C&W in Business Nov 23

Issue 98 Nov - Dec 2023

Dr Rebecca Gater

Principal at Stratford-upon-Avon College reflects on the opportunity to bridge the gap between education and business.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Foreword

Contents November - December 2023 Business Support

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Inspirational Leader

5

News

7

Chamber Annual Conference 8-9

News Business Engage Profiles Dear Member, It’s our AGM & Annual Business & Economic Conference on November 10th and the Chamber team is looking forward to seeing everyone there. We have a fantastic line up of panel discussions, speakers, and I’m genuinely excited to hear Clive Myrie’s keynote address.

At last year’s conference we announced our focus on three main themes – Digitalisation, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Net Zero. We’ve got a lot to update you on.

Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has started an ambitious programme to become one of the most digital Chamber’s in the UK, and initial project planning sessions have shown what a vast task this will be as it impacts every part of our business – from the way we manage our staff and backoffice functions, support our members, lobby on the big issues and train our employees. We also recently delivered an excellent event at WMG – University of Warwick on how businesses embrace AI – personally I think there’s more to be excited that worried about.

We’ve also started to design a new Net Zero business support offer that we will launch early in 2024. We were joined by 60 of our Influence Partners and Engage Members at the Telegraph Hotel Coventry to exchange ideas, look at some best practice and get our members views

on what a new offer should include. It was incredible to hear about how much great work is already taking place and I’m determined our new support offer will open up a lot of new trading opportunities for our members as well.

To back up our own governance review, our board member Fleur Sexton DL will be leading a small group of business leaders to unpick what we need to do to support businesses with their Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda and how we, as a Chamber, become the best business we can to support these issues.

This is an area of work that is very close to my heart, so I want to make sure we can truly say we are exemplars in EDI. Beyond the conference, we’re also very excited to announce a trio of new Business Support programmes for Stratford District-based business focused on Retail, Export, and Growth. These are the first of a new wave of government funded programmes, through UK Shared Prosperity Funding, and we’re pleased to be working with the excellent team at Stratford-on-Avon District Council to deliver them.

Our AGM on November 10th will start 4 weeks of governance changes for the Chamber. At the AGM, we will welcome 4 new Non-Executive Directors onto our board. We will also be saying goodbye to some incredibly generous and dedicated board members in Trish Willets, Karen Shuter and Paul Sullivan.

Paul has been a superb supporter of the Chamber with over 25 years on the board and an unbeatable knowledge of the

manufacturing sector, the powerhouse that is Trish Willets is now focusing on national work with the British Business Improvement District team, and whilst Karen is stepping down from the board – she will still remain as Chair of our Rugby Branch. These changes will be completed at our Board Meeting in early December when Tom Mongan will officially hand over the reins to our incoming President and Chair, Steve Harcourt of Prime Accountants Group.

A special thanks has to be given to our outgoing President and Chair, Tom Mongan. Tom has been a phenomenal president in a very difficult time covering the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns and Brexit. His reputation as a ‘Champion of Manufacturers’ is carried across the UK and Tom will be continuing to campaign for local manufacturers as an Ambassador for the Chamber.

Finally, as this is our last edition of C&W in Business magazine of 2023, can I be the first to say - ‘Wishing you a very Merry Christmas & a prosperous New Year”! Thank you for your support in 2023 and we look forward to working with you all in 2024!

Chamber Training

12-13 14

News

17-18

Profile

20-21

Economy

22-23

News

26-29

Health & Wellbeing

30

Around the Region

31-39

Education & Skills

40-41

Environment Movers & Shakers Corin Crane Chief Executive

11

43 44-45

New Members

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Members Offers

47

Earlsdon Park 53-55 Butts Road Coventry CV1 3BH www.bandhattonbutton.com info@bandhattonbutton.com 024 7663 2121

putting imagination to work www.cw-chamber.co.uk

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Business Support The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce ••••

CONTACTS

New support programmes to help achieve new levels of growth The Chamber will provide one-to-one help to the company to help develop its product or service and ensure it is ready for its new marketplace.

AT THE CHAMBER News desk

The Chamber will also work in partnership with Coventry & Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT) to look at grants and other funding opportunities for companies to make themselves exportready or to increase their existing export capabilities.

Members are encouraged to send any news about their firm - new orders, staff, new products, expansions or relocations for publication in C&W in business.

Whilst every effort will be made to publish submitted articles, we cannot guarantee inclusion.

Send them to: news@cw-chamber.co.uk Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Chamber House Innovation Village Cheetah Road Coventry CV1 2TL T: 024 76 654321 F: 024 76 450242

AT THE PUBLISHERS Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ T: 0151 236 4141 F: 0151 236 0440 admin@benhampublishing.com www.benhampublishing.com Advertising Contact Karen Hall karen@benhampublishing.com T: 07801 788880 Production Manager Mark Etherington Accounts Director Joanne Casey Media Number 1968 © Benham Publishing 2023 C&W in Business is produced on behalf of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce by Benham Publishing Limited and is distributed to members free of charge.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in C&W in Business, neither Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies it contains. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber.

Cllr Susan Juned (left) with Keely Hancox

Businesses in south Warwickshire can tap into three new support programmes to help them achieve new levels of growth.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council has announced a new partnership with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to deliver three programmes through the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), which will run until March 2024.

The second support programme, Accelerated Growth, is targeted at Stratford-based businesses that have been trading for more than two years, from a broad range of sectors including professional services, manufacturing & engineering and creative & digital.

Business owners will get access to tailored, one-to-one help from a skilled and experienced business adviser who can support with everything from strategic and financial planning through to marketing and sales.

The objective is to help companies with growth potential to expand more quickly.

They have been designed to help companies across the district look at new opportunities for growth – from overseas trade through to improving their online marketing.

The final programme is titled Magnetic Marketing and it will support bricks and mortar retailers with premises across Stratford District to grow their online presence, attract more customers and increase footfall into their store.

The first programme – Growing Global – will help businesses that are either completely new to exporting or firms which already trade globally but want to access different markets.

They will have access to two online workshops as well as one-to-one help from a retail specialist who has successfully run a retail chain of businesses, including in Stratford Town Centre.

The aim is to drive footfall into towns and local centres and bolster business.

Keely Hancox, Head of operations at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Stratford-on-Avon District Council to be delivering support to a wide range of businesses across the south of Warwickshire.

“The three programmes are all different but all have the aim of supporting businesses to grow which, in turn, will boost the local economy and benefit the area as a whole by creating new jobs and opportunities.

“Each programme is different, but they all include an element of one-to-one support because we are keen to ensure that the help we give to businesses is tailored to them individually to ensure they get the maximum benefit.”

Cllr Susan Juned, Leader of Stratford-onAvon District Council, said: “This funding stream enables the District Council to work with our partner organisations to achieve positive outcomes and benefits for the District and supporting a programme of business support through different delivery partners.

“We hope to continue business support given in Year 2 for Year 3 of the SPF fund, to help address the variety of different issues businesses are facing moving towards zero carbon operations, helping businesses to become more resilient and also helping to support high growth, research intensive and technology-based businesses, to help diversify the economy.”

For more information please contact Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on 02476 654321 (option 4).

Or access https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/unlock-the-power-of-growth/

Bank of England meets regional business leaders Inflation is expected to fall to around the five per cent mark by the end of 2023, a leading expert has told businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire.

are that it will reach around the five per cent mark by the turn of the year.

Glynn Jones, the Bank of England’s deputy agent for the West Midlands, met firms in the region to give them an overview of the economy from the Bank’s perspective but also to hear from companies from a range of sectors.

“The Bank has increased base rates as a tool to help bring down inflation but there are still risks to the outlook and the Bank will not hesitate to take further action should it be required to ensure that we bring inflation back to our two per cent target.

Jones warned, however, that getting down to the two per cent inflation target would not be easy.

“Economic growth has been subdued but has so far remained positive. Consumption – an important driver of growth in the UK – has remained resilient but there is little to suggest that growth will not remain quite sluggish for the foreseeable future.”

He said: “There were many factors in the rise in inflation in the UK – we had the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and a huge labour shock, which have all compounded one another.

“Inflation has dropped back to 6.7 per cent and our forecasts

“Goods inflation and food inflation has fallen but we’re now seeing fuel prices creep back up.

Tom Mongan, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said:

Carol Thomas (Coventry College), Tom Mongan (Chamber), Roger Scott (Lloyds Banking Group), Glynn Jones (Bank of England), Olivia Parrish (Leap People Solutions)

“We were grateful to Glynn Jones for offering an insight into the Bank of England’s currenting thinking when it comes to the economy.

“The firms around the table and across Coventry and Warwickshire all have their own story to tell and it’s clear that there is some way to go before

the economy is on the full road to recovery.

“To that end, our Annual Conference on November 10 will be an opportunity for firms across the region to come together and hear from a wide range of experts and look at the opportunities and challenges ahead.”

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www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Inspirational Leader

Tom Mongan, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and chair of its north Warwickshire branch, reflects on his time in office!

It’s an honour for me to have served as Chair of the Chamber’s North Warwickshire Branch for the last 5 years, and as Chamber President for an unprecedented 3-year term.

Coventry and Warwickshire is a region where I have lived and worked for most of my life – and what a region!

In my opinion there is none better, for we have a rich industrial heritage, a unique history and a beautiful and varied landscape few can match.

Coventry and Warwickshire, whichever way you look at it, go together like ‘Motor and Car’, like ‘Warwick and Castle’, like ‘Stratford and Shakespeare’ and like ‘Coal and Mine’.

They are entwined and I am beyond proud to have been elected as President of this great Chamber of Commerce and to tirelessly represent and serve our innovative, entrepreneurial and exciting business community across my time in office.

What a journey it has been, one could never have imagined what was about to unfold when I took over the President’s role in December 2020.

I think we can all agree that the last few years have been, putting it politely, challenging!

However, starting out on this journey some 50 odd years ago as a Technical Apprentice at Alvis Ltd, I never dreamed I would one day become President of one of the UK’s leading Chambers of Commerce. Back then CNC machines weren’t even a thing, it was copy lathes, capstans and whole sections given over to grinding, milling and turning.

Nowadays, of course, they are used in everyday life, from surgery to cutting metal.

It was an industry I worked in for nearly three decades as I was instrumental in making Subcon Laser in Nuneaton one of the UK’s most successful organisations that used laser technology, winning many regional and international awards along the way.

It certainly has been quite a journey and, as I stated earlier, I could never have imagined what was about to unfold when I took over the role as President.

visited some world class companies and travelled extensively.

Some say I’m lucky! I say I’ve worked hard for it! There have been highs and lows, all of which make up a lifetime of tales and stories.

I am lucky, however, that I can call this region my home. I am lucky that wherever I go, I can come home to this wonderful region of Coventry & Warwickshire. A region rich in heritage, steeped in history, with a future as bright as LASERS!

I witnessed first-hand how manufacturing developed from manually operated systems and conventional machining, to computer-controlled processes, robotics and lasers!

It’s had everything; Brexit, COVID-19, Lockdowns, Furlough, Two Monarchs, Four Prime Ministers, Six Chancellors of the Exchequer, Energy Crises, Fuel Costs, Interest Rates, Cost of Living and not forgetting the Toilet Roll Shortage!

Finally, my thanks must go to all of my fellow Chamber Board members, the incredible team of people who work across the Chamber Group, but most importantly to each and every Chamber Member who support and engage with our work across the year.

Lasers were the stuff of Star Wars and James Bond movies, certainly that used to be most people’s perception.

I could go on forever and it has been an incredible journey with a lot of stories to tell. I’ve met some inspirational people,

I hope our paths will cross in the future – I’m not going far, just up the road to Nuneaton!

Finally my sincere thanks must go to all of the Chamber Board, our former Chief Executive Louise Bennett OBE DL, our current Chief Executive Corin Crane, all of the management and teams at the Chamber and of course, to all of the amazing Chamber Members who I’ve have the pleasure to meet. My best wishes to go incoming president, Steve Harcourt, who I know will do a great job!

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

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Lifelong Learning for Entrepreneurs

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Participants undergo comprehensive leadership training through a combination of eight online and four face-toface sessions, covering growth strategies, innovation, high-performance team leadership, digital adoption, financial management, and responsible business practices. The course includes personalised 10 hours of 1-to-1 mentoring with a business mentor.

Offering support to enhance resilience, create a targeted Growth Action Plan, and facilitate networking with ambitious business leaders, the course is 90% funded by the government, with a £750 contribution required per participant.

Upcoming cohorts are scheduled to commence in January 2024.

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Green Advantage Course

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Green Advantage is a sustainability short course from Aston University’s Centre for Growth designed to enhance the expertise of business leaders and professionals.

This programme aims to elevate your awareness and understanding of climate and environmental challenges, empowering you with the expertise to formulate sustainability strategies tailored to your specific sector and role. The course will help you in addressing evolving customer and staff preferences, meeting regulatory, procurement, or supply chain demands, and aligning with investor expectations.

Running for 12 weeks and strategically designed to accommodate full-time professional commitments, the programme is delivered through two online and four face-to-face sessions. Participants also receive four hours of personalised one-to-one business coaching, offering crucial support in creating a Sustainability Roadmap that can be implemented for positive change in your working environment.

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The upcoming cohorts are set to commence in November 2023 and January 2024.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Legal Aspects of Debt Recovery:

A Detailed Analysis by Debt-Claims Solicitors Navigating the legal landscape of debt recovery can be a daunting task. However, with the support of a reputable and experienced legal firm such as Debt-Claims Solicitors, you can be confident you’ll be guided through the process. Outlined below are some legal aspects of debt recovery.

Personal Guarantees: A Double-Edged Sword Personal Guarantees (PGs) are contracts that hold an individual responsible for another party's liabilities. While PGs offer an additional layer of security to suppliers or lenders, they come with their own set of challenges.

Trading Names: The Legal Implications When dealing with businesses that operate under trading names, it's crucial to understand who the actual contracting party is. Failure to do so can lead to legal

complications. You need to ensure that all legal documents are meticulously drafted to avoid any ambiguity, thereby safeguarding your interests.

The Importance of Pre-Action Legal Proceedings Before diving into court proceedings, it's essential to exhaust all pre-action legal avenues. This not only demonstrates your commitment to resolving the issue amicably but also fulfils legal requirements.

Insolvency and Liquidation: The Last Resort Insolvency proceedings are often the last resort in debt recovery. The process is complex and requires a deep understanding of insolvency laws. If the matter goes this far you need a firm with a proven track record in advising on insolvency cases, ensuring that you recover as much as possible from insolvent debtors.

Accounting Excellence International Firm of the Year award for HB&O

Costs and Compensation: What You Can Claim

Compliance: Staying on the Right Side of the Law

Legal costs can add up quickly, making it crucial to understand what you can claim back. Find a firm that provides transparent pricing and advises you on what costs are recoverable, ensuring that you get the most out of your debt recovery efforts.

Debt recovery is governed by a myriad laws and regulations. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines and legal repercussions.

Appointing a solicitor to represent you should ensure that all actions taken are in line with current laws, providing you with peace of mind.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): A Viable Option ADR methods like mediation and arbitration can be quicker and less expensive than going to court. They also offer a degree of flexibility and confidentiality that formal litigation does not.

To find out more, visit debt-claims.com Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.

Recover what you are owed, today

Debt-Claims is an easy-to-use debt recovery portal, dedicated to taking the stress out of UK and international business debt recovery.

HB&O are extremely proud winners of the Accounting Excellence International Firm of the Year award!

Providing a first-class service to our clients is our priority and we recognise the importance of being able to adapt and remain agile as the sector continues to evolve. As more look to expand into markets beyond UK shores, our team are able to provide expert cross-border VAT

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

and Indirect Tax advice combined with tailored business advisory support.

To strengthen our offering, as longstanding members of DFK International, we have built a substantial network of global relationships which provides our clients, and us as a firm, with significant benefits. This award is true recognition of our growing international presence and we’re excited to see what the future holds for us and for our clients.

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Begin your debt recovery today Call: 02475 185 608 Email: info@debt-claims.com

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Chamber Annual Conference

Council chief execs will update firms at Chamber conference The Chief Executives of Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council will outline economic plans for the city and the county at the biggest business conference in the region.

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is holding its Annual Business & Economic Conference at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Friday, November 10 and has already announced multi-award-winning broadcaster Clive Myrie as its keynote speaker.

The conference, which is being delivered in partnership with PET-Xi Training and Prime Accountants Group, will also hear from Monica Fogarty, chief executive of Warwickshire County Council, and Julie Nugent, chief executive of Coventry City Council.

They will cover the main themes of this year’s conference of ‘Doing Business with Purpose’, looking at topics such as net zero, inclusivity and digitisation, while outlining future plans for the region.

In an ‘interview with’ session with Chamber chief executive Corin Crane, the pair will also discuss how Coventry and Warwickshire continues to work in partnership for the good of the region’s economy and how they support firms of all sizes – from start-ups to bigger businesses.

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Hundreds of businesspeople – as well as politicians and decision-makers – are expected to attend the event, which is regarded as one of the best networking opportunities in the business calendar.

Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The feedback we got last year was that businesses really like the balance of being able to meet with other companies from across the region and, also, hear from some amazing speakers too.

“They like to learn more about what’s happening in their area and, also, to be inspired by those on

the stage who take part in our panels or deliver addresses.

“To have the chief executives of both Warwickshire County Council and Coventry City Council coming to talk to us is incredibly important and shows the linkage that the Chamber can bring between our members and local decision-makers.

“Julie and Monica are both very open and it should make for a fascinating session as part of a wider line-up of panels and speakers who will, once again, make it a conference to remember.”

The feedback we got last year was that businesses really like the balance of being able to meet with other companies from across the region and, also, hear from some amazing speakers too. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Chamber Annual Conference

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Doing Business with Purpose Two key topics affecting businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire will be addressed by expert panels at a major conference in the region.

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is holding its Annual Business & Economic Conference at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Friday, November 10a nd has already announced multi-awardwinning broadcaster Clive Myrie as its keynote speaker.

The conference is being delivered in partnership with PET-Xi Training and Prime Accountants Group. PLMR Advent is the media partner and Eskuta and Make Venues (Woodland Grange) have signed up as supporting sponsors.

The conference has a theme of ‘Doing Business with Purpose’ and as well as hearing from Monica Fogarty, chief executive of Warwickshire County Council, and Julie Nugent, chief executive of Coventry City Council, there will be a Business & Economic Panel and a Future Workforce Panel which will delve into two fundamental issues for firms across the region.

The Business & Economic Panel will explore the global, national and regional economic and business landscape and will look at a whole host of topics including inward investment, green innovation, interest rates, inflation, cashflow, cost of doing business, cost of living and international trade.

It will be chaired by Margot James, Executive Director of WMG, former MP and Chair of the Coventry Climate Change Group, and panellists include Steve Harcourt (Prime Accountants Group), Anna Bright (Sustainability West Midlands), Katie Trout, (West Midlands Growth Company), Roger Scott (Lloyds Banking Group) and Carol Thomas (Coventry College).

Steve said: “There is so much for businesses to think about in the current economic climate and, through this panel, we are looking to unpick some of that and make sure they understand how the big picture is affecting them on a day-to-day basis and how that might influence their decision-making.”

The Future Workforce Panel will look at how businesses can get their workforce ‘fit for the future’ and how to get local people into local jobs. It will delve into jobs of the future, how businesses can develop inclusive workforces, from upskilling people from disadvantaged backgrounds through to getting the over-55s back into jobs.

This panel will be chaired by Fleur Sexton DL, of PET-Xi Training and PET-Xi Hospitality (Metropolis) and panellists include Kevin Davis (The Vine Group), Annette Hay (Belgrade Theatre) and Gaynor Matthews (Olderpreneurs Alliance).

Fleur said: “Recruitment and skills is challenging right now for many businesses especially after Brexit, Covid and a series of other factors. This panel will look at how businesses can think in new and pioneering ways to find solutions and ensure that their workforce is diverse, committed and prepared for the exciting new challenges we face as a business community.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Last year’s conference was my first in Coventry and Warwickshire and it was amazing to see the number of businesses and regional decision-makers coming together to listen, learn and network with one another.

“This year’s event builds on that and we are delighted to have so many great businesses and individuals on board as speakers, panellists and supporters.”

Main Sponsors PET-Xi Training

Prime Accountants Group

Eskuta

Media Partner PLMR Advent

One of the UK’s leading journalists and broadcasters will be the keynote speaker at the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business & Economic Conference.

Clive Myrie, a multi-award-winning broadcaster and a familiar face and voice to millions having working in the industry since 1987, will be speaking at the conference, in front of an audience of over 200 business leaders from across the region.

Supporting Sponsors Make Venues – Woodland Grange

Clive Myrie set to deliver keynote address at Annual Conference

Social Media Join us on social media using the hashtag

#CWBizConf23

The conference is being delivered in partnership with PET-Xi Training and Prime Accountants Group and is one the key dates in the business calendar in Coventry and Warwickshire as it is attended by a range of companies and decision-makers.

PLMR Advent is the media partner and Eskuta and Make Venues (Woodland Grange) have signed up as supporting sponsors.

As well as the keynote speech from Myrie, who is also the Pro Chancellor of Bolton University, the conference will also hear from other speakers and panellists from the world of business and politics.

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Chamber, said “We’re looking forward to this year’s conference and we are delighted to have secured Clive Myrie as our keynote speaker, who is a well-respected broadcaster who is known to millions.”

For more information or to book a place at the Chamber’s Annual Economic Conference go to

https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/annual-business-economic-conference-2023/ www.cw-chamber.co.uk

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The Heart of England Events and Conferencing

EARLY CHRISTMAS BONUS

for the Sales Team at The Heart of England The Heart of England Conference and Events Centre has experienced a surge in enquiries over the last few years.

As a result, they have expanded their team and are adding space to the main offices to accommodate the increased demand. They are now in the final stages of completing their new, state-of-the-art sales office.

Stephen Hammon, the Managing Director and Owner of The Heart of England expressed his excitement regarding the high volume of enquiries they have been receiving and his pride in his team for their tireless efforts in providing quotes and conducting show rounds and briefings. The most popular types of events requested are festivalstyled fun days, team building, conferences, exhibitions, and product launches, according to the observed trend.

Stephen said, “The Sales Team work hard and with the festive season upon us and the increased demand with Christmas and New Year’s Eve Party bookings along with Santa’s Grotto on top of the day-to-day corporate enquiries, I felt the office had become a tad cramped for the number of staff we have. I surprised them with the news that I planned to extend their offices and promised to complete it all by Christmas. They were understandably excited and thrilled when we broke ground some months ago and I am delighted to say, we are ahead of schedule so as a little Christmas bonus, they should be moving into their brand new, spacious, and very modern offices within weeks!”

The Heart of England are always on the lookout for talented, enthusiastic people to join their team. If you or someone you know has skills and a background in corporate events, please get in touch with them by emailing pa@heartofengland.co.uk. They would be happy to hear from you. You never know, your Christmas bonus this year could be a new job with an exciting, creative and forward-thinking established business!

