Now in the second year, we firmly believe on the strength of small independent  businesses coming together to drive forward the regeneration of Littlehampton as a destination to visit. We give local businesses a stage to bring inspiration to others and provide a platform where collaborations and new partnerships can be formed to make hospitality and tourism businesses sustainable for the future.

With being the real undiscovered gem on the south coast, Littlehampton has everything going for it, especially with the launch of the film Wicked Little Letters. Hospitality and Tourism has always been a strong part of the local economy for the town. The new buzz word and something to be proud of is the regeneration and rebirth of this seaside and fishing town.

On Tuesday 12 March Arun Yacht Club used the opportunity to host the third Hospitality & Tourism Networking Event to showcase their fabulous venue on the west bank. The event organiser Rich, owner of East Beach Guest House first created the events with the mind of bringing businesses together, to share stories and build relationships. Over 75 guests attended with over 49 different local businesses represented on the evening from Littlehampton, Bognor, Arundel & Chichester.

The event’s theme was ‘Growth’; very apt when small businesses are struggling with so many factors affecting them. It is grow and survive or sadly face the alternative. The evening started with an insight into new tourism trends for 2024 by Sam Smithson from Experience West Sussex. This was followed by an overview of the new Littlehampton Seafront Regeneration Plans from Arun District Council.

The guest speakers who brought their inspiring stories to the hospitality & tourism community; Pinks Parlour - an exciting insight into the world of the ice cream business and how they continually look for ways to grow. Ashling Park Estate - Sip, swirl and INDULGE, inspired by Gail's story of creating a new style of vineyard, stay, dining, tours, and tastings. Learning how she continues to grow her business. Finally, Beach Town Blooms - Award winning local business shares his passion for all things hospitality, inspired by how he continually grows and markets his business to find new customers.

Huge thank you to the evenings welcoming host Carla Judge from CJ Hotel Consultancy, Will at The Beach Littlehampton for the photography on the evening, Roy Shephard from Pitch & Strut creating the perfect cool vibes and the bright LA lights by Sam Holliday at Party Electric.

The next event will be on Tuesday 15^th October and will be hosted by Littlehampton Golf Club. Registration will be open shortly via Eventbrite.