Prosper Winter Digital 2

PROSPER

Supporting our start-ups

Three entrepreneurs highlight how support from the Chamber boosted their plans for growth

Sarah Moorhouse, CEO, Black Country Chamber reflects on a night to remember at this year’s Business Awards

Budget brings challenges, but our awards highlight why we’re up to facing them

Welcome to the winter issue of Prosper, featuring news and views from the Black Country Chamber of Commerce.

I have to tell you, I absolutely love my job. It’s such an enormous privilege to head up an organisation that connects day in, day out with so many brilliant businesses in the Black Country.

In truth it’s never lost on me. However, to be in a room brimming with celebration, as we were on November 21 for the Black Country Chamber Business Awards, was something very special. It is always an awe-inspiring ceremony but this year’s was one of the best yet. The breadth of innovation, determination and talent from across our region is something to behold, and it was lovely to ooze positivity together. Collectively we all need to shout more about our successes, and the awards night was a terrific way to get that party started!

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the University of Wolverhampton at The Halls to make it a night to remember.

The autumn Budget

But it’s back to earth with a bump!

In October the new Government delivered its first, long-awaited Budget. It’s fair to say it’s had a mixed response. Of course we welcome the Chancellor’s commitment to driving economic growth based on increased investment. That’s music to our ears. We also support the drive to tackle economic inactivity and expand opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses as positive signs for the future. However, the impact of increased taxation and wage costs is causing members concern. It will mean significant challenges for many of our businesses who will be looking at the long term, as well as the short term, implications of what these changes mean.

But there is still a world of opportunities to grow and as a Chamber we want to work with the Government and decision-makers to make our voices heard.

Let’s be honest, the Government needs us and we mustn’t lose sight of that.

So we welcome the freeze on fuel duty and the announcement of a ‘modern industrial strategy’ along with nearly £1bn for the aerospace sector, more than £2bn for the automotive sector and up to £520m for a new Life Sciences Innovative Manufacturing fund.

Our own economic surveys conducted over the last 12 months have shown that Black Country businesses have higher confidence than businesses nationally. That fighting spirit is in our DNA and we’re backing our region’s resilient firms of all sizes to make the most of opportunities out there.

Have your say at member events

Following the Budget, it was great to see so many of you attending what was our first face-to-face Bank of England event in several years. Our Gold, Platinum and Patron members had the chance to share their thoughts on the Budget and discuss its impact, and I would encourage you to look out for similar events in the future.

We also have a new set of MPs who are keen and eager to engage with businesses. The Black Country Chamber will be working closely with them to ensure they connect with you and there will be plenty of opportunities to speak to them at future member events.

You can read more about their plans to make the Black Country an attractive region for investment on page 34. I would encourage you to reach out to them with your concerns.

In this magazine

Also in this magazine, we are of course celebrating our Business Awards winners (page 18) and finding out more about the newest businesses to join the Chamber after getting support through our start-up programme in Wolverhampton (page 32). Three of the business owners are featured on our front cover, and their stories are amazing.

As well as looking ahead to 2025, we’re speaking to members about the staff benefits and wellbeing programmes they offer, inspired by a thought-provoking panel discussion on the topic at our latest Quarterly Economic Survey Data Reveal event.

It was fascinating to hear businesses of all shapes and sizes talk about the benefits they are offering their teams beyond pay to maximise their wellbeing.

Here to support you

As always, just a reminder that the Black Country Chamber of Commerce is here to support you and your business. This year we have seen an impressive number of organisations upgrading their memberships with us, which says so much about how they value our services and business network. It has been great to hear from companies that the reason they upgraded is the feeling that are welcome, supported and part of something special.

Whatever your businesses size or sector, we will always have your back. Thank you to all our members for supporting us over the past 12 months.

Finally, as it’s December, it’s time to wish you and yours a very merry Christmas, and let’s work together to make sure that 2025 is a rip-roaring success!

CONTACTS

Editor Stephanie Sullivan

Head of Marketing & Communications 07971 322693

stephaniesullivan@ blackcountrychamber.co.uk

Membership

Sian Roberts

Sales and Marketing Director 07714 740818 sianroberts@ blackcountrychamber.co.uk

Publisher: Chamber Media Services 4 Hilton Road, Bramhall Stockport, Cheshire SK7 3AG

Advertising: Colin Regan 01942 537959 colin@chambermediaservices.co.uk

Production: Rob Beswick

0161 426 7957 07964 375216 rob@chambermediaservices.co.uk

Cover Photography: by Kieran Clyne

Article Images: Daniel Russell. Thanks to Euripides Altintzoglou (Course Leader, BA (Hons) Photography) and Sam Wood (Lecturer, BA (Hons) Photography), University of Wolverhampton.

Prosper Magazine is the official magazine of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce. It provides news, views, interviews, opinion and debate along with information and insights. Produced on a quarterly basis, the magazine is supported by an array of the Black Country’s most influential business leaders and is read by business owners throughout the region and further afield.

To find out more about advertising in Prosper, contact Colin Regan on 01942 537959.

Although every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of material contained within this magazine, neither the Black Country Chamber of Commerce nor Chamber Media Services can accept any responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies in its editorial or advertising content.

The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber.

The carriage of adverts in this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

All articles within this publication are copyright Black Country Chamber of Commerce. Consent from the Chamber and the publisher must be obtained before any articles are reproduced either in printed form or electronically.

PROSPER BLACK COUNTRY

THE CHAMBER PATRON GROUP

e work of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce is supported by these strategic business partners working together to make the region a better place for business.

Sarah Moorhouse Chief Executive Officer

Lorna Taylor Finance Director Membership Team

Gail Arnold Head of Premium Membership

Alison Trinder Start-up Business Manager

Steve

Relationship Manager

Andrew Wells Assistant Accountant

Tracey Jovicich Membership Administrator Finance & Export Documentation Team

Siân Roberts Sales & Marketing Director

Marketing and Communications

Stephanie Sullivan Head of Marketing and Communications

Lauren Shepherd Digital Marketing and Communications Manager

Owenia Francis Apprentice Content Creator

Marie Shuker Events & Project Officer

Gemma Edwards Policy & Impact Officer

Osborn Communications Press, PR and Prosper

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, writes for Prosper...

My

simple goals get to the heart of our region

My goals as Mayor are simple - real jobs, economic growth, affordable homes, and better public transport. For everyone. These are the essential foundations for any thriving economy, and they are the cornerstone of my mission as Mayor.

SMEs are the lifeblood of our economy. Those of you running these businesses are making a huge contribution – employing local people, supporting vital services, providing training and development opportunities, and, of course, driving growth. But everyone needs a helping hand at times, which is why I’m backing you all the way – and not just with warm words.

There’s a range of support in place to help businesses grow and prosper. This includes direct expert advice and funding to help spark innovation, support in adopting new and emerging technologies to boost competitiveness, and help to become energy efficient, slashing fuel bills and fighting climate change.

It’s fantastic to see so many businesses across the Black Country already taking advantage of this support from Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM). With a growing team of front-line advisors, they have had 3,000 meetings with businesses based in Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall. I would encourage every Black Country business to see how you can tap into this valuable service.

BGWM has £100m+ of fully funded specialist support available, and we’re already looking at how we can do even more to support SMEs and entrepreneurs. I am determined that every business should get the help you need to succeed.

Investment matters

After years of sluggish economic growth, we’re seeing our region reclaim its place as a major player when it comes to attracting investment. Investors are recognising the potential we have here, and my recent announcement of funding for our new Investment Zone only adds to that.

The zone is powered by three initial sites – one is the Wolverhampton Green Innovation Corridor. Working with the city council and university, this flagship site will support the transition to an emerging green economy with sectors such as clean-tech, sustainable construction, cyber security and green engineering. Taken together, this could bring in more than £5.5 billion in investment and create 30,000 new jobs.

Very soon I’ll be launching a new £12.5 million programme aimed exclusively at SMEs in the advanced manufacturing sector. This programme will help them break into new supply chains, making sure businesses already based here benefit from new opportunities generated by the zone.

Recently, the West Midlands was named as one of the three

most innovative places in Europe, recognising our role at the cutting edge of new technology. Key to our shortlisting is the £33 million Innovation Accelerator, led by the WMCA in partnership with Innovate UK. This has provided hundreds of entrepreneurs, researchers and fast-growing small firms with support and funding to help commercialise new and emerging products and technologies. We have secured millions of pounds of additional Government funding for the Accelerator, and to extend the successful Made Smarter programme, helping businesses adopt new digital manufacturing technologies.

Support for entrepreneurs

Earlier this year I launched a new network of community-led business hubs to support entrepreneurs in some of our most ethnically diverse communities. Two of those hubs are in the Black Country. We only succeed, however, if local people are ready to fill the jobs that these investments are creating. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to work with businesses and training providers to tackle youth unemployment.

I recently attended the launch of City of Wolverhampton College’s new Advanced Technology and Automotive Centre (ATAC) in Bilston. The WMCA has invested almost £8 million in this flagship training centre to make sure we have a flexible workforce and can address skills shortages by providing training to more than 5,500 learners and 1,000 apprentices over the next ten years. Its work supports my plan to create 20,000 work placements, training opportunities, and apprenticeships to provide young people with the skills needed to fill these new jobs. It’s been great to see businesses across the region step up to deliver on that promise - with over 5,000 of those places already committed.

By investing in our business community and working together we can make our great region the best place in the UK to live, work, and do business.

Working with the city council and university, the Wolverhampton Green Innovation Corridor will support the transition to an emerging green economy with growing sectors such as clean-tech, sustainable construction, cyber security and green engineering.

‘‘ ‘‘

Bank gets to hear business’s side of the economic story side of the economic story

Black Country businesses briefed the Bank of England on the performance of the local economy and the impact of the Budget during an in-person Chamber event on November 19.

The session for Gold, Platinum Group and Patron Group Chamber members at Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton allowed companies to speak directly with Graeme Chaplin, Bank of England Agent for the West Midlands and Oxfordshire, on the opportunities and challenges facing the region.

As well as receiving the Bank’s update on the outlook on interest rates, inflation forecasts and economic trends, members heard how the Bank was monitoring businesses’ responses to the first Budget by Chancellor Rachel Reeves since Labour won power in July.

Firms from a range of sectors including recruitment, manufacturing, financial services and training updated Mr Chaplin on their performance and the outlook within the local economy.

Member representatives provided first-hand accounts of how the Budget had impacted their outlooks for wage growth, opportunities for young people, training and profitability.

Black Country Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “We are grateful to Graeme for being open to discussing the burning issues among our members and for providing such a detailed update on the economic outlook.

“Members shared their concerns about the challenges around investment and growth following the Budget. The Black Country has a proud heritage of resilience so we know they will do everything possible to bring future success but being able to update the Bank ensures decision makers understand better what is going in our region through an event which the Chamber uniquely offers.”

The regular Bank of England sessions are one of

several ways the Chamber updates decision makers on the local economy. The Bank also receives the results of the Quarterly Economic Survey, which has opened for Quarter 4.

Sarah said: “The feedback gained through the survey is used on a local and national level to influence and shape policy and strategies to better support and represent the region’s business needs. This quarter, we want to know how businesses are navigating AI and cybersecurity to protect their data while staying at the forefront of advancing technology.”

The next Bank of England event will be held in-person on 25th March 2025.

Gold, Platinum & Patron members can register by clicking HERE.

Budget bad news - but positives to grasp, too

Following many weeks of speculation, the autumn Budget included a number of key measures affecting businesses, including increases in employer National Insurance contributions and the National Minimum wage, and changes to corporation tax, inheritance tax, and capital gains tax. With such increases to reflect on, the mood was sombre among businesses.

However, there is room for positivity. The freeze on fuel duty will come as welcome respite to businesses anticipating a rise in these costs this winter, and the announcement of an industrial strategy should help to provide some certainty and a way forward for British businesses.

For the West Midlands in particular, the £1bn for the aerospace sector, more than £2bn for the automotive sector and up to £520m for a new Life Sciences Innovative Manufacturing fund, will provide opportunities for local businesses.

Including the recent reduction in bank rates down to 4.75%, Black Country businesses have been afforded some breathing room and should make the most of this. Black Country businesses are known for their resilience and confidence, shown by our Quarterly Economic Surveys over the last twelve months.

The creation of Skills England and the reform of the Apprenticeship Levy into the Growth and Skills Levy also offers optimism to businesses that their skills needs can start to be met.

As more detail is made clear in the coming months, the Black Country Chamber is ready to assist our members to make the most of the opportunities that will come.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ first Budget has created some headaches for business

Graeme Chaplin addresses the meeting, and below, with Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse

Premium Chamber membership opens the doors to better business

Platinum and Patron packages available

The Chamber’s premium membership unlocks a whole host of exclusive benefits for businesses to collaborate, network and grow, all proving that business is done better together.

Premium membership is available in two tiers with Platinum and Patron packages, providing businesses with a platform to connect, learn and build long-lasting business relationships.

A thriving network totalling more than 50 businesses, across sectors including logistics, IT, media, financial services, training and manufacturing, the Chamber’s premium network unlocks a wealth of knowledge to its members.

Managed by head of premium membership Gail

Patron members’ impact recognised at special event

The impact of the Chamber’s Patron members was recognised at a special event held in October.

The event, which took place at the University of Wolverhampton at The Halls, saw those patrons in attendance presented with a special plaque to display in their workplace.

Patron members include University of Wolverhampton, ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions, Freeths, In-Comm Training, Juniper Training Ltd, Merry Hill, Paycare, Starting Point Recruitment, Walsall College and AEG Presents.

University of Wolverhampton associate director Lorraine Morris said: “As a Patron member we are dedicated to promoting the vibrant business landscape of the Black Country. Our involvement allows us to collaborate with a diverse network of local enterprises, share best practices, and contribute to the economic development of our region.”

Head of premium membership Gail Arnold

Arnold, premium members can be assured that their brand will be elevated and objectives aligned through dedicated Chamber support.

PATRONS

Patron members are advocates of the Chamber and benefit from a bespoke package of support. The Chamber is an extension of their own business with exclusive opportunities to open doors and connect with potential new customers and key policy makers.

Benefits include:

n Bespoke package of support tailored to business needs

n Priority access to peer-to-peer discussions and learning opportunities

n Priority access to exclusive events

n Multitude of opportunities to raise profile

PLATINUM MEMBERS

Platinum members are part of an exclusive network for businesses to get together to tackle challenges and explore opportunities to improve the region’s prospects.

Benefits include:

n Access to peer-to-peer discussions and learning opportunities

n Priority access to sector specific and strategic events

n Priority access to chamber and high-profile events with government representatives and senior trade bodies

n Peer-to-peer networking opportunities. These events provide members with an exclusive network to come together and tackle challenges, share issues facing their businesses, and connect in a safe environment.

Premium members are invited to attend peer-to-peer networking events including the HR Forum and Finance Forum. These meetings provide businesses with a valuable opportunity to share best practice and develop skills with business leaders.

Working in partnership with a qualified executive coach, the Peer Advisory group is a strategic peer-to-peer networking opportunity which allows a business leader to process issues and analyse each other’s strategy in five half day meetings per year.

In a confidential peer-to-peer learning

commented: “We are immensely proud of all the fantastic work achieved by such inspiring teams around the region and look forward to continuing these efforts long into the future.”

BCCC CEO Sarah Moorhouse added: “Our Patrons play an important role in delivering our

work at the Chamber and we are delighted to be able to present each business with plaques that they can proudly display in their businesses.

“Patron membership provides businesses with a platform to connect, learn and build long-lasting business relationships.”

‘‘

We really value our Patron and Platinum members in the role they play to help us deliver our work at the Chamber and their commitment to making a positive impact across the Black Country business community.

Gail Arnold

‘‘

environment fellow members act as your trusted board of advisors in a non-judgemental environment, helping you move your business forward.

Head of premium membership Gail Arnold commented: “We really value our Patron and Platinum members in the role they play to help us deliver our work at the Chamber and their commitment to making a positive impact across the Black Country business community.

“Our premium members benefit from unrivalled opportunities to promote their business, reach new customers and make strong business connections.

“Our successful peer-to-peer networking opportunities are fantastic ways for businesses from a diverse range of industries to share best practice, discuss challenges and connect. Many of our premium members have developed business relationships outside of Chamber meetings, tapping into the wide range of skills, knowledge and opportunities on offer.”

Platinum member Terry Monkton from Simworx said: “The benefits provided have been outstanding, offering multiple staff engagement events to further their business learning in fields such as marketing, digital and social media, HR and innovation.

“The Platinum Peer Advisory group further provides Simworx’s directors with the opportunity to engage with other Platinum Group company directors along with an experienced mentoring coach on a quarterly basis.”

Chamber Patron the University of Wolverhampton said: “The work with the Black Country Chamber aids the Business School with many of its strategic objectives.

“Patronage has been invaluable in providing key links to local businesses in the region. The networking within the business community is critical to our work as we strive to provide the future workforce for the regional economy. The ability to meet and work with local businesses via the Chamber is essential to our success.”

Businesses enjoy the return after upgrading membership

Wanting to take advantage of networking opportunities and more business support services is driving organisations to upgrade their memberships with the Black Country Chamber of Commerce.

Fourteen businesses have upgraded their Chamber memberships this year.

The Black Country Chamber offers five membership packages: Start-Up Business Club, Bronze membership, Gold membership, Platinum membership and Patron membership. Each provides platforms and opportunities for businesses to grow, connect and become part of a thriving network.

These include events and networking opportunities, profile-building opportunities, marketing support, business savings, business advice, training and workshops, lobbying support and international trade support.

Nicola Price, practice director of Six Wands Accountants & Bookkeepers, which upgraded from Start-up to Gold membership, said: “I decided to upgrade two tiers because I saw that I would get a lot more benefits.

“Expanding my network is essential to growing my business, and the Chamber has been invaluable at helping me do this. I am building relationships all the time at events, and my account manager, Alison, has helped me connect with lots of organisations. I have also been able to gain exposure for my company through marketing and sponsorship of the Chamber’s Business Awards.

“Being a member of the Chamber is important when you are a small business because you do not have anyone to benchmark yourself against, and it can be lonely. Through the Chamber you get to meet like-minded people and bounce ideas off them.”

Lisa Davis, managing director of Levant Perfume, which upgraded from Start-Up to Bronze membership, said: “Running a business by yourself can be isolating and daunting, but the support I have received from the Chamber team has been fantastic.

It

For more information please contact Gail Arnold on 07810 377819 or CLICK HERE

Running

a business by yourself can be isolating and daunting, but the support I have received from the Chamber team has been fantastic...

Lisa Davis

‘‘ ‘‘

“I always know that I can go to Alison and that she will go the extra mile to answer my queries and help me out. Moving forward I hope to be able to make even more of my Chamber membership by attending additional events.”

Simon Love, director of social enterprise Sponsored Breaks, which upgraded from Bronze to Platinum membership, added: “As an organisation that relies on sponsorship and donations for fundraising, networking with local businesses and raising our profile in the region is key to our success.

“The Chamber has provided us with many opportunities in these areas, and we are excited to build on this by upgrading our membership so that we can continue to help as many people as possible get the break they deserve.”

Black Country Chamber of Commerce business development manager Alison Trinder said: “It has been very rewarding to see so many businesses upgrading their membership with us in recent months. It is testament to companies seeing the benefits and wanting to invest more.

“We look forward to continuing to support them with their business development so that they can continue to prosper.

“Please get in touch if you are interested in finding out more about our different levels of membership and how they might benefit your business.”

More information on the Black Country Chamber of Commerce’s membership packages can be found by clicking here

has been very rewarding to see so many businesses upgrading their membership with us in recent months... companies see the benefits and want to invest more.

Alison Trinder

Heathrow’s Black Country business links flying high after Chamber visit

Leading global airport and Platinum member Heathrow strengthened its links with the Black Country when senior representatives visited for a Chamber of Commerce-organised tour.

Chief communications and sustainability officer Nigel Milton and external affairs lead Sarah Ralphs met local companies from the supply chain of Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest airports.

