Hi-Life president to speak at Cumbrian business lunch

20th July 2009, 10:26am

Successful north west entrepreneur, David Heeley, will be guest speaker at this week’s Cumbria Chamber of Commerce Business Lunch on Thursday 23rd July.

The networking event will take place from 12pm till 2.30pm, at Clarence House Country Hotel in Skelgate, Dalton-on-Furness.

David Heeley co-founded Hi-Life Diner's Club in 1985 and since then it has grown to become the UK and Ireland's largest two-for-one dining club, with 100,000 plus members and a network of 2,500 restaurants. It celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

In his speech, David will offer insight into how he presided over Hi-Life from its inception, through two decades growth to the point three years ago when he sold the business for a seven-figure sum. He will also offer his own top tips for steering businesses through difficult economic times.

Speaking ahead of the event, he revealed: "I'm keen to advise today's entrepreneurs to avoid the trap of resorting to unnecessary borrowing. Too many people borrow money in a bid to grow a business before it's ready - to 'get rich quick' as they say - but it only encourages them to treat it like Monopoly money."

"By borrowing heavily you run the risk of your loans becoming a millstone around your neck and ultimately stifling your business's development. Hi-Life wasn't an 'overnight' success as people often assume – it has involved 25 years of hard work and nurturing. Too many people go into business expecting to 'make it' overnight.

"Experience has taught me that in times of recession, it's even more important to take a long-term view, aim for sustainable growth and be patient. Never give up on pursuing best practice, spend the money you have as if it's your own, and ultimately always keep an eye to exit."

To book a place, call 0845 2260040 or email bookings@cumbriachamber.co.uk. Tickets cost £16 (members) and £25 (non-members) and include a three-course lunch, tea and coffee.

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