IN BIZ MK APRIL MAY 2021.qxp_A4 size 24/03/2021 10:15 Page 3
INBUSINESS
VIEWPOINT I feel I speak on behalf of all members when I say we welcome the Prime Minister’s Roadmap to easing restrictions forced by Covid-19, however we must remain cautious and still remember this has been an incredibly challenging time for businesses throughout our region. It has also been a huge challenge for the Government to get the balance right between the health of the economy and the health of the nation. Therefore, those in business will welcome the sentiment that this should be the final lockdown and will support the cautious re-opening of the economy based on the data at the time. I’m therefore delighted to announce Milton Keynes Chamber has created two new membership types to aid businesses affected by Covid-19 and the Exiting of the EU. Our new Start-Up Membership package is aimed at businesses that have been trading for 12 months or less, as a cost-effective route to becoming full Chamber members. This exciting new membership allows start-up businesses to tap into the wide range of Chamber profile raising benefits, networking events, forums and seminars. The newly launched International Trade Membership option has been designed for members with international trading needs, allowing members access to all standard Chamber membership benefits alongside enhanced support for international trading. This specifically tailored package offers exclusive access to vital forums and international trade seminars in addition to dedicated international trade advice and support lines. Every international trade member will receive support to help maximise their membership in line with any international trade requirements, as well as monthly news updates. We’re also delighted to have successfully launched our new network - Women With Vision (WWV) - with almost 100 delegates on International Women’s Day. Keep an eye out for WWV event news and communications. Finally, please remember our dedicated team is always on hand to assist you with maximising your member benefits and supporting you in all your business needs.
CONTENTS BUSINESS REPORT 4
MK is leading the way for economic growth
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Grants to help reduce your carbon footprint
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Customer service star is recognised
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Using science to deliver sales training
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Policy Matters: the results from the latest QES
GOING GLOBAL 12
Support for international traders
TALKING BUSINESS
Best Wishes Louise Wall Interim CEO, Milton Keynes Chamber 14
CONTACT DETAILS
FRONT COVER: Milton Keynes Council See pages 14-15
MILTON KEYNES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 500 Avebury Boulevard, Milton Keynes MK9 2BE W: www.chambermk.co.uk
IN THE SPOTLIGHT 16
Hotels, Conferences & Events Events agency brings teams back together
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Manufacturing Plant-based food firm opens new facility
NEWS AND ARTICLES SHOULD BE SENT TO: inbusiness.MK@chambermk.co.uk Editorial process managed by Ballyhoo PR EDITOR: Laura Smith EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Katie Macdonald
CHAMBER BUSINESS PARTNERS
Michael Bracey, chief executive, Milton Keynes Council
TRAINING & EVENTS PUBLISHED BY: Kemps Publishing Ltd Unit 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull B91 3DA T: 0121 765 4144 W: www.kempspublishing.co.uk MANAGING EDITOR: Laura Blake T: 0121 765 4144 E: laura.blake@kempspublishing.co.uk
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The latest comprehensive list of Chamber training courses and events
MEMBER ZONE 22
A different approach to work experience
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Take on a challenge for Willen Hospice
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Member Profile: Sarah Grimes, Transitions UK
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Next Generation, plus new members
DESIGNER: Stuart Burton ADVERTISING MANAGER: Jon Jones T: 0121 765 4144 E: jon.jones@kempspublishing.co.uk
The June/July 21 issue of inbusiness will include features on: Technology & Information and Legal Services The deadline is: 5 April
PRINTERS: Stephens & George Print Group
ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE: inbusiness is a bi-monthly publication and digital magazine distributed to over 3,000 Chamber members and key businesses in Milton Keynes. The publication focuses on news and information about local companies and the initiatives and advice available to increase the prosperity of firms in the Milton Keynes area. Milton Keynes Chamber welcomes newsworthy articles of business interest, giving preference to Chamber members. As editorial space is limited, inclusion cannot be guaranteed and the editor may amend or reject articles submitted. inbusiness is produced on behalf of Milton Keynes Chamber by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed without charge to all Chamber members and other leading businesses in the Milton Keynes area. The Chamber and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. However, views expressed in the magazine are independent and while every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither Milton Keynes Chamber nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise.
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For further information on Milton Keynes Chamber, call: 01908 547820 or visit: www.chambermk.co.uk
APRIL/MAY 2021 inbusiness 3