With the Chamber uniquely placed to bring a range companies together, the Heathrow guests outlined the airport’s growth and sustainability plans during a lunch with premium members at Himley Hall.

Earlier this year Heathrow joined the Chamber as part of a drive to connect with businesses nationally, taking up Platinum membership to meet company leaders and senior representatives.

With the highest number of annual passengers in Europe and fourth highest in the world, Heathrow flies to 234 destinations, serving 83m passengers annually. The airport spends close to £100million annually with West Midlands businesses, so the airport team were keen to visit Black Country Chamber members and suppliers.

At Himley Hall, Nigel Milton told the audience: “The Black Country plays a large role in manufacturing goods and providing services Heathrow needs. We were recently crowned the most connected airport in the world but we aim to become an extraordinary airport fit for the future. To do so we need to work with innovative businesses like those across the Black Country.

“With exporting being such a big part of the Black Country economy, we are proud to support your local heritage by enabling you to connect with more than 200 destinations around the world.”

In a question and answer session that followed, members asked about a range of topics including procurement opportunities and the challenges of exporting.

Sarah Ralphs gave an overview on how local businesses could tender for work with Heathrow, adding: “We want to encourage innovation and bring small businesses into the larger supply chain.”

Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “Heathrow recognises the value of active Chamber membership and our guests showed great enthusiasm for finding out more about the positive impact of businesses in our region. The

lunch was an enjoyable networking occasion and a fantastic example of the unique role the Chamber plays in bringing together a diverse range of businesses to work towards common goals.”

After lunch the Heathrow team visited Willenhall-based Chamber member Mercia Lifting Gear, a crane and hoist specialist and member of the airport’s supply chain, and fencing specialist Zaun (see below).

Chamber head of premium membership Gail Arnold said: “Heathrow offers important business links for local companies, so we are delighted they want to meet our members to discuss opportunities to unlock new markets.”

What happens when the UK’s busiest airport meets the only British in-house manufacturer of woven and welded mesh fencing systems?

Well, when Nigel Milton, chief communications and sustainability officer for Heathrow, visited Zaun he was able to see how Zaun has been driving a sustainable supply chain for physical perimeter security. The fencing specialist has been innovating and decarbonising the physical perimeter security fencing and gate systems it supplies to the airport. From all electric forklift trucks to a 330mw solar array, Zaun were able to share part of its journey to ‘greener security’.

Nigel Milton said, “Heathrow relies on SMEs up and down the country, and it is fantastic to come out and meet with the companies that keep the UK’s hub airport flowing.”

The tour was hosted by Alastair Henman, Zaun founder and managing director, operations director Jack McGinty and Steve Bailes, business development manager.

n Nigel Milton and Sarah Ralphs are pictured with members of the Zaun team and the

Chamber’s Gail Arnold

Pictured at Himley Hall are, from left, Nigel Milton, Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse, Sarah Ralphs and Gail Arnold

The whole world’s our patch says globetrotting media company

Platinum member BlackRook Media clocked up some serious air miles this autumn.

In October, Beijing was the destination as the Wolverhampton-based media services company provided editorial research and production teams at Sibos, the world’s biggest financial services event. It organised a ‘pop-up TV channel’, live streaming more than 30 hours of content globally.

The task meant taking 11 journalists, producers and technicians on the 10,000-mile round trip, but it’s one they’ll do again in 2025 when they clock up a decade as producer of Sibos TV for the global banking transactions organisation Swift.

Indonesia was next in BlackRook’s itinerary as its team once again provided events TV services for The Union global lung health conference in Bali.

BlackRook also delivered event coverage closer to home when it covered the Multicultural Business and Community Champion Awards in Birmingham, as part of a three-year partnership for video production and social media services.

BlackRook ended 2024 working on corporate film shoots in Greece, Belgium, Finland, the

Republic of Ireland, Mexico, plus three trips to film with multiple new clients in Switzerland covering innovations in sustainability, finance and education.

For 2025, the company has already announced global video production and online distribution

MET Recruitment on hand to help Winster expansion

Platinum Chamber members Winster Limited and MET Recruitment have built a strong working relationship to support the growth of the Winster team and provide local students with employment during their studies.

Winster, a quality hose and assembly supplier, has taken on Avril part-time while she completes her degree at Wolverhampton University, and Jack also joined as a full-timer.

Two more students, Pius and David have been working part-time at Winster through MET while

they also complete their studies.

Val Gardner, managing director of Winster, said: “Our relationship with MET has really blossomed. They keep finding us local college and university students like David and Pius who are looking to support themselves with some temporary work, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to our team.”

Matthew Hunter, industrial director at MET Recruitment, said his team were proud to support a fellow Chamber member.

Pictured with Gail Arnold are:

Matthew Hunter, industrial director, MET Recruitment; Val Gardner, MD, Winster; and Adam Wheeler, industrial temp manager, MET Recruitment

partnerships with the Association of MBAs and Sustainable Travel International, as well as domestically with the UK’s Association of Chief Executives.

Managing director Alan Rook said: “BlackRook teams have travelled a lot in recent years, in corporate film production and in our events work. We always use home grown Black Country talent as far as is possible.

“We have a major focus on domestic work too and that is an offer that ties together producing high quality video assets for businesses, along with guaranteed engagement at scale on social media.”

And they’re off for a unique networking opportunity...

Wolverhampton Racecourse is offering a unique opportunity for businesses to engage in networking while enjoying the excitement of live horse racing.

Its new corporate annual membership programme is designed for businesses looking to maximise their racecourse experience. Members enjoy exclusive access to all racedays at Wolverhampton, swipe cards, two transferable metal badges, and a wallet-sized fixture card, along with admission to over 500 fixtures across Arena Racing Company racecourses and greyhound stadiums.

They also receive a complimentary car park pass, a complimentary racecard, four guest passes, discounts on food and drink, and access to the annual members bar, plus automatic enrolment in the ARC Racing Club.

Black Country Chamber members also have an exclusive 10 per cent discount off any non-racing event in 2025 if booked before 31 January 2025, and a free race ticket. Exclusions apply.

For event hire enquiries contact events@wolverhampton-racecourse.co.uk or call 01902 390 007

Sky’s the limit for 1UP Solutions as IT firm joins Chamber Platinum Group

The Black Country Chamber of Commerce has welcomed 1UP Solutions, a leading provider of IT management solutions and a ServiceNow partner, to its Platinum Group.

1UP Solutions specialises in helping businesses optimise their IT management processes within ServiceNow. Founded in 2015, the company now supports businesses across the globe, delivering tailored solutions to meet their needs.

1UP Solutions CEO Antony Kinnear said: “As a business that is based in Wolverhampton, we look forward to building relationships with other organisations across the Black Country through our Platinum Group membership.

“We work with businesses of all sizes to help

For more information please contact Gail Arnold on 07810 377819, or click HERE.

them leverage ServiceNow for optimising internal processes, reducing operational costs and accelerating their path to achieving key goals.

“We are excited by the opportunity to learn from fellow Platinum members, share our expertise and promote our services. We are committed to staying up to date with the latest trends and best practices to ensure that our clients receive the highest level of service and expertise.”

Black Country Chamber’s head of premium membership Gail Arnold said: “I am pleased to

welcome 1UP Solutions to the Platinum Group and look forward to the contribution they will make as they continue to grow their business.

“1UP Solutions will have the chance to participate in a wide variety of networking events, workshops and initiatives designed to support business development and build on the success of the region.”

‘‘ ‘‘

We are excited by the opportunity to learn from fellow Platinum members, share our expertise and promote our services.

Platinum’s the prime colour for painting and decorator business

Black Country Chamber has welcomed painting and decorating contractor Alfred Bagnall & Sons (Midlands) Ltd to its Platinum Group.

With 17 branches across the country, Bagnalls delivers commercial painting and decorating projects on a local and national scale.

The company’s roots date back to 1875, when it was founded by Alfred Bagnall in Yorkshire. Still family-owned and managed to this day, it has been passed down through five generations of the Bagnall family. The current managing director is Stephen Bagnall, Alfred’s greatgreat-grandson.

Bagnalls Wolverhampton branch manager James Trevalen said: “Bagnalls has had a presence in Wolverhampton since 1935, serving customers across the West Midlands including

manufacturing businesses, healthcare providers and educational institutions.

“We are looking forward to building on our well-established relationships across the region and forging new connections through our Platinum Group membership.

“We are excited to explore the new opportunities our membership will bring and look forward to getting involved with Black Country Chamber events and activities.”

The Chamber’s head of premium membership Gail Arnold added: “I am delighted to welcome Bagnalls to the Group, following a referral from Platinum member Robin Tong of MET Recruitment.

“With a heritage that goes back almost 150 years and customers that include household names such as Jaguar Land Rover, JCB, Cadbury’s and McCain Foods, Bagnalls is an impressive business with a wealth of experience that will be invaluable to our members.”

n James is pictured above left with colleague Laura Cooper and the Chamber’s Gail Arnold

Pictured with Gail Arnold are, from left, Mohammed Zameer, 1UP Solutions’ technical consultant; Tod Perry, 1UP’s head of delivery; and Antony Kinnear, 1UPCEO.

Women in Leadership event hails the power of social media

The latest Women in Leadership (WiL) networking event took place in October and saw female leaders from across the region gain valuable insights into the power of social media.

Held at the University of Wolverhampton’s Millennium City Building in the Glasshouse, Socially Savvy Me was the second WiL event this year and provided delegates with a social media masterclass and practical tools to boost their digital presence.

BlackRook Academy trainer Hannah Moore ran

a LinkedIn masterclass and shared top tips for creating engaging content and challenged attendees to “overcome the fear” and share a photo on the business social media platform following the event.

Laura Tatton from ConsuLT PR & Marketing is a specialist in generative artificial intelligence, a form of artificial intelligence which uses learning to produce text, images, videos, or other forms of data. She demystified the preconceptions of AI and highlighted practical ways to use platforms

such as ChatGPT to create content to shout about achievements on social media.

The event also featured an interactive segment where delegates were asked to take part in a social media survey to share experiences and gain insights on how women in leadership are leveraging LinkedIn and other platforms.

BlackRook managing director and chair of the Women in Leadership steering group Lucy Rook commented: “A big thank you to Hannah Moore and Laura Tatton who shared some fantastic tools to thrive in the digital world.

“It was great to have the opportunity to share experience and best practice around the room, and I am pleased that the Women in Leadership events are engaging with female leaders in a positive way.

“The Black Country is an amazing place to work, and we all need to be its biggest cheerleaders.”

The next Women in Leadership networking event is due to take place in early 2025. Details will be published on the Chamber website in due course, along with information about plans for International Women’s Day, to be held on March 8.

For more information on the Women in Leadership network please cllick HERE

Pictured at the WiL event on Socially Savvy Me. Above: Tara Hughes, Juniper; Pat Archer, NatWest; Gail Arnold; Lesley Holland, Juniper.

Right: Laura Tatton, ConsuLT PR: Sian Roberts, Black Country Chamber; Lucy Rook and Hannah Moore, both BlackRook

Investment in staff wellbeing

‘key

Sto happy employees’

TAFF WELLBEING INITIATIVES offer businesses a significant return on investment and play a key role in achieving a happy and healthy workforce.

That was the key message from the guest speaker presentation and panel discussion on staff wellbeing at the Black Country Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey Data Reveal event.

Guest speaker Anthony Burns, CEO of health cash plan provider Paycare, underlined the importance of investing in employee wellbeing in a presentation. Highlighting key statistics, he said: “The number of businesses making wellbeing a priority has significantly increased in the past five years. According to the Black Country Chamber’s Quarter 3 QES results, 75% of respondents are now investing in employee wellbeing, with 51% also having a wellbeing strategy in place.

“The CIPD has suggested that wellbeing strategies could provide a significant return on investment, with £5 saved for every £1 spent.”

Anthony explained how wellbeing initiatives can help address some of the key challenges organisations face around employee mental health, hybrid working, recruitment and retention and employee engagement.

Some of the most popular benefits that businesses are currently providing to employees include GP services, mental health support, flexible working and private medical insurance.

Four representatives from Chamber member organisations joined a panel discussion to talk about the wellbeing initiatives that have had the biggest impact in their workplaces.

Jacquie Carman, principal and chief executive at Halesowen College, said: “Our most impactful benefit has

been introducing two wellbeing days for each member of staff. As many of our colleagues are teachers with limited holiday flexibility, they really value the freedom of having a couple of days off to do something they want.

“People feel that they are cared for, and that the organisation has listened to what they want and done something to meet their needs.”

Sandeep Pawar, head of rewards, benefits and wellbeing at Assa Abloy Opening Solutions, said: “Our wellbeing strategy focuses on mental, social, physical and financial wellbeing. We offer a mental health service through our employee assistance programme, and we’ve invested in mental health first aid training. One of our biggest benefits is a flexible holiday programme, which enables employees to buy and sell up to five days of annual leave.”

Tom Cash, strategic director at automation parts supplier Foxmere, said: “Our most popular benefit is offering staff a 32.5-hour work week. We pay full-time salaries, but everyone finishes at 4pm and we have a ‘no overtime’ policy. We offer 33 days of annual leave too. My team love working shorter days, and as a result we have lower absenteeism.

Peopl brag about working at Foxmere!”

Lucy Cashmore, managing director of Daniel-Scott Recruitment, said: “We offer flexible working. As a recruitment agency we sometimes need to talk to jobseekers and employers outside of standard working hours for confidentiality reasons. That works really well for one of our employees because they get time off to do the school run and then spend an hour or so in the evening speaking to jobseekers and clients. It’s a more productive way of working.”

We work until 4pm, with no overtime ... it’s very popular, we have lower absenteeism and our staff brag about working here...

Tom

‘‘ ‘‘

‘‘

We offer a mental health service and we’ve invested in mental health first aid training

Sandeep Pawar

‘‘

The next Quarterly Economic Survey data reveal event will be held on 9th January at Wolverhampton Science Park. To register to attend, please click HERE

Pictured at the event, at Walsall FC, are, from left, the Chamber’s Sarah Moorhouse, Sian Roberts and Gemma Edwards, Jacquie Carman, Sandeep Pawar, Anthony Burns, Tom Cash and Lucy Cashmore

Cash

Best in business honoured at Black Country Chamber Awards

West Bromwich civil engineer takes prize as Business of Year

COMPANIES from across the region were honoured in style at a glittering Black Country Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2024.

With this year’s awards honouring the businesses which embody the Chamber’s values of courage, integrity and collaboration, the snowy conditions which swept in for the evening were not going to stop the Chamber’s 420 resilient guests enjoying themselves.

The first annual Chamber awards ceremony to be staged at the University of Wolverhampton at The Halls saw the audience entertained with music as they enjoyed a three-course dinner and the chance to network with the very best of the Black Country business scene.

Business of the Year: Forkers

Civil and ground engineering contractor Forkers, based in West Bromwich, was crowned Business of the Year. The judges cited Forkers’ exceptional revenue growth and profitability, commitment to continuous improvement, high rates of staff retention and forward-looking sustainability strategies.

With 14 trophies presented in total, other winners included Wombourne-based creative marketing agency TPSquared, who won the Consultancy and Professional Services award and was named Small Business of the Year. There were also 10 highly commended awards for selected finalists.

Wolves Foundation was named Business in the

Community for the second year running, EXOL Lubricants from Wednesbury won the International Trade award, fastener supplier Fabory took home the Science, Tech, and Innovation trophy and Bilston-based manufacturer of equipment for the metal forming and tubes industry Bowers & Jones landed the Manufacturing and Engineering award.

The other 2024 winners included Maped Helix, named Employer of the Year, the leading Start up was Maverick Mutts and the Family Business of the Year went to Maverick Sports.

The Business in Schools award went to Tecman, while Black Country Women’s Aid was named best Not for Profit Organisation. Interclass won Apprentice Employer of the Year while Haris Hussain of Weatherite was the Leading Young Employee or Apprentice of the Year.

Sandwell Council and Walsall Council were this year’s overall award partners, with the event expertly hosted by TV and radio sports broadcaster Amber Sandhu. A raffle was held to raise funds for the Black Country Chamber of Commerce’s charity of the year, YMCA Black Country.

Throughout the evening singing waiters entertained the audience, popping up across the hall to serenade the crowd with a mix of hits.

In honour of the night’s charity cause, the

These awards shine a spotlight on our region as a great place to do business... they demonstrate the true level of excellence across the Black Country... ‘‘ ‘‘

singers joined Amber in leading the audience through a mass dance to the Village People’s classic disco hit, YMCA.

The tables were decorated with speciallycreated centrepieces by Black Country businesses which had responded to the Chamber’s challenge to shape sculptures which celebrated the region’s proud industrial heritage.

Designs by Birchills Automotive, Bridge Aluminium, Dace Crown, Jordhan Industries, Union Fasteners and Zaun Ltd all showcased the talents of their employees and provided a talking point for each table.

Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse told the finalists that making it to the awards ceremony was an achievement after 162 applications were submitted for this year’s awards.

In a speech celebrating the progress made by the Chamber and its members despite the challenging economic environment, Sarah congratulated the audience on the progress of their businesses and pledged to continue promoting the region. She said: “We are unwavering in our commitment to work with you, to help unleash the potential of your businesses.”

Afterwards winners shared their delight at being recognised by the Chamber for their successes. Business in Schools award winner

Tecman posted on LinkedIn: ‘So proud of all our team who put together our Girls in Tech events to encourage young women still at school to consider a career in the IT industry and were recognised by this award! We’re not all geeks!’

Apprentice Employer of the Year winner

Interclass posted: ‘This one’s for all our apprentices, past and present, as well as all of those who have shared their time, knowledge and expertise as mentors, supporters and cheerleaders.’

TP Squared thanked the Chamber and the

sponsor of the Small Business category: ‘Thank you so much Black Country Chamber of Commerce, 6Wands and Nicola Price! This means so much to us. We’re over the moon!’

Being highly commended generated pride for those to receive acknowledgement. Dr Brian Johnston of iBiotech, highly commended in the start up of the year category, wrote: ‘Thanks so much for this award, all our team members and collaborators will be thrilled!’

Even those who were not in the running for an award celebrated the atmosphere. Jamie Warren of KMB Shipping posted: ‘Be very proud of where you all are, what a region! Be brave, be bold and go get it, you can all do it!’, while Tanya Khurana of category sponsor Pro Enviro Ltd wrote: ‘A huge thank you to our wonderful hosts, the Black Country Chamber of Commerce for putting on such a fantastic event and delivering a truly memorable experience. Here’s to celebrating success, resilience, and community spirit!’

Speaking afterwards, Sarah Moorhouse said: “A huge congratulations to all of our winners following a fantastic evening celebrating the incredible, groundbreaking businesses of our region.

“The awards were a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on the region as a great place to do business. Thank you to our partners and the Chamber team for making this year’s awards a resounding success.”

The Chamber’s events and projects officer Marie Shuker added: “We received a huge number of entries from across a wide range of sectors. Our category partners had a tough job selecting the winners, which demonstrates the level of business excellence across the Black Country.”

For full details visit: www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/ business-awards/

Award Winners

Business in the Community

Wolves Foundation

Finalists: Arrive Alive and Cadent

International Trade

EXOL Lubricants

Highly Commended: Bowers & Jones

Finalists: Fortress

Consultancy and Professional Services

TPSquared

Highly Commended: VOiD Applications

Finalists: Jerroms

Science, Tech, and Innovation

Fabory

Highly Commended: Cadent

Finalists: Tomato Energy

Manufacturing and Engineering

Bowers & Jones

Finalists: Jordhan Industries

Apprentice Employer of the Year

Interclass

Finalists: The Penny Post Group

Young Employee or Apprentice of the Year

Haris Hussain, Weatherite

Finalists: Matthew Randle, Dreamland, and Georgia Hill, Early Years Company.

