Industry Forum Spring Reception

The Industry Forum Spring Reception turned into a party celebrating some good economic news, the European Union reset agreement and, of course, the Chelsea Flower show. It was hosted by Gareth Thomas MP, the Business and Trade Undersecretary of State with a dauntingly wide portfolio including Services, Small Businesses and Exports.

The reception was sponsored by two successful and hyperactive business associations the Horticultural Trades Association and the British Coatings Federation who, between them, represent more than 1000 small and medium businesses. Fran Barnes of HTA and Tom Bowtell of BCF gave us a few words on the significance of their sectors and the benefits of close cooperation with a government focussed on business and growth.

Guests included companies, academics, diplomats and MPs (some of whom dropped in while passing). Despite the challenging international scene and the storm clouds coming across the Atlantic, there was a real spirit of optimism that the seeds of UK recovery are germinating. To complete the evening, HTA supplied party bags of seeds for the garden.