Sutton Coldfield is gearing up for an extraordinary event as renowned business leader and Dragon’s Den star Deborah Meaden visits the town in February. This exclusive event, organised by the innovative Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, will see Deborah addressing local businesses and college students next month, sharing her business expertise and passion for ethical business practices.
Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID has been a cornerstone of the town’s vibrancy, consistently delivering outstanding initiatives that boost footfall and create a thriving community atmosphere. From the 22-day Christmas Market and the two-day Food Festival to the monthly Farmers and Craft Market, the BID’s contributions to the town’s success continue. Other beloved events, such as Kids Carfest, Dino Day, a giant Easter Egg Trail and a Jazz Festival as well as meet-and-greets with characters like The Gruffalo and CoComelon, further highlight the BID’s commitment to making Sutton Coldfield a destination.
But the BID’s impact extends beyond events, the BID has launched an array of projects that enhance the town’s appeal. From the introduction of BID Security Rangers and targeted graffiti removal to beautifying neglected areas of town, installing bunting and litter bins, producing a professional services guide and food and drink guide to showcase local businesses, the BID’s efforts are promoting Sutton Coldfield as a hub of activity and opportunity.
The BID was responsible for organising business seminars featuring retail expert Mary Portas in 2023 and Dragon’s Den star Sara Davies in 2024. Now, with Deborah Meaden confirmed as the next speaker, Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID continues to raise the bar.
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Deborah Meaden to Sutton Coldfield next month,” said Michelle Baker, Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID Manager. “Deborah is not only an iconic business leader but also an advocate for sustainability and ethical practices, values we deeply admire. Her visit is a huge win for the town, and we’re thrilled to provide this opportunity for our local businesses to learn and be inspired.”
The event, hosted at Sutton Coldfield College, will conclude with a complimentary business networking session at The Townhouse, offering attendees the chance to connect and collaborate.
As Sutton Coldfield prepares for significant regeneration projects, including the redevelopment of the Gracechurch Shopping Centre, Red Rose Centre, and Birmingham Road, the BID, a not for profit organisation, remains steadfast in its mission to attract visitors and support local businesses during this transformative period.
BIDs are a public-private partnership in which businesses within a defined area of a town or city pay an additional levy to fund improvements to the local area. Sutton Coldfield has held Business Improvement District (BID) status for 12 years and is one of 11 BIDs in Birmingham and 350 across the UK, funded entirely by local businesses to enhance town centres and drive economic growth.
About Deborah Meaden
Deborah Meaden is a celebrated entrepreneur, investor, and author, widely known for her role as a dragon on BBC’s Dragon’s Den, which she joined in 2006. A passionate advocate for ethical business practices and environmental sustainability, Deborah is a Fellow of WWF, a trustee of Tusk Trust, and an ambassador for the Marine Conservation Society, World Horse Welfare, and RSPB. In 2022, Deborah co-hosted The Big Green Money Show, exploring sustainability in business. Her books, Why Money Matters (2023) and Talks Money (2024), have become bestselling guides for young readers navigating the world of finance.
Event Details
This exclusive event is open to BID members only. For further details, contact Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, email Hello@VisitRoyalSuttonColdfield.co.uk