C&W in Business October 2022

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During the past weeks of National Mourning, businesses have faced that difficult balancing act – paying respect and celebrating a life of our Queen, who had an impact on so many lives, across the UK and the world, whilst continuing to run their businesses and conduct essential work.

We were incredibly proud and honoured that Her Majesty The Queen was Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce in the UK and held a close association with the Chamber Network across the UK.

This was a period to both mourn and to celebrate a remarkable life. Her Majesty was a great supporter of business and industry, along with her late husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

One example of this was The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and for many businesses, across Coventry and Warwickshire, who achieved one of The Queens Awards for Enterprise, her involvement was also a validation of the incredible success of our local businesses. There is no doubt that she will be sorely missed.

Beyond all this, the economy has continued to face some harsh issues. The spiralling cost of energy is threatening to put many businesses in an existential crisis – good businesses, with a strong order book are being tipped into losses as their bills go up and are considering whether they are viable anymore.

So, we are pleased that the new government is taking the issue seriously and we welcome the announcements to cap wholesale energy costs broadly in line with household consumers.

This intervention will help many businesses over the difficult winter period and we will be campaigning hard to make sure that this support package is extended until global prices have stabilised.

What this crisis has highlighted, though, is the fragile nature of the UK energy supply and our dependence on unsustainable fossil fuels. We can’t take our eyes of the Net Zero agenda and this short-term intervention needs to be backed up quickly with an ambitious and innovative package of sustainable options.

We need huge investment in wind and solar generation at a national level and wherever possible we

need to use UK suppliers to build and install this technology. We need financial support and planning flexibility for UK businesses to invest in onsite generation for their own supply and to enable them to put surplus green energy back into the system.

Most importantly, in the West Midlands we need proper devolved powers and budgets to deal with many of these issues ourselves –grants to support businesses with energy efficiency programmes, powers to reclassify West Midlands manufacturers from energy network levies and a huge acceleration in the move to battery and hydrogen powered transport networks.

Your Chamber of Commerce is here to listen, support and guide as we move through the challenges which lay ahead, and I would urge you to speak to our team at any time if your business needs help and support – just drop us a call on 024 7665 4321.

Corin Crane Chief Executive

Members are encouraged to send any news about their firm - new orders, staff, new products, expansions or relocationsfor 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

Chamber spells out plan for new PM

Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire have backed an urgent warning to Government that time is running out to support firms in desperate need of help as the cost of doing business becomes more acute.

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) wrote to the Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer and both leadership candidates for the Conservative party proposing a comprehensive five-point plan to provide vital support to UK businesses.

The BCC five-point plan to support businesses, backed by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, includes the following measures:

1. Ofgem to be given more power to strengthen regulation of the energy market for businesses 2. Temporary cut in VAT to five per cent to reduce energy costs for businesses 3. Covid-style support by introducing Government Emergency Energy Grant for SMEs 4. Temporarily reverse NICs and put money back into the pockets of businesses and workers 5. Government to immediately review and reform the Shortage Occupation List (SOL) to help bring down wage pressures and fill staffing vacancies

The Bank of England’s projections of a recession and consumer confidence reported by GfK at a 50-year low are clear signs that the Government is running out of time to offer businesses and households the support they need.

Over the last 18 months, BCC research – which includes figures from Coventry and Warwickshire – has shown unprecedented inflationary pressures on businesses, with two thirds of firms in Q2 2022 expecting further price rises. Energy bills, raw materials, and labour costs are all cited as the top drivers of price rises.

BCC research is also showing a reduction in the percentage of firms expecting to grow in the next 12 months, from 63 per cent in Q1 to 54 per cent in Q2. In January, BCC found that 23 per cent of businesses surveyed were looking to scale down or even consider closure in response to rising costs.

Corin Crane, Chief Executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said firms cannot afford to wait another month without practical support measures being put in place.

He said: “Now is the time for action. The crisis facing businesses across Coventry, Warwickshire, the wider region and the country, is not going to wait for the Conservative Party leadership contest to conclude.

“The current Prime Minister, Chancellor and Government have to act now to support companies with immediate effect.

“Since I arrived at this Chamber a few weeks ago, I have met with dozens of businesses across the patch and they can see so many opportunities for growth but they are being held back by issues out of their control.

“The five-point plan, outlined in the letter from the BCC to our nation’s leaders, would offer support to businesses during this crisis.

“Of course, there needs to be help for individuals in these very difficult times but the health of our region relies on good businesses, creating and sustaining jobs and growing the economy so it’s vital they are supported too.”

Director General of the BCC, Shevaun Haviland, said: “Today, I have written to the Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer and both Conservative Party Leadership candidates expressing my concern for businesses and households during these challenging times.

“Since the start of 2021 we have been repeatedly hearing the same message: the cost-of-doing-business is increasing.

“At over 10 per cent, CPI inflation is at a 40-year high; interest rates are seeing the largest increase in 27 years; and eye watering energy bills have created a perfect storm of increasing costs. The impact of these challenges on consumers, businesses and wider society cannot be overstated.

“Consumer confidence reported at a 50-year low, and the Bank of England’s projections of a year-long recession, demonstrates that the cost-of-living crisis and the cost-of-doing-business crisis are two sides of the same coin.

“The BCC’s five-point plan is not solely about ensuring support for businesses. It is also about protecting jobs, securing livelihoods, and creating a vibrant and prosperous society for everyone.

“Good business is good for our communities, and we must support firms and the individuals that run them to ride out this economic storm.

“In June, we gave the Government until the Autumn budget to get its house in order, but the latest economic projections released since then have been worse than expected. We simply cannot afford to see another month of the same old news.

“Through feedback from accredited Chambers of Commerce around the UK, alongside our extensive research and survey work, we know what businesses require now to survive and plan for growth. The regulation of the energy sector for businesses must be strengthened. Businesses also need to receive support for spiralling costs through grant funding and a reduction in VAT on energy bills, along with measures to boost growth such as a temporary reversal of NICs and an urgent reform of the SOL to fill staff vacancies.

“The problems are well understood. We at the BCC are offering solutions. It is now over to the Government to take action to protect businesses, livelihoods and jobs.”

The BCC’s five-point plan is not solely about ensuring support for businesses. It is also about protecting jobs, securing livelihoods, and creating a vibrant and prosperous society for everyone.

Building on the legacy of major events

Small businesses in the creative and cultural sector in Coventry are being offered support to build on the legacy of Coventry 2021 and Birmingham 2022.

The package of support will see creative businesses and freelancers offered the opportunity to attend workshop sessions to help improve their social media and marketing capabilities, as well as one-to-one sessions with a specialist advisor to look at a range of key topics such as business planning and sales and marketing.

The support programme is being delivered by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce as part of the Coventry City Council-led Coventry Creative Growth & Cultural Tourism Recovery Programme, which is funded by the UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund, through the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The programme is supporting creative, tourism & hospitality business across Coventry, and development of new employment and training opportunities in these sectors.

The workshop sessions, all delivered online will begin in September, topics covered include social media and

digital marketing top tips, how to build a Google Profile, SEO, email marketing and much more. Sessions are highly interactive, and participants will get to meet fellow business owners in the creative and cultural sector.

Eligible businesses can also benefit from one-to-one advice with a skilled and experienced business advisor, where there will be the opportunity to explore the business in more detail, including opportunities for growth, challenges and how to overcome these, marketing and sales and planning for the future.

Keely Hancox, operations manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said a range of businesses could access the support available as the city looks to grow the creative and cultural sector on the back of two major events for the region.

She said: “It has been an incredible period for Coventry and the wider region, with City of Culture and then the Commonwealth Games.

“It’s vitally important that we build on that success and, so, we are delighted to be able to offer small businesses and freelancers across the sector this chance to access a series of workshops and one-to-ones delivered by experts in their field.

“The scope for which businesses can access the help is quite wide and includes everything from advertising and marketing through to museums, galleries and visual arts.

“This is a real opportunity to build on the success of the past couple of years by equipping businesses with new skills to help them grow.”

The full list of sub sectors eligible includes: advertising and marketing; architecture; crafts; design; film, TV, video, radio and photography; IT software and computer services; museums, galleries and libraries; music, performing and visual arts; publishing; animation and visual & special effects; video games; and heritage.

Councillor Jim O’Boyle, cabinet member for jobs, regeneration and

climate change, said: “These workshop sessions will be extremely helpful for small businesses, equipping them with the right tools and training they need to be able to grow and flourish. Supporting businesses in establishing themselves and growing helps create jobs for local people and adds to the local economy too, which is exactly what we want.

“I encourage any business to get in touch to see what help is available. Whether it’s attending a workshop to help your business create an online social media presence or having one-to-one support with a specialist advisor, there is a lot of support on offer.”

For more information on the workshops please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/

Action needed on recruitment issues

Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire say now is the time for actions not words from the Government to improve the employment market.

The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics have today revealed that the number of job vacancies in the economy remains around the highest on record.

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The low unemployment figures are clearly a positive result, but the incredibly high number of vacancies across the West Midlands is having a critical impact on local businesses ability to recruit good staff and deliver on their order book.

“The stark message is that the local job market cannot keep up with business demand and we need urgent action on overseas visas to give Coventry and Warwickshire businesses time to upskill their workforce and find the right staff to fill vacancies.

“This is affecting all sectors, and will have a long-term impact on the economy.

“We also need an urgent rethink on how to support our excellent local providers to fill the large numbers of apprenticeship vacancies to ensure we have a good flow of young talented people entering our workforce.”

British Chambers of Commerce Head of People Policy, Jane Gratton, said: “The labour market remains incredibly tight adding to the growing list of concerns businesses are facing. This is a ticking timebomb for firms up and down the country.

“Today’s figures show little improvement for employers over the last quarter. Competition for skills and labour continues to drive up wage costs.

“Skills and labour shortages have reached crisis point for many firms. The impact is being felt on their ability to meet customer demand and forcing some to turn away new business, because they simply do not have the

human resource. This is restricting growth and business confidence. It’s a serious and urgent problem.

“On top of all of this, firms are now grappling with the highest inflation in almost 40 years; the largest spike in interest rates in three decades; ongoing supply chain disruption; and eye watering energy bills. There is a limit to how much additional cost business can absorb.

“The Government can help ease the growing pressure in the labour market at no extra cost to the Exchequer. We need an immediate review and reform of the Shortage Occupations List (SOL) to include more jobs at all skill levels. This will give firms breathing space to train and upskill their workforce. We have over a million more job vacancies than people available to work, so the sooner we start the SOL review, the better.

“We also need to encourage economically inactive people back into the UK labour market through access

to publicly funded rapid retraining opportunities. Businesses must be part of the solution too by creating the right workplace conditions, for example by providing flexible working practises, training opportunities and a focus on workplace healthcare and support.”

Emma Woodward (left) with Chris Hartley

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

Business tips: how to choose a supplier

Here are some top tips to help you streamline your supply chain and improve your procurement process.

More companies are investing in technology to gain the visibility and insight they need to act quickly. Creating a register of all suppliers can help a business react to swings in demand or disruptions such as the coronavirus pandemic.

Over-reliance on practices designed to reduce costs has left many businesses with few options when traditional supply chains are disrupted. Reliability and security of supply should now be seen as far more important than price.

Using multiple suppliers helps to build resilience by reducing risk and the potential for operations to be disrupted. Trust through association is another powerful approach, and networks of companies are starting to pool resources and work together.

Due diligence when selecting new suppliers is as critical now as it has ever been. Organisations need to be confident a supplier doesn’t pose a risk to their reputation or the efficiency of their supply chain.

For five tips to help you choose a new business supplier, visit worldfirst.com/uk

Staff shortages causes backlog

UK businesses looking abroad to fill staffing shortages have been left in the lurch by an immigration backlog described by a leading lawyer as amongst the worst he has ever seen.

Matthew Davies, partner, and head of Business Immigration at Leamingtonbased Wright Hassall, said parts of the system on which businesses depend have been left under-resourced during the war in Ukraine.

The situation is especially acute for entry clearance applications, which are visa applications made by applicants who are outside the UK and need permission to enter for a particular purpose, often work or business.

He said: “It is the news story that hasn’t broken.

“Many of the frontline staff have been moved to deal with humanitarian applications from Ukraine, but there has not been enough investment to keep the rest of the system running.”

The UK’s response to helping displaced Ukrainian citizens find safe haven has been criticised in the media for being too slow, with the Government reacting by diverting frontline Home Office staff to deal with their applications.

In doing so, it suspended most pay-for priority services so that decisions which employers assume would take days suddenly began taking weeks or months – and Mr Davies said politicians need to start talking about the problem.

Turning a new leaf

Azets advise on sale of Amberol Limited to Leafield Environmental Limited

Azets, the UK's largest regional accountancy and business advisor to SMEs, has advised on a multi-millionpound sale of self-watering planter and litter bin manufacturer, Amberol Limited, to Leafield Environmental Limited.

Established in 1969, Amberol is a family business based in Derbyshire that specialises in the manufacture of self-watering planters and litter bins. Using efficient rotational moulding plastic manufacturing processes, the company has consistently delivered high-quality, reliable, and sustainable products that are sold into councils, supermarkets and horticultural suppliers. With over 30 years of experience in premium plastic products, using similar innovative design and manufacturing expertise, Leafield Environmental Limited is now the new owner of Amberol.

Exiting Managing Director of Amberol, Patience Atkinson commented: “As a shareholder of a family business, choosing the right time to exit was a challenge. Thanks to guidance from the Azets’ team, namely Mark Selby, Tom Eastwood, and Doug Allan, who delivered

“Businesses are being affected at a time when there is a very tight labour market in recruitment, particularly for highly-skilled roles where it is very difficult to find candidates,” he added.

“I have worked in business immigration for more than 25 years, but this is the most challenging time I have known, with Brexit, the pandemic and now the war in Ukraine having a successive knock-on effect.

“Backlogs in various types of application have featured over the years but taken together these are the biggest I have seen.

“It’s almost across the board in entry clearance, and extension and change of status applications within the UK are increasingly affected, too. Many businesses I work with are immensely frustrated at the delays as there are no signs of improvement.”

The Home Office has just published details of a new plan for immigration which includes a contactless digital border and permission to travel scheme to make travel more efficient.

But Mr Davies said: “For things to work better we need to learn to walk before we can run.

“In most respects the digitisation of immigration applications is a good thing, but there are concerns about how well what we have already got is working, and how well what is being proposed is going to work.

“Also, is it secure? Can we be certain that a hostile foreign government or organisation is not going to be able to break into our system? One would have a higher degree of confidence in the Government’s ability to counter that risk if there weren’t so many problems in the current system.

“Ultimately this is not the answer to the immediate issue we have got. The big thing is we need right now is more specialist staff, more funding, and more training for frontline immigration officers.

“Businesses have been left in the lurch, particularly since the war in Ukraine, and it is frustrating that they are not being heard.”

full advisory service to us as the vendors, we are confident in the continued success of Amberol under Leafield Environmental’s wing, at a crucial time in growth for both companies.

We wish the team at Leafield Environmental all the best and look forward to following their journey.”

Mark Selby, Partner at Azets added: “Working with the shareholders and management of Amberol has been a highly enjoyable journey from start to finish. In partnership with our Azets colleagues and Nelsons Solicitors, we delivered a fantastic deal for our client.

Amberol’s products and brand are well-recognised within the street planter

and street furniture market. New owners, Leafield, were identified as an ideal buyer for the business due to the overlap in offering and outlook. We look forward to seeing the continued success of Amberol under Leafield’s ownership.”

Azets provided corporate finance and tax advisory services to the shareholders of Amberol, alongside David Kaplan and Liz Mills of Nelsons Solicitors Limited.

Azets is a top 10 accountancy firm and focuses on delivering a highly personalised service, though a local office network and proprietary digital workplace technology.

For more information visit www.azets.co.uk

Success for National Retailer as the Restart Scheme helps fill seven positions

Leading Labels are a multi-branded clothing retailer with numerous stores throughout the UK and Ireland. The Restart Scheme has been working with Leading Labels since May 2022 after Sue Gaskell, Employment Engagement Coordinator for the Restart Scheme, spoke to Warren Ponter, Retail Operations Controller for Leading Labels. With a new store opening in West Bromwich, Sue thought they would be a perfect match for Restart Scheme Participants looking for jobs.

Working with Restart Scheme delivery partners, Sue ensured pre-screening took place to select suitable Participants to put forward for the recruitment for Retail Assistant and Retail Supervisor roles. The Participants were then invited to assessment days which included learning more about the job roles available, understanding Leading Label’s company values, team working and interview preparations. This helped the Participants gain a greater understanding of the business and what the job would be like, and with this being a new store, the demands the job would entail. From this, interviews were set up in the Go Train office in West Bromwich with the new store management team, specifically for Restart Scheme Participants.

The interviews proved to be a success and the Leading Labels management team were so impressed with the calibre, motivation, and willingness to learn from the Restart Scheme Participants that, in total, seven people were offered jobs!

Sue visited the new store recently, as part of the Restart Scheme aftercare, to see how everyone was settling into their roles and on speaking with the team and

Participants, feedback was that all the new employees have grown in confidence and that Leading Labels have found some great employees. Furthermore, the Participants have been offered support with upskilling and on-the-job training. Sue and the team at the Restart Scheme look forward to continuing to develop their relationship with Leading Labels to offer ongoing recruitment across the whole region.

Warren Ponter – Retail Operations Controller for Leading Labels said: “Thanks to the Restart Scheme team at Serco, who have provided some quality candidates who were motivated, keen to work and showed great potential. They have taken the additional pressure from the Management Team to recruit reliable and enthusiastic staff who are continuing to make progress and drive the store to become more successful.”

Want to know more about how the Restart Scheme can help your business?

Visit https://www.serco-ese.com/ restart-scheme/employers

Midnight Walking Marathon for Ukraine raises £10,000!

Unless you’re a nightshift worker, getting to your offices for midnight is not the norm. However, that’s exactly what 27 of our staff members did on Friday 24th June.

Led by Amy O’Keeffe, Director of CTT Accountancy, and Lucy Miles, Practice Manager of Private Client, the team set out for a Midnight Walking Marathon, raising funds for the British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal.

Our walkers embarked on a 26.2 miles route (a full marathon distance) around Leamington Spa and finished back at their starting point of Gables House in the early hours of Saturday 25th June.

It might seem like a big undertaking after a full day’s work, but the gang were driven by their target of raising a mighty £10,000 for a much-needed cause.

It all started when a long-time CTT employee and valued Private Client Advisor, Kinga Musialik, visited Poland. Whilst there, she met Ukrainian refugees and heard many heart-wrenching stories. Those she met had been fortunate enough to escape the misery of the war in Ukraine, but many of them had loved ones who were still there, enduring unimaginable terror, constant airstrikes, kidnapping and torture.

Staff at CTT Group were incredibly moved by this and it sparked a fire in us to do as much as we could to help the crisis in Ukraine.

Initially, Lucy and Amy had the idea for the Midnight Marathon and presumed they’d be walking it by themselves. ‘We did not expect to have 25 people wanting to join us which was really encouraging and motivating,’ Amy explained. ‘What a good job it was that we did have the

others join us as it was definitely the team spirit and positive attitude all around which kept us going!’

We’re extremely proud of our fundraisers and couldn’t be more grateful for all the support and donations, meaning we have raised an incredible £10,000 for the British Red Cross. They have a network of phenomenal staff and volunteers who are uniquely placed to deliver emergency help in Ukraine.

CityFibre moves to its next stage of development in Coventry

CityFibre has completed its main Fibre to the Home (FTTH) build in Coventry, several months ahead of schedule. As a result, there are some changes in local representatives.

Regional Partnership Director, Leigh Hunt, who has been with the project since its inception, and is well known to many across Coventry and Warwickshire, is moving to a national role within CityFibre.

Neal Wright, who is a highly experienced Area Manager with CityFibre, will be taking over responsibility for ongoing works in Coventry.

Leigh Hunt said: “This has been a fantastic project and CityFibre has made a real difference to connectivity across the city.

“There are 980Km of roads in Coventry, and our network is already over 1500Km - and we’re still building! Our partnerships with organisations across the city, including the Chamber of Commerce and Coventry City Council have enabled us to achieve this, and Neal will be here to take things forward in the future.”

Neal Wright said: “I am looking forward to working as the City Manager for Coventry. I am already bowled over by the engagement and how Coventry has embraced the advantages of having Full Fibre.

“I am excited about what is yet to come as a result of Coventry being so well connected.”

Help at hand for Start-ups

also have a business interest on the side that they may look to take more seriously and grow.

The Chamber can also provide lots of support for those individuals who have a skill or interest where they have always dreamt of starting a business but have never quite had the courage to make it a reality, as well as providing support and advice to those individuals who have recently started a business and want help to grow or diversify.

Keely Hancox, operations manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Startup businesses are the lifeblood of the economy as they have the potential to grow, take on staff and become bigger businesses over the course of time.

“In some cases, they want to start small and stay small because it is a lifestyle choice.

“We are particularly seeing more and more people who have an existing ‘side hustle’ – so a business that they run in their spare time and are considering how to pursue their venture full-time.

“We also have some great examples of people who are retired – or olderpreneurs as they are affectionately known – using the knowledge they have built up during their career and turning that into a business.

“The key to making it a success is getting the right advice at the right time, and we have a great team of advisers here at the Chamber who can offer advice and support to individuals who are setting up in business, including all the basics of how to get started.

Acampaign to showcase the free help available for individuals who want to realise their dream of starting a new business in Coventry and Warwickshire has been launched.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is encouraging individuals across Coventry and Warwickshire to set up a new venture – and there is help at hand for them to turn their dream into a reality.

Over the course of the next few weeks, the Chamber will be sharing top tips and information from advisers and entrepreneurs who have started their own successful businesses.

It will culminate in two events at the end of September where start-ups will be able to network with like-minded individuals and hear from advisers on the support that is available.

