Business News and Politics

It’s glorious weather, so join us for a Bank Holiday drink at The Mayflower, Rotherhithe. The pub is by the Thames with an outdoor area. We may move to other pubs nearby. Will update any change of location in message discussion. ☀️ 🍻

Hello Richmond Socialites Let's enjoy the last very wonderful May bank holiday day with sunshine and (hopefully) a live busker or two. Bring your own drinks and blanket/chair. Sainsbury's is beside the train station and Tesco is along the main road. Note there will be no shade, but by 5pm it should be a nice temperature. We will sit underneath the arrows in the photo on the top right tier. There will be a MeetUp sign on the grass. **Please do not sign up then not turn up.** See you tomorrow! Sarah

**Join us on Monday 25 May for a special Bank Holiday rooftop meetup at Savage Garden Rooftop, located within the Hilton Hotel London.** Expect great music, drinks, skyline views, and a social atmosphere bringing together locals, travelers, professionals, and people looking to meet new connections in one of London’s most iconic rooftop venues. Please note that **we have a limited number of spots available**. [Book Your Ticket : 2£](https://buy.stripe.com/dRmcN71jf0C8aIX0mNfUQ09)

RIVER,LAKES,PARKLAND, FOUNTAIN,MEADOWS. DEER, DAFFODILS **WALK START POINT: Teddington Station**\- National Rail\. Look for Ken with the Kens Events/Meetup Flag/Badge outside theStation\. WALK ROUTE: BUSHY PARK, HOME PARK to KINGSTON WALK DISTANCE: Approx 5 miles. WALK END POINT: Kingston upon Thames Station- National Rail WALK STOP OUT POINT: None. **COST of EVENT**: **All of the walks on this group are only £5 each to attend. Payment is not collected before the day of the event to allow you maximum flexibility. Why pay more on other groups for overpriced walks with no afterwalk socialising!!** **The walk is free for holders of the Ken's Events Membership Card.** ENJOY UNIQUE HEALTHY WALKS IN STUNNING GREEN SPACES OR ALONG WATERWAYS IN LONDON. STRENGTHEN NEW FRIENDSHIPS IN A PUB SOCIAL AFTER THE WALK. **Scroll down to see Disclaimer and Notice of Risks.** Get out, explore and enjoy London's abundant green spaces and surprising surrounding countryside, whilst making new friends in a group walk!! Give up the city streets for a day and breathe some fresh air. Improve your overall fitness levels, whilst chatting to new people during the walk and socialising afterwards in a pub. Social Event: Our walks are social walks, where the emphasis is on meeting new people, enjoying nature, healthy exercise, and fresh air. Our walks are not interrupted with running commentaries or historical lectures, although occasionally features of significance may be pointed out. As such our walks will be continuous with few stops and *it is your responsibilty to keep walkers ahead in view and to follow the direction of the walk.* We always end the walk at a pub where the socialising can continue. Take this opportunity to visit green parts of London, unknown to most people. Post no pre-event messages unless you are posting something relevant for the whole group. Only post photos of other members with their consent. Please note that this is a joint event with Kens Events. [Click here to see who else is attending from Ken's Events.](https://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/events/) WANT TO COME ON ANOTHER WALK? For a list of future walks go to[ http://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/](https://www.meetup.com/KENS-EVENTS-EXPLORE-LONDON-SECRETS/events/) Kens Events also has a Facebook Page, Instagram and Twitter accounts. [http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events](http://www.facebook.com/Kens.events) Instagram Page [Kenswalks](https://www.instagram.com/weekendgreenwalks/) Twitter [@KenEvents](http://www.twitter.com/KenEvents) Kens Events also has a Facebook Group that you can join. [http://www.facebook.com/groups/Kensevents](http://www.facebook.com/groups/kensevents) RAIN POLICY: Light rain is not usually a problem . However if torrentail rain is forecast, check back to this webpage on the morning of the event. No large dogs and small children are allowed. **NOTICE of RISKS applicable for all walks:** Please dress appropriately for weather and terrain conditions. Only wear good sturdy shoes, with ankle support, and carry a bottle of water and necessary medication. You need to be moderately fit for this walk and able to walk for at least 8 miles. This walk is suitable for the average experienced hill walker. Expect some hills. Do not attend this walk if you do not fit that description or if you have a medical condition (especially heart and/or lung conditions) that may impact upon your capability of completing the walk. These walks are city walks and countryside walks where all the usual risks of injury during such walks apply resulting from interactions with road traffic, joggers, cyclists, e-scooters,other members of the public, animals (farm, domestic and wild), plants (allergic reactions), uneven surfaces, including portruding tree roots and potholes and there may be low overhanging branches. In these walks we cross busy roads, use towpaths alongside water, bridlepaths, country lanes and sometimes ill defined paths and tracks through woodland, bush and countryside. Some tracks may be muddy and slippery, and conditions may be wet and icy. The walk leader is not and does not purport to be a professional guide, or a medical professional, but is instead a like minded individual who also enjoys hill walking and who is familiar with the intended route. Do not attend this walk unless you accept and consent to the above risks. If you require insurance for these walks then you must arrange this yourself. **Please note that this is a joint event with Ken's Events.** **DISCLAIMER** All Ken's Events and events on this group are subject to the same disclaimer. Please click here [http://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/](http://www.meetup.com/kens-events-explore-london-secrets/) to find out more about Kens Events/Walks and click on 'read more' to see full disclaimer applicable to both groups.

