How amplifi all started and where it could go

Pete and I sat down at Fine Grind late 2022 as friendly strangers, brought together by the shared view that businesses have a role to play in the climate emergency. Our companies have both been on their own B Corp journeys, but we were keen to explore what we could do together. 

It became clear that we had each battled with our own personal fears and concerns of the state of the world and what it means for future generations. And at times, it felt overwhelming, anxiety-inducing and frankly, just simply very sad. But instead of sitting powerless, we wanted to channel those overwhelming feelings and turn them into something more hopeful, more positive with more energy and action. 

The energy continued to build when we met William Benson (Chief Executive of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council), who was brimming with ideas and enthusiasm about how we could develop a joined-up approach across the business community. An early internal strapline was ‘Be more Bristol’ as the city is well known for its progressive policies, values and approach. Bristol City Council gave up some time to talk us through their strategy and tactics. 

We left the call with an agreement that the phrase should be changed to ‘Be more Tunbridge Wells’. 

Whilst we recognise we are not there yet, our goal is to put Tunbridge Wells on the map as a hub for businesses that put sustainable business practices at the centre of their strategy. To do this, we need to break down the barriers holding us back and develop a collaborative approach supporting every business, no matter where they are on their sustainability journey. 

We strongly believe that by acting together, we can achieve so much more than by struggling alone. By sharing resources, knowledge, people power and energy, we can create a greater impact. And action is what is needed to deal with the many challenges our world and communities face. 

The first step on this journey has been to listen to the people in Tunbridge Wells, to better understand the goals and the challenges across the business community. A simple but useful survey was conducted and over 200 people shared their views. 

Analysing the survey, it’s clear that people are concerned about the climate emergency and there is an expectation on businesses to be playing a greater role, from both their employees, as well as their customers. Through hundreds of other conversations, we know that businesses want to do more. People want to do more. But action is slow due to resources, time, money, skills, and many more reasons. 

Our goal is to change this through a sector-led approach. This will allow you to collaborate with organisations who have similar business models and then together, you can work through a programme with guidance and support, giving you the confidence to take action. 

Once momentum is gained with action and impact, we want to promote the amazing work that is being done across our town. We want Tunbridge Wells to be known as a more thoughtful town, balancing prosperity with the planet.

Our ultimate aim is for us to make a real difference to the world around us. We are only a small area, but through the changes we make together, we want to show the world what good likes like and support others businesses and towns to do the same.