The events will take place at Gallaghers Wine Merchants, in Rugby, from 6pm until 8pm on September 28 and then at the University of Warwick Science Park’s Business Innovation Centre in Binley, Coventry, from 5pm until 7pm on September 29.

During the campaign, the Chamber will provide practical tips on starting up, as well as showcasing some of the businesses that have been supported over the last few years.

Chamber advisers, who understand that starting a business can be daunting, especially considering the economic climate, will be on hand to talk through potential issues but also highlight the rewards both personally and financially.

Increasingly individuals are approaching the Chamber for support with a ‘side hustle,’ where they currently work in a regular job but

“Either way, they are great for the economy and here at the Chamber we can offer advice and support to those individuals who are taking the plunge. September always sees a spike in the number of people looking to start a business as they have had the summer holidays to think about what they want to do and might decide to take a new direction.

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“We can even support those people that started their business recently, and are now needing advice with their marketing, sales and just generally getting the word out. Starting a business can be really rewarding, exciting and enjoyable, but we know it can be lonely and daunting at times. And sometimes that sounding board, and some impartial advice can make a massive difference.

“So, if you are coming into the Autumn and thinking about setting up, get in touch!”

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The key to making it a success is getting the right advice at the right time, and we have a great team of advisers here at the Chamber who can offer advice and support to individuals who are setting up in business, including all the basics of how to get started.

Keynote speaker at economic conference revealed

Amajor economic conference for businesspeople in Coventry and Warwickshire will examine the challenging climate that firms in the region are facing, while looking to the future with optimism.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Economic Conference will take place at the CBS Arena on Friday, November 11 from 8.30am until 2pm and is set to attract hundreds of delegates.

The event, sponsored by Prime Accountants Group, will be chaired by Chamber chief executive Corin Crane and will include addresses

from key figures in business and politics as well as panels on the economic challenges and rebuilding business confidence.

The keynote address will come from the inspirational Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, who was homeless on the streets of South Wales at the age of 15 before starting a career with the fire service at the age of 18.

She went onto study at the Open University followed by Cardiff University, completing a PhD in Psychology.

While climbing the ranks within the fire service, Dr Cohen-Hatton continued her academic work and her research into decision-making in high pressure situations in the emergency services has won awards and influenced global policy.

From Poverty to Position…

Chamber Annual Conference Keynote Speaker

Showing resilience and determination from a young age, Sabrina was homeless on the streets of South Wales when she was 15.

After two years on the streets selling The Big Issue, she was able to secure accommodation and at 18 joined the fire service. Whilst working as a firefighter she also studied at the Open University and then at Cardiff University, completing her PhD in Psychology.

In the fire service, Sabrina became one its highest-ranking women officers. She climbed the ranks serving in some of the largest fire

She’s written a best-selling book, is an ambassador for The Big Issue and has also appeared on Desert Island Discs.

Corin Crane said: “I am very much looking forward to my first Annual Economic Conference as chief executive of this wonderful Chamber of Commerce.

“The team here always do an amazing job in bringing the event together and it is known across the Chamber network as being a great conference that brings together businesspeople and decisionmakers from across the region.

“Once again, we are grateful to our sponsor Prime Accountants Group, which remains a big supporter of the conference and the Chamber generally.

- Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton

brigades in the country, whilst maintaining her academic work with Cardiff University. Her subsequent research into high pressure decision making in the emergency services has not only won awards but has also influenced policy at a global level.

An Ambassador for The Big Issue, Sabrina has been named as one of their top 100 Changemakers, Marie Claire also named her as one of their Change Makers and Cosmopolitan listed her in their Millennial Power List, and she has appeared on Desert Island Discs.

“We’ve also secured a truly inspirational keynote speaker in Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton who will share her amazing story with us.”

He added: “These are difficult times for everyone – for us as individuals and for businesses across the region who are facing up to rising costs, recruitment headaches and supply chain issues.

“It’s at times like this when it is more important to come together and share ideas and experiences and, as business community, emerge even stronger.

“So, we look forward to welcoming as many members and non-members to what promises to be another insightful and inspirational conference.”

For more information or to book a place at the Chamber’s Annual Conference, go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/annual-business-economic-conference-2022/

Main Sponsors Supporting Sponsor

Optimism on the menu at breakfast event

“There is no getting away from the fact that we face harsh economic headwinds with no real way of judging how long they may last.

“However, we have a mixed economy and we are a very resilient and collaborative region. There is still support out there through the Chamber and others, and we would urge businesses to take advantage of what is out there.”

Harcourt told the 50-plus businesses that growth forecasts for the year had been cut, but were still at encouraging levels.

He said: “We are hoping that global factors will improve throughout the year but that is very difficult to predict especially with the war in Ukraine having such an impact.

“There was always going to be a post-pandemic bounce but that has, in some cases, not been as strong as anticipated. Certainly, clients in leisure and hospitality have pulled back on some of their prediction as quarter two saw a dip.

“Prices are rising at 10 per cent and businesses are having to pass those on to customers, but it is predicted that inflation may draw back to somewhere nearer five per cent which will make a big difference.”

The panel of Roger Scott (Lloyds Bank), Kate Hunter (Bear Cleaning), Andy Williams (Coventry City Council) and Nikki Bains (Birmingham International Airport) discussed topics including export, rising costs, training recruitment and inward investment.

Businesses faced up to the “harsh economic headwinds” but managed to look to the future with optimism at a major economic event in Warwickshire.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber’s quarterly economic breakfast – held on the day when it was announced that UK GDP rose by 0.5 per cent in May – heard that rising costs, wage demands and staff shortages were affecting the ability of local firms to grow.

Sean Rose, the Chamber’s Head of Policy, and Steve Harcourt of

Rose said that it was clear firms in all sectors were facing the same challenges but to different degrees.

“While the challenges are common, some sectors are more confident and faring better than others. Manufacturing has seen rising confidence and it is clear that the sector has cleared some of the backlog it faced and that is reflected in its fortunes,” he said.

Food for thought at Business Talent event

Young professionals from across Coventry and Warwickshire gathered to discuss the region's prospects and the potential for collaboration at a rooftop networking event.

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce welcomed more than 45 future business leaders from across the region to its Business Talent Summer Networking & BBQ event at the Telegraph Hotel's Generators rooftop bar.

Representatives from a range of local businesses across all industries enjoyed networking opportunities over complimentary refreshments at the city centre location.

Sean Rose, Head of Policy, and Corin Crane, Chief Executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, gave welcome speeches and invited guests to take part in the Chamber's Business Talent programme, which enables young professionals to

help shape the region's business agenda while expanding their network and undertaking professional development

Jordan Dawes, a representative of the West Midland Reserves Forces & Cadet Association, who sponsor the Business Talent programme, also spoke to guests about the skills that are developed in the armed forces and how they can be transferred into highly effective skills used in everyday businesses.

Sean said: "It was fantastic to see a host of new faces at our Summer Business Talent event, which shows a real desire for young people of all backgrounds and professions to have an impact on the business landscape in the region.

"I hope we can continue to build this network of promising individuals who are keen for their own businesses and projects to succeed, but also have a vested interest in seeing others around them and the region itself reach new heights."

Young professionals enjoy the Chamber’s Business Talent Networking and BBQ

For more information about the Chamber's Business Talent programme, visit https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/membership/business-talent/

Prime Accountants Group, outlined the findings of the latest Quarterly Economic Survey before a panel of business leaders detailed the economic fortunes of their businesses.

Steve Harcourt, Sean Rose, Kate Hunter, Andy Williams and Roger Scott.

"We have a mixed economy and we are a very resilient and collaborative region. There is still support out there through the Chamber and others, and we would urge businesses to take advantage of what is out there.”

Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute

Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute

Everyone at Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce was deeply saddened at the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the 8th September at Balmoral.

Her Majesty’s death saw the whole of the UK, and indeed to the world, mourn the loss of an incredible world leader – but also a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

We were deeply honoured and privileged that Her Late Majesty was Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) for many years of her reign and, along with the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was a sincere champion of business & industry. The Chamber Network across the UK held our Patron in deep affection and appreciated the work she undertook to support many organisations across the network.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Her Majesty wrote to Chambers of Commerce across the UK, to praise Chambers’ contribution to business communities during Coronavirus as more firms reopen. In her letter, Her Majesty said:

“At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heartwarming to see the civic response and generosity of so many businesses, small and large, to the challenges

posed, whether supporting the health sector or vulnerable communities.”

“As Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, it gives me great pride to see the contribution you and your members are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities.”

An example of her ongoing support for business was The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and for many businesses, across Coventry and Warwickshire, who achieved one of The Queens Awards for Enterprise, her involvement was also a validation of the incredible success of our local businesses.

During her long reign, The Queen undertook many visits to Coventry & Warwickshire; she laid the foundation stone for the new Coventry Cathedral, opened the Royal Priors Shopping Centre in Royal Leamington Spa, attended The Royal Show many times at Stoneleigh Park and paid many visits to companies across the region including Jaguar Land Rover.

We have all been inspired by her 70+ years of public duty and service, the example she set as our Head of State and the leadership and resilience she showed.

Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said, “During the past weeks of National Mourning, businesses have

faced that difficult balancing act – paying respect and celebrating a life of our Queen, who had an impact on so many lives, across the UK and the world, whilst continuing to run their businesses and conduct essential work.

We were incredibly proud and honoured that Her Majesty The Queen was Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce in the UK and held a close association with the Chamber Network across the UK.

This was a period to both mourn and to celebrate a remarkable life. Her Majesty was a great supporter of business and industry, along with her late husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.”

from the Lord-Lieutenant for the West Midlands on behalf of the West Midlands following death of Her Majesty the Queen

Tribute

The Lord-Lieutenant of the West Midlands, John Crabtree, OBE, has sent a letter of sympathy to The King following the announcement of the death of his mother which says:

“On behalf of the County of West Midlands we send our deepest sympathy to The King. There is great sadness across the West Midlands, the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth at the death of The Queen. Our thoughts are with

His Majesty and the Royal family at this time.

“As an expression of our sadness, flags are flying at half-mast and many books of condolence are being opened at locations throughout the County of West Midlands.”

Mr Crabtree paid tribute to The Queen and her work during her 70-year reign.

“I am sure I speak for all of the citizens of West Midlands when I say that our thoughts are with the Royal Family at this very sad time.

“Her Majesty was a frequent visitor to the West Midlands and the people of this County always welcomed her with great warmth. During Her extraordinarily long reign, the longest of any British Sovereign, She served us faithfully and whilst Her support will be deeply missed, Her contribution and outstanding service will be long remembered.

“We now reflect on the past with gratitude and offer our future support and loyalty to The King and the Royal Family.”

Further information is being made available on the website of the West Midlands Lieutenancy including links to each of the seven Council websites in the West Midlands. Council websites are also being updated to show a message from the Lord Mayor / Mayor and information about the Proclamation Readings locally along with where to locate a Book of Condolence: www.wmlieutenancy.org

Communications company PLMR has marked the first anniversary of its acquisition of Advent Communications with the return of a familiar face to the business.

PLMR is one of the UK’s most successful and fast-growing communications agencies and acquired Coventry-based Advent in October 2021 to support the expansion of its footprint in the Midlands and further develop the breadth and quality of the services it offers to its clients.

PLMR has been based in the region since 2017, with its office in Birmingham part of a network also spanning London, Ipswich and Glasgow.

PLMR Advent has excelled in its first year as part of the group winning new clients and landing coverage across

national, trade and regional media for businesses and organisations across a range of sectors.

It has also seen the company re-hire Adam Manning, who spent five years with the business prior to joining the police force in May 2021.

Adam, who previously worked in the Argos and Homebase press office, said: “I am delighted to be back. It is great to see so many familiar faces and some

PLMR Advent celebrates first anniversary

new ones too as well as being part of a much bigger business which means there are so many more opportunities for the company and me as an individual to grow.”

PLMR Advent, which is based at Electric Wharf in Coventry and was founded in 1998, is set to recruit again as it builds on a strong first year.

Director Lee Corden said: “The first year with PLMR has flown by.

“Advent is extremely well-regarded across the region which led to the interest and acquisition by PLMR. Relationships are absolutely everything in PR and media so we have made sure clients understand that we continue to operate with the same high standards and commitment to go above and beyond for them.

“And, at the same time, we’ve started to show the additional services and expertise that we can offer as part of a bigger, national agency and it’s a balance that we believe will stand us in really good stead for the future.”

He added: “We are really pleased to welcome Adam Manning back to the business and his return is a great example of how the acquisition has helped us to grow.

“The team here have so many more opportunities for personal development, through training and working with other teams within the PLMR group and that was one of the attractions for Adam to return.

“We announced a raft of promotions earlier this year and we will be adding to the team again very soon, which gives us great foundations to build on over the next 12 months and beyond as we continue to make a positive contribution to the region through the work we do.”

For more information, go to www.advent-communications.co.uk

Be prepared, urges award-winning firm

A global counter terrorist specialist based in Coventry believes organisations must start preparing now for impending law changes set to impact around 650,000 UK firms.

The Government has announced plans to introduce so-called Protect Duty legislation, which would create a statutory duty for the owners and operators of publicly accessible locations to take appropriate and proportionate measures to protect the public from terror attacks.

The law change, which could be approved by the Government this year, has been championed by campaigner Figen Murray after her son Martyn was tragically killed in the Manchester Arena attacks in May 2017.

Rob Gerrard, director of Safetyflex Barriers – a global leader in anti-terrorism bollards, barriers and fencing, based in Coventry – believes organisations must start thinking now about what it means for their business, and how to prepare for the new rules.

He said: “The heartbreak of Figen is something she should not have gone through, and protection should have

been a statutory duty long before ‘Martyn’s Law’ was championed.

“But her efforts will undoubtedly lead to the biggest seismic shift in security our country has ever seen.

“This is going to impact companies right across the UK who may not have even thought of anti-terror measures before.

“Whether it is venues or tourist attractions with a capacity of 100 people or more; businesses employing 250 staff or more; or parks and town squares with an expectation of public presence – this will change the way organisations view its security policies forever.

“Organisations must start thinking about this now, and services such as ours must undoubtedly form part of a joined-up solution of collaborative working locally and nationally.”

The family-owned and managed firm is rooted in Coventry but has excelled in the global market since forming out of GME Springs in 2010, becoming a market leader in anti-terrorist hostile vehicle mitigation, securing high-profile sites around the world from London to Sydney.

Safetyflex has won more than 15 awards for its innovation over the years and has developed a reputation for its innovative crash-tested product portfolio, including its popular street furniture range.

The company has just expanded the range with the launch of Crash Bench 40, which – for the first time – is uniquely designed with a built-in bench to help it double up as seating, whilst providing protection from a 7.5 tonne vehicle.

The product is completely surface mounted and has been crash tested to IWA-14 standards at the local Horiba Mira centre of excellence in Nuneaton.

Gerrard said: “This is one we have been looking forward to bringing to the market

for some time after a year in research and development, and we’re sure it will be a fantastic addition to our existing street furniture range.

“More and more of our clients are looking for hostile vehicle mitigation solutions which go beyond offering protection from vehicle attacks, but also form part of the furniture, so we know there is a growing demand for this type of innovation.”

“We are really pleased to welcome Adam Manning back to the business and his return is a great example of how the acquisition has helped us to grow."

Lee Corden, Adam Manning, Will Savage

"Safetyflex has won more than 15 awards for its innovation over the years and has developed a reputation for its innovative crash-tested product portfolio, including its popular street furniture range."

Business Engage Profiles

Schumacher races in to help St Basils once again

A major sleepout event in Coventry that raises awareness and funds for homelessness in Coventry has received support from a regional business.

Schumacher Packaging Ltd has, once again, committed to supporting St Basils homelessness charity by providing all the cardboard for the homelessness charities iconic sleepout events free of charge.

Steve Rainbow, the events manager for St Basils, first approached sales director of Schumacher (then Jaffabox) Mark Amyes back in 2006 to ask if he could help.

Steve said: “Working as an events manager for St Basils is a really rewarding job. One of my tasks is to get as many resources as I can for free, the more money we spend on setting up events the less money goes to our vulnerable young people, so I am always keen to get support from local businesses who want to give back to the community.

“The St Basils charity sponsored sleepouts are exactly that, our fabulous supporters sleep outdoors for one night in a cardboard box and get sponsored by friends and family to raise awareness, plus raise vital funds for the homelessness charity.

“One of the vital components to this event is obviously the cardboard boxes our fundraisers sleep in. After getting an initial quote for over £2,000 to provide the cardboard back in 2006 I began ringing round local businesses to find out who could help, after a few knockbacks, the wonderful Mark at Schumacher Packaging said yes. And thank goodness he has been saying yes ever since.

“Since the first Sleepout, Schumacher has provided the cardboard for events in Birmingham, Solihull, and Coventry for the past 16 years. Not only have they provided the cardboard but Mark and some of his colleagues have also slept out at the events and raised funds to prevent youth homelessness.

“This is what great partnerships are about and me and the team now class Mark as a friend, as well as a supporter.

“Our next Sleepout challenge takes place within the iconic ruins of Coventry Cathedral on Friday, October 7 and Mark and some of the Schumacher team will be there to support us once again.”

Mark Amyes, sales director of Schumacher, added: “I remember the first call from Steve over 15 years ago.

“I had heard of St Basils but didn’t know too much about them. Steve told me about all the great work St Basils do in the community, providing accommodation, support, education and employment opportunities yearly for over 4,000 young homeless people or young people who are at risk of homelessness, sleeping on friends’ sofas, in their cars etc. Some of them work fulltime but are still not able to afford a roof over their heads. I really wanted to help.

“I do think it is important for local business to give back to the community, our family company was founded in 1946 and we still hold strong family values. I believe everyone should have the opportunity of a safe home, education, and employment, no matter how bad your start in life has been - very often due to no fault of your own.”

To find out more about the Coventry sleepout, or to register search St Basils Coventry Sleepout 2022 or click the link: https://stbasils.org.uk/events/ covsleepout/

A new £3 million entertainment venue in Coventry is set to offer parties with a difference this Christmas.

Players Entertainment is a new concept for the region, offering 20 private hire rooms that can cater for any party size up to 45 people and can be stretched to host mega parties of up to 80 guests through their connecting rooms.

Each room has its own unique décor and is equipped with up to 180-inch TVs, state-of-the-art sound systems and the most up-to-date karaoke systems. Guests can tap into the venue’s playlist – or use their own smartphone to access the music they want to listen to or sing along to on YouTube or Spotify.

Each room receives VIP room service with drinks and snacks ordered through a touch of a service button and delivered straight to the room by the team, who offer the highest levels of customer service.

Once fully open, Players Entertainment will feature a floor which they have named “The E-Lounge” with a stunning bar and space for 500 people to watch live sports, enjoy a wide range of live

events, as well as opportunities for e-sports gaming competitions.

So, when it comes to Christmas, businesses will be able to book their own exclusive party to cater for their own team’s needs.

It won’t be a sit down, three-course meal, but the chance to relax in a room of their choice and have buffet food and drinks delivered to the room.

Players Entertainment could even act as the ‘after-party’ for those who have already been for their Christmas meal but want somewhere else to go as a whole team.

It is all part of a wider drive from the new venue to attract businesses to use its multi-functional space.

“We offer something for everyone and we’ve had amazing feedback since we first opened the private rooms for bookings.

“We really want businesses across the region to know that we have so much to offer, whether they want to do product launches, meetings, team-building or other events.

“This Christmas, we want businesses to know that they can book in and bring their staff and relax in their very own room – they can even bring their children and partners if they want to!

“Also, we are a great place for parties to come along and enjoy World Cup matches because they can have their own private room to watch the games –so it doesn’t matter if you are cheering for England or another team, no-one else will be able to hear you!

Jonathan

Owusu, the General Manager of Players Entertainment, said:

“In October, we will be holding an official business launch so that we can showcase the venue and how flexible it can be.

“My advice to local businesses is to get in touch and find out more because this is a place like no other in the whole region and you have to see what we have to offer to believe it.”

For more information or to find out more go to:

www.players-entertainment.co.uk

Facebook: Players Party Rooms

Youtube: Players Party Rooms

Instagram: Players_Ents

“Our next Sleepout challenge takes place within the iconic ruins of Coventry Cathedral on Friday, October 7 and Mark and some of the Schumacher team will be there to support us once again.”

Barrie Hodge, head of fundraising at St Basils, Naomi Harvey, business development manager Schumacher, Mark Amyes, Sales director Schumacher

New £3 million venue could be a Christmas cracker!

“We really want businesses across the region to know that we have so much to offer, whether they want to do product launches, meetings, team-building or other events. "

Up to £7,000

Funding available to Upskill your Senior Managers with ILM Level 5

Are you aware that businesses are able to access up to £7,000 of funding support for the ILM Diploma in Leadership and Management at Level 5 as part of the apprenticeship programme with Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training?

The ILM Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management will enable your managers to improve individual performance, equipping them with the skills needed to demonstrate business efficiency and deliver real results.

The ILM Diploma is aimed at middle to senior managers who contribute to strategic planning, designing business processes and providing leadership. With the ability to drive organisational change and promote innovation, this highly practical qualification will help your managers to lead, motivate and inspire with confidence.

Sally Lucas, Executive Director at Chamber Training, comments: “By upskilling your leadership team, it can make a real difference to the future success of your business. Accessing Apprenticeship funding can help you to train your staff with no extra cost to your business and it is a win-win solution to employers and employees.

“Funding is also available to upskills your senior managers across other sectors such as accountancy, health and social care, business administration, customer service. We would urge employers to get in touch to find out how we can help.”

To discuss upskilling your workforce, please contact Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training’s Business Development Team on T: 024 7623 1122 or enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk

Promoting high quality apprenticeships across the region

Representing the Ladder Foundation for Coventry and Warwickshire, a leading campaign aimed at raising awareness of apprenticeship opportunities across the region, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training recently exhibited at the West Midlands Jobs and Skills Showcase at The Library Birmingham alongside The Ladder for Greater Birmingham.

