The value of networking has seldom more evident to members of the first Breakfast Business Club to be created under the auspices of the Chamber of Commerce in Lanarkshire than it was at their September meeting.

Members of The 1700 Club which was launched at Fir Park almost 11 years ago exchange on average more than 20 business leads at each fortnightly meeting - but one specific lead this session has given a member a potential 25% boost to his business!

Sam Clark, a director of Electricaire Ltd based in Bellshill, followed up a lead by John Dempsey of Saltire Facilities Management Ltd, and has won a contract to provide emergency call-out services across the West of Scotland.

He said: “We have received several leads from Saltire for smaller items but this particular lead came totally out of the blue. “Although I had to put in a fair amount of work to win the contract, I wouldn’t have had that opportunity had it not been for my involvement in a Networking environment such as The 1700 Club.

“The potential is to increase our business by up to 25 per cent of our total turn-over. I’ve already taken on one qualified electrician and if the volume goes up to that they promise me, there will be more jobs in the pipeline.”

Colin Dick of Clydeforth Promotional Products Ltd said: “This was only my second meeting as chairman of the club, and it was obvious that Sam’s huge grin and good news was a great morale-booster for all involved in the club. “The level of leads passed on a Tuesday morning is generally very good but it’s even more heartening for all of us to hear of a member securing a substantial piece of new business like this – it’s good for Sam, it’s good for the club, and it’s good for Lanarkshire. “

Sam Clark added: “The company was given another boost during September when Argyll & Bute Council confirmed a three months contract from November to carry out comprehensive systems check. “This will include specialised inspection, reporting and repairing electrical heating systems which is our main line of business.”

The company based in Darrow’s Estate, Bellshill, currently employ 12 people including administrative and semi-skilled staff who operate the wholesale side of the business. 

Website: www.electricairespares.co.uk