What members say
So many genuine comments from partnerships and members
Thanks to members and other associations locally I have many testimonials. There are too many to feature on this web page, so I have provided a selection, which will be regularly updated as I get new ones.
From members:
“Membership of the FSB has been an excellent tool for me both personally and with regards to running LAPD. I have used many of the services available thanks to the support and advice provided by Maree, our local representative. Not only have we benefited from the services provided, but Maree has been instrumental in helping us to network with other local service providers to improve our overall service offer to our clients. Her support and encouragement helped us to achieve the Area Winner Service Award at this years FSB Small Business Champions Awards scheme. For that we are very grateful."
She urged me to enter the FSB British Small Business Champions awards in January 2007. Clearly, she believed I had a chance in the awards! Throughout the entire judging process, Maree followed my progression. Needless to say, I was overwhelmed, and so glad I’d listened to her advice when I won two awards at the BSBC awards in June 2007.
Simon Fisher, Director - LAPD Consultants Ltd
“Having been an FSB member for 2 years I can honestly say I haven't met a person quite so helpful and resourceful in the local business community. Maree is one of the few agents allowed through the door at 1st For Furniture, as I know she never tried to sell a service that would not benefit me, and that she understands my business completely.
She urged me to enter the FSB British Small Business Champions awards in January 2007. Clearly, she believed I had a chance in the awards! Throughout the entire judging process, Maree followed my progression. Needless to say, I was overwhelmed, and so glad I’d listened to her advice when I won two awards at the BSBC awards in June 2007.
Just goes to show that this lady has fantastic networking skills, a heart of gold, and she doesn’t give up easily!”
Sarah Green, 1st For Furniture
“Thank you so much for coming to see me this morning. The information you provided was excellent and very informative and I can't wait to put all the ideas into action. Personally, I found that meeting with you so reassuring - its so nice to know I am not on my own. I now feel though, that I am part of a big 'club' and knowing I have such a recognised name behind me just gives me so much more confidence.”
Carol Byatt, Office Wizards
“I just wanted to say ‘Thank you’ for recommending the Co-op Bank. Last summer I got tired of dealing with an inefficient Internet system at my old business bank and, upon your suggestion, I contacted the Co-operative Bank.
They were brilliant and very efficient! What a difference from my previous bank or any other one for that matter. Their Internet banking is fantastic, easy to understand and to set up on the PC. Fool proof. I have now been with the Co-op for ca. 8 months. Occasionally I need to ask a question and their customer service department is still efficient and courteous as the first day I opened my account. I am really pleased you suggested the Co-op, thank you very much again. ”
Anna Mangini, Amiva
“I am always asked for a few 'must haves' when people embark on starting their own business. FSB membership is a 'must have'. Added to this Maree brings a very special level of commitment, knowledge and that all-important ingredient of really wanting to help you to succeed. ”
Allan Smith, Allan Smith Accounting & Tax Ltd
“This is one of the best decisions I have taken. Not only have I been able to save hundreds of pounds on my credit card processing and insurances, but the legal support I received recently was exceptional and resolved a very difficult situation.”
Barry Jones, BJ Autos
“Maree is probably one of the most well connected individuals in North Hertfordshire when it comes to SMEs. She offers a wealth of knowledge and as I’ve experienced, valuable contacts. Within the first month of joining FSB, Maree recommended a contact whom I’ve since developed a business relationship with, and now is a valuable client.”
Mel Blackmore, BQMS
“The FSB has given me the support and protection I want for my business and the bonus of having Maree working locally to support and facilitate contacts with so many other people. As new members we have been impressed.”
Mike Kane, Camelot Inns
“I have been a member of the FSB for several years and they have been enormously supportive. The legal advice is excellent and the support given on employment law matters is superb. I wouldn't consider being in business without the FSB's support and peace of mind.”
Heather Dawn, The Rooms Stotfold and Cannons Letchworth
From Partnerships
“The services provided by the FSB are important in enabling those businesses to remain competitive and to therefore continue to make a key contribution to the vitality and prosperity of our District.”
Paul Pullin, East Herts Council“The Town Centre Partnership have always commented on Maree’s professionalism and are grateful for the help and assistance she has been able to provide through the FSB. She has helped support their businesses both practically with reduced rates on things such as in-store card readers and with the offer of specialist advice through the organization.”
John Barber, Secretary and Town Centre Manager, Hertford Town Partnership“Maree has enthusiastically maintained a proactive role within the local business community, which has definitely enabled SBI and FSB to extend the reach and effectiveness of their respective business support services. Client satisfaction with services provided and the contribution of that support to the success of the business is our prime goal and has been energetically supported by Maree.”
David Wall, Business Adviser, SBI