Ilkley BID (Business Improvement District), a business-led and business-funded organisation, has welcomed the appointment of Beth Wade, Store Manager of Craghoppers, to its board as a voluntary director.
With over a decade of retail management experience in the outdoors clothing and equipment industry, Beth will represent the town’s retail sector on the board.
She will be working closely with the BID team under the leadership of BID Manager, Sarah Brookfield-Almond, board members and other partners and stakeholders to continue to grow the local economy and improve facilities for the business community, as well as boosting visitor numbers and raising the overall profile and appeal of Ilkley as a great place to do business.
Ms Wade said: “I’m proud to join the BID board as I believe it’s hugely important that Ilkley businesses have a genuine voice in deciding and directing how they want the trading environment around them to be improved.
“The BID has introduced many exciting initiatives in Ilkley that are having a significant impact on the town and its businesses, like the Ilkley Watch anti-crime app scheme which has been adopted by many of the town’s businesses and has given myself and fellow retail staff the confidence to all work together to reduce incidents of anti-social behaviour or criminal behaviour.
“In addition, the BID is the largest funder of the Improving Ilkley Brook Street fountain which will be a stunning addition to the town, and other examples include the BID’s Discover Ilkley brand which continues to help market Ilkley and its businesses to a wider audience and the Ilkley Gift Card which is helping to keep spend local.”
Ian White, Chair of Ilkley BID, said: “Beth is a great addition to the BID team as she brings a wealth of business, managerial and retail experience to the table, as well as enthusiasm and a ‘can-do’ attitude. She joins a very proactive and engaged board and as a team we’re all looking forward to the months and years ahead as we progress into our second five-year term.
“If there are any business people who are interested in joining our board, please let us know. We are particularly looking for representatives from the professional services and hospitality sectors”.
Further information about Ilkley BID can be found at www.ilkleybid.co.uk and any questions emailed to: info@ilkleybid.co.uk.