Consumer guru Kate Hardcastle to speak at Preston business event

The TV and radio consumer expert will be sharing practical advice with more than 250 business people on how to provide the most effective customer service.

The theme of the free event is Customer at the Heart and is being backed by Preston, South Ribble and Chorley councils and supported by Events Northern. It is being held in PNE’s Invincibles Lounge at Deepdale.

“Supporting our local business community is an important part of our work,” said Preston Council leader, Peter Rankin. “I am confident that businesses will go away with some great ideas and new contacts to help them grow and move forward.”

Coun Phil Smith from South Ribble said: “This event provides a fantastic opportunity for businesses of all shapes and sizes to make new connections and hear from some of the best speakers in the industry.” And the leader of Chorley Council, Alistair Bradley, added: “These types of events where we get our local businesses together are a great way for them to network and develop their business opportunities locally. The customer experience of a business can have a huge impact on reputation, particularly with how quickly information can be spread using social media.”

Kate founded the business consultancy Insight With Passion which rejuvenated companies like the Co-operative Group and school uniform firm Trutex.