Sorry, no events UFN until a stand-in host is found to temporarily host this event on Mondays and Thursdays (see message to members 24 -8-2021). ................A nice coffee shop near Oxford Circus for the group's twice a week coffee shop meetup when there's a host to host the event. Normally there would be a Central London Group sign on one of the tables. I phoned the coffee shop twice (2022) and both times they confirmed that they're open till 8pm. Any questions my phone number is 07706964277 or email ysi240@yahoo.com ...........Bill (organiser) Again, sorry no events until a stand in host is found as I'm still temporarily not living in London. No membership fees for this group by the way and all events free.

**Saigon Bleu 西貢** is a Vietnamese restaurant in Croydon's South End Restaurant Quarter. [Reviews are extremely good](https://maps.app.goo.gl/zzgcu4HFVApQQwae8) though we've not normally been able to attend for dinner club as it's closed on Tuesday - but with a bank holiday Monday towards the end of the month we thought this would be a perfect opportunity to pay them a visit. A sample of their menu can be found on [Deliveroo](https://deliveroo.co.uk/menu/london/south-croydon/saigon-bleu-63-south-end). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Travel: If you are arriving by public transport, please use the TFL journey planner (https://tfl.gov.uk/plan-a-journey/) to review your travel time and plan your journey to the restaurant. If you are arriving by car, please use the awesome power of Google Maps to plot the best route - unless you have your own GPS. Important notes: * If you will be arriving after 7.15pm, please send Ben or Katherine a heads-up message. Sometimes restaurants request that unoccupied places are put up for grabs for walk-in customers so your place can't be guaranteed if you're unexpectedly late. * The organiser fee of £2 per person (including guests) will be collected on the night, so please bring some coinage. We also ask that you stay until the bill is paid in full to be fair to everyone. * If you cannot come, please change your RSVP in advance. This ensures members aren't disappointed in missing out. Regular "No-Shows", those who RSVP yes but don't turn up, will be removed from the group to enhance the experience for others.