Family Business of the Year

Maverick Sports

Highly Commended: Walsh Funerals & Memorials

Finalists: Nickolls & Perks

Not for Profit

Black Country Women’s Aid

Highly Commended: The Way Youth Zone

Finalists: The Penny Post Group

Business in Schools

Tecman

Highly Commended: HMB Training Services

Finalists: BlackRook Academy

Employer of the Year

Maped Helix

Highly Commended: Jerroms

Finalists: Black Country Living Museum

Start-up

Business of the Year

Maverick Mutts

Highly Commended: iBiotech

Finalists: Virtus

Small Business of the Year

TPSquared

Highly Commended: VOiD Applications

Finalists: MoRServ

Business of the Year

Forkers

Highly Commended: Bowers & Jones

Finalists: Azets

Awards partners

What the awards judges said: “Forkers won this award by demonstrating exceptional revenue growth and profitability through a diverse portfolio of products and a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement. We were impressed by their high rates of staff retention and forward-looking sustainability strategies...”

Consultancy and Professional Services of the Year TPSquared

What the awards judges said: “TPSquared is an inspirational female-owned company that’s all about collaboration and people. In addition, their extensive work with local charities is commendable...”

Start-up Business of the Year

Maverick Mutts

What the awards judges said:

“Maverick Mutts won this award due to their great business model that appeals to all dog lovers. The judges were impressed that they started with no financial backing and in a short space of time have developed a profitable business.”

Apprentice Employer of the Year Interclass

What the awards judges said: “Interclass won this award because of their commitment to delivering fully funded graduate and skills-focused apprenticeships. Over 20 per cent of their employees are apprentices and they have a strong culture of mentorship.”

International Trade EXOL Lubricants

What the awards judges said: “EXOL Lubricants demonstrated a genuine desire for exporting and importing from their Black Country premises in Wednesbury. We noted their proven track record of growth over the past three years, and that they are on track to grow their overseas business even more...”

What the awards judges said: “Black Country Women’s Aid won this award by demonstrating the impact of the vast range of services they offer to women in crisis and their families. They are trailblazers in their work and deserve recognition for their outstanding service.”

What the awards judges said:

“Wolves Foundation won this award due to the sheer breadth of projects they support across the Black Country... there is a genuine passion for the work they do, and an underlying ethos to help people.”

Small Business of the Year TPSquared

What the awards judges said:

“TP Squared won this award for successfully growing the business over the last four years, while looking after their expanding team. Founder Carolyn Smith ensures that her strong ethos and beliefs, together with her passion to help clients, always shines through...”

Young Employee or Apprentice of the Year Haris Hussain, Weatherite

What the awards judges said:

“Haris Hussain won this award for his exceptional contributions to Weatherite. His unwavering dedication to his team has been a driving force behind several successful projects, showing a level of commitment that is truly exemplary...”

Manufacturing and Engineering

Bowers & Jones

What the awards judges said:

“Bowers & Jones won this award by clearly demonstrating their innovation, ability to overcome challenges and a willingness to pursue expansion into new markets...”

Family Business of the Year

Maverick Sports

What the awards judges said:

“Maverick Sports are a true family-run business in the heart of the Black Country. Working with local communities, families and others to help them gain a real benefit from the services and support they provide.

Science, Technology & Innovation

Fabory

What the awards judges said:

“Fabory won this award by impressing the judging panel with the way they have embraced innovation and technology, using this to transform the way they do business with their customers, reducing waste and lowering the environmental impact of all their own operations...”

Employer of the Year Maped Helix

What the awards judges said: “Maped Helix clearly demonstrated their commitment to employee wellbeing, covering both physical and mental health provisions and making career progression attainable...”

Business in Schools Tecman

What the awards judges said: “Tecman won this award because of the work they have been doing with schools and education partners, running Girls in Tech Career Discovery Days. In addition they offer work experience placements and have recently offered a 12- week work placement to a T-level student...”

Plum Ideas: Proud Sponsors of the Chamber Awards Programme

The Chamber was delighted that Plum Ideas, a Stourbridge-based, full-service marketing communication agency, sponsored and created this year’s Awards programme.

Brendan O’Dea, Plum Ideas director says: “We are so proud to be a Black Country Chamber member. We recently supported the Chamber on its very successful ‘Word of Mouth’ campaign, and were thrilled to design and deliver this year’s Business Awards programme.”

Stephanie Sullivan, head of marketing & communications at the Chamber said “We really enjoyed working with Plum on our recent campaign and we were delighted to have them as a partner for our awards. They once again did a great job on

designing both a digital programme and a printed version for our guests to enjoy.”

The marketing communications agency works with well-known brands such as NIVEA, Golden Wonder, The Black Country Living Museum, Kenco, Weetabix, Ryvita and Tayto Group.

Since 1998, its focused, passionate and creative team has brought brands to life through outstanding communications for local, national and international clients of varying sizes and across very many sectors.

Plum Ideas is committed to supporting its local community and is a proud sponsor of the junior teams of Swindon Cricket Club, local charities Openstage and Leslie’s Care Packages For The Homeless, and charity event Love Stourbridge.

In partnership with Pro Enviro

The Business of the Year award was sponsored by Pro Enviro, a specialist energy engineering, carbon abatement and process optimisation consultancy.

The award category, open to businesses with more than 10 employees, looked to recognise a company with consistent revenue growth and profitability, innovative products, services or processes, high levels of employee engagement and retention and a strong workplace culture.

Achieving high customer satisfaction, the winner was chosen for leadership excelling in vision, communication and strategic planning.

Pro Enviro marketing and business engagement officer Tanya Khurana said: “We were proud to sponsor the Business Awards because they aligned perfectly with our mission to support businesses on their journey towards sustainability and net zero.

Award category sponsor: Business of the Year

“As a leading consultancy in sustainability and decarbonisation, this sponsorship was a unique opportunity to raise awareness of the critical need for businesses to transition to net zero, especially with the UK government’s binding targets.

“We aim to encourage businesses to not only focus on profitability but also on the long-term sustainability of their operations. Our goal is to help businesses understand the importance of decarbonisation and the practical steps they can take to reduce their carbon footprint.

“The awards gave us the perfect platform to educate and inform businesses across the Black Country about the Decarbonisation Net Zero Programme, which offers companies the opportunity to receive a free energy audit and

access to grants of up to £100,000 to implement energy-saving practices.

“In the Business of the Year category, we were excited to see how businesses have been incorporating sustainability initiatives into their operations.

“It was encouraging to see companies balancing profitability with sustainability, implementing energy-saving practices and aligning with the UK’s net zero targets.

“We saw not only business success but a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and a more sustainable future.”

With more than 30 years’ experience working with organisations in energy-intensive sectors, Pro Enviro are leaders in developing and implementing low-carbon and net-zero carbon strategies for organisations in all sectors. They have helped thousands of businesses improve their energy efficiency, implement a low-carbon strategy, reduce their carbon footprint and save money.

Cadent: Telling our people

‘we’ve

got your back’

is key

to attracting and retaining staff

Every employer knows taking care of their employees is vital for business success – but today, many on your team want more than just a regular pay packet for their hard work.

Many are looking for attractive extra benefits focused on their health and wellbeing as they target an employer prepared to go the extra mile to support them.

At Cadent this strategy is a cornerstone on which the company’s success has been built, as Elliott Nelson, director of the West Midlands Network, was quick to highlight – and to explain why.

“Let’s face it, no child dreams that when they grow up, they want to be a gas engineer!” says Elliott. “We offer a great job, with loads of opportunities, but we recognised that by putting in place a comprehensive support package, they will be happier, more committed and ultimately, we’ll get more from them and they’ll stay with us longer.”

That’s an important consideration as far as Cadent is concerned, as its training programmes are very comprehensive and can take years to complete: “We looked to build a benefits package that makes staying with Cadent long term the natural decision for our people to make.”

The good news is, it’s a strategy that’s paying off. “We have lots of people who have been with us since they first started working. There are many more with decades of experience with us.

“Their loyalty shows we’re doing something right!”

Cadent is one of those names that many people reading Prosper will be aware of, but perhaps not know all the details. It grew out of the break-up of British Gas in the 1980s, and today is the UK’s largest gas distributor, serving 11 million homes in the West Midlands, North West, East Midlands, the Eastern region and north London. In total it has 6,500 employees plus more sector specialists in the supply chain.

They look after an astonishing 131,000km of pipeline under its control – 15,000km in the West Midlands.

Cadent Gas also manages the UK-wide emergency gas reporting line from its Coventry office.

At present it’s juggling a number of major projects, as Elliott explained. “We are in year four of our five-year regulatory plan that will see us invest £750 million in the West Midlands to replace pipelines, with 1,500km of pipelines replaced every year across Cadent. In addition we’re pushing on with a major investment in biomethane, and then there’s HyNet.”

HyNet is one of Cadent Gas’s most important projects. It will see hydrogen manufactured in the North West at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex distributed via a standalone network.

Hydrogen will play an important part of the UK’s overall plan

to decarbonise the energy system, and it’s an area in which Cadent is proud to be taking a lead.

So it’s a company that is right at the cutting edge of British life – and it needs a great workforce to keep it there.

The problem is… “we go back to my earlier comment, that kids don’t sit and dream of being gas engineers when they grow up,” says Elliott. “To make sure we attract the best, we have to make sure roles with us are very attractive.”

Elliott also acknowledged that Cadent needed to do more to attract employees from every area of society. “Our workforce used to be of a type, and nowhere near as diverse as it is today, and it will be more so in the future.”

In particular Cadent has moved to attract a younger workforce, increasing the representation of women in the gas industry – key factors driving the new wellbeing and benefits programme.

“What we have found – and I know we are not alone in this – is that Gen Z and Millennials place a far greater emphasis on feeling valued by their employer. You can’t just promise them a good salary; they want to have a business that cares about them and the environment they live in.

To encourage this, Cadent has put in place a comprehensive programme of benefits that put the employees’ needs first. “We try to cover every issue,” says Elliott. “Perhaps the most far-reaching is our pension, to which we offer a really

Gen Z and millennials place a far greater emphasis on feeling valued... you can’t just promise them a good salary... they want to feel supported in every area

Elliott Nelson, pictured above

competitive package. It’s a move that says, ‘we’re looking after you all the way, even in retirement’.”

Other offers include 12 months full maternity pay as well as a really competitive paternity pay package.

The generous maternity pay “is part of our goal to be as attractive a workplace as we can be to women”, while the enhanced paternity offer “acknowledges that traditional paternity pay packages don’t do enough for their partners.”

In Elliott’s opinion, possibly the most underrated benefit is a 24-hour GP appointment service. “Our people can quickly get a doctor’s appointment over the phone or by zoom, and get a diagnosis and prescriptions, plus follow-on appointments.”

Its usefulness came home to Elliott only recently. “My daughter suddenly came down with a nasty eye infection one evening. The services covers everyone living in your home, so we noticed the problem at 8pm, by 8.15pm I had an appointment with a GP, took some photos, sent them across, and by 9pm I was out looking for an all-night chemist with my prescription for eye drops for a bad case of conjunctivitis.”

Such swift intervention helps the employee – and the employer. “There are business reasons behind our health and wellness packages: they reduce sickness and absenteeism, and ensure our team are at the top of their game. If they do fall ill – and everyone does at some point – they can access help immediately, to get them back on their feet.”

Preventative and proactive health care is also offered via the Well Hub. This gives Cadent employees access to thousands of gyms, locally and around the country, either for free or at vastly discounted rates. Staff can also buy or sell holidays, there is a cycle to work scheme, and staff can buy into plans covering dental care, private medical care,

physiotherapy, occupational therapy and critical illness.

Modern life is stressful for many people, so another part of the programme that is appreciated is the Employee Assistance Programme. “This offers counselling and support for people struggling with their mental health and conditions such as anxiety. It could be because of a bereavement, money concerns or problems at work; whatever the cause, our people can access 6-8 counselling sessions, to help them learn how to cope with the challenge.”

To Elliott, Cadent’s programme is comprehensive and has something for everyone, but if he were pushed as to what he thinks is most attractive, “I’d have to break it down into short-, medium- and long-term benefits.

“Short-term, straightforward access to a GP is a godsend; no more phone queues, or having to come away from the office for appointments, and immediate access. Mediumterm, I’d say the Well Hub gym package is very worthwhile and helps me stay healthy.

“Long-term, it has to be the pension offer, which is as generous as any.”

It’s no surprise that the overall package is well received. “We run full surveys of what our people think of their benefits and they are very enthusiastic about the package as a whole.

“We offer real benefits for busy people. When we talk to our employees, particularly younger ones, they tell us how much they like the way the company treats them; they feel supported, and that is important to them.”

It’s certainly one of the reasons that when people join Cadent, “so many of them stay with us for a long time. Those long service records are testimony to how well we look after our people.”

Our generous maternity pay is part of our goal to make Cadent as attractive as possible to women ‘‘ ‘‘

WE’RE READY FOR 2025

AS 2024 draws to a close, members have been looking back on the progress of the last 12 months and sharing their plans for the year ahead. In this issue we speak to the incredible businesses and entrepreneurs who make our region tick, highlighting companies from a range of membership levels to get their views.

Black Country Chamber of Commerce CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “This year has had its ups and downs but the Black Country continues to innovate in creative and entrepreneurial ways. Here we find out more about how

businesses have adapted to succeed. As the leading business support agency for the region, we want to celebrate our members who play such an important role in making our region thrive.

“There are many positives within our business community as our featured companies demonstrate in their own words.

“The Chamber is proud to show how the Black Country continues to make a difference, through resilience – and a whole lot of heart.”

Platinum member BlackRook Media taking on the world in 2025

Broadcast and production experts BlackRook Media are looking to build on their progress working for clients worldwide in 2025, says managing director Alan Rook.

The business has stepped up its sales efforts and secured a retained account working for leading financial services conference in China, as Alan explains.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

BlackRook Media saw off other global tender rivals to win a ninth year as producer of Sibos TV at the largest financial services conference in the world, for the global banking transactions organisation Swift.

That meant sending a dozen-strong team of editorial and technical staff on the 10,000-mile round trip to Sibos in Beijing, China. The commission is emblematic for our events TV services, live-streaming interviews with thought leaders and filming and editing video highlights packages at cinema standard specifications.

Have you made any significant investments in your business this year?

This year BlackRook Media, for the first time in its 13-year history, committed to a sales force contract involving a permanent team of 10 international appointment setters and frontline deal makers on outreach.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025? Our strategy has pivoted to building relationships with industry associations globally, offering free film-making and editorial marketing strategies to client organisations in exchange for production partnership announcements and introductions to their membership.

What do you think Black Country businesses can look forward to in 2025?

Our company always staffs all of our jobs from within the Black Country wherever possible. We aim to shout that connection loudly in 2025, wherever we are making films.

How are you hoping to collaborate with other Black Country Chamber members and make the most of Chamber opportunities next year?

BlackRook Media can bring international production credentials to bear on regional business increasingly. We are New York TV and Film Festival nominated for our work. Our collaboration with BlackRook Academy across the West Midlands means we can bring those international production credentials to partner with the Academy’s social media expertise.

Alan Rook: Looking to enhance BlackRook’s global presence in 2025

Accountants MHA plan investment in staff well-being

National accountancy specialists MHA plans to build on recent growth through mergers and acquisitions by focusing on staff investment. Chris Barlow, partner and chief operating officer of the Midlands’ region of MHA – the UK member of Baker Tilly International – says the Birmingham-based Platinum member is looking to future success after taking on a record number of trainees in 2024.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

We have continued to grow our business through inherent growth and mergers and acquisition. 2024 saw us add offices in the North West, including Manchester, Liverpool and Preston, and in Ireland, with Dublin and Cork. We took on a record number of 214 trainees and were named as one of the top UK accountancy firms of 2024 for our tax advisory work.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

We will be looking to continue our strategic growth of existing offices and opening our doors for the next trainee intake.

How will you be investing in your team?

We will continue to look our team’s mental wellbeing through our ‘wellbeing Wednesdays’ which aim to get staff to leave their desks for a period to take a walk, do a jigsaw or some art.

Gin maker looking to link up with hospitality Chamber members

Black Lodge Potions will build on the success of its craft gins by working with more Chamber members in 2025, says director Tony Pitt. The Wolverhampton-based Bronze member supplies a pub chain and the University of Wolverhampton at the Halls, where its products are sold in the VIP bars.

What does your company do?

We produce five award-winning craft gins, unique flavours with outstanding branding.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

We launched a five bottle mini gift set and became suppliers to a large pub chain based in the East Midlands. We are also growing awareness in the Halls, Wolverhampton where we supply to the VIP bars there.

Lawrence Cleaning looking to generate growth

Platinum member Lawrence Cleaning is looking to build upon 41 years of heritage by generating sustainable growth in the next 12 months, says managing director Alex Lawrence.

Have you made any significant investments this year?

We invested in an employee assistance programme for all our 300+ staff this year. We saw the need to help people with mental health and personal wellbeing. This is for all our team and their families.

We have also started to overhaul some of our older, heavier scrubber dryers with new high tech I-mop machines, making the daily tasks easier and quicker.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

We are always looking to grow, but our priority is always on making sure it is sustainable. We have been here for 41 years and intend to be here in another 41. Sustainable growth keeps the company in a good position and provides the security for our team. Our growth plans will be in the region of 15 per cent through new client relationships but also expanding the services taken currently by existing clients.

How will you be investing in your team?

We have had one of our dedicated team retire recently and another will do in the next few months, so we will be recruiting a few new faces to replace them. We are also looking to expand our management team to bring in a dedicated operations manager to benefit our

contracts managers and cleaning teams as well as allow us to continue to provide a top level service to our clients as we grow.

What do you think Black Country businesses can look forward to in 2025?

Hopefully, increased stability. The last couple of years there has been quite a bit of Government disruption to say the least, as well as energy hikes and other big jumps in costs. It felt like we were not sure which way we would be going, and it made tough to make decisions on direction and investments.

Stability seems to be returning and we feel we can look to make decisions for the longer term and get moving on them.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

We are hoping to expand into our own industrial unit, which would give us freedom to produce smaller batches of product. We also have plans to start producing rum.

What do you think the top trends in your sector will be next year?

We expect a slight drop in the gin trend and an increase in rum and vodka.

How are you hoping to collaborate with other Black Country Chamber members and make the most of Chamber opportunities next year? We would like to engage with any Chamber members in the hospitality sector, and supply our products to more local venues. We would also like to use Chamber members’ services to help us grow.

Automation strategy for ASSA Abloy

Patron ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UKI is focusing on automation among its plans for 2025, says Jeanette McFarland, director and chief operating officer.

Have you made any significant investments in your business this year?

We have created a centre for manufacturing excellence while fulfilling our commitment to science-based targets, as well as continuing to invest in our head office. One of our buildings was rebuilt with sustainability at its core, with all lighting and electrical equipment being powered by solar panels, and improvements in efficiency.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

By further investment in our smart factory automation projects to support both future growth and cost efficiency.

How will you be investing in your team?

We are committed to the development journeys of our colleagues and this year have invested in 20 apprentices, bringing local talent in and supporting through our apprenticeship pathways. We have also created a purpose-built training area The Hub.

What do you think the top trends in your sector will be next year?

An increased adoption of SMART technologies with a focus on increased productivity, equipment utilisation and carbon footprint reduction.

MoRServ is ready with support for local businesses

Platinum-member MoRServ

Ltd is a trusted business transformation partner, operating across the UK and internationally. Director Chris Dowen is looking forward to building on its progress in 2025.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

We have continued to grow our specialist risk profiling and management consultancy service while adding two new areas: safe space consultancy services and software solutions for public and private sector organisations, and bespoke business diagnostic and risk response services for Chamber members.

Have you made any significant investments?

We have invested in our AURa software, a risk software solution that is highly intuitive and allows clients to blend their existing risk models with our AURa software framework. The result is a bespoke software solution that improves risk practices and saves time and money.

How are you hoping to collaborate with other Black Country Chamber members next year? We will deliver a series of workshops, webinars and updates for members, to help them better prepare for Martyn’s Law (Protect Duty) legislation, which is being introduced as a result of the Manchester Arena terror attack in 2017. These will provide practical help and advice and will form part of a wider range of services that we will offer to members.

