Dear Chamber Member, I kicked off my last column by talking about optimism for 2026 and we’ve seen some statistics in recent weeks that would suggest we’ve had a positive start to the year. However, as a Chamber we’re always alive to the fact that there can be anything around the corner that can put the brakes on growth. In recent years, it’s been Brexit, Covid and global geopolitics and conflict that have all weighed heavy on the economy, including here in Coventry and Warwickshire.
So, I would urge firms to keep in touch with the Chamber when it comes to overseas trade because we’ve got a wealth of expertise when it comes to exporting and can help you to overcome some of those perceived hurdles.
We had a really interesting and insightful meeting with the Bank of England a few weeks ago and it was great that members from a range of sectors could describe their current circumstances and sentiments and put questions to Huw Pill, who sits on the committee that sets interest rates.
I’m also really excited for the Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards which are taking place in April and tickets are now on sale for the event.
Last year was like no awards event I have ever been to. It was just a real celebration of Coventry and Warwickshire and everything in it – from its people to its culture and from its businesses to its community groups. This year will build on that and I’d urge everyone to get a ticket and join in the party.
And I have no doubt you will leave
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Business manifesto for Coventry and Warwickshire will help local firms set the agenda
A new manifesto to help drive forward the Coventry and Warwickshire economy will be launched this spring.
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has produced the manifesto after working with regional think tank, The Centre for the New Midlands, for almost a year to research the regional economy and speak to businesses of all sizes and sectors.
It outlines the region’s key economic strengths – from manufacturing to digital and from hospitality and tourism through to innovation.
The manifesto outlines a series of priorities that the Chamber – through the launch of its new Business Assembly – will campaign on and promote over the course of the next three years.
They include everything from skills to infrastructure and from planning to business support and are placed in the context of the changes to regional government structures.
Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Chambers of Commerce across the UK have lobbied on behalf of local businesses for hundreds of years, but in the current world of 24 hour news and policy changes seemingly happening by the hour, it was important for Coventry and Warwickshire businesses to to a step back, think about what will help us drive growth locally and then work with political leaders to make this happen.
“We want local businesses to drive the agenda, not to be led by an agenda that starts in Westminster.
“Our aim has been threefold: to raise the profile of our successful businesses, to develop the priorities required for a fully functioning support and innovation system, and to take advantage of the government’s emphasis on place-based growth.
“This manifesto sets out the views on the top priorities to drive growth and competitiveness, based on interviews with our members from across the region.
“We are grateful to The Centre for the New Midlands for all of the work they have undertaken to bring us to the point of being able to launch this manifesto by drawing together all of the research and all of the different views.
“To ensure continued profile for this agenda, we launched our Business Assembly to bring together key stakeholders and outline our collective priorities for growth for the sub-region.
“And, while changes are afoot in terms of Local Government Reorganisation, we will continue to champion Coventry & Warwickshire as a whole. This Business Manifesto is our stake in the ground, mapping our collective road to success.”
On connectivity and infrastructure, the manifesto has set out the following priorities:
• Develop or utilise an existing platform that monitors the demand for employment land, what is coming to market, how quickly that is happening and to overcome the barriers to that land being developed.
• Create a developer/planner forum that can help identify and champion major projects and help unblock barriers to these projects.
Create an AI Network/ecosystem where businesses can collaborate, share AI knowledge and resources.
On business support and innovation systems, it states the following priorities:
• Ensure every business in Coventry and Warwickshire –regardless of size, sector or stage of growth – can easily access business support.
Make it as simple as possible for SMEs to engage with the wide-ranging impressive resources the region has to offer, such as the University of Warwick, Coventry University, the MTC, MIRA.
• Ensure local SMEs prioritise knowledge and programmes for the future that drive productivity, especially digital transformation, sustainability, innovation and leadership and management.
• Create a forum specifically aimed at dealing with the unique and critical issues facing the hospitality, retail and tourism sector in Coventry and Warwickshire.
On skills, it says the prime objectives are to: Promote, highlight and enhance structured partnership programmes that integrate real world business experience into education.
• Promote the opportunity to use the unspent apprenticeship levy, increase the amount of SMEs making use of it and develop better links within supply chains.
Ensure the recommendations of both the Warwickshire and West Midlands CA Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) are actioned and communicated to local businesses and partners.
On net zero and sustainability, the manifesto prioritises: Support businesses to reduce energy costs/through improved efficiency and sustainable practices.
Develop a campaign to ‘Buy C&W’ through promotion of regional supply chain benefits, a drive to reshore, supporting anchor institutions to prioritise local procurement.