For more information on The Heart of England Conference and Events Centre, head over to www.heartofengland.uk or call 01676 540333

LAST CHANCE TO BOOK FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES AND NEW YEAR’S EVE

IN

The Quicken Tree Book Now for your Festive Feast Lunch or Evening Meal with colleagues, family and friends. Running throughout Nov & Dec ****** Visit our website for more information: www.quickentree.uk/festive-feasts/

The Heart of England Conference & Events Centre Meriden Road, Coventry, CV7 8DX

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TO BOOK: 01676 540333

PRE-BOOKING ONLY: www.christmasattheheart.co.uk The Heart of England Conference and Events Centre Meriden Road, Fillongley, Coventry, CV7 8DX

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www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Asian wedding venue in Aston to get modern upgrade successful wedding venue in the heart of Aston, while preserving the character, significance and appearance of one the area’s most historical buildings.

“We are extremely thankful to Birmingham City Council officers for their invaluable pragmatic advice to get this application over the line. The positive preapplication discussions and the granting of listed building consent reflect the strong collaboration and shared vision between us, the council and our client.

An Asian wedding venue in Aston will be given a modern upgrade after plans were approved for the creation of a first-floor terrace, following support from planning experts at Marrons.

The Grade II-listed Victorian tram depot, in Trinity Road, was transformed into the Majestic Conference & Banqueting Hall in 2013. Since then, it has become a haven of cultural celebrations, with two banqueting halls accommodating up to 400 guests.

As part of the approved plans, owner Taz Ulfat will demolish and replace an existing and unauthorised wooden canopy with a new enclosed and glazed first-floor terrace. Improvements will also be made to the visual appearance of an existing singlestorey extension and a new street entrance from Witton Lane will be created to align harmoniously with Aston’s evolving urban landscape.

The plans seamlessly align with the ongoing redevelopment of Aston Villa Football Club’s iconic Villa Park Stadium – situated a stone’s throw from the Majestic Conference & Banqueting Hall – and the broader masterplan for the neighbourhood, which will see significant public realm enhancements and the creation of dynamic open space.

The building was constructed in 1882 and was the first purpose-built tram depot in Birmingham. Originally the home of steam trams, the building was converted for electric trams in 1904 and remained in operation until 1949. From the late 1980s, it became the Aston Manor Road Transport Museum, but closed in 2011 due to funding issues.

Sachin Parmar, Planning Director at Marrons, who led the plans, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have secured planning permission that will enhance an already

“Demolishing the existing wooden canopy is a positive step towards the continuing preservation of this historic site’s authenticity and charm. The grandeur of the venue will be enhanced through the addition of an enclosed, glazed first-floor terrace, designed with sensitivity to the building’s rich past while embracing the demands of modern aesthetics.

“Acknowledging the importance of visual coherence, the single-storey extension is set for a contemporary reimagining, seamlessly blending the old with the new.

A new street entrance from Witton Lane, a thoughtful addition, not only increases the building’s legibility but also aligns harmoniously with the area’s evolving urban landscape.”

Adam Partington, Partner at Marrons, assisted with expert heritage advice. Simon Stanion, Planning Partner at law firm Shakespeare Martineau, provided legal advice as part of the application. The design was completed by Leicester architecture firm DSA and the concept design was by Lapworth Architects.

Join the St Basils Big Sleepout: Transform lives one night at a time

Are you ready to make a real impact on the lives of young people experiencing homelessness in your community? The St Basils Big Sleepout is your chance to make a difference, one night at a time.

St Basils is a dynamic charity dedicated to supporting young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The charity firmly believes that every young person deserves a safe and stable place to call home, and it works tirelessly to make that vision a reality.

The Big Sleepout: Why It Matters The St Basils Big Sleepout is more than just a fundraising event. It's a chance to stand in solidarity with young people who face the harsh reality of homelessness every night. By participating, you can help raise vital funds to provide shelter, support, and hope for a brighter future.

Here's why your participation matters: 1. Awareness: When you sleep out, you

experience a fraction of what homeless young people endure daily. This firsthand experience helps raise awareness about the challenges they face, fostering empathy and understanding.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Under Construction, published by Operational Compliance Systems Ltd - a collaboration between Warwickshirebased WA Management and Image Plus was officially titled as the Overall Winner of the SGUK Innovation Awards.

Representatives from both companies spent the day at the IOSH Headquarters in Leicester, where they heard from keynote speakers, learnt about the projects developed by other winners, and accepted the Lord Cullen Trophy as the winners of the Innovation award.

The app garnered interest from a number of attendees and caught the attention of the IOSH PR and media team, with whom WA Management Director William Whittaker is currently collaborating with to produce a good practice case study centred on Under Construction.

Following the awards held in September, William said: “It’s been a very exciting day for us at the SGUK Awards ceremony, as we can really now see proof that the scope we hope to achieve with Under Construction is very realistic.

“Speaking to other health and safety professionals it is clear that the need for an app like this is recognised across the industry, and we are looking forward to bringing it to a wider market and making a positive impact on health and safety culture across the UK.” The Innovation awards encompass all organisations of any size based or operating in the UK, with the aim of celebrating and sharing innovation and best practices in health and safety management. This award category focuses on best practice and celebrating the latest innovations and ideas in managing health and safety.

What is St Basils?

For over four decades, St Basils has been providing shelter, support, and opportunities to young people across the UK. Its mission is to end youth homelessness but can't do it without your help.

Warwickshirebased health and safety compliance app accepts SGUK Innovation Award

2. Funds for Change: The funds you raise during the Big Sleepout directly support the charity’s vital work, including emergency accommodation, education, employment training, and mental health support.

3. Community Spirit: The Big Sleepout brings people from all walks of life together. It's a chance to connect with others who share your commitment to ending youth homelessness, building a supportive community dedicated to change.

4. Advocacy: Your participation sends a

powerful message to policymakers and communities alike. By taking a stand against youth homelessness, you're advocating for policies and resources that can make a lasting impact.

How You Can Get Involved Sign up for the St Basils Big Sleepout on the website www.stbasils.org.uk/events/ the-big-sleepout-2023.

Gather your friends, family, or coworkers to form a team, or participate as an individual.

These values are the core of Under Construction’s development, with the key focus of the app being to address the digitisation needs of construction, manufacturing and engineering SMEs. It is essential that these industries are able to modernise their processes in order to maintain a positive health and safety culture, be successful, and continue to win work.

As the Big Sleepout approaches, prepare for a night under the stars. Collect warm clothing, sleeping bags, and anything you'll need to stay comfortable.

Currently, solutions that are available on the market are not fit for these smaller businesses, due to their cost, complexity, and lack of breadth. This is why Under Construction’s aim is to provide a personalised, easy to use, and affordable project management system app, conforming to ISO 9001 requirements and aimed at SMEs.

On the designated night, sleep outside in solidarity with homeless youth. Share your experience on social media and encourage others to support your cause.

The app has recently implemented a number of quality-of-life changes to further streamline the user experience, with a large update introducing more functionalities coming soon.

Set up a fundraising page and share it with your network. Use social media, emails, and personal conversations to ask for support.

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Business Engage Profiles

Leading communications agency announced as media partner of major economic conference PLMR Advent, which is based in Coventry – and is part of the wider PLMR Group, with offices in Birmingham, London and Ipswich, is the media partner for the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business & Economic Conference at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Friday, November 10.

The event will feature a range of speakers and panels and will follow a theme of ‘Doing Business with Purpose’.

Lee Corden, PLMR board director, said the company was thrilled to be playing a key role in the event.

A leading Midlands communications agency has signed up as a partner to the region’s biggest economic conference – and it will see the return of its media hub to the event.

He said: “We’ve attended and worked at the conference every year for the past two decades as part of our ongoing relationship with the Chamber and we are really pleased to sign up as media partner for the event in 2023.

“It will mean our media hub will be present again where we’ll carry out interviews with speakers and delegates,

which will lead to the production of a post event video, as well as providing social media updates throughout the day.

County Council, and Julie Nugent, chief executive of Coventry City Council, in an interview session with Chamber chief executive Corin Crane.

“We will also arrange interviews with members of the media who are in attendance and provide high-quality, professional photography from the event.

There will also be Business & Economic and Future Workforce panel sessions during the conference, which are expected to be attended by more than 250 business leaders and decisionmakers.

“The Chamber is a valued client of PLMR Advent and this year’s theme of ‘Doing Business with Purpose’ is something that fits with the wider PLMR Group’s ethos of being a force for good and working with companies and organisations who make a positive difference to society and to the economy.

“It should be another fantastic event.”

The Chamber has announced multiaward-winning broadcaster Clive Myrie as its keynote speaker.

The event will also hear from Monica Fogarty, chief executive of Warwickshire

Corin said: “We’re really pleased to have PLMR Advent on board as our media partners again.

“Our Annual Business & Economic Conference is our biggest event of the year and it’s great to have Lee and the team at PLMR supporting us to bring added profile to the day.”

The conference is being delivered in partnership with PET-Xi Training, Prime Accountants Group, Eskuta and Make Venues – Woodland Grange.

For more information or to book a place at the Chamber’s Annual Economic Conference go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/annual-business-economic-conference-2023/

Renewables specialist helps prestigious golf course land major tournament A renewable energy specialist based in Coventry has helped a prestigious golf course score a hole in one as it was announced as the host of a major tournament.

Green Energy Technical Services Ltd, known as GET Services, has installed solar panels and EV (Electric Vehicle) chargers at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, in Southport.

The golf club’s green energy credentials were one of the factors which helped it win its bid to host the 154th Open Championship in 2026, which resulted in the business gaining attention from stars including Justin Rose and Gary Lineker.

The club is one of a number GET Services’ highprofile clients, with others including Heart of England Co-operative, Hilton Garden Inn, and the largest online retailer in the world, as well as local authorities such as Coventry City Council.

GET Services was launched in 2017 by Russ Smith and his business partner Kevin Gurney, who have both worked in the renewable energy sector since 2010.

It has a team of 12 staff, supported by a pool of trusted subcontractors, and offers a range of services including solar panels, energy storage, EV chargers and solar car ports.

It works with businesses in a variety of sectors right across the UK, having previously completed projects spanning from the north of Scotland to the south coast, while still maintaining a strong presence in the Midlands.

One of GET Services’ USPs is an online portal which provides clients with daily updates which track the progress of a project, advise on any inspections that have taken place and provide details of any visitors that have been on-site.

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Russ said: “We are extremely proud of how we have grown and continue to grow the business – with one of our latest achievements being supporting Royal Birkdale Golf Club with its successful bid to host The Open in 2026.

“Most of our work comes from word-of-mouth recommendations, and we work with a large number of high-profile companies.

“We have also worked on some of the largest commercial developments in the country and have been heavily involved with domestic framework agreements.

“Our flagship projects over the last couple of years have been working with the largest online retailer in the world where we have installed 34,500 solar panels which can generate more than 11 megawatts of energy per annum.

“Given the rising energy costs, solar energy not only provides green power but offers a very good return on investment. On some of the bigger sites we have worked on, customers can expect to make their money back on their investment within around three to five years, and the average solar panel has a 25-year lifespan.

“With EV charging, solar is also a very good product to sit alongside this as it can generate the power to support the car charging.

“We conduct a complete energy review for clients and can support any business with their renewable energy needs.”

Further information about GET Services is available by visiting https://getservices.uk/

“Our flagship projects over the last couple of years have been working with the largest online retailer in the world where we have installed 34,500 solar panels which can generate more than 11 megawatts of energy per annum. " www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Business Engage Profiles

Leading law firm is changing business for good Leading full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau, which has 11 office hubs across the UK including Stratford-Upon-Avon, is changing the world of business for good.

Committed to unlocking potential for its clients, people, communities and the planet, the firm achieved B-Corporation status earlier this year as a result of its responsible business initiatives.

Making more than 30 pledges, the firm has committed to increasing diversity at a senior level, reducing its carbon footprint and offering career development opportunities to underrepresented groups.

regular bake sales, family events and challenges such as the Shakespeare Hospice dragon boat race and fun runs.

Andrew Smith, head of the firm’s Stratford and Solihull hubs, said: “As a certified B Corporation, we’re committed to using business as a force for good for our people, clients, planet and communities. It’s important for us to support local causes that make real differences to the lives of others.

“We also strongly believe that you can be both purposeful and profitable and this is led by our incredible team of trusted advisors, who provide the best service to our clients.”

new locations in the South West, East Midlands and Scotland, as well as reporting a 16 per cent revenue increase and achieving multiple awardwins, including being named employer of the year at the Stratford Herald Business and Tourism Awards last year.

Andrew continued: “We have a local service offering and knowledge, backed by the strength of a national firm with wide-ranging expertise. We take a holistic approach to our clients’ problems, ambitions and needs, helping them unlock their potential by acting as an extension of their team.”

Shakespeare Martineau is a top tier law firm in Legal 500 and Chambers, with more than 40 legal experts recognised in the hall of fame, as rising stars, next generation partners or leading individuals.

The firm was also listed in Best Companies 2022, including as a top 75 West Midlands business to work for.

With a full-service offering and access to more than 1,200 experts up and down the country, Shakespeare Martineau has had a significant year of growth, including expanding into

Locally, Shakespeare Martineau is supporting a host of charities and causes including its hub-nominated charity the Shakespeare Hospice, the Shakespeare Marathons, the Warwick Folk Festival’s “Breaking Walls, Building Communities” concert featuring homeless artists and the GlastonBeoley charity festival, raising money through

"We also strongly believe that you can be both purposeful and profitable and this is led by our incredible team of trusted advisors, who provide the best service to our clients."

Working with organisations of all sizes and sectors including SMEs, government, charity and the public sector, the firm delivers a broad range of specialist legal services and has expertise across multiple areas including but not limited to: family business, agriculture, real estate, social housing, later living, healthcare, energy, education, banking, finance and investment funds.

Shakespeare Martineau also provides services for families and private clients, from wills, estate planning and residential conveyancing, to divorce and child arrangements.

The 70-strong Stratford office is also home to several members of the rapidly growing Marrons design, planning and development consultancy.

For more information visit shma.co.uk

Coventry growth for digital marketing agency A Worcestershire digital marketing agency that has grown to become one of the most successful in the Midlands is undertaking an increasing number of projects in Coventry – including work to promote a major new state-of-theart material recycling facility in the city.

Nexus Creative is a full-service marketing agency, providing a range of business development assistance to a variety of clients across the UK and overseas in sectors including manufacturing, agribusiness and education.

It offers services including building and hosting websites, digital marketing, photography, and PR – but what sets the agency apart is its focus on business development, which includes winning new business on behalf of clients.

The agency was established 30 years ago by managing director Nigel Harte who runs the business alongside commercial director Colin Foxall.

Nexus Creative’s links with Coventry began with it joining together with Coventry University in 2018 as part of a five-year project and two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) after winning a six-figure grant from the government’s Innovate UK. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

This led to the business working on a number of projects, with clients including Coventry City Council, Tom White Waste and MPL Fabrications.

“It seeks to recycle up to 95% of all recyclable materials it processes, and it is fantastic that we are involved in such a cutting-edge, sustainable facility.

Most notably, it won a retained contract with Sherbourne Recycling Ltd, based at Sherbourne Resource Park, in January 2021, and is now working on the promotion of the newly-opened facility - a remarkable collaboration by eight local councils which sees recycling quickly processed by the latest industry-leading AI technology.

“We are a full-service marketing agency, but one of our main USPs that sets us apart is our business development expertise.

Its increasing presence in Coventry will not only result in the agency appointing more staff, but will likely lead to it opening an office in the city.

Nigel Harte said: “We are extremely proud to be working with a number of businesses and organisations in Coventry as part of our growing client base, which currently stands at almost 300.

“One of our current main focuses is Sherbourne Recycling Ltd – said to be one of the most advanced recycling facilities in the world.

“Our latest work includes supporting the local authorities involved by creating videos of the facility in action as well as developing resources to educate both adults and young people on recycling.

“We advise on business growth and make ourselves responsible for winning business and generating revenue on behalf of our clients.

“The KTP also enhanced our knowledge on data scraping, which means that we can very efficiently provide our clients with details on potential clients, or information about what our clients produce or sell. This method minimises wasted marketing time and maximises our clients’ return on their spend.

“We are always happy for businesses to reach out for an informal chat, so we would urge anyone who may be interested to get in touch.”

Further information about Nexus Creative is available by visiting https://www.nexuscl.com/

"Our latest work includes supporting the local authorities involved by creating videos of the facility in action as well as developing resources to educate both adults and young people on recycling."

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Chamber Training

Freemen’s Guild Awards: Apprentice Training Provider of the Year 2023

The Freemen’s Guild of Coventry City shortlisted exceptional young individuals to be recognised through its Apprentice of the Year Awards for 2023.

Awards were specifically designed to honour the achievements of local young people that are engaged in apprenticeships or training programmes, working towards established career paths. Since 2005, the Freemen’s Guild Awards have celebrated the successes of apprentices in Coventry, showcasing their accomplishments within the community.

Two Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training apprentices have been recognised at the Freemen’s Guild Awards for 2023 for overcoming personal adversity to excel in their new careers. The City of Coventry Freemen’s Guild Apprenticeship of the Year Awards 2023 saw Abigail Gumery, 25, named as Small Employer Apprentice of the Year, while Niall Smith, 17, took home the Endeavor award.

The duo are part of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, which provides a range of apprenticeship opportunities to young people and those that are seeking a career change. Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training was also recognised as Apprenticeship Training Provider of the Year at the awards ceremony, thanks to Abigail and Niall's achievements.

Abigail, who works as an apprentice accountant at The Smallpeice Trust charity in Leamington, decided to take on a role as part of a career change in the Accountancy sector.

After just four months in the role, Abigail has achieved more than 80 per cent in both her Level 2 AAT exams, has had a positive impact on further strengthening the charity’s cash flow, and has been nominated for three internal company awards for her work.

Sally Lucas, Executive Director at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, said: "Apprenticeships have the potential to change lives and unlock talent for businesses - as we have seen with Abigail and Niall.

Niall has autism and has been praised by his peers at Beatle Woods nursery in Balsall Common for overcoming social and educational barriers to become a key member of the team.

The part-time scout leader and lifeguard is studying an Early Years Practitioner Level 2 Apprenticeship at the nursery, and despite his own difficult experiences of studying within the education system he is now developing activity plans for play sessions and conducting health and safety site checks.

"Abigail has shown that it is never too late to make a change, while Niall is a great example that by seeking the right guidance and support, barriers can be removed to pursue the career that you want.

"I'd like to congratulate Abigail and Niall for their award wins. They are clearly both thriving in their roles, and hopefully their stories will inspire other people out there to consider an apprenticeship."

For more information about Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk

Mock Interviews at Ernesford Grange Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training participated in mock interviews at Ernesford Grange Community School in Coventry to provide Year 11 students the opportunity to receive valuable insights and practical experience of a mock interview.

This initiative aimed to help students prepare for their future careers, offering them a glimpse into the professional world and valuable feedback from a range of employers for personal and professional growth. As job markets become increasingly competitive, it's essential that we support future workforces by enhancing the confidence of individuals to succeed.

The success of this initiative became evident through the positive feedback received from the participating students.

Many students commented on how the mock interviews significantly contributed to their confidence, understanding, and readiness for the professional world. One student shared: "This experience has helped with my confidence, my understanding of what to expect in a real interview and I also received some positive feedback with how to improve in the future."

Recruitment lead Anita Tomsett at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training said: “Each year, we consider it a

significant achievement to contribute to our local schools, assisting students in preparing for their future careers. Mock interviews play an important role in this process, offering students a valuable experience in a professional setting. For many of these students, these mock interviews mark their very first exposure to a formal interview procedure.”

The collaboration between Ernesford Grange and Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training demonstrates the importance of preparing young people for the world of work. Through mock interviews, students gain valuable experience and confidence, while employers

can contribute to the development of a skilled and prepared workforce. Together, we can bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring a brighter future for young people.

If you are looking to get involved, then please email enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk

Investing through ILM Level 5 Career Development Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training presents an exclusive opportunity for forwardthinking professionals, including project managers, departmental heads, and senior managers, to undertake our ILM Level 5 courses.

As we journey into the future, the workforce landscape undergoes a significant transformation with Millennials and Gen Z now at the forefront. These generational shifts introduce distinct viewpoints, mindsets, and anticipations within the workplace. To ensure your business not only survives but thrives in this evolving environment, it's essential to gain a profound understanding to meet the unique needs of Millennial and Gen Z employees. Our ILM Level 5 qualification empowers you to do just that, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to navigate this new era of work successfully.

It is imperative that team leaders and managers understand their workforce leadership requirements to ensure you retain and motivate your team to excel in your business goals. Leadership styles are constantly evolving.

Well, over half a million Managers have improved their own performance and brought real benefits to their organisations through ILM learning and development or Management Essentials training.

ILM management qualifications are for those who are practising or aspiring managers. Topics include a range of management competencies and are suitable for all industries. Qualifications are designed to improve performance and are highly practical courses, equipping delegates with the skills needed to improve management and generate significant benefits to your organisation in terms of efficiency and effectiveness.

Andrew Sutton from Katronic Technologies tells us about his experience of the ILM Level 5 at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training and the benefits to both himself and his organisation.

My name is Andrew Sutton and I am Managing Director of Katronic Technologies an award-winning Coventrybased manufacturer of innovative flow measurement technologies for the Industrial and Water sectors. 2024 will be the 25th anniversary of my time at Katronic during which period we have grown from three people in a small office in Coventry to nearly 40 people across four sites in the UK, Germany, France and the US. How far into your qualification are you?

So far, I have completed two modules and am presently working on the third.

Why is ILM level 5 qualification is beneficial?

In its simplest form it has provided a safe space for the other managers on the course to discuss ongoing issues and opportunities within our respective companies. It offers a relaxed learning environment with an excellent tutor who guides us through the various topics in an interesting and inciteful way. It is also giving me the chance to revisit many areas of management strategy that I have

not looked at since my time at university whilst also updating me on the latest thinking in this area.

What training have you found particularly useful in relation to your job role?

The most interesting areas I have looked at, and ones on which I am doing further work privately, are emotional intelligence and active listening. These were areas of study that were new to me and ones that I think have the most impact and benefit on my day-to-day working life.

Do you recommend/enjoy learning at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training?

Having done several courses with Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training over the years I would most definitely recommend them.

I encourage my staff to make use of the facility and look to use available courses as part of staff’s training and personal development plans when conducting appraisals.

If you are interested in doing a ILM level 5 qualification with Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training then please contact enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk

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www.cw-chamber.co.uk

sustainable travel decisions.

To put that into perspective, taking the train leads to five times less carbon emissions compared to using a car*.

This means that a simple train journey between Birmingham New Street and Birmingham International can save over 2kg CO2e emission – an equivalent of boiling more than 300l of water in a kettle.

West Midlands Trains helps businesses cut time, costs, and carbon emission with their free Just Business travel tool.

Each user of the Just Business platform also receives access to a unique reporting tool, allowing them to track the businesses’ carbon footprint and compare this against other modes of travel.

Beyond the immediate benefits of reduced emissions, travelling by train for business offers a wealth of advantages that align with corporate social responsibility, cost-effectiveness, and employee wellbeing.

What are the benefits of using Just Business?

Travel is an essential part of any business, whether it’s visiting existing customers, pitching to prospects, or networking at industry events.

Now more than ever, debates around environmental concerns and climate change increasingly draw attention to the importance of sustainability within a business, with many building it into their CSR and travel management plans.

In this ever-changing world, organisations are re-evaluating their sustainability practices and are open to more environmentally friendly alternatives. Amongst this, train travel emerges as a compelling solution that combines the efficiency of modern transportation with a significantly lower carbon footprint.

