The Uckfield Chamber AGM, held on 26 March 2026, was a chance to reflect on a year of impressive growth, strong community spirit, and exciting plans for the future.
Held at the East Sussex National, the evening began with a chance to network and catch up with fellow local businesses.
The formal meeting commenced, with apologies from a number of members. And attendees heard from MP Mims Davies via a video message, who offered her apologies and thanked members for their continued support of the Chamber and the wider business community.
A year to celebrate
President Chris Dowling then delivered the annual report, highlighting a busy and successful year for the Chamber.
Over the past 12 months, Uckfield Chamber hosted six member meetings, alongside its popular monthly networking breakfasts and the introduction of more informal lunches – giving members even more opportunities to connect.
Membership has grown to over 230 businesses, the highest number in the Chamber’s history, with 42 new members being added in 2025 alone – a clear sign of the value local businesses see in being part of the network.
Chris also reflected on some standout moments from the year, including the prestigious House of Commons dinner in Westminster, the ever-popular Christmas Gala Dinner at Buxted Park, and the much-loved, if not rather damp, Late Night Shopping event in early December.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Uckfield Business Awards have officially launched, with 15 categories now open for entries. The awards will take place on 1 October, promising another fantastic evening celebrating local business success.
The President ended his report by thanking the Chamber committee and Director, Ian Noble, for their continued hard work and dedication behind the scenes.
Treasurer Claire Allen then presented the financial results for the period ending 31 December 2025.
Welcoming new faces
All current executive committee members were re-elected into post, and Simon Steele-Williams from Parfitt Cresswell being elected as a new member to the committee.
We were also delighted to welcome half a dozen new members to their first members’ meeting.
Insights and inspiration
Attendees then heard from Emma Towner and John Woodward of East Sussex National, who shared updates on the ongoing work to enhance and improve the hotel – an important local venue for both business and leisure.
The function rooms will be given a refresh with new carpets and blinds being updated. There are also plans to build eight lodges – three in the woods and five next to the fairway – which are set to open in early 2027.
We were delighted to welcome guest speaker Adam Rowland, Headteacher at Woodlands Meed in Burgess Hill, who gave an insightful presentation about supported internships and the organisation’s work to break down barriers and help young people with SEND reach their full potential.
Looking ahead
There are also lots of Chamber events to look forward to, including a Pitch Perfect workshop on 13 April, an informal business lunch at The Piltdown Man on 15 April, and the next networking breakfast at Trading Boundaries on 23 April.
And don’t forget to enter the Uckfield Business Awards, which are now open.