In-Comm Training eyes further growth

Patron member In-Comm Training is looking to build its links with local employers as more companies look to invest in training in 2025. Managing director Gareth Jones says the training specialist is looking to “deliver our business strategy of operational excellence”.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

It’s been another year of growth, driven mainly by our commitment to ensuring our courses and apprentices meet the demand of the near-500 employers we now support. 160 new engineering apprentices have been onboarded across our two technical academies in Aldridge and Telford, while the latter has also just unveiled a new automation cell that will deliver an advanced skills boost.

Have you made any significant investments?

The automation cell was a £200,000 investment backed by the Local Skills Improvement Frame-

work and the Marches Education Partnership. Working with Bauromat, we have developed a six-axis ABB industrial robot and bespoke conveyor system, recreating a real-world manufacturing line to give learners access to a series of processes.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

By continuing to deliver our business strategy of operational excellence, to include investment in facilities, securing new funding opportunities and developing further apprenticeship standards.

How are you hoping to collaborate with other Black Country Chamber members in 2025?

The marketing opportunities are fantastic and have definitely led to a lot of new business. There is also a real sense of community among members, and, in essence, it feels like we’ve got lots of additional salespeople out there selling the virtues of what we do. More of the same please!

Vantage 365 adds to its software specialism

Brierley Hill-based Platinum business Vantage 365 is an emerging group of companies that focus and specialise on Microsoft cloud technology. CEO Matt Weston looks back on the progress in 2024 and shares plans for 2025.

What were the key achievements in 2024?

We are now a team of 15 dedicated professionals, which has strengthened our ability to deliver exceptional services. We also launched our training service, aimed at bringing the best Microsoft training to businesses everywhere. This launch aligns perfectly with our mission: helping organisations exploit Microsoft technology for maximum value. We have also welcomed fantastic new

clients, including a significant partnership with Johnson & Johnson in New Jersey.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

We are set to grow on multiple fronts. First, by adding at least five new members, this time through the Vantage 365 Academy. This initiative will enable us to bring in apprentices.

What are some of the challenges you expect to face in 2025?

Economic pressure, which will likely generate caution and hesitancy, and a skills shortage in the Microsoft specialist space. By developing talent internally through our Academy, we can ensure we have the skilled professionals needed.

People specialist Fox HR helping small businesses develop staff

Fox HR Services Limited is ready to share best practice with Chamber colleagues as businesses adjust to changes in employment rights. Laura Fox, managing director of the Wolverhampton-based Bronze member, expects to see a stronger focus on people-centric growth, with businesses investing in employee development as a key to scaling.

What does your company do?

We specialise in HR support for growth-focused businesses, helping them stay compliant while building strong, productive teams. From handling employee relations to shaping people development strategies, we ensure businesses are set up to grow confidently and sustainably.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

We grew our team to support even more clients with everything from TUPE transfers to complex employee relations .

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

We will focus on building long-term partnerships with more businesses, adding value through tailored HR support that develops and empowers people. We are also aiming to strengthen our team further.

What will be the top trends in your sector next year?

We expect to see a stronger focus on people-centric growth, with businesses investing in employee development as a key to scaling effectively. Compliance will definitely stay front and centre though, with Labour’s proposed changes to employment rights pushing businesses to prioritise fair pay, family-friendly policies, and day-one rights.

How are you hoping to collaborate with Chamber members? Through networking events, sharing best practices, and exploring ways to support each other’s growth.

More growth please, says Juniper

Independent training provider Juniper continues to expand into new areas, with a new training centre in Leeds in the pipeline. Lesley Holland, CEO, explains how it is ready to support businesses to give more training and employment opportunities.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

Our biggest achievement was to recover to pre-pandemic numbers. We have increased the number of students we support by around 40 per cent and our achievement rates have recovered to meet Government targets. We have expanded our SEN programmes in line with local demand.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

Although not at the same rate as 2024, we are looking forward to continued growth in 2025. We are in the process of opening a new training centre

in Leeds, and plan to expand our construction training to include commercial courses to meet the needs of local employers. We also aim to expand support for young people with educational needs.

What challenges do you expect to face in 2025? We expect to see continuing demand for our 16-19 programmes. Our problem is likely to be saying no to some of the young people who come forward, as there may be insufficient funding to accommodate them all. We very rarely say no!

What do you think Black Country businesses can look forward to in 2025?

There is some uncertainty around the new Government but I think the Black Country has much to look forward to. The economy continues to improve, and infrastructure development plans sound very positive.

New office boost for Azets’ services

Leading national accounting firm Azets is building upon its investment in new offices in Wolverhampton city centre. Office managing partner Lee Meredith explains how the business is looking to recruit, retain and attract talent while growing its services for Black Country businesses.

Have you made any significant investments in your business this year?

Our new Wolverhampton city centre offices gives us the environment to recruit, retain and attract talented people to Azets, allowing us to continue to service our local Black Country clients. This new office represents a large investment.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

The new office has a multi-service line, with a local team ready to provide a ‘one-stop shop’ for

clients. As a Top 10 UK firm, we can offer a depth of service, calling on the right professionals as and when you need them.

This allows us to grow with you, as your business scales.

How will you be investing in your team?

We place great emphasis on the importance of regular training and development, staff benefits and also investing in new office space, to give our people the best working conditions we can offer.

How are you hoping to collaborate with other Black Country Chamber members?

We are keen to show our commitment to the Black Country region and work closely with the Chamber and its members.

We share in networking events, partner together on technical tax seminars and have sponsored the annual Black Country Chamber awards for the previous three years. We want to work closely with our fellow business community and play a big part in realising the growth ambitions of our region.

Community lender BCRS Business Loans expands with fund launches

Wolverhampton-based Platinum member BCRS Business Loans expanded into Wales as part of its progress during 2024.

Chief Executive Stephen Deakin explains how the community development finance institution is planning to grow in 2025 by investing in new technology on the back of a positive year.

What does your company do?

Established in 2002, BCRS Business Loans is committed to lending to viable businesses making a positive contribution to the social, environmental or economic wellbeing of the West Midlands and Wales that have been unable to secure funding through mainstream lenders.

What have been your company’s key achievements in 2024?

BCRS Business Loans expanded into Wales in 2024, becoming the fund manager for the smaller loans pot of the Investment Fund for Wales. We also were appointed as fund manager for the smaller loans pot of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II for the West Midlands, following on from our successful delivery of the first Midlands Engine Investment Fund. Through the Community Investment Enterprise Facility, we also secured funding from Better Society Capital along with Lloyds Bank, the first major banking group to finance loans for delivery through socially motivated Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs).

Have you made any significant investments in your business this year?

BCRS Business Loans has started an investment journey in to new technology to ensure we streamline our processes, maximise staff productivity, create operational resilience, boost business agility and most importantly transform the customer experience.

How will you be looking to grow in 2025?

In 2025, BCRS Business Loans will continue to invest in new technology as well as undertaking a brand refresh and developing a new website. This will allow us to reach as many small and medium-sized businesses directly and improve the end-to-end customer journey through our different physical, digital and communications touchpoints.

Chamber support helps start-ups head to the next level

The Chamber is helping new businesses in two Black Country boroughs through partnerships with Walsall Council and City of Wolverhampton Council.

To date, 131 entrepreneurs have received support from the first four cohorts for Wolverhampton, with 68 fledgling companies supported in Walsall’s three groups, with a fourth planned to start in January.

Extensive training and support is offered through the Start-Up programmes, led by Alison Trinder, the Chamber’s Start-Up Club business account manager and membership relationship manager.

Alison said: “As we look back on the delivery of the two programmes during 2024, we can take pride with our partners on the work we have done to assist entrepreneurs in establishing their

businesses, guiding them through the growing pains of starting up. With expert advice and support, we have given them the tools to not only survive but to thrive, creating job opportunities as they grow.”

Since its launch in 2018, the Start-Up Club has given platforms and opportunities for start-up company owners to develop new skills, benefitting the Black Country economy.

The three-stage programmes for Walsall and Wolverhampton began with an introductory

session on the opportunities and challenges of launching a business, before entrepreneurs undergo an intensive two-day course focusing on business planning, finances, bookkeeping, sales and marketing, branding and social media platforms.

Business owners then get a one-to-one review of their business plan, identifying needs for support.

The Start-Up Business Club team and its partners offer a supportive environment and valuable introductions including access to a dedicated business relationship manager.

Prosper spoke to three of the businesses from the Wolverhampton programme to find out how the start-up support had helped their businesses in their early stages, and had prepared them for future growth.

‘It gave me the confidence to physically go and do it’

Stacie Ryan, Helix Education Hub Ltd

Services: Offering bespoke education support, alternative provisions and training to Wolverhampton and the wider areas

Why did you join the programme?

Previously I was a head of school at a specialist school until 2021. I was experienced in running a school but had never started my own business.

What was the impact on you and your business?

After attending the Start-Up course I incorporated the business in June and started trading on September 1. The impact was extremely positive; I gained more knowledge and understanding on how to use my business plan as well as the planning and preparation in relation to marketing and linking all of that into the financial forecast.

What learning did you take away?

The programme gave me the confidence to physically go and do it. The programme was really helpful in understanding all the things that I’ve previously had the team around me do, but I am now doing myself.

How was this applied to your business?

The programme has given me focus and the chance to stop and reflect, as well as think about how things are going to grow. Our business plan has become a working document which I have utilised.

What would you have done without the programme?

I probably would not be trading because I would not have had the confidence. The programme offers free support, which made for an easy decision to join because there were no cost implications. I have support from people like Alison Trinder on tap; she’s been great.

How has your business developed since the training?

I now have five staff, including myself. We have a contract with Wolverhampton Council which came into play at the start of September. I have been successful in passing the council’s framework application and we are now in their Alternative Provision Directory. We have several contracts with schools within the city and they have placed their children with us. We have also signed a lease agreement for a new premises, and have moved in.

‘I had a vision but it was more of a hobby... I now feel like a boss’

Victoria Robinson, Contored Cosmetics UK

Services: Aesthetic and beauty treatments, plus training services for practitioners

Why did you join the programme?

I realised I did not know how to run a business. I had a vision and knew the kind of clientele I wanted to work with but it was more like a hobby. I was getting a few clients but I was not really making any money.

I had a name and was trading but slowly. I did not know which direction to go in. Joining the programme has meant I have progressed really quickly.

What was the impact on you and your business?

I feel like a boss. I am confident in the direction I want to go in. I have monthly goals and five year goals. I know what is going on with my business. I know who my clientele is and I have got enquiries coming in.

What learning did you take away?

I understand about prioritising and business

planning, as well as knowing the customer audience. I realised I had a service side of the business and could grow the education side of the business.

How was this applied to your business?

I had always dreamed of working with businesses in the USA. I sent out messages to 140 US clinics I found on Instagram, offering to go over and train them.

One replied, an eyelash technician from Hawaii. We did an exchange. She let me train her and she let me use her space for clients.

What would you have done without the programme?

I might still be drowning. I no longer have the same doubts and am not selling myself short.

What are your future goals?

I am very interested in helping young people by giving business talks to encourage them to transition into business. There are lots of 15-16 year olds who may not fit into school but could go into running their own beauty businesses if someone encourages them.

‘I’ve improved my budgeting and got to grips with my branding, making my offering clearer’

Winston Lindsay, ARK Training & Social Care Consultancy

Services: Training and social care services, including independent social work intervention and connecting people with appropriate local services for their needs.

Why did you join the programme?

My background was in social work. I wanted support when I started my business.

Lots of day centres closed down during Covid and I wanted to provide a business which filled the gaps. I needed professional guidance and support to see how I was doing and how to move the business forward.

The programme helped me to focus on the outcomes of what I was doing.

What learning did you take away?

I have looked at my branding and messaging to make my offering clearer. I am designing a book on mental health for older people.

How was this applied to your business?

I have been improving my budgeting skills, as well as improving the structure of my business and what it needs to be. I registered as a limited company this year because I wanted the legal structure.

What would you have done without the programme?

If I had not done the programme I would be trying to pick up too much work. I was trying to do too much for too many people and might have gone off the rails. I am happy to now have partnerships and feel I belong, which is part of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

How has your business/idea developed since the training?

I launched Wolverhampton Wellbeing Hub CIC as my second business in July. I want to do more workshops through ARK Training. I want to see it build its profile and make more money from it.

• To find out about the Chamber’s start-up provision, contact Alison Trinder via email alisontrinder@blackcountrychamber.co.uk

Working for you, to build a better Black Country

THE JULY GENERAL ELECTION saw new faces join the ranks of the MPs representing the Black Country and surrounding regions. Sir Keir Starmer’s landslide victory has meant the balance of power has changed dramatically, in addition to Richard Parker becoming Labour Mayor for the West Midlands.

Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “I would like to congratulate all the MPs who have taken up their seats across the Black Country, and look forward to working with them on common goals around improving the region’s economy. It will continue to be the Chamber’s priority to promote engagement between our members and local elected representatives, to ensure they hear your concerns about local and national issues so that jobs, skills, trade and investment are prioritised.

“As always, our aim is to support, promote and expand Black Country businesses at every opportunity so we look forward to future partnerships with the MPs who make a difference at a national level.”

WE ASKED THE MPS TWO QUESTIONS:

Q1: How will you work with businesses so we can grow the economy and help big and small firms across the Black Country to thrive?;

and Q2: How do we ensure the Black Country is an attractive region for investment?

“A

priority for me is developing good relationships with businesses across the Black Country...”

Alex Ballinger

Labour, Halesowen

Q1: A big priority for me is developing good relationships with businesses across the Black Country. It was great to join the Chamber at a breakfast event earlier this year and I’ve been delighted to meet many local businesses.

On the back of these conversations I’ve lobbied Dudley Council to reverse their parking charges, stood up for our steel industry in Parliament and am backing plans to reform business rates to better support SMEs.

Q2: To make the Black Country a great place to invest, we need to ensure the environment works for business, as well as ensuring it’s a great place for people to live, work and bring up a family.

My focus is on skills and connectivity, working with education providers to ensure vocational training reflects the needs of modern employers and improving transport connections through our region.

I’m also focused on improving our NHS, local services and housing, so that people will want to live, work and start a business in our region.

n Contact Alex at alex.ballinger.mp@parliament.uk

“I

will always stand up for our region’s firms, and for more good jobs on decent wages for local

people. ..”

Antonia Bance

Labour, Tipton and Wednesbury

Q1: We were elected to fix the economy and that’s what we will do, by ending instability, making growth our national mission. As a local MP and a member of the Business and Trade select committee, I will always stand up for our region’s firms, and for more good jobs on decent wages for local people. I will advocate in particular for manufacturing and construction, as well as for investment in great Black Country businesses and innovators.

Q2: The Black Country has an industrial heritage to be proud of, but its adult skills levels are low – so we need a skills strategy that helps workers get both basic skills and the level 4 qualifications employers need. We need power and responsibility devolved to the West Midlands Mayor and combined authority, so that decisions are taken in our region and in our interests.

n Contact Antonia at antonia.bance.mp@parliament.uk

“The Black Country is ideally situated, but we need to work with the Mayor to ensure our rail, road and air transport links are the best that they can be”

Sarah Coombes

Labour, West Bromwich

Q1: The Black Country was the engine room of Britain, and we are incredibly proud of our industrial and manufacturing history. I’d like to visit as many local businesses as possible to hear about your needs, from skills and investment, to what you want to see from the tax and welfare system. I will feed in your thoughts and concerns to the new government, which is totally focused on achieving growth.

Q2: The Black Country is ideally situated to attract inward investment, with transport links to much of the country, but we need to work with the Mayor to ensure our rail, road and air transport links are the best that they can be. We need creative solutions to make our former industrial land suitable for development, but by working together, I am confident it is possible. We also have a young workforce here, and with the right skills focus, there is real opportunity for growth.

n Contact Sarah at sarah.coombes.mp@parliament.uk

Meet your MP ... and make your views known

The Chamber will be arranging a series of ‘Meet your MP’ events with as many local MPs as possible in the new year.

This is an excellent opportunity for members to pose any questions or concerns they have to their local representative. These in-person panel-style sessions allow constituents to discuss issues such as trade, transport, skills and regeneration and ensure that their views are heard. Specific questions can be submitted in advance before each meeting.

For details of the next Meet your MP event for your constituency, please visit www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/events or email policy@blackcountrychamber.co.uk

“We

are already seeing progress on making sure that the Black Country is an attractive region for investment...”

Sureena Brackenridge

Labour, Wolverhampton North East

Q1: Working with business is an absolutely essential part of my role as MP, whether that be the enormous multinational automative companies within the constituency, or the local fish and chip shop. I am committed to regularly visiting local firms, both large and small, to understand their needs first-hand.

Crucial to the success of the Black Country, Wolverhampton and Walsall is getting the skills agenda right and retaining high skilled workers in our region. I want to work with business to make sure our schools and colleges are creating the right skills, not just for now, but for the future.

Q2: I think we are already seeing progress on making sure that the Black Country is an attractive region for investment. Just look at the huge companies which have set up here, and

how Wolverhampton is supporting the next generation of start-ups.

Getting that ecosystem, all the way from school, to start up, to growth is absolutely vital. I think we need to really demonstrate that we have all the ingredients to be an economic superpower right at the heart of our railway system and our motorway system. The Chamber does a fantastic job of representing our businesses, but we need to shout about them nationally and internationally too.

I’ve been following with great interest the development of a new City Centre Learning Quarter and Advanced Manufacturing Centre in Bilston, and the ambitions of the University. We have so much to offer.”

n Contact Sureena at sureena.brackenridge.mp@parliament.uk

“Having a small business background, I believe there are three things I can do to help local firms : be accessible, be informed and be active...”

Gurinder Singh Josan CBE Labour, Smethwick

Q1: Having a small business background myself, and previously only ever being self-employed, I believe there are three things I can do : be accessible, be informed and be active. I will be available to businesses of all sizes; stay informed on the challenges and opportunities businesses face; and be active when speaking up for them.

Be Accessible: I will be available to businesses both in person and through the various communication channels used by my office.

Be Informed: The business community is extremely diverse and understanding the challenges and opportunities across different sectors, geographically and in different firms is fundamental to being an agent of change and assistance.

Be Active: I see my role to be a leader for our region, to speak for and troubleshoot for businesses.

Q2: While the Black Country is an attractive region for investment there is more we can do.

partners, including the Mayor,

We should ensure all partners, including the Mayor, Combined Authority, local authorities and others work together with businesses, so government and investors receive a seamless approach.

We must support existing Black Country businesses of all sizes to take advantage of opportunities; they already have a stake and often have generated wealth for local communities over many years.

We need to understand the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities.

n Contact Gurinder at gurinder.josan.mp@parliament.uk

Cat Eccles

Labour, Stourbridge

Q1: Stourbridge is home to numerous wonderful independent businesses of all sizes, and it is vital to ensure they can survive and flourish. I was recently at the launch of the Stourbridge Business Improvement District (BID), which I sat on the Steering Committee for from its inception 18 months ago. Over 300 BIDs exist in the UK already, and they have been shown to help their towns thrive. Stourbridge should and now will be a part of that.

Q2: My own priority is to raise the national profile of Stourbridge, and the Black Country more widely, with specific reference to its arts and heritage. Given the history of the region as the centre of some of the greatest industrial developments, and the world-beating manufacturing of glass in Stourbridge, I will ensure that these are known throughout the country.

n Contact Cat at cat.eccles.mp@parliament.uk

Warinder Juss Labour, Wolverhampton West

Q1: I am very keen to regularly engage with business leaders and owners to find out more about what they need to support innovation and growth. We have some amazing businesses in my constituency and I want to help them to continue to succeed and drive economic growth. I am also keen to hear from new businesses as they start their journeys to see how I can assist.

Q2: Planning reform will unlock the right development sites. The region has excellent transport links, and the government, and by working with the West Midlands Mayor and local councils, together we can further develop our infrastructure and unleash the region’s potential.

