Member Article

Business done better over lunch in region

The North East is making business more sociable as workers are encouraged to step out from behind their desk and do business in the city.

A recent survey conducted by The Assembly Rooms has explored the business habits of workers based in Tyne and Wear, asking everything from how frequently they carry out business in Newcastle city centre, the importance of their work setting, where and when they feel most productive to what makes the North East a great place to do business.

The survey follows a campaign launched by the venue earlier this year, which highlighted the importance of taking a break during the working day in order to regroup and aid the productivity of a workforce.

Simple things like taking a lunch break or spending some time out of the office to carry out meetings amongst different surroundings can make a big difference and contribute to maintaining that all-important work/life balance.

From those surveyed, 40% said they venture into the city centre more than once a week to do business, agreeing that convenient transport links and a thriving social scene make Newcastle a great place to do business.

When arranging a business meeting in the city centre, during lunchtime is the most preferred time of day with 35% of respondents in agreement.

When asked about location, 90% agreed it is a very important factor, with convenient transport links (85%), cost (75%) and atmosphere (70%) being the most valued, as well as the size of the venue, service and refreshments offered and technology available.

Antony Michaelides, managing director of both The Assembly Rooms and Bonbar, which sits within the iconic venue, said: “I’m a strong believer in the importance of meeting people face-to-face rather than always relying on email or telephone calls as communication methods, as this can easily become a bad habit and it’s vital for us to try to be more sociable in the technology-focused world we live in.

“Taking some time out of the office is a great way to improve productivity and maintain that work-life balance – Newcastle’s hospitality offering has continued to see growth this year with new bars, restaurants and cafes popping up all over the city centre so you can’t deny we aren’t spoilt for choice with locations.”

For more information on the conferencing and meeting facility offering at The Assembly Rooms visit www.assemblyrooms.co.uk or call 0191 232 8695.

The Assembly Rooms and Bonbar are recruiting a number of exciting positions including a sales and business development executive, chef de partie, cocktail bartenders and bar staff. To find out more information on these opportunities to join one of the most historic venues in Newcastle city centre, or to apply, email recruitment@bonbar.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by The Assembly Rooms .