Sedgemoor Chamber

Navigating the Digital Shift: Trends, Tools and Transformation
2025-06-13 13:45 - 14:30 (Europe/London) | The Canalside, Marsh Lane, Bridgwater,, Somerset, TA6 6LQ, United Kingdom
Alongside this session, we’ve got a fantastic line-up of other workshops happening throughout the day at the Expo. From digital tools and sustainability to business growth. You can view the full schedule and find out more about each session on our event page.
Join Digital Somerset’s expert-led panel discussion and Q&A session exploring the latest trends and opportunities in digital technology, marketing, AI, automation, and education. This session is ideal for professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, and anyone passionate about Somerset’s digital future who wants to engage with leaders shaping the local digital ecosystem.

Key Highlights:
– Core topics: Digital transformation, AI & automation, marketing innovation, media & branding, digital skills development, and regional digital growth strategies
– Frameworks & case studies: Insights from industry leaders and board directors actively involved in Somerset’s digital sector
– Panel discussion followed by an interactive Q&A, including pre-submitted and live questions

Audience Takeaways:
– Fresh perspectives on how digital and AI technologies are reshaping business and education locally and beyond
– Practical advice on leveraging digital tools and strategies for career growth and business innovation
– Direct access to expertise from leaders who are driving digital transformation in Somerset
– Opportunity to influence discussion topics by submitting questions ahead of time

Got Questions for the Digital Somerset Panel?
We want to hear from you! Submit your questions in advance to help shape the discussion on digital innovation, AI, marketing, education, and more across Somerset.
🔗 Submit your questions here – https://url.avanan.click/v2/r02/___https://forms.microsoft.com/e/bXUGB2MWj6___.YXAxZTpicmlkZ3dhdGVyY2hhbWJlcm9mY29tbWVyY2U6YTpvOjQyMDE1N2Y2NGRhN2Y3MzhiNTUzMmM3NTEzOTM2YWI0Ojc6OTQ1NjoxNmU1MDAyOTRjNzYxNDk0Nzg4OGZiZDNiYmYxNzIzMzgyMWE5YjIyMzU4YjhhYTEzZDljZDhhZmIzMTZiZDYwOnQ6VDpO
Digital Somerset is a community-driven organisation committed to advancing the digital economy across Somerset. They connect businesses, educators and innovators through events, collaboration and shared learning. With a focus on building digital skills, championing local talent and encouraging innovation, Digital Somerset plays a key role in shaping the region’s digital future and supporting inclusive, tech-enabled growth.
Thank you to Ian Lewis from 360South West for the image used in the cover image.

Environmental Space Living Lab - The Launch Event
2025-06-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Bridgwater and Taunton College – Cannington Campus, Rodway Hill, Cannington, Bridgwater, TA5 2LS
🌿 You’re Invited: Launch of the Environmental Space Living Lab (ESLL)
📅 Wednesday 18th June | 📍 Bridgwater & Taunton College, Cannington Campus | 🕒 10am – 12pm
At Bridgwater & Taunton College, we understand just how important our land-based industries are to the South West. That’s why we’re committed to supporting the skills, knowledge and innovation needed to help them thrive. But we know we can’t do it alone. Collaboration is key.
We’re excited to invite you to the official launch of our Environmental Space Living Lab (ESLL) – a new, flexible space designed to bring people together, spark ideas and encourage practical solutions to the environmental challenges we all face, made possible through collaboration with Catapult Satellite Applications and Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership.
The ESLL is a place where education meets industry. By working with partners across engineering, energy, and land-based sectors, we aim to explore emerging technologies and develop real-world responses to the climate emergency. From knowledge exchange and curriculum development to hands-on projects and shared problem-solving, the possibilities are endless.
This event is a chance to explore the space, connect, collaborate and see how we can make a difference together and hear from our guest speakers.
Hear from our Guest Speakers

Bennamann Ltd in partnership with CNH Industrial will discuss how their innovative technology is leading the way in livestock farming through the capture and processing of waste emissions to generate better than Net Zero gas

Smarter farming from the sky; explore how drone technology is solving todays agricultural challenges, presented by OSCAM and Autospray Systems.

