"Incredible day" future proofing Moreton Bay

The first major Collaborate Moreton Bay business event – with Boost Juice founder Janine Allis the keynote speaker – has been described as “an incredible day”.

Nine Moreton Bay business groups combined to present Future Proofing Your Business at Norths Leagues and Services Club in Kallangur.

They were joined by scores of local business owners and guests for a program of speakers, workshops, information sessions and networking.

“From start to finish, the energy in the room was electric as local business owners, industry leaders, came together to connect, learn, and grow,” Jo Stevens, President of Pine Rivers Chamber of Commerce, said.

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“With an inspiring line-up of speakers, engaging workshops, powerful networking opportunities and vibrant exhibitor tables, this was truly a celebration of collaboration across our region.

“We’ve received such wonderful feedback from attendees, with many sharing how valuable the sessions were and how energised they feel to implement the strategies in their businesses.

“A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and to all the partners and presenters who made the day such a success.

“Together, we’re building something special for the City of Moreton Bay business community.”

For many the highlight was Janine Allis, with tips and lessons learned before and since starting her business empire with Boost Juice, which now has more than 850 stores in 13 countries.

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The journey includes selling timeshare, modelling and working on a yacht owned by David Bowie, to launching Boost Juice in her kitchen in 2000.

Now one of Australia’s most successful businesswomen, Mrs Allis shared her successes, failures and lessons learned from a remarkable career.

“When something goes wrong with staff or customer it’s your fault and that gives you incredible power,” she said. “As soon as it is your fault, you have the power to change it.”

Mrs Allis tips included don’t settle for mediocrity; customers rule; you have to fail to succeed; be kind to yourself and “when others say no, say yes, it’s much more interesting”.

There was also a warning: “AI technology has gone to a whole new level. People are going is AI taking our jobs? I can absolutely say yes … for the people who don’t embrace AI.

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“Are businesses going to struggle by not embracing AI … yes. AI is such a tool that’s so progressive, if you’re not on it, not understanding it, then you will be left behind.”

Future Proofing Your Business was held in Queensland Small Business Month, with Dominique Lamb, the state’s Small Business Commissioner, hosting sections of the day.

It was organised by North Lakes, Redcliffe, Pine Rivers, Greater Caboolture, Samford, Bribie and The Hills District Chambers of Commerce with Business and Professional Women Moreton Bay and the Food and Agribusiness Network.

Jo Stevens said the next event will be a Mental Wellness Business Lunch on Friday, October 17. Further details will be released soon.