That’s why West Midlands Trains (operator of West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway) wants to introduce you to Just Business – a free online platform that has been designed to help businesses simplify booking business train travel whilst assisting in reducing their carbon emissions.

Sophie Gardner, Sales and Partnership Manager at West Midlands Trains, tells us all about the platform and its benefits.

*Based on Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (2023) ‘Greenhouse gas reporting: conversion factors 2023’

What is Just Business?

Aimed at business travellers, Just Business is our free-to-use online platform, designed to help companies streamline their employees train travel and access comprehensive reports, all whilst helping the environment.

The service consolidates and simplifies the train booking process, while helping customers find the cheapest fares available for their journeys on any train route across the UK, with the added benefit of no booking fees (unlike some other providers).

Businesses that sign up are given a unique login for each member of staff so they can individually search, book, and pay for their tickets through the platform. The service also allows companies to set bespoke rules and preferences to determine what tickets employees have permission to book, along with spending caps.

How does it help the environment?

Amongst the many modes of transport to choose from, opting for train travel stands out as one of the most

• 24/7 reporting and dashboard.

• Tickets are sent straight to your email.

• Allows to set company’s individual rules and preferences.

• You can book any operator in the UK. • Supports sustainability initiatives with in-depth carbon emission reporting.

• Employees aren’t out of pocket.

• Saves time and hassle.

• No booking fees.

Who can use Just Business?

Just Business is suitable for any sized business across any industry.

We’ve already helped hundreds of companies overcome business travel-related issues. SLC Rail were an early sign up to the platform and are extremely pleased with the results.

To find out how Just Business could benefit your organisation, get in touch with Sophie Gardner at West Midlands Trains: sophie.gardner@wmtrains.co.uk or 07816 203 399

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Atul Lakhani, CEO of IXL Events Centre, crowned Niche Magazine's Businessman of the Year 2023 in catapulting IXL Events Centre to its current zenith.

Atul’s win also highlights the resilience exhibited by businesses during challenging times. His adeptness at navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing landscape, particularly through the pandemic, and his unwavering commitment to the highest standards of quality, have cemented his reputation as an industry luminary.

In his acceptance speech, Atul Lakhani expressed gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging the invaluable contributions of his dedicated team and the unwavering support of clients and partners.

Whilst ongoing investment has been made to the fabric of the IXL Events Centre, newly recruited positions of Director of Events and Director of Revenue, in addition to a team of exquisite chefs from Dubai, have all been designed to enhance the offering.

Atul affirmed his commitment to continuous innovation, ensuring that IXL Events Centre remains a beacon of excellence in the years to come.

In a spectacular Rio-themed event last month, Atul Lakhani, the visionary CEO of IXL Events Centre, was honoured as the ‘Businessman of the Year 2023’ by Niche Magazine.

and luxury in the event sector. From hosting high-profile corporate launches, for companies like Ferrari, to orchestrating opulent weddings, the event venue has set new benchmarks for impeccable execution and client satisfaction.

This prestigious award celebrates outstanding leadership, innovation, and contribution to the business community.

Atul’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his transformative impact on the events industry were key factors in securing this accolade.

Atul Lakhani's success story is one of dedication and foresight. He envisioned a venue that not only caters to events, but also crafts unforgettable memories.

His keen understanding of client needs, coupled with a penchant for staying ahead of industry trends, has been instrumental

Under Atul’s guidance, IXL Events Centre has emerged as a beacon of innovation

To experience IXL Events Centre for yourself, head to https://www.ixleventscentre.com/

Atul Lakhani's Businessman of the Year award is not only a testament to his individual brilliance, but also a celebration of the collective efforts that have propelled IXL Events Centre to the forefront of the events industry.

Exciting business merger for Armstrongs Chartered Accountants Weavers Accountants, a long-standing practice in Coventry has come together with Armstrongs Chartered Accountants who have three offices across the Midlands.

Weavers Director Edward Buckworth decided that the time had come to retire after an accounting career spanning more than 60 years.

Edward (Ted) said “There were a number of options available to me, but with a longstanding client base, I wanted to ensure that our clients would be well serviced after my departure. Armstrongs shares similar values to Weavers, so I felt that they were a natural fit for my clients and would be the perfect employer for my team.”

A local firm of chartered accountants has merged with a national awardwinning Midlands firm.

Paul Farmer, Director at Armstrongs commented “As a forward-thinking firm, we are always looking for opportunities to expand. So, when Ted contacted us about

his retirement, we knew this would be the ideal route for growing our Coventry office.

“We were excited to have the Weavers staff join our head office team at Westwood Business Park in Coventry and we’re enjoying getting to know our new clients and building long lasting relationships with them.”

With Armstrongs and Weavers coming together, there is an enhanced offering of accountancy and tax services to individuals and businesses across the local area.

Armstrongs provide a wide range of services including accounting, tax, bookkeeping, payroll, corporate finance, wealth planning, audit and assurance, business support and business development. The firm has offices in Coventry, Nuneaton & Hinckley.

For more information on how Armstrongs can help you survive, thrive and achieve fantastic things, please visit www.armstrongs-accountancy.co.uk

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Are you achieving your Business Objectives?

For new Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Engage Member, Nexus Creative Ltd, it is all about your business objectives!

Since Nexus Creative’s government funded link with Coventry University in 2018, via Innovate UK, the company has dramatically increased the number of clients it has won in the area. The 30-year-old marketing agency has seen a steady growth since that time, but recent large ‘wins’ have meant that Engage level Membership and the search for office space in the area is underway.

Managing Director Nigel Harte commented, “We have been very fortunate to win some wonderful clients in Coventry and surrounding areas and to become so involved in this vibrant business area is really allowing us to utilise our expertise.

As a full-service marketing agency, we offer every tactic to illicit business development on behalf of our clients. That is often improved footfall, increased profile or winning them new clients. However, in these difficult business times, revenue generation through what we do is often the imperative end goal.”

Nexus works with a range of organisations in the region, but were delighted to win the marketing contract for the incredible, stateof-the-art recycling facility in the heart of Coventry – Sherbourne Recycling Ltd. Sherbourne Recycling was established in 2021 to develop and operate a new state of the art materials recycling facility in Coventry on behalf of eight local authorities: (Coventry City Council, North Warwickshire Borough Council, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, Rugby Borough Council, Stratfordon-Avon District Council, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, Walsall Council and Warwick District Council) Nigel adds, “We were delighted to have been selected by the team at Sherbourne as their marketing partner. We were engaged when the site was literally a muddy field and we have been involved every step of the way since.

“As the launch of this incredible AI based facility nears opening – we hope that the efforts of everyone involved in this project to consider the people of the region, the environment and how we can improve how waste is handled for the benefit of the planet, makes the team at Sherbourne and Coventry itself, a centre of excellence in this field.”

For more information, head to https://www.nexuscl.com/

17

News

Exciting Launch of Eskuta’s SX-250 Series 4 eBike and SX-800 Electric Motorcycle at the C&W Net Zero Event

How clear is your business’ social media policy?

A Warwickshire law firm has seen the controversy around Gary Lineker’s Twitter activity put social media policies front and centre.

Lodders, a premier law firm with offices in Stratford upon Avon, Cheltenham, Henley in Arden, and Birmingham, offers expert legal advice across a range of legal services including private client, business law, real estate, and family law.

The electric vehicle revolution is well underway, and Eskuta is at the forefront with its latest offerings the SX-250 Series 4 eBike and the SX-800 Electric Motorcycle.

The launch of these innovative electric vehicles has sparked great excitement among enthusiasts, signalling a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Damian Kelly, Head of Lodders’ Employment Law team, identifies some key considerations surrounding businesses’ social media policies.

The SX-250 Series 4 eBike is a gamechanger in urban commuting and adventure seeking. This eBike is built for versatility, with its powerful motor and improved battery, making it suitable for city streets and rural settings alike.

In September, the BBC updated its social media guidelines to include a strengthened “Lineker” clause, which states that individuals are not allowed to endorse or attack a political party, or criticise the character of individual politicians, but are free to express opinions about issues that matter to them.

Equally thrilling is the introduction of the SX-800 Electric Motorcycle. Eskuta’s first electric motorcycle, combining the best aspects of traditional motorcycles and electric power. Its high-performance motor and advanced battery technology are designed to deliver unmatched speed, agility, and sustainability.

The dispute between Gary Lineker and the BBC around his social media activity this year highlighted the need for a clear social media policy to avoid ambiguity and the importance of extending a social media policy to anyone who represents the brand and the business – employees, contractors, and freelancers.

Who does your social media policy cover?

You may be tempted to think that if a social media policy is in place, it will automatically be clear who it applies to, and people will understand how it impacts them. However, this is a risky approach.

If your business uses freelancers, contractors and other third parties, then it may be best to ensure they are aware of, and adhere to, your social media policy, to help protect your brand. Bear in mind that as much as social media can enhance brand awareness, it can be equally powerful when it comes to damaging brands too.

This does not mean that social media is something to steer clear of, but rather that it is a useful tool when used correctly.

What does the policy extend to?

As social media platforms are integrated into everyday life for lots of people, it is likely that many of your staff will already have personal social media channels.

By extending their social media policy to personal social media accounts too, employers ensure that staff can be held accountable for their actions if, for example, they said something derogatory about your business on one of their

By creating electric vehicles that cater to different needs and preferences, Eskuta is driving the transition towards a greener and cleaner mode of transportation. The SX-250 Series 4 eBike and SX-800 Electric Motorcycle are clear indicators of Eskuta's determination to bring freedom of motion and eco-consciousness to the masses.

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How will you ensure staff understand your social media policy?

The best way to make sure that all staff are made aware of your social media policy (other than sharing it with them, of course) is to provide training for all employees – and contractors, if the policy extends to them too. This will minimise the chances of a dispute. Should a dispute arise around their use of social media, offering adequate training will also mean that staff are less likely to be able to claim that they were not aware of how the policy affected them.

For more advice visit: www.lodders.co.uk

Iconic horseracing venue in the saddle for an exciting new future physio rooms, a safeguarding area, and a new weighing room.

To showcase its latest models, Eskuta recently attended the Net Zero event - an important gathering of industry leaders and environmental enthusiasts rallying for a carbon-neutral future. With sustainability at the core of its vision, it was the perfect platform for Eskuta to share its electric vehicles and contribute to the move to a more ecological transportation system.

The attendance of Eskuta at the Net Zero event not only demonstrates Eskuta's commitment to reducing carbon emissions but also highlights their dedication to making electric vehicles accessible to a wider audience.

channels. All staff should be made aware of exactly what this means for them.

Leading development and construction company The Wigley Group was appointed

by The Jockey Club to carry out the work.

James Davies, Chief Executive Officer of The Wigley Group, which is based in Southam in Warwickshire, said: “It’s been great to work with The Jockey Club to bring their vision for such an iconic venue to life.

“This has been a really exciting project to work on which not only enhances the spectator offering and provides high-quality facilities for all sports professionals, but also delivers sustainability improvements with the installation of solar panels and low energy lighting throughout.”

One of the UK’s most iconic horseracing venues is in the saddle for an exciting new future thanks to the completion of a multi-million-pound redevelopment project.

Newmarket’s July Course has received a series of upgrades as part of an ongoing industry-wide project to modernise facilities for spectators and all jockeys.

A spectacular new Champagne Bar and viewing terrace has been created

to enhance the spectator offering in The Head-on Stand, offering stunning views over the racecourse.

The Champagne bar provides a brand-new alfresco dining experience with capacity for 195 people on the new terrace, alongside more than 130 on the ground floor.

Jockey facilities have also been revamped in The Weighing Room, including new showers and toilets, male/female/flexi changing rooms,

The Wigley Group is heavily involved in racing, having previously undertaken improvement works at Warwick Racecourse, and recently launching a new development partnership with National Hunt racecourse trainer Ben Pauling to establish a new events and weddings venue in Naunton Downs, in the Cotswolds.

It is an ISO 45001, 9001 and 14001 certificated company active in real estate investment, development and construction, as well as asset management of portfolios for both itself and commercial partners.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

HB&O

By your side: providing solutions for growth, not just compliance HB&O is an award-winning Accountancy and Business Advisory firm, with offices based in Leamington Spa and Coventry. Offering a range of professional services to both individuals and businesses, our team of dedicated, approachable accounting professionals bring a broad range of expertise and experience to help support our clients throughout every stage of their personal and professional lives.

A

t HB&O, we offer everything that you would typically expect from an accountancy firm: compliance services, tax and VAT advice, audit, outsourced solutions to bookkeeping, corporate finance and payroll. But with increasing numbers of firms to choose from, it’s really important that our current and prospective clients can easily understand what sets HB&O apart from the rest.

Managing Director of HB&O, Mark Ashfield, says “HB&O as it is today is well known in Coventry and Warwickshire – it’s our 20th anniversary next year and we’re extremely proud of the contribution we’ve made through supporting clients both locally and nationally with their accounting and financial needs."

We operate as an extension of our clients’ existing financial decisionmakers and work alongside business owners and their wider finance departments.

Not only do we ensure they remain compliant and tax efficient, but it’s our business advisory and growth solutions service that go that additional step and really hone in on what businesses could be doing to maximise revenue and drive their business forward. The team at HB&O is made up of highly specialist professionals - they’ve worked at big four firms, have decades of experience and have dealt with businesses of every kind. We understand the challenges that business owners face and we are genuinely passionate about finding solutions and helping to implement them.

"More recently, however, it’s been our business advisory services, which come hand in hand with our standard offering, which we feel has made a significant positive impact on the satisfaction of our clients. The accounting and finance marketplace is adapting and evolving quickly and it’s important that business owners feel completely reassured that they’ve got professionals at the end of the phone who are working for them, but also with them. That’s what clients receive at HB&O – we’ve worked with businesses in every sector, of all different sizes and with varying regulations and requirements, and we realise that people need solutions for growth, not just compliance."

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

"So if you would like to find out more about how our experienced professionals can help you on your journey, don’t hesitate to get in touch and we can talk through exactly what you’d like to achieve and what needs to be put in place to reach those objectives.”

Last month, HB&O were awarded International Firm of the Year 2023, a great achievement and recognition of our increasing global presence. We are also members of DFK International, a global network of more than 200 accountancy firms spread across over 100 counties. Our membership is a huge benefit to our clients – it enables us to fully support those who do business internationally, referring them to likeminded firms with similar values to provide a seamless service.

We have built a substantial network of global relationships through our association with DFK International, through which we have actively promoted our in-house VAT department and we are now well-known for being a mid-tier firm who can assist with crossborder VAT and Indirect Tax queries.

As more clients look to expand into markets beyond UK shores, our specialist department has been able to support and advise to ensure that clients meet their VAT obligations in the most efficient way possible.

If you would like to find out more about how HB&O could work alongside you, get in touch to arrange a complimentary initial consultation with a member of the team.

I can honestly say the team are outstanding and have helped me have a better understanding of my business finances. I feel confident that my business affairs are being dealt with in a professional manner, but also feel that the team are working for me and have the best interests of the business at heart.

Theresa McEwan - Vauxsell Ltd

19

Profile: Dr Rebecca Gater Over the past 20 years, skills have been close to the top of the list when businesses have been asked what is holding back their growth.

More recent events – from Brexit to Covid – coupled with a rise in new industries have made the issue more acute.

Finding a solution which understands the complexities involved has long been talked about at a national level but has, until now, fallen short.

That might be about to change.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce – together with other Chambers and business groups across the West Midlands and Warwickshire, alongside local education establishments – has led on a new Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) to look at all of the issues in a rounded way.

That has seen the creation of a new Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) and Dr Rebecca Gater, the chief executive and principal of Stratford-upon-Avon College – now part of the Solihull College and University Centre Group – is one of the experts leading the charge to see it delivered.

“We’re focussing on the skills needs for the area and we’ve been working with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on the LSIF, which we’re leading on in the West Midlands and Warwickshire,” said Rebecca.

“This process is definitely at the forefront of addressing the skills needs for the area and we are working collaboratively with other providers to fill those gaps.

“In terms of our LSIF, we’ve got six key projects. The first one is around electrification, electric vehicles and battery technology, and looking at how we can support engineering and other businesses to upskill their staff and access training. The second project is focussed on low carbon and sustainable future housing.

“The third is looking at green skills and then, as one would expect, there’s digital across two ends of the spectrum. We’re looking at the very basic digital skills needed for work. The Midlands is coming from a low starting point because 15 per cent of people don’t have those skills, which is double the national average.

“That means getting out to the harder to reach areas and taking the learning to them when it comes to Word, internet searching, Excel – the basic packages and skills needed for work – rather than expecting learners to come to us.

“Then there are the really high level digital skills such as machine learning and artificial intelligence and how businesses can use those to be more productive and efficient in their own industries.

Bridging the gap Dr Rebecca Gater heads up Stratford-uponAvon College and is helping to lead the charge to improve skills across the region. In an interview with C&W in Business, she reflects on the opportunity to bridge the gap between education and business and on her own rise to being an educational leader.

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“And, finally, the sixth project is looking at employer engagement and having a systematic approach across the region. At the moment, the feedback from our businesses is that they get approached all the time by lots of providers and it becomes quite overwhelming.

We need a much more aligned, joined-up approach.

“We’re looking at a dating service, almost, where businesses say what they need and we match them with the providers who can supply that. We’re putting employers in the driving seat for that but in a joined-up way that works collaboratively rather than providers competing with one another.”

Rebecca started her career in business before moving into education and, although it was a brief stint, it has given her an understanding of how the two can work better together.

Her own learning has covered business and education too – she has an MBA in Executive Leadership and Management from the University of Worcester, and a Doctorate in Education from Birmingham Newman University.

After working in retail management, firstly in the crystal industry and then with the Early Learning Centre, she moved across to teaching and gained experience both in FE and in a school.

Eight years ago, Rebecca joined Solihull College as assistant principal and was part of the team that led the merger with Stratford in 2018.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Profile: Dr Rebecca Gater She said: “Stratford-upon-Avon College was looking for a merger. They had gone through some challenges in terms of finances and reputation. They needed some support and merger was seen as the best route.

“They were a small college and they were looking for a partner to support them and help get them back on an even keel. They were looking for a greater college community and, for us, it was a good geographical link and there was strong alignment in terms of the curriculum offered.

“With Stratford-upon-Avon specialising in creative, as it did at the time, we thought we could complement one another.

“It was a competitive process and it worked out well for both parties.”

Millions of pounds have been invested to modernise Stratford-upon-Avon College’s buildings and give a fresh feel to the whole campus.

In the meantime, Rebecca has risen to be principal and chief executive and the college has enjoyed some noticeable achievements, despite the challenge of Covid.

“We had our first Ofsted as a college since the merger a year and a half ago and it was Good,” she said.

“Previously, Stratford was requiring improvement.

“Some of the feedback from the inspectors was that we’d got really good alignment in terms of education across all of the campuses which was really positive and that was something we were aiming to achieve.

“We’ve seen steady growth in terms of learner numbers since the merger.

“There has also been huge investment. Five years ago, we’d have been sat in quite a dilapidated building but big investment has gone into developing new buildings and making this a great place to come to work and study.

We’ve also invested in the landscaping. We’ve removed some of those older buildings and revitalised others.

“We’ve invested millions of pounds in equipment and it has all been about making this campus a place that everyone can be proud of.

“There have been lots of achievements we can point to, despite Covid, which obviously presented huge challenges for all education institutions and, of course, all businesses and organisations.

“There are so many positives already and we’re looking to build on those further. We’re close to completing all of the big works around investment – it should be finished by the end of this year – and we’ll showcase everything that we’ve done. It’s a completely different place.”

As part of the LSIF, Stratford-upon-Avon College is bidding to create a heat pump installation centre on-site – a move that would revolutionise training in a technology seen as crucial in decarbonising homes across the UK. It’s also an example of how to stay relevant and up-to-date with business and economic needs.

Rebecca said: “There is now a trend of student number growth. We’ve diversified the curriculum.

We still have a strong focus on creative which you’d expect in this area but we’ve invested in electrical, plumbing and construction workshops. We’ve got a bid in to the Department for Education for a heat pump installation centre.

“Skills gaps and labour trends change quite rapidly and the data we receive can sometimes be out of date so we have to keep on top of the information in other ways.

That means that we need to keep listening to employers and finding out what their needs are to help fill their talent pipeline.

“All of our curriculum areas have links to employers because they will support with work experience, offer placements or they will come and do speaker slots for us. So, we have those informal networks but we also have formal industry panels where we’ll have a select number of businesses that come and do a business breakfast and talk to us about their industry. Both are important because you can glean different information from both sides.”

As well as looking to solve the skills crisis in business, Rebecca is keen to support others in education in following in her footsteps to become a senior leader.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

She has undertaken research into why people become teachers – but don’t necessarily have the desire to take the next step into senior leadership.

“I had ambition and wanted to develop but I also had to take advantage of opportunities when they came along,” said Rebecca. “I never considered when I came into FE that it was an option to become a principal/chief executive of a college, I enjoyed what I did at the time.

When opportunities came, I took them. My research suggests most senior leaders in FE would say something similar.

“In my first few years in FE, there was always change due to austerity and cutbacks, so you either had to go for the next role or you took redundancy.

“Now I’m the principal of a college and it’s a real privilege!”

Just as many industries are seeing experienced professionals leave with their skills being replaced, Rebecca says that is a trend in education too.

“Part of the research I was doing was because we have a shortage of aspiring leaders ,” she said. “There are a lot of people in senior positions who are close to retirement and there is a lack of through-put and pipeline. People aren’t interested in making those moves.

Why is that the case? It’s very rewarding and there are lots of people who would be very good in those roles.

“There’s a perception that you need to have had a privileged upbringing or a private education to succeed in these senior positions – but that’s not the case and you have to let people know that to create ambition.

When you boil it down, we’re all just people and just because someone goes on to be a senior leader they shouldn’t be put on a pedestal. Others can achieve these positions too.”

There is also a desire to show that being principal doesn’t mean work-life balance has to go out of the window – and that leadership can be kind.

“What I aim to be is a consultative, collaborative leader and have empathy with people,” said Rebecca.

“In terms of the position I am in there has been a shift.

As a teacher, the students I taught were the most important people in my professional life whereas now, it’s the staff equally. If they feel they are in a good place

and are well looked after, they will give that really good experience to our students.

“Since I’ve been in post, I’ve consulted on and launched a new strategic plan. Previously, it was done with the senior leadership team and the governors and there was little consultation outside of that.

“I approached that differently and this is where my experience and business and leadership qualifications have helped me. I made sure that staff members, students and external stakeholders had the opportunity to be involved so they could be heard and could contribute.

“Giving time to people and hearing what they have to say and having an open door policy – as much as you can – is vital. If anyone wants ten minutes and a cup of coffee, I’ll always make time for that because it’s crucial that I’m there to listen and support change based on feedback.

“I often remind people that we’re all just human. Just because I stand up on a stage and talk to hundreds of people doesn’t mean I’m not nervous about it. We’ve all got our own personalities, hang-ups, impostersyndrome, and families and friends outside of work.

We all experience these things but it shouldn’t put you off being ambitious and doing what you want to do.

“I am also quite good at getting the work-life balance right. I’ve got a big family. I’ve got two teenage daughters and two in their twenties and 15 nieces and nephews. So, even if I have work on my mind when I get home, they can all quickly snap me out.