I am proud that my constituency is the home of the University of Wolverhampton and our ambitious new city learning quarter. By investing in our people and providing the opportunity for them to develop their skills, we will ensure that investors know they have a workforce that is fit for the future.

n Contact Warinder at warinder.juss.mp@parliament.uk

Working for you, to build a better Black Country

WE ASKED THE MPS TWO QUESTIONS:

Q1: How will you work with businesses so we can grow the economy and help big and small firms across the Black Country to thrive?; and Q2: How do we ensure the Black Country is an attractive region for investment?

“We need to remove barriers to growth from SMEs”

Sonia Kumar Labour, Dudley

Q1: I grew up in a family-run business, serving customers and balancing the books. SMEs are the backbone of our economy; I will champion small business owners and advocate for SMEs. I want to attract investment to promote economic growth in the Black Country.

As the MP of Dudley, I don’t believe in reinventing the wheel. So much fantastic business already exists within Dudley and creative solutions can be found when working together. I want to encourage best practices across the region through collaboration. My role is to share opportunities announced in Parliament, at round tables or in the constituency and to link businesses that can help each other,

strengthening our business network.

Q2: It is vital we build a strong workforce by preparing young people with skills, experience and education.

We need to ensure SMEs are fit for the future by removing barriers for growth and identifying job creation opportunities.

As a strong industrial town, a focus on developing the tourism, cultural, creative and technology sectors would broaden the scope of what Dudley, and the wider Black Country, has to offer.

n Contact Sonia at sonia.kumar.mp@parliament.uk

“I will ensure local businesses have a voice at the heart of Westminster”

Wendy Morton

Conservative, Aldridge-Brownhills

Q1: As an MP, I will always seek to ensure local businesses have a voice at the heart of Westminster and that your views and concerns are heard by the government of the day. The recent business breakfast I hosted in Aldridge provided such an opportunity for a broad discussion on the Budget, the need to develop skills for today and the future, and the importance of key sectors such as manufacturing and automotive across the Black Country and West Midlands. Transport and connectivity is also key to

Pat McFadden

Labour, Wolverhampton South East

this, to securing investment in our region, and to retaining and attracting talent and knowledge. This is why I am pushing for the delivery of Aldridge Train Station, and this remains one of my top priorities.

Q2: Developing and unlocking our potential is key for the future of the Black Country and the wider West Midlands region.

n Contact Wendy at wendy.morton.mp@parliament.uk

Pat McFadden has represented the Wolverhampton South East constituency since the 2005 General Election. He was appointed Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster by Keir Starmer. When in opposition, Mr McFadden had a number of roles including Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Shadow Minister (Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs) and Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury.

n Contact Pat at mcfaddenp@parliament.uk

Valerie Vaz

“Local people need the skills that investors want”

Mike Wood

Conservative, Kingswinford and South Staffordshire

Q1: There are many things that Black Country businesses need on their side in order to succeed, but there are five factors that are particularly important – access to finance; access to a workforce with the right skills; access to customers; opportunities to grow and invest; fewer barriers imposed by government.

Since first being elected as an MP in 2015, I’ve worked with local businesses to listen to what they need and argue for this support on their behalf.

My new constituency straddles the Black Country and South Staffordshire, and I will continue to work with businesses across the constituency and advocate on their behalf.

Q2: We have some incredible businesses here in the Black Country, and a proud heritage of leading the way in various sectors.

We need to make sure we shout about those successes and build on them where we can by ensuring local people have the skills that investors want to see when investing. We also need to make sure that the voice of business is heard at all levels of government so that policy supports business and encourages investment rather than holds it back.

n Contact Mike at mike.wood.mp@parliament.uk

Labour, Walsall and Bloxwich

Valerie Vaz was elected to represent Labour in the newly formed constituency of Walsall and Bloxwich in July. She had been MP for Walsall South from the May 2010 General Election until the local constituencies were redrawn this year. She was Shadow Leader of the House of Commons from 2016-2021.

n Contact Valerie at valerie.vaz.mp@parliament.uk

Putting our best foot forward in support of YMCA Black Country

As the Black Country Chamber of Commerce’s charity of the year, YMCA Black Country Group has been given a fantastic platform to raise both brand awareness and vital funds for our work supporting young people across the region.

This partnership has connected us with Chamber members who are passionate about giving back and creating a brighter future for the Black Country’s youth. In addition to the Chamber team’s efforts, like the Step into September Challenge – a month-long event that saw them collectively walking and running hundreds of miles – another Chamber member, PayCare, has shown its support by raising funds for YMCA through their 150th Anniversary event.

Looking ahead, the Chamber’s CEO, Sarah Moorhouse, will be joining YMCA for the National Three Peaks Challenge in May 2025, further demonstrating the commitment of our business community.

These fundraising efforts have been crucial in raising awareness of YMCA’s mission among Black

Country businesses, and now we’re building on this momentum with our newest campaign: the 180 Degree Fund, which has been launched to mark 180 years since the YMCA’s founding in 1844.

Through this initiative, we’re inviting 180 local

businesses, including members of the Chamber, to each make a donation of £180. This collective effort will help us reach a target of £32,000, which will go directly towards expanding youth services across the Black Country.

One night can make a lifetime of difference

YMCA Black Country is encouraging members to get involved in its annual SLEEP EASY event.

Sleep Easy is a fundraising challenge event asking you to spend one night sleeping rough, all to raise vital funds to help tackle the root causes of youth homelessness. Participants receive two cardboard boxes to create your shelter for the night and although this is not a true reflection of how homeless people live, we hope to give an insight into how it feels to not have a safe place to call home.

A staple part of our fundraising since 2010, Sleep Easy has seen more than 7,000 people sleep rough to raise £2M+ for local YMCA services that help young people rebuild their lives. Each year we ask individuals, teams from local companies, groups of friends and students to sign up, join in and help raise awareness of what is a growing issue in the Black Country.

2025’s event will take place at the Merry Hill Centre on Friday 7th March, from 7pm – 7am the following morning.

To register your interest to take part please email Grace Maddocks grace.maddocks@ymcabc.org.uk

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“ The impact of a £180 donation is significant – it’s an investment in the future workforce of the Black Country. It will allow YMCA to provide safe, welcoming spaces where young people can simply be themselves and feel supported.

Apply now to be our Charity of the Year 2025-26

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The impact of a £180 donation is significant – it is an investment in the future workforce of the Black Country. After years of cuts to youth services, which have been reduced by 70 per cent, young people have fewer safe spaces and support networks than ever before. The funds raised through the 180 Degree Fund will allow YMCA to provide safe, welcoming spaces where young people can simply be themselves and feel supported. In these spaces, they will have the option to engage in activities that build resilience, learn practical skills, and develop confidence for their future.

With access to mentorship, career guidance, and mental health support, these programs help young people gain skills that prepare them for the workforce, ultimately benefiting local business and industry by nurturing a generation of skilled, motivated, and resilient individuals.

Steve Bavington, CEO of YMCA Black Country Group, expressed his excitement about the campaign: “Being the Chamber’s Charity of the Year has been an amazing opportunity. The support of the Chamber team, along with the generosity of members like PayCare, has been invaluable, and now we’re asking local businesses to join them in creating a lasting impact. A £180 donation is not just a contribution – it is a commitment to the future of our community.”

We encourage all Chamber members and local businesses to participate in this impactful campaign. By supporting the YMCA Black Country Group’s 180 Degree Fund, you’re helping to build a stronger future, not just for young people, but for the whole Black Country community.

For more information on how to get involved, visit our website or reach out directly. Together, let’s shape a legacy of opportunity and resilience for the next generation.

n If your business would like to donate to our 180 Fund you can do so at ymcabc.org.uk/180fund

Each year, the Black Country Chamber of Commerce supports a charity based within the region. The Chamber’s most recent fundraising efforts have supported a wide range of causes, with previous charities including Black Country Mental Health and YMCA Black Country.

But the Chamber’s partnership with charities goes beyond fundraising. In building connections with our members, stakeholders and audiences, the partnership aims to unlock further value for the charity by raising awareness of their cause and fundraising projects. Our overriding mission is to create a legacy beyond the 12 month partnership.

Organisations applying to be the Chamber’s Charity of the Year must:

n Be a stand-alone charity with their own UK registered charity number

n Be reaching beneficiaries within the Black Country region (Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell & Dudley)

n Never have been a Black Country Chamber of Commerce charity of the year previously n Be organisationally ready to embrace the benefits of this partnership

n Not be affiliated to any political party.

If you would like to apply to become the Chamber’s next Charity of the Year, applications are now open. Please visit www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/charity and click the link to complete the application form. You will be asked to provide a short overview of the purpose of your charity and why you think you should become the Chamber’s next Charity of the Year. You will also be asked to

include details of any fundraising events you have planned and how you plan to engage with the Chamber to make the partnership successful. The closing date is 31st January 2025 and successfully shortlisted charities will be invited to an interview with a panel of Chamber employees and board members. The Chamber’s new Charity of the Year will be announced in March, with the new partnership running 1st April 2025 until 31st March 2026.

We look forward to hearing from you. If you have any queries, please email website@blackcountrychamber.co.uk Good Luck!

Hydrogen future for the West Midlands

A Chamber member is playing a leading role in exploring whether hydrogen could be the fuel of the future in the West Midlands.

The Hydrogen Valley, a partnership between Cadent and National Gas, is an East-West corridor aiming to kickstart the hydrogen economy in the region. Low carbon hydrogen can play a significant role in supporting industry to decarbonise as we transition to Net Zero – particularly heavy industry, which is one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise.

The project brings together key stakeholders from a number of sectors to investigate the role of hydrogen in the future energy mix. Hydrogen can boost the local economy, create new jobs, and support existing jobs during the energy transition as we unlock the region’s green industrial revolution.

The Hydrogen Valley project is engaging with organisations across the Black Country to understand what decarbonisation challenges the industrial sector is facing and how the programme could support them. A feasibility study found that it could safeguard and create 34,000 jobs, reduce carbon emissions by 12.9 million tonnes and attract up to £28 billion in private investment.

To find out more visit hydrogenvalley.co.uk.

Precision visit by the Mayor

Mayor Richard Parker was the guest of honour as precision engineers A&M EDM commissioned a new CNC machining centre part-funded by a Government grant to accelerate growth in manufacturing SMEs.

The investment in the three-axis Hurco machining centre increases Gold member A&M’s capabilities to machine complex inconel parts for aerospace customers.

The grant was delivered by Sandwell Council and Business Growth West Midlands for the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Richard Parker was joined to welcome the new unit by Sandwell Council cabinet members Councillor Sukhbir Gill and Councillor Peter Hughes.

The machining centre was commissioned on National Manufacturing Day 2024, which is

organised by Make UK to celebrate all things manufacturing. Smethwick-based A&M hosted students from Sandwell Academy school to showcase manufacturing careers.

Students were given a tour and A&M’s apprentices explained how apprenticeships work, following A&M’s programme of using experienced mentors, learning for qualifications at Dudley College, while being paid and with the potential to earn well above the UK average wage.

Richard Parker said: “It’s great to see firms like A&M give young people a taste of what it’s like to work in the world of manufacturing.”

Cllr Sukhbir Gill said: “A&M’s investment is a great example of how, working in tandem with businesses, Sandwell Council is determined to drive growth and increase employment.”

Freeths supporting Horizon victims as new compensation scheme launches

JAMES HARTLEY, partner and national head of dispute resolution at national law firm and Chamber Patron Freeths, is the lawyer who, along with his team, won two landmark court cases on behalf of sub-postmasters wrongly prosecuted by the Post Office.

James and his team fought to take the case of the 555 sub-postmaster victims to the High Court after two other law firms had previously tried and failed. After a painstaking group litigation, judgments led to a Public Inquiry being set up in 2020, which was converted to a statutory inquiry in June 2021. The Inquiry is ongoing.

Scores of sub-postmasters have since had their convictions quashed by the Court of Appeal. In April 2021, 39 were exonerated in one judgment

which described the wrongful convictions as an ‘affront to justice’. In all around 20 sub-postmasters were jailed.

Freeths recently announced it is now to advise postmasters and other people who are among the hundreds whose criminal convictions are being overturned as a result of the flawed Horizon IT system.

The launch of the Horizon Convictions Redress Scheme (HCRS) will deliver benefit to those who have had to live with wrongful convictions for years and have not yet received compensation after the original High Court rulings secured by Freeths and Justice for Postmasters Alliance (JFSA).

Freeths are now urging people to come forward to find out if they are eligible under the new scheme. The firm can be contacted on OverTurnedConvictionTeam@freeths.co.uk.

The man who led the Horizon fight, Sir Alan Bates, with actor Toby Jones who played him in the ITV drama

Cllr Sukhbir Gill, Richard Parker and Cllr Peter Hughes with the new Hurco

Jacquie Carman and Alex Ballinger, MP for Halesowen

Mayor opens new campus

Mayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker has officially opened Trinity Point, the latest addition to Halesowen College’s estate. The innovative campus is equipped with cutting-edge media and digital tech. Richard Parker said: “This campus is a fantastic opportunity for young people in our region to gain valuable skills that will open doors to exciting careers.

“Alongside the college’s training, the WMCA-funded bootcamps in coding and cyber security will equip local learners, especially those looking for work, with the digital skills they need to thrive in growing industries. This will help create brighter futures for young people and communities.”

Design experts get creative in bid to boost education

A Black Country creative agency has stepped up its outreach work in education as it celebrates reaching its 30 year anniversary landmark.

Gold member Think Creative Studio, based in Stuart Works, Stourbridge, is providing more mentoring and work experience for young people to learn about the opportunities in commercial design and creative work.

As part of this drive the graphic design specialists will be industry mentors to A-level graphic design students at King Edward VI College, Stourbridge. Think Creative Studio will provide mentoring for Year 13 students through a series of workshops on the skills used in the creative sector at the company’s offices.

The team will also judge the college’s annual graphic design prize.

Students from local schools and colleges will be given work experience placements at the

company, which has provided more than 100 young people with opportunities since it was established in 1994.

Managing director and owner Simon Grigg said: “Since launching the business we have been delighted to engage with dozens of students annually to play our part in ensuring they develop new skills needed to progress and potentially shape their own careers in creative, marketing and design.”

Richard Mason, subject leader for graphics at King Edward VI College, said: “Our mission is to inspire the next generation to grow and achieve excellence, which support from companies like Think Creative Studio allows us to do.”

Operations director Fran Grigg said: “With our youngest team member aged 21, we are helping develop talent for the future, enabling creative career development in the West Midlands.”

College takes lead at multi-cultural skills alliance

City of Wolverhampton College has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusivity by becoming patron of a national organisation which provides pathways to apprenticeships for people from under-represented groups across the region.

The Gold Chamber member has partnered with the Multicultural Apprenticeship & Skills Alliance to promote apprenticeships and encourage people from all cultural backgrounds to embrace the learning, career opportunities and future earning potential that the training scheme provides. Through the patronage, the college will gain access to organisations which work with young people and will promote apprenticeships on offer in a wide range of industry sectors and apprenticeship vacancies with local and regional employers.

The partnership will also facilitate links with businesses that can benefit from the college’s free apprenticeship recruitment service which will discuss staffing needs and advertise vacancies, screen applicants and shortlist candidates on the company’s behalf.

Sandwell College unveils new leadership team

The Sandwell Colleges, which include Sandwell College, Cadbury Sixth Form College, Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form and Tomorrow’s People, have appointed two new leaders to their executive team.

Lisa Capper MBE has taken up the role of CEO and principal, succeeding Graham Pennington, while Asa Gordon will become deputy principal for curriculum and skills.

Lisa brings a wealth of experience from her previous leadership roles in further education, the Department of Education and the Department for Business, as well as her most recent tenure as CEO and principal at Stoke on Trent College.

Lisa said: “I am delighted to have joined the Sandwell College group at such an exciting time for skills in the West Midlands.

“The college provides incredible opportunities for the young people and adult residents of Sandwell, surrounding towns and Birmingham to achieve their education and skills ambitions and advance their careers.

“I am excited to be working with the talented and dedicated teams across all campuses and to bring my skills and experience to build on their tremendous achievements.”

Asa Gordon joins the Sandwell team from his role as vice principal at Bradford College. He said: “I’m thrilled to be here and have already started meeting colleagues and learners.

“I’m excited to support our plans for continued success during such a pivotal time for the college and to make a positive impact on the local area and the wider city region.”

The appointments signify a strategic vision of the colleges aimed at enhancing the educational and skills opportunities for young people and adults in the area.

Their combined expertise is expected to drive forward initiatives with partners such as the Chambers of Commerce, West Midlands Combined Authority, Sandwell Council, schools and employers.

Chair of governors Alan Taylor welcomed the appointments as “great additions to our teams.” For more information on Sandwell College, please visit www.sandwell.ac.uk

Mayor Richard Parker with Halesowen College Principal and CEO

Donna Watkins (BGWM in Dudley) with John Cope and Adam Holmes (both Cope Technology)

Cope Technology’s electric with reshoring win

A LEADING MANUFACTURER of printed circuit board assemblies is enjoying the fruits of employee-ownership after it reshored a significant product range.

Cope Technology, which employs 40 people at its facility on the Pensnett Trading Estate, has successfully won back a contract that had left the UK for production in China after demonstrating world-class quality and speed of response that could not be matched in the Far East.

It is a significant victory for the 40-year-old firm, which supplies low and medium volume electrical assemblies for use in CCTV monitoring, traffic management, emergency vehicles, vending machines and automotive accessories.

The manufacturer was recently sold by the company founders to an employee ownership trust (EOT), giving staff the opportunity to gain a share and voice in its future direction.

This pivotal transformation has been supported by the Business Growth West Midlands in Dudley Programme (BGWM), who has provided the new management team with strategic planning advice and support in employee engagement.

“We have a very strong history and track record in providing world class contract electronic manufacturing,” said production director Adam Holmes, who has been with the company for more than two decades. “We are dedicated to building assemblies for our customers.”

Bookkeeper moves to new offices

Bronze member WM Bookkeeping is preparing to move to new offices in the latest phase of its growth journey.

Managing director Wendy Powis said: “Starting as a solo business in my spare bedroom during COVID, we soon moved to a converted garage for a home office.

“Now, we’re preparing for an even bigger step forward by beginning a lease in a prime Wolverhampton town centre location.

“What makes this move even more special is that it’s my former office space, where I once worked as an employed bookkeeper for Cotterell & Co accountancy firm.

“Fast forward to today, I’m now running my own bookkeeping company, employing staff and expanding.”

The move comes after the business recently launched a new venture, offering specialist advice to SMEs on business protection.

Wendy said: “Our new business aims to support other business owners in safeguarding their company’s future against unforeseen catastrophes.”

AWI toasts record-breaking transatlantic sales success

ONE OF the wire sector’s strongest transatlantic partnerships has sealed another record-breaking year in North America.

Alloy Wire International (AWI), which has manufacturing facilities in Brierley Hill, has sent over £3.5m of round, flat and profile wire to customers in this part of the world over the last twelve months.

The company has built a strategic relationship with Davidon Alloys, which has been showcasing its 62-strong range of exotic alloys to clients involved in oil and gas, automotive and space.

Demand appears to be growing as well, with tens of new clients looking to tap into AWI’s technical knowledge to meet complex applications.

Oliver Smith, sales executive at Alloy Wire International, said: “Our partnership works really well, as we share similar values of manufacturing quality, unrivalled delivery times and exceptional customer service. ”

Andrew Du Plessis (AWI), Michelle Nichols, Steve Gencarella and Joseph D’Addese (all Davidon Alloys), Oliver Smith (AWI)

Simple steps to strengthen your cybersecurity in the age of AI threats

WITH CYBER THREATS becoming increasingly sophisticated, businesses must take proactive measures to protect themselves.

From the rise of AI-generated phishing emails to voice cloning scams, it’s critical to strengthen your digital defences.

Here are three essential tips to reduce your vulnerability and enhance your security posture:

1. Minimise email dependency and watch for AI-driven phishing

Email remains the most exploited tool by cybercriminals, with the dangers now amplified by AI. AI-powered phishing emails are incredibly convincing, mimicking writing styles, branding, and even creating personalised a acks.

