Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards, it’s about creating long term opportunities, building confidence, and forming genuine connections. For Ash Plumbing & Bathrooms, a Shropshire Chamber member for almost two years, joining the Chamber marked a turning point. What started as a business decision became a journey of growth, collaboration, and community impact. This case study, part of our ‘Connect Effect’ campaign, reveals how networking transformed their business and why human connection matters most.

Why networking matters

Networking has changed Ash Plumbing & Bathrooms massively and opened doors to work with a whole range of businesses and charities.

Fran Ash, Business Development Manager, said, “We quickly realised it isn’t just about B2B; it’s about actually connecting and engaging with people. The demand is already there – everybody in the room has a bathroom… people are always going to need a bathroom company. The only thing that was left to do is gain their trust and be their go-to. Networking allows us to do this and be the first option for people. Word of mouth then naturally takes over, leading to even more potential customers.”

How networking impacts beyond business

The immediate benefit for networking is often assumed to be business growth, but for Fran, it was much more. It helped her rediscover her purpose and thrive personally, not just professionally. The connections made at events have become good friends not just leads.

“People see me as a human, rather than a brand”, said Fran.

Results in the first week

After the first week of joining the Chamber and entering its close-knit community, Ash Plumbing & Bathrooms secured the contract with Meeting Point House, another member, and designed and installed all of their toilets.

“Joining this membership gave me the platform to shout about our services - not just out in the open for everyone to hear, but to a purposeful community that trust each other and provides local, quality services”, said Fran.

This early win led to commercial projects and charity collaborations like Bins for Boys, an initiative created by Lingen Davies. This proves that networking does deliver tangible results.

Advice for first-time networkers

Fran Ash shared some simple but essential tips:

  • Remember nobody wants you to fail – walk into the room knowing everybody was at some point in your exact position.
  • Keep it simple – don’t put so much pressure on yourself: you don’t need to fit every single point in.
  • Buddy up for support - if you’d feel better knowing you’ve got someone to pair with, don’t hesitate to reach out in advance. You can even buddy up with Fran at a Shropshire Chamber Network Club.
  • Enter with a friendly face – first impressions matter: show you’re there to chat to everyone and make connections.

Opportunity to support other small businesses

The beauty of Shropshire is that everyone supports one another. Fran said, “I don’t see other people as competition, just as humans following their passions and making a living from it.”

There’s always an opportunity to shout out a business you support, spreading love and recognising local products and services.

“I gave a shout out to Iron Bridge Candle Company at one of the Chamber’s Network Clubs, and she messaged me that night to say how grateful she was. A few days later, I visited her shop, and she told me that thanks to small businesses rallying together and sharing her story and products, she’d completely sold out and is now making more to keep up with the demand! The power of human connection and word of mouth truly is powerful,” expressed Fran.

Building a team and embracing diversity

Connections made through Chamber events also helped Ash Plumbing & Bathrooms build a strong, inclusive team with female fitters and apprentices.

 “The knowledge and contacts I gained made the recruitment process so much easier for us. It meant we could reach the skills we needed and the candidates shouting out for opportunities that we could provide. We’ve actually just taken on another female apprentice through the Chamber and Telford College,” said Fran.

Human connection matters most

At the end of the day, people do business with people. Human connection is everything for a transparent and authentic brand. Ash Plumbing proves that being real and relatable wins trust and business.

Don’t just push sales - provide valuable information and gain people’s respect.

If you’d like a quality bathroom renovation or a design-only service, get in touch with Ash Plumbing & Bathrooms at 07447 070957 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Shropshire Chamber offers a wide range of networking opportunities designed for all preferences. If you’re unsure where to start, would like to buddy up with someone, or simply want to learn more about what’s available and how it could open doors for your business, get in touch at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..