The exhibition was open to the public and representatives from across the region were available to promote live apprenticeship vacancies. The team helped to connect individuals to high quality apprenticeships covering a very diverse range of sectors from Advanced Manufacturing, Cybersecurity, Accountancy, Health and Social Care, Management and Child Care.

Sally Lucas, Executive Director at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training said: “The Ladder Foundation is a platform offering advice on

apprenticeships and can signpost you to quality local providers offering the types of jobs people are looking for.

“Its primary aim is to connect employers with job seekers of any age who are looking to start a new career via the apprenticeship route. It spotlights the wide range of career opportunities that apprenticeships offer, enabling young people and adults to gain skills and knowledge and play a vital role in business success.

“Apprenticeships offer a real job, recognised qualifications, an

opportunity to learn and earn a wage including lots of opportunities to progress in your chosen role.

“The initiative is appealing to all companies and organisations, from the smallest niche firms to the largest corporations, to get involved and offer people a fresh start and some real career prospects. For individuals who have received their A’ level and GCSE results, an apprenticeship could be the best route for you so please get in touch to discuss your next steps.”

Shown here promoting The Ladder Foundation are Wahab Mahmood, Justine Johnson, Jenny Frost and Ashi Sattar.

Sally Lucas, Executive Director at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training

“Its primary aim is to connect employers with job seekers of any age who are looking to start a new career via the apprenticeship route. It spotlights the wide range of career opportunities that apprenticeships offer, enabling young people and adults to gain skills and knowledge and play a vital role in business success."

Chamber Training’s Summer Schools and Taster Events

Working in partnership with local schools over the summer break, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training offered a series of short courses, funded by the European Social Fund (ESF). The ‘Summer School’ courses helped to raise awareness of the competitive world of work for young people and provided an invaluable pathway from education into employment.

The ‘Summer Schools’ consisted of four short courses with options in employability, accountancy, hairdressing and children’s care and helped a number of young people to gain experience and new skills. The training helped the young people to identify their strengths,

transferable skills and aspirations, with a particular emphasis around interview techniques, making successful job applications and CV development.

Commenting on the summer schools, Sophie Florance, a Recruitment Advisor at Chamber Training said: “The Summer Schools were designed to support young people in Coventry.

“By attending one day a week during the summer holiday break, the young people learnt how to build their confidence and knowledge of what the local job market offers.

“The courses included accountancy, which offered an insight into financial transactions, book-keeping systems and business accounts and the child care course gave an insight into the childcare industry. Individuals

also heard from other apprentices who are following early year’s apprenticeships with an opportunity to participate in an interview with a nursery manager. For the young people interested in hairdressing, the course offered an insight into the creative world of hairdressing along with an opportunity to work alongside junior stylists in a fully working salon.

“The Summer Schools were ideal for anyone Post-16 who were considering options for the future. We can also help mature candidates wishing to make a career change or develop their skill-set.

“From September 2022, we will also be offering a series of taster sessions, which will give school aged people an opportunity to have an insight into working in their preferred sector.”

Cottons Accountants London acquires Roberts & Co.

Cottons are proud to announce the acquisition of West London based accountancy firm, Roberts & Co. as part of its plans to strengthen their presence in the London area.

Twin brothers, David & Phillip Roberts started in partnership on 1st May 1976 as Roberts & Co and have traded ever since in various locations in West London but since 1985, they have been primarily located at 136 Kensington Church Street.

Roberts & Co work with SME businesses and private clients mainly in London & Home Counties and surrounding areas, with a big focus on artists, art galleries and service industry businesses within the portfolio.

As part of their plan to retire, it was imperative that the brothers migrated their clients over to a firm that provides the highest of service levels and understands the industry thoroughly.

“Excited to be merging with a progressive and forward looking firm, we feel that our client base is in good hands.” Phillip Roberts, Partner.

“The merging of Roberts & Co with ourselves continues our plans of expanding our presence in London. Their West London location gives us the chance to grow a client base in a different area of London. I am relishing the opportunity to modernise a traditional client base and provide added value through our extended service offering.” Ollie Warne, Cottons London Partner.

Paul Syiem-Clark, Senior Accountant, will continue to work with Cottons and he will be instrumental in the next few months of transition. Paul is a qualified accountant providing high level financial support to a select number of clients.

Ollie adds: “Lastly, a huge thank you to everyone in the wider Cottons family who has helped make this happen. We’ve worked together tirelessly to make the process as smooth as possible for the partners, as they transition towards retirement. I cannot wait to get started on this next stage of our continuous growth.”

As tempers and temperatures rise, so does business for Kenilworth cleaning company

Kenilworth company, Bear Cleaning, has reported a sharp rise in enquiries following the council’s new 123+ waste disposal schedule and recent blazing weather.

Bear Cleaning has cleaned bins in Warwick district & parts of Coventry since 2017. As part of their expansion, the family-run business now collects waste.

With general waste collection now just every three weeks and the recent spell of unprecedented high temperatures, bins have been the perfect environment for maggots, bacteria and foul smells.

Kate Hunter, Managing Director of Bear Cleaning, explained, “We continue to offer our bin cleaning service. However, we’ve been overwhelmed with interest in our new waste collection service. It’s no surprise. As a family of five (six including the dog), we recycle everything, and our refuse bin is full at the end of two weeks. The three-weekly waste collection doesn’t work for us, and we’re not alone.

Bear Cleaning’s professional waste disposal truck was purchased earlier this year. It lifts the contents of the wheelie bin with no mess. The rubbish is taken to a waste management facility in Coventry, where it’s processed through an incinerator and converted for energy. Nothing goes to landfill.

The 3.5-tonne vehicle was paid for with nearly £60,000 (£41,500 loan and £16,600 grant) in funding from CWLEP, CWRT, Warwickshire County Council and Coventry City Council. At the time, Alexander Vill of CWRT said, "Bear Cleaning's submission was one of the most comprehensive they have ever received for the Duplex Investment Fund.”

Kate Hunter added, “the need for extra waste collections isn’t a summer thing. We expect people to sign up for our waste collections throughout the year as they realise taking extra bin bags to the tip isn’t how they want to spend their weekends. Dare I even mention the inevitable rubbish we all have over Christmas?”

For more information visit www.bearcleaning.co.uk/domestic/household-bin-collection/#enquire]

Caludon District Scouts make a big splash at the Heart of England

The Caludon District Scouts from Coventry were making a BIG splash at The Heart of England Conference & Events Centre this June with their spectacular ‘Water Weekend’ Event.

The intrepid cubs and scouts camped lakeside overnight on the event fields 10th - 12th and 17th - 19th June.

Stephen Hammon - The Managing Director and Owner of The Heart of England said: “It’s always a pleasure to welcome local groups to The Heart of England. Seeing happy smiling faces enjoying and making the most of the beautiful countryside, park and lake surroundings we have to offer at Heart of England is a joy.

We look forward to welcoming the Caludon District Scouts back again soon.”

New property firm completes first deal

A new property firm set up to boost the Warwickshire economy has completed its first deal.

The Warwickshire Property Development Group (WPDG) has agreed a 10-year lease with the Little Willows Pre-School on the former Whitnash Library.

The nursery has been based at the local primary school for 24 years and the deal will provide its first standalone home. It comes after the creation of a new of a new civic centre hub which houses a multi-use sports hall, library and café.

WPDG was established by Warwickshire County Council last year to realise the potential of its development sites, commercial buildings and mineral rights in the most sustainable way as possible.

The move is part of a drive to ensure that properties which are owned by Warwickshire County Council are not only fully let, but can, where possible, benefit their communities.

WPDG is tasked with realising the potential of regeneration opportunities – including the provision of affordable local housing and units for local businesses – on Warwickshire County Council-owned sites and as managing the council’s commercial property assets.

It is part of a broader £300m package of investment alongside the Warwickshire Recovery and Investment Fund (WRIF) which the County Council has launched to revitalise the local economy.

Councillor Peter Butlin, Deputy Leader at Warwickshire County Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, said Little Willows was an ideal first letting for the organisation.

He said: “This deal sees a former community asset brought back into economic vitality, it provides a home for a well loved and valuable local resource, and brings in much needed funds for the council.

“WPDG has made real progress in the last few months and there are some very exciting projects in the pipeline which will bring added jobs, homes and prosperity to local communities.”

James Devereux, of WPDG, said: “The formation of WPDG has sparked a great deal of interest and we have a very healthy pipeline of activity and inquiries across all our areas of operation and also right across Warwickshire.

“It is so fitting that our first lease helps a local organisation which serves its community so well, and will allow it to move forward to further success.”

Little Willows was established in 1998 at Whitnash Primary School offering morning sessions to 13 pre-school children, and is run as a charitable trust.

But now the nursery – which currently offers breakfast and after-school clubs to 62 youngsters – is moving to the former Whitnash Library in the town.

Stacey Coulter of Little Willows, said: “This is such a great move for us and for our children. The school has been a really

good home for us over the years, but it is the right time now to move into premises and the library is perfect.

“The added room will allow us to create a sensory space which will be really valuable for children for special needs, and we will have dedicated meeting rooms where we can talk in private to parents and health professionals. There will also be a new staff meeting room.

“The new centre is right at the heart of our community and will give us a very visible presence.”

Simplifying the Legal Debt Recovery Process

It will come as no surprise to learn that at some point, nearly every business will have a client or customer who has not paid them. For many businesses, even one unpaid invoice can mean the difference between making a profit that month or not – let alone being able to pay their own suppliers. For many creditors, they are reluctant to approach solicitors out of fear of spiralling costs and time and therefore, the debt is written off.

letter before action, issue money claim court proceedings, or serve a statutory demand. All of Debt-Claims’ prices are set out up front on the portal and there are no commission or subscription charges. Where legal costs are recoverable by the creditor, details of this are provided to ensure full transparency from the outset.

As an incentive to show new users how easy and effective it is to use, Debt-Claims are offering all new users the opportunity to send a Letter Before Action without charge – simply enter the code ‘FREELBA’ at the checkout.

Robin Appleyard, Head of Debt Recovery, said “Now more than ever, it is paramount for businesses to keep on top of ensuring that their invoices are paid promptly.

Coventry Law Firm, Askews Legal LLP, has recently launched its innovative and time-saving Debt-Claims portal to speed up and simplify the legal debt recovery process. It is available to all creditors, irrespective of size or entity, and will assist even with the most stubborn of non-payers.

With the world moving online in a bid to cut costs, the question was raised ‘why can’t law firms do the same?’. Debt-Claims was born with that in mind, to change the status quo and encourage more clients to pursue debtors by making the process quick and effective, and in most cases, cost neutral – with the debtor reimbursing the creditor the costs of legal proceedings through statutory schemes.

So how does it work? A user can register for free with Debt-Claims in a few moments at www.debt-claims.com. Once registered, a user selects whether they want to send a pre-action

Is it as easy as it makes out? Debt-Claims uses the latest in automation technology so that it only requires you to enter basic details about the debtor and debt. From there, DebtClaims’ robots draft the necessary documents and submit/post them. Gone are the days of endless emails and telephone calls as the portal keeps its users updated whenever there is a development and offers easy points of escalation through the process where payment is not received. Not only this, but it’s fully integrated with the Court’s Money Claims Online system, meaning that as soon as there is an update from the court, it’s remitted straight to the creditor through the portal.

“Late payments have a knock-on effect that can leave other businesses further down the chain in a dangerous position, through no fault of their own.

“We believe that, with our new Debt-Claims platform, all you need is a couple of moments of your time and our robots will do the rest; we’ll keep you updated at every step.”

Debt-Claims’ portal is available to everyone and instructions are actioned on the same day where received before 3pm. If you have any bespoke requirements, such as book-debt work, then you can contact Robin directly at robina@askewslegal.co to discuss.

Slimline cabinet locking hardware from EMKA for large control cabinets

EMKA understands that the basic rule for all control cabinets is that the components inside, especially the sensitive electronic components, must be protected. However, there are significant differences, especially in the locking systems used.

When special customer requirements have to be met on large cabinets, standardised locking systems sometimes reach their limits. However, EMKA’s slimline multi-point locking systems frequently offer the right solution, by enabling the lock mechanism to release space on the door. This allows additional internal clearance, while providing exceptional closure capabilities.

Andy Billingham – MD at EMKA UK points out “Control cabinets are available in various shapes and designs, ranging from single cabinets to in-line cabinets or cabinets with double doors. All are available for indoor and outdoor applications. Environmental conditions and individual requirements significantly affect the choice of materials

and the final design of the cabinet. But the cabinet alone does not adequately protect the internal components and electronics.”

He explains that “The locking and hinge solution is much more critical if the cabinet door is meant to seal securely and, if necessary, must withstand high pressure or fulfil other safety requirements. In order to find the most suitable closure and hinge solution, the environmental influences and the installation location are also decisive.

Whilst housings used outdoors are mostly made of plastic and powder-coated steel, the material of choice remains stainless steel for very special applications.”

“The locking components should be made of the same material, regardless of material selection. Furthermore, high demands on tightness and the prevention of vandalism may have to be met in outdoor applications by using, for example, the IP65 protection class and security standards according to resistance classes.”

EMKA engineers have established that when designing control cabinets, a distinction

is made between closures inside and outside the door seal. Locks inside the door seal are installed on interior doors and frequently outdoors. For example, a swing handle may be mounted on the door, which drives two locking bars inside the door – using either a drive or a locking cam. These systems compress the door seal and ensure a secure closure. EMKA has developed a unique compression latch system with multiple interlocking for closures inside the door seal. If using a rotating movement of a compression latch of only 90° – usually 180° – the door closes at several locking points which pulls the entire door evenly into the door seal even if the internal pressure is high.

Alternatively, the lock may be placed outside the seal so that, for example, no components protrude into the cabinet interior, the locking bars on the inside of the door are pushed into mounted locking points on the door frame with the door closed using a swinghandle or lifthandle.

The design of control cabinets demands the highest safety requirements for locking

components. For example, the EMKA specialists for locking systems were asked to design an attractive swinghandle with resistance class RC2 for outdoor control cabinets for the Dutch IT system house Tecnolimit. This handle is easy to operate and can be monitored electronically.

Further information can be found at www.emka.com.

Stacey Coulter, Cllr Peter Butlin and James Devereux

Warwickshire Agency supporting Worcestershire start-ups

Leamington Spa based research, design and marketing business, Glued, are playing a significant role in supporting new businesses in Worcestershire. Through their work with the Worcestershire County Council Business and Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) Glued have contributed to supporting over a thousand businesses since April 2021.

The British Libraries BIPC initiative is available in many parts the UK and delivered on a local basis by libraries. In Worcestershire Glued have been planning, managing, marketing and hosting a programme of webinars and occasional live business support events. Glued were also responsible for delivering the BIPC Reset. Restart scheme in Worcestershire, focused on helping new start and young businesses build new business models in response to the pandemic.

Rob Harrison, Consultancy Partner at Glued, said “We have learnt so much, not just effective strategies for raising awareness and securing audiences, but also about business support in the shape of: finance, cashflow, confidence building, motivation and social media strategies.”

“We’ve really enjoyed engaging with individuals looking start and grow their businesses, and being part of their journey to do so.”

Their involvement continues with building relationships with the facilitators for the programme of webinars. Booking the schedule of events, loading them to Eventbrite; marketing them; encouraging registrants to attend and managing post event communications.

Jo Hemley appointed Glued and the Business Engagement Manager at that time said “Glued supported BIPC Worcestershire raise awareness and deliver an effective webinar and coaching programme. They were able to adapt the process to help us learn what works best to deliver results.”

Head over to bit.ly/WORCBIPC to see what Worcestershire County Council have to say about the initiative.

A place to call home

Twin Pine Mortgages' story began in February 2021, right in the middle of the pandemic. Business partners Mark and Hitesh worked for a high street lender for many years, but their employer decided to end face-toface mortgage advice from all their branches in late 2020.

With over 30 years of experience in advising and arranging mortgages between them they love helping people to get on the property ladder. They acknowledged that it would be very difficult to start a mortgage brokerage in the middle of the pandemic when 80% of the UK workforce was on furlough but they didn’t have many options so took a plunge.

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger and that has proven to be right for them. With a single goal in mind to help people get a mortgage and own their own home, they have managed to

survive and grow their business month on month amid uncertainty, sleepless nights, sweat, tears and hard work.

The partners are proud of what they have achieved and believe everyone should have a right to buy a place they call home. Twin Pine Mortgages specialise in mortgages for clients with poor credit history and more complex situations. These clients often need more help, support, and guidance as high street lenders doors are not always open to them. So, if you like the sound of how they can help or know someone who needs support, contact Twin Pine Mortgages directly and they would be delighted to help.

"Mark and I have always been passionate about the service we offered during our employment at YBS. The pandemic gave us an opportunity to do what we always wanted, which was to set up a business doing what

we enjoy and utilise all those

Pine Mortgages.

To find out more about their services please visit: www.twinpinemortgages.co.uk

The Heart of England Playing their part in the Commonwealth Games

Commissioned by CSM Live for The Birmingham Commonwealth Games, The Heart of England team provided the skills and resources to create the plinth and trusswork for the Games Celebration device, which was the centrepiece of the Smithfield venue.

Stephen Hammon - The Managing Director and Owner of The Heart of England said: “It was an exciting opportunity to play a part in the games and to work alongside the team at CSM Live on design and production of the Celebration Device. We’ve loved every minute of it and look forward to working

on more projects together in the future. We’ve built many branded displays and exhibition vehicles over the years but this one was very special.

The Birmingham Commonwealth Games is local to us and has had us, just like the rest of the nation, gripped over the past few weeks.”

Giles Stanford, Project director for CSM Live, said: “it was great to work with Steve and his team, they came up with a practical proposal then built it on time and on budget, for which I am very grateful”.

Sensory experience

Billesley Manor has partnered with ESPA, a natural skincare and luxury beauty brand that is guided by the holistic philosophy of caring for the whole wellbeing, to offer a new range of treatments and wellness therapies.

This includes a variety of personalised, result-focussed facials using the latest techniques for instant and long-lasting effect such as the Active Nutrients Glow from Within or Natural Face Lift facial. The treatment menu also includes varied massages - like Hot Stone and Deep Muscle massage - that address individual needs allowing muscular tensions to be released and souls to feel soothed for renewed focus and lasting positivity.

Other treatments include prenatal and pregnancy therapies for expectant mothers and body treatments that restore and de-stress to bring out the skin's natural beauty.

All ESPA products used at the spa contain unique combinations of plant

extracts, marine actives and essential oils which work in harmony for healthy skin. Every product is expertly crafted to deliver an ESPA sensory experience through the beautiful aromatherapy blends and the unique formulation textures.

years of expertise, experience and knowledge to help people with poor credit to get on the property ladder." Hitesh Parekh, Director at Twin

Demand for planning services in Warwickshire leads to team doubling in size

Marrons Planning’s Stratford-upon-Avon team has doubled in size in less than 12 months – helping meet the needs of the planning consultancy’s growing client base in the West and South Midlands.

The six-people-strong team will take the lead in developing Marrons Planning’s offering in the regions, providing services including securing planning permission for development and promoting greenfield and brownfield land to meet future housing and employment needs.

Planning director David Fovargue joined the firm with more than 10 years’ experience helping clients secure planning permission. His experience and skills dovetails with the local knowledge provided by two additional recruits – senior planners George Smith, from Cherwell District Council who has more than six years’ experience of town planning in Oxfordshire, and Reiss Sadler, from Wychavon District Council who brings more than seven years’ town planning experience in Worcestershire.

Also supporting the Stratford-uponAvon hub’s growth are associate directors Richard Cooke and Daniel Robinson-Wells, who bring knowledge and experience from Warwickshire and the wider region.

Leading the charge is partner Gary Stephens, who has more than 20 years’ town planning experience. He said: “We’re always looking for new people to help grow our business and increase our presence across the region.

“Moreover, the planning process is not getting any easier to navigate, with everchanging policies and pressures, so having local knowledge and the ability to foresee and resolve issues is more important now than ever.

“David, George and Reiss bring expertise in Oxfordshire and Worcestershire, and will help maintain our excellent track record for securing planning permission and land allocations.”

House, just off the A3400 and near the River Avon – recently underwent an eco-friendly revamp to reflect modern, new ways of working. More than 80% of the materials used as part of the refurbishment were sustainably sourced, recycled or reused.

How losing everything led me to delivering mindset sessions to thousands…

At 22 I set up a video and podcast production company on The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme. I loved creating videos and podcasts for companies in the midland’s region. Working with salon of the year hair salons, guardian top 50 companies and multi-national businesses, it all seemed to be going quite well, until the pandemic hit.

After the pandemic I lost everything. I couldn’t be on set to film or record and much like it did for many others the business stopped overnight. There began the clichés of everything seemingly going “wrong". I had to work extremely hard on

WM5G wins £10m tender as

a consortium to create the UK Telecoms Innovation Network to boost telecoms R&D and innovation

West Midlands 5G Limited (WM5G)

– the UK’s largest 5G innovation company – has won a £10m Government tender to create the UK’s Telecoms Innovation Network (UKTIN).

WM5G won this tender as part of a UK wide consortium led by Digital Catapult and also including CW (Cambridge Wireless) and the University of Bristol.

UKTIN, first announced by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in March, aims to make the UK the easiest place in the world to access and take part in telecoms research, development and innovation. It will guide businesses and researchers looking to access funding or

testing facilities in the UK and enable the best use of public and private investment in R&D, as well as ensuring that knowledge is effectively and efficiently shared across the telecoms industry.

WM5G will utilise its unique experience to deliver UKTIN with a key focus on driving economic growth and inward investment by addressing key market challenges hampering innovation and new entrants into telecoms. To address these opportunities and create social value, WM5G will lead the creation of a National Telecoms Entrepreneurship, Employment and Training network, at the heart of UKTIN.

my mindset, reading and learning as much as I possibly could.

