Efforts are under way to build links between businesses based in Huddersfield’s HD8 postcode area.
Merewyn Sayers, who runs Denby Dale-based business support firm Sayers Solutions, is leading the drive to pull together firms in villages such as Denby Dale, Clayton West, Skelmanthorpe, Scissett, Shepley, High Flatts, Emley and Farnley Tyas.
She has already set up a Facebook page, which has attracted 74 “likes” from businesses and individuals across the district, including retailers, printers and a film facilities company which scouts locations for film-makers.
Merewyn said she hoped that developing an HD8 business group would help promote local firms more effectively, enable them to share experiences and information, exchange business tips, increase the level of inter-trading going on and draw more customers into the area.
She said: “The aim is to promote local businesses that often ‘get missed’ because we are not part of the ‘central hubs’ of Huddersfield, Wakefield or Holmfirth. There are lots of businesses in the H8 area, which is a beautiful part of Yorkshire.”
She added: “Things are in their early stages of finding out what people want from an H8 business group. Holding networking meetings may not be appropriate because many businesses are retailers who need to be in their shops!”
Merewyn said she hoped to bring other organisations such as charities, nurseries and community organisations on board and encourage group members to join in fundraising or volunteering to help good causes.