Develop better links between research institutions and local businesses to support R&D to make products/ services more sustainable.
And the key recommendations around devolution are to:
• Position the C&W Business Assembly as a key forum for business views of new governance structures and support Warwickshire’s eventual inclusion in the WMCA, regardless of outcome of Reorganisation.
Advocate for Coventry and Warwickshire to remain economically aligned during the transition, avoiding fragmentation and any changes that could dilute influence, powers and growth.
Lobby for consistency and longevity in business support and innovation programmes across Coventry and Warwickshire and any devolved powers that can directly support business growth.
For more information on the manifesto, contact the Chamber on 024 7665 4321.
What I love about Coventry and Warwickshire
Why this region is such a great place to do business
Coventry and Warwickshire is often described as microcosm of the whole of the UK economy.
The city and the county has everything from manufacturing to professional services, from rural to construction and from digital gaming through to tourism and hospitality. We’ve got world class universities, incredible FE colleges and area full of talent and knowledge. So, we asked Chamber members what they love most about Coventry and Warwickshire and why it’s such a great place to be in and do business.
Name: Chris Golby
Business: CultureNav
Name: Sandra Godley OBE
Business: President of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce
“I love Coventry and Warwickshire for its blend of heritage and bold ambition. From world class innovation and creative industries to resilient businesses and diverse communities, the region champions collaboration, opportunity, and inclusive growth. It’s where tradition meets future-focused leadership and people genuinely support one another.”
“The mix of deep industrial heritage and future-focused ambition. There’s a strong sense of graft, pride, and community here - people who get things done, but are increasingly open to rethinking how work, leadership, and culture really shape success.”
Name: Kate Clarke
Name: Jane Saint
Business: St. Swift Consulting – Strategic HR, Business Coaching and HR mentoring for SMEs and scale ups
“I feel so lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world. I love running across fields and along the canal, great classes at Wildmoor gym, and having a world class theatre nearby. But what’s best is how friendly people are. Sixteen years on, I’ve met so many brilliant people and launching my business has shown how strong the business networks and support here really are.”
Business: Kate Clarke Consulting
“I love Warwick itself. Walking along the River Avon before the town wakes up, with the castle turret and St Mary’s spire in the distance. The racecourse buzz drifting across the town, and great coffee and cake from so many brilliant independents.”
Coventry & Warwickshire in business
Name: Gerard Davis
Business: Talbots Law
Name: Amie Rowlatt
Business: WA Management
“The wealth of SMEs in Warwickshire and Coventry makes it an ideal location for our bespoke consultancy services as smaller businesses maintain their uniqueness so much more than big corporations. It also provides a beautiful backdrop for our travelling consultants, and a perfect place to arrange our annual charity walks!”
“What I value most about Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber is the way it turns introductions into real commercial opportunities. It’s a proactive, well-connected network that helps businesses build strong relationships, open doors and win work and through the Chamber, we’ve been able to build a genuine commercial hub for growth and collaboration in our local offices.”
Name: Atul Lakhani
Name: Sam Kelly
Business: 1641
“Coventry's defined by resilience. From Lady Godiva herself to rebuilding from the Blitz, we’re constantly adapting and that’s taught me a lot. And as someone who loves writing, we're surrounded by amazing literary history throughout Warwickshire in Shakespeare, George Eliot and Philip Larkin.”
Business: IXL Events Centre
“The recently refurbished IXL Events Centre sits proudly within the Warwickshire Countryside and offers a premium experience. We’re ideally placed to attract visitors from all aspects and we flourish in the enthusiasm and excitement the wider area delivers. The county’s vast business networking culture adds to our private portfolios. Contact our event strategists at info@ixleventscentre.com”
Name: Emma Kavanagh & Kate Keene
Business: Piece of Cake Marketing
“We love our local spirit of resilience. From the Cathedral rising from the ashes to the Sky Blues’ historic resurgence, Coventry and Warwickshire proves that no matter the challenge, we always come back stronger. This is a region of pioneers, where heritage meets innovation, and our community always works better together.”
Name: Sarah Alexander
Business: Vivid Communication
“Many of my clients are in this area, and over the last 14 years I have enjoyed helping local businesses develop their people. I also love the area because of the memories it holds, from first living here when I studied at the University of Warwick, to later coming back and bringing up my children here - visiting castles, farms and many playgrounds.”
Name: Martin Rennison
Organisation: North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College
“NWSLC loves Coventry and Warwickshire for its strong sense of community, vibrant economy and diverse commercial business landscape. The region’s collaborative spirit between education, employers and local partners helps us create real opportunities for learners. It’s a place where innovation, skills development and community impact come together to help people and businesses thrive.”