**Join ambitious entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals at a dynamic networking event hosted at the heart of London’s transport hub, Euston Station meet at the Signal Box Pub which is on the Upper Level of Euston Station. We will be at a table by the bar. This event provides an excellent opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from a wide range of industries, exchange ideas, build valuable relationships, and explore new business opportunities.** **Conveniently located with excellent rail and underground connections, the venue offers a professional yet relaxed environment designed to encourage meaningful conversations and collaboration. Whether you are looking to expand your client base, find strategic partners, promote your services, or simply grow your professional network, this event is ideal for start-ups, SMEs, consultants, and established businesses alike.** **Guests will enjoy informal networking, business discussions, refreshments, and the chance to engage with professionals from across London and the North West corridor. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and be prepared to introduce their business and services in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.** **This event is perfect for anyone seeking to raise their profile, generate referrals, and strengthen business connections in one of London’s busiest commercial locations.**

Looking for quality **business networking in London**? Join an exclusive networking evening at **Tide HQ**, organised by **GMax Card**, **Getshop Today,** and **Tide**. Hosted inside **Tide’s headquarters.** **WHY ATTEND:** * Free premium digital business card (£65 value) - claim it on the night, not distributed automatically (for paid tix holders only) * Real connections - co-founders, customers, partners & more * Practical tools & insights to run your property business smarter Connect with **property professionals, landlords and business owners, as well as professionals** **across property, real estate and business.** **BONUS FOR PAID TICKET HOLDERS :** Free ticket includes event access only. Paid tickets include a **physical contactless GMax Card** and event access. Claim it on the night, not distributed automatically. **WHO'LL BE ATTENDING** Expect a mix of: * **Property professionals and landlords** \- residential and commercial * **Business owners** and decision makers with property interests * **Property developers and asset managers** * **Property management professionals** \- including block managers\, estate agents\, and letting agents * Finance and investment professionals active in **real estate and property** markets * Entrepreneurs and startups **ABOUT THIS STARTUP AND BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENT** After hundreds of iterations, we've built a **format that actually works:** * Well-tested icebreakers (optional, but they work) to break the initial awkwardness * "Quick intros" round - 30-60 seconds each so everyone knows who's who in the room * Short talks from [GMax Card](http://www.gmaxcard.com/) on strategic networking and Tide on essential business tools * On-the-spot [Tide](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F) consultations - bring your banking and ops questions, get real answers * Drinks and refreshments for real business conversations to develop naturally **Testimonials:** Check out [video testimonials from founders who've attended previous events.](https://vimeo.com/1162995661) **VENUE** **[Tide](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F) Bank HQ - London** Tide's modern headquarters provides an open, professional environment designed for business decision makers to connect professionally. Part of our bi-weekly series. **ORGANISERS** **[GMax Card](http://www.gmaxcard.com/)**[ - Free digital business cards](http://www.gmaxcard.com/), with Premium NFC smart cards and team networking tools. **[Getshop Today](http://www.getshop.today/)**[ - UK based eCommerce platform ](http://www.getshop.today/)and web design agency. **Hosted at [Tide](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F)**[ - The digital-first business bank ](https://www.tide.co/partners-business-account/?ref=GMAXF2F)built to support SMEs. **DRESS CODE** Business or smart. Dress as you would for a client meeting - polished and professional. **IMPORTANT DETAILS** * Dress code: business / smart * **Photography & Video:** Content may be captured by [CineEye Audiovisual Production Studio](www.cineeye.co.uk) for promotional use. By attending, **you agree to sign a media release form**. If you prefer not to appear in photos or video, please refrain from attending. * ID Requirements: Attendance for 18+ only. Proof of ID may be requested at reception. * Refund Policy: Refunds available up to 1 day before the event if any. **RESERVE YOUR PLACE NOW** **Limited spaces - reserve your spot now!**

PLEASE ENSURE YOU BUY YOUR TICKETS AT [www.esgnetwork.co.uk](https://www.esgnetwork.co.uk/) **ESG Network is a Business Network dedicated to professionals working within London’s many Environmental, Social /Sustainable and Governance sectors**. Join us at the Private Room at the **Famous Jaks of Mayfair** for our **May 2026 Networking Breakfast** and join us in sampling their wonderful Food, Drinks and the opportunity to **chat about the ESG sector, learn more about the many related topics and make new friends and seek out fresh business leads**. PLEASE ENSURE YOU BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE AT [www.esgnetwork.co.uk](https://www.esgnetwork.co.uk/)

