taster sessions leading to work with East Sussex County Council. Over time, the business secured major names including Sports Direct, The Body Shop and Westminster City Council, a client since 2010.
Steve is open about the ongoing challenge of marketing as a small business, balancing delivery with maintaining a steady pipeline. Yet he highlights the flexibility, creativity and satisfaction that come from helping people build confidence and develop their personal brand.
In the full interview, Steve shares practical advice for Kent founders, what he would do differently if starting again, and why being clear on your “why” can shape everything that follows.
Cyber Safety For Kent Businesses
Jason On Cyber
Your Chrome Passwords Are NOT Safe - Here’s Proof - No Hacks, No Tools - Just 3 Clicks
Think your saved Chrome passwords are secure? Think again. In this Jason on Cyber episode, I show you how easy it is to export every password stored in your browser in under a minute - and why it’s a huge risk for your business. No jargon, no fluff - just straight-talking cyber advice you can act on.
Find out more: @jasononcyber is currently on: Youtube, linkedin, Facebook, X, instagram
Below are several business events coming up this week in Kent.
You’ll find the full list at
www.KentBusinessEvents.co.uk
Maidstone Business Show 2026
Maidstone
Great Danes Hotel - Maidstone
When: TODAY 26th Feb 2026 - 10am - 3pm
Location: Great Danes Hotel - Maidstone
Details:
The Maidstone business show 2026 is the biggest networking event locally and provides companies a place to do business. The expo is an annual event and attracts many visitors. For many, it is the ultimate event to be seen networking at.
You can pre-register online via our website. Entry to the event is free however you can pre-register or register on the day at reception.
The business expo is FREE to attend as a visitor. This is made possible through the exhibitors who have paid to have an exhibition stand at the event to promote their business.
Website: Click here
Synergy Networking Events
Various Locations Across Kent
Various locations across Kent
Details:
Synergy Networking Events: Building Meaningful Business Connections Across Kent
Synergy helps businesses across Kent grow through structured, friendly, and effective networking events in Kent. Whether you’re new to networking or an experienced business owner looking for genuine connections, Synergy provides a relaxed environment that delivers real results. You can attend an event with no long-term commitment and experience it for yourself.
Networking Made Simple!
Synergy runs professional networking events across Kent, with every session carefully planned to ensure every attendee gets value. Seating is pre-arranged to help members connect with new people, exchange ideas, and build long-term relationships.
Website: Click here
BoB Connections Business Networking
Various Locations Across Kent
Various Locations
Details:
BoB Connections networking meetings span across Kent, providing an invaluable platform for local businesses to forge connections that are otherwise hard to achieve. Book your spot at a bi-weekly meeting in your town.
Joining BoB Connections opens the door to unparalleled opportunities for your business growth. As a member, you'll gain access to a powerful network of like-minded professionals who are committed to helping each other succeed. Through structured and supportive networking, you'll receive high-quality referrals, expert insights, and practical advice to enhance your business strategies. Our collaborative approach empowers you to elevate your business, making it more profitable, efficient, and successful than ever before.
Let's create connections that matter.
Website: Click here
Women In Business Networking
Maidstone
The Spitfire - Kings Hill
When: 26th Feb 2026 - 11.45am - 2.15pm
Location: The Spitfire - Kings Hill
Details:
The Maidstone and Kings Hill Women in Business group is a friendly meeting hosted by experienced networker, Katherine Vass. The group brings together businesswomen with a wide range of professional experience, so there is plenty of opportunity to gain support and share expertise and business contacts.
WIBN groups thrive when new businesses visit, so please join our next meeting and tell us about your business!
WIBN group members build strong business relationships through our regular monthly meetings. Members also receive access to the members area of the WIBN Platform.
Website: Click here
Kent Actors Connected
Ashford
The Ashford Cinema
When: 27th Feb 2026 - 6pm - 9pm
Location: The Ashford Cinema
Details:
You are invited to attend a Kent Actors Networking event hosted at The Ashford Cinema.
