Business news in the Selby area
Welcome to the Selby area page of the Business North Yorkshire newsletter. Here you will find details of local networking groups, events in the area, and business news from around the constituency.
To feature your business news or events, contact us by email.
Networking events in your area
Elmet and Selby Business Forum, Sherburn Aeroclub
- 21 August, 18 September, 16 October (Third Thursday of each month)
Email heidi.green@northyorks.gov.uk to be added to the distribution list for event notifications.
News and events in your area
Unlock New Opportunities at the Elmet and Selby Business Forum
Running a business can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. The Elmet and Selby Business Forum is more than just a meeting - it’s a thriving, supportive space where local businesses come together to share insights, build connections, and learn from expert table hosts on a range of valuable topics.
Every gathering is an opportunity to expand your network, discover new collaborations, and stay informed on what is happening in the local area. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, find inspiration, or simply connect with like-minded professionals, this forum is the place to be.
Held on the third Thursday of every month from 8.30am until 10.30am.
Join us at the next meeting on 21 August where business meets community, and success is shared. Want to know more, email heidi.green@northyorks.gov.uk.
Picture of some of the attendees at a recent Elmet and Selby Business Forum.
Local business spotlight: Cray Bakes, A Sweet Success Story
Background: Cray Bakes, founded by Craig and Matt, emerged shortly before the challenging "lockdown" years. From their kitchen table in 2019, they began crafting mouth-watering tray bakes that quickly gained popularity. Their passion for baking and commitment to quality led them to move into commercial premises in 2020, setting up their new unit at Blackwood Hall.
Growth and Expansion: Craig left his full-time employment to focus on Cray Bakes, and Matt soon joined him full-time. Their willingness to seek advice and embrace opportunities for growth resulted in the expansion of their business. They acquired a new unit adjacent to their existing one, creating a larger bakery and a brand-new shop. This new venture, opened on March 22nd, was supported by North Yorkshire Senior Business Adviser Heidi Green and partially funded by a UKSPF grant.
Product Offerings: Cray Bakes supplies cafes and delis around Yorkshire with their delicious products. They also offer a unique "pick your own box" delivery service, perfect for treating yourself or gifting someone special. Their offerings also extend to event catering, including dessert tables and their signature Cray Bake Tower cakes for weddings.
Innovation and Community Engagement: Known for their quirky and fun approach, Craig and Matt continuously innovate to keep their products fresh and exciting. Their massive social media following is a testament to their engagement with the community and their ability to go the extra mile for their customers.
Plans for the future, with the addition of the shop, Cray Bakes is poised for continued growth. The shop now provides a cosy space for customers to enjoy barista coffee alongside their scrumptious tray bakes. As the business continues to thrive, the future looks bright for Cray Bakes. In five years, who knows where this amazing journey will lead?
Cray Bakes is a shining example of how passion, innovation, and community support can turn a small kitchen-table venture into a thriving business. Craig and Matt's story is one of resilience and success, inspiring others to follow their dreams and bake their way to greatness.
To order your own Cray Bakes visit the website.
Your local Senior Business Advisor
As Senior Business Advisor for Selby, Heidi’s primary role is to promote and support business growth and the economic potential of North Yorkshire, and she works with colleagues, partners and key stakeholders to help deliver our Economic Growth Strategy. Heidi takes the lead responsibility for delivering a bespoke one to one business engagement and support service to the businesses of the Selby constituency, as well as the Tadcaster area.
Heidi has worked in business support for 34 years both in a self-employed capacity and more recently in the public sector. Working with all sizes and sectors of business, Heidi can help with business planning and strategy, skills, funding applications, apprenticeships and networking. Heidi understands the importance of work and life balance so is a keen advocate of health and wellbeing.
To book an appointment, contact us by email.