Introducing the
Kent Business Community
Pre-launch ‘Founding Member’ Offer…
Over the past few weeks we’ve mentioned that we’re building something new for Kent businesses.
Today we’re ready to share it.
It’s called the Kent Business Community.
A new AI optimised platform designed to make it easier for people across Kent to discover great local businesses.
➡️ Find out more here: www.KentBusinessCommunity.co.uk
Once we launch in April, membership will be £50 per year.
Pre-launch Offer: The first 25 ‘Founding Members’ who join before 31st March, lock in our pre-launch offer of just £25 per year - saving 50%!
Hi {{first_name | Kent Business Community}}
Welcome back to Monday’s edition of the Kent Business Newsletter.
This week we cover growth, resilience and community across the county. We lead with Europa Worldwide Group as the Kent logistics giant marks 60 years in business, unveils a bold new identity and highlights the £11.2bn of UK-EU trade it has moved since post-Brexit rules came in. It is a strong story of local ambition on a global scale.
We also share the powerful story of Jayne Hendy, who went from teenage homelessness to supporting rough sleepers in Kent, as she backs Porchlight’s CEO Sleepout at Leeds Castle. Alongside that, there is fresh business investment news from Calldene, which has expanded its Dover site to lift output by 20%, plus a look at leadership with purpose as Azets partner Siobhan Holmes takes on a key treasurer role at the Community Hospice in north Kent.
➡️ 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.
In this issue: Kent Business News | Cyber Advice | Kent Business Events
This Week’s Kent Business News
➡️ Europa Marks 60 Years With New Identity And EU Trade Milestone
Europa Worldwide Group has unveiled a new brand identity as it marks its 60th anniversary and sets out plans for further growth. The Kent based logistics firm, now employing 1,300 people across 30 sites, has quadrupled in size over the past 13 years. At its headquarters on 3 March, the company launched its “Powered by Better” manifesto and revealed newly liveried vehicles in its red and white colours. The move signals fresh ambition after a decade shaped by Brexit and global volatility.
Since new trade rules came into force in 2020, Europa’s road freight division has transported £11.2bn worth of goods between the UK and EU, moving double the volume of its nearest competitor. Its Europa Flow system, built on proprietary software, aims to remove customs delays for SMEs and multinationals. With expanding air, sea and warehousing operations, the group is positioning itself for further global growth.
➡️ From Teenage Runaway To Homelessness Campaigner
At 15, Jayne Hendy ran away from home and sat alone on a park bench, terrified she could be sectioned for being gay. For the next five years, her bedroom was a public toilet in Bristol. She says there were times she considered ending her life and went almost a year without a proper conversation. No services came to find her. Now 62, and living with a heart condition, she works for Kent charity Porchlight supporting rough sleepers across the county.
Jayne is backing the CEO Sleepout at Leeds Castle on March 23, where business leaders will give up their beds for one night. The charity hopes to raise £1m this year as demand rises and more pensioners face homelessness. Jayne says the system is broken, not the people in it, and believes urgent change is needed.
➡️ Calldene Expands Kent Site To Boost Output
Calldene Structural Timber Solutions has completed a £60,000 roof extension at its Dover Trussed Roof Company site in Kent, increasing production capacity and strengthening support for customers across Southern England. Fully operational since February 2026, the upgrade raises the ceiling height of an existing facility to create dedicated space for truss assembly. The move increases overall production output by 20% and allows for more flexible manufacturing across its Canterbury and Lancing operations.
The added capacity reduces the need for two piece frames in many cases, cutting costs and shortening delivery times while improving structural strength and installation efficiency. Managing Director Les Fuller said the investment will help maintain reliable lead times and consistent service as demand grows. The expansion follows the recent purchase of the company’s first dedicated delivery vehicle, further improving service across the region.
➡️ Azets Partner Takes Treasurer Role At North Kent Hospice
Siobhan Holmes, a partner at top ten accountancy firm Azets, has been appointed honorary treasurer at the Community Hospice in north Kent. Based in the firm’s Sidcup office, she will also chair the hospice’s Finance and Investment Committees. The charity, formerly known as Greenwich and Bexley Hospice, supports around 750 people at any one time who are living with life limiting illness across the community. Holmes joined Azets last year after 13 years at HaysMac and has spent more than a decade specialising in the charity and not for profit sector.
For Holmes, who lives in Bexley and has long supported the hospice, the role is deeply personal. She said rising costs and funding pressures make strong financial oversight vital to protect services. The hospice first opened in 1994 and now provides care at home, in hospitals and in its own beds, helping patients and families through some of the hardest moments of their lives.
Cyber Safety For Kent Businesses
Jason On Cyber
Check Your Phone: The Hidden Folder Scam
There’s a simple trick scammers use to get hidden folders onto your iPhone or laptop - and most people fall for it without realising.
