THE power of business networking was demonstrated when Ashford security firm Red Alert needed two new vehicles for its team of alarm installers. As a member of the Ashford chapter of Business Network International, Red Alert director Clive Gawler turned to a fellow BNI member for advice on the vehicles he needed and the best way of obtaining them.

Mark Cullen, of Ramsgate-based Active Vehicle Consultants, recommended – and obtained – two Renault Kangoo vans, for which BNI member John Hobbs, of Ashford’s Medash Signs, carried out the distinctive signwriting. When it came to insuring the new vans it was the turn of another BNI member, Ian Gosling, managing director of Canterbury Insurance Practice, to get involved.

And to record the handover of the new vehicles, the chapter turned to the photographic skills of yet another BNI member, David Hebditch, from Portland Studios, in Sandgate.

The words to go with the picture were provided by visitor and prospective BNI member Malcolm Triggs, of Ashford’s newest PR company, Go4 Marketing and Public Relations.

BNI is a worldwide organisation which exists to promote new business for its members by bringing professional people together and encouraging them to share contacts. The Ashford chapter, set up just five years ago, now has a thriving 34 members. For more information contact membership co-ordinator Graham Allen on 01303 271010.