Have an insight into how digital technology and bio-acoustics have been brought together to analyse landscape biodiversity through Wilder Sensing as seen on BBC Springwatch

Sign up for your free ticket now. We look forward to welcoming you.
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/environmental-space-living-lab-the-launch-event-tickets-1370787435119?aff=oddtdtcreator

Public Sector Procurement Workshop with Somerset Council
2025-06-25 08:00 - 10:00 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
Join our complimentary workshop with procurement experts from Somerset Council to explore the latest changes in procurement legislation, uncover new business opportunities in Somerset, and learn how to enhance your tender success.
Since February, the Procurement Act 2023 has been in force a pivotal reform aimed at boosting efficiency, transparency, and fairness in public sector procurement. This act also mandates that public bodies address the challenges SMEs encounter when bidding for contracts, ensuring a level playing field for all.
There’s no fee to attend. During the session, you’ll receive a clear overview of the new act and practical guidance on how to navigate the tendering process effectively, engage with public sector opportunities, and secure successful contracts. The workshop includes refreshments and a bacon roll to keep you fueled.
Don’t miss out on this chance to future-proof your procurement strategy and gain actionable insights!
** FURTHER EVENTS AND INFORMATION** This event is part of a series of in person workshops taking place across Somerset, as well as there being some online opportunities too. Please see = https://www.somerset.gov.uk/finance-performance-and-legal/how-to-tender-for-business-with-us/#New%20Procurement%20Act%20Events for details of the other events taking place and for updates about the Somerset Council Procurement Process.

Chamber Chat
2025-07-03 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-08-07 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-09-04 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-10-02 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-11-06 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-12-04 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-01-08 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-02-05 10:00 - 11:00 and 3 more dates | Online
Chamber Chat is a monthly online event hosted by us at Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce. Open to members and non-members, this is your opportunity to connect with the local business community, share best practices, and discuss challenges in a safe, supportive environment.
Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the Chamber, Chamber Chat offers something for everyone:
• For Members: Strengthen connections with fellow members, share ideas, and discover opportunities to collaborate.
• For New Members: Learn more about the Chamber, meet Roger Smith (our General Manager), and explore how to make the most of your membership.
• For Non-Members: Get a taste of what the Chamber has to offer and see how joining could benefit your business.
This informal session is the perfect way to start your Thursday. Grab a cuppa, take a moment to relax, and enjoy being part of this business community. Whether you’re looking to solve a business challenge, build relationships, or simply catch up with others, Chamber Chat is the place to be.
Join Zoom Meeting: Join here
Meeting ID: 837 1110 0858

Upskilling, Reskilling and Recruitment
2025-09-10 08:00 - 10:00 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
The Somerset Economic Prosperity Strategy 2025-45 is being launched on Monday 1st September. This event is part of the ‘Invest Somerset Showcase’, a series of events taking place throughout the county in September, putting the spotlight on key opportunities and challenges within the new Strategy.
Join us for this morning workshop exploring one of Somerset’s most pressing challenges, the displacement of staff due to major projects in the area. Whether you’re a business owner, HR professional or involved in workforce planning, this session will share opportunities to address workforce gaps and connect people to training, reskilling and employment support.
The session will offer insights into the wider Connect to Work programme and practical support available through partners such as Skill Up Somerset and the Community Employment Hubs.

What to expect
– Keynote speakers and panel discussions on workforce development
– Networking opportunities
– Breakfast refreshments included (bacon roll, tea and coffee)
– Opportunities to hear directly from partners such as Skill Up, DWP, and local colleges

Why attend?
– Understand the workforce impacts of upcoming major projects in Somerset
– Discover support available through the Connect to Work programme
– Learn about reskilling, training and funding opportunities
– Promote collaboration across sectors to help strengthen Somerset’s economy
– Get involved in shaping the future of local skills and employment strategies

Building Better Business in Bridgwater
2026-03-05 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-03-26 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-04-30 17:30 - 19:30 | Bridgwater Arts Centre, 11-13 Castle St, Bridgwater, TA6 3DD, United Kingdom
Building Better Business in Bridgwater is a practical training session aimed at helping Bridgwater retailers improve key parts of their digital marketing. The session will cover Google Business Profile, SEO, Facebook, Instagram and email systems.
The format will include an introduction on the key benefits and potential impact, followed by practical, hands on work where attendees will be shown how to complete specific actions on their own laptops. The session will end with two or three homework tasks to complete and review at the following session.

