Chamberlink April 25

Now Glynn is a Yummy Brumbassador

TV chef joins Chamber initiative to drive up City’s pride

See page 6

• Reaction to Spring Statement

• Lawyer named Solihull president

• New patrons have tickets to ride

Picture: Jack Spicer Adams

Contents

Chamberlink April 2025

50 Aston University ranks among best for business

52 Share your letters from the frontline

54 International Trade: BCU to save lives in Vietnam

56 ABCC: Louise STEPs into ambassador role 58 Cannock Chase: MND charity gets Chamber backing

59 Burton & District: Chamber takes over the radio

60 Lichfield & Tamworth: Arthur Price supports local artist

61 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Australian retailer to open in Gracechurch

62 Solihull: Law partner is announced as new president

64 Future Faces: Event to dive into the world of AI

66 The latest list of Chamber events

70 Growing Your Business: How to tackle workplace challenges head-on 74 Hotels, Conferences & Exhibitions: More than just a space

76 Choosing a venue with hidden benefits

CHAMBER

The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

Editor: John Lamb 07814 539329 lambjohn@mac.com

Deputy Editor: Dan Harrison 0121 274 3239, 0797 1144052 d.harrison@birmingham-chamber.com

Assistant Editor: Jon Griffin 07963 405538 j.griffin@birmingham-chamber.com

Reporter: Feron Jayawardene 0121 2743240, 07508 317356 f.jayawardene@birmingham-chamber.com

Reporter: Darby Newman 07951 245985 d.newman@birmingham-chamber.com

80 Business Travel: Metro tram figures rise above pre-Covid levels

82 Finance: Tax hike for holiday let owners

86 Manufacturing: Manufacturing staff development

89 Legal: Expansion into the Middle East

90 Property: Construction sector reaches turning point

92 Skills: Gender equality report reveals improvement

94 Technology: Automotive training firm gets funding boost

96 The Arts: Hollywood star to visit Birmingham 98 Sport: The value of good sleep for top athletes

Chamber Insight Katrina Cooke, Kids’ Village

New Members Chamber welcomes new members

…any other business News from Chamber businesses

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is here to connect, support and grow local businesses. Accredited by the British Chambers, we have acted as the voice of local businesses since 1813.

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Saying thank you for a job that’s well done

In the past weeks it has been easy to be reminded of the bad old days. As we endured the filth and misery of rubbish piling up in our Birmingham streets, it was difficult to feel very much charity towards our striking binmen.

Difficult, that is, until you paused to appreciate how these men and women would normally toil every day to keep our streets clear of the detritus of our daily life.

Not for them the comfort of a warm office or factory – or even the luxury of only having to roll out of bed because your employee has allowed you the luxury of working from home.

I was reminded how lucky some of us are by an excellent feature in the Sunday Times.

Their reporter joined a crew of binmen who were working in Coventry. He described how physically demanding and dangerous the job is.

He also highlighted the camaraderie among the crews and their determination and pride in getting the job done.

This sort of spirit flows through most workforces, something the majority of employers have the good sense to recognise with the occasional thank you, even if an occasional admonition might be called for.

And this is all part of the mantra that

FRONT COVER: TV chef Glynn Purnell – he's backing Brum. See page 6.

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business can be a force good. I was reminded of this by Chamber stalwart Doug Wright, who has wrapped up his year of office as High Sheriff of the West Midlands (see page 19).

Mr Wright has business interests in all corners of the West Midlands – his franchised McDonald’s company, Wright Restaurants, employs nearly 3,000 across 26 sites.

He says this has been the best year of his life. Which is quite something for a man who has grown a successful business empire, raised millions for charity, and racked up personal and business accolades.

He has also used his Shrieval year to bring meaning to a largely ceremonial role. He has taken his message out to the region with 165 engagements across seven boroughs and has helped to encourage 127 West Midlands professionals to apply to become muchneeded magistrates.

All a reminder that business can indeed be a force to good – proven by Doug Wright and those working binmen.

And further proved by those employers and employees who will come together to support the Chamber’s charity this year Cash4Kids, which aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged children (see page 7).

Business News

Latest news from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

Guaranteed tickets to ride...

Car share giants and fleet controllers bond as Chamber patrons

An award-winning fleet management firm, which serves more than 32,000 vehicles and 1,200 businesses across the UK, has become a patron of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

Shirley-headquartered runyourfleet is the latest company to join the GBCC’s top tier of membership, building on a successful partnership with the region’s premier business membership organisation over the past five years. runyourfleet - the trading name of Multifleet Vehicle Management Ltdprovides a range of services including fleet management, corporate hire, breakdown services, short lease, fleet funding, telematics, risk management, DVLA license checking and salary sacrifice.

The company has earned a string of awards over the past two years, including the GBCC’s award for Excellence in Technology and Innovation and Service Provider of the Year at the Midlands Service Excellence Awards in 2023.

This was followed by a King’s Award for Innovation in 2024, marking the successful launch of its online platform. runyourfleet joined the GBCC’s preferred partner programme in 2021 and has immersed itself in Chamber activities, including sponsoring the annual Greater Birmingham Business Expo.

Steve Whitmarsh, CEO of runyourfleet, said: “We are absolutely delighted to become a patron of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

“This partnership marks an exciting milestone for runyourfleet as we continue to expand our presence and support businesses across the region.

“We look forward to working closely with the Chamber, engaging with its vast network, and contributing to the success of the local business community.

“Together, we can drive innovation, efficiency, and long-term growth.”

Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at the GBCC, said: “We are delighted that runyourfleet are stepping up to become patrons of the Chamber, building on the deep-rooted partnership we have built up over a number of years.

“The organisation has consistently demonstrated its flair for innovation, embracing dynamism and rolling out cutting edge technology – all of which stands it in good stead as it embarks on its ambitious growth plans.”

Uber, the world’s largest ridesharing transportation company, has become a patron of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

Founded in San Francisco in 2010, Uber operates in more than 70 countries and 15,000 cities –with more than 170 million active users on its platform each month.

In the UK, Uber connects more than 100,000 drivers with fivemillion active passengers.

The company has its Birmingham base at Fazeley House at Aston Cross Business Park, just outside the city centre.

Andrew Brem, UK country manager, Uber, said: “Birmingham is a vitally important city for Uber and we are delighted to play a crucial role in helping to keep the city moving. By providing safe transport options for passengers we support the local economy in growing and developing.

“We are delighted to be taking up patronage membership with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce to help Uber further connect with some of the most prominent figures and businesses in this great city.”

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “Uber has become an integral part of the transport system in cities such as Birmingham.

“It is also a world-leading example of a brand that has harnessed technology and innovation to meet the changing everyday needs of residents, consumers and businesses.

“We’re excited to partner with such a huge global brand and look forward to working with the Uber team here in Greater Birmingham to collaborate and deliver on our shared priorities within our region.”

Yummy Brummie chef joins our Brumbassadors

By Dan Harrison

TV chef Glynn Purnell is joining a new initiative from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) to boost pride in Birmingham.

The restaurateur, known as the Yummy Brummie, has been confirmed to appear at the inaugural Brumbassadors event – an initiative launched by the GBCC in partnership with Birmingham City Football Club.

The Brumbassadors launch takes place on Tuesday, 8 April, at Birmingham City’s stadium, St Andrew’s@KnightheadPark – where Purnell has taken up residency in the Boardroom Club hospitality suite.

Purnell, owner of Plates By Purnell’s in Birmingham city centre and a household name on BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, will be joined by a panel of business and cultural leaders who are passionate about championing the city.

The panellists are:

• Jeremy Dale, interim CEO, Birmingham City FC

• Sara Wajid, co-CEO of Birmingham Museums Trust

• Alex Nicholson-Evans, Birmingham’s first city curator who was behind initiatives such as Birmingham Cocktail Weekend, 100 Days of Creativity and Birmingham Light Festival

• Adele Every, managing director for Public Sector at Cisco.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “We’re thrilled to be joined for our Brumbassadors launch by Glynn Purnell – a legendary Brummie who has helped shape the city into a world-class culinary destination.

“There’s a whole lot of exciting stuff happening in Birmingham and our speakers and panellists encapsulate that perfectly.

“We’re highlighting what makes Birmingham such a great place to live and visit - an institution preserving our city’s heritage in fresh, innovative ways and a leader creating new experiences that show off everything Birmingham has to offer.

“This event will be the perfect platform to connect with likeminded business leaders, learn about the incredible work and opportunities

underway and champion this great city.” Attendees will have the opportunity to join the Brumbassador community and connect with fellow business leaders who are passionate about the city’s success.

There is also a chance to learn more about four charity exhibitors who are making a difference in the city - Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, Focus Birmingham, Smart Works and Sport4Life.

Brumbassadors panellists: Jeremy Dale, Sara Wajid and Alex Nicholson-Evans

Yummy Brummie: Glynn Purnell

Cash4Kids chosen as Chamber charity

Employees of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) have chosen Cash4Kids as their charity for 2025.

The charity aims to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in communities who are affected by poverty, illness, neglect or have additional needs.

More than 50 employees voted for Cash4Kids where the GBCC Environmental Social & Governance Group (ESG) will take the initiative to raise vital funds through organising various events.

Cash4Kids work with grassroots organisations that aim to make a difference to young lives, directly supporting families who often have nowhere else to go.

They have raised more than £600,000 over the last year with 23 teams across the UK operated by 336 volunteers.

Francesca Thomas, GBCC policy and projects assistant and ESG member, said: “We’re excited to announce that Team Chamber has chosen Cash for Kids as our 2025 staff Charity of the Year.

“Their work makes a significant, tangible difference to the lives of

children and we are keen to support their work through our fundraising activities and staff volunteering days.

“We look forward to an exciting partnership for the year ahead and hope to support the charity’s mission in giving young people opportunities and experiences they deserve.”

Alison Jones, Cash4Kids fundraising executive, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen as Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce staff’s charity of the year.

“Poverty is blighting the lives of so many children and young people across the West Midlands and particularly in Birmingham, which has some of the highest figures for children living in poverty in the country.

“Cash For Kids is committed to doing all it can to ensure these children get a chance to thrive and to achieve their potential, and this year-long fundraising partnership with the GBCC’s staff will help us give them the support they need.

“We want to say a huge thank you to them for picking us and look forward to working together.”

Making a difference (left to right): Cash4Kids regional charity manager Charlotte Walker, charity fundraising executive Alison Jones, and charity manager Louise Hampton

‘Proud Brummie’ joins Chamber

Proud Brummie David Woakes has a new wideranging challenge - as head of commercial development at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

David has taken up the new post at the Midlands’ premier business organisation after a lifetime in engineering, recruitment, design and project and other sectors - plus voluntary work and roles with well-known West Midland sporting organisations.

The new head of commercial development role sees David lead the documentation, translation and training arms as part of his remit, as well as sponsorship and advertising.

He told Chamberlink: “I know the network and saw working for the Chamber as a great opportunity to pull together all my knowledge as well as supporting the West Midlands region.

‘I want to see a successful West Midlands and the Chamber is at the heart of that.’

“It's a strategic role, helping grow all the value-adding services that the Chamber provides to members and non-members. I am looking to build on these services and offer members strong support in those areas.”

David is already a well-known figure in West Midland business circles, starting working life in the early 80s as an apprentice mechanical engineer with IMI in Witton after training as a toolmaker at his grandfather's Jewellery Quarter business.

He later worked in a variety of roles with the likes of Manpower, Pertemps, Ricardo, Carillon and others before launching his own consultancy business developing online assessment and interview tools.

Other roles followed including with charity business Auriga and back in the engineering sector working for Gobel and Partner at Fort Dunlop. He also found time to fit in voluntary roles with Acorns, the WMCA Careers Enterprise Company and the Assay Office.

David brings decades of experience as one of the region’s longest serving Careers Enterprise Advisors working in skills development and progression, including young people's career development.

His work has seen him focus on workplace skills progression, apprenticeships and training across all sectors over the past 10 years.

Researcher to tackle sustainability issues

An Aston University researcher has secured more than half a million pounds funding to train early career researchers to tackle sustainability challenges in their home countries.

The university will host nine early career academics for 12 months as part of the International Science Partnership Fund (ISPF) research fellowship programme.

Fellows from Jordan will focus on energy systems, those from Thailand will work on sustainable plastics and green solvents and researchers from the Philippines will specialise in sustainability assessments.

The £540,000 grant was awarded to Dr Abed Alaswad (pictured), from the university’s engineering for sustainable development research centre.

He will lead the programme and directly supervise the Jordan cohort, with Dr Vesna Najdanovic overseeing the Thai researchers and Professor Mirjam Roeder guiding the Philippine fellows.

He said: “This achievement further enhances Aston University’s global research footprint and fosters international collaborations, contributing to the university’s strategic ambitions of impactful global partnerships and empowering the next generation of research leaders.”

Meanwhile, sport also runs in the Woakes family genes, with David playing local semiprofessional football and many years on the cricket field with Aston Manor Cricket Club before moving into coaching with Warwickshire CCC age groups plus Aston Manor and now Tamworth CC.

Now David, whose brother is England Test star and Warwickshire bowling all-rounder Chris Woakes, is looking ahead to his new head of commercial development role at the Chambers.

“Being a proud Brummie, the challenge here is so exciting. I want to see a successful West Midlands and the Chamber is at the heart of that.”

Self-driving shuttle trial goes live in Solihull

A new autonomous vehicle trial is underway in Solihull with visitors to the NEC now able to take advantage of a pioneering self-driving shuttle service during busy events.

The Solihull & Coventry Automated Links Evolution (SCALE) project is a collaborative initiative, aimed at better understanding the role self-driving vehicles might one day play within our future transport system.

The first phase of the route, linking bp pulse LIVE Arena to the VIP and blue badge parking area, was launched during an international trade delegation visit organised by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and Zenzic.

The trial service is now open for members of the public visiting upcoming major events at the NEC, including the Commercial Vehicle Show from 29 April to 1 May.

The route will be extended along a 7km route linking passengers from Birmingham International rail station to the NEC and Birmingham Business Park by the summer.

The pioneering project is being delivered by a consortium led by Solihull Council, including both WMG at the University of Warwick and Coventry University, Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), the NEC, Coventry City Council and automated vehicle simulation specialists IPG and dRISK.

Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet member for climate change and planning, said: “Connected Automated Mobility (CAM) technology has the potential to revolutionise the way we get around. We are excited to be leading the way, not just in Solihull, but across the country, in providing learning on CAM deployments in different settings and scenarios.”

Sporting background: David Woakes

President’s Focus

David Mitchell, president of Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce, looks at how embracing change has to be a constant in business evolution and says those who succeed will find new avenues for sustainable growth and resilience.

As president of Cannock Chase Chamber, I see first-hand the concerns and aspirations of businesses navigating the current economic and political landscape.

Across Greater Birmingham and beyond, uncertainty is a recurring theme. Whether it’s evolving legislation, shifting trade policies, or financial pressures, businesses must continually adapt. But while the pace of change may feel overwhelming, history reminds us that transformation is not an anomaly – it is a necessity and an opportunity.

Throughout history, major advancements have shaped the way we live and work. Consider the moon landing in 1969. It was an era-defining moment that changed our perspective on possibility and human achievement.

Similarly, the introduction of personal computing revolutionised the workplace, making technology an indispensable part of our daily operations.

‘By providing insights, networking opportunities, and advocacy, we help businesses navigate challenges and position themselves for success’

The rise of mobile phones further enhanced communication and connectivity, and now, artificial intelligence is doing the same –reshaping industries, automating tasks, and opening new frontiers for efficiency and innovation.

Each of these changes may have seemed disruptive at first, but over time they became the foundation for modern progress. The same is true today. AI-driven tools such as Alexa, automated spell-checking, and real-time data analytics are not simply trends – they are part of a broader transformation in how we work.

Businesses that embrace these changes and harness their potential will be the ones that thrive.

The UK’s economic landscape presents additional challenges –rising inflation, supply chain disruptions, higher interest rates and shifting trade agreements all add complexity. Many businesses are also dealing with labour shortages, increased operational costs, and evolving consumer behaviours. These pressures undoubtedly create difficulties, yet we have seen similar economic cycles before and emerged resilient.

While the road ahead is challenging, each sector and business model will need tailored strategies to adapt. Some will focus on operational efficiencies, others on diversifying supply chains or innovating products and services.

The key is to remain agile and open to new ways of working –

those who can evolve will find new avenues for sustainable growth and resilience.

At the Chamber, we support businesses through these transitions. By providing insights, networking opportunities, and advocacy, we help businesses navigate challenges and position themselves for success.

We believe that collaboration is essential – no business should have to navigate uncertainty alone.

Now is not the time to resist change but to embrace it. Every major innovation that we now take for granted was once considered radical or even impossible.

The businesses that succeeded were the ones that adapted, evolved, and moved forward with confidence.

As we look ahead, let’s ensure we are among those who innovate rather than hesitate. Change is inevitable, but how we respond to it defines our future.

By embracing change, businesses can refine their brand offerings, redefine their points of differentiation, and harness the power of AI and data-driven insights. These technologies provide valuable intelligence, enabling businesses to track progress, make informed adjustments, and fine-tune their strategies.

With the right approach, we can turn challenges into opportunities and continue to build a thriving, resilient business community.

“Luck is an outcome of a good strategy.”

David Mitchell

The Griffin Report

From the age of 14, Johnathan Dudley cut his teeth working in his father’s electroplating business. But when it became a victim of the De Lorean Motor Company collapse in 1982, Jonathan switched to accountancy and went on to forge a formidable reputation as a champion of manufacturing. Now he is calling for the Government to appoint a Minister for Manufacturing. JON GRIFFIN examines why.

It’s well over 40 years down the line – but Johnathan Dudley’s memories of the closure of his father’s electroplating business and the impact on his own life are crystal clear to this day.

“My background was manufacturing. From the age of 14, I was spending weekends and holidays on the plating line. From a very early stage I worked on the shopfloor. I very nearly joined the Royal Navy but round about the time I was trying to decide what to do for a career my father had a crisis in his business. He had just rejigged for a particular component for a major government-backed manufacturing business in Northern Ireland – the bad news was it was the De Lorean Motor Company.

“Effectively it wiped out his cash reserves because it was peculiar for a component – it wasn’t reusable. He took some advice and he just closed his business. When De Lorean went bust what was then a lot of money – £50,000 – went down the toilet.”

Johnathan would never forget the lessons he learned from the demise of his father’s Wolverhampton-based business, following the headline-making 1982 collapse of the De Lorean Motor Company after the firm went bust with the loss of 2,500 jobs and over $100m in investment.

“One of the things that really made me become an accountant was that I worked out quite quickly that just at the time that my dad needed advice from his accountant, he didn’t get it, so he closed his business.

“It was the early 80s postFalklands boom and if he had hung on he would have done really well out of it. He just needed someone to say pick yourself up off the canvas and carry on fighting.”

It would be fair to suggest that the Walsall-born son of industrialist father Geoff has himself carried on fighting ever since, establishing a formidable reputation as a champion for UK manufacturing while carving out a 35-year plus career with national accountancy

firm Crowe. Rising to managing partner of the firm’s Midlands and South-West region at the helm of a tens of millions of pounds concern, Johnathan became one of the area’s best-known business figures, consistently banging the drum for SMEs and the rest of the manufacturing sector.

After qualifying in 1986 he forged a highly successful career which has brought him national renown – and nearly 40 years later is still a force for manufacturing as national head of SME corporates and manufacturing business at Crowe.

‘Because I come from an SME

background I know what most manufacturers go through – all SMEs go through similar challenges’

“I opened my office at what was then called Clark Whitehill in Walsall in September 1989. I opened it up with a budget of £10,000 which included furniture and everything, so I begged, stole and borrowed everything.”

Four decades at the sharp end has given him a forensic eye for the trials and tribulations facing the UK’s wealth-creating manufacturers – but Johnathan belies the traditional caution of the accountant to frequently put his head above the parapet.

“Because I come from an SME background I know what most manufacturers go through – all SMEs go through similar challenges.”

Johnathan never forgot seeing his father close his firm and sell his Rover in exchange for an Austin Seven in order to pay staff wages –and today he applies those sort of lessons to his advice for the manufacturers of 2025.

“You never forget stuff like that. I know what those kind of pressures feel like – that makes me feel very concerned and passionate about the increase in employment costs on national insurance, particularly

its impact on smaller businesses, because proportionately it is greater.”

Rises in National Insurance notwithstanding, he believes Europe’s need for increased spending on defence in the wake of the Trump rethink over support for Ukraine could pay lucrative dividends for the manufacturing sector.

“The tradition of our region in terms of its defence capability goes back to the British Civil War. Walsall, the town of my birth, can date its roots back to making saddles and bridles, going back to arming Cavaliers and Roundheads.

“The point is if all of this money is going to need to be spent in Europe, at the moment the countries in the box seat to actually get that growth are the UK and France. The biggest challenge that manufacturing and engineering has now, that it never used to have, is energy prices. We are now paying four times the cost of energy of a

Holidays on the plating line: Johnathan Dudley

manufacturing business in the United States – we are paying between 30 and 40 per cent more than continental Europe. The national insurance increase and their labour costs are also keeping SMEs awake at night.”

He gives a compelling insight into today’s priorities for industry in the global marketplace – while renewing his long-standing call for a government minister for Manufacturing.

“From last July when the Chancellor made her first announcements, most of the work I have been focused on with manufacturing businesses hasn’t been about growth or forward strategy – it is all about how do we protect our wealth.”

With business facing greater taxation and increased labour costs, Johnathan believes the manufacturing sector deserves a place at the top table of government policy with a seat in the Cabinet.

“What it needs is somebody who has fought their way to the top of an SME, not a graduate recruit who has ended up being part of a PLC, but someone with a real understanding of what it is like to actually manage and run a manufacturing business.

‘For me, I think the whole region should be Greater Birmingham – I knows that’s going to upset some people in the Black Country – but wake up and smell the coffee’

“There has to be a degree of reality. If that’s the case and there’s an understanding of how the supply chain works with a proper industrial strategy that recognises that, I think there is an opportunity

for a real renaissance for our nation – but only if there is pragmatism as to where we are going to get our energy from, where we are going to get our raw materials from.”

Fiercely proud of his West Midlands roots, Johnathan is as much a champion for the enduring ingenuity and knowledge of the region as he is of its manufacturers.

“Our local universities have got one hell of a lot to shout about –advanced knowledge and capability is still in our DNA in the West Midlands.

“If it takes a second Cold War and a rearmament process to engineer that, that’s fine.”

But he’s not afraid to risk upsetting the Black Country – or even his home town of Walsall – by suggesting the Greater Birmingham tag should be extended to the entire region.

“You travel around the world... long time ago I said I was from Walsall, and they had never heard of it. If you said you were from

is now one of the region’s best known business figures and a champion for manufacturing

Birmingham, you had a fighting chance. We are far too parochial. For me, I think the whole region should be Greater Birmingham – I knows that’s going to upset some people in the Black Country - but wake up and smell the coffee.”

Johnathan is now bringing those sort of trenchant views as a new face on the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s Council –“this region has been really good for me and my family and this is my way of trying to give a bit back.

“OK, I have done all right but I think you can do all right in life and do well, but actually you are not making a difference. I like to think I have made a difference to some good people’s lives – and I think that is very important.”

Few would argue that the boy who learned about life on the shopfloor from the age of 14 has not gone on to make a significant difference to the UK’s heartland of manufacturing all these years later…

Johnathan

Lack of diversity is just not cricket

Significant underrepresentation of South Asian and Black female cricketers within the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) talent pathway has been highlighted by a new study.

The Birmingham City University research raises more questions about diversity and inclusivity in the game.

“The lack of diversity in women's cricket reflects broader patterns seen in many professional sports, where systemic inequalities persist despite growing awareness,” said Hina Shafi, a PhD researcher who conducted the study.

Shafi has presented her research to a number of the game’s key stakeholders, including the ECB and the Professional Cricketers’ Association.

They are already working with the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket, which was set up in 2021 to investigate racial equality, gender equality and social equality in the game.

“My data analysis uncovered a lack of representation among British Asian and Black girls and women throughout the ECB’s talent pathway,” Shafi revealed.

“At the professional level, only two out of 150 women and girls are Black. Additionally, while South Asian women

are overrepresented at the youth level (11.6 per cent), their presence declines significantly as they transition into the professional game.

“Currently, only five South Asian players compete professionally, making up just 3.3 per cent of the professional cohort – rendering them almost three times underrepresented at this level.”

The research also found disparities based on educational background.

Women from state schools make up 69.3 per cent of participants at professional level as well as over 40 per cent across the talent pathway, a higher proportion than their male counterparts.

However, private schools remain significantly overrepresented, accounting for 28.7 per cent of female participants in the professional game.