As work began to continue once more and I started delivering media training, I added aspects of mindset in the training I did and the feedback was that people wanted more and more on mindset.

So, it began from there…having started my own business with The Prince’s Trust I have gone full circle and now co-deliver and created a Mindset & Mindfulness programme for young people to support their mental wellbeing and development, which is delivered nationally. I have co-created The Mindset Diary. A diary of daily prompts and weekly pages for

positive momentum. I deliver mindset and wellbeing sessions to universities, in the education sector, and to businesses and organisations nationwide.

It is my goal to continue to elevate these sessions so that they continue to deliver psychology, science and action based methods to support the mindset of as many people as possible, focussed on the supporting people we are working with.

I am continuing onto my Masters of Science Psychology alongside further education and continued session delivery expansion…a path which I could have never predicted, but I am beyond delighted to be on.

UKTIN is expected to be up and running in September, at which point it will begin to take over from UK5G to help organisations get the most out of what the UK has to offer.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “I’m pleased to hear that WM5G and the consortium have won the tender to lead on the creation of the UK Telecoms Innovation Network – building on WM5G’s formidable track record having already helped to establish the West Midlands as the best connected 5G region in the UK. Fast and reliable digital connectivity is an important element in delivering Levelling Up here in our region so I’m delighted that WM5G

continues to play a vital part in helping us to do just that.”

Robert Franks, Managing Director of WM5G, said: “We’re delighted to have won this tender along with our consortium partners and DCMS.

The UK already invests over £1 Billion a-year in telecoms research, development and innovation. Through UKTIN we will turbo-charge this investment – helping the UK extend its leadership in open networks and vital new technologies such as 5G and 6G –building on the strengths of our regional clusters to create more skilled jobs, attract more investment and deliver economic growth.”

part of

Marrons Planning – as part of legal and professional services group Ampa – was named one of the top 100 best large companies to work for in the UK by Best Companies and placed in the top 25 West Midlands businesses. The group’s Stratford-upon-Avon hub – in Bridgeway

Jenna Hyde

A business built on values

As someone who deals in currency exchange on a daily basis, Paresh Davdra must have his finger on the pulse when it comes to the value of money around the world.

But he puts the success of RationalFX – a foreign exchange and payment service specialist that turns over £2.5 billion a year – down to more fundamental, human values.

Paresh, the co-founder and interim CEO of the business, said: “My dad and his family came from Uganda in 1972. They were part of the community that was kicked out by Idi Amin. They came here with nothing, but my dad and his brothers worked incredibly hard and had a really strong family unit.

“I never saw my cousins as cousins, they are like brothers and sisters because we all grew up together.

“Hard work and caring are the two values that we were brought up with and I think that’s had a massive impact on me and I’ve brought that forward into business.

“For me, I had a normal family life in Harrow and just worked hard to get to this level. I feel like I’ve learned so much in the 17 years of business but I think those values run through everything we do.”

Paresh admits he wasn’t particularly academic and took a year out from education at 18, earning £11,000 a year in a telephone customer service role. He knew then that he wanted more.

He went to Middlesex University to study Marketing and Computer Science and landed a role with a currency brokerage business after completing his degree.

It was here that he met Rajesh Agrawal, now the Deputy Mayor of London for Business, and it was this friendship and partnership that led to the establishment of RationalFX.

“I got to know Rajesh really well and one day he suddenly resigned from the business,” said Paresh.

“I bugged him for six weeks every day at lunch time to find out what he was planning to do and he wouldn’t tell me. In the end, I said to him that whatever he was doing I wanted in.

“In the end, he told me he was planning to do something similar but wanted to offer an online system and I said ‘let’s do it.’ The rest is history.”

Paresh added: “Rajesh had come to the country from India with absolutely nothing in 2001. He is from a super-humble background where he, two siblings and his parents grew up in a one-bedroom flat. They all slept in one room.

“He sold his motorbike to pay for his flight to the UK on a one-way ticket and that mindset of saying ‘I’m doing this, there’s no return, so it has to work’ was something I saw in him and believed in.

“He was like an older brother and mentor to me and then, in 2016, he became the Deputy Mayor of London for Business.

“He has an incredible charisma. I was just drawn to that and we’ve made a great team over the years.

“Being young, I didn’t really think about what the consequences might be. I didn’t have much in terms of overheads as I was living at my parents’ house and wasn’t thinking about what might go wrong.”

Paresh was 24 when they began RationalFX in 2005 as the first online platform for the world of currency exchange and there were articles written saying the company was a standard bearer in the industry.

“I thought I was going to be a multi-millionaire in a few months!” he said. “I grossly underestimated the hard work that was required to build a business over the years.

“Even when the business was growing in the early days, we didn’t take a salary in the first 18 months so we lived off credit cards and personal loans.

“I actually turned around to Rajesh at one point and asked if he thought we would be better off getting ‘normal’ jobs and he lost the plot with me! He got so angry that I never thought or asked that again.

“He told me to go if I wanted to go, and that he would make it work. It was that kind of spirit of determination that really pushed us through then and pushed us through all kinds of hard times.

“It’s not been plain sailing and we’ve had to navigate our way through.”

From humble beginnings, the company started to grow in a major way. From a 100 square feet office in Brighton in 2005, to today where more than 100 staff occupy 9,000 square feet on the 32nd floor at Canary Wharf.

“We moved from Brighton to Holborn and we grew to eight people but were still not taking a salary ourselves," he said.

“Then we moved to Hatton Garden for about 18 months before getting 2,500 sq ft in the City where we packed in 55 people. I look back and they are really fond memories because we were just growing the company, dealing with issues and challenges, finding new people to work with and learning a lot all of the time.

“Finally, we came to this office and we now turn over around £2.5billion a year and we manage that through online and offline sales.”

One major challenge came in the recession of 2008 when the property market crashed around the world – but RationalFX had already started to shift its clientbase and was insulated from some of the turbulence.

Paresh said: “In the early years, we focussed on the private client market so, for example, someone who was maybe purchasing a property in Dubai or Spain, we would work with the estate agents who would refer their clients to us so they could receive a better exchange rate and better service.

“In 2008, that all changed with the recession and the overseas property market really suffering.

“We had diversified by then into targeting business customers and we never really looked back. We still have a small private client book which we help but the majority of clients are business customers.”

The company is now a Business Influence member of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Paresh reveals to firms across the region what they could expect from the business.

He said: “RationalFX specialises in foreign exchange services and payment services across international and domestic markets. We work mainly in the B2B sphere – around 70 per cent of our revenue comes from business.

“If you were importing products from China, for example, we could provide you with an account manager or an online service where you would get a preferential exchange rate. You can move money almost instantly between accounts, between yourself and your supplier and you can get guidance around currency markets.

“You can get access to other tools, such as forward buying so you can fix your exchange rate now and for anything up to two years. If you’d fixed your rate on Pound/Dollar six months ago, you’d be in a better position than where you are today unfortunately.

“It’s a really straightforward business but there is a lot going on in the background that provides the engine for what we do to provide the level of service we expect of ourselves.

“We bank with tier one banks – JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Lloyds and about 18 others across the globe. We’ve built an infrastructure that API’s straight into these banks and allows us to make international payments across the globe.

“Our client base varies and we work with pretty much everyone unless you are considered a high-risk industry. We don’t touch gambling or crypto. Generally, if you’re a wholesaler, you’re a service provider or a payroll company, you could be a RationalFX client.

“We also support digital nomads who have decided to work remotely from various places in the world – they can benefit from our services. In fact, it’s the umbrella companies that are managing those digital nomads that benefit the most as we can distribute funds across the globe in one go.

“No company is too small or too big to look at their requirements from a payments perspective. Even if you only have a domestic requirement, we can give you named accounts with the likes of JP Morgan or Goldman Sachs which will be in the name of your company and you can collect money into those accounts. We can then pay your suppliers or your payroll, all at the fraction of the cost of what your bank would charge.

“It's a great way to save money, especially if you are a small business who don’t get the level of service that’s applied to large businesses. They need as much help as possible.”

And still the value of hard work and caring about the business, its people and its clients remains at the forefront of what RationalFX is all about.

“There’s been a level of luck involved but I think I excel when I am faced with challenges,” he said. “If we are going through a difficult time, I come into my zone and work well under pressure. That determination to never give up is a huge, it’s a huge part of where we are today.

“Now I’m 42, I have weathered a few storms and have got a few battle scars, I am so grateful for what we have and where we have got to and it’s driven by those values that were instilled into me at an early age.”

About Paresh Davdra

Born: 31.03.1980 - Harrow

Live: Northwood (NW London) / Portugal

Married/ Partner: Married Children: One 19-year-old girl

Hobbies: Gym and seeing the world

Favourite Book: Kite Runner

Favourite Film: Jerry Maguire

Last Holiday: Portugal Gadget: All Apple products!

❛❛ We bank with tier one banks – JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Lloyds and about 18 others across the globe. We’ve built an infrastructure that API’s straight into these banks and allows us to make international payments across the globe. ❜❜

The new chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce says the region’s businesses can set a national example ensuring all communities share in the success of the economy.

Corin Crane has joined the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce after leading the Black Country Chamber for almost six years.

He succeeds Louise Bennett OBE DL, who has run the organisation for 20 years and will remain with the Chamber for a brief period to handover to Corin.

Crane said he was joining a very strong Chamber at a time when Coventry and Warwickshire had much to look forward to – despite difficult economic times.

He said: “I'm incredibly honoured to be given this opportunity to lead the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber and will make sure that the brilliant work that Louise and the Chamber board have done over the last 20 years becomes the springboard for success in the future.

“I have a long history of supporting Midlands businesses and they are facing some difficult times in the coming months as we negotiate spiralling inflation, huge hikes in energy and fuel costs, hard to fill vacancies, increased pay demands and supply chain issues.

“But alongside the support many will need to survive and grow - I will be focused on celebrating the incredible stories of our local entrepreneurs and businesses that Coventry and Warwickshire is famous for, and making sure that every possible opportunity is seized.”

Region’s businesses can set a national example

“Business confidence is high after the success of the brilliant City of Culture and we will want to ensure those arts and culture businesses keep on growing.

“We will have the eyes of the world on our tourism offer as the Commonwealth Games is launched and huge opportunities will become available as we become global leaders in sustainability on the back of our Very Light Rail programme, Gigafactory proposal and ground-breaking research taking place within our innovative businesses and universities.

“Most importantly, we want the businesses of Coventry and Warwickshire to become exemplars in the way we do business by putting ethics and strong, diverse leadership at the heart of everything we do.

“We want an environment where everyone shares in the success of our economy - inclusive, dynamic and innovative businesses creating exciting and achievable jobs for our local residents. Successful businesses will be the bridge between the rural and urban areas that define the Chamber’s membership.

❛❛

“There are tough times ahead, but exciting times as well.”

Tom Mongan, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are delighted to have Corin on board as our new chief executive.

“Louise Bennett has done such an amazing job over the past 20 years and we are very pleased that she will remain with us for a few months to assist with the handover to Corin.

“We are in a very uncertain period economically but, at the same time, have much to be excited about in Coventry and Warwickshire.

“Myself, the board and the whole team at the Chamber are here to support Corin in ensuring we support those firms hardest hit by economic issues but also in making sure that we grasp every opportunity we can to grow individual businesses and the wider economy.”

Rise in interest rates is further risk to confidence

Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire say the biggest rise in interest rates for 27 years is a further risk to confidence.

The Bank of England has increased interest rates by 0.5 per cent to 1.75 per cent in a bid to bring inflation under control.

Corin Crane, the Chief Executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the decision was understandable in light of ongoing issues but, taken on its own, would not provide a remedy.

He said: “We all understand the position the Bank of England is in. It has a duty to try to control inflation and the lever it has always used to do that is base interest rates.

“The rise is, therefore, one we expected and one that was widely forecast.

“However, high inflation isn’t being caused by overconfidence among domestic consumers that needs to be dampened – there are many other factors at play both at home and abroad.

“The decision to increase rates will not cure spiralling inflation on its own and may only damage confidence at a time when there is already huge uncertainty among businesses and the wider economy.”

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “This rise is the clearest signal yet of the Bank of England's intention to get inflation under control. Spiralling prices are

cited by businesses as by far and away the top concern right now.

“However, given the extremely precarious state of the economy, this decision is not without risk for businesses and consumers that are exposed to banking or overdraft facilities.

“There are many causes of the current inflation crisis - global supply chain problems, trade barriers, soaring energy costs, increased taxes, and labour market shortages. Interest rate rises alone will do little to address these.

“Worryingly, our research indicates strongly that most small businesses are not investing for growth, and that longer-term confidence is beginning to wane.”

But alongside the support many will need to survive and grow - I will be focused on celebrating the incredible stories of our local entrepreneurs and businesses that Coventry and Warwickshire is famous for, and making sure that every possible opportunity is seized.

❜❜

Second quarter dip in economic outlook

Manufacturing in Coventry and Warwickshire saw an unexpected boost in the second quarter of 2022 – but the overall economic outlook for the region took another dip.

They were the findings of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) which measures how firms across the patch are performing and how they feel about the months ahead.

The survey showed a drop in the economic outlook to its lowest level since the second quarter of 2021 but it remains on a par with the rest of the UK economy. It did, however, see a rise in confidence among manufacturers as both overseas and domestic orders were reported to have increased.

The survey, which is delivered in partnership with Prime Accountants Group, is analysed by the Economy & Skills Group at Warwickshire County Council. Its analysis uses a similar score to the national Markits Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) where 50 is a neutral score and anything above means the majority feel positive and anything below means the reverse.

As well as being a barometer for the local economy, the results are fed into the British Chambers of Commerce’s national QES.

The service sector saw a drop in domestic orders, down from 62.1 to 52.4, as factors such as rising inflation began to take their toll. In manufacturing the score jumped from 47.6 to 53.9.

Overseas sales in the service sector dropped from 47.2 to 43.7, while manufacturing rose to 50.0 from 45.0.

There were positive scores on employment and investment in manufacturing while employment prospects fell in the service sector but investment plans remained unchanged on the previous quarter.

It meant that business confidence in the service sector across Coventry and Warwickshire fell from 83.7 to 63.5 and in manufacturing it rose from 46.1 to 55.1.

Sean Rose, head of policy at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “In broad terms, the economy of Coventry and Warwickshire is holding up well in the face of many issues that are putting a drag on growth.

“Despite a drop in the economic outlook based on the responses to this survey, it is still in positive territory which means the regional economy is on course to continue to grow.

“It is pleasing that manufacturers appear to have seen a bit of a bounce in the second quarter of the year through increased domestic and overseas sales.

“The service sector did see a dip in fortunes compared to three months ago and there are a host of factors that will have played a part in that as businesses have had to face rising inflation, recruitment problems and a general increase in the cost of doing business.”

Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants Group, said: “As we entered Q2, it was clear we were heading into a turbulent time for the local and national economy, which would impact all businesses and consumers.

“With a large part of the local economy involved in supply chain, businesses would be affected by events happening around the world as has been the case for the last two years.

“With no prospect of economic stability in the near future the local economic confidence has been dented in line with the rest of the UK regions.

“As expected, the scores from this quarter have seen a drop across the board in the service sector, as a result of the cost of living crisis and consumers tightening their purse strings.

“It’s promising to see that the outlook within the manufacturing sector has improved despite the challenges businesses are facing across the region. Overall the results still show the local

Summary of 2022 Q2 Key Numbers:

Economic Outlook:

Overall, 54.9, down from 59.6

Service Sector 55.1, down from 62.6.

Manufacturing Sector 53.9, up from 47.6.

Domestic Sales:

Service Sector 52.4, down from 62.1

Manufacturing Sector 57.4, up from 51.7

Overseas Sales: Service Sector 43.7, down from 47.2.

Manufacturing Sector 50.0, up from 45.0.

Employment

economy as having a positive outlook with the overall economic outlook index being at 54.9%.

“With all the challenges that we can see ahead, it is important as a region we continue to push through the second half of the year and do what we can to support one another in business.”

Sunny Parekh, of Warwickshire County Council, said: “Coventry and Warwickshire’s overall economic outlook index continued to indicate a robust local economic landscape, despite the overall index score experiencing a reduction in Quarter Two.

“The second quarter of the year presented businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire with a turbulent operating environment as the economic fallout of the war in Ukraine created considerable economic shocks, particularly impacting energy, commodity and food prices.

Inflation reached unprecedented heights in Q2, as businesses and consumers alike had to navigate the impact of price pressure on their business operation and household budgets respectively.

“The latest QES shows a varied local picture, any pent-up demand that was experienced by local services in Q1 was mitigated in the second quarter as the outlook index reduced significantly, likely due to the tightening of household budgets impacting consumer demand levels. Meanwhile, the local manufacturing sector surprisingly bucked the national trend with positive movements in its overall economic outlook, somewhat offsetting the decline seen in the service sector results.

“Despite such deviations, both sectors continue to show a positive economic outlook in the face of economic adversity, but the question is for how long?

“Looking forward to the second half of the year paints a difficult picture for local businesses. The economic headwinds facing the economy show little signs of decelerating as inflation is forecasted to continue to rise as wage growth slows further impacting demand levels both nationally and locally.”

Service Sector 57.1, down from 59.1

Manufacturing Sector 54.3, up from 45.4.

Investment & Cashflow

Service Sector 52.0, unchanged from 52.0.

Manufacturing Sector 51.2, up from 49.6.

Business Confidence

Service Sector 63.5, down from 83.7.

Manufacturing Sector 55.1, up from 46.1

Chamber reacts to GDP fall

Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire have reacted to a fall in economic output in the second quarter of the year.

GDP – the measure of economic activity – fell by 0.1 per cent between April and June after growing in the first quarter of the year.

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said it reflected the concerns of members.

He said: “When we speak to businesses across the region we are hearing the same issues time and time again.

“Costs are going up, supply chains are disrupted and recruiting people is not easy. It’s all making it difficult for firms to implement their growth plans and that is why investment is falling.

“The drop in GDP will come as no real surprise because it reflects the message we are getting from businesses.

“As I’ve said before, there is so much going for Coventry and Warwickshire and we have lots of exciting opportunities ahead of us but there is no question that urgent action is needed to help reduce costs and bolster confidence.”

David Bharier, Head of Research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Today's 0.1 per cent fall in GDP data is yet another signal that the UK economy is moving in an alarming direction.

“While some consumer-facing industries have benefited from further withdrawals of Covid restrictions on travel, the retail sector saw a one per cent decline in the quarter, reflecting the unprecedented pressures from inflation and global supply chain disruption.

“The 0.2 per cent fall in real household consumption reflects continued weakness in consumer confidence and a mounting cost of living crisis.

“Business investment remains a serious challenge. While investment in construction has increased, other forms of investment, including for machinery and equipment, continue to fall.

“Since 2021, our research has been flagging the damaging impact of inflation, it is wiping out many firms' profit margins and threatening their long-term growth.

“Supply constraints caused by global Covid lockdowns and conflict in Ukraine, coupled with soaring energy costs, have created a perfect storm that many small businesses are struggling to weather.

“Worryingly, our research is also pointing to decreasing business confidence as fewer firms expect to see any turnover growth in the next 12 months.

“That’s why it is becoming critical for the Government to take action as soon as possible. They must immediately cut the VAT on businesses’ fuel bills to five per cent. The longer the economy is left to drift towards the danger zone the harder it will be to rectify.”

Cutting costs without compromising quality

Keep your business connected, without breaking your bank.

We are currently living in a time where costs are at an all-time high and rising. It has been reported that in 2022 alone, inflation is set to rise by 11%, and with each day it becomes clearer that a recession is looming.

Most businesses are finding themselves cutting corners to save wherever they can, whether that is reducing employee headcount, renting out their office space or encouraging remote working. One thing that shouldn’t be compromised is a business’s communication platforms.

A Northampton-based communications provider understands how businesses should be able to maximise the money they are spending, without compromising the quality of the service they are receiving.

Specialising in telephony, connectivity, and IT solutions, they provide solutions that match budgets and needs. Many businesses deal with multiple third-party providers, costing themselves more money than if all their services were consolidated. dbfb also provide customers with their own billing portal account, enabling customers to self-serve when required. The portal enables customers to view and track their data usage, download invoices and set spend alerts, meaning no bill-shock when it comes to the end of the month.

Simon Pickering, Managing Direct at dbfb says, “What is unique about dbfb, is that we offer businesses the chance to choose the perfect solutions for their business needs, with a payment plan to suit them. It’s about being flexible and adapting with your customers’ budgets during this turbulent time. It is vital to be with a provider who doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all approach and sees customers as individuals.”

dbfb are already working with businesses, helping to find he perfect solutions to suit them.

To find out more visit www.dbfb.co.uk.

Barr’s Hill School Coventry x ESMEDIA

Local media mogul and Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce member, Esmé Spurling has recently been commissioned by Barr’s Hill School, Coventry, to create and produce a series of videos showcasing the school’s diversity and highlighting their motto of ‘Pride’.

The videos showcase the amazing students at Barr’s Hill School, each confidently delivering various ways of how they are supported by peers, teachers and the local community whilst also proudly demonstrating the school’s hard working and committed work ethic.

Esmé is the sole owner of the awardwinning media business “ESMEDIA”, with a range of services offered since opening in 2017. Services include social media content management, commercial photography and videography tailored for web and socials. She has been working with the Assistant Headteacher of Barr’s Hill to bring their vision of the school to life through several creatively made and engaging videos.

Barr’s Hill continued to work with Esmé in order to showcase the wellestablished alumni of the school in a series of videos highlighting their growing alumni network. Alumni features included, BBC Coventry & Warwickshire Radio presenter, Trish Adudu and enterprise expert, Aaron Ashmore, owner of multiple

What

successful businesses, such as the hugely popular Etch & Pin. We see the pair walk through the school and reminisce key moments of their childhood memories together in a fun and entertaining way.

In the video, Aaron says, “Barr’s Hill has progressed so much since I was here, and I’m a big admirer of what the school has been able to do, it’s gone from strength to strength.”

