Chamberlink Nov 23

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The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBER November 2023

LINK

Free to Members £5.00 where sold

Search is on for female stars of future See page 5 Picture: Marc Kirsten

• Best years of my career - president • Accountants are Solihull’s top business • Broadcasters to host ABCC awards

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Contents Chamberlink November 2023 Business News

48 ABCC: Chamber hosts annual patrons’ dinner

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Editor’s View Helping women make their mark in business

50 Cannock Chase: Scheme to stop nuisance calls

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Business News Women-led SMEs invited to pitch competition

51 Burton & District: Judges announced for Celebratory Lunch

12 President’s Focus Fiona Rouse, president of Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber 16 The Griffin Report Deb Leary, outgoing Chamber president 26 Where do you fancy?

Distillery

52 Lichfield & Tamworth: Show to light up the cathedral

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53 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Podcast recorded live at Chamber expo

Sector Focus

54 Solihull: Motorcycle brand appoints new director

68 Business Travel: Metro organisations are recognised at awards

56 Future Faces: Your chance to join committee

Chamber Patrons 42 Partnership puts students on fast track to careers

71 Finance: Businesses call for easier access to capital

Events 58 The latest list of Chamber events

72 Legal: The holistic approach to employee health

1813 Club and Premier Members

Features

44 Amadeus celebrates new deal with events venue

61 Business Banking & Finance: Help your bank to help you

77 Manufacturing: UK needs a Minister for Manufacturing

Chamber Group

62 An alternative route to finding funding

46 International Trade: UK signs MoU with Washington

66 Digital Media Services: The rise and impact of influencers

78 Property: Colliers calls for business rates freeze 80 Skills: Innovation district to boost digital skills 82 Technology: Don’t rely on AI for content 85 The Arts: Sharon Osbourne will ‘tell all’ at Alex show 86 Sport: Euro 2028 to bring major boost

Member Section 87 Chamber Insight Lucas Markou, The Jerroms Group 88 New Members Chamber welcomes new members

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90 …any other business News from Chamber businesses

CHAMBER LINK

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.

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 07508 317356 f.jayawardene@birmingham-chamber.com Reporter: Darby Newman +447951245985 d.newman@birmingham-chamber.com

You can now read the latest issue of CHAMBERLINK and view back issues online at: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com

November 2023 CHAMBERLINK 3

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OPINION

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Breaking down the doors and striving for equality have been familiar for many years with the struggles women have faced to make their mark in business. Thankfully, things are changing, as reflected in this edition of Chamberlink.

I worked for many years in probably one of the most male-dominated industries. It was difficult enough for anyone to break into the media as a journalist – newspapers were dominated by public school and Oxbridge types, and nepotism on the print side made it almost impossible for any unrelated male or female to join that lucrative club. There were exceptions.

My first large evening newspaper employed only two women journalists that I can remember – one was an excellent general reporter but was always given “soft” stories to do, the other looked after the “women’s pages”.

Fleet Street was even worse. And one of their most famous watering holes, El Vinos, did not lift their ban on women until 1984.

Gradually women have broken down the doors of what was a gentlemen’s club. And that is reflected in a book by Julie Welch called ‘The Fleet Street Girls’.

Julie became the first woman in Fleet Street to report on a football match in August, 1973.

The game happened to be at Coventry City’s Highfield Road ground when the home team beat Tottenham Hotspur 1-0. When she entered the press box she was greeted by a loud voice behind her saying: “Women in the press box. So it’s come to that.”

Julie went on to become a successful sports

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FRONT COVER (Left to right): Harinder Kunor, Tracy Sheratt and Henrietta Brealey See page 5 Published by

Kemps Publishing Ltd 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3DA 0121 765 4144 www.kempspublishing.co.uk Managing Editor: Laura Blake Designers: Lloyd Hollingworth & Stuart Burton Advertising: 0121 765 4144 jon.jones@kempspublishing.co.uk Printers: Stephens & George Print Group

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journalist and author and was a pioneer of those women who now so successfully dominate sport in the media, particularly television.

I was flattered to receive a mention in ‘The Fleet Street Girls’ (The Orion Publishing Group Ltd, £18.99). Please forgive me for a little selfpromotion.

I have never met Julie but she writes in that book: “We worked with and for all kinds of men; kind, decent and encouraging men; powerful men, tough bastards and legendary brutes; cads, lechers, dinosaurs and misogynists.” As you can tell, HR policy on those days was largely: “The floggings will continue until morale improves.”

Julie goes on to mention Wendy Holden, who also became a successful journalist and author, and how I helped her up the greasy pole that was Fleet Street in the 1980s.

After joining a news agency, Wendy was desperate to get a job on a newspaper. She got to know many Fleet Street staffers, me included, who “were earning a great deal more than I was”.

She told Julie: “John Lamb, who is lovely and I’m still friends with, suggested I try the Evening Standard because they were hiring freelances.”

This led to her landing a permanent staff job on the Standard (where I was working) on the princely sum of sixteen thousand pounds a year.

Wendy added: “Chris (her boyfriend) and I opened Champagne, we couldn’t believe it. We’d just moved into our first house. Men like John Lamb made up for the gropey ones.”

So now you know. I have played a small part in equality for women.

PRIVACY NOTICE: Kemps Publishing Ltd process personal information for certain legitimate interest purposes, which includes the following: • To provide postal copies of this publication to Chamber members and Kemps' customers; and • To offer marketing and promotional opportunities within this publication to Chamber members and prospects.

Whenever we process data for these purposes, we always ensure we treat your Personal Data rights in high regard. If you wish to, you can visit www.kempspublishing.co.uk to view our full Privacy Notice and to learn more about our legitimate interests and your rights in this regard.

CHAMBERLINK is produced on behalf of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to members without charge. The Chambers and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither the Chambers nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Chambers. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Business News Latest news from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Stairway to the top: Tracy Sheratt, UK senior network manager (West Midlands) British Business Bank; Henrietta Brealey, chief executive Birmingham Chambers of Commerce; and Harinder Kunor, regional ecosystems manager (West Midlands) Natwest.

Women-led SMEs get their chance to shine

By Dan Harrison he region’s best women-led SMEs and start-ups will have the opportunity to pitch to a live panel of investors during an event hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), NatWest and the British Business Bank.

The Women Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition will see female entrepreneurs secure the opportunity to showcase their business to the likes of Mercia Asset Management, Midven and SFC Capital.

As well as being able to directly pitch their business to those actively looking to invest in local businesses, one firm will be named as the panel’s “One to Watch” and winner of the competition. The event is taking place at a Birmingham city centre venue on 7 December.

To qualify to pitch to the panel, businesses must be female founded or co-founded and demonstrate clear growth potential. Those interested in pitching can do so through the expression of interest link by 10 November by going to www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com and following the link to Women’s Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of GBCC, said: “We are delighted to be launching this competition with NatWest and the British Business Bank.

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“We look forward to leveraging the networks and knowledge of our expert team and partners to bridge the gap between women entrepreneurs and investors looking to work with high potential businesses in the region.

“As a member of the NatWest Women In Business Taskforce for the region, I’m proud to be working with fellow advocates for female entrepreneurship in making this event possible.”

The Women Entrepreneurs Investment Competition is delivered in partnership with the NatWest West Midlands Women in Business Taskforce - a meeting of collaborators to discuss, design and then deliver tangible outputs to “move the dial” on challenges currently facing female founders in the region.

Harinder Kunor, ecosystem manager at NatWest, said: “In 2020 NatWest released the Springboard to Recovery Report, which included a commitment to establish regional taskforces to support growth across the UK. “The aim of the regional taskforces is to work in collaboration with local and regional partners to identify ways to stimulate a strong and sustainable SME recovery in the post Covid-19 economy.

“The taskforce works collaboratively to provide SMEs with information and support required from all members to help transform and grow businesses.”

Focus on women in business Read about the friends who were inspired after a trip to Iceland…

…and the duo who are now the faces of a government initiative.

WE HAVE MOVED The headquarters of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce have moved from Harborne Road to: 7th Floor West Wing, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham B16 8PE

See pages 15 and 55 November 2023 CHAMBERLINK 5

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BUSINESS NEWS

Birmingham proves it’s a great place to invest as turnover rises

By Jon Griffin Birmingham and the wider West Midlands is proving a magnet for record levels of foreign investment and visitor numbers – despite rising inflation and increased labour costs.

The annual Birmingham Economic Review paints an upbeat picture of a city viewed by the outside world as a “great place to invest” with 65 per cent of businesses across Greater Birmingham expecting an increase in turnover over the next few months.

But the review – produced by the City Region Economic and Development Institute at the University of Birmingham and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) – also warns that recovery post-pandemic has been slower in the West Midlands than in other UK regions.

The region’s slow fightback from the UK’s worst medical emergency for 100 years has been offset by a rebound from the city’s business, professional and financial services sector, which has “adapted well,” only shrinking by 1.1 per cent between 2019 and 2021.

The report reveals that the West Midlands attracted the largest share of foreign direct investment outside London, with 181 FDI projects in 2022-23, an increase of 171 per cent on the previous 12 months. Overseas investors created a total of 8,252 jobs, a 48 per cent increase compared to 2021-22, with the

Regional controls in key areas: Henrietta Brealey

Commonwealth Games playing “a key role” in the upsurge.

Meanwhile, 2022 – the year of the Games – saw 141.2 million visitors flock to the West Midlands,

‘The fundamentals that make Birmingham a great place to invest and do business remain compelling’ a 38 per cent increase since 2021 and a five per cent rise compared to 2019. Spending by visitors rose to £14.1bn, a 39 per cent increase

since 2021 and a seven per cent rise compared to 2019.

By contrast, skill attainment remains below average with 10.9 per cent of economically active people aged 16 and over in Greater Birmingham having no qualifications whilst Birmingham is ranked as the 7th most deprived local authority in England, a rating unchanged since 2015.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “Our report shows Birmingham and the West Midlands attracting record levels of foreign direct investment and visitor numbers, with a transformed city centre and

extensive regeneration underway.

“Businesses remain optimistic. A deeper devolution deal for the West Midlands Combined Authority has provided more regional leadership and control in key areas, enabling interventions tailored to the needs of the region. This is all against a backdrop of significant economic uncertainty as rising inflation, interest rates, labour costs and more squeeze businesses.

Despite all this, the fundamentals that make Birmingham a great place to invest and do business remain compelling.”

Rebecca Riley, associate professor City-REDI at the University of Birmingham, said: “The economy continues to experience a series of shocks. The Ukraine situation has continued sending shocks through supply chains, adding to the worsening cost of living crisis, and ongoing uncertainties around interest rates, debt and the strength of our currency.

“The West Midlands region has been hit harder than most by the effects of these shocks due to the sectoral mix and exposure to the cost impacts and the underlying health of the population.

“GBSLEP GVA declined by 5.2 per cent in 2020 and recovery has been slower in the wider West Midlands than in other UK regions.

However, the business, professional and financial services sector, the city’s largest sector and responsible for growth before the pandemic, adapted well and is rebounding, growing by 1.4 per cent between 2019 and 2021.”

Fall in inflation rate did not materialise

Lobbying: Cameron Uppal

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The rate of inflation remained unchanged for the second consecutive month – defying the predictions of city economists – according to new figures.

The Office for National Statistics said UK inflation held steady at 6.7 per cent in September. This was despite economists forecasting a modest fall of 0.1 per cent.

Soaring fuel costs offset the first monthly fall in food prices for two years to maintain pressure on households.

However, food and non-alcoholic drink prices fell by 0.2 per cent on the month – the first monthly decline since September 2021 – helped by fierce competition among supermarkets driving down prices for milk, cheese and eggs, as well as mineral water, soft drinks and juices.

Cameron Uppal, policy and public affairs adviser at Greater Birmingham Chambers of

Commerce, said: “The rate of inflation remained unchanged for the second consecutive month, confounding many city analysts’ projections who were expecting a minor fall.

“Clearly, with global oil prices rising and the conflict in the Middle East intensifying, the longer-term impact on inflationary pressure remains to be seen and all eyes will turn to the Bank of England to see how they respond in the coming weeks in relation to setting interest rate policy.

“With the Autumn Budget fast approaching (22 November) we are continuing to lobby the Government on tackling the ingrained labour market challenges, easing supply chain disruption with our European counterparts, and look at encouraging investment projects which will go some way in continuing to drive down the rate of CPI.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Sarah Phillips

Lisa Hooker

Deck the halls!

Christmas is coming early to the region Christmas has started even earlier this year and more consumers are determined to spread the cost, according to a new survey by PwC. It found that 57 per cent of West Midlands consumers have already started shopping but over a quarter (26 per cent) said they plan to spend less than previous years. However, 18 per cent increased their spending budgets for families and friends.

Sarah Phillips, PwC partner and consumer markets leader for the Midlands, said: “Every year it seems that Christmas starts earlier and West Midlands shoppers are taking advantage by getting ahead in order to spread the cost over the second half of the year.

“This provides a steady stream of sales for the high street and has led to some shoppers feeling they are able to spend more this Christmas. That said, we can see the cost-of-living has led to some consumers tightening their festive budgets as inflation impacts household spending.

“Elsewhere, the report found that 32 per cent of UK adults felt it was important to keep Christmas special, which will be encouraging for hospitality as well as the high-street, as consumers will be more inclined to spend on Christmas celebrations with family and friends.

“With Birmingham’s Christmas German Market starting even earlier this year, we should see footfall in the city centre increase.”

Lisa Hooker, leader of industry for consumer markets at PwC, added: “Consumer sentiment has been on a rollercoaster over the last few years, but it is encouraging to see that a -13 score has held from summer.

“We are seeing increasing divergence between age and income groupings, with a surprise drop in sentiment for the under 25s, perhaps reflecting a more challenging job market, the growing cost of further education, and increasing rents.”

• Stained-glass windows at Birmingham Cathedral returned to their former glory in time for Christmas – see page 30

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BUSINESS NEWS

Music charity wins award for community work B:Music, the music charity responsible for Birmingham’s Symphony Hall and Town Hall, has received a European honour for its groundbreaking work on social inclusion.

The accolade of fifth EJN Award for Music and Community was revealed at the end of the ninth European Jazz Conference 2023 in Marseille and is bestowed each year by the Europe Jazz Network (EJN).

And in order to sustain these life-changing projects, B:Music is looking to partner with local businesses and can offer a range of impactful sponsorship opportunities. To find out more, contact head of development and impact Rachel Cranny at rachel.cranny@bmusic.co.uk The annual EJN Award for Music and Community acknowledges organisations that have: • enriched people’s lives via participation in music • engaged local communities overcoming access barriers of all kinds • educated or entertained through musical activities – and have

done so for a period of time, as a constant effort to engage with society and its needs.

The EJN board of directors unanimously selected B:Music to receive the award. They commented: “In the face of some sterling competition, B:Music impressed and inspired us with the way in which their Generation Ladywood project clearly and directly sought out and involved young people from Birmingham’s culturally diverse local communities.

‘Generation Ladywood proves how long-term investment in group music-making can have positive and long-lasting effect’ “Reaching and affecting young musicians at risk of exclusion, and from a wide range of backgrounds, abilities and experience, the diverse session leaders also reflected the demographics of those communities well.

Honoured for their work: Toni Grehan (left), community engagement manager, and Katy Minter, project support officer

“Generation Ladywood proves how long-term investment in group music-making can have positive and long-lasting effects on the lives of these young urban practitioners, when delivered with such commitment and passion.

“In addition to this, B:Music is running other projects that have similar aims, such as Progression Pathways and the Peer Mentoring Scheme, and has done an outstanding job in connecting all these different projects together, in order to be able to offer participants many opportunities for follow-up and long-term engagement.

“We hope these exemplary projects will be equally inspiring for other EJN members in their

ongoing work in the field of social inclusion.”

Toni Grehan, community engagement manager at B:Music, said: “We are immensely proud to have won the European Jazz Network Award for Music and Community.

Here at B:Music, we strive to develop projects that are in line with our ethos and motto ‘To inspire a love of music through performance, participation and learning’.

“We will continue to grow and further develop our projects, with our young community's personal, social and musical development at the heart of everything we do.

Thanks to all of the team at the Europe Jazz Network for supporting the great work we do here at B:Music.”

Video captures airport security upgrade Exclusive footage showing the ongoing construction of Birmingham Airport (BHX)’s £50m new security hall has been released.

Time-lapse video on YouTube conveys the scale and complexity of the project to transform the Midlands transport hub.

This is just one of the upgrades in BHX’s £300m capital investment programme, which will take it from a 12m-customer-a-year airport today to one serving 18m customers a year by 2033.

Work on the new security hall has made significant progress since April, with the stateof-the-art facility due to open in June next year.

New scanning equipment will ensure BHX complies with new regulations that come into force in June and enable BHX to process customers more effectively and efficiently.

BHX is using this as an opportunity to make the terminal more pleasant and welcoming for customers.

A new, solar panel-clad roof is being built across part of the terminal, providing natural light, and helping power the terminal with green electricity.

The external façade of the terminal is being extended outwards and four 50-person lifts are replacing the existing escalators.

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Transformed getaway: How Birmingham Airport will look in June

This will create more space inside the building and make the walking route to the Departures and the air-rail link station area simpler and easier for customers.

The project team is working 21 hours a day to get the work done safely and on time.

Stephen Barker, development director for BHX, said: “We have made great progress in the last six months on delivering a reconfigured facility which will transform the passenger experience at Birmingham Airport with a more efficient pre-

flight screening process capable of serving greater volumes of people more effectively.

“We thank customers and staff for bearing with us as we carry out this work in our operational areas. To date we have been successful in maintaining our programme and, with continued support and cooperation, we expect to meet our shared goal of providing a great new facility for everyone.

“There will be further changes to walking routes in the next few weeks.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Test triumph: England celebrations at Edgbaston

Fans race to score cricket tickets Record numbers of cricket fans have snapped up Edgbaston tickets for 2024, with Day Two of the Men’s Test against West Indies already sold out before general sale.

England are set to be roared on by more capacity crowds at Edgbaston next summer as Pakistan Men and Women head to Birmingham before West Indies men visit in July.

More than 105,000 tickets for Edgbaston’s 2024 Major Match programme have been sold through the ballot and priority windows – a record for a non-Ashes year.

And next year’s Blast Finals day (14 September) has also sold out before general sale for the fourth year in succession. Day Two of the Test is already sold out, while demand for Day One and Three is also high with 95 per cent and 80 per cent, respectively, of tickets already gone.

England Men’s IT20 against Pakistan is close to selling out – with around 95 per cent of tickets sold – while 8,000 tickets have already been taken for the clash between England Women and Pakistan Women.

Chief Executive Stuart Cain said: “Demand has been incredible with Ballot entries up by more

‘The prospect of inviting the West Indies back for the first time in seven years is one to savour’ than a third compared to the previous best nonAshes year in 2022.

“It means we’re set for another amazing summer of international cricket and an

atmosphere at Edgbaston that’s hard to eclipse anywhere in world cricket.

“It’s great that England Women kick-off our 2024 international calendar. The buzz around Birmingham for women’s cricket is huge and we saw that passion at Edgbaston in July with a record crowd of almost 20,000 for our Women’s Ashes IT20. Anyone who saw last year’s T20 World Cup Final will know we’re in for a treat when Pakistan Men visit Edgbaston to take on England, and the prospect of inviting the West Indies back for the first time in seven years is one to savour.”

Hospitality is still available for all Major Match days in 2024 from official provider Keith Prowse, with prices starting from just £80.

Premium tickets are also available on the rooftop Seat Unique Terrace, which includes a free drink and access to private facilities.

Research identifies eating behaviours Children fall broadly into four eating categories, according to new research at Aston University, and parents feed their children differently depending on those categories.

The four categories identified by Dr Abigail Pickard and the team in the School of Psychology are: avid, happy, typical and fussy.

In the UK, around a fifth of children are overweight or living with obesity when they begin school, rising to around a third by the time they leave primary school at age 11.

Typical eaters made up 44 per cent of the children in the study, while fussy eaters accounted for 16 10 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

per cent. But of greatest interest to the team was that around one in five young children in the study were found to show “avid eating”, including greater enjoyment of food, faster eating speed, and weaker sensitivity to internal cues of “fullness”.

The behaviours that distinguish children with avid eating from those who show “happy” eating (17.7 per cent of children in the study), who have similarly positive responses to food, are wanting to eat (or eating more) in response to the sight, smell or taste of palatable food, and a higher level of emotional overeating. In combination, these eating

behaviours can lead to overeating and subsequent weight gain.

Principal investigator of the project, Professor Jackie Blissett, said: “While feeding practices are key intervention targets to change children’s eating behaviour and child weight outcomes, there has been little evaluation of how feeding practices interact with children’s food approach behaviours to predict eating behaviour.”

She explained that despite the knowledge of the influence of feeding practices on children’s weight, current public health advice is generic and does not reflect variability in children’s appetites.

Dr Pickard said: “Parents can use this research to help them understand what type of eating pattern their child presents.

“Then based on the child’s eating profile the parent can adapt their feeding strategies to the child.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

November 2023 CHAMBERLINK 11

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BUSINESS NEWS

President’s Focus Fiona Rouse, president of Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce, is director at PI-KEM and PI-KEM Hart, a scientific equipment supplier in Wilnecote. Here she tells us how life, and the working environment, have changed for her since being diagnosed with Behcet’s Disease, a rare condition that causes chronic inflammation in the body’s blood vessels and can affect the brain and spinal cord. asking for help with pouring drinks or taking a nap if I need it. This is why equity is so important to me.

My colleagues, by taking the time to chat to me, accept all of this, step in when I need it, and I have learned to better communicate the support I need.

If you visited my company PIKEM you may notice the range of needs our team have, you might notice them quietly supporting each other or see adaptive workspaces or technology. Most importantly you’d see colleagues collaborating, celebrating each other’s achievements and focusing on reaching our business goals.

Things to consider as you review where you are as a business on the road to creating a culture of equity: • Create space for colleagues to talk: Consider working with an external mentor who can have one-to-one time with them as well as time with their businessbased mentor.

• Consider how accessible your business communications are: Are they easily translated, available in alternative format, use inclusive language and images.

• Offer flexible working • Review your hiring and promotion practices to ensure they are inclusive and skill focused.

• Be open about discussing and challenging unconscious bias.

• Create a culture of inclusion and respect. Make sure that everyone feels comfortable being themselves at work.

• Invest in employee development.

Provide all employees with opportunities to learn and grow in ways that are accessible to them.

year into my presidency for Lichfield and Tamworth, we have seen improved engagement through our business sustainability series, we are continuing to work with education and training partners to increase involvement with our future workforce and to highlight the need for equity within the workplace.

For me November is always a challenge. It is seven years since I was diagnosed with Behcet’s Disease and PG and depression, and I still struggle to rationalise all that has changed - embracing equity in the workplace rather than working to provide equality is such a sea change; moving from treating everyone the same… to giving everyone what they need to succeed.

Attending new places is still challenging for me. Most of us answer yes to event invites, add it to our diary, highlight any dietary

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‘I trip easily and tire quickly. For events, we ask about dietary needs, but how often do we ask about access needs?’ requirements, plan our journey and then attend the event.

For myself, and others with a chronic illness or access requirement, our preparation is all of these plus a few extras. I check where the event is in my treatment schedule, check where I can park and how far I may have to walk.

On arrival I am looking at the access, the layout of the room, even down to worrying about refreshments - a teacup and saucer, or wineglass, are still my nemesis.

In the early days I was unable to walk independently and was a wheelchair user.

I now use a stick when I need to and have no feeling below my left knee. I trip easily and tire quickly.

For events, we ask about dietary needs, but how often do we ask about access needs?

I’ve learned to embrace my quirks, not worry about wearing clumpy shoes for better balance, 12 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

Fiona Rouse, president of Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

And most importantly… ask!

Talk to your colleagues, visitors, event attendees – how can you make the environment they are entering more accessible?

Creating an equitable workplace takes time and effort, but it is worth it. When employees feel valued and respected, they are likely to be engaged and productive and businesses are more likely to succeed.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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An all-around service No matter the size or scale of your operation, every business deserves top-notch support.

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Building trust together At ZenithPA, we aren’t just another service you hire; we aim to become a part of your business journey. Our goal is to forge a relationship that goes beyond the professional realm. We're here for the long haul, ensuring that with each call we handle, we’re not just ticking a box but adding value to your business.

Taking customer service up a notch In a world where every customer has a voice and a platform to share their experiences, top-tier customer service isn't just a nice-to-have; it's crucial. Aligning with ZenithPA means you're choosing to elevate the way your business interacts with its clients. We’re more than just a service; we're a commitment to ensuring your callers receive the best interaction possible.

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Comprehensive services beyond call handling While we pride ourselves on impeccable call handling, ZenithPA offers a plethora of services tailored to enhance and streamline your business operations. From efficiently managed live chats that turn casual browsers into loyal customers, to November 2023 CHAMBERLINK 13

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BUSINESS NEWS

Building futures through education Though it may be a cliché, it is often true that people are the most important assets within any organisation. Sadly, labour market information repeatedly tells us of difficulties in recruiting to key roles because of a skills deficit in our area and nationally. This in turn impacts on growth and prosperity which then translates into our communities.