### **Let's talk 'AI & BUSINESS'...** Join us for an informal evening of **networking**, **expert talks on** **AI Governance, Data Sovereignty** & a **panel discussion on "How we use AI in our business today"**. **BOOK YOUR PLACE:** [https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may](https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may) **\- Your place must be booked in advance\.** We’re bringing together our AI Professionals & Business communities in/around London to meet, connect and **explore how AI is being built and used in business today.** Whether you’re a founder, investor, professional or simply curious about the AI revolution in business, this is your chance to learn, connect and be inspired. Make real connections, share experiences, be inspired and to inspire others whilst chatting about AI in Business in a relaxed, friendly setting. No formal pitches. Just great conversations! **For more information and to reserve your place visit: [https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may](https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may)** **Venue: Civo Tech Junction, London, EC2A** Pizza & drinks provided courtesy of our Sponsor, Civo.com. **Event Sponsor:** We are proud to be sponsored by **Civo.com** \- Civo is the Sovereign Cloud and AI platform that frees you to build without limits\. Trusted by ambitious startups and major enterprises around the world to deliver scalable\, sustainable infrastructure without the hidden costs or headaches\. We hope you will join us for an inspiring, enjoyable evening. **[Register now to secure your place.](https://aiprofessionals.network/aipb-registration-page1)** NOTE: This event is also being promoted by many other groups and some photos/ videos may be taken for future promotional purposes.

**\*\*Let's talk 'AI & Business'\*\*** Join us for an informal evening of **networking**, **expert talks on** **AI Governance, Data Sovereignty** & a **panel discussion on "How we use AI in our business today"**. **** BOOK YOUR PLACE:** [https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may](https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may) **\- Your place must be booked in advance\. **** We’re bringing together our AI Professionals & Business communities in/around London to meet, connect and **explore how AI is being built and used in business today.** Whether you’re a founder, investor, professional or simply curious about the AI revolution in business, this is your chance to learn, connect and be inspired. Make real connections, share experiences, be inspired and to inspire others whilst chatting about AI in Business in a relaxed, friendly setting. No formal pitches. Just great conversations! **For more information and to reserve your place visit: [https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may](https://aiprofessionals.network/london28may)** **Venue:** Civo Tech Junction, London, EC2A Pizza & drinks provided courtesy of our Sponsor, Civo.com. **Event Sponsor:** We are proud to be sponsored by **Civo.com** \- Civo is the Sovereign Cloud and AI platform that frees you to build without limits\. Trusted by ambitious startups and major enterprises around the world to deliver scalable\, sustainable infrastructure without the hidden costs or headaches\. We hope you will join us for an inspiring, enjoyable evening. **[Register now to secure your place.](https://aiprofessionals.network/aipb-registration-page1)** NOTE: This event is also being promoted by many other groups and some photos/ videos may be taken for future promotional purposes.