Esmé and her team at ESMEDIA have been excited to produce and film multiple videos for Barr’s Hill, supporting their

marketing strategy and meeting the needs of a contemporary visual audience that will increase the outreach of the Coventry-based school.

Videos will be able to view ahead of the new academic year, from September 2022, featured on both Barr’s Hill School website and socials.

For further information or to enquire, please email esmespurlingmedia@gmail.com

Photography credit: Ruby Nixon

about Engineering patents

What is a patent?

A patent is granted by the government to the applicant. This gives the applicant the right for a limited period to stop others from making, using or selling an invention without the permission of the applicant.

What do you have to look out for when filing for an Engineering patent?

One of the important aspects of patenting an invention to remember is that once the marketing of a product begins, the public becomes aware of your invention. Although part of patenting an invention does include publicising the invention, the patent itself can protect your market share and give you legal grounds to pursue anyone who would copy your invention.

Sustainable relief accommodation

A large percentage of refugees end up in UNHCR tents, which are designed for an 18-month life but inevitably camps exist far longer. While tents made from textile or plastic sheets are the simplest and frequently supplied form of shelter in post-disaster areas, serious problems remain:

• Shortage of adequate sheltering;

• Problems with storage of tents due to costs and durability;

The short lifespan of tents;

• Tents are not comfortable (problems with cold/heat/ ventilation) and limited head height.

recycled plastic shelter has been developed over the last 18 months and complies with UNHCR requirements for a 4-person shelter. The Suscons DRS is delivered as a flatpack in standard ISO freight containers, is quickly erected by unskilled labour and provides not only emergency shelter but also longerterm temporary accommodation, with a minimum lifespan of 10 years continual usage. The shelters provide 2m head height and internal space of 3.5m x 4.0m and can be linked together to increase the internal space. More importantly, doors and windows are lockable providing much needed security.

Every year around 14 million people become homeless worldwide due to natural and political disasters. Although the need for disaster relief shelters (DRS) has increased by at least an additional 4 million

due to the conflict in Ukraine, demand remains considerable from other countries suffering conflicts such as Yemen and Afghanistan not to mention poverty and homelessness on a global scale.

FPM Group and WA Management to collaborate on quality and environmental management systems

After meeting at a recent Chamber networking, the FPM Group and WA Management will be working together to achieve ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certification for the Group.

The FPM Group are a multidisciplinary organisation offering refurbishment, fit out, facilities management and mechanical and electrical solutions to the commercial, industrial, educational, and retail sectors. With a focus on quality, cost-effectiveness and following environmental regulations, ISO certification would serve to bolster their already strong business model.

WA Management are a Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Compliance Management Consultancy offering a wide range of services including training, Health and Safety, and management system implementation. They will be providing a turnkey solution for the implementation

and continuous support for both certifications. By undertaking an initial gap analysis and regular internal audits, implementing a management manual, holding biannual management reviews and offering direct support throughout the ISO certification audit, WA Management will be there every step of the way to provide expert consultancy.

By achieving UKAS accredited certification to an ISO standard, The FPM Group will demonstrate compliance to one of the international standards developed and published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

ISO 9001 is a management system focused on quality – providing the company with a systematic approach to provide consistent quality of services and products and exceed customer expectations. For companies, ISO 9001 is often a requirement for being placed onto a customer’s approved supplier list. Beyond this, ISO 9001 also helps

Suscons Ltd a West Midlands SME, working with the University of Birmingham’s Alternative Raw Materials with Low Impact (ARLI) collaborative research team, developed the concept of solving two problems together, by developing a more habitable shelter from waste plastic. The design of the 100%

ARLI’s Senior Technical Officer, Peter Braithwaite, explained that ”Suscons are launching the prototype DSR at the RWM exhibition at the NEC this September, and aim to demonstrate that sustainable relief accommodation can be provided while reducing the global volumes of waste plastic”.

companies to increase efficiency, continuously improve, and optimise their performance through business risk management.

ISO 14001 is an environmental management system – this focuses on the best approaches to mitigate environmental aspects and impacts through measuring and improving the company’s environmental performance. The benefits of holding this certification are twofold, as not only does this serve as proof to external parties (such as local authorities, nearby residents, stakeholders and regulatory agencies) that you are environmentally responsible, but it can also increase profits and competitiveness by reducing environmental liability and business costs.

David Needham, Operations Director for the FPM Group, said that the expansion of the company and the ambitious growth plans meant that continuously improving customer satisfaction was imperative, and by

following industry best-practice and focusing on quality, we will achieve higher operating efficiency. With over 35 years of experience providing support with the implementation and running of management systems, WA Management are well-equipped to help the FPM Group integrate ISO 9001 and 14001 into their business, complementing the high standard of service, quality and delivery they already provide to their customer base.

Neil Ward, Training Consultant of WA Management, has said that meeting FPM at the Chamber networking event has provided a great opportunity for both companies.

“We’re very grateful to have been brought together by the Chamber. We’re really looking forward to working alongside the FPM Group to implement these systems – as they already have such a clear view of quality and environmental standards, we can’t wait to see what they achieve with their ISO certifications.”

You are enough!

OnJuly24,1991,Isatinthepress boxinParliamentandlistenedtothe globalstatesmanspeak. Parliament satincompletesilenceasthelate PresidentNelsonMandelaaddressed thegovernmentandpeopleof Jamaica,followinghisreleasefrom prisoninFebruary,1990.

Likeeveryoneelse,Ipaidattention toeveryword.Hisvisitwiththenwife, WinnieMandela,capturedtheheartof thewholenation.Wehungonevery wordduringhis24-hourvisit.But whatmadehisspeechesmemorable? Nothissometimes-haltingdelivery norhispredictableintonation,butthe unsinkablecourageofhissacrificial leadership.Theextensivecoverage ofhisdeathinDecember2013is onemeasureofhisglobalimpact andcontributiontothefightagainst apartheid.Whohewasandhis lifetimeworkmadehimenough.

Sometimeswethinkthatwe arenotenough;thatourhalting deliveryandlessthanimpeccable pronunciationwillmakeusineffective communicators,sowehideeverytime thereisabusinessmeeting,industry eventorMediainterviewopportunity toexplainourproduct,process,or service.

Whatifwestartedfromtheinside out.Ifwearepreparedtofaceour fearsoftellingourbusinessstory, learntheskillstoovercomethese fears,wecanbegintolookforward totheseopportunitiesatbusiness meetingsornetworkingevents. Youarethemostqualifiedtotell YOURbusinessstory.

Yourpotentialclientsdeserveto knowaboutyourqualityproduct orserviceandhowitcanbenefit them.YouknowyourDigitalFinance, Computer,SocialCareorProfessional explainerbusiness.Areyounow readytotellthatstorytowinresults? Don’tallowyourfearstokeepyou silent.Getup.Standup.Speakup. Youareenough.

Shakespeare Martineau launches expert food and drink sector group

West Midlands law firm Shakespeare

Martineau has launched a new food and drink sector group to provide a full-service legal offering to support the industry, which is valued at more than £100 billion.

Offering tailored advice and a one-stop-shop to the food and drink market, the group covers commercial, employment, corporate and real estate law, alongside intellectual property, business immigration, landlord and tenant disputes, commercial disputes, food regulatory and uninsured loss recovery advice.

The firm – which already works with major retailers and multiple supermarkets including Iceland and Farmfoods – has launched the group to support the food and drink industry at a time when it is facing multiple challenges following Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic.

Matt McDonald, partner and food and drink sector lead at Shakespeare Martineau, which has offices in Birmingham, Solihull and Stratfordupon-Avon, said: “The food and drink industry has been particularly impacted by political events such as the cost of living crisis and Brexit, as well as staff shortages, material price increases and Covid-19.

“Working in food and drink is different from many other commercial enterprises – it is highly competitive and brings with it a plethora of ever-evolving industryspecific regulatory regimes, taxation considerations, and technological and logistical challenges.

“Our legal teams already represent many major retailers and supermarkets, and we are delighted to be bringing that expertise together to create a food and drink-specific group, which will focus on providing a full and bespoke service to one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the UK economy.”

Experts working within Shakespeare Martineau’s food and drink sector group include partner and head of commercial, IP and employment Phil Pepper; uninsured loss recovery partner Ian Evans; litigation partners James Fownes and Ben Humphreys; commercial partner Carys Thompson; corporate partner Jody Webb; legal director and immigration specialist Tijen Ahmet; corporate associate Jade Price; and real estate associate Samantha Vaughan.

Recent analysis by Shakespeare Martineau found that the food and drink industry accounted for 6% of administrations in the first six months of 2022 – the sixth highest sector in the UK. More than 620 businesses –39 of which came from the food and

Harry Styles brings love on tour to Coventry Building Society Arena

drink industry, which included several breweries and restaurant chains – filed for administration between 1 January and 30 June 2022, marking a 60% increase compared to 2021.

Matt added: “Most businesses have suffered to some extent over the past two years, but some businesses within the food and drink sector have been particularly hard-hit – not least those in the hospitality sector like restaurants and pubs.

“Lockdown and the associated drop in footfall in towns and cities during the pandemic has been devastating and clearly for some companies this has, very unfortunately, been fatal to their business.

“Looking ahead, there is cause for cautious optimism as we return back to something approaching ‘normality’, but there are still huge challenges facing the sector including the continued reduced footfall, during weekdays in particular, increased food prices due to the war in Ukraine and the ongoing cost of living crisis forcing consumers to tighten their belts.”

Coventry Building Society Arena will welcome Love On Tour on Monday, May 22 – one of the 19 new dates announced across Europe

The Coventry date is the only show scheduled in the Midlands, and joins additional dates at Wembley Stadium, BT Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh and Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.

Harry will be supported by indie rock duo Wet Leg for the Coventry Building Society Arena performance.

Coming off of a sold-out 43-date arena tour in 2021, and two special One Night Only shows in New York and London this year, the highly anticipated tour in support of his new album, Harry’s House, will allow fans to access multiple nights in major cities across the globe turning iconic venues into Harry’s House. The 2023 European leg of the tour will also be Harry’s first full stadium outing in the region.

Paul Michael, Commercial Director at Coventry Building Society Arena, said: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Harry Styles to Coventry Building Society Arena as part of his European tour.

“This is an incredible opportunity to see one of the world’s biggest stars right here in Coventry and the West Midlands.

“We had a fantastic 2021 with The Killers and Rammstein both performing at the Arena, and the announcement of Harry Styles means we are set for another fantastic summer of entertainment.”

Tickets available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk.

Accessible tickets and hospitality packages are also available for the show, go to www.CBSArena.co.uk to find out more.

Photo:JesseGerald

International superstar Harry Styles is bringing his European tour to Coventry in 2023.

Innovative street furniture

The Crash Bench 40 has been designed and manufactured by Safetyflex Barriers to provide protection at inner city public realm projects and large venues.

The unique design is completely surface mounted, requiring no foundations, pinning or fixings, reducing its installation time to just one hour.

A built-in bench helps it double up as seating, whilst it also has capacity for an additional removable bench or table to be fitted.

The product has been crash tested to IWA-14 standards at the Horiba Mira centre of excellence in Nuneaton, with Safetyflex Director Marcus Gerrard expecting it to play a key role in its street furniture range.

He said: “It’s always exciting to launch a new product, but this is one we have been looking forward to bringing to the market for some time after a year in research and development, and we’re sure it will be a fantastic addition to our existing street furniture range.

“More and more of our clients are looking for hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) solutions which go beyond offering protection from vehicle attacks, but also form part of the furniture.

“The Crash Bench 40 does just that, making it perfect for public realm settings. It is a lot more compact, takes up less space, and the design enables rapid deployment and removal which is ideal for pop-up events and suits the ever-changing needs of a modern city or town centre.”

Safetyflex’s street furniture range includes seating, planters and cycle racks - all of which have been crash tested to stop vehicles travelling at varying speeds of up to 50mph.

The family-owned and managed firm is rooted in Coventry but has excelled in the global market since forming out of GME Springs in 2010, becoming a market leader in anti-terrorist HV and securing high-profile sites across the world.

The company has secured 36 patents worldwide for its innovative designs and has won more than 15 awards for its products, establishing itself as a leading supplier to shopping centres, public realm and stadia.

Annual Charity Golf Day Raises Record Sum for

Zoë’s Place Baby Hospice

An annual charity golf day to help babies and young children with life-threatening and life-limiting illnesses has raised more than £12,000.

The golf day was the third event of its kind organised by members of the Zoë’s Place Business Group and hosted by Coventry Golf Club. Altogether the three events have raised almost £30,000 for the hospice. Eighteen teams took part in the event, including a mix of corporate, social and members’ teams. All profits from the event will be put towards the hospice’s core clinical costs, to help the 29 families currently using Zoë’s Place.

Martin Sutliff is Head PGA Professional at Coventry Golf Club and a member of Zoë’s Place Business Group. He said the event had grown ever more popular each year. The first event raised £6,000 while the second raised £10,000.

Martin said although the golf club had originally planned to support Zoë’s Place for three years, demand for another event next year was so high at the Zoë’s Place Golf Day that the club has already pencilled a date in the diary for next year. He said: “Founded in 1887, Coventry Golf Club is the oldest golf club in Coventry and has one of the best courses in Warwickshire and with each year that passes we seem to garner more interest.

The players are keen to take part in an event at our club and of course to support such an excellent cause. Coventry Golf Club too was delighted to support Zoë’s Place and offered the course free of charge, so the money to enter the teams went straight to the charity.”

Martin added: “To raise £12,194 is just amazing and far exceeded our expectations. We would like to thank everyone who supported the event, the raffle and the auction and look forward to seeing the players again next year and indeed long into the future when hopefully we’ll raise even more.”

Exclusive auction prizes on the night included a five-star break for four with three rounds of golf at La Finca in southern Spain, which sold for £2,600. Other prizes included a four-ball event and overnight stay at any Marriott hotel and golf course, of which three were sold at £650 each, a two-night stay at Carnoustie Golf Hotel and Spa in Scotland, three of which were sold at £800 each. A team from Bablake Old Boys’ Cricket Club won the event.

Next year’s event is pencilled in for June 29th. To find out more log on to www.zoes-place.org.uk/coventry/

Coventry businessman steps up once again to support homelessness charity

This is our 6th year working with St. Basils and their services are even more vital as things get tougher for vulnerable people on our streets and in our communities. Good luck to all participants in the Sleepout.”

Steve Rainbow, St Basils events manager added: “We are working tirelessly in Coventry to prevent homelessness and support people who are experiencing hardship. To help us do this we are holding a fundraising sleepout event in the beautiful ruins of the old Coventry Cathedral. We are once again extremely grateful to John and the team at McDonalds for providing our wonderful fundraisers with a hot breakfast after their night out in the cold to support those who need it the most.”

There is a prize for the ‘best dwelling’ judged on the night, as well as a free food stall with delicious Indian food from the amazing charity Langar Aid and musicians against homelessness will be providing live music. It is a great opportunity to meet other people who are passionate about making a difference in their community and giving back.

All the money raised by this unique event will go towards supporting young vulnerable people in Coventry who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Anyone is welcome to attend, and the charity is urging individuals, groups of friends or companies to sign-up to take part.

John said “McDonald's Coventry is proud to support St. Basils with their Coventry Sleepout 2022 to raise much needed funds to help rough sleepers and the homeless in our area.

The event taking place on Friday 7th October challenges people to ‘rough it’ for a night and help raise money so that a young person does not have to experience the plight of sleeping rough for real.

We provide a cardboard box and people are most welcome to bring additional cardboard, a sleeping bag and plastic cover to make their shelter for the night.

Steve concludes “Lots of businesses are getting involved and I’d urge as many as possible to come on board. Through your support, we can help prevent youth homelessness in Coventry.”

More on St Basils Coventry Sleepout and to register visit: Coventry Sleepout 2022 (stbasils.org.uk)

McDonald’s franchisee John Kiely MBE, who owns and operates six restaurants across Coventry, has once again pledged to support homelessness charity St Basils by providing a hot breakfast to all the participants of this years Coventry Sleepout.

A global counter terrorist specialist based in Coventry has expanded its innovative street furniture range with the launch of its first ever inbuilt crash bench.

Climbing wall business on the rise after support

A Coventry climbing wall business is looking to scale new heights after investing in future success.

The Ballroom Climbing Wall opened in the former Leofric Hotel in Coventry city centre five years ago and was growing steadily until the pandemic hit and then, like all other attractions, was forced to close.

It’s now back up and running and attracting more visitors per day than it was pre-pandemic for its specialist bouldering wall, which is low to the ground climbing without ropes or harnesses.

The business has received help from business advisors at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce as part of the Coventry City Council-led Coventry Creative Growth & Cultural Tourism Recovery Programme, which is funded by the UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund, through the West Midlands Combined Authority.

The programme is, is supporting creative, tourism and hospitality business across Coventry, and the development of new employment and training opportunities in these sectors.

The Ballroom Climbing Wall was given specialist, one-to-one advice and, as a result, it has added a new member of staff to the team and also invested £30,000 into improvements of the venue, including general upgrades, a stronger food and beverage offer, and more opportunities

for younger children to use the facility, which would expand its customer base and income streams.

The Ballroom Climbing Wall is run by brothers Ben and Sam Prior who opted to open in Coventry five years ago when they had the idea to start the business.

“I was an accountant and my brother was a physiotherapist but we had a passion for climbing,” said Ben.

“We decided we wanted to open our own climbing wall venue and chose Coventry even though I was living in Cambridge and Sam was living in Oxford.

“We felt it was something we could really grow in the city and that was happening –then Covid struck, so we had to close.”

He added: “Once we were able to reopen, we really wanted to grow and invest in the future.

“We found out about the support available through the Chamber and it has been a major help.

“Getting one-to-one advice and being able to look at how we could grow was invaluable. It has meant we can make around £30,000 of investment into improving the venue and look at how we grow the customer-base.

“We worked with a business advisor, Chris Hartley, who was great at offering a different perspective, as well as offer us introductions to contacts within the city. We’re members of the Chamber too and

Christmas Party with a difference

Coventry Building Society Arena is expecting a full house when it hosts a Christmas party with a difference t his December.

The Arena is set to host three-nights of Bingo Bango Christmas Parties from Friday, December 16 to Sunday, December 18.

Bingo Bango was launched in 2018 and has since featured at Ministry Of Sound, Madness, Ibiza Legends, Cream Weekenders, festivals and nightclubs.

The shows are a mix of music, games, visuals, confetti, pyrotechnics and crazy prizes – with the Coventry parties set to have a festive theme.

Coventry Building Society Arena is famed for its Christmas parties and organisers of the Bingo Bango events say they were keen to do something outside of the box this year.

Paul Michael, commercial director at Coventry Building Society Arena, said: “Over the years we have been the go-to

destination for Christmas parties in Coventry and we’re excited to be able to announce our Bingo Bango events for this festive period.

“It’s set to be three nights of fantastic entertainment and it certainly won’t be a conventional Christmas party.

“Bingo events of this type have proved hugely popular across the country in recent years and we’re pleased to be working with Bingo Bango on these three events.

“We’re going to have everything from singers, roaming performers and prizes, to mass sing-alongs and free fairground rides.

“It will be a party to remember for everyone who comes along, be that for an office party or a Christmas gathering with friends.”

Live entertainment will take place on the night from the Bingo Bango team, with DJ entertainment keeping the party going until late.

are using that for networking opportunities to help spread the word.”

Chris said: “It has been great to work with the Ballroom Climbing Wall. There are so many opportunities for growth and I was able to offer advice on the best avenues to take, in order for them to emerge from the pandemic in a strong way.

“We’d love to talk to more businesses to help offer advice and support, which is good for the individual companies but also the regional economy.”

Councillor Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change, added: “It’s always good news for the city and economy when local businesses thrive. It’s really important that

we encourage businesses to grow, which creates jobs and attracts more visitors into the city centre which is a win-win for everyone. I’m really glad to hear that businesses are getting the support they need to succeed.”

The Chamber has a variety of business support programmes on offer, from support individuals to start up, to helping businesses grow and diversify as well as specialist programmes to support sectors, such as helping Coventry-based creative businesses and freelancers.

Advice includes one-to-one support, and a range of workshops and masterclasses, including digital marketing, social media and maximising the impact of business websites.

For more information view https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/ or email businesssupport@cw-chamber.co.uk

Andy Joyce, host and director of Bingo Bango, added: “We are excited to be involved in such a large-scale Christmas event at Coventry Building Society Arena in Coventry.

“It’s a great way to see in the festive season, with entertainment that everyone can enjoy and get involved in.”

Prices start from £32 per person for Christmas Bingo Bango which includes glass of prosecco/soft drink on arrival and one item from the street food menu.

There are also a range of private Christmas party options available at Coventry Building Society Arena.

For more information visit https://www.coventrybuildingsocietyarena.co.uk/whats-on

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

Back, from the left, Chris Hartley and Ben Prior. Front, Cllr Jim O’Boyle and Keely Hancox

Nuneaton a place to live, work and visit

The town has won funding totalling over £155 million through the Town Deal and Future High Streets Fund

That funding is already making an impact with work on a new hotel due to start shortly and plans progressing for a new Digital Skills and Innovation Centre as part of the Abbey Street regeneration scheme.

Jones, who is currently Minister of State at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), was speaking at a meeting of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s North Branch meeting.

He said: “Traditionally Nuneaton was a large market town that was very active and vibrant, and had leading national retailers based here.

“Clearly the retail market has changed completely in the last 10 to 15 years and that has been accelerated through the Covid crisis.

“Nuneaton needs help and the only way to increase the dynamism at its heart to make it a place where people went to live, work and visit.

“This injection of funding is not a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity – it is a-once-ina-century opportunity.

“The plans are extremely exciting but they are also not the end. They will establish a momentum and once people see real change being delivered than it will encourage more companies and people to invest.”

Dawn Dawson, Director - Regeneration and Housing at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, brought local businesses up to date with how plans are progressing.