To reduce risk:

n Unsubscribe from junk mail to reduce your a ack surface.

n Avoid ticking unnecessary marketing boxes when signing up online.

n Use tools like Microso Teams for internal communication, keeping email strictly for external use.

Additionally, be cautious of AI-driven phone scams. Voice cloning technology can create highly believable impersonations of colleagues or clients, so always verify unexpected requests through alternative channels.

AI voice cloning has emerged as one of the most concerning advancements in cybercrime. This technology allows cybercriminals to replicate someone’s voice with alarming accuracy using just a few audio samples. Once a voice is cloned, scammers can use it in social engineering a acks, making fraudulent phone calls sound completely authentic.

For instance, cybercriminals may impersonate a CEO, manager, or family member to request urgent financial transfers, sensitive information, or access to secure systems.

Because the voice sounds genuine, victims are more likely to comply without questioning the request.

How to protect against AI voice cloning scams:

n Verify unusual requests: Always verify unexpected or high-risk requests received via phone, even if the voice sounds familiar. Use a second method of communication, such as an email or text, to confirm the identity of the caller.

n Implement callback procedures: For sensitive transactions, establish a policy that requires employees to call the person back using a known, verified phone number rather than relying on the incoming call.

n Educate your team: Train your employees to recognise the signs of voice phishing (vishing) and stay alert for unusual or urgent-sounding requests.

n Leverage Multi-Factor Verification: Avoid relying solely on voice authentication for sensitive access. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) or secure PIN codes to confirm identity.

n Secure Public Voice Data: Minimise the amount of voice data available online

by limiting audio recordings or speeches shared publicly.

AI voice cloning scams represent a new frontier in cybercrime, but proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk. Awareness, training, and secure processes are critical to staying protected.

2. Achieve Cyber Essentials certification

Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates your commitment to cybersecurity and digital resilience. It not only provides peace of mind but also builds trust with your clients. Achieving certification is a worthwhile investment, especially when compared to the cost and stress of recovering from a cyber-a ack. Our cyber security experts can guide you through the process and prepare your organisation for certification.

3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA is one of the simplest yet most e ective ways to bolster your defences. By requiring a second form of verification, you significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access.

n Use apps like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator. Set MFA on a work device rather than a personal one, ensuring accessibility in cases of absence or turnover.

With MFA, your critical accounts and systems are far be er protected from external threats.

By taking these simple yet impactful steps, you can reduce your organisation’s “a ack surface” while fortifying your defences. In today’s rapidly evolving threat landscape, prioritising cybersecurity is no longer optional – it’s essential.

If you’d like assistance implementing these measures or want to achieve Cyber Essentials certification, our cyber security team is here to help. Call us on 0121 368 0119 or visit www.ebcgroup.co.uk to secure your business today.

As a leading IT solutions company and an integrated Managed Service Provider, at EBC Group, we offer customised IT solutions to suit the needs of companies of all scales and sizes. Our team of technology experts offer a range of bespoke business IT solutions, including: IT & Telephony | Cyber security | Cloud Solutions | Managed IT Find out more at www.ebcgroup.co.uk, by calling 0121 368 0154 or email EBC Group at: hello@ebcgroup.co.uk

Acting royalty and celebrity chefs join forces to back hospice appeal

TWO of the region’s biggest names in acting, Adrian Lester and Dame Julie Walters, lead a list of names in support of an urgent campaign launched by Acorns Children’s Hospice.

The campaign, Children’s Care Matters, is calling on the Government to safeguard the Children’s Hospice Grant. This is a vital £2 million funding stream for Acorns and the charity says it needs it to continue providing its care to hundreds of local children.

Birmingham-born Lester and Dame Julie have joined a number of leading names, including multiple award-winning restaurateur Aktar Islam and TikTok star Poppy O’Toole aka Poppy Cooks, calling on the public to keep signing the petition.

Dame Julie said: “For families going through the most difficult times, the care and emotional support provided by nurses and staff at Acorns is crucial.

“All children’s hospices are under threat from the loss of the Children’s Hospice Grant, so I hope everyone signs the petition to help protect these wonderful places.”

The future of the grant, a central NHS England funding stream, is uncertain, meaning Acorns and many children’s hospices nationally may be forced to cut vital services for life limited children and their families.

Nationally the grant is worth £25 million, and it is distributed to children’s hospices across England. It makes up around 13% of Acorns’ income.

To raise awareness of the campaign, staff and volunteers from Acorns have been taking giant orange “HELP!” letters on tour around well-known West Midlands landmarks and asking the public to add their name to the petition.

Trevor Johnson, Acorns’ chief executive, said:

Far left, among the celebrities backing the call to protect the Children’s Hospice Grant is TikTok star Poppy O’Toole, aka Poppy Cooks.

Left, Acorns’ CEO Trevor Johnson with Talbots Law’s Dave Hodgetts, supporting Hannah’s Heart Appeal

Hannah’s Hearts Appeal, named after 17-year-old Hannah Debney, invited supporters to dedicate a white metal heart in memory of someone special and donate to Acorns’ vital care for seriously ill children.

Talbots Law, a full-service law firm with offices across the Midlands, says it was ‘proud’ to sponsor the appeal which will culminate with all the hearts forming a stunning public display.

“We are overwhelmed by the support we have received so far for this important campaign. “I appeal to everyone: keep signing and sharing our petition. Every voice counts and together we can ensure that Acorns and every organisation like ours can continue to offer vital care to those who need it most.”

Legal firm sponsors charity’s emotional hearts fundraiser

An emotional summer appeal from Acorns Children’s Hospice which saw hundreds of beautiful heart-shaped keepsakes go on public display was sponsored by Gold member legal firm Talbots Law.

Dave Hodgetts, chief executive of Talbots Law, said: “We’re proud to sponsor Hannah’s Hearts Appeal and support Acorns’ important work across our region. We have visited the charity’s hospices and seen for ourselves the impact of their care for children and families. So, when the opportunity arose to once again lend our support to Acorns, we said yes immediately.”

Christina White, head of public income at Acorns, said: “Hannah’s Hearts Appeal creates a lasting legacy for brave Hannah Debney, not only by transforming a symbol which meant so much to her and her family into a precious keepsake for all our supporters, but because each dedication and donation made will enable us to continue to offer vital care to children across the region.”

Top chefs serve up a recipe for success at charity dinner

An unforgettable evening of culinary excellence has raised a staggering £27,665 for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

Chefs for Charity saw two of Birmingham’s greatest culinary heroes join forces for an exclusive dining experience to raise the cash at an event hosted by University College Birmingham (UCB). In total 85 guests enjoyed the finest in dining from MasterChef: The Professionals 2021 winner and Acorns Ambassador Dan Lee, alongside Alex Claridge, renowned Head Chef of The Wilderness and star of The Great British Menu.

The event was organised by Acorns Ambassador Harriet Giles of Dishoom and long-time supporter of the charity Prof Paul Cadman and was held in collaboration with UCB. Prof Cadman said he was delighted to support such a wonderful cause, adding that all funds raised will go directly towards Acorns’ vital care for children across the region.

Top chefs Dan (far left) with Alex (far right), with members of the UCB’s in-house team

Cash flies in to Air Ambulance

Pallet-track pledges

£75,000 for air ambulance missions

Pallet-Track has pledged to raise £75,000 by the end of 2025 to fund a new critical care car for its nominated charity, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

The Gold Chamber member has already raised nearly 65 per cent of its target to put the charity’s critical care car on the road as quickly as possible.

Pallet-Track has committed to funding the new vehicle to support the charity’s nighttime operations and ensure 24-hour emergency coverage for those in need.

Pallet-Track’s fundraising activities have raised £48,142 for the charity to date and included its Annual Shareholder Gala, golf day, a hub-to-hub cycle ride, charity casino night, volunteer days and

shop donations, which were supported by its colleagues and pallet network members.

The charity was chosen following a companywide vote, as it operates within the region of Pallet-Track’s hub in Millfields Road.

Jon Cottrell, senior partnerships executive at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “PalletTrack’s outstanding fundraising activities have ensured our service can continue to reach and treat those in critical need.”

Stuart Godman, CEO of Pallet-Track, said: “We are very proud of the team and our network for going above and beyond with their fundraising efforts to get this new vehicle into the community as quickly as possible. It is a real achievement to have raised such a significant sum so quickly.

“It has been fantastic to see our team getting involved by volunteering with the charity and taking on challenges, and we look forward to smashing our fundraising goal by the end of 2025.”

Stig’s on hand to help Lord raise £20,000

Commercial heating and ventilation specialist Lord Combustion Services raised a stunning £20,000 at a charity ball to help Midlands Air Ambulance Charity save lives.

The Platinum member’s event will fund the charity’s blood delivery car for a further two years as well as the equivalent of six air ambulance missions and seven critical care car missions.

In total, 135 staff, suppliers, clients and business partners attended the event at the Grand Hotel in Birmingham. Ex-Formula 1 racing driver Perry McCarthy, the original Stig from Top Gear, spoke about his career in motor racing and his time on the popular BBC TV show.

Speeches were also delivered by Lord Combustion Services managing director Stuart Smith along with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s senior partnership executive Jon Cottrell and clinical operations manager Richard Apps.

Stuart Smith said: “Thanks to all our guests, we are thrilled with the amount raised and thoroughly enjoyed the event.”

Jon Cottrell said: “Midlands Air Ambulance relies entirely on the generosity of local people and businesses, so we really appreciate the support of Lord Combustion Services.”

Left, Jon Cottrell, Stuart Smith and ball host Perry McCarthy, the original Stig from Top Gear

Agency recognised for commitment to local community

A marketing agency is celebrating after being recognised for its outstanding contribution to the community at the South Staffordshire Council 50th Anniversary Awards.

Creative agency TPSquared, a Chamber Gold member and double 2024 award winner, was named as the council’s Business Community Contribution winner.

Held at Codsall Community Hub, the awards honoured businesses and individuals who have made a difference to the community while celebrating the successes of the last 50 years as a district council. TPSquared was recognised for its unrivalled contribution to the community.

The agency is committed to making a significant, positive contribution to the communities it serves by actively supporting local people and community groups.

In addition, the agency has raised more than £6,300 for charities close to the hearts of colleagues and donated £50,000 worth of reading books to community organisations working with young children.

Managing Director Carolyn Smith said: “We are extremely proud to have been recognised with this award. As a marketing agency we not only support good causes, but we want to inspire and support the next generation of creatives, too.”

Founded in 2019, TPSquared has grown to provide services for clients across the financial services, education, charity, manufacturing, construction and healthcare sectors.

In June, the marketeers were crowned Best Branding Agency at the Midlands Enterprise Awards 2024, hosted by SME News.

Proud to be based in the West Midlands, TPSquared is one of the founding members of the Creative Chain, a network of creative and digital agencies in the Black Country set up to increase collaboration and encourage organisations to keep their marketing and advertising spend local.

Marking their charitable partnership are Jon Cottrell, senior partnership executive at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, Stuart Godman, CEO of Pallet-Track and Simon Picken, clinical logistics manager at the charity

Carolyn Smith receives the award on behalf of TPSquared

Reserve association appoints new CEO

After nearly seven years as chief executive of the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (RFCA) Colonel Richard Maybery has handed over to Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d) Richard Hopkins.

Colonel (Ret’d) Maybery took on the role in 2017 after a 35-year career in the regular Army, and commented: “It’s been an enormous privilege to have been chief executive of the West Midland RFCA.

“Delivering support and advocating for our Reserves and Cadets is such a worthwhile thing to do, and perhaps never more important, for many reasons, than it is now.”

Lt Col Richard Hopkins brings a wealth of experience to the West Midland RFCA. He started his career in the Army Cadet Force before joining the Royal Marines at the age of 20 and went on to serve over a 23-year career.

Lt Col Hopkins commented: “I would like to thank Colonel Maybery for his dedication, care and considered leadership of the West Midland RFCA and on behalf of all of us at the RFCA and those who benefit from its work, wish him the very best for the future.”

Red letter day as university launches business network

A new network has been set up by the University of Wolverhampton’s research and enterprise directorate to support entrepreneurship, foster collaboration, and drive economic growth.

The new initiative aims to support organisations in connecting with each other to access resources and expertise.

Professor Prashant Pillai MBE, pro vice-chancellor for research and knowledge exchange, said: “There is a lot of growth happening at our university and one our main aims through our new Strategy 2035 is to be more ambitious, not only for our community, but for the region.”

Strategy 2035 is a new document in which the university has pledged to play a leading role in delivering a more inclusive, productive, and sustainable society.

Professor Pillai continued: “We have lots of plans ahead of us to support a variety of disciplines including the Green Innovation Corridor, the health and social care agenda through a new medical school and placing more focus on digital solutions.

“This new business link network will enable businesses to benefit from the breadth and depth of our research, whilst at the same time strengthening partnerships with each other to realise our collective ambitions for the region.”

Ceri Jones, director of research and enterprise at the university, stated that the aim of the new network is to position the University of Wolverhampton as “a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region and facilitator of business and innovation engagement and activity”.

He said: “Universities are well-known for being the factories of knowledge, and we hope that this creative, collaborative endeavour will really help

regional businesses to thrive.”

regional businesses to thrive.”

The launch event included keynote speakers from the Black Country Chamber of Commerce as well as Vodafone, and researchers from the university networked with a variety of local and regional businesses.

A panel discussion focused on the key challenges to businesses securing funding and upskilling. The event concluded with networking and afternoon tea.

By working with various organisations across a range of sectors, WLV Business Link will provide specialist advice, consulting, support, the development of workforce skills, and more.

ASSA ABLOY launches new guide to ‘golden thread’

With the ‘golden thread’ becoming increasingly vital to construction, Chamber Patron ASSA ABLOY has launched a new guide and CPD to help clarify its impact on all stakeholders in the build process and accelerate its adoption.

In construction, the golden thread is a digital record of a building’s information that is kept throughout its life cycle. Now The ‘golden thread’: A quick guide, explains what the concept means from early design stage through the construction phase and building management, detailing their responsibilities and compliance issues.

It is complemented by ASSA ABLOY’s new RIBA-approved CPD on the topic, which educates industry professionals on the issues in detail.

Peter Ashworth, director & head of specification

& OEM at ASSA ABLOY, comments: “The ‘golden thread’ is here to stay and only those who embrace it will prosper in construction in the future. The CPD along with the guide will help all those involved in new build construction understand their responsibilities so they can ensure compliance and safety as outlined in the new Building Safety Act.”

The guide highlights how all stakeholders in the build process have responsibilities with regard to the ‘golden thread’, which derives from Dame Judith Hackitt’s ‘Building a Safer Future’ report, written in the wake of the Grenfell fire.

These include ensuring plans, specifications and material choices are comprehensively documented and easily accessible.

Professor Pillai and Ceri Jones with the Chamber’s Sian Roberts at the network’s launch

Coinadrink’s a winner at the Family Business Awards

Platinum members Coinadrink took home the award for Best Digital Tech innovation at the Midlands Family Business Awards.

The Walsall-based firm also received a highly commended recognition in the family business of the year category.

Marketing team leader Alistair Ward and managing director Tom Williams attended on behalf of Coinadrink, and Alistair said: “We were thrilled to win this award, which recognised our commitment to innovation driven by strong family values.

“Our bespoke in-house software, from our route planning system to innovations such as the Express Refreshments Micro Market, has played a key role in this success.”

Tom Williams said: “The rigorous application process gave us a real opportunity to engage with the judges and explain how our business operates and why we deserved recognition.

“Our

team’s hard work, especially in driving technological innovation, has been crucial to our growth. These awards are a testament to their dedication and commitment.”

Recruiter double at annual awards

A Gold member recruitment specialist has walked away with two top industry awards for helping businesses access top talent.

Pertemps Managed Solutions, part of the Pertemps Network Group , won Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) of the Year at the Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) Awards, with director Abigail Farnham picking up the Outsource Leader of the Year accolade.

The APSCo Awards bring together key figures from the recruitment and staff outsourcing sectors to highlight innovative practices and outstanding achievements.

Council among forces award recipients

Businesses from the West Midlands and Staffordshire were among 37 employers from the region to be presented with their Ministry of Defence employer recognition scheme (ERS) silver awards at the National Memorial Arboretum. Now in their 10th year, the awards recognise employers that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community.

Walsall Council was recognised for helping reserves, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers, cadets, military spouses or partners, while the West Midlands recipients included Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Birmingham Youth Sports Academy, Jonathan Lee Recruitment Limited, MAC Surfacing Limited, Modality Partnership, PLT Training Limited, Rider Levett Bucknall UK Ltd and Workspace Technology Limited.

College rated by spa resort

Halesowen College has been awarded a Gold College of Excellence award by leading destination spa Ragdale Hall Spa in recognition of its outstanding practice and standards in beauty training.

The award certifies that college has high standards of training and consistently supports and communicates with Ragdale Hall Spa regarding events to enhance employment opportunities, helping students to excel in careers within the beauty industry.

Goldilock on NATO pathway

Wolverhampton-based Gold member Goldilock has been announced as one of 10 companies selected to join the second phase of the Defense Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA).

The innovators were part of 44 companies chosen in 2023 to join the first acceleration cohort of the newly formed DIANA, an organisation set up by NATO Allies to tackle the complex security challenges with disruptive dual-use technologies.

Judges praised Pertemps for its tailored solutions, client-centric approach and unwavering commitment to quality, adding that it “consistently delivered superior outcomes for its clients.”

Abigail was praised for her “strong moral compass and engaging leadership style”.

She said: “I am incredibly honoured to be recognised this way. These awards reflect the hard work and dedication of the entire team, especially during such a challenging period.”

Acorns elated over award

Staff and volunteers at the Acorns Children’s Hospice shop in Mere Green said they were ‘absolutely elated’ after the West Midlands public voted it their favourite charity shop. They hailed its friendly and dedicated staff and quality items, as well its cause – raising vital funds for seriously ill children.

Nicky Hales, manager for Acorns Mere Green, said: “I cannot tell you how proud the team feels. I work with a fantastic group of people and it’s their friendliness and dedication that has led to this amazing award.”

Juniper Training hits apprentices landmark

Patron member Juniper Training successfully placed more than 150 apprentices in September, across a wide range of sectors including education and training, professional services, construction, logistics, manufacturing, and recruitment.

This achievement highlights Juniper’s dedication to equipping young people and those looking to develop with the skills and opportunities needed to launch successful careers. The placements are the result of strong partnerships with more than 800 local employers who are committed to investing in apprenticeships to future-proof their businesses.

Sam Broomhall, director of business development at Juniper Training said: “We are incredibly proud to have placed more than 150 apprentices this September. Apprenticeships play a pivotal role in developing a skilled workforce, and we are grateful to the amazing employers who continue to invest in apprenticeships, seeing them as a key component of their future success.”

Universities put graduate careers in the fast lane

Birmingham City University (BCU), Aston University, University College Birmingham (UCB) and the University of Birmingham have launched a fully funded scheme to improve access to high-skilled employment opportunities in the city’s enterprise zone

The HLSM Plus (Higher Level Skills Match Plus) programme, funded by the Birmingham Enterprise Zone, will work with companies operating from strategic sites across the city to address the ever-increasing demand for higher level skills in the workforce.

The scheme, which is open to all past students regardless of graduation date, will follow on the success of the previous (HLSM) and Graduate Re-Tune (GR) programmes, which worked with local SMEs to place nearly 900 unemployed graduates.

Key partners include West Midlands Combined Authority, West Midlands Growth Company and Birmingham Metropolitan College.

In-Comm’s robotic partner is boost for engineering skills

A £200,000 state-of-the-art automation cell has been unveiled by Chamber patron In-Comm Training in a major boost to the Marches’ advanced engineering capability.

The training provider is developing a six-axis ABB industrial robot and bespoke conveyor system, recreating a real-world manufacturing line that gives learners access to component nesting and sensing, robotic operation, programmable logic controller and interfacing systems.

