Bathing in Business celebrates six months of connection, collaboration and growth across Shropshire

Founded by Fran Ash, Bathing in Business was created to offer a more relaxed, inclusive space for small business owners to connect without the pressure often associated with traditional networking.

Since launching at Frankly Farm, which continues to be the home base for the community, Bathing in Business has grown steadily in both numbers and reach. What started as a small gathering has evolved into a supportive network of business owners from across the county, many of whom now attend regularly.

Building on that success, Bathing in Business has recently expanded into a new “on tour” format, collaborating with a range of venues across Shropshire to create unique and memorable experiences for attendees, while still maintaining its core values of honesty, connection and community.

The latest event, held at the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s Cosford airbase and charity headquarters, marked the six-month milestone in a truly memorable way. Attendees had the opportunity to network in a relaxed setting while also gaining a behind-the-scenes insight into the charity’s vital work - including witnessing a helicopter responding to a live call-out during the morning.

Speaking about the journey so far, Fran Ash, Founder of Bathing in Business, said:

“Over the past six months, I’ve loved seeing how Bathing in Business has grown into something so much bigger than I ever imagined. What started at Frankly Farm - which will always be our home base - has become a supportive community of business owners who genuinely want to see each other do well.

There’s something special about those early mornings at the farm, being surrounded by the outdoors, the animals, and having the space to slow down and have proper conversations. That feeling is something I’ve always wanted to carry through into every event we host.

Taking Bathing in Business on tour has been an amazing next step. It’s allowed us to bring that same energy into different spaces across Shropshire, introduce people to venues they may never have visited before, and continue building those connections in new and exciting ways.

Being able to celebrate our six-month milestone at the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s headquarters was a real highlight. To not only host an event there, but to witness first-hand the incredible work they do, made it a morning none of us will forget.

I’m incredibly proud of what this community is becoming, and I’m excited to see what the next six months have in store.”

Regular attendees have also shared their experiences of the community:

“What really sets Bathing in Business apart is the atmosphere. It’s a friendly, non-corporate networking event where you genuinely feel welcomed, supported and seen by everyone in the room. It’s been such a positive experience, both personally and professionally.” - Stacey Pugh, Beeline Personnel

“Bathing in Business is a wonderful networking group with a difference. Fran has created a special environment for business people to meet and exchange honest, heartfelt conversations.

Her enthusiasm and positive approach, combined with her understanding of the importance of people talking to people, reflect her genuine desire to make a difference.

I can honestly say the relaxed atmosphere and positivity at each event lifts me every time I attend and provides a welcome boost of energy.” - Chris Henderson, New Era Printing Limited

Bathing in Business continues to welcome a diverse mix of business owners, from those just starting out to more established individuals, all brought together by a shared desire to connect in a more genuine and supportive way.

With further “on tour” venues already being planned for the year ahead, the community shows no signs of slowing down - while still staying true to its roots at Frankly Farm, where it all began.

For more information about Bathing in Business, or to enquire about hosting a future “on tour” event, email Fran Ash via support@franash-mentoring.co.uk