The solution to breaking this cycle is education. An education that is powerful and provides people with choices.

An education that develops skills, transforms lives and positively shapes futures.

Our new strategic plan states that we aim to be exceptional, that our students will be inspired to be ambitious, achieve their potential, flourish personally and professionally and use the skills that they have learnt at Halesowen College to contribute to the regional or national economy.

Employers and stakeholders are integral to this, helping us to shape our curriculum with innovation, knowledge and enthusiasm, in turn providing excellent opportunities for learners and allowing businesses to benefit from the skills development.

Alongside a broad curriculum for 16-19 learners, we offer a range of adult courses from level 1 through to levels 4 and 5, including basic skills development of English, maths and digital, which provide an excellent bedrock to developing higher level skills across a range of subjects. Those with other commitments can also take advantage, through our offer around part-time courses, flexible study options and online learning.

To find out more about our range of courses, or to book on one of our Open Events, visit www.halesowen.ac.uk

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SPONSORED BY: HALESOWEN COLLEGE

Key growth in meetings: Park Regis Birmingham

City hotel exceeds prepandemic performance Birmingham-based asset management company, Switch Hospitality Management Ltd, is continuing to report strong post-pandemic results, as its flagship hotel and events space, Park Regis Birmingham, exceeds pre-pandemic performance.

While the West Midlands’ hotel sector is recording on average 78 per cent of 2019’s sales, bookings for conferences and meetings at Park Regis are currently performing at 142.9 per cent.

‘Park Regis’ success is a testament to our team, who have been crucial in managing peak days’ Delegate meetings have been a key growth driver for the venue, which hosts an average of 70 events a month and more than 20,000 delegates each year. The number of large-scale meetings (120+ delegates) are in line with previous years but bookings for 81 – 120 delegates have grown by 58 per cent on 2019 levels, indicating an emerging trend for smaller yet more frequent events.

The latest figures follow a report published by the West Midlands Growth Company which indicated that the region’s business events sector was bouncing back quicker than the UK average, hosting 78 per cent of pre-pandemic meetings and conferences.

Stuart Gillespie, group commercial director at Switch Hospitality, said: “The hospitality and events space was significantly disrupted by the pandemic, and we are still in a period of recovery, with wider economic challenges, rising inflation and an emerging skills gap.

“However, it is encouraging to see the strength of the region’s response in bouncing back, and we are continuing to adapt our own strategies to ensure that we remain resilient amid evolving market demands, by enhancing our long-stay offering and providing added value for guests at every touch point. Park Regis’ success is a testament to our team, who have been crucial in managing peak days to ensure that we can maximise returns and reinvest, so that we can focus on delivering consistently exceptional service.”

Modern upgrade for historic venue An Asian wedding venue in Aston will be given a modern upgrade, following support from planning experts at Marrons.

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

As part of the approved plans, owner Taz Ulfat will demolish and replace an existing and unauthorised wooden canopy with a new enclosed and glazed firstfloor terrace.

Improvements will also be made to the appearance of an existing single-storey extension and a new street entrance from Witton Lane will be created to align harmoniously with Aston’s evolving urban landscape.

The plans seamlessly align with the ongoing redevelopment of Aston Villa Football Club’s iconic Villa Park stadium – situated a stone’s throw from the Majestic Conference & Banqueting Hall – and the broader masterplan for the neighbourhood, which will see

significant public realm enhancements and the creation of dynamic open space.

Sachin Parmar, planning director at Marrons, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have secured planning permission that will enhance an already successful wedding venue in the heart of Aston, while preserving the character, significance and appearance of one the area’s most historical buildings.

“Demolishing the existing wooden canopy is a positive step towards the continuing preservation of this historic site’s authenticity and charm.”

Vision: How the venue will look

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BUSINESS NEWS

Bank backs friends’ ‘slow living’ store A Scandinavian-inspired homeware and gifts store, Teppi Living, has secured £10,000 funding from First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans under the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme to enhance its marketing and expand stock offerings.

The online homeware and gifts store, based in Staffordshire, offers a carefully selected range of sustainable homewares, handmade ceramics, and ethically sourced gifts that encourage slow living.

Founded by friends Ella Sheasby and Lydia Hutchings after an inspiring trip to Iceland, the store is also committed to sustainable practices.

Wider audience Ella Sheasby (left) and Lydia Hutchings

‘Thanks to the funding we have been able to reach a wider audience on social media with targeted advertising’ With the £10,000 funding from First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans, the business will look to significantly increase its marketing budget, including promoting the business through online ads.

First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans provides government-backed business loans ranging from £500 - £250,000 for start-ups and SMEs that are unable to borrow from traditional high-street lenders.

Ella and Lydia said: “Thanks to the funding we have been able to reach a wider audience on social media with targeted advertising. The guidance, insights, and personalised support from our adviser

made the process efficient and enjoyable.”

Simon Mitchell, investment manager at First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans, said “Working with young entrepreneurs and leaders of the

future like Ella and Lydia to help assist them with planning for growth, is a real privilege of this job.

“We are proud to be able to support them along their journey.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

The Griffin Report Deb Leary completes her two-year term of office as president of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce at the annual meeting on 17 November. JON GRIFFIN spoke to Deb about the experience, which she describes as “the best two years of my career”.

utgoing Greater Birmingham Chambers president Deb Leary – a woman with a host of awards on her packed CV - describes her stint at the helm of the Midlands premier business group as “the best two years of my career”.

The prominent Birmingham businesswoman, who built her own Forensic Pathways company from scratch into a successful hi-tech venture, winning the British Female Inventor of the Year title in 2005, told Chamberlink: “This has been the best job of my life without a shadow of a doubt. It’s the best thing I have ever done. It’s been a joy and a privilege.”

And she hailed the Commonwealth Games as a vital catalyst for promoting international trade between the West Midlands and a range of other countries – with the Chambers often at the heart of the discussions.

“I could not have been president at a better time. I have always had a passion for the Commonwealth and for international trade. Because of the impact of the Commonwealth Games the Chamber saw a rise in international delegations coming to the Chamber and visiting Birmingham. The Games provided a vibe in the region that was totally tangible and was ultimately a real success. Over the two-year period I have managed to develop some

O

Squaring up: Deb (right) and Chamber chief executive Henrietta Brealey ease the tension at the Chamber’s annual dinner and awards last year

really strong relationships with people such as the Ambassador for Mexico Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco and we have had delegations from the

Ukraine, Serbia, the US, Kazakhstan.”

But the business leader – only the third female president in the Chamber’s history since 1813 following Christine Braddock and Bridget Blow – said her two-year tenure had also coincided with a highly volatile time for industry.

“It has been a very challenging time for business because of the

‘Going around businesses and meeting with the various companies, I have constantly been astounded by how positive they are’

Serious debate: Deb chairing a business round table with Labour leader Sir Kier Starmer in attendance 16 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

great resignations, people stuck at home after Covid, the cost of living crisis and supply chain issues globally. It has been a Yin and Yang

time for business and for the world in general. We have had the good, the bad and the ugly.

“There has been a tsunami of challenges and seismic changes.

When I started as president there was no thought that there was going to be a war in Ukraine. But going around businesses and meeting with the various companies, I have constantly been astounded by how positive they are, and that has been our strength.

“I have visited a lot of companies and attended a lot of events and have listened to how companies are working through the challenges they face. At the moment the biggest challenges are people – managing staff in hybrid situations – along with the cost-of-living crisis. You have now got the challenge of young people coming in with a different way of thinking.

“Businesses are still adapting

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BUSINESS NEWS

Light moment: Deb shares a joke with Ambassador for Mexico Josefa Gonzalez-Blanco and Chamber international director Mandy Haque

after the whole Covid debacle, the challenges with the supply chain and the move to hybrid working and companies have brought a degree of resilience they thought they would never need.”

Deb, who was awarded an OBE in 2008 in recognition of her commitment to entrepreneurship, paid glowing tribute to the work of the Chambers over the course of her Presidency. “I am continually amazed at the amount of ground the Chamber covers, the events

they put on and the policy work that they do.

“My job as president has been to act as a conduit between the Chamber and its members. I think the Chamber has done a fantastic job over the past few years – it is a great network.

“Its greatest strength is its people with its various teams and its relationship managers. It has been a real joy to get out and meet members. I have had meetings with law firms, hospitality firms, all sorts,

I have covered the whole breadth of industry, it’s been fascinating.

“The interesting thing about being president is that it is down to you how much you put in. I am naturally curious, I am naturally interested in business and I am passionate about Birmingham.”

The businesswoman said highlights of her two-year tenure included meeting the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt at Number 11 Downing Street to discuss levelling up and the energy crisis among other topics and chairing a business round table with Keir Starmer in attendance. As well as the annual awards dinner at the ICC in March “one of the biggest business events in the country”.

“The Government puts in policies but business will do what it takes anyway. That is what we do.”

She predicted a bright future for the Birmingham business sector – but warned that new challenges on the horizon included the nature of the workplace and its workforce.

“There is a village feel to the Birmingham business sector. The Ambassador to Mexico said she had never come across an area like it for its connectivity. You would think people would be in competition but they often seem to work together collaboratively – that is our strength.

“We have got world-class universities, fantastic hospitality,

wonderful technology and creativity, the youngest population in Europe.

We recently had Birmingham Tech Week – the creativity and innovation are amazing.

“The challenge now is to futureproof the region in terms of skills.

We do not yet know what the new jobs will be, and that is going to be the challenge. The challenges are constant, everybody I know does not have one job, they have a number of jobs – nobody has a job for life any more.”

‘My job as president has been to act as a conduit between the Chamber and its members’ Deb will now hand over the presidential baton to Nasir Awan, the brains behind the Hockleybased cash and carry wholesale powerhouse Awan Marketing.

“Nasir’s presidency will be a completely different style to mine and that will be a positive thing – every president brings a different flavour.

“But I am still going to be involved with the Chamber.

Forensic Pathways have signed up as Patrons to the Global Chamber, so I will still be in close touch.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Region primed for tech job boost The West Midlands is set to receive a boost of over 1,000 tech jobs as a result of significant investments from five innovation-focused companies – Version 1, Petalite, Novocomms Group, Aubay and Primacy.

The investments are testament to the region’s status as a leading global location for high-growth companies, looking to stimulate tech-led innovation.

The announcement was made during ‘Global West Midlands: The Tech That Makes Tomorrow Work’ – a dedicated event hosted by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) during Birmingham Tech Week 2023.

The event saw Birmingham Tech Week pivot towards a global audience for the first time, with WMGC actively targeting overseas firms looking to nurture new innovations in the UK. Global digital transformation partner, Version 1, has announced plans to scale up its operations in the region, creating around 500 jobs in Birmingham.

This news is part of an expansion programme that will see the opening of a new technology hub in the city centre in 2024.

Wireless communication specialist, Novocomms Group, has plans to create 300 new jobs in Birmingham over the next three years through its launch of a new smart city services provider.

Leveraging the Group’s expertise in next-generation antenna technology, the investment represents a key part of the Group’s growth strategy.

Innovative electric vehicle charging company, Petalite, has announced plans to grow its Birmingham-based team, creating 100 engineering and business operations roles by 2026.

Petalite has also been announced as one of six partner companies for UK Research and

Jobs boost (left to right): Neil Rami (CEO of WMGC), Aga Manhao (CEO of Primacy), Emma Mitchell (Birmingham office lead, Version 1), Dr Colin Tucker (chairman at Novocomms Group) and Andy Street (Mayor of the West Midlands)

Innovation’s “Future Flight and Land Infrastructure Programme” (FFLIP).

French-owned IT management company Aubay Group is also

‘These tremendous investments reinforce our region’s status as a destination of choice for ambitious companies’ gearing up to grow its team by up to 100 people in Solihull.

Exemplifying the region’s collaborative R&D ecosystem, Primacy, a Singapore-based

RegTech company which expanded into Birmingham last year, has announced the development of a new ESG Centre of Excellence (CoE).

The partnership with the University of Birmingham will create up to 30 jobs over the next two years.

Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “These tremendous investments reinforce our region’s status as a destination of choice for ambitious companies across a wide range of sectors. What they all have in common is a commitment to nurturing innovation and a determination to drive growth.”

Neil Rami, chief executive at the West Midlands Growth Company

(WMGC), said: “These investment wins come hot on the heels of record FDI figures for the West Midlands during 2022/23 – where WMGC also had its most successful year yet – and are testament to the market-leading support we provide to investors.”

Tom O’Connor, chief executive officer at Version 1, said: “The technology talent in this region is impressive and has been a key factor in our decision. Our team here is exceptional and makes a significant contribution to the wider Version 1 business as we continue to grow throughout the world.”

• More technology news – see page 82

Scheme increases workers’ career prospects Businesses across Birmingham and Solihull are being encouraged to find out more about a scheme that helps low-income workers boost their prospects and become more financially independent.

The Department for Work and Pensions’ ‘In Work Progression’ offer has been rolled out to support employers in retaining their workforce, while helping employees progress by reviewing their skills to boost employment opportunities.

It comes as the DWP’s flagship benefit, Universal Credit, evolves to support the progress of customers who are already in work.

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Approximately 50,000 Universal Credit customers across Birmingham and Solihull have declared either they or their partner are working while receiving state support.

Mark Whitehouse, DWP progression lead for Birmingham and Solihull, said: “Further ‘in work benefits’ are going to transfer to Universal Credit, with Working Tax Credit customers transitioning from HMRC to DWP. “With this move comes an expectation that these ‘new’ customers will join the regime associated with Universal Credit and work towards financial independence by improving

their household income. In Birmingham and Solihull this could mean an additional 21,000 customers, which could mean a total of over 70,000 employees across the area that will be encouraged to work with their job centre. The impact on employers could be employees asking for a pay rise, increased working hours, access to training and skills progression, or ultimately, employees may choose to look for additional or better paid work elsewhere.

“In Work Progression aims to support employers in retaining their workforce and employees to progress in the workplace.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

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Campaign to save region’s best pubs sparks huge response Scores of pubs, some as far away as Newcastle, have been put forward for special protection in response to a West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) campaign to save cherished locals from closure.

The WMCA and Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) “List Your Local” campaign has received more than 155 nominations in two weeks after its launch. The scheme has proved so popular that no less than 50 of the nominations have come from outside the West Midlands and several pubs received multiple nominations. It means there are 65 individual pubs now on the list. Of these, 25 are considered so valuable they already have Historic England heritage listed status but the remaining 40 have no protection at all.

The WMCA and CAMRA launched the campaign to better

protect the region’s public houses in the wake of the fire and subsequent demolition of the famous Crooked House in Himley, Staffordshire.

The “List Your Local” campaign encourages residents to submit applications for Historic England and asset of community value listing.

‘I am keen to not just protect these wonderfully historic buildings but also safeguard the heart and soul of our communities’ The WMCA and CAMRA have drawn up a target list of suitable heritage pubs, which, alongside the public’s recommendations, will be examined on a case-by-case basis

Cherished: The Spotted Dog pub in Warwick Street, Birmingham

to see if and how they can be protected.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said: “I am pleased to see submissions to protect the region’s most-loved pubs steadily growing.

“I asked members of the public to get in touch because while we believe we have already identified some of the most at risk historical pubs in the region, we need to make sure we are helping to protect the right venues.

“I am keen to not just protect these wonderfully historic buildings but also safeguard the heart and soul of our communities.”

The campaign follows a report by the WMCA, due to be published soon, which will focus on the preservation of pubs in the West Midlands. Seven recommendations have been highlighted in the report to save pubs from closure – either

due to financial reasons or from developers closing pubs and redeveloping them for other uses.

One of the recommendations includes an extension to the hospitality discount rate. Pubs currently benefit from a 75 per cent discount on their business rate bills, capped at £110,000, but this is due to end in March 2024.

Gary Timmins, director of CAMRA pub and club campaigns, said: “To see the outstanding response from the public to protect their local in such a short timescale is testament to how important pubs are across the West Midlands.

“This is the first step in our partnership with the WMCA to protect our pubs and work towards changes being made to planning legislation, ultimately helping people to save their local and safeguard essential and valuable social community assets.”

Chamber awards are now open for entries Award entries are now being accepted for Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s 2024 annual dinner and awards.

And a new online applications portal has opened to help businesses apply for the 12 awards categories.

The region’s biggest celebration of business is returning to the ICC in Birmingham city centre on Thursday 15 February. The awards dinner – one of the largest of its kind in the UK – recognises the achievements of businesses across Greater Birmingham, with 12 sector awards up for grabs on the night. One of those category winners will go on to be crowned the Greater Birmingham Business of the Year, sponsored by Crowe UK LLP. Businesses can now apply to enter one of the categories, with the deadline midnight on Sunday 12 November.

For the first time, companies can submit their entry using the new applications portal as part of the GBCC’s recently-launched website.

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Up for grabs: Firms can now apply for the 12 sector awards

• Excellence in Manufacturing – sponsored by Thursfields • Excellence in Inclusive People Development • Excellence in Responsible Business – sponsored by Aston University

To apply for an award, go to www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com and create a login which will then give you access to the applications portal.

The 12 awards categories are:

• Excellence in Sales & Marketing – sponsored

by Schumacher Packaging • Excellence in Sustainability – sponsored by Aston University • Excellence in Technology & Innovation – sponsored by Close Brothers Asset Management

• Excellence in Contribution to the Community – sponsored by runyourfleet

• Excellence in Third Sector – sponsored by Unity Trust Bank

• Excellence in Customer Service

• Excellence in Training & Education.

• Excellence in Hospitality, Retail & Events

The awards are also supported by table decor sponsors mfg Solicitors. Further sponsorship opportunities are available.

• Excellence in International Business – sponsored by Gowling WLG

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

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24 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

Business of the Year: Prime Accountants

Accountancy firm are Primed for success

By Darby Newman and Feron Jayawardene rime Accountants Group took home the overall Business of the Year accolade at the Solihull Awards 2023, having also scooped the prize for Excellence in Contribution to Community.

The awards ceremony, hosted by Solihull Chamber of Commerce, took place at Hilton Birmingham Metropole, in front of around 350 guests.

Headline sponsors were Hilton Birmingham Metropole and Solihull College & University Centre, while the event was compered by television presenter Des Coleman.

P

‘We are absolutely over the moon about winning Solihull Business of the Year 2023’ Judges commented that they were impressed with Prime’s “quality of application which articulated very well why they should be deserving winner of the categories they entered, blended with a tone that demonstrated their pride and passion”.

They added: “Prime has won this award for their commitment, passion and pride in their business, their people and the region in equal measure. They adopt a very

President’s Award: Susie Ankrett

well-considered and strategic approach to all three areas and have shown how business success can be achieved by looking outwards as well as inwards.

“Even though they are an established business, they haven’t lost the entrepreneurial spirit and reliance of networking and community to continue to grow.”

Prime Accountants is an independent firm of chartered accountants, forensic accountants, business and financial advisors.

They aim to simplify business for their clients by cutting through the jargon and provide accurate, honest advice to help their clients

prosper over the long term.

Prime say they are committed to reinvesting themselves in Solihull and have taken part in several events over the course of the last year, through staff fundraising, engagement with the community via charity donations and sponsorships, and staff engagement in charity events and team building activities within the town.

This work has resulted in thousands of pounds being raised and reinvested into Solihull businesses, in addition to the significant work Prime conducts to raise funds for Birmingham

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BUSINESS NEWS

Full list of award winners Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Hospitality & Retail KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar Sponsored by Hilton Birmingham Metropole Solihull’s Outstanding Start-Up, Enterprise & Entrepreneurship Monica's Bakes Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Sales, Marketing & Communications Touchwood Solihull Third sector winners: Careers Trust celebrate

Pictures: Reiss Barton (Studio Forty Six LTD)

An “inspirational teacher” driven by her desire to positively impact students’ learning experiences has scooped the prize of Rising Star & Future Leader at this year’s Solihull Awards, writes Darby Newman.

Rachel Arnold, English lecturer and teaching and learning coach at Solihull College & University Centre, picked up the accolade for her inspirational work at the learning centre, where she is described by her colleagues as “articulate, grounded and with extremely strong empathic skills”.

Rachel’s different approach is marked by the method she takes to delivering excellence, via a research centric model. Her original idea was seeded from a student who wanted Rachel to experience their application of learning in vocational lessons where they were progressing well, compared to their English and maths re-sit lessons which they found more challenging.

Rachel decided to explore the impact on learning and the student/teacher dynamic when the model was turned on its head. Successfully applying for a part-funded Masters in Education gave Rachel the opportunity to develop an innovative, successful and student focused programme called “Teach the Teacher”.

The programme concentrates on students engaged on vocational programmes of learning, with a requirement to re-sit their maths and English exams.

Fast forward to the present day, and 12 groups of students, have benefited from the opportunity to teach their maths and English teachers a vocational

Children’s Hospital.

Kevin Johns, managing director at Prime Accountants Group, said: “We are absolutely over the moon about winning Solihull Business of the Year 2023. It’s been a fabulous evening recognising all the hard work the team put in, but also what we put back into the community.

We live, work in and enjoy the Solihull community.”

Helen Bates, chief financial officer at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, chaired

Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Contribution to Community Prime Accountants Group Solihull’s Rising Star & Future Leader Rachel Arnold, Solihull College & University Centre.

Sponsored by Touchwood Solihull Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Professional Services Sydney Mitchell LLP Sponsored by HR Dept Solihull

Rising star: Rachel Arnold (second right) with (left to right) host Des Coleman, Tony Elvin (general manager of sponsors Touchwood) and Eileen Schofield (Solihull Chamber president)

skill, predominantly in the construction and motor vehicle areas.

Rachel believes that the FE sector needs academic rigour through research to shake up dated practices, and to usher in fresh ways of delivery. Over the last two years she has been invited to speak at 15 high profile events, and her Teach the Teacher model will be the blueprint for interventions across the sector moving forward.

Judges described Rachel as “an inspirational teacher who positively impacts her students learning experience. Her model to help Maths & English students has been ground-breaking and has made a difference to the first 12 groups of students, with plans to extend this across the region. A well-deserved award to whom the college are extremely proud of”.

the judging. She said: “It was a real honour to be the chair of judges for this year’s Solihull Awards, which highlight the huge range of talent, skills and success within the Solihull business community.

“The judges were impressed by the quality of the applications across all sectors, and the award winners can be proud of their achievements in a very competitive field.”

The awards also experienced a spectacular performance from

youth organisation Urban Heard, who are on a mission to break cycles of deprivation and reduce inequalities so that all young people have the chance to live happy, healthy and safe lives.

Solihull Chamber President Eileen Schofield presented her President’s Award to Susie Ankrett, director of Plum Executive and regional representative and advisory board member for the Recruitment & Employment Confederation.

Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Change & Sustainability Enzen Sponsored by The National Energy Hub Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Technology & Innovation Evac+Chair International Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Customer Services The Recruitment Duo Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Training, Education & Development in People Solihull College & University Centre Sponsored by runyourfleet Solihull's Award for Excellence in Third Sector Carers Trust Solihull Solihull Chamber of Commerce President’s Award Susie Ankrett, Plum Executive Solihull’s Business of the Year Award Prime Accountants Group Sponsored by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

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BUSINESS NEWS

Where do you fancy?

The Distillery, in Birmingham city centre, is situated on the canal and is home of Round House Gin. Split over two floors, there is a restaurant, bar area, private event space and expansive terrace.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

Food and drink

Dinner

Quality ingredients in their purest form inspire the menu. From the rotisserie and robata grill to our wood fired pizza, each dish has been carefully chosen for you to enjoy.

A selection of small plates, and homemade pizzas along with a selection of over coal dishes to include pulled lamb shawarma and grilled jerk chicken.

Desserts include burnt vanilla cheesecake with poached strawberries or a lemon posset with raspberries and shortbread.

Vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree options are available.

Lunch A selection of small plates and homemade pizzas perfect for a lunch time snack, along with over coal dishes for diners looking for something more substantial.

The Distillery Address: 4 Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE E: lauren@mosaicpubanddining.com T: 07312085923 W: thedistillerybirmingham.co.uk Owner: Mosaic Pub & Dining Head chef: Rob Taylor Opening hours Mon-Thu: 12:00-23:00 Fri-Sat: 12:00-02:00 Sun: 12:00-23:00

Wines Everything available, including cocktails, wine and draught beer.

As a working distillery, there is also The Distillery signature G&T blend, or a Round House gin cocktail.

Business facilities Private dining and conference facilities include: The Gin Parlour – holds up to 50 The Gin Terrace – holds up to 100

Exclusive offer for Chamber members 10 per cent off all bookings made with Lauren via email on email lauren@mosaicpubanddining.comby quoting Chamber membership number.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

A free tool to streamline your business travel In the modern business landscape, almost every company incorporates business travel as an essential aspect of their operations.

While the motives behind travel may vary for each company, they all share a common factor: the paperwork burden.

Acknowledging this significant challenge, West Midlands Trains (operator of West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway), developed a free online platform to simplify organising business train travel.