“There’s never a quiet moment!

“I’ve been conscious of trying to set an example and say to staff I don’t want to see them on emails in an evening or the weekend and I have to make sure I follow that. I will catch up with work when I need to at the weekend, especially if there are a spare couple of hours when my husband is watching football!

“But I make sure I’m not firing off emails to other people and don’t want it to be a race to be the first in the office. If you are doing a good job, you are doing a good job.”

❛❛

There are a lot of people in senior positions who are close to retirement and there is a lack of through-put and pipeline. People aren’t interested in making those moves.

Why is that the case? It’s very rewarding and there are lots of people who would be very good in those roles.

About Dr Rebecca Gater

❜❜

Married:

Yes – to Darren – I was 18 when we met and we’ve been together ever since Children: Yes four daughters aged 24, 21, 19 and 17 Hobbies: I enjoy racquetball, Pilates and cooking for friends and family Favourite Book: That’s an impossible question as I’m a real bookworm! Those that have had lasting impact I studied at school - ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ by Harper Lee and ‘In Cold Blood’ by Truman Capote, ‘Lovely Bones’ by Alice Sebold was deeply moving and I am inspired by Maya Angelou.

Favourite Film: I love classic psychological thrillers such as ‘Sleeping with the Enemy’ and ‘The Hand that Rocks the Cradle’. I have to watch ‘The Holiday’ and ‘This Christmas’ every festive season. I really enjoyed Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie and think she’s an incredible director.

Last Holiday: Perpignan, South France last summer with my husband and daughters Gadget: I have a family of six so it would have to be the dishwasher and washing machine – nothing too technical!

21

Economy

Chamber uses its platform to hit out at HS2 decision

Survey says businesses feel more confident

The economic outlook in Coventry and Warwickshire has improved dramatically, according to a survey of businesses in the region. on November 10, said: “It is great to see such a bounce back in confidence among Chamber members – this is, more than likely, due to the fact that inflation is coming down from its peak and firms feel that they can start to plan for the future.

“Coventry and Warwickshire businesses have proved to be extremely resilient over the past three or four years, in the face of unprecedented events which have led to growing uncertainty.

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has hit out at the cancellation of HS2 between Birmingham and Manchester.

The Prime Minister confirmed at the Conservative Party Conference that the new line between Manchester and Birmingham will no longer be built, despite years of planning.

Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said it is an opportunity wasted and that the decision is the ‘opposite of levelling up.”

He said: “This is an incredibly frustrating decision for businesses across the Midlands and the North of England and the fact that this twoweek debate about whether it was speculation or not has been played out in public, is frankly insulting.

“Hundreds of thousands of hours have been wasted planning this project, community-changing regeneration plans are now not feasible along the route, businesses and residents have already been moved to clear the way for a line that will never appear and overseas investors will be looking at the UK in bewilderment.

“Now, we must start another decades-long planning process to get our infrastructure reform started and businesses across our region will continue to see their trucks stuck on motorways with no capacity for freight and their staff stuck on trains with no more capacity for passengers.

This is the opposite of levelling up.”

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The latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce shows a jump in confidence in both the manufacturing and services sector, leading to a stronger outlook for the economy.

The survey, which is delivered in partnership with Prime Accountants Group, is analysed by the Economy & Skills Group at Warwickshire County Council. From the responses of businesses across the services and manufacturing sector, it gives scores out of 100 where anything above 50 is positive and below is negative.

The economic outlook now sits at 62.3 following the third quarter survey – up from 50.6 in the second quarter of year, which is a considerable rise. The manufacturing sector saw the biggest leap, from 52.7 up to 71.5.

Both domestically and internationally, manufacturers in Coventry and Warwickshire have seen a strong

improvement in sales, moving from 55.9 to 72.9 on the home front and from 57.7 to 70.5 in the overseas market.

The service sector has also seen a rise, if less dramatic, from 48.5 to 54.5 domestically and from 45.2 to 55.7 internationally.

The survey suggests more jobs are set to be created in the region, with both sectors reporting a need to recruit while investment and cashflow have also seen an uptick in the past three months.

It all adds up to much more confidence being shown by the businesses who took part in the survey, which is both a barometer for the regional economy and is also fed into the British Chambers of Commerce’s national survey.

In the service sector, the confidence levels have moved from 58.0 to 61.3 and, in manufacturing, the score has reached 72.5 having previously been at 60.3 in the last quarter.

Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants and vice president of the Chamber – who will be a panellist at the Chamber’s Annual Economic Conference

“That is why our economy in the region has remained pretty stable but, what we’d like to see now, is a real drive for growth and this latest survey suggests that could be a possibility in the not-toodistant future.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, added: “I don’t think anyone is suggesting that we are out of the woods when it comes to the number of issues facing companies across our patch.

“Inflation is starting to fall – but it’s still way above target – and interest rates are still much higher than the record lows we’ve seen in recent years.

“It’s still incredibly difficult for firms to attract the skilled staff they need to be able to grow and that is something we are working with partners to look to address in the short, medium and long term.

“All that said, this is a very positive QES for the third quarter of 2023 and I hope we can build on this sentiment and start to see some serious growth in our economy in the coming years and, crucially, that it has a meaningful impact on communities across the whole of Coventry and Warwickshire.”

QES – Q3 2023 results Economic Outlook

• Overall, 62.3, up from 50.6 • Service Sector 56.5, up from 50.3 • Manufacturing Sector 71.5, up from 52.7

Domestic Sales

• Service Sector 54.5, up from 48.5 • Manufacturing Sector 72.9, up from 55.9

Overseas Sales

• Service Sector 55.7, up from 45.2 • Manufacturing Sector 70.5, up from 57.7

Employment • Service Sector 58.2, up from 51.6 • Manufacturing Sector 73.0, up from 54.4

Investment & Cashflow • Service Sector 52.2, up from 45.2 • Manufacturing Sector 69.0, up from 39.0

Business Confidence • Service Sector 61.3, up from 58.0 • Manufacturing Sector 72.5, up from 60.3

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Economy

Midlands businesses urged to stay ahead of making tax digital Prime Accountants Group, which has offices in Birmingham, Solihull and

Coventry, says businesses would be wise to prepare for the legislation now and treat the delay as an opportunity to better learn how to reap the benefits from it.

Instead of launching in April 2024, HRMC announced the first phase of MTD for ITSA will follow a phased approach from April 2026, for sole traders and landlords earning above £50,000.

A leading Midlands accountancy firm has urged businesses in the region to continue preparations for Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax Self-Assessment (ITSA), despite the two-year extension to the deadline.

which will equip owners with real-time data, reports and guidance available at their fingertips.”

Jeremy said the new system will allow businesses to understand their financial position and performance better, and in real time, empowering them to make smart and more effective changes to their practices.

The system will require digital records to be kept and the digital submission of tax returns, drastically reducing human error.

Jeremy Kitson, director at Prime Accountants Group, said: “While this deadline has been pushed back considerably, we strongly urge all businesses, including sole-traders and landlords, to make a head start on implementing the practices around the new system.

However, Jeremy urged all business owners to prepare in advance to ensure they are well-prepared for the administration required to submit reports quarterly, using the system to its full advantage.

“The benefits go far beyond simplifying basic accounting tasks. The new system requires data to be submitted quarterly, in addition to an end-of-period statement,

He concluded: “While we welcome the change, it is the responsibility of all business owners to work it into their everyday business practices.

The most effective businesses will prepare in advance and will no doubt reap the benefits of the system sooner.

“The onus is on us as professionals and leaders in the industry and we take that very seriously. At Prime, we always work as an extension of our clients’ teams and are already working with them to implement changes well ahead of the 2026 deadline.

“We welcome any conversation with owners in the region looking for guidance and support and will continue to help the region navigate through this impending change in the months to come.”

To find out more about Making Tax Digital, visit www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-tax-digital.

For more information on Prime Accountants, visit https://primeaccountants.co.uk

Small rise in GDP shows need for long-term strategy The chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce says there is a long way to go before the economy is back on track.

Corin Crane was responding to the 0.2 per cent rise in GDP in August and said it was a further sign of slow growth.

He said: “Of course, any growth is much better than the economy contracting and it really is a testament to businesses in this region – and the UK as a whole – that they continue to show resilience in the face of really tough circumstances.

“Our latest survey figures appear to show that there are signs of confidence returning in Coventry and Warwickshire but there is still a long way to go before the economy is back on track.

“There has been so much uncertainty over the past few years and that has weighed heavy on businesses’ ability to grow.

“What we really need now is a long-term strategy for our economy to give businesses the confidence to invest for the future and, as ever, our team at the Chamber is here to support companies across the patch to help them succeed.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

“We’ll be delving into the economic outlook, the barriers to growth and the future of Coventry and Warwickshire at our annual conference in November and would urge firms to sign up to be there.”

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “With GDP growing by 0.3 per cent in the three months to August, and by 0.2 per cent on a monthly basis, the UK economy is holding up but remains in a precarious state. The production sector, in particular, has seen worrying data revisions showing stark monthly falls in growth.

“Our research is clear about the issues UK firms are facing three years of economic shocks, high inflation and interest rates, skills shortages, and trade barriers with the European Union. Consequently, most SMEs report no increase in their investment plans.

“Businesses need to see a strategic vision for the long-term framework for investment in the UK. Recent policy announcements around projects, such as HS2, will have generated more uncertainty for businesses searching for stability.”

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www.briuk.co.uk 23

News

Recruitment firm helps find a ‘Good Egg’ accountant for McColm Cardew Nicola and Annette from Good Egg Recruitment first met Adriana from McColm Cardew in June 2022 whilst attending a Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Net-walking event - and a relationship was formed.

The Leprosy Mission – Changing lives around the world Did you know that someone is diagnosed with leprosy every two minutes?

Leprosy is a disease of poverty that if untreated, can lead to disabilities, but it is easily curable. In fact, it costs £24 to cure a child like Rani.

Rani, pictured, was bullied at school because of leprosy. This came at a terrible time, soon after her father had deserted Rani and her mother Renuka. Then she faced further rejection from her friends.

When they found out she was being treated for leprosy, they called her names.

They taunted her relentlessly about the discoloured patches of skin on her face caused by leprosy.

Rani was so upset by this and refused to go to school. She cried until her mum gave in, even though she desperately wanted her daughter to have an education. At the time Renuka was trying to build up her father's pottery business after his sudden death. She felt the burden of being the breadwinner and didn't want to see Rani struggle in the same way. Education would be Rani’s ticket out of poverty.

Now Rani is back at school because of a leprosy awareness project funded by the Leprosy Mission. The children and teachers have learned that they don’t have to be scared of the disease and that it’s easily cured. Rani’s classmates understand that she’s not cursed and will not make them sick. She has friends to sit next to and play with once more.

Rani said: “Now I am happy going to school and would like to be a doctor when I grow up.”

To find out more, contact Guy Willcock, Community Partnerships Manager for Central England, at guyw@tlmew.org.uk

26

In April, Adriana contacted Good Egg Recruitment and asked Nicola and Annette to help with finding a great accountant. Annette and Nicola attended a client visit to meet Adriana and Alastair to find out more about the business, team, culture and the job opportunity.

After going through the full

recruitment process a “Good Egg” was found aka David who was offered the accountant’s role and accepted.

McColm Cardew has been offering accountancy services for over 23 years. They believe that it is important to be part of the local and wider community and have offices on the Main Street in Bilton. Adriana and Alastair find assisting new and existing clients to understand the ever-changing reporting and taxation rules is an enjoyable challenge.

They have always found that working with other like-minded businesses to be the best way

forward. So, when they were looking to enhance their team, they were very happy to work with Nicola and Annette from Good Egg Recruitment who they found to be professional. Good Egg Recruitment understood McColm Cardew’s needs and have found a very suitable candidate.

Accountant David said: “I found Good Egg to be thoroughly professional and the service offered was very comprehensive and personal.

“They took the time to understand my requirements and ensure these matched what their clients were looking for.

“I felt throughout the whole process that they cared and it showed, the personal touch certainly shone through right from the beginning of the process to finding a placement.”

TBAT Innovation awards life-saving sepsis test as 2023 Innovation Challenge winner Innovators of a life-saving sepsis test, Septest, have claimed the top prize at the Finalist Showcase of this year’s TBAT Innovation Challenge.

The final on 11th October was a culmination of months of work following the annual competition’s launch in February. The challenge is dedicated to nurturing and advancing innovation in small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs), offering financial and business support to progress game-changing ideas or products.

Septest clinched this victory by unveiling a groundbreaking sepsis diagnostic test – a condition which is responsible for one in five deaths worldwide [World Health Organisation] and kills 48,000 people every year in the UK [UK Sepsis Trust]. Septest’s rapid point of need test delivers results in minutes, which is a monumental improvement over current tests, which can take hours to yield results - a delay that can have life-threatening consequences.

Septest's innovation has the potential to save countless lives by enabling faster diagnosis and providing guidance on the most effective

initial treatment options for this devastating condition.

TBAT, alongside headline sponsor Shakespeare Martineau, made the night a memorable one, shedding light on the immense talent and potential within the industry at the event at the Hilton East Midlands Airport Hotel. With 10 finalists, the competition was fierce and showcased an impressive range of ideas and projects from various sectors including design, health, mobility, and artificial intelligence.

As this year’s winners, Septest will receive a part of a support package valued at £50,000, customised to propel their business to new heights. As part of this prize package, Septest will receive grant funding application assistance, legal aid, intellectual property audits, accountancy support, regulatory services, professional marketing assistance, and advanced PR and communications consultancy from TBAT Innovation’s sponsors and supporting partners.

Heartfelt Technologies was awarded a runner up prize for an automatic, AI supported, non-contact telemonitoring solution for

heart failure patients. Zeal Lifestyle was also awarded a runner up prize for redefining the assisted living sector with its focus on recyclability and sustainability.

Sam Stephens, founding director of TBAT, said: "The quality of entries we received this year was truly astounding. It's great to witness such original and pioneering spirit among small businesses and to be part of their journey towards achieving great milestones."

Kelly Wilson, co-founder of Septest, said: “Winning the Innovation Challenge is a wonderful way to acknowledge the Septest team’s hard work and dedication in trying to solve the global sepsis diagnostic challenge.

We're incredibly thankful to TBAT and all sponsors for recognising our efforts and for providing this platform for growth. The support from the TBAT team, both in financial aid and business expertise, is transformational for start-up businesses like ours."

For more information on this year’s winners, visit www.septest.com, and for further information on the Innovation Challenge, visit www.tbat.co.uk/the-innovation-challenge.

Businesses take centre stage at the Belgrade Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire reflected on the mixed economic picture in the region and felt while recent row-backs from the government were not helping, there is still optimism.

The Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce hosted its Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) Breakfast Briefing at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry, where panellists and audience members discussed the latest results of the survey and their own experiences of running their businesses.

Neil Murray, the interim chief executive at the Belgrade Theatre, gave an update on the arts and culture sector and also showcased the venue’s unique meeting space offer to the gathered businesses.

Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants Group – the Chamber’s QES partner - then joined a panel consisting of Carol Thomas, Principal and CEO of Coventry College, Sarah Windrum, Future Mobility Cluster Lead at HORIBA MIRA, and Adam Dent, representing PR firm PLMR Advent.

Steve said: “The QES is a key indicator of how the local economy is performing, and the results reflect what we’re hearing from businesses.

“We’re seeing construction companies being significantly affected by interest rate rises, with many projects slowing down.

"We may be looking at a downturn in the next six months in that sector.

“But there are success stories too, for example within the manufacturing sector which is showing greater confidence than expected.

“There are also opportunities out there with the ongoing drive to digitise tax across businesses by 2030, and should make it easier for firms across the region to stay compliant and focus more on growing their businesses.”

Carol added: “Upskilling the current and future workforce is a crucial role of our college to help make the region more competitive, but we could do with more clarity from the Government.

“Changes to qualifications such as T-Levels, the Government’s U-turn on electric vehicles and no sense of urgency regarding mandatory energy efficient measures in construction, has meant we have invested in courses that are no longer as urgent as they once were.

“If we are to teach the population the skills they need to thrive in the future, we need a firm decision on what the future is going to look like.”

Regional business leaders take centre stage at the Belgrade Theatre

“Our manufacturing supply chains in Coventry & Warwickshire are strong, but we need that certainty from the Government to convince investors to back the sector here.”

Sean Rose, Head of Policy at the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, hosted the event.

And Sarah added: “There are three things holding back the electric vehicle industry at the moment – access to capital, inflation, and a lack of an industrial strategy.

He said: “Our QES results paint an important picture of the economy in our region, but it’s discussion with businesses that really shed light on what’s happening on the ground.

“The UK is facing stiff competition from the likes of the USA, Germany, France, and Korea, who have clear industrial strategies that encourage investment.

“The discussion at the Belgrade confirmed it’s still a mixed picture for Coventry and Warwickshire, and it has provided us with extra context to feed back to senior decision makers.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Diverse Matters

DIVERSE MATTERS is a diversity and inclusion

consultancy that works with organisations within the UK and globally to embed diversity and inclusion within their practices.

We use a tailored approach to ensure that the services required meets the specific needs of the organisation and is fit for purpose as 'one size does not fit all'.

Many people are now starting to understand the importance of diversity and inclusion to an organisation.

Research has evidenced that by recruiting diverse teams and implementing an inclusive culture, this enhances the performance of organisations. Organisations want to provide the best service and ensure their teams can be their authentic selves at work and be supported to reach their potential.

Diversity and inclusion really is key to an organisation’s success.

Embedding Diversity and Inclusion will: • Enhance service delivery • Increase retention of employees and volunteers • Improve performance • Increase morale of teams • Reduce recruitment costs • Enhances reputation • Enhance creativity

Our mission and values Our mission is to authentically, and with purpose, support organisations to enhance their inclusion, equity and inclusive practice. We do this with passion, honesty, without bias. with a positive attitude.

Diverse Matters values are important to us, as an organisation we are: • Authentic • Inclusive • Creative • Honest

Our services

needs of service users in addition to areas affecting our communities including hate crime, and community cohesion. In addition to specific areas regarding children and young people including safeguarding and child sexual exploitation.

The Diverse Matters team have several years’ experience and expertise in working within the diversity and inclusion field.

We provide our services in an engaging and supportive way ensuring that all activities/offerings have a positive impact and ensures results for our clients!

We offer a range of solutions including our diversity and inclusion audits, training, policy reviews, toolkit and guidance development, coaching, delivery of focus groups, HR support, research and analysis and diversity and inclusion seminars.

We have a holistic approach to diversity and inclusion and work with our partners to provide support to fully embed an inclusive workplace including psychological assessments, personal development programmes, Mindfulness and more.

We also look at the wider diversity issues with a strong focus on service delivery and meeting the diverse

Diverse Matters will support you at whatever stage in your journey in enhancing Diversity and Inclusion

Natasha Broomfield-Reid, Director/Principal Consultant practice. Whether you would like to enhance the skills of your teams, develop your Inclusion strategy or meet the needs of your diverse clients we use a bespoke and tailored approach to ensure that the approach works for you.

Our Clients Diverse Matters work with a variety of organisations from across the public, private and voluntary sectors within the UK and globally. This includes Housing, Public Sector, Criminal Justice, Education, Health, financial sector, legal, professional services, design, energy, construction, the Arts, marketing/PR and retail.

Embedding diversity and inclusive culture is an ongoing process but it the journey is worth it! If you would like to ensure that your organisation is meeting the needs of your service users, your teams are supported, your leaders/ managers are equipped with the best skills to get the best from their teams, you need greater awareness of diversity within the company – get in touch!!

Diversity & Inclusion - why does it matter?

Organisations are now starting to understand and value the business case for Diversity and Inclusion.

Research has evidenced that by recruiting and retaining diverse teams and implementing an inclusive culture this increases creativity within your workforce and enhances the performance of organisations. For teams to thrive and clients needs to be met embedding diversity and inclusion really is the key to an organisation's success.

Diverse Matters offer a range of services to support you to address inclusion in the workplace and in service delivery.

Find out more @ 02475 101500

hello@diversematters.co.uk

Diverse Matters UK

@diversemattersconsultancy

@diverse_matters www.cw-chamber.co.uk

@diversematters1 27

News How Estate Planning can Safeguard your Legacy MTI celebrates Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) medical decisions on your behalf should five greatest you become incapacitated.

An LPA grants someone you trust • Avoiding Family Conflicts - a wellthe authority to make financial and/or achievements on crafted estate plan can help prevent healthcare decisions on your behalf disputes among heirs by clearly if you become unable to do so.

Fifth Anniversary outlining your intentions.

Innovative new programmes, partnerships with industry, and successful school outreach activities are on the list of its greatest achievements as the MIRA Technology Institute (MTI) marks its fifth anniversary.

The MTI is helping to create specialist skills in emerging technology areas in the automotive sector including electrification, connected and autonomous vehicles, functional safety, and cybersecurity, as part of its mission to ensure a sustainable supply of future technical specialists and engineers.

Since it first opened its doors, the Institute has welcomed over 42,500 students and delegates.

This includes over 3,000 studying for accredited qualifications from a Level 1 Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) certificate up to Masters’ degrees, and over 850 apprenticeships at all levels. More than 17,000 automotive professionals have taken part in professional development activities.

Lisa Bingley, Operations Director at the MTI, said: “We’re very proud of what we have achieved over the last five years and, reflecting on our successes, I am pleased that we can include: •

New postgraduate and short courses in connected and autonomous vehicles.

•

Innovative training programmes in hydrogen fuel cell technology.

•

Responsive electrification programme for Jaguar Land Rover employees.

•

Dynamic and popular schools outreach activities including TeenTech and Speed Networking.

•

Huge and consistent demand for our services from over 42,000 students and delegates.”

The MTI, which opened its doors in September 2018, is a unique partnership between North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC), as the lead partner, HORIBA MIRA Ltd, Coventry University, Loughborough University, and the University of Leicester. It was built with £9.5 million investment from the Government’s Local Growth Fund via the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) after research showed rising demand for specialist technical skills across the automotive sector.

Marion Plant, OBE FCGI, Chair of the MTI Operations Board, and Principal and Chief Executive of NWSLC, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the first five years of the MTI and I am very proud of all that it has achieved so far.

This has been a remarkable period of disruption, change and growth for the automotive industry and we are pleased to be able to support the sector, especially with one of its key challenges - the increasing need for skilled individuals who are able to adapt to the changes and embrace new technologies. I would like to thank all our partners and clients with whom we have worked for the last five years and look forward to seeing the continued success of the MTI in the future.”

Declan Allen, Managing Director of HORIBA MIRA Ltd, said: “It has been an incredible period during which our partners have worked together to bring MTI’s vision to fruition. You can feel the energy and enthusiasm at this amazing facility which has demonstrated its potential brilliantly over the last five years. This unique collaboration between industry and higher and further education is successfully delivering the high-end technical skills for the mobility sector that are essential to boosting our growth and supporting the prosperity of the region.”

28

Estate planning is a multifaceted process that involves the careful and strategic management of your assets, finances, and personal affairs to ensure that your wishes are honoured and your loved ones are provided for after you die.

What is the purpose of estate planning?