Name: Nathan Bunn
Business: Coventry Building Society Arena
“This is a region full of talented and skilled people who really do care about the success and growth of Coventry and Warwickshire. It’s that pride that drives the region’s strong collaborative culture, where businesses actively support one another, and is that same spirit which underpins our partnerships with local organisations and businesses.”
Name: Hannah Morgan
Business: Circle Insurance Servicese
“What I value most about being an insurance broker within the Coventry and Warwickshire region is the opportunity to support a diverse range of local businesses and individuals. It allows me to build trusted relationships, understand unique risks across industries, and provide tailored advice that truly protects livelihoods while contributing to the region’s economic resilience and growth.”
Name: Julie McGarrigle
Business: Alsters Kelley Solicitors Ltd
“Alsters Kelley is a well-established business in the Coventry, Warwickshire and Oxfordshire region with six offices across the area and employing nearly 100 people. One of the things we love about the region is the very strong collaborative business culture it has. From local networking, proactive business support organisations and partnerships across all sectors there is a real ‘support local’ mindset. This results in businesses working together rather than competing in isolation which helps create long-term relationships and shared growth.”
Name: Steven Harcourt
Business: Prime Accountants
“We love the way the Chamber’s team works to support the businesses in the region to grow and develop. Nothing is too much for them. This creates an excellent network of businesses and professional contacts who are all working together for the benefit of the local economy and community.”
Employment Rights Act
– all you need to know!
The Employment Rights Act 2025 is one of the most significant pieces of legislation to affect businesses in decades.
At the start of 2026, Corin Crane, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive, and Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, paid a visit to Number 10 Downing Street to discuss the impact it is going to have on firms with the Prime Minister and other senior government officials.
After that meeting, Corin described the work the Chamber has done to put the view of businesses across and how that work would continue.
He said: “We have worked incredibly hard to make the Employment Rights Bill – now the Employment Rights Act –a little easier for businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire to adapt to.
“I’ve represented businesses alongside Shevaun with an understanding that this Act was coming so we needed to work with Government and unions to try to get the best outcome for everyone.
“I think it’s a really good model of how businesses, unions and Government can work together to create more secure staff and workplaces.
“That said, it is still going to impact businesses in our region and my message to Government is they are going to need support in getting ready for it.
“This isn’t an abstract piece of legislation that receives a lot of attention from businesses but then has no effect, it is going to be fundamental to anyone who has employees.
“I am convinced that the vast majority of Coventry and Warwickshire businesses will already be on the right side of the law in the way they act but it will be a case of ensuring that all of the correct processes and procedures are in place to comply with the Act.”
The visit to Number 10 was followed by an event staged in a partnership between the Chamber, the CIPD and Thomas Flavell & Sons at Coventry University.
Phil Ingle, of Phil Ingle Associates, hosted the event, before Ruby Rai, Head of Employment at Thomas Flavell took the room through the key elements of the Act.
Ruby said: “The Employment Rights Bill, now the Employment Rights Act, has been hugely talked about and is undisputedly the most significant and impactful change in employment law for a very long time. It has been widely talked about and has been hard to escape, with the amount of press and interest it has received and generated.
“The inception of the Act can be traced back to the Labour Party’s ‘A New Deal for Working People’, first launched in 2021 which aimed to address systemic issues in the UK labour market, particularly since Covid, which normalised hybrid and flexible working.
“This initiative was formalised through the publication of an Employment Rights Green Paper in September 2022, followed by the Plan to Make Work Pay in May 2024, which pledged legislative action within the first 100 days of Labour entering government.
“A lot of the focus builds on issues highlighted over recent years, for example, workforce insecurity and inequality, predictable hours, and the impact of modern working patterns and the economic crisis.
“So, the Act is now in law and secondary legislation will follow but I wanted to take everyone through some of the key points to look out for.”
Phil added: “At our event, Ruby answered a specific question about probationary periods, which I have found myself discussing with HR managers since.
“For those who were considering six-month probationary periods, I have shared Ruby's suggestion of aiming for three to four month periods, which can be extended to six months as necessary.
“This suggestion has been very positively received, and sounds like a common sense approach.”
What should employers do now?
- Review contracts and policies
- Train and upskill managers
- Prepare for tribunal risk
- Do exit interviews
- Update payroll systems
- Seek expert advice
Employment Rights Act
– the highlights
• Unfair dismissal qualifying period (reducing from two years) – from January 2027
One of the headline changes is unfair dismissal. Historically, most employees need two years’ service to bring an ordinary unfair dismissal claim.