Just Business is designed to offer comprehensive support across all stages of a journey.

This begins with the booking process, where the system highlights the cheapest fares available on any train route throughout the UK, followed by centralised payments ensuring employees do not bear any costs, as well as 24/7 reporting and swift helpdesk support.

Business travel made greener With many businesses focusing on sustainable travel plans, rail comes across as one of the more sustainable travel solutions, combining the efficiency of modern transportation with a significantly lower carbon footprint. According to the latest DESNZ reports, taking the train results in five times less carbon emission when compared to using a car.

Just Business captures this information using a dedicated reporting tool enabling users to track the carbon footprint of their business travel and compare it with alternative modes of transport.

To further explore the advantages that Just Business can bring to your organisation, get in touch with Sophie Gardner at West Midlands Trains: Sophie.Gardner@wmtrains.co.uk or 07816203399.

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SPONSORED BY: WEST MIDLANDS TRAINS

Clarke Willmott backs social mobility charity Law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has announced a national charity partnership to launch its focus on a community strategy support for social mobility as part of a wider commitment to its ESG (environmental, social and governance) plans.

The firm will be supporting charity Social Mobility Foundation (SMF) with volunteering efforts over the course of the next year.

Regional charity partners will also be announced for each of its seven offices so that they can engage more closely and add social value to their local communities.

The announcement launches the firm’s new community strategy to support social mobility, an initiative brought in by CEO Peter Swinburn, who took over leadership of Clarke Willmott in May. Social Mobility Foundation was chosen as the national partner as it aims to level the playing field for students with the ability and ambition to flourish academically and in the world of work, but who lack the opportunities and networks to help them get there.

The SMF’s Aspiring Professionals Programme opens 11 different professional sectors to

young people. Each January 2,000 Year 12s join the programme from across the UK and are supported for five years, giving them the skills to achieve their aspirations.

Mr Swinburn said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Social Mobility Foundation, a fantastic charity doing vital work in supporting young people.

“We recently asked our people what causes they were interested in and a huge percentage thought that social mobility was where we could make the biggest impact together. We will be working hard, led by our head of ESG, Karen Higgins, to support, volunteer and provide mentoring for this charity.”

Sarah Atkinson, chief executive of SMF, said: “It is incredibly positive that Clarke Willmott recognise the need to improve social mobility within the sector and beyond and are committed to becoming a social mobility champion.

“We hope our partnership will help to encourage open conversations about what social mobility is and how it impacts the legal sector and business more widely, as well as provide vital

Biggest impact: Peter Swinburn

Open conversations: Sarah Atkinson

networks for SMF students who will be mentored by Clarke Willmott employees.”

Clarke Willmott has seven regional offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.

Trio appointed to university University College Birmingham is celebrating a trio of influential executive appointments to further bolster its leadership team at the start of the new academic year.

New appointments include Dr. Helen Poole, named as the new pro vice chancellor (Teaching, Learning and Digital); Professor Gill Brown, as the executive dean of School of Psychology; and Dr. David Paulson, as executive dean of the Business School.

Dr. Helen Poole

All three bring a wealth of expertise from varied careers within the education industry.

Dr Helen Poole has spent many years working in esteemed roles within higher education including at Coventry University, University of Northampton and most recently, Staffordshire University, where she sat as executive dean of justice, security and sustainability.

Professor Gill Brown previously worked as head of psychology at the

Professor Gill Brown

University of Bolton and in total has been in the higher education sector for over 15 years.

Dr. David Paulson served as professor of practice in leadership and management at Queen’s University Belfast. In his earlier business career, he spent seven years with the US multinational General Electric in a variety of international management roles and was managing director of internationally focused SMEs for 13 years.

Dr. David Paulson

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS Delicate work: Cleaning of the Last Judgement window

Cathedral’s stained-glass windows restored to glory Birmingham Cathedral's four remarkable stained-glass windows will be unveiled in time for Christmas after their extensive conservation.

The Burne-Jones and William Morris windows at the cathedral are considered some of the finest stained-glass windows in the world and the most spectacular pieces of art in the city.

Their conservation has involved over 500 days of cleaning and repair work. During this time, more than 20 panels were removed from the windows to undergo specialist restoration before being re-installed in the cathedral. This has been completed, thanks to support from National Lottery Players via funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Expert conservators from Holy Well Glass have completed their work to clean and repair the windows partially in situ and partially in their workshop in Wells.

The old protective grilles have also been replaced on the outside of the building, to improve both protection and the view of the windows from the outside.

The work will ensure that these precious pieces of the city’s history are preserved for future generations to enjoy. The east-end windows will be completed in time for the return of Christmas in Cathedral Square on Wednesday, 15 November.

The windows show four wellknown scenes from the life of Christ. At the east end of the cathedral, visitors can gaze up at three of the windows depicting the 30 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

birth of Jesus in The Nativity, Christ’s return to heaven in The Ascension, and reflect on the scene of his death in The Crucifixion.

Under the tower at the west end of the cathedral, a fourth window shows the world’s final days in The Last Judgement.

‘The work will ensure that these precious pieces of the city’s history are preserved for future generations to enjoy’ Anna Pitt, CEO at Birmingham Cathedral, said: “Over 3,000 people have experienced the once-in-alifetime opportunity of getting onto our scaffolding and seeing our windows up close during their conservation.

“Around a third of visitors on our tours had never been into the cathedral before, which really shows how the windows can capture the imagination of so many new people.

The invitation is there for all to come and see the windows in their full glory over the coming months.

“We are grateful to all our supporters, including The National Lottery Heritage Fund, for helping to fund both the conservation of these historic treasures, and to bring the experience and stories behind them to life for so many people.”

Jack Clare, director at Holy Well Glass, said: “It has been a privilege

to oversee the works to preserve these four remarkable windows, it really has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up-close to Burne-Jones' master works.

“I'd like to pay special mention to our gifted team of conservators, who have expended great effort and taken immense care in their work throughout the project.

“The project has clearly gripped the imagination of visitors, and we have greatly enjoyed interacting with them throughout the extensive programme of public engagement events.

“We hope once the windows are unveiled many of them will return to experience them in their full glory.”

Robyn Llewellyn, director, England, Midlands & East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “I’m delighted that The National Lottery Heritage Fund is

supporting Birmingham Cathedral in cleaning and repairing this important heritage, preserving its legacy for future generations. I cannot wait to see the stunning windows unveiled later this year, made possible thanks to National Lottery players.”

Events celebrating the windows and their conservation will be ongoing until summer next year.

This will include the return of the sell-out Luxmuralis light and sound experience Divine Beauty at Night on 4, 5 and 6 January. The cathedral will also continue to offer schools workshops and there will be a special celebration for the end of the project to share some of the fascinating insights gained during the works.

Donations to the Divine Beauty Project can still be made at the Birmingham Cathedral website.

Stunning: The East End glass windows designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones and manufactured by Williams Morris & Co

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

A venue to help you host incredible events – tips from eighteen clubspace In the world of event planning, setup is key. If you're a member of eighteen, with its sprawling terrace and penchant for charcuterie boards and taco bars, you may have experienced how attention to detail goes a long way.

Situated on the eighteenth floor of 103 Colmore Row in Birmingham, eighteen offers guests a unique space for private events, meeting, socialising and relaxing. eighteen’s food and beverage manager George Cochrane has a few top tips on next-level refreshment stations to elevate your next event: Interactive delights: Gone are the days of guests passively waiting for a plate to be served. With food stations, your attendees become active participants in their dining experience. The sizzle of the grill, tantalizing aroma of spices, and the thrill of watching a skilled chef assemble a taco to perfection.

Social connection: Food stations foster a convivial atmosphere that encourages mingling and conversation.

Guests can gather around, connect, and enjoy while crafting their ideal tacos.

Flexibility and customisation: Tailor your menu to the theme and vibe of your event.

Whether you're hosting a casual light menu or a sophisticated soirée, create a Mediterranean mezze station or an Asian street foodinspired extravaganza – the possibilities are endless.

Why settle for the ordinary when you can elevate your events with the extraordinary?

The team at eighteen are ready to help you host your best event yet.

For more information, to book your event or take a tour of the space, get in touch with the team – eighteen@xandwhy.co.uk

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SPONSORED BY: XANDWHY

Retail crime hits UK’s independent stores A new report from the British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA) reveals a surge in retail crime negatively impacting independent shops across sectors and locations over the past 12 months.

The British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA), which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, surveyed its members to grasp a snapshot of how stores have been hit by the crimewave.

The survey showed that 40 per cent of shop owners or staff had experienced verbal abuse, while 6.5 per cent had come up against physical harm from customers in the past year - which has included being spat at, assaulted or having shop items thrown at them.

Of those physically abused, 82 per cent decided to not report it to police, while those that did, said it didn't lead to prosecution (18 per cent).

The results also showed that 70 per cent of those who had experienced verbal abuse said it has got worse in the last 12 months compared to the previous year, while 50 per cent of those who suffered physical abuse said it had worsened.

Epidemic levels of crime: Andrew Goodacre

Of those verbally abused which included intimidation, swearing and aggressive behaviour, being threatened with violence and being shouted at, 66 per cent did not report the offence to police. For those that were reported, 50 per cent of shopkeepers said that police didn't attend, while 42 per cent had police attend the scene but no prosecutions taking place.

When questioned, many shop owners said that they “didn't see the point” in reporting it as “nothing happens” and they didn't

believe that the police would be interested. Others said there was no police presence, and they didn't feel that the police cared.

One shopkeeper said: “Thieves do not fear being seen, challenged or caught, so feel quite at liberty to take larger items, up to around £200 each time”.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “Retail crime, such as theft and aggravated behaviour, seems to be reaching epidemic levels but there does seem to be more of an organised element to it.

“Larger retailers are able to continuously improve their security measures, with security staff and preventative measures as they have the budgets available to do so.

However, for the smaller retailer this is not possible and so they become even more of a target choice for criminals. and are left more vulnerable to being targeted.”

In September, police forces across England and Wales pledged to pursue every lead that holds a “reasonable chance of apprehending criminals and solving crimes” and said that this “back-to-basics" approach would mark a significant milestone in addressing the rising concerns of retail crime, particularly theft and violence.

HGV charging hub in the works Birmingham will have one of the UK’s first electric vehicle charging hubs dedicated to HGVs, the government roads minister announced as part of a £200m drive to introduce more zeroemission trucks.

Richard Holden was visiting Voltempo in Birmingham, one of the recipients of the £200m whose eFREIGHT 2030 project is set to create up to 200 new jobs by 2030 and provide Birmingham with one of the UK’s first electric vehicle charging hubs dedicated to HGVs. With heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) alone contributing 20 per cent to all transport emissions across the UK, the £200m in government funding announced by Mr Holden will be invested across four innovative green projects to roll out up to 370 zero emission HGVs and help set road freight on the path towards net zero, driving innovation and creating new jobs.

Route to zero: An HGV is powered

Delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, the £200m investment from the zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator programme will also deliver around 57 refuelling and electric charging sites, providing the crucial infrastructure to help the haulage sector decarbonise.

Mr Holden said: “Freight and logistics are the beating heart of our economy and it is only right that we support the sector.

“We are working hard to drive innovation, create jobs and grow the economy by building a brighter, more innovative future for one of our most crucial industries.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Meet the Team HR TEAM hambers’ head of people Heena Ahmed can reflect on a career with rare insights into human nature – including four “fascinating” years working for the Prison Service.

Heena, who with HR officer Am Hayre runs the Human Resources Department for the Midland’s premier business group, found her experience of life behind bars an invaluable asset to her current role at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

Her story began in a world far removed from traditional HR. Heena recalls: "I dealt with some very serious high-level offenders, murderers, rapists, paedophiles, serial killers. I was exposed to things I never thought I would be exposed to.

“It’s not intimidating, but when the gates are being locked, it’s another world, completely different and unfamiliar. You are cut off from the real world."

The route into HR was paved for Heena during her work recruiting talent for the Prison Service across the Midlands. Her responsibilities ranged from hiring administrative staff to prison officers and management roles.

C

The HR team at the Chamber, headed by former Prison Service employee Heena Ahmed, oversees all elements of the organisation’s operations and personnel. Pictured are Am Hayre (left) and Heena Ahmed.

NEXT MONTH: We end our series introducing Chamber staff to members by meeting the chief executive’s team.

“It was very interesting,” she reflects. “I was working with a wide range of people, and it made me realise I was working in the right field."

Yet her role extended beyond recruitment. She actively participated in prisoners' induction, education, and training processes. "I was really thankful for the opportunities for growth that it provided – it really developed my skill set and knowledge.”

Hailing from Burton-on-Trent, Heena joined the GBCC as head of people a year ago.

However, her journey into HR began postcollege, and her original aspiration was to become an English teacher.

“I did a Criminology and Psychology Degree at Birmingham City University from 2011 to 2014,” she explains. “I wanted to get into a position that would give me an opportunity to continue my studies of the human mind, and that was when I decided that I would go into HR. Completing my CIPD certification confirmed this as my long-term career path.”

Her HR career continued with work experience and placements across various organisations in the Burton area, including sectors such as retail and hospitality. These early experiences provided valuable insights into recruitment, onboarding, and the holistic employee journey, from interview processes to professional development.

Following her four-year tenure with the Prison Service, Heena ventured into the private sector, working on NHS contracts nationally. Her career path then led her to an International Business Partner role with a Denmark-based work experience and facilities management company.

This role took her on a journey across Europe, encompassing destinations such as Germany, Italy, and Hungary. “It was a more strategic focus within HR. I was getting exposed to strategic management, organisational changes, European regulations, and EDI. I have been very lucky that every role has been a career development for me, and I have been able to enhance my expertise.”

Heena now brings her diverse experiences to the GBCC. In her role as Head of People, she holds a critical and strategic position within the organisation, overseeing all facets of HR and people management. This includes responsibilities such as payroll management, recruitment, induction processes, case management, and the refinement of policies and procedures.

“No two days are the same – my role is so varied, and I really thrive off that. We contribute significantly to the Chambers’ growth, stability, and success.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Marketing firms forge merger to build growth Two of Birmingham’s most successful marketing agencies, HDY and Orb, are merging, resulting in the creation of a new, unified agency called Lunar.

Backed by Elonex, the merger puts Lunar in pole position to scale up and become one of the UK’s largest independent, full-service agencies to offer a seamless service across branding, performance marketing and sales.

HDY launched over five years ago and quickly established itself as a leading player with international, national and regional clients including Sodexo, Severn Trent and Birmingham Airport. Its founder, Ed James, will now serve as founding partner at Lunar.

‘Both Orb and HDY are ready to embark on the next stage of growth’ Branding agency Orb has been in business for more than two decades during which it has built a global portfolio of clients in the healthcare, F&B and real estate sectors including Health Trust Europe, BrewDog, GS Yuasa and Pension Insurance Corporation.

In the newly-formed agency, Orb’s founder, Rob Bloxham, will be a founding partner. Orb partner and ex-M&C Saatchi planner, Jacqueline Tarry, will become Lunar’s strategy director and have partner status.

With strong Birmingham roots and the ability to deliver solutions that serve clients worldwide, the new agency’s name was inspired by The Lunar Society of Birmingham – a renowned community of Midlands thinkers whose transformative ideas have had a positive international impact since the 18th century.

Ed James said: “Both Orb and HDY are ready to embark on the next stage of growth and doing it together is an opportunity we could not turn down. Combined, we have the strength, passion and acumen to become a major player in the UK agency scene.

Aiming for the moon – the Lunar team (left to right): Nick Smith, Jacqueline Tarry, Ed James and Rob Bloxham

“Clients have warmly welcomed this progression and our team looks forward to showing them what we can deliver as Lunar.”

Rob Bloxham said: “Lunar will be a full-service brand and marketing agency but we’re going to take that definition up a notch. In addition to helping our clients build their brands and deliver leads, we’ll take responsibility for sales too. Lunar will offer a complete growth engine that today’s clients are looking for from their agency partners.”

Nick Smith, CEO of Elonex, said: “I am thrilled to back these two highperforming, bright and motivated teams. This merger presents a really solid opportunity for Elonex to solidify our portfolio of outstanding marketing, media and sales businesses, and I’m very excited to see what the future holds.”

Lunar will be operated out of headquarters at The Custard Factory in Digbeth and its official launch is scheduled for early 2024.

Unity Trust Bank appoints customer insights manager Nina Chaidemenaki has been named as Unity Trust Bank’s new customer insights and partnership manager, as part of the bank’s ongoing commitment to enhance customer experience.

Skilled in working across a variety of market sectors including healthcare, insurance and finance, Nina joins Unity from Critical Future, a strategy and technology company.

Nina is also the co-founder of not-for-profit organisation, Women4Cyber Greek Chapter, which focuses on empowering women to enter the business sector by strengthening their skills and knowledge and providing networking opportunities.

In her new role at Unity, Nina will be responsible for identifying customer needs and creating strategic partnerships to address new and emerging business demand, with the aim of improving customers’ overall banking experience.

With a strong background in market research and analytics, she’ll be using her depth of knowledge in the field to advance the bank’s customer-centric approach.

Unity Trust Bank offers a full range of business banking services and lends to customers that

Thrilled: Nina Chaidemenaki

positively impact society. Its ambition is to become the bank of choice for all socially-minded organisations across the UK. Nina said: “I’m thrilled to be working for an organisation that helps its customers contribute to positive economic, social and environmental change.

“I’m proud to support Unity’s mission to help create a better society through responsible lending and I look forward to working in close collaboration with our customers and partners; listening and responding to their evolving needs so we can continue to deliver excellent service.”

Louise Pursglove, head of brand and proposition at Unity Trust Bank, said: “We are so pleased to welcome Nina to Unity and to continue to strengthen the relationship between the bank, our customers and partners.

“With her valuable experience in market research and analytics, Nina will provide vital insights that can help us better understand and serve our customers and become the bank of choice for ethically minded, value-driven businesses.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

SMEs urged to join pregnancy policy platform Small and medium sized businesses in and around Birmingham are being urged to sign up for free to a new government-funded platform designed to help them manage employees who are pregnant, struggling to conceive or lose their baby during pregnancy.

One in four pregnancies in the UK end in loss through miscarriage or other complications.

But research by Tommy’s and the CIPD shows that many employers don’t know how to navigate the situation. Employees – and employers’ ability to retain staff – suffer as a result.

A 2021 Tommy’s survey found that more than half (52 per cent) of working parents have or would quit over a lack of support, but those who feel supported are more likely to stay with greater loyalty and commitment.

It costs on average £30,000 to replace an employee.

Sixty-nine per cent of employees felt that their manager wanted to support them – but only one in three told Tommy’s that the manager knew how to do it.

One in seven couples in the UK may have difficulties conceiving, which can have a significant impact on their wellbeing and mental health, but a 2023 CIPD report found that less than 20 per cent felt supported at work while having fertility challenges.

A recent report by Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Trust, who have introduced a dedicated pregnancy loss policy for colleagues, discovered that a policy providing 10 days of paid leave for those experiencing pregnancy loss would result in only 5.5 days’ additional leave being taken on average per person.

Earlier this year, Tommy’s - the UK’s largest charity dedicated to stopping the heartbreak of baby loss and making pregnancy and birth safe for everyone - was awarded government funding to roll out its popular corporate e-training and resource package (Pregnancy and Parenting at Work) to smaller businesses until March 2025.

Help at hand: Free advice for businesses dealing with pregnancy issues

Over the past two years, larger companies such as Santander, BUPA, members of the Virgin group, several NHS trusts and South Staffordshire College have signed up to Tommy’s paid training package, called Pregnancy and Parenting at Work.

Now, thanks to a grant from the Department for Health and Social Care’s Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise Health and Wellbeing Fund, Tommy’s can offer Birmingham and Manchester SMEs (typically, companies with fewer than 250 employees) the service at no cost.

Rosie Leverton, head of corporate partnerships at Tommy’s, said: “Baby loss at any point in the pregnancy journey is utterly devastating. In recent years we have begun to see more people talking about the subject openly – there's a little more understanding. Yet parents still face outdated and unhelpful HR policies and practices.

“Even when the policies do follow the best practice, often the gap between the implementation and the policy still results in an unsupportive experience for the employee, simply because the manager has no guidance on actually putting it into practice.”

Businesses can also apply to become a Tommy’s Pregnancy and Parenting Champion through the charity’s accreditation scheme – signalling the company’s commitment to change for the better.

To register an organisation go to: smeworkplace.tommys.org. Businesses in Birmingham should use the code BIRMTOM for free registration.

Small businesses called on to support fostering Independent fostering agency Capstone Foster Care are calling upon small businesses to elevate their organisation by championing fostering.

Nearly 70,000 children and young people live with almost 55,000 fostering families across the UK each day and about three quarters of the almost 98,000 children in care each day. More than ever families are needed to step up and foster. With the national shortfall in mind, Capstone Foster Care have launched their innovative new Community Champion scheme which is open to all businesses with a local footprint.

Once signed up, the business will be provided with bespoke dualbranded materials such as leaflets and handy cards, as well as a quarterly newsletter containing hints and tips on how to get the most out of their partnership.

Head of marketing and communication for Capstone Sarah Carter said: “Our Community Champions do a fantastic job of not only raising awareness about Capstone Foster Care and what makes us unique, but also fostering in general and how those who are able to foster should seriously consider it.”

Community champions for Capstone Foster Care not only enjoy the social benefits of being part of a cause so crucial for some of society's most vulnerable children, but also receive a financial sum when individuals referred as a result of the partnership become fully fledged foster carers.

To find out more about becoming a Community Champion call 0800 044 012 or email hello@capstonefostercare.co.uk

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BUSINESS NEWS

Safety experts issue warning after survey

Lecturer writes on youth culture A university lecturer in Birmingham has contributed to a book which aims to help remove young men from gang crime in urban areas.

Dr Pete Harris, senior lecturer at Birmingham Newman University, addresses the idea that “road men” need older “role models” in a chapter entitled ‘He’s shown me the road - Role Model and Road Man’ in a new edited collection from Bristol University Press, available to buy online.

Edited by Jade Levell, Tara Young and Rod Earle ‘Exploring Urban Youth Culture Outside of the Gang Paradigm -Critical Questions of Youth, Gender and Race On-Road’, this collection explores how race, class, and gender dynamics shape this aspect of youth culture.

Dr Harris said: “In the chapter, I examine some of the taken-for-granted ideas that lie behind the idea that ‘road men’ need older, positive, male ‘role models’.

“I’m really pleased to have been asked to be involved in this book project. As Jonathan Ilan says in his review - the book is “a welcome departure from the well-trodden path there are no stereotypes of Black ‘gang members’ here”.”

Dr Harris spent 18 years as a youth worker and then as a senior manager for a children’s charity before joining Birmingham Newman University in 2010. He holds a BA in Social Policy, a Dip. H.E. in Youth and Community Work and an M.A. in Education Studies. He was Presidents Doctoral Scholar at Manchester University where he completed an ESRC-funded PhD in Criminology.

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An environmental services firm has urged individuals and businesses to take responsibility for fire safety in homes and workplaces.

The call from Lichfield-based Legionella and Fire Safe Services comes after a study unveiled a dangerous lack of awareness regarding faulty fire doors among the UK public, jeopardising the safety of lives and properties.

The survey, conducted among 2,000 UK adults, indicates that over half (57 per cent) of respondents could not identify a faulty fire door, leading to underreporting of critical safety issues.

While the research reflects a high level of awareness about factors that can compromise the performance of fire doors during a fire, a staggering majority of respondents were unable to recognise a faulty fire door.

‘We need to urge individuals to take responsibility for fire safety in their homes and workplaces’ Furthermore, with 29 per cent admitting they wouldn't report a faulty fire door due to a lack of understanding, while 21 per cent expressed scepticism that reporting would yield any action, and nearly half (49 per cent) did not believe it was their responsibility to report such issues.

While 46 per cent believed fire doors stop the spread of fire, only 32 per cent recognised their role in halting the spread of smoke.

However, 60 per cent of respondents would report a faulty or propped open fire door out of a sense of responsibility to prevent a potential fire.

Additionally, 86 per cent expressed a willingness to report such issues in the future.

Danielle Bayliss, operations director at Legionella and Fire Safe Services, said: “Everyone must understand that fire doors are a vital barrier, not just against flames but also against the deadly spread of smoke during a fire.

“We need to urge individuals to take responsibility for fire safety in their homes and workplaces.

'Recognise it, Report it,' is something people need to remember to spot and report issues, so that immediate action can be taken to protect lives and property.

“We have seen an encouraging rise in Fire Safety across our portfolio of clients, including local authorities across the Midlands, but we need to urge residents to be aware and help us protect people's lives.”

The survey also highlighted a discrepancy in guidance provision between workplaces and residential buildings.

More than a third (38 per cent) of respondents indicated that their employers had educated them on identifying faulty fire doors in their workplace, whereas only 26 per cent of respondents' landlords had provided such information.

This suggests a need for greater awareness and guidance in residential settings to ensure the protection of homes, belongings, and loved ones.