Funded through the Local Skills Improvement Framework and the Marches Education Partnership, the new facility at Telford Technical Academy was demonstrated for the first time to more than 45 industry leaders from Collins Aerospace, HS Marston, Magna Cosma Casting, Autoneum, CEL Sheet Metal and VA Technology.

It is anticipated that hundreds of learners will be trained on it every year.

Paul Hodgetts, business development manager at In-Comm Training, commented: “With the help of the Marches Education Partnership, we now have an unrivalled six-axis robotic automation line that you would only normally find in industryleading businesses.

“Thanks to existing partnerships with WMCA and Telford Council, we can offer funding for some of the courses but for a limited time only, so the

message is to act fast.

“It will soon be followed by a further £75,000 private investment from In-Comm Training that will create a dedicated fluid power training suite, which will strengthen our ability to deliver advanced competences around fluid power, hydraulics and pneumatics.”

Installation of the robotic and automation cell has been completed by Telford-based Bauromat, which has worked with In-Comm Training to ensure the line represents what learners will be working on now and in the future.

Pictured above at the unveiling are (from left) Paul Aston, Jane Pottinger (both In-Comm Training), Steffan Willetts and John D’Angelillo (both Bauromat) and Paul Hodgetts (In-Comm Training)

It’s all aboard CEDRIC for training

Halesowen College delivered digital skills training to more than 60 members of staff from the Emmiera Group on-board CEDRIC, its brand new digital training bus.

The training focused on the functional office applications of the MS Office 365 platform, equipping employees with enhanced technical capabilities to excel in their roles.

Halesowen College worked closely with Nathan Hadley of Prospect Coaches to source the coach and support its refurbishment and ensure CEDRIC became a great feature.

CEDRIC, was designed to support communities in enhancing their digital skills and to encourage employers to invest in the development of their workforce.

John Murray, director of operations & stakeholder engagement at Halesowen College, who led on this project said: “CEDRIC is a fantastic resource that will be beneficial to businesses and the wider community.

“It is great to see so many people already taking advantage of Halesowen College’s new resource.”

Pallet-Track is leading the way on cutting CO2 emissions

Pallet-Track has become a Carbon Certified Business, underlining its ongoing commitment to becoming carbon neutral.

The Wolverhampton-based pallet network is the first UK pallet network to accurately measure, monitor and reduce its Scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon emissions, based on the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol and requirements of ISO 14064-1:2018, with the aim of becoming carbon neutral verified by Natural Carbon Solutions (NCS).

Pallet-Track has partnered with carbon reduction specialists Eight Versa, a consultancy specialising in the quantification of environmental performance, to develop a roadmap to help it achieve its sustainability goals.

Eight Versa has enabled Pallet-Track to complete a carbon baseline exercise, calculating the company’s emissions for the calendar year 2023 at 6,449.3 tCO2e.

The 3.8 million pallet movements Pallet-Track completed in 2023 were analysed as part of its Scope 3 emissions, including all miles travelled to collect and deliver its freight.

The analysis highlighted a saving of 64 million miles thanks to the strategic locations of Pallet-Track’s regional hubs, which include a northern and southern hub, in addition to its

central hub in Wolverhampton.

Thomas Olsson, chief technical officer at Pallet Track, said: “We are proud to underline our commitment to the environment and to be actively measuring, and actively reducing, our carbon emissions.

“We see this as an opportunity to improve and future-proof our operations, while leading the way for the pallet sector. We are now developing a robust carbon reduction plan with ambitious annual targets to be implemented in 2025.”

Stuart Godman, CEO at Pallet-Track, said: “We have invested heavily in understanding the environmental impact of our business and how we can work towards reducing that impact over time.

“Our carbon reduction plan supports the work undertaken by many of our shareholder members, and we will continue to work together to support each other as Pallet-Track continues to lead the way towards sustainable carbon neutrality.”

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Stourbridge-based train operating company

Pre Metro is actively advancing a very light rail (VLR) solution which it says offers substantial cost savings compared to the rising expenses of the West Midland Metro extension.

Building on the success of their ‘Stourbridge Shuttle’ service, Pre Metro’s VLR proposal provides a more viable alternative for South Dudley.

Pre Metro says the proposal has garnered widespread support, with 87 per cent of locals expressing eagerness to use the service, and local leaders, including Stourbridge MP Cat Eccles and Councillor Jason Griffin, fully backing the initiative following discussions with the local train operating company.

Pre Metro, in collaboration with Oakham Research, surveyed businesses along the proposed route and found strong optimism for increased customer footfall, better employment opportunities, and economic growth.

Stuart Godman

College offers a skills programme to power regional economy to success

HALESOWEN COLLEGE has had a fantastic start to the 2024 academic year, with the calendar being punctuated with a series of highlights the college is proud to have achieved.

To welcome its new cohort, the Power Pack of Skills Programme was launched; a programme unique to the college that is incorporated into every post-16 learner’s study programme.

The Power Pack of Skills Programme is designed to support academic qualifications with a balanced and well-rounded education where key skills commanded by today’s industries are developed; digital, resilience and confidence, independent living, communicating, problem solving and time and workload management.

Noting the value that the programme brings to employers, Black Country Chamber has endorsed the programme. CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “Employees need to be equipped with the key skills needed in today’s workplace and for the jobs of the future. Halesowen College’s programme will hone learners’ abilities with techniques for challenges such as resilience, problem solving and workload management, all of which will be vital.”

Alongside this sits the 6 in 6 initiative; where learners engage with six different employers in the first six weeks of college, allowing them to get an insight into various industries and career paths.

Halesowen College’s programme will hone learners’ abilities with techniques for challenges such as resilience, problem solving and workload management, all of which will be vital...

The college, led by

executive and principal

has ambitions to upskill local area business and communities that will help in meeting the skills gap that is widely spoken about.

Another great innovation is CEDRIC the Digital Bus is the college’s latest addition that will assist this. Already a prominent feature within the community, CEDRIC brings digital training direct to your car park! Whether you’re a business or organisation looking to upskill your workforce or a community group wanting to support digitally disadvantaged service-users to enable them to move into employment, CEDRIC can work for you. Look out for CEDRIC over the coming weeks as the bus will be touring the local area.

If you would like to discuss how your business or community group can benefit from CEDRIC email marketing@halesowen.ac.uk.

To support businesses and help them achieve their objectives the college has a dedicated Employer Engagement Team in place, equipped to discuss the benefits of an apprentice offering or

Join us in the Bistro at B63

As the festive period approaches and 2024 draws to a close, Halesowen College remains ambitious and looking forward to 2025. Working with local businesses and organisations will remain key to the college achieving its ambition. Each month, the college hosts breakfast meetings in its Bistro at B63, bringing companies together for networking opportunities over a roll and a drink.

Dates for the New Year are:

8th January; 5th February; 5th March; 2nd April; 7th May; 4th June; 2nd July

If you would like to attend these events, you can book your place in advance by emailing: membership@blackcountrychamber.co.uk

Please note, these sessions are FREE but spaces are limited.

the extensive range of courses on offer for those looking to upskill their workforce.

Another key highlight for the college has been the unveiling of Trinity Point, the college’s latest development, formally opened by Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker. Housing outstanding facilities and equipment, Trinity Point will equip learners with the skills and knowledge they need to ensure confidence and success in the digital and media industries.

With a passion for improving the opportunities for young people across the region, the Mayor recognised the value Trinity Point would bring to young people, offering the chance to gain valuable skills that will open doors to exciting careers.

Halesown College delighted to back Chamber’s Business in Community award

As you’ll have read from page 18 of this issue of Prosper, this year’s Chamber Awards was another evening of celebration and acknowledgement of the great business and community groups and projects across the Black Country.

Halesowen College was the proud sponsor of the Business in the Community Award, with the Wolves Foundation taking the title. It was clear that the team were passionate in its work which demonstrated a breadth of projects across the Black Country, with a drive to tackle the effects of poverty in a wide variety of ways.

chief

Jacquie Carman,

Sarah Moorhouse

Alex Ballinger MP, Jacquie Carman and John Murray, director of operations and stakeholder engagement, with CEDRIC the Digital Bus

Andrew Woodford, standing next to Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse, was proud to present the Wolves Foundation with the Business in the Community Award

Let’s have a night on THIS town

Steven Knight’s personal invitation to join exclusive charity gala dinner celebrating his hit TV series ‘This Town’

AWARD-WINNING writer, creator and director

Steven Knight is personally inviting the public to an exclusive black-tie dinner celebrating his hit TV drama series This Town, to raise vital funds for a cause “close to his heart”.

Taking place on 28 February 2025 at the ICC Birmingham, the ‘Acorns This Town Gala Dinner’ will bring together fans of the show and supporters of the charity for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

Steven Knight, a patron of Acorns Children’s Hospice, is supporting the event alongside Kudos (part of Banijay UK) – the production company which made the series. All funds raised from the evening will go directly towards Acorns vital care for seriously ill children and their families across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire.

Mr Knight said: “The ‘This Town Gala Dinner’ will be the kind of evening that only our town can put on. It will be Birmingham and the West Midlands to its roots and all in the best possible cause.”

Martin Haines, managing director at Kudos, said: “Kudos are delighted to be supporting the ‘This Town Gala Dinner’ and for the opportunity to help such an important cause.”

The Acorns ‘This Town Gala Dinner’ is inspired by the hit series, which is set against the backdrop of the vibrant ska and two-tone music scenes and captures a pivotal moment in local history.

Guests can expect a journey through 1980s Birmingham, with entertainment, live music and a fine dining experience – all while helping local families caring for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions get the care and support they desperately need.

The evening will be hosted by award-winning comedian, actress, and writer Shazia Mirza, and will feature a guest appearance and bespoke performance from Birmingham Poet Laureate 2020-2022, Casey Bailey, as well as a special a

Shazia Mirza, who recently visited Acorns hospice in the Black Country to see first-hand how the funds raised from the event will support the charity’s care for local children and families, said: “Having been born and brought up in Birmingham, I love to see how the people of this great city come together and support hospices like Acorns which are dependent on large charitable donations from the public in order to sustain their services.

“I am honoured to be able to support Acorns and see the comfort and joy they can bring to children and their families. I look forward to helping and supporting these vital hospices, and see them grow in years to come.”

Trevor Johnson, chief executive at Acorns Children’s Hospice, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to Steven Knight and Kudos for their generous support of our very first black-tie gala dinner. We are also thrilled to have some of Birmingham’s greatest talents join us for the event, who will no doubt captivate, delight and inspire our guests.

The ‘This Town Gala Dinner’ will be the kind of evening that only our town can put on. It will be Birmingham and the West Midlands to its roots – and all in the best possible cause

Steven Knight

“Thanks to all of their dedication and invaluable support, we’re setting the bar high with what promises to be a truly special evening bringing community and culture together to support vital children’s hospice care that touches the lives of so many families in our region.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support for their families.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.

This care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

GET YOUR TICKETS

Tickets for the exclusive Acorns ‘This Town Gala Dinner’ are available now, starting at £165.

Secure your tickets by visiting www.acorns.org.uk/thistown

capella performance by R&B best seller Indigo Marshall.

Acorns’ patient Maebh is all smiles with Shazia

Over the next few pages we would like to introduce you to some of the most recent new members to Black Country Chamber. Welcome aboard, it’s good to be working with you!

It’s Super Digital to the rescue

Remember: superheroes don’t always wear capes…

In the case of digital media, the heroes you’re looking for to design and manage your next website or social media campaign could well come from a humble business unit in the grounds of Wolverhampton Halfpenny Green Airport.

That’s where Chris Derrer leads the team at Super Digital, a full service digital agency whose ‘super power’ is ensuring your website is in great shape and ready to make your business more visible online.

A new member to Black Country Chamber, Chris is looking to raise the company’s profile among members – with its amazing customer service its stand-out skill. “I like to think we have the tech skills covered, but then again, so do a lot of digital agencies. However, what we have at Super Digital is an attention to detail and a ‘help if you can’ attitude. To us, going the extra mile is the bare minimum; the ‘norm’ is going far beyond customer expectations to deliver a superb job, for a reasonable fee.”

Given that goal, perhaps it’s no surprise then

that many of Chris’s clients have been with him since he launched Super Digital from his home nine years ago. “It’s been great that we’ve kept so many of our original clients. What’s better is that they’ve grown with us: companies who, nine years ago, needed a simple 2-3 page website designing now trust us to manage multi-page sites with e-commerce capability. We’ve grown in tandem.”

The offer to clients is simple. “We can design, populate and host your website, design the branding, handle the SEO and run your social media and email marketing campaigns, as well as upload new content and ensure the sites have the latest plug-ins so it’s always up-to-date, secure and runs smoothly on everyone’s browsers.”

Super Digital is always looking to add new products and services to its portfolio and its latest innovation is Site Pilot, which it hopes will attract new clients, particularly SMEs and start-ups.

Chris explains: “We know that for start-ups, money is tight. Many simply cannot afford a big upfront investment in a website. What Site Pilot does is offer a great-looking high-quality website that has the latest SEO embedded into it, with

prices starting from just £49 a month + VAT. That would get you a simple 1-3 page site that’s ideal for businesses taking their first steps.

“As they grow we can expand the site to 10-15 pages so it’s more of a brochure site, for £99 + VAT a month. A full e-commerce shop starts from just £199 + VAT.”

The principal advantage is that the client gets “a really superior-looking product for a minimal monthly outlay,” says Chris. “We update the site for you, though we can give clients a log-in so they can upload new content if they are comfortable doing so. The sites are built on Wordpress using our custom templates, so our sites stand out; they may be affordable but they are not basic ones like some of the WIX and GoDaddy options you see advertised, where all the sites look the same.”

Super Digital is also looking for Site Pilot clients to be with them for the long haul. “With most websites, after four-five years they begin to look dated. Clients who stay with us for that period can have their sites redesigned and rebuilt every four years, included in the ongoing monthly cost.”

And while Super Digital wants you to stay, if you feel that as time goes on it would be better to host the site yourself, that’s no problem. “Companies sometimes grow to a point where they may feel it is cheaper, or easier, to host the site themselves, with their own in-house team. That’s fine: people can take the site away for a single payment. We’re not trying to trap people.”

Over the years Chris has taken on a number of

‘‘

Lucy at BlackRook Academy recently signed up for a Site Pilot website and she is delighted with the results... and we’re eager to get involved with more Chamber members...

‘‘

clients with existing websites that they didn’t feel were working for them. What kind of problems does he find with websites he reviews? “Too many plug-ins!,” Chris replied. “We’ve taken on websites where there are 20-30 plug-ins , and they have really been cobbled together. They look like people have done the design basics but not thought deeper about how the site performs. Sites designed like that can be vulnerable to attack. We use no more plug-ins than are absolutely needed, keeping this number to the minimum possible while ensuring it operates smoothly and securely.”

It’s a policy that has helped Super Digital win approval as a Google Partner agency to manage ad campaigns, and it is also approved by Shopify.

Chris also offers clients coaching and mentoring in marketing. “Many of our clients began small, and perhaps marketing wasn’t their strength, and they couldn’t afford to bring people in. I offer a marketing mentoring service that highlights best practice in this area.”

Super Digital is keen to work with more Chamber members as it looks to expand its client base. “We can handle clients of all sizes, from start-ups to established firms. We’re already working with a number of our fellow Chamber members . Lucy at Black Rook Academy is a client who recently signed up for a Site Pilot website and she is delighted with the results, and we’re eager to get involved with other members as they grow their own businesses.

“It’s exciting to work with the Black Country’s

best companies and help them on their journeys as they grow.”

You can catch up with Chris Derrer and the team via 01384 913 212 or heroes@super-digital.co.uk, and check out their website at https://wearesuper.digital

Fishers Property & Lettings Management: Your trusted partner in the Black Country

Fishers, the Home of Property & Lettings Management, is excited to extend its high-quality services to the Black Country, as it opens a new office in Wollaston. With decades of experience in Birmingham, this expansion reflects growing demand from landlords who are eager to tap into the exciting potential of this vibrant region.

As owner Kay Venables explains, they manage properties on behalf of a wide range of owners and tenants. “We have a number of oneproperty landlords, either those beginning to build a property portfolio, or what I call ‘accidental landlords’, who just need a tenant for a house or flat that has become empty, as well as clients with very large property portfolios.

“At Fishers, we pride ourselves on delivering a professional and reliable service that prioritises the interests of both property owners and tenants. Our reputation has been built on working with landlords who share our commitment to offering quality homes.

“While we understand the challenges of the rental market, we maintain high expectations to ensure every home we let is safe, comfortable, and compliant. This approach has earned us the trust of landlords and tenants alike, reinforcing our role as a dependable partner in the property industry.”

Why choose Fishers?

n Professionally qualified leadership with over 40 years of combined experience

n A highly knowledgeable in-house team n Expertise passed down through generations of ownership

n Membership and accreditations from:

- The Property Ombudsman

- RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors)

- ARLA Propertymark Protected.

Speculation on stricter regulations in the housing sector in future does not phase Kay too much: “The rental market is still very strong and will continue to thrive despite any changes,” she says. “Demand is outstripping supply, and we certainly haven’t see the mass exodus of landlords that some media outlets were predicting.

“We believe in the housing rental market, which is one of the reasons why we were determined to extend our presence to the Black Country. The key to success is partnering with a trusted lettings agency like Fishers, someone

Dean

who makes the landlords’ lives easier by handling the complexities of compliance for you.”

Take the long-term view...

Kay’s tip is to take a long-term view. “There was a time when the market favoured buying properties, making improvements, and selling them quickly for a profit. In today’s conditions, that approach is much more challenging. However, focusing on the long-term benefits of letting remains a sound strategy. Partnering with an experienced agency ensures you find the right tenants, stay on top of regulations and compliance, and have reliable support every step of the way.”

Kay is co-owner of Fishers alongside Dean Taylor, bringing nearly 40 years of combined experience to the company. After completing a management buyout (MBO), they maintain a close relationship with the original Fishers family, who are not only friends but also valued clients.

“Dean, a chartered surveyor, enhances our offerings with RICS house surveys and valuations, providing clients with expert insights

Landlord invitation: Free advice & consultation

Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or just beginning your property journey, Fishers invites you to take advantage of our FREE Advice & Consultation service.

We can provide:

n Current rental market intelligence

n Insights into potential rental income and ROI expectations

n Recommendations on where to buy in the Black Country

n Guidance on building a property portfolio strategy

and peace of mind when making property decisions. Our surveying services cover everything from homebuyer reports to detailed valuations, ensuring our clients receive the highest standard of professional support.

“At Fishers, we break away from the typical image of estate agents — the sharp-suited, flashy types of the past. We’re approachable, genuine, and focused on building strong relationships with our clients, ensuring we match the right people with the right properties.”

Kay is very proud that this focus has brought Fishers to the attention of some of the larger relocation specialists. “We work with the local NHS and the military to find homes for their people moving into the region. It’s nice we are recognised by big players in the lettings industry.”

Supporting the Black Country community

As Fishers establishes its presence in Wollaston, it is committed to community engagement. “We’ll be actively involved in local events and charities to make a positive impact in the Black Country,” says Kay. “Our friendly and professional approach will quickly establish Fishers as the ‘Home of Property & Lettings Management in the Black Country’.”

She adds: “We’re also proud to be members of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce. We are committed to building relationships within this thriving business network and have thoroughly enjoyed attending Chamber events, and we’re looking forward to future ones. If you see us at any upcoming events, please come over and say hello!”

Time to shine a light on Turnock Ltd

Turnock Ltd has been lighting up the Black Country for over a century, but as Prosper found out, it’s reach goes far further afield than just this region...

By owner Gordon Stone’s own admission, Turnock Ltd is a firm that has been a bit reluctant to shine a light on its successes over the years.

And what’s all the more surprising about that is that it’s a specialist in original lighting solutions!

This time of year really puts the Walsall-based Black Country Chamber member in the spotlight, as it designs and manufactures many of the Christmas light displays that brighten up our high streets and major buildings.

But anyone thinking that it is a seasonal operator which only springs to life once the Christmas countdown has begun is miles wide of the mark, as Gordon explains in what was an, ahem, illuminating chat.

