December 2024/January 2025
Club with £3bn ambitions helps shape city’s global brand
See page 8
• Selfridges boss Sam Watson joins board
• Sixty-two firms vie for awards glory
• ...revealed - all the ABCC winners Free to Members
38 International Trade: Firms urged to be ‘more direct’ to win US
Lichfield & Tamworth: Top rated park a ‘beacon’ for the
45 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Free public transport for Christmas shoppers
46 Solihull: Independent businesses showcased on Solihull tour
48 Future Faces: Future Faces appoints new ambassadors
52 The latest list of Chamber events
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
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d.newman@birmingham-chamber.com
Manufacturing: Steps to sustainable
59 Executive Search & Recruitment: Hiring diverse leaders
62 Business Travel: Scheme trials free bus travel 64 Finance: Former detective takes role at bank 66 Manufacturing: More must be done to support AI development
68 Legal: Experts recognised in legal rankings guide
70 Property: Must-have perks for the office
72 Skills: Training firm releases 2025 workshop dates
74 Technology: UK could lead in clean energy
76 The Arts: Bulls charge up for new art trail
78 Sport: Cricket club in double award win
…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.
BY JOHN LAMB
We are continually recording the achievements of some remarkable young women in the columns of Chamberlink.
In recent months, I can recall Alex NicholsonEvans, the Birmingham city curator who came up with the idea of marking 100 Days of Creativity in the city this summer.
There was also fashion designer Rosie Billington, who was shortlisted in the Start-up, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship category at the Future Faces Awards. She designed red carpet attire for Coronation Street and Brassic star Bhavna Limbachia and Hollyoaks actress Anya Lawrence when they attend the National Television Awards this year.
Then we had 19-year-old Santina Bunting, the engineer who became the youngest winner of the Birmingham Young Professional of the Year title at this year’s awards.
And, in this issue (see page 5), we have Dr Aditi Desai, chief executive of a medtech firm iCount ,who came out on top in the Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition for her development of a safety device to prevent medical complications during childbirth and surgery.
And, again in this issue, we celebrate Amna Akthar, who is the winner of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year title (see pages 40 and 41).
She co-created GirlDreamer, a non-profit organisation that empowers young women of
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colour and removes barriers faced by thousands in accessing leadership opportunities.
She was driven by a commitment to creating change after she herself experienced the barriers to achieving leadership opportunities.
And there is an even more amazing element to Amna’s story that helped her to overcome some of those barriers, including years of bullying.
She was selected by former US president Barack Obama to be one of 12 leaders chosen globally for the Obama Foundation Global Scholarship at Columbia University in New York City.
The programme gives rising leaders who are already making a difference in their communities the opportunity to take their work to the next level. The scholarship was founded in 2017 with Obama intending it to be central to his post-presidential activities, which he saw as having more consequences than his time in the White House.
All of this may lead you to question what happened to all the male business successes of the future. Watch this space...
Chamberlink will be taking a break in January but be sure to catch the February issue. It will be packed with the usual features and latest news, including a picture special from the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce awards and an in-depth preview of one of the largest business events in the region – the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce awards at the ICC. In the meantime, everyone at the Chamber wishes its members an enjoyable Christmas and prosperous 2025.
By Dan Harrison
Amedtech firm which has developed a safety device to prevent medical complications during childbirth and surgery has been named the winner of a competition hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).
Wolverhampton-based iCount came out on top in the Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition following a successful pitch from co-founder and CEO Dr Aditi Desai.
Women-led SMEs and start-ups from across the West Midlands entered the third annual competition – organised by the GBCC, in partnership with NatWest and British Business Bank – with three finalists securing the opportunity to pitch to an expert judging panel at the Birmingham offices of law firm Mills & Reeve.
‘The buzz and connections being made in the room on the night between our audience of entrepreneurs, investors and advisors was just brilliant’
The judges were Jordan Dargue, of Dargue Associates and Lifted Ventures, Sandy Reid, from Mercia Ventures and Mabs Ali of RBC Brewin Dolphin. After a round of pitches and questions, iCount emerged as the judges’ “one to watch”.
A low-cost, AI-enabled docking system has been developed by iCount to prevent surgical swabs and sponges being retained in the body, which can lead to pain, infections, re-operation and psychological trauma.
The technology does this by counting swabs before and after procedures – a process that is often carried out manually and is prone to human error in high-pressure situations.
Four NHS trusts across the UK are in advanced talks to adopt the system – and iCount has further plans to expand into the US, the world’s largest medtech market.
Judges said the company’s knowledge of its product market was “well defined” and praised the “scale and build-up” of iCount’s team at the current stage of its journey.
The other finalists were Dudley-based Iron & Velvet, which makes plastic-free and sustainable cleaning products, and MIXD Reality, a Stourbridge firm that is converting traditional books and learning materials into augmented reality (AR) experiences for children.
Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “We know that there’s a great big gender gap when it comes to investment in women led enterprises. With the competition we’re putting the spotlight on incredible, high potential women-led businesses and connecting them with the investors and advisors that can open doors for them.
“iCount is a business with truly global potential that's on a really exciting trajectory. Congratulations to Aditi and all of our shortlisted businesses who really showcased the breadth of talent in our region’s women led businesses.
“The buzz and connections being made in the room on the night between our audience of entrepreneurs, investors and advisors was just brilliant. There is a whole lot more to come from these business owners and I look forward to working with our partners NatWest and the British Business Bank on next year’s competition.”
Harinder Kunor, accelerator community manager at NatWest, said: “Helping women-led businesses to scale and succeed is key to stimulating strong and sustainable local and national economies, which is why we are so proud that the NatWest works with partners across the region to support further business development. We’d like to congratulate all of the businesses who pitched and secured investment.”
Tracy Sherratt, UK senior network senior manager (West Midlands) at the British Business Bank, said: “The British Business Bank is delighted to once again partner with the Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition, held here in the West Midlands. The event is a fantastic opportunity to support women entrepreneurs to break down barriers.”
By Dan Harrison
A long-serving college principal who completed a gruelling bike ride across Europe to champion the cause of Birmingham-headquartered charity Cure Leukaemia has been honoured by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president Nasir Awan.
Mike Hopkins, principal and CEO of South and City College Birmingham, received Nasir’s President’s Medal at the GBCC’s annual meeting.
‘I believe in the power of business as a force for good’
The award recognised Mike’s dedication to raise funds and awareness of Cure Leukaemia, which is the Chamber president’s adopted charity for his term of office.
Earlier this year, Mike led a five-strong team of cyclists on a 1,000-mile trek from Birmingham to Majorca in aid of the blood cancer charity.
He was joined by four team-mates from V-Spring Club in Bromsgrove for the nine-day marathon which began at the GBCC’s headquarters on Hagley Road. The intrepid cycling team raised more than £20,000.
Nasir said: “I believe in the power of business as a force for good, and as president, I have the opportunity each year to choose the Chamber’s charity of the year.
“For a second consecutive year, I have chosen Cure Leukaemia for the amazing, groundbreaking work that they are doing in saving lives. I would like to recognise, in particular, Mike Hopkins, principal and CEO of South and City College Birmingham for raising awareness and much-needed funds for this important cause by taking up the remarkable challenge of leading a 1,000-mile bike ride across international borders to Majorca earlier this year.”
Two Birmingham firms who have been Chamber members for a combined 110 years were also recognised at the meeting.
Armac Martin, the makers of luxury brass hardware and accessories, and Birmingham REP theatre received long-standing member awards for 59 and 51 years of membership respectively.
and manufacturing business at Crowe UK
Eight business figures from a range of sectors have been elected to join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s Chamber Council.
Elections for the new positions on Chamber Council took place throughout September and were open to members of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce division.
Chamber Council is responsible for steering the work of the GBCC policy team and meets on a quarterly basis to discuss the latest national and regional political developments, vote on priority themes, and engage in constructive dialogue regarding key campaigns.
The newly-elected members are:
• Johnathan Dudley, partner and national head of SME corporates
• Colin Fyfe, CEO of Unity Trust Bank
• Amanda Lowe, CEO of Story Comms
• Emma Stenning, CEO of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO)
• Sara Blair-Manning, CEO of Birmingham Botanical Gardens
• Yetunde Dania, partner and head of office at Trowers and Hamlins LLP
• Anna Bright, chief executive of Sustainability West Midlands
• Eman Al-Hillawi, CEO of Entec-Si
Four existing Chamber Council members have also been re-elected for another term. They are – Andy Dawson (co-founder and director of Curium Solutions), Beverly Lindsay (CEO of Diamond Travel), Suzie Branch-Haddow (viceprincipal – external development at BMet College) and Matt Jones (founder and managing director at Oxbridge).
Meanwhile, Janie Frampton has been co-opted on to the council as president of the Greater Birmingham Global Chambers of Commerce, while Mark Smith has been co-opted by the GBCC board after completing his term as Global
Chamber president.
Chamber Council members can serve up to three consecutive three-year teams. During this time, members will promote and steer the work of the policy team, attend Chamber events, and share feedback from fellow Chamber members and business contacts at Chamber Council meetings.
Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “Chamber Council is our brilliant panel of business leaders who keep our finger on the pulse of the needs and experiences of our members. They shape our policy and campaigns priorities and act as both a sounding board and key ambassadors for the Chamber and our city-region’s business community.
“I am absolutely delighted at the calibre and breadth of industries, business size, experience and backgrounds of our newly elected and appointed Council members.
“I look forward to welcoming them, and our returning Council members and working together to Connect, Support, Grow and champion local business.”
• To see current Chamber Council members go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com
By Jon Griffin
Sam Watson, newly appointed Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) non-executive director, is looking forward to gaining key insights into fresh sectors – after a career spent entirely in retail.
Sam is coming on board at the Midlands’ premier business organisation after a lifetime in retail - from selling football programmes at Walsall FC to store director at Selfridges in the Bullring – and says she can’t wait to rub shoulders with other industry leaders.
“This will give me a much wider view because the Chamber covers so many more different industries to what I would normally be exposed to. Even chairing Central BID (Business Improvement District) it is predominantly retail and hospitality that sit within our area.
“I am really looking forward to talking to other experts across
different industries, businesses and SMEs. From a networking opportunity I am looking forward to it and understanding what the strategy will be for the next five years.”
Sam highlighted Selfridges’ links with the business group as a longstanding Chamber member. “We have had a great relationship with Gary Birch, who is our account manager and connects me with various people across the city – I have always really enjoyed the events and the networking opportunities. If something comes to mind like a commercial opportunity for the store Gary is one of the first people to reach out to. It is a really great way of getting introduced to people without it being almost like a cold call.”
Sam said the Chambers network
Find
was ideal for nurturing business relationships. “Likewise, Gary has messaged me many times saying so and so would love to talk to you about working with Selfridges.”
Equally, Sam said she was looking forward to bringing her
out what makes the Selfridges boss tick – turn to the Griffin Report on pages 14 and 15.
own knowledge and experience to the Chamber. “I am hoping that I will be able to offer a real insight, obviously from a retail point of view but also from the viewpoint of somebody running a large business in the city centre.
“I really enjoy my connections with the Chamber – there is a real synergy between how I like to work and operate with Selfridges as well.”
Aiming to be a beacon of excellence: Garry Cook with Henrietta Brealey at St. Andrew’s
By Dan Harrison
Birmingham City Football Club – whose owners recently unveiled ambitious plans to build a new £3bn sports quarter in the city - have become a patron of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).
The club was acquired in July 2023 by USbased Knighthead Capital Management, spearheaded by chairman Tom Wagner. In the same month Garry Cook, Birmingham-born and life-long Blues supporter, was appointed CEO. A month later, Blues attracted global media attention when American Football icon and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady was announced as a minority investor and chair of a new advisory board.
Since then, the club has embarked on a series of major projects including significant upgrades to current stadium St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park and the club’s two training grounds, EPIC and the Knighthead Performance Centre. It also
launched the Birmingham City Foundation which is focused on improving the lives of hundreds of thousands of local people.
The planned new Sports Quarter will be located on the former Birmingham Wheels site, adjacent to St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park. Proposals for the site include a new state-of-theart stadium, training pitches, commercial developments and dedicated local community spaces.
‘We look forward to working closely with the GBCC and its members’
Garry Cook, Birmingham City chief executive officer, said: “I am hugely excited to strengthen our association with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce at a time when Birmingham – and business in Birmingham – is on the rise again.
Cannock-based shopping outlet McArthurGlen West Midlands has announced a partnership with the City of Birmingham Rockets basketball club for the 2024/25 season.
McArthurGlen West Midlands’ branding will be prominent at all Rockets first team home fixtures.
Rockets CEO Robert Palmer said: “McArthurGlen’s commitment to excellence and community aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire and empower through basketball.
“Together, we look forward to driving the growth for our Rockets both on and off the court, while creating meaningful opportunities for fans, players, and the broader Birmingham community.”
To learn more about partnership opportunities with the Rockets, contact enquiries@cobrockets.co.uk
Cadbury core sharing bars, made in Bournville and Coolock and sold across the UK&I, will now be wrapped in 80 per cent certified recycled plastic, Mondelēz International has announced.
The move is the result of a collaboration with Amcor, a global leader in developing and producing more sustainable packaging solutions and Jindal Films, an industry leader in the development and manufacture of recyclable films designed for flexible packaging.
“The club’s stated ambition is to be a beacon of excellence for Birmingham on the global stage. Birmingham City Football Club, through major initiatives like the Sports Quarter and our Foundation, is going to be one of the biggest stories in world football in the next decade. We will bring a global audience to our great city. This creates opportunities. We look forward to working closely with the GBCC and its members to ensure that these are fully maximised.”
Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “Birmingham City Football Club are a leading example of a business that’s shaping this great city. Their focus on community impact, combined with the transformative regeneration potential of their major investment plans are exceptional. They are a vocal and visible champion for ‘brand Birmingham’ across the globe.
“I am delighted that we will be joining forces with Blues to build on their longstanding relationship with the Chamber of Commerce and to help shape the city-region’s future.”
Midlands Connect is looking to push the agenda for the proposed M54/M6 link road and is urging local firms to come forward and let them know how this would impact their businesses.
Midlands Connect is aware that many businesses along the M54 corridor would benefit from stronger connections to the M6 northbound.
Organisations that feel they would benefit from the M54/M6 northbound link, allowing for faster and more efficient connections between the M54 and M6, are asked to get in touch at mcadmin@midlandsconnect.uk
• More business travel news – turn to page 62
Richard Wileman, president of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce, reflects on Burton’s future as we anticipate the New Year. He sees a bright future – for business, community and development opportunities.
As we approach the end of another year, it’s a good time to reflect on the progress we’ve made in Burton and the surrounding district—and to look ahead to the many exciting opportunities on the horizon.
Burton and district has long been known for its resilient business community, strong local ties, and a shared commitment to growth.
Whether you’re a business owner, a local resident, or someone considering investing in the area, there has never been a more exciting time to be part of Burton’s future.
Over the past year, the local business community has shown incredible resilience. While national and global economic challenges such as rising energy costs and supply chain disruptions have affected many, our businesses here in Burton have adapted quickly.
Local companies, particularly in the manufacturing, retail, and hospitality sectors, have found new ways to innovate, modernise and grow.
What’s particularly exciting is the rise of new start-ups and entrepreneurial ventures in Burton. The Chamber has been proud to support a growing ecosystem of small businesses, many of which are tapping into emerging industries such as technology, green energy, and creative sectors.
Co-working spaces are flourishing, and new business incubators are giving local entrepreneurs the tools and networks they need to thrive. The willingness to innovate and collaborate has been a key driver of Burton’s business success.
Yet, as we know, challenges remain. A primary concern for businesses right now is workforce development. Many sectors, particularly those involved in technology, digital services, and green energy, are facing skills gaps.
The good news is that local education providers are already stepping up, offering training and apprenticeship schemes that can help
businesses fill these gaps. The Chamber is working closely with schools, colleges, and universities to ensure that we have a steady pipeline of skilled workers to meet the demands of Burton’s growing industries.
One of the most remarkable things about Burton is the strength of its community. Our town has a strong sense of identity, built on a rich history and an even richer tradition of collaboration.
Whether it’s businesses supporting local charities, schools partnering with employers, or residents volunteering for community projects, Burton shows time and time again that it’s a place where people care about each other.
As Burton continues to grow, we are also seeing greater attention paid to the environmental impact of our
development. Sustainability is a key focus for both the business community and local residents. There is a real commitment to creating a greener Burton, with businesses adopting more
‘Improvements to local transport links, including
road
upgrades and better rail
connections,
will make Burton more accessible than ever’
sustainable practices, from reducing energy use to implementing greener supply chains. Our public sector partners are also playing their part by improving green spaces, increasing pedestrian areas, and providing electric vehicle charging stations across the town.
Looking to the future, there are exciting development opportunities that will shape Burton for years to come. Infrastructure is one area where we are seeing significant investment.
Improvements to local transport links, including road upgrades and better rail connections, will
make Burton more accessible than ever, enhancing our attractiveness as a place for businesses to set up shop.
Burton town centre, too, is set to see a revitalisation in the coming years. A major regeneration project is planned, which will breathe new life into the town. This project aims to create a vibrant, mixed-use town centre, combining residential, retail, and leisure spaces.
It’s an exciting development that will not only provide much-needed housing but also create a lively, attractive space for residents and visitors to enjoy. These improvements will help attract further investment, encourage local businesses to expand, and provide new opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Burton is increasingly focusing on creating public spaces that encourage community engagement. Green parks, pedestrian-friendly areas, and more open spaces will help make the town more enjoyable for everyonewhether you're walking, cycling, or simply enjoying a day out. These spaces improve the quality of life for residents, attract tourists, and make Burton an even more attractive place for businesses to set up shop.
There is no doubt that Burton is poised for an exciting future.
Whether you’re a business looking to expand, an entrepreneur considering starting a new venture, or someone looking to invest in our town, there are ample opportunities here.
But to truly succeed, we must continue to work together - to support our businesses, strengthen our communities, and ensure our infrastructure is ready to support future growth.
In the years to come, I believe Burton will not only be a place where businesses thrive but a town that is known for its innovation, sustainability, and community spirit. Let’s continue working together to build a brighter future for all of us.
The first baby has been born at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital – the UK’s newest hospital.
Mona Lisa Yonas was welcomed into the world at 8.48am on 6 November - when the maternity department at City Hospital Birmingham closed and the maternity service moved to the new healthcare facility.
Parents Semhar Tesfu and Yonas Kflu, of Perry Barr said: “Today has been emotional. We are very happy our newborn baby girl was born in the new hospital. We really appreciate the great job the midwives have done and want to say thank you to everyone who helped to deliver our baby safely.”
Midwife Emily delivered Mona Lisa. She said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to deliver the first baby here at the new Midland Met. This is an exciting day that I will remember for the rest of my career.”
Expectant parents who are in labour or need emergency care must now go to the Midland Met, following the closure of the Maternity Department at City Hospital. Some outpatient appointments will be held at the new hospital, including scans and those scheduled with consultants.
Meanwhile, the antenatal clinic in Hallam Street, at the former Sandwell Hospital site, remains open for outpatient appointments as do other community venues such as the Aston Pride Community Healthcare Centre, in Aston, Birmingham.
There was a special delivery of three baby girls at the UK’s newest hospital - the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital - when identical triplets were born.
Luna, Theia and Nephele were born at the ultra-modern Smethwick hospital just a day after the maternity department moved from City Hospital in Birmingham. Parents Tessa and Patrick, who live locally, were delighted with their new arrivals, who were delivered by C-section by a team of paediatricians, midwives, neonatal nurses and theatre staff.
Each baby, weighing 4lb 1oz, 4lb and 3lb 3oz, was assigned their own healthcare professional to care for them as they entered the world.
Mum Tessa said: “We are overjoyed with the birth of our beautiful baby girls. The care has been outstanding at the hospital and the facilities have made it such a comfortable experience.”
Midwife Cynthia Okello, said: “It’s been a truly amazing morning at the new hospital’s maternity department. This is our first set of triplets and we’re all happy as all three were successful deliveries. To facilitate this delivery we’ve had a bigger team, and needed three sets of neonatal doctors, senior house officers, registrars, midwives, neonatal nurses as well as obstetricians and operating department practitioners.”
Meanwhile, the last baby to be born at City Hospital, a baby girl, was transferred to the Midland Met along with her mum Asha Rani.
easyJet and easyJet holidays are among one of the first holiday companies to achieve Menopause Friendly Accreditation, following a thorough assessment.
The accreditation recognised the airline and holiday company’s strategy to foster an inclusive culture and provide meaningful support for colleagues impacted by perimenopause and menopauseboth those who find it challenging
to manage their menopause symptoms in the workplace and those who want to handle sensitive conversations with care.
The accreditation was established by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace, who lead the way in providing menopause support for organisations from line manager training and access to menopause specialists, as well as eLearning and policy support.
The Giles’ Trust Brain Tumour Fund is hosting an official opening of Stine’s Home from Home, part of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity’s Home Away from Home Appeal.
Stine’s Home from Home provides brain tumour patients and their families free accommodation.
The Giles’ Trust Brain Tumour Fund was founded in 2015 by former England cricketer Ashley Gile and his wife Stine, following her diagnosis and battle with multiple brain tumours.
Stine said: “When I was first diagnosed with a brain tumour I had a very young family. Having a home like this to stay with my husband and our children would have meant a lot to me and my family.”
Astella, a thriving luxury jewellery brand led by young entrepreneur Sunny Pal (pictured), has opened its second boutique store in Birmingham’s renowned Jewellery Quarter –breathing new life into an iconic building.
Specialising in bespoke engagement and wedding rings tailored to individual budgets, Astella has quickly established itself as a premier destination for high-quality, ethically sourced jewellery.
Offering an impressive selection of ready-to-wear and custom-designed pieces, the business combines the elegance of natural diamonds with the innovation of laboratory-grown diamonds and traditional gemstones.
Following the success of its first boutique on Vyse Street, which has been a cornerstone of the business for the past three years, Astella’s new location in the historic former Barclays Bank building on Frederick Street marks a significant milestone.
This building, a local landmark, is situated near the iconic Edwardian Chamberlain Clock and has been meticulously restored following a £100,000 refurbishment to create a sophisticated, modern space.
‘We
take pride in listening to our customers’ needs, especially in today’s challenging times, ensuring they find the perfect piece within their budget’
The store’s luxurious design rivals those found in the world’s top fashion capitals, offering customers a unique, immersive shopping experience.
Sunny is a graduate of Birmingham City University and a second-generation jeweller. With nearly a decade of experience in the industry, Sunny is deeply committed to his vision of offering exceptional jewellery, customer service, and sustainability.
Astella's expansion includes growing its team, with plans to more than double its current staff across both stores in the coming months. Additionally, future expansion plans include new stores across the UK, further establishing Astella as a national leader in the jewellery industry.
Sunny said: “Astella began with a dream to offer more than just beautiful engagement and wedding rings – I wanted to create an unforgettable shopping experience. Taking over this beautiful, early 1900s building was an amazing opportunity for us. The design reflects our starinspired brand and provides the perfect setting for customers who come from across the UK to find their perfect piece.”
A pioneer in sustainable luxury, Astella has gained industry recognition for offering lab-grown diamonds that are both high-quality and affordable, Sunny added: “Labgrown diamonds allow us to combine our love for exquisite jewellery with a commitment to sustainability. Our journey from a small start-up to this expansion has been remarkable, and we’re grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us.”
Customer service remains at the heart of Astella’s mission, with a focus on creating a personal and memorable experience for every visitor.