Liquid wins top marketing award Liquid, the international integrated communications consultancy, has been named Agency Team of the Year at the Midlands Marketing Awards, after it was shortlisted alongside four other finalists.

The Midlands Marketing Awards celebrate the difference marketing makes to businesses in the Midlands, emphasising resultsdriven strategies and excellence.

The winners of the awards were announced during a ceremony at The Grand Hotel in Birmingham.

Liquid was recognised for its commitment to helping clients achieve their business objectives, including its innovative and creative approaches to create campaigns which push boundaries and carry the reputation of the industry forward.

The award win comes after a successful year – including the opening of its office in Brisbane, the restructure of its senior leadership team and a number of new hires and promotions.

Liquid CEO Elisabeth Lewis-Jones said: “Winning ‘Agency Team of the Year’ is an incredible achievement

and we’re honoured to have been shortlisted among such amazing Midlands businesses. The win is a true testament to the hard work, growth and development of the Liquid team, and our ability to consistently push boundaries.

“We have some exciting plans for the year ahead and look forward to continuing to build our global offer, reach and services.”

For more information about Liquid visit www.weareliquid.com

Committed (left to right): the Liquid team Chloe Baker, James Read, Kate Gooderham, Clare Genner and Warren Clarke with the awards host

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

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Annual turnover increases to 1.2 billion euros

he Schumacher Packaging Group, one of Europe's largest manufacturers of customised corrugated and solid board packaging (www.schumacherpackaging.com), has successfully continued its growth trajectory in 2022.

Despite high volatility and difficult economic conditions on the world markets, the company was able to increase its annual turnover by almost 40 percent to around 1.2 billion euros compared to the previous year after sales deductions.

Decisive factors for the strong growth were the development of new product fields as well as strategic decisions. Nevertheless, Schumacher Packaging is concerned about the development of Germany as an industrial location. The familyowned company is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.

The sales target of 1 billion euros was clearly exceeded across all areas of the group of companies. Against the backdrop of increased energy prices, strong inflation and falling consumption, which shaped market events with the outbreak of the war against Ukraine, the packaging specialist's sales remained almost constant compared to the previous year. No growth was achieved in the primary business areas.

The growth in sales was mainly achieved through the acquisition of additional plants and the development of new product fields in the area of plastic reduction, especially for the food industry, but also for online retail. The number of employees rose from 3,700 to 4,111 in the past calendar year.

T

Top priority: security of supply and production capacities "Last year, our top priority was to secure supplies to our customers," explains company boss Björn Schumacher, who runs the company in the third 40 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

generation with his brother Hendrik. "We succeeded in this because, as a family-run company, we act very flexibly and quickly and have made courageous investment decisions - especially in our own paper production and the expansion of renewable energies," says Schumacher.

Through the acquisition of the Kaierde board mill, the majority stake in the Italian corrugated base paper manufacturer Cartiere Modesto Cardella SpA and the purchase of the Leipzig Land GmbH board mill, the corporate group has significantly increased its own production and processing capacities.

In addition, part of the 700 million euro investment programme was already brought forward to last year in order to make energyintensive production increasingly independent of natural gas.

Nevertheless, the high energy and labour costs are of great concern to the business leaders. "Industrial companies based in Germany are under immense strain. Some of our customers have already informed us that they will no longer make investments in Germany or that they will relocate their production facilities abroad, where the political framework conditions are different. As a result, we are also having to critically question our planned investments in Germany at the moment," says Schumacher.

Trend: intelligent solutions and combination products "The turbulent year led to less consumption and caused the demand for corrugated and solid board packaging to shrink compared to the previous year. Nevertheless, the trend towards paper-based packaging and intelligent combination products continues among manufacturers and in the trade," says Hendrik Schumacher, Managing Director of Schumacher Packaging.

The food industry in particular has proven to be crisis-proof in terms of packaging over the past year. Products such as HALOPACK®, which reduces plastic by up to 90 per cent, and Stackpack, which is made of solid board and can completely replace conventional plastic trays for fruit and vegetables due to its bio-based protective barrier, were in high demand.

The company is also developing paper-based solutions for polystyrene parts in packaging, which can even be used for sensitive and heavy electronic products. In areas where plastics still have their place due to their technical properties,

the packaging specialist is developing intelligent combination products together with its joint venture partner Verpa Folie.

European packaging regulation: shaping the legal framework In this context, Schumacher Packaging is also concerned with the new draft of the European Packaging Regulation (PPWR), which the European Commission presented in November 2022.

Schumacher Packaging supports the objectives of the regulation, which is intended to reduce the volume of packaging, ban overpackaging and further develop the circular economy in Europe. However, the family-owned company considers the fact that the regulation provides for the use of reusable packaging for household appliances and in non-food mail order to be worthy of criticism, although according to a recent study by McKinsey, these can cause up to 200 per cent more emissions in online retailing.

"Flexible solutions that reduce air in packaging are important to further reduce CO2 emissions," Björn Schumacher emphasises. The company also relies on this, for example, in its cooperation with the software provider Skrym.

Based on existing data and artificial intelligence, packaging sizes and thus emissions and logistics costs can be reduced by up to 15 per cent.

"Packaging made of corrugated and solid board already offers many advantages in terms of volume reduction and material efficiency across all industries. We hope that these important aspects will be taken into account for the elaboration of the PPWR."

For more details contact Naomi Harvey at Schumacher Packaging sales_bir@schumacher-packaging.com

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BUSINESS NEWS

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Chamber Patrons Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07862 732962

Students speed towards jobs as for a number of advanced technology research and development A partnership with Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains has programmes, for non F1 applicants. put Aston University students on the fast track to careers in “The aim of the partnership is to develop a programme of support to engineering and motorsports. break down barriers and encourage a more diverse and inclusive pool of For the last year the company has been supporting university students talent to apply for career opportunities in motorsports and advanced from under-represented groups to start careers in motorsports. technologies.”

The scheme includes guest lectures, workshops, studentships, Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP) contacted Aston mentoring and fast-track routes to interview for a placement or graduate University’s alumni team to establish the diversity and social mobility scheme with Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains. scholarship programme.

Students in the department of mechanical, Executive director of alumni relations and biomedical and design engineering, part of the College ‘The aim of the development, Kerrie Holland said: “None of this of Engineering and Physical Sciences, benefited from partnership is to would have been possible without the amazing the programme, which started in October 2022. support from all at Mercedes AMG High One year into the scheme, more than three hundred develop a programme Performance Powertrains Ltd. students have taken part in various activities, with of support to break “In just 12 months the scheme has empowered seven winning places on paid summer studentships, five put on a fast-track interview course and two and supported students from backgrounds that are down barriers’ receiving graduate job offers. currently under-represented in motorsports and the Mike Nash, head of human resources at Mercedes wider engineering industry thereby enabling growth AMG High Performance Powertrains, said: “Mercedes AMG High of diversity within the industry benefiting society and industry.”

Performance Powertrains design, manufacture, build, test and operate Head of the Aston University’s School of Engineering and Technology Dr Laura Leslie said: “It is wonderful to partner with such an exciting entire Formula 1 power units from concept to racing. company. The experience our students have had working with the team “In doing so we need a depth of expertise in both hardware and over the last year has been exceptional.” software across all elements of our Formula 1 hybrid power unit, as well

Partnership to help healthcare Aston University and Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust are collaborating to explore how digital technology, big data and artificial intelligence can revolutionise healthcare.

The university’s Engineering for Health Research Centre co-hosted the Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust Innovation Summit, which brought together tech firms, healthcare professionals and academics to discuss how new technology can benefit paediatric and women’s healthcare and the young people’s mental health sector.

Amanda Baugh, head of innovation at Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We want to get a wide range of experts in one place to explore and define challenges and set out plans about how we can adapt and adopt existing technology, products and devices.”

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Mayor commits to tech sector The region’s technology sector is booming to such an extent that many businesses are struggling to recruit enough skilled people, the West Midlands mayor heard during a meeting with IT experts Intercity.

Andy Street, also chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), was told how staff recruitment and retention were proving to be key barriers to growth for many West Midlands tech firms.

The mayor was joined by Martin Ward, the region’s tech commissioner, on a tour of the company, which has seen year-onyear growth of around 20 per cent and is a key player in the local tech industry.

The West Midlands has the fastest growing tech sector in the UK, worth over £15.3bn, and saw 2,378 tech start-ups registered in 2022 — an increase of 22 per cent.

Figures released by TechWM suggest around 144,000 employees work for a tech-based company in the West Midlands and recruitment for tech-based positions has increased by 31 per cent in 2022.

To help plug the skills gap WMCA has earmarked £14.7m into tech and digital skill courses

supporting approximately 11,000 individual learners.

Andy Street said: “When we look at the avenues open to us here in the West Midlands to power economic growth, it’s clear that technology will play a pivotal role in shaping our future.

“That’s why we’re so committed to the tech sector and excited about the opportunities it presents.

“As we nurture local talent and empower the next generation of tech professionals, we’re not just

building a stronger tech ecosystem - we’re building a brighter future for our region.”

Andrew Jackson, CEO of Intercity, said: “It’s an honour for Intercity to be recognised as a key tech player and we echo Andy Street’s commitment to nurturing local talent and empowering the next generation of IT professionals.

“We’re working together to level up the region and showcase what Birmingham’s growing tech space has to offer.”

Committed to tech (left to right): Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, with Charlie Blakemore and Martin Ward

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CHAMBER PATRONS

MoD awards for employers

Focused on medicine: Lashmitha Baskaran

Lashmitha is aiming high with Cambridge bursary A student from King Edwards High School (KEHS) Class of 2023 has been awarded a bursary for the University of Cambridge.

One of its Upper Sixth cohort from last year is among 13 West Midlands students going to the University of Cambridge who have been awarded prestigious OCR (Oxford, Cambridge and RSA) bursaries.

Lashmitha Baskaran, who is part of Archery GB and was a KEHS sports scholar, is reading medicine.

This is the 20th anniversary of the bursary programme run by the exam board OCR. Each student will receive an annual bursary of £3,000 for every year of their undergraduate degree at Cambridge. The bursary can be spent on living costs or college fees.

Bursary recipients this year include talented musicians and

sportspeople, like Lashmitha, as well as gifted linguists and community volunteers.

‘Everyone at OCR is thrilled to support yet another group of inspiring young people’ The OCR bursary programme has played a significant role in supporting the next generation of leaders and scholars from the West Midlands at Cambridge. OCR forms part of a non-teaching department of the university.

Jilly Duffy, OCR chief executive, said: “Everyone at OCR is thrilled to support yet another group of inspiring young people and to help them fulfil their dreams of studying at Cambridge University.

“We have selected 13 impressive students who we think will benefit most from this award, and I look forward to seeing them go on to thrive at university.

“The OCR bursary scheme now has two decades of proud history empowering talented local students to pursue higher education at one of the best universities in the world.

“We hope our bursaries will help provide that extra level of financial security and enable these students to fulfil their potential at university.”

To apply for the bursary, students need to have an offer from the University of Cambridge and be studying at a school or college in the West Midlands.

Applications for next year’s OCR’s bursary scheme will open in Spring 2024. Find out more at ocr.org.uk

NEC name new financial chief Paul Reeve has been appointed chief financial officer at the UK’s leading live events business, NEC Group.

This follows Melanie Smith joining the group as chief executive.

Paul spent 10 years at Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG), where he was European CFO, responsible for their venue, ticketing, touring and festival businesses across the region.

In addition to his work in live events, Paul has also held a range of senior finance roles in advertising and media at WPP plc and Dentsu.

He qualified as a chartered accountant with PwC. He therefore brings with him significant experience of the UK and European entertainment and media sectors, plus a strong background in driving commercial and operational value.

Melanie Smith said: “I am delighted to welcome Paul to the NEC Group. Paul is a well-respected finance leader with a strong track record in driving commercial and operating performance. Paul brings outstanding experience in live events, ticketing and venue management which will be pivotal to us unlocking the next phase of our growth.”

Paul added: “The Group is entering a new, transformative era and I am pleased to join at this exciting time, so I can support Melanie and the team in driving the business to new heights. I look forward to exploring how we can maximise efficiencies and profitable growth.”

The Group annually connects around seven million people through shared experiences of business, live entertainment, sport and leisure at more than 750 events.

Well-respected: Paul Reeve

Twenty-six employers from the West Midlands have been presented with their Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Awards.

The West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association’s (West Midland RFCA) awards took place at the National Memorial Arboretum.

The ERS awards were launched in 2014 to recognise employer support for the wider principles of the Armed Forces Covenant. The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for the employers that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to Defence and the Armed Forces community.

This includes the reserves, service leavers, armed forces veterans, the wounded, injured and sick, cadets, military spouses or partners and their families.

Marston's PLC, Sandwell College, St. Modwen Properties PLC, Steps to Work, STS Aviation Services UK Limited, Summit Learning Trust and West Midlands Trains received the award.

Imogen Day, VP Human Resources for STS Aviation Services UK Ltd, who have a base at Birmingham Airport, said, "We are extremely proud to be delivering the next generation of Military Aircraft - the E7 Wedgetail.

“Obtaining Silver ERS status supports our commitment and contributions to the armed forces through the world class work that we are performing on a daily basis, which can only be delivered through the people that we employ.

“Within both our military or civilian aviation operations we see the incredible value that the transferable skills from the armed forces brings to our organisation. Being awarded Silver ERS status enables us to demonstrate our commitment to this community, our existing employees, customers, suppliers and prospective employees.”

Graham Whitehouse, Philip Sinclair and Cat Suckling, regional employer engagement directors for West Midland RFCA, commented on the awards: “The Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme encourages employers to support Defence and inspire others to do the same.”

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

1813 Club and Premier Members The National Memorial Arboretum in the National Forest in Staffordshire has been named ‘Best UK Attraction’ at the Group Leisure & Travel Awards for the third consecutive year.

The awards recognise the best providers, attractions and destinations for groups, with the winners voted for by readers of Group Leisure & Travel magazine. In scooping the Best UK Attraction award, the Arboretum triumphed over impressive competition from other major visitor destinations, including Windsor Castle, Longleat and Buckingham Palace.

Mark Ellis, the National Memorial Arboretum lead, said: “The whole team of staff and volunteers at the Arboretum works incredibly hard together to deliver a world-class experience for all of our visitors, and the fact that the Arboretum has been named Best UK Attraction three years in a row is testament to this.”

Membership Contact: Gary Birch T: 0845 6036650

Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Arboretum wins best attraction

Premier

Amadeus celebrates new deal with events venue The arm of national catering business, Amadeus, responsible for the delivery of standalone event catering, has secured its latest contract with Unique Venues Birmingham (UVB).

Events by Amadeus has been working with UVB since 2019, and the team have signed a new three-year contract to deliver catering provisions to the organisation. UVB deliver a range of events from banquets, conferences and bespoke parties at The Library of Birmingham and The Rep. Dedicated to creating exceptional experiences and taking a bespoke approach to event catering, Amadeus brings more than 45 years of expertise and exciting innovations to the partnership. From intimate affairs to large celebrations, the contract marks a commitment from Events by Amadeus and UVB to a motto of “anything is possible” – providing the highest quality catering services and event management.

Thanks to the partnership, Events by Amadeus and UVB ensure a seamless process from start to finish of any event, sourcing local ingredients with 80 per cent of food and beverage suppliers located within a 30mile radius of the venues, to delivering inspiring and sustainable menus.

Suzanna Reid Barreiro da Silva, managing director at Unique Venues Birmingham, said: “We have worked with the team for nearly five years and in this time they have continued to exceed our needs and expectations at the 300+ events we host in our venues each year.

“The new contract with Events by Amadeus is testament to our joint commitment to excellence. Their

Catering partners (left to right): Sharon Lawrence, Sarah Millington, Suzanna Reid Barreiro da Silva, Jo Jenkinson, Laura Holden and Jelena Timofejeva

culinary experience aligns seamlessly with our venue’s ethos, and we’re so excited to bring unparalleled experiences to our clients.”

Kevin Watson, managing director of Amadeus, said: “We are overjoyed to be entering a new partnership with the UVB team. With our local knowledge, commitment to sustainable practices and desire to deliver exciting and untraditional menus, organisers continue to trust us to bring their visions to life.

“Together, we will create memorable culinary experiences that elevate every event at UVB.”

Fall in permanent jobs on offer

Mixed bag: Kate Holt

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Firms in the Midlands signalled a sustained and sharp reduction in permanent placements, while temporary billings rose at a stronger rate than that seen in August, according to a new survey.

The latest KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs survey, compiled by S&P Global, showed a mixed picture for recruitment activity in the Midlands at the end of the third quarter of 2023.

Firms highlighted that widespread reports of recruitment freezes and a lack of suitably skilled candidates weighed on permanent hiring, and pushed firms to take on temporary staff.

Recruitment firms also signalled a softer improvement in candidate

supply for both permanent and temporary roles during September, with the respective growth rates easing to three- and four-month lows. However, competition for scarce workers contributed to sustained upturns in starting pay.

That said, growth in demand for staff eased in the latest survey period, notably for permanent staff where vacancies broadly stagnated.

The KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs: Midlands is compiled by S&P Global from responses to questionnaires sent to around 100 recruitment and employment consultancies in the Midlands.

Kate Holt, people consulting partner for KPMG in the Midlands, said: “We have seen another mixed

bag when it comes to recruitment across the Midlands during the third quarter of 2023.

“Latest figures show a continued decline in permanent placements, due to a lack of skilled candidates and a rise in recruitment freezes, which has resulted in an ongoing spike in temporary hires. However, figures show that a trend for rising starting salaries has been maintained, continuing a pattern seen for the past 31 months in a row.”

Neil Carberry, REC chief executive, said: “Employers tell us they are feeling better about themselves as the year moves on, and this latest data does suggest the possibility of a turnaround in hiring over the next few months.”

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

Warning issued over new Russian sanctions

By Johnathan Dudley, head of manufacturing at national audit, tax, advisory and risk firm Crowe Midlands manufacturers now have to comply with the double-whammy of new regulations over Russian sanctions and carbon emissions, which have now come into force.

Customs authorities will require evidence that the country of origin of the original iron/steel and semi-finished steel products did not come from Russia. The aim is to stop Russia illicitly exporting its iron and steel through third party countries following international sanctions.

The introduction of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, or CBAM, regulations is a border tax which applies to a broad range of carbon intensive imports into the EU, ranging from aluminim, iron, steel and cement to fertilisers and electricity.

Export paperwork will need to detail embedded and indirect carbon emissions for these goods. The aim, according to the European Union, is to reduce global emissions by imposing a fee on carbon-intensive imports from countries with weaker climate regulations and the impact of CBAM is potentially massive.

Unless exporters have the right documentation, they face the risk of seeing their goods turned back at the border or even impounded and potentially significantly affecting

the flow of business across the border between the UK and Europe.

These additional regulations continue to reflect the lingering impact of the post-Brexit regulatory landscape for UK-based manufacturing firms.

According to Crowe’s annual Manufacturing Outlook Survey 2023, produced with the Confederation of British Metalforming, for nearly one in three companies, the UK exit from the EU as barrier to international trade is becoming ever increasingly realised and prohibitive as more than a third of respondents to the survey have discouraged further expansion into the europe.

What is now the package of Russian sanctions will require a mill-test certificate to say where the metal was originally melted and poured.

Again, these goods could be sent back or seized at the border.

The difficulty in obtaining this information about their existing metal stocks could have a serious financial impact on some companies.

In respect of the prohibitions on imports and steel products from Russia, the EU published additional guidance. Notably, the guidance highlights prohibitions on the listed steel and iron products will not apply to imports which

were manufactured or produced after 23 June 2023 – which provides clarification on the position for existing inventories.

However, the guidance does not explicitly state how this should be evidenced. It is vital that companies affected or potentially affected understand the scope and reach of these new regulations, otherwise the UK could lose out very quickly.

Businesses who believe they may be affected are urged to contact Johnathan Dudley at Crowe via johnathan.dudley@crowe.co.uk or call 0121 543 1900.

• More manufacturing news – see page 77.

November 2023 CHAMBERLINK 45

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade

T: 0845 603 6650 E: ibh@birmingham-chamber.com

UK signs MoU with Washington A further boost for trade and investment in the West Midlands is expected following the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UK and the US state of Washington.

Washington State is home to major US business including Amazon, Starbucks, Microsoft and Boeing, and has a GDP roughly equivalent to Poland.

The MoU is the sixth delivered as part of the UK’s state-level strategy to boost trade with the US. According to the Department for Business and Trade, the combined GDP of states the UK has MoUs with now totals £2.2tn.

Minister for industry and economic security Nusrat Ghani signed the pact in Seattle alongside Washington State Governor Jay Inslee.

The UK has signed MoUs with Indiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Oklahoma, Utah, and

now Washington. Collectively these states imported £5.1bn of UK goods in 2022.

The Government is actively engaging with further states including Florida, Texas, California, Colorado, and Illinois.

The DBT says aerospace will be a priority sector under the MoU, which seeks to facilitate more deals between UK and Washington State.

Boeing has spent over £12bn in the UK supply chain since 2015.

It’s most recent investment, a £80m composite research facility in Sheffield, will establish new long-term partnerships and supply chains.

Mr Ghani said: “Our pact with the state of Washington is a win for the UK, opening a door for our businesses to trade more openly and unlock new opportunities in key sectors.

“Each US state is a massive global market in its own right, and many have economies larger than the GDP of whole countries. By notching

up our sixth such deal we’ve surpassed the £2 trillion mark for combined GDP of states who’ve done a deal with the UK, with many more in our sights.

“This particular deal will be fantastic for our aerospace industry through investor intros, trade missions, and increasing access to procurement markets.”

Washington State Governor Jay Inslee said: “Washington is a leader in sustainable aerospace and aviation, attracting billions in new investments across the state’s urban and rural areas, boosting local economies while slashing our carbon emissions.”

Duncan Edwards, CEO of leading trade body BritishAmerican Business, said: “Building on an already strong business relationship, the MoU with Washington State has the potential to unlock further opportunities for UK companies in aerospace, clean energy, digital, agriculture, life sciences and innovation.”

International Chambers get together for annual meetings Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s two international divisions will be holding their annual meetings together this month.

The AGMs of the Greater Birmingham Transatlantic and Global Chambers of Commerce are taking place at the offices of civil engineering company Ramboll, in Cornwall Steet, Birmingham, on Thursday, 9 November.

As well as looking back on the work of the two Chambers over the past 12 months, the AGMs will offer 46 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

both presidents – Transatlantic Chamber president James Tait and Global Chamber president Mark Smith – the opportunity to present awards to members who have impressed during 2023.

In addition, patrons from the respective divisions are also being invited to address delegates.

Sian Timmins, international partnerships manager at the GBCC, said: “As the Global and Transatlantic Chambers are becoming more aligned, and with greater collaboration between our

two presidents, Mark Smith from Aston University and James Tait from Browne Jacobson, we have decided to host the Global and Transatlantic AGMs together.

“It is also an opportunity for the presidents to each give an award to a Chamber member they feel has stood out the most this past 12 months.

“We look forward to welcoming members from both divisions. I’d also like to thank Ramboll for offering to host the event at their city centre offices.”

Mark Smith

James Tait

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE TRANSATLANTIC CHAMBER PATRONS

Global Chamber Patrons

Global transport conference is making its way to Birmingham The world’s leading experts on smart transport systems will be gathering in Birmingham after the city was named preferred candidate to host the 2027 Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress (ITS).

The global event will bring thousands of delegates to the NEC Birmingham to explore, share ideas and demonstrate the latest developments in transport including autonomous vehicles, electric and zeroemission technology, 5G technology and traffic management systems.

Birmingham was announced as preferred 2027 host city during the 29th ITS World Congress in Suhzou, China.

The successful bid was a collaboration between Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), the Department for Transport (DfT), Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) and the NEC Birmingham (National Exhibition Centre).

This success is a sign of the West Midlands’ growing reputation as a hotbed for innovation

and the development of cutting-edge transport technology and systems.

The region was named the UK’s first Future Transport Zone in 2019 and has recently acquired further powers under the West Midlands Deeper Devolution Deal to develop and test new transport technologies.

Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the West Midlands to take to the global stage once again and demonstrate our commitment to innovation and sustainability on transport.

‘This is a fantastic opportunity for the West Midlands to take to the global stage once again’ “We look forward to showcasing our region's achievements – our ground-breaking Regional Transport Coordination Centre, our development of 5G connected and autonomous vehicle technology and the

Funding for disaster project Aston University has announced the launch of a pioneering research project that delves into the intricate relationship between disaster impact and regime type in Southeast Asia.

The £300,000 project, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), will run from 2024 to 2026 and led by Aston University’s Dr Laura Southgate, alongside coinvestigators Dr Komal Aryal (Aston University) and Dr Thomas O’Brien (University of York).

It will study how the way a government is organised affects the impact of natural disasters like typhoons, floods or earthquakes. It will also find ways to make communities

better prepared and safer in the future. A key part of the project will be making a specialist set of information that shows how disasters affect different areas in Southeast Asia depending on the type of government they have.