Sorry, couldn’t resist, but perhaps we’d be better knock off the puns, and get on with the Turnock story…

“We’ve a proud heritage as a lighting specialist, despite our reluctance to shout about it,” says Gordon. “The company was founded in 1905 by George Turnock, and we are proud to carry on his founding ethos of customer service, backed up by expert technical advice. Today this is underpinned by our extraordinary team of designers, who can tailor products to meet your specific needs.”

All its work is underpinned by ISO9001:2015 accreditation from BSI, and comes with an unrivalled reputation for a quality build.

At the moment it is very much focused on Christmas. “We design and manufacture many of the civic lights displays you see around the Black Country at Christmas,” says Gordon. “It’s a key part of our work, and we are supported by a small handpicked team of electrician installers working under our Highways Electrical Association (HEA) approval. But it’s by no means the lion’s share of what we supply, or to whom.”

A quick run through of just some of Turnock’s recent clients proves this point, with stand-outs including the Glastonbury and Boardmasters Festivals, and the Royal Navy’s new aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth II and the HMS Prince of Wales. The company also has a number of cruise ships as clients.

“Bit of a contrast, aren’t they,” says Gordon, laughing. “For Glastonbury we supplied 50 kilometres of festoon lighting. It needed to be flexible for ease of installation around the site, but heavy duty enough to handle the environment. It’s tested to the highest standards – BS EN 60598-2 -20 and rated at IP55. That is the international standard of lighting chains for luminaires, so it can be used in lots of situations,

from celebration lighting to industrial premises.”

Gordon has been running Turnock Ltd since he bought it 26 years ago. At the time it was struggling, and was a very different company to the one today. Back then it provided products for large retailers, including B&Q and Halfords, but this situation changed when B&Q set up its own warehouse in China, cutting Turnock out of the picture.

2D and 3D CAD systems to create bespoke solutions to your lighting needs, and this flexibility has allowed us to enter new markets.”

Today, as well as festivals, fighting ships and Christmas displays, you can also find Turnock supplying to the farming sector, where it provides heat lamps and lighting for animal sheds and greenhouses, as well as traffic light components through its HEA approved status.

“We’re also active in industrial sectors, supplying temporary lighting solutions for construction sites,” Gordon adds. “In addition we have a lot of customers in the entertainment sector: we light up beer gardens, wedding venues and smaller events than Glastonbury, as well as TV and film sets.”

which we now have. Our in-house designers use

But what looks on paper like a disaster for the firm was actually a boost. “At the time we were very much dependent on what that particular client wanted, so in many ways we were working at the behest of its marketing team and their demands. Once we stopped supplying the big retailers the onus was on us to design and manufacture our own products. We needed to have the flexibility to meet customer demands, which we now have. Our in-house designers use

Away from lighting, Turnock also supplies electrical products to UK ports, supplying power to dockside cranes. “We know that no customers have the same electrical requirements,” says Gordon. “What we’re great at is listening to what you need, and designing and manufacturing a solution that works.”

That’s a message that’s been heard loud and clear around the world. “We are big exporters. We’ve recently sold our lighting systems to clients Singapore and Australia… to be honest, we sell to too many countries to list. We have clients around the globe. I’m sure George Turnock would be proud of how far his fledgling company has travelled since 1905 – though its roots are still very much in the Black Country.”

To find out more about Turnock Ltd, see https://www.turnock.co.uk, talk to the sales team on 01922 710422 or sales@turnock.co.uk

A Christmas scene, lit by Turnock Ltd

London’s Covent Garden is another of Turnock’s clients

Hi-tech finance with the human touch

In today’s fast-paced business world, data-driven decisions are key to staying competitive, but managing finances often feels like a foreign language when you’re juggling numerous responsibilities.

That’s where Spotlight Accounting steps in — a modern accounting firm with a mission to simplify financial management for small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs), so you can stay focused on what truly matters: growing your business.

Spotlight Accounting isn’t just any accounting firm. We’ve leveraged the latest technology, paired it with deep accounting expertise, and developed a service that provides business owners with clear insights into their financial health.

Imagine receiving custom reports accompanied by video explanations or having the peace of mind

We’re bridging the gap between the traditional accounting service, and the latest in hi-tech.

We’ve leveraged the latest technology, paired it with deep accounting expertise, and developed a service that provides business owners with clear insights into their financial health.

“We recognise that every business is unique, so we don’t apply one-sizefits-all solutions ... whatever your size, our dedicated team tailors our approach to your specific needs...”

that your business accounts are accurate and up-to-date, giving you full confidence in your financial data.

With Spotlight’s cloud-based, automated solutions, this vision becomes a reality for our clients.

Our commitment to you goes beyond just numbers. At Spotlight, we recognise that every business is unique, so we don’t apply one-sizefits-all solutions. Whether you’re a start-up needing foundational support, an established SME looking for strategic guidance, or a contractor seeking straightforward tax solutions, our dedicated team tailors our approach to your specific needs.

Choosing Spotlight Accounting means choosing

a partner who genuinely cares about your success. We’re committed to building long-lasting, trusted relationships with each client. Through transparent communication and ethical practices, we go beyond standard accounting to become a valuable ally on your journey.

Take the recent Budget changes as an example. Do you know the potential increase in your Employer’s NI bill for next year? Or how these changes could impact your profitability and pricing? Add to that the crucial considerations of succession planning amid shifts in Capital Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax.

Spotlight Accounting is here not just as a tax return service but as a comprehensive support system for your business.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Ready to experience the difference?

Visit www.spotlight-accounting.co.uk and see how we can help illuminate your path to success.

Choosing Spotlight Accounting means choosing a partner who genuinely cares about your success.

The Chamber has a busy schedule of events planned for the coming months and we cannot wait to see you join us! We have social events, networking opportunities and workshops among a host of options for you to put in your calendar. For more information on any event, please contact Marie Shuker, events officer on 0330 024 0820, email events@blackcountrychamber.co.uk or go to www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/events

Tuck in to the Big Business @B63 Breakfast

Dates: December 4, January 8, February 5, March 5, April 2

Time: 7.45am-9.45am

Venue: Halesowen College - Bistro @B63, Whittingham Road, Halesowen B63 3NA

Cost: Free

• Please note priority will be given to members where the event has reached capacity There are limited spaces available for this fantastic opportunity to network with like-minded businesses every month in the south of our region.

The Big Business @B63 ‘breakfast event’ is hosted by Halesowen College, sponsored by Halesowen BID and powered by the Black Country Chamber of Commerce.

Arrive with other businesses to network in the Bistro at B63, grab a drink then enjoy some short business themed talks/updates in our adjoining event seminar room.

Once the talks have completed, return to the Bistro at B63 to meet other delegates in an ‘open networking’ environment, while enjoying a complimentary vegan, bacon, or sausage breakfast sandwich, courtesy of the Halesowen BID.

To avoid disappointment you MUST book your place on the Chamber website (one delegate per member business) as walk-ins could be refused entry.

Free parking available in Carpark A in front of the college.

For more information and to book a place email the Chamber HERE.

Date: January 29

Time: 2pm-4pm

Venue: Wolves Foundation - Molineux Stadium, Waterloo Road, WV1 4QR

Date: February 26

Time: 9am-11am

Venue: Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Lichfield Street, WV1 1DE

Date: March 26

Time: 9am-11am

Venue: National Brownfield Institute, Grimstone Street, WV10 0JP

Network with Black Country Business Club

Dates: January 9, January 23, February 6, February 20, March 6, March 20, April 3, April 17

Time: All 09.30am-10.30am

Venue: TBC

The fortnightly Black Country Business Club gives you the chance to build business relationships and promote their services or products to fellow group members and its wider network of business contacts.

The Club is exclusive to Chamber members. However, you can visit twice as a guest even if you are not a member.

Our member businesses are proud to represent Sandwell, Walsall, Dudley and Wolverhampton. Come along, relax and network with our club

members. We allow two businesses from each sector/industry and guests are allowed two visits before we have an informal chat about applying for membership.

Joining the Black Country Business Club still works out much more economical than joining a traditional breakfast club, plus you get the huge range of benefits open to Chamber members.

This is a face-to-face event. For more details or your invitation, contact Alison Trinder on 07980 906921, or email her HERE

It’s Third Week Wednesday networking in Walsall

Dates: January 15, February 19, March 19

Time: 9.45am-11.30am

Venue: Littleton Restaurant, Walsall College, Wisemore Campus, Littleton Street West, WS2 8ES. Free parking available on site.

Each Third Week Wednesday, Chamber members and non-members meet for FREE monthly networking sessions. As well as meeting like-minded local business people, you can raise your business profile via your social media platforms while at the event by tagging in the Chamber and the event.

Book your spot at www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/events

Please note priority will be given to members where the event has reached capacity. Further details will be sent out on the joining instructions.

Be part of this popular business networking event in the heart of Wolverhampton! Grab yourself a tea or coffee, then enjoy an ‘open networking’ environment. To avoid disappointment, book your place via the Chamber website.

Due to limited places only one delegate per business please. For safeguarding reasons you MUST book prior to the event as we cannot accept walk-ins.

The Chamber training and events programme is being updated all the time. For the latest details, see www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk

Understanding the Incoterms 2020 Rules

Date: March 12

Time: 09.30 - 12:30

Venue: Online

Cost: Members £200 + VAT

Non Members £250 + VAT

This half-day online workshop is for anyone working in international trade – from industry newcomers to experienced exporters and/or importers.

It is also appropriate for corporate service providers and advisers, including freight forwarders, banks and accountants.

It gives you a clear understanding of how the Incoterms® rules map out the obligations, costs and risks involved in the delivery of goods from sellers to buyers, a practical guide to correctly applying Incoterms® rules to your global sales and purchasing activities and the opportunity to review practical case studies based on a range of scenarios.

QES data reveal

Date: January 9

Time: 08.30 - 10am

Venue: University of Wolverhampton Science Park, Technology Centre WV10 9RU

Cost: Free to members

Join us at our first QES breakfast of 2025 as we reveal the results from our Quarter 4 2024 Quarterly Economic Survey.

Be the first to hear how businesses in the region are feeling in the aftermath of the Budget in October, and as a challenging year ends.

As the most authoritative national business confidence survey, and the first to be published in each quarter, the results of this survey are closely watched by both HM Treasury and the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee and help to inform decisions that impact upon interest rates and business policy.

The survey itself has reliably anticipated the onset of the two recessions since the early 1990s before they began, and continues to act as a reliable indicator of national and regional economic performance.

The Black Country Chamber of Commerce uses the results of the survey to inform upon detailed economic performance and trends throughout the local region and beyond.

Our in-person QES sessions allow members to hear the results and ask about the topics raised, providing a unique opportunity for businesses to be part of local economic discussions.

Book your place at the next QES event via the Black Country Chamber website, www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/events

Unleash your potential

with the Chamber’s Management Development Programme

The Management Development Programme is designed to build a comprehensive toolkit which can be used by participants who are either in a management role currently or are aiming to be in a management position in the future.

Providing insights, techniques and tools; the programme provides participants with the time and space to challenge their own ways of working, improve overall performance and develop approaches which add value to their business.

Developed to match business needs

The programme has been developed based upon an analysis of business needs and what is needed for the region’s managers to deliver success to those businesses. This programme is the perfect development companion for:

n New managers or those about to become managers

n Managers of systems or process

n Managers of people and teams

n Experienced managers who want to develop core competencies

n Experienced managers who want to tap into new thinking and approaches

Programme content

n Managers delivering change management within their business

n Managers seeking new ways to drive efficiency and performance.

Delivery and Environment

The programme is designed to stretch and challenge participants by taking them out of their business. Programmes run with participants from different backgrounds, experiences and industries – creating a safe and diverse environment where individuals can test and apply learning and develop together.

Many of the groups go on to form bonds following the completion of each programme and continue to develop together.

The programme will take place via in-person workshops and in a group format. Our next cohort will start in spring 2025, however participants can also join individual modules on the cohort currently running.

Want to know more?

For more information, all 0330 024 0820 email the team HERE or CLICK HERE for guidance

The programme can be completed as a 12-month learning journey to create a holistic and immersive development experience. As a new option to the programme, each module can also be taken individually in order to focus on the learner’s specific development needs. We recommended taking the full course to gain the full benefits of the programme. The programme consists of 12 whole day sessions – each covering a management theme or topic, including:

n What is a Manager? Introduction to management and the manager’s role

n Using your time effectively and efficiently

n Communication and delivery of the right messages at the right times

n Styles and dynamics which create a good team

n Getting the most from meetings

n Delivering a great presentation which gets the right results

n Building commercial awareness and acumen

n Preparation and successful management of change

n Stakeholder and relationship mapping and management

n How to run and deliver a project well

n Getting the best from your team and helping them to perform better

n Coach and develop your teams and people

Exporting Starts Here – Ready to go global?

Black Country Chamber to deliver programme to help businesses export

The Chamber is pleased to launch a brand new, fully funded programme to support and empower small and medium-sized companies to confidently export and thrive internationally.

While the programme is targeting businesses in aerospace, electric light vehicle manufacturing, health and med tech, logistics and distribution, professional financial services and e-commerce, the Chamber is urging all interested businesses who are looking for help to export to get in touch.

Black Country Chamber of Commerce CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “Given the Black Country’s proud heritage of exporting products and services around the world, we are delighted to be making

new support available to businesses across our region.

“Exporting overseas benefits individual businesses, the local economy and the UK overall, so we want to hear from companies who are keen to trade internationally to ensure they benefit from this help, which could literally transform their businesses.

“For companies already trading in markets around the world, there will be support through the new programme to ensure they maximise every opportunity and increase their reach.

“We are encouraging local companies to get in

touch to capitalise upon this incredible opportunity to take your business to another level through tailored, one-to-one support from experts.”

Free support to help you start to export

Whether you’re just beginning, building on early successes, or seeking to expand into new markets, Exporting Starts Here sets out to provide FREE SUPPORT to help you grow your business globally.

Eligible businesses must:

n Be registered in, or operate primarily within Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall or Wolverhampton (Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull supported by other Chamber partners)

n Be involved in industries with strong potential for growth and development in the West Midlands.

Exporting isn’t just for products. Servicebased exports represent a significant growth area for UK businesses and can be highly profitable. Therefore, whether you’re in tech, finance, creative industries, consulting, or education— we can help you access opportunities in international markets.

Exporting Starts Here provides intensive, customised support to help West Midlands businesses thrive in global markets.

Key features include:

n Expert guidance: Get tailored advice from export advisors who will guide you from market research to strategic planning, ensuring impactful, sustainable growth in new and existing markets. With expert support, you’ll be guided through challenges, overcome barriers, and gain practical and legal assistance for all aspects of exporting.

n Workshops and training: Our programme

offers a robust series of workshops designed to equip businesses with essential skills for international success.

Topics include staff upskilling for global expansion, ATA Carnet guidance, customs declarations, export documentation, customs audit preparation, international e-commerce growth, and insights into rules of origin and free trade agreements.

n Focus on high-growth clusters: Emphasising sectors where the West Midlands has a competitive edge—such as aerospace, electric vehicles, health-tech, logistics, and professional/financial services.

Ready to advance your export journey?

With expert guidance, resources, and a supportive network, this programme is your opportunity to take your business global.

n For more information and exporting advice, click HERE ; or email the team HERE

* Provided by Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM), the project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and delivered by Coventry & Warwickshire, Black Country, and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

Unlocking business growth through better borrowing

by Dr Steve Walker, Chief Executive, ART Business Loans

‘Growth’ is the new buzzword permeating the business and political landscape. Following the challenges of Covid and ongoing economic instability, it’s promising to see that businesses are now coming out the other side and seeking new opportunities.

Despite greater access to business support, a key hurdle remains for many SMEs - finding appropriate finance to help fuel future growth.

As a result, an increasing number of businesses are turning to online lenders to secure funds. For the first time, alternative lenders now account for over 50% of the loans made each year to SMEs in the UK - including those that operate solely online.

discuss their financial needs

It’s true that some business owners prefer to ‘paddle their own canoe’. However, funding is a partnership and there are real benefits to a relationship-based approach that can enable providers to support a business’ immediate financial needs and long-term growth.

Today, SMEs can access tailored business advice through a number of free programmes established by the public and private sectors. These encompass a broad span of supportfrom business planning and marketing strategy to legal and financial advice.

A local example is Business Growth West Midlands - funded by the UK government and by the West Midlands Combined Authority - which provides expert, fully funded guidance and support for local business leaders and entrepreneurs with an ambition to grow.

It’s encouraging to see a rising number of businesses engaging with these programmes, as well as Community Hubs, which are also providing vital support to SMEs and social enterprises by signposting them to available services across the region.

However, despite the speed and convenience on offer, it’s crucial for every business owner to understand the pitfalls to avoid when taking on new debt.

When using some online lenders, businesses should be aware that:

n Loans are made over short periods - in some cases, as little as two years

n Interest rates can be very high, reaching well over 30%

n There can be a reliance on personal assets

n Businesses have no point of contact to

If a traditional lender says no, Finding Finance can help businesses find their local Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI), like ART Business Loans.

CDFIs are prepared to lend in three key scenarios:

1) when other lenders say ‘no’;

2) when other lenders have already lent all they can; or

3) when they can lend as part of a package alongside other banks or finance sources.

Crucially, CDFIs can say ‘yes’ because they take a people-centred approach which is tailored to the financial needs of a business - helping them to unlock a new route to future growth.

Bringing order to your organisation’s staff records

WhosOff has a new Staff Hub to organise records and document storage

Whatever type of business or organisation you’re in or run, when you start talking about managing your staff leave or employee sick leave, you will struggle not to say “Who’s Off?”

But ‘Whosoff’ is actually the answer to your problems. It is a proven staff leave application which comes with a ‘Staff Hub’ area that offers an at-a-glance overview of your organisation’s current staffing level.

The application also has a separate ‘Document Storage’ section, enabling companies to not only manage leave allowances and other staff records but also publish important documents such as the Company Handbook, along with other restricted documents and certificates for individual personnel.

So who is behind Whosoff?

WhosOff is a global brand managed from Canterbury in Kent and delivered around the world from the UK. WhosOff users in the UK include many high-profile businesses, led by IoD members.

Going live in 2007, WhosOff is a true success story of continued change, growth and innovation that now sees the application used by more than 2,700 businesses in over 70 countries around the world, who trust it to manage their staff leave, other absence and staff details.

The ‘WhosOff’ brand is owned and operated by X:drive Computing Limited. Its CEO, Reg Groombridge, believes constant change over the years and continued delivery of customer expectation are the keys to the application maintaining its position as a leader in the staff leave management market.

Reg said: “With the addition of the Staff Hub and Documents Storage areas, we will continue to be a leader in this area of staff management.”

Whosoff - when they’re working

Many companies still have staff working from home two or three days a week, and online tools

Accurate management of all staff leave is critical to having happy employee/employer relations. No one wants to be short-changed on their leave, and an employer does not want to give away extra days

that help companies manage their staff and absence seamlessly, including on their mobile phones, and make important records and documents available, are essential.

Accurate management of all staff leave is critical to having happy employee/employer relations. No one wants to be short-changed on their remaining leave balance and to the same account, an employer does not want to give away extra days in error, due to poor leave management. Employees also don’t want to find out, after applying for leave, that too many staff are already off, or key personnel they cannot be off at the same time as, have already booked time off.

With WhosOff everyone can instantly view the holiday plans of others at the time they apply. WhosOff delivers an accessible, easy-to-use system which also covers the things you need to record about your staff, starting with their leave and absence. The new Staff Hub area can also store and log emergency contacts, right to work details, certificates held, permits, memberships, job title and progression, reminders on expiry dates and renewals, keeping everything tidy for you.

Take a free trial

Black Country Chamber members can try Whosoff for free. Go to www.whosoff.com to find out more.

Instant leave and overtime management

n Solving the problem of staff leave, efficiently and in your way

n Used by over 700,000 users worldwide

n Manage policies such as staff to staff restrictions

n Reduce the overhead time and money spent on managing leave