Shafi emphasised the need for deeper investigation into these disparities.

“I will be investigating the underlying factors behind these anomalies, aiming to understand the structural and systemic influences that contribute to these trends,” she said.

BCU has already been a trailblazer when it comes to representation in cricket.

Fortis Academy wins prom prize

Fortis Academy has been announced as the winner of BMet College’s exclusive Prom Package Competition, run in partnership with Hits Radio.

The competition, open to schools across Birmingham, gave students the chance to secure the ultimate Year 11 prom experience - and Fortis Academy came out on top.

The winning students were surprised with the news during a special assembly, where BMet’s James Watt College vice principal Randeep Sami handed over a “golden ticket” - marking their prize.

Their prom will feature a live DJ from Hits Radio, a 360° photo booth, arrival entertainers, balloon displays, and an array of sweet treats, including a candy floss machine, popcorn station, chocolate fountain, and a sweet cart.

I carry on, says long-serving nurse

Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust celebrated the dedication of one of the longest serving nurses in West Midlands’ history.

Dianne Court marked both five decades in the NHS and her 80th birthday, stating: “I don’t intend on winding down just yet.”

Dianne has dedicated over 50 years of her life to working for the NHS. To mark her milestones, Dianne took a trip down memory lane, sharing her incredible career journey.

Dianne joined BCHC 25 years ago, where she became a clinical lead. At the age of 67, she decided to retire from a full-time post, yet she had no intention of stopping the career she loved. Today, Dianne works as a bank nurse, supporting the wider community and sharing her valuable knowledge.

Dianne said: “I love inspiring the new nursing generation. The NHS is always evolving, but one thing that never changes is the dedication I see my fellow nurses show to our patients.”

Past and present: Nurse Dianne Court

Lack of diversity: Hina Shafi

Energy pioneer to create jobs

EcoFlow, a global pioneer in portable power and home energy solutions, has chosen Birmingham as the location for its new UK headquarters, where it plans to create 35 new jobs to drive its growth ambitions.

Headquartered in China, the US and Germany, EcoFlow is supporting the global transition towards renewable energy by developing industry-leading portable power products, solar technology, and smart home energy solutions.

As part of its continued investment in the UK, EcoFlow is establishing its first UK base at Bruntwood SciTech’s Innovation Birmingham campus, due to its strategic location within Birmingham’s Knowledge Quarter (B-KQ) – part of the flagship West Midlands Investment Zone –and its proven track record for helping businesses to grow and scale.

‘This deal will deliver real benefits for local people –good jobs, greener power storage and a boost to our energy sector’

The expansion will create around 35 jobs in areas including engineering, customer service, marketing, and business development, reinforcing EcoFlow’s commitment to the market.

The deal was brokered by West Midlands mayor Richard Parker as he participates in the UK’s biggest trade mission to China for six years, with the aim of rallying economic growth opportunities for the West Midlands.

He is part of a delegation of regional mayors and deputy mayors visiting key powerhouse cities, including, Shenzhen, Chongqing, Chengdu and Shanghai, to promote the UK as a worldclass investment destination and bolster areas of trade that benefit national interests.

EcoFlow will join the West Midlands Global Growth Programme – a fully-funded support package, offering international innovation-led companies a springboard to success in the region.

The programme is delivered by the mayor and the West Midlands Growth Company.

Richard said: “EcoFlow is a fast-growing company developing solar technology and smart energy solutions. And now they’re investing in the West Midlands. This deal will deliver real benefits for local people – good jobs, greener power storage and a boost to our energy sector.

Dedication of healthcare workers is celebrated

The achievements of staff and volunteers at an NHS organisation have been celebrated at an awards ceremony in Birmingham.

Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust’s 2025 Star Awards took place at Villa Park, where around 50 individuals and teams were recognised for their hard work and dedication over the past year.

The black tie event was hosted by ITV Central weatherman Des Coleman, who spoke about presenting live from the Midland Met shortly after it opened.

The outstanding contribution to Midland Met award was won by Jayne Dunn (pictured), director of commissioning for the Midland Met. Jayne led the complex logistics of move planning, as well as overseeing all the new equipment going into the hospital, ensuring it

was ready for clinical use.

Jayne said: “I’ve been involved with the Midland Met project from the very early stages, so to receive this award feels really wonderful.

“It was a very proud moment when the Midland Met opened, and I’m just so pleased to have played an important part in making that happen.”

“I’m building partnerships that will create high-quality jobs and drive a new era of economic prosperity for the residents of our region.”

Ryan Xing, managing director of EcoFlow Europe, said: “The West Midlands is leading the UK’s green industrial revolution, making it a stand-out destination for our new UK HQ.

“This investment marks a significant milestone in EcoFlow’s expansion, reinforcing our commitment to the UK market.”

EcoFlow is expected to take occupation of their new UK headquarters in June.

Initiative to amplify women in music

B:Music, the music charity responsible for Birmingham’s Town Hall and Symphony Hall, has announced a new creative project which is set to shape the future of music and empower women to carve out lasting careers in a field that has long been disproportionately dominated by men.

She:Music will amplify the powerful stories of emerging female musicians from the West Midlands, igniting genres where women’s presence is most underrepresented and unleash a bold, new wave of talent.

She:Music aims to promote cross-genre collaborations and break down the barriers that women, especially those from the global majority, working mothers, and those from the LGBTQIA+ community, face in creating innovative, genre-defying music.

With initial funding from the PRS Foundation and the William A Cadbury Charitable Trust, B:Music has brought on board project partners Girl Grind UK and Women in Jazz to collaborate on the threeyear project.

Applications to take part in the first year of She:Music will open this month. Go to bmusic.co.uk or email shemusic@bmusic.co.uk for more information.

New home (left to right): Richard Parker, consul-general Sarah Mann, EcoFlow global marketing officer Jenny Zhang

We had to learn to say hello to the region

“Busted myths”: Doug Wright

Doug Wright reflects on his term as High Sheriff of the West Midlands

By Dan Harrison

This has been the best year of my life, says Doug Wright, reflecting on his term as High Sheriff of the West Midlands.

It’s a bold statement from a preeminent business figure and philanthropist who has grown a successful restaurant empire, raised millions for charity and racked up a string of personal and business accolades.

Doug has business interests in all corners of the West Midlands – his franchised McDonald’s company, Wright Restaurants, employs nearly 3,000 across 26 sites.

Yet his Shrieval year, which draws to a close this month, has shed new light on the region that he calls home and is proud to serve.

A packed 12-month agenda has taken in 165 engagements across the seven boroughs that make up the West Midlands – from visiting charitable and faith organisations, to receiving Royal guests, opening community facilities and promoting the work of magistrates, cadets and emergency services.

“I always thought that I knew the West Midlands forensically,” says Doug.

“But this year, I've really got to look under the bonnet. We live in an absolutely top place because, while councils and other organisations are falling away or having their funding reduced, our community is creating solutions for themselves. It's been incredibly special to meet so many people who are working assiduously for their own communities.”

The position of High Sheriff is the oldest continuous secular office under the Crown and the only surviving secular post from Anglo-Saxon times. In the West Midlands, the role has existed

for 50 years. Several members of the Cadbury dynasty and eight former Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce presidents are among Doug’s predecessors.

While upholding tradition remains of great importance, embracing digital media to modernise the role has been high on his agenda.

With support from Kayleigh Humphries, Doug’s personal assistant and clerk for his Shrieval year, the High Sheriff’s wide-ranging activities have been documented in tremendous detail via social media and a monthly email news bulletin.

“It’s in my DNA that if you give me something to do, I have to do it properly,” Doug explains.

‘This is the highest judicial office in the county of the West Midlands, so I wanted to leverage this unique one-year opportunity’

“So, we started with a blank sheet of paper. We began by creating a website to make it easier for people to find out about who the High Sheriff is. The social media has gone from zero to hero. One of our objectives was to make sure that when we got to the end of the year, people knew who the High Sheriff was and what the role is.

“This is the highest judicial office in the county of the West Midlands, so I wanted to leverage this unique one-year opportunity.

“We had to learn how to say hello to the West Midlands and to stay in touch with people.

“I really wanted to go out and be really authentic in my community outreach and the way I engage with people.”

Among the highlights of Doug’s term has been

an unprecedented programme to encourage more West Midlands professionals to become magistrates.

A mini-roadshow and series of “myth-busting” sessions across Wolverhampton and Walsall led to 127 new applications over the past 12 months –an increase of around 600 per cent.

The scheme has now been adopted across the UK through the High Sheriff’s Association.

“We identified two major issues as to why people hadn’t previously considered becoming magistrates,” Doug explains.

“Firstly, people thought it was an exclusive club and secondly they felt their employer wouldn’t allow them.

“We set up a cross-functional group which included employers who were magistrates and then we held some virtual and in-person sessions.

“We busted some myths about becoming a magistrate, while highlighting the transferable skills and benefits for employers to encourage their staff.

“Of the 127 people who applied, they’re a very diverse group. So, I’m really proud of that – and even prouder that the scheme has been picked up nationally by the legal system. From a little acorn, it has grown into an oak tree.”

From welcoming the Duke of Cambridge to an emergency and critical care conference, to meeting faith leaders and commemorating the 50th anniversary of one of the region’s darkest days, the Birmingham pub bombings, no two days as High Sheriff have been the same.

But each one, Doug says, has been a privilege.

“I've enjoyed just bringing people together, staying in touch with the community and seeing how our influence has impacted people,” he adds.

“Each day has been a privilege – it has been really, really special.”

Mayor’s bright future but Region can thrive if skills and productivity improve

West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker rode into town on the same day Chancellor Rachel Reeves was delivering her Spring Statement. But they had contrasting messages for businesses in Greater Birmingham. DAN HARRISON looks at what they said.

The Government recognises the “enormous” potential within the West Midlands, according to mayor Richard Parker.

But, speaking at a Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce event to mark one year since the Business Commission West Midlands report, the mayor warned the region cannot achieve economic prosperity if people with low skills and from deprived areas are left behind.

Mr Parker answered questions during the event at John Cadbury House, part of Aston University, in Birmingham city centre.

He praised the work of the Commission, which was convened

last year by the GBCC in partnership with the Black Country and Coventry & Warwickshire Chambers, in informing how the region approaches business growth.

‘It’s not about going with a begging bowl, it's now about going with an offer’

“I think this is a great piece of work and I found it really useful post-election to inform the way we need to approach growth and support businesses,” said Mr Parker.

Outlining his priorities for growth, the mayor vowed to harness his connections within national Government to drive investment in the region.

He added: “My top messages are that this region has been overlooked and left behind by national Government for too longand if we can attract some investment into this place, the return for Government is enormous.

“So, it's not about going with a begging bowl, it's now about going with an offer - if you support what we're doing, we can unlock real potential and opportunities.

“The government recognise that. I think you’ll see that through some announcements (in the Spring

Statement) and some in the spending review in the summer.”

However, the mayor acknowledged the region’s skills

Championing business (left to right): Mark Taylor (BCWM chair), Henrietta Brealey (CEO, GBCC), Richard Parker, Jan Jennings (Black Country Chamber), Corin Crane (CEO, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber) and Professor Gurpreet Jagpal (chief commercial officer, Aston University)

no light from Chancellor Business escapes further hammering from tax hikes

The Chancellor’s Spring Statement offered very little that will put a spring in the step of businesses, Greater Birmingham business leaders said.

However, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) said firms will be relieved that further tax hikes were not among Rachel Reeves’ announcements.

Headline announcements from the Chancellor’s statement included panning reforms, which the Government says will bring house building to a 40year high, and a £2.2bn boost to the UK’s defence budget.

and productivity gap, which he aims to address in his growth plan by harnessing the sectors in which the West Midlands has an “in-built competitive advantage”.

He said: “The growth plan will focus on advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital tech, creative industries and professional services.

“Those are the sectors in which we have an in-built competitive advantage and we can make the most of.

“So, those are the key sectors working with our universities, our colleges and our businesses to drive those forward.”

Attendees at the BCWM event heard from the GBCC’s director of external affairs Raj Kandola, who provided a recap of the Commission’s final report.

The report, based on evidence supplied by more than 130 organisations and surveying of a further 400, set out recommendations for change and action to support business growth.

It highlights the need for “a fundamental reset in our understanding of what the region's businesses need to fulfil their growth potential”.

Business Commission West Midlands was supported by sponsors Aston University, Birmingham City University, University of Birmingham, University College Birmingham and Doug Wright T/A McDonald’s.

Ms Reeves also highlighted reforms to the pension system and a national wealth fund.

While there were no further tax rises, the Chancellor claimed she will raise an extra £1bn with a further crackdown on tax evasion.

‘The facts remain clear – growth projections

for this

year are down and spending cuts have been made in order to restore the Chancellor’s self-imposed rules for fiscal headroom’

Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at the GBCC, said: “Businesses will breathe a sigh of relief that the Chancellor hasn’t chosen to hammer them with further tax hikes given the additional cost pressures that many are dealing with following the

announcements she made last October. The Chancellor decided to keep her statement high level, but the facts remain clear – growth projections for this year are down and spending cuts have been made in order to restore the Chancellor’s self-imposed rules for fiscal headroom.

“Firms will be pleased to see a focus on planning reform and increased capital investment in order to unlock growth which aligns with the recommendations made by the Business Commission West Midlands this time last year.

“The additional focus on increased defence spending was accompanied with promising statements on the need for British businesses to directly benefit from the associated procurement opportunities.

“Hopefully this will benefit businesses in the West Midlands given our expertise in the field of advanced manufacturing, as there was next to nothing announced for our region.

“The upcoming Comprehensive Spending Review should shed more light on the direction of travel for business support programmes and how they will impact firms in the region.

“Ultimately, there was very little announced in the Chancellor’s statement that will give businesses an extra spring in their step as they approach the summer - for example, no roadmap on reducing business costs and very little on boosting international trade activity.

“The Chancellor has got a big job on her hands to restore confidence and unlock firm level investment.”

With support we can unlock real potential: Mayor Richard Parker

Duo create community chess club

A new partnership between Aston University student Gurkarnpreet ‘Karan’ Singh and local entrepreneur Abdirahim Yasin Haji is changing the way people connect in Birmingham.

Together, they have co-founded ‘chesscafé’, a social space that blends great coffee, social gaming and community engagement.

Karan, a final-year business enterprise development student at Aston University, has used his academic knowledge to bring the chesscafé vision to life, while Haji, an experienced barista and entrepreneur, provides the hospitality expertise that keeps customers coming back.

‘Chesscafé isn’t just a chess club, it’s about bringing people together, making new connections and having a great time’

The duo met by chance through mutual friends in a coffee shop, where their casual conversation sparked an idea: Birmingham needed a space where people could play chess and socialise in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Inspired by similar spaces in London, Karan and Haji saw an opportunity to introduce something fresh to the local scene.

Karan said: “chesscafé isn’t just a chess club, it’s about bringing people together, making new connections and having a great time.

“We have music, games, and an atmosphere that breaks the traditional stereotype of chess being a quiet, competitive game.”

Karan has applied the knowledge from his Aston University course to handle marketing,

Mental health space opened

Birmingham Mind has opened an out of hours mental health service, known as Talking Space, in St Paul’s Square. This is the charity’s fourth crisis intervention space, offering support for young adults aged 18 to 25.

It is open every Friday through to Monday from 1pm till 9pm. Services offered include wellbeing support, preventive and crisis care, signposting and advice with practical and clinical support.

The Talking Space service is designed to offer in-person mental health support in a safe, welcoming environment. Birmingham Mind is also encouraging young people to drop in without prior appointment between 1 to 4 pm. Appointments are also available from 4 to 9pm.

Go to birminghammind.org to find out more.

business strategy and event planning.

Meanwhile, Haji takes charge of customer experience, managing the café’s bar, crafting unique drinks, and making sure every event runs smoothly.

Haji said: “We’re accountable to each other. When you work with someone who believes in your abilities, you don’t want to let them down. That’s why we’ve been able to turn this idea into reality.”

Since launching, chesscafé has welcomed more than 70 visitors per event, offering an engaging mix of chess, social games and even DJ nights.

The founders hope to secure a permanent venue, expand their community outreach and make chesscafé a household name in Birmingham’s social scene.

Aimee Postle, BSc business enterprise development programme director at Aston University, said: “It’s fantastic to see our students’ ideas coming to life. With an innovative business model and a passion for bringing people together, Karan and Haji’s chesscafé is proving that the best ideas happen when different minds meet.”

Follow @chesscafebrum on Instagram.

Cinema to sponsor Fun Run

The refurbished Royal Cinema, located at Maney Corner at the southern entrance to Royal Sutton Coldfield, has been confirmed as a new supporting sponsor of the Royal Sutton Fun Run.

Des Christie, general manager, Royal Cinema said: “The Jervis family, who own the family-run business PDJ Cinemas Ltd, purchased the former Empire Cinema in December 2023. They are Suttonians at heart and are acutely aware of how important a role a thriving, successful cinema has within the community.

“To partner with the Fun Run is a natural fit for the new Royal Cinema and we’re delighted to be supporting what is the largest and most successful annual fundraising event in the town.”

Tracey Spare, Fun Run event director, said: “We’re delighted to have Royal Cinema join as a Supporting Sponsor.

“The Jervis family has invested a significant sum of money to refurbish the iconic building at Maney Corner and provided a

fabulous venue fit for the royal town.

“Fun Run entrants have already benefited from cinema vouchers at the start of registration and

discussions are ongoing for further joint activities later in the year. “We hope this is the start of a long-term partnership helping us drive the event forward.”

Fun run support: General manager Des Christie (left) and duty manager Ray Farrell

Where do you fancy?

The B1 restaurant offers a bright, airy atmosphere with a relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying a delicious meal in comfort. They take pride in serving a variety of freshly prepared dishes, including local favourites like their renowned B1 curry. From tender lamb flatbreads to fresh, flavourful fish options, the menu has something to please every palate. Whether looking for a casual bite or a leisurely meal with friends, the inviting ambiance and diverse range of dishes are designed to make every visit a memorable experience.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

Food and drink

Breakfast

The breakfast buffet offers an impressive spread with over 75 items to choose from, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. There’s a traditional cooked breakfast, enjoy freshly made-toorder omelettes, crafted just the way you like. A wide selection of cereals and continental options is available. All served by a friendly and attentive breakfast team each morning at B1.

Lunch

Diners choose from a diverse open lobby menu, where they can unwind in the bar while watching live sports or enjoy a more peaceful dining experience in the B1 restaurant. Whatever you require an attentive team is there to provide every need and comfort in a welcoming atmosphere.

Dinner

There is a diverse open lobby menu to choose from in an area when there’s an opportunity to unwind in the bar while watching live sports or enjoy a more peaceful dining experience in the B1 restaurant. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available.

B1

Address: Holiday Street B1 1HH

Contact: www.ihg.com

Owner: Centre Island Hotels

Head chef: Nik Tur

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday bar menu 10am-10pm; dinner menu within our B1 restaurant Monday to Sunday 6:30pm-9:30pm

Wines

The list features an extensive selection carefully curated to complement every dish on our menu. From the crisp, refreshing notes of a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc to the rich, bold flavours of the Sardine Submarine Tinto from Ehrmanns in Portugal, there’s a perfect wine to pair with any meal. The knowledgeable B1 team is always on hand to offer recommendations and guide drinkers.

Business facilities

The business-friendly premises team advise customers to get in touch as prices vary.

Conference facilities

There is a range of flexible rooms to accommodate anywhere from two to 200 people. The light and airy conference facilities are designed to offer freedom in setup, ensuring events run smoothly and meets all needs. The team is on hand to look after every element, providing exceptional service and ensuring the event is a success.

Milestone for easyJet base

easyJet has marked the first anniversary since it launched its Birmingham base. Since March last year, easyJet has seen continued growth and operated its largest ever flying programme, flying over 1.6m customers to and from Birmingham during its 2024 financial year, up 53 per cent compared to the previous year.

The airline’s network in Birmingham has also gone from strength to strength, having more than doubled the number of destinations on its network since launching the base.

The arrival of two additional Airbus A320 aircraft this summer will enable the airline to offer customers in the Midlands even more choice for flights and holidays across Europe as well as support around 800 jobs.

Two new routes to popular island holiday destinations Gran Canaria and Malta will take off in May and June this summer, followed by a new route to Lanzarote, which will launch in October and is on sale now.

‘We are thrilled to mark the first anniversary of the launch of easyJet’s base at Birmingham Airport’

Package holiday provider easyJet holidays has also seen success with the new base, particularly for beach breaks, with Mallorca, Sharm ElSheikh, Antalya and Tunisia leading the way.

Ali Gayward, easyJet UK country manager, said: “Since launching our new base at Birmingham Airport last March, the success we’ve seen has been a clear testament to the continued popularity of our flights and holidays, with customers choosing us for our trusted brand, unrivalled network and great value fares.”

Tom Screen, aviation director at the airport: “We are thrilled to mark the first anniversary of the launch of easyJet's base at Birmingham Airport. Following the establishment of a base last year, easyJet has seen phenomenal growth at Birmingham.”

Expert help navigating customs requirements

Simpex Express, the Birminghambased express transport and customs clearance solutions firm, is helping businesses to adapt to the UK’s latest customs requirements – and Chamber members can take advantage of a free introductory offer.

Since January all vehicles entering the UK must submit an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) before arrival, following the end of the waiver period.

This update is part of the UK’s post-Brexit border changes aimed at enhancing security and streamlining trade processes.

‘We are not only ensuring smooth customs clearance but also providing a free clearance offer for first-time transport bookings’

Simpex, 1813 members of the Chamber, supports businesses in meeting these new obligations by integrating ENS submissions with its customs clearance services.

Through its customs agent sister company, Samphire Cargo, Simpex provides a full range of customs solutions, including ENS declarations, import/export clearances, and Regimes 40/42.

With established teams in the UK

and France, the company ensures smooth and compliant transport operations across Europe.

Simon Beechener, managing director at Simpex, said: “We are not only ensuring smooth customs clearance but also providing a free clearance offer for first-time transport bookings. This allows businesses to experience our seamless service and expertise with zero risk.”

To claim a free customs clearance offer, businesses are required to book their first

transport with Simpex, noting “BCC”. Go to simpex.co.uk or contact hello@simpex.co.uk

Simpex Express will be exhibiting at Transport Logistic 2025 in Munich from 2-5 June. This marks the company’s first time showcasing its services outside the UK and will be joined by Samphire Cargo.

Simpex Express also made a firstclass delivery to charity Kids’ Village – by donating a corporate box at Villa Park. The donation raised £1,050 for the charity’s vital work.

Solihull entrepreneur celebrated

Kim Hulse, of K Hulse Consulting, was spotlighted at a special International Women’s Day event at the House of Lords, celebrating her success as a founder.

Kim, whose business delivers strategic marketing support to high-street businesses, was one of 100 female entrepreneurs from across the UK selected for Small Business Britain’s annual #iAlso100 – a line up of 2025’s most inspirational female entrepreneurs.

A part of Small Business Britain’s f:Entrepreneur campaign, the #iAlso100 champions the powerful impact of female business owners to the UK economy, communities and society.

Kim was named as one of ƒ:Entrepreneur’s #iAlso100 this year in recognition of her impressive entrepreneurial journey, including running her business alongside a host of other responsibilities, including her role at Visit Knowle championing the village and local businesses.

Kim is passionate about the role high-streets play in local communities and specialises in helping those businesses curate their product ranges and invite footfall to their business.

Kim said: “It was inspiring to meet so many female entrepreneurs and it was fascinating to hear more about their businesses.”

On show: Simon Beechener, managing director of Simpex Express, and Stacy Woodall, commercial manager

Inspiring: Kim Hulse

Support neurodiversity in your workplace

Many workplaces still do not embrace neurodiversity, which is used to explain the way people’s brains work. It encompasses conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia. It emphasises that these differences are not deficits but diverse ways of being but many businesses do not provide what employees need.

IVETA PUDILOVA (pictured) is an award-winning member of Future Faces, the young entrepreneurs arm of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. She works for National Neurodiversity Training and she explains the importance of understanding these issues.

Growing up, I often felt out of place – until my sister was diagnosed as autistic.

Suddenly, everything made sense. Her journey led me to recognise my own neurodivergence, and that realisation shaped the foundation of National Neurodiversity Training.

It wasn’t entirely surprising. After all, up to 55 per cent of business founders are neurodivergent. Yet, despite the strengths neurodivergent employees bring (up to 30 per cent higher productivity) many workplaces still fail to provide the support they need.

‘We

provide neurodiversity training, research, and consulting to help companies become truly inclusive’

Our team has first-hand experience with these barriers. As a result, 50 per cent of neurodivergent employees are actively considering leaving their jobs. The cost of inaction is high – financially, emotionally, and reputationally.

