THE OPPORTUNITY to be part of Sunderland BID – and all the benefits it brings – is now being recognised by organisations with a national profile.
The BID launched its affiliate scheme to allow businesses which were not levy payers to still take advantage of all of the resources it has to offer, for a small yearly fee.
Since the scheme was unveiled 23 companies from a wide range of industries have joined, with the latest signings North East businesses which have a nationwide reputation.
This includes entertainment agency, ISG, which is based at North East BIC, which provides performers across the UK and stages events such as gigs by its own Ibiza In Symphony Orchestra.
“ISG is based at the BIC, just outside of the city centre, and have not previously had the opportunity to be part of the BID,” said CEO Paul Waite.
“Having witnessed the growth of Sunderland in recent years, we were eager to become more involved with the BID.
“Now that the BID is reaching out to businesses on the outskirts of Sunderland, it feels like the perfect time to engage and participate more actively.”
Paul added that the entertainment business “is enjoying its most successful year to date.”
“We have partnered with multiple brands to produce and deliver memorable events, solidifying our reputation in the industry,” he said.
AH Events – which stages outdoor concerts, festivals and fireworks displays around the country – is also another recent signee to the scheme.
Scott Hillary of AH Events said the company was delighted to be an affiliate.
“Since working with Sunderland BID as an event delivery partner, we’ve seen first-hand the dedication and effort they put into making the city a vibrant destination,” he said.
“Events such as the Lunar New Year celebrations, Christmas Light Switch-On and street animation during high-profile concerts at the Stadium of Light – featuring world-class acts and some unforgettable giant chip-stealing seagulls – have attracted large crowds and created a real buzz around the city.
“We’ve also been proud to support the Urban Festival, community Halloween parades, the screening of the King’s Coronation, as well as other significant cultural and sporting events, food festivals, and more.
“These activities have brought tremendous cultural, social, and economic benefits to Sunderland, boosting its vibrancy and showcasing the city in its best light.
“The BID’s work plays a key role in the regeneration of the city, enhancing its reputation for delivering great events and putting Sunderland on the map as a leading event city.
“Joining the affiliate scheme is another way for us to support Sunderland BID in achieving these goals, and we are excited about the future of the city.”
The benefits to the organisations which are part of the BID affiliate scheme include accessing to networking events and volunteering opportunities, along with being able to share their opinions on decisions which will help shape the future of Sunderland.
They also have access to a whole host of training sessions, business seminars and are included in relevant marketing activities.
Current membership is from a diverse background and includes Lofthouse and Partners, Building Design North, Hanro and commercial property owners and landlord, Kirtley Co.
Other members include print company WTTB, North East BIC, DC Services, Sunderland Business Partnership and Bradley Hall.
SSE Energy Solutions, Certax Accounting, MMC Research and Marketing, New Results, The Stables, Stephen Hope Financial Services, The Social Type, The Works, Sorted PR, Creo Communications and restaurant Pablo Eggs Go Bao are also all on board.
Sharon Appleby, Chief Executive of Sunderland BID is delighted that the affiliate scheme now represents just an eclectic mix of companies.
“The varied mix of companies and their backgrounds all have one thing in common – they recognise what an asset being part of the BID can be to their business,” she said.
“Many of them have worked closely with us so know the advantages that are on offer and to now have both ISG and AH Events – both organisations which operate nationally – now on board shows the value of what the BID has to offer.
“The scheme has already attracted some fantastic businesses which can really see the benefits and we hope that others will get in touch and discover how it can be a huge advantage to them.”
Anyone wanting to join the scheme or find out more can email roberta@sunderlandbid.co.uk or visit https://sunderlandbid.co.uk/about-us/become-an-affiliate-member/