Tom Mongan, chair of the branch and also Chamber President, said: “It is great to see the plans and while they will take time to come to fruition, it is vital that local people and businesses are kept aware of the progress that is being made.

“It is in everyone’s interest for the town centre and the rest of the borough to be successful.

That can only be a good thing in terms of attracting inward investment and creating new jobs and wealth for local people.”

Clare inspired by Chamber help

A Warwickshire-based former solicitor has launched a company which specialises in the coaching of lawyers – and has received some inspiration of her own from the Chamber.

Clare Harding Coaching was launched earlier this year after Clare gave up her coaching role for a national law firm and decided to go it alone.

Clare, who is a qualified coach with 20 years of experience in the legal profession, has been supported by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce as her business starts to take off.

Adviser John Fitzgerald carried out a full audit of the way Clare presented the business and also offered advice on online courses to attend that could help her continue to grow.

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

That, coupled with Clare’s expertise and existing network of contacts, has seen the business make a strong start.

Clare said: “I really enjoy being a coach, but I wanted to do my own thing and not be tied to one firm.

“I can now work with individual lawyers and also for law firms. For individuals, I can partner with them to help them progress in their career and, when it comes to working with law firms, I can support them with wider staff development.

“It’s an issue that has become more and more important as firms are having to work harder to attract and retain staff so ensuring they are valued and being offered opportunities for development is critical.

“I’m now working with clients in London and I’ve also picked up business in Warwickshire too and the plan is to continue to grow.”

Clare added: “When I was deciding to launch, a friend said to me that I should contact the Chamber about support.

“Very quickly, there was a meeting set-up with John Fitzgerald and he’s been really supportive. He looked at the way I present the business and has come up with some fresh, new ideas that have helped me to consider the way I showcase what I do moving forward.

“The courses have also been very helpful – especially the creative content marketing session.

“It was an online course that lasted four hours, and it really held my attention for the whole time. I got so much out of it on what, how and when to post which has proved to be so valuable. It’s already led to me picking up work, which is great news.

“It’s been so valuable for so many reasons and I’d recommend contacting the Chamber for help if you are just starting out.”

Clare has joined up to the Chamber’s 22in22 Women in Business Mentoring Programme.

John said: “It has been great to support Clare in the early stages of her business, which has got off to an excellent start.

“I looked at all aspects of the business and could see straightaway that Clare was offering an amazing service to her clients.

“For me, it was about reflecting that back to her and helping to inspire her into taking the next steps as a business. I advised on which courses would suit Clare best to help the business grow and, because I’d got to know her, I could use my areas of expertise to give her ideas for the future too.”

Warwickshire County Council leader Cllr Izzi Secombe said: “I am delighted that the CW Business: Start, Grow and Scale programme has proved so valuable to Clare as she seeks to grow her business. The programme is an integral part of the wide range of support which WCC, along with our partners, offers to small business across the county and underlines our commitment to do all we can to sustain a strong local economy.”

start-up businesses, whether you want to make your business

build

new business.

https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/business-start-up

Tom Mongan, Marcus

Jones

MP, Dawn Dawson

Nuneaton MP Marcus Jones believes Nuneaton and the surrounding area has a “once-in-a-century” chance to reshape itself thanks to unprecedented development funding.

initiatives and other partner investment via the Transforming Nuneaton initiatives.

John Fitzgerald (Chamber), Clare Harding, Hayley Lineker (Warwickshire County Council)

The Chamber has a range of support for

idea a reality, or require advice on how to

your

For more information go to

“It was an online course that lasted four hours, and it really held my attention for the whole time. I got so much out of it on what, how and when to post which has proved to be so valuable. It’s already led to me picking up work, which is great news."

Warwickshire media expert motors to success

That led to one-to-one coaching from business adviser Sarah Humphreys, which has transformed the business and Faye’s thinking.

Kenilworth-based Faye Hatton founded Straw Hat Communications in 2020 after taking a break from her successful automotive and motorsport PR career, where she’d worked for some of the leading brands on the planet.

After having three children, she launched the communications business to fit around her family. Although the company enjoyed early success providing copywriting services to small clients, Faye sensed the potential to do better if she specialised her offering.

She was referred by a contact to the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and accessed support through the Accelerated Growth programme, which forms part of the Coventry & Warwickshire Business Support Programme which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Faye said: “Put simply, the Chamber business support played a pivotal role in my business.

“Up to working with the Chamber, I had a gut instinct that I was heading down the wrong track. Business was growing and was working around my family but I knew I could have greater earning potential and job satisfaction with some clarity around the services I offered. I was lost.

“Thanks to Sarah and the Chamber, I discovered I wanted to return to the world of cars. Sarah asked about what I used to do. I answered with a smile on my face and passion in my heart. It was a lightbulb moment. There were happy tears!

“Instead of general copywriting work, I now specialise in PR for automotive and motorsport brands. It’s the type of work I love and makes the most of my experience and skillset.”

Between 2020 and 2022, Straw Hat’s turnover steadily increased and continues to land new work, with plenty more in the pipeline.

“Sarah helped me discover certain character traits – such as warmth, energy and ambition – that I now use to sell myself and the business,” Faye added.

“I also benefitted from Sarah’s perspective as someone who has run a business as the parent of young children. She’s been there. She’s juggled work with the school run. She’s plonked the kids in front of the TV for an hour to get something done. The fact she understood me from the perspective of a business coach and woman was incredibly powerful. I’d urge business

owners to contact the Chamber for help because it can be a game changer, just like it was for me.”

Sarah urged other businesses in the region to make the most of the help on offer.

She said: “It’s great to see the difference Chamber support has had for Faye and I am so pleased to see how empowered and driven she is.

“In many ways, Faye had all the answers but I just asked the right questions to help her get the business to where she wants it to be.

“All the challenges that Faye has identified will resonate with many business owners – especially parents –and I’d urge others to get in touch to find out how we can help.”

ContacttheAcceleratedGrowthteambyemailon businesssupport@cw-chamber.co.uktolearnmoreabouttheprogramme.

It’s an Eskuta e-bike demo day for the staff of the Unipart Logistics Centre in Nuneaton

Nuneaton based e-mobility brand Eskuta gave a demo day at Unipart Logistics Centre in Bermuda Park to promote the cost saving benefits of using their e-bikes for getting to and from work.

The recent demo day is part of a wider campaign for Eskuta which aims to work together with the Unipart Group and other large corporations within the Warwickshire and Coventry area to offer their employees an accessible, sustainable, and cost-effective solution to getting to and from work by using their SX-250 e-bikes at a reduced price.

Unipart is one of the many large corporate companies operating in the area, cumulatively these businesses employ thousands of local residents, however, due to the sheer size of their operating sites the majority are located in outof-town industrial estates which are not easily accessible on public transport routes making staff recruitment and retention difficult.

Managing Director of Eskuta, Ian O’Connor explained, “Here in Coventry, Warwickshire, and the surrounding areas we have an abundance of large warehouse based corporate companies

that could benefit from having our e-bikes in their businesses in numerous ways.

Whether that’s to aid the recruitment and retention of staff by offering a way to get to and from work for those that would otherwise not be able to accept a position due to a lack of transport or for use onsite itself to aid efficiency.

We can work with companies on an individual basis to offer a tailored solution that best suits their needs. This could include a hire to own scheme or subsidised rates for employees.

We can also set up and run a fleet management system. A fleet of custom branded SX-250 e-bikes would be a great versatile asset to these businesses.

Eskuta Sales Manager, Michael Kalinowski added, “We’ve had an amazing day at Unipart, it’s great to see established businesses exploring alternative options of eco-friendly, cost-effective travel and promoting this to their staff. We are very much looking forward to growing these partnerships within the area.”

For more information visit www.eskuta.com

A Warwickshire media entrepreneur is accelerating towards success after admitting feeling ‘lost’ before accessing business support.

Giuliana Famiglietti Pipola (Coventry City Council), Faye Hatton, Sarah Humphreys

Sonic Boom in Silicon Spa

Drake

Sega

Sega originally occupied the ground floor west wing suite created from remodelling of the former Law Society HQ back in 2012. The business expanded into the east wing at the end of 2016 and Sonic has just used his magical powers to spring to 8,400 sq. ft. at first floor to put a total of 15,300 sq. ft. under the umbrella of the iconic computer games manufacturer.

Drake Howard Property has witnessed the growth of the developer over nearly 10 years of managing Victoria Court. “Our focus on developing strong Landlord & Tenant relationships at all our commercial management properties always bears fruit,” said Martyn Howard. “Our relationship with Sega shines out as the perfect example.”

In 2016 we were able to facilitate Sega Operations Europe (SOE) expansion into the east wing at ground level, to take assignment of a lease held by a tenant company, we were made aware, wanted to downsize. Fast forward to 2022 and Sega contacted us with a brief. They were in the frame to win new international contracts and, securing design offices would be critical to deliver on the business.”

Sonic the Hedgehog.

The first floor had been vacant since May 2021, with little interest until the new year, when the office market sparked into life from a post Pandemic reappraisal of home working.

While other interest was reported by the marketing agent, the owner of Victoria Court decided on the prudence of a package formulated by Drake Howard Property to keep Sega at Victoria Court, under a new single lease of ground and first floor office suites. Thereby, immeasurably enhancing the value of the asset under management and retaining a known and valued tenant.

Label launched by Leamington café

A Leamington café which has become a hotspot for live music in Warwickshire is launching its own record label on the back of its growing success.

Temperance, on Bath Street in the old town, was established by Adrian Gains in 2018 as a café and art gallery by day, and a bar and music venue by night.

It quickly established itself as a hub for creativity and a space to showcase local talent, expanding to National Theatre Live, film, spoken word and comedy nights, and serving great vegan food and drink, all sourced from local independent suppliers.

However, after the hospitality industry took a hit during Covid-19, Adrian was offered guidance from Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, and was eligible for support through Project Warwickshire – a free recovery and growth business support programme to help companies in the tourism, leisure and hospitality sectors in the county, in the wake of the pandemic.

Working with Chamber business advisor Sarah Humphreys, Adrian was given one-to-one support and training to help raise the profile of the café, enhance his website, and market the range of eclectic events it hosts.

The site, which re-branded as a vegan café last year, has seen awareness of its events space boom – attracting artists close to home and as far away as Australia, as well as famous faces including ex-Dr. Feelgood guitarist Steve Walwyn, Jo Boden from Bellowhead, Horace Panter from The Specials and Chris Difford from Squeeze. Former Radio 1 DJ Andy Kershaw is also a big fan.

He is now taking the next step to launch his own record label ‘Temperance Live’.

“It’s really exciting,” he said. “We have a great technical set-up and superb sound engineer and our reputation is growing fast.

“We can now offer musicians the opportunity to record their amazing live performances and get them heard by a much wider audience.

“We’ll have live sessions released on platforms such as Bandcamp and will be selling CDs.

“We are keen to support up and coming musicians and already offer our venue as a free rehearsal space. Now we can also record their music and help them get it played on radio. Live music played to a live audience. We have waited a long time for that.

Project Warwickshire is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Warwickshire County Council, with support delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with Shakespeare’s England and Northern Warwickshire Tourism, on behalf of Warwickshire County Council.

Adrian added: “The support has really helped with business challenges and issues post-Covid recovery.

“A website review helped us to identify areas we could improve on regarding discoverability of our events which we implemented, and also further marketing advice to help us get on the map of great venues to visit in Leamington.

“Running this kind of business is quite lonely, especially in the last few years, so to have somebody like Sarah just to talk to about things and offer her support has been a big help.”

Adrian bought his Grade-II listed building in 2016 and spent two years refurbishing it, with Covid presenting an

opportunity to freshen up the look with a new PA system, seating and lighting.

He has 15 staff and retained all during the pandemic, and supports the local economy by offering all tickets sales of events to the artist, taking no commission on art sold in the café, and also charging no hanging fee.

Prior to Temperance, he worked as a management consultant and with charities based in London, but Adrian –who is originally from the West Midlands – now feels at home with his multi-use café venue, and even hopes to expand to other sites in the future.

Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, Cllr Martin Watson, said: “Temperance is a fantastic independent local business in Warwickshire, and Adrian has shown real tenacity to transform what was largely a derelict site into something really special for the town and region.

“It is a really pleasing that Project Warwickshire, which Warwickshire County Council is proud to co-fund, has helped provide the support to help his business grow, and I would like to wish him the best of luck as he launches his new record label.”

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

“Anybody who comes here always says the sound and acoustics are fantastic, and since we’ve been recording more and more musicians are wanting to play here!”

Tracy Clark – Sega Hardlight & Martyn Howard –

Drake Howard Property.

Howard Property Limited is pleased to announce Sega Publishing Europe Limited has doubled their game development floorspace at Victoria Court, Royal Leamington Spa.

Hardlight studio is behind the critically acclaimed adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog™ on mobile platforms such as Sonic Dash, Sonic Boom and Sonic Forces.

Adrian Gains (Temperance), Cllr Martin Watson (Warwickshire County Council), Gillian Dale (Warwickshire County Council), Sarah Humphreys (Chamber)

"Working with Chamber business advisor Sarah Humphreys, Adrian was given one-toone support and training to help raise the profile of the café, enhance his website, and market the range of eclectic events it hosts."

Tasty offer for Chamber members

A family-run Stratford bistro and deli which stocks authentic Italian delicacies and everyday food imported directly from Italy has launched a special offer for Chamber Members.

Marco’s Italian Deli, which has been operating in Stratford town centre since 1991, has thanked the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce for its support during and after the pandemic by announcing a special offer available to members ahead of the festive season.

Marco’s is offering Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Members two special offers when they purchase hampers and/or panettone. They will receive 10% off orders over £250 with free delivery on orders worth over £350.

The Christmas hamper and panettone ranges proved extremely popular with local businesses last year as corporate and employee gifts and can contain wine as well as vegetarian and vegan options.

Limited to take-away service only during the pandemic, Marco’s joined the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber in search of support on how the business could rise to the challenges faced by the hospitality industry.

Working with Chamber Business Advisor Marie Stephenson, and using Marco’s lifetime knowledge of the Italian food industry, Marco’s has expanded its range

of Italian food products to boost its retail options, setting it apart from competitors and making it a destination for foodies and avid home cooks in the region, as well as attracting more corporate clients.

By dealing directly with producers in Italy and making use of Marco’s connections, the business was able to oversee a huge expansion with more than 150 new products lining the shelves – from rare varieties of pasta to high quality sauces, and authentic panettone – to the delight of Stratford locals.

Marie also helped the business to boost its online and social media presence and take advantage of local print advertising opportunities to successful raise its profile.

Tony accessed the support through the Accelerated Growth programme, which forms part of the Coventry & Warwickshire Business Support Programme which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

He said: “The support from Marie and the Chamber has been fantastic and proved really helpful at a very uncertain time for our business.

“Since we diversified and boosted our range, which includes authentic Italian panettone and our special Christmas hampers, as well as the finest pasta, oils, vinegars and sauces, our corporate sales have increased massively which helped the business to survive.

“We have a hugely talented team here as well as being a family business, so to have our bistro up and running again as well as our expanded product line is very exciting, and we hope to keep meeting people from

across the region and sharing great food with them.”

Marie said: “Marco’s is a very special business that has been operating in the region for more than three decades, and it is a privilege to be able to support Tony and his team.

“We are excited to see our Chamber members discovering Marco’s and encourage members to take advantage of this wonderful offer!”

For more information about Marco’s Deli, Church St, Stratford-upon-Avon visit https://www.marcositaliandeli.co.uk/ Contact the Accelerated Growth team by email on businesssupport@cw-chamber.co.uk to learn more about the programme, or visit the Business Support page to discover the opportunities available to new and existing businesses in the region: www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support.

To find out more about joining the Chamber as a member, call 024 7665 4321.

Ampa sees 16% growth pre-merger

Lime Solicitors, planning consultancy Marrons Planning, uninsured loss recovery experts Corclaim and cyber security consultancy CSS Assure – has, for the first time, broken the £80 million turnover milestone, publishing a year-end result of £80.4 million.

Ampa’s two recent mergers – which saw Sussex firm Mayo Wynne Baxter join the group in May 2022 and will see Bristol-based GL Law merge into the group’s Shakespeare Martineau brand later this year –will increase the group’s turnover to more than £105 million for the next financial year; a 50% increase on last year’s result.

With the group's growth almost entirely organic, Ampa leaders say such significant progress is down to its people and ‘House of Brands’ strategy, which enables the group to offer brands relevant to client needs and geography. All member equity is held at group level rather than entity level, to reflect the group’s ‘in it together, in it for the long-term' philosophy.

and promoted more than 30 people across legal and non-legal teams. The group has made no redundancies as result of any of its mergers – remaining committed to being people-led and doing things differently from typical market consolidators.

Sarah added: “While we are taking our time ensuring that the practicalities of our current mergers work and that our people and clients have room to grow, we are continuing conversations with interested people who are seeking to join one of our existing brands as a ‘bolt on’ or – for bigger brands with unique geographies or different services – to join as a new ‘legal regional anchor’ or ‘other professional services’ brand.

“Our overall approach is different because we don’t combine with flailing businesses, but ones that are ambitious and looking for a fast-track to fuel growth. Culture comes first and if the main objective is to make a quick gain at others’ expense, then we know we’re not a fit.

Stratford-upon-Avon legal and professional services group Ampa has announced 16% growth in its latest year-end results – before factoring in its two recent mergers.

In its 2021/22 financial results, the group – which includes full-service law firm for life and business Shakespeare Martineau, consumer champion law firm

Sarah Walker-Smith, CEO of Ampa, said: “In 2020 we pressed ahead with our plans despite the uncertainty of the pandemic. Our house of brands portfolio provides resilience and sustainability in a volatile and uncertain economic and political landscape. We are looking to change business for good – benefitting our clients, communities and people with a collaborative and conscious approach to commercial strategy.”

In 2021, the award-winning group created more than 190 new roles, welcomed 17 lateral partner hires

“We don’t profess to have all the answers or that we’re perfect – instead we have a growth mind-set, we learn from mistakes, and we welcome constructive feedback. We empower our people, take accountability, stay agile and embrace new ideas, which has helped us achieve 16% largely organic growth in the year just finished.”

Ampa is B-Corporation pending and listed in Best Companies 2022 as one of the top 100 best large companies to work for in the UK. It also ranked as a top 25 law firm, top 75 East Midlands company,

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

Tony, Sarah and Marco from Marco’s Deli with Chamber Business Advisor Marie Stephenson

WA Management to partner with Chamber, bringing local training to Leamington Spa

The management consultancy has officially launched their new training room, and will be working with the Chamber to bring more local training opportunities to the area.

After moving into their new office at the start of the year, the Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental Compliance Management Consultancy were able to use the extra space to not only allow the whole team to work in person, but to also open a dedicated training space.

Their mezzanine floor space has been completely transformed into an open-plan training room, perfect for both classroomstyle or hands-on practical learning. With a fresh lick of paint, the room now displays WA’s signature colours, and the room even features a kitchenette – perfect for tea and coffee breaks!

WA Management have held a number of open courses over the past couple of months, including First Aid, IOSH Leading Safely, and Mental Health at Work, and have more planned for September. These open courses are available for any delegates to sign up to, and are a convenient and cost-effective option if you only need a couple of people to be trained.

Private courses are also available at their Leamington Spa office, so if you don’t have the space available at your workplace, fret not - any bespoke training you need can be held in their space at Dormer place, with a delicious catered lunch included!

William Whittaker, Managing Consultant of WA Management, has said the new training space has been a big step forward.

“Our customers now have access to a space dedicated to learning, either through open or private courses, with all the facilities they need to focus and get the most out of their training.

“In our old office, we were growing at such a rate that we could no longer dedicate a room for training purposes, so it’s great to be able to offer that facility once again – bigger and better than before!”

WA Management are also in the process of developing a partnership with the CW Chamber of Commerce, wherein the Chamber will be able to rent the training room in order to run local training sessions in Leamington Spa.

Having an alternative location means that not only do trainees have access to training that may be closer to home, but also that they will get to enjoy the lovely part of town the office is situated in!

If you’re interested in the training provided by WA Management or the Chamber, please visit their respective websites to learn more.

Golden pineapple comes home to Houlton following award win

Houlton School has scooped its fourth trophy in the space of four weeks following a string of accolades celebrating the transformation of the former Radio Station Rugby into Houlton School.

This latest win at the Pineapple Awards follows other recent project wins including ‘Best Project’ at the West Midlands Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Awards, ‘Refurbishment and Revitalisation’ at The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards and ‘Best use of Heritage’ at the 2022 Planning Awards.

The entry submitted by Houlton’s master developer Urban&Civic, Rugby Borough Council and lead architects on the project van Heyningen and Haward, saw the Houlton School project recognised for its ‘high quality retrofit’, which came to fruition as part of a joint venture with Aviva Investors.

The annual Pineapple Awards, delivered by Festival of Place celebrates the very best in placemaking, recognising excellence in community engagement, activation, active travel, public space, creative retrofit and future of place.

The live awards ceremony, an eccentric, colourful and celebratory affair, took place on Wednesday 6th July at Boxpark Wembley, situated in the heart of Wembley Park.

Houlton secondary school, which opened its doors to founding year 7 pupils in September 2021 underwent

a meticulous restoration process by Urban&Civic to restore the building’s heritage, combining the transformation and fabric upgrade of the listed 1929 buildings with two new state of the art teaching blocks.

Johanne Thomas, Regional Director, Communications, Communities and Partnerships: “We are over the moon to receive this award, validating what we know is a transformational and unique project for Houlton, Rugby and Urban&Civic.

“We’re all immensely proud of the transformation and it’s a pleasure for this to be recognised through national awards. It was wonderful to have the

opportunity to celebrate with partners that worked closely with us - testament to the strength of partnership and collaboration throughout.”

The secondary school forms part of the infrastructure being delivered by Urban&Civic and Aviva Investors to support the 6,200 home masterplan for Houlton.