**Looking for a business networking event in London focused on business owners and B2B decision makers?** Join us in **Covent Garden** for a quality business networking hosted by digital business card app GMax Card and web/eCom agency **Getshop Today**. **What to Expect** * **Connect with business owners, founders, decision makers, B2B professionals** and property-focused professionals in a relaxed yet purposeful setting. * **Build valuable business relationships**, exchange ideas, spot market trends, and uncover new opportunities. * **A lightly structured event** \- not a formal conference\, nor a random pub mingle\. * An **atmosphere that feels high-quality yet relaxed,** with space for meaningful business conversations. * Hosts are there from the start to **help with introductions**. **Who You'll Meet** * Business owners, founders, entrepreneurs and company leaders growing businesses across different sectors. * B2B professionals, service providers and decision makers looking to build partnerships, referrals and commercial opportunities. * Property professionals, developers, investors. * Business professionals and international visitors in London looking to connect with founders, decision makers and ambitious people building and growing businesses. **How the Evening Flows** 18:30 - Arrival 19:00 - Short introductions 19:30 - Open networking 21:30 - Close Hosts are there from the start to **help with introductions.** **Venue - Sycamore Bar at Middle Eight Hotel** A stylish, design-led bar inside the 5-star Middle Eight Hotel in central London. Located in the Covent Garden/Holborn area, just a short walk from Holborn, Covent Garden and Tottenham Court Road stations, it offers a relaxed and refined setting for business networking. **Entry & GMax Cards** * Free RSVP: Event access only * Paid ticket (when available): Includes a contactless GMax Card (ask host to claim; not distributed automatically) **Dress Code** Business / smart **Hosted by:** [GMax Card - a digital business card](http://www.gmaxcard.com/) platform designed for modern networking and professional connections beyond LinkedIn. Share **all** your contact details through one simple link. **Important Info** * 18+ (ID may be required) * Photos/video by [CineEye Audiovisual Production Studio](http://www.cineeye.co.uk/) (inform us if you prefer not to appear) * Attendance is at your own risk. Organisers and the venue are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage. **Limited spots - register early!** Join our [WA Business Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FJdEP809H5U8WQ4y4BLLS5?mode=hqctcli) to stay connected between events, and follow us on [LinkedIn](http://linkedin.com/company/gmax-card) for upcoming dates.

Free monthly networking for Columbus business owners. Real conversations, real connections, no forced formats. Space is limited. RSVP now. Most owners leave networking events with a stack of business cards and no plan. The best leads quietly slip through the cracks. Networking Night is a monthly meetup for Columbus business owners who want to build real local relationships, not just trade contact info. Every kind of local business welcome. No pitch round, no pressure, no awkward speed-networking. **This month** We are focused on referral relationships. Walk in with a clear idea of who refers people like you. Walk out having met a few owners whose work fits next to yours. **What to expect** Doors open at 6 PM. You get real conversation with other local owners, time to actually connect, and a short marketing lesson woven in. The room is reserved through 7:30 PM. **Who this is for** Any local business owner who wants to grow through relationships, not just paid ads. Service businesses, retail, home services, professional services, online owners building local presence, anyone serious about being part of the Columbus business community. **Not the right fit if** You are here to pitch the room or recruit for an MLM. **Details** * Last Thursday of every month * 6:00 to 7:30 PM * COhatch Easton * Free to attend, RSVP required, space is limited **About the host** Rita Suzanne is a local marketing strategist and the founder of Local Marketing Method. She runs Visibility is Profitability, the membership where local owners build the system that keeps their phone ringing, including tracking the referral relationships built in rooms like this one. Learn more at learnlocalmarketing.com. Register here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275)

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-columbus-online-tickets-1988563717610?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - +971504724873 ( WhatsApp Only)

Monthly working lunch for Columbus business owners. One specific topic, one to three actions you can run this week. You can be the best at what you do and still be invisible. If local buyers cannot find you, the phone does not ring. Marketing Monday Lunch + Learn is a monthly working lunch for Columbus business owners focused on building relationships, local networking, and local marketing. Every kind of local business welcome. No pitch round, no pressure, no upsell. **This month** Most local businesses pick one or two places to be visible and call it good. The result is inconsistent calls and a feeling that marketing is not working. We will walk through the three places every local business needs to show up, plus the fourth place most owners ignore that quietly produces the warmest leads. **What to expect** Doors open at noon. Order lunch and drinks at the cafe counter or bring your own. You get real conversation with other local owners and a focused marketing lesson. You leave knowing people and with one to three actions to run that week. The room is reserved through 1:30 PM. **Who this is for** Any local business owner who wants clearer marketing direction and real local relationships. Service businesses, retail, home services, professional services, online owners building local presence, anyone serious about being part of the Columbus business community. **Not the right fit if** You are here to pitch the room or recruit for an MLM. **Details** * Second Monday of every month * 12:00 to 1:30 PM * Good Cafe Easton, 4400 Easton Commons, Ste 150, Columbus, OH 43219 * Order lunch and drinks at the counter when you arrive * Free to attend, RSVP required, space is limited **About the host** Rita Suzanne is a local marketing strategist and the founder of Local Marketing Method. She runs Visibility is Profitability, the membership where local business owners build the system that keeps their phone ringing. Learn more at learnlocalmarketing.com. Register here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1989964540509?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1989964540509?aff=oddtdtcreator)