Dr Laura Southgate, the principal investigator of the project and senior lecturer in politics and international relations at Aston University, said: “This research has the potential to revolutionise disaster governance strategies in Southeast Asia by comprehensively understanding the interplay between regime type and disaster impact so that we can formulate targeted and effective risk reduction measures, ultimately

safeguarding communities and preserving lives.

“The funding from the ESRC is a testament to the confidence placed in the research team's expertise and the project's overarching objectives.”

Dr Komal Aryal, coinvestigator of the project and lecturer in crisis and disaster management at Aston University, said: “This initiative is a significant step towards building more resilient societies in Southeast Asia where communities are highly exposed to multiple hazards and risks. Through meticulous data analysis and strategic planning, we aim to foster a safer and more prepared region in the face of disasters caused by natural phenomena.”

emerging Very Light Rail systems. Innovation and smart transport are a crucial part of our plans to decarbonise our transport and meet the climate change challenge.

“We will welcome industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers from around the world here to share their expertise and cement our place as a hub for transport innovation.”

This was announced at the same time as the city hosted Birmingham Tech Week festival celebrating innovation in the region.

The ITS World Congress attracts thousands of delegates and speakers from around the world and includes seminars, exhibitions, technical visits, and outreach events. It provides a platform for the latest developments in transport technology and mobility solutions.

Donna Cunningham, sales director for conventions at NEC Birmingham, said: “At the NEC we pride ourselves on being able to bring together industries to share exciting new ideas and expertise, so we’re delighted to host the 2027 Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress (ITS).”

Vietnam bonds are bolstered by MoU

Vietnam-Chamber MoU: International director Mandy Haque and international partnerships manager Sian Timmins, along with Global chamber president Mark Smith from Aston University, Lloyd Broad from Birmingham City Council and the Lord Mayor host the Vietnamese ambassador to the UK and a delegation from six different provinces from across Vietnam to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the UK. An MoU was also signed between Vietnam, the Chamber and the city.

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ABCC Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK Contact: Anjum Khan T: 0845 6036650

Tech sector under the spotlight

By Feron Jayawardene The striving technology sector in Birmingham and the key challenges faced by minority communities were the key talking points of discussion at the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce patrons’ dinner.

The event at Hotel du Vin was hosted by ABCC executive committee member Gurdas Singh with 50 guests.

ABCC president Omar Rashid welcomed the guests while the keynote address was given by Yiannis Maos, founder and CEO of TechWM. Speaking at the event, Yiannis said: “Birmingham was the fastest growing tech sector in the UK during 2022.

“We have contributed £3.5bn to the local economy. The region’s tech industry is thriving and will add 52,000 jobs and £2.7bn more to the economy by 2025.

“Jobs in the digital and technology sectors have also been increased by 35 per cent with 2300 tech startups collectively raising over £1bn pounds.

“However, there is still fragmentation and not enough support in the region, especially towards the marginalised communities.

“Entrepreneurs from Black, South Asian, Eastern Asian, and Middle Eastern backgrounds receive only 1.7 per cent of BSEEN investments even though ethnic minorities make 14 per cent of the UK population.

“This shows a disproportionate underinvestment in these communities and my

Dinner attendees (left to right): Chris Reynolds from Hotel du Vin, ABCC president Omar Rashid, ABCC director Anjum Khan, Yiannis Maos and ABCC committee member Gurdas Singh

commitment is to shift this underinvestment to a positive outcome in the next decade.”

Omar Rashid said in his welcome: “It is both an honour and a privilege to stand here tonight to appreciate the support, dedication and commitment given by ABCC patrons to achieve our goals and aspirations.

“In an evolving world, the ABCC strives to be a leading platform for Asian business with innovation and creativity. The involvement of all

patrons is not just a partnership, but a shared collaboration to inspire Asian businesses.”

Chris Reynolds from Malmaison and Hotel du Vin, spoke about new developments at the hotel.

Yiannis also mentioned the origins of Birmingham Tech Week: “I wanted to give back to the local community and Birmingham Tech Week was born. By October 2019, we had 5000 people attending and we realised that a much bigger platform was needed to get people into tech.”

Milestone for health and wellbeing charity Mental health and wellbeing charity The Kaleidoscope Plus Group celebrated their 50th anniversary with a gala fundraiser.

Held at the Belfry Hotel and Resort, the event was a testament to the organisation's enduring impact on countless lives.

Staff members, together with steadfast supporters and celebrity ambassadors, gathered to reflect on the organisation's journey and its advocacy for mental health awareness.

The evening featured auctions to raise funds, a golden ticket giveaway, speeches from the CEO and chairman of the company and a heartfelt testimonial video showing first hand the impact that their work has made to the life of one of their service users with a glimpse into the future of mental health care and the organisation.

The fundraiser also included live music, a gourmet feast, and a kaleidoscope of colours that lit up the venue. It also managed to raise over £45,000 to keep funding vital services.

Monica Shafaq, CEO of Kaleidoscope Plus Group, said: “Our 50th Anniversary Gala Fundraiser was not just a celebration of the past but a resounding testament to our future.

“The success of this gala fundraiser, and the unwavering support from our incredible community, renews our resolve to illuminate the path to mental health well-being.

“With every passing year, our impact grows stronger, and together, we'll continue to stamp out the stigma against talking about mental health.”

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Happy birthday: The Kaleidoscope Plus Group celebration

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ABCC ABCC Patrons

PREMIER+ PARTNERS

Radio duo announced as award night hosts Multi award winning broadcasters Sunny Grewal and Shay Grewal have been confirmed as the hosts of the annual dinner and awards ceremony of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce.

The awards ceremony is set to take place on Saturday, 18 November, at The National Conference Centre in Solihull.

‘We are delighted to be back in the Midlands to host the awards and to celebrate the fantastic work of businesses across Greater Birmingham’ The duo has been working for BBC local radio for the past 14 years and they are at the forefront of news and entertainment, reflecting the voice of local communities in the West Midlands and London.

They became household names after appearing on the Channel 4 show The Family in 2008 and are global brand ambassadors of the London Indian Film Festival.

Tranquil spot: Guests at the opening of the sensory garden

New sensory garden completed at hospice Household names: Sunny Grewal and Shay Grewal

The awards ceremony will recognise and celebrate businesses and charities across eight categories. One of those category winners will then be crowned the overall business of the year, sponsored by Shakespeare Martineau.

The headline sponsors this year are Aston University, Doug Wright (T/A McDonalds) and Lioncroft.

Sunny and Shay Grewal said: “We are delighted to be back in the Midlands to host the awards and to celebrate the fantastic work of businesses across Greater Birmingham.

“There is so much to celebrate across Birmingham, from charity to finance. The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Awards night is without a doubt the most prestigious event in the Asian business calendar and we are looking forward to hosting it this year in a city which has given us so much!”

New take on classic treat A new cake ladoo line has been launched by Cake Layers, presenting a modern concept of Asian sweets for any occasion.

Cake Layers has taken their passion of creating cake flavours and mixed them with flavoured buttercreams to bring a new delicate and artisan sweet perfect for gifting or sharing with family and friends.

Purmilla Bhatti, designer of the cake ladoo line, said: "As a cake artist I bake and decorate cakes for weddings and all other occasions including corporate events and I recently launched my new product Cake Ladoo.

“Whether you prefer traditional Eastern flavours such as cardamom and coconut or chai masala or love the idea of a lemon or red velvet Cake Ladoo, we have something for every generation.

“Our commitment goes beyond our flavours by letting you choose the flavours in the box. We create a flavour card to match and place it inside our beautiful, branded box. We can't wait for you to try them.”

Birmingham Hospice charity has welcomed a new sensory garden by Persimmon Homes Central, one of the UK’s largest house builders.

The garden came alive after a donation of £6,000 to the hospice earlier in the year for their Room to Care appeal.

This was followed by a team of volunteers giving their time to supply and create at the Erdington premises.

The garden gives people with a lifelimiting illness and their families a tranquil area to enjoy and help make their final moments matter.

Luke Manley, senior business development fundraiser at Birmingham Hospice, said: “We cannot be more thankful to Persimmon Homes Central for their invaluable support and wonderful creation of our new sensory garden at our Erdington site. Seeing it transformed from an unused area into a place of beauty was simply amazing.

“Thanks to the kindness and generosity of our new green fingered friends, our patients, their families and the Birmingham Hospice teams can now enjoy a fantastic mixture of sounds, smells and textures, while making every moment matter.

“It costs around £16m to run Birmingham Hospice each year and thanks to Persimmon Homes kindly donating and creating our new sensory garden, we can continue to fund other vital care services across our hospice and community when people need us most.”

Neil Williams, managing director at Persimmon Homes Central, said: “What we do is about so much more than building quality homes; it’s also about supporting the communities in which we build in a number of ways.

“At Persimmon, we encourage our team to volunteer their time to causes close to their hearts and it’s great to be able to unveil the new sensory garden at Birmingham Hospice, helping to create a welcoming environment in their open spaces and celebrate the team’s hard work bringing the area to life.”

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CANNOCK CHASE CHASE CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Scheme to stop nuisance calls A scheme protecting elderly and vulnerable people in Staffordshire from the risks of nuisance sales calls has received national praise.

The free call-blocking devices are fitted to people’s telephones by Trading Standards officers from Staffordshire County Council and help to stop unwanted calls.

The scheme is part of a campaign by National Trading Standards, who have singled out the authority for its successes.

According to UK Finance, around three million scams took place during 2022 and it is estimated that half of them start with a phone call.

A call blocker stops up to 95 per cent of unwanted and nuisance calls to a home phone.

So far, the devices have been fitted in over 150 Staffordshire households, preventing an estimated 92,000 unwanted calls.

Trading Standards officers are now calling for more people with elderly and vulnerable family members to consider the system.

Victoria Wilson, cabinet member with responsibility for trading standards at Staffordshire County Council, said: “This has been an important piece of work for our officers and it’s great the see the difference the devices can make.

“Nuisance sales calls may sound harmful enough, but they are very menacing. When an older person or someone with memory loss receive them, it can cause a huge amount of stress.

National praise: Tony Shore with Cllr Victoria Wilson

“In some cases, officers have also dealt with victims who have handed over personal information, bank account details and passwords which has resulted in financial loss.

“Installing a device can make a huge difference and not only helps protect vulnerable people but also gives their families piece of mind. We have a simple application process in place that allows individuals, or their loved ones, to apply online.”

Louise Baxter, head of the national trading standards scams team, said: “We are proud to be offering this valuable technology to all trading standards teams and partner agencies in the UK.” Further details and how to register for a device are available at staffordshire.gov.uk

Quit smoking with support Good cause: The McArthur Glen team

Outlet team take to the streets for charity The West Midlands team of designer outlet McArthur Glen embarked on a 10km Shine Night Walk through the streets of Birmingham, raising an impressive £3,000 in support of Cancer Research UK. Joining the walk were representatives of the centre’s service partners, Incentive FM, and Securitas, alongside brand partners including Jack Wolfskin, Lacoste, Asics, Kouzina Greek, and Nike, whilst Saucony and Adidas also supported the event by donating footwear, and reuseable water bottles.

The route began at Centenary Square, passing the city’s famous landmarks, such as Chamberlain Clock and St Phillip’s Cathedral. Along the way, there were various volunteers handing out refreshments, guiding and motivating the participants at different “cheer points”, including a live choir.

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Free support and stop smoking aids such as patches, gum and inhalators are being made available free of charge to smokers in Staffordshire.

The support is being offered as part of Stoptober, the national quit smoking campaign which runs throughout October.

This year’s theme is “When you stop smoking good things start to happen’”and Staffordshire County Council’s Public Health team along with Everyone Health Staffordshire are reminding people about the free help that’s available.

The Everyone Health service offers 12 weeks of one-to-one telephone support or face-to-face sessions at venues across Staffordshire. Advice on managing cravings and access to free stop smoking aids (nicotine replacement therapy) is included in the free support.

Paul Northcott, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Support Member for Public Health said: “We know that giving up smoking isn’t easy but as Stoptober reminds us, good things happen as soon as you quit. And, as well as the good things that happen to your health, it’s also good for your wallet. The average smoker spends over £4,000 a year on smoking. Imagine the fantastic holiday that would buy you.

“We know from previous campaigns that people who give up for Stoptober are five times more likely to quit for good, so it’s a great time to have a go. I would definitely encourage anyone wanting to quit to contact Everyone Health Staffordshire, who have a proven track

Success: Suzanne with her 12-week quit certificate from Everyone Health Staffordshire

record in helping people. Last year, they helped almost 1,500 people to make a quit attempt.”

Former smoker Suzanne from Uttoxeter, managed to quit smoking thanks to the support from Everyone Health Staffordshire.

She said: “The help I got from my advisor was fantastic and I wouldn’t have done it without the support of the service. My advice to anyone who is looking to give up smoking is to contact the service. You have more chance of succeeding and I am proof of that.”

Visit: staffordshire.everyonehealth.co.uk or call 0333 005 0095.

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BURTON & DISTRICT BURTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Judges announced for Celebratory Lunch

By Feron Jayawardene The judges and sponsors have been announced for the upcoming Burton & District Celebratory Lunch. It takes place on Tuesday 21 November at the Pirelli Stadium.

Pattrn Data and Alexander Accountancy have been named as headline sponsors while Ginho Group will sponsor the President’s award.

Tilbury Douglas has agreed to sponsor Burton’s Hidden Gem award with Hardy Signs Limited sponsoring the award of Burton’s Rising Star.

Select Car Leasing Burton on Trent will sponsor table drinks at the event.

Meanwhile, head of Sutton, Lichfield and Tamworth Chambers Chris Brewerton will lead the judging panel to select the

award winners. Other panellists include: • Emma-Louise Hewitt, head of employment at Sydney Mitchell LLP • Chris Wheeler, consultant at Auditel • Ahmer Nawaz, head of business development at Fraser Russell Speaking about the highly anticipated event, head of Burton & District and Cannock Chase Chambers of Commerce Richard Brooks said: “Get ready to be part of something truly special at the Burton and District Chamber Celebratory Lunch.

“It’s a day that's all about you, our wonderful Chamber members, as well as non-members, where we come together to celebrate their achievements and the remarkable talents within our business community. We can’t wait to welcome everyone as well as our shortlisted

Property agent helps open new retail store Burton upon Trent commercial property agents and consultants, Salloway, has completed a letting of a prominent 3,133 sq ft (291.21 sq m) retail unit to Morrisons Daily.

The property is located at The Precinct, Main Street, Burton-on-Trent, DE13 0DZ and forms part of a long-established retail precinct in the centre of Stretton village.

Morrisons daily director Sukh Gill said: “Morrisons Daily is a growing success across the UK with some 350 owned Morrisons convenience stores and a further 150 franchised stores based on the same business model to the Stretton store we have just opened.

“The business model’s success is attributed to a highly recognised national brand, which offers good value and high-quality products, centred on local community shopping.

“Morrisons Daily has an in-store bakehouse which produces fresh pastries and baguettes daily and the opening of this store has provided us with an opportunity of creating 16 new jobs locally. We were attracted to invest in the premises as it offered us great potential with lots of passing traffic, several local schools, and a large local residential catchment area to tap into.”

nominees, and ultimately, the winners of three prestigious awards.

“One of these is handpicked by our chamber President, Shaun Gray, while the others, the Burton Hidden Gem and Burton Rising Star awards, are judged independently and honour those who help to make our Chamber unique.”

Tickets cost £35+ VAT for members and £60+ VAT for non members.

Advertising space on the events programme is also available at £75+ VAT (A5 page).

Done deal: Simon Walker (left) and Sukh Gill

“I’d like to say a personal thank you to Salloway for their efforts in getting the deal agreed for this property.”

Salloway commercial agency surveyor Simon Walker said: “The opening of this new Morrisons outlet will provide the Stretton community with more convenient local shopping choices. In recent times, Birds Bakery identified the precinct as an ideal trading location and subsequently opened a new outlet here also.

“We are delighted to have been involved with the letting of the Stretton retail unit to Sukh and wish him every success with this new venture.”

Morrisons operates a vertically integrated model, producing a substantial proportion of its own meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, and baked goods from sites across the UK. That structure has allowed it to build a sizeable wholesale business, supplying the likes of c-store specialist McColl's and online titan Amazon.

Head of judges: Chris Brewerton

Employment fair builds connections The Burton employment fair has been hailed a success with the attendance of more than 80 businesses and hundreds of visitors.

The event, in partnership with the Burton & District Chamber of Commerce, MP Kate Kniveton and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), was staged at the Pirelli stadium.

A wide range of businesses and employers took part including the NHS and Staffordshire Police.

Free transport was also provided for residents of Uttoxeter by Burton Albion Community Trust (BACT) to and from the Pirelli Stadium.

BACT, who is also Burton Chamber’s elected charity, had a stall at the Jobs Fair.

Kate Kniveton officially opened the event and said: “I am delighted to open this year’s Jobs Fair, connecting local employers to potential employees.

"I want to say thank you to Ben Robinson, the chairman of Burton Albion and the club, for letting us take over the entire first floor of the stadium today and BACT for providing the minibus to get Uttoxeter jobseekers over here.”

Emma Hart and Lizzie Johnson, HR Administrators from Barons Eden Group who attended the event said: “Attending provided a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow exhibitors and job seekers.”

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LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Chris Brewerton T: 0845 6036650

Spectacular show to light up the cathedral Milestone: Choristers to celebrate

Spectacular: the Lichfield Cathedral light show.

Birthday celebration for singing programme A schools singing programme led by a partnership between Lichfield Cathedral School and the city’s Cathedral-backed by funding from Arts Council England is celebrating its 20th birthday.

The milestone will be marked by a production of the community opera, ‘Noye’s Fludde’ by Benjamin Britten, to be performed in Lichfield Cathedral on the 10 and 11 November, starting at 7.30pm, with tickets available from www.trybooking.co.uk/46413 The programme was initially inspired by a Chorister Outreach Project established by Truro Cathedral, then imitated by other cathedrals nationwide through the Choir School’s Association, which became a major strand of a government initiative known as Sing Up. Cathy Lamb, who has led the programme for over 16 years, said: “I am hugely proud of what MusicShare has become but it could not have expanded in such a way without the incredible support from my colleagues at the Cathedral School and Cathedral.”

Pickerings included in Legal 500 once again Tamworth-based solicitors Pickerings have again been included in the next edition of the Legal 500 – for the 11th consecutive year.

The Legal 500 rankings for 2024 highlight the world’s leading law firms following rigorous independent research evaluating the legal expertise and the complexity of matters handled along with the overall client experience, based on feedback from clients.

Sue Hatton, managing director of Pickerings Solicitors, said: "We are thrilled to once again feature in The Legal 500 rankings. This recognition underscores our unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding legal services and ensuring our clients receive the best possible support.”

The Staffordshire firm has secured rankings in multiple practice areas in The Legal 500 2024.

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Lichfield Cathedral is preparing another spectacular Christmas Light Show delivered by the acclaimed animation team Illuminous.

Visitors have described previous shows as “mesmerising and magical” and “perfect to get into the Christmas spirit”.

There will be audiovisual shows on the Bishop’s Palace and West Front and the festive experience

will continue inside the Cathedral alongside a visit to the stunning Christmas Tree Festival.

Illuminos will be using the popular carol ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ to tell the Christmas story, introducing visitors to a kind and generous fox who gives gifts to other animals he meets along his journey to see the newborn baby Jesus.

Jan McFarlane, Interim Dean of Lichfield said: “When the team at Illuminos came to us with their concept for 2023 we were blown away.

“Last year they delivered a West Front teaming with singing angels, and we didn’t know how they could top that. “In the Bleak Midwinter” is such a recognised and well-loved carol, so with the haunting tune and beautiful lyrics as the backdrop, they will weave in the journey of a fox to the manger.”

The Christmas Light Show runs from 17:30 on 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and 22 December. Tickets are available at www.lichfield-cathedral.org/lightshow The Christmas Light Show is sponsored by Richard Winterton Auctioneers, who said: “We are delighted to sponsor Lichfield Cathedral’s Christmas Illuminations for the third year.

“This stunning event has become a major festive spectacle in the city, attracting people locally and from across the region to come together and celebrate the joy of this special season.”

IT experts relocate to new home Managed IT support experts Bold IT have relocated their business to Sandy Way Business Park in Tamworth, Staffordshire, as part of their ongoing expansion.

Bold IT offers a comprehensive range of IT support, cybersecurity, and technological infrastructure services to businesses throughout the UK and beyond. With a monthly average of over 1,000 tech support calls, they resolve numerous support tickets and cater to nearly 2,000 users.

After experiencing significant growth, they decided to move from their previous location in Boldmere as it no longer met the needs of their growing team.

The new modern and upgraded workspace will enable them to further enhance their support services for their diverse client base.

Managing directors Steven and Anthony Brazier said: “It gives us immense pleasure to announce the successful relocation of our operations from Sutton Coldfield to Tamworth.

To boldly go: The Bold team at their new headquarters

“This transition marks a pivotal point in our 30-year tenure, reflective of our growth trajectory and testament to the outstanding team we’ve curated over the years. The expansion of our business to new heights would not have been possible without unwavering support from our dedicated client base.

“Moving forward, our strategic plan for the next six months is focused on maintaining our high standard of IT services for all clients. Concurrently, we are committed to fostering the development of our employees, believing that their growth is instrumental in driving our own progress.”

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ROYAL SUTTON COLDFIELD CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Contact: Chris Brewerton T: 0845 6036650

Podcast recorded live at Chamber expo Podcast personalities (left to right): Darren Langley, Clare Whalley, Kate Curry and Pete Morgan

A podcast featuring four Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce members was recorded in a live setting at the Greater Birmingham Business Expo.

‘A Funny Thing Called Business’ is a podcast by business owners Clare Whalley, Pete Morgan, Kate Curry and Darren Langley, containing light-hearted and humorous conversations about the perils of running a small company.

The quartet recorded two episodes in a live setting at the Chamber’s Autumn Expo at Edgbaston Stadium – with GBCC chief executive Henrietta

among the attendees making guest appearances.

Henrietta and Steve Sandercock, assistant director (procurement) at Birmingham City Council – one of the expo’s seminar guests – spoke on the podcast about the ‘dos and don’ts’ of public speaking.

Clare Whaley, the owner of Meta4 Business Coaching, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to attend the Greater Birmingham Business Expo with my fellow podcasters, Pete, Kate and Darren, to record two episodes of our podcast.”

Pete Morgan, a podcast and radio producer who is the

founder of Monkeypants Productions, said: “There is always such a different energy to recording a podcast episode in a ‘live’ setting.

“There are technical challenges to deal with, as well as nervous presenters, who aren’t necessarily used to recording in front of a crowd but the episode went without a hitch and Clare hosted the whole thing with her usual professionalism and charm.”

A Funny Thing Called Business is available to listen to on all major podcast platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

New brand for design firm Sutton Coldfield graphic design and branding agency, The Curry Design Studio, have celebrated 10 years in business with a punchy new brand identity to take them into another decade of creativity.

The new look was launched at The Curry Design Studio’s 10-year celebration party at GMK House, where enthused clients, suppliers, friends, and family came together to enjoy an evening of drinks, canapes and of course… the big reveal.

The new name takes its inspiration from The Curry Design Studio initials - CDS - which was then expanded to make the name CUDOS. Keeping the core brand colours has kept the authenticity, but with a sleeker and more modern look to better represent the vision and values of the business.

Director Kate Curry said: “Rebranding ourselves was possibly the hardest project we’ve ever had to work on, and this new look has been around three years in the making.

“Ten years is a long time in business terms, and our old logo was created originally when I was a freelancer in a back bedroom - a far cry

Wait for it: Kate Curry with studio manager Shannon Williamson and graphic designer Alastair Hughes at the launch the CUDOS new look

from the vibrant and growing team of four we are today. We always bang the drum about keeping your brand identity aligned to your company character - so we knew, it was time to shake off the old brand, and embrace an exciting new one.

“We have a fantastic team of ambitious creatives and big dreams and plans for our future growth, so this new name and visual identity will really help us to achieve our goals.”

Perfect place: Phil Arkinstall and Sam Sturdy

Ark Media expands with a helping hand Video production firm Ark Media has acquired its first commercial property – with help from two fellow Chamber members.

Ark Media – led by CEO Phil Arkinstall, honorary chair of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber – secured the new premises a few doors away from its current Wrens Court offices, with support from Central Property Finance and Burley Browne.

Renovation of the four-storey, 7,000 sq ft premises will now begin – with plans to have the offices ready by Christmas.

‘I’m delighted that Sam and the Central Business Finance team could support me in this acquisition’ Sam Sturdy, from Central Property Finance, has been working with Phil over a number of years to find the perfect acquisition to help grow his agency.

The town centre property became available via Burley Browne, the Sutton Coldfield-based chartered surveyors and commercial property experts.

Sam said: “It has been so rewarding after knowing Phil for many years that he finally found the perfect property for his business property investment.

“Over time we had discussed a few opportunities but none seemed right. The property has enormous potential but didn’t come without challenges.

“It had been left empty for some time, a victim of Covid years.”