A primary school (St Gabriel’s), extensive green spaces and play parks, a local centre comprising a Visitor Centre, Co-op, Tuning Fork café, community centre and children’s nursery and the 5km link road connection Houlton to Rugby have already been delivered and some 900 homes are now occupied.

Businesses are the engine of economic growth

“There are many challenges that companies are facing and it is always extremely helpful to hear directly from businesses through my meetings with the Chamber. I am then able to help to address those and take them up with colleagues in Government.”

The meeting also heard from Kyle Smith, of Urban & Civic, on the Houlton development, and from Matt Hadlington, of HS2 Ltd, on the opportunities for businesses and individuals to work with HS2.

The MP for Rugby has told business leaders he hopes the outcome of the Conservative Party leadership contest will bring certainty to firms in the region after a decade of upheaval.

Mark Pawsey MP, who sits on the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Select Committee, met the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Rugby Branch at the new Houlton development.

Mark, who is supporting former Chancellor Rishi Sunak MP for leader, told the assembled businesspeople – including new Chamber chief executive Corin Crane – that he understood concerns

around issues such as rising costs and recruitment problems.

He said: “Businesses are the engine of economic growth and I understand that there has been some uncertainty.

“Coalition Government was followed by the EU referendum and the vote to leave. We were then hit by the Coronavirus pandemic and, just as we were emerging from the pandemic, we’ve seen global energy prices rise as a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has had a knock-on effect for businesses.

“As a former small business owner, I fully understand the need of businesses for certainty.

Karen Shuter, chair of the Chamber’s Rugby branch, said: “It was fantastic to be back round the table for a full, in-person branch meeting with businesses from across Rugby.

“I was keen to hear from companies directly on what issues they are facing, particularly with Mark Pawsey in the room.

“We heard how rising costs are really starting to bite and how much of an issue recruitment and skills are for companies across the region.

“Businesses are looking to be as flexible and innovative as possible to help fill the roles required in order to help them grow and were also keen for that to be one of the main messages for Mark to deliver to his new leader in the next few weeks.”

Kyle Smith, Mark Pawsey MP, Karen Shuter, Matt Hadlington, Corin Crane.

A new £3 million Coventry entertainment venue is set for a grand opening later this year after being delayed by Covid-19.

Players Entertainment, a new concept for the region, has been created on the site of the former Pink Parrot nightclub in the city centre and will create up to 100 full and part-time job opportunities.

The property was acquired by local entrepreneur Jeffy Li in 2019 but redevelopment and opening plans had to be put on hold until now.

Now, the dramatic transformation of the venue is close to being complete and the first areas of the entertainment complex are open for bookings.

It features 20 private hire rooms that can cater for any party size up to 45 people and can be stretched to host mega parties of up to 80 guests through their connecting rooms.

Each room has its own unique décor and is equipped with up to 180-inch TVs, state-of-the-art sound systems and the most up to date karaoke systems.

Entertainment venue to bring job opportunities to Coventry

Guests can tap into the venue’s playlist – or use their own smartphone to access the music they want to listen or sing along to on YouTube or Spotify.

Each room receives VIP room service with drinks and snacks ordered through a touch of a service button and delivered straight to the room by the team, who offer the highest levels of customer service.

Once fully open, Players Entertainment will feature a floor that offers a Club Lounge with a stunning bar and space for 500 people to watch live sports, enjoy a wide range of live events, as well as opportunities for e-sports gaming competitions.

Jonathan Owusu, the General Manager of Players Entertainment, said the venue can offer something for everyone.

He said: “We are so happy to finally be able to welcome guests into our new private hire rooms. We’ve invested more than £3 million to create a venue that is new to Coventry and unique to the UK and, since we soft-launched a few weeks ago, the feedback has been phenomenal.

“Our rooms can be booked for any occasion from children parties, celebrations, corporate meetings, right through to a group of friends who simply want to get together and chill out in a great venue to watch a big sporting occasion.

“It’s not all about karaoke because, although each room has access to tens of thousands of songs, it also features connectivity to watch films, host presentations, play gaming consoles and more.

“Work is continuing in our E-Lounge bar and live events area – which will offer live bands, events for children, comedy, discos, jazz nights, e-sport tournaments and more – this will be ready to be unveiled this summer following a grand opening.

“We are delighted to be investing in the city, creating new jobs and giving a boost to the economy by providing highquality entertainment experiences that are safe, versatile and fun.”

Phocas Software is now B Corp Certified

Phocas Software, a Coventrybased business planning and analytics platform for sales, operations, and finance teams, has achieved B Corp Certification.

B Corp Certification requires a holistic review of a business's social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency and is based on a vision of creating a community of for-profit companies committed to redefining business success.

"The planet and humanity have always been a concern of ours at Phocas, and now we're making them our guideposts," said Myles Glashier, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Phocas. "We feel we are at the very beginning of a massive movement taking our business beyond just generating profits for our shareholders. We started this journey prior to becoming B Corp Certified,

and this now gives us the stamp of approval to be better corporate stewards.”

The announcement is a significant milestone for Phocas and its efforts to lead the software industry in sustainability. Phocas joins a global group of companies that meet high standards across five areas: Governance, Workers, Community, Environment, and Customers.

Caroline Thalund, Head of Sustainability for Phocas, notes, "I've had a lifelong passion for making the world a better place; this B Corp Certification is a great benchmark for Phocas’ current sustainability performance, but most importantly, it provides us with a roadmap of how to create the greatest impact locally and globally. I am truly honored to be a part of this team and the journey we have just begun."

Maintaining a healthy culture has always been a priority at Phocas, and staying true to its values has successfully developed better products, forged long-lasting customer and partner relationships, and fostered a collaborative culture for employees. Phocas received the Human Synergistics Culture

Sustainability Award in 2021 and the Culture Transformation Award in 2019 in recognition of the company’s constructive and positive culture. The company maintains a Glassdoor rating of 4.8/5 stars.

For more information, visit: www.phocassoftware.com

Jonathan Owusu, general manager (right), with Linda Zhu, marketing director of Players Entertainment

Destination management organisation assists the event industry

Suppliers to the event industry are seeing business levels return to pre-pandemic levels thanks in part to a buoyant regional sector.

Destination management organisation (DMO) Destination Coventry has launched a new membership to support suppliers to the conference, exhibition and business event industry.

Suppliers were forced to either close their operations or diversify as a result of Covid-19, with many returning to the market with new services and offers.

The DMO for Coventry and Warwickshire is responding to calls from suppliers to the sector with the aim of ensuring a strong regional supply chain for venues and event organisers.

Live event solution provider Creative Events Spaces, caterer Miss Ellie’s of Coventry and immersive environment creator Vortex Creates are three of the businesses to sign-up to the new supplier membership.

Around 75 per cent of Creative Events Spaces’ business, which is based in Fillongley, is in exhibitions. It built the last exhibition in the UK in March 2020 and has bounced back strongly with over 45 shows so far this year.

Simon Clifton says the biggest challenge to its growth is resources and the labour market – but is seeking to tap into regional skillsets.

“We have great skills in the region and many talented builders and carpenters. We source our carpets from Coventry and our electrical supplier is in Kenilworth.

“It’s a challenging marketplace and those regional relationships are

very important as we look to facilitate our growth.”

Miss Ellie’s of Coventry, benefitted from major events coming to the region and is looking to build on those foundations. The business came through the pandemic thanks to work with Coventry City of Culture 2021 and has continued to thrive, delivering more than 70 events this year.

“Coventry 2021 was huge for us but now we’re looking to expand our inclusive eating and catering services into more conferencing,” sad Ellie McCann.

“The pandemic forced us to completely change our business model and create new branches of custom.

Vortex Creates is a Coventry-based organisation which, for nearly 15 years, has specialised in transforming spaces and igniting the imagination of audiences.

Marianne Taviner, co-founder, says the regional market is very important as the sector seeks to rebuild.

“The sector was hit hard in the pandemic and, ultimately, many of our established clients aren’t looking to do celebrations in the same way as they had before,” she said.

“In 2020, 55 per cent of our business was corporate. Thanks to emergency government funding we were able to navigate the financial implications of the pandemic and reflect on our business model and client offer. Whilst we have maintained the majority of our corporate clients, our offer to them is more varied as we look to move more towards developing outdoor experiences.

“The regional market is still going to be very important. We will travel if we have to, but we think there should be more than enough work here in

Coventry and Warwickshire to satisfy our immediate growth plans.”

Destination Coventry – which incorporates Visit Coventry and Conference Coventry & Warwickshire –launched in December 2021.

Paul Jones, Managing Director of Destination Coventry, said: “The struggles that venues faced during the pandemic have been widely documented, but suppliers to the industry have had to overcome significant challenges as well.

“We have an incredible network of regional suppliers in Coventry and Warwickshire, and they have a lot to offer to the fantastic venues and event organisers in our region.”

To find out more about supplier membership of Destination Coventry visit www.destinationcoventry.co.uk/ membership

Glued get the Gallery of Living History out of a sticky situation

David and Rob from Glued Agency jumped at the challenge to support the team at Coventry University in delivering the speedy design of a media backdrop and badges for the launch of the Gallery of Living History.

In a last minute turnaround, Glued got stuck into designing the media backdrop for the launch event as well as the engaging badges for the local school children who were launching the new initiative.

The Gallery of Living History – or GoLH - is the brainchild of actor, director,

producer, and performance artist Andy Serkis and producer Jonathan Cavendish in collaboration with philanthropist and Coventry University Chancellor Margaret Casely Hayford CBE and artistic director Jude Tyrrell. It is a non-profit organisation that seeks to explore and debate the notion of history, memory, and culture through research and content creation.

It has its roots within the ongoing national conversation about history and the relationship between our past and our present, thrown up by events like the death of George Floyd and the

furore around contested statutory. It aims to develop initiatives that talk to these themes through the creation of different media experiences across audio, video, augmented and virtual reality, live performance and more.

Coventry University says: “The launch of the GoLH was a fantastic event and we’re very grateful for the timely help from the team at Glued. We hope that the Gallery brings many years of exploration and debate to a wide audience.”

Further information about the GoLH visit https://www.galleryoflivinghistory.com/

Andy Serkis accompanied by students proudly sporting the Gallery of Living History badge at the launch.

New simulation rail track training facility opens at Moreton Morrell College

Education through the Skills Accelerator Development Fund and is part of more than £5 million secured for the county to reshare technical skills training in the region.

Mark Bonham, assistant principal at WCG, said: “It’s fantastic to have partnered with RMF on this project, and to see the facility now finished and operational.

“The facility will enable students to gain real-world practical rail skills and also enable them to gain their workplace tickets – making them immediately employable after completing their course with us.

Rachel Green, Business Development Manager at RMF Group, said: “RMF Group deliver the essential skills required to work within the rail and construction industry and give people the chance to achieve their aspirations and open up new career opportunities for their futures.

“We are working in partnership with WCG to embed expertise and knowledge of the rail industry, to ensure students have the knowledge and practical experience to work within the rail sector on completion of the training course.”

A new training facility has been laid at WCG’s Moreton Morrell College to help develop the next generation of skilled individuals to keep the country’s trains on track. The College group has partnered with RMF Group to create a new simulation rail track facility at the campus.

The track gives learners the chance to perfect their track maintenance skills while working effectively as a team and preparing for a promising career in the rail industry.

The new teaching facility has been funded by the Department for

WCG teams up with Taylor Wimpey Midlands to create bricklayer training facility

The latest phase of a major collaboration between WCG and Taylor Wimpey Midlands is set to benefit students across the region as they create a training facility for apprentice bricklayers at Moreton Morrell College.

As part of the partnership an area has been provided to enable bricklayers to practice their building skills and the initial cohort of bricklayers have enjoyed four days of practical training with master craftsman Gez Baldwin at the College.

The work has included a day’s theory to help them gain a great understanding of the jobs a qualified

bricklayer is expected to carry out on a Taylor Wimpey site.

Mark Bonham, assistant principal at WCG, said: “Through the new training facility, everything will be geared towards making sure each student that passes through the programme develops the tools they need to become the best bricklayer they can be.

“Alongside their training, the apprentices are carrying out maintenance jobs around the campus – and are operating in a sustainable way by using bricks due to be thrown away to complete jobs. This is hugely helpful to us in the day-to-day running of the college.

“Learners are able to use the facility to identify a wide range of defects pertinent to the safe passage of trains on the rail infrastructure. All track components are available to encourage the learners to fully integrate with the facility in line with current standards and policies set out by Network Rail.”

“The partnership between Taylor Wimpey and WCG has been great for all parties. Through our joint efforts to create a high-class training facility, this will level up the bricklayer apprenticeship programme.”

The apprentices were recruited as part of Taylor Wimpey’s latest recruitment drive, where the firm employed 11 new apprentices, consisting of nine bricklayers and two carpenters.

John Billings, project manager in construction at WCG, added: “The work already being produced by the apprentices is excellent and is proving to be beneficial to all - which is all the more remarkable considering they are

in the first year of their apprenticeship and some had no previous experience to call upon.

“All of the apprentices are surpassing expectations and are producing work of an extremely high standard. We look forward to watching their journey in a thriving industry.”

A leading college group in Warwickshire is seeking to help businesses overcome the skills crisis by giving support and guidance on how to attract new talent and keep existing staff.

WCG (formerly Warwickshire College Group) is launching the new ‘Attracting and Keeping Brilliant People’ networking event at Warwick Trident College.

It is expecting to attract up to 100 business leaders and HR professionals from across Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider Midlands on Tuesday, September 27.

The networking event aims to highlight the issues that businesses are facing in the current economic climate with recruitment, retention and wellbeing.

WCG works with businesses across Warwickshire and Worcestershire through its six colleges to help to provide a pipeline of skilled talent to support the economy.

College helps businesses overcome skills crisis

It will welcome industry experts on the evening to provide guidance on staffing and advice on how to improve practices.

Olivia Parrish, Founder of Leap People Solutions, will deliver a talk on organisational culture, boosting staff retention and how to engage staff to improve high performance.

She said: “Enabling teams to be engaged, motivated and productive has always been one of the key elements of business success. During challenging economic times, it becomes even more critical and I am looking forward to sharing my thoughts on how you can do this in a practical yet impactful way.”

She will be joined by Phil Ingle, Managing Director of Phil Ingle Associates, and also Chair of Coventry & Warwickshire Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

Phil will pass on his expertise on recruitment and discuss how to attract the best talent to a business.

“The current excess of available jobs over applicants places effective recruitment on the agenda for every growing business, and for some sectors it is a critical issue. But has the pandemic changed perceptions about work and what people want to do? I look forward to sharing thoughts and ideas on recruiting and

being recruited in 2022, and what may need to change,” added Phil.

Navneet Rai, Business Development Manager at WCG, said: “We work with thousands of businesses across the Midlands and the one challenge which almost every business shares at the moment is staffing.

“Recruitment and retention is a major barrier to growth for businesses and we work with businesses to tackle those challenges through our apprenticeship provision.

“The new event at Warwick Trident College is for anyone interested or involved in organisational culture, and engaging teams for high performance, including recruitment, retention, employee experience, and well-being.

“We’re excited to be welcoming Olivia Parrish and Phil Ingle to the event and will be seeking to also include a session on the importance of wellbeing in the workplace.”

The event at Warwick Trident College will also feature refreshments and networking opportunities.

To find out more and sign up for the Attracting and Keeping Brilliant People networking event visit www.wcg.ac.uk/attractingpeople

Junior Game Creators on a mission to help equip the future workforce with Digital skills

New Chamber members Junior Game Creators are on a mission to help equip the future workforce with digital skills.

Junior Game Creators is a family of fun, educational clubs and workshops with inbuilt social impact, designed to kickstart and develop an interest in computer science through video games. Their online sessions and clubs are where code meets the creative arts.

They have reached over 10, 000 pupils in schools & homes across the UK since inception. Families and schools that qualify for our bursary are not charged for their participation or for the support that they receive. Significant funds and in-kind support are required to enable the programme to continue its pioneering work in creative computing education.

Recent studies have found a huge void of new digital leaders enrolling in subjects such as IT, Engineering & Computer Science. UK plc requires creative problem solvers and

confident innovators in these areas to stay competitive in a global marketplace.

Niki Rice, Operations Manager said, “There is no better way of building confidence in creative and digital skills, and we want to create opportunities for those who would not normally be able to access this type of extracurricular education. By enthusing the younger generation with a desire to further their skills we can gradually start to fill that void and create home grown experts in the digital world. Learning through play ignites a spark that could become a hobby and that hobby could be become a future career.”

“We take our passion for video games and teach how to programme and code games in a fun and playful way, that helps build digital skills alongside nurturing creativity and softer skills”.

Junior Game Creators are excited to work with businesses within Coventry & Warwickshire who are interested in

investing in digital education, to ensure that this important skill is offered to pupils with a passion for coding and to enhance their digital skills.

If your business would like to find out more about how to get involved in helping to fund placements for children in your region to get future ready digital skills, please contact Niki Rice at niki.rice@gamewagon.co.uk

College celebrates exam success

It comes off the back of the College celebrating student success in other vocational subjects, with various Level 2 courses receiving 100 per cent pass rates in subjects including Travel & Tourism, Cabin Crew, Hair and Beauty, Performing Arts, Business, Media, Art and Science.

They have put up some fantastic numbers to help them on their way in their careers.

“To see so many new faces joining us today to enrol is also really promising and shows the popularity of non-A-level courses, with a greater focus on industry links in the region and work opportunities in the area.”

Sercoconnecting businesses, employees and residents to high quality professional development and employment opportunities

Serco Employment and Skills Enterprise are a leading integrator of funding, service providers and systems in the employability and vocational skills sectors in England and Wales. They provide a seamless journey to citizens with minimal or no vocational skills and/ or are unemployed into sustained employment and income by integrating employability and skills programmes and funding.

They also support small businesses to flourish and boost economic development. They ensure that people are not just employed, but are trained and equipped to progress in their careers.

There are 2 programmes which have been delivered under Serco’s skills provision across the region over the last three years - Skills Support for the Workforce (SSW) and Adult Skills for Work (ASW). Since April 2019 on SSW, 3,450 people have either been trained or are currently in training, out of which, 396 have progressed to Higher Education, 797 are in work and 34 are on Apprenticeships. This has all been possible with funding of £5.6million from the European Social Fund (ESF). Furthermore, during the same period, engagement has been made with 453 local employers.

Over the course of the last three years, Serco have supported 414 Coventry residents through the ASW contract to access professional development opportunities with 291 learners achieving a qualification.

Serco also deliver the Restart Scheme in the West Central region. The Restart Scheme is part of the Government’s wider ‘Plan for Jobs’ programmes to help people develop their skills so they can find long-term meaningful employment.

Working across the region with 17 Employability Service Providers and a trusted network of local, regional and national partners, they deliver local, personalised support to help individuals overcome challenges that they may face in finding long-term sustainable work.

GCSE students at Coventry College have been celebrating their exam results in a year that saw the college return an overall pass rate of more than 90 per cent.

The College, which welcomed students who sat Maths and English GCSEs, saw 157 GCSE students achieving a grade 5 or above.

The college also saw a significant rise in enrolment figures on GCSE results day compared to the same date last year, with more than 1,300 extra students enrolling compared to the same enrolment day in 2021.

Patrick Geary, Vice Principal Curriculum Innovation, Quality and Performance at Coventry College said: “We are extremely proud of our students who have faced a lot of challenges over the last year or so.

Hassan Marzdar, who studied Maths at Coventry College to help him become a Maths lecturer, achieved a grade 8. He said: “All my experience and knowledge is from Iran, so I wanted to become more familiar with the way things are taught in the UK. It’s part of my plan to become a maths lecturer in Coventry.”

For more information about enrolment at Coventry College visit www.coventrycollege.ac.uk/enrolment

Serco marked the first anniversary of the Restart Scheme in June this year, and across the West Central region and Wales (the other area Serco manage), over 8,000 people are now in work thanks to the Restart Scheme.

Serco are committed to the ongoing support of individuals and business across the region to support economic growth.

For more information visit https://www.serco-ese.com/

A Coventry charity that creates theatre performances with people of all ages and abilities has been working behind-the-scenes to boost its digital skills.

EGO Performance Company on Cook Street has received free Business Support from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to help its social media play a starring role in its growth plans.

Nicola Cashin, general manager at EGO Performance Company, wanted to take the organisation to new heights on the back of Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture 2021, and sought advice and support on their digital marketing strategy from the Chamber, which operates free Digital Skills training and Business Support on behalf of Coventry City Council.

The advice and support, which is available to Coventry businesses and delivered online by Emma Woodward of Stories Marketing, led to EGO receiving one-to-one advice on how the company could increase the frequency

Performance company boosts digital skills thanks to support

of social media interactions and boost engagement on posts across Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, and introduce a new Consumer Relationship Management system.

EGO, which is a registered charity, runs theatre workshops for people of all ages and abilities to create original productions. The training has been part of a drive to raise its profile online, with the public, and amongst businesses and arts organisations in the region.

The company was involved in a number of events across the City of Culture year, including Pirates of the Canal Basin, which was performed to sold-out crowds from a temporary pirate ship in Coventry Canal Basin across four evenings in April.

Nicola said: “Our people are at the heart of what we do at EGO, so it’s crucial that they have the skills to make our customer engagement, and the way we do things generally, as effective as possible so that we can spend more time delivering amazing projects with talented people in the region.

“The support we have received has been absolutely faultless and has helped to set the standard for how we want to operate – as an arts organisation of the highest quality.

“We are investing in the future of the company by putting time aside to upskill our team in the hope that this will make us more sustainable and are extremely grateful to Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber for their support in helping us on our way to realising that vision.”

Emma Woodward, of Stories Marketing working on behalf of the Chamber, said: “It is a privilege to be able to

offer this kind of support to local businesses working in the culture and arts sector.