Business Growth Day
2026-04-15 09:00 - 14:00 | Bridgwater College, Bridgwater College, Bath Rd, Bridgwater TA6 4PZ, United Kingdom
The Business Growth Day, kindly sponsored by MMES, brings together a series of focused workshops designed to help small and medium sized businesses identify opportunities for growth and remove common barriers that can hold them back.
Many business owners find themselves spending most of their time working in their business rather than working on it. This event is designed to highlight practical areas where improvements, better systems or clearer understanding can make a real difference.
Across the day, a range of local experts will deliver short, practical sessions covering key areas of business, from finance and compliance to people, systems and protection.

What to expect
– A series of six focused sessions covering essential areas of business
– Practical insight you can apply straight away
– Time to connect with other local businesses throughout the day
– Lunch included with time to reflect and continue conversations

Event Schedule
9:00 – Welcome and connections
9:30 – Workshop 1 – A Practical Guide to Business Insurance
A practical guide to the insurance your business may need, and how to approach brokers or insurers with the right information. We will cover statutory insurance requirements, the types of cover that can help protect both your business and your customers, and emerging risks such as cyber attacks and cyber crime. Presented by Paul Smith, Proprietor, Paul Smith Associates
10:00 – Workshop 2 – Building Your Business’s Online Presence
Visibility matter more than ever for businesses and in this session, Rose Stacey, Director – Boring Business will cover topics such as building confidence in your digital presence, the importance of social media and choosing the right platforms for your business and email marketing along with tips on generating reviews and avoiding common mistakes.
10:30 – Workshop 3 – Karen Gascoigne – Making Tax Digital, a guide to the new rules and requirements
11:00 – Break
11:15 – Workshop 4 – David Ballantine – Wealth management for business owners
11:45 – Workshop 5 – Liberate your business to surge ahead through practical, powerful conversations whilst keeping ahead of the Employment Rights Act.
Those businesses investing in the skills, behaviours and capabilities of their Managers not only weather the storm but emerge from it stronger, more resilient and better positioned than those who do not. We will show you what to focus on, when and how – do that and you will also keep ahead of the Employment Rights Act. We will discuss practical, commercially focused people solutions in addressing challenges such as absence, high turnover, low engagement and performance, all carrying significant financial and operational consequences. The practical implications of the Reforms are also significant – Managers who lack the skills to have those early, honest, constructive conversations will increasingly expose their organisations to legal risk. Leave our session confident in how you can liberate your business at every level. Presented by Karen Wellman, Managing Director, Reframe HR
12:15 – Workshop 6 – Opening the Door to Smarter Working: What’s Possible for Your Business?
Steve Bloomer, Managing Director, Springboard IT will help us start discovering how the better use of software you already have, then if required with simple integrations, can streamline processes across your business. From reducing duplication and errors, to saving time on everyday tasks, small changes lead to new ways of working.
This session explores how businesses can start to rethink their processes by making better use of the software they already have. Through practical examples, it highlights how simple integrations and small changes can reduce duplication, improve accuracy and ease the pressure of day-to-day administration.
Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of where inefficiencies may sit within their own business, along with ideas of what is possible when systems work together more effectively.
12:45 – Lunch and connections

We’re proud to have MMES sponsoring this event. Based in Bridgwater, MMES has been delivering professional electrical and mechanical services for more than 30 years, supporting clients across Somerset, the South West and the wider UK.
Their experienced team provides a wide range of services, including electrical design and project management, electrical engineering, mechanical solutions, technology systems, maintenance and asset care, and specialist work in sophisticated environments. MMES also has extensive experience in sectors such as nuclear, power and energy, water and utilities, food and beverage, industrial and renewable energy.
With a strong focus on safety, quality, time and cost delivery, MMES has built its reputation on reliable service, technical expertise and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.
m-mes.com | info@m-mes.com | 01278 434263

Sickness absence and its impact on your business
2026-04-22 08:30 - 09:30 | The Princess Theatre and Arts CentreBurnham-on-Sea, England, The Princess Theatre and Arts Centre, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 1EH, United Kingdom
Is sickness absence holding your organisation back?

