Beers and Business
Beers and Business: A Fresh Take on Networking
Let’s be honest. Traditional networking can feel a bit... awkward. Standing in a room full of people, balancing a lanyard, a lukewarm coffee, and a rehearsed elevator pitch isn’t everyone’s idea of a great time. It certainly wasn’t Tom Stansfield’s.
That’s why he launched Beers and Business, alongside David Harrison. The idea was simple: create a space where business conversations happen naturally, without the pressure to pitch or sell. A place where relationships come first, and any business that follows happens because it makes sense, not because it was forced.
So, what is Beers and Business?
Beers and Business is a relaxed, invite-only gathering for professionals, business owners, and freelancers who want to connect without the cringe. It usually takes place in independent pubs, taprooms or social venues, supporting the local spots that help bring a community to life.
There’s no agenda. No name badges. No forced fun. Just good conversation, in good company, with a drink in hand (non-alcoholic drinks too).
Why it works
No one turns up to a networking event planning to buy something. That’s not how networking works. But when people show up as themselves, have genuine conversations, and start to build trust, business often follows. It happens quietly, and it happens naturally. That’s when networking really works.
Beers and Business doesn’t try to manufacture leads. Instead, it gives people the time and space to get to know each other properly. That’s what makes it different. That’s what makes it work.
Who's it for?
Anyone who wants to build better business relationships without the corporate stiffness. Whether you're self-employed, leading a team, running a business, or just exploring your next move, you're welcome – as long as you’ve been invited.
Beers and Business is designed for those who:
Prefer conversation over sales pitches
Want to support local venues and communities
Believe business works better when it’s built on trust
It’s for people who value honesty, enjoy a decent drink, and understand that business relationships are about people, not just opportunities.
How to get involved
You won’t find Beers and Business advertised on every events page. That’s intentional. It’s kept low-key, by invitation only, to protect the atmosphere and keep things personal.
If you’re interested in attending or think it sounds like something you’d enjoy, reach out to someone already involved (Carrie Boughtwood or David Harrison) or connect with Tom Stansfield on LinkedIn. You’ll be pointed in the right direction.
Beers and Business is networking without the noise. No pressure. No pretence. Just real conversations that sometimes lead to real business.