Phil added: “With Ark Media’s expansion plans and the idea of a business centre in the middle of Royal Sutton Coldfield, I’m delighted that Sam and the Central Business Finance team could support me in this acquisition.

“Renovation works have begun and we are keen to make the centre the heart of Sutton's business community.”

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SOLIHULL All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community Contact: Samantha Frampton T: 0121 678 7488

Andy revs up a gear as he takes on bike role SILENCE, the Solihull-based light motorcycle business dedicated to offering zero-emissions technology, has appointed a director to “take the business to the next level”.

With plans to expand SILENCE’s product offering into three and four-wheeled vehicles, industry expert Andy Fenwick has been appointed to ensure the infrastructure is in place to allow the brand to grow across both existing and future product lines.

Having been the key success factor in previously achieving a UK No 1 position for an electric brand, SILENCE gain an experienced, knowledgeable and passionate advocate for electric vehicles.

Firmly embedded in the Powered Two Wheeler electric light motorcycle sector, SILENCE is disrupting the UK market with a technology led approach, offering a zero emissions mobility solution which is affordable, technologically advanced and innovative.

Kevin Duck, founding partner of SILENCE UK, said: “We are delighted to welcome Andy to the

SILENCE family. He was the natural choice for us in achieving our ambitions to take SILENCE to the next level within the UK. “SILENCE has a fantastic and expanding product range with excellent residual values, state of the art technology and a high-end facility in the Midlands.

“With Andy on board and a solid platform already in place we aim to grow the market, the brand, and the opportunity for customers to have access to high-end, trusted and affordable transport.

“With extensive experience in growing brands, establishing dealer networks and creating space in the market to allow electric vehicles to flourish, Andy was the obvious choice for the role, bringing together a skill set of business acumen, ambition, and a personable character to nurture existing relationships and create new opportunities for SILENCE.” Andy said: “I’m very much looking forward to working with the team at SILENCE UK. It is the leading manufacturer of electric light motorcycles in Europe.

On a mission: Andy Fenwick

“As a European brand it has the ethos, quality, history and ambition to make an extremely attractive product proposition and one I’m committed to continue to develop.

“I will ensure SILENCE’s success continues and new opportunities are created and embraced to allow the brand to flourish.”

Celebrating success: The Solihull BID Excellence Awards 2022

BID Excellence Awards shortlist revealed The creative and hard-working businesses shortlisted for the annual Solihull BID Excellence Awards have been revealed.

Over 100 entries were received for the redcarpet celebration, organised by the town centre’s Business Improvement District, and a panel of judges will now interview all the shortlisted companies. The winners will then be crowned at the Excellence Awards evening, on Friday 24 November, at voco St John’s Hotel on Warwick Road.

The awards are sponsored by Phoebus Software, Touchwood, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, Veolia and Solihull College & University Centre.

The judges for this year’s awards are Sir Nigel Thrift, chair of the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management and lead of the Solihull group of Deputy Lieutenants; Air Commodore Dr Marcia McLaughlin F.Birm.Soc.; Mark Rogers, chief executive of Leadership Centre; Oli Hills, CEO of Nonsensical; and Alethea Fuller, deputy chief executive, West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner.

To book tickets for the awards ceremony, email steven@solihullbid.co.uk 54 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

Awards shortlist 2023: Hospitality & Leisure Venue of the Year KIBOU Solihull Summer Fest The Woods Tio Latino Touchwood Best Independent Business Play Lane Solihull Summer Fest Studio 7 Tattoos The Woods Yakinori Best Customer Service Holland & Barrett Metro Bank Mint Velvet The Woods Yakinori The John Callaghan Award – Young Person of the Year Alexander Kemp (Metro Bank) Ben Perks (Toffs)

Jack Docker (John Lewis Solihull) Mitchell Watkins (Mell Square) Onkar Tiwana (Phoebus Software) Outstanding Team of 2023 Davisons Law HSBC John Lewis Solihull (Health & Wellbeing Team) St Alphege Neighbourhood Policing Team The Woods Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility Project Paragon Banking Group Phoebus Software Touchwood Outstanding Contribution to the Town Centre Charles Yearwood (Head Doorman of The Masons Arms) Ian Rogers (Founder of Solihull Summer Fest) PC Rob Rumney (St Alphege Neighbourhood Policing Officer) Play Lane Steve Cave and Dave Checkley (Solihull town centre street cleansing team)

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SOLIHULL SOLIHULL CHAMBER PATRONS

Solihull duo put best faces forward Solihull-based recruitment agency The Recruitment Duo are now the faces of a government report “Investing In Women Code” 2023 and their associated website the Invest In Women Hub. Following a review of female entrepreneurship in March 2019, known as The Rose Review, it was recognised if talented women business owners were given access to more financial resources and support to scale up and grow their businesses, it would generate an extra £250bn value to the UK economy.

In response to the findings, the government launched a landmark initiative to promote greater transparency in the UK funding allocation through the creation and promotion of the “Investing In Women Code” to spearhead female entrepreneurship, which produces an annual report.

The Recruitment Duo were selected as a 2023 case study after being submitted by their business banking partner Metro Bank to highlight a successful women-led business who were able to scale up their business through an initial start-up loan through the British Business Bank.

During the process with the Department for Business and Trade, they requested to use an image of the two directors Holly Vaughan and Louise Dunn as the face of this year’s report, which has been widely circulated through national media.

Louise, co-founder and director of The Recruitment Duo, said: “We are enormously proud of our achievements so early into our business owner journey. Seeing our faces and case study featured as part of a government campaign is an incredible accolade and has empowered us further to use our platform to support other women business owners.

Investing in Women: Louise Dunn (left) and Holly Vaughan, co-founders and directors of The Recruitment Duo

“Through my position on the executive committee for the Solihull Chamber of Commerce, I have the opportunity to engage and be inspired by many successful businesswomen in Solihull, under a strong female leadership team. I hope to continue to wave the flag for women led businesses locally.”

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FUTURE FACES FUTURE FACES CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell T: 0121 274 3276

Your chance to join committee

By Darby Newman Seven new committee members are being installed at the Future Faces (FF) annual meeting at the Everyman Cinema in the Mailbox this month.

Two vice-presidents positions are available among the vacancies and the current committee members staying on are Kasim Choudhry (president), Amy Jacklin (vice-president), Freya Dearman, Tom Bower, Sarah Griffiths and Hannah Ellis.

FF manager Sophie Poduval-Morrell said: “The meeting will give members the opportunity to reflect on the incredible achievements and milestones Future Faces has reached in the past year, thanks to the dedication and hard work of their members and partners and committee. “it will also provide an opportunity to network with fellow industry leaders, professionals, and young professionals. It's a chance to connect and collaborate with the best and brightest minds in Birmingham's business community.”

Attendees will also get a preview of plans for the upcoming year, with an outline of Future Faces’ vision and events and continue making a positive impact in Greater Birmingham. Future Faces President, Kasim Choudhry, will be talking through his vision for 2024, the network’s goals for the upcoming year, and the achievements and successes from the 2022-2023 year.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “Future Faces has had a brilliant year in terms of growth and success. They have celebrated the immense talent and achievements of young professionals at the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the

Committee members (left to right): Amy Jacklin (FF vice president), Kasim Choudhry (FF President), Sophie Poduval-Morrell (FF manager), Yung Lau (FF vice president) and Sabah Hussain (FF vice president)

Year awards, hosted a number of successful networking events which has seen the network grow steadily over the months, and overall put the faces of our young professionals on the map in Birmingham.

“I look forward to seeing the Future Faces network continue to grow and evolve over the coming year, with the support of the new committee.”

Celebratory winners dinner Future Faces celebrated the achievements of the winners of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year (GBYPY) Awards 2023 at a dinner marked by the creation of a cocktail.

It was hosted by Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill, who created the ‘GBYPY cocktail’ to commemorate the awards and the winners.

Future Faces manager Sophie Poduval-Morrell congratulated the award winners on their success and achievements within their various categories and sectors.

She also highlighted the fact that the awards themselves saw a 40 per cent increase in applications, compared to previous years, as a testament to the ever-increasing talent of the Birmingham region.

Wesley Foster, founder of Eleven Views and winner of the Startup, Enterprise and

Entrepreneurship category at the GBYPY Awards 2023, said: “Attending the award winners’ dinner at Fazenda last night was a true honour.

“It's inspiring to witness the incredible achievements of young professionals in Birmingham and see the impactful contributions we're collectively making to our city.

“I'm immensely proud to be a part of this vibrant community and events like these only reinforce the notion that the future of Birmingham is in the hands of dedicated, innovative and passionate individuals.

“Here's to celebrating the success of our fellow young professionals and continuing to make a positive impact on our beloved city. Thank you to the FF team for orchestrating such a fantastic evening and recognising the accomplishments that shape Birmingham's future.”

New Members Aimee Taroni Eversheds Sutherland Amaraj Shocker Unity Trust Bank Anja Cox-Cunningham GYMSHARK Becky Lane Furbnow Ben Hess Eversheds Sutherland Bushra Majid Unity Trust Bank Chantal Bird Unity Trust Bank Columba Foster Arup Dan Davies Arup Ellie Simeonov Spark Media Creative Ltd Gemma Griffiths Liquid Public Relations Limited Georgia Carter Spark Media Creative Ltd Georgia Holt GYMSHARK Hattie Lewis Unity Trust Bank Iltija Afzal GYMSHARK Jack Clews Unity Trust Bank Jade Bromage Unity Trust Bank Jake Howe GYMSHARK James O’Connell Spark Media Creative Ltd Jennifer Goode Unity Trust Bank Lexi Florescu Unity Trust Bank Michael Gordon Gordon Brooks Property Ruby Richardson GYMSHARK Sanne Van Vroenhoven Bell Lax Limited Sarah Pitt Crystal HR and Payroll

Awards celebration: Guests enjoy hospitality at Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill 56 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

Sophie Wright GYMSHARK

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FUTURE FACES

The Chamber’s ever growing network for young professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.

‘Dedicated’ leader in line for a top award Sophie Poduval-Morrell, manager of the Future Faces division of the GBCC, has been shortlisted in the Birmingham Awards 2023.

Sophie has been shortlisted in the Community Champion category of the awards, taking place at the Holte Suite of Villa Park Stadium, for her work towards putting Future Faces on the map and growing the network.

Sophie said: “Being shortlisted in the Community Champion category at the Birmingham Awards is an honour. I am so passionate about ensuring that Future Faces is the young professionals network for everyone.

“I strongly feel that every young professional has a right to network, build their personal brand and have access to professional development sessions, no matter where you are from, what you believe or where you work.

“Future Faces has the power to have a huge positive impact on the community of Greater Birmingham. We are committed to supporting local charities, creating mentoring opportunities and empowering the future of our city."

Lillian Elekan, head of membership at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce,

nominated Sophie for the award. She said: “We’re really proud of Sophie for being shortlisted in the Birmingham Awards, and for all the hard work and passion she puts into making Future Faces the best network in our city region for young professionals.

‘Being shortlisted in the Community Champion category at the Birmingham Awards is an honour’ “Sophie is committed to transforming Future Faces into a network that serves the needs of every young professional. In her view, each and every aspiring young person should have equal access to networking opportunities, personal growth, mentorship, and professional development, irrespective of their background, industry affiliation, or origin.

“Sophie’s dedication to this vision has led to her nomination in the Community Champion category, best of luck Sophie.”

Dedicated: Sophie Poduval-Morrell

Podcast: Zaylie-Dawn Wilson

Young Professional of the Year to share story Zaylie-Dawn Wilson, newly-crowned Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year, will be sharing her story in a new Future Faces podcast.

Zaylie-Dawn scooped the top prize at the Young Professional of the Year awards, at Future Faces celebrated the immense talent and success of Greater Birmingham’s young professionals from a wide range of sectors.

Zaylie-Dawn, head of creative partnerships at Birmingham Hippodrome, took home the accolade having also triumphed in the Creative Arts and Culture category.

In her role at the Hippodrome, the 35-year-old has supported young creatives, artists, schools and communities from across the Birmingham area – particularly those from disadvantaged areas – by developing the region’s biggest theatre education programme.

She worked with young people from the city-region to develop a young advocates programme, which has become a central voice in the theatre’s development.

In addition to her duties at the Hippodrome, Zaylie-Dawn supported the Birmingham 2022 cultural, schools and legacy teams ahead of last summer’s Commonwealth Games, earning praise from Games organising committee chair Sir John Crabtree for her knowledge and commitment.

Zaylie-Dawn will be sharing her story on the next episode of Future Faces: The Young Professionals Podcast, where she will talk about her career journey and how she came to win the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year award.

The podcast episode is available this month. There will also be a podcast from Future Faces’ ongoing and new committee members in another episode. Scan the QR code to access all previous episodes.

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Mixed programme for November...

Celebration and deliberation mark November’s events calendar. Highlights in the celebration category include the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce annual awards, which is sure to provide a lively night at the National Conference Centre, and the Burton Celebratory lunch at the Pirelli Stadium will be equally dramatic.

On the more serious front there is the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) annual meeting at Edgbaston Park Hotel when Deb Leary will be handing over her President’s baton to Nasir Awan.

And Future Faces, the youthful arm of the GBCC, will also be holding their annual meeting. It takes place at the Everyman Cinema.

For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/networking-events

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Awards 2023 Date: 18 November Time: 6pm – 11:30pm Venue: The National Conference Centre Division: ABCC Cost: Members: £120 + VAT Future Faces members: £120 + VAT Non-members: £160 + VAT

Pro Solihull Networking Date: 2 November Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: The Regency Hotel Division: Solihull Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT The Sustainable Business Series Conference Date: 2 November Time: 8:30am – 12:00pm Venue: Conference Aston Conference Centre & Hotel Division: GBCC Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: free Non-members: free Speed Networking Burton & District Date: 7 November Time: 8:30am – 10:30am Venue: TBC Division: Burton & District Cost: Members: free Future Faces members £15 + VAT Non-members: £20 + VAT Afternoon Tea Sutton Coldfield Date: 7 November Time: 12pm – 2:00pm Venue: Cookes Furniture Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: gree Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Future Faces AGM 2023 Date: 8 November Time: 6pm – 8:30pm Venue: Everyman Cinema Division: Future Faces Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: free Non-members: free ABCC Member Social Date: 9 November Time: 5:30pm – 7:00pm Venue: TBC Division: ABCC Cost: Free to ABCC members

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Thanksgiving Celebration Date: 20 November Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: Liquid Division: Transatlantic Cost: Members: free Burton Celebratory Lunch 2023 Date: 21 November Time: 12:00pm – 2:30pm Venue: Pirelli Stadium Division: Burton & District Cost: Members: £35 + VAT Future Faces members: £35 + VAT Non-members: £60 + VAT Jenny Williams, from the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce events team, pictured at the Solihull Chamber awards. She organised the event as part of a team which is responsible for the hundreds of events the Chamber organises every year. See pages 24 and 25 for reports and pictures from the Solihull awards evening Business at Breakfast Solihull: Innovation Date: 14 November Time: 9am – 11:00am Venue: Bull’s Head Division: Solihull Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Speed Networking Cannock Chase Date: 14 November Time: 8:30am – 10:30am Venue: TBC Division: Cannock Chase Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £20 + VAT Speed Networking Birmingham Date: 15 November Time: 9am – 11:00am Venue: TBC

Division: Birmingham Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £20 + VAT Networking Lunch Lichfield & Tamworth Date: 16 November Time: 12pm – 2:00pm Venue: Tamworth Assembly Rooms Division: Lichfield and Tamworth Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT GBCC AGM Date: 17 November Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm Venue: Edgbaston Park Hotel Division: GBCC Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: free Non-members: free

Q3: Quarterly Business Report | Growing the international brand of Greater Birmingham Date: 21 November Time: 9:00am – 11am Venue: Pirelli Stadium Division: GBCC Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: free Non-members: free Networking Lunch Solihull Date: 22 November Time: 12:00pm – 2:00pm Venue: Crowne Plaza Division: Solihull Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Business at Breakfast Sutton Coldfield Date: 29 November Time: 7.30am – 9.30am Venue: TBC Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-Members: £50 + VAT

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FEATURE: BUSINESS BANKING & FINANCE

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FEATURE: BUSINESS BANKING & FINANCE

‘If the business has stayed with its bank for a while, I would encourage them to leverage that loyalty’

Help your bank to help you: the importance of relationship banking

By Alexandra Rice, chief commercial officer at Unity Trust Bank t’s the first anniversary of the 2022 Kwarteng/ Truss “mini budget”. The reaction to it was far from “mini”, but thankfully that particular fiscal event is now moving into our rear-view mirror. Unfortunately, there’s no avoiding the reality we remain in an uncertain economic environment, including high inflation and interest rates at a level not seen since 2008.

Despite this, organisations are still investing for growth. It’s crucial that this is supported through responsible lending.

Today, conversations around lending are changing. Some customers require more support and consideration to help repay their loans. There is much speculation that interest rates have now peaked. If that’s true, it’s still likely that higher rates will stay with us for longer. More businesses will be at risk of having insufficient free cash to service their debt, especially if they took it on years ago in a more benign economic situation.

It’s vital that businesses have a relationship manager (RM) who understands the strategic direction, goals and potential challenges. The RM can help them by facilitating these conversations. Why does this matter? Firstly, the RM needs to be informed to best understand the customer’s need.

Secondly, when considering a credit application, the underwriters will seek to understand if the RM has an open and transparent relationship with the client. If that’s in place, it counts for a lot in the client’s favour.

If the business has stayed with its bank for a while, I would encourage them to leverage that loyalty. Combined with a well-managed financial

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record, any bank worth its salt will work extremely hard to help their customers continue to be as successful as possible - regardless of the wider economic conditions.

In today’s climate, there are three key areas for every business to consider:

Liquidity matters Bankers are always looking at liquidity ratios. Many customers use them internally to monitor the status of their working capital cycle. That discipline sends a clear message about the company’s financial control framework. Some bankers may just focus on multiples of EBITDA to inform their view of the level of healthy gearing a business can take. However, if that isn’t combined with an understanding of liquidity, it can lead to problems down the line.

Stay close to your working capital cycle and, where possible, align yourself with customers that pay on sensible terms to ensure robust cash flow.

It’s surprising how many organisations allow themselves to be overly reliant on 60 – 90+ day debtors.

Regular reforecasting Despite the rise in current interest rates, they remain only fractionally higher than the long-term average. Expect sensitivity calculations to factor in much higher interest rates than the current base rate of 5.25%. This isn’t the bank being difficult, it’s reflecting an expectation the ‘lower for longer’ period has passed for the foreseeable future.

Responsible lending means encouraging the client to consider the level of risk they can reasonably manage over the long-term. A business legacy can be completely erased from history once a company allows itself to become overburdened by debt.

Businesses can continue to take on debt to enable growth but think about the repayment source. For example, I wouldn’t encourage using an overdraft to pay for capital expenditure.

Having a ‘hard core overdraft’, i.e. where the current account never moves back into credit, is a warning sign for many banks. The overdraft is a working capital facility and so expected to clear down to zero ideally every month.

Fraud awareness The level of financial fraud both in the UK and internationally is increasing and becoming far more sophisticated. If companies have any concerns relating to suspicious communication, they should speak to their RM immediately.

Banks have dedicated in-house teams to support their customers and there are numerous providers and government-led initiatives to help businesses become better protected.

Banking on the future Despite the challenges, enterprising entrepreneurs and business leaders still have the courage and desire to capitalise on opportunities and invest in growth. With the support and guidance of their relationship managers, businesses will navigate through the economic headwinds and out the other side to enjoy a bright future.

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FEATURE: BUSINESS BANKING & FINANCE

An alternative route to finding funding

By Dr Steve Walker, chief executive, Art Business Loans fter the avalanche of Government supported funding to assist SMEs to survive, recover and hopefully prosper, it is not at all surprising that access to the right finance now re-emerges as an issue with difficult economic conditions and increased interest rates.

Some businesses prospered in Covid, and some small businesses even used the highly advantageous terms of the Bounce Back scheme as a method of retaining funds for the inevitable rainy day or to build a war chest to take opportunities for growth.

However, businesses that needed the funds to survive and have also used their reserves both from the business and personally are finding

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life in searching for funds more difficult. Part of that difficulty stems from the fact that there are less funds around and the banks as usual when the economy tightens have reduced their appetite at lower debt levels below £250,000.

Some of the main reasons why small and emerging businesses are unable to obtain support are: • They are at an early stage and have a limited trading record • The borrower has few assets to offer as security • Small loans are not profitable for major lenders • They are unable to meet lenders’ initial requirements for financial information.

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FEATURE: BUSINESS BANKING & FINANCE For businesses that used reserves to come through Covid and post economic downturn obtaining fresh funds is now far more complex, and slower: it’s no longer as simple as putting in a self-certification and seeing funds in the bank account in one day.

Those that borrowed simply to survive lockdown today face a sterner challenge as many lenders now demand forecasts rather than making decisions on past performance, future figures that many businesses struggle to produce.

For a while it seemed like peerto-peer lenders and alternative funders might offer a solution to those refused by the banks:

however, most of these have raised the bar in the amounts they are prepared to lend, and escalated interest rates on smaller loans.

Other factors are also now emerging as a difficulty in seeking appropriate access to finance: Businesses, according to recent surveys, look for a very speedy response in seeking funding support. This is usually found online but from my own practical experience many businesses do not spend enough time looking at the terms of the loans that they are offered. Too many do not take any advice on the serviceability of the loans which in many cases are offered over far too shorter term and, in some cases, even at eye

watering interest rates. Examples of Wonga emerging in the business sector at 35 per cent >45 per cent.

So where does a small, ambitious business turn? One answer has to be Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs). They are prepared to lend where other lenders say ‘no’. About 99 per cent of businesses supported have been declined by another lender. They can say “yes!” because they take a person-centred approach when supporting businesses.

Details of CDFIS across the country many operating in targeted geographic areas can be found at www.findingfinance.org.uk

‘Those that borrowed simply to survive lockdown today face a sterner challenge’

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FEATURE: BUSINESS BANKING & FINANCE

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FEATURE: BUSINESS BANKING & FINANCE

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FEATURE: DIGITAL MEDIA SERVICES

The rise and impact of

influencers - revealing the power and pitfalls of digital influence

n today's digital landscape, social media influencers have become powerful figures with the ability to sway opinions, shape behaviours, and influence purchasing decisions. The rise of influencers has brought about legal challenges that need to be addressed to protect consumers and maintain ethical standards in the influencer industry. There are various legal considerations and regulatory frameworks that influencers must navigate to ensure compliance.

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The role of influencers Social media influencers create content and engage with their followers on various platforms, building a loyal audience through 66 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

their expertise, personality, or unique perspective. They often collaborate with brands, promoting products or services, and engage in sponsored content partnerships. The success of an influencer is measured by the size and engagement of their following, as well as the impact they have on their audience's behaviour and perceptions.

Legal considerations for influencers Disclosure and transparency: Influencers are required to disclose their relationships with brands and sponsored content to ensure transparency. Failure to disclose such partnerships may violate regulations and guidelines set by regulatory bodies such as Ofcom,

Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), and Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Adequate disclosure is essential to maintain trust and prevent misleading advertising practices.

False advertising: Influencers must avoid deceptive practices and false claims about products or services they promote. Violations in this area can lead to legal action under regulations such as Ofcom, ASA, and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 (CPRs).

Offensive or harmful content: Influencers are expected to adhere to community guidelines and terms of service of the platforms they use. Posting offensive,

discriminatory, illegal, or harmful content can have legal implications and may violate regulations set by the respective platform.

Endorsement and sponsorship agreements: Influencers should carefully review and negotiate endorsement and sponsorship agreements to protect their rights and ensure compliance with relevant laws. Contractual disputes may arise, and influencers must understand their legal obligations and responsibilities.

Defamation and online harassment: Influencers need to be cautious about making false statements or engaging in online harassment, as these actions can result in legal consequences.

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FEATURE: DIGITAL MEDIA SERVICES

By Olivia O’Kane, partner and Katharine Mason, senior associate at DWF

Olivia O'Kane

Katharine Mason

‘The success of an influencer is measured by the size and engagement of their following, as well as the impact they have on their audience's behaviour and perceptions’

Legislation in the UK and Ireland addresses these issues in both civil and criminal law.

Unfair competition: Influencers should avoid unfair competition practices, such as buying followers or engagement, as well as engaging in fraudulent activities to gain an advantage over others.

Such practices can lead to legal disputes and damage the influencer’s reputation.

Privacy and data protection: Influencers must comply with applicable data protection laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union. They should handle personal data responsibly and ensure lawful collection, use, and disclosure of personal information.

Clear guidelines and disclosure requirements: Regulatory bodies and platforms should establish transparent and comprehensive guidelines for influencers. Clear rules regarding disclosures, sponsored content, endorsements, and other relevant aspects can help influencers understand their responsibilities.

Regulatory approaches and strategies

Intellectual property infringement: Influencers must respect intellectual property rights and avoid using copyrighted material without permission. Unauthorised use of copyrighted materials can result in legal disputes and potential liability for the influencer.

