We kicked off something refreshingly different in the heart of the city: activ Connections – a new kind of networking event that swaps suits for trainers and small talk for real conversation.
As a British Franchise Association-accredited marketing franchise, we brought together professionals from marketing, charity, accountancy, and events for a relaxed group run through Bute Park. We started the event with an energising warm-up led by none other than Guinness World Record holder Lloyd Martin.
Connection, Movement, and Meaning
Reflecting on the day, our CEO Katie Bullon shared:
“We were thrilled to welcome Lloyd Martin to help launch activ Connections. His energy was infectious and set exactly the tone we wanted – fun, inclusive, and uplifting. Lloyd comes from a family of runners and is passionate about getting people moving. He’s just been selected for a challenge on this year’s BBC Children in Need, featuring on The One Show, so having him with us at launch was a real honour. We hope this is just the start, and that he’ll join us again at one of our future events as we roll out activ Connections nationwide.”
Now that our head office is based in a row of heritage cottages in the heart of Cardiff, it felt like the perfect time to step outside, connect with our local community, and do business differently.
Katie added:
“We all know that some of the best conversations happen when we’re not stuck in a boardroom. With 1 in 4 people experiencing mental health challenges each year, we believe workplaces must make space for connection, movement and meaning. activ Connections gives us a way to do just that.”*
Katie, who is also neurodivergent and openly shares her experience with ADHD, continued:
“Movement gives me clarity and energy. activ Connections is marketing with purpose and business with balance. We’re building a nationwide marketing franchise – and a culture – that supports people to thrive both mentally and professionally.”
Proudly Backed by Run Wales
We proudly partnered with Run Wales, whose mission is to help more people enjoy the benefits of running and community connection. Their backing ensures activ Connections remains inclusive, welcoming, and impactful from the ground up.
We designed this event to feel relaxed and energising – and that’s exactly what happened. Most attendees had never met before, but they left feeling inspired, uplifted, and already planning to reconnect.
Business Networking – Our Way
There are surprisingly few run-based networking groups in the UK – and we’re proud to lead the way. As a people-led franchise, we focus on building meaningful relationships, not just contacts. Our growing network of activ branch managers is supported by a full-service head office team, and now also has access to activ Connections as another way to grow strong, supportive networks.
We’re doing business differently – and activ Connections reflects that perfectly.
Next Cardiff Event: Wednesday 3 September
We’ve already booked the next Cardiff activ Connections event for Wednesday 3 September, and we’re planning to roll out events across more locations in our franchise network in the coming months.