Discover the real cost of sickness absence and learn practical steps to reduce avoidable absence and build a healthier, resilient workplace.

Sickness absence affects every business—large or small. But many employers underestimate its true impact on:
– Productivity
– Operational costs
– Team morale and wellbeing
Join us for this focused, practical session to uncover:
✅ The real cost of sickness absence
✅ What early signs to look out for
✅ How to reduce avoidable absence
✅ Simple steps to build a healthier, more resilient workplace
Perfect for:
Employers, managers, HR leads, and anyone responsible for supporting staff wellbeing or business performance.
Why attend?
✔ Gain actionable insights
✔ Strengthen your team
✔ Improve business resilience
✔ Support your people in smarter, sustainable ways
Please note: There is limited on-site parking. Please use the nearest parking / Oxford Street Car Park.

Somerset Business Expo: Free Visitor Tickets
2026-06-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
Visitor tickets for the Somerset Business Expo 2026 are now live and completely free. Booking in advance secures your place on the day, helps ensure smooth entry to the venue, and means you will receive important updates in the lead up to the event.
Join us on Friday the 12th of June 2026 at Junction 24, Sedgemoor Auction Centre, Bridgwater, for a full day dedicated to showcasing Somerset enterprise and supporting practical business growth.
For 2026, the Expo is expanding into a larger venue with 75 exhibition stands, creating a Somerset-wide event that reflects the ambition, growth and momentum across our local business community.
Throughout the day, visitors will be able to explore the exhibition floor, attend free practical workshops, hear from local business leaders, and access free business support sessions delivered by specialists from across the region.
Whether you are an established organisation, a growing business or a new start-up, the Somerset Business Expo is designed to help you raise your profile, discover new opportunities, meet potential customers and partners, and stay connected with what is happening across the county.
When you register for your free visitor ticket, you will receive important Expo updates and announcements in the lead up to the event, including speaker highlights, business support sessions and key event information.
The full Somerset Business Expo schedule is now live and can be viewed using the link below, helping you plan your day in advance and explore the workshops, talks and sessions taking place throughout the Expo.
Find Out More About the Somerset Business Expo
*Please note, entry to the Networking Breakfast and Networking Summer Feast is not included with your visitor ticket. Separate tickets must be purchased for these connecting sessions.

Maxwells are a long established independent firm of Chartered Accountants based in Bridgwater. They offer a complete range of accountancy, financial and business consultancy services to both businesses and individuals. This provides a cost-effective, high value solution for all your financial needs. They are passionate about helping businesses grow through business support and taxation efficiency. It’s about being approachable and plain English speaking with no jargon, providing a personal service that engenders loyalty
The West Country Business Show is the South West’s leading business event, providing networking opportunities, CPD-accredited speakers, and a floorplan full of trade stalls with everything you could ever want to make your business a success.

Hope. Optimism. Belief.
2026-06-12 10:00 - 22:45 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
Can a motivational speaker really and positively change your life in just 45 minutes? You’re about to find out.
In this powerful keynote, Somerset-based international speaker Brad Burton shares the mindset, self-leadership principles and life experiences that helped him go from living on benefits and delivering pizzas to building 4Networking, one of the UK’s largest joined-up business networks.
Launched in Bridgwater in 2006, 4Networking grew into a multimillion-pound organisation, facilitating more than 68,000 real-life business meetings across the UK.
Through humour, honest storytelling, hard-earned business lessons and powerful perspective shifts, Brad will challenge attendees to think differently about confidence, pressure, resilience and decision-making. Inspirational, motivational and at times hilarious, this session is designed to leave people with greater belief, clearer thinking and renewed momentum in both life and business.