Estate planning is not exclusive to the wealthy or elderly; it is a vital aspect of financial planning that concerns anyone who owns assets, no matter their scale and it serves several essential purposes: •

Asset Distribution - estate planning involves specifying how your assets will be distributed upon your death.

•

Minimising Tax Liabilities - can help mitigate any inheritance tax on your estate by utilising various exemptions, allowances, and reliefs, ultimately preserving more of your assets for your heirs.

•

Protecting Loved Ones - enables you to provide for your family's financial security, particularly if you have dependents.

•

Healthcare and End-of-Life Decisions encompasses advance care directives and the appointment of people to make

•

Efficient Asset Management - can include the creation of trusts to manage assets, investments, or properties on behalf of beneficiaries.

•

Business Succession - addresses the smooth transition of ownership or management to the next generation or a designated successor.

What are the key components of estate planning?

Estate planning encompasses various interrelated components. These include: A Will A will is a foundational document in estate planning. It specifies how your assets should be distributed and appoints an executor to carry out your wishes. It is essential to ensure your will is legally valid to avoid complications later. Therefore, it is always best practice to engage a Wills and Probate Solicitor to advise you and draft your will.

Inheritance Tax Planning Minimising inheritance tax liability is a significant concern for many individuals.

This involves using available exemptions, allowances, and reliefs to reduce the tax burden on your estate. As tax law is complex, it is best to seek professional before creating your will.

Trusts Trusts are legal instruments that allow you to transfer assets to a trustee who manages them for the benefit of specific beneficiaries.

Advance Care Decision

Also known as a living will, this document outlines your preferences for medical treatment and care if you are unable to communicate your wishes.

Guardianship If you have minor children, naming legal guardians in your estate plan ensures their care and upbringing according to your wishes if both parents die or are incapacitated at the same time.

Beneficiary Designations Beneficiary designations are used to indicate a transfer in ownership of an asset to a named beneficiary on the death of the owner. Typical assets that require beneficiary designations include life insurance policies, retirement plans, annuities, and health savings.

Digital Assets In our increasingly digital world, estate planning should account for the management and distribution of digital assets, such as online accounts, social media profiles, and cryptocurrency holdings.

Letter of Intent This informal document can provide guidance and instructions to your loved ones regarding personal and sentimental assets or wishes that may not be covered explicitly in your Will.

Visit askewslegal.co for more information.

HORIBA MIRA opens Driving Simulator Centre to enhance next-generation vehicle attribute engineering HORIBA MIRA has unveiled its ground-breaking Driving Simulator Centre, revolutionising vehicle engineering at its Nuneaton headquarters. This cutting-edge facility, backed by over £4 million in investment, combines advanced technology with an attributeled approach to optimise vehicle development.

At the core of this innovation is the UK's first dynamic motion driving simulator. It reduces the need for physical testing and prototypes, potentially saving up to 14,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions per vehicle model developed.

The Driving Simulator Centre's attribute-led methodology empowers engineers to make precise comparisons quickly and cost-effectively, crucial for balancing conflicting attributes and informed decision-making throughout the development cycle. This approach minimises the need for physical prototypes.

This facility is a game-changer for the automotive industry, enabling virtual development across various applications, from vehicle dynamics to advanced driver

assistance systems and human-machine interfaces. It facilitates the creation of vehicles that align with brand DNA more efficiently, sustainably, and economically.

As the automotive industry evolves towards net-zero emissions, HORIBA MIRA's Driving Simulator Centre plays a vital role by reducing the industry's reliance on carbon-intensive physical prototypes. It aligns perfectly with their commitment to supporting customers in their transition to a sustainable future.

Declan Allen, Managing Director at HORIBA MIRA, emphasised the positive impact of the Driving Simulator Centre on refining vehicle attributes and meeting changing customer expectations, making it an essential tool in the development of vehicle technologies.

HORIBA MIRA's Driving Simulator Centre marks a significant step forward in vehicle attribute engineering, offering a greener, more efficient, and cost-effective path to developing the next generation of automobiles.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Fatlab Designs carves out investment from family business A Warwickshire start-up business which specialises in the design and manufacture of engraved, carved and 3D printed artisan products has received investment from a fellow family business.

Fatlab Designs was started by David Leask in 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and he is now beginning to grow and market the business more proactively.

The financial support has funded additional fibre and CO2 laser engravers and upgrades to its CNC machining capacity, as well as the provision of a cloud finance system (Xero) to streamline the accounting and bookkeeping processes as well as boosting the company's cash flow and working capital.

David said: “There is real potential for Fatlab Designs to grow and really make a mark in the high-end, high-value area of the market. We’re much more artisan than we are high volume.

“We’re working in the business to consumer market but also very much in the B2B space too. If companies want their logo on a bespoke product or gift, we can do it whether it is for a single item or large batch.

“In this instance, we’ve been able to support Fatlab Designs with its ambitious plans and I know first-hand how fantastic the work is.

“I’d urge other businesses that need help in this way to get in touch!”

“I can see an opportunity for growth and it’s great that our fellow family business, LeaskAS, has been able to support in this way.”

For more information about LeaskAS, please visit www.leaskas.co.uk

Julia said: “LeaskAS is here to support businesses with their growth plans through advice and, also, accessing funding.

For more information about Fatlab Designs, please visit www.fatlabdesigns.com

Coventry City Council’s Go CV app celebrates 20,000 downloads in its first year Coventry City Council’s popular Go CV scheme is used by over 100,000 residents across the city. It gives access to discounts and offers when visiting local attractions, but since the launch of its mobile app in October 2022, savings can be made when shopping at local businesses too.

The app has seen over 20,000 downloads in its first year.

Councillor Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change, has been involved in the project since the launch of the app, and added: "As a Council, we support Coventry’s businesses in a number of ways and working with them through the Go CV app benefits both businesses and residents too.

Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport at Coventry City Council, has been working on Go CV since its creation. He said: “Initially, our ambition was to create a scheme to support Coventry’s local attractions and sport venues whilst offering exclusive discounts to residents in Coventry.

discounts and offers at businesses across the city.

“Working with businesses to give members even more discounts has significantly elevated the Go CV offer.

Using the app, members can access

“Having these offers available to Coventry’s residents is extremely important – more so than ever before due to the cost of living crisis.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

EBC Group hosted a Cyber Security Event at the prestigious 17th floor at the BT Building in Birmingham. The aim of the event was solely educational and allowed businesses to learn about cyber security and how to better protect themselves in a digital world.

The event, which was held on 13th October, started by covering The Future of Network Security which highlighted the importance of secure networks, the necessity of robust security measures, and the eye-opening statistic that “there are soon to be 700 billion devices connected to the internet”.

Leask Advisory Solutions (LeaskAS), which is run by Julia Leask and has been operating in the region since 2013, has backed Fatlab Designs with seed funding and business advice.

The support is aimed at helping the business fuel growth, innovation, and collaboration within the bespoke and personalised gift market.

The Importance of Cyber Security – Event Highlights

An overview from the West Midlands Police provided some alarming statistics too, including that approximately 42 per cent of all reported crime is cyber crime and, as this is a heavily under reported crime, the true percentage is likely to be much higher. They also said that “only two percent of police resources are allocated to cyber crime”.

There were also talks on cyber essentials, and testing and compliance, illuminating how businesses can better protect themselves via cyber essentials and gave insight to the process of penetration testing.

Another alarming statistic shared was that 60 per cent of small businesses that suffer a cyber-attack go out of business within six months.

The Importance of effective cyber insurance was highlighted stating that cyber threats continue to evolve, and that it has “become crucial for businesses to secure comprehensive insurance policies” to mitigate financial risks in the event of a cyber-attack.

The guest speaker of the afternoon, Andy Gomarsall, talked about security and sustainability, showcasing the importance of proper data destruction upon disposal, followed by a complimentary lunch for all attendees.

During the event, attendees were offered a free cyber security risk assessment, which is now being offered to the public.

Visit www.ebcgroup.co.uk/cyber-event to find out more.

“By using the app it’s really easy for any local companies, large or small, to profile what they do and provide a local offer.

Plumbers, garages, cafes and independent retailers can all be found on the app - these are the types of retailers and services we use regularly and they provide good services for local people.

“We know it’s tough for businesses right now, so it’s worth checking out the Go CV app. Joining is quick, easy and free.”

Businesses in Coventry can register at join.go-cv.co.uk.

29

Health & Wellbeing

Are we sick of working, or working ourselves sick?

Stratfordupon-Avon brands announce support for local hospice Two leading Stratford-upon-Avon brands – full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau and planning, design and development consultancy Marrons – have joined forces to support The Shakespeare Hospice for the next year.

Since 1999, The Shakespeare Hospice has been caring for patients with life-limiting illnesses, their carers and loved ones across South Warwickshire, providing day services, Hospice at Home, adult counselling, transitional care, and children and family support.

Shakespeare Martineau and Marrons will be raising money for The Shakespeare Hospice through various fundraising initiatives, including bake sales and raffles, and taking part in dragon boat races and inflatable 5ks.

To support, the brands have implemented a responsible business committee and champions in its Stratford-upon-Avon hub, in Bridgeway House, who are committed to driving positive change in the community and providing opportunities for employees to support causes they are passionate about.

Alison Stone, corporate and community fundraiser at The Shakespeare Hospice, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Shakespeare Martineau and Marrons teams for their forthcoming support. Our hospice relies on corporate partnerships like this to enable us to continue providing essential care and support to those in the local community affected by a life-limiting illness. We are really looking forward to hearing about all the exciting fundraising activities that the teams have planned over the next 12 months.”

Andrew Smith, head of Shakespeare Martineau’s Stratford-upon-Avon hub, added: “We are delighted to be supporting The Shakespeare Hospice for the next year.

The hospice gives people in our community who are affected by a life-limiting illness or bereavement access to compassionate care.

We’re lucky to have such a fantastic charity on our doorstep that provides vital services to the region.

“As certified B Corporations, we’re committed to using business as a force for good for our people, clients, planet and communities. It’s important for us to support local causes that make real differences to the lives our others, and we’re looking forward to holding various fundraising events over the course of the next 12 months to raise money to support The Shakespeare Hospice’s work.”

30

According to research done by the CIPD, we are taking 2 extra sick days every year, the highest levels of sickness related absence in over a decade, costing the UK economy £28bn a year.

Has Covid left us less resilient? Are we actually ‘less well’? Or, has Covid meant that we are all quicker to be kinder to ourselves when feeling under the weather?

As always, the way we approach this challenge will shape our responses. The instinctive approach is to ask: “How do we get more people in work?” but we may get better outcomes if we ask: “What can we do to support people to be at their best?”

According to the CIPD, the top reason for absence was minor illness (e.g., colds/flu, stomach upsets, headaches). It may be that the Covid years taught us to treat minor

illnesses with more caution, both in terms of our own health and contagion. Whatever the cause, are people are less likely to push through and turn up anyway?

However, to add to the above, we need to look at how mental health interlinks with this area of presenteeism (begin at work when not being fit to) – 50% of staff are feeling stressed at work (YouGov, 2022). 60% of employees feel anxious, 56% of employees experience low moods, 19% of employees have a current mental health diagnosis, 66% of staff aged 25-35 experience symptoms of anxiety, over 80% of professionals experience fatigue at work – yet only 51% of staff “feel supported at work” (Champion Health, 2023). Whilst work has been done to support this area, we are certainly not there yet.

So, how can we create a working environment that supports wellness?

The two greatest causes of stress reported in the CIPD study were ‘workload’ and ‘management style.’ How do we begin to reduce the impact these have on presenteeism? As with everything it begins with building our understanding of what the people in our teams are experiencing.

If you’re interested in this, then join Lumien on Tuesday 5th December for a conversation about improving the employee experience in our businesses. The intent is to create a conversation and to explore the idea of bringing together a small group to meet throughout 2024 to continue to grow together and support each other.

If you have responsibility for employee experience in an SME and would be interested in taking part in the event, contact chris@lumien.io or head to https://lumien.io/

St Francis Employability achieve the Thrive at Work Foundation Award The Thrive at Work health and wellbeing awards are the West Midlands County standard of good practice and a quality mark for health and wellbeing in the workplace.

This fully funded, accredited programme within the Coventry area has been created to offer help and guidance, to implement changes, improving health and wellbeing in the workplace. Commenting on recently achieving the Thrive at Work Foundation Award, St Francis Employability said:

“We have achieved the Thrive at Work Foundation Award and we are truly delighted. We are improving our commitment to employee health and wellbeing and ensuring we have a positive workplace culture. The Thrive at Work program has, and will continue to, support us in the positive development and implementation of key initiatives to ensure we are an employer that really cares for every one of our employees. We are excited to move on to work towards achieving our bronze award and beyond.

We would like to say thank you to the Thrive at Work team, especially Elise Sandwell, for all their support’.”

This fully funded, accredited programme within the Coventry area has been created to offer help and guidance, to implement changes, improving health and wellbeing in the workplace.

For more information about Thrive at Work please contact thrive@coventry.gov.uk www.coventry.gov.uk/thrive

How can employers prepare for the Carer’s Leave Act? The Carer’s Leave Bill is due to be enacted as early as April 2024. It will give nearly 2.4 million workers in the UK who qualify as carers, a week’s unpaid leave per year - recognising the need for those workers with caring responsibilities for greater flexibility to provide care for family members or dependents.

Here are 5 ways in which your business can start to prepare: 1. Ensure management training is sufficient –Train managers to ensure internal procedures are in place so requests for carers leave are responded to appropriately and managers are equipped with the necessary personable skills to deal with these requests professionally and humanly.

2. Communicate throughout the organisation – Ensure all employees know about the new legislation through internal channels such as handbooks and company announcements. Workshops or webinars could be held so employees know what they are entitled to and how the Act will affect them.

3. Review benefits and support – Make this an opportunity to review existing schemes and ensure benefits are still relevant for the current workforce including carers. Speak to your employees to see if other benefits schemes would be more suitable.

Highlight all areas of support that carers may also find useful such as flexible working, other types of leave and if you have a health and wellbeing scheme or support groups that they might find helpful.

4. Update policies and procedures – Ensure employee handbooks are up to date and prepare to include Carers Leave, stating who qualifies and how to apply. Creating a self-certification form for employees could provide useful which states that they meet the legal definition of a carer and that they are using this particular type of leave.

5. Educate your workforce – Ensure employees are aware of the leave and if they qualify as a carer as many may not see themselves in this way. Make sure you deploy an open culture where carers leave can be openly discussed, and employees know who to approach if they have any questions. Support carers week to raise awareness throughout the organisation and ensure information on carers rights, is easily accessible.

If you need help updating your Employee Handbooks or need any other HR advice, please visit our website www.ahrconsultants.co.uk

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Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Green 4 Motor company drive 100 miles and raise money to plant 100 trees celebrating World EV Day

MPG Continue Sponsorship for 23/24 Coventry Rugby is delighted to announce that our sponsorship with MPG will be continuing into the 2023/24 season.

MPG UK are a local business, based in Coventry, that sell and repair electrical motors, pumps, gearboxes and fan units.

They are trusted by businesses both locally and nationally to keep important machinery running after breakdown or damage, repairing or replacing parts in “double-quick time”.

Managing Director of MPG UK, Steve Phillips: “As a local Coventry company, we are delighted to continue our corporate sponsorship with Coventry Rugby Club in

On September 9th, 2023, to celebrate World EV day, the Green 4 team took part in a 100-mile EnviroDrive in the Mazda MX-30 from the Gridserve Charging Station in Braintree to the Gridserve Charging Station in Norwich.

The team wanted to raise awareness of how easy living with an electric car can be, as well as raising some muchneeded funds to plants 100 trees to offset emissions.

The journey started off early on a Saturday morning, this is where the team first got to meet the others taking part in the EnviroDrive, as well as a look around the charging station for the first time.

The drive itself was a bit of a competition to see which team could complete the route in the most “fuel” efficient and environmentally friendly way, while coming first! The MX-30 was charged on a fast 350kW charger within 40 minutes so after a quick refreshment and an explore of one of Europe's first dedicated EV charging stations, we were ready to set out on the 100-mile journey.

We got off to a rocky start with our navigator struggling to adjust to the new rally style way of navigating, but once the basics had been established, we started to make good progress to the halfway point.

Upon catching up with the other drivers and reaching the halfway point, we arrived at a beautiful airfield, and observed a fantastic Glider Aircraft take to the skies, although none of the team fancied putting themselves forward for a go.

After some light refreshments we hopped back into the car for the last 40 miles of the trip, staying on track we made it all the way to the charging station in Norwich and got

PurePac gets ‘most out of a day’ with paperless efficiency from TruTac want from the vehicle checks, so it doesn’t necessarily mirror what we had written on the paper version. We’ve taken some stuff out that wasn’t relevant and put stuff in that they felt they needed.

to be a partner with Coventry Rugby Club with a team that shares our common values within the local community. In addition to this we are the Sponsor of one of the clubs’

“We introduced a separate vehicle check together for an articulated vehicle. The drivers have had a massive input in telling me what they needed there, and the system’s flexibility really supported that.”

latest signings Ryan Hutler who was a prolific try scorer in the Championship last season.“ Matt Cannon, General Manager of Coventry Rugby, said “This is Steve’s and

PurePac, based in Daventry, also uses the TruAnalysis tachograph analysis, reporting and driver debriefing system, and the TruLocation tracking system, which have helped to make more deliveries in a day.

MPG UK Ltd second Season as Official Sleeve Sponsor as well as regular guest in the Formation Media Marquee. It has been a the company on match days. MPG UK Ltd are leading the way in his industry and we are thrilled that he has continued to work with Coventry Rugby for Season 2023/24.”

Steve will be a regular member in the Formation Media Platinum Marquee for Hospitality for the upcoming season, and MPG UK will feature on the sleeve of both shirts, as well as around Butts Park on a range of pitch-side advertising.

Anyone wishing to contact MPG UK can visit their website https://mpguk.co.uk/ or email sales@mpguk.co.uk

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For every mile we travelled, we also wanted to raise £1 to donate to the Just One Tree charity, who will plant a tree for every £1 raised. Green 4 Motor Company will then match all the money raised.

Video of activity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNOX_E15Zmk&t=4s

their 150thAnniversary year, we are proud

pleasure working with him and entertaining

the Mazda on charge right away. It was a truly fantastic trip, and a great voluntary activity to be part of, doing our bit to encourage the change to electric.

Packaging specialist PurePac has ditched paper-based vehicle checks and boosted efficiency with an integrated trio of TruTac systems.

The firm specialises in supplying recycled and reconditioned packaging products to the food and drink, perfumery, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries, among others, and has a zero packaging-to-landfill promise.

Its fleet comprises four rigid trucks and one articulated unit, and it has made extensive use of TruTac’s TruChecks daily walkaround app since adopting it in April this year.

“We’re trying to make everything paperless here to be as environmentally friendly as we can, so getting the vehicle checks all done through the app was one of the most

important things for us,” says PurePac’s Warehouse and Logistics Manager, Chris Brady.

“The drivers have very quickly settled into it and realised how easy it is to navigate. It saves them time, because they haven’t got to worry about writing stuff down or ticking boxes – they just do it as they go around the vehicle.”

The company has consulted extensively with its drivers and tailored the app to suit their requirements, which is one of the unique features of the TruChecks system.

“We can personalise it, which is a very good feature,” says Chris. “Because every vehicle is different, I’ve sat down with the drivers and got their input about what they

“TruLocation creates a huge advantage for me as the transport manager, because it makes it easier to plan the afternoon,” says Chris. “It’s definitely easier for me to manage my time and the drivers’, because when I look at it and see how far away they are, I can have another vehicle ready for them, or I can make a decision as to whether I’ll have time to unload and reload that vehicle.

“When I know they’re 45 minutes away, I can plan accordingly, and as soon as they get back, they change the card over, do a vehicle check, and off they go. It’s just made things a lot more efficient, and means we get the most out of a day.”

To find out more, email sales@trutac.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Eco joins forces with globallyrenowned business gurus be scanning the business and society horizon for innovations which have the potential to positively change the world, as well as transform their business.

Eddie said: “As soon as we met Ernesto and Martha and heard more about their approach to business and innovation, we were blown away by their way of thinking, their knowledge, their ethos and their connections.

Dr Sirolli said: “We offer corporations a tool to search within teams, the people with emerging strong entrepreneurial spirit. We focus on ‘intrapreneurship’ making sure the smartest people on the team are listened to.

“We knew immediately that we wanted to continue the association in some form and we are over the moon that they have chosen Eco as a business they want to collaborate with in the UK to help make innovations happen.

It’s an exciting and potentially transformative partnership for our business.

“We then create a safe space, what we can call an ‘innovation oasis”, and build a clear path to bring innovative ideas and practices to the attention of the senior management for evaluation and decisions.”

“We are committed to being at the forefront of the net zero revolution - and working in collaboration with businesses so they can do the same, creating a legacy which will make a difference now and for generations to come.”

An innovative solutions business developing a range of world-first green technology has been chosen as the UK’s first exclusive partner by globallyrenowned business gurus.

Eco has teamed up with Dr Ernesto and Martha Sirolli to join businesses in Italy, Switzerland and the US in a network of companies working with the business leaders to bring innovations to market.

The link-up with the Sirollis was formalised after Eco’s founder and Managing Director Eddie Black and Eco’s Group Opportunity Strategist Gary Robertson met with the duo at an innovators’ conference they hosted in Italy this summer.

The programme helps ensure winning ideas aren’t shut down because of tiers of management who might have contradictory agendas.

Dr Sirolli said: “We are delighted to be working with Eddie and the team at Eco. Innovation is now on the mind of every CEO of every company in the world. Technology is changing so fast that businesses must adapt or die.”

Dr Sirolli, founder of the Sirolli Institute, an international non-profit organisation, is also an author and his TEDx talk, Shut Up and Listen, has been downloaded more than three million times since he first delivered it in 2012.

The Sirollis’ work with Eco will initially focus on bringing innovations even further to the forefront of the business through their Boundary Rider programme. A Boundary Rider is an Australian term for a cattle station employee, whose duty is to check the outer perimeter of a property. They can work independently, are resilient and reliable.

The Sirrollis will visit Eco at its 3,000-square-metre self-built HQ at Annan, Dumfries and Galloway soon to start the Boundary Rider programme.

Eco’s services include its EcoGoZero range of carbon mitigation strategies; dry ice cleaning; process solutions; design, build and fit out; IT and communications; and bespoke training systems.

The Sirollis apply this methodology to an organisation where it is the job of a person, or a group of people within an organisation, to

ADAO works with local Rugby business Bluecode to redevelop their website ADAO recently created an ecommerce website for Bluecode, a local Rugby company that makes custom labels for various industries and sectors.

Bluecode has over 20 years of experience in the label manufacturing business and offers high-quality products and services to their clients. They produce a range of labels, such as PAT test labels, calibration labels, warning labels, security labels, tamper-proof labels, general labels, and asset labels. They also provide bespoke barcode and asset labels that can be tailored to the client's specifications.

ADAO had previously developed the client's website 10 years ago on a platform called OpenCart: an ecommerce management system which, at the time, was a very powerful platform. However, support has since faded, and it was time to move to a more modern technology! ADAO redeveloped the website from OpenCart to WordPress with WooCommerce for ease of use.

WordPress is the world's most popular content management system, which receives constant and regular updates to keep the platform secure. WooCommerce is the world's most popular open-source eCommerce platform that works seamlessly with WordPress. It enables us to create a stunning, user-friendly, and powerful online store that meets the needs and expectations of our client and their customers.