“Jewellery is more than just an accessory – it’s a symbol of love, and finding the right engagement and wedding rings should be an emotional and meaningful process. We take pride in listening to our customers’ needs, especially in today’s challenging times, ensuring they find the perfect piece within their budget.”
Astella also works closely with other local wedding businesses, aiming to create a one-stop shop for couples planning their special day.
The wow factor is important to Sam Watson, especially at Christmas. As high-profile store director at Selfridges in Birmingham, the former Walsall FC programme seller who now regards retail as a piece of theatre, has become a member of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce board.
JON GRIFFIN went to find out what makes her tick.
She’s in charge of the West Midlands’ leading department store after a successful career at the sharp end of retail – and it all started selling football programmes at Walsall FC.
Sam Watson, store director at Selfridges in the heart of Birmingham, smiles as she recalls her first tentative foray into the retail world – as a teenage programme seller outside the Bescot Stadium.
“From the age of 15 I had worked on Saturdays at Walsall FC, where I used to sell programmes. It was a bit of a nightmare because each programme was £2.20, and I was a 15-year-old girl having to deal with money and throwing these programmes up in the air in the middle of a load of blokes.
‘It was really, really strange when we first closed – but our online trading saw the most massive uplift, literally overnight’
“At the first game I am pretty sure I lost more money than I took. But you could say that the whole hustle of retail for me definitely comes from selling football programmes at Walsall. And I got in to watch the match as well. Walsall provided me with a complete grounding.”
Sam has come a very long way since her days in the freezing cold hawking £2.20 programmes at the back of the Saddlers’ ground before being promoted to a job serving the directors in the hospitality lounge on matchdays.
Today she combines her highprofile role at Birmingham’s most prominent department store with chairing the Central Business Improvement District (BID), flying the flag for the city’s retail sector, acting as a trustee for Acorns Children’s Hospice and now working with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) as a non-
executive director. Walsall-born and bred, she is also living proof of the old adage “if at first you don’t succeed.” With original ambitions to become a doctor she failed to get the necessary A-Level grades to take up a place at Liverpool University to study medicine.
But medicine’s loss proved the High Street’s gain as she quickly progressed up the retail ladder, as she reflects today. “I didn’t get the grades I needed, and that was the defining point probably.”
While studying for her A-Levels she landed an eight-hour weekly contract at Next in Walsall – and a
career in the High Street began to take shape. “I fell in love with earning money and also loved talking to people.”
At 18, she moved on to her first full-time job at the Next store in the Gracechurch Centre in Sutton Coldfield, getting to grips with banking, stock movement and other fundamentals of the retail world before climbing the ladder to take on the fashion chain’s childrenwear’s manager role at its Merry Hill store.
“I went on the management training programme with Next and absolutely adored it. I fell in love
with retail, everything about it, the commerciality of it, the pace of it, the customers. My favourite working day now is still a Saturday, when I am out interacting with the team, customers and products.
“That is where it happens – you need to get out and see what people are buying, why they aren’t buying, what the experience is like, what the facilities are like.”
That devotion to in-house detail and keeping the customers satisfied was forged over an eightand-a-half-year stint with Next across a variety of West Midlands stores before moving to women’s
wear retailer Hobbs, where she stayed for five and a half years, including a spell in Central London.
A West Midlander through and through, Sam admits she was happy to forsake the lure of the capital. “I am a real homebird. I love it here, I love the people, there’s a warmth to it. I love London for a day or two days, but I like to come home.”
By now married with her first child, Sam’s priorities were changing as constant motorway and air travel took their toll. And then Selfridges came calling…
“I got approached about Selfridges 10 years ago when the
deputy general manager role became available. I’ll be honest, I thought being in one store in one city every day, I would be pretty bored. I couldn’t have been more wrong. I came here in August, 2014, and have done 10 years now.”
‘Retail theatre is about walking into an immersive experience’
Over that decade the high-street has been buffeted by Covid and the seemingly remorseless march of Internet shopping, with Birmingham losing two major department stores in the shape of John Lewis and Debenhams. Meanwhile, Selfridges has chalked up more than 21 years trading in the Bullring after opening in September 2003.
“Covid was a difficult time. Selfridges have been around since 1909 from London and the flagship store down there. Never in the brand’s history had we ever closed our doors and locked up.
“Even in the war they continued trading. It was really, really strange when we first closed – but our online trading saw the most massive uplift, literally overnight.
“It has been a really challenging few years for retail – and hospitality – and we are still at the
tail end of it. Our online business is now 20 per cent – it went up to 40 per cent so it has come back down.”
Sam attributes Selfridges’ postCovid recovery to the chain’s insistence on sticking to its original vision of shopping as “retail theatre.” “I think the advantage that Selfridges have got is our history from Harry Gordon Selfridges’ day.
“Retail theatre is about walking into an immersive experience. You walk in at Christmas and there’s a giant Christmas tree, a festive spectacular where you have got Santa, elves, a brass band, a huge confetti cannon going off. You are not getting that anywhere else and that is just to make people go wow.”
The Selfridges wow factor also extends to personal shopping initiatives, from self-made wealthy business figures to Premier League footballers. “For the 20th birthday, we invited 25 of our VIPs who shop through our personal shopping to come into the store and have a dinner.
“We took them down in the lift to the bridge link and had dinner there. In September we held the first dinner in Aston Villa’s new dressing rooms – we do what other people never even think to do.”
But while competition from rivals
– be it online or bricks and mortar – has never been fiercer in the high-street, Sam believes the 115year-old Selfridges business model remains integral to the brand’s appeal.
“We are the leading department store in the West Midlands – I say that without arrogance, it’s a fact. Selfridges will continue to do what we do really well. Our vision and mission is to constantly re-invent retail, bringing things to customers they have not seen before - that might be exclusive brands or it might be products and experiences as well.”
Now owned by a joint Thai-Saudi Arabian venture, Selfridges employs 350 in-house team members and another 500 working in concessions, plus around 100 third-party contractors such as security, cleaners and a facilities and maintenance team.
“I love Selfridges, it allows me to run the store and have autonomy for this store, which you don’t have in a lot of retailers. As store director, you are allowed to make it your own and give that store that personality.”
It would seem that Sam Watson has been stamping her own personality on the world of retail ever since selling those football programmes at the back of Walsall’s Bescot Stadium…
Increased employment costs will put more pressure on businesses who are already struggling to recruit staff, business leaders have warned.
The latest labour market statistics reveal the West Midlands unemployment rate fell by 0.4 per cent in the last quarter (July to September 2024), while employment increased by 0.4 per cent.
However, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the year-on-year trend is less positive, with unemployment up by 0.8 per cent and employment falling by 0.9 per cent. The region’s economic inactivity rate also remains “stubbornly high” at 22.5 per cent.
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) said that while businesses continue to face labour market challenges, they are also concerned by increases to National Insurance contributions and the National Living Wage which were announced in the Chancellor’s Budget.
Emily Stubbs, head of policy at the GBCC, said: “The ONS continue to flag concerns about the reliability of regional labour market statistics, but the small increase in regional employment since April to June, and decreases in unemployment and economic inactivity are encouraging to see.
“Nevertheless, these latest figures reflect a less positive trend over the year for the West Midlands labour market.
“It’s crucial that the government takes steps to minimise the impact of increased business taxation, and delivers urgent measures to drive growth.”
A rise in energy prices pushed UK inflation to its highest rate for six months, new figures reveal.
According to the Office for National Statistics, the inflation rate hit 2.3 per cent in the year to October, a bigger-thanexpected increase from 1.7 in September.
It follows the lifting of the energy price cap, which saw annual gas an electricity bills for a typical household go up by about £149.
The rise in inflation reduces the prospect of further interest rate cuts in the coming months, business leaders said.
The new boss of Birmingham City Council has vowed to make the local authority “a better partner to do business with”.
Joanne Roney was addressing business leaders at the launch of the 2024 Birmingham Economic Review, hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) and the University of Birmingham at The Exchange in Birmingham city centre.
Originally from Shard End, Joanne returned to her home city in September to take charge of the council, which has faced welldocumented financial challenges, having issued a Section 114 notice last year.
In her first public speaking engagement since taking the reins as managing director of Europe’s largest local authority, she spoke of the need to fix the financial situation so that the council can “get back to working effectively with partners in the city”.
She said: “I'm here being honest
partner to do business with. We need to be more responsive to our communities and to our people.
“It starts with council’s ambition. We have a huge challenge. We have got to fix our finances and we’ve got to get ourselves back to being a convenor of place, with public services that connect better with business, and build our institutions.”
‘We have to cling on to the uniqueness of Birmingham’
Joanne echoed some of Birmingham’s strengths and challenges that are highlighted in the 2024 Economic Review and said the city must “cling on to its uniqueness” in order to thrive.
She added: “We have produced a new ‘city vision’ for the council which has five priorities and one of the things I’m keen on is that we don’t just become the same as other cities – all cities say the
I’m not here to make Birmingham Manchester. It’s so important that we develop the prosperity, the knowledge and the opportunities in Birmingham.”
The 2024 Birmingham Economic Review - produced by the GBCC alongside the City-Region Economic and Development Institute (CityREDI) at the University of Birmingham – paints an optimistic future for the city thanks to an improving economy, a resilient export market and the promise of further devolved powers.
The launch event, chaired by GBCC chief executive Henrietta Brealey, featured contributions from Gurjit Jagpal, the head of Goldman Sachs in Birmingham, Shazia Ejaz from the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, and City-REDI’s Professor Anne Green.
Mr Jagpal said some of the fundamental strengths outlined in the Economic Review provided the “same optimism that brought Goldman Sachs to Birmingham.”
Birmingham continues to be a compelling investment destination despite a string of pressures facing businesses, according to the annual Birmingham Economic Review.
It paints a largely optimistic picture for the city, thanks to an improving economy, a resilient export market and the promise of further devolved powers. But the review also warns that ongoing skills shortages, alarming child poverty rates and cost pressures arising from the Autumn Budget also present significant hurdles.
The 2024 report reveals that the Birmingham cityregion has increased its gross value added (GVA) contribution by 9.7 per cent to £60.78bn. The value of goods exported from the West Midlands in Q2 2024 was £8.8bn - 1.4 per cent higher than a year ago and 16 per cent above pre-pandemic levels.
And, before the Budget, businesses were buzzing with optimism – 65 per cent said they expected their turnover to rise next year and 57 per cent predicted a profitability boost. The report says the arrival of HS2, more devolved powers through the West Midlands Combined Authority’s Trailblazing Devolution Deal and
a Budget windfall of £1.5bn to drive economic growth should put the city-region on an upward trajectory.
However, skills shortages persist, with a higher percentage (6.5 per cent) of working-age individuals lacking formal qualifications compared to the national average (6.2 per cent). Meanwhile, rising child poverty remains a barrier – over a third of children in the region are said to be in “relative poverty” and a quarter are in “absolute poverty”.
In the latest Chamber Podcast, Chamber CEO Henrietta Brealey and Professor Anne Green from City-REDI at the University of Birmingham, take a deep-dive into the Birmingham economy. It is available on all major listening platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, addressing critical challenges in building a new hydrogen economy. We are fostering networks and supporting cutting-edge technologies, developing skills and shaping policy. Working together with partners, HyDEX is laying the groundwork for hydrogen to play a key role in the Midlands’ sustainable, low-carbon future.
For more information about HyDEX or to get involved in our network, visit HyDEX’s website (www.hydex.ac.uk) or email enquiries@era.ac.uk
BBC West Midlands Breakfast Show presenter PJ Ellis will host next year’s Chamber awards.
Well-known in the West Midlands for his entrepreneurial and philanthropic feats, PJ is the cofounder of LoveBrum, a local charity that reaches out to Birmingham-based projects that are delivering real change to Birmingham.
PJ read Law at the University of Birmingham and then practised as a solicitor for seven years.
He set up the social media agency, Blake7, which merged with Lightbox Digital in the summer of 2018. He exited that business in July 2023.
An advocate of all things Birmingham, PJ was a founding trustee of the cancer charity, Help Harry Help Others in 2012, and was responsible for establishing, and organising, the Harry Moseley Charity Ball which raised over
£230,000 in its first two years. The annual event continues to this day.
PJ then co-founded LoveBrum in 2014, which shines a light on the “hidden gem” projects of Birmingham.
‘I've
been to the GBCC Awards a number of times. It's amazing’
LoveBrum has since funded over 300 local charitable projects addressing vital issues and serious challenges the city faces, including homelessness, serious crime, drug addiction, social injustice, art and culture, and education.
The charity has connected hundreds of volunteers and businesses along the way.
PJ has mentored entrepreneurs, helped raise over £1m worth of funding for start-up businesses, and sat on the advisory boards of
A high-profile judging panel – chaired by the GBCC’s director of membership Lillian Elekan –produced the shortlist from the “huge number of companies” that entered.
Lillian said: “Once again, our expert judging panel were very impressed by the high quality and diversity of entries for the awards.
‘Congratulations to all those who are nominated’
“We would like to thank the panel for their time and diligence in reviewing applications. We also commend the huge number of companies who took the time to complete entries.
“Congratulations to all those who are nominated and we look forward to celebrating at the ICC on the night.”
Mike Owens - non-executive director at the GBCC, said: “I was excited and privileged to be a judge for the GBCC Awards 2025 as this gave me an opportunity to see the real depth of quality and dedication within the third sector/sustainability/contribution to community area and contribute to giving well-deserved recognition to the best of the best.”
Journalist and broadcaster Marverine Cole said: “I was thrilled to join the judging panel for the first time this year.
“Having expertise as a beer sommelier and as a digital solopreneur, I’ve always got my beady eye on the food and drinks sector in the region and on how businesses market themselves and I was delighted to examine the entries in these categories.”
the Birmingham Law Society, BPS Leaders, TedX, and the English Schools Football Association. Having helped raise nearly £1m for charity, PJ received from the Prime Minister a Points of Light award which recognises outstanding UK volunteers in their community and was selected to be a Batonbearer for the Commonwealth Games in 2022.
He is currently also working as a roving reporter for BBC Radio WM.
PJ said: "I've been to the GBCC Awards a number of times. It's amazing. It's the region’s biggest celebration of all things business and I cannot believe that I will have the privilege of hosting the event in 2025.
“Applauding our businesses, celebrating our people, recognising this amazing region, making sure it stays firmly on the map - is what I am all about, and I cannot wait to get stuck in. Bring it on.”
• Mike Hopkins - principal at South & City College Birmingham
• Justice Williams - editor-in-chief and cofounder of Black Business Magazine
• Steph Smith - business manager at Crown Highways
• Dr Nik Kotecha - founder and chairman of RandalSun Capital
• Professor Harris Beider - Pro Vice-Chancellor: Engagement, Enterprise and Innovation at Birmingham City University
• Wendy Morgan - CEO and founder of Jumar
• Liam Dillon – chef-owner at The Boat
• Marverine Cole - journalist and broadcaster
• Parveen Mehta - group director at MWW
• Mike Owens - non-executive director at the GBCC
• Simon Marks - city executive, Birmingham at Arcadis
• Joanna Duggan - director of fundraising, communications & marketing at Newlife
Sixty-two businesses will be vying for glory in 12 award categories, including the overall Business of the Year, at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce annual awards dinner next year.
The shortlist has been revealed ahead of the region’s biggest celebration of business, which is taking place at the ICC in Birmingham on Thursday, 27 February, 2025.
Eleven sector awards are to be handed out on the night - with one of the category winners going on to
Excellence in Contribution to the Community – sponsored by runyourfleet
• B:Music
• Balfour Beatty VINCI
• Disability Resource Centre
• Gateley
• Lil-Lets UK Limited
• ROSHNI BIRMINGHAM
• Unity Trust Bank
• YMCA Heart of England
Excellence in Customer Service –sponsored by Birmingham Airport
• Millennium Point
• Norton Insurance Brokers Limited
• Röhlig UK Ltd
• runyourfleet
• Selfridges & Co
• Techcare
• The Listening Centre EAP Ltd
• Wilkes
Excellence in Hospitality, Retail & Events – sponsored by Translift Bendi
• Albert's Schloss
• Conference Aston
• Edgbaston Stadium
• Eventurous
• Fazenda
• Hotel du Vin Birmingham
• Selfridges & Co
• Smoke + Ash
Excellence in Inclusive People Development
• Acivico Group Ltd
• Agilyx Group
• Birmingham Hospice
• Norton Insurance Brokers Limited
• Pinsent Masons LLP
• Prime Accountants Group
Excellence in International Business –sponsored by Gowling WLG
• Röhlig UK Ltd
• Simpex Express Limited
• Solotech
• Taylex Group
Excellence in Manufacturing
• Embello
• Hardy Signs
• Taylex Group
• Translift
be crowned overall Greater Birmingham Business of the Year (sponsored by Crowe). Birmingham City University are headline sponsors of the glittering ceremony, which is expected to attract 1,200 people.
• For more information on tickets and remaining sponsorship opportunities go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com
Excellence in Sales & Marketing –sponsored by Pyvital
• Brew
• Hubtel IT
• Leopard Co
• Lichfield Garrick Theatre
• Mills & Reeve LLP
• Osborn Communications Ltd
• R&Co Communications
• Spark Media
Excellence in Sustainability – sponsored by South & City College Birmingham
• Conference Aston
• Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre
• Edgbaston Stadium
• Eventurous
• Grace Cares 1111 CIC trading as Grace Cares
• University of Birmingham
Excellence in Technology & Innovation
• Agilyx Group
• Black Space Technology
• Empro Business Group Ltd
• Evac+Chair International
• Pinsent Masons LLP
• runyourfleet
• South and City College Birmingham
• TechWM
Excellence in Third Sector
• B:Music
• Disability Resource Centre
• Our Community Foundation
• ROSHNI BIRMINGHAM
• Services For Education
• Smart Works Birmingham
• Sport 4 Life UK
• United By 2022 Charity
Excellence in Training & Education –sponsored by AIM Qualifications & Assessment Group
• Beacon Learning and Performance Ltd
• Birmingham City University
• Birmingham Hospice
• CBSO
• Forward Education Trust
• Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College
• King Edward VI Foundation
• Sandwell College
A BBC presenter with over 50 years of broadcast experience, 46 in television, will host the “SLTC Chambers” 2025 awards of Royal Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth and Cannock Chase. Nick Owen will be hosting the awards ceremony, taking place at The Belfry Hotel on Friday, 31 January. After four years in newspapers, he moved to BBC local radio before entering the world of television with ATV, later Central, in 1978. It was there that Nick first teamed up with Anne Diamond. In 1983, he joined TV-am as a sports presenter. He was on air on the very first day of Good Morning Britain, covering sport, but became the main anchorman within eight weeks, replacing David Frost.
‘I am excited to celebrate and recognise the achievements of businesses in the region’
It was shortly afterwards that he was joined again by Anne Diamond in a partnership that endured through hundreds of programmes, both on TV-am and later Good Morning with Anne and Nick. In 2006, he was awarded the Baird Medal by the Royal Television Society for lifelong achievement in television. In 2023, he was named Onscreen Personality of the Year by the RTS Midlands. He was made an honorary Doctor of Letters by the University of Worcester in 2013 and by the University of Chester in 2022. He has presented BBC Midlands Today since 1997. In 2024, he was awarded the MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to broadcasting and charity Nick said: “I am delighted to be hosting the SLTC Awards 2025. Having lived in South Staffordshire for many years, I am excited to celebrate and recognise the achievements of businesses in the region.”
Business leaders in Greater Birmingham have called on the government to build stronger ties with the business community, after firms were hit with a series of tax rises in the Autumn Budget.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Budget – the first under a Labour government since 2010 – included tax rises worth up to £40bn to fund the NHS and public services.
And Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), said there is no escaping that businesses will “shoulder the biggest burden” of the announcements.
Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at GBCC, said: “The Chancellor was keen to project an image of being fiscally responsible while also talking up the UK’s prospects as a destination of choice for growing a business and attracting investment.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira
The Budget featured several previously trailed announcements, including:
• An increase in employer National Insurance contributions to rise from 13.8 per cent to 15 per cent on salaries above £5,000 from April
• Employment allowance - which allows smaller companies to reduce their NI liability - to increase from £5,000 to £10,500
• Tax paid by private equity managers on share of profits from successful deals to rise from up to 28 per cent to up to 32 per cent from April 2025
• Main rate of corporation tax, paid by businesses on taxable profits over £250,000, to stay at 25 per cent until next election
• Legal minimum wage for over-21s to rise from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour from April
• Rate for 18 to 20-year-olds to go up from £8.60 to £10
The Chancellor also announced further business rates relief for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses, as well as a freeze on fuel duty. And she committed the first £125m in funding for publiclyowned Greater British Energy, as well as giving the green light for HS2 to be extended to London Euston.
“There’s no getting away from the fact that she has chosen businesses to shoulder the biggest burden of tax rises in a bid to strike the right balance.
“Raising the rate and lowering the threshold for employers National Insurance, coupled with increases to the National Living Wage will clearly add to the crippling cost pressures many continue to face on a daily basis, as evidenced in our latest Quarterly Business Report.
"This is without doubt the worst Budget for independent retailers I have seen in my time representing the sector. The government's actions show complete disregard for the thousands of hard-working shop owners who form the backbone of our high streets.”
John Webber, director and head of rating, Colliers International
“The Chancellor’s announcements concerning business rates were desperately disappointing. Despite pre-election promises of business rates reform, nothing of significance was announced. There is to be no consultation, just a discussion document, and the measures announced hardly put a sticking plaster over the gaping wound rather bringing in any fundamental reform.”
Johnathan Dudley, partner, head of manufacturing Midlands, Crowe UK
“I didn’t see anything directly to get British businesses investing as an incentive, unless some of these capital projects are shared out
“Changes to corporate gains and inheritance tax will also be felt by those entrepreneurs and investors looking to dispose assets.
“There were announcements made such as business rate relief for those operating the retail, hospitality and leisure industry and a continued freeze on fuel duty that will be welcomed – whether this will be enough to bolster confidence remains to be seen particularly as longer-term decisions around the wider
amongst the UK supply chain. I totally get the need for investment. I totally believe that investment will drive growth - if that growth is kept inside this country.”
Ann Tonks, director, Chapter Restaurant
“There are two big, fundamental problems with the Budget, which will quickly hasten the decline of neighbourhoods and communities whose vibrant heartbeat is already in critical condition - the burden of taxation placed on SMEs...and nothing announced will kick start the return of busy high streets.”
Dr Nik Kotecha, entrepreneur and co-founder of Morningside Pharmaceuticals Ltd
“It is fair to say October 2024’s UK Budget has given cause to the broadest range of responses I have witnessed in many years. Those range from concern and frustration about the biggest tax-raising budget in UK political history, to acceptance and a steadfast resolve that the job of work to realign the levers of the public purse are difficult, but necessary.”
business rates system and VAT framework have been avoided.
“We can only hope the announcements made related to Great British Energy and other green projects will kickstart investment and create jobs.
“The Government must use this Budget as a platform to build stronger ties with the business community in order to shape a coherent growth narrative that will boost private sector confidence and fuel prosperity.”
• What does the Chancellor’s Budget mean for business? Read a comprehensive blog on the GBCC website greaterbirminghamchambers.com which breaks down all the key announcements.
Carly Caton, partner specialising in commercial healthcare at UK and Ireland law firm Browne Jacobson
“Any new funding that helps to add capacity will of course be welcomed within the NHS but to prevent this just being a sticking plaster, we must also identify new avenues to generate additional revenue for trusts and their NHS patients.”