“The work that EGO does deserves to be celebrated and allowed to prosper, and we hope that with some guidance they can continue to grow and capitalise on the opportunities that Coventry’s year as City of Culture has brought.

Keely Hancox, Operations Manager at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is great to see businesses of all kinds, including those in the cultural and artistic sectors, making use of the support available to them to help take their businesses and organisations to the next level.

“EGO is a valued member of the cultural community in Coventry and Warwickshire, and we can’t wait to see what this new investment in skills and training will do for them in the near future.”

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has been awarded funds through the Coventry Creative Growth & Cultural Tourism Recovery Programme, funded by the UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund which is distributed by the West Midlands Combined Authority and Coventry City Council, to support more creative and cultural organisations across Coventry.

The Chamber will launch a new suite of workshops, focusing on digital marketing, social media and maximising the impact of business websites, as well as a variety of one-to-one support available.

For more information on the workshops please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/

Excellent exam performance

for our pupils who have faced many challenges, and our staff who have worked hard to ensure a successful exam performance.

“I’d like to congratulate all of our pupils for their hard work over the last year and wish them the best of luck in the next chapter of their lives, with many of them joining us for their A-level studies.”

“I buckled down on English Literature and made essay plans and did lots of revision as it was something I struggled with in earlier mocks, so I’m really happy with my grade.

“I’m going to study Maths, Chemistry, Biology and Further Maths as they are my favourite subjects, and will be staying here where I know everyone, which will help me with my studies.”

Pupils at Cardinal Wiseman Catholic School in

have received their GCSE results following the first in-person exams since 2019.

The school, which is part of the Romero Catholic Academy, saw an improvement on 2019 results, with 42.3 per cent of Year 11 pupils achieving grades 9-5, up from 33.1 per cent three years ago.

The school boasted 100 per cent 9-4 in Triple Science, which covers Chemistry, Biology, and Physics, with many students pursuing STEM subjects at the school’s Sixth Form, which also enjoyed improvements on 2019 grades in last week’s A Level results.

Matthew Everett, Principal, said: “After two years with no external examinations, to come back with such continued success is wonderful

Daniella Hall, who achieved seven grade 9s and two 8s, said: “I was incredibly nervous about the English Language exam but I ended up getting a grade 9.

“My teachers were great throughout and always happy to give me extra work, which helped me overcome the challenges that everyone faced in catching up after Covid-19. Doing the mock exams made me feel a bit more comfortable and helped me face the exams with less pressure.”

Alisha Duffy, who achieved three 9s, three 8s and three 7s, said: “Going back to exams was odd at first, but once I was in the hall I just had to focus and get on with it. Mocks helped me get used to the exam scenario and being in the hall, and revision helped me be comfortable with the content.

Nana-Kojo Banafo achieved five 9s and four 8s. He said: “I’m happy with my results. I revised at home to help me with Geography, and it paid off as I got a 9. I’m happy with English Language as I’ve managed to take my grade from a 5 to a 9 over the course of a year.

“I would like to go into a career in engineering, so I’m carrying on sixth form here and hopefully off to university afterwards.”

Ciaran Fawcett, who achieved two 9s five 8s, one 7 and a Level 2* in Sport Science, said: “The last year has been different to previous years, but I’ve tried to do as much revision as possible to make sure I didn’t lose out returning to in person exams.

“I’m going to carry on at sixth form here, and I’m looking at STEM subjects. It’s a great school environment here

Hananya Emmias Mamo achieved three 7s, three 8s, one 6, one 9, D* in IT. He said: “I liked having the exams back in person as I appreciated the challenge. The teachers have all been really good and helpful in the lessons. Their help, combined with revision at home put me in a great position to do well.

“I’m staying on at sixth form for physics, maths, further maths and chemistry because I want to go into engineering.”

Adjoa Agyenim Boateng, who achieved three 9s, five 8s and one 7, said: “I enjoyed the whole experience. As I got closer to my exam days, I realised I had already covered a lot of the content, and doing the mocks first really took some of the pressure off.

“My chemistry, biology, and maths results have been a good preparation for A Levels and have given me some confidence about carrying on with these subjects.

“I’ve done really well, and I’m looking forward to having a rest before starting at sixth form here.”

Coventry

and I have a good relationship with the teachers so it’s an easy decision to stay on.”

Nicola Cashin, General Manager at EGO Performance Company with Cheyenne Angliss of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Corinne Robinson, Director at EGO Performance, and Emma Woodward of Stories Marketing

Chambers to lead on the region’s Local Skills Improvement Plan

Businesses in the West Midlands are being placed at the heart of skills provision in the region in what is being described as a “game-changing shift” to help solve the skills crisis.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce have been selected by the Department for Education to lead on the region’s Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP).

LSIPs have been designed by Government to put employers at the centre of the skills system in their region and to build a stronger, more dynamic partnership between employers and further education providers.

It will mean skills provision can be more responsive to the local labour market needs.

The Chambers across the West Midlands will now carry out a detailed research exercise –including online surveys, roundtable events, telephone calls and one-toone meetings with employers.

Crucially, that research will go beyond Chamber membership and will include businesses affiliated to other representative organisations in the region as well as companies that are not members of a business body.

It will result in a report that identifies the true needs of employers in the region and will set out a plan to work with education and skills providers to help deliver provision that businesses require.

That report will remain ‘live’ so that shifting needs are identified and addressed.

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said:

“This is a game-changing shift in the way we look at the skills need of the economy as it will put employers in the region at the centre of what is required and what is delivered.

“That provision has previously been decided by Whitehall but Government recognises that employers know what is needed and, through the Local Skills Improvement Plan, Chambers across the West Midlands will be diligently gathering the information and then presenting a report.

“It’s vital that the report isn’t a static, one-off piece of work. It will remain live because everyone in business knows the skills need evolves and can change quickly. The plan must be able to respond to that.

“Here in Coventry and Warwickshire, we have great links with education providers so it will be exciting to be working with them on the LSIP and to be speaking to businesses of all sizes and sectors on what their needs are.”

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The fourth industrial revolution is fundamentally changing the way in which we live, work and do business. The Greater Birmingham

Chambers of Commerce’s involvement in this programme is a great opportunity for us to inform and shape provision linked to digital transformation – with, and on behalf of, the local business community.

“We look forward to working with our neighbouring Chambers of Commerce, local stakeholders and educators to deliver a meaningful plan, incorporating and building

on the significant work already underway to upskill talent across the region.

“What’s important now is ensuring that we also engage a diverse range of business voices, from all sizes and sectors across the region to shape our research and inform the priorities of the plan.”

Neil Anderson, Director of External Affairs of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is a hugely positive and significant opportunity for the West Midlands. For too many years, those leading local firms have repeatedly emphasised a disconnect between skills policy and the needs of businesses.

“Building on the strength of the Chambers as connectors at the forefront of business sentiment, the research will provide powerful evidence for partners and decisionmakers to ensure that business acquire talent with the right skills and build collaborations to power the region’s economy.”

"Here in Coventry and Warwickshire, we have great links with education providers so it will be exciting to be working with them on the LSIP and to be speaking to businesses of all sizes and sectors on what their needs are."

Tom Mongan, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and chair of its North Warwickshire branch.

Sometimes it can be really difficult to fully comprehend truly historical events as they unfold and occur around you.

At time of writing, we are all witnessing what history will undoubtedly recall as a genuinely historical occasion.

I am, of course, referring to the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

One has only to look at the huge swathes of people lining the streets and the thousands of people queuing to pay their respects for the late Queen, as she lies in state in preparation for her funeral.

There is inexplicably a sense of loss for the vast majority and the outpouring of grief is palpable, not only in this country but across the world.

The messages of condolences from word leaders indicates that we have lost a truly loved, hugely respected, dedicated to duty and most majestic individual, that we are ever likely to see again in our lifetime and lest we forget, and something we were all very proud of, Her Majesty was also Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce

May perpetual light shine upon you Ma’am and may you rest in peace.

And quite simply Thank You!

Right at this moment in time it seems hard to focus on anything other than the passing of such a remarkable person, however, carry on we must; as we all have our own duties to perform.

So, on that note I want to draw your attention to a campaign the Chamber is launching to help fledgling businesses.

It can be extremely challenging starting up a business and at times can feel overwhelming!

Therefore, it is reassuring to know the Chamber is here to help, guide and assist. There are two free business start up inspiration and networking events coming up, one in Rugby on September 28 and one in Coventry on September 29.

My Chamber colleagues are there to help you maximise your potential and increase your chances of success; for further information give them a call on 02476 654321 Opt 4, or email businesssupport@cw-chamber.co.uk.

Speaking of challenging, it is also an extremely challenging time if you are an established business given the increased cost of energy, fuel and inflation right now!

Last month I wrote about my dismay at the perceived lack of government action and how the Chambers of Commerce were lobbying and lobbying hard on these issues, so I was pleased to see the new Prime Minister Liz Truss announce measures to help households and businesses.

Although, if I’m honest, greater clarification is needed for businesses and a three-to-six-month timeframe needs to be addressed, and quickly!

Finally, I will finish this month’s column as I started, in paying tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She has been my Monarch and an inspiration for all of my 65 plus years on this Earth, and unlike so many other heads of state, history will remember her well!

Pardeep gets the stamp of approval at Askews Legal LLP

After three house moves, two children, completing his Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course and Professional Skills Course whilst working full-time, in the midst of a pandemic and an unprecedented peak in conveyancing instructions due to the stamp duty holiday, Pardeep has qualified as a solicitor at Askews Legal LLP!

Pardeep joined Askews 5 years ago as a Paralegal before being offered a training contract. He deals with freehold and leasehold matters, including secured lending transactions. He also assists the commercial property team with landlord and tenant matters including the taking, granting and renewal of leases, lease assignments, surrenders and lease variations.

Pardeep’s knowledge, attention to detail and work ethic means he is often instructed to act for UK-based clients investing in high value freehold and leasehold acquisition or disposals.

Commenting on becoming a qualified solicitor, Pardeep said “This occasion has been a long time coming for me; I still pause throughout the day to check my results, and I cannot fathom it!

“The process seemed endless, but I have done so much in a short space of time, rarely having a moment to step back and appreciate what I have crammed in. Not only that, I had to adjust quickly to a new way of working post-pandemic.

“The firm reacted quickly, allowing staff to work from home even before the first lockdown, allowing the team to continue to progress matters for clients without interruption. I was able to utilise the time I would have spent commuting to juggle a bit of homeschooling and potty training!

During busy periods, I was able to squeeze in more hours and had the flexibility to structure my day more effectively.”

Pritpal Chahal, solicitor and practice manager at Askews Legal LLP, added

“From day one, Pardeep has been a great asset to the practice. He has expanded his knowledge and experience significantly over the years.

“He is very attentive with clients, making him a firm favourite with repeat clients and high value investors. He has received brilliant feedback and reviews from clients, and we are so proud that he has now qualified as a solicitor and achieved his goal.”

New Operations Director for marketing strategists

on the business, and Lindsay needed support to keep things afloat.

Lindsay Woodward, Marketing Director, explained: “We set out this year to focus more on our strategic offering, helping clients who want to grow and bounce back after a difficult couple of years. We have seen unprecedented interest from businesses who are ready for more this year.

“However, this sudden growth has put a lot of pressure on us. I was both managing client work and managing the business, and it was just too much. So after working with my local Growth Hub and getting some fantastic advice, I decided to bring in an Operations Director to manage the day to day running of the business.”

The decision was made that Mark Woodward, Lindsay’s husband, would join the business.

Lindsay said, “Mark was already helping me in evenings and at weekends, so he already understood the business. We both felt that not only could he hit the ground running, but he could introduce a skillset that the company currently doesn’t have.

“Having this extra level of analytical expertise now in the business is very exciting. He’s already exploring ways to further improve how we support clients.”

Mark officially joined the business on 1st August. He commented, “Lindsay has done an incredible job growing the business to date. The boost to the turnover this year was not lucky. She is a highly talented marketer that cares so much about clients. I am really looking forward to supporting the business and seeing where we can take it in the future.”

Lindsay Woodward Marketing, Marketing Strategists and Creative Consultants, have hired a new Operations Director to help further boost growth within the company.

In 2022, Lindsay Woodward Marketing has doubled its turnover, but this sudden growth has put pressure

Rita honoured with regional award

helps to give them more confidence to achieve their goals. For some, that can simply be leading a happier life while for others it can be working towards a life-fulfilling ambition.

Rita has worked with more than 200 people since establishing RPB Coaching and some of her clients put her forward for a NoW Network award, where she picked up the prize for Business Community Champion.

She said: “I had no idea I was even up for an award so I was shocked to win it!

“I found out that a few of my clients had nominated me and then insisted I come along to the awards. I was cheering everyone else on and so I was quite surprised to hear my own name read out as a winner.”

them that it’s not a scary process and give them pointers on what they need to do.

“That’s just one example but I think it is really important to understand what the business is trying to achieve and to then advise them on what they need to do in a personal way that is easy to understand.

“I am always honest with those people who are just starting out in business and make sure they understand exactly what it is they should expect. I really enjoy the role with the Chamber and being able to offer this free support to businesses that are just starting out.”

Keely Hancox, operations manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are all thrilled that Rita has won this much-deserved award.

An adviser at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has won a regional award for her own business venture.

Rita Booth advises start-up and recently established businesses in her role with the Chamber but also runs her own successful company, RPB Coaching, which was established in 2016 and offers life purpose coaching.

Through the business, Rita supports people who have been through trauma and

Rita is a business adviser in the Chamber’s start-up team three days a week and calls on her own expertise and experience in running RPB Coaching to help those just establishing a new venture.

She said: “When I am working with start-up businesses through the Chamber, I know exactly what they are going through. They might not know how to fill in a selfassessment form, for example, but I can tell

“She is extremely humble about her achievements but it’s clear that her clients place huge value on the help they have received and that’s why they put Rita forward.

“It’s great for her Chamber clients to know, also, that they are working with someone who has set-up and runs an award-winning business as they know they are receiving advice from someone who has been there and done it!”

For more information on start-up support from the Chamber, go to www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/ or email bussinesssupport@cw-chamber.co.uk

New director of sales for Midlands hospitality brand

A new director of sales has been appointed to help drive a growing Midlands hospitality brand to the next level.

Kathy Nakra has joined No Ordinary Hospitality Management, the company which operates a range of iconic venues across Coventry and Warwickshire including Coombe Abbey Hotel and the recently restored St Mary’s Guildhall.

The highly driven, Coventry-born professional will join senior managers within the business and will head up a team in the reservations, conferences and weddings departments.

Kathy will also lead the sales strategy and optimise revenue opportunities, whilst supporting the growth of the iconic brands.

No Ordinary Hospitality Management also manages some of Coventry’s oldest buildings as boutique visitor accommodation as well as three new outlets within the city’s War Memorial Park.

Kathy said: “I am from Coventry and always been aware of Coombe Abbey Hotel and many of the outlets and venues that NOHM now operate. These are established brands that have been known regionally for

many years so what better way for me to return to the area than to work across such fantastic venues in my home city?

“I really want to build on the success we’ve had so far and to maximise the sales experience for our guests, whether it is from booking a private party or a conference to what ‘site show-rounds’ will look like.

“I will be working to deliver further growth of No Ordinary Hospitality Management by generating new business as the brand continues to evolve.

Kathy’s most recent role has been as director of sales and marketing at the 358-bedroom Heythrop Park Resort in Oxfordshire. She worked her way up through the company after first starting out as sales manager in April 2011.

Kathy originally started her career in IT after graduating with a degree in Computer Science from Coventry University, and gradually moved into events.

She even spent three years working for Bafta (The British Academy of Film and Television Arts) in London, as corporate events and sales manager from

November 2004 until April 2007, after she was appointed by the Capital Group. Now Kathy, who has two children, has resettled back in Coventry.

Ron Terry, Group Operations Director, said: “We are excited to welcome Kathy Nakra to the No Ordinary Hospitality Management family. Kathy’s dedication and wealth of experience within the luxury hotel industry perfectly complements our vision.“Kathy will be instrumental in ensuring Coombe Abbey Hotel and other venues continue to raise the bar in the vibrant historic Coventry and Warwickshire leisure, hotel and hospitality market.”

Local Wills & Probate Executive becomes Trustee of The Mary Ann Evans Hospice

Huge congratulations to Sarah Darby, Wills & Probate Executive at Alsters Kelley Solicitors in Nuneaton who has recently become a trustee of The Mary Ann Evans Hospice which provides local people with care and support to those with life limiting illnesses.

Sarah is very much a local person, having been born in the town and lived and worked in Nuneaton all of her life and has always been a real advocate and supporter of the hospice.

Commenting on her trustee appointment, Sarah said, ‘I feel very honoured to have been selected to become a trustee. It is such an amazing charity providing invaluable care and support to patients and their families across Nuneaton and the surrounding areas and I’m looking forward to becoming even more involved and supporting wherever I can.

Elizabeth Hancock, Chief Executive Office at The Mary Ann Evans Hospice said, "At Mary Ann we are delighted to welcome Sarah to our Board of Trustees. Sarah is one of four new trustees who each bring with them a wealth of experience to help us meet our legal and strategic obligations. Sarah has, through Alsters Kelley and personally, supported Mary Ann for several years and I was delighted when she applied to join us on a more formal setting. Mary Ann’s Trustees work with the Leadership team to provide governance and to help ensure we perform as effectively as possible whilst remaining financially secure. I look forward to working with Sarah as her role as a Trustee of the Mary Ann Evans Hospice develops and grows."

Business Engage Members

The Warwickshire Gin Company Ltd Microbrewery/Drinks Manufacturer 07740 610090 dave@warwickshiregincompany.co.uk https://warwickshiregincompany.co.uk/

Business Global Members

AMR Process Limited

Engineering, Design & Manufacture 01902 947753 ashley@amrprocess.com www.amrprocess.com

Potters Poultry Limited Poultry 01788 536161 tracey@potterspoultry.co.uk www.potterspoultry.co.uk

Business Connect Members

AIM Professional Services Ltd Management & Business Consultants 07860 919296 g.jenks@aimproserv.co.uk https://aimproserv.co.uk/

Bemunchie Online Website Designers 0330 043 9493 bobby@bemunchieonline.co.uk www.bemunchieonline.co.uk

Boom Battle Bar Corporate Team Building/Events 07973 737241 andy.n@boombattlebar.com https://boombattlebar.com/uk/ Coventry Probus Club Clubs 07793 561919 recruitprobuscoventry@gmail.com https://coventryprobus.org.uk/ Draycote Hotel Hotels 01788 521800 events@draycote.co.uk www.draycotehotel.co.uk

Business Talent Members

Abi Colbourne

Arjun Jandu Chan Landa Christos Yianni Dean Hunt Jack Austin-King Josh Masih

EJY Carpentry Ltd Carpentry 07359 060468 info@ejycarpentry.com https://express.adobe.com/ page/5rap7lfGYrE4V/

Energise Accountancy Solutions Ltd Accountants 07811 647085 hello@energiseaccountancy.co.uk www.energiseaccountancy.co.uk

Helping Hands Community Project Charities & Benevolent Organisations office@helpinghandscharity.org.uk

LPL Services Ltd ConsultingEngineers 02476685106 andy@sentre.org

SmartStaySolutions Financial & Business Consultants 07916 754655 smartstaysolutions@gmail.com

The City of Coventry Freemen’s Guild Charities & Benevolent Organisations 02476 262759 dianamick01@aol.com

The Coventry Music Museum Museum 07971 171441 tencton@hotmail.com www.covmm.co.uk

Twin Pine Mortgages Ltd Mortgage Brokers & Consultants 02476 017747 hello@twinpinemortgages.co.uk www.twinpinemortgages.co.uk

Young People First Charities & Benevolent Organisations 01926 450156 info@youngpeoplefirst.org.uk www.youngpeoplefirst.org.uk

Business Engage Members

The Leadership Coaches

Complimentary Consultation.

Expiry Date: 31/10/2022

Coventry Building Society Arena

10% discount off Bingo Bango Christmas parties.

Expiry Date: 15/12/2022

Business Connect Members

WA Management

Save 10% on Fire Warden E learning courses

Expiry Date: 01/10/2022

The Warwickshire Gin Company Ltd

Gin tasting experience 10% off for 8 persons or more. Corporate gift packs 20% off 10 or more gift sets.

Expiry Date: 16/12/2022

Segmented Solutions Ltd

FREE small, self-administered pensions (SSAS) masterclass videos.

Expiry Date: 31/12/2022

Telegraph Hotel Coventry

Discounted sparkling Afternoon Tea for 2.

Expiry Date: 30/11/2022

dbfb Communications

Exclusive Sim only deals .

Expiry Date: 14/01/2023

The Albany Theatre

Discounted tickets for a Christmas Carol performance.

Expiry Date: 26/12/2022

The Business Partnership

Free initial appraisal and market valuation of your business.

Expiry Date: 31/12/2022

Historic Coventry Trust

20% off a stay in bespoke accommodation in the heart of Coventry. Expiry Date: 12/11/2022

Heart of England Conference & Events Centre

30% off all business lunches Mon-Fri.

Expiry Date: 18/11/2022

Best Western Plus Windmill Village Hotel Golf & Spa

Free glass of fizz per person on all Christmas events booked before 30th September.

Expiry Date: 29/09/2022

SawiTECH IT Recycling & Data Disposal Solutions Ltd

Free collection offer .

Expiry Date: 31/12/2022

LAJ Marketing

Free 30-minute strategy call.

Expiry Date: 30/11/2022

Want to share your Member Offer?

Email the details and your logo to info@cw-chamber.co.uk

Cube Accounting Ltd

50% off your monthly Xero subscription for 6 months.

Expiry Date: 13/12/2022

Twin Pine Mortgages Ltd

£100 discount on our advice fee

Expiry Date: 05/11/2022

Member Offers are included in our Online Marketplace and shared to over 18,000 followers across social media. To view these and all of our Member Offers, head to cw-chamber.co.uk/marketplace

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