Regulating influencers and social media is an ongoing challenge.

Different jurisdictions have taken various approaches to address the issues associated with the influencer industry.

Here are some strategies that can assist in ensuring compliance and accountability:

Verification and registration: Implement a system where influencers are required to register and verify their accounts. This can help ensure that only legitimate influencers are operating within the established rules.

Collaboration with social media platforms: Work closely with social media platforms to enforce rules effectively. Platforms can play a

crucial role by implementing features that facilitate compliance, such as disclosure. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube have their own policies and guidelines for influencers, including disclosure requirements and rules against misleading practices.

Whilst jurisdictions have made efforts to regulate influencers, it is important to recognise that social media platforms operate globally, and influencer marketing often crosses borders. The decentralised nature of social media and the rapid evolution of new tactics and practices make it challenging to enforce regulations consistently.

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Sector Focus The latest news from the sectors that matter to business TfWM to change bus services Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) have announced details of bus services changes as part of the plan to protect the region’s network.

Earlier it was announced that the region’s bus network would be secured at near current levels and continue to operate without radical change until January 2025 following a £40m injection of funding from TfWM. However, it was noted that a small number of services which do not provide value for money would need to be changed to focus resources where they are most needed.

Although the vast majority of the region’s 394 regular bus services remain unaffected – there will be changes to 32 services, some will have timetable changes, some new operators and three services are to be withdrawn.

This is due to low passenger numbers, higher operating costs and changes in travel patterns which means they no longer provide value for money for the taxpayer.

These are: • 25 – Bromford to Erdington Six Ways Services covering the area include the X12 Birmingham to Solihull via Chelmsley Wood; X13 Birmingham to Chelmsley Wood via Castle Bromwich; 28 Heartlands Hospital to Great Barr via Erdington; 11A/ 11C Birmingham Outer circle.

• 600 – Brookvale to Erdington Circular The area is covered by the number 7 Birmingham to Perry Common via Witton; 11A / 11C Birmingham Outer circle; 65 Birmingham to Perry Common via Short Heath.

• 19 – Tile Hill to Coventry via Cannon Park Shopping Centre / Westwood Business Park. The route is partially replaced by the number 2.

The ring and ride service can also provide an alternative for those who are eligible.

For full details go to: tfwm.org.uk

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Metro organisations are recognised at awards Midland Metro Alliance and West Midlands Metro have scooped accolades at the annual Global Light Rail Awards.

Both organisations were individually recognised in the Best Customer Initiative category at the event, which celebrates and rewards the most outstanding contributors to the Light Rail industry from across the globe.

The alliance was highly commended for its work in keeping stakeholders up to date on the Metro extension schemes across the West Midlands as well as the support it provides, in collaboration with broadcast partners Local TV, to showcase some of the region’s businesses which might be impacted by tramway construction.

Antony Lowbridge-Ellis, head of communications at the Midland Metro Alliance (MMA), which is planning and delivering a number of tramway

extensions on behalf of Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), said: “We’re delighted to have been Highly Commended in this category at the Global Light Rail Awards. The recognition in the Best Customer Initiative category is testament to our commitment to ensuring that our stakeholders are kept informed and up-to-date on the progress of our projects and supported throughout.”

Meanwhile, in the same category, West Midlands Metro were also highly commended for supporting customers through the cost-of-living crisis by freezing fares and a range of value for money ticket options.

Michael Reading-Skilton, commercial manager at Midland Metro Limited, the operator of West Midlands Metro, added: “It’s fantastic to see our efforts to offer some relief for people who may be experiencing difficulties in the current economic climate being recognised by award judges.”

Caring bus supervisor honoured Bus station supervisor Kate Evans has been named frontline employee of the year at the UK National Transport Awards for her dedication to passenger safety.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) was also named transport authority of the year, and the West Midlands Metro scooped tram operator of the year in a successful evening at the public transport industry ‘Oscars’.

Kate, based at Wolverhampton and Bilston bus stations, went above and beyond the call of duty in offering support to members of the public including playing a pivotal role in saving a pedestrian involved in a car accident and providing first aid care to a passenger.

She has also shown care in helping a distressed lost child and shown compassion in supporting a young autistic passenger on their first day travelling by bus to a new school. She also intervened during a robbery to ensure the safety of a passenger who had been targeted for their phone.

Anne Shaw, executive director for TfWM, said: “Kate’s resourcefulness, concern for vulnerable people and dedication to the safety of the travelling public has shone through and she thoroughly deserves the award and the standing ovation she received at the ceremony.”

TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), also scooped the top honour of ‘Transport Authority of the Year’.

And to complete the trio of awards West Midlands Metro, which is owned by the WMCA, was named ‘Tram Operator of the Year’ after seeing a strong Covid recovery with 5.35 million passenger journeys, enhanced by the opening of the Westside extension to Edgbaston.

Anne added: “These awards are recognition for a fine team effort. We have worked to overcome significant challenges including a difficult economic backdrop for our transport operators and the recovery from Covid to protect our bus, tram and rail services and ensure major year-on-year growth in passenger numbers.”

Spread the news: Broadcaster Jeremy Vine presents the award to TfWM's Kate Evans

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

CrossCountry welcomes new contract to deliver services Long-distance train operator CrossCountry, part of the Arriva Group, welcomed an announcement by the Department for Transport (DfT) that it had been awarded a new contract to keep operating passenger services across Great Britain.

The new contract allows CrossCountry to continue running its longdistance and inter-regional services crossing England, Scotland and Wales, providing journeys for business and leisure customers and connecting cities and towns across Great Britain.

Alongside providing customers the confidence of a stable and sustainable service, the new contract includes a range of benefits to improve their travelling experience and benefit the communities CrossCountry’s trains serve.

The agreement will enable CrossCountry to introduce a range of customer improvements including a full fleet refurbishment of both the Voyager and Turbostar fleet – the first major refurbishment in 20 years.

This will include fitting CCTV, automatic passenger counting equipment on board, new carpets and LED lighting, all designed to tackle longstanding pain points for its customers.

There will also be further enhancements to the timetable, building on the company’s May 2023 changes. This includes a new daily direct service between Cardiff and Edinburgh, strengthening connections across Great Britain.

Essential role: Tom Joyner

Welcoming the DfT announcement, CrossCountry’s managing director, Tom Joyner, said: “This is great news for our customers and stakeholders and recognises the importance of our continuing to deliver long-distance business and leisure services across England, Scotland and Wales.

“Our trains connect towns and cities, people and communities across Great Britain, playing an essential role in people’s lives. We look forward to working closely with stakeholders to further improve the customer experience in the years to come.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Businesses call for easier access to capital Midlands businesses are calling for simpler and greater ways to access growth capital, as more than half consider selling their business in the next 12 months.

According to BDO LLP’s bi-monthly Economic Engine survey of 500 mid-market businesses, more than a quarter of regional companies (26 per cent) believe they would benefit from a greater variety of borrowing products, if smaller banks were helped to enter the business banking market. Despite the Bank of England choosing to hold interest rates at 5.25 per cent, following 14 consecutive increases, 15 per cent of Midlands businesses believe that the current rate is too high to take out a new loan. The survey by the accountancy and business advisory firm also found that nearly a quarter of regional businesses (23 per cent) are searching for new sources of funding abroad due to difficulty accessing capital in the UK. Roger Buckley, corporate finance partner at BDO in the Midlands, commented: “The issue of raising capital has been a familiar topic of debate for Midlands’ businesses over the last few months, as they continue to explore ways to meet their strategic growth ambitions.

“While the Midlands corporate finance market remains a good place to do business in and is well served by private equity and non-debt growth capital that offers companies with an attractive option, there are frustrations being felt which are leading businesses to consider ways of realising the value within their business.”

According to BDO’s Economic Engine survey, remarkably, more than half (51 per cent) of the Midlands companies surveyed are considering selling their business in the next 12 months.

Mr Buckley added: “If this appetite to sell translates into exit activity, then this will undoubtedly drive M&A transactions in the regional market, with other factors, such as an impending general election and a slowing pressure on inflation helping to trigger Frustrations among businesses: Roger Buckley decisions made by businesses.”

BCRS boosts local economy Black Country business loan provider BCRS added £33.7m to the West Midlands economy through its recent lending, according to an annual impact report shared at its AGM. Chief executive Stephen Deakin updated members of the society at Wolverhampton Science Park on the co-operative business loan fund’s impact for the 2022-23 financial year and reaffirmed its commitment to lending responsibly to firms unable to borrow from traditional lenders.

As part of the AGM, BCRS formally launched its Impact Report for the 2022-23 financial year.

It showed that it lent £6.5m to 72 businesses, safeguarding 999 jobs and creating 473 roles, adding £33.7m in value to the economy of the West Midlands and surrounding region.

The value statistics are calculated using the Responsible Finance Economic Impact Calculator, originally prepared by the Centre for Business in Society

(CBIS) at Coventry University with assistance from James Medhurst at ICF International, with the support of Citi. It was updated in 2019 following a review by Marc Cowling at Brighton Business School, Richard Roberts at Aston University and Steve Walker at the Aston Reinvestment Trust (ART).

Of this funding, 50 per cent went to the UK’s top 35 per cent most disadvantaged areas, with 16 per cent going to female-led businesses and 14 per cent to ethnic minority-led firms.

Mr Deakin: “I am very proud of these achievements. While 2022/2023 saw the country move out of major disruptions from Covid-19, the economic situation continued to be volatile and our support remained as crucial as ever.

“With cost-of-living pressures and inflation, it is a hard time to be an SME, so our support is vital.”

BCRS recently celebrated its 21st year in business. Since 2002 it has lent more than £85m to over 1,900 businesses, safeguarding over 6,300 jobs and creating over 3,000 more.

Attendees at the BCRS AGM

More pre-owned goods being bought: Linda Ellett

Consumers are cutting back New research has revealed how consumers across the Midlands are cutting spending and changing shopping habits in the face of the ongoing cost of living crisis.

KPMG’s Consumer Pulse survey tracks over 3,000 consumers across age and income groups and UK regions, with 490 in the East and West Midlands.

The results showed that: • A total of 52 per cent in the East Midlands and 56 per cent in the West Midlands have had to reduce nonessential spending due to the cost of essential bills • The main areas that have been cut back have been eating out, takeaways, clothing, travel/holidays and food and drink shopping • Reducing spending has resulted in a rise in buying own brand/value products, promotion items, bargain shopping, smaller shops and visiting less expensive retailers • Areas that have been less hit were technology and fitness.

Nationwide, over half (56 per cent) of the 3,015 consumers polled in September by One Poll for KPMG, said that they have had to reduce their nonessential spending since 2023 began.

Only four per cent said they have been able to increase non-essential spending this year.

Eating Out (70 per cent), Takeaways (60 per cent) and Clothing (60 per cent) are the top three things that people reducing their non-essential spend have cut back on so far in 2023.

Consumers are also continuing to change their buying behaviour to make further savings, with even more having to squeeze out value since this time last year.

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

The holistic approach to employee health Business leaders should focus on effective wellbeing strategies rather than “nice-tohaves” like lunchtime yoga sessions or Friday drinks, an employment expert has advised.

Jayne Holliday, legal director in the employment team at Higgs LLP, said businesses of all sizes should prioritise the physical and mental wellbeing of their staff to improve engagement, reduce sick days and increase productivity.

Jayne’s advice comes in light of an in-depth study by the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD), which found UK workers are taking more sick days than at any point in the last decade.

The research found staff took on average 7.8 sick days in the past year, up from 5.8 before the pandemic. Minor illnesses, musculoskeletal injuries and mental ill health were the main factors of short-term absence, with mental health the leading cause of long-term sick.

Jayne said: “I am not surprised by the findings of the study at all. We are still dealing with the

fall-out of Covid and there is a cost-of-living crisis. These combined have increased stress for a lot of people and have had a negative impact on their mental health.

“All businesses should have a well thought out wellbeing strategy which goes far beyond the sick absence policy. This could include things like mental health first aiders, financial assistance, strategies to create an inclusive culture, personal resilience training and mentoring.

“Incentives such as lunchtime yoga and Friday drinks are nice-to-haves but, for me, that’s employee engagement not employee wellbeing.

Employee wellbeing is a holistic approach which covers physical health, mental health and even financial health.”

Jayne said one of the most important changes a business can implement is structured back-towork interviews after sick absence.

“Back-to-work interviews can help employers find out why people have been off and to spot trends. If there is a surge in skeletal injuries, or

Back-to-work interviews vital: Jayne Holliday

absentees in a certain team, that could be a sign that there’s a problem.

“Or maybe there is a pattern of an individual being off regularly on a Monday because of the back-to-work dread. Businesses need to encourage open discussion and a back-to-work interview is a fantastic opportunity to address any issues.”

Contact Jayne on 01384 327176 or jayne.holliday@higgsllp.co.uk

Solicitors celebrate Backing for young pharmacy sale talent as they start careers

The Pickford Solicitors corporate team, having become renowned as specialists in buying and selling children’s nurseries and care homes, undertook a dramatic switch in 2022 when Lloyds Pharmacy Group decided to sell all their pharmacy branches.

Having assisted customers nationwide, the pharmacy experts saw huge demand from buyers all over the UK and they included existing customers, referrals from Hutchings Pharmacy Brokers and word of mouth referrals from other pharmacists.

Pickford Solicitors have been involved in over 100 purchases including acting for first-time buyers and existing, and developing, small regional pharmacy chains.

As the Lloyds transactions reached a peak, Jas Singh on the corporate side and Arti Dhall dealing with property aspects, continued to work on purchases and sales in transactions not involving the big pharmacy chains and also purchases from Rowlands and Boots.

Their new cohort of talented trainees were involved as project managers to coordinate between buyers and sellers, between the corporate department and the commercial property team and between borrowers and their lenders. This has been both a challenge and an opportunity for Aisha Ul-Hag and Lauren Thornton, who are due to qualify in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

Jas, Arti, Aisha, and Lauren have through the Lloyds transactions significantly extended the firm’s network of pharmacy sector clients and are now turning to post completion refinancings, lease extensions and group reorganisations.

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Two talented young people are on the road to forging a successful career in law, thanks to a scheme launched to improve diversity in the legal sector.

Higgs LLP and Gateley Legal, along with The University of Law and The College of Legal Practice, are supporting Birmingham Law Society’s Diversity Inclusion Scheme, which helps law degree graduates from disadvantaged backgrounds or under-represented groups.

This year’s successful candidates were Polina Krivoshejeva and Josh Mahay, who have secured a fullyfunded scholarship to complete the Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law’s Birmingham campus and an LLM in Legal Practice, that includes SQE prep with The College of Legal Practice, respectively.

Crucially, the pair will also be offered a vacation scheme placement and mentoring support at both Higgs LLP and Gateley Legal.

Empowered: Polina Krivoshejeva

Polina, 24 and originally from Latvia, completed her LLB at the University of Law and is working as a property recoveries paralegal.

She said: “Speaking with confidence about my abilities during interviews is always a daunting task for me but I found the whole application process for the diversity inclusion scheme very reassuring and empowering.

“I had to start working at a young age to support myself. One of my first jobs was as an accounting assistant, which is when I realised that I would like to work within a corporate structure.”

Josh, 22, studied law at Aston University, where he was also a member of the Law Society and the Sikh Society.

He said: “This is a huge boost for my career and will open up a host of new opportunities. I am extremely grateful to the Birmingham Law Society, The College of Legal Practice, Higgs and Gateley for this extraordinary scheme.”

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Complex divorces are characterised by intricate financial arrangements, ownership structures, overseas jurisdictions, high-value assets, inheritance, pensions, and points of law. These separations typically involve challenging elements like non-disclosure of assets and can be more difficult than typical cases.

PROPERTY & ASSETS – Dividing property and assets is often a difficult part of divorce. Residential properties can be a source of conflict, with both spouses feeling entitled to stay. Communication and compromise are necessary, and the court will prioritise the interests of any children or dependents involved.

HIGH NET WORTH – High net worth divorces involve more valuable assets and complicated financial arrangements, such as businesses and trusts, which may also have international implications.

FAMILY BUSINESS – Deciding the future of a family business can be difficult and may require sensitive negotiations. Accurate valuation is essential, and issues such as dual operation, shareholders, and extended family involvement must be considered.

The level of involvement of each spouse must be clarified, and courts may need to get involved if no agreement can be reached, even imposing a sale of the business if necessary.

PRE & POST-NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS – Pre and post-nuptial agreements are becoming more common in the UK, although they are not legally binding. A prenuptial agreement determines how assets will be divided in the event of separation before the marriage takes place, while a postnuptial agreement is entered into after the marriage has begun. Both parties must enter into these agreements freely for them to be effective, and they offer protection for high-value assets. These agreements are now being referenced in court cases.

HIDING, OR NON-DISCLOSURE OF ASSETS – Full disclosure of assets is crucial in a divorce case, and failing to do so could result in penalties from the courts. If you suspect your partner is hiding assets, seek legal advice immediately and consider using forensic accountants to uncover any discrepancies.

Transparency is key to minimising difficulties in divorce.

INTERNATIONAL DIMENSIONS – Divorces involving multiple nationalities, overseas business interests, and international assets can be complicated, especially when determining which country has legal jurisdiction. Legal advice should be sought early on to establish the best jurisdiction.

Child arrangements can also be challenging, particularly if one parent wants to move the children

T: 0345 20 73 72 8 E: info@thursfields.co.uk W: thursfields.co.uk

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abroad. Offshore trusts, international businesses, and foreign tax structures can further complicate matters, with offshore jurisdiction making complete disclosure difficult.

Thursfields is a full-service law firm with experience in difficult divorce cases, family law, commercial matters, wills and trusts, and other specialised fields.

To find out more information please get in touch.

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

The UK needs a Minister for Manufacturing A complex cocktail of supply chain pressures, availability of raw materials and recruitment issues is holding back UK industry, underlining the need for a Minister for Manufacturing, according to a new report.

Crowe’s Summer Manufacturing Outlook, conducted in partnership with the Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM), revealed a mixed picture of optimism and the potential for reshoring, yet management teams continuing to be plagued by long-running supply and labour issues.

Eighty-eight per cent of respondents admitted suffering from the price and availability of raw materials, while over three quarters had experienced supply chain issues caused by the war in Ukraine, high inflation and ongoing issues with Brexit.

Adding to the difficulties is the shrinking labour pool, with 76 per cent of manufacturers coming to terms with recruitment issues – a difficult balancing act when many firms are exploring new opportunities or scaling up following the pandemic.

According to Stephen Morley, the president of CBM, the results in the report reinforce the growing call for a ‘Minister for Manufacturing’, someone who can work with industry to overcome these challenges and ensure the sector is represented when key decisions are being made.

Stephen said: “A strong and wellsupported manufacturing sector has a major part to play in the UK economy’s GDP and should be a cornerstone to build on for any government, whether it be this one or the next.

“We represent over 200 members involved in the manufacture of fasteners, forgings and pressings, cold-rolled and sheet-metal products – the real building blocks of industry.

“There is a unanimous feeling that our voices are not being heard, with EU funding disappearing, the lack of an industrial strategy and a business support landscape that is ‘piece meal’ for conglomerates with little or no help for what our companies require, especially SMEs. “The call for a ‘Minister for Manufacturing’ is growing and we

Voices not being heard: Stephen Morley

need the powers that be at Whitehall to act sooner rather than later.”

The Manufacturing Outlook Summer Report has now become a fixture in the industrial calendar and is completed by audit, tax, advisory and risk firm Crowe, supported by the Confederation of British Metalforming.

It aims to provide a timely snapshot of the UK manufacturing market with the results used to inform and lobby Government and

to help shape industrial decisionmaking by the sector.

Johnathan Dudley, partner and head of manufacturing at Crowe, said: “Businesses face no shortage of challenges, including recruiting and retaining skilled workers, but a looming election provides hope that there is, on the horizon, potentially greater support and recognition of regulatory barriers for manufacturers and the vital role they play in the UK economy.”

Flexeserve launches cloud-based service Flexeserve, the world’s leading hot-holding manufacturer and food-to-go specialist, has launched their new cloud-based service, Connect.

Flexeserve’s latest innovation sees them become the first hot-holding manufacturer to incorporate and embrace cloud connectivity.

With its UK exhibition debut, Connect by Flexeserve is a new cloudbased service that enables operators to control and automate units remotely, and collate performance data to see an entire “hot food operation like never before”.

Dirk Wissmann, operational support and development manager, said: “Connect is a giant leap for the industry, with huge potential for our customers to realise the full benefits of true hot-holding and what a hot food operation can be.”

Operators can also optimise their hot food programme efficiently, sustainably and profitably with the industry’s only hot-holding service, Flexeserve Solution, newly evolved for 2023.

The service, delivered by Flexeserve’s experts, comprises six key elements: technology, food, culinary, packaging, implement and connect.

The team guides customers through this journey to revolutionise their operations.

The firm will also be launching its latest hot-holding product – Flexeserve Hub Undercounter.

Supporting operators back-of-house with operational efficiencies at its core, Flexeserve Hub is the only unit that can hot-hold batch-cooked ingredients, complete dishes and whole packaged food orders for unrivalled hold times, versatility and energy efficiency.

Flexeserve first: Cloud connectivity

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY

Colliers calls for business rates freeze Real estate property experts Colliers have urged the government to act fast on business rates as firms are forecasted to pay an extra £1.56bn in rates bills next April.

The move will give unsustainable rises to all sectors of the economy, says John Webber, head of business rates at Colliers.

Rates bills rise in line with inflation and are based on the CPI figure for the previous September.

With CPI announced at 6.7 per cent for August, Colliers are expecting to see CPI figures at around six per cent for September 2023, with the result that the total tax take from this will rise from around £26bn in 2023/4 to £27.56bn in 2024/5 from next April.

This is unless the government steps in and freezes the business rates multiplier.

Last year, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt froze the multiplier for the current tax year, keeping it at 51.2p for every £1 of a commercial property's rateable value, and 49.9p for small businesses.

Forty-four major British retailers have already written to the Chancellor ahead of his Autumn Statement later this month, urging him to do the same again, otherwise they estimate an extra £400m will be added to the retailers cost base next year,

particularly as Covid-related reliefs come to an end.

However, retail is not the only sector that will be penalised by this tax. The logistics/manufacturing sector now pays 26 per cent of the total business rates tax bill and has seen steep rises in its rates bills, as a result of the 2023 Revaluation.

With inflation at 6six per cent, Colliers estimate the sector will see its rates bills rise by around £406m in April.

‘The move will give unsustainable rises to all sectors of the economy’ Combined with the revaluation increases, Colliers estimates the Amazon London distribution park in Tilbury, for example, will see its rates bill rise from around £4.7m in 2023 to £6.7m from April 2024 - a massive £2m increase - unless something is announced.

According to Mr Webber, such rises are unsustainable: “All sectors are suffering from increased costs, whether from increased wage bills, materials or energy costs.

“They cannot cope with the hike in rates bills too. Higher occupation costs will only dampen expansion and growth plans and for many businesses might be the last straw.

Government promises not fulfilled: John Webber

“The government must do something. Freezing the multiplier for 2024/5 is the first step, but only really papers over the issues.

Ultimately, we need proper business rates reform.”

Colliers has drawn up a manifesto for reform, the main components of which are: • The government should rebase the multiplier to a level that businesses can afford • Reform the sticking plaster reliefs system • Introduce annual revaluations • Reform the appeal system and demand transparency from the VOA.

Colliers believes the current system needs to be transparent, easy to access for all and allow appeals to be resolved in 12 months, so that businesses can get on with what they do best - running their businesses.

Mr Webber continued: “In its 2019 Manifesto, the Conservative Party promised ‘to cut the burden of tax on business by reducing business rates. This will be done via a fundamental review of the system’. With rises of over £1.5bn looming next year, it clearly has not fulfilled this promise. We urge the Chancellor to make a statement and to do it soon.”

Siddall Jones secures sale of Jewellery Quarter space

It’s a deal: Ed Siddall-Jones (left) and Sam Meeten shake on it

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Commercial agents Siddall Jones have secured a buyer for the long leasehold interest in the single commercial unit at Elevate Property Group’s Heaton House development in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

The 3,000 sq ft of office space was on the market for £450,000. The undisclosed purchaser of the new 150-year lease is an owner-occupier.

Heaton House is a development of 14 freehold townhouses and 42 apartments, including six lofts, plus the restored Georgian, 3,455 sq ft, five-bedroom villa that gives the project its name.

Sam Meeten, land director at Elevate Property Group, said: “We have worked with Siddall Jones on a number of projects and indeed, it was Ed Siddall-Jones who introduced us to one of our most recent projects in Birmingham, Gunsmith House.

“As the city’s most proactive commercial agent, Siddall Jones were the natural choice for us when we came to put the commercial space at Heaton House on the market.”

Ed Siddall-Jones, managing director of Siddall Jones, said: “We were delighted to appointed by Elevate to handle the sale of the office building, securing a sale quickly to a private purchaser who had been looking for modern office accommodation in the quarter for some time.

“We witnessed consi derable demand for the space, which was offered in a shell and core condition, reflecting the vibrancy of Birmingham's owner-occupier market.