Gary Davison, managing director of Davisons Law
"The government's decision to increase the additional penalty rate on the purchase of buy to let properties by individuals and companies from three per cent to five per cent is almost certain to put off many buyers.”
Joshua Meek, chief impact officer at Unity Trust Bank
“The Chancellor has announced a Budget focused on driving growth. It’s crucial that SMEs and civil society are supported to achieve and deliver their ambition as the lifeblood of UK economy and backbone of local communities.”
By Darby Newman
The retention of AI and technology students after their studies finish in Birmingham is vital to drive growth of the sectors in the West Midlands, delegates at the launch of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) Business Report for quarter three were told.
Professor Harris Beider, pro vice-chancellor of engagement, enterprise, and innovation at Birmingham City University (BCU), said: “Fifty thousand AI professionals work in the UK, and the UK AI market is worth £16.9bn.
“If you break that down into Birmingham, it means that the West Midlands is one of the growth markets here and is one of the fastest growing markets in tech in the UK and the top region for foreign direct investment.
‘One-in-six businesses are already using AI. SMEs are at risk of being left behind if they don’t start using AI’
“The ambition is that for the region AI could create up to 500,000 jobs in the UK by 2030, mainly in data science, machine learning, and AI ethics. But you need people who have got the skills and capability to fill those jobs.
need to make sure that the jobs that are created in AI and tech are the ones that our students can apply for and secure, because that would be a transformational experience.”
The event, sponsored by and held at the BCU, was chaired by GBCC CEO Henrietta Brealey.
Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at the GBCC, highlighted the key findings of QBR 3, including domestic demand, export demand, workforce and recruitment, price pressures and external factors.
“For BCU, AI is going to be central to our plans. Thirty thousand students, three thousand members of staff, we are a £350m business.
“Seventy-one percent of our students come from minority backgrounds, one out of two from the poorest parts of the city region. There's a sort of stickability here, and our students who graduate after their degrees will stay in the area. Therefore, with that diverse pipeline, which is really important for us, we
The event also featured experts in AI and technology, including Phil Webb, co-founder at Vu AI Limited, and Lee Doughty, director of security and AI practice at Intercity Technology Ltd.
Phil said: “One-in-six UK businesses are already using AI. SMEs are at risk of being left behind if they don’t start using AI, because their competitors will. There is less red tape for SMEs, so they can make their decisions quicker, they can implement it quicker. Generally, they have more personal data for their systems and this means they can use it in a better way.”
Lee Doughty described Intercity’s journey in using AI. He said: “We are a technology company, we want to embrace technology, we want to be at the forefront of technology, so it was a no-brainer for us to invest in AI.
“But the first thing that struck us... is it is a really crowded place out there. It is really hard to write businesses cases for this stuff, you basically have to take a non-traditional approach and take the plunge. Start off small and learn as you go.”
He also highlighted the importance of making sure employees are comfortable with using the technology, and how AI “is not about replacing staff, it is about enabling them to do more”.
Go to greaterbirminghamchambers.com to read the full Q3 Quarterly Business Report.
Questions about the impact of rises to National Insurance contributions by businesses and a higher minimum wage announced in the Autumn Budget are included in the Q4 Business report launched by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).
Raj Kandola, GBCC director of external affairs, said: “Last quarter’s survey results revealed heightened concern about corporate taxation, ongoing recruitment difficulties and a stagnation in domestic sales activity.
“Nevertheless, firms remain optimistic that their turnover and profitability will increase over the next 12 months, which demonstrates the resilience of the local business community.
“The Autumn Budget saw the introduction of a number of new measures, some of which pose significant challenges to firms such as increased employer national insurance contributions and a new higher minimum wage, adding to additional cost pressures.
‘It’s vital that we hear from as many firms as possible’
“This quarter’s QBR survey includes some questions to gauge the potential impact of these changes on businesses which will be vital for steering the Chamber’s lobbying activity when working with the new government.
“It's vital that we hear from as many firms as possible so we can properly assess the impact these political and economic developments are having on the local business landscape. The results of this survey form the basis of our Quarterly Business Report publication which we use to inform decision makers and stakeholders across the region.
“We want to hear from start-ups to multinationals; manufacturers and services businesses - all to provide us with an understanding of how their business is performing.”
Bistro du Vin is at the heart of the hotel in Birmingham. It is an elegant and informal setting for lunch and dinner in the Frenchstyled bistro. It serves classical French dishes with a modern twist, designed by chef director Matt Powell. The bistro’s ethos is all about serving heart-warming food and quality, artisan ingredients. From long-standing classics to seasonal dishes and specials, the food is designed to suit all occasions.
Breakfast
Guests can help themselves to your choices from a Country Table, along with tea, coffee and toast.
Charcuterie and porridge are prepared fresh and served at the table. Hot dishes are prepared to order and include oak-smoked salmon with scrambled eggs, a classic full cooked breakfast and eggs benedict.
Lunch and dinner
Menus are the same for both lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday with one exception – the bistro runs a Formule Menu of three courses all served within 30 minutes.
On Saturdays there is afternoon tea and Sunday lunch starts with a choice of appetisers from the French Market Table, followed by a traditional Roast du Vin or choice of Plat Principaux followed by dessert.
Dishes include chicken liver parfait and maldon oyster rockefeller; for main course there is daube of beef provençale or gnocchi à la parisienne. To explore a range of classic dishes and wines, the Taste du Vin package features five courses with a wine pairings. Vegetarians, vegan and gluten-free options are available.
Hotel du Vin Birmingham, 25 Church Street, Birmingham, B3 2NR
T: 01212000600 W: www.hotelduvin.com /locations/birmingham/bistro
Owner: Frasers property UK
Head chef: Greg Pryce
Opening hours: 7am-10am Breakfast 12-3pm Lunch 6pm-10pm Dinner
The hotel says that wine is their “very lifeblood... and will find us passionate, but not pretentious; excited, but not elitist”. Their expert in-house wine ambassadors and bar teams draw from a cellar with an extensive mix of wines from around the world. It includes quaffable wines by the glass plus sophisticated and complex varieties from leading wine makers from every continent, including many of the notable wine appellations in France.
Hotel du Vin Birmingham has unusual and unique private dining rooms of various style and size. No two rooms are the same but each provides a creative and inspiring setting for any special occasion - a family gathering or a work dinner, a group of friends, a family lunch or pre-wedding get-together.
Hotel du Vin Birmingham offers four meeting and event rooms, each with their own distinctive feel. In addition, at the heart of it all, is the courtyard, an expansive space perfect for a drinks reception or break-out area in natural daylight from the centrepiece of a fully retractable roof.
Birmingham will host South Asia’s iconic Serendipity Arts Festival next year, with backing by Birmingham City University (BCU).
The city was selected ahead of London, Dubai and other major cities to secure a partnership which marks Birmingham as the only location outside of India to host the event.
The festival - which showcases South Asian culture through performance, visual, culinary arts, fashion and more - will offer mostly free events in Birmingham from 23 May until 1 June 2025 at venues and outdoor spaces.
‘The city is synonymous with culture and creativity and also exceeds all the requirements needed to stage a multicultural global event at this scale’
Birmingham was chosen following a competitive process that examined its facilities and infrastructure, its commitment to nurturing the arts, and the cultural offer of the city which is widely regarded as one of the first “super diverse” regions in the UK.
BCU students will play a large part in the festival, taking place at a range of university venues and locations including the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire - from cultural research initiatives to playing alongside the festival’s performers.
Some of the other confirmed city venues include The Rep, Centenary Square, Victoria Square, Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Library of Birmingham and the Town Hall.
Sunil Kant Munjal, founder-patron of Serendipity Arts Festival, said: “Birmingham is the ideal place to bring the Serendipity Arts Festival to the international stage for the first time.
“The city is synonymous with culture and creativity and also exceeds all the requirements needed to stage a multicultural global event at this scale.
“We have been incredibly impressed by the BCU’s focus on nurturing the arts, and its ideas for creating an event which celebrates inclusivity and diversity and is truly for everyone.”
Birmingham City University vice-chancellor, Professor David Mba added: “Since our founding almost 180 years ago, arts, design and performance have been at the core of our university, and our education provision remains rooted in the city’s diverse cultural landscape.”
University College Birmingham has launched a £5,000 cost of living allowance aimed at financially supporting students during their studies as they face the rising costs of higher education and living expenses.
Recognising the financial pressures students are increasingly experiencing, the new scheme underscores the University’s commitment to social inclusion and supporting students’ wellbeing and academic success. The increased costs risk deterring applicants from key
target demographics: students from low-participation neighbourhoods, areas of high deprivation, those with non-traditional qualifications and individuals from ethnically diverse backgrounds.
It will be available to first year UK undergraduate students who are eligible for funding under the terms of Student Finance England and who will pay their fees via a UK student loan.
For more information go to: ucb.ac.uk
University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston Park Hotel has scooped a top spot at the Meetings Industry Association (miaList) Awards.
It won the sales and marketing team of the year award - an accolade which honours teams in the UK’s business meetings and events sector. Judges recognised the achievements of the oncampus hotel, also named Hotel of the Year at the Midlands Food, Drink and Hospitality Awards.
Martin Kemp, the pop legend, soap and film star, is set to star in his own 1980s nostalgia event at a Birmingham nightclub.
Martin, former bass guitarist with 80s superstars Spandau Ballet, will be bringing an afternoon of pure ‘Gold’ to Rosies Birmingham nightclub on Broad Street on Saturday, 1 February.
Tickets are available at: fatso.ma/0PQo
The Leadership Coaches, an executive coaching company which is striving to improve diversity in leadership teams, has launched an ebook on the subject.
It is called “How to Achieve More Diversity in Leadership” and Zoé Lewis, CEO at the firm, said: “Only 24 per cent of board seats globally are held by women, and just 8.5 per cent by people from underrepresented racial or ethnic groups. This just isn’t good enough. There are so many advantages to having more diversity, for individuals and for businesses as a whole.”
The guide offers inspiration and practical actions that can help to bring about more diversity.
West Midlands-based talent development, apprenticeships and training provider, The Development Manager (TDM), has formed a key strategic partnerships with large organisations across the UK to enhance their talent development initiatives.
The collaborations are with Ordnance Survey, Wavenet, Keys Group and West Midlands Police.
For more information go to: thedevelopmentmanager.co.uk
Lodders’ specialist legal teams have retained top-tier rankings in both the Legal 500 directory 2025 and the Chambers and Partners Guide 2025
The Legal 500 is the UK’s leading guide to the best law firms and lawyers.
For the sixth year running, Lodders’ Private Client (personal tax, trusts, and probate), agriculture, family, and real estate teams retain the highest Tier 1 position in the Legal 500 UK directory
A charity that each week teaches music to 32,000 local children and provides skills training to Birmingham and West Midlands’ schools has appointed a new chair of its trustees.
Martin Hall, a Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber committee member, has been appointed chair of Trustees at Services For Education - the specialist education and training charity that brings music and learning to life. He succeeds Sarah Smith, who steps down after three years in the role having first become a trustee in 2015.
Design and production company Taylex Group is included in the prestigious UK Fast Growth Index for 2024.
The Halesowen-based firm was recognised as one of the 50 fastest-growing firms in the West Midlands at a ceremony at the Bloomsbury Big Top in London.
The business delivers projects for leading brands globally, specialising in exhibitions, events, interiors and environments.
Karl Clark, Taylex Group’s CEO and founder, said: “Taylex Group’s achievements speak for themselves. We’ve seen exceptional growth in the live events and exhibitions sector and it’s rewarding to see our work at the heart of numerous high-profile events and brands, both nationally and internationally.
“Being recognised as part of the Fast Growth Index is a testament to our impact as we continue to play a key role in the West Midlands’ dynamic business landscape.”
The UK Fast Growth Index identifies the fastest-growing businesses in seven nations and regions, highlighting their exceptional contributions to the UK economy.
city centre locations into a spectacular gallery of illuminated artworks, in what will become an annual multi-day event, from 19 to 22 February.
Encouraging Birmingham residents and visitors to explore and see the city in a different light, installations and artworks will bring the postChristmas winter nights to life.
Birmingham Light Festival will feature at least eight light artworks, all within walking distance of each other, encouraging visitors to come together and explore the city.
The festival will be brought to life with an accompanying programme of events, to be announced in the New Year, with local organisations being invited to be a part of the line-up.
Organised by City Curator Alex Nicholson-Evans and produced by Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces (OPUS), Birmingham Light Festival is bringing together all five of Birmingham’s central Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) as founding partners of this major event for the first time.
up February’s dark nights.
Alex said: “As a city we need free, accessible arts and culture more than ever before and I am so excited that we’re able to provide exactly that through the debut of Birmingham Light Festival.
“Businesses will be in need of a trading boost at this time of year and our test event data tells us that Birmingham Light Festival will deliver that too.”
The City Curator’s previous projects include the test installation, Light is Coming, which saw a giant, heart-shaped glitter ball and an accompanying silent disco arrive in Snow Hill Square.
As well as Southside, other light art installations have been commissioned, one in the Jewellery Quarter BID and one in Colmore BID.
Alex added: “We really want to encourage people from across the region to visit the city-centre and experience Birmingham in a different way during the Festival. To be curious, to explore and to have a great time in this fantastic city!”
Colmore BID, Central BID, Southside District, Westside BID and Jewellery Quarter BID are working together to create a new and exciting experience for
Funding for the Southside project, and the two other linked schemes, has been secured through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which forms part of the government’s Levelling Up agenda.
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president Nasir Awan is calling on the business community to back a campaign that will revolutionise treatment for children with blood cancer in the UK.
Birmingham-headquartered Cure Leukaemia – the GBCC president’s charity for the next year – is funding a pioneering new paediatric transplant trials network known as ATICUS (Accelerating Trials in Children Undergoing Stem Cell Transplant).
ATICUS is a collaboration between 11 leading UK children’s hospitals, including Birmingham Children’s Hospital, designed to revolutionise clinical trial access for children battling blood cancer.
The initiative launched in September with support from football legend and Cure Leukaemia patron Gary Lineker.
And Greater Birmingham businesses are being invited to learn more about a £1m-a-year fundraising drive to deliver the trials.
Nasir, also CEO of Awan Marketing International, said: “I’m delighted that once again Cure Leukaemia, as a Birmingham-based
charity, is leading the way with pioneering clinical trials that will have a far-reaching impact.”
At the heart of the £1m-a-year fundraising campaign is the Club 10 scheme, in which businesses can join by pledging £10,000 a year towards the paediatric trials network.
Long-distance train operator CrossCountry is introducing a new weekday service linking Wales, England and Scotland by one train for the first time –and it will call at Birmingham New Street.
The services are being introduced as part of the rail industry’s twice-yearly timetable change, to be rolled out from Sunday, 15 December.
The 455-mile journey will connect 22 stations between the capitals of Wales and Scotland directly by rail in what is thought to be the first service of its kind. Passengers are already able to book journeys on the new route.
It’s not just long-distance travellers who will benefit from the new service: many new direct journey options will be available for passengers to book across the entire route.
‘We’re
Scotland’s cabinet secretary for transport, Fiona Hyslop, said: “The launch is welcome news for rail users wishing to travel between these two capital cities. The new service should have a positive impact for jobs and local economic growth, while providing direct connectivity between Scotland, Wales.”
Wales’ cabinet secretary for transport and north Wales Ken Skates said: “We are always happy to support new services that offer more choice for passengers. Connecting two capital cities of the UK in a sustainable way is a positive development.”
delighted to introduce this new service joining Cardiff and Edinburgh directly by rail for the very first time’
Scott Maynard, CrossCountry’s interim managing director, said: “We’re delighted to introduce this new service joining Cardiff and Edinburgh directly by rail for the very first time –meaning even more connections for customers across the length and breadth of the country.
“Thanks to colleagues across CrossCountry and the wider rail industry for their support in delivering these new services linking two of Great Britain’s capital cities, as well as many other key towns and cities in between.”
Coinadrink, a Walsall-based supplier of premium vending solutions, has received the award for Best Digital Tech Innovation at The Midlands Family Business Awards at the Athena Events Venue in Leicester.
They also were highly commended in the overall Family Business category.
The firm’s operation is underpinned by bespoke software, developed and refined in-house.
Managing director Tom Williams said: “When we entered the Family Business Awards, it was a breath of fresh air to have such a rigorous application process that allowed us to have a real conversation with the judging panel to talk about how our business works and why we should be considered for the awards.
“To attend the awards evening and be recognised as the Best Digital Technology Innovation winners and highly commended in the overall Family Business of the Year was incredible.
“We have really taken our business forward over the past two and a half years and invested in technology to drive growth and efficiency.”
The new service will be formed by long-distance Voyager services departing from Cardiff and Penzance in the morning, joining at Birmingham New Street before proceeding north to Edinburgh.
On the southbound journey, the long-distance Voyager train will depart from Edinburgh and proceed to Gloucester where the service splits into two. Half of the train will travel onwards to Cardiff whilst the other half will terminate at Plymouth.
There will be one service in each direction between Cardiff and Edinburgh on weekdays only.
CrossCountry has announced the release of a second tranche of funding from its new Customer and Communities Improvement Fund (CCIF).
The next funding application window looks to support community initiatives across the CrossCountry network.
A total of £167,095 has been made available throughout the year for community projects that deliver tangible social and environmental benefits.
Jessica Lockwood, CrossCountry’s environment and sustainability manager, said: “The first round of applications to our refreshed Customer and Communities Improvement Fund were fantastic, and we can’t wait to see who we hear from in our next tranche of funding.
“We’d be delighted to hear from projects and groups looking to improve the communities served by the CrossCountry network, especially with an emphasis on social value and sustainability – if this sounds like you, please visit our website to apply.”
To find out more and to apply to the fund, visit: crosscountrytrains.co.uk
Birmingham’s Christmas Craft Market is back in the heart of the city at Cathedral Square until 22 December.
Visitors can browse the craft-filled atmosphere with over 60 independent businesses showcasing an array of unique arts and crafts.
This year’s market features from artisanal gifts and handcrafted décor to sweet treats, food, festive drinks, with the iconic Helter Skelter.
Vendors will be rotating throughout the event, ensuring a constantly refreshing mix of offerings and products.
Danter Attractions Limited, working alongside Birmingham Cathedral, Colmore Business Improvement District and Birmingham City Council, spearheads the Christmas Craft Market.
Together, they create a festive celebration that positions Birmingham as a top holiday destination for residents and tourists alike.
Organisers offer support to new traders, providing insights from years of event experience to help boost confidence and ensure a positive start to their journey.
Kelsey Dwyer, partnerships and event manager at Colmore BID, said: "It's fantastic to work in partnership with Danter Attractions, Birmingham Cathedral and Birmingham City Council for the return of the special Christmas in the Cathedral Square Craft market for 2024.
“We hope to build on the successes of previous years and provide a Christmas market event that showcases and celebrates the best of the city and independent businesses this festive season.”
An incredible idea begins with a personal journey. For Ahbid Choudry (pictured), the founder of Cabability, that journey was shaped by a unique perspective on mobility and the challenges it presents.
As someone living with a disability, Ahbid experienced firsthand the constant barriers that exist in day-to-day travel, such as inaccessible taxis, buses and trains. Instead of letting those challenges define his experience, it fuelled him to make a difference.
A founder’s inspiration
Ahbid’s disability gave him a firsthand understanding of how critical transportation is –not just as a means of getting from one place to another, but as a tool for empowerment, independence, and connection. He encountered barriers ranging from a lack of accessible vehicles to inadequate support systems for individuals with specific mobility needs.
Determined to address these gaps, Ahbid envisioned a transportation network where everyone, regardless of physical ability, could participate equally.
The birth of Cabability
Cabability was born out of this vision in 2016. From the very beginning, the company’s focus was clear:
• To prioritise inclusivity, ensuring that their services are designed with everyone in mind.
• To innovate continuously, using technology to bridge gaps in mobility and make travel safer and more efficient.
• To advocate for sustainability and affordability, recognising the importance of environmental responsibility in shaping the future of transport and ensuring their services are competitive and affordable.
Cabability collaborates closely with local councils to deliver reliable and efficient home-to-school transport services across the Northwest, ensuring students travel safely and comfortably every day. Under Ahbid’s leadership, Cabability has grown into a dynamic organisation that goes beyond conventional transport. From providing accessible vehicles and customised solutions to championing sustainability initiatives, the company stands as a beacon of innovation and inclusion.
Cabability also plays a vital role in supporting Access to Work, a government programme designed to provide practical and financial support for individuals with disabilities or health conditions, by offering tailored transport solutions that meet individual needs.
A legacy of inclusion
Ahbid’s personal journey remains a driving force behind Cabability’s operations and values. The company’s culture is deeply rooted in empathy, with every team member dedicated to
understanding and addressing the diverse needs of its customers. This commitment is further reinforced through continuous professional development, including training sessions on topics such as autism awareness, British Sign Language, and safer driving practices, ensuring that the team delivers inclusive and exceptional service at every level. This dedication extends to the services Cabability offers, from accessible fleet options to responsive customer support that goes above and beyond.
Today, Cabability serves as a testament to the power of resilience and vision. By turning challenges into opportunities, Ahbid Choudry has created a business that not only meets mobility needs but also inspires positive change in the industry.
As Cabability continues to grow, Ahbid’s story remains at its heart – a reminder that transportation is about more than movement: it’s about creating opportunities and breaking down barriers. The company’s journey is far from over, and with its founder’s unwavering commitment to inclusion, innovation, and sustainability, the future is bound to be extraordinary.
Cabability is more than a transport solutions provider – it’s a movement toward a more accessible and equitable world.
Whether it’s a leisurely trip to Trentham Gardens, a hospital appointment, a seaside getaway, or other personal journeys, Cabability ensures safe, comfortable, and reliable travel for every occasion.
This article is the second in our series on harnessing technology for business transformation. Last month, we explored the role of AI in driving efficiency and smarter decision-making. This month, we turn our focus to data strategies that can propel your business forward. Author Tim Mahoney founded EEvolution Limited, a Midlandsbased business that builds technology solutions to support scaling revenue and long-term efficiency.
In a rapidly advancing digital world, companies who hesitate in harnessing data risk missing crucial opportunities for growth. The difference between thriving and struggling often comes down to how well an organisation harnesses its data. For medium to large companies, the question is no longer if they should invest in data solutions, but how to do so effectively and strategically.
The potential of data is immense, but many organisations struggle with issues like data silos, inconsistent quality, and skills shortages. Just as travellers use self check-in kiosks at airports to streamline their journey, businesses can utilise cloud services to simplify data infrastructure and accelerate projects. Those who overcome these hurdles not only optimise their data but also position themselves as leaders in their fields. Engaging external experts can similarly challenge assumptions and introduce innovative strategies, enabling your business to make the most of its data potential.
Best practice tip: Collaborate with external data experts to challenge existing strategies and introduce new, effective solutions
Data enables businesses to transition from reactive to proactive decisionmaking. Similar to how AI redefined decision-making speed, data analytics equips organisations with insights that drive smarter, faster responses. Imagine having a clear, comprehensive view of your operations in real-time, much like having a well-calibrated compass guiding you through complex market conditions. Without this compass, businesses risk navigating blindly, while their data-driven competitors push ahead with clear direction. According to a recent report by Gartner, companies that leverage data effectively can outperform competitors by 20 per cent in profitability (Gartner, 2024). This is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity for survival. By integrating data analytics, your business can anticipate customer needs, refine marketing efforts, and optimise supply chains.