WooCommerce also offers many features and extensions that enhance the functionality and performance of the website.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

The Wigley Group announced as returning headline sponsor of Warwick Half Marathon 2024 A family-run property, development and construction company based in Warwickshire has renewed its support for the popular Warwick Half Marathon.

Southam-based The Wigley Group has announced its headline sponsorship of the 2024 event as it returns on Sunday, February 4.

Organised for the second year by RunThrough, the UK’s largest and Europe’s fastest-growing running events company, the 13.1-mile route begins and ends at the iconic Warwick Racecourse and takes runners through beautiful Warwickshire countryside on fully-closed roads with marshals on hand throughout the course.

In addition to the half marathon, there will also be a 1k junior race allowing for the whole family to take part.

The tremendous success of the 2023 event saw more than 2,000 people enter to take part in the half marathon and organisers expect entry numbers to grow next year as the event’s reputation continues to spread.

The event has raised an incredible £80,000 for charity.

For 2024, The Wigley Group Warwick Half Marathon has officially partnered with SWFT Charity, the official charity of South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust, as the event’s charity of the year, with runners able to choose to raise money to support their work.

James Davies, Chief Executive Officer at The Wigley Group, said: “We’ve supported the Half Marathon since 2019 and a number of our staff – including myself – have run it before, so we know what a fantastic event it is for the region.

Some of the benefits of using WooCommerce for Bluecode are: •

•

Customisation of the website to match the brand identity and industry of Bluecode, choosing from thousands of themes and plugins that suit their style and preferences.

ADAO can also modify the product pages, checkout process, shipping options, payment methods, and more.

ADAO can easily add new products, categories, attributes, and variations to the website as the business grows.

They can also manage the inventory, orders, taxes, coupons, and reports from the WooCommerce dashboard.

WooCommerce can handle high-volume stores and traffic without compromising on speed or security.

•

ADAO can optimize the website or search engines by using WordPress' SEO advantage. They can use keywords, meta tags, permalinks, breadcrumbs, sitemaps, and more to improve the visibility and ranking of the website. They can also integrate with Google Analytics, Google Ads, Mailchimp, and other marketing tools to boost the online presence and reach of Bluecode.

ADAO are very pleased with the outcome of this project, and they hope that Bluecode will enjoy their new WordPress WooCommerce website. This project is a testament to how they work with local companies and help them grow their online business.

If you are interested in ADAO’s services or want to see more of their work, you can visit their website: www.adao.co.uk

“Promoting health and wellbeing is really important to us as a company and this is a brilliant course for runners of all abilities to keep fit and healthy. Not only that, but it’s a great opportunity to raise money for charitable causes too.”

Rob Sullivan, RunThrough and The Wigley Group Warwick Half Marathon Race Director, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with The Wigley Group as headline sponsor of the Warwick Half Marathon for 2024.

“It is extremely important to us to align ourselves with local businesses within the community that can see and positively enhance the work we are doing to inspire an active nation through running.

“We look forward to what is set to be a fantastic day on 4th February next year and can’t wait to see and support all of the fantastic runners who will be taking part.”

The half marathon begins at 9am, a wheelchair half marathon starts five minutes earlier, while the 1k kids race commences at 11.30am.

The event costs £32 to enter or £160 for a group of six; the 1km children’s race costs £5.

For more details and to secure your entry, visit www.warwickhalf.com

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Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Coventry firm plans expansion after Chamber help A Coventry mechanical and electrical company, which supplies and repairs motors, pumps and gearboxes for a range of industries, is planning to move to a bigger premises and take on new staff to continue its growth.

Corin Crane, Lily Samuels, Jade O’Shea, Rob Back, Tim Squires

Big decisions needed as Coventry reaches critical point A key business figure in Coventry says the city is at a ‘critical point’ in delivering economic growth for future generations.

Corin Crane, the chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, was speaking to a gathering of businesses at the Chamber’s Coventry Branch meeting at the Albany Theatre.

After hearing from Rob Back, Coventry City Council’s Strategic Planning Lead, on the city’s Local Plan, and David Hope, part of Coventry City Council’s Economic Development Service, on the future of business support, Corin said there was huge potential for growth.

He said: “Coventry is at a critical point that will help to define its future so its vitally important that we get the planning right.

“There are big decisions to be made around new housing and new employment land and how all of that fits together with other infrastructure and services.

“We have a group of expert Chamber members who have come together and produced a report on the need for more employment land, which is crucial in growing our economy.

“And, it’s important to remember, that growth isn’t about making businesses richer, it is to create jobs, opportunities and investment into the communities of the city.

“I know for a fact that there is massive interest in Coventry from companies that want to invest here. We’re in a very strong position from that point of view and we need to do everything we can to get them here in the coming months and years.”

Rob told the branch that Coventry City Council was consulting on the latest iteration of its Local Plan which will set the basis for planning decisions from mid-2025 onwards.

He said that the City Council was particularly keen to hear from landowners and agents on potential development sites for either homes or employment. He also gave a brief update on the latest plans for the city centre.

David explained how the landscape of business support was changing post-Brexit but that firms in the region can still access help.

Tim Squires, chair of the Chamber’s Coventry branch, said: “It was fascinating to hear from both Rob and David on areas of planning and business support – something our members are very keen to know more about.

“My advice to companies across the city is to get in touch with the team at the Chamber if you need any help or if you want us to help to amplify your voice to decision makers.”

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“The Chamber have been a big help from day one. In the early days, it was helping me with the very basics of starting a business and, over the years, that has developed. For example, they’ve just saved me money on my AA membership for the company vans.

“So, the Chamber has been with me every step of the way and I hope I can get out to some more networking events in the future.

MPG, which is based on the Binley Industrial Estate, was established by Steve Phillips in 2017 after working in the industry for more than two decades before deciding to branch out and start his own firm.

The company works with a variety of manufacturing sector businesses from supplying motors and gearboxes for production lines through to suppling and repairing hot and cold-water pumps for commercial premises to the food and beverage sector and distribution centres.

It has grown to a business of eight staff, who handle thousands of jobs each year, and this is expected to rise in the next 12 months.

Steve was supported by the team at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce when he was initially setting up the company and has continued to tap into its services as the business has grown.

And not only is MPG’s growth having a positive knock-on effect for the regional economy, but the company is also giving back by supporting Coventry Rugby Club as a main sponsor and Birmingham Children’s Hospital as a corporate partner.

Steve Phillips (MPG) with Hazel Pilling (Chamber)

Steve said: “We’ve got ambitious growth plans, we have a wealth of experience in our team remanufacturing and repairing motors, pumps, gearboxes and fan units, with our customers being in maintenance teams for a wide range of sectors.

“In the recent hot weather, businesses have had the motors in fans breaking down and they will come to us to replace it. We stock a wide range of products here in Coventry which means we can get replacements to customers very quickly and minimise their downtime.

“When we set up, we took the decision to be in the city because there is a strong customer base here with the majority of our employees living in the Coventry area.

“We want to grow into a bigger unit here in Coventry, which will mean new jobs, and that is good news for the local economy and also means we can do even more to support the community which is something I am very passionate about with our corporate social responsibility programme.”

Hazel Pilling, membership manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re delighted to continue supporting MPG – an excellent example of a business that has seen the benefits of being part of the Chamber from its inception, highlighting the fact that companies of all sizes and sectors really do belong with the Chamber.

“It’s also a shining example of the good businesses do – from offering local, skilled employment to giving back to the community through charitable work and sponsorship.

“We look forward to helping Steve and the team achieve their growth plans in the next few years.”

North Warwickshire business is cleaning up after accessing support A North Warwickshire commercial cleaning business whose founder swapped laptops and desktops for vacuums and carpet cleaners has urged other small businesses to access the Chamber of Commerce’s business support.

Allan Ward decided to leave his full-time job in IT focusing on website designs, repairs and sales after he saw the potential for winning commercial cleaning contracts when his wife, Toni, started a small cleaning business.

He started exploring the idea during the pandemic and researched the support that was available for new start-up businesses.

That led to Allan establishing Mercia Cleaning Services Ltd last March from Austrey in Atherstone after the company was supported by the start-up team at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.

Allan attended a suite of digital marketing workshops that are available to start-up businesses which filled in the gaps in his knowledge to effectively market a business online and gave an overview of the different social media platforms.

The Start-up support, delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council, forms part of the CW Business: Start, Grow and Scale programme, and was part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Warwickshire County Council and all five District and Borough Councils.

Allan said the support from the Chamber had been invaluable and he was now ready to take Mercia Cleaning Services Ltd to the next stage of its growth.

He said: “My wife started a business as a domestic cleaning company but my ambition was to move into commercial cleaning so we pivoted the business and today it is only commercial cleaning.

“We have contracts in various sectors including offices, schools, hotels, museums, new build projects and university lets which are mainly in the Midlands and some nationwide contracts.

“We employ ten people, but we are continuing to expand this year and plan to bring more local people into our company and provide them with training.

“The support from the Chamber helped me to improve my business plan, and develop a new service along with the knowledge I had gained from attending the workshops and the Chamber’s advice on delivering marketing campaigns.

“All of this plus putting together a strategic plan for the year ahead resulted in taking on an additional three staff within five months.

“I had no experience in running a business at all. I needed help with everything from managing cashflow forecasts to targeting customers. Speaking to the Chamber was invaluable; I needed help with this as well as learning and understand the basics of running a business.”

Chamber business coach Rita Booth has supported the firm from its infancy right through to enabling growth.

She said: “It can be daunting launching a new start-up but our tailored support is available to help businesses who are less than two years old every step of the way.

“As a single director in a business, the start-up programme helped Allan gain clarity on the actions he needed to take, the direction he was taking his business in and helped him identify which opportunities to

Steve Maxey and Cllr David Wright (North Warwickshire Borough Council). Middle, from the left, Hayley Lineker (Warwickshire County Council), Allan Ward (Mercia Cleaning Services), Cllr Martin Watson (Warwickshire County Council) and Rita Booth (Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce)

chase for success rather than wasting time chasing every opportunity.”

Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place Cllr Martin Watson said: "The way Allan pivoted to spot an opportunity and then to pursue it is very impressive and typical of so many enterprising small businesses across Warwickshire.

"The County Council is fully committed to supporting small businesses at every stage of their development, but it is often in the formative stages that support is often mostneeded so I am delighted that the Start-up support proved of such high value."

Cllr David Wright, leader of North Warwickshire Borough Council, added: “I am delighted that a new business has been able to flourish in North Warwickshire thanks to Start-up support. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about starting their own business to get in touch as the support and guidance available is invaluable.”

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur or a new business owner who has been operating for less than two years and in need of expert help to grow your new venture?

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is delivering free-funded business support workshops to guide you step-by-step on all aspects of business. To get started, email businesssupport@cw-chamber.co.uk or visit https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/business-start-up/. www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

New partnership sees four new gins on sale at local hotel are using the very best natural ingredients.

We don’t add sugars or additives to our product and, coupled with using the best still, it creates a really smooth drink for our customers.”

Luke added: “It’s going phenomenally well at the Holiday Inn in Kenilworth and, when you talk about local suppliers, we are literally a couple of miles down the road – you could walk here if you wanted to!

“We’re really pleased to be here and it’s great to see it proving so popular.”

Luke Weetman, Hazel Pilling, Georgina Mitchell, Richie Bartle

A hotel in Kenilworth is serving customers with four brand new gins – and they are being distilled just a couple of miles away from the venue!

Holiday Inn Kenilworth is offering the four gins from the Heritage range, which are made

by East Chase Distillers based at East Chase Farm, off Chase Lane.

The two companies began working together after being introduced by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and it is already proving to be a perfect match.

The hotel, which has recently refurbished its public spaces, is stocking Heritage’s London Dry, Citrus Orange, Rhubarb & Apple and Summer Fruits flavours and has already put in an order for more bottles just four weeks after they initially went on sale.

East Chase Distillers is the brainchild of Kenilworth School friends Luke Weetman and Richie Bartle and, after several years in the planning, they launched in November 2022.

The Distillery opens every Friday night to the public but is also producing gins for the corporate market. A new flavour, Winter Berries, is set to launch later this year and rums, whiskies and brandies will follow.

And Luke and Richie are delighted to see the products on offer at such a prominent hotel in Kenilworth.

Richie said: “We both decided we wanted to move into distilling over a chance conversation in a bar around seven years.

“There were a few hurdles in the way of us being able to launch – one being Covid – but we have overcome all of those and have invested in the best possible still from Germany and we’re making sure we use the very best ingredients.

“Gin distilling is quite a crowded market and there are some good ones in Warwickshire so we’ve had to differentiate ourselves.

“Part of that is the story behind the gins we are producing but also the fact that we

Georgina Mitchell is the business development manager for Bowling Green Asset Management, which operates the Holiday Inn Kenilworth.

She joined eight weeks ago and immediately reached out to the Chamber.

Georgina said: “I was keen to network and to buy locally and when I spoke to the Chamber they suggested I talk to East Chase Distillery and I am delighted I did.

“I’ve only been in post for a couple of months but I see the importance of embedding yourself locally and there’s nothing like working with great suppliers to do that and we’re grateful to the Chamber for introducing us.”

Hazel Pilling, membership manager at the Chamber, said: “It’s great to see two local businesses working together in this way and that’s what belonging to the Chamber is all about. I think we can all raise a toast to that!”

For more information on becoming a member of the Chamber go to www.cw-chamber.co.uk

New state-of-the-art domiciliary care suites unveiled at Warwickshire College New state-of-the-art domiciliary care suites to support the development of students seeking careers in the health and social sector have been unveiled at two Warwickshire colleges.

WCG (Warwickshire College Group) has invested a total of £130,000 in the facilities at Rugby College and Royal Leamington Spa College.

The care suites have been funded by the Government’s Strategic Development Fund and will enable students to replicate the professional environment they would experience after completing their college course.

The facilities will be of benefit to all health and social care students at Rugby College and Royal Leamington Spa College, including in the delivery of T-Levels and adult-learning courses.

another which mirrors a care home or small residential flat.

The college group also plans to use the facility to help businesses in the health and social care sector to develop and upskill their staff.

Royal Leamington Spa College has two separate care suites on site, with one which replicates a hospital ward setting and

Tracy Gibson, Head of Department for Health and Social Care at Rugby College, said: “Having these care suites across two of our

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Businesses in mid-Warwickshire have been urged ask for support if they are unable to find people with the right skills to help them grow.

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce held its mid-Warwickshire branch meeting at the Holiday Inn in Kenilworth and a range of topics were discussed.

The event was chaired by Chamber president Tom Mongan and heard how businesses across the area are faring in the current climate.

Skills remains a key issue for many and the meeting heard from Heather Docksey, of Warwickshire County Council, who explained how Warwickshire Skills Hub can support businesses in their search for staff.

Tom Mongan said firms should ask for help if they are unable to fill roles that will support their growth.

He said: “We were extremely grateful to Heather for joining us at the branch meeting and it was great to hear that there is some incredible support on offer.

“They can talk to the team at the Chamber if they need advice and, also, see how the Warwickshire Skills Hub can support them as they offer a very wideranging service.

The second room includes a kitchen area, lounge area, dining area, shower and toilet to replicate a care home or small residential flat setting.

The funding has also enabled WCG to invest in a new virtual Metaverse learning platform, which will allow students to navigate around a virtual hospital ward. The college is also planning to use the virtual learning environment in marketing to potential students.

Ask for help if you are struggling to recruit, Warwickshire firms told

“I’d urge businesses who want to grow – but can’t find the right people – to speak up and ask for help.

The hospital ward features two adult beds and a child’s bed, with one area looking more like a paediatric ward. It includes a seating area for students, flexible study space, mannequins, and a hoist and pull chord to give the students a realistic experience of the hospital environment.

While the health room at Rugby College is a new hybrid-suite, combining the hospital and care home training suites in one room, enabling training on working in both environments in one compact space.

Marie Stephenson (Chamber), Rob Harrison (Glued), Tom Mongan (Chamber), Heather Docksey (Warwickshire County Council).

colleges in Warwickshire enables us to give students a more realistic idea of what they will face when they are out in employment.

“The care suites replicate the environments they will experience after leaving the college or heading out on work placement.

“We are looking to offer training to upskill existing workers in the care sector too at this facility and provide adult-learning courses for those people.”

To find out more about studying health and care courses at WCG visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study

“It’s great that they are looking at different ways to help solve the skills crisis but also looking at how they can support people who may have barriers to employment find work.”

The meeting also discussed more longterm solutions for the skills issue.

Tom added: “There were lots of views on skills and how we train and equip people for the future of the workplace.

“The Chamber has done some great work on the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and, with this being given the green light recently, it could be the first step on the way to solving an issue that has been around for many, many years.”

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Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Businesses in the north of Warwickshire want key infrastructure projects to move forward Businesses in the north of Warwickshire are appealing to the Government to press ahead with key infrastructure projects such as the shift to electric vehicles to protect the long-term interests of the UK economy.

Dragon Boat Race event a huge success The Shakespeare Hospice is once again celebrating a hugely successful Dragon Boat Race event, which has seen over £34,000 raised to support its vital community services.

24 teams of differing backgrounds and abilities took to the River Avon for the event in a bid to become 2023 Dragon Boat Race champions. The competition culminated in an exhilarating six-boat final, where Coventry-based company, The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC), emerged as the victors, beating their nearest rivals by 0.03 seconds.

Bridget Richards, Events & Community Fundraiser at The Shakespeare Hospice, expressed her gratitude, saying, "We are overwhelmed by the incredible turnout and support for this year's Dragon Boat Race. It's heartwarming to see so many people coming together to support our hospice and the vital services we provide to our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the teams, sponsors, volunteers, and spectators who made this event possible. The funds raised will make a significant difference in improving the quality of life for our patients and their families."

Annie Kerwin, Senior Research Engineer at the MTC, said: “It’s unbelievable. We’ve never sat in a boat together until today. This is an absolute rag-tag group of people we have persuaded at work, so I’m absolutely gobsmacked. We will definitely be starting a boat club at MTC now and we will be coming back next year. It’s a great event for a wonderful cause. It’s the best team event you can do and not only that, it’s also a great day out!”

The Shakespeare Hospice would like to extend its appreciation to all the teams, sponsors, volunteers, and spectators who contributed to the success of this event.

Your generosity and enthusiasm have made a profound impact on the lives of those we serve.

For more information about The Shakespeare Hospice and how you can continue to support their vital work, please visit TheShakespeareHospice.org.uk.

36

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce held its North Warwickshire Branch meeting at the MIRA Technology Institute which sits right on the A5 border between Warwickshire and Leicestershire.

Businesses heard from Tom Mongan, North Warwickshire Branch Chair and Chamber President; Marcus Jones, MP for Nuneaton; and Sarah Windrum, the Future Mobility Cluster Lead at MIRA Technology Park.

Among other businesses present was IM Properties, who shared plans for a new campus made up of manufacturing, logistics and high-growth companies next to junction 9 of the M42 in Curdworth.

Sarah gave an insight into the workings of HORIBA’s recently-opened Hydrogen Hub - a 240m2 hydrogen fuel cell and electrolysis automotive test facility – whilst also addressing any impact that the delay on banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars could have.

She said: “It is a case of when, not if, we make the transition to electric vehicles,

and so I do not expect to see research and development into electric and autonomous vehicles slowing down because of the delay.

“Could this latest delay have an impact on where other firms invest? Possibly, which is why the industry needs to be given longterm financial incentives for other overseas businesses in this space to commit to the UK.” The meeting also marked Tom Mongan’s last as Chair of the North Warwickshire Branch after five years at the helm.

Tom added: “This meeting was a fantastic way to bow out as the conversations typified why these meetings are so important as an outlet to lobby government.

“Businesses from the region were able to share their views with Marcus Jones MP on not only the short-term barriers to growth, but ones that will impact future generations too.

“IM Properties also highlighted that while a lot has also been made about there being skills shortages, employment land is also in short supply too, which poses a barrier to growth unless greater collaborative working is implemented.

“I’d like to thank the Chamber and all of its members for their contribution to these meetings while I have been Chair, and especially to Marcus Jones MP, who has

consistently attended these meetings to take on board business views.”

Marcus Jones MP also delivered his Westminster update, particularly regarding the ongoing support for the national economy.

He said: “Inflation is now starting to come down quickly which is good news, particularly as the Government’s economic policy is closely aligned to the Bank of England’s activity in order to get both inflation and interest rates under long-term control.

“However, I am aware that there are other challenges businesses are facing – particularly regarding high energy and fuel prices – which I am raising with Ministers.”

Law firm serves up networking lunch for Stratford business community Stratford business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals came together this week at the first of a new series of networking lunches, supported by local law firm Lodders.

Hosted at the prestigious Arden Hotel, Stratford, the first Stratford Business Lunch took place on the 19 September, with businesses in and around Stratford coming together to meet faces old and new, expand their network, and gain insights into the latest business trends.

The event marked the beginning of a quarterly networking series, with future lunches planned on 16 January, 21 May, and 17 September 2024, also hosted at the Arden Hotel.

Stuart Price, partner in Lodders’ Commercial team, says: “The first Stratford Business Lunch was a great success, with business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the community coming together to meet face-to-face and forge new connections.

“Businesses are experiencing unprecedented pressures in the current economic climate, so it is more important than ever that we support each other. As an active member of the Stratford business community, Lodders is keen that local businesses and entrepreneurs continue to meet and build connections. We look forward to seeing everyone again at the next lunch on 16 January 2024.”

Lodders is a premier law firm in Stratford upon Avon, Cheltenham, Henley in Arden, and Birmingham. Founded more than 235 years ago, the firm offers expert legal advice across a range of legal services including private client, business law, real estate, and family law.

For more information, visit: www.lodders.co.uk

Surefyre Laser Design gives Spaghetti Agency their bottle Having seen some of their sample items in the wild, Rugby-based Surefyre Laser Design Ltd were approached by Spaghetti Agency Ltd of Leamington Spa to produce branded sports bottles for the staff members, helping to make sure everyone stays hydrated and on brand.

The aluminium bottles were laserengraved at print resolution, a process during which the laser strips the coloured coating from the bottles back to the bright aluminium beneath creating a smart shiny silver result which contrasts perfectly with the original coating.

Said Jo Ciriani, Director at Spaghetti Agency, “When I saw Guy had made these

I knew we had to have some for our team.

We’re all trying to drink more water and we love some branded merch, so they’re a great option for us - and a nice bit of extra brand awareness when we’re out and about.”

Guy Eastwood, CEO-Founder of Surefyre, added “We’ve wanted to make something for the brilliant guys at Spaghetti for some time and this was the perfect first item. As an extra feature we also personalised each bottle with its new owner’s name, so no arguments over which is which!”

items such as branded trolley tokens and keyfobs.

Surefyre pride themselves on short turnaround times without compromising quality of output and are equally able to produce short runs of items like awards for events and signage to many hundreds of

If you’re looking for branding inspiration or themed event items, especially with the festive season rapidly approaching, you can contact Surefyre Laser Design Ltd via www.surefyre.com

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Boxing legend inspires new special edition rums A Warwickshire boxing legend is the inspiration behind two new specialedition rums released by an awardwinning distillery.