That’s where National Neurodiversity Training comes in. As a multi-award-winning company, we provide neurodiversity training, research, and consulting to help companies become truly inclusive.

Our work has significantly improved retention, reputation, and employee satisfaction for highprofile clients, including Transport for West Midlands; Russell Group universities; and multinational tech companies.

Thanks to our success, I’ve had the honour of speaking on the BBC, being named the Future Face of Birmingham by the Chamber of Commerce in the Entrepreneurship category and even being elected chairman of Aston University’s Centre of Enterprise.

Winning the Future Faces Award reinforced the power of Birmingham’s business community, which is why we joined the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. The start-up

membership was the perfect fit, with great networking, support, and business development opportunities.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to represent the UK in San Francisco at the Bizworld Pitching Competition and explore new opportunities with investors in Silicon Valley. The public sector has long been a leader in neurodiversity inclusion, but since 2024, we’ve seen a surge in private sector engagement – and I’m eager to see this momentum grow.

Are you ready to embrace neurodiversity and level up your workplace? Why not start today?

For more information contact Iveta via email at ivetapudilova@nationalneurodiversitytraining.com or visit the websites: Happy Autistic Lady: www.happyautisticlady.com or National Neurodiversity Training: www.nationalneurodiversitytraining.com

Leasehold ban will be good for homeowners

Leading Midlands-based legal firm Davisons Law has welcomed the government’s plans to ban new leasehold flats in England and Wales, describing the move as “a significant step forward for homeowners”.

The reforms, announced in a government White Paper, aim to replace the current leasehold system with commonhold ownership, giving flat owners greater control over their properties and associated costs.

The changes will see homeowners own a share of and have direct control over the buildings they live in, bringing England and Wales more in line with property ownership practices seen globally.

Daniel Stones, director at Davisons Law, said: “The proposed reforms represent a positive shift

towards fairer property ownership in England and Wales.

“Many of our clients have faced challenges with escalating service charges and a lack of control over their leasehold properties.

“The move towards commonhold will empower homeowners and provide them with greater transparency and autonomy.”

...as permission given for city apartments

New apartments are set to rise in a Birmingham inner-city area after being given the green light, following support by planning experts at Marrons.

The development at 926-936 Stratford Road, Sparkhill, will deliver a mix of nine one- and two-bedroom apartments, each featuring open plan layouts and access to a shared rooftop terrace.

To accommodate the new apartments, the site – currently home to a mix of retail units – will be extended upwards by two storeys, incorporating contemporary mansard roofs, large windows and dormer structures designed to complement the area’s distinctive Victorian architecture.

Amar Rashid, director at developers Smart Move Commercial Limited, said: “Our vision has always been to create high-quality, well-designed homes that enhance the surrounding area and provide much-needed housing for the local community.”

Artists’ impression of the new apartment complex: UMAA Architects

Fairer: Daniel Stones

Providing a spark of audio-visual inspiration for museum

Birmingham-based video production company Spark Media has been awarded a contract to produce the new introductory audio-visual production for Blists Hill Victorian Town.

Blists Hill, a recreation of a late Victorian town that welcomes over 150,000 visitors annually, is part of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust (IGMT) group, based in Shropshire.

It has embarked on an ambitious project to enhance its visitor experience.

The new audio-visual production at the entrance to the museum will set the stage for an immersive journey into the heart of the East Shropshire Coalfield circa 1900, bringing to life the area’s rich industrial heritage and the stories of the people who shaped the region.

Spark Media’s successful bid will see the creation of a modern, engaging, and accessible audio-visual experience that introduces visitors to Blists Hill’s setting, industries and community life. The production will be a combination of live action and animation and will be designed to build anticipation while providing an accurate and inspiring preview of the museum’s core experience.

Scott Barnett, co-director at Spark Media, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Blists Hill Victorian Town on this transformative project.

‘This production will not only introduce visitors to the extraordinary history of Blists Hill but also ensure a welcoming and immersive experience for audiences

of all backgrounds’

“At Spark Media, we are passionate about bringing history to life through engaging storytelling and innovative visuals.

“This production will not only introduce visitors to the extraordinary history of Blists Hill but also ensure a welcoming and immersive experience for audiences of all backgrounds.”

The new production will replace the existing

introductory video, which has served visitors since 2009. With advances in technology and a greater emphasis on accessibility, the updated experience will feature dynamic visuals, captivating narration, and an inclusive design to accommodate all visitors, including those with sensory sensitivities.

Nick Booth, collections and learning director at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, the heritage conservation and education charity that runs Blists Hill Victorian Town, said: “This audiovisual experience will be the first thing visitors to Blists Hill see, and so it is a key project for us to help provide an introduction to the site, while also engaging visitors with what to expect in a 1900s town in the East Shropshire Coalfield.

“Spark Media put forward a proposal that promises to spark the emotions and excitement we want our visitors to feel as they embark on their visit of Blists Hill Victorian Town.”

The new audio-visual experience is set to launch this month, ahead of the museum’s peak visitor season. For more information go to spark-media.co.uk

Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, and David Wright, and Kyla Hislop from the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust

HyDEX: Driving Hydrogen Innovation in the Midlands

Hydrogen is emerging as a key solution for businesses aiming to decarbonize their operations, enhance energy security through localized production, and generate new highly skilled jobs. However, the challenge of building a hydrogen economy lies in developing an industrial and manufacturing sector that is still in its infancy. Addressing this challenge is the HyDEX programme, funded by Research England and managed by the Energy Research Accelerator (ERA), a partnership of eight leading universities and the British Geological Survey. HyDEX is actively fostering a hydrogen industrial economy and network in the Midlands.

Building a Regional Hydrogen Partnership

Since its launch in 2022, HyDEX has organized more than 30 in-person events across the Midlands, as well as in key locations such as London, Brussels, and Singapore. These events aim to engage a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, researchers, policymakers, and civil servants, to raise awareness of hydrogen's potential and create valuable connections. In addition, the programme has hosted numerous webinars covering diverse topics, including hydrogen production, storage, transport, applications, regulations, and social acceptance.

One significant initiative is the HyDEX OffRoad Network (HORN), which was formed after a successful event held at JCB in Uttoxeter. Attendees saw hydrogen-powered plant equipment in action and heard insights from industry and academic experts. HORN focuses on hydrogen applications in off-road and off-grid

contexts, particularly in agriculture and construction. Its membership has grown to over 60 organizations, who benefit from two-monthly "Lunch & Learn" sessions. These sessions feature expert talks on topics such as hydrogen production, storage, and application in projects and farms.

HORN has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders. One member described the network as invaluable for "networking, learning, and company introductions," helping the Midlands hydrogen community to thrive.

To join the HORN network, please email Nick King, Marketing Manager for HyDEX and ERA on nick.king@era.ac.uk

Supporting Hydrogen Innovation

HyDEX has worked closely with a number of SMEs, startups, and spinouts to support the development of hydrogen technologies. These collaborations have focused on diverse projects, including producing hydrogen from sewage and converting diesel generators to run on hydrogen. Such partnerships have enabled companies to conduct feasibility studies, develop prototypes, and explore target markets, including Nepal. Through these innovation projects, HyDEX has significantly impacted the participating companies. Two businesses have secured external funding for commercialisation, five have expanded their workforce, and four have entered international markets such as Nepal, Nigeria, Australia, Dubai, and South Africa.

One standout example is GreenCo’s collaboration with Aston University to advance its BR300 system. This auto-thermal steam reformer produces low-carbon hydrogen from low-grade forestry waste, overcoming limitations of traditional biofuel processing. Aston University provided feasibility studies on potential plant locations and helped enhance the system to handle lower-quality waste. GreenCo is now using the findings to secure further funding and proceed to the next project phase.

Demonstrating Hydrogen Technologies

A key component of HyDEX’s mission is showcasing hydrogen technologies through demonstrator projects at Midlands universities. These demonstrations serve to advance hydrogen production and usage methods while connecting academic expertise with industry needs.

HyDEX recently had a celebration event at the Museum of Making in Derby

Highlights from the HyDEX Demonstrator Programme

Aston University:

Focuses on hydrogen production via biomass conversion using thermochemical, biological, and catalytic processes. The Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) specializes in gasification and pyrolysis.

University of Birmingham:

Collaborates with Tyseley Energy Park to build hydrogen infrastructure, including a refuelling station and an integrated ammonia cracker for renewable energy storage and clean transport fuels.

Cranfield University:

Explores innovative bulk hydrogen production techniques, such as Sorbent Enhanced Steam Reforming (SESR) and catalytic methane cracking, while examining hydrogen blending and carbon by-product applications.

Keele University:

Successfully demonstrated a 20% hydrogen blend in heating networks through the HyDEPLOY trial. It also produces green hydrogen using a PEM electrolyser during energy surpluses, focusing on practical energy solutions.

Loughborough University:

Conducts extensive hydrogen research on sustainable production, material reuse, and lifecycle management, aiming for cost-effective, recyclable products.

University of Nottingham:

Developed the "Flex Fuel" engine, enabling diesel engine retrofits to transition between hydrogen and ammonia, reducing emissions. Research also focuses on solid-state hydrogen storage.

University of Warwick:

Investigates renewable hydrogen production with systems demonstrating higher efficiency than existing methods, with efforts to scale technology for commercial use.

These demonstration projects highlight the Midlands' growing expertise in hydrogen technologies and underscore its potential to lead the UK’s hydrogen transition.

Developing Skills for the Hydrogen Economy

HyDEX recognizes the importance of cultivating a skilled workforce to support the hydrogen economy. Its skills programme, led by Loughborough University, focuses on addressing skill gaps and creating educational opportunities to upskill current and future workers.

Initiatives to Build the Hydrogen Workforce

Inspiring Young Minds:

HyDEX has promoted STEM and hydrogen-related careers to school pupils through engaging activities, such as the Hydrogen Grand Prix competition. Students built and raced model hydrogen cars, learning about the science and engineering behind the technology. Other initiatives included school visits during British Science Week and National Careers Week, as well as university-led workshops on building and racing hydrogen cars.

Winter and Summer Hydrogen Schools:

These week-long events provided university researchers, industry professionals, and students with an in-depth understanding of hydrogen technologies. Topics covered included hydrogen production, storage, transport, and applications across various industries.

By raising awareness and providing hands-on experiences, HyDEX is not only preparing the current workforce but also inspiring the next generation of hydrogen professionals.

Informing Hydrogen Policy

HyDEX has played a vital role in shaping hydrogen policy at regional, national, and international levels. Through research, meetings, and workshops, the programme has provided actionable insights and recommendations for governments and industry stakeholders.

Key Policy Reports

1. Accelerating Hydrogen Adoption in Industry: This report outlines how the UK can enhance its hydrogen industry through investments in infrastructure, training, public awareness, and financial incentives. It provides a roadmap for unlocking hydrogen’s potential to achieve netzero goals.

2. Hydrogen Rail in the Midlands:

Focusing on hydrogen-powered trains as a cleaner alternative to diesel, this report identifies four routes in the Midlands where hydrogen trials would be practical. The Midlands, with its strong rail industry presence, is ideally positioned to lead hydrogen rail innovations.

3. Benefits of UK-EU Collaboration in Hydrogen: Highlighting the mutual benefits of UK-EU cooperation, this report advocates for the establishment of a UK-EU Hydrogen Taskforce to coordinate efforts on cross-border projects, safety standards, and best practices.

These reports, available on the HyDEX website (www.hydex.ac.uk/resources) provide crucial guidance for policymakers to harness hydrogen's potential effectively.

Join the Hydrogen Revolution

HyDEX is at the forefront of hydrogen innovation in the Midlands, helping to build a new hydrogen economy. We are keen to hear from businesses with an interest in hydrogen who would like to become part of our growing business network – HORN, which is an opportunity to learn about the latest developments and opportunities in hydrogen. Please email Nick.King@era.ac.uk if you would like to join.

For more information about HyDEX, visit www.hydex.ac.uk or email hello@hydex.ac.uk

Recognition for CBSO conductor

City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra’s music director Kazuki Yamada received the Conductor Award for his concerts at Symphony Hall during the 2025 Royal Philharmonic Society Awards.

The awards also praised Mr Yamada for setting a gold standard in his embrace of the community, delighting citizens in the Bullring shopping centre and on the city’s trams.

The event was held at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, hosted by BBC Radio 3 presenters Jess Gillam and Tom McKinney, with trophies presented by RPS chair Angela Dixon.

New director for CrossCountry

CrossCountry has announced the appointment of Shiona Rolfe as new managing director.

She brings a wealth of strategic and operational leadership experience from a 20-year career in the private and public sector.

She joins CrossCountry from Amazon, where she headed the fulfilment operation in South West England and West Yorkshire.

Priscilla drives into Birmingham

Priscilla Queen of the Desert, based on the 1994 Oscarwinning film, is set to arrive at Birmingham Hippodrome from Monday, 23 March, 2026, until Saturday, 28 March, 2026.

Directed by Olivier Awardnominated Ian Talbot OBE with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Matt Cole with set and lighting design by Andrew Exeter, the Broadway and West End hit musical, follows the hilarious and heart-warming journey as three friends travel across Australia in a dilapidated bus nicknamed Priscilla to put on the show of a lifetime.

Tickets are on sale now to Friends of Birmingham Hippodrome and general from 7 April. They can be purchased at birminghamhippodrome.com or by calling 0121 689 3000.

Birmingham may become the home of English rugby

Birmingham could become the home of English rugby unless restrictions which currently prevent more events at Twickenham are ironed out.

Rugby Football Union (RFU) chief executive Billy Sweeney has hinted a move from English rugby’s longstanding headquarters could be a possibility because of licensing restrictions preventing more events being held at the stadium.

Although the RFU committed to plans for a £660m redevelopment of Twickenham, it needs to raise revenue by hosting more concerts and non-rugby events.

‘There are plenty of places that would like to have us. Birmingham and Milton Keynes would love to have us there’

However, the London venue is only permitted to host three non-rugby events a year and only two on consecutive nights with a limited capacity of 55,000.

Sweeney claims Twickenham – now known as the Allianz Stadium – missed out on staging Beyonce concerts last summer.

By contrast, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium can host 30 non-football events per year and Wembley 32.

Sweeney told the Business of Sport podcast: “There are plenty of places that would like to have us.

Birmingham and Milton Keynes would love to have us there. Part of the renovation from 2027 means we are in discussions with Richmond Borough Council to stage more non-rugby events. For us it is three and we are only allowed one on a Friday.

“We have had the Rolling Stones. We could have had Beyonce but she wanted three nights and we are only allowed two nights consecutively.

“We are saying that if we are going to invest £600m into the Allianz - and we have a study which shows how much economic value it contributes to the borough - you are going to have to work with us in terms of an increase in the number of events we can stage in order to monetise the stadium.

“It would be a tough call for us. It would be very difficult. I don’t know how we would justify the investment in the stadium if we can’t get the increase in the event licences.”

Birmingham City also have ambitious plans for their site in the city. It has announced their aim to build a 60,000-seater stadium with extra sporting facilities, shops and homes on the side. This has been welcomed by government and owners Wagner have promised up to 8,400 new jobs, encouraging further investment in the east of the city.

Tom Wagner is the chairman of Blues and a cofounder of Knighthead Capital Management, the US investment firm that co-owns the club with NFL legend Tomy Brady.

Arboretum launches bus service

A new dedicated bus service has been launched to improve accessibility to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

Funded by Staffordshire County Council and operated by Diamond Bus East Midlands, it will make it easier for visitors to travel to the free-toenter 150-acre estate using public transport.

Mark Ellis, National Memorial Arboretum lead, said: “The National Memorial Arboretum is the nation’s year-round place to remember, and our team is continually working to remove

New member joins WMCRC

The West Midlands Cyber Resilience Centre (WMCRC) have welcomed Craig Langman as the latest member to join their advisory group.

For nearly 30 years, ACUTEC has been dedicated to helping Midlands businesses understand and address vulnerabilities in their networks.

Their expertise spans road mapping, disaster recovery, 24hour network monitoring, phishing prevention, AI-powered malware and ransomware protection, penetration testing, and addressing cloud misconfigurations.

With 27 years of experience in the technology industry, Craig is driven by a deep passion for innovation and cybersecurity. Craig’s mission is to empower businesses to create a culture of cybersecurity awareness, ensuring they stay protected against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Michelle Ohren, director of WMCRC, said: “We’re pleased to have Craig join our Advisory Group. His experience in the tech industry will be invaluable.”

accessibility barriers as part of our commitment to remaining freely open to all.

“Remembrance has been a fundamental human need for millennia and thanks to this new bus service, people who either don’t own a vehicle or prefer more sustainable transport options will now find it much easier to travel to the Arboretum to reflect, remember, and forge new memories together.”

A newly liveried bus, featuring images of the National Memorial Arboretum’s gardens and memorials is now operating.

This bus will provide a seven-day regular shuttle service between Tamworth Station and the Arboretum, one of the Midlands’ largest visitor destinations.

In addition to calling at the railway station and Tamworth town centre, the bus will stop in Alrewas Village allowing for connections with the 12 Bus Service to Burton and Lichfield, previously the nearest bus service to the Arboretum.

Each journey will cost £3 per passenger and trips are free of charge for National Concessionary Bus Pass holders.

Businesses not confident the government can fix skills gap

Less than one fifth (18 per cent) of engineering and manufacturing businesses are confident that the government can solve the skills shortage, according to a new report out today.

The latest In-Comm Training Barometer, which took in the opinions of 103 managing directors and HR leads, paints a picture of industry confusion when it comes to understanding what Labour is doing to bridge the well-publicised gap. Seventy-eight per cent of firms questioned believe that there is not enough support available to boost their training fortunes (a six per cent increase on last year), whilst more than three fifths (61 per cent) do not understand what Skills England has been set up to do.

All of this is contributing to a mixed skills landscape for companies struggling to balance workforce development with going after new opportunities in electrification, reshoring and valueadded engineering.

“I think the devil is going to be in the detail and Labour needs to quickly communicate how it is changing apprenticeships and

training support,” said Gareth Jones, managing director of InComm Training.

“The issue it faces comes from a lack of standardisation in the skills system through many different governments, regardless of colour. This has created confusion, distrust and a lack of understanding and engagement.”

The In-Comm Training Barometer is one of the UK’s leading reports on the current skills and training

landscape, providing critical data on provision, apprenticeships and company sentiment.

For the first time in the history of the survey, less than half (46 per cent) of businesses are planning to increase investment in their training budget.

Two thirds have issued a call to reform the Apprenticeship Levy, with a focus on making sure they have greater control on what they can spend funding on.

Skills: A mixed landscape

All aboard: Representatives from the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire County Council, Diamond Bus, and Visit Staffordshire celebrate the launch of the new bus service

Recipe for success (left to right): Cathy Homer, Alex Taylor and Councillor Martin Watson, portfolio holder for economy at Warwickshire County Council

The right ingredients for growth

An ambitious performance chef has found a recipe for success after gaining invaluable support for his business.

Having attracted the services of players from Aston Villa FC and several other professional footballers, Alex Taylor knew he was on to a winner with Pro Game Nutrition.

And he’s taken the company to a different level since approaching Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce (CWCC) for business support.

Pro Game Nutrition, which is based in Coleshill, supplies ready meals for professional athletes in a range of sports. The meals are all bespoke and adjusted to the macronutrient needs of the athlete.

Alex, 35, launched Pro Game Nutrition on the back of a chance meeting with Aston Villa’s nutritionist that came about when he was forced

to switch from working in a restaurant to serving in a deli during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“He said he needed some help because the club was struggling to get the right food and meals for the players,” Alex said. “I came up with the idea for ready meals and personalised shopping for the players and it grew from there.” Keen to access targeted marketing support for the company, Alex approached CWCC on the advice of his angel investor.

“I explained everything on the phone and was told I could get free support. They linked me up with Business Advisor Cathy Homer who gave me her expert opinion on the business’ strengths and weaknesses.

“The original business got a bit confused because there were two strands with Elite Eatsan events and private catering businessforming a second part of it. So, with Cathy’s

Highlights of new season at theatre

The Lichfield Garrick Theatre has launched a packed programme of shows – from comedy to musical theatre – for its 2025 season.

Among the music tributes that are returning to the Garrick this year are Dreamcoat Stars, Story of Soul and Chicago Blues Brothers, as well as new additions to the programme including Sex Bomb: Celebrating the Music of Sir Tom Jones, Flowers & Friendship Bracelets and Rock for Heroes, a night of classic rock anthems.

April brings a busy period of drama with Blackeyed Theatre’s production of Stoker’s iconic gothic novel, Dracula, and Bill Kenwright Limited’s adaptation of The

Shawshank Redemption. There are also comedy twists on classics with, Laurence Olivier Award-winner Pride & Prejudice (*sort of) or Sh!tfaced Shakespeare: Hamlet.

A comedy programme includes Tim Benzie from crowd pleaser Solve-Along-A-Murder-She-Wrote in It’s a Mystery, and The Dad’s Army Radio Show.

Football fans can join Andy Townsend, Lee Hendrie and Ian Taylor for An Evening with Aston Villa Legends, a collection of stories, anecdotes and the inside scoop on what goes on off the pitch.

The theatre is also welcoming back a variety of local theatre companies.

help, we completely rebranded and that’s helped the business massively.”

Cathy said one particular element of the free course paid dividends immediately.

“I took Alex to a networking event and that’s where he met a branding specialist,” she said. “We worked with another local business to do the design and printing for the packaging and the website has been redeveloped too.

“Alex implemented the support so quickly - he absorbed everything. The change within three or four months has been phenomenal. And not just with his business.

“When I first met Alex he was really nervous, shy and struggling with his self-confidence. Personally, it was nice to see him shine and take his product to the next level.”

This programme is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council.

Rise in closures of independent firms

Towns and cities across Britain are already witnessing a wave of closures as independent businesses shut their doors ahead of April’s triple tax burden, the UK’s leading retail body has warned.

The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), which represents 6,000 independent businesses nationwide, reports that many shop owners are making the heartbreaking decision to close now rather than face the financial cliff-edge coming in April.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "We're seeing a deeply concerning trend of pre-emptive closures.

“Shop owners are doing the maths on the increased National Insurance contributions, higher minimum wage costs, and the looming reduction in business rates relief, and many are concluding that continuing simply isn’t viable.”

The combined impact of employers' National Insurance rising to 15 per cent, the minimum wage increasing to £12.21, and business rates relief dropping from 75 per cent to 40 per cent is creating what Bira describes as a “perfect storm” for independent retailers.

Expansion for PDS Direct

PDS Direct, a leading logistics provider specialising in fragile and high-value goods, is entering a new phase of growth, expanding its operations, workforce and fleet to meet increasing demand following a major contract win.

Founded over 45 years ago, PDS Direct has grown from a local delivery service, covering the Midlands region from its Oldbury premises, into a thirdgeneration family business. The company is known for its tailored delivery services, across the UK and Western Europe.

After recently winning a fiveyear client contract, the team underwent a major expansion of the business.

This included the recruitment of 45 new employees, growing the team by 40 per cent, along with the acquisition of 30 additional vehicles.

The team also underwent substantial investment in infrastructure, including the purchase of a CNG-powered tractor unit to support sustainable operations.

To facilitate this expansion, Lloyds supported a funding package to help the firm to meet its current and long-term goals.

The package included funding to expand its fleet by 25 per cent, along with financial support to scale operations and onboard new employees.

Sean Kiely, managing director at PDS Direct, said: “Securing a major client contract was a pivotal moment for PDS Direct.

“Our relationship with Lloyds has been instrumental in supporting our growth over the years. They understand our business inside and out, and their ability to provide bespoke solutions means we’ve always felt supported at every stage of our journey.”

Andy Matthews, relationship director at Lloyds, commented: “PDS Direct’s dedication to delivering specialised logistics solutions makes them a standout in the industry.

“We’re proud to support their expansion with a funding package tailored to their needs. It’s been rewarding to work closely with Sean and his team, and we look forward to seeing their continued growth.”

Charity highlights importance of funding

The Giles’ Trust Brain Tumour Fund marked Brain Tumour Awareness Month by highlighting the importance of funding research into brain tumours.

The organisation is also celebrating its fundraisers who do so much to raise money and support patients and their families.

The charity was founded in 2015 by former England cricketer Ashley Giles and his wife Stine following her diagnosis and battle with multiple brain tumours.

‘The Giles’ Trust has helped us do some wonderful things for our staff and patients’

Since its launch, The Giles’ Trust has raised a staggering £1.3m and funded a clinical research nurse at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

Will Garratt, Neuro Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham said: “The Giles’ Trust has helped us do some wonderful things for our staff and patients over the last 10 years.