Best practice tip: Start by centralising your data into a unified platform, often referred to as a Data Warehouse. This allows for more seamless analysis and ensures that every department works with consistent, high-quality information.
One of the most impactful applications of data analytics is dynamic or optimal pricing. By using automation and data analysis, businesses can adjust pricing strategies automatically in real-time based on market conditions, competitor activity, and customer behaviour. This approach maximises revenue and ensures the most efficient use of your product capacity. Industries that adopt dynamic pricing are already seeing measurable gains. Waiting to implement this strategy may mean leaving profit on the table. Retailers and service providers that implement datadriven pricing strategies often see significant gains in profitability and market share. Dynamic pricing is especially relevant for industries with fluctuating demand, such as travel and e-commerce.
Best practice tip: Implement automated pricing tools that integrate with your data systems to ensure your pricing strategy remains competitive and optimised.
Just as AI enables adaptability, data is essential for keeping your business resilient in changing landscapes. In industries where consumer trends, supply chain issues, and competition evolve rapidly, data allows businesses to pivot strategies effectively. By using real-time insights, companies can make quick adjustments, staying aligned with market demands.
With a robust data infrastructure, organisations can process vast amounts of information to detect early warnings, from shifts in customer behaviour to supply chain disruptions. This agility enables your business to anticipate changes rather than merely react to them, positioning you a step ahead. Predictive data insights help identify risks and opportunities, empowering well-informed, timely decisions.
In fields like manufacturing and logistics, for example, data analysis can signal potential equipment issues or delays, allowing for preventive actions that keep operations running smoothly. Businesses equipped with these insights are better prepared to handle future challenges, making data a critical asset for building a resilient, future-ready organisation.
Best practice tip: Ensure your data infrastructure can scale alongside your business. Opt for solutions that provide flexibility and robust security measures, aligning with industry standards such as ISO.
In a world where personalisation is paramount, data is the key to understanding your audience on a deeper level. Companies are now using data to tailor customer experiences in real-time, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. For example, targeted marketing campaigns informed by customer behaviour and preferences can yield a significantly higher return on investment. Businesses that harness this capability are already setting themselves apart. According to McKinsey, personalisation can deliver five to eight times the ROI on marketing spend and lift sales by 10 per cent or more (McKinsey, 2024). With data insights driving customer experience, businesses have the unique opportunity to turn clients into advocates.
Best practice tip: Identify key customer touchpoints where data can be leveraged for personalisation, such as product recommendations or customised email campaigns.
With advancements in data and AI, businesses can now access and utilise vast amounts of information through integrations with cloud tools like AWS and Microsoft Azure. These platforms enable seamless analysis of large datasets, revealing patterns that drive smarter decision-making. A key benefit of AI in data analytics is 1:1 personalisation across the customer journey. By tailoring recommendations and content based on real-time data, businesses can create personalised experiences that anticipate customer needs. For instance, e-commerce platforms can suggest products aligned with each customer’s preferences, enhancing engagement and loyalty and sign-posting customers to the next relevant stage of the buying process.
Best practice tip: Use cloud-based AI tools to improve data accessibility and personalisation. Platforms like AWS can provide a unified view of each customer, enabling stronger, data-driven relationships.
Managing risk is a top priority for any business, and data analytics is a game-changer in this regard. By employing data-driven risk assessment models, organisations can identify potential threats more accurately and mitigate them before they escalate. Whether it's financial forecasting, market trend analysis, or cybersecurity threats, data helps build a proactive risk management strategy. For instance, financial institutions use data analytics to monitor transactional behaviour and flag irregularities that might indicate fraud. This helps them act quickly and protect their assets and customers. In a fast-paced environment, identifying potential risks early by measuring patterns in your data in real-time can be the difference between resilience and vulnerability.
Best practice tip: Develop a comprehensive risk management framework that leverages data analytics to assess, monitor, and mitigate potential threats.
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, businesses that fail to leverage data effectively risk being left behind, missing out on the opportunities that datadriven insights provide.
With the increasing reliance on data comes the need for ethical practices and compliance with regulations such as GDPR. Businesses must prioritise data privacy and transparency to build trust with customers and stakeholders. This involves implementing clear data policies, securing data storage, and ensuring that data is used responsibly. Companies that fail to prioritise data ethics may face not only regulatory penalties but also damage to their reputation. On the other hand, those that embed ethical data practices into their operations gain a competitive edge
Best practice tip:: Establish a clear data ethics policy that aligns with industry regulations along with staff and customer expectations. Regularly audit your practices to ensure compliance.
Data isn’t just an asset; it’s a strategic tool that, when used effectively, can transform your business. The shift from collecting data to using it for meaningful insights marks the difference between leaders and those who struggle to keep pace. The real question is: are you ready to turn your data into a competitive advantage, or will you let others lead the way?
Best practice tip: Partner with data management experts who can guide your transformation journey, ensuring your strategies remain adaptable, scalable and achievable.
For more information on how EEvolution can assist your business in harnessing data to achieve your strategic goals, reach out today or scan the QR code below. Let us help you transform data into your competitive advantage.
Email: info@eevolution.co.uk
Andrew Davies, chief executive of the Kier Group, is the latest guest on CEO Stories, the podcast from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.
The podcast can be heard on podfollow.com and all major listening apps such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
As CEO of a huge construction and infrastructure services firm, Andrew is at the helm of a company that impacts the lives of millions of people - including residents in Birmingham where Kier is responsible for operating all roads and has built a number of landmark buildings.
In his conversation with Henrietta Brealey, CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, he discusses the importance of having a clear vision and purpose for an organisation that employs around 10,000 people.
He also discusses changes in the construction and infrastructure services industry and its relationship with Government, as a result of the collapse of Carillion in 2018.
Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462
A team of Aston University researchers has been awarded a £500,000 grant to lessen the environmental impact of cooling –one of the UK’s fastest-growing energy needs.
They will be exploring new methods of using renewable energy to power clean cooling technologies to alleviate the increasing stress on the national energy supplies.
The new network, led by Aston University, is called Renewable Energy Access for Future UK NetZero Cooling (Reef-UKC). It is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and supports a consortium of Aston University experts led by Dr Ahmed Rezk.
He said: “There’s an urgent need across various sectors, both in the UK and globally, to reduce carbon footprints and adopt more sustainable practices for cooling.
“However, the cooling industry, which plays a critical role in sectors like food and beverage, data centres, steel, cement, pharmaceuticals, supermarkets,
hospitals and district cooling hasn’t received the same attention in terms of sustainable innovation.
Reef-UKC is an impact-driven network designed to address this important gap.
“Reef-UKC offers a collaborative platform for academia and industry to come together and explore sustainable cooling solutions, particularly focusing on technologies that harness waste heat and other forms of renewables.”
Professor Patricia Thornley is director of Aston University’s
The NEC Group has appointed Jen Mitchell as managing director for Arenas.
In her role, Jen will be leading the teams at bp pulse LIVE and Utilita Arena Birmingham and will initially be focused on launching the new premium seating and hospitality areas at the Arenas.
Jen joins the NEC Group with over 25 years of experience working in the live events industry.
She said: “It’s fantastic to be joining the team at the NEC Group at such an exciting time. It’s a unique opportunity to lead a team across two of the best arenas in the country. The redevelopment of the premium areas is a huge opportunity and will enable guests to experience shows at a whole new level.
“I can’t wait to work with the team at the arenas and continue to bring exceptional experiences to all the guests who walk through our doors.”
NEC Group CEO, Melanie Smith said: “I’m delighted to welcome Jen on board, at such an exciting time for the NEC Group. Jen brings a wealth of industry experience and I look forward to working closely with her to deliver a magical experience for guests at our arenas.”
Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI), which was founded to explore sustainable resources to deliver an affordable, resilient and low-carbon energy future.
She said: “Through this project, Aston University reaffirms its commitment to leadership in renewable energy innovation.
“Reef-UKC represents a vital step toward a net-zero cooling solution that not only supports environmental goals but also aligns with the UK’s economic, societal, and policy landscape.”
Jaguar Land Rover has reported “growing demand” for plug-in electric vehicles in its latest sales figures.
The automotive giant says global sales for its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) electric vehicle range are up 29 per cent during the first half of the new financial year as customers get ready to switch over to fully electric vehicles.
Mark Camilleri, director of electrification services, said:
“Demand is growing for our plug in electric hybrid models as customers become more accustomed to electrification.
“JLR is able to offer a range of fuel options to meet the energy transition dynamics of each market.”
...that was the key message from Birmingham City University (BCU) as it launched an ambitious new strategy at its iconic STEAMhouse.
Called “Rooted in Birmingham, Reaching Beyond”, the strategy sets out the university’s objectives to 2030 and beyond, as it looks to drive positive change across the region.
BCU vice-chancellor Professor David Mba said: “Although Birmingham has renewed optimism compared with a year ago, it is clear that the people we serve and educate are not benefiting from the prosperity expected from a city of our size and potential.
“To generate better outcomes for our region’s health, education and employability, we must respond as a city, as a community, and as a university. Our strategy marks our response.”
Working in collaboration with key stakeholders, including local industry and community organisations, BCU intends to utilise its resources to create a better and more inclusive society.
It plans to transform lives by providing inspiring, accessible and
inclusive teaching; by leading the way in promoting social mobility and community development; and by becoming the top university in the Midlands for boosting regional growth, innovation and skills.
It will also deliver outstanding research to benefit students, the region, and the world.
Professor Mba continued: “We have always been an anchor institution for the city and region. Our ambition, at the heart of this strategy, is to effect such societal
and economic change that we are regarded as an exemplar organisation – one that sets the standard for others to follow.”
The rollout of the strategy has already begun, with a string of initiatives and projects that aim to fulfil the potential within Birmingham and the wider region.
This includes capitalising on the University’s presence at the Alexander Stadium, which is now home to its sports and exercise courses.
The University is also embarking on innovative partnerships with other Birmingham landmark institutions, including the Botanical Gardens and contemporary art gallery Ikon.
Ian Hyde, chief executive officer of Ikon, attended the strategy launch and hailed BCU’s vision.
He said the collaboration between the University and the gallery, which is located in the heart of Birmingham, had already had a “clear impact”, adding: “Partnership is clearly the way forward.”
Professor Mba said BCU’s new strategy aligned with the Government's expectations of UK universities and can help drive real economic growth as well as societal change.
The vice-chancellor added: “We exist to meet the needs of the city, of its communities, and of the surrounding region. We have set out our plans for BCU’s future. We know what needs to be done if we are to fulfil the potential within the city.”
BCU has a long tradition of excellence and innovation, dating back to its formation in 1843 as the Birmingham Government School of Design.
Contact: Gary Birch T: 0121 274 3236
Music legend Bev Bevan and his wife singer Joy Strachan-Brain switched on Millennium Point’s Christmas lights, including its giant Christmas tree, for 2024.
The couple, a host of musicians and 200 local people enjoyed a fun-filled night to celebrate the start of Birmingham’s festive season at the events venue.
Birmingham-born Bev Bevan has had an incredible career spanning over 60 years. As a founding member of The Move, he had the first record ever to be played on BBC Radio 1. He’s played alongside The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, The Who and Stevie Wonder.
He was a founder member of the hugely successful world-renowned Electric Light Orchestra before
Law firm Shakespeare Martineau helped to save over 100 jobs when Coventry-based Evtec Fab acquired Swindon manufacturer Retrac Group.
Retrac Group – which manufactures carbon fibre products, chassis and complex components for brands in the automotive, aerospace, Formula One and motorsport sectors –entered administration in October.
Ensuring the continuity of operations and employment of all 110 staff, the business and its assets have been bought by Evtec Fab, which is part of a larger Midlandsbased group specialising in aluminium castings and assemblies for the automotive industry.
Acting for buyers Evtec Fab, Shakespeare Martineau provided restructuring, property, commercial, employment, corporate and tax services as part of the transaction.
Andy Taylor, partner and head of restructuring at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “We are thrilled to have been involved in an important transaction that has safeguarded the livelihoods of over 100 people.”
joining Black Sabbath. Alongside Joy Strachan-Brain, he is now a member of the band Quill. Bev and Joy are the latest special guests to turn on Millennium Point’s Christmas lights, following Toyah Willcox in 2023.
Millennium Point’s Christmas tree strands at 39ft tall and features 21,000 lights and 1,500 baubles. It takes a team of 12 and 10 hours to put up.
This year, Millennium Point’s Christmas season includes the Ultimate 80s Christmas Party, a Love Actually-themed bottomless prosecco brunch and Frozenthemed family events. Profits from the events support Millennium Point’s charitable trust, that reinvests in local STEM education projects. Visitors to Millennium
Point can also enjoy Birmingham science museum, Thinktank. Rebecca Delmore, Millennium Point Commercial Director, said: “A Birmingham landmark like Millennium Point deserves a true Brummie legend to turn on its Christmas Lights and so we were thrilled to welcome Bev Bevan for this important job. We are looking forward to our giant Christmas tree providing an incredible photo backdrop for our visitors over the Christmas period.”
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s biggest raffle prize, a Land Rover Defender, now has a new owner, and helped raise £45,500 for the lifesaving service.
Brian Hodgetts, from Alcester in Warwickshire, was chosen at random as the winner of the first prize – a 2014 Land Rover Defender.
Brian is a long-term supporter of the charity and a dedicated fan of Land Rovers. He was delighted to have won the vehicle, originally donated to the charity by Jaguar Land Rover 10 years ago. It has served the charity well over the past decade as it has been used to collect donations and transport vital blood products to locations across the charity’s six-county operating patch.
The money raised through the raffle will fund 27 lifesaving missions carried out by the charity’s advanced clinical team, 13 by air ambulance and 14 by critical care car.
Vision for All CIC, a leading non-profit organisation, has announced its new partnership with the Global Banking School (GBS) to advance financial literacy and inclusive education in local communities.
This collaboration is a major stride in bridging the gap between respected financial services and underserved populations.
Founded in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, Vision for All is dedicated to transforming communities through impactful interventions, primarily via accessible free sports activities, mentoring and mental health and wellbeing services.
Their initiatives aim to curb anti-social behaviours and foster positive engagement, especially among the youth.
Pertemps has been named as one of the best companies to work for in the UK for the 18th year running.
In the latest Best Companies to Work For listing, Pertemps was placed 12th in the large companies category, making it the number one recruitment company in this category.
It is also the longest-standing recruitment firm in the list and one of only two businesses that has been there since the awards began 18 years ago.
In addition, the Meriden-based business retained its three-star, world-class rating for employee engagement.
Pertemps Network Group CEO Steve West said: “I couldn’t be prouder of this achievement and would like to thank all my colleagues for helping us reach our highest-ever placing, and for being recognised as one of the top companies to work for in the UK.
“At our core, we are a people business, and we must constantly strive to ensure that we provide the best
NSPCC ball raises £40,500
BBC Radio WM presenter PJ Ellis and award-winning journalist and broadcaster Marverine Cole helped raise £40,500 at the NSPCC’s 140th Birthday Ball in Birmingham.
Organised by local volunteers from the NSPCC’s West Midlands Business Board and sponsored by Trade Centre UK and Kelly Plant Hire, the Birthday Ball took place at the ICC in Birmingham. The event celebrated the children charity’s legacy in the city to raise money for vulnerable children and young people in the West Midlands.
Good Morning Britain presenter Marverine said: “It was an incredible privilege to be invited to meet volunteers at the Birmingham Childline base earlier in the year and to see first-hand a charity that has been built on the kindness and generosity of volunteers. Long may the NSPCC’s work and influence in the city and across the UK continue for years to come.”
The event included live music from Ellie Power and Reservoir 5, guest speakers and a charity auction.
possible environment for our colleagues to grow, prosper and be the best version of themselves.
“Our people are what sets us apart and they shape the services we provide to candidates and clients. They truly make Pertemps unique and, without them, we would be just another recruitment company.
“This accolade, along with the Princess Royal Training Award, underpins that Pertemps places its people at the heart of everything it does.”
Further evidence of Pertemps valuing the contribution and loyalty of its people came last month when it awarded more than 6.5 million share options to staff as part of its commitment through the Employee Benefit Trust (EBT), ensuring that its people continue to be invested in its future.
A finance package from Lloyds enabled Cotswolds-based natural soap company to branch out into new markets at home and abroad and install new software to meet growing demand.
Little Soap Company was founded in 2008 by Emma Heathcote-James (pictured). Now, the company is focused on the next phase of expansion after securing support from Lloyds.
Access Skills Ltd, a leading provider of healthcare training and skills development, was the headline sponsor of Birmingham Mind’s ‘Mental Elf’ 5k Festive Fun Run at Cannon Hill Park.
Debbie Lewis (pictured), COO of Access Skills, said: “We were thrilled to partner with Birmingham Mind, an organisation that plays a vital role in supporting individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and we believe that through this sponsorship, we can help create a more supportive environment for our community.”
From hand-making soaps in her kitchen for selling to local farmers’ markets, the business quickly upscaled, using UK factories to make their four brands - Organic, Naturals, Eco Warrior and Little Beast – supplying into all the major UK retailers.
Emma, her wife Sharon, and their team of 10 staff sell millions of products a year, via every major UK retailer, including Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsburys, Morrisons, Asda, Amazon and Boots.
The funding package from Lloyds will support the installation of a new, advanced software to enable greater automation of order fulfilment and forecasting, making it faster and easier to process retailer and online orders and better integrate with manufacturing as they grow both in the UK and into international markets.
Jessica Fox, relationship manager at Lloyds, said: “We’ve worked closely with Emma and her team, providing tailored financial solutions that embrace her unique approach as an entrepreneur. Seeing the business grow from a local startup to a successful national brand has been incredibly rewarding, and we’re excited to be part of their future success.”
Birmingham Mind is one of the largest providers of mental health services in the city, and delivers a range of support that includes accommodation, 1-1 help, workshops, and workplace training sessions. All of these are aimed at equipping individuals with the tools and resources they need to manage their mental health effectively.
Kerrie Henry-Edge, fundraising lead at Birmingham Mind, said: “This event aims to bring people together of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to raise awareness for mental health and funds for Birmingham Mind.
“It’s thanks to the fantastic support from Access Skills Ltd that we can host this wonderful, festive event and continue providing vital mental health support across Birmingham and the surrounding areas.”
As part of the ongoing partnership, Access Skills Ltd will also be facilitating training sessions for its staff on mental health awareness, fostering a culture of understanding and support within the workplace. This is part of a broader commitment to promote wellbeing among employees and enhance their ability to support others.
The West Midlands has won the bid to host a major global conference for professionals in the ceramics industry.
The 12th International Ceramics Congress will take place in July, 2028, at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham and is expected to bring together more than 600 of the world’s top researchers and manufacturers who specialise in ceramics. The impact of the four-day event is anticipated to be worth more than £1m for the West Midlands’ economy.
The event was secured by the Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau and its conference ambassador, Professor Jon Binner, Professor of Ceramic Science and Engineering in the School of Metallurgy and Materials at the University of Birmingham.
For more information about the West Midlands’ business events offer for organisers and delegates, visit meetbirmingham.com
US-based Hillwood Investment Properties is expanding further into the UK market by integrating the team and project portfolio of Trebor Developments for an undisclosed sum, with Trebor being advised by law firm Shakespeare Martineau.
As market leaders in sustainable industrial development, Bromsgrovebased Trebor Developments will boost Hillwood’s operational capabilities in the UK, drawing on Trebor’s established expertise and robust pipeline of future projects.
The deal, which forms part of the real estate company’s ambitious growth strategy, follows an historic partnership between the two brands, which have jointly developed millions of square feet of advanced accommodation across the UK.
T: 0121 725 8994
E: ibh@birmingham-chamber.com
Businesses in the West Midlands should be alive to opportunities to win lucrative new trade across the US in the wake of the Republicans’ return to power, delegates to a Chamber election breakfast were told.
Business leaders heard at Chamber HQ that business opportunities in America were plentiful, particularly for SMEs – but companies should emulate the “direct” approach of US businesses to pursue the many opportunities.
A four-strong panel of experts agreed that the US represented huge potential for increased trade for the region’s business sector despite fears over the new President’s policies on tariffs.
Andy Dawson, director and cofounder of Curium Solutions in Birmingham, said: “The environment out there is positive, it is a strong economy. I am not sure what he (Trump) is going to do in the first 100 days. It’s a case of watch and see.”
Angelo Cugini, account executive with insurance brokers AJ Gallagher,
said: “The UK Government have got to be out there batting for SMEs – it needs to engage with the US administration and get as much opportunity as we can for SMEs.”
Former Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) president Deb Leary, CEO and founder of Forensic Pathways, urged companies to “shout loud” about their attributes.
“There are some real opportunities. We have a
easyJet has celebrated a “high five” with the launch of its first flights and package holidays from Birmingham Airport to Marrakesh, Reykjavik, Hurghada, Prague and Krakow.
Flights from Birmingham to Marrakesh are now operating twice a week on Wednesdays and Sundays throughout winter.
This was followed by new services to Reykjavik, Hurghada, easyJet’s second Egyptian destination from Birmingham, and Prague for the first time.
Seats are now available from just £14.99 on easyJet.com and via the mobile app.
easyJet says the introduction of these five new routes shows the continuing strong demand from customers in the Midlands.
Since easyJet opened its new base at Birmingham Airport in March, 2024, the airline has launched 22 new routes meaning 33 routes are now available from Birmingham International to top destinations across Europe.
responsibility to put Birmingham on the map, we have to shout about our businesses, we have to be like Trump and shout about what we want, not be frightened.”
Lis Lewis-Jones, founder of Birmingham PR firm Liquid, said: “Move politicians to one side and business will always sort it out. It’s about building relationships and contacts. OK, we do not have a trade agreement with the US but we have a MOU with 13 states.”
A trailblazing former football referee who has worked for four decades to advance gender equality in sport is the new president of the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce.
Janie Frampton began her career as a football referee at grassroots level and went on to become the second woman to officiate in the men’s professional game in England.
She is co-founder of Team You, a social enterprise which supports the development of children and young people from underrepresented groups nationally and internationally.
TeamYou provides opportunities for young people to make positive life choices and guide them away from negative anti-social behaviours.
Janie, from Dorset, also co-founded Ref Support UK, a pioneering charity dedicated to the development and advocacy for football referees.
She works with major sports governing bodies, as well as being vicepresident of the International Federation for Sports Officials, a patron of the Muslim Women’s Network in the UK and an ambassador for Women in Football.
In January, Janie received an OBE in the New Year Honours list for her services to equality for women in sport.
Janie said: “I am inspired and energised to lead the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber into this new era of potential global collaboration.
“I look forward to working with you as we continue building a prosperous, sustainable, and interconnected world.”
Janie’s appointment was confirmed at the joint annual meetings of the Greater Birmingham Global and Transatlantic Chambers of Commerce.
Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK
Contact: Anjum Khan T: 0121 274 3255
By Feron Jayawardene
The vision of GirlDreamer, a non-profit organisation that empowers young women of colour, has come true after being crowned the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) Business of the Year.
Amna Akthar, the founder of GirlDreamer, collected the overall Business of the Year award, sponsored by Practice Plus Group Birmingham Hospital, at the ICC, after being named the Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the Year.
The headline sponsor for the awards was Doug Wright trading as McDonalds. It was hosted by Nitin Ganatra, the former EastEnders actor who played postman Masood.
Amna started her entrepreneurial journey with a desire to address the systemic barriers faced by thousands of young women of colour in accessing leadership opportunities. She cofounded GirlDreamer, driven by passion and a commitment to creating change.
