STOURPORT Wyre Forest Business Network International, a professional networking organization, has referred more than £ 524,720 of business to fellow members over the last six months.

Chapter director Rosanne Howes explained: "We meet every week, so we really get to know and trust one another and what each of us is looking for in terms of referrals. The power of BNI is not just in building relationships with the people in the room, but potentially extending that to others in their sphere of influence. The main philosophy of the group is the 'giver’s gain'. In other words, if I give you business you will give me business in return."

The Stourport Wyre Forest BNI currently has 33 active members who meet on Thursday mornings at 7 am at Menzies Stourport Hotel.

“Only one person from each profession is permitted to join the group,” said membership coordinator, Teri Baron. “This offers great advantage to members as no-one around the table is in business competition with anyone else. Effectively, this means that if a member of your network group hears of someone who needs your product or service you will get a referral.”

The BNI is actively looking for additional members in categories such as a banking, event planning, promotional products, estate agent, builder, plumber and graphic designer.

For meeting and membership information, visit the Chapter website at http://bni-worcestershire.co.uk