“The charity has funded pioneering equipment, employed research nurses and helped my team and I stay up to date with education and conferences.

“Recently we have also been able to give some of our patient’s incredible experiences. These patients have been going through some really challenging times and thanks to The Giles’ Trust, we’ve helped them create memories to get them through and give them the boost they need.”

The Giles’ Trust continues to grow, funding vital research, investing in state-of-the-art equipment and support to improve the treatment journey for brain tumour patients across the West Midlands.

High Sheriff praises hospice

High Sheriff of the West Midlands Doug Wright has paid tribute to the fundraising efforts of Birmingham Hospice – after officially opening their refurbished rooms in Erdington.

The new rooms were made possible thanks to the Room to Care appeal, which raised £220,000.

Doug said: “These beautiful spaces, made possible by the incredible Room to Care appeal, will make a real difference to patients and their families.

“Congratulations to Birmingham Hospice for successfully raising an impressive £220,000 for this appeal. This was a huge collective effort with help from the local community, corporate partners, charitable trusts and their own brilliant fundraising team.

“Finally a huge shout out to all the staff at Birmingham Hospice. The capital appeal has enabled these upgrades but the real magic of the place is the care and compassion of the staff. They really are a credit to our community.”

The hospice opening was part of a busy month of engagements for the

High Sheriff, which included:

• Visiting students at Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College, alongside several High Sheriff Cadets

• Meeting Kevin Warrington at Bethany Foodbank in Witton to learn about how the volunteer organisation feeds over 1,100 families in need

• Attending a lunch hosted by the mayor of Sandwell, Syeda Khatun,

in support of her chosen charities

• Delivering a keynote to attendees at a Community Friends Session at the Manor Farm Centre, which brought together the voluntary, community, and faith sectors

• Attending the West Midlands Police Cadet Presentation Evening at Lloyd House which celebrated the achievements of young cadets who serve as role models in the community.

Raising awareness: The Stine's Home from Home launch with (left to right): Dr Sara Meade, Lloyd Ansermoz, Ashley and Stine Giles, Karen Jones and Will Garratt

Making a difference: Doug Wright (centre) with his “credit to the community”

Reclaim your time: Transform LinkedIn networking into a lead-generation powerhouse

Are you spending countless hours managing your LinkedIn presence, only to see minimal results? You're not alone

For most business owners, LinkedIn outreach feels like a full-time job. One full day every week spent meticulously sending connection requests. Daily messages to maintain engagement. Constant pressure to post and interact. It's exhausting, time-consuming, and often frustrating. But what if you could get all those hours back – and achieve better results?

The Smart way to network: Introducing the LinkedIn Outreach Agent

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UK must transform archaic infrastructure

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is calling on the government to tackle the problems of the UK’s worn-out infrastructure to fire up growth.

The calls come from a new report which advises ministers to improve road and rail capacity and electrify key sections of the rail network.

The report also recommends delivering regional transport projects and grid connectivity, while listening to businesses on its infrastructure needs and providing long-term policy stability.

It has been produced by the BCC’s local economy of the future challenge group. The report advises that the Infrastructure and Planning Bill, expected to be put before Parliament soon, must have the interests of business at its heart.

And it calls for the government to introduce long-term policy stability to help restore business confidence that was hit by the cancellation of the latter stages of HS2.

The report also sets out a pathway to improve capacity in the planning system, through a joint initiative with business to get 100 more trained planners into local authorities.

The BCC has set up the programme to address the bottlenecks in decision-making due to a lack of resources. BCC research has found that more than three-fifths of business leaders (62 per cent) say they just don't have the right skills in their workforce.

Transport is a major challenge that needs fixing. For low-paid workers, buses are key. But more than six in ten (62 per cent) company leaders say their local bus and tram networks are poor.

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the BCC, said: “The story of largescale infrastructure development in the UK has travelled a rocky road over the past few decades.

“The perception remains that projects either end up getting cancelled, massively overrun or cost ten times the original asking price. Firms find it hard to plan for their own future investment if they fear the rug will be pulled from under them halfway through delivery.

“If the Government’s plans to power economic growth through a new era of construction are to be realised, then these are the issues that must be fixed.

“It has already taken some positive steps in this direction. The recommendations in this report set out what needs to happen next.”

BMW boss to speak at Chamber dinner

The German-British Chamber of Industry & commerce is hosting a business dinner with guest of honour and keynote speaker Dr Markus Grueneisl, CEO of BMW (UK) Manufacturing Ltd.

The dinner will takes place on 8 April at Hotel Du Vin from 6.45 pm onwards.

Dr Grueneisl has held various management positions within the BMW Group over the past two decades, including roles in project planning, technology control, assembly, logistics, and the strategy of production systems and digitalisation.

In September 2021, he was appointed as the CEO of BMW (UK) Manufacturing Ltd and Swindon Pressings Ltd.

Dr Grueneisl will share relevant information on the current trends, opportunities and challenges in the automotive sector, the role of the Midlands in discovering what's driving automotive innovation, leading the way in the

decarbonisation of transportation and shaping the future of mobility.

Participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences and views, renew contacts and develop new business relationships.

Guests will be able to enjoy a drinks reception and a three-course dinner.

Places are limited.

AI investment set to rise in Europe

New research from tech giant IBM has shown AI investment in Europe is anticipated to rise in 2025 as businesses seek to build on promising AI progress.

The IBM study, conducted by Morning Consult and developed in collaboration with Lopez Research, surveyed over 2,400 IT decision makers (ITDMs) around the world to assess the progress of their 2024 AI strategies, the returns generated from these AI investments and the impact on future plans.

Globally, the data reveals that organisations are increasing their AI investment, with one third of respondents planning to start more than 20 AI pilots in 2025, compared to only 20 per cent in 2024.

In terms of financial impact, nearly half (47 per cent) say they are seeing positive ROI from their investments at this stage.

The findings also show a change in how success is being measured, with the prioritisation of innovation and productivity over money saved, to achieve the immediate business value of AI. This is the case in Europe. Research demonstrated that while only 38 per cent of European organisations have achieved positive ROI from AI so farbelow the global average of 47 per cent - organisations are betting on AI for the long term and shifting the metrics for success.

Ana Paula Assis, general manager and chair of IBM EMEA, said: "As we look towards 2025, companies across Europe will be looking to build on the momentum of their AI progress. While organisations in Europe are reporting a lower ROI than the global average, the overall commitment to increasing investment indicates a growing recognition that AI innovation is a long-term investment in your company’s future.”

UK CEO: Dr Markus Grueneisl

Issues must be fixed: Shevaun Haviland

Simplify to Succeed: Six Proven Strategies to Streamline Your Business Operations

In today's fast-paced business environment, operational complexity is one of the most significant threats to organisational success. Unnecessary processes, fragmented data systems, and inefficiencies silently erode productivity and profitability. In fact, according to a recent report by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), UK businesses lose an average of 10% of their revenue annually due to inefficient processes (CIMA).

This stark figure highlights a broader reality: unchecked complexity inflates costs, wastes time, and frustrates employees. The good news is that simplifying your operations doesn’t require an expensive overhaul. By focusing on practical, incremental improvements, you can reduce inefficiencies, unlock significant value, and position your organisation for growth. Are you ready to simplify your operations before inefficiency costs your business even more?

Foster cross-departmental collaboration

Siloed departments are teams or divisions within an organisation that operate independently or in isolation from one another, with limited communication, collaboration, or information sharing - they are productivity killers. In the UK, 98% of businesses now use at least one collaboration tool, with over 90% adopting platforms like Google Workspace or Microsoft Teams, demonstrating a clear move toward fostering teamwork (CX Today).

A powerful visual metaphor for this is a beehive - where different roles, from gatherers to builders, work seamlessly together to support a common goal. Each part of the hive has a distinct function, yet the collective effort creates something far greater. Similarly, crossdepartmental collaboration enables organisations to operate more efficiently, with each team contributing unique value toward shared success.

How long can your organisation afford to operate in silos while others collaborate seamlessly? Encourage collaboration through shared digital workspaces or cross-functional task forces. Weekly interdepartmental meetings with clear agendas can also help align goals and reduce miscommunication. Organisations in financial services have adopted weekly cross-departmental syncs, reducing project delays by 15% and ensuring consistent alignment across teams.

Best practice tip: Introduce weekly interdepartmental syncs with clear agendas and outcomes. This ensures alignment without consuming excessive time.

Map your workflows to find the hidden

bottlenecks

Understanding your processes is the first step to simplification. Mapping workflows allows you to visualise inefficiencies, redundancies, and delays. A report by Slack's Workforce Index reveals that UK office workers spend approximately 41% of their time on tasks that are "low value, repetitive, or lack meaningful contribution to their core job functions." uktech.news

Practical mapping tools like Lucidchart or Microsoft Visio can help you identify inefficiencies. Engage employees at all levels to uncover the hidden bottlenecks they experience daily. This collaborative approach ensures a more accurate representation of your workflows. Can you afford to let inefficiencies slow your organisation while competitors are speeding ahead? Leading organisations in sectors like retail and logistics are using workflow mapping to reduce process times by up to 20%, gaining a competitive edge in speed and customer satisfaction.

Best practice tip: Gather a cross-departmental team and dedicate time to creating a shared map of your most critical workflows. You’ll uncover surprising insights that lead to immediate improvements.

Automate the repetitive to focus on what matters

Are you letting manual tasks drain your resources while others optimise for success? Repetitive manual tasks not only waste time but also drain employee morale. Automation can significantly reduce these inefficiencies while improving accuracy and speed. Research by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) shows that UK companies that eliminated redundant tasks saw a 25% boost in employee productivity (CMI).

Repetitive tasks often act like a dam - holding back the flow of productivity and progress. But once those bottlenecks are released through automation, energy flows freely to where it matters most.

Start small: Identify one repetitive task, such as sending reminders or data entry, and automate it using tools like Zapier or Microsoft Power Automate. Once successful, scale this approach across other processes. Retailers and manufacturers have streamlined tasks like inventory updates and customer notifications, saving hours each week and reallocating resources to highervalue work.

Best practice tip: Test automation on a single, repetitive process first. Once you see results, scale it to other areas to build momentum and confidence across teams.

Centralise data for faster and better decisions

Disparate data sources where data is stored in separate systems, formats, or locations that are not connected or integrated leads to decision paralysis and errors. Centralising your data ensures every team operates with accurate, upto-date information. A data audit is an excellent starting point to identify critical silos. Can your organisation afford to keep making decisions with incomplete data?

Invest in a centralised data repository using solutions like Microsoft SharePoint or Google Workspace. Not only does this reduce the time spent hunting for information, but it also provides decision-makers with a single source of truth. Leading consulting firms centralise their client and project data, reducing errors by 30% and accelerating reporting timelines

Best practice tip: Start with one high-priority dataset, such as sales or customer data, and centralise it. This small change can provide immediate clarity and measurable benefits.

Improve communication with the right tools

How much longer can you tolerate communication breakdowns while competitors streamline theirs? Efficient communication is the backbone of streamlined operations. Yet, communication overload or ineffective channels often lead to missed messages and wasted time. Tools that integrate chat, email, and video conferencing can dramatically improve efficiency. For example, Roland Berger’s adoption of Microsoft Teams enabled seamless collaboration across global teams, reducing response times and improving productivity (SoftwareOne).

Set clear expectations for communication channels. For instance, use email for formal updates, Slack for quick queries, and Teams for project discussions. Companies that introduced integrated communication platforms reduced internal email volumes by 28% and improved project timelines.

Best practice tip: Implement a "two-click rule": any critical information should be accessible within two clicks or steps for all team members.

Focus on small wins to build big momentum

Large-scale transformations can feel daunting. Instead, focus on small, highimpact changes that build momentum. These small wins - such as automating a single task or streamlining a single workflow - boost team confidence and set the stage for larger improvements

For example, a logistics company reduced shipping delays by 25% by implementing a centralised data platform. This incremental change had a ripple effect, improving customer satisfaction and reducing costs. Organisations that celebrate incremental improvements see a 35% increase in employee engagement and innovation initiatives.

Best practice tip: Prioritise changes that are quick to implement but have visible impact. Choose improvements that boost team morale or customer satisfaction - these early wins create motivation and buy-in for broader transformation.

Accelerate decision-making with clear ownership

Even the best workflows stall when it’s unclear who owns the decision. Ambiguity leads to delays, duplicated effort, and missed opportunities. Clear decision ownership - assigning accountability for specific tasks, projects, or outcomes - helps teams move faster and reduces friction across departments.

Organisations that implement structured responsibility frameworks, like RACI (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed), often see faster turnaround times and fewer project blockers. When everyone knows who owns what, decisions don’t sit in limbo.

In decision-making, someone must break from the pack and take the lead. When ownership is clear, progress speeds up - and others follow that momentum.

Best practice tip: Introduce a decision ownership matrix across teams. Clarify who is responsible and who is accountable at every key stage to avoid delays and boost execution speed.

Close

the loop: feedback as a continuous improvement tool

Operational efficiency isn’t just about processes - it’s also about listening. Continuous feedback loops allow teams to learn in real-time, course-correct faster, and proactively solve issues before they escalate. Unfortunately, many organisations gather feedback too late - during reviews, not during operations.

Whether it’s internal process feedback or customer insight, organisations that embed quick, structured feedback opportunities improve quality, responsiveness, and team morale. Leading companies now use short pulse surveys, team retrospectives, and real-time customer satisfaction tools to stay agile and informed. Just like a Formula 1 pit crew responding instantly to a racing team's needs, acting on feedback in real time keeps your business agile, high-performing, and ahead of the competition.

Best practice tip: Make feedback visible and actionable. Use a shared board or digital tracker to log suggestions, assign owners, and track outcomes. When people see their input making an impact, engagement and improvement accelerate.

Conclusion: the risk of doing nothing

Inaction in the face of complexity can lead to rising costs, inefficiencies, and a competitive disadvantage. By implementing these six strategies - mapping workflows, fostering collaboration, automating tasks, centralising data, improving communication, and focusing on small wins - you can simplify operations and unlock your organisation’s full potential.

Final call to action: How much longer can you afford to let complexity hold your business back? Contact EEvolution today to explore how we can help streamline your operations and empower your success.

Email: info@eevolution.co.uk

Tim Mahoney, Director

Chamber Patrons

Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters

Tenants share views on plans

Housing association Midland Heart has launched its new corporate plan to 2030, cocreated by tenants.

Titled Tenants at Heart, the organisation claims this will be the most tenant-focused strategy it has ever delivered.

The 40-page plan details how Midland Heart plans to improve the quality of its 35,000 homes and deliver more responsive services for its 70,000 tenants.

Tenants at Heart is a collaboration between landlord and tenant. Born out of thousands of conversations with tenants, including 14,000 completed tenant surveys, direct feedback from 1,500 tenants and 650 face-to-face visits to tenants’ homes, the plan keenly articulates their point of view, culminating in an ambitious strategy that promises to deliver better service outcomes and meet affordable housing needs.

The cornerstone of Tenants at Heart is quality, underpinned by a £300m investment in their “homes fit for modern living” programme.

Chief executive of Midland Heart Glenn Harris, said: “Tenants at Heart is Midland Heart’s promise to put the tenant at the centre of our operations, our mindset, and our strategy over the next five years. We will empower our colleagues to make decisions on our tenants’ behalf, we will make record investments in our tenants’ homes, and we will build new homes so more people have access to affordable housing.”

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

Aston University ranks among best for business

Aston University’s reputation as one of the best in the world for studying business has risen again with two subjects being ranked in the top 100.

Aston also ranked in the top 10 per cent of evaluated institutions in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The 2025 edition of the QS World University Rankings by Subject, released by global higher education analyst QS Quacquarelli Symonds, provides independent comparative analysis on the performance of more than 18,300 individual university programmes, taken by students at more than 1,700 universities in 100 locations around the world, across 55 academic disciplines.

These latest results recognise Aston Business School as among the best in the world, particularly for business and management studies and marketing.

The number of Aston University’s subjects included in the rankings increased to 14, including health,

sciences and engineering, based on academic reputation, employer reputation and citations.

Aston University was recognised as the Daily Mail University of the Year for Student Success 2025.

Three Aston University alumni have been named on the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT (UK)) 2025 ‘35 Under 35’ list.

The list identifies and celebrates emerging leaders under the age of 35 who are driving innovation and excellence within the logistics, transport and supply chain sector. Those on the list will feature in the March edition of CILT's monthly magazine, Focus.

Simon Cutler graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business and Supply Chain Management in 2023; Amy Hinsliff-Smith graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management (Professional Practice) in 2024; Matthew King graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Transport Management in 2014.

Mentoring scheme to build confidence

Vulnerable young people in the West Midlands who may have given up on education will be encouraged to consider applying for university as part of a new mentoring project aimed at helping them “rebuild confidence”.

Birmingham City University (BCU) has teamed up with Barnardo’s, Liminal Education, and Our Place Support to launch the “Pathway to Potential” programme for 14- to 18year-olds who are homeless, looked after by their local authority, or not in mainstream education.

Twenty-five trained BCU students and alumni will dedicate 800 hours

of mentoring to 50 young people to develop their empathy, compassion, active listening, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness.

BCU vice-chancellor Professor David Mba said: “We are justly proud of our track record for bringing down barriers to higher education and providing the talent for tomorrow.

“We also appreciate that our ethos of delivering practical, inclusive education is best achieved through partnership with organisations who share our values and can keep pace with our drive to make an impact.”

World ranking: Aston University

Shared value: Professor David Mba

Understanding priorities: Glenn Harris

M6toll proudly supports hospice menopause café

Midland Expressway Limited (MEL), operators of the M6toll, have announced that Staffordbased Katharine House Hospice has been selected as a recipient of their “In the Community” funding.

It forms part of M6toll’s commitment to supporting local communities.

The M6toll will provide £1,250 to support the continuation and expansion of the Katharine House Menopause Café, an initiative aimed at providing support and resources for women experiencing menopause.

The Menopause Café, held on the last Thursday of every month, welcomes women who cannot take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or have experienced early menopause because of treatment due to an incurable illness such as cancer. The Menopause Café aims to create a safe space for women to educate, support one another and access other therapies available at the charity.

Catherine Browning, Katharine House Hospice’s outpatient lead nurse, said: "We are incredibly grateful to M6toll for recognising the importance of our Menopause Café project.

‘We are proud to support Katharine House Hospice's Menopause Café project’

"This funding will enhance the Menopause Café by providing additional resources, expert speakers, and outreach to more women in the community.”

Jo Seabright, marketing and communications and customer experience director at M6toll, added: “We are proud to support Katharine House Hospice's Menopause Café project, which aligns perfectly with our goal of empowering women.”

Tax expert joins Bishop Fleming

Leading audit, accountancy, tax, and advisory firm Bishop Fleming has appointed another experienced tax partner to its Cheltenham office, bolstering the firm’s private equity tax offering.

Graham Charlton, previously tax director at PwC, has over 19 years of experience in accountancy, advising numerous private equitybacked businesses throughout their lifecycle, preparing clients for sale, and guiding them through the sale process and into the next lifecycle. Graham will head the private equity tax division at Bishop Fleming.

M6toll funding: (left to right): Maxine Estevez (communications manager –M6toll), Kathryn Bowden (trust fundraiser – Katharine House Hospice) and Jo Brett (external communications assistant – M6toll)

1813 Club and Premier Members

Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Share your letters from the frontline

Members of the public are being encouraged to share letters from the Second World War for a new oral history project at the National Memorial Arboretum developed in partnership with local BBC radio stations across the Midlands.

“Letters from the Frontline” will explore the changing experiences and emotions of Armed Forces personnel and their families during 1945, throughout the final months of the Second World War.

A selection of the correspondence shared with the BBC will be brought to life through recitals by family members or actors, creating a gallery of stories for the free-to-enter “Letters from the Frontline” exhibition that will open at the Arboretum on 3 May.

The original correspondence will be framed and displayed in the exhibition alongside the recordings.

“Despite the success of D-Day, Monte Cassino and the Burma Campaign in 1944 having offered glimmers of hope, 1945 was still an incredibly challenging year,” said Rachel Smith, head of learning and participation at the National Memorial Arboretum.

“While the tide had turned, the war would continue for several months, and families exchanging letters with loved ones on the frontline had renewed hope that they would survive to see peace once again.

“‘Letters from the Frontline’ will tell the story of those final months of the Second World War, with correspondence to and from Armed Forces personnel charting the journey from trepidation to jubilation, as six gruelling years of conflict finally came to an end.”

The exhibition, in partnership with BBC radio stations across the Midlands, forms part of the National Memorial Arboretum’s “The Year Was 1945…” commemorative programme which focuses on two major anniversaries: Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15 August.

Premier Membership

Contact: Gary Birch T: 0121 274 3236

Memories: Bernard Morgan, a 101-year-old veteran from Crewe, with his telegram from the war years exhibition

Tails are wagging thanks to Multifleet

Pooches are enjoying a smoother ride thanks to three new Ford Transit vans supplied to Birmingham Dogs Home by Multifleet Vehicle Management.

Multifleet, which trades as runyourfleet and is based in Solihull, delivered a diesel Transit last summer and the latest two electric Transit vans in December. And now the new vehicles are proudly sporting the Birmingham Dogs Home charity branding to help raise vital awareness as they complete multiple journeys across the Midlands.

Tony Rostill, the runyourfleet manager who looks after Birmingham Dogs Home’s account, said: “We have a wide range of valued customers, but we especially enjoy helping to look after stranded pooches across the region.

“We have now supplied the charity with the latest electric Transit vans that will make sure that dogs have a comfortable journey and that the supplies they need are transported quickly and efficiently.”

Birmingham Dogs Home helps to rescue homeless dogs across the West Midlands. It is based at centres in Catherine-de-Barnes, near Solihull, and in Coven, near Wolverhampton, where more than 2,000 dogs are cared for every year.

Smooth ride (left to right): Keilee Devey, Areika Bickerton, Tony Rostill, Joanna Lees, Daniel Robotham

Leading professional services group Gateley has been unveiled as a new official partner of the Birmingham Panthers, the city’s first Netball Super League franchise.

Gateley has also become the Panthers’ official legal adviser and will leverage its extensive expertise and experience in sports law to support the team and its players.

The partnership will also see both organisations collaborate on a range of initiatives including sharing knowledge and best practice through reverse mentoring opportunities, coaching, and masterclasses on leadership, reputation management and motivation.

Alison Kay, co-founder, CEO and chair of the board at Birmingham Panthers, said: “Gateley is

the perfect partner for the Panthers. They understand the unique environment that sporting organisations, teams and elite athletes operate within.

“They are also innovative and ambitious, set the highest standards in all they do, have an ethos of teamwork and cooperation, and share a vision for increasing female empowerment.

“There are great similarities between business and sport, and as a values-based organisation, we are proud that Gateley wants to work with us on what will prove to be a new chapter for female representation and sport in the city.”

Rebecca Sherwin, partner and head of the Birmingham office, added: “With our deeprooted history in Birmingham we are proud and

excited to become an official partner of the Birmingham Panthers in their inaugural season.

“The partnership aligns perfectly with our stellar credentials advising governing bodies, clubs and individuals in both grassroots and professional sport. It also underscores our shared vision and values in the pursuit of excellence and promoting greater gender equality, diversity and inclusion in the legal sector and beyond.

“Birmingham has a proud and rich sporting heritage, and we are looking forward to working closely with the team and contributing to its future success, both on and off the court.”

• More sport – pages 98

Training boss wins top prize

Zoe Bennett, BEM, the CEO and managing director of Training Personified Ltd, has been honoured as Business Woman of the Year at the Power of a Woman Awards.

Zoe, widely known as the “Motivational Queen”, is renowned for her unwavering dedication to personal and professional development.

Gateley partners with Panthers Workplace wellbeing award win

Millennium Point has been awarded the Thrive at Work Gold Award for workplace wellbeing.

The award was presented by the West Midlands Combined Authority, whose Thrive scheme encourages organisations to focus on employee health and wellbeing. Millennium

Point is the first Birmingham-based organisation to be awarded the Gold Award, highlighting its unwavering dedication to its team and customers.

Millennium Point CEO Abbie Vlahakis said: “I am passionate about empowering our employees

to make a difference. Our workplace wellbeing scheme has helped them to grow our events business, better serve our tenants, and increase the reach of our charitable work. We are thrilled that our efforts have been recognised with this gold award.”

Zoe Bennett was also named diversity and inclusion leader at The Business Desk Leadership Awards, at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel.

“I am truly overwhelmed and deeply humbled to have received this award,” said Zoe.

“As someone who has spent years advocating for those who go unheard, this recognition means the world to me.”