It’s not hacking.
It’s not “breaking into your phone.”
It’s one tap you don’t even remember making.
In this JOC, I break down exactly how these folders get there and what you should check today. Stay one step ahead!
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
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
Wealden Business Group Networking
Tenterden
Brunch & Brew Tenterden
When: 7am - 8.30am Every Wednesday Morning
Location: Brunch & Brew Tenterden
Details:
Come join the Wealden Business Group every Wednesday morning in Tenterden for a hearty breakfast, an interesting presentation and the opportunity to meet local business owners across a range of professions who recognise the importance of making genuine connections.
Wealden Business Group (WBG) is built on trust, integrity, support and friendship, and is different to many other business networking groups in several respects
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
Get Connected
Maidstone
Metro Bank, Maidstone
When: 10th March 2026 - 9.30am - 11am
Location: Metro Bank, Maidstone
Details:
Simple, relaxed, informal, social meet-up for local businesses. Everyone is welcome at the GET CONNECTED networking event in Maidstone!
This is a FREE and welcoming B2B networking event for businesses local to Maidstone and surrounding areas. It provides a relaxed environment to catch up with connections – and extend your network to include new ones.
This is not ‘networking’ as you know it.
🔵 Drop in at any time Everyone is welcome.
🔵 It’s FREE – tea, coffee and breakfast provided.
🔵 Stay for as long or short as you like!
🔵 No elevator pitch
🔵 No expectations -we’re just simply bringing businesses together to broaden our local business community.
Website: Click here
Property and Poppadoms
Ashford
Koyla, Ashford
When: 10th March 2026 - 6.30pm - 10pm
Location: Koyla, Ashford
Details:
Property & Poppadoms – Koyla Ashford, Kent
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
West Kent Expo 2026
Tonbridge
The River Centre, Tonbridge
When: 11th March 2026 - 10am - 3pm
Location: The River Centre, Tonbridge
Details:
West Kent’s only regional Expo. This year, more than 50 local businesses from across West Kent and beyond will come together to showcase innovation, share expertise, and create opportunities for growth. Whether you’re a start-up, an established SME, or looking to launch a new idea, the Expo is your chance to connect, learn, and get inspired.
The West Kent Expo’26 is the place to be.
Website: Click here
IoD Collaborate for International Womens Day
Ashford
Ashford International Hotel
When: 12th March 2026 - 8.30am - 4pm
Location: Ashford International Hotel
Details:
Join IoD Kent’s International Women’s Day to connect, learn, and lead with purpose in a truly inclusive space.
The countdown is on! Get ready to attend an unforgettable event for Women’s International Day hosted by the Kent IoD Branch – where innovation, networking and action collide.
This is your chance to connect with industry leaders, gain game-changing insights and be part of the conversation.
WID hosted by the Kent IoD branch will be an event that will bring together Women across all sectors.
It will be a day where there will opportunities to learn from peers and learn from other professionals.
We will also be asking for fellow Male colleagues to attend.
Website: Click here
Stepping Out With FSB Connects Gravesend
Whitehall Place, Gravesend
When: 12th March 2026 - 5.30pm - 7.30pm
Location: Whitehall Place, Gravesend
Details:
Stepping Out and FSB have come together to create a relaxed, welcoming space for local businesses to connect.
This is your opportunity to make new connections, discover potential collaborators, and access support from the local business community.
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain fresh perspectives, or simply meet like-minded professionals, this event gives you the chance to step out, get involved, and enjoy real conversations.
The event is free to attend and open to all businesses.
Website: Click here
Ever thought about starting a newsletter for your local business?
The Kent Business Newsletter is built and powered on Beehiiv – the same platform trusted by thousands of publishers worldwide. We grew to over 4000 subscribers in the first three months using Beehiiv’s powerful features like automations, and integrated surveys and polls. It’s the backbone behind our growth and it can power yours too. Interested? Sign up to Beehiiv today and start experimenting for yourself.
Or, if you don’t have time to learn a whole new platform…
We now offer a ‘done-for-you’ service! We will build your newsletter on Beehiiv from the ground up - fully branded for your business, configured with all the bells and whistles. Everything you need to launch quickly and start building a loyal audience.
👉 Interested in starting your own newsletter? Get in touch [email protected]
Ready to Show Up Online with Confidence?
Join us in our Kent studio for a VIP day and leave with up to 3 months of powerful, done-for-you video content.
Curious? Let’s make it happen
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{{first_name | Kent Business Community}}, before you go…
Would you like to feature your business in the new Kent Business Spotlight section of the Kent Business Newsletter (for free!) - click here
➡️ Don’t miss the latest networking events near you - https://www.kentbusinessevents.co.uk
➡️ Do you have news or announcements you’d like to share about your business?
Contact us today - [email protected]
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