GIN, TONIC, BUSINESS (AND MORE GIN!)

at 45 West Bar and Bottle Shop

KuKu Connect held its first official Connect Reception at the 45 West Bar on Hotel Street in the heart of boutique Leicester.

Filled to capacity, over 50 businesses were greeted by the KuKu Team with the chance of winning a bottle of Burleighs Gin. Members and guests were welcomed by Jamie Baxter, Master Distiller and one of the Directors of Burleighs Gin and Daniel Thom, Operations Manager and his expert team who, shook, stirred and garnished their unique Gin and Tonic’s, using ingredients such as pink grapefruit, orange, basil and smoking rosemary, combined with the three distinct and flavoursome gins from their collection; their Signature, Export and Distiller’s Cut, all paired with different natural tonic waters.

“We had another fantastic evening hosted by Burleighs Gin and the 45 West Bar. This was the first Connect Reception after our launch where we were able to welcome our new members and new business guests. We welcome any business of any size and sector to attend one of our Connect Receptions as a free guest so they can see what KuKu Connect is all about and meet other members and businesses. The gin is quite simply the best in Leicestershire. Great evening, great gin and great company.” Managing Director, Stephen Goddard, of KuKu Connect

Members, guests and their rather large gin and tonics mingled in the industrial style bar, surrounded by an array of spirits, liqueurs and fine wines, both from the bar, quite easily looking like a piece of set from Bugsy Malone. Businesses assembled downstairs in the private Red Room for some quality Connecting with many new faces and businesses, something key to effective networking. Business cards exchanged and array of cheeses, crostini, crudites, breads, olives, nuts, dips, chutneys, vinegar and oils, even fruit patrolled the rooms ensuring guests were treated to excellent hospitality after a hard day’s work.

“The KuKu connect reception was a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded businesses in an exciting environment. Hosting the reception at the 45 West Bar was the perfect occasion for showcasing Burleighs Gin to local businesses and potential customers. KuKu connect are offering a great alternative to networking and we’re looking forward to working together again in the near future.” Director, Jamie Baxter, Master Distiller of Burleighs Gin

Yet more gin and tonic served, to keep thirst at bay guests enjoyed the welcoming and relaxed atmosphere of the Connect Reception connecting with new businesses, many new to KuKu Connect’s fresh approach to business networking. Talking all things gin, Jamie Baxter chatted to guests about his role as a Master Distiller and the process of making Burleigh’s Gin out at a farm in Nanpantan, even converting G&T virgins. The monthly Connect Reception ran until 8pm, with some rather enthusiastic guests making the use of staying on for more ‘connecting’ and taking advantage of their members Privilege Card, gaining discounts of the extensive range of drinks from the 45 Bar, well looked after by Daniel Thom, dapperley dressed in a burgundy velvet jacket.

“Membership of KuKu Connect is rising quickly and we are really pleased to see a great excitement and buzz from new members and enquiries coming in every day to reserve a free place at our next Connect Reception. I strongly encourage businesses to come and join us, whilst membership is still open. It’s also great that we welcome Burleighs Gin on to our exclusive Privilege Card, which is complimentary to our members.” Development Director, Philip Brooks-Stephenson, of KuKu Connect

KuKu Connect Receptions take place on the first Thursday of each month between 6-8pm in top locations in and around Leicester. For further details on membership please visit our join page.

Love gin? Visit www.45west.co.uk and Burlieghs Gin School www.45ginschool.com

KuKu Connect Members receive 10% off 45 Gin School vouchers and 10% off all cocktails, beers, house wines, spirits and mixers at the 45 West Bar on Hotel Street with their Privilege Card. Please also enquire for exclusive hire and discounts of the 45 West Bar’s Red Room with your Privilege Card.