Brad Burton is an international keynote speaker, business author and founder of 4Networking. Known for his energetic and relatable presentation style, Brad has spent more than 20 years speaking for organisations across the UK and internationally on mindset, leadership, resilience, confidence and business growth.
Despite leaving school with no qualifications and spending years on benefits, Brad transformed his life through mindset and self-belief, later becoming the UK’s highest-rated motivational business author on Amazon and publishing four bestselling books.
Today, Brad works with organisations, leadership teams and audiences of all sizes, delivering thought-provoking and highly engaging talks that inspire action, challenge thinking and help people unlock their potential.
www.motivationalbusiness.network/

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

The Key to Growth and Mitigating Risk: Connection
2026-06-12 11:00 - 11:45 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
When businesses create genuine connections amongst their people, they reduce employment risk and unlock opportunities for long-term growth. This workshop explores how simple workforce behaviours and stronger communication can become one of the most powerful tools for improving performance, engagement and business resilience.
During the session, Karen Wellman and Dan Smith will introduce the Liberate Leadership & Management Flywheel and explain how creating a culture built around communication, curiosity, courage and candour can systematically strengthen teams and workplace relationships.
Attendees will explore how connection impacts decision-making, innovation, productivity and team performance, while also reducing employment risks and workplace challenges. The session will provide practical ideas and approaches that businesses can apply within their own organisations to help teams thrive.

Karen Wellman is Managing Director of Reframe HR, supporting organisations across Somerset through practical, performance-driven HR support. Reframe HR focuses on helping businesses proactively manage people challenges, reduce costs and improve engagement, productivity and long-term sustainability.
Dan Smith is Legal Director at People Law and combines employment law expertise with a passion for leadership and management training. After years of working within employment tribunals, Dan shifted his focus towards helping businesses prevent issues before they arise. Through People Law’s Liberate Management Training programme, he helps organisations embed cultures built around curiosity, courage and candour to support growth and reduce risk.

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

Speed Networking Session
2026-06-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
Looking to make lots of new business connections in a short space of time? Our Speed Networking Session at the Somerset Business Expo is designed to help you meet a wide range of local professionals, businesses and organisations in a fun, structured and fast-paced environment.
Taking place during the Somerset Business Expo, this session gives attendees the opportunity to introduce themselves, exchange ideas and build valuable new relationships through a series of quick-fire conversations.
Speed networking is one of the most effective ways to maximise your day, raise your profile and meet people you may not otherwise come across.
No long speeches, no pressure and no awkward introductions, just a welcoming space designed to encourage conversation and help businesses connect.
What to expect
– A structured and fast-paced networking session
– The opportunity to meet a large number of businesses in a short amount of time
– A great way to build new relationships and raise your profile during the Expo

We are proud to have Hilton Ames Chauffeurs sponsoring the Somerset Business Expo Speed Networking Session.
Hilton Ames Chauffeurs are the UK’s leading chauffeur company, with their Somerset office based in Bridgwater. Operating a fleet of premium high-end vehicles, they provide professional chauffeur services for both business and leisure travel across the UK.
Their experienced chauffeur team, many of whom are retired traffic police officers or ex-military personnel, are known for delivering a smooth, reliable and stress-free travel experience.
Whether travelling for business, family trips or special occasions, Hilton Ames Chauffeurs offer a premium service with comfort and professionalism at its core.