Warwickshire Gin Company has released the spirits in honour of Randolph Turpin from Leamington Spa. The Pugilist - Sting Like A Bee - Honey Rum and Pugilist Ghost Edition White Rum, are in honour of the sporting great who went down in British boxing history for his sensational World Title win against the legendary Sugar Ray Robinson and earning himself the nickname ‘The Leamington Licker.’

His statue can be found in Warwick’s Market Square.

The rums are new recipes based on the company’s existing Spice Blended Rum, which took Bronze at last year’s International Spirits Awards.

Dave Blick, who established Warwickshire Gin Company in 2018, said: “With our local legend being Randolph Turpin, boxing is still a very strong sport in Leamington and Warwick. We are using Guyanan rum spirit as a base in honour of Turpin’s Guyanan family heritage.

“Born in Leamington of Guyana heritage, Turpin became a hero overnight! To commemorate this fabulous son of Leamington we have celebrated his Guyanan heritage and added our special Warwickshire spice blend to create a warming, rich rum.

“For the new Sting Like A Bee edition, we have rectified with orange peel, and finished off with local honey sourced from Kazim’s

The inspiration behind the Warwickshire Gin Company collection comes from a desire to capture a moment in history, developing flavours to fully represent the county’s own unique story and bringing the range of hand-crafted flavours to life.

These include Leamington on Parade, inspired by the true story of three elephants brought over from Sri Lanka to Leamington by circus elephant trainer Sam Lockhart in the 1880s; The Kingmaker – named after Richard Neville 16th Earl of Warwick and Peeping Tom – inspired by the legend of Coventry’s Lady Godiva.

The distillery also offers visitor experiences - Gin Tasting, Cocktails at The Distillery and their new Afternoon Gin & Tea plus a range of build-your-own branded gift bundles, including spirits, goblet, mixers and gin or rum-infused chocolates.

Bees and Honey in Warwick, to deliver a beautifully smooth sweet mouth feel. It is best enjoyed neat over ice or pairs well with Sicilian lemonade. ”The Pugilist Ghost Edition White Rum is more one for the rum purists and is best enjoyed neat over ice or maybe with a drop of lime.”

Both rums are 37% ABV and available to buy in 5cl, 20cl and 70cl bottles or as part of gift packs. They are the latest to join the independent craft distillery’s portfolio of artisan copper pot-distilled premium spirits, including five artisan handcrafted gins and a vodka.

In a further nod to the drinks’ heritage, the distillery is also sponsoring the expansion of a local community boxing gym in Whitnash.

The money will fund new kit as well as amateur boxers’ expenses for competitions and events abroad.

Facilities at Clearys Boxing Gym now include three boxing rings (one championship size), a media suite - to record podcasts and do TV and radio interviews - a small conference room for career talks, homework space, lounge area, and showers and changing rooms.

Visit The Warwickshire Gin Company: https://warwickshiregincompany.co.uk/

Stratford poised for positive future Stratford is in a prime position for strong economic growth – but the opportunity must be matched by investment in infrastructure and skills, a business meeting has heard.

James McDonald of IPP and Phil Henshall of Summer Berries tee off for charity

RBLI charity golf day goes with a swing It was tee time at the recent Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) charity golf day where IPP was proud to sponsor a hole.

‘Tommy Tee Off’ took place at The Weald of Kent Golf Course and IPP, which has a long-standing relationship with RBLI, also took to the fairway with some of its customers to support the good cause.

The fun day of golf raised £30,000 and IPP’s involvement saw its logo displayed on its sponsored hole, along with appearing on various other promotional materials.

James McDonald, account manager at IPP who swapped the office for the greens, said: “Tommy Tee Off was a great opportunity to show our support to some of the UK’s most vulnerable veterans.

“The RBLI does an amazing job creating homes and jobs for those in need and we were delighted to sponsor a hole.”

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s South Warwickshire Branch met at Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa and heard from Cllr George Cowcher, who holds the Planning and Economic Development Portfolio at Stratford District Council.

The RBLI has been providing high quality and life changing support to the Armed Forces community every day across the UK ever since its inception in 1919.

It was Cllr Cowcher’s second meeting with the Chamber since the Liberal Democrats took overall control of the District Council in May.

Through its various divisions it provides homes, welfare and jobs to veterans along with their families.

He said: “We are very keen to hear the views of businesses and to make sure we are in regular dialogue with organisations such as the Chamber.

“There is great potential for growth in this region but it’s important to ensure that everything is joined up.

“We need to build more homes in order for people to be able to live in the area and fulfil the roles that businesses need to grow, but the infrastructure has to keep up.

“For example, we’ve built one new primary school in the district over the past 20 years and the transport system hasn’t kept pace with growth.

“When I speak to businesses, they talk about skills and labour shortages as a barrier to growth.

“So, when we draw up a new iteration of the Local Plan and create a new economic strategy for South Warwickshire, it will be

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Larry Coltman (Chamber), Cllr George Cowcher (Stratford District Council), Heather Docksey (Warwickshire County Council), Corin Crane (Chamber).

with all of this in mind and it will be ensuring that new development happens in the right place.”

Larry Coltman, the chair of the South Branch of the Chamber, said: “We are always listening to the views of our members who are businesses of all sizes and sectors and we are able to feed that back into decisionmakers.

“It was great to hear from Cllr Cowcher and we look forward to having ongoing engagement with the new administration.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, updated the meeting on two key

strands of work being undertaken by the Chamber on skills and employment land.

The Chamber’s Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) was recently given the green light by Government and puts business at the heart of improving skills in the region.

The Chamber has also recently published a report on employment land in the region to highlight how a shortage of space is holding back business growth.

Corin said: “These are two of the key factors that our members cite when they talk about being unable to grow at the pace they would like and that is why the Chamber is leading in these areas.”

IPP has a strong association with RBLI, having previously worked with its veterans to repair its pallets at the RBLI site in Aylesford in Kent.

“What another fantastic Golf Day had by all today; as a number of RBLI partners, supporters and veterans took to the Weald of Kent Golf Course raising vital funds for the Armed Forces community.

I’d like to thank all of today’s sponsors who made today such a huge success,” said Lisa Farmer, Chief Executive of RBLI.

For more information on IPP, visit www.ipp-pooling.com For more information on the RBLI, visit www.rbli.co.uk.

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Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Armstrongs supports Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice A national award-winning firm of chartered accountants based in Coventry & Warwickshire has completed its fundraising campaign for a local charity.

Peace and Joy at Christmas

Coventry’s Telegraph Hotel is already well established as the premier place for that special event just two years after it opened.

This Christmas period looks to be busier than ever with all six Friday and Saturday party nights already sold out in September.

But there are plenty of other ways to soak in the Telegraph’s 1950s vibe in the run up to Christmas and there are still slots available for corporate and private mid-week parties.

From November 29 to December 20, The Telegraph’s glazed atrium restaurant will be offering sumptuous three-course Christmas meals at lunch and dinner alongside its normal menu.

The new menu has a range of options including chicken liver parfait, carrot & parsnip soup, oak smoked salmon and brie & garlic basked mushroom to start.

It wouldn’t be Christmas without roast breast of turkey and all the trimmings as a main course, with options of beetroot & red onion tarte tatin and fillet of stone bass also available.

Desserts include Baileys and milk chocolate cheesecake, Christmas pudding and lemon posset, but only for those with a Santa costume to fill!

The Telegraph’s chefs are also laying on a festive version of the hotel’s traditional afternoon tea and includes a selection of assorted sandwiches, plain and sultana scones – served with strawberry jam and clotted cream – along with a series of tasty mini desserts, including macaroons and spiced orange sponge. It can be ramped up with a glass or bottle of prosecco!

Amy Windsor, General Manager, said: “It has been a very busy year, serving guests from all across the world and locals alike.

I’m particularly pleased at how the hotel has become a home from home to so many regular guests.

“Our team are a big family, working hard to give the best customer experience. So why not join our family this Christmas and meet up with your colleagues, family and friends for special start to the festive period? But, please do book early as unlike Santa, we can’t fit everyone in.”

And, as businesses start to plan ahead for the New Year, Coventry’s Telegraph Hotel is offering a range of conference and events packages covering everything from 12 to 140 delegates.

For more information or to book go to www.telegraph-hotel.com

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Armstrongs Chartered Accountants entered the women’s netball and men’s football events in the UK Corporate Games and used the competition as an opportunity to raise money for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice.

Armstrongs Director Sarah Van Ristell, who was part of the netball team, said: “Zoe’s Place is a fantastic local charity, so we are pleased that we were able to use the games to raise valuable funds for the hospice.”

Lara Taylerson-Whyte, Corporate Fundraiser at Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice, said: “On behalf of everyone here at Zoe’s Place, we’d like to thank Armstrongs Accountancy for their brilliant fundraising and for competing in the UK Corporate Games in support of the hospice.

“Zoe’s Place is almost entirely run on public donations and it is thanks to generous support like this that we can continue to ensure that very unwell children can enjoy the best possible quality of life. Thank you to everyone who played in the netball and football teams and to all who supported them for raising this amazing total.”

In addition to the successful fundraising, the Corporate Games were positive for Armstrongs for another reason – the men’s football team was crowned the winner in the Soccer 5’s event.

Armstrongs Chartered Accountants provide a wide range of services including accounting, tax, corporate finance, wealth planning, audit and assurance, business support and business development and has offices in Nuneaton, Coventry and Hinckley.

Zoe's Place provides 24-hour palliative, respite and end-of-life care to infants aged from birth to five years with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. They provide short-term regular care with their dedicated nursing staff, in a home from home environment to give parents and carers a well-deserved break.

For more information, visit www.armstrongs-accountancy.co.uk

Deeley Group donates fleeces and jackets to Helping Hands Fleeces, sweatshirts and jackets have been donated by a Midlands construction and property development company to support vulnerable people in Leamington this winter.

Dressability is an independent charity which alters and adapts clothing for people with disabilities and the elderly, supported by 20 volunteers who donated 1,124 hours of time last year.

Sharon Tombs, Manager at Dressability, said: “Every year companies across the country throw away clothing and by working with our de-branding service this is a fantastic way for Deeley Group to ensure none of theirs went to landfill.

Deeley Group has donated more than 80 items of clothing to Helping Hands Community Project, which will support people who are homeless and living in poverty.

The Coventry-headquartered company undertook a full rebrand earlier this year and was left with shirts, polo shirts, jackets, sweatshirts and fleeces which could no longer be used by staff.

“It has been fantastic to work with Deeley Group on this project and we would strongly urge other businesses to consider de-branding to ensure brand new clothing which could be really valuable to vulnerable people in our society doesn’t go to waste.”

Staff at Deeley Group approached Dressability, a charity based in Swindon, to de-brand the clothing and ensure that the clothing, which is new and still in perfect condition, did not go to waste and could be donated to Helping Hands Community Project.

The clothing has now been delivered to the charity, which was set up in 2015 and is based across Kenilworth, Leamington and Warwick and supports those in need by providing food and other essentials, as well as opportunities to attain new skills and qualifications.

Lianne Kirkman, Founder of Helping Hands Community Project, said: “This donation will be gratefully received by Helping Hands and our vulnerable clients. It comes at the

Eleanor Deeley, joint Managing Director of the Deeley Group, said: “We are proud to have been able to support two charities through this project and that we are able to support vulnerable people in Leamington too. perfect time, heading into the winter months as fleeces, sweatshirts, and shirts will offer much needed warmth as the weather turns.

“Deeley has been a huge supporter of Helping Hands since the charity launched and we are extremely proud and grateful of the partnership that has been established and maintained over the years. We look forward to continuing this in the future.”

“When we were rebranding, we knew we didn’t want any of the clothes we had to go to waste, as they had never been used before, and we can’t thank Dressability enough for the fantastic job they have done in debranding the clothes.

“Helping Hands does incredible work across our region and we are pleased to be able to support them again with this donation.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Shakespeare Distillery scoops two awards at the Stratford Herald Business & Tourism Awards Shakespeare Distillery has scooped two awards at the 2023 Stratford Herald Business & Tourism Awards held on 20th October at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Further Environmental Recognition for the Ramada Hotel & Suites

by Wyndham Coventry

The independent artisan spirit producer retained awards in the Best Green Business category and Top Attraction category for the second consecutive year. The awards recognise the achievements of a wide range of enterprises, from family-run independents and restaurants to large-scale employers that make a priority of looking after their staff.

Shakespeare Distillery, which was founded in 2015 by Simon Picken and Peter Monks, is Stratford-upon-Avon's only working distillery and produces a series of spirits including Stratford Gin, Jester Rums, and distillery specials.

The Distillery also provides daily tours and other experiences including a Gin School, Cocktail Masterclasses and River Avon Gin Tasting Cruises.

The latest addition is a shop, Tasting Room, and Rum School in the centre of Stratfordupon-Avon at 1 High Street. The building used to be the home of Judith, William Shakespeare’s daughter and her husband, Thomas Quiney. Shakespeare Distillery has converted the upper two floors of the historical building into a state-of-the-art facility for enjoying its spirits. On the ground floor, the shop showcases its spirits plus a range of wine, beer, cider, and chocolates from local producers.

Peter Monks, Director at Shakespeare Distillery, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won not one, but two awards in retaining Best Green Business and Top Attraction for the second year running.

“For a busy tourist town with many choices for the visitor, we are humbled to have once again received this Top Attraction award.

It is also amazing to be recognised as a leading Green Business, as this is something we planned from the outset in our selection of highly energy efficient modern distilling equipment. Winning both these awards is testament to how hard the entire team at Shakespeare Distillery works, and we are extremely proud of them.”

In 2020 and 2022 the company won gold and silver in the West Midlands Tourism Awards for its destination distillery experiences and has been shortlisted again for 2024. The company was also awarded the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2023, 2022 and 2021 and a silver medal in the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2021 for its Jester White Rum. Last year Shakespeare Distillery scooped four awards at the Stratford Herald Business & Tourism Awards and in May 2023 it was ranked in the top 10 of the best Gin Distillery experiences in the UK, according to new research by Southwestern Railway.

For more information, visit http://www.shakespearedistillery.com/

EMKA Panel Building Hardware for Road and Rail Specialist Vehicles In specifying panel building hardware for road and rail specialist vehicles, the team at EMKA recognises that customers frequently require higher performance than might be available from other generic components. To this end, they have developed application focused products such as the DoubleRed, ePush and eCam lock mechanisms which are coupled with various stainless steel quarter turn locks and hinges, plus the concealed fitting 180 degree gear hinge.

Generally, for these specialist areas, high levels of sealing (IP rating) are required, plus robust strength, corrosion resistance, anti-vandal design (e.g., narrow gaps to resist tools), and a non-interference design (flush or very low profile to enable use in small spaces and not present a hazard which catches on clothing).

The EMKA panel building hardware programme takes care of these issues by offering availability in materials such as high strength industrial plastics, precision diecast components and use of stainless steel.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

The Double Red compression latch handle offers dual level security and more comfortable operation for cabinets, door and covers. This innovative locking solution is especially tailored to the numerous storage boxes in caravans, for example, where luggage and safety equipment is stowed.

Thanks to clever closure technology, it is also suitable for applications in wider sectors of industry and transport such as specialist vehicles where it is often a one-to-one replacement for existing industry standard systems. As both opening mechanisms are marked by a red ring visual indicator, the new lock is called the Double Red – it is classified shock proof and vibration proof, as well as offering IP65 protection.

Externally invisible locking is offered by the EMKA ePush-Lock, meeting the need for a comfortable non-handle locking system. This flat design style of internal locking handle is the trend for mobile homes and many other applications where it is advantageous to disguise opening panels.

The Ramada Hotel & Suites by Wyndham Coventry is celebrating the completion of Level 2 Essential of the Wyndham Green Certification Programme.

Wyndham’s President EMEA, Dimitris Manikis, said: “We are so proud of your commitment to our environment as demonstrated by reaching this certification level. Your dedication to the Wyndham Green Certification Programme helps preserve our natural resources and reduce our environmental footprint. Every time you successfully complete a level of the programme, you will continue to see mounting benefits that can help you reduce cost, increase recognition, stay competitive and drive revenue.”

The hotel’s General Manager, Fabio De Barros, said: “Now’s the time to keep pushing forward and work towards completing Level 3 Proficient, which includes using green cleaning products, further reducing energy waste, and advanced water conservation practises.”

This follows on from being awarded a 2022 Best of Ramada by Wyndham Award earlier this year.

The eCam facilitates electronic locking for quarter-turns and other latching without the need to change doors or panels on machine controls, machine guards, control and data housings, so ensuring major time and cost savings over the alternative of reinstalling new cabinets. eCam is UL and DIN certified.

Applications for eCam include trailers, mobile homes and RVs where it enables multiple locking/unlocking from a remote central point.

For further information, visit www.emka.com

On this occasion Dimitris Manikis, Wyndham’s President EMEA, said: “This award is a testament to you and your hotel team’s efforts to continuously deliver guests an unforgettable experience. The passion and dedication of our hotels to deliver a continuous service level of excellence is what we are most proud of and for which we are truly grateful.”

Fabio added: “To be recognised once this year was an achievement; to be recognised twice is truly an honour.

“This is testament to the dedication and hard work of our team here at the Ramada. With their continued support, we will strive to push forward even further on the Wyndham Green Certification Programme.”

39

Education and Skills

Given a Fair Chance, Abdul proves the perfect fit As a Fair Chance Employer, Rugbybased Exact Logistics have shown their commitment to recruiting the best people regardless of complex backgrounds or needs.

This has led to their appointment of Abdul Ataie, a 29-year-old from Afghanistan, who arrived in the UK determined to find work, contribute fully to society and look after his family.

The result – a win-win for employer and employee.

In the spring of 2023, Karen Shuter, owner of Exact Logistics, was struggling to fill a vacancy in their customs clearance office.

She had received a lot of applications for the role but none from an applicant with the requisite skills and experience. Then into her inbox landed a very intriguing CV – that of Abdul Ataie.

Abdul, his wife and young family arrived in the UK in January 2022. They first lived in a hotel in Northampton before settling in Coventry where he searched hard for work.

Abdul was educated in India before, aged 17, joining the military back in his native country, Afghanistan. He went on to build a successful career, training at the National Military Academy in Kabul and working his way up to Head of the Planning Department, teaching and training others. While working full-time he also studied part-time at university to qualify as a doctor, which he did in 2020.

When he moved to the UK, he wanted nothing more than to use his skills and qualifications to support his family. However, frustration followed as he applied for over 100 jobs without success.

Then Abdul applied to Exact Logistics and his application caught Karen's eye. He impressed at interview and was hired - and has continued to impress ever since.

He joined the company in May and hit the ground running, working on import and export paperwork, inputting data in preparation for HMRC. "I received lots of CVs for the role, but Abdul's definitely shone through,” said Karen.

“I was keen to interview him to find out more about him and everything just fell into place. He got the job and is proving a fantastic recruit for us."

The business is fully cognisant of Abdul’s family commitments and his hours of work are tailored accordingly. With savings he had accrued, he was able to buy a car to enable him to commute to work and, although the company can only currently offer 16 hours a week, Karen is hoping this will soon increase.

She is conscious that, with Abdul's skills and experience, they may not have him for long, but they are loving having him on the team for now.

Heather Docksey, Business Skills Support Advisor at Warwickshire Skills Hub, said: “By choosing to look beyond Abdul's CV, Karen was able to see the person behind the skills and qualifications. That has proved to be a life-changing decision for him and his family and a great decision for the buiness which has found a fantastic employee.

“As a Fair Chance Employer, Exact Logistics have shown that, by being open to candidates from all backgrounds, they were able to recruit someone who is capable, enthusiastic keen and prepared to work hard.”

40

Apprenticeship success continues to flow with MGTS & Triton Showers Emmaleigh Thornton is the latest recruit to join Triton Showers as an MGTS apprentice.

Earlier this year, due to circumstances beyond her control, Emmaleigh was seeking a new employer just two years into her apprenticeship. Lee Beesley, her MGTS Training & Development Adviser (TDA) came to the rescue.

“Lee went above and beyond to help me get another chance to finish my apprenticeship and I couldn’t thank him more. I really appreciate all that Lee and everyone at MGTS has done for me.”

Emmaleigh said.

“We have a longstanding relationship with Triton Showers, and I knew that Emmaleigh would fit in perfectly with her skill set, abilities, and aspirations.

When employers, training providers and apprentices support each other with the goal of developing talent it’s a win-win all round.” Lee comments.

Emmaleigh will be working alongside former MGTS apprentice Lewis

Brocklehurst. Lewis completed his apprenticeship in June 2022 and is currently employed as a Product Engineer. He tells us: “I enjoyed my apprenticeship and would highly recommend this pathway into the industry. I enjoyed the mix of working and learning so that I could develop work-based, industry specific and academic skills and knowledge at the same time, all whilst earning.

“Lee was also my TDA, and I found him supportive and genuinely interested in my progression throughout the apprenticeship, always making time to resolve any issues I had. He would encourage me to complete the work to the best standard possible and ahead of schedule which allowed me to complete my End Point Assessment earlier than others.

“The support from Triton has also been excellent and they continue to develop my learning in the workplace, continually expanding my knowledge and skills.

This allows me to work on bigger, more

challenging tasks and projects and as a result I am becoming a better asset to the company. I can offer my resource to a wider range of tasks, helping achieve targets and deadlines. I am looking forward to supporting Emmaleigh and being part of the team that helps her develop into a valued, skilled engineer.”

Taylor Wimpey strengthens collaboration with WCG Taylor Wimpey has been working with Moreton Morrell College to develop its apprentice bricklayers – with the first cohort of apprentices passing their end point assessments with flying colours.

The training scheme saw all eight apprentices qualify, within 18 months rather than the usual two year programme with many gaining Distinctions, and now a further 13 have been enrolled onto the Level 2 Bricklaying qualification.

As part of the collaboration, Taylor Wimpey created a training facility at Moreton Morrell College to enable bricklayers to practise their building skills.

The success of the programme has led to an expansion of the existing facility to support the training of further apprentices, with plans to create a fullscale house on the college site to support the apprenticeship programme.

It sees practical training combined with theory to help apprentices gain a greater understanding of the jobs a qualified

bricklayer is expected to carry out on a Taylor Wimpey site.

Michelle Reid, Divisional Apprenticeship Manager at Taylor Wimpey, said: “Taylor Wimpey and WCG have worked together extremely well over the last 18 months to two years.

“The partnership between the two is working extremely well and I look forward to more apprentices coming through the Taylor Wimpey training centre to allow us to fill the skills gap the construction industry is experiencing in the future.

John Billings, Head of Work-Based Learning for Construction at Moreton Morrell College, said: “We were incredibly impressed with the first cohort of apprentices we trained from Taylor Wimpey and the future of the bricklaying profession is in safe hands.

“We’re proud to be working in partnership with Taylor Wimpey to help develop the next generation of skilled people to deliver their developments.”

To find out more about brickwork courses at WCG visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Education and Skills

Rugby business donates vital material to support welding students A Rugby-based welding and fabrication business has donated vital materials which will help to support the development of apprentices.

TS Metals, part of the Quartzelec group, has donated half a tonne of 3mm thick mild steel to Royal Leamington Spa College.

The donation further strengthens the company’s relationship with the college and comes as their four new apprentices joined the college last month to start a two-year welding apprenticeship journey.

