Baton relay champions business collaboration

A North Tyneside business network has launched a creative initiative to celebrate collaboration between local firms and encourage companies to support one another.

The North Tyneside Business Forum has introduced a bespoke baton that is passed from one business to another whenever work, support or expertise is shared, highlighting the strength of the borough's business community.

Inspired by the Olympic torch relay, the baton was commissioned and designed by Angela Tuplin, managing director of NE Display and chair of the Forum, as a symbol of businesses working together to achieve mutual success.

She said: “When the Olympic torch travelled around the country, it created a real sense of excitement and community. 

“I wanted to capture some of that energy and create something that physically represents businesses working together.

“North Tyneside has a vibrant business community and this baton is a visible symbol of the connections being made every day. 

“It’s something people can get behind and share on social media, helping us shine a light on the fantastic businesses we have here.”

The relay is already under way, with the baton passing between local companies as they collaborate on projects and services. 

It began with coffee specialists Afuera before passing to Baristocracy Coffee Roasters, APS Detailing, NE Display and a growing number of firms across the borough, recognising local collaboration at each stage.

One of the latest recipients is Sangeeta Loomba of Namaste Taste of India at Newcastle Quays Retail Park, who is working with the newly arriving Cue and Darts Lounge on plans for collaborative curry and games nights ahead of the leisure venue's opening later this summer.

Sangeeta said: “It’s a lovely idea because it shows businesses supporting each other. We’re looking forward to working with the Cue and Darts Lounge and helping bring more people into Newcastle Quays.”

Colin Howes, owner of the Cue and Darts Lounge, said the initiative perfectly reflects the way his business operates.

He added: “We always try to use local trades and suppliers wherever possible. 

“Keeping things local benefits everyone and helps strengthen the community.

“Our new venue at Newcastle Quays will offer pool, snooker, interactive darts, food and drink in a family friendly environment, and we’re excited to be working with neighbouring businesses such as Namaste Taste of India.”

Public relations consultant Keith Newman of Highlights PR, a member of the Forum’s management team, then received the baton after supporting Sangeeta’s business with media coverage and photography. 

He will now pass it to Kate Watson, founder of Ask Mrs Watson, in recognition of the IT advice her business provides.

The initiative aims to create a growing chain of collaboration across North Tyneside, showcasing the value of businesses choosing to work with and support local suppliers.

Angela added: “It doesn’t have to be a major contract. 

“It could be a collaboration, a referral, a business exchange or simply an act of kindness. 

“The important thing is showing that businesses are working together and supporting each other.

“The more people who get involved, the stronger the message becomes North Tyneside is a great place to do business.”

Run by a management group drawn from a range of industry sectors, the North Tyneside Business Forum offers free membership to businesses with a trading address in the borough. 

It provides networking opportunities, events and signposting to support business growth and development.

Supported by, but operating independently of, North Tyneside Council, the Forum hopes the baton will continue its journey through the borough, reinforcing the message that local collaboration can help businesses of all sizes thrive while strengthening the wider North Tyneside economy.

The Forum is FREE to join and is for any business with a trading address in North Tyneside.

You can follow the journey of the baton here.

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