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

Free website and digital support
2026-06-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
This session is part of the Somerset Business Expo Business Support Pod, offering free 1-to-1 support from local industry experts. Across the hour, businesses and professionals can book one of four free 15 minute sessions to discuss specific challenges, ask questions and receive practical guidance.
When it comes to websites, custom software solutions and digital marketing, we know the ever-evolving landscape can be hard to navigate. Whether you are an SME finding your footing or an established firm ready for the next level, book a free 1-to-1 with me and I’ll help you figure out exactly where to turn next.
In the session, we’ll discuss any problems you may have with your current digital infrastructure or digital marketing efforts and recommend options to help you move forward. Whether you feel your website or digital marketing isn’t performing as it should, or you would just like to explore opportunities from creating custom software solutions, we can help. Our aim is to provide insights into how you can use the power of digital to achieve real business growth, focusing on improving the bottom line, not vanity metrics.
Session Host

I founded Double Brace in 2013 to help SMEs bridge the ever-growing digital gap between small businesses and online conglomerates. While other web agencies viewed mobile browsing as a bolt-on service, I recognised it as the essential future of online presence. By navigating the rise of responsive websites and shifting search trends, we’ve kept our clients at the forefront of a changing landscape where user behaviour constantly evolves, and I’m proud to say we have maintained many of these client partnerships for over a decade.

Reframe HR maximises passion, knowledge and experience to liberate businesses to surge ahead through practical, powerful conversations. With a clear focus on impact we support organisations in addressing challenges such as absence, high turnover, low engagement, performance and grievances, all of which carry significant financial and operational consequences. By partnering with businesses to get people management right Reframe HR helps significantly reduce costs, management time and expensive mistakes while improving performance, engagement and long-term sustainability. karen@reframehr.co.uk

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

Disputes Without Drama: A Smarter Way to Handle Business Conflict
2026-06-12 12:00 - 12:45 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
Disputes cost businesses financially, disrupt operations and waste valuable time. In this practical workshop, Lisa Haywood will explore how to respectfully and efficiently defuse disputes to help businesses salvage relationships, save money and stay focused on what they do best.
Lisa promises this will not be a traditional legal talk. There will be no complicated legal jargon, latin phrases or case studies. Instead, she will draw on more than 20 years of litigation experience to share practical advice on getting to the heart of disputes quickly and tightening procedures to reduce the risk of conflict in the first place.
The session will cover different business risk areas, how to manage them effectively, and ways to strengthen processes, diligence and relationship management to protect your reputation, cash flow, and working relationships.

Lisa Haywood is the Founder of Stutt Associates, Cornwall’s Dispute Lawyers. She built the boutique law firm from scratch and, within just over 18 months of trading, established a strong reputation for handling complex property and commercial disputes.
Lisa is passionate about modernising dispute services and helping position Cornwall as a recognised legal hub for high-quality expertise. Known for her approachable style and strategic thinking, she is dedicated to helping clients achieve the outcomes they need while navigating disputes in a practical and commercially focused way.

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

Free HR and people management support
2026-06-12 12:00 - 13:00 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
This session is part of the Somerset Business Expo Business Support Pod, offering free 1-to-1 support from local industry experts. Across the hour, businesses and professionals can book one of four free 15 minute sessions to discuss specific challenges, ask questions and receive practical guidance.
Known across my clients and my network for having straight-talking, powerful conversations about any aspect of the subject called “People”, let’s do the same for those attending Somerset Business Expo. See you there.
It’s your session, use it wisely. Choose whatever people subject you want. It could be absence, high turnover, low engagement, performance, behaviours, business growth or anything else that you want to discuss. I guarantee confidentiality, clarity, really effective listening, no judgements made and a conversation based on years of actual experience. My objective is for you to feel liberated by the time you leave our session and as you walk out of Somerset Business Expo. I set the bar high.
Session Host

Our work is rooted in contributing to the strength and resilience of Somerset’s incredible business community through navigating people challenges confidently and proactively. We’re excited to contribute our expertise and clarity, build meaningful relationships and help organisations thrive through practical, impactful performance-driven HR.
By partnering with businesses to get people management right, Reframe HR helps significantly reduce costs, management time and expensive mistakes while improving performance, engagement and long-term sustainability.