In addition to the four new starters, one current employee has moved onto a Level 3 Metal Fabrication apprenticeship, whilst another TS Metals employee has recently completed the end point assessment for his Level 6, degree qualification.

TS Metals was founded in 1990 and employs 27 people in Rugby. It undertakes welding and fabrication services as part of a larger assembly process, or for customers in a specialist subcontract capacity as well as bespoke laser cut solutions.

Ian Addison, Business Manager at TS Metals, said: “It is vitally important for our business that we invest in our future and

apprenticeships are a fundamental element of our plan for success and longevity.

“Ensuring that the right training is in place with the right training provider to support our growing apprentice intake is key.

“Our apprentices have been thriving during their training with WCG at Royal Leamington Spa College and we were pleased to be able to show our thanks with a donation of materials to support learners in their studies.”

Trevor Gibbs, workshop lead at the college, said: “We have received two donations of steel from TS Metals and it has been gratefully received by the welding team here at the college. It will enable us to deliver practical training for our welding apprentices.

To find out more about courses at WCG visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study

How collaborating with FE colleges can secure your business success such as community outreach programs, environmental sustainability initiatives, or support for underprivileged students.

4. Establishing Long-term Partnerships: By engaging in regular dialogue and involvement, companies can understand the evolving needs of colleges and align their strategies accordingly – maximising the benefits of collaboration.

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, organisations must adapt and innovate to remain competitive. Forging partnerships with Further Education (FE) colleges can help businesses achieve sustainable growth.

How can colleges help?

1. Nurturing Talent Pipeline: FE colleges play a crucial role in developing a skilled workforce by offering vocational courses, apprenticeships, and specialised training programs. Businesses can tap into a rich pool of talent and ensure a steady supply of skilled professionals. Establishing apprenticeship schemes, internships, or work placements can provide students with valuable hands-on experience while

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allowing businesses to identify and nurture potential future employees.

2. Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (EDI): Building diverse and inclusive workplaces enhances business performance. FE colleges often have a diverse student base, representing various backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities. Collaborating with colleges can help businesses tap into this diverse talent pool and foster an inclusive work environment.

3. Embracing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): CSR initiatives are essential for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to social and environmental issues. Businesses can collaborate with colleges on projects

Solihull College & University Centre and Stratford-upon-Avon College would welcome conversations with members of The Chamber to explore and embrace these potential collaborations. The Colleges are busy rolling out new T-Level qualifications (a vocational equivalent to 3 A-Levels) in digital, health, business, engineering and construction. All of the learners require a substantial industry placement of 45 days or more to pass their qualification - could your business host one of these learners?

Nancy Buckley is the new Vice Principal of Business, Growth, Skills and Partnerships.

With a background in international sales within the private sector, as well as founding her own consultancy business, Nancy brings a commercial acumen to the FE Sector. She is looking forward to getting to know the West Midlands, Coventry and Warwickshire areas better and hopes to engage fully with the Chamber to achieve great collaboration.

Get in touch: nancy.buckley@solihull.ac.uk

IT and Telecoms Startup empowers Coventry Schools with essential services

Solaas IT is commemorating a significant 6-month milestone by celebrating the successful execution of two noteworthy projects. They have seamlessly introduced new internet connections across the six schools within the Finham Park Multi Academy Trust and a state-ofthe-art Wildix phone system at Coventry College.

René Wheeler, the Managing Director of Solaas IT, emphasises the vital role these projects play. He states, "With years of experience working with educational institutions, I fully appreciate the critical need for reliable internet and phone connectivity to ensure the smooth operation of schools and enhance the learning environment for both students and staff."

René elaborates, "Jason Hart, the Head of MAT IT Services for Finham Park Multi Academy Trust, contacted Solaas IT after suffering numerous internet outages over the past 18 months. Coventry College sought our assistance to reduce their phone expenses and enhance communication across their entire campus."

Solaas IT, as part of its standard practice, conducted a thorough assessment of the specific requirements for each client. As an independent provider of IT and telecom services, they have access to a diverse range of solutions, enabling them to select the most suitable options for each project.

The goal was to have both new systems operational in time for the start of the academic year. The implementation of these projects proceeded seamlessly, and on-site training was provided as needed. When students returned after the summer break, the new systems were fully operational, and staff members were confident in their usage.

Jason Hart commended the professionalism of René and his team, stating, "René and his team are consummate professionals.

They provide invaluable advice, keep you informed about the progress of your orders and installation dates, and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table."

With its successful first 6 months as an indicator, Solaas IT eagerly anticipates the future, expecting a period of heightened activity and growth.

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Coventry’s all electric buses is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), secured £50 million funding from the Department of Transport to ensure every bus in Coventry is zeroemission. Funding was used to replace the city’s bus fleet with zero-emission electric buses along with charging infrastructure.

The latest 130 vehicles are in addition to 10 fully electric double-decker buses introduced by National Express Coventry in 2020, supported by £2.2 million of government funding from the Ultra-Low Emission Bus Scheme.

A £140 million project to create the UK’s first all-electric bus city by 2025 has taken a major step forward with National Express Coventry now operating 130 new double-decker zero emission allelectric buses in Coventry.

All 130 Enviro400 electric buses are UK-built in Falkirk by Alexander Dennis on a BYD chassis. The buses produce zero carbon emissions at the tailpipe and are powered by renewable ‘green’ energy thanks to solar panels, a second-life battery and charge-point infrastructure all installed at National Express Coventry’s bus depot by electrification specialist Zenobē. The electric buses take four hours to charge and can run for up to 175 miles depending on the time of year.

To date, National Express Coventry’s electric buses have operated over 2.5 million miles since their first introduction in August 2020, saving 4,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide and contributing towards the achievement of the Council’s objectives to reduce vehicle emissions within the city.

The overall project has been funded by a combination of Government funding and investment from National Express. In 2021 Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), which

With 80 percent of National Express Coventry’s fleet now zero-emission, it marks a significant step forward in Coventry’s mission to promote sustainable transportation and create a healthier environment for the community. It also comes after the completion of 1250 electric vehicle charging sockets in Coventry, contributing to the ongoing improvement of the city's air quality.

Councillor Jim O’Boyle, the City Council’s Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change, has welcomed the news, he said: “This is great news. It’s a significant step towards the decarbonisation of the city’s transport network, building on the Council’s investment in a public chargepoint network, and our investment in new cycle routes.

“I’ve used the new electric buses and they’re very smart, comfortable to ride on, and, most importantly, are good for our environment.”

Alex Jensen, CEO National Express UK & Germany, said: “We’re incredibly proud to play our part in making Coventry the UK’s first All-Electric Bus City. By working together with our partners at TfWM, Coventry City Council and Zenobē we have made great progress in creating a greener and more efficient public transport system for our customers.

“As we have some of the cheapest ticket fares in England, alongside flexible ticketing, our customers can have the confidence that they are doing their bit for the planet when they ditch the car and travel by bus.”

More people using public transport has significant benefits for society including safer

roads, increased access to opportunities, reduced congestion, improved air quality and more space in our cities.

Roads Minister Richard Holden MP, said: “Backed by our funding, Coventry’s plans to create the UK’s first All-Electric Bus City will help connect communities across the city, helping to grow the economy whilst making bus journeys cleaner with British made buses.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “We’re well on our way to making Coventry the UK’s first allelectric bus city by 2025. It’s great news that National Express moved ahead at pace with placing the order - getting these British made buses into service.

“These environmentally friendly buses will help to improve air quality in Coventry and by switching to a modern electric fleet, operators will reduce their energy costs.

“Most important of all, local people will now benefit from a quieter, smoother and more comfortable journey experience on these wonderful new buses in the months and years ahead. I look forward to seeing them in action and being a customer myself.”

In a ground-breaking partnership, Green Energy Technical Services Ltd (GET Services) has collaborated with the Heart of England Co-operative Society on a pioneering sustainability project at Whittle House in Coventry. This initiative, which commenced on 7 June 2023, demonstrates GET Services' commitment to environmental responsibility and energy optimisation.

At the heart of the project is solar energy integration, which has transformed Whittle House's rooftop into a cutting-edge solar powerhouse, generating 81.9 kWp of clean, renewable energy. The installation includes 180 JA Solar 455 W modules, 2 SolarEdge

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inverters (17 kW and 33.3 kW capacities), and 91 SolarEdge Optimisers (P950), meticulously designed for optimal energy conversion.

By 17 August 2023, the solar installation had produced 25.53 MWh of clean energy, demonstrating GET Services' commitment to carbon reduction and sustainability.

GET Services' collaboration with the Heart of England Co-operative Society has reduced approximately 5,000 kg of CO2 emissions, meeting 57% of the Co-op Head Office's energy needs. This partnership emphasises GET Services' role as a trailblazer in sustainable energy practices, setting an example for others.

Furthermore, the Heart of England Cooperative Society is pleased to announce an expanded partnership with GET Services in 2023/2024. Together, they will embark

A waste management and recycling company in Warwickshire is planning for further growth after a 70 per cent increase in its turnover in the past four years.

Clews Recycling, which was established in 1999, started life operating Household Waste Recycling Centres for local authorities but has expanded since 2007 and now focuses on its industrial and commercial customers.

Zenobē, an EV fleet and battery storage specialist, is providing Electric-Transportas-a-Service (ETaaS) to National Express Coventry with an end-to-end electrification solution that enables reliability and flexibility.

This includes on-board replacement batteries, the charging and grid infrastructure system at the depot, with dedicated rapid chargers, and a software platform which helps monitor and optimise energy use, as well as parts and operational support.

The business runs a fleet of 10 HGV trucks and a waste transfer station on Hunters Lane, Rugby, that handles 25,000 tonnes of waste each year. The waste is sorted into recyclables with value such as metal, cardboard, polythene or into those wastes that have a lower cost of final disposal such as soil, wood and hardcore.

Steven Meersman, Co-Founder and Director of Zenobē, said: “This is an exciting day for this landmark project which shows that with government support, an ambitious operator and the right electrification partner, the switch to zero-emission can happen at scale today. Zenobē have been working with National Express since 2019, and we look forward to continuing to derisk electrification so they can continue to decarbonise whilst providing an excellent passenger experience.”

Since 2019, the business has grown its turnover to nearly £5 million and increased its workforce to 34 members of staff and plans are in the pipeline for a new baler to produce bale refuse derived fuel, fit solar panels on the roof to reduce its energy costs and a shredder for electrical equipment and computer hard-drives.

Ground breaking Solar Project at Whittle House, Coventry Green Energy Technical Services Ltd (GET Services) Partners with Heart of England Co-operative Society for Ground-breaking Solar Project at Whittle House, Leading to Expanded Collaboration in 2023/2024

Clews Recycling’s plans for further growth after 70 per cent turnover increase

on an additional 20 sustainability projects, solidifying GET Services as a trusted partner in advancing environmental goals.

In conclusion, Green Energy Technical Services Ltd (GET Services) is playing a leading role in driving sustainable energy practices through its partnership with the Heart of England Co-operative Society. The Whittle House solar installation exemplifies the value of innovative collaborations in achieving ambitious environmental objectives. As the sun powers this endeavour, GET Services is illuminating a path towards a more energy-efficient future for Coventry and beyond.

Clews Recycling has received support from the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub since 2015 – a year after the Growth Hub was launched – receiving grants to buy machinery, recruitment and training.

Richard Clews, Managing Director at Clews Recycling, said: “In 2015, the Growth Hub helped us design and purchase a specialist hopper for lightweight waste, contribute towards mobile plant and assist with the enabling works to pull all the strands together to help us reach recycling rates of between 85 to 88 per cent.

“The financial benefits through the grants we have received over the last eight years have made a difference in contributing towards buying capital equipment but it is also great to have someone on your side to listen, make valuable contributions and to want you to be successful – that’s worth its weight in gold.”

The firm is training five Ukrainian staff to improve their English so they can undergo forklift truck training and another member of staff is studying for an NVQ level 4 in Waste Management.

In April, the firm expanded to take over an adjacent industrial unit next door for WEEE destruction and plant repairs.

Craig Humphrey, CEO of the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, added: "Clews Recycling is operating within a sector that is heavily legislated and Government and European directives that apply to the waste sector can sometimes be overbearing. With the help we have given through grants, skills and training, it has led to the company increasing its turnover and increasing jobs which has led to improved productivity and that for me, as the CEO of a business support organisation, is fantastic to see.”

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Movers & Shakers

HB&O welcomes two new co-owners Midlands-based Accountancy and Finance firm, HB&O, has announced the promotion of two new co-owners: Simon Turner and Stuart Grosvenor.

Local law firm announces host of promotions

The new ownership structure will see Simon and Stuart join Directors Mark Ashfield, Helen Coombes and Wayne Gutteridge. The firm has offices in Leamington Spa and Coventry and employs over one hundred people.

Their key service offerings are tax, audit, compliance services, Virtual Finance Office and corporate finance.

With ambitious plans for the future, HB&O are committed to providing a

In addition, Jas Thiara, Head of Criminal Litigation & Motoring Offences and Shelley DeWorringham, Head of Family department have also been promoted to Senior Associate Solicitors.

Elsewhere, there have been two promotions in the Nuneaton office, longstanding member of the Private Client Department, Sarah Darby has become Senior Associate, Wills & Probate Executive and Deepak Badhan has been appointed Team Leader, Conveyancing Executive.

The promotions come at a time where the firm is seeing continuing organic growth across a number of departments and in particular in their Southam and the recently acquired Stratford-upon-Avon office.

Commenting on the promotions, Cathy Wahlberg, Managing Director at Alsters Kelley said, ‘This is a great way to start our new financial year – all the promotions are very well deserved and recognise all their valuable contributions and achievements to date.

‘I would like to congratulate all our newly promoted colleagues and look forward to seeing them prosper and look forward to their future input in the development and growth of themselves, their departments and the wider firm. Very exciting times ahead here at Alsters Kelley.’

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Mark Ashfield, Managing Director, commented, “This is a momentous milestone in the progression of HB&O and has been something we’ve been working on with Simon and Stuart since they joined. Bringing another two co-owners onto the Board enables us to really accelerate our growth plans whilst continuing to provide the very best service offering to our clients. Both Simon and Stuart are highly experienced accounting and business professionals, bringing years of extremely valuable expertise to our

team, and we are delighted to have them on board to strengthen and support HB&O’s leadership.”

Prime Accountants appoints new Tax Director which has offices in Birmingham, Solihull and Coventry.

Alsters Kelley Solicitors Ltd, one of Coventry & Warwickshire’s leading law firms has announced a host of promotions across their departments and five offices.

Helen Checketts who joined the firm in September 2020 and Parveen Sidhu who joined in May 2022 have both been promoted to Senior Associate Solicitors and Heads of their respective departments, Helen, Residential Property and Parveen, Dispute Resolution.

first-class service to both their existing and new clients.

Emma said: “It’s the opportunity to be a big part of the business, to help it grow and to expand the team, which really appealed to me.

Emma Clewes has joined Prime Accountants Group as head of tax advisory.

Leading Midlands accountancy firm Prime Accountants Group has appointed Emma Clewes as its new head of tax advisory as part of the company’s continued growth.

Emma, who has nearly 20 years’ experience in the industry representing big four and top 20 firms, joined the business at the start of September.

Emma, who qualified in 2004, will be responsible for integrating tax matters into the company's service offerings, ensuring seamless and comprehensive assistance to clients.

She said she was excited about being part of the management team at Prime,

“Part of that work is to look at what is already here, work with the other directors to look at our strategy and work with clients to offer a wholesome approach, where businesses don’t just see tax as an afterthought. It becomes part of the whole package we offer as business advisors.”

Having started her career in smaller firms, Emma said she recognises and appreciates the collaborative and accessible environment they offer.

Emma drew an analogy between accountants and a Formula One team, emphasising their essential role in supporting and providing the necessary tools for a driver's success.

“The clients are the drivers. The pit crew and the race engineers are fundamental in keeping the driver on track, with two-way communication making sure the driver has a successful race. It’s a collaboration on every level, and that’s how Prime aims to work with their clients,” she added.

Kevin Johns, managing director of Prime Accountants Group, said he was delighted to have Emma on board, recognising her extensive experience and the great value she brings to the team.

“Emma brings nearly two decades of experience from across the whole spectrum of accountancy and we’re delighted to have her on board.

“We believe our main strengths as a business will help Emma play to her strengths and be a valuable part of our team.”

For more information on Prime Accountants, visit https://primeaccountants.co.uk

New appointment boosts Alsters Kelley Family Team Alsters Kelley Solicitors Ltd, one of Coventry and Warwickshire’s leading law firms is pleased to announce it has recently appointed Karen Brennan as a Senior Solicitor into its expanding Family department.

Karen has over 20 years’ experience in Family law working in senior roles across the Midlands. She has managed all aspects of private family law including complex financial matters arising as a result of relationship breakdown and also advising clients where there are concerns relating to children.

Commenting on her appointment Karen said, “Alsters Kelley is a very well-established law firm with an excellent reputation. I am thrilled with my appointment and looking forward to a very exciting future and assisting with the further growth of the department.”

Shelley DeWorringham, Head of the Family Department commented, “Karen brings considerable experience to the team and will be a great asset to our clients, the Family department and to the rest of the firm.”

Nuneaton, Southam and Stratford upon Avo. Karen is based in the Leamington Spa office but will meet clients at whichever office is most convenient for them.

Alsters Kelley Solicitors Ltd has offices in Leamington, Coventry,

For more information visit: www.alsterskelley.com

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Movers & Shakers

Finance expert swaps motorsport industry for life in the property fast-lane Ben loved his time with the business but is now looking forward to getting his teeth into another challenge, as Holt Commercial continues to grow.

The company – which offers agency, property management, investment and valuation services to clients – has added three more property professionals to the team over the past year and is looking to recruit further.

Ben said: “I am really pleased to join Holt Commercial. I really enjoyed my time at Tolman and then took a short period out to take care of my three children.

“I was looking for a new opportunity and a new challenge and I was introduced to Holt Commercial by a contact, and it was a perfect fit.

A finance expert has swapped the motorsport industry for life in the property fast-lane.

Ben Spencer has joined commercial property specialist Holt Commercial, which has offices in Coventry and Birmingham and works across the Midlands region, as the company’s new finance controller.

Ben, who worked and trained in accountancy straight from when he left school in 1993, had spent a short

period out of industry to take care of his three children.

That was after five years working for Rugby-based Tolman Motorsport, which is a pioneering engineering company that restores, rebuilds and recreates classic vehicles.

It hit the headlines in 2022 when its Tolman Edition Peugeot 205 GTI was driven by Freddie Flintoff on Top Gear and he later named it his car of the year.

“The company has grown in the past 12 months, and it is a great to be joining at an exciting moment in the business’s history.”

Nick Holt, director of Holt Commercial, said: “We can’t offer the fast cars that Ben would have seen in his previous job, but things are definitely moving at pace here at Holt Commercial.

“The team is growing; our services are more and more in demand and there are further opportunities to develop the business moving forward.

“It’s great to have Ben on board.”

Julie White is the new Chair of Build UK One of UK construction’s leading female voices has become the chair of a major organisation which represents and supports the industry.

Julie White, Managing Director of D-Drill & Sawing – which is based just outside Coventry and has offices across the country, specialising in diamond drilling and concrete sawing services – is the new Chair of Build UK, succeeding Paul Cossell from ISG Ltd. Over the past decade-and-a-half, Julie has become one of the most recognised faces and voices in the sector, speaking up on issues such as skills, apprenticeships and the profile of the industry.

She is already Chair of the Drilling and Sawing Association and has been a regular in Downing Street, representing construction on the former Prime Minister’s Business Council.

Julie took over D-Drill & Sawing in 2008 when she completed a management buyout of the family firm and has grown the business over the last 15 years.

She was an inaugural board member of Build UK when it was established in 2015

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to help bring specialist sub-contractors and main contractors together within the industry.

Vantage 365, a prominent Microsoft consultancy and Microsoft Partner headquartered in the West Midlands, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Rachel Wood as the company’s new Project Manager.

Rachel Wood brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Vantage 365 team. With a track record of successfully leading and managing complex IT projects, Rachel’s appointment is set to enhance the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional solutions and services to its clients. Her extensive knowledge of Microsoft technologies, coupled with her exceptional leadership skills, makes her a valuable addition to the Vantage 365 family.

“We are excited to welcome Rachel Wood to our team as the Project Manager. Her experience and passion for driving successful projects align perfectly with our mission to provide the highest quality Microsoft solutions and services to our clients,” said Leighton Gill, Operations Manager at Vantage 365.

Now, the organisation consists of businesses across the whole construction supply chain – including clients, main contractors, specialist contractors, other trade associations and professional services – helping the sector to speak with one voice.

Julie, who was appointed at the organisation’s AGM and will serve as Chair for two years, said: “I’ve grown up in the industry and continue to live and breathe it every single day.

Vantage 365 welcomes Rachel Wood as new Project Manager

“That is why I’m absolutely delighted to be appointed as Chair of Build UK for the next two years. Having been on the board since its inception in 2015, I truly believe in the value of having the whole supply chain around the table to develop solutions and provide a strong collective voice for the sector.

Build UK Chief Executive Suzannah Nichol MBE said: “I would like to thank Paul Cossell for his leadership and support as Chair during a challenging two years for our industry. We will continue our drive to transform the sector, working collaboratively to improve business performance, increase productivity, and recruit, train and retain talent.

“I want to ensure that we ‘talk-up’ construction. It is a massive driver of economic growth and brings huge social value to the UK and it’s important that the industry is valued from that point of view.”

“I’m delighted to welcome Julie White as our new Chair and look forward to working with her to capitalise on the depth and breadth of our membership and provide a strong collective voice for construction.”

As a Microsoft Partner, Vantage 365 is dedicated to helping businesses leverage Microsoft technologies to optimise, enhance and automate their operations and achieve their goals.

With Rachel Wood on board, the company aims to further enhance its project management capabilities and bring even more innovative solutions to its clients.

Rachel’s appointment reflects Vantage 365’s ongoing commitment to excellence and the continuous expansion of its talented team. Her expertise will play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful delivery of projects, strengthening client relationships, and contributing to the company’s commitment to excellence.

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R&Co Communications Public Relations 01926 888308 info@rcomms.co.uk https://rcomms.co.uk/

Sherbourne Recycling Limited Recyclers 07956 051398 Layla.shannon@sherbournerecycling.co.uk https://sherbournerecycling.co.uk/

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CLOSE YOUR TALENT GAP

The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes For Higher and Further Education

2021

Access new skills and grow loyal employees APPRENTICESHIPS Expand your workforce with WCG, the largest apprenticeships training provider in the West Midlands, training 2000+ apprentices in over 60 sectors annually.

T LEVELS Like the idea of an apprentice but need a short-term solution? Take on a T Level student for a 45-day placement and help them kickstart their career.

WCG now offers T Levels in: • Agri-Tech

• Education & Childcare

• Animal Care • Business

• Engineering & Manufacturing

• Construction

• Equine Care

• Craft & Design: Furniture or Fashion & Textiles

• Health

• Digital Support Services

• Media, Broadcast & Production

INDUSTRY PLACEMENTS Trial a potential apprentice or employee by offering a work placement that’s completely flexible to your business needs.

Find out how WCG can help your business gain a competitive edge today by contacting our Business Development Team:

0300 135 6940 employerenquiries@wcg.ac.uk

wcg.ac.uk/employers