We've been members of this for over 8 years but only really joined for the free legal advice which we've used a few times and the fact that if you ever have a tax investigation they will provide up to £3000 to provide accountancy assistance.
We used to be informed of social events they were holding, always planned to attend but never got round to it. However this year I decided to go to the Summer Tapas Evening. It cost a fiver and the Tapas was fantastic and must have had over 20 quids worth of food. I was then invited to a lunch with the national chairman. A free 3 course steak dinner again which was superb and to top it all I attended the local branch AGM last night along with Lynn and 2 friends of ours (you are allowed to take guests). The AGM lasted about 20 mins and even that was a good laugh but what followed was a wine tasting session from one of the new members who imports Portuguese wine followed by an exceptional carvery meal and to finish off a quiz, which we won by the way. All in all a fanatastic nght and all free (it did cost a bit for the Portuguese wine we ordered).
I would highly recommend joining and partaking in the social side. Its also a fantastic networking opportunity with no pressure whatsoever unlike BNI and the like.
They also informed us they were taking a Marquee at next years Northumberland County Show and you can book a table for a maximum of £60, it will drop depending on numbers, to showcase and sell your products. The marquee is entitled "Keep Business Local". It normally costs hundreds of pounds to exhibit here.
At last nights do, 2 people asked us to recommend a carpet cleaner.