Perfect partner (left to right: Jo Trip, Birmingham Panthers head coach; Rebecca Sherwin, head of Gateley Birmingham; Aliyah Zaranyika, Birmingham Panther; Victoria Garrad, Gateley COO; and Gabriella Marsall, Birmingham Panther

Award winners (left to right): Peter Robinson, health and safety manager; Lily Francis, people, learning, and development adviser; Vanessa Currie, head of people, learning and development; Richard Leigh, marketing manager

International Trade

BCU to save lives in Vietnam

More than 100 million people in Vietnam will benefit from life-saving emergency pre-hospital care thanks to the expertise of Birmingham City University (BCU).

The UK institution is working with the Vietnamese Ministry of Health and a number of university partners in Vietnam to establish the country’s first national emergency response service.

“This is groundbreaking,” said BCU’s Professor Joy Notter, who has worked in Vietnam for many years and holds a campaign medal for services to health from the Vietnamese government.

“BCU has an opportunity to help Vietnam establish its new professional service for a whole nation. It’s a privilege to be invited to join our Vietnamese colleagues.”

Using its 20 years of experience in paramedic training, BCU will work with Vietnam National University - University of Medicine and Pharmacy (VNU-UMP) to develop a curriculum for its staff and students.

“We urgently need a paramedic system like the UK – and BCU is well known for paramedic training,” said Dr Nguyen Thanh, deputy head of the department of paramedics at VNU-UMP.

Export insurance made simpler

A new UK Export Finance service allows businesses to check eligibility and make a full application online. It is available for developing and emerging markets, where cover from commercial insurance might be harder to obtain.

UK Export Finance (UKEF) can insure UK suppliers against potential losses, helping them sell in markets that may otherwise have been considered too risky.

Key requirements:

• The exporter must have a UK Companies House number

• At least 20 per cent of the value of the export comes from UK originating goods or services

• The buyer must be in a developing or emerging market where UKEF is on cover (this can be confirmed via the eligibility checker).

“We want to develop a curriculum and simulation centre for medical and paramedic training. We can find the answer at this university.”

Expo leads to expanded network across America

Sovereign Landmark Ltd, a UKbased wholesaler of premium quartz slabs headquartered in Birmingham, successfully established US partnerships at the prestigious New York Build Expo.

The company showcased its latest collections and solidified its commitment to serving the North American construction industry.

Building upon its existing track record of working with real estate developers, architects, designers, builders, and contractors across the USA, Sovereign Landmark Ltd. leveraged the Expo to further expand its network and forge strategic alliances.

The company’s participation underscored its dedication to strengthening transatlantic business relationships and

providing reliable, innovative surfacing solutions to the US market.

‘We established valuable connections with key industry professionals and secured promising partnerships’

At the Expo, Sovereign Landmark Ltd, under its brand Quartz Trader, unveiled its latest range of meticulously crafted quartz slabs, highlighting their exceptional durability, sophisticated aesthetics, and versatile applications.

Attendees experienced firsthand the superior quality of the products and learned about the company's

competitive pricing structure and robust UK-based supply chain, offering a dependable alternative for discerning US buyers.

“The New York Build Expo 2025 was a resounding success for Sovereign Landmark Ltd.,” said

The Vietnamese Ministry of Health has acknowledged that up to 81 per cent of casualties in Vietnam currently have no access to emergency medical services.

Urgent need: A delegation from Vietnam National University visit Birmingham City University’s state-of-the-art education facilities in Edgbaston

Global Chamber Patrons

Tariff setbackbut

it’s not

the end of the road

UK and US businesses will do their utmost to maintain strong trading relationships despite new tariffs imposed by President Trump, business leaders have vowed.

And Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is monitoring the situation as the political and diplomatic atmosphere remains volatile.

Trump announced 25 per cent tariffs on UK steel and aluminium exports to the United States. The EU and Canada have already hit back at the US with counter tariffs on American goods, escalating a global trade war.

However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hinted at a more

“pragmatic” approach from the UK following his productive meeting with Trump in Washington DC.

Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), said: “Products made with UK steel and aluminium play an important part in many supply chains in the US. Both sides will now be facing up to negotiations on how the burden of these new tariffs will affect businesses in both countries.

“Tariffs mean prices and costs will inevitably go up and this is a lose-lose scenario for consumers, businesses, and economic growth.

“However, this setback does not mean we have reached the end of

enhance our presence in the US market.

“We established valuable connections with key industry professionals and secured promising partnerships that will significantly

“We are proud to represent Birmingham and demonstrate the exceptional quality and value that UK businesses bring to the American construction sector.”

Law firm opens new office

International law firm Trowers & Hamlins marked the launch of its new office in Birmingham with a celebration bringing together key spokespeople, clients and friends from across the region

the road in terms of negotiations. Tariffs can be lifted at any time.”

• A Chamber event at 54 Hagley Road on 30 April will assess the first 100 days of Trump’s presidency.

The new premises at One Snowhill opened at the end of 2024 and continue Trowers' reputable status in the heart of Birmingham's business district, with a vibrant collaborative working space. All of the pieces of art at the Trowers One Snowhill office are by artists living and working in the region. They were sourced or commissioned through collaboration with the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (established for more than 200 years in the city), Colley Ison Gallery and Seventh Circle.

Airport recycling

hits all time high

Year on year, Birmingham Airport’s (BHX) recycling rate for main terminal waste was 76 per cent, the highest annual figure to date.

Last year, BHX became the first airport worldwide to implement a Mobile Segregation Unit (MSU) to help sustainably process waste. It was an innovative solution that has helped prevent over 1,200 tonnes of waste from becoming non-recyclable general waste.

The unit facilitates a targeted data-driven approach to waste management and has supported the airport in significantly exceeding its previous strategic commitment of recycling 65 per cent of waste. As a result of the system, the airport’s recycling rate is on track to be one of the highest amongst UK airports.

In addition to recycling, the MSU also supports the reuse and donation of certain items that are left by customers. From pushchairs to toiletries, 36.2 tonnes of items were donated in the same period to local charities including Let’s Feed Brum, Tots in Need and St Basils.

Tom Denton, head of sustainability, at the airport said: “We’ve seen some significant improvements in waste efficiency since we implemented the innovative MSU, in partnership with The Green Block and Bidvest Noonan, in March last year.

“Achieving a 20 per cent increase in our recycling rate in just one year is illustrative of the impact that the unit has had in reducing our environmental impact. We are extremely proud to have one of the highest recycling rates amongst UK airports.”

managing Shah Karim, managing director and vice-president of the Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce.

Committed to U.S: (left to right): Shah Karim, managing director; Bashar Hasso, US sales manager; Adrian Qeraj, US director

Lose-lose scenario: Raj Kandola

Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK

Contact: Anjum Khan

T: 0121 274 3255

Louise STEPs into ambassador role

Freeths, a member of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce, is celebrating partner Louise Lewis being named an ambassador for STEP’s “Spot the Signs” campaign, which raises awareness of growing menace of financial abuse.

STEP is the professional body for trust and estate practitioners. The campaign was launched following concerns raised by STEP members that financial abuse is widespread and increasing with 70 per cent of UK practitioners observing instances of actual or suspected financial abuse. This includes hidden abuse that often doesn’t come to light until after the person has died. Over 40 per cent of those surveyed by STEP said that instances of financial abuse have increased in the last two years and 82 per cent expect demand for mental capacity advice to increase.

As an ambassador, Freeths’ partner and joint national head of trusts, estates and tax Louise is helping to drive awareness of this hidden epidemic and how people can better protect loved ones at risk.

Louise Lewis said: “I am honoured to be representing STEP and highlighting the risk of financial abuse – something I witness so many times with clients.

“We’re hoping to help limit this risk by educating people of the crucial signs to look out for.

“As a firm that values its people, with its people being front and centre of what we do, STEP heavily aligns with our Freeths values, and it is an honour to contribute to pushing out this initiative.”

Louise has now encouraged people to visit the step.org to find out more about the signs of financial abuse and how to help prevent it.

The signs to look out for include money disappearing after visits, lack of financial records from a care home, or a new person showing unusual interest in your loved one’s assets or spending habits.

Law Society appoints new board director

Birmingham Law Society has appointed Sana Saddique to its board of directors.

Sana, a dedicated family lawyer and business leader, is the managing director of Collective Law Solicitors.

With a deep commitment to access to justice, diversity, and modernising the legal profession, Sana’s appointment marks an exciting step forward for the Birmingham legal community.

Sana said: “It is an honour to join the board of Birmingham Law Society. The legal landscape is evolving, and I am committed to ensuring that our profession remains inclusive, dynamic, and representative of the communities we serve.”

Founded in 1818, Birmingham Law Society is the largest regional society of its kind.

Wellbeing charity plans first corporate event

Leading mental health and wellbeing charity Kaleidoscope Plus Group (KPG) has announced its first corporate event, It’s a Knockout Ultimate Team Challenge.

This event will take place on Wednesday, 11 June, at the Pageant Field of Warwick Castle.

Inspired by the legendary 80s BBC TV show, participants can expect giant costumes, inflatable obstacles, foam and plenty of laughs as they compete alongside colleagues and clients.

With around 20 teams battling it out, the competition is set to be fierce as businesses vie for the inaugural KPG Knockout Trophy.

Meanwhile, a dedicated team of runners from MSC Industrial Supply were taking on the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 6 April to raise vital funds for KPG.

Led by KPG board member Douglas Brown, the team is committed to supporting the charity’s mission to provide essential mental health services and initiatives.

Honour: Sana Saddique

Runners assemble: Douglas Brown with Kally the Stigmasaurs

Spot the Signs: Louise Lewis

Star-studded gala raises funds

An incredible £180,000 was raised for lifechanging care at a star-studded black-tie dinner for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

The charity was the talk of “this town”, as a host of famous faces and charity supporters came together for the Acorns “This Town” gala dinner.

Music legend Neville Staple, frontman of The Specials, headlined the unforgettable evening of

entertainment at the ICC Birmingham, inspired by the award-winning BBC drama This Town.

The event was made possible thanks to the generous support of the show’s creator Steven Knight alongside Kudos (part of Banijay UK), the production company behind the series.

Adding to the magic were recreated sets and the iconic space suit from This Town, plus special appearances from some of the show’s main cast, including Levi Brown, Ben Rose, Eve Austin and Jordan Bolger, as well as Steven Knight himself.

Patron of Acorns, Steven Knight, said: “This was an evening that only Birmingham could put on and showed our city and the West Midlands at their very best.

“It was a brilliant showcase of what makes this region so special and all for the best possible cause.”

Guests were taken on a journey through 1980s Birmingham to enjoy the vibrant ska and two-tone music scenes that capture a pivotal moment in local history and feature prominently within the show.

Hosted by Dave Sharpe, the evening included performances from rising RnB star Indigo

Marshall and reggae revivalists Young Culture Band. Birmingham Poet Laureate 2020-2022, Casey Bailey, also gave a bespoke performance seen nowhere else, including a moving tribute to former Acorns Patron, activist and poet, the late great Benjamin Zephaniah.

An electrifying live auction featuring one-of-akind items saw a piece of rock history go under the hammer, raising £15,000.

The 2024 Gibson SG Electric Guitar, generously donated and signed by music icon Ozzy Osbourne, included autographs from an allstar lineup of musicians from his 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.

The record £180,000 raised in total on the night will help Acorns continue its life-changing care for children with life limiting and lifethreatening conditions across the West Midlands and support for their families.

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 supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.

Business community breaks fast together

The Greater Birmingham business community came together for a day of fasting during Ramadan and broke the fast together.

The event was organised by the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) in collaboration with Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce and Future Faces Chamber of Commerce.

Attendees took part in the Iftar, the nightly feast that breaks the fast, at Chamber HQ. They were welcomed by ABCC president Omar Rashid. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.

Omar said: “Fast for a day is quickly becoming a day where all communities are coming together to fast in unison and truly appreciate the experience Muslims worldwide go through.

“I am grateful for everyone taking part and long may this event continue.”

All-star line-up: The 2024 Gibson SG Electric Guitar donated and signed by Ozzy Osborne

United: Communities come together

Journey through time: Neville Staple performing

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

MND charity gets our backing

By Feron Jayawardene

An organisation with “colossal” ambitions for raising awareness of Motor Neurone Disease (MND) has been elected as the Cannock Chamber of Commerce Charity of the Year.

The Mel Evans MBE foundation honours the legacy of a champion Crown Green Bowler responsible for bringing the sport to TV with more than 100 caps for Staffordshire County.

The aim of the foundation is to spread awareness of MND while organising dedicated bowling events to raise funds for research and promote Crown Green Bowls at a grassroot level. It was founded by Mel’s wife Lynn Pritchatt, following his death. Both Mel and Lynn have enjoyed illustrious careers in the sport and spearheaded media coverage on platforms including Sky TV and Channel 4.

Since Mel’s passing, the Crown Green Bowling community has rallied around the foundation, helping raise more than £100,000 for MND research.

The patrons of the Mel Evans foundation include former World Snooker Champion and Crown Green Bowls enthusiast John Parrott MBE, and Professor Dame Pamela Shaw, one of the UK’s leading neuroscientists and head of the Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN).

Lynn said: “We are delighted and immensely proud to have been selected as Chase Chamber Charity of the Year for 2025.

Bootcamp launched for future engineers

A new five-day bootcamp has been designed by Parts Town UK to equip domestic gas engineers with the skills required to confidently work in a commercial kitchen environment.

The training will include commercial kitchen gas safety regulations, commercial catering appliance installation and maintenance, canopies and extraction with commercial safety controls.

It will take place from from Monday, 28 April, to Friday, 2 May.

Sessions will run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Wednesday) and 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Thursday and Friday).

Successful completion of the bootcamp will result in certification for the below:

• CCCN1 – Core Commercial Catering Gas Safety

• COMCAT1 – Open Burner Equipment

• COMCAT3 – Deep Fat & Pressure Fryers

• COMCAT5 – Forced Draught Burner Appliances.

“We are a small charity with colossal ambitions to make a difference to the future trajectory of MND.

“To be working alongside Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce will offer us an opportunity to raise awareness of our work amongst the Chase business community.

“It is very special for our foundation to be the Chase Chamber Charity of the Year partner as Mel Evans MBE lived and worked in Cannock all

his life and was a Cannock lad through and through. On behalf of all trustees and patrons, we look forward to working with Chase Chamber of Commerce as your chosen charity partner for the next year and look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership.”

‘We are a small charity with colossal ambitions to make a difference to the future trajectory of MND’

Last year, the charity partnered with the Darby Rimmer Foundation to host the inaugural Football Against MND Gala Dinner at Old Trafford. The evening brought together football stars including Sir Alex Ferguson, Ron Atkinson, and Jill Scott MBE to stand in solidarity with the MND community.

Later this year, the Mel Evans Foundation will be hosting a Masked Entertainer gala dinner at Edgbaston Stadium with sporting stars and celebrities including Phil Tufnell, Chris Broad, Marcus Stewart, Amanda Barrie, Daniel Brocklebank, Peter Ash and Jonathan Agnew.

President of the Cannock Chamber of Commerce, David Mitchell, said: “The Cannock Chamber is proud to support the Mel Evans MBE Foundation as our chosen charity. This incredible organisation is making a real impact by raising awareness of MND and supporting those affected.”

Funding secured for more EV charging points

collectively secured £40.8m in government funding to install more electric vehicle charge points in areas with limited off-street parking. The funding, provided through the government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, will help deliver

Mark Deaville, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for Strategic Highways, said: “Councils do not receive funding for electric vehicle charging in our general budgets, so this money is a major step forward in allowing us to help make charging more accessible.”

Charging boost: Mark Deavill

Crown Green Bowling champ: Mel Evans

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Chamber takes over the radio

The Burton and District Chamber of Commerce is co-hosting The Business Hour on Burton Radio.

Chamber head Richard Brooks joins station hosts Scott Milligan and Tom Drysdale every Monday from 1-2pm for the segment.

The show aims to shed insight on local business developments and acts as a platform for business discussion, helping to connect entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and professionals while reinforcing the important role that business plays in shaping a thriving local economy.

Burton Radio was established in 2019 by Matt Reid, Jordan Whyatt (JMan), and Tom Berriman. The station has steadily built its presence over the past 12 months which has marked a significant rise in listenership - from 200 to nearly 11,500. Broadcasting from the Brewhouse Arts Centre, the station offers programming covering sport, politics, comedy, music, LGBTQIA+ issues, culture, and business, alongside special features.

Scott Milligan, who has played a major role in the station’s growth as strategic director, said: “The best way to echo all the positive things happening in Burton, whether it’s by community organisations, artists or businesses, is through networking. The Burton District Chamber of Commerce is a perfect example of this and Richard Brooks and president

Wileman have been incredibly supportive of Burton Radio and, now, the Burton Echo.”

The Burton Echo is a new independent newspaper, soft-launched in February, marking the first such publication in Burton on Trent in 300 years.

Tom Drysdale said: “I've been genuinely struck by the compassion, hard work, and sheer diversity that thrives in Burton and the surrounding areas.”

Richard Brooks said: “Community radio has always played a key role in giving local voices a platform, and Chamber member Burton Radio is a great example of how this can evolve into something more.”

Renowned artist returns to Burton to inspire students

Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) welcomed celebrated artist, speaker and advocate Alison Lapper for an inspiring day of creativity and discussion with students.

As part of her visit to the area, Alison engaged with both creative and health and social care students at BSDC.

She delivered a powerful talk about her life, career and the role of art in self-expression, before collaborating with photography learners for a portrait session. She also led an interactive art workshop, sharing her artistic expertise and encouraging students to create artwork without using their hands.

Alison, born in Burton, is an internationally recognised artist and television presenter. Born with no arms and shortened legs, Alison has established

herself as an artist and advocate for inclusion in the arts. A member of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists, she holds a First-Class Honours Degree in Fine Art and is known for her resilience, talent and support for disability awareness.

Her life and work gained widespread recognition following Marc Quinn’s iconic sculpture Alison Lapper Pregnant, which was displayed on Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth from 2005 to 2007.

Alison said: “Never say never - there’s always a way. It might take longer or require thinking outside the box, but you can find solutions. The work you’re going into is invaluable; you’re giving something to society that not everyone can do. One day, you’ll look back and see the impact you’ve made, and that’s the most amazing thing.”

King gets a lesson in beer production

By Feron Jayawardene

King Charles’ visit to Burton has sparked fresh business connections, strengthening the region’s thriving economy.

After visiting Uttoxeter to celebrate the 80th anniversary of JCB, the King stopped at Chamber member Tower Brewery in Burton, where he met local businesses and charities.

Among those in attendance were members of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce, including Chamber president and principal of Select Car Leasing East Midlands Richard Wileman, Burton YMCA CEO Paul Laffey, and representatives from Malone Group.

Richard said: “The visit gave us a real chance to network with other businesses in Burton that we don't meet in a normal setting.”

Tower Brewery owner and Chamber member John Mills guided the King through the building’s history and beer production process. The visit coincided with Staffordshire County Council’s announcement that more than 37 million people visited the region in 2023, contributing over £2.3bn to the local economy.

Richard

Inspiring creativity: Alison Lapper with BSDC students

Business Hour (left to right): Tom Drysdale, Steve Downes, Cheryl Morris and Richard Brooks

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

Arthur Price supports local artist

Prints and merchandise created by Lichfieldbased Love2Dream is now being stocked at the factory shop of historic cutlery manufacturer Arthur Price thanks to a new partnership.

Love2Dream founder Jackie Roberts draws local towns, cities and villages, inspired by the landmarks around her.

Her prints, tea towels, coasters, tote bags, magnets and key rings of Lichfield landmarks and buildings including the cathedral, Samuel Johnson’s birthplace, the Guildhall, Erasmus House and Donegal House, can now be bought at the Arthur Price factory shop on Britannia Way, Lichfield.

Jackie said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be partnering with a well-known British brand like Arthur Price.

“They reached out to me saying they wanted to include my work because they love Lichfield and want to support other local businesses. I’ve got a fantastic display in their shop and I think it’s wonderful we are working together, which can only benefit us both.”

Bev Shepherd, factory shop manager, said: “We are all very proud Lichfieldians and it’s great

to have such a talented local artist as Jackie selling her fantastic work in our shop.

“Just seeing Jackie’s work reminds me of how lucky we are to live in an area with so many beautiful buildings.

Work begins on walkway between town and castle

ambitious regeneration project continues with work to improve the walkway between the castle grounds and town centre getting underway.

As part of the Future High Street Fund town centre regeneration programme, the castle gateway will help create a better entrance between the Castle Grounds and the town centre, allowing views of the castle walls from the town.

into the castle grounds will be closed for an estimated six months. Signs will show the alternative routes while the work is happening.

The old Nationwide Building Society building, which was built in the 1970s, is being knocked down to make space for a new, open space and wider bridge.

Councillor Carol Dean, leader of Tamworth Borough Council, said: “With two of the regeneration projects

stage of work will really start to bring the final projects together.

“This work has been agreed in full consultation with Historic England, Tamworth Borough Council’s conservation officer and the Staffordshire County Council Historic Environment Team.

“We know this work will cause some disruption and we thank residents and visitors for their patience while we make these improvements.”

Simon Price, CEO of Arthur Price, said: “I’m a great believer in business partnerships. And as the challenging retail environment continues, partnerships and friendships are the way forward.”

Practice manager joins Adcocks Solicitors

Award-winning law firm Adcocks Solicitors has appointed a new practice manager.

Gary Storer, who has an impressive 24year pedigree in legal practice management, is set to play a key role in the 114-year-old Lichfield firm’s continued success. With over 15 years in banking before transitioning to legal practice management, Gary has become a wellrespected figure in the Midlands legal sector, having successfully led several law firms across Birmingham, the Black Country and Warwickshire.

Director Frances Di Pierri said: “We’re delighted that Gary is joining the Adcocks family. His extensive experience and leadership will further enhance our strong reputation. Renowned for leading by example, alongside a hands-on, strategic, and proactive approach, Gary will play a key role in further bolstering our clientfocused environment in Lichfield.”

Gary, whose expertise spans the broad spectrum of management responsibilities, including finance, HR, business development, administration, and compliance, said he was “excited” to be joining the renowned law firm.

He said: “I’m excited to join Adcocks’ team and look forward to working with them to continue to build on the firm’s already strong reputation.”

Support: Jackie Roberts (left) with Bev Shepherd

Vision: A CGI of the new walkway

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

Global retail giant to open in Gracechurch

A multinational retailer of furniture, bedding, technology and electrical appliances has chosen The Gracechurch Centre in Sutton Coldfield as the location for a new store and dedicated UK headquarters.

The arrival of Harvey Norman at the Gracechurch is expected to create up to 100 jobs across sales, marketing, online, finance, procurement, operations, warehousing, administration and management, including several apprenticeship opportunities.

Established in 1982, Harvey Norman has expanded its global presence in the past 26 years, with over 300 stores worldwide across Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Slovenia, Croatia, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Harvey Norman is also in advanced negotiations regarding a number of other

investment opportunities across the West Midlands, which could create a further 200 jobs.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is backing plans to breathe new life into the 250,000 square ft Gracechurch shopping centre through a multi-million pound investment, including new homes, leisure, retail, commercial and other uses.

Harvey Norman’s investment drive is being supported by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC).

Katie Page, CEO at Harvey Norman, said: “The West Midlands’ high grade retail space and exceptional connectivity are two key reasons why we’ve chosen Sutton Coldfield as the home of our new UK headquarters and to launch our next store here.

“Gracechurch will provide an excellent hub for our growing UK team.”

Hot tub team take on fun run challenge

Hot tub manufacturer RotoSpa has announced a new charity partnership with fellow Royal Sutton Coldfield of Commerce member the Cancer Support Centre.

The collaboration between the cancer support charity and Boldmerebased RotoSpa will include an array of fundraising and awareness initiatives.

The Cancer Support Centre, which provides life-changing services to those affected by cancer, is also the chosen charity of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber.

Rotospa, known for its energy-efficient and durable hot tubs, will become a key partner in the charity’s fundraising events throughout the year.

The company has agreed to provide significant backing for CSC’s calendar of events, including the annual quiz night and golf day.

In addition, RotoSpa founder Karl Rowntree and his team will be taking on an eye-catching challenge in the Royal Sutton Fun Run – pushing a hot tub around the 8.5-mile course to raise awareness and vital funds for the charity.

Karl said: “Cancer is something that touches all of us in some way, whether personally or through loved ones.

Venue in demand ahead of opening

With only six months to go before the opening of The Masters Suite, demand for The Belfry Hotel & Resort’s flagship new events venue continues to soar with £43mworth of enquiries to date.

As the countdown to September officially begins, The Masters Suite, an adaptable conference and exhibition space, which is also capable of hosting weddings, banquets and celebrations, already has £3.8m-worth of confirmed business. This includes over 20 large-scale weddings and a plethora of events from high-profile clients.