[ECDI Pop-Up Market Official Registration Site --> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ecdi-pop-up-market-tickets-1986071755083](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ecdi-pop-up-market-tickets-1986071755083) Celebrate Small Business Month by shopping local for food, drinks, and handcrafted gifts! Join us for the ECDI Pop‑Up Market, a celebration of local entrepreneurs during Small Business Month. Explore delicious food and drinks, discover handcrafted goods, and shop unique items from small businesses in your community. Whether you’re looking to support local makers, discover new favorites, or pick up a thoughtful gift, this market has something for everyone. **What you’ll find at the market:** * Local food and beverage vendors * Handcrafted goods and unique gifts * A chance to meet and support small business owners in your community * An easy, fun way to discover new local favorites [SCORE Central Ohio](https://www.score.org/ "https://www.score.org/") will also be on site to talk about their small business mentorship program. **Market Vendors:** Baked Goods * Shante Makes Body Care * [Bellas Natural Beauty Products](https://www.facebook.com/Bellasnaturalbeautyprod/ "https://www.facebook.com/Bellasnaturalbeautyprod/") Clothing & Accessories * [The Krafted Kollection](https://www.thekraftedkollection.com/ "https://www.thekraftedkollection.com") * [Loayza Elegant Jewelry](https://www.loayzaelegantjewelry.com/ "https://www.loayzaelegantjewelry.com/") * [Swahili House 254](https://www.swahilihouse254.com/ "https://www.swahilihouse254.com") Food/Beverage * [Aqua Pure Central Ohio](https://aquapurecentralohio.com/ "https://aquapurecentralohio.com") * [Better Beverage](https://betterbevshop.com/ "https://betterbevshop.com") * [Cherays Banana Pudding](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567527322952 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567527322952") * [Dr. May's Thai Kitchen](https://www.drmaysthaikitchen.com/menu "https://www.drmaysthaikitchen.com/menu") * [Kronchy LLC](https://www.kronchys.com/ "https://www.kronchys.com") * [Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill](https://terra%20mezcal%20mexican%20grill/ "https://Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill") Packaged Food * [Grow to Eat, Eat to Live](https://growtoeattolive.com/ "https://growtoeattolive.com/") * [Underworld Feast](https://underworldfeast.com/ "https://underworldfeast.com/")  Since 2004, ECDI has assisted Ohio’s entrepreneurs through their one-stop-shop business services model, suited to meet the needs of all entrepreneurs, regardless of what business stage they’re in. From providing capital to entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses, to providing focused, business-specific educational opportunities to enhance entrepreneurial skill sets, ECDI works with their clients to meet their specific needs. Whether you merely have a business idea or are opening up your fifth location, we have helped more than 15,000 entrepreneurs to take advantage of the services we provide.

Have a small business? Ever wish you could just ask some questions around how to grow your business, get more customers or just know what the freak you are doing with sales? Now is your chance!! Every month we are hosting the "Ask an Expert" at the Columbus Metro Library, Main campus. I will be there to answer your Sales related questions. Drop-in for sales coaching designed to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals sharpen their sales approach. Whether you have questions on how to refine your pitch, are looking to close deals more quickly, or are working on building better client relationships, Smashing Your Sales Goals Coaches are here to help. Drop-in to get expert insights, actionable strategies and real-time solutions to grow your business and generate higher profits. Drop-In Sales Coaching is FREE + OPEN to the public. No appointment needed. First come, first served. EPIC Learning created. Accelerate Columbus supported.