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Somerset Businesses Invited to Future Skills and Growth Networking Breakfast hosted at Mulberry

Thursday 6th August, 2026

Employers from across Somerset are being invited to attend a special networking breakfast focused on workforce development, skills, recruitment and business growth.

Hosted by UCS College Group in partnership with Mulberry, the Future, Skills and Growth Networking Breakfast will take place on Wednesday 9 September from 7:30am to 10:00am, bringing together businesses from across the region for a morning of insight, collaboration and networking.

The event has been designed to help local employers navigate the latest opportunities in skills development, workforce training, recruitment support and available funding. Attendees will hear from specialists within UCS College Group, connect with fellow business leaders and gain practical information to help attract, develop and retain talent in an increasingly competitive labour market.

The breakfast also marks a significant milestone, celebrating 20 years of partnership between UCS College Group and Mulberry. Over the past two decades, the collaboration has played an important role in supporting skills development, nurturing local talent and creating opportunities for individuals and businesses across Somerset.

As part of the event, guests will be given an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Mulberry site, offering a unique opportunity to learn more about one of Somerset’s leading employers and see first-hand how the iconic handbags are made.  

Lucy Hawkins, Group Director – Future Skills and Growth at UCS College Group, said:

“Businesses are facing rapid changes in skills needs, recruitment challenges and workforce development. This event is a great opportunity for employers to connect, share ideas and discover practical solutions to help their organisations grow.

Many businesses could be eligible for thousands of pounds in government funding, grants and incentives to support apprenticeships and workforce development. We want to help employers understand what’s available and make sure they’re accessing the support they need to invest in future talent.

We’re also delighted to celebrate our long-standing partnership with Mulberry and showcase the positive impact that collaboration between education and industry can have across Somerset.”

Places are limited due to venue capacity, with attendance restricted to one representative per organisation and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Businesses interested in attending are encouraged to register early to secure their place at what promises to be an informative and valuable morning for Somerset’s employer community.

Event Details

  • Event: Future Skills and Growth Networking Breakfast
  • Date: Wednesday 9 September
  • Time: 7:30am – 10:00am
  • Venue: Mulberry, Kings Road, Bridgwater, Somerset

To Register please click HERE

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