Chris Eigelaar, resort director, said: “After years of dedication and unrelenting hard work by everyone here at The Belfry, it’s incredible to now be this close to opening The Masters Suite. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind venue, and I can’t wait to see how it will be utilised to create events as engaging and original as the space they’re hosted in.”

Katie Niland, commercial director at resort, said: “We’re honoured by the phenomenal level of interest in The Masters Suite, knowing it speaks to the immense confidence there is in the industry for the resort’s ability to deliver. We’re determined to ensure The Masters Suite not only meets needs, but exceeds expectations.”

“The work that The Cancer Support Centre does for individuals and families affected by cancer is invaluable, and we are incredibly proud to be able to support such an important local charity.

“As a business rooted in the Sutton Coldfield community, we see this as our opportunity to give back, raise awareness and help make a real difference. The Royal Sutton Fun Run challenge is a fun but meaningful way to highlight the cause – and what better way to do it than with a hot tub in tow.”

Creating jobs: (left to right): Katie Page, CEO at Harvey Norman; Lachlan Roach, UK MD at Harvey Norman and John Southall, director at BPG, which jointly owns Gracechurch with SAV Group

Charity partners: Karl Rowntree (left) with RotoSpa colleague James Stubbs

An award-winning lawyer who is ranked as a new-generation partner by Legal 500 has been elected president of Solihull Chamber of Commerce.

Emma-Louise Hewitt succeeds Eileen Schofield, who will now serve as a co-opted member on the executive council committee having served as president for two years.

She said: “I am extremely honoured to be taking on the role of President of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce for the next two years. I am especially looking forward to working

All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community

Contact: Samantha Frampton

T: 0121 678 7488

....and new leadership team revealed Law partner is announced as new president

alongside Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber, as we continue to strive to create an environment that fosters growth, innovation and collaboration among our members.

“I follow a long line of great Solihull Chambers presidents, and I would like to thank each and every one of them for all they have done. A special thanks goes to Elieen Schofield, our outgoing President, who has worked tirelessly in successfully bringing our members together.

“She has also highlighted some of the issues facing our members,

The make-up of Solihull Chamber’s new leadership was revealed at its annual meeting at Cranmore Conference Centre.

The Chamber’s achievements and successes of the past year were reviewed, including Solihull Awards 2024, in which a number of high-achieving Solihull businesses scooped awards in a range of categories, as well as the funds raised for outgoing charity of the year, Solihull Moors Foundation.

The new president of the executive council is Emma-Louise Hewitt and Kim Hulse, founder of K Hulse Consulting will join current vice-presidents Kevin Johns and Rebecca Gater as the new vicepresident. The new executive council members are:

• Jas Rohel- founder of Education Awards

• Steve Whitmarsh- CEO of runyourfleet

• Pauline Clarke- senior business and community fundraiser at St Basils Charity

• Susie Ankrett- founder of Plum Executive

• Amanda Holden- partner at the Wilkes Partnership

• Ian Rogers- managing director at The Original Entertainment Company

• Tony Elvin- general manager at Touchwood Solihull

• Louise Dunn- director and co-founder at The Recruitment Duo

• Mark Wilson – managing partner and founder Headpoint Advisors

Eileen Schofield will remain on the executive council as a co-opted executive committee

member for a further year alongside:

• Rebecca Fox- charity consultant at Colebridge Trust (co-opted member serving a one-year term)

• Neil Bayliss- owner of Hubtel IT (co-opted member serving a one-year term)

• Rob Wells- director of People & Strategy at Sport 4 Life UK (co-opted member serving a one-year term)

The new charity of the year for 2025-2026 will be Solihull Hospital Charity, succeeding Solihull Moors Foundation.

Jonathan Burch, fundraising officer at UHB Charity, said: “On behalf of everyone at Solihull Hospital Charity, I’m so incredibly thankful to everyone involved with the Solihull Chamber of Commerce for choosing us to be their charity.”

Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, said: “The annual meeting was an opportunity to look back over the last 12 months and share what we have achieved with our members. It was also an opportunity for me to express my thanks to Eileen Schofield who has completed her two-year term as Chamber president, and to welcome our new president Emma-Louise Hewitt.”

Pauline Clarke, Eileen Schofield, Becci Fox, Rob Wells, Jas Rohel, Amanda Holden, Samantha Frampton, Rebecca Gater, Emma-Louise Hewitt, Mark Wilson, Kim Hulse, Steve Whitmarsh, Susie Ankrett, Neil Bayliss and Louise Dunn

including transport and connectivity between the north and south of the borough.

“I am inspired by the unique contributions each president has made and I’m eager to bring my own fresh perspectives and initiatives to the role.

‘I am extremely honoured to be taking on the role of President of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce’

“Alongside, I remain committed to driving change, promoting engagement, and supporting the Chamber, local people and businesses, whilst encouraging work inspiration among businesses for the next generation.”

A partner and head of the employment law department at Sydney Mitchell LLP, Emma-Louise specialises in HR and employment law services where she helps both businesses and individuals with the

ever-growing and changing minefield of the area of law.

Ranked as a next-generation partner in the Legal 500 directory, Emma-Louise provides legal services to employees and employers across sectors including automotive, professional services, and hospitality.

She advises on the vast range of employment law in a range of areas including contracts, handbooks and policies, tribunal claims, workplace discrimination, and reorganisation and redundancy procedures.

She also delivers workplace training and day-to-day legal and HR advice to business owners, managers and HR advisors.

Emma-Louise’s professional excellence has been recognised with several awards including finalist in the category of Future Face of Legal at the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Future Faces Awards 2017, Commendation for the Women who Achieve in Business 2017 and nominated for an award in the Networking Mummies national Recognised Business Awards

Businesses air their views on connectivity

The urgent need for better transport connections in the borough was spelled out to MPs and leading business figures at a highpowered Solihull Chamber of Commerce summit.

The meeting, which included MPs Saqib Bhatti, MBE (Meriden and Solihull East) and Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst (Solihull West and Shirley), discussed research findings to help understand key recommendations and priorities.

Transport connectivity issues have been a focus for the Chamber in collaboration with Solihull Council and business leaders since September 2023, when an initial roundtable discussion found that Solihull’s issues with public transport connectivity were having a negative impact on residents and businesses.

The meeting, also attended by the leader of the Council, stakeholders, major employers in

Solihull as well as MPs was chaired by Solihull Chamber’s then president Eileen Schofield.

She said: “This was an excellent opportunity for businesses to take an active part in shaping the transport links and to improve the bus links around the region, this will support their business growth across all sectors and size of business.

“There are many people not in work and education in the North of the Borough and the improvement in the bus services will support social mobility around the region. Retail and hospitality businesses are also significantly affected through the timetabling of the bus services. The live desktop review managed by the Transport for West Midlands will allow Chamber members to document these issues to improve the transport investment in our region.”

Eileen has obtained a firm commitment from the WMCA to provide a live review where

businesses can provide change.The engagement began with the transport roundtable in September 2023 and progressed to engaging directly with Solihull Chamber members through the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Business Report survey in Q3 2024. The findings have since been presented to Cllr. Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, Solihull Chamber patrons, executive committee members and Jon Hayes, head of Bus at Transport for West Midlands.

The overarching conclusions of the discussion were that better transport connectivity is needed both between the north and rest of Solihull and across the whole borough. The data collected from the survey and the roundtable will feed into Solihull Chamber’s official response to the Transport for West Midlands Bus Franchising Consultation.

Driving change – Solihull Chamber leaders (left to right): Samantha Frampton, Emma-Louise Hewitt, Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, and Eileen Schofield

Transport issues: MPs Saqib Bhatti and Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst at the heart of t the Solihull Chamber summit

Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell

T: 07540 751590

Event to dive into the world of AI

Global professional services firm KPMG will be hosting Future Face’s professional development event in May, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), and its risks and rewards.

The session is one KPMG have run for management and leadership personnel at some of the UKs largest companies and is based on their tried and tested Trusted AI framework.

Taking place on Wednesday, 7 May, at the KPMG Birmingham offices, the event is sponsored by Andy Bostock, KPMG’s Birmingham office senior partner, who promises a real insight for members.

Leading the event will be Douglas Dick, partner at KPMG. Douglas leads the UK's Trusted AI proposition and contributes to KPMG's Global AI leadership team.

With over 20 years of experience in risk management, Douglas brings a wealth of knowledge from across various sectors, including financial services, retail, and utilities.

He is passionate about the transformative power of emerging technologies and Douglas dedicates his time to engaging with business leaders. He explores cutting-edge AI uses while emphasising the importance of responsible and controlled implementation that fosters innovation without compromising safety.

He said: “I’m thrilled to be heading to Birmingham for this important event on AI risk. At KPMG, we’re incredibly excited about the potential for AI to revolutionise the way we work, driving efficiency and unlocking new possibilities.

“But as with any transformative technology, realising AI’s full potential and value hinges on our ability to have a clearly defined strategy and being able to manage the associated risks.

“Our session will explore how we can balance the excitement of cutting-edge AI applications

with the critical need for responsible and trustworthy implementation in order to build trust and realise value.”

Other speakers will include Alex Peart and India Bullock.

Alex Peart is a senior manager at KPMG, specialising in Trusted AI within the Risk Consulting practice. With over a decade of experience at KPMG, Alex has a strong foundation in risk management.

He is also a member of the Birmingham Future Faces network, demonstrating his commitment to professional growth and community engagement.

During a global rotation to Chicago, Alex played a pivotal role in developing the initial Trusted AI framework, which will be a key focus of his presentation.

Alex is passionate about helping clients implement innovative AI solutions that deliver tangible impact while adhering to rigorous safety and control standards.

India Bullock is a manager in KPMG UK’s Emerging Risk practice, specialising in AI strategy and governance. She brings practical experience to the table, having supported clients globally with the design, review, and implementation of AI risk and controls, as well as the strategic design and delivery of large-scale digital transformation programs.

In addition to her client-facing work, India plays a key role in developing KPMG’s trusted AI library of materials. This involves staying ahead of the curve on evolving AI regulations and guidance across diverse sectors and countries.

For more information and to book your place, scan the QR code.

Networking pros: Sophie Poduval-Morrell and Joel Blake

Podcast tackles the topic of networking

In a sea of LinkedIn connections and virtual meetings, it can often be difficult for young professionals to navigate their way into finding meaningful and lasting connections, as well as build a strong business network.

Over the next month, Future Faces: The Young Professionals Podcast will dive into the topic of networking, discussing top tips and advice for young professionals looking to take their networking to the next level and grow their reach into the business world.

The upcoming episodes will feature:

• Rory Pickin - regional marketing executiveNorth Europe at Röhlig Logistics. Rory was recently named Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year in sales, marketing and communications in 2024, and is well known within the Future Faces community for his networking skills.

• Joel Blake - private client solicitor at Wilkes LLP. Joel was named Future Faces ambassador in 2024 for his contributions and dedication to the Future Faces network and its community.

• Suzie Branch-Haddow - vice-principalexternal development at Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet College). Suzie has previously won the title of Birmingham Young Professional of the Year, before the Future Faces network relaunched the awards to reflect the BPS network.

New Members

Balancing AI: Douglas Dick

The Chamber’s ever growing network for young professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.

New committee to be unveiled

The new president, vice-president and executive council committee members will be revealed at Future Face’s annual meeting on Thursday, 10 April, at Albert’s Schloss.

There will also be an exclusive preview of the Chambers’ plans for the year ahead and an outline of Future Faces’ vision, events and plans to ensure they continue to make a positive impact in Greater Birmingham.

The meeting will take place from 8:30am10:30am and attendees will also be able to reflect on the achievements and successes of

the 2023/2024 term, achieved through the hard work and dedication of members, partners and the committee.

Sophie Poduval-Morrell, manager of Future Faces, said: “We are so grateful for everything our current president Kasim Choudhry has done for Future Faces over the last two and half years. His support, leadership and passion for the network is inspiring.

“We are so excited for our new president to be carrying on the baton and continuing to make Future Faces the largest young

Ellie bags second VIP golden ticket

Ellie Warner, an R&D Tax manager at BDO, has scooped the second VIP golden ticket for the 2025 Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards.

Ellie bagged the ticket at the recent social networking event, hosted by Sandbox VR.

Future Faces members will have the chance to uncover 10 golden tickets randomly hidden at Future Faces events throughout this year.

The winners of the tickets will receive VIP access to the awards, ensuring a night of celebration and networking among the region’s top talent and industry leaders.

Ellie has worked in R&D Tax for just over five years. Before moving into R&D Tax, she studied chemical engineering at university and then received a PhD in the 3D Printing of Food. She also worked as a legal recruiter in London before permanently moving back to the Midlands.

Ellie said: “My first Future Faces event I attended was the Greater BYPY shortlist BBQ for last year’s awards at the Birmingham Library. It was great learning about the awards and talking to people who had been shortlisted.

“It was very exciting to find the ticket and I’m looking forward to attending the award ceremony and getting to network with more people and find out about all the amazing things people have been doing over the last year.

“I think it’s important to take a step back and celebrate what everyone has achieved. It’s so easy to get lost in the day-to-day, so being able to celebrate everyone’s achievements is great.”

professional network for everyone across all industries, no matter their background.

“We look forward to seeing everyone at the meeting and looking ahead to another year of success and achievements for our young professionals.”

To find more information and book onto the event scan the QR code.

Buoyant mood: Last year’s committee

Just the ticket: Ellie (left) and Future Faces’ manager Sophie Poduval-Morrell

Trump’s 100 days – have a say

Members will have a chance to have their say later this month on Donald Trump’s first 100 days in his second term as president.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Hagley Road headquarters will be the venue on 30 April for delegates to discuss the momentous start of his second term and to assess the impact of his actions.

Another major event comes on 9 April with the Asian Business Chambers of Commerce (ABCC) annual meeting, when the election of a new president will be on the agenda.

And for any firms looking for a great opportunity to make new contacts and business the Solihull Expo takes place on 22 May at Cranmore Park in Shirley. It is always packed with businesses showing off their wares in a six-hour extravaganza of activity.

And Solihull will adopt an international flavour when the Global and International division holds court at Gymshark’s Blythe Valley Business Park location on 10 April.

AND MOST OF THE EVENTS ARE FREE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS

APRIL

Global Brunch

Date: 3 April

Time: 9:30 – 11:30

Venue: Trowers & Hamlins

Division: Global & Transatlantic

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

Brumbassadors Launch

Date: 8 April

Time: 9:00 – 11:00

Venue: St Andrews, Knighthead Park

Division: GBCC

Cost: Members only: Free

Lichfield & Tamworth Speed Networking and Networking Lunch

Date: 8 April

Time: 12:00 – 14:00

Venue: Brewhouse & Kitchen

Division Lichfield & Tamworth Speed

Cost: Members: free

Future Faces: £ 15+VAT

Non-members: £50 + VAT

Joint Social Networking

Date: 9 April

Time: 16:30 – 18:30

Venue: New Hall Hotel & Spa

Division: Burton & District, Cannock Chase, Lichfield & Tamworth and Royal Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £ 15+VAT

Non-members: £50 + VAT

ABCC Annual General Meeting 2025

Date: 9 April

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham

Division: ABCC

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces Kick Off 2025, Breakfast Networking and AGM

Date: 10 April

Time: 8:30 – 10:30

Venue: Albert's Schloss

Division Future Faces

Cost: Members: free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

The Solihull Chamber Expo returns on 22 May

Solihull Goes International

Date: 10 April

Time: 16:00 – 18:00

Venue: Gymshark HQ

Division: Solihull, Global & Transatlantic

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £ 15+VAT

Non-members: £50 + VAT

Business at Breakfast

Date: 15 April

Time: 8:30 – 10:00

Venue: Holiday Inn

Division: Burton & District

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

The Good Business Forum

Date: 17 April

Time: 14:30 – 16:30

Venue: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham

Division: GBCC

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15 +VAT

Future Faces Social Networking

Date: 23 May

Time: 8:30 – 10:00

Venue: The Alchemist

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: free Future Faces: Free

Vaisakhi Business Networking Event

Date: 23 April

Time: 18:00 – 21:30

Venue: TBC

Division: ABCC

Cost: ABCC Members: Free GBCC Members: £30+VAT Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £60+VAT

Q1: Quarterly Business Report

Date: 29 April

Time: 9:00 – 11:00

Venue: Birmingham City University, Curzon Building Division: GBCC

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

Pro Solihull Networking Date: 29 April

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: Birmingham Dogs Home Division: Solihull

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT

Trump 100 Days

Date: 30 April

Time: 9:30 – 11:00

Venue: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham

Division: Global & Transatlantic

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

Cannock Chase Speed Networking and Networking Lunch

Date: 30 April

Time: 12:00 – 14:00

Venue: Rugeley Rose Theatre

Division: Cannock Chase

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

Future Faces Professional Development: Make Networking your Super Power

Date: 30 April

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: Deutsche Bank

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free

MAY

Premier Members Breakfast

Date: 1 May

Time: 8:30 – 10:30

Venue: Lichfield Cathedral

Division: GBCC

Cost: Premier Members only: Free

ABCC Member Social Date: 1 May Time: 17:30 – 19:00

Venue: Exhale Bar

Division: ABCC

Cost: Members: Free

Networking Lunch

Date: 2 May

Time: 12:00 – 14:00

Venue: TBC

Division: Birmingham

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

Speed Networking and Networking Lunch

Date: 2 May

Time: 1 2:00 – 14:00

Venue: Aston Wood Golf Club

Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

Future Faces Professional Development: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 7 May

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: KPMG

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free Festival EventEurope Day

Date: 8 May

Time: 17:30 – 19:30

Venue: Albert’s Schloss

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

Business at Breakfast

Date: 13 May

Time: 8:30 – 10:00

Venue: Tamworth Assembly Rooms

Division: Lichfield & Tamworth

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT

Non-members: £50 + VAT

Burton & District AGM & Networking

Lunch

Date: 19 May

Time: 12:00 – 14:00

Venue: Burton Rugby Football Club

Division: Burton & District

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-Members: Free

Burton Chamber president Richard Wileman is preparing for next month’s AGM

Business at Breakfast

Date: 20 May

Time: 8:30 – 10:00

Venue: TBC

Division: Cannock Chase

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT

Non-members: £50 + VAT

Solihull Expo 2025

Date: 22 May

Time: 08:30 –14:30

Venue: Cranmore Park

Division: Solihull

Cost: Free to attend Expo stand prices: Members: £395 +VAT

Non-members: £450 +VAT

Business at Breakfast

Date: 29 May

Time: 8:30 – 10:00

Venue: TBC

Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT

Non-members: £50 + VAT

Training courses

The Chamber is again organising a comprehensive programme of training courses for business of any size who are looking to brush up on their international trade knowledge. Those planned for April are listed below.

ALL CHAMBER MEMBERS CAN ENJOY REDUCED COSTS.

For more details contact Leah Quarmby, international trade training manager, on

APRIL

Trade commodity codes explained (BCC accredited)

Date: 1 April

Time: 9:30 – 12:30

Venue: Online remote training

Cost: Members: £200+VAT

Non-members: £270+VAT

The international system for coding products for Customs purposes when we trade internationally is generally regarded as complex and difficult to understand. Learn what codes are correct for your products, how to determine the correct code, what could happen if the incorrect code is used and where to find them.

Introduction to Customs declarations in CDS

Date: 3 April

Time: 9:30 – 15:30

Venue: Online remote training

Cost: Members: £280+VAT

Non-members: £340+VAT

Learn how to complete an import & export Customs declaration correctly on the new CDS system. New ruling surrounding declarations and the CDS platform have now come into fruition.

Learn what you need to include on paperwork and what you would need to provide to agents or brokers competing declarations on your behalf.

Understanding Incoterms 2020 (BCC accredited)

Date: 9 April

Time: 13:30 – 16:30

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members: £200+VAT

Non-members: £270+VAT

This course will explore each of the eleven Incoterms in detail, explaining what each term ‘does’ and ‘doesn’t do’. The half-day session will explain the correct terms for your shipments, what to consider when choosing your Incoterm and what could occur if incorrect terms are used.

Trading with Ireland and Northern Ireland including GPSR

Date: 15 April

Time: 1 0:00 – 3:00

Venue: Online remote training

Cost: Members: £125+VAT

Non-members: £175+VAT

The course is ideal for businesses currently trading or looking to trade with Ireland.

Attendees will learn specific procedures, documentation requirements, guidance on the Northern Ireland protocol (and how this effects the delivery of goods), details of the Windsor Framework, TSS and other topics.

An introduction to exporting; Practical and Precise Date: 22 April

Time: 9:30 – 12:30

Venue: Online remote training

Cost: Members: £180+VAT

Non-members: £250+VAT

An ideal beginner course for anyone with little or no experience of exporting. In this practical session, attendees will learn how to correctly create a commercial invoice with easy-to-follow guidance on how to do this from a predefined set of documents.

How to tackle workplace challenges head-on

By Dr Alyson Nicholds, director of Leadership Learning Ltd

Din your business? Are your profits falling because of a lack of innovation? Is your productivity stalling because people seem unhappy or disengaged? In Leadership circles, we refer to these as ‘wicked problems’ because they feel too big to fix! But they often persist because of fears about our capacity to handle what we’ll find if we look under the bonnet.

1. By being in tune with what’s really going on to limit business growth

Taking the time to step-back and see what’s really happening in the business means not relying on any one sole source of truth for your information. It’s about seeing

different data sources). Perception is everything and so being seen to do this, shows a concern for how everything looks as well as feels.

2. By being laser-like in your focus to achieve what’s best for business. Workplace challenges can linger for too long in organisations because everyone thinks it’s someone else’s job to fix them. So don’t be afraid of asking everyone to look under the bonnet to see how things are getting done, by whom and to what effect. It means being deliberate about not sweeping uncomfortable facts under the carpet, which can come back to bite later, whether through bad reviews or costly litigation. Protecting your

‘Once you’re aware of what the issues really are, they become much easier to resolve’

bottom-line means taking both a risk and an accounting approach to the cost of allowing things to keep going wrong.

3. By being concerned that the architecture is fit-forbusiness

Much Like the chassis of a car, our organisations offer an architecture for getting our business activity done. So, it makes sense to check that the structures and systems are doing what we need them to do, too. Is our strategy clear? Is everyone on the same page? Do our policies and procedures aid or stifle decisionmaking over what needs to happen? Whether you’re delivering goods or services, what consumers see as your front-door should mirror what’s going on for your people behind it!

4. By being open to hearing about different solutions to problems across the business

One of the shifts that comes with global growth is that there’s a wider demographic to consider and greater diversity of needs, preferences, and opinions about how things could be done differently. It no longer works to see anything from the one perspective. To overcome this, ask yourself who’s there, whose voice seems to be prominent, and whether

any are missing at any of the decision-making tables.

5. By taking a forensic approach to resourcing solutions

Once you’re aware of what the issues really are, they become much easier to resolve by making sure that resource is matched to need and being directed to the right place for business growth. This is where being alert to what’s really happening in a business can aid both the crafting and delegating of different change projects to areas of real need. Operationalising them in line with the businesses’ wider strategic goals becomes then about deciding and communicating what can be planned in, versus what can be left to emerge over time.

6. By working together to achieve economies of scale

Operating in a global economy means you can’t do everything alone, which makes achieving your business goals something of a partnership with others. Key to this is knowing who’s good at what and what can be outsourced, whether that’s people or resource. Getting ahead becomes about finding ways of stepping-in informally and formally through agreed principles and practices, which brings everyone’s’ leadership to the fore.

Funding in partnership: the importance of a relationship-led approach

Dr. Steve Walker (pictured) is chief executive of ART Business Loans, a Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI), which provides business loans in the Midlands and neighbouring counties.

We believe that funding is a partnership and we’re proud to take a relationship-based approach when supporting businesses.

Following the challenges of Covid-19, many SMEs are now seeking funds to either accelerate future growth or to refinance their pandemic loans. Despite greater access to business support – including a number of free programmes established by the public and private sectors –many SMEs still struggle to find appropriate finance to meet their business needs.

This is reflected in new research from Time Finance, which reported that 60 per cent of SMEs are not considering alternative finance options. The survey found that six in 10 UK businesses choose their main bank for commercial finance solutions, and only 27 per cent of those turned down by their banks look elsewhere.

Unlike mainstream lenders, CDFIs prioritise social impact over profit, aiming to help stimulate economic growth in deprived areas and fund businesses that may be considered higher risk. CDFIs offer a range of financial services but mainly loan finance filling the gap left by traditional finance providers, offering not only funding but also tailored advice and support to ensure businesses thrive.

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, which is becoming increasingly important.

