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From Coffee to Collaboration – the LS8 Meet-up Year in Review

Jonathan Winston Jonathan Winston
2 min read

The LS8 Meet-up, founded by Winston Solicitors in early 2023, has flourished into a key networking initiative for businesses in North Leeds. With coffee, croissants, and community at its heart, the group continues to support local enterprises and charitable causes. Hosted at the Leeds Deli in Roundhay, the meet-ups offer a relaxed and productive setting for meaningful connections.

This year, the LS8 Meet-Up gained even wider recognition, with a feature in the Yorkshire Post highlighting its innovative approach to networking and community building. Places are limited and a recent surge in interest has seen our waiting list grow. It goes to show how many people are interested in community-based initiatives to both grow their businesses and support their local economy. 

By the Numbers: LS8 Meet-Up 2024 Achievements

As we reflect on another successful year, the impact of the LS8 Meet-Up is clear:

  • 6 Meet-Ups Held  
  • Nearly 100 attendees joined us across the year.  
  • 60+ Businesses Represented, ranging from startups to established enterprises, including many from LS8 and surrounding North Leeds areas.
  • 6 charities supported
  • Over £400 donated
  • Countless Connections Made

Feedback from attendees reveals strengthened relationships and collaborations that will benefit the community for years to come.

“I like the informal nature of the events. The open structure allows me to say a quick hello to people I've met before, to make new connections and to linger in longer conversations when inspired. I've found needed resources in the room, have become a client for a few people and gained a client or two along the way as well. It's perfect, I wouldn't change a thing!”

Business & Community Thriving Together

The LS8 Meet-Up champions the ethos that “people buy from people.” The events provide a platform for businesses to network informally, fostering meaningful relationships rather than focusing solely on sales pitches. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with attendees appreciating the laid-back environment and opportunities to connect authentically.

“I meet truly local business people who I keep in mind for future referrals. I like to keep business local.” 

Charity remains a cornerstone of the LS8 Meet-Up. Each event features a raffle, with proceeds donated to a charity chosen by the previous year’s winner.  

This year, funds raised supported causes close to the community:

Looking Ahead to 2025

he LS8 Meet-Up’s success is a testament to the collaborative spirit of North Leeds businesses. As we plan for another exciting year, we aim to grow our network further and continue supporting local charities and enterprises.

To join the LS8 Meet-Up or learn more, contact Leonie Donne at @email.

Here’s to another year of fostering connections and giving back in North Leeds 

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Michael
It is probably 45+ years since I last bought a house so it was a real re-learning process. Michelle was helpful and pateint throughout. She kept me fully informed of the prgress being made and all the responses from her enquiries to the other party were detailed. Both sides were under pressure to complete before April when further tax increases loomed. It was also the pressure that I would be heading to France to oversee the sale of my property. The only 'blip' that I saw was the query of my funding. It was simply the transfer of the funds from the sale of my home in France to cover the sale in Leeds. This was accepted. I had requested Sterling and not Euros and perhaps that did raise an eyebrow or two. I would have no rpblem in recommending Winstons.
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Both Samantha and Michelle at Winstons Solicitors have been brilliant keeping us informed with the selling and buying of our houses. If there were any problems they explained what was happening and also put our minds at rest.... as moving is stressful enough.will definitley use again in the future as we were impressed with the company and service.
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