HullBID boss promotes partnership approach to a positive future

The head of HullBID praised member businesses for building partnerships based on resilience and renewal in the face of continuing challenges.

Kathryn Shillito, HullBID Executive Director, told guests at the organisation’s annual awards night that the combination of adaptability and unity will enable their businesses to emerge stronger and maximise the opportunities to come during a year of positive change.

Kathryn highlighted the setting up of a combined authority for Hull and East Yorkshire as a significant development which HullBID is determined to exploit. She added that the £65m Hull Maritime project is already bringing benefits as people make plans to enjoy the region’s biggest event since the UK City of Culture celebrations of 2017.

Kathryn also warned of the need for caution arising from the impact of rising costs and changes in consumer preferences. She noted concerns around delays in completing the Castle Street roadworks and over continuing outbreaks of retail crime and antisocial behaviour, but she told how HullBID is leading the fight for improvements.

Kathryn said: “As regards the delays with Castle Street, HullBID has been at the negotiating table with National Highways from the outset, making sure businesses are prepared for any disruption. Now our challenge for specific compensation is being listened to and we await a response.

“The strength of our relationship with Humberside Police is such that we were invited to take part in the selection process for the new Chief Constable, enabling us to put forward our concerns to the people at the very top.

“The election of a regional mayor will bring new opportunities for business and new investment. We look forward to working with the successful candidate but, as we do with all our partners, we will challenge the new mayor to make sure they understand the importance of a thriving city centre to the regional economy, the value of collaboration at every level and the ongoing need for innovation – and of course funding!”

Kathryn welcomed the Hull Maritime initiative as a vital cultural contribution which will be further enhanced by the city’s bid to become a UNESCO City of Music.

She said: “We are acutely aware that a strong cultural programme plays a crucial part in driving regeneration. It helps build a unique local identity, attracts visitors to boost the economy, creates vibrancy and serves as a catalyst for further investment.”

Kathryn said local independent businesses are responding positively, and she vowed that HullBID will support them every step of the way.

She said: “Independent developers continue to back Hull city centre and its future. The confidence of people who really get the ambitions of the city is clear as they are investing their own cash.

“As our members adapt and endure the challenges HullBID has to step up too and provide even greater value. We’re not just a helping hand with security and cleaning issues. We give guidance and support to new businesses. We compile data and write reports to attract investment.

“We are a conduit pulling together responses from our community on issues that matter, and we make our mark by shouting loudly and championing the voices of city businesses about local issues.”

HullBID Awards Roll of Honour

Innovation Award sponsored by AaGlobal Language Services

Winner:  Hull College AI Academy

Shortlisted: Little Astronauts and Hull Schools Library Services

The Best Place to Work Award sponsored by St Stephen’s

Winner:  DoubleTree by Hilton Hull

Shortlisted: Toytown and Hull Truck Theatre

Longevity Award sponsored by Allenby Commercial

Winner:  F R Scott Limited

Shortlisted: Thieving Harry’s and Kingston Theatre Hotel

Contribution to the Community Award sponsored by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside

Winner:  City of Hull Street Angels

Shortlisted: Lush and Good Things Market

The Best in Food and Drink Award sponsored by Hull Trains

Winner:  Thieving Harry’s

Shortlisted: Patisserie House and Everything Toastie

Stylish or Welcoming Premises Award sponsored by Hull City Council

Winner:  Nanouk

Shortlisted: Cherry’s Bar and Lili + Mila’s Empawrium

Customer Service Excellence Award sponsored by FigFlex

Winner:  Reach Recruitment 

Shortlisted: Artisan Flowers and DoubleTree by Hilton Hull

Commitment to Health and Wellbeing Award sponsored by Segal’s Jewellers

Winner:  CatZero

Shortlisted: Hull Minster Welcome Café and Fit24

Outstanding Employee or Team Award sponsored by Grosvenor Casino

Winner:  Tina Swann, C4DI

Shortlisted: Civic 1 and St Stephen’s Security

Outstanding Contribution Award sponsored by KFM Recruitment

Winner:  The Deep

Shortlisted: Ferens Art Gallery and Hull Truck Theatre

Judges’ Special Recognition Award 

Winner:  Civic 1 and Humberside Police