Most importantly, as well as providing additional avenues to finance, CDFIs offer a relationship-based approach designed to meet both a business’ immediate needs and long-term plans.

made over short periods – in some cases, as little as two years – with high interest rates reaching well over 30 per cent, and no dedicated point of contact to support businesses through the process.

At ART, businesses can benefit from a peoplecentred approach which is tailored to their needs. In commercial finance, there’s no ‘one size fits all’, and as a result, we offer loans ranging from £10,000 to £150,000, as well as partnering with other organisations should further funding be required.

To meet their financial needs, it’s critical that business owners consider all possible funding options. A refusal from the bank doesn’t have to signal a financial dead-end. If a traditional lender says no, this is where CDFIs can help.

At ART Business Loans, our team of dedicated lending managers review the viability of the business to offer an informed and tailor-made financial solution. With a deep understanding of the organisation, we can help clients access the right funding support, at the right time.

We believe this sets us apart from other alternatives, such as online lenders. Despite the speed and convenience on offer online, businesses should be aware that loans are often

By exploring alternative funding routes, such as CDFIs, businesses across the Midlands and beyond can access bespoke financial support with a personal touch – and unlock new opportunities for growth.

More than just a space

Event venues as engines of local business growth

By Jane Bartlett, events director, Cranmore Park

Event venues are often seen as spaces for exhibitions, conferences, and celebrations, but they are also effective catalysts for local business growth, supporting the local economy and weaving themselves into the very fabric of a thriving business community.

The team at Cranmore Park focus on creating environments in which to do good business, supporting our clients to build a stronger and more prosperous business community in Solihull and Greater Birmingham.

This is how a successful event venue can help the business economy thrive.

Vital networking hubs

Businesses should regard event venues as vital networking hubs, providing a space for entrepreneurs and businesses to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. From hosting networking events to providing spaces for product launches and corporate training, this type of collaborative environment can be especially valuable for businesses.

Direct economic impact

A well-managed venue attracts visitors that spend money in local hotels, restaurants, and shops injecting significant revenue into the hospitality sector, sustaining jobs and driving investment. This isn’t just about big events either; smaller, regular meetings can provide a steady stream of income for nearby businesses.

‘Businesses should regard event venues as vital networking hubs, providing a space for entrepreneurs and businesses to connect’

Future proof support

Venues that provide future proof event facilities, equipment, and technology can help local businesses stay ahead in their event deliveryfrom WiFi, video conferencing, and digital signage, to event planning and bespoke catering. Offering a range of flexible spaces that can be tailored to suit all levels of businesses is also key, from boardrooms for strategy meetings to exhibition halls for trade shows.

Partnerships for profit

Forward-thinking venues embrace partnerships with business groups and trade associations to create mutually beneficial relationships

Venues need to continually strive to improve the offer for businesses. We’re here to:

• Build relationships and understand needs

• Promote local businesses through their platforms

• Become a business community hub.

As a connector and collaborator, event venues can contribute to a thriving local economy, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved. It’s time to recognise the power that lies within these spaces and harness it for the benefit of the entire community.

Choosing a venue with hidden benefits

By Suzanna Reid Barreiro da Silva, managing director, Unique Venues Birmingham

Ayour objectives… but have you ever considered what your business truly means to the venue?

When you are looking for something unique, diverse, unusual or with an academic twist, there are a host of venue choices out there and many have one key objective, to drive commercial revenue into the venues, while respecting the core purposes for the buildings. But what does this really mean?

As public and community spaces experience reductions in grants and funding, many have looked to explore new avenues to generate revenue. Hosting corporate and private events in their buildings is something many organisations now consider a key revenue generator, with all profits being covenanted back to the organisation. While it sounds quite straightforward there are some interesting challenges for these organisations to be able to successfully deliver events, at the same time not impacting on the core use of the buildings.

The business model for these organisations differs tremendously from a corporate hotel or venues space which has been purpose built for the delivery of conference and events. You can find yourself working with listed buildings or being able to access an academic venue only during vacation, and for many who operate businesses independently, the commercial teams manage a range of dates, times and procedures that all need to be considered at the point of enquiry for the conference and event planner. This could be linked to start/finish times or access to the venue and in some cases can be quite specific in the types of events they are able to deliver to ensure no conflict to the ethos of the buildings.

Organisations who are working with this business model, will also be focused on their activities to work with the community to the greater good for all. Examples of this can be, ensuring a reduced carbon footprint from their suppliers, supporting local businesses providing a more sustainable approach to the commercial strategy. Alternatively, you may find the organisation asking you to authorise any ‘leftover or unused’ catering on the day to be donated to a local charity who are working with the homeless in the community and value such donations. What is key here is that the nature of the operation by such organisations, adapt and

‘Choosing to work within a venue that has a multi-faceted use is inspiring, as you are always seeking out new ways to host events’

across the larger community.

But what does this mean for you the conference and event planner, and why should you consider working with this style of venue?

As a corporate organisation, you will have your own CSR policies and when you are seeking an event venue, on the initial enquiry or visit, consider asking the venue about their CSR, commitment to sustainability and align their responses with your own company’s. While this style of business model may not be a key selling point to the conference and event planner, when

will be invested, you can be confident that it is a positive choice and one that benefits the community.

Choosing to work within a venue that has a multi-faceted use is inspiring, as you are always seeking out new ways to host events, overcome operational challenges and deliver an exceptional customer experience. This is coupled with your own passion to work within great spaces to deliver events knowing that the financial profit is being covenanted back to the core business to enable it to continue to flourish and offer its services to the community.

Sector Focus

The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

Upgraded trains to transform journeys

Train operator CrossCountry has welcomed the arrival of the first train to go through its multimillion pound fleet refurbishment programme.

The programme is being carried out at Arriva TrainCare’s Crewe depot and funded by the UK’s leading rolling stock financier and asset management company Porterbrook, which owns the fleet.

The reintroduction of Class 170 ‘Turbostar’ unit 170101 to CrossCountry’s inter-regional fleet marks a vital milestone in the train operator’s fleet refurbishment programme. Throughout 29 trainstotalling 80 carriages - the programme will deliver:

• New tables, seats and carpets;

• New mains and USB plug sockets at all seats

• A full interior and exterior repaint across each carriage

• Refreshed on-board toilets

• Enhanced passenger information screens with more destination information

• Increased Standard Class seating with the removal of the First Class area

• New CCTV and automatic passenger counting equipment.

The new-look trains will transform journeys on CrossCountry’s inter-regional routes between Cardiff and Nottingham via Birmingham, and between Birmingham and Stansted Airport via Leicester.

Shiona Rolfe, CrossCountry’s managing director, said: “It’s fantastic to deliver our first refurbished Turbostar train for passengers on our inter-regional routes.

“We know that these trains provide the bulk of the train service for a good portion of our network, and we hope passengers enjoy the significant improvements in convenience and comfort on those journeys.”

Metro tram figures rise above pre-Covid levels

The West Midlands Metro is more popular than ever with tram passenger numbers now higher than they were before the Covid pandemic.

New data from the Department for Transport (DfT) shows 8.3 million journeys were made in the past year, a 53.7 per cent increase over 2023, and passing the eight million recorded in 2019.

This increase in passenger numbers follows significant investments in the Metro system, including the Westside Extension in Birmingham, which added three new stops in 2022, and the Wolverhampton city centre extension.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), continues to grow the tram

network, working with the Midlands Metro Alliance (MMA) to build the Black Country extension and a new link to Digbeth in Birmingham.

‘This increase in passenger numbers follows significant investments in the Metro system’

The tram extensions are being funded by the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS), awarded by the DfT to better connect people to education, leisure and job opportunities across the region.

The growth in passenger numbers has been welcomed by Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, who highlighted the importance of

continued investment in transport infrastructure to support the region’s future development. The first phase of the Black Country Metro Extension between Wednesbury and Dudley is due to open later this year and construction work on the next phase to Merry Hill has also now started.

Additional upgrades on the Metro, such as the introduction of new ticket machines, are also helping to make travel more seamless by offering passengers convenient payment options.

Sophie Allison, managing director of Midland Metro Limited (MML), said: “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the entire Metro team, our system is even busier than before the pandemic, and I’m delighted to be leading them into a new era.”

Contract to assist passengers

Birmingham Airport has entered into a new partnership to help customers who need assistance

Following a competitive process, Wilson James has been awarded the Assisted Travel contract coming into effect on 1 April. Wilson James brings with them a wealth of experience in training, knowledge sharing and innovation in this highly specialist arena.

Al Titterington, terminal operations director of Birmingham Airport, said: “In improving the experience for our most vulnerable customers as the

airport continues to grow, it is important we have the right partner. Wilson James comes with a great track record in this area and its laser light focus on the customer, will support our objectives.”

Elizabeth Hegarty, managing director – aviation and transport at Wilson James, said: “At Wilson James, we are committed to providing a seamless and dignified experience for passengers who require assistance, ensuring their journey is as smooth and stress-free as possible.”

More popular: The West Midlands Metro

Transforming: New look on CrossCountry

Tax hike for holiday let owners

Owners of furnished holiday lets (FHLs) in the UK need to plan for a tax hike of around 20 per cent under new rules being introduced in April, a leading West Midlands accountancy firm has warned.

The government is abolishing multiple reliefs which have been in place for FHL owners to bring tax rates in line with those paid by owners of other rental properties.

Under the old rules, FHLs were seen as short-term lets, so qualified for rate reliefs under trade purposes. Owners could also claim capital allowances on furniture and rates were beneficial for inheritance tax purposes.

However, the UK government has announced the abolition of the FHL tax regime on April 6, 2025, for income tax purposes, and on April 1,

2025, for corporation tax purposes.

Paislei Godley, associate director at Prime Accountants Group, which has offices in Solihull, Birmingham and Coventry, said the changes would have a significant impact.

She said: “The government will see this change as a way of making things fairer. They will have considered the situation in popular holiday destinations such as

Cornwall, and see it as a way of deterring people from snapping up holiday homes in areas of the UK where people may be less able to afford to buy their own homes.

“It’s a win-win for HMRC because it has the dual effect of making FHLs less appealing, while also making landlords consider turning those properties they already own into long-term lets.”

Cooper Parry mark latest acquisition

Cooper Parry (CP), who have offices in central Birmingham, have further strengthened their suite of digital businesses with the acquisition of bestin-class Marketing Cloud Intelligence (formerly Datorama) specialists Front Foot.

The deal unites the London-based consultancy with recent acquisitions Cloud Orca and MacroFin, as CP creates the UK’s next gen professional services group. This is the 12th deal within the last 22 months.

Since 2017, Front Foot has delivered AI powered marketing intelligence to a full spectrum of clients, from global marketing agencies to multinational enterprises, ecommerce, publishers, government, retailers, SMBs and independent digital agencies across many verticals.

Founders Christian Osborne and Sam Eaton both join the fast-growing firm as data and intelligence directors.

Ed Rowland, head of CP Digital, said: “Bringing Front Foot into the CP Digital family is a brilliant fit – strategically and culturally. Christian and Sam have built an outstanding reputation.”

Digital strength (left to right): Christian Osborne, Sam Eaton, Ed Rowland and Tony Di Carlo

Win-win for the government: Paislei Godley and Morgan Davies

Manufacturing staff development

Great Britain’s largest precision tube manufacturer Marcegaglia UK is on the forefront of award wins and staff achievements after forming a partnership with training firm Performance Through People (PTP).

In collaboration with PTP, Marcegaglia has developed a comprehensive staff development programme aimed at enhancing on-

the-job skills while creating new opportunities for unemployed individuals, ultimately leading to new job placements and apprenticeships.

The impact of this initiative has been profound, resulting in seven employees successfully completing their Level 3 Leadership and Management course, equipping them with essential skills in people

Funding boost paves the way for new jobs

Mayor Richard Parker’s plans to create thousands of new jobs has been given a major boost with the first funding allocated to get two prime sites shovel-ready for companies to move into.

The money, part of the West Midlands’ flagship Investment Zone, will help establish Birmingham Knowledge Quarter and Wolverhampton Green Innovation Corridor as employment hubs for advanced manufacturing, green industries, health-tech and digital technologies – eventually creating more than 23,000 jobs.

Early-stage preparations will now begin as part of a long-term plan that will use £16m of Investment Zone funding to clean up land and make significant improvements to infrastructure to help attract investors and businesses looking to relocate.

This is the second major Investment Zone announcement following confirmation of £23m to help deliver a battery manufacturing and technology hub at the Coventry and Warwick Gigapark, another Investment Zone site.

The mayor said: “Our Investment Zone has the potential to deliver £5.5bn of investment and create 30,000 jobs in the region. It is essential that we

management, performance management, leadership, and communication.

Marcegaglia also won the Excellence in Skills Partnership Award at the West Midlands and Warwickshire Skills Awards.

Since early discussions in 2024, Marcegaglia has prioritised investment in training as a vital strategy for improving management

develop these sites, attracting investors and growing industries, to reignite the economic growth this region has long been waiting for.

“In less than a year I’ve secured £40m to get these sites out of the starting blocks. That’s how I’m driving our economy to the next level and bringing real and lasting change for people living right across the West Midlands.”

Cllr Sharon Thompson, deputy leader at Birmingham City Council, said: “The Knowledge Quarter will be a world-class, city-centre innovation cluster that will deliver an estimated 20,000 jobs and a 4,000 home ‘eco-town’ - with over a third of those homes being affordable. This is great news for the city.”

skills, workforce capabilities, and product quality. In addition to leadership training, the manufacturer has actively contributed to local initiatives, including welding bootcamps, where they provided work placements that resulted in two individuals being hired as apprentices – one in manufacturing and the other as a maintenance operations engineering technician.

EES to build Inverness team

Power generation expert

Excitation & Engineering Services (EES) is expanding its operations with a new office in Inverness, Scotland - opening in Spring 2025.

As part of the growth, the Tamworth-headquartered firm is actively recruiting engineers to provide local expertise in excitation systems.

Building on its 13-year-long presence in Scotland, EES’s new base will strengthen its ability to support key customers in the power sector, particularly as investment in hydroelectric and long-term energy storage projects continue to grow.

The Inverness team will provide specialist expertise in excitation systems, ensuring the reliable operation and maintenance of plants across the region.

“The decision to establish an office in Inverness is a major step towards enhancing our support for the region’s power generation industry,” said Ryan Kavanagh, director at EES.

World class: A CGI image of Birmingham Knowledge Quarter

Profound impact (left to right): CEO of Performance Through People Rob Colbourne, mayor of West Midlands Richard Parker, Marcegaglia plant manager Mark Richards and Skills Minister Jacqui Smith

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Expansion into the Middle East

Gateley has significantly bolstered its Middle East-based legal services offering with the appointment of a six-strong corporate team led by new Dubai managing partner and head of corporate Darren Harris.

Darren has been joined by corporate partner Nora Al Muhamad, legal directors Amun Bashir, Nadine Wilson and Gemma Kotak, who is a former Gateley trainee, and associate Norlisa Hanlon Rosslee.

All six join from the Dubai office of an international law firm and have a strong track record of successfully advising regional clients. The new team will work alongside existing Dubai partners Amrik Sangha (corporate), Thenji Moyo (employment), Mark Tiggeman (construction), senior counsel Anthony Frances (commercial dispute resolution) and colleagues in the Group’s Corporate Platform under the leadership of UK based, Beth Mather.

Darren has over 20 years’ experience advising corporates, private equity houses, venture capital investors and entrepreneurs, founders and ownermanagers of homegrown Middle East businesses on M&A, joint ventures, corporate restructuring and general corporate law. Darren has significant experience of growing firms in the Middle East region having previously held managing partner and senior partner roles there.

Nora Al Muhamad is a highly-regarded lawyer with over 16 years’ experience advising prominent family-owned businesses on succession and legacy planning, family office structuring and investments, governance, private client and

corporate restructuring. She is accredited by the DIFC for governance and succession planning. Her clients span the education, healthcare, infrastructure, real estate, retail and consumer sectors.

The appointments are supported by Gateley’s planned relocation of its Dubai office to the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Rod Waldie, CEO of Gateley, said: “The arrival of Darren, Nora and the team is a coup for us, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise that will significantly enhance our corporate practice and deepen our regional capability.

“We have had a presence in Dubai since 2007 and we see these hires and the move to the DIFC as a game changer, providing our people and clients with a first class innovative meeting and workspace and helping us to attract and retain the best talent we can in one of the largest and most vibrant business precincts in the Middle East.”

Darren added: “The team and I are thrilled to be joining Gateley, an entrepreneurial and forward-thinking law firm.

“The outlook in the Middle East remains very positive.”

Update your will, lawyers urge

People are being urged to take action and update their wills after research has revealed that over half (52 per cent) of UK adults over 30 don’t have one.

The calls come from Richard Neea and Lisa Flavell, partners at Enoch Evans Solicitors, who are urging people to take action.

The research, conducted by Censuswide on behalf of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, also found that nearly one in 10 (nine per cent) UK adults have started making a will but haven’t completed it, leaving their estate and loved ones at risk.

Without an up-to-date will, an estate will be distributed according to the intestacy rules.

These rules prioritise specific family members regardless of personal relationship or wishes.

This could lead to unintended consequences and potential disputes among loved ones.

The Association of Lifetime Lawyers represents a community of the most qualified legal professionals in the UK, supporting people making key decisions about their lives.

Lisa warns that not having

an up-to-date will can have serious consequences for loved ones.

Richard, head of the wills, tax and probate department, said: “Without a valid will, your assets may not go to the people you intended, and your family could face lengthy legal battles and additional emotional distress, during an already difficult time.

“It could also mean your loved ones face a higher inheritance tax bill.

“Life changes quickly, so it’s best practice to review and update your will every five years or when a major change in your life occurs that impacts you or your loved ones.

“This includes marriage or civil partnership, divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership, the birth of a child, the death of a family member, or if you or one of your beneficiaries has obtained a Gender Recognition Certificate.

“Updating your will ensures that your estate is distributed according to your wishes and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

“Seeking advice from an experienced legal professional is best, as they can offer guidance on your unique situation and help minimise inheritance tax where possible.”

Freeths is top insolvency firm

The insolvency and restructuring team at Freeths has been listed as the highest performing insolvency firm by volume of claims in the Insolvency and Companies List for the second consecutive year, in the fourth edition of Solomonic’s Year in Review.

The annual review revealed that Freeths had 402 insolvency claims during 2024, surpassing its total of 365 in 2023, more than 100 claims above the second ranked firm

The claims included Insolvency act claims for office holders, administration appointments, CVA filings, and winding up petitions.

National head of insolvency and restructuring at Freeths, Joey Byrne said: “To achieve such strong results for the second year in a row demonstrates the strength and depth of the team’s capabilities following significant growth in the past 12 months, and deep-rooted client relationships.”

Strengthening Gateley Dubai office: Darren Harris and Nora Al Muhamad

Serious consequences: Lisa Flavel

Industrial site on the market

Property agents Siddall Jones have been appointed as the marketing agent for Halesfield Point, a new industrial development in Halesfield, Telford.

The recently completed scheme comprises 21 highquality units, ranging in size from 2,379 sq. ft. to 19,108 sq. ft., designed to accommodate a range of industrial and trade counter occupiers.

Edward Siddall-Jones, managing director of Siddall Jones, said: “The industrial market remains extremely buoyant, and we continue to see strong demand for freehold properties under £1m.

“Given the shortage of smaller modern freehold units, we anticipate a high level of interest in Halesfield Point.

“This development represents an excellent opportunity for business owners looking to invest in commercial property through their pension.

“In addition, the units are available on a leasehold basis with a competitive quoting rent of £9 per sq. ft., offering flexibility to occupiers.”

UK construction sector reaches turning point

The long-awaited turning point for the UK construction sector has arrived, with marginal growth achieved in the second half of 2024, according to a sector update report from leading global consultancy Arcadis.

However, despite this positive shift, caution remains as new orders have fallen sharply, dropping nearly 20 per cent since July.

With low confidence, high finance costs, and sluggish growth continuing to hold back commercial and residential recovery, any meaningful rebound is unlikely before late 2025. Latest market data for February, published by S&P, confirms this trend.

While government reforms aim to deliver long-term growth, the short-term outlook remains challenging.

The timing of public investment in building projects is dependent on the Comprehensive Spending Review and local government devolution, leaving developers with limited options to overcome viability constraints.

The Spring Arcadis Market View sets out how, in the residential sector, developers are pivoting towards lowrise schemes in urban areas to navigate Building Safety delays, while infrastructure investment is set to surge following Ofwat’s confirmation of a major expansion in water programmes.

Despite a weak first half, new build construction output increased for the second consecutive quarter in Q4 2024, driven by rising demand in the public-nonresidential and industrial sectors.

However, overall new build workload remains well below 2022 and 2023 levels, with total output in 2024 down 5.3 per cent year-on-year in real terms.

More concerningly, the future pipeline is weakening, reflecting the wider economy’s stagnation.

Simon Rawlinson, Arcadis’ head of strategic research and insight, said: “The UK construction sector has reached a turning point, with marginal growth in late 2024 marking the end of contraction. However, the outlook remains uncertain, with a weakening future pipeline posing a serious concern.

“Without renewed investor confidence and strategic government action, a sustained recovery is far from guaranteed.”

Exclusive first look at new show apartment

A property consultancy is offering a first glimpse inside Birmingham’s newest luxury apartment development.

Fisher German, which has an office on Colmore Row, has been instructed to market the new apartments at Boulevard on Bristol Street in the city’s Southside district.

And a launch event on Tuesday, 29 April (4pm to 7pm), will provide professionals with an exclusive first look inside the 145-apartment scheme, which features a mixture of one and two-bedroom properties.

The apartment scheme, designed by leading architect Wake Morley and developed by Investin Plc, offers a luxury range of in-house facilities including a gymnasium, cinema room, communal kitchen and two

lounge areas, private working pods, courtyard gardens and roof terrace. The building also benefits from a concierge service, secure parking and a residential storage room.

Attendees will be given a first look at the new show apartment. The Fisher German team will be on-hand to answer any questions.

Ella Pearson, head of new homes at Fisher German, said: “The apartments themselves are top of the range and also incorporate eco-friendly features, while the building benefits from state-of-the-art facilities, making it one of the city’s most prestigious high-end schemes.

“We’re now looking forward to hosting our exclusive launch event to give people a first glimpse at our stunning new show apartment.”

Eco-friendly features: Boulevard on Bristol Street

Sustained recovery not certain: Sinon Rawlinson

Gender equality report reveals improvement

The female full-time employment rate has increased by 4.5 per cent over the past year, according to a new gender equality report.

PwC’s Women in Work Index, an annual report that assesses progress made towards achieving gender equality at work, says the West Midlands climbed two places in the rankings to 10th place.

The report shows that the female full-time employment rate for West Midlands increased substantially from 56.9 per cent to 61.3 per cent, while East Midlands saw a small 0.4 per cent increase to 57.77 per cent.

However, both regions are below the UK average of 58.6 per cent.

And both continue to have a gender pay gap higher than the national UK average of 14 per cent - the East Midlands saw an improvement in the gender pay gap from 17.1 per cent to 15.9 per cent, while West Midlands saw no change at 15 per cent.

There was a small increase in female labour force participation in the West Midlands, shifting from 73.6 per cent to 74.2 per cent.

Alex Hudson, PwC UK market senior partner in the Midlands, said: “The latest Women in Work Index shows that there is much more to be done to support women in the Midlands with better access to equal opportunities at work.

“It’s positive to see an overall increase in the female full-time employment rate, however action needs to be taken to increase the female participation rate, as we know this is essential for growth in our economy.

“To enhance productivity and drive GDP growth in our region, we must also look to reduce the gender pay gap as it still lags the UK average – the only way to do this is by working closely with business leaders and policy makers to address this.

“We know that women are underrepresented in industrial and manufacturing industries, and with the rise of AI and emerging technologies in the workplace, it’s essential that women are represented and have the right skills – this will play an important part in improving our ranking.”

This year, the Women in Work Index focused on the positive link between workplace gender equality and a country’s economic performance.

A leader in fair and timely payments

The Leadership Coaches has become a Fair Payment Code (FPC) Gold Awardee for demonstrating best payment practices.

Launched in December 2024 the Fair Payment Code is managed by the Office of the Small Business Commissioner on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.

The tiered system is aimed at awarding best practice and driving improvements in payment performance. Gold Awardees pay at least 95 per cent of all invoices within 30 days alongside agreeing to abide by the code’s principles of being clear, fair and collaborative with their suppliers.

The Leadership Coaches is a premium executive coaching service, specialising in tailored coaching for C Suite and Director level leaders in medium and large corporate organisations.

