It may be the – comparatively – new kid on the block but it’s already packing quite a punch.

BCP Connect is an online all-in-one local directory website that simultaneously runs alongside a private Facebook group.

Launched in May 2020 the Facebook group now has more than 4,200 members while its directory website – bcpconnect.co.uk – has over 400 registered businesses.

Over 3,000 posts asking for recommendations have been approved since its launch with an estimated £1.5m+ exchanged in revenue using BCP Connect.

Now it’s to move into live networking with the first face-to-face event held at the West Cliff Hotel in Bournemouth on Tuesday September 7 at 7.30pm.

Matt Gibbs, Founder and Director, said: “I’m genuinely so excited about this.

“Over 70 people said they were ready for this in a recent poll and it’s been a long time in the pipeline.”

Matt, 37, from Christchurch, previously set up several side businesses while working in the insurance world.

But it wasn’t until Covid hit that he realised there was a gap in the market for businesses to grow and network virtually, leveraging the power of private Facebook groups.

BCP Connect Ltd was incorporated as a company in July 2020.

As well as some impressive numbers, its Facebook group has resulted in a highly engaged community of positive business owners and professionals – all supporting each other when needed.

And with leads being red hot, as and when they come in, BCP Connect says there’s a huge opportunity for businesses to grow.

Through its preferred vendor membership plan, where businesses are screened and recommended at every given opportunity, BCP Connect says most have already seen excellent results with one reporting a 7,000 per cent return on investment.

Matt said: “Our aim is to be at the centre of the community and offer an all-in-one solution for professionals to find what they need for their home or business, at the same time as being able to grow their own network and support local businesses.

“It is at the forefront of our mind to always give our members tremendous value first and help where we can, supporting local charities such as our friends at Hot Radio.”

Apart from business listings the online directory also includes extra offerings such as property sales and lettings as well as local deals and events.

The live networking event on September 7 at the West Cliff Hotel, pictured, is – in the words of BCP Connect – “aimed at helping business owners and professionals get to know, like and trust each other to build natural relationships and pass business opportunities.”

It’s a ticket only event with no membership required, making it accessible for all.

The £17 ticket price includes a free drink on arrival.

To book your ticket just click here.