Oxnead Hall debuts as venue for major business gathering

Guests were treated to a selection of pancakes as Trevor Holden, Managing Director of both Broadland District and South Norfolk Councils, opened the event. He emphasised the councils’ continued commitment to supporting local enterprise throughout the current phase of local government reorganisation.

Trevor Holden said: “It was fantastic to have so many of our local businesses join us at Oxnead Hall for what has been one of our most successful Business Breakfasts to date. Supporting our business community remains one of our highest priorities and events like this give us a valuable platform to listen, share updates and strengthen those relationships as we navigate an important period of change.”

The councils’ Business Development Team provided an update on the success of the Business Builder Programme, which since its launch in late 2022 has supported 472 businesses and awarded £2.3 million in grants. The team also previewed plans for the upcoming Let’s Go! visitor economy initiative, launching in summer 2026. The project will showcase beautiful walking routes across the districts, while highlighting nearby independent businesses to boost footfall and local tourism.

The keynote address was delivered by Nicola Filby, Managing Director of JB Postles. Now in its 106th year, the iconic Aylsham based family business continues to be guided by the principles set by Nicola’s grandfather: seizing opportunities to improve customer service and maintaining a deep commitment to the communities they serve. Nicola shared the company’s story of “lightbulb moments” that have shaped its evolution across generations.

Special thanks were extended to Epic Events Hire, who sponsored the event, presented their business and helped set the venue up for the morning.

Vice Chairman of Broadland District Council, Cllr Adrian Tipple, said:

“It was fantastic to host an event for our business community, bringing people together for valuable insights and networking. I’d like to offer a huge thank you to the team at Oxnead Hall for their exceptional hospitality, and especially to owner Beverley Aspinall for her inspiring speech and generous tours of this wonderful venue. The whole team delivered a warm welcome and a seamless experience in a setting that proved the perfect backdrop for the event. We are also extremely grateful to all our guests who joined us bright and early before heading into their working day.”