During the past year, the non-profit organisation launched the GirlDreamer Advocate (GDA) initiative, a programme set to engage with high-net-worth individuals (HNI) and influential supporters to provide funding and connections.
GirlDreamer also managed to secure £120,000 from the Alliance for Gender Equality in Europe to expand. This allowed them to provide crucial financial support to women of colour who were social entrepreneurs, enabling them to grow their ventures and make a broader impact on their communities.
‘As previous winners will testify, winning this award can act as a significant springboard to further success’
Her desire for change comes through her own experience where she witnessed the challenges faced by women of colour, particularly in
accessing leadership opportunities and spaces that nurtured their potential.
The judging panel, chaired by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce director of external affairs Raj Kandola , were impressed by the perseverance of GirlDreamer in becoming a strong force of representation for women of colour.
Raj said: “The judges were particularly impressed with the work GirlDreamer have undertaken with underrepresented communities and the desire to empower members of those communities to access leadership opportunities.
“As previous winners will testify, winning this award can act as a significant springboard to further success and we look forward to watching Amna grow and develop the business in the years to come.”
ABCC president Omar Rashid announced at the awards a new platform to equip Asian business owners to be able to pitch for funding and the opportunity to do so with interested investors.
Omar said: “On average, nearly one in two Asian business owners stop working on their business idea because they’re unable to raise funding. This is such a shame and a passion of mine when becoming president was to create a platform to equip Asian business owners to be able to pitch for funding and the opportunity to do so with interested investors.
“This initiative hopes to bring this vision into reality and I am so excited to be working with our partners to do so. There will be an introduction session in January when more details will be revealed.”
Business and community leader Dr Jason
Wouhra OBE (pictured) is this year’s recipient of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) President’s Award.
Jason was presented with the award by Omar Rashid, ABCC president, during the annual dinner and awards ceremony at the ICC.
Jason is a highly experienced company director and successful entrepreneur with a wealth of business leadership experience in addition to holding numerous civic and philanthropic roles, nationally and internationally.
Self-driven and highly ambitious, Jason was awarded the OBE by Queen Elizabeth II in 2017 for Services to Business and International Trade.
Jason is also proud to be the first person of Asian heritage to be appointed chancellor of Aston University. He is also the youngest.
Jason is CEO of Lioncroft Wholesale, one of the UK’s leading independent wholesale businesses.
Before Lioncroft Wholesale, Jason was a director of his family-owned business East End Foods plc, one of Europe’s most successful ethnic food ingredient businesses.
East End Foods was sold in 2019 to private equity and during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, Jason bought back the wholesale arm of the business and relaunched it as Lioncroft Wholesale. The business has grown over the past four years by 40 per cent and Jason aims to continue the expansion into different regions and sectors in the food and drink industry in the UK.
Jason has a degree and masters in commercial law and is an Institute of Directors Chartered Director. In 2013, he became the youngest and first black and minority ethnic (BAME) chairman of the Institute of Directors in the West Midlands.
In addition to his appointment in 2024 as Chancellor for Aston University, Jason has held
Outstanding Charity of the Year –Sponsored by Our Training Department Winner - Focus Birmingham
Outstanding Contribution to Diversity & Inclusion - Sponsored by South and City College Birmingham Winner - Connected Places Catapult
Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the Year – Sponsored by South & City College Birmingham Winner - Amna Akhtar - GirlDreamer
Outstanding Male Entrepreneur of the Year – Sponsored by Scholars School System Winner - Farhad Tailor - V12 Sports & Classics
Outstanding Professional Services Business of the Year – Sponsored by Housman Consulting Winner - Lawrence Kurt Solicitors
Outstanding Small Business of the Year – Sponsored by Oxford Innovation Winner - Primo Dialler
Outstanding Start-Up Business of the Year – Sponsored by Shakespeare Martineau Winner – Kapadia Rose
Outstanding Young Achiever of the Year - Sponsored by Pathway Group Winner - Kiran Shergill - Barclays
numerous prominent positions including nonexecutive director of University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust.
He has held past and present chairmanships of the West Midlands India Partnership, Library of Birmingham Advisory Board, Spirit of 2012 Inquiry, Asian Business Chamber of Commerce, Birmingham Child Poverty Commission and Aston University Development Board.
He was also vice chair of the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership and a board member of the European Structural and Investment Fund.
Jason takes great pride in mentorship and advisory roles and is also involved in philanthropic work regionally, nationally and internationally, including his patronage of Acorns Children’s Hospice charity since 2018. In 2023, he and his family launched the Lioncroft Foundation to support good causes nationally and across the world. The Lioncroft Foundation’s first major donation was with the Cancer Trust to fund the research of Neuroblastoma, a form of childhood cancer, this is the first research of its kind into the condition.
The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) has launched a network designed exclusively for women.
The platform is designed to hear from the participants about support required to excel in their career including innovation funding.
The first forum took place at the Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre. Two other events are set to be held in January and February.
Supported by the DIATOMIC project –CATAPULT Connected Places, the launch event featured an opportunity to network with likeminded women and hear from a diverse set of speakers including Amber Sandhu, Barinder Sumon and Rabina Haque on the highs and lows as Asian women in their industries.
Amber is one of the most exciting and talented upcoming broadcasters from the Midlands. Having started her career at the BBC as an intern, she went on to present for BBC Radio WM, BBC Sport, 5Live, Cricket and Midlands Today.
Barinder Sumon is a business development manager with over eight years’ experience in the hospitality industry, coupled with a solid foundation in healthcare, particularly with dementia.
Rabina Haque is a probation officer, independent risk assessor and trauma-informed trainer, and an award-winning author.
She has extensive experience in the criminal justice system and human resources. She has devised three robust programmes in women and mental health, substance misuse and raising awareness of domestic abuse in a family setting. The event was led by ABCC vice president Sapreena Kumari.
She said: “This is a series of three events aimed at female ABCC members to support them with their professional development, build their network and grow their business and entrepreneurial skills.”
Anjum Khan, director of Asian Business Chamber of Commerce, presented certificates at a graduation ceremony in Birmingham.
She represented Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) at the Scholar School System graduation ceremony for its Leeds Trinity university provision of business
management and health and social care class of November 2024.
The event, held in their Birmingham campus, brought together a distinguished array of community leaders to honour student achievements.
Guests included Birmingham’s Lord Mayor Councillor Ken Wood, Councillor Maryam Khan, Councillor
Waseem Zafar, Councillor Yvonne Mosquito, and GBCC president Dr. Nasir Awan.
Anjum said: “Celebrating the hard work and dedication of these graduates is truly inspiring. Their achievements reflect the strength and ambition within our community.
“I am proud to represent GBCC at such a momentous occasion and to support the next generation of professionals as they embark on their careers.”
Zahid Bhatti, CEO of Scholars School System, said: “The ceremony was a wonderful celebration of our graduates' hard work and achievements.
“We're incredibly proud of our students who have demonstrated resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their lives and communities.”
Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029
Software developed using AI to diagnose skin diseases through image recognition has been approved by the University of Staffordshire.
The software named Alcroen has been developed by AR International Holdings. University of Staffordshire has described it as one of the promising and innovative projects powered by AI.
The firm met with officials from the university, including AR International chair Dr Alka Mehta, co-founder, and CEO Rajiv Rai and CTO Saritha Devpunje.
Following the meeting, AR International Holdings will be training and providing an avenue of technical work and experience for an AI-based project for a student selected by the
South Staffordshire College has joined the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Institute of Technology (IoT) alongside Stoke-on-Trent College.
Led by Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG), the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire IoT aims to meet the skills needs of industry by providing higher-level technical education in areas such as construction, advanced engineering, high value manufacturing, digital and health/life sciences.
The Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire IoT operates on a hub and spoke model, with the £22.5m hub building currently under construction on land off Castle Street.
The impressive scheme will complete in May 2025, ready to welcome learners at the start of the 2025/6 academic year.
Claire Boliver, chief executive and principal of South Staffordshire College, said: “We are incredibly proud to be part of the Institute of Technology in Stoke and Staffordshire.
“This partnership not only strengthens our commitment to delivering cutting-edge education and training but also allows us to collaborate with industry leaders.”
panel for 240 hours of work funded by a funded project.
The software is a platform to empower hospitals, GPs, medics and prescribers to diagnose skin diseases through image recognition and differential processes within seconds followed by treatment plans.
Rajiv Rai said: “We signed a collaboration agreement with the University for training and providing opportunities for the students to work on our AI powered derma diagnosis software Alcroean.
“The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce was instrumental in introducing us to the University of Staffordshire Innovation Department headed by Justin Pover.”
FSW, a national wholesaler of refrigerators and air conditioners, with its headquarters based in Cannock, has opened a new branch at Feltham.
The new branch, which opened on the wholesaler’s trade day, saw HVAC professionals and leading brands head to the new location on Hampton Road West, Middlesex.
In the latest change to the FSW network, the Isleworth branch located at Hampton Business Park – and become FSW Feltham.
The move sees the branch almost double in size from its previous Isleworth location and move closer to the A316/M3, one of the main routes in and out of London.
Steve Dinning, FSW sales director, said: “The new Feltham location really is fantastic. It gives easier, more convenient access to our range of
quality HVAC products for the professionals who rely on getting the right tools for the right job and in good time.
“It was brilliant to see FSW Feltham full of life on Trade Day. We always enjoy bringing together our excellent supplier partners and those who work in the HVAC industry.
“With our on-the-day giveaways, it’s always great to give something back to our customers who continue to use FSW for all their refrigeration and air conditioning tools and spares.”
Supplier partners who attended the event included Mitsubishi Electric, Fujitsu, Yellow Jacket, Aspen Pumps, Diversitech, J&E Hall, Appion, Navtek, Advanced, Javac, Veto Pro Pac and Testo.
Contact:
Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029
By Feron Jayawardene
Hardy Signs lit up the room at the Burton Celebratory Lunch, securing a double victory that underscored its continued success and impact.
The signage manufacturer took home the Burton & District Business of the Year award, sponsored by Else Solicitors, and Blu Hardy, the firm’s marketing manager, was crowned Burton & District’s Future Face, sponsored by BCRS Business Loans.
Established in 1993, Hardy Signs has enjoyed unprecedented success over the past 12 months by pushing the boundaries of innovation, customer service, and community engagement while empowering local partnerships.
A key development has been the investment in stateof-the-art lasers, revolutionising the production process. This technology has significantly reduced manual labour, enabling the team to focus on higher-value tasks.
Hardy Signs has also introduced quarterly performance bonuses and increased team-building activities, creating a supportive
and collaborative workplace and improving staff retention.
The company’s focus on community engagement remains at its core, with Hardy Signs actively supporting local educational programs through work experience opportunities for students.
Judges were also impressed by Blu Hardy’s leadership as marketing manager.
Under her guidance, the firm has expanded its digital presence through social media and website development.
Blu is also deeply involved in volunteering and fundraising, supporting YMCA Burton, SARAC (Sexual Abuse Rape
Advice Centre), and The Young Shall Grow initiative in Ghana, where Burton volunteers regularly travel to help at an orphanage and local school.
At the start of this year, Blu joined the Business Connect group at Burton and South Derbyshire College to offer input into curriculum planning.
The judging panel said: “Blu has shown great leadership in overcoming challenges with new staff and expanding into new markets. This is a remarkable story where a young person is wise and mature beyond her years; the world needs more of these types of people.”
Gaskell Safety Ltd has been awarded the esteemed British Approvals for Fire Equipment (BAFE) accreditation, a milestone achievement that underscores their commitment to excellence in fire safety standards across the UK.
The accreditation reflects their dedication to providing outstanding quality and reliability in all aspects of fire safety, a commitment shared by the entire team.
BAFE accreditation is recognised industry wide as a mark of expertise and accountability in fire safety, requiring rigorous assessments to ensure all practices meet the highest standards.
testament to the hard work, expertise, and commitment of our team.
“We are passionate about delivering first-class fire safety services and are proud to have this recognised by BAFE. This accreditation allows us to better serve our clients with the assurance that they are receiving only the highest standards in fire safety provision.”
While based primarily in the Midlands, Gaskell Safety Ltd is ready to extend its services nationwide to meet the evolving needs of businesses across the country.
IT specialists Mint Technology has launched its use of the Faster Britain network, powered by ITS, to bring full fibre connectivity to local businesses.
This partnership aims to transform the way organisations in the region operateoffering reliable, scalable and high-speed connectivity.
Connecting businesses within Burton’s budding manufacturing industry, the Faster Britain network is helping local providers like Mint connect businesses with cuttingedge infrastructure that not only moves them away from slower speeds but turbocharges present and future operations with a toolkit to use some of the most bandwidth-hungry technology across the production line.
The partnership between Faster Britain’s network and Mint is already benefitting local industry with Mint connecting a local specialist metal manufacturing expert that was previously hindered by inconsistent speeds, frequent outages, and poor customer service.
Before working with Mint Technology, the manufacturer relied on a 100Mbps leased line but faced downtime that lasted over 24 hours at times, bringing their operations to a halt, risking health and safety, and disrupting precision machinery that relies on low latency connections.
Mint Technology, using the Faster Britain network, provided a solution that doubled the manufacturer's bandwidth to 200Mbps on a 1Gbps leased line.
Stuart Lilley, sales director at Mint Technology, said: “The service we receive from ITS sets them apart in the industry.
“When ITS wins, Mint wins, and this partnership ensures Burton businesses get the connectivity they need to succeed.”
Marcus Harrison, Faster Britain ambassador, said: “Our local channel partners are at the heart of our most vibrant networks. They understand the locality, are familiar with their customers and know their requirements and demands.
Managing director Arron Gaskell (pictured) said: “Achieving BAFE accreditation is a
The team is equipped with the knowledge, resources, and expertise to deliver fire safety solutions that protect and reassure organisations in all sectors.
“They give businesses the tools to be competitive and efficient in a global market, helping their customers grow.”
Contact:
Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624
Lichfield’s Beacon Park has been voted by visitors as one of the 10 best Green Flag parks in the UK.
The 70-acre open space has been recognised in Keep Britain Tidy’s Green Flag Awards People’s Choice, which was launched in September asking the public to vote for their favourite park from the 2,227 that hold Green Flag accreditation.
Fans of Beacon Park responded in their droves, casting their vote for what is one of Lichfield District’s most popular attractions.
Lichfield District Council’s cabinet member for operational
services, parks and waste, Councillor Phil Whitehouse, said:
“We are delighted with this news. It’s such a prestigious award and we would like to thank everyone who voted for Beacon Park. That visitors consider it to be among the top 10 in the UK is simply fantastic.
“It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our parks team and groups of volunteers who go above and beyond to ensure that Beacon Park is an attractive and safe place to visit.
“The team work tirelessly on its maintenance and do a wonderful job on the flower displays which
A law firm with offices in Lichfield, Cannock and Sutton Coldfield have launched a new podcast series aimed at tackling important legal topics.
The Ansons Solicitors podcast, hosted by managing director Martin de Ridder (pictured) is designed to provoke conversation on a wide range of topics that impact businesses and individuals.
Each episode tackles a different legal issue, from managing Inheritance tax and strategic business sales to adapting to new financial challenges. With actionable insights and expert commentary, the podcast is geared towards business owners, landlords, HR professionals, and anyone eager to stay informed on the latest legal developments.
“We created this podcast to extend our support beyond the office, reaching both our clients and the wider public wherever they are,” says Martin.
“We aim to break down complex legal topics and help listeners understand how the latest legal changes could affect them, enabling them to make informed and confident decisions.
“We’re also keen to hear from our audience. We welcome suggestions for topics and want the podcast to reflect the issues that matter most to our listeners.”
All episodes are now streaming on youtube.com
draw admiration from our residents and the thousands of visitors who come every year to enjoy this especially beautiful part of the district.”
The news came just months after it was awarded the Green Flag Award in July.
Managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, Green Flag is an international quality mark which
recognises and rewards wellmanaged parks and green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.
In making the award, Green Flag described Beacon Park as “a lush oasis spanning over 70 acres, nestled right in the heart of the city. This historic park, dating back to the late 1800s, is a perfect blend of picturesque formal gardens and expansive open spaces, making it an ideal getaway from the urban hustle”.
The headteacher of Coton Green Primary School has spoken of his pride after an extremely positive Ofsted Report gave the school a rating of Good across all five categories.
Staff and leaders at the Tamworth school, which is part of the respected Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), have worked tirelessly to revamp the school’s curriculum and improve learning outcomes for all pupils.
The report states: “There have been significant changes to the curriculum in recent years. These have focused on making sure that learning builds progressively on what pupils know. These changes have had a positive impact on pupils’ enjoyment of learning and are improving outcomes.”
Headteacher Richard Osborne said: “The ongoing improvements to our curriculum,
particularly in reading and writing, have had a really positive impact, with more pupils meeting expected standards.
“While we are pleased with this progress, and glad to see it recognised by Ofsted, we know there is still work to be done –particularly in mathematics – and we are already taking action to improve these areas.”
The report specifically highlighted the staff’s highly effective commitment to ensuring pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are given the guidance and support required for them to make the most of the school’s curriculum.
Staff were not the only members of the school community to receive praise from the inspectors – the dedication and good behaviour of the school’s pupils was also highly commended.
Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624
Shoppers heading to Sutton Coldfield Town Centre this Christmas will be able to benefit from free car parking, free public transport and free cycling, thanks to an initiative from Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council and Birmingham City Council.
The “Multi Modal Travel Subsidy Scheme” aims to boost visitor numbers and support local traders during their busiest time of the year, by making it easier and cheaper than ever to travel into the town centre.
The three-part scheme - which is based on other similar successful programmes in town centres around the UK - covers parking, public transport and the West Midland Combined Authority’s bike hire scheme.
For those who need to drive into the town centre, the Town Council is to subsidise free parking across seven car parks for an eight-week period until 5 January, 2025.
Subsidised by £47k from the Town Council’s Town Centre Regeneration Budget, the offer will focus on car parks in Station Street, Upper and Lower Reddicroft, Mill Street, Anchorage Road, South Parade and Duke Street.
However, the festive scheme will also aim to enable more drivers to travel by bus, by accessing the Government funded Passenger Incentive Programme offered by TfWM (Travel for the West Midlands).
‘We are fully committed to creating a revitalised and vibrant town centre’
The third strand of the Multi Modal Travel Scheme offers free cycling in the town centre as part of the West Midlands Combined Authority’s public hire cycle scheme, for which Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council already provides a funding contribution.
Councillor Simon Ward, leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, said: “We are fully committed to creating a revitalised and vibrant town centre for Royal Sutton Coldfield, through our Town Centre Master Plan. This is a really ambitious programme that should boost visitors to Sutton this Christmas, and we welcome the support of Birmingham City Council in making it happen.”
A Sutton Coldfield agency has helped a beauty brand look the part with a new website and branding.
Adventure Graphics have been working with entrepreneur Chennille Williams (pictured), founder of Above & Beyond Everything, to launch her new ecommerce website.
Above & Beyond Everything offers a luxury line of beauty products, including glitter eye shadows, designed to give women the confidence to look and feel great on any occasion.
Chennille said: “Our mission is to elevate beauty so that every woman feels empowered.
“With products that are luxurious yet effortless, we want women to feel like their true selves.”
Chennille and Penny recently sat down for an Adventure ‘5 Minutes With…’ blog and they talked about the rollercoaster of setting up and running a business.
Chennille said: “I have learnt so much from running my own business and I realised it requires a lot of patience, time and perseverance. Without those three things you cannot expect your business to be a success.”
Penny Kay, marketing and projects lead at Adventure Graphics, said: “From the very first meeting with Chennille we were blown away by her preparation, vision and attention to detail.
“She arrived with a full presentation about her ideas and what she wanted. The amount of work she had already put into her brand and web design was just mind-blowing.”
As a fitting first birthday present, Above & Beyond Everything has been invited to have a pop-up shop at the prestigious UK Beauty Awards.
Methus Sawangseang (Max), The Belfry Hotel & Resort’s chef de partie and UK Young Chef of the Year, has represented Great Britain in the world finals of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs’ competition.
Having already been crowned winner of the national competition in May, Max secured a place among the top five Young Chefs of the Year globally at the finals in Budapest. All competitors were presented with an identical “mystery box” of ingredients from which they had to make a three-course menu for four people within four hours.
Dishes were judged on taste, texture, presentation, balance and originality, with the contestants’ organisation and cleanliness in the kitchen also taken into consideration.
Robert Bates, executive chef at The Belfry, said: “This is an incredible achievement and so well deserved. Max has done The Belfry and Great Britain proud.
“He is a rising star, and we can’t wait for the industry to discover what we already know – that he has a long and distinguished culinary career ahead of him.”
Recently crowned Best Newcomer at the Birmingham Hospitality Association Awards, Max is renowned among his colleagues for his methodical approach, organised nature and team spirit.
He is integral to the dishes created in The Belfry’s 2AA Rosette Ryder Grill restaurant which has just released its new a la carte winter menu.
The Young Chef of the Year competition was first organised by the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a leading international gastronomic society, in Switzerland in 1977. It is designed to support and promote future young chefs by giving them the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills.
All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community
Contact: Samantha Frampton T: 0121 678 7488
Solihull Chamber of Commerce showed the team from Small Business Saturday around Solihull to meet some of the small independent businesses.
The tour, which aims to celebrate small business success and encourage local shopping, was given a firsthand look at the diverse range of businesses that make Solihull special.
Kim Hulse, of K Hulse Consulting, a small business champion and member of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, planned the day and introduced delegates to an array of Solihull independents.
Over coffee in Brew Twenty Three, Jayne Hume, who leads the Small Business Academy within the Chamber, talked about the support available from the Chamber for start ups and small business members; and talked about the way cohorts on the academy support each other.
Paula Spiga, from Glam & Glow and one of the Small Business Academy participants, also had the opportunity to showcase her business.
The tour continued with visits to several independent retailers and hospitality businesses, including Livs, Le Scarpe, Fall Menswear and Jamaya.
Tony Elvin, general manager of Touchwood Solihull, emphasised the importance of independent businesses, stating: “Small independent businesses add additional personality and authenticity to Solihull and Touchwood are proud to host several independent businesses.”
Now celebrating its 12th year, Small Business Saturday is the UK's most successful small business campaign. Taking place on 7 December this year, Small Business Saturday is a grassroots, not-for-profit campaign.
To learn more about Small Business Saturday and how you can get involved, scan the QR code.
Air Aesthetics & Wellness has announced the opening of its new clinic within the Therapy and Fitness Centre, located on Warwick Street, Leamington Spa.
The aesthetic clinic currently has bases in Henley-in-Arden, St Albans and Birmingham.
From this month, Air Aesthetics will be introducing its holistic, multi-dimensional approach to aesthetics, to customers in the Leamington Spa area.
‘We are thrilled to bring Air Aesthetics & Wellness to Leamington Spa’
Under the expertise of Dr Eva Fabreguettes, a highly qualified anti-ageing practitioner and trained GP, the new clinic is set to bring exceptional, results-driven aesthetic services to the Warwickshire town.
Known for her meticulous approach, Eva combines extensive medical training with a passion for beauty and wellness, ensuring that
each treatment is tailored to meet individual needs and enhance natural beauty.
Eva said: “We are thrilled to bring Air Aesthetics & Wellness to Leamington Spa, offering advice and guidance on the best treatments to ensure our clients feel confident inside and out. I look forward to welcoming them into our new space and helping them achieve their aesthetic goals with confidence.”
Eva is recognised as an emerging talent in aesthetic medicine, and is renowned for her calm, reassuring approach and dedication to patient care, creating a positive and relaxing environment for every client.