“This sale underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our clients and we look forward to working with Elevate on their forthcoming projects across the Midlands.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

Innovation district to boost digital skills The blueprint to digital skills A blueprint has been launched to help people land one of the 2,000 job vacancies that remain unfilled at more than 600 businesses across the West Midlands because of a digital skills shortage.

Despite digital technology becoming an essential tool of the modern world and workplace, around 22 per cent of the West Midlands population are completely offline – the highest figure of any region in the UK. To help more people get the skills they need to take advantage of the jobs on offer, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the Good Things Foundation have launched the Digital Skills Blueprint.

The blueprint provides West Midlands businesses, colleges and other skills providers with a targeted curriculum to give residents the training and confidence they need as well as the key building blocks to support them through accredited training.

Andy Street, West Midlands mayor and WMCA Chair, said: “Digital skills and connectivity will be essential to the future health, productivity and prosperity of our region - and a key element in the development of a range of industries.

“We’ve been steadily improving our digital skills offer over the last few years and the next step in our offer is this Digital Skills Blueprint helping skills providers to practically reduce the digital divide that still sadly leaves some local people and communities behind.”

Helen Milner, group CEO at Good Things Foundation, said: “The insights we were able to gather from stakeholders across the West Midlands have allowed us to design a basic digital skills curriculum which will provide residents with the essential digital skills they need for life, work and further learning.”

This project is part of the WMCA’s, West Midlands Digital Roadmap.

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A new innovation district has been established to provide a platform for the development of the next generation of digital skills, boosting the region’s economy and competitiveness.

The University of Birmingham, PwC and Tech She Can have been joined by Ahead Partnership and Digital Innovators to deliver the pioneering Birmingham Digital Futures (BDF) Innovation District, aimed at addressing the digital skills gap in the West Midlands.

The BDF Innovation District builds on a successful first year of activity in primary and secondary schools.

It will provide skills development programmes that cater to learners at all life stages: primary, secondary, further education (FE), higher education (HE), NEET, and re/upskilling for the existing workforce.

The partnership, with educators and the private sector, will foster the growth of the regional digital skills eco-system, ensuring an integrated offer and seamless transition between each stage.

Closing the skills gap could boost UK GDP by £87bn by 2030 and the West Midlands is poised to create 52,000 additional digital roles by 2025.

Yet regional business leaders have concerns over persistent gaps in key areas such as programming, knowledge of emerging technologies, and advanced statistics.

Professor Adam Tickell, vice-chancellor of the University of Birmingham, said: “The University of Birmingham is proud to be at the forefront of

addressing the digital skills gap in the West Midlands.

Our ambition is to create a world-class digital skills ecosystem that draws on our research and teaching excellence, and aligns with regional and national skills policies, while also serving our civic mission of improving the lives of people in the region.”

‘The University of Birmingham is proud to be at the forefront of addressing the digital skills gap in the West Midlands’ Victoria Pargetter, associate director of business engagement and research impact, leads the BDF Innovation District for the University of Birmingham.

She said: “We’re thrilled to be spearheading this with our partners, which we believe will have a significant impact on addressing socioeconomic barriers to accessing digital skills. Our goal is to bring together local businesses, government bodies, and the University of Birmingham to co-design, codeliver and co-diffuse innovative methods for skills development that are open to all.”

The BDF Innovation District marks a groundbreaking shift in the approach to skills programmes.

By unifying leaders from education, industry and policy, cutting-edge skills initiatives can be devised, evaluated and optimised to guarantee ongoing impact and advancement.

Apprentice figures on the rise Interest in engineering apprentices is booming in the West Midlands after In-Comm Training announced a 35 per cent increase in the number of starts this September.

One of the UK’s leading training providers has recruited 199 individuals across its Aldridge and Telford technical academies, with learners starting their careers in machining, robotics, welding, electrical, mechatronics and toolmaking.

Companies, including Ansaldo Nuclear, Altrad Babcock, HS Marston Aerospace, Magna Cosma Castings, Makita, RBSL and Veolia, are taking the long-term approach to beating the current labour and skills shortage by opting to grow their own.

In addition to the budding engineers of the future, In-Comm Training also successfully inducted 25 learners onto its Level 4 HNC programme - highlighting a strong move towards upskilling workers.

Paul Hodgetts, business development manager at In-Comm Training, said: “We have been able to fill nearly 90 additional vacancies this year.

“There is a lot of opportunity for industry at the moment, but the ability to scale up is being held back by access to both the right people and the volume of individuals in the labour pool.

“The results of our Training Barometer clearly showed that industry was waking up to the importance of developing their own staff and apprenticeships now being accepted as a credible career choice.

“In-Comm has also had a big drive on equality and diversity, making sure industry is seen as a

career for all. This is paying off with 30 per cent of our new Telford cohort girls and nearly 19 per cent of our Aldridge learners coming from a Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic background. The latter is an impressive stat when you consider the national average for engineering is just seven per cent.”

Jayne Guest, recruitment manager at In-Comm Training, said: “We will be continuing our recruitment of apprentices throughout the coming months for our early 2024 cohorts.”

Budding engineers: The latest cohort at In-Comm Training

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Don’t rely on AI for content, says marketing boss Sutton Coldfield-based marketing agency EDGE Creative has urged businesses against rushing to utilise Artificial Intelligence (AI) such as Chat GPT in marketing - warning of the pitfalls of viewing the technology as a quick-fix magic wand that enables infinite content generation.

With the exponential evolution of AI permeating every aspect of human life, most sectors are benefitting in some way from the technology.

But as advancements such as Chat GPT are seemingly giving businesses and marketeers a super-efficient way of producing content, EDGE Creative director and founder Louise Pinnington is urging businesses to carefully balance the advantages of using the technology against the pitfalls.

She said: “Using Chat GPT to generate copy in a world where content is king can seem like a real advantage to businesses that have no marketing employees or service in place, or little to no budget to do so.

“The limitations of the capabilities, however, must be understood and the importance of applying marketing knowledge and discernment to the process must not be under-estimated.

“Accuracy can be a real issue with Chat GPT, as the information may be pulled from internet sources that are not verifiable, and information on world events post 2021 is limited. It can produce incorrect or biased information, and that could end up making an organisation look silly at best or be damaging to the business and its credibility.”

EDGE also makes the case for experienced human involvement not only to address or check for inaccuracies, but to bring the human touch and emotion into content to make it engaging, and relevant to the audience.

Louise adds: “Chat GPT will not have knowledge of a brand, its core essence, messaging parameters or marketing objectives.

“The content generated using the technology may also include a mix of stances and opinions based on the information sources, which may significantly differ from the objective of the organisation.

Warning on AI: Louise Pinnington

“And in a world where awareness of using the right terminology around subjects such as gender, race, or any other areas that require sensitivity, is highly important, the need for human involvement is vital.”

The technology can also be detrimental to Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) efforts, as Google’s ever-changing algorithms need to be taken into account when generating content, and the issue of duplicate content is one area that has always been a consideration for content marketers.

With Chat GPT gleaning information from various internet sources, there’s a huge risk that it duplicates either small or large portions of text.

This could result in being penalised by Google, potentially undoing years of good work in building up rankings, according to EDGE. Louise concluded: “The more we experiment and use technology as an addition to our toolkit, the more valuable and valid it will become. But it’s no quick fix and it’s certainly no replacement for humans in the world of marketing.”

Private equity backing for tech firm Aliter Capital LLP, the private equity investment specialist focused on the small to medium-sized UK support services sector, has announced the completion of an investment in Jumar, the West Midlands headquartered tech talent, digital transformation and technology solutions business.

The investment, made from Aliter’s £134m second fund Aliter Capital II, sees Jumar become a key part of Aliter’s strategy to develop a leading specialist technology resourcing and solutions group in the UK, working alongside tech talent business Concept Resourcing, the Dudley-based company acquired by funds managed by Aliter in July 2022.

Founded in 2000, Solihull-based Jumar has developed a reputation for delivering innovative technology solutions. Jumar’s team of technology experts work with customers across the public and private sectors, providing digital transformation, technology solutions, project outcomes, augmenting in-house resources and identifying skilled talent to support their customers’ technology and business needs.

Wendy Merricks, founder and CEO, Jumar, said: “Over the past 23 years, our talented

82 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

team at Jumar has leveraged its collective strengths to help organisations navigate the evolving technology landscape and achieve their business goals.

“Now, it’s time for us to enter an exciting new phase of the company’s development and we are very much looking forward to working

New phase: Wendy Merricks

with our new colleagues at Aliter to create a significant, UK-wide technology and talent capability for our clients and employees.”

Greig Brown, partner at Aliter Capital, said: “There is clear logic in Jumar working alongside Concept Resourcing. The skills, resources and capabilities of both companies are entirely complementary and will form the strongest of foundations for the development of a leading tech talent and solutions business in the UK.” Matt Gillen, CEO of Concept Resourcing, said: “We have been tremendously impressed and encouraged by the input and support we have received from the team at Aliter over the past year.

“Now we look forward with great anticipation and enthusiasm to working alongside Jumar, to grow and develop a formidable force in the world of technology and tech talent.”

Aliter is actively looking to acquire complementary businesses to join the tech talent platform, with a focus on adding AI and cyber security capabilities, as well as developing its physical presence in the UK’s main tech centres, including London, Bristol, Manchester and Scotland.

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

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SECTOR FOCUS: THE ARTS

Sharon Osbourne will ‘tell all’ at Alex show Sharon Osbourne promises to reveal all about some of the hardest years of her eventful life when she appears on the stage at The Alexandra, Birmingham, next year.

For over two decades, Sharon has been a force to be reckoned with on our TV screens. Both on and off camera, she’s had to battle the scrutiny that comes with life in the limelight and has never been a stranger to controversy.

That includes the anguish of a broken marriage and heavy metal icon husband Ozzy’s infidelities to the constant spectre of drug abuse in her family, the loss of friends, betrayal by colleagues, and her ongoing battles with mental health issues.

Now she takes to The Alexandra on Wednesday, 24 January, for one of only two dates announced in ‘Sharon Osbourne - Cut The Crap!’

Tickets go on sale at 10am Friday, 6 October at atgtickets.com/ birmingham

A TV star on both sides of the Atlantic from more than 20 years, Sharon was a much-loved judge and mentor on ITV’s The X Factor from its first series in 2004. On the 10th series her act Sam Bailey was the winner, marking Sharon’s first victory as a mentor.

Sharon and Ozzy and their kids first burst onto our screens in 2002 in MTV’s ground-breaking fly-onthe-wall reality show, ‘The Osbournes’, which followed the family’s crazy life in Beverly Hills.

In 2007 she joined the judging panel on the second season of ‘America’s Got Talent’, along with Piers Morgan and David Hasselhoff.

Her first autobiography, ‘Extreme’, was published in 2005. It went to Number 1 on the Sunday Times Bestseller List, where it remained for 15 weeks and sold over 621,000 copies in hardback, becoming the biggest-selling autobiography since British records began.

Botanical bonanza: Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime characters meet for the first time at Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Fi, fi, fo... Brum!

‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ cast members took a trip to Birmingham Botanical Gardens to launch this year’s pantomime at Birmingham Hippodrome.

It was their first opportunity to get to know each other ahead of this year’s production.

Starring in the UK’s biggest regional panto is Birmingham’s own Alison Hammond as Spirit of the Beans, alongside Hippodrome favourite Matt Slack playing Jake Trot who is back for a 10th year; and star of stage and screen Samantha Womack as Mrs Blunderbore.

They are joined by Doreen Tipton as Doreen the Cow, panto dame extraordinaire Andrew Ryan as Dame Trot, Brummie local Alexanda O’Reilly in the title role and West-End performer Billie-Kay as Princess Jill.

‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ will run from Saturday, 16 December, until Sunday, 28 January.

Tickets can be booked at www.birminghamhippodrome.com or by calling 0844 338 5000.

Sharon is now back home and resident in the UK and says it’s time to start a new chapter - and lay rest many of the demons of her past.

In this live experience audience members will be able to question Sharon directly about her and her extraordinary life as she really ‘’cuts the crap’’ live on stage.

Revealing all: Sharon Osbourne

Conductors appointed The CBSO has announced the appointment of two new assistant conductors.

Building on the orchestra’s rich history of spotting and celebrating new talent and working with the world’s most exciting conductors, the scheme gives the conductors the opportunity to work closely with the world-leading orchestra across the full range of its activity.

Rita Castro Blanco and Charlotte Corderoy will be assigned to a range of projects over the 23/24 season, from Family Concerts to international tours, World Premiere performances, and everything in between.

Rita studied at the Royal Northern College of Music and was principal conductor of Huddersfield Philharmonic Orchestra.

Charlotte is a graduate of The Royal Academy of Music and the University of Oxford and has made debuts with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the City of London Sinfonia.

The promising young conductors were appointed after an extensive and collaborative process involving Kazuki Yamada, CBSO musicians and management from an incredibly competitive field of applicants.

Popular TV festival makes return The Square Eyes TV Festival has been commissioned for a third season and will be spread across the Midlands Arts Centre and Mockingbird Cinema, featuring a mix of archive rarities, classic series and recent favourites.

It again features a number of special guests, this year welcoming Shazia Mirza, Lucy Prebble, Arthur Matthews, Michael Cumming, Tara Prem and Hugo Myatt to MAC and Mockingbird Cinema.

David Baldwin, Square Eyes festival producer, MAC Cinema and screen producer, said: “My parents used to tell me that I watched too much TV, but luckily, as an adult I've managed to turn that obsession into running a festival where I get to watch even more TV.” To book tickets go to: macbirmingham.co.uk

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SECTOR FOCUS: SPORT

The Business of Sport Euro 2028 to bring major boost The UK and Ireland’s staging of football’s European Championship in 2028 is set to provide Birmingham and the West Midlands with a tourism boost.

That’s according to Andrew Lovett, chair of the West Midlands Tourism & Hospitality Advisory Board, following the announcement that Villa Park will be among the host venues for the Euro 2028 tournament.

Governing body UEFA officially awarded the tournament to the UK and Ireland after the only rival, Turkey, withdrew to focus on a bid for the 2032 event.

Villa Park will be among the 10 host venues alongside Wembley and Tottenham Hotspur in London, the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Hampden Park in Glasgow, Newcastle’s St James’ Park, the Etihad Stadium in Manchester, the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, a redeveloped Casement Park in Belfast and the new home of Everton Football Club in Liverpool.

Villa Park previously hosted games during Euro 96 – the last time the European Championship took place in the UK.

CGI of the new-look North Stand

Mr Lovett said: “It is tremendous news that the UK & Ireland have won the right to jointly host Euro 2028, with Birmingham – and the wider West Midlands – set to play an important role by welcoming games at one of European football’s most iconic stadiums, Villa Park.

“Football is a huge draw for inbound tourism in the UK, and extremely valuable to the economy, with more money spent by international football fans than the average overseas visitor to the UK. “We have shown in the West Midlands – thanks to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth

Games and other major sporting fixtures such as The Ashes – that we love hosting world-class sporting events, and always put on a great show for visitors.”

Villa are on course to complete a £100m redevelopment ahead of the tournament, including a new-look North Stand.

Commonwealth Games leader joins Sport 4 Life board A Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games leader who oversaw an award-winning global initiative at the major sporting event has joined Sport 4 Life UK’s board of trustees.

Alton Brown was head of youth programmes & policy at the organising committee and has more than 16 years’ experience in the charitable sector, specialising in the strategic development and delivery of engagement activities for young people and community development.

Alton won plaudits for leading the team that delivered Birmingham 2022’s 'Bring the Power' youth engagement programme, which reached almost a million children and young people across 16 countries and secured a highly commended award at the Burberry British Diversity Awards in 2023.

His track record in using sport as a vehicle for social good will prove invaluable to Digbeth-based Sport 4 Life UK, which provides sport-themed personal development programmes to people aged between 11 and 29 years old across the West Midlands, in addition to working with employers to improve youngsters’ life chances.

Commenting on his appointment, Alton said: "As a long-term admirer of Sport 4 Life and the incredible impact they create in the lives of young people, I am very excited to now be joining their board.

“Growing up, sport was an introduction to a world that completely resonated with me. It gave me an inspiring lens I could use to navigate life, it gave me the tools to leverage new development opportunities and it 86 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

Tom Clarke-Forrest and Alton Brown

opened up doors across the world that I could never have imagined as a young person growing up in an economically deprived area.

“I look forward to contributing to the organisation’s vision of a level playing field where every young person has the opportunity to create a better future for themselves."

Welcoming Alton to the board of trustees, Sport 4 Life UK CEO Tom Clarke-Forrest said: “Alton brings a wealth of experience in education, youth development and sport for development, as well as an unwavering passion for the region in which we operate, and from where we are embarking on our exciting national expansion journey. I’m looking forward to working with him.”

Based at Digbeth’s Custard Factory, Sport 4 Life UK uses sport as a vehicle to achieve sustained education, training and employment outcomes for young people. Since its inception in 2006, it has grown into the leading sport-for-employability charity across the West Midlands.

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CHAMBERLINK

Chamber Insight Focus on a member

Name: Lucas Markou Company: The Jerroms Group Job Title: Director

What does your company do?

Jerroms is a leading group of companies providing a wealth of personal, business, and corporate services to support the entire personal and company lifecycle.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

I would say, don’t be afraid to ask what you think is a stupid question. The chances are it’s not...

How did it all start?

I started in accountancy in 1999, and soon realised that I really enjoyed taxation. In 2005 I joined Jerroms as a tax specialist and became an equity partner in 2008.

Which business do you most admire?

There are too many to name specifically, but I admire anywhere the business owners have put their all into making it work, having sacrificed a lot in the process and are now reaping the rewards.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

Without a doubt my wife and family – my children make me very proud.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?

Turning down a job offer from the “Big Four” to stay with Jerroms – it clearly did work out to be the right decision.

What keeps you awake at night?

I’m always thinking about how we can improve both our client experience and how we can make sure that we attract and retain our talent.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

I don’t tend to look back – I like to concentrate on how we can move forward.

What has surprised you most in your job?

How many clients I can now count as friends.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

We continue to forge ahead with our growth strategy – we want to be the number one practice in the West Midlands and for our staff to be happy. After the first year of business, we are also enjoying seeing Jerroms Miller Specialist Tax grow from strength to strength.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

As a long-standing local business we are keen to build relationships and develop our brand profile. The GBCC is a great way to do this – we have really enjoyed attending events over the years with like-minded professionals.

Call: 0121 693 5000 Visit: www.jerroms.co.uk

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

New Members Your guide to new sign-ups

AB Retail Consultancy Annette Barr 07305506833 Combined office administrative service activities Solihull Chamber of Commerce Accounts and Advice Bureau Faiza Naz 07387354123 www.accountsandadvicebureau.co.uk Accounting and auditing activities Asian Business Chamber of Commerce AFJ Limited Angelo Cugini 0121 689 1000 www.afjltd.com Other passenger land transport Asian Business Chamber of Commerce AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group Fabienne Bailey 01902 624230 www.opencollnet.org.uk Activities of professional membership organisations Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce 88 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

Anthony Collins Solicitors Jo Cartwright 0121 2143731 www.anthonycollins.com Activities of patent and copyright agents; other legal activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Applause IT Tim Morris 0870 160 2261 www.applauseit.co.uk Temporary employment agency activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Approved Healthcare Iksimar Singh 07853 856841 Other human health activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Arrive Alive Debbie Roscoe 0345 504 8787 www.arrivealiveresponse.co.uk Other service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Whatever your business size and requirements, the Chamber has a membership scale to suit your needs.

For more information visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/membership

Autogen AI Adrian Hobday 07590421449 www.autogenai.com Other information technology service activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Circle Networks Jamie Stewart 07740610761 circlenetworks.co.uk Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Caremark Solihull Herkesh Malhi 0121 733 8355 www.caremark.co.uk/locations/solihull Activities of households as employers of domestic personnel Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Common Curiosity Paul Felton 0203 951 7780 www.commoncuriosity.co.uk specialised design activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Change Grow Live Jinna Sidhu 01212275890 www.changegrowlive.org Other social work activities without accommodation n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

E.M Creative Studio Emanuel Lopes 0772 3388295 www.e.mcreativestudio.com Advertising agencies Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Cheeky Maharaj Avi Sokhal 07912 654 176 www.cheekymaharaj.com Take-away food shops and mobile food stands Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Fisher German LLP Stuart Flint 07501720422 www.fishergerman.co.uk Other letting and operating of own or leased real estate Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

As the voice of local business since 1813, we strive to help firms across the region

connect, support and grow.

Hoar Cross Hall Joanne Reeves 01283 576522 www.hoarcross.co.uk Hotels and similar accommodation Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

The Server Group Limited Mark Lambert 01283 576848 www.theserver.group Manufacture of computers and peripheral equipment Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

Kemarra Keith Rayner 07752506128 kemarra.com Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Nutters Fastenings Limited Louise Fisher 07903952766 www.nuttersfastenings.co.uk Other retail sale not in stores, stalls or markets Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Reach Society Dr Dwain Neil OBE FRSA 07949 431992 www.reachsociety.com Other education n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

UCargo Pacific Logistics Limited Ruth Budd 07494775241 www.ucargo.co.uk Freight transport by road Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

Remote Court Users Limited Amir Ali 07500016326 www.remotecourtusers.com Management consultancy activities other than financial management Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Sky Adsmart Chris Morris 07896600351

Television programme production activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce The S&A Transform Group Ltd Rachel Thomas 020 4551 1997 thesandagroup.com Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Vaughtons Nick Hobbis 01215540032 www.vaughtons.com Activities of other holding companies n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce WorkUp Ade Bullock www.workup.cloud Information technology consultancy activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

November 2023 CHAMBERLINK 89

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MEMBER SECTION

...any other business A roundup of news from Chamber members

Immersive film explores Handsworth’s past ‘The Tiny Spark’, which reimagines the 1985 Handsworth Riots and takes the viewer on a journey that bears witness to those fateful days on the streets of inner-city Birmingham, has played to two sell-out audiences at Thinktank’s Birmingham Science Museum.

Through powerful poems and rare archive photography, ‘The Tiny Spark’ tells the story of one the most traumatic events in post-war Britain.

The free-to-attend September premiere at Thinktank was fully booked within days and its second screening, on Wednesday 18 October, sold out just as quickly.

‘The Tiny Spark’, an immersive 17-minute premiere, utilises the poetry of Benjamin Zephaniah and mesmerising artworks from the film’s director, Pogus Caesar.

Haunting and emotive performances come from spoken word artists Juice Aleem, Chauntelle Madondo alongside Samiir Saunders.

The film features a specially composed soundscape by the eclectic underground artist

TaberCayon. The immersive element prior to the screening included multi projectors, media with coverage of the riots pinned together by a soundtrack of Jamaican Dub music.

The Thinktank screening also featured a Q&A discussion from the artists who appeared in the film and gave guests the chance to share their recollections of Handsworth in 1985.

Caesar is a conceptual artist utilising multiple media.

He was born in St Kitts, West Indies, and grew up in Birmingham. In 2018 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Birmingham City University for his outstanding contribution to the visual arts.

He said: “The premiere of ‘The Tiny Spark’ was such an overwhelming experience, with audiences from Birmingham and beyond supporting the film in a positive way.”

Collaboration creates coffee-flavoured rum Two Birmingham brands, Burning Barn Rum and Quarter Horse Coffee, have teamed up to create a unique, super limited-edition drink — Brandy Barrell Finished Coffee Rum. Available to buy online, there are only 350 bottles available.

Priced at £47, the limited-edition 40 per cent alcoholic drink is infused with a special combination of Burning Barn’s finest aged rums and the rich flavours of Quarter Horse’s Ethiopian coffee blend, perfect for an Espresso Martini.

Finished in a recently emptied VSOP brandy barrel, the coffee-flavoured rum brings together almond, orange peel and oak-spiced flavours, creating a dark, bronze look that is sealed with wax.

To celebrate the collaboration and launch, the two brands will be donating 10 per cent of all profits to Voices of the Children — a charity providing psychological support to Ukrainian children impacted by the ongoing conflict.

Harry Jenner, co-founder and COO at Burning Barn Rum, said: “We’re passionate about independent food and drink producers in Birmingham so with the growing trend for 90 CHAMBERLINK November 2023

coffee flavours in booze, we knew we had to collaborate with Quarter Horse Coffee.

“Not only are they a stand-out coffee roaster in Birmingham, but their attention to detail in both sourcing and processing coffee is unmatched and we are very excited to see how coffee and rum fans react to our unique, super limited-edition drink.”

Nathan Retzer, founder of Quarter Horse Coffee, added: "We are very excited to be collaborating with Burning Barn on this rum project. We are a local Birmingham business that is focused on quality and making a product of the highest standards and it was precisely these shared priorities that made the collaboration the perfect fit.

“The care they take in each of their rums is meticulous. After having some great conversations about flavour and how our two products would work together, we were happy to partner to make this truly one-of-a-kind rum."

To buy the limited-edition Brandy Barrell Finished Coffee Rum go to: www.burningbarnrum.com

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