This event provides an opportunity for actors across Kent to connect with other like-minded creatives, collaborate on upcoming events, share industry experiences, information and motivation. If you feel you need a little oomph and want to connect more locally, definitely come along!
The evening is open to actors and creatives at all stages of their careers and offers a valuable chance to expand your network, exchange insights, and engage with the local acting community.
Website: Click here
The Construction Hub
Sevenoaks
Wilderness Golf Club
When: 3rd March 2026 - 9.30am - 12pm
Location: Wilderness Golf Club
Details:
A not-for-profit networking event for specialists in luxury Construction, Trades & Property Industry – Hosted by Sonitus
Step into the future of networking
Set in the stunning Kent countryside, Wildernesse Golf Club is home to The Construction Hub an exclusive event designed for Architecture, Construction, Design, and Build professionals working on prime and super-prime residential projects in and around Kent.
COMMUNITY OVER COMPETITION isn’t just a motto—it’s our mission.
Imagine a network where collaboration replaces rivalry. Where we focus on building connections that promote and support every member of our community. The days of undercutting, conformity, and racing to the bottom are over. Together, we are creating a thriving, dynamic market where quality and innovation take centre stage.
Website: Click here
Understanding and Developing
a Marketing Strategy
Online
Online
When: 3rd March 2026 - 10am - 1pm
Location: Online
Details:
Need to create a marketing strategy document but don’t know where to start? This workshop breaks down all the elements of a marketing strategy, to help you create a consistent and cohesive plan that helps you attract the right customers, communicate clearly, and grow your business with purpose.
Struggling to make your marketing actually work for your business? Many small business owners dive into social media posts, flyers, or ads without a clear plan – and end up frustrated when results don’t follow.
That’s why this workshop focuses on helping you create a marketing strategy that drives results. You’ll learn how to define your audience, sharpen your message, and turn your strengths into a clear, consistent plan you can use every day. By the end, you’ll have the know-how and framework to confidently market your business with purpose and direction.
Website: Click here
The Marketing Meetup
Ashford
Ashford
When: 4th March 2026 - 6pm - 8.30pm
Location: Online
Details:
The Ashford Marketing Meetup is an informal friendly place to meet, learn, and share knowledge with one another. Come in ‘listen’ mode.
We’ll be back at the lovely Coachworks for this one. We just want to get together, say hello, have a chat, and have a nice time.
Think of this as a community event, where the focus is very much on you meeting other people in a chilled out friendly space. We’ll chat over food and drink, listen to an inspirational speaker or two, chat some more, and go home buzzing with new contacts and new ideas.
Let’s have a lovely night in the company of some amazin’ people.
Website: Click here
Seaside CEO Summit
Ramsgate
Albion House, Ramsgate
When: 5th March 2026 - 10m - 5pm
Location: Albion House, Ramsgate
Details:
Seaside CEO Summit - One day event focused on coastal enterprise and revival.
Join us at boutique hotel, Albion House, in Ramsgate, for an informative and inspiring set of discussions focused on how seaside towns are becoming the UK’s business and lifestyle hotspots.
The event will cover:
✅ Coastal start-ups and growth – a business boom on the sea shore
✅ Festivals & events – attracting visitors and custom all year round
✅ Connectivity – making the most of telecoms, transport and business networks
✅ Community power – stories of locals coming together to take ownership and action
✅ Attracting investment – into local businesses and buildings
✅ Best in class branding and place-making – that is putting seaside towns on the map
Website: Click here
Kent Business Radio Show
This week Paul Andrew’s guest was Siobhan Holmes of Azets.
Siobhan is a Chartered Accountant who has specialised in the Charity and Not-for-Profit sector for over a decade. She recently joined Azets as a Partner in their dedicated Charity and NFP team, based in Kent and London.
Azets is a top 10 UK accountancy firm with over 80 offices (4 offices located in Kent: Ashford, Canterbury, Maidstone and Sidcup), combining national strength with a strong local presence. The team includes 26 specialist partners and supports more than 2,500 clients across the sector.
To listen to this week’s show in full visit Kent Business Radio
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