Networking in the City, the nationwide lunchtime networking organisation, launches its Bristol Curry Club next week promising a relaxed and informal alternative to other business gatherings.
Aimed primarily at those working in property, finance and construction, the concept has already proved successful in 24 UK cities by offering attendees a lunchtime curry, drink, networking and the chance to hear an engaging speaker on a key industry topic. 
The Bristol launch takes place next Thursday, October 10, between noon and 2.30pm at the 4,500 Miles from Delhi restaurant on Colston Avenue.
The speaker is EDF Energy, Nuclear New Build, senior communications manager Alan Hyde – an award-winning communications professional based in Somerset who will talk about the business case behind the proposed Hinkley Point C nuclear plant and how Bristol firms can become involved in the massive project.
Bristol Curry Club organiser Nick Carter-Brown said its meetings will be different to other, established construction and property events in Bristol such as those staged by the Bristol Property Agents Association and First Thursday.
“The networking club is unique as it is unrivalled in its ability to deliver tangible results,” he said.
“The key objective is for guests to come away from the event having successfully shared ideas and built up good business contacts. The best way to do this is sitting down face to face in a relaxed environment over a pint or a soft drink and a curry.
“It’s not an old boys’ network. Everyone will feel at home – from entrepreneurs and investors to SMEs and professionals. It will be very relaxed.”
The club will be held on the second Thursday of every month. A full schedule of speakers has already been arranged by Nick to cover all aspects of property, finance and construction and give valuable insights into local projects.
Among those lined up for future meetings are the entrepreneurial duo behind the pioneering Bristol Wavegarden surfing lake project, a Persimmon Homes’ executive who will talk about planning issues and the housebuilder’s largescale developments at Emersons Green and Weston-super-Mare, and a representative of Moirai Capital Investments, which is redeveloping Swindon’s Oasis leisure centre into a national destination.
Other speakers are expected to be drawn from Bristol Port, Bristol Airport, Cabot Circus and the Temple Quay Enterprise Zone.
Curry Clubs operate in 24 towns and cities across the UK. No membership is required – attendees simply register on the website ahead of the meeting.
Bristol Curry Club sponsors include Smith & Williamson, Sanderson Weatherall, Portal Tax and PC Express.