Asked about why The Leadership Coaches applied to the Fair Payment Code Zoé Lewis, CEO and founder, said:

“Having been a freelance consultant myself, I know the frustration of waiting on payments. It was especially frustrating when large

‘Everyone benefits when suppliers are paid quickly and fairly, and they thrive’

companies, despite having the means, took longer to pay.

“Smaller businesses were more conscious of cash flow and understood the importance of paying on time to support growth.

“Paying fairly and on time is not just a responsibility. It is a duty of care and respect. If we do not look after our associates and pay them

fairly, they cannot continue delivering their best work. That has a ripple effect on every business in the chain, from micro to macro.

“I committed to running a fair and ethical business, one where no one in our supply chain waits more than 30 days for payment, even when we are paid on longer terms. This hasn’t always been easy, as a growing small business with various setbacks, but we’ve challenged our clients to do the same.

“Fair and timely payment should be a given, yet we made sure to role model it before asking others to follow. I’m proud of how we support our suppliers because building an economy that works for everyone means valuing the ‘little fish’ as much as the big ones.”

Liz Barclay, Small Business Commissioner, said:

“Congratulations to The Leadership Coaches on their Gold Fair Payment Code Award. Everyone benefits when suppliers are paid quickly and fairly, and they thrive.

Embedding a culture of fair payment practices is good for your own bottom line as well as for the economy, communities and wider society.”

Much more to be done: Alex Hudson

Fair and timely payment: Liz Barclay (left) with Zoe Lewis

Tips: Mike Jordan

Job hopping could be key to better pensions

A financial expert says that the 21st century trend of “job hopping” could be the key to boosting your retirement income.

Mike Jordan, whose firm Jordan Financial Management has been helping West Midlands people manage their finances for more than 25 years, says the disappearance of a having a job for life may actually be good news for savers.

He was speaking after figures from FTAdviser suggested people who frequently take on new career opportunities have more saved for retirement.

Mike said: “The old idea of having a job for life, or a long career at one company, seems very 20th century now. And, just as employment habits change, the impact on pensions has changed too.

“This FTAdviser report indicates that people who have switched jobs four or more times in the last 10 years could boost their pension by around £15,000.

“This is excellent news in the modern economy where the average Brit changes job every five years.”

The main motivation for job hopping – higher salaries – is also the key to increasing pensions, say Mike. On average, workers who switch jobs receive a 5.2 per cent pay increase, providing both greater financial freedom in the short-term and better long-term security.

Mike added: “The minimum auto-enrolment pension contribution for employees is 5 per cent of pensionable earnings, meaning a pay rise means more money is going into your pension each month even if you don’t make additional contributions.

“Long-term investment returns can also help. Usually, the money held in your pension is invested with the aim of delivering long-term growth. Until you reach retirement age, any returns are also invested.

“This compounding effect means even a small increase to your pension could lead to a more comfortable retirement lifestyle.”

As a result, the FTAdviser research found the average job hopper has £105,538 in their pension. In comparison, the average adult has £89,762.

Salary increases aren’t the only factor behind job hoppers’ boosted pensions. New employers might offer additional perks which support retirement goals.

However, for many people, switching jobs is not the right option. For those happy in their current position, Mike has some tips on how to increase pensions without changing job.

He said: “You can regularly review your role and salary, which can help you negotiate a pay rise. This can be daunting for some people, so I encourage you to do some preparation to help you feel more at ease.

Consider how your work has contributed to the success of the business, how your role has changed, or skills you’d like to develop.

“You can also increase your pension when you receive a pay rise or a bonus. Many workers only make the minimum contribution to their pension, but you can increase this whenever you like.”

Award for road safety project

An AI pioneering road safety project in the West Midlands that harnesses the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has earned global recognition for its role in improving road safety.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), in partnership with VivaCity, has received the Most Promising Project Award at the International Invention and Innovation Competition for their innovative ‘Near Miss’ dAIetection system.

The award was presented at the fourth Global Ministerial Road Safety Conference in Marrakesh, organised by the World Health Organisation, and Morocco’s National Road Safety Authority.

The innovative project uses AI sensors to identify and address potential incidents before they happen.

A total of 40 VivaCity sensors within the TfWM network have been upgraded with near miss detection capabilities, providing realtime traffic data to calculate the likelihood of collisions, with a particular focus on protecting more vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “One life lost on our roads is one too many. Which is why we are committed to achieving Vision Zero – no deaths or serious injuries on our roads.

“We need to use every tool available to us to make our roads safer – education of drivers, enforcement of speed limits, and developing technology that prevents collisions before they happen.

“I am delighted this work has been internationally recognised. Our innovative use of AI technology is making our roads safer before anyone gets hurt.”

The data-driven insights generated by the AI near-miss sensors help TfWM and local authorities to prioritise infrastructure improvements and safety measures based on accurate, real-time information.

Mat MacDonald, the region’s road safety commissioner, said: “This award highlights the incredible potential of the technology we’re pioneering in the West Midlands to tackle unacceptable dangers on our road network.”

Automotive training firm gets funding boost

A leading online training provider for the automotive industry is preparing to roll out virtual reality (VR) learning experiences to help mechanics repair vehicles thanks to funding from the Community Investment Enterprise Fund (CIEF) through BCRS Business Loans.

Our Virtual Academy has received £97,000 to invest in the production and roll out of VR training experiences for the automotive sector and grow the business.

Established in 2016 by former Formula 1 mechanic Ben Stockton, the online training provider specialises in the production and delivery of online, face-to-face training and bespoke training videos to assist automotive technicians.

Working with a range of customers from independent mechanics to large garage groups, Shropshire-based Our Virtual Academy will utilise the funds to create and deliver electric vehicle VR experiences to teach theory and practical skills remotely.

Ben Stockton said: “We know from speaking to our customers that there is significant interest in VR training, especially for electric

vehicles. The investment will enable us to continue to stay at the forefront of training technology associated with the motor industry.

“A lot of training is solely focused on passing tests to achieve a certificate, our approach is to ensure technicians are provided with meaningful work experiences and an understanding of how to be productive and competent at their job.

“BCRS have been great - they take the time to understand the

business and their lending decisions are not only based on the numbers but me as an MD and my vision for the business.”

BCRS Business Loans senior business development manager Louise Armstrong added: “Our Virtual Academy is leading the way in the automotive training industry.

“I’m pleased that BCRS Business Loans could provide the funding the business needs to innovate and grow.”

How simple physics led us to AI

Artificial intelligence and how it has been influenced by a 100-yearold theory about magnetism will be explored in an inaugural lecture at Aston University.

Professor Damien Foster (pictured) will explain the influence of a simple physics theory called the Ising model.

It was formulated in the early 20th century to explain the behaviour of magnetic materials.

However, its impact has extended far beyond physics, providing critical insights into AI.

The professor will explain how it has played a crucial role in associative memory and deep learning, influencing the groundbreaking work of sector pioneers like John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton who were awarded the Nobel Prize for their contributions in 2024.

The lecture at the university will dive into the connections between physics and artificial intelligence. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation of how

interdisciplinary research continues to shape the future of artificial intelligence.

Professor Foster said: “I have always been fascinated in understanding how things worked and am enthusiastic about sharing my knowledge.”

Professor Foster joined Aston University in 2022 as head of the School of Informatics and Digital Engineering in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences.

His research lies in the field of statistical physics applied to phase transitions and criticality in magnetic and polymer systems. It also aims to apply the methods of statistical physics to problems related to static and dynamic biological phenomena. He has lived abroad almost half his life, including research positions at the CEA (Saclay) in France and the University of Pittsburgh and associate professor in physics at the University of Cergy-Pontoise, France. The free event will take place on the University campus at Susan Cadbury Lecture Theatre on Wednesday, 12 March, from (6.30pm to 7.30pm) and will be followed by a drinks reception. The event can also be viewed online.

To sign up for a place in person or on line go to: eventbrite.co.uk

Staying at the front: Ben Stockton

Hollywood star Bill Murray is to visit Birmingham as part of just three UK dates.

A legend of the silver screen, Murray will appear alongside cellist Jan Vogler, pianist Vanessa Perez, and violinist Mira Wang, in the forthcoming New Worlds tour which comes to the Symphony Hall on Wednesday 25 June.

Murray and world-renowned Vogler met during their travels and became friends in New York.

Curious about each other’s artistic world and interests, the actor and the cellist soon had the idea to work together on a show which premiered in 2017.

To the accompaniment of the classically trained musicians, Murray sings and reads American classics, spanning the likes of Mark Twain and Ernest Hemingway.

New Worlds promises a programme that showcases the core of the American values in literature and music in a show that communicates the bridges artists have built between America and Europe.

Cast announced for Moulin Rouge! tour Hollywood star to visit Birmingham

Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, Walt Whitman, James Fenimore Cooper, Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin and Stephen Foster are some of the strongest voices that influenced generations of people in America and gave the world a picture of the charm, energy and creative force of the New World.

Chris Proctor, head of programme at B:Music, said: “We’re delighted to be bringing Bill, Jan and the ensemble to Symphony Hall for what will be one of only three exclusive UK tour dates in 2025.

“At B:Music, we strive to champion the best in music and arts from around the corner and around the world, and this performance very much aligns with the international element.

“It will be an unforgettable night of music, readings and poetry, and a real treat to see one of the film industry’s icons performing live on stage for one night only in one of the world’s best concert halls.”

Casting has been announced as rehearsals are underway for the first world tour of Moulin Rouge! The Musical, the multi-award-winning hit stage show, which comes to Birmingham Hippodrome this year.

The cast includes Verity Thompson as Satine, Nate Landskroner as Christian, Cameron Blakely as Harold Zidler, Kurt Kansley as ToulouseLautrec, German Santiago as Santiago, James Bryers as The Duke, Kahlia Davis as Nini, Summer Priest as Arabia, Scott Sutcliffe as Baby Doll, Ellie Jane Grant as La Chocolat and Patrice Tipoki as Alternate Satine.

As in the film, Moulin Rouge! The Musical celebrates over 160 years of music – from Offenbach to Lady Gaga.

The stage musical features over 70 iconic songs, many from the movie as well as recent hits released since the movie premiered over 20 years ago.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical comes to Birmingham Hippodrome from Wednesday 15 October until Saturday 15 November 2025.

The Matrix is back on the big screen

Film fans are in for a treat next month as 90s classic The Matrix comes to Birmingham’s biggest screen. Following its 25th anniversary, the sci-fi spectacular will be showing at Millennium Point on 26 April.

The film follows computer hacker Neo as he discovers a shocking secret that turns his world upside down. Soon, Neo is left fighting for his life but his new mentor, the mysterious Morpheus, has prepared him with some surprising skills.

Released at the end of the 90s, The Matrix wowed a generation of cinema goers and changed cinema forever. Now, a new generation of cinema goers will get to witness

The Matrix on the big screen for the first time.

Profits from the science-fiction screening will support real-life science projects in the West Midlands via the Millennium Point Trust. Families can also enjoy a special screening of Moana on the giant screen, alongside a children’s disco, earlier on the same day.

Millennium Point commercial director Rebecca Delmore said: “I am thrilled to give film fans the opportunity to experience The Matrix on Birmingham’s biggest screen. Younger fans, who have only seen it on their TV screens, will get to experience it in a whole new way and be amazed - just as we all were back in the 90s!”

Shocking secret: The Millennium Point big screen

160 years of music: The Moulin Rouge the Musical cast

The Business of Sport

The value of good sleep for top athletes

A good night’s sleep for an elite athlete is just as important as their pre-match meal but can a pillowcase from home really make a big difference to performance?

Peter Thain, associate professor of sports therapy at Birmingham City University (BCU) and head of sport science and medicine for Great Britain Women’s Basketball Team, believes it can.

“We encourage players to bring a pillowcase they’ve been using at home for a few days whenever we travel abroad,” he explained.

“It will carry their pheromones, which can help them fall asleep faster in unfamiliar environments, like hotels when they are on international duty with their country.”

With sleep a key factor in maximising a player’s recovery, Peter regularly discusses the

value of “sleep hygiene” strategies with the GB squad. These include the use of eye masks, earplugs, and white noise machines. He also advises players to reduce their use of mobile phones to help them sleep soundly.

“Players often share rooms, which can present challenges – particularly if a roommate snores,” he said. “If you or I have a broken night’s sleep, we feel sluggish the next day.

“For international athletes needing to perform at the highest level daily, sleep is vital.”

The evolving role of medical teams in elite sport extends far beyond treating injuries.

“Our role is performance-orientated,” Peter said. “We aim to optimise recovery to maximise performance and player availability, which impacts what happens on the court.”

GB’s women recently secured qualification for

EuroBasket later this year, sealing their spot with a dominant win in Denmark.

“It’s fantastic to be part of their success,” said Peter, who has been travelling with the team since 2018. Peter was also a key member of the backroom staff that helped England’s 3x3 men and women win gold and silver respectively at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

He now uses those experiences with GB and England to benefit students at BCU.

“Working closely with elite athletes allows me to share real-world case studies with my students,” said Peter, who is based at Alexander Stadium, BCU’s new home for sport and exercise courses. “I present scenarios I’ve faced and challenge students to problem-solve, making them aware of the time pressures of elite sport. It’s something you won’t find in a textbook.”

Ricoh sponsor new college kit

The football team at Queen Alexandra College (QAC) in Harborne, part of the Queen Alexandra Charity Birmingham, has received a new football kit from Ricoh Europe.

Through a series of mini fundraisers, the Ricoh Team in Birmingham has helped raise the necessary funds for a brand-new kit.

Ricoh, a workplace integrator that specialises in providing and integrating end-to-end technology, solutions and services that help organisations respond to evolving workplace demands has been supporting the charity for over a year.

As part of this, the Ricoh Team based in Birmingham has been engaging with students over several visits to provide various forms of assistance.

This includes taking part in classroom activities such as sharing knowledge with the IT and Creative Media students during a lesson.

Ricoh visited QAC to meet members of the football team and

their coaches and were part of the unveiling of the new kit.

Dave Sullivan, assistant principal for teaching and learning, said: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ricoh Europe for their ongoing commitment to supporting our work at QAC.

“To have the Ricoh name on our football kits demonstrates that the students are not just backed by the college and charity but also valued by a leading international company.”

Vanessa Anness, head of consulting at Ricoh Digital Experience (RDx), said : “Our team in Birmingham reached out to the Queen Alexandra Charity last year to offer our support to this incredible cause and I am delighted that we have been able to help.

“I hope our community, and beyond, can continue to raise awareness around neurodiversity and people living with disabilities while also further educating others around this important cause.”

Performance expert joins club

James Thomas, one of sport’s leading high performance experts, has joined Warwickshire County Cricket Club as its new performance director.

He will be responsible for bringing future success to the Warwickshire men, Bears women and Birmingham Phoenix cricket teams.

In his 20-year high performance career, he has successfully worked within a number of team and individual sports, quickly learning what it takes to create the right environment for success.

Warwickshire chief executive Stuart Cain said: “James is recognised in high performance sport as a real talent.

“We wanted someone with real strategic experience of creating world-class, successful performance environments.”

Sleep key factor: Peter Thain

Kit reveal: Ricoh staff met with players and coaches from QAC’s football team

Chamber Insight

Focus on a member

Name: Katrina Cooke

Company: Kids’ Village

Job

Title: Chief Executive

What does your company do?

Kids’ Village will be the UK’s first holiday village exclusively for critically ill children and their families. Located on a 30-acre site in Wychnor, Staffordshire, it will provide free week-long respite holidays, giving families muchneeded time to relax, reconnect, and create magical memories.

How did it all start?

Founded by the Fletcher family, who experienced the challenges of childhood illness first-hand when their daughter Sammie battled cancer, the project was inspired by their visit to “Give Kids the World Village” in Florida over 20 years ago. In 2018, Gary, Claire, and Sammie began working on their vision, securing a 30-acre site in Wychnor, Staffordshire, where planning permission was granted in 2023 for 10 lodges, The Hive, a lake, and a play area. In 2024, Kids’ Village launched a £5m capital appeal to fund construction.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

Since publicly launching Kids’ Village and our £5m capital appeal last year, we’ve already secured £1.6m in pledges, secured over 25 corporate and community partnerships and have over 100 runners fundraising for Kids’ Village this year. It’s a fantastic start, but there’s plenty more to do.

What keeps you awake at night?

Raising the remaining £3.4m to ensure we can open Kids’ Village by Summer 2027. It’s an ambitious target, but the need is huge, and this is a completely new concept for the UK. I count myself very lucky and wanting to bring joy and magic to families facing the

toughest days keeps me awake and motivates me in equal measure.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

Nothing in particular – I believe you’re always learning, even through the most challenging times. If I had to pick something, it would be to have more confidence in my younger self and trust myself. The key is finding what you and your business is good at and what drives you to succeed and make a difference.

What has surprised you most in your job?

Just how generous people are with their time to support charitable activity and community projects. It’s humbling to see individuals give so much to Kids’ Village and expecting nothing in return. I love the phrase “True generosity is doing something for someone who will never find out”.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Be bold, build strong networks, and don’t underestimate the power of data and storytelling. It’s key to inspiring others to believe in your vision.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

Having worked at the Chamber between 2015-2024, I know its value in connecting businesses. We’re using our membership to build corporate partnerships, raise awareness, and drive fundraising. The business community has a vital role in making Kids’ Village a reality, and the Chamber amplifies our message.

Tel: 07590 488 768

New Members

Your guide to new sign-ups

2KCars

Ridhwaan Ali

07396 386285

www.under2kcars.com

Agents involved in the sale of a variety of goods

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Alwayse Engineering Ltd

Claire Umney 0121 380 4700

www.alwayse.co.uk

Machining

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Aquilon Tech

Dilraj Todd 07979 600633

www.aquilontech.com

Business and domestic software development

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Arrive Alive

Debbie Roscoe 0345 504 8787

www.arrivealiveresponse.co.uk

Other service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Aspire HR & Training Consultants Ltd

Natalka Hunka 07766 835025

www.aspirehrandtraining.co.uk

Human resources provision and management of human resources functions

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

BCS Connect

Richard Bourne 01543 629090

www.bcs-connect.co.uk

Construction of commercial buildings Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

Birmingham Panthers Ltd

Alison Akinrinlola

www.birminghampanthers.com

Sports and recreation education

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Byron Batten Consultancy

Byron Batten 07976 295181

Human resources provision and management of human resources functions

Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Ernst & Young

Muhanid Ali 0121 535 2000

www.ey.com/uk

Accounting and auditing activities

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

GGN Security Services Limited

Adam Rehman 0121 638 0475

www.ggnsecurity.co.uk

Security systems service activities

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Giants and Titans

David Reed 07595 301311

www.giantsandtitans.com

Advertising agencies

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Happy Autistic Lady Ltd

Iveta Pudilova 07578 537712

www.happyautisticlady.com

Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Jask Creative Group

Dan Retter 0121 708 2466

www.jaskcreative.co.uk

specialised design activities

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

JCDecaux UK Ltd

Andy Morton 020 8326 7777

www.jcdecaux.com

Advertising agencies

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

JDD Furniture Ltd

James Mercy 0121 517 2310

www.jddfurniture.com

Manufacture of other furniture Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Make Strides

Gemma Stuart-Young 0845 139 0218

www.make-strides.com

Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

MT Services Computer Systems

Limited

Neil Norton 01827 219540

www.mtservices.co.uk

Information technology consultancy activities

Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Not Just Travel

Drew Wakefield-Pearce 07983 137669

www.drewandkatie.notjusttravel.com

Travel agency activities

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

OPOL CO-OP LIMITED

Ken Ivey 07854 254127 www.opolltd.co.uk

Activities of professional membership

organisations Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

PHTA Ltd

Gino Martini 07951 916431

www.phta.co.uk

Whatever your business size and requirements, the Chamber has a membership scale to suit your needs.

For more information visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/membership

Research and experimental development on biotechnology

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

PLMR Advent

Michelle Wilson 024 7663 3636

www.plmr.co.uk/advent/plmr-advent

Public relations and communications activities

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Plum Executive

Susie Ankrett 07989 599690

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Progressive Procurement Solutions Ltd

Jarrad Swift 07741 272197

www.progressiveprocurementsolutionsl td.com

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Sansai Consultancy Limited

Rehana Begum 07779 091747

Accounting and auditing activities Solihull Chamber of Commerce

SEND-DM

Brian McCallion 07823 336316

www.send-dm.co.uk

Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet

Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Short Path

James Thresher 0333 022 3707 www.short-path.com

Information technology consultancy activities

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Silverstone Logistics Management Ltd

Helen Hodgson 07921 152656

www.silverstone-logistics.co.uk

Freight transport by road

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

SKRATCH Golf

Alex Smith 0121 769 3499

www.skratch-golf.co.uk

Retail sale of textiles in specialised stores

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

SPG Transportation & Logistics Ltd

Stuart Gamble 07960 243447

www.spgtransport.co.uk

Freight transport by road

Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Studio 3.5

Lauren Hinton 07788 588896

www.studio3point5.com

Advertising agencies

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Superfast IT Ltd

James Cash 0121 309 0090 www.superfast-it.com

Information technology consultancy activities

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

The Governance Forum

Khari George 01384 492584

www.tgf.global Management consultancy activities

other than financial management

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Treetrench Ltd

Ahmed Abdalla 07538 351021

www.treetrench.co.uk

Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

United By 2022 Charity

Jess McCallister 07977 275322

www.unitedby2022.com

Other service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Universitio Ltd

Vahid Mohammadi 07300 335341

www.universitio.com

Educational support services

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Vasu Legal Services

Sunil Kumar Mahay 07870 666190

Solicitors

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

XPD Global UK Limited

Andrew Barnes 0121 661 0008

www.xpdglobal.com/en/global-logistics

Other transportation support activities

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Xpress Sign & Design

Dean Sale 01283 563979

www.xpressprintsolutions.co.uk

Other manufacturing n.e.c.

Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

As the voice of local business since 1813, we strive to help firms across the region connect,

...any other business

A roundup of news from Chamber members

Living walls ease noise pollution

Get ready for an outbreak of vegetation on your office wall. But there are no worries that you are threatened with large bills for curing damp.

In recognition of the growing concerns around noise pollution in modern office environments, Swedish-owned workplace furniture suppler AJ Products, has introduced the RUDY live plant panel to their acoustic panel range. This innovative environmental solution addresses the need for noise reduction in the workplace while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of open-plan offices.

Recent studies have highlighted the prevalence of noise-related issues in workplaces. A UK survey by Work In Mind revealed that 60 per cent of office workers cannot concentrate due to noisy workspaces, leading to decreased productivity and work quality.

Excessive noise in the workplace can also lead to enhanced stress levels, irritability and even long-term health concerns such as high blood pressure.

The RUDYlive plant panel is made from 100 per cent natural reindeer lichen, hand-picked from Scandinavian forests. It is designed to

regulate its humidity, requiring no watering and minimal maintenance and comes with a sevenyear warranty. Its porous structure effectively absorbs sound from all directions, contributing to a quieter and more conducive work environment.

Helen Beebe, managing director UK of AJ Products, said: “Unlike traditional soundproofing methods, living walls offer multiple benefits beyond noise reduction.

“Their natural greenery helps to improve air quality by filtering pollutants, creating a healthier and fresher indoor environment.”

Spite linked to conspiracies

Spite has been identified by scientists as a key factor in believing conspiracy theories.

Research on the subject by psychologists from Birmingham and Staffordshire universities has been published in the Journal of Social Issues.

Over three studies involving 1,000 participants examined how spitefulness interacts with three established motivations for conspiracy thinking: a need to understand the world, a need for security, and a need for social significance.

As expected, higher levels of spite were associated with a stronger belief in conspiracy theories, and spite mediated the relationship between conspiracy theory belief and the three established predictors.

Now farmers getting jittery over divorce

Farmers’ love lives do not often intrude into business matters in the B3 postcode area but they have at the city centre offices of Clarke Willmott.

Specialist agricultural lawyer Holly Smith in their family team has noticed an upturn in inquiries about pre and post-nup agreements since the government announced changes to inheritance tax surrounding farms.

She says: “Pre- and post-nuptial agreements can help protect farming assets and farming business interests. They can cover land, farming equipment, livestock, agricultural businesses and any other farming related assets owned by either spouse prior to the marriage or received as a gift or inheritance during the marriage.

“Many farming families recognise the importance of safeguarding specific assets and want to ensure that they stay within the family.

“A nuptial agreement will identify assets, owned individually or jointly, and will outline how those assets, as well as any future inheritance or business interests, will be protected and managed in the event of a divorce.

“By entering into an agreement, the aim is to ensure clarity, fairness, and long-term preservation of family farms and agricultural assets, while mitigating the potential for conflict in the event of a later divorce or separation.”

New plans announced by the government in October will mean that from April 2026, combined agricultural and business property

Live acoustics: A green wall in action

Protection from divorce: Holly Smith