Drew Grey - Holiday Inn Express

Business you represent:

Holiday Inn Express/Ashall Property

How long have you worked/had a business in the Town Centre?

I have worked in and around Barrow town centre for the past few years through my roles with Ashall Property and the Holiday Inn Express Barrow-in-Furness & South Lakes. My work involves business development, property, hospitality, and supporting projects that contribute to the continued regeneration of Barrow.

Why did you get involved with Barrow BID?

Barrow is entering an exciting period of investment and regeneration, and I wanted to play a more active role in supporting the town’s future. I am particularly interested in bringing businesses and organisations together, attracting more people into the town centre and helping local businesses benefit from the opportunities being created across Barrow.

Joining the BID Board gives me an opportunity to contribute my business-development experience, build stronger partnerships and help ensure that the town centre remains an important part of Barrow’s wider regeneration.

Favourite BID event or project?

The Festival of Transport stands out to me because it brings people of all ages into the town centre and creates a real sense of energy and community. Events like this increase footfall, support local businesses and demonstrate what Barrow can achieve when businesses, community groups and local organisations work together.

Tell us something most people wouldn't know about you?

Most people probably wouldn’t know that I enjoy archery. I like the focus, discipline and precision involved, as well as the challenge of continually improving.

Additional Comments

I am a Business Development Specialist for both Ashall Property and the Holiday Inn Express Barrow-in-Furness & South Lakes. I am passionate about building relationships between local businesses, supporting Barrow’s visitor economy and promoting the town as a place to work, visit and invest.

I’m looking forward to working alongside the other Board members and contributing positively to the BID’s events, projects and longer-term ambitions for the town centre.