Reframe HR maximises passion, knowledge and experience to liberate businesses to surge ahead through practical, powerful conversations. With a clear focus on impact we support organisations in addressing challenges such as absence, high turnover, low engagement, performance and grievances, all of which carry significant financial and operational consequences. By partnering with businesses to get people management right Reframe HR helps significantly reduce costs, management time and expensive mistakes while improving performance, engagement and long-term sustainability. karen@reframehr.co.uk

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

Teach Your AI New “Skills” So It Works the Way You Do
2026-06-12 13:00 - 13:45 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
Most businesses are now experimenting with AI, but many still get mixed results because every task starts from a blank prompt. In this practical, demo-led session, Scott Quilter will introduce a new way of working with AI called “skills” and explain how businesses can make AI more consistent, useful and aligned with the way they actually work.
AI is rapidly moving beyond one-off prompts. The next stage is creating reusable AI skills, simple sets of instructions, examples and templates that help AI complete regular business tasks more reliably.
During the session, Scott will build a live example showing how an AI skill can turn conversation notes into follow-up emails, CRM updates and next actions. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of where AI is heading, what practical opportunities exist for their business, and ideas for the first repeatable AI task they could create themselves.

Scott Quilter FBCS is the Co-Founder and Chief AI & Innovation Officer at Techosaurus, an award-winning EdTech consultancy helping businesses make AI, automation and modern workplace tools practical and accessible.
With more than 20 years of experience in technology, digital transformation and training, Scott is known for his jargon-free, hands-on approach to making emerging technology useful for real people and real businesses.

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

Free branding and marketing support
2026-06-12 13:00 - 14:00 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
This session is part of the Somerset Business Expo Business Support Pod, offering free 1-to-1 support from local industry experts. Across the hour, businesses and professionals can book one of four free 15 minute sessions to discuss specific challenges, ask questions and receive practical guidance.
It’s Not Your Website. It’s Your Brand. Why your marketing isn’t working and what to fix first.
In these 15 minute sessions, Gavin will help you look past the usual “we need a new website” assumption and get to the real issue: your brand, message and marketing direction.
He will quickly review where your current marketing may be falling flat, what your audience is actually seeing, and which parts need attention first. Attendees will leave with honest, practical advice, a clearer view of what might be holding them back, and a few focused actions they can take before spending money in the wrong place.
Session Host

Gavin Sadler is Managing Director of Hatched, an award-winning creative, digital and marketing agency. He helps businesses strengthen their brand, sharpen their message and make their marketing work harder. With experience across strategy, design, digital and campaign planning, Gavin helps organisations depart from ordinary and turn good ideas into work that gets noticed.
We hatch ideas and make them fly.

Reframe HR maximises passion, knowledge and experience to liberate businesses to surge ahead through practical, powerful conversations. With a clear focus on impact we support organisations in addressing challenges such as absence, high turnover, low engagement, performance and grievances, all of which carry significant financial and operational consequences. By partnering with businesses to get people management right Reframe HR helps significantly reduce costs, management time and expensive mistakes while improving performance, engagement and long-term sustainability. karen@reframehr.co.uk

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page

Every big opportunity starts with a little conversation
2026-06-12 14:00 - 14:45 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DF, United Kingdom
In this practical and energising session, Stefan Thomas will show you how to walk into any room, work it with confidence, and leave with real connections, opportunities and sales that move your business forward.
Most people think connecting is about collecting business cards or delivering the perfect pitch. It is not. Stefan will share simple mindset shifts and conversation techniques that help turn awkward small talk into genuine business relationships.
Attendees will leave with practical approaches to starting conversations, following up naturally and making the most of every opportunity to connect. Whether you are completely new to business events or have been attending them for years, this session is designed to change the way you approach connecting with others.

Stefan Thomas is the author of Business Networking for Dummies, Instant Networking and Win The Room. A professional speaker and MC with more than 20 years of experience, Stefan has attended over 1,500 business events and built a reputation for helping people connect more effectively and confidently.
He has spoken for organisations across the UK including BT, Lloyds Bank and The Loo of the Year Awards, helping businesses and professionals improve their communication, confidence and relationship building skills.

Want to explore the full Expo programme?
Find out more about the Somerset Business Expo, including exhibitors, workshops, business support sessions and connecting events below.
View the Somerset Business Expo Page
