In his latest blog, Jimmy Birchmore reflects on a busy summer, the team’s achievements and how JBE is building on its strengths and preparing for the seasons ahead.
“I think we can all agree ‘it’s been quite a summer’.
For us the season was characterised by extremes, those of both weather and workload.
Inevitably there are pros and cons to each, and while the associated challenges are very different, there are common threads.
As is so often the case it is experience, and the inherent adaptability and resolve of people that elevates to meet the challenge and achieve in terms of both scale and quality.
Calendar congestion is part of life in events and exhibitions, it’s inevitable and to a certain extent it’s why we love it – the adrenaline, the buzz, the feeling of doing something out of the ordinary – however as with any enterprise there is a point where things can exceed even the highest of thresholds. That threshold or moment is generally set by one crucial element; the people at its core.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not complaining at all, these type of multiple combined workflows are derived from exceptional relationships with our clients, sustained organic growth and a cherished reputation; we are incredibly grateful, while at the same time we know it is right to review the summer to ensure the best possible environment and safeguarding for our team, the wisest investments in our resource and the highest quality work for our clients.
We are steeped in the characteristics and culture of outdoor events, and agriculture in its broadest sense therefore we understand and plan for all types of working conditions. Of course, we also understand that we cannot control everything, that is where the experience, adaptability and resolve of our team can be tested to an extreme level.
It is therefore only afterwards that the entire endeavour can be fully reviewed to ensure that when that level comes again – as it will – we can meet it from within our comfort zone.
Interestingly as a complete contrast to the above I write this while sitting on the patio of a farm cottage in the Scottish Borders overlooking the most glorious, farmed landscape hearing nothing more than a gentle breeze and the occasional call of a pair of Kites above. We’re working at the iconic annual Kelso Ram Sales alongside a client who has been a crucial partner for our business for 15 years.
After the intensity of the summer, the contrast is striking. But perhaps it’s also a useful reminder that the most sustainable businesses, and relationships, are built with the long term in mind.
As with most things, a balanced long-term perspective delivers the most sustainable outcomes. We’ve learned a lot from this summer, and we’re using that experience to strengthen our people, resources and processes so we’re ready for the next challenge.”
