Who said business can’t be fun? Well, at least for Stagecoach Performing Arts, it’s the complete opposite. Recently, 42 franchisees and members of the head office team gathered for an unforgettable two-day retreat at the scenic Condover Hall in Shropshire. With outdoor adventures, team-building activities, and countless opportunities to connect, the retreat highlighted the vibrant community spirit that defines the Stagecoach network. Here, CEO Andy Knights reflects on the value of these events and shares thoughts from those who took part.
For our franchisees and head office staff who work tirelessly throughout the year, stepping away from the day-to-day and coming together in a unique environment like this is essential. These retreats provide our franchisees with something invaluable – the chance to connect with peers, share ideas and reflect on their journeys in a relaxed, supportive setting. It is a chance to strengthen the bonds that underpin our network.
While there is plenty of time to discuss strategies and address challenges, these events are about so much more. They are about building relationships that endure, creating a sense of belonging and fostering a community where everyone feels supported. This sense of unity often leads to the kind of informal yet meaningful conversations that spark innovation. Whether it is a shared tip about running a school or a new perspective gained over coffee, these moments remind us why we are part of this exceptional network – because together, we are stronger, and each of us brings unique strengths to the table.
And of course, there is the fun. Arriving to drizzle might not have been the warmest welcome, but waking up the next morning to a snow-dusted landscape made up for it. It was the perfect backdrop for our first-ever Condover Cup competition. Our franchisees and head office team were mixed into teams, each vying for the ultimate bragging rights – having their team name engraved on the coveted cup. This is just the beginning of a tradition we plan to continue for years to come.
The activities were as varied as they were exhilarating, from ziplining and aerial trekking to solving a murder mystery and navigating a laser maze. There was something for everyone, whether you were testing your nerve on the high ropes or piecing together clues with teammates. By the end of the retreat, the ‘Inspirals’ team emerged victorious – claiming their place in Condover Cup history.
Then, after a jam-packed day of activities, evenings offered the chance to unwind with a lively pub quiz and a silent disco.
“The location was absolutely beautiful, and the snow made it feel even more magical,” said Georgia Pridden, our Content Marketing Manager at Stagecoach. “It was such a great chance to spend time with so many people from across our network while having fun – even braving the zipline, despite my fear of heights! Every minute of the two days was filled with laughter and excitement – it truly was an experience to remember.”
A feeling shared by our franchisees, including Jess Rampling, Principal of Stagecoach Burghfield Common: “Spending a few days with the Stagecoach network and head office was such a treat – meeting so many incredible franchisees and finally putting faces to names in such a positive, upbeat setting. Even though it was a bit chilly, the activities were so much fun! I even faced some fears, which was both challenging and rewarding. As someone new to the network, this event was so inspiring – it helped me build amazing connections and build on my experience from last year’s conference. I left feeling motivated and ready to take on the term ahead. What an incredible event – I can’t wait for the next one!”
At Stagecoach, we know that our success as a network comes down to one thing – people. The relationships we build with one another – franchisees, head office and beyond – are what make us stronger. These events allow us to step out of our day-to-day roles, celebrate our shared successes and, most importantly, strengthen the bonds that make us who we are.
Yes, business can be fun – but more than that, it can be fulfilling, inspiring and transformative. And that is exactly what this retreat was all about.