Dr Claire Oliver (GDC), medical director and co-founder of Air Aesthetics, added: “Opening a branch of our multi award-winning clinic in Leamington Spa marks an exciting new chapter for the business, allowing us to grow and develop our offering.
“This development reflects our commitment to bringing the highest quality products and treatments to a new client base, leaving them feeling confident in our ability to deliver longterm results and excellent safety.”
Solihull Chamber of Commerce will be holding a joint networking event with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber, bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs and leaders from across the two regions in the West Midlands. It will take place at Best Western Plus Manor Hotel on Thursday, 23 January, 2025.
Attendees will have the chance to meet new business prospects through a speed networking session called “sell, promote and pitch your business in under a minute” through quick and effective introductions.
There will also be a chance to explore what Best Western Plus Manor Hotel has to offer.
Chris Nagle, head of events at Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said “We’re really pleased to be hosting a joint networking event with our colleagues at Solihull Chamber of
‘This event represents an incredible opportunity for businesses from Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull to come together’
Commerce and giving members, from across both Chambers, a chance to meet the neighbours.
“This event represents an incredible opportunity for businesses from Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull to come together and forge new connections that will drive business opportunities and enhance collaboration in the region. As Chambers of Commerce, that’s what we do.
“We look forward to welcoming a range of Chamber members to the Best Western Plus Manor Hotel in Meriden and we’d advise members to book their ticket quickly as spaces are limited.”
Banking group raises nearly £50k for children’s charity
Employees at Solihull-headquartered Paragon Banking Group have raised nearly £50,000 for the company’s 2023-24 charity partner, Molly Ollys. Molly Ollys provides support for children suffering from life-threatening illnesses and their families in the UK.
Its main areas of work include fulfilling wishes by providing gifts to children, donating therapeutic Olly the Brave books and soft toys and bespoke projects, such as funding a paediatric palliative care consultant and the furnishing of the Magnolia House palliative care facility at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Paragon employees exceeded their £35,000 target by hitting £48,881, having held a series of fundraising and sponsored events throughout the company’s financial year.
Employees took part in activities such as The Big Paragon Quiz, which raised over £4,500, and Paragon’s annual Santa Dash, as well as many other fundraising activities.
Rachel Ollerenshaw, co-founder and fundraiser for Molly Ollys, said: “Molly Ollys was delighted when Paragon chose us as its Charity of the Year, and what a year it has been. From the outset, all the team really wanted to get involved, and took time to understand in-depth how Molly Ollys supports children and their families facing very challenging circumstances.
Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am excited to be hosting this joint event with our neighbouring Chamber, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber. The event will be a fantastic opportunity for members of both Chambers to network with other like-minded businesses and grow their connections.”
For more information and to book your place, scan the QR code.
“That desire to fully appreciate our work has led to a very successful partnership, and the support has been varied to suit the many ways that individuals want to contribute. We cannot thank everyone at Paragon enough for their contributions that have enabled us to help so many children. A heartfelt thanks to every one of you. Amazing.”
Deborah Bateman, director of external relations and executive sponsor of the charity committee at Paragon, added: “Molly Ollys has been a fantastic charity to work with. The work carried out by Molly Ollys is so valuable, supporting children with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
“Our next Charity of the Year is Guide Dogs, and we’re looking forward to the various fundraising events we have planned over the next year.”
Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell
T: 07540 751590
By Darby Newman
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s (GBCC) commitment to young professionals has taken a step forward with the appointment of Future Faces Ambassadors to two of its committees.
Representatives from the GBCC’s Future Faces division have joined the committees of the Royal Sutton Coldfield and Lichfield & Tamworth Chambers of Commerce.
The groundbreaking development highlights the Chambers’ strong commitment to fostering young talent and ensuring that these business communities are places where emerging leaders can thrive.
The two ambassadors are Adam Gadsby, from PI-KEM, and Will Crawford, from Quietnote.
Adam will represent Future Faces on the Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber committee, while Will is the ambassador for the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber committee.
Charlie Elliott, head of both the Royal Sutton Coldfield and Lichfield & Tamworth Chambers of
Commerce, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Adam and Will as our first Future Face Ambassadors.
“Their appointments signify a powerful step towards ensuring that the voices and ideas of younger professionals are at the forefront of our decision-making.
“At the heart of our work, we are committed to creating a Chamber environment where young talent can not only grow but thrive.
“These ambassadors will play a key role in shaping our Chamber’s future, bringing energy, new ideas, and innovation to our initiatives.”
The Future Face Ambassador role was introduced as part of the Chambers' ongoing commitment to engage younger members.
The initiative supports both the representation of younger members’ interests and their active participation in shaping the future direction of the Chambers.
Find out more information about the Royal Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth Chambers of Commerce and Future Faces by visiting the GBCC website at www.greaterbirminghamchamber s.com/about/our-network.html
‘At the heart of our work, we are committed to creating a Chamber environment where young talent can not only grow but thrive’
As an experienced coach who has worked extensively with professional services sector, I’ve observed a common theme among my clients: a struggle with confidence and awareness of their strengths, writes Rebecca Mander.
This is particularly true for less experienced employees who often find themselves grappling with feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome as they enter the corporate world surrounded by more self-assured individuals with years of learning under their belt.
I am all for a dose of humility, but you may find your thinking off balance…
Have a think about the following questions:
Do you encourage yourself the way you would a best friend?
Do you know your areas of strength as well as your areas to develop?
Do you speak up in meetings when you have something to say?
Are you happy to talk about your achievements in the workplace?
Are you excited to build your personal profile on Linkedin?
Do you spend a significant time out of your comfort zone?
Do you have your camera on in meetings?
Are you happy to have in-depth conversations with those senior to you?
Do you know where you are headed in the next six months?
If you have answered “no” to three or more of the questions, then the chances are your mindset is getting in your way of success. Your skill set is sorted but sadly that only makes up 20 per cent of our performance. Thankfully Future Faces have your back, and we are delivering three taster sessions from our awardwinning Bounce Mindset Programme for them in 2025.
Building on the sessions we ran in 2024, we will be looking at:
• Goal setting in time for the new year and how we can set huge goals without being overwhelmed.
• Being known for your Purposehow your “why” helps you network, negotiate and raise your profile.
• Imposter phenomenon - the alltime favourite and we look at how to silence the imposter once and for all.
If you can’t wait until January, please head to your free Career Confidence Kit to get you started by scanning the QR code.
The Chamber’s ever growing network for young professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.
By Darby Newman
Future Faces member Nadia Johnstone-Smith has scooped a top prize at the 2024 Women In Financial Advice awards.
Presented by Professional Adviser and hosted by comedian Zoe Lyons and PA deputy editor Jenna Brown, the awards took place at The Marriott Grosvenor Square in Mayfair and celebrated the achievements of women working within the financial advice community and the wider financial services arena.
The awards are not about men versus women or whether a particular gender is more suited to a career or role in financial services - they are simply about celebrating and recognising the achievements of women in a sector where they continue to be under-represented.
Whether it be the gender pay gap, the lack of senior women in the sector or the willingness of women even to seek financial advice, the sheer
A total of £1,480 was raised for the Future Faces charity of the year Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) at a charity quiz.
Hosted by The Button Factory with Tom Green acting as quiz master, over 100 people attended to help raise funds for the charity.
BHSF came out on top as the winning quiz team of the night.
BYSA Foundation was established in 2002 as a voluntary organisation and has received funding from a number of organisations in order to offer football coaching to young people aged 6-18 at Small Heath Leisure Centre – every Saturday morning – from 10:30am-12:30pm.
BYSA deliver multi sports sessions, mentoring, tutoring, trips, employment opportunities, work experience placements, educational support and apprenticeship and centre of excellence development programmes.
They help and support youth and empower them to make them leaders of tomorrow no matter what age, race, gender, ability or size.
Nadyia Hussain, BYSA ambassador, said: “The generous funds raised at this fantastic quiz night
volume of news stories appearing in Professional Adviser in recent years stands as stark testament to this latter point.
Nadia won the Rising Star in Advice category, sponsored by Gravis. The category was open to women in the UK financial services sector who have made a strong impact in a short space of time and are seen as most likely to progress further.
Nadia said: “I felt honoured to be named as a rising star in advice while surrounded by so many talented, successful, and supportive women within the financial advice industry. The night was a great celebration and reminder of the exceptional female talent within finance.”
Nadia also won the Finance category of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards 2024.
‘I felt honoured to be named as a rising star in advice while surrounded by so many talented, successful, and supportive women within the financial advice industry’
will ensure young people at BYSA are supported in removing barriers of basic necessities of travel, food and kit, and to empower them to become the best version of themselves.”
Lauren Willis, head of sales (Birmingham) at Mosaic Pubs & Dining, said: “It’s a real pleasure to work so closely with Future Faces. We're thrilled to have been the venue host for this event, and supported the fantastic amount raised. We look forward to continuing to work with Future Faces into 2025.”
Tom Green, operations manager at T&Pm, acted as quiz master once again for the quiz night. He said: “I was delighted to host the Future Faces charity quiz in support of Birmingham Youth Sports Academy. We had a brilliant turnout, with some competitive quizzing and plenty of laughs throughout the evening. It was incredibly rewarding to see so many people come together to support such a worthy cause.
“BYSA’s amazing programmes have such an impact on young lives across Birmingham, and I'm thrilled we were able to contribute to their important work.”
Sophie
“We are so proud seeing the
committee come together to support
it was a fantastic night, such a buzz in the room.”
Abdul Hadi Rana BUCHII LIMITED
Amelia Willetts Leopard Co.
Ebony Belle Vision for All CIC
Elizabeth Watt Wellspring
Ellie Wootton The Health Insurance Group
Ibukun Oluleye Tribera
Jasmine Turton Leopard Co.
Marium Sayed Clayton Hotel (Birmingham)
Melissa Haynes CSCM Limited
Ollie McGrath Tribera
Prabjot Ragbotra All Bar One Brindleyplace
Rob Bruce Bean IT Ltd
Rosie Mulhern Tribera
Shaun Darcy The Health Insurance Group
Shazia Shah Irwin Mitchell LLP
After all the fun of Christmas and the New Year, the packed Chamber events programme returns to more serious matters in the New Year, including a brunch on 21 January to mark the inauguration of Donald Trump as president of the United States. Readers are advised to keep an eye open in ChamberlinkDaily delivered online every working day for details of speakers and the venue. Another major event takes on 31 January with the Royal Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth and Cannock Chase Awards 2025 at the Belfry Hotel & Resort (6-11pm).
December
Social Networking - Burton Christmas
Social
Date: 5 December
Time: 16:30 – 18:30
Venue: Burton Rugby Football Club
Division: Burton & District
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Solihull Social Networking with Future Faces
Date: 5 December
Time: 16:00 – 18:00
Venue: Gymshark
Division: Solihull & Future Faces
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT
Christmas Social Networking
Date: 5 December
Time: 16:30 – 18:30
Venue: The Boat Inn
Division: Lichfield & Tamworth
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
1813 Club & Premier Members
Christmas Lunch
Date: 10 December
Time: 12:00 – 14:30
Venue: Edgbaston Park Hotel
Division: GBCC
Cost: £32 per person
Social Networking
Date: 11 December
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Venue: Newhall Street Tavern
Division: Future Faces
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £50+VAT
Christmas Social & Shopping
Date: 12 December
Time: 16:30 – 18:30
Venue: McArthurGlen
Division: Cannock Chase
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Social Networking
Date: 12 December
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Venue: BOX
Division: ABCC & Birmingham
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT
Non-members: £50+VAT
The Tiger Who Came to Tea returns to Town Hall (27 December to 5 January). This family show is part of a packed Christmas programme by B:Music at the Town Hall and Symphony Hall. Visit bmusic.co.uk/bfestival for the full programme. Picture: Pamela Raith Photography
Presidents Christmas Drinks
Date: 13 December
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Venue: The Regency Hotel –Harry’s Bar
Division: Solihull
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Social Networking - Christmas Social
Date: 12 December
Time: 16:30 – 18:30
Venue: The Cancer Support Centre
Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Future Faces Professional Development
Date: 9 January
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Venue: TBC
Division: Future Faces
Members: Free Future Faces members only
Social Networking
Date: 13 January
Time: 14:30 – 16:30
Venue: TBC
Division: Sutton Coldfield
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Social Networking plus SLTC awards
shortlist reception
Date: 14 January
Time: 12:00 – 14:00
Venue: TBC
Division: Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth, Cannock Chase
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
1813 Club and Premier Breakfast
Date: 15 January
Time: 8:00 – 10:00
Venue: TBC
Division: 1813 Club and Premier
Cost: TBC; 1813 Club and Premier members only
Networking Lunch & Speed Networking
Date: 16 January
Time: 12:00 – 14:00
Venue: TBC
Division: Burton & District
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Pro Solihull Networking
Date: 16 January
Time: 17:30pm – 19:30
Venue: TBC
Division: Solihull
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Social Networking
Date: 20 January
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Venue: TBC
Division: Cannock Chase
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Business at Breakfast/Tiktok masterclass
Date: 21 January
Time: 9:00 – 11:00
Venue: TBC
Division: Birmingham
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Global Brunch
Date: 21 January
Time: 9:30 – 11:30
Venue: TBC
Division: Global & Transatlantic
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Online Speed Networking
Date: 22 January
Time: 12:00 – 13:00
Venue: Online
Division: GBCC
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
The Good Business Forum
Date: 22 January
Time: 14:00 – 16:00
Venue: 54 Hagley Road
Division: GBCC
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
Social Networking
Date: 23 January
Time: 8:30 – 10:30
Venue: TBC
Division: Future Faces
Cost: Free Future Faces members only
Joint Solihull/Coventry & Warwickshire Speed Networking
Date: 23 January
Time: 10:00 – 12:30
Venue: Best Western Plus Manor Hotel
Division: Solihull
Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT
1813 Club & Premier Member Exemplar Visit
Date: 28 January
Time: 17:30 – 19:30
Venue: TBC
Division: 1813 Club and Premier
Cost: 1813 Club and Premier members only
Royal Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth and Cannock Chase Awards 2025
Date: 31 January
Time: 18:00 – 23:30
Venue: The Belfry Hotel & Resort
Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth and Cannock Chase
Cost: Delegate tickets: £115+VATpp
For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/ networking-events
The manufacturing industry is one of the UK economy’s largest greenhouse gas-emitting sectors. It’s clear that the industry needs to clean up and shift towards more sustainable practices – so as a manufacturer, what can you do to reduce your impact on the planet? Chamberlink explores some of the options.
Is your factory as energy efficient as it could be?
An easy place to start is with lighting. It can be as simple as switching to LED bulbs, programming automated lighting systems to ensure that unused spaces aren’t lit unnecessarily and using motion detector sensors in outdoor spaces, rather than leaving lights on all night.
Make sure you’re only running equipment when it is in use too. In addition, machinery will need regular cleaning and maintenance to optimise performance and expand its
lifespan, and systems such as heating and/or air conditioning should be replaced with more efficient models if they’re older than ten years.
Proper insulation will drastically reduce the energy needed to preserve room temperature in winter and also help keep buildings cool during summer.
Reduce your waste
Waste reduction is another easy way to kickstart your sustainability efforts. And if you cut out waste, you’ll be
‘The government has declared that the UK must reach net zero by 2050, and there are a number of schemes, government grants and resources available to help you get started’
boosting your bottom line as well as helping the planet.
Start by focusing on the processes that generate the most waste (either scrap product or a high percentage of damaged goods coming off the line) and then take a wider look at the factory as a whole. A waste audit may identify areas of waste that have previously gone overlooked, while mechanical and novel chemical recycling techniques could be utilised to reduce primary plastic production.
Next, consider implementing an inventory management system, as this will minimise the amount of excess raw materials you have in stock at any one time. You may find you’re spending more than you need to.
In terms of packaging, opt for reusable or recyclable materials. If that’s not an option, look at redesigning the packaging instead so that it uses less material and reduces the amount of waste that will be sent to landfill.
The government has declared that the UK must reach net zero by 2050, and there are a number of schemes, government grants and resources available to help you get started. Decarbonisation can help you either move to alternative energy sources or negative-emission methods. These include:
• Replacing natural gas with hydrogen (which doesn’t produce any greenhouse gas emissions)
• Generating renewable energy, such as solar or wind
• Switching from gas, petrol or diesel to electric
• Combined heat and power (CHP)
• Installing heat pumps to lessen the emissions from heat-demanding processes.
Bring your staff up to speed
Your staff will need to be on board with your efforts in order for you to make a real difference. Firstly, are your staff properly trained to use the machinery and technology? Your team need to have the right knowledge in order to use them efficiently, as poorly trained staff may result in extra waste being generated. In addition, make sure your staff have the right skills for a greener future. They may require further training to close the low-carbon skills gap.
You should also share your energy-saving initiatives with your employees and get them excited about doing their bit. If you help them see the wider impact they will have and encourage them to share their own eco-friendly ideas, together you will be able to manufacture a more sustainable way forward.
Adrienne (pictured), an engineer and Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET), Winner of Young Women Engineer Gender Diversity Award 2023, is an exemplar of innovation, expertise, and leadership in the engineering world.
As the owner-director of Eurovacuum Products Ltd., she has built a company renowned for its excellence in vacuum systems and low-pressure compressors, serving a wide array of industries.
Under Adrienne's leadership, Eurovacuum Products Ltd. has become a trusted name in delivering comprehensive solutions for vacuum systems and compressors, delivering system design and installation, energy surveys, rapid delivery and maintenance services.
Driving excellence by tailored support for industries including automotive, food processing, pharmaceuticals, plastics and water treatment, Eurovacuum Products Ltd. remains a partner of choice across diverse sectors.
Adrienne’s achievements as a chartered engineer and her fellowship at the IET affirm her impact on the engineering field. Her accolades celebrate not only her technical expertise but also her visionary leadership and dedication to excellence.
As Adrienne continues to lead Eurovacuum Products Ltd., her company remains at the forefront of innovation and service in vacuum systems and compressors. Her legacy as an engineer, mentor, and leader is shaping industries and inspiring the next generation of engineering talent.
T: 01299 253 220
E: info@eurovacuumproducts.com
W: eurovacuumproducts.com
Hiring a diverse senior leadership team comes with a variety of advantages – not only will it demonstrate your company’s commitment to positive social change, but it can also improve your competitive advantage, expand your market reach and bring a wider set of skills to your organisation. So how can a company hire outstanding candidates from a mix of ethnic, cultural and gender groups? Chamberlink offers its top tips.
Implement inclusive hiring policies
If you’re looking to foster a more equitable and representative leadership team, you must first implement inclusive hiring policies:
• Create inclusive job descriptions – use welcoming and inclusive language and avoid gendered or stereotypical language. For example, words like ‘dominate’ or ‘decisive’ and phrases such as ‘work hard, play hard’ might be seen as more masculine coded.
• Assemble a diverse interview panel – this will ensure an inclusive and welcoming interview environment and help to mitigate unconscious bias.
• Ask behaviour-based questions – focus on skills, leadership qualities and lived experiences, not just qualifications and school background.
• Offer reasonable adjustments and remove barriers – some candidates might need more support during the interview. Adjustments include: offering questions in written format, providing a sign language interpreter, additional time in assessment activities and assistive technology.
Widen hiring networks
Attracting a diverse pool of executive-level professionals means going above and beyond your traditional recruitment methods. You may
‘Attracting a diverse pool of executive-level professionals means going above and beyond your traditional recruitment methods’
already have preferred recruitment agencies or job boards where you will usually post any vacancies in your firm. However, you might be limiting yourself. To tap into the full range of talent offer, you should also utilise recruitment agencies that cater for underrepresented job seekers. A simple search online will bring up a number of agencies that put diversity and inclusion first.
You should also consider leveraging employee referrals, as these can help you access diverse talent pools that may not be accessible via traditional channels. In order to maximise referrals, you can offer your staff incentives for every successful interview or onboarding.
Finally, you should also focus on forging lasting connections with underrepresented groups
through networking events. By participating in diversity and inclusion-focused events, career fairs/open days and conferences and exhibitions, you’ll find you have access to a range of potential candidates from a variety of backgrounds.
Foster an inclusive workplace culture
In order to attract top diverse talent, it’s important to demonstrate to candidates that you will respect and support them in the workplace. The benefits of this are twofold: you will have happy, and more productive staff, and you will demonstrate your ability to look after your people thus helping you attract even more talent.
Ways to create an inclusive workforce include:
• Providing accessible facilities and workplace accommodations for staff with disabilities.
• Creating employee safe spaces, such as lactation rooms for new mothers or unisex bathrooms.
• Celebrating different religious holidays.
• Offering diversity training and skill-share programmes.
• Using inclusive language and giving staff the opportunity to share their voice and express concerns without fear of criticism.
• Implement a formal policy against workplace discrimination.
By following these strategies you can bring in the diverse senior leaders you need to spark innovation and drive long-term success.
A ground-breaking free travel scheme to get more people to try the bus for their daily commute has given away a million journeys in under a year.
The passenger incentive scheme developed by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) is primarily aimed at employers and large organisations to encourage their staff to leave cars at home and try the bus. It is part of a governmentfunded programme to boost journeys and protect services across the West Midlands.
Staff can sign up for a Swift account or travel card to get a period of free or discounted bus travel, like new customer deals offered by companies such as Netflix and Amazon.
It is hoped that having tried taking the bus, many will make a permanent switch for their regular commute, helping to reduce car congestion and pollution on our roads and help support and protect bus services. Already the scheme has attracted more than 27,000 users.
One key employer is University Hospitals Birmingham, with over 25,000 workers. Hundreds of new medical and nursing staff, including some from abroad, have been
at
supported to get to and from work through the initiative.
As part of the £19m scheme, TfWM, part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), is also targeting the free bus travel offer at key groups, such as care
Train operator CrossCountry has warned Birmingham city centre visitors not to rely on the last train home as the seasonal markets get into full swing.
Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Markets, running until Tuesday, 24 December, bring thousands of festive revellers into the city centre and mean busier trains than usual – especially later in the evenings.
Though more seats will be provided where possible, later services from Birmingham New Street will be extremely busy and passengers shouldn’t rely on the last train home and plan their journey well in advance.
‘We don’t want to leave any customers on the platform and encourage anyone visiting the markets to plan ahead’
Steve Hopkinson, CrossCountry’s service delivery director, said: “We know the markets are very popular and mean busier trains. We don’t
want to leave any customers on the platform and encourage anyone visiting the markets to plan ahead and not rely on finding a seat on the last train home.
“I’d remind passengers that our colleagues are working hard to get customers where they need to be. We have a zero-tolerance approach towards any anti-social behaviour directed at our employees and will work with the police to prosecute to the full extent of the law.”
The four weeks before Christmas 2023 saw Public Order Offences, including instances of anti-social behaviour on CrossCountry staff, increase by 14.3 per cent on the previous year.
Steven Ireland, head of stations, security and customer relationship management for Network Rail’s Central route, said: “All we want is for people to enjoy the Christmas season and get to where they need to be safely.
“We’ve got extra staff on hand to help provide advice and information and have the support of a dedicated anti-social behaviour team and St John Ambulance to help keep passengers and staff safe during this very busy time.”
Engineering work over the Christmas period will also mean changes to journeys.
leavers and apprentices, to support them as they start a new chapter in their lives or careers.
With 232 million journeys a year, buses are the backbone of the West Midlands public transport network, but have needed extra support to increase passenger numbers, keep services on the road and make sure fares remain among the lowest in the country.
West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “Every day, tens of thousands rely on buses to get to work, school, the doctors, or just to meet up with friends.
