Little did we know what a diverse range of businesses are operating out of Rye Wharf but, as a member of the Rye Chamber of Commerce and along with over 50 others who were invited to tour the buildings last Wednesday, I was very pleasantly surprised and a fascinating evening was had by all.
On arrival we all assembled for a chance to introduce ourselves, a really useful exercise and such an easy going opportunity to meet new faces and network in a very relaxed environment. Jane Brook, chair of the Rye Chamber introduced us to Richard Benge, MD and part-owner of Rye Wharf who was to become our tour guide for the evening, a very busy man as he is also a director of Southern Farmers Ltd, a not for profit buying group.
Our tour was varied and interesting, touring along the wharf while we still had the light and a chance to see and hear about the many shipping and freight movements, imports and exports and different cargoes which pass regularly through Rye Wharf. Turning the vessels around and unloading precious cargoes requires skill, experience and a little help from two huge cranes which served as a backdrop for one of Kt’s photos.
The weather was on our side thank goodness but had it rained we could have sheltered in one of the many occupied units of varying sizes: some vast and with mezzanines, others smaller but ideal for the many differing businesses who operate from Rye Wharf. There is a future phase of buildings to be built shortly but such is the popularity of this development, all have potential tenants before being built! Having 24-hour manned security helps and the buildings are smart, modern, well-lit and secure.
Our next stop was for Prosecco, beer and refreshments, thanks to the generosity of Jo and Jason from Ethel Loves Me. Their makers space unit was an ideal ’pop up bar’ and there we all enjoyed a seemingly never-ending supply of freshly made savoury and sweet pizzas by Tristan from Wild Flame Pizza whilst listening to an inspiring talk by guest speaker Emily Van Eyssen.
Alas. all good things must come to an end and reluctantly we ventured home after having had a fabulous and very interesting evening. Who would have thought that touring a wharf and so many business units could be so fascinating but believe me it was. If you ever get the chance to do it you will be amazed at what goes on there.
Thanks to Jane, Sarah and Elise from Rye Chamber of Commerce for putting this all together, a great success and a lovely way to meet new contacts and business owners locally. Why not join up and come along to the next event, contact either by email on info@ryechamber.org or by phone on 01797 222857. More information can be found on www.ryechamber.org.uk.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Nick Forman .