“That’s why improving our bus services is a priority for me. I’m committed to making buses more affordable and easier to use for everyone.
“And the more we use buses, the better the service can become. This 'try-before-you-buy' initiative is a great way for employers to encourage sustainable travel, helping reduce traffic and pollution around workplaces.”
National Express is once again bringing families together this Christmas with coach services running throughout the festive season, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
On Christmas Day alone, National Express is providing over 340 journeys and serving nearly 95 locations including towns, cities and airport locations across the UK.
With planned rail disruption between Tuesday, 24 December, and Tuesday, 2 January, the UK’s leading scheduled coach operator has confirmed services across the festive period are now available to book.
John Boughton, commercial director at National Express, said: “Christmas is such an important time of year for travel and people deserve reliable, comfortable and affordable public transport over the festive period.
As always, we’re here to help bring families together, and we’re encouraging customers to book in advance to get the best prices and guarantee a seat for travel.”
National Express’ modern coach services include leather reclining seats, free wi-fi, USB power sockets and space for all the family’s Christmas gifts, with a generous luggage allowance of up to 20kg.
Visit the nationalexpress.com to plan journeys and book tickets.
easyJet has launched a new campaign to recruit more veterans and encourage them to bring their highly transferable, valuable skills gained in the forces to join ex-service people already working across the airline.
As part of the drive, easyJet has joined forces with SAS hero and bestselling author Andy McNab to support the launch of weServed - a new online platform designed to help veterans transition into rewarding careers, including aircraft engineering and cabin crew.
The drive is part of easyJet’s ongoing work to encourage more older workers and career changers to join the airline, with current ONS data showing that 92 per cent of those that had served in both regular and reserve UK armed forces are over the age of 45.
The latest campaign comes following new research by easyJet which revealed that 80 per cent of veterans wanted to take on a new challenge after their service. However over half (60 per cent) of those surveyed believed more support was needed to help those leaving the forces transition into civilian jobs.
The airline is therefore also working with organisations which help exforce personnel find new non-military careers and support veterans from the Army, Navy and RAF re-entering the workforce, including The Career Transition Partnership, the official resettlement service for the Armed Forces and ForceSelect, a leading provider of military service leavers to UK industry.
Europe’s leading airline easyJet has launched its Big Seat Release, with nearly 19 million seats for between 1 October and 14 December next year now on sale. This means more than 10 million seats across 56,000 flights to and from the UK are now available, with some seats available from £22.99.
Birmingham Airport has updated its five-year Sustainability Strategy as it strives to reach net zero by 2033. Key developments in the last financial year include:
• The continuation of a reduction in carbon emissions following the switch to a 100 per cent renewable energy supplier in 2022, with a noticeable reduction of 25 per cent against the 2019 baseline.
• The airport was awarded Level 3 (Optimisation) Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) from Airports Council International (ACI) Europe for a second year. The category, benchmarked against 500 airports worldwide, heavily scrutinises the airport’s decarbonising activities and stakeholder engagement.
Stakeholder engagement grew this year with the inaugural Sustainability Week held on-site. The event raised awareness of the strategy through a series of events and activities linked to key sustainability themes.
The airport has also reappointed NATS as its air traffic service provider on a 10-year contract.
Midlands-based accounting and advisory firm PKF Smith Cooper has rebranded as part of a network-wide initiative by PKF Global, highlighting the company’s international capabilities and connections with over 200 PKF firms worldwide.
The rebrand sees PKF Smith Cooper align its image and identity with other member firms within the PKF network, as well as adopt a new logo that symbolises the five geographical regions (Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and India, North America and Latin America) within PKF Global.
It has been a year of expansion at PKF Smith Cooper, with the firm welcoming 85 new starters across its core services and group companies.
In addition to taking on several senior hires, including a new corporate finance partner and the acquisition of BLB advisory, the firm launched its popular graduate scheme for 2025 with current vacancies across Derby, Nottingham and Birmingham in audit, employment tax, corporate tax, and business recovery and restructuring.
Selma Delic, operations partner at PKF Smith Cooper, who led the firm’s marketing team during the rebrand project, said: “As an active member of PKF Global, we are delighted that our new brand aligns us with other PKF firms around the world, making our association with an internationally renowned accounting network immediately recognisable, but we also wanted to make sure we maintained our own distinct identity.
“We have worked closely with the PKF Global team over the past year to ensure consistency with the wider network, while also making sure our brand continues to resonate with our team, clients and the external market.”
James Bagley, managing partner of PKF Smith Cooper, said: “While the way we look may be changing, our company name, client-focused values and the highly personalised services we deliver will remain the same.”
Unity Trust Bank has appointed Keith Finson as head of financial crime as part of its commitment to keep customers safe from fraud.
Keith, who studied criminal law at university, served as a detective with Northamptonshire Police for 14 years before moving into the private sector in 2017.
He has held several roles at banks and fintech companies around the world and while head of organised and complex fraud at Barclays, he won a global award for helping to prevent a multi-millionpound cheque scam.
Keith said: “There are a lot of synergies between risk management in banks and financial services companies and how risk is managed in public sector organisations like the police.
“Most importantly we’re both committed to protecting people. Our customers are at the heart of everything we do at Unity and keeping them safe is a priority for us, especially those who may be vulnerable.
“We use intelligence, information and data to identify, mitigate and monitor risks and formulate risk management plans just like the police do.
‘Most
“The police have masses of intelligence from communities and from covert and overt assets which they utilise, and banks do exactly the same with financial crime. So, whether that’s a risky IP address or device, evidence of unusual activity attached to a device, a cookie or a session ID, these are all pieces
of risk intelligence which we use in our risk management plans.”
Keith assesses risks, monitors activity and ensures Unity’s controls and procedures continue to safeguard customers. His team also provide support and guidance on what businesses and organisations can do to protect themselves.
Keith said: “We are constantly evolving and enhancing our approach to financial crime but it’s imperative that customers also look to protect themselves too and we work together to combat financial crime.
“I was attracted to Unity because of its community values and there’s a culture of openness and transparency which is really refreshing, especially the bank’s attitude towards dealing with risk.”
Two directors with a combined 50 years’ experience have joined the senior leadership team at awardwinning West Midlands accountancy practice Prime Accountants Group.
Viv Shadbolt and Luke Edwards have been appointed by Prime, which has offices in Solihull, Birmingham and Coventry, based on their wealth of experience in the sector.
Accounts director Viv has more than 30 years’ experience in audit and accounts, qualifying at an independent Birmingham firm where he first met new Prime managing director Morgan Davies.
He said: “I’m delighted to be returning to an independent practice with all the benefits it brings, both for me and the clients I look after. It was the right time for me to move on from my last
practice, which coincided with Morgan and his team looking for additional support. It’s a happy coincidence and I was in the right place at the right time!”
Director Luke has more than 20 years’ experience working in audit and accounts across a diverse range of clients, specialising in providing strategic financial guidance and compliance.
After working his way up to associate director at a mid-market accounting firm, Luke has stepped up to director level in joining Prime.
He said: “After a couple of meetings with Morgan and Kevin Johns, I could tell Prime was exactly the sort of place I wanted to be. What really appealed to me was the way the firm looks after its staff – both in terms of the events they put on and the training they provide. Culture is a big thing for me, having a workplace which is a good place to be.”
Morgan said: “We’re delighted to be appointing two directors of the calibre of Viv and Luke to our growing team.”
The West Midlands must prioritise AI investment in manufacturing and engineering businesses if the region’s tech sector is to reach its target of achieving a £100bn valuation by 2030, according to a new report released by UKTN, the tech news website, and KPMG.
Gathering the views of senior business leaders from across the region, the report highlights the need to secure more capital funding to power new AI ventures and innovation in the sectors that have been long-standing drivers of growth. AI-enablement in the Midlands’ industrials sector alone has the potential to grow the region’s economy by £9bn by 2035.
With one of the most vibrant and fast-growing tech sectors in the UK, the West Midlands has a growing cluster of over 300 specialist AI businesses, employing more than 11,000 people.
But even with the surge in investor interest in AI bringing cash to startups across the country, the West Midlands has struggled to secure its share. The report finds that AI founders in the West Midlands are increasingly frustrated that many of the accelerator and support programmes that nurture growth on a global scale disproportionately benefit firms based in London.
The UKTN report also found that the West Midlands is a strong secondary location for south-headquartered AI firms who want to leverage the region’s position as a manufacturing and engineering hub.
These firms contribute substantially to the region’s economy by bringing jobs to the Midlands. However, business leaders cited the need for further government grants and investment funds to specifically target locally-led AI projects that would encourage growth in start-ups and small businesses.
Andrew Bostock, Birmingham office senior partner at KPMG UK, said: “The West Midlands has and will continue to be a byword for growth, jobs, development and innovation – now with an ambition to become the UK’s best
when it comes to digital skills. The focus on upskilling our workforce through innovation and technology has come at the same time as one of the sector’s biggest stories – the rise of AI – which has brought transformational efficiency and productivity benefits for businesses across the globe. This report showcases the great work that has already been done but we cannot stand still – we have to strive for growth and investment to ensure the West Midlands remains at the heart of using AI to drive digital and tech innovation.”
Oscar Hornstein, senior reporter at UKTN, said: “The West Midlands has been rapidly developing the maturity of its tech industry. However, no subsector is more in demand right now than AI. UKTN’s research has found that while there is a solid basis for AI success in the region, the West Midlands lags behind other regions.
“There are plenty of promising companies using AI for all manner of purposes in the area, however, to truly advance the West Midlands’ AI prowess, there must be a greater emphasis on AI skills development and a better route to secure funding for its companies.”
Lloyds has backed a renowned West Midlands-based manufacturer which has its sights set on future growth supported by a series of environmentallyfriendly measures to reduce energy consumption.
Now in its 85th year, Clevedon Fasteners was founded in 1939, and creates high quality Britishmanufactured window hinges, door locks and automotive components, expanding from a regional supplier to supplying 38 countries worldwide.
Following a seven-figure funding package from Lloyds, Clevedon Fasteners used the loan to boost cash flow and invest in eco-friendly practices. The business is now on track to double its turnover in the next year.
The financial support was instrumental in enabling Clevedon Fasteners to invest in energysaving initiatives, allowing the firm to reinvest in boosting productivity and expanding its operations.
The team is committed to reducing its environmental impact as it continues to enhance its production processes. Over
two years, the firm has reduced carbon emissions by 15 per cent.
Steve Hardeman, managing director at Clevedon Fasteners, said: “Securing this funding was essential in supporting our business journey, helping us to continue on our path towards sustainable growth.”
Claire Carr, relationship manager at Lloyds, said: “Clevedon Fasteners is an example of a resilient and innovative British manufacturer. We’re proud to support with the financing they needed to help shape their future.”
West Midlands Legal 500 law firm Sydney Mitchell has appointed Kiran Athwal as the new head of its personal injury and clinical negligence team.
The Birmingham and Solihull-based team acts exclusively for claimants on all types of personal injury and clinical negligence work.
Well known nationally for its successful handling of very complex, heavyweight cases, including high value, sevenfigure settlements for claimants, the team deals with all areas of personal injury law.
It also deals with claims relating to complex injuries such as serious brain injuries, chronic pain cases, and limb amputations.
With over 15 years’ experience as a personal injury lawyer, Kiran joined Sydney Mitchell in February 2023 and during this time, has secured a number of notable results for clients.
She said: “I feel privileged to lead the ambitious and skilled personal injury team. It has an outstanding reputation for excellence, for always working extremely hard to get the best outcome for its clients, and providing a personal, supportive service.
“I am genuinely excited for the new role and am looking forward to steering the next stage in the growth of the team, alongside exploring our individual sector specialisms including the niche area of working for charities.”
Dean Parnell, partner at Sydney Mitchell, adds: “Kiran is a very talented lawyer, with huge drive and ambition for the team and the firm. With her at the helm, there is no question the team will go from strength to strength, building on its great work and results for clients.”
Two solicitors from the Birmingham team of Rayden Solicitors have been ranked in the Chambers & Partners 2025 Guide in the West Midlands.
Partner Mary Kaye, who heads the Birmingham office, retains her Band 2 individual ranking, while senior associate Lauren Parton has entered the West Midlands guide for the first time as an “Associate to Watch”, which identifies “senior associates who are recognised for their work in the background of major deals”.
The Chambers Guide, a highly respected annual list of the best law firms and individual lawyers throughout the UK, is compiled following in-depth research and interviews, conducted by consultants who interview a range of professional and client referees.
Rayden Solicitors was founded in 2005 by senior partner Katherine Rayden with a single office in Shenley, Hertfordshire, and has grown to be the second largest specialist family law firm in the country with offices across the home counties, London and
Birmingham. The Birmingham office opened in 2022.
As a figurehead in the Birmingham legal scene, partner Mary Kaye has over 25 years’ experience practising family law.
She is the council member for Birmingham at The Law Society, has previously sat on The Law Society Children Panel, and was previously president of the Birmingham Law Society.
Mary is commended in the guide
for her “phenomenal reputation” and described as “a seasoned, strong partner”.
Katherine said: “Commitment to client care and excellence in the law is at the centre of everything we do at Rayden Solicitors and we are delighted to have this recognised by our professional peers and clients.
“We are enormously proud of Mary Kaye’s and Lauren Parton’s rankings.”
National law firm Freeths has successfully completed 70 corporate transactions for clients in October ahead of the historic Budget announcement.
Closing an average of over two deals a day, Freeths also had more than 15 signed off the day before Chancellor Rachael Reeves delivered Labour’s first Budget in 14 years.
Working on transactions from high profile clients across a number of sectors in the UK including energy, retail and hospitality, telecommunications, healthcare and technology, the M&A team ensured it provided consistency and quality amongst the backdrop of a new government.
Headed by Leon Arnold, the Freeths team is regularly instructed by clients on mergers, acquisition, disposals and private equity investments, continuing to bolster its footprint across the UK this year with strategic key hires, leading the way amongst competitors.
He said: “I’m incredibly proud of what we have
achieved, which is down to the collaboration, dedication and talent of our team.
“Thank you to our clients and referrers for trusting us to get these transactions completed in challenging conditions.”
Corporate partner Lee Clifford added: “The drumbeat leading up to the budget was all about revenue raising and tax hikes. An increase to capital gains tax was firmly earmarked.
While this is not exclusively driven timelines in October, it has certainly added focus for parties who are in deal processes.”
The firm’s commitment to ensuring quality M&A activity follows a year of record growth for Freeths’ corporate arm. Partner Martin Smith joined the team in April, closely followed by director Hannah Tessyman in May. The firm later welcomed the addition of partner Ania Vernon in June. Senior associate Grace Hill is the latest to be appointed in the East Midlands.
Birmingham-based independent construction and property management consultant Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB UK) has announced a new partnership to support green skills development in the region.
The partnership includes ties with Birmingham City Council, Bolsover District Council (and its innovative, wholly-owned company Dragonfly Development Ltd) and East Lindsey District Council.
Appointed to support three retrofit skills development pilots funded by the Midlands Net Zero Hub, RLB’s sustainability team was instrumental in the three councils gaining over £450,000 funding from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
Following a research pilot undertaken by RLB to assess the retrofit skills needed in the region, the funding will enable:
• Pilot regional resource to coordinate retrofit skills development between LAs, employers and education providers
• Investment in colleges to provide low carbon tech training equipment and training for tutors and lecturers
• A permanent retrofit employers’ forum for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire
• Creation of collaborative retrofit regional careers pathway strategy and careers engagement materials targeting young people and SMEs
The project has engaged and benefited dozens of stakeholders including those in councils, colleges, universities and retrofit employers across the Midlands.
Peter Hayakawa, sustainability associate at RLB, said: “Retrofitting our housing stock is one of the elephants in the room for UK net zero.
“The need to triple our current retrofit workforce to achieve these targets represents a challenge but also huge opportunities for regional green economic development as well as young people, SMEs and the existing workforce. We’re proud to work with Bolsover, Birmingham, and East Lindsey councils that are leading the way for the Midlands on this agenda.”
Features such as nearby coffee shops, on-site gyms, cycle and storage amenities, changing and showering facilities and tenant break-out areas continue to be “almost prerequisites” for offices in central Birmingham, according to a commercial property expert.
Most occupiers say that is the main way that they can both retain and recruit staff as the city centre office market demonstrates remarkable resilience, achieving its highest figures at the three-quarters stage of a calendar year since 2015, according to Charles Warrack, partner at leading property consultancy Fisher German based in Colmore Row,
‘The specification of office buildings continues to be very important’
Twenty-three transactions have taken place in Q3 totalling 348,690 sq ft. This adds to the 48 deals comprising 368,794 sq ft in the first half of 2024, giving a total of 717,484 sq ft of transactions in 71 deals.
The total take-up at this three-quarter stage of the calendar year is the highest since 2015 when HSBC UK opened its HQ in Birmingham city centre.
Charles said the trends being shown in Q3 emphasise the importance of the education sector in the commercial office market.
He said there has been two stand-out transactions with Aston University taking nearly 190,000 sq ft of space at 10 Woodcock Street in addition to the Global Banking School taking just over 68,000 sq ft at 1 Brindleyplace.
Charles said: “These two transactions are not only good news for central Birmingham but highlight the resilience and popularity of the Aston and Brindleyplace areas of the city centre. When speaking regularly to occupiers, tenants and landlords, key trends are being crystallised within the marketplace and new ones are emerging.The specification of office buildings continues to be very important. Features such as nearby coffee shops, on-site gyms, cycle and storage facilities, changing and showering facilities and tenant break-out areas continue to be very popular and almost prerequisites for most occupiers so that they can both retain and recruit staff.
“I have also noticed that some occupiers are really focused on getting value for money, even more so than usual. This is not to say occupiers are looking for budget space but require offices which work on both a functional and financial point of view.
“I very much think this trend will continue alongside the more familiar flight to quality that has been witnessed in the last three or four years.
“There is a clear message to landlords that if you do have an underperforming office building, it is very important to consider what action should be taken to improve its accommodation and facilities.”
The education sector led the way in a surge of lettings that marked the strongest quarter that the Birmingham office market has seen since 2017.
According to KWB’s Q3 2024 Birmingham Office Market Review, 348,690 sq ft was let over 23 deals - 77 per cent of which were deals involving the education sector.
The most significant letting was 189,053 sq ft at 10 Woodcock Street, located within Birmingham’s flourishing ‘Knowledge Quarter’, in a deal with Aston University that will see the award-winning building become home to Aston University’s Business School and Law School.
Malcolm Jones, director of office agency at KWB, said: “While the office market has seen great activity in the professional services and private sectors over the last five years, it seems that the education sector, including recruitment and training, will be
leading for the foreseeable future.”
The education sector represented 267,672 sq ft of lettings in Q3, surpassing the
sector’s entire occupancy across 2023 in this quarter alone.
This thriving sector has taken 315,640 sq ft of space thus far in 2024, a 44 per cent share of the 717,484 sq ft total.
This is significantly higher than its previous highest sector share of 25 per cent in 2023.
Malcolm continued: “We have seen a sizeable leap forward in Q3, compared to the amount of space let at the beginning of the year, with 23 deals completed in this quarter alone.
“In addition to those in the education sector, significant deals included One Snowhill, 1 Brindleyplace and Cornerblock; all of which were pivotal in this extensive take-up.
“2024 is on track to become a year of great market significance for Birmingham, with the upward trends seen in Q1, Q2 and Q3 a clear indicator of how the year will transpire.”
Professional Development Training has launched its 2025 training events calendar for fellow Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce members and their management teams.
Half-day, one-day and two-day workshops designed to help managers and supervisors fine tune their leadership skills for the year ahead will take place in Birmingham.
The workshops are an opportunity to learn alongside peers from different industries, fine-tuning leadership skills while networking and sharing management practices. The new workshops are:
• An introduction to coaching for line managers – 23 January
• Confident communication at work – 28 January
• Get Organised – prioritising and delegating for managers – 3 February
• Discover Your DiSC Profile Day – 12 February
• From friend to team leader – 27 February and 27 March
• Giving feedback that counts – 3 March
• Leading your team through change – 12 March
Marie Hannan-Meads, director at Professional Development Training, said: “We live in an ever-changing, fast-paced business environment and as managers we all need to occasionally step off the hamster wheel, review
A three-day show at the NEC next June aims to unearth the next generation of plumbers, electricians, carpenters, builders and other key tradespeople to help bridge the construction industry skills gap.
InstallerSHOW (24-26 June) has unveiled plans for InstallerFUTURES 2025 – which will, for the first time, run across all three days of the show.
InstallerFUTURES is part of InstallerSHOW’s ongoing commitment to inspire the next generation of installers to improve their skills, connect with the industry and find valuable employment opportunities within the sector.
Traditionally focusing on learners in current further education, over the past three years InstallerFUTURES has welcomed over 700 17 to 21-year olds from gas, plumbing, heating and electrical courses at UK colleges and learning institutions to specially curated events on the final day of the show.
As InstallerSHOW continues to reach into new sectors, the scope of InstallerFUTURES will become broader – with 2025 seeing expansion into a multi-trade offering covering roofing, carpentry, tiling and general building.
Special projects director Emma-Jayne King said: “It has never been more important to address the ongoing skilled worker deficit across the construction industry. InstallerFUTURES is for anyone looking to upskill, reskill or enter the sector – from college learners and apprentices to established installers looking to change direction, and industry veterans keen to take the pulse of its changing needs.
“We are thrilled to support a true multi-trade offering covering everything from plumbing, heating, gas and electric to roofing, carpentry, tiling and general building.”
“People
how we’re doing – and keep our leadership skills up to date. We’ve been training and developing management teams in the Midlands and beyond since 1995, across a range of industries from healthcare to engineering, financial services to manufacturing.
“Keeping your management teams up to date with 21st century leadership is crucial to attract and retain skilled people in your organisation. People don’t leave jobs, they leave managers.
“No matter how large or small the team you’re leading, the workshops will provide an opportunity to explore and refresh your people management skills, talk through workplace challenges and share successful solutions and techniques with others in similar roles.”
For booking details go to: professionaldevelopmenttraining.co.uk
Birmingham has been chosen as a base for the UK’s first Medicines Manufacturing Skills Centre of Excellence, which will use virtual reality to train in-laboratory skills and support the NHS’s net-zero goal.
The initiative, known as Resilience, will address the acute skills shortage faced by the medicines manufacturing industry in the UK, and the University of Birmingham will be one of the partners delivering the programme.
Funded by the Office for Life Sciences, part of the government’s Department for Science, Innovation & Technology, and managed through Innovate UK, Resilience is a £4.5m, two-year programme.
For them to keep being successful, it is imperative that we help them bridge the industry’s skills gaps.
“This new Centre of Excellence will be an important part of those efforts – bringing industry, universities and the NHS together with schools and colleges to ignite the next generation of life sciences talent.”
Resilience will create and deliver new training courses for industry, the NHS and education providers, addressing key sector priorities, including digital technology, artificial intelligence, data analysis and environmental sustainability.
At a launch event, the Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, Lord Patrick Vallance, said: “With over £108bn turnover, as a provider of over 300,000 jobs nationwide, and as a source of treatments helping tackle some of the most debilitating diseases, the life sciences sector is one of the UK’s true industrial champions.
“Our medicines manufacturers’ work is critical to the economic success, and health, of the nation.
Professor Ivan Wall (pictured), co-director of Resilience, added; “The use of VR technology will be central to the project, helping young people safely learn skills that it would be impractical to gain in the real world due to logistics and capacity.
“It will also help the NHS to meet its long-term goal of achieving net zero. A quarter of their emissions are in the supply chain, and VR will help the industry deliver net zero medicines manufacturing.”
The programme also aims to engage with 150 schools, colleges, and FE centres across the UK.
Birmingham’s Millennium Point unveiled a ground-breaking programme which aims to prepare students for a future dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Futures Readiness was developed by the Arthur Terry Learning Partnership (ATLP), a family of 24 schools across the West Midlands. They now hope to extend the pioneering scheme.
The scheme provides students with a preparedness framework of 20 different skills, attitudes, competences and values, to help them navigate the rapidly-changing present and prepare for unprecedented disruption to the world of work, education and society.
Millennium Point CEO Abbie Vlahakis presented details of the programme to dozens of regional business leaders. Under the theme ‘The Game Has Changed: AI and the Future of Work’, the event shed light on the transformative role AI is already playing in knowledgebased industries.
Alex said: “More than 50 major companies from across the Midlands attended – which shows the appetite there is across all sectors to understand what the impact of AI is likely to be, for their business their employees, and their future workforce needs.
“With technology moving so rapidly, it’s vital that education and business work together to try to map out what skills and attributes will be needed from today’s students, because we need to start addressing them now.”
Cord, a Birmingham-based manufacturer of EV charging points, has successfully installed charging ports for Intercity Technology.
The city-based IT service provider wanted a futureproof installation that provided the fastest charging speeds without the need for a power upgrade, and to cover six parking bays.
Cord assessed their available power capacity during a site survey and determined that they could have up to six 22kW chargers on their existing supply.
To ensure their available power capacity is never exceeded, even during times when power consumption at Intercity is at full-stretch, Cord set up load-balancing across all of the chargers.
By Feron Jayawardene
The invasion by Russia of Ukraine has made the UK’s transition to homegrown renewable energy even more critical, according to a government minister.
Lord Hunt, Minister of State at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, was speaking at the Sustainable Business Series Conference, organised by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) at Midland Arts Centre (MAC).
He said: “The UK has a great opportunity to reclaim global leadership by investing in lowcarbon technologies, enhancing energy security and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
“The invasion of Ukraine has highlighted our vulnerabilities, making the transition to homegrown renewable energy even more critical.
“To accelerate this transition, we have established Great British Energy with £8bn of public funding to attract private investment and eliminate hurdles for major energy projects.
“We expect to see significant expansion in offshore wind over the next few years, as it is one of the fastest and most effective renewable energy sources.
“We have also lifted restrictions on onshore wind and are fasttracking the development of solar energy.
“Nuclear energy will play an essential role as a stable baseload power source, complemented by gas with carbon capture, utilisation, and storage for flexibility, while renewables will cover most of our energy demands.”
Ed Cox, executive director for strategy, economy & net zero at West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), said: “The plan for West Midlands to achieve net zero starts from implementing four five-year plans.
“The aim of the first year is to reduce our carbon emissions by a third.
“We are tackling this issue in many sectors, including transportation, domestic, commercial and grassroots.
“We aim to reduce private car journeys by a third, increase
An Aston University PhD student has been named as the best young communicator in the Midlands.
Alice Johnson, from the University’s College of Engineering and Physical Sciences won the regional heat of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers’ Speak Out for Engineering (IMechE SOfE) 2024 challenge.
The global competition was established in 1964 by the Young Members Institution of Mechanical Engineers to challenge young professionals to prove that they can communicate technical and mechanical engineeringrelated subjects.
Alice’s award-winning talk was about optimising scaffolds for cultivated meat bioprocessing, and she will now represent the Midlands in the UK & Ireland 2024 final.
Jean-Luc Bulber, chairman of the IMechE Birmingham area committee, said: “Alice definitely impressed all the judges and the audience with the animated presentation she had built using Canva rather than the more conventional PowerPoint software. The aesthetic appeal and rich modern design helped her
public transport trips to 20 per cent, and boost cycling and walking by 10 per cent. We’re also committed to electrifying our bus and taxi fleets and investing £15m annually to enhance active travel options.
“On the domestic front, we’re tackling retrofit challenges, setting a goal to upgrade 294,000 homes by 2026 on the way to a million by 2041.”
Midland Arts Centre (MAC) chief executive Nicola Rowe shared insights into the organisation's sustainability journey.
Fiona Rouse, director of PIKEM Group and president of Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce, emphasised the importance of scaling up the business as part of PI-KEM’s journey.
The Sustainable Business Series is sponsored by LLoyds Bank and University College Birmingham business school.
share her research work and make it accessible to a wider public. She also truly engaged with the audience, which is a key aspect of this challenge.”
Alice said: “I aimed to paint a picture of a sustainable food future that everyone can understand, illustrating how cultivated meat can go from biopsy to bowl.
“Communicating STEM topics is just as important as the research itself because public understanding and acceptance are key to advancing technologies like these. Without that foundation, we risk slowing down progress towards meaningful change.”
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A stampede of local businesses has signed up to become a sponsor for Birmingham’s next art trail, Bulls in the City.
Birmingham Hospice has partnered with Wild in Art, a global producer of art trails, to create a new, trail for Birmingham in the summer of 2025 to raise money for the hospice.
Iconic Brummie businesses and organisations have signed up to sponsor a sculpture, including Selfridges, Brindley Place and Paradise, DLA Piper, MHA and Salts Healthcare, as well as local BIDS including Harborne and Central.
Birmingham-based relocation company Restore Harrow Green has also signed on as logistics partner for the trail. Having worked on previous Birmingham art trails including The Big Sleuth in 2017 and The Big Hoot in 2015, the team at Harrow Green were keen to support once again.
The trail itself is inspired by the iconic Bullring bull, created by
After almost two decades, Eurovision legend Dana makes her British stage comeback in Birmingham this month.
The original Derry girl, who shot to fame in 1970 as Ireland’s first winner of the Eurovision Song Contest with All Kinds of Everything, went on to score chart hits worldwide with the likes of Please Tell Him That I Said Hello, Fairytale and It’s Gonna Be a Cold Cold Christmas.
Dana joins forces with Grimethorpe Colliery Band, the world’s most renowned brass band, best known for providing the soundtrack to Brassed Off, starring Ewan McGregor.
The Christmas spectacular at Town Hall, Birmingham, on 22 December is the brainchild of conductor and arranger Matthew Jones. Dana and Grimethorpe Colliery Band: A Dana Good Christmas! also features The Choir of St Mary’s the Mount RC Primary School, Walsall, and host and guest singer Bob Brolly.
Buy your own bull: The Bull Ring launch of the art trail with Birmingham’s famous bull
sculptor Laurence Broderick. Next summer a herd of 40 fibreglass bull sculptures will take over the city, eventually being auctioned off to raise money for Birmingham Hospice.
Steve Hewlett, Central BID manager, said: “Central BID is
themselves:
proud to support Birmingham Hospice with the exciting ‘Bulls in the City’ trail.
“Sculpture trails produced by the world-renowned Wild in Art and their artists are always hugely popular with visitors and raise
much-needed funds for charity. Sponsoring a bull will provide companies with not only a highprofile presence in the city but also enable Birmingham Hospice to continue its important work.”
‘Central BID is proud to support Birmingham Hospice with the exciting ‘Bulls in the City’ trail’
With sites in Selly Park and Erdington, Birmingham Hospice supports local people living with a terminal diagnosis, offering expert palliative and end of life care for free to communities in and around Birmingham.
The Bulls in the City trail will directly support Birmingham Hospice by raising awareness while the trail is live next summer, but it will also raise vital funds when the 40 sculptures are auctioned.
Birmingham Royal Ballet offered opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn about the company with a major showcase at Birmingham Hippodrome’s Patrick Studio.
Through its dedicated learning, engagement, access and participation (LEAP) team, working with BRB’s world-class dancers and highly skilled practitioners, BRB reaches out to adults, colleges, schools and individuals.
It provides opportunities across the West Midlands and wider UK to learn new skills, be active, gain confidence and, for some, to widen career aspirations in the creative industries.
As part of BRB’s ongoing community engagement, Freefall Dance Company performed a showcase of their dance work at Birmingham Hippodrome’s Patrick Studio. Freefall Dance Company, a group of 10 highly gifted dancers who express themselves and their individualities without the restraint of their
learning disabilities, shared two pieces from their repertoire: After Luna and Seaside Rendezvous.
Earlier this year Freefall celebrated its 21st Anniversary and has since been actively teaching, filming and advocating for the role of dance and leadership development for people with a learning disability.
This Christmas three current Dance Track students, including two more brothers, will be given the opportunity to perform with BRB in the much-loved Sir Peter Wright’s The Nutcracker.
Alex Chatt (Kings Heath Primary School) and twins Dan and Zak Beech (Colmore Primary School) will be taking to the stage at Birmingham Hippodrome in the Christmas Eve party scene that opens BRB's magical festive production.
This year also marks the first Relaxed Performance of The Nutcracker on 3 December in partnership with Birmingham Hippodrome.
Companies across the Midlands can access more networking opportunities at Edgbaston Stadium after Warwickshire County Cricket Club relaunched its Bears Business Club – sponsored by Intercity.
New for 2025, members will receive access to six events across the year, including a launch event, business exhibition and matchday hospitality experience, plus dedicated networking opportunities featuring a range of guest speakers for a £500 + VAT one-off fee.
Sales manager George Shakespeare (pictured) said: “All our events have an underlying networking focus, including high-performance sport and business panels, cricket hospitality, and forums featuring a range of guests.”
Warwickshire CCC has won two Business of Cricket Awards (BOCAs) for its sustainability work and staging of a new legends tournament that reached a global audience of more than 300 million
The BOCAs at Edgbaston stadium celebrated the achievements of all First Class Counties across a range of categories including spectator experience, inclusion, and community engagement.
Warwickshire landed the Sustainability Award in recognition of its Edgbaston 4 Sustainability campaign to reduce waste and become more energy efficient.
More than a third of all waste at Edgbaston is now recycled (up from 15.8 per cent in 2023) while the club is the first in the country to introduce an all-electric fleet of grounds equipment, a move that’s saving seven tonnes of CO2 per year.
Sustainability manager Lydia Carrington said: “We’ve taken significant steps towards resource conservation and waste elimination through our Edgbaston 4 Sustainability strategy which focuses on energy usage, waste management, reduction of carbon footprint, and education, health and wellbeing. This simple approach tackles sustainability holistically, benefiting our planet, people and community.”
And Edgbaston’s hosting of the inaugural World Championship of Legends (WCL) event saw Warwickshire named the Most Welcoming and Inclusive Stadium.
Warwickshire special events manager Ella Hogan said: “The WCL was a ground-breaking event that celebrated legendary cricketers whilst fostering community engagement and cultural diversity, with 92
per cent of ticket purchasers being from diverse backgrounds.”
Warwickshire Chief Executive Stuart Cain added: “It’s great that the team here at Edgbaston have been recognised again at the BOCAs.
We work hard to win on and off the pitch, so it means a lot to those who make projects like this happen.”
The Midlands Sporting Luncheon will welcome the world’s most capped rugby played Alun Wyn Jones as the guest of honour for its 2024 event.
The Wales legend will be the main guest on Wednesday, 11 December, for the lunch at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel in Birmingham City Centre, organised by the leading sports hospitality agency Eventmasters, based at St Paul’s Square, Birmingham.
Members of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce can currently enjoy a 10 per cent discount on this event. Jones has been a tremendous servant to the game winning 158 caps for Wales and 12 caps for the British & Irish Lions.
Denise Sheasby, CEO of the Eventmasters Group, said: “It’s a
major coup for us to have Alun Wyn as our guest of honour at the Midlands Sporting Luncheon, we have had many legends join us over the years but never the world’s most capped player.”
Tim Stimpson, the former England International, himself a
British and Irish Lion, will again host the event which includes a Q&A with the guest of honour and a four-course lunch.
Fundraising for Prostate Cancer will take place during the afternoon, with top comedian Paul Boardman providing entertainment.
Warwickshire has become one of the first cricket clubs in the country to gain accreditation to the national Disability Confident employer scheme. The programme encourages employers to think differently about disability and take action to improve how they recruit, retain and develop disabled people.
As part of the accreditation, the club has pledged to offer a job interview to any disabled applicant who meets the essential criteria for a role.
And it also means disabled candidates can apply for jobs in different ways, including providing an audio application instead of submitting a written form.
Name: Mike Semens-Flanagan
Company: IMI Truflo Marine
Job Title: IMI Truflo Marine
What does your company do?
Design, development and manufacture of highly engineered specialist valves and actuators for the marine sector, based in state-of-the-art facility in Aston.
How did it all start?
The business started in 1965 in Witton, Birmingham, producing isolation valves for use in marine applications – the furthest point from the sea.
What’s your greatest achievement so far?
That would be my family. In business, I have turned around a number of businesses but a highlight would be when I was a special technical coach at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.
What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?
Being sent into a company in trouble and becoming MD for the first time. It was a huge learning experience, but I found the best people turned around and made profitable.
What keeps you awake at night?
Not much – we have a great team here. But thinking about how we can do things better for our customers is something that always mulls over in the brain.
If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?
Probably tried on my own, as I worked with a few start-ups. I put in a huge effort and sometimes you get frustrated with speed and results when it’s not your own business.
With recent government support for lean and agile business models, businesses have a unique chance to streamline operations. Efficiency will be essential for managing resources, responding to economic shifts, and maintaining a competitive edge.
As part of the government’s push for a digital economy, tax incentives and grants for AI and automation adoption are set to drive technology integration. Businesses embracing these technologies can expect productivity boosts and improved innovation.
What has surprised you most in your job?
How good the team is. From a poor performing business, customer focus and enabling people to get with it has greatly improved the business and customers see and feel it.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Take on the big challenges, don’t be afraid of failing and also ask for mentor/support – the network is there to learn from and get advice.
Which business do you most admire?
Amazon – challenged how things were done, application of technology and always have a seat for the customer at the board table.
What exciting projects is your business working on?
We are working on designing the next generation platform, which is fantastic as well as setting up two companies overseas to support our growth/exports.
What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?
We are a world-class Birmingham business that no-one knows about apart from key customers. Great to get visibility and connect with like-minded businesses in Birmingham and the West Midlands. Networking is the key value from the membership.
Tel: 0121 327 4789
Visit: www.imiplc.com
Biologica Solutions Ltd
Darren Saksenberg
07943 805832
www.biologicasolutions.com
Agents specialised in the sale of other particular products
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Bison Industries
Praveet Mal 07885 856769
www.bison-group.co.uk
Agents involved in the sale of food, beverages and tobacco
Asian Business Chamber of Commerce
Bridging Finance Solutions
andrew morgan 0151 639 7554
bridgingfinance-solutions.co.uk
Financial leasing
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Burton Radio
Scott Milligan 07481 104701
www.burtonradio.com
Radio broadcasting
Burton and District Chamber of Commerce
Cathedral Hearing
Laura Evans
01543 319641
www.cathedralhearing.co.uk
Retail sale of hearing aids
Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce
Chauffeur Exchange Ltd
Clare O'Reilly 0121 320 2220
www.chauffeurexchange.co.uk
Licensed carriers
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Chauffeured By Car
Craig Suttle 0121 320 2220
www.chauffeuredbycar.co.uk
Other passenger land transport
Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce
Compass Group UK & Ireland
Jonathan Foot 01932 573000
www.compass-group.co.uk
Other food services
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Crown Cotton Ltd
Zakariya Khan 07497 579722
crowncotton.com
Agents selling agricultural raw materials, livestock, textile raw materials and semi-finished goods
Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce
CSCM Limited
Jenny Hodgkiss 0121 661 4567
www.cscm.co.uk
Information technology consultancy activities
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Danielle Cohen Immigration Law
Solicitors Ltd
Danielle Cohen 020 7267 4133
www.daniellecohenimmigration.com
Solicitors
Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce
DIFFER Creative Ltd
Niall Bradnick 07715 990297 differstudio.co.uk
Motion picture, video and television programme post-production activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Empowered Change
Vicky Docker 07751 403157 empoweredchange.co.uk
Human resources provision and management of human resources functions
Solihull Chamber of Commerce
Endecay Professional Development
Neil Kearsley
07912 209054
endecaypd.co.uk
Management consultancy activities other than financial management
Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce
F1 Arcade Birmingham
Taylah Catlow 0121 227 4010
f1arcade.com/uk/birmingham Public houses and bars
Transatlantic Chamber
Fiona Millington Photography
Fiona Millington-Pipe 07590 275809
www.fionamillingtonphotography.com
Portrait photographic activities
Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce
Garrison Real Estate Limited
John Sambrooks 0121 401 1604
www.garrisonrealestate.co.uk
Real estate agencies
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
House Of Colour
Sophie Shelley 07565 998012
www.houseofcolour.co.uk/stylistprofile/sophie-shelley
Other service activities n.e.c.
Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce
IKEA LTD - Birmingham
Jo Ward
www.ikea.com/gb/en/stores/birmingh
am
Retail of furniture, lighting, and similar in specialised store
Solihull Chamber of Commerce
John Henry Newman Catholic College
Rose Oliver 0121 770 5331
www.johnhenrynewmancatholiccolleg e.org.uk
General secondary education
Solihull Chamber of Commerce
Lodders Solicitors
Molly Davies 0121 200 0890
www.lodders.co.uk
Solicitors
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
LTF Plumbing
Lee Fisher 07577 304279
ltfplumbing.co.uk
Plumbing, heat and air-conditioning installation
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Nicklin Accountancy Services
Limited
Liz McMillan 0121 550 9916
www.nicklins.co.uk
Accounting and auditing activities
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
As the voice of local business since 1813, we strive to help firms across the region
Officium BPO UK Limited
Adam Dy - Ross 07888 872060
www.officium.uk
Other service activities n.e.c.
Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce
Orelle Restaurant, CGL
Restaurant LTD
Christina Kruzewski
orelle.co.uk
Licenced restaurants
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP
Adam McGiveron 0121 312 2560
penningtonslaw.com
Solicitors
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
PYVITAL
Leanne Perry 0121 796 5333
www.pyvital.co.uk
Other activities of employment placement agencies
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Rider Levett Bucknall (UK) Ltd
Brook Smith 0121 503 1500 www.rlb.com
Other engineering activities
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Sable International Business
Immigration
Carey Goaté 0121 368 0036
www.sableinternational.com/business
-immigration Activities of extraterritorial organisations and bodies
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Seetec
Bobby Birdi 0800 334 5525
www.seetecpluss.co.uk
Other activities of employment placement agencies
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
SK Consulting Sapreena Kumari 07703 384799
Educational support services
Asian Business Chamber of Commerce
SO Workwear and Apparel Ltd
Clare O'Reilly 0333 300 2557
www.soworkwearandapparel.co.uk
Finishing of textiles
Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce
The Boss Partnership
Logan Khan 01543 264151
www.thebosspartnership.co.uk
Accounting and auditing activities
Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce
The Clean Space
Andy Rowen 07920 759646
www.thecleanspace.com
Other building and industrial cleaning activities
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
The Health Insurance Group
David Collinge 0330 323 0661 thig.co.uk
Life insurance
Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce
Titan Partnership Limited
Jas Rohel 0121 607 1930
www.titan.org.uk
Primary education
Solihull Chamber of Commerce
Vivo Telecommunications Limited
Andy Andreou 024 7662 0250
www.vivocomms.co.uk
Wired telecommunications activities
Solihull Chamber of Commerce
WRS Systems
Jamie White 0333 996 9566
www.wrssystems.co.uk/contact-us
Information technology consultancy activities
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
Your Digital Hub
Tim Hubbard 01902 288159
www.yourdigitalhub.co.uk
Information technology consultancy activities
Birmingham Chamber of Commerce
We are renowned for our superb customer service and while working with you on your metal forming project, our expertise and experience leads you all the way through from the initial metal working process, to the successful delivery of your project.
National Express West Midlands has launched a new seating trial aimed at improving bus driver comfort, safety and inclusivity.
The trial follows a pledge by Women in Transport, Women in Bus and Coach, and other organisations including National Express West Midlands, to accelerate improvements to bus drivers’ working environments as part of a new gold standard for inclusive cab design across the transport industry.
Chapman Seating, based in West Bromwich, has designed and manufactured new seats that are now being trialled for the first time, with input from National Express bus drivers, engineers and union representatives.
Seating improvements include integrated cushion suspension, ventilation and heating options, a greater width, and easily adjustable visual settings for improved driver comfort. The seats have also been designed to minimise the time and cost associated with any repairs required, meaning driver comfort is more easily and quickly maintained.
The six-month trial, which started at the end of October, is expected to see up to 200 drivers
assurance for National Express, said: “We recognise how important it is to build working environments that are safe, welcoming and comfortable for anybody who works in or is considering a career in transport.
“This is just the first step in our collective pledge and we’re excited about working with Women in Transport and Women in Bus and Coach to continue making our industry even more inclusive for current and future colleagues.”
Dal Kalirai, interim CEO for Women in Transport, said: “Our D&I Bus Group is dedicated to driving tangible change within the industry, and it’s incredibly inspiring to witness our partners and members making significant strides in areas like inclusive cab design.”
from National Express West Midlands’ West Bromwich depot experiencing the new seats on a single-decker Alexander Dennis E200 and a double decker Alexander Dennis E400 Platinum. Jenny Tocknell, head of operations and safety
Kerri Cheek, Women in Bus and Coach director, said: “At Women in Bus and Coach, we believe that fostering an inclusive environment for all drivers is essential to building a strong, sustainable future for the industry.”
Early feedback includes one driver saying that the new seat is “Very comfortable on my back and shoulders, and driving is much easier when comfortable and relaxed.”
An evening of Brummie culinary excellence has raised £27,665 for Acorns Children’s Hospice.
Chefs for Charity saw two of the second city’s greatest culinary heroes join forces for an exclusive dining experience to raise funds towards Acorns’ lifeline care for seriously ill children and support for their families.
At the exclusive event, hosted at University College Birmingham (UCB), 85 guests enjoyed the finest in dining from MasterChef: The
Professionals 2021 winner and Acorns ambassador Dan Lee, alongside Alex Claridge, renowned head chef of The Wilderness and star of The Great British Menu.
Dan said: “It was an amazing night overall for a fantastic cause, topped off by being able to raise a stunning amount of money. Special thanks to everyone who made it possible.”
Alex added: “What an immense achievement of Brummie excellence for one the city’s
important charities. I’m chuffed that my team and I were able to play our part.”
The event was organised by Acorns ambassador Harriet Giles, of Dishoom, and long-time supporter of the charity Professor Paul Cadman and was held in collaboration with University College Birmingham (UCB).
Guests were treated to a series of six courses expertly crafted by Dan and Alex with support from UCB’s promising culinary students, who received a standing ovation for their outstanding efforts.
Harriet said: “The night was a huge community achievement across the hospitality sector. It was an honour to raise such an incredible amount of money for such a just cause, which wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of so many people.”
All funds raised from ticket sales, the raffle, and an on-the-night auction will go directly towards Acorns vital care for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions across the West Midlands.
Birmingham-based travel agency Travel Club Elite won the Online Call Centre award at the ATAS (Association of Touring & Adventure Suppliers) national award ceremony.
The awards ceremony was held in Leeds. Travel Club Elite is one of the country’s top touring and adventure specialists, whose staff have experienced many of the itineraries and are perfectly placed to find the best arrangements for travellers.
Zoe Franklin, manager of Travel Club Elite in Birmingham, said: “It’s just wonderful to be voted as the best in the country for touring and adventure holidays.”