Under the proposals discussed, this would reduce to six months’ service. That is a significant change and it can’t be understated: six months is a much shorter window to identify performance or conduct issues and manage exits lawfully.
The knock on effect is that employers will need to be much more disciplined and structured in recruitment, induction, probation management, documentation, and performance conversations.
• Compensation for unfair dismissal (uncapping) – from January 2027
Another major change discussed is uncapped compensation for unfair dismissal (subject to the detail and implementation timetable). From January 2027, the statutory cap on compensatory awards for unfair dismissal will be abolished.
Tribunals will, instead, award compensation based on the employee’s actual financial loss, subject to the requirement that awards are “just and equitable”. The basic award remains unchanged, but compensatory awards will now be uncapped, aligning unfair dismissal with discrimination and whistleblowing claims. By removing the cap, the risk profile changes particularly for higher earners and senior roles and that will likely affect settlement dynamics.
• Tribunal time limits (increasing from three months to six months) – from October 2026
Currently, most employment tribunal claims must be started within three months less one day (subject to early conciliation and other rules).
The proposals discussed would extend that to six months. That gives employees longer to decide whether to pursue a claim and may increase the number of claims or the volume of disputes being progressed. It also increases the period during which employers may be managing ongoing risk after a dismissal or dispute.
• Zero-hours/predictable hours and guaranteed hours – from 2027 (expected)
Another key theme is addressing zero hours contracts and insecure working patterns.
The direction of travel discussed is towards guaranteed hours and more predictability, with consultation and documentation of what the agreed arrangement is, including where flexibility is genuinely employee led (e.g. students, carers, seasonal workers) versus employer driven.
The emphasis is on transparency and regular review: arrangements should not just be set and forgotten.
• ‘Fire and rehire’/contract changes –from January 2027
The Act introduces restrictions around using dismissal and re engagement to impose changes to terms and conditions (‘fire and rehire’). The intention is to limit employers’ ability to force changes on key terms of employment.
• Statutory Sick Pay changes (day one) –from April 2026
There will be day one eligibility for statutory sick pay (and the removal of the Lower Earnings Limits so all workers will qualify), which will affect payroll cost and compliance, especially for casual or low hours contracts. Employers may need to revisit contractual wording and processes for absence reporting and verification.
Paternity leave and unpaid parental leave is now a day-one right.
• Sexual harassment duty / proactive steps –from April 6, 2026
There will be a proactive duty on employers to take steps to prevent sexual harassment and to maintain a safe environment, even where it involves third parties and clients. Sexual Harassment disclosures will also become protected whistleblowing.
• Fair Work Agency / consolidated enforcement –from April, 2026
A new Fair Work Agency is being introduced which is a single body intended to consolidate certain enforcement areas (e.g. holiday pay, minimum wage, and other workplace rights).
The business of sport – how Coventry and Warwickshire is going for gold
The power of sport as a driver for economic growth and its ability to thrust a place into the international spotlight cannot be overstated.
“Whilst successful sporting stories have a huge impact on local business confidence, it is especially powerful when looking at inward investment opportunities,” says Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Corin Crane.
“I was working in Leicester at the time that they won the Premier League. We were out at an international property show and delegates were queuing to get to our stand so they could have a photograph with the word Leicester. Sporting success has got such an incredible pull and the number of our investment enquiries was never higher.”
And Coventry and Warwickshire has proved, over recent years, that it is a draw for major sporting events and all of the profile, economic and community benefits they bring.
The Olympics, Commonwealth Games and international football have all been drawn to the region with venues such as the Coventry Building Society Arena showcasing their capability of staging the world’s biggest events.
On top of that, the region has hosted sports such as the Kabaddi World Cup and will see the British Chess Championship coming to the University of Warwick in August.
Jonathan Hunt is head of sport, physical activity and wellbeing at Coventry City Council, and he was recently asked to speak at the Centre for the New Midlands’ ‘Connections for Prosperity, Beyond the Sport’ conference at Edgbaston Cricket Ground.
He told the audience that Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands has developed a reputation for delivering for major events.
“I go back to London 2012,” he said. “We’ve been building this legacy for a long time.
“The region has shown that it can deliver mega events and that we can collaborate. There are, of course, economic benefits to that but also community advantages that should be central to major events.
“When we hosted Commonwealth Games wrestling there were no clubs in the city – now there are three. So, you have to keep your eyes on it not being an event that lands and disappears with no local content, the communities must be able to resonate with it – then that’s a real win for a place.”
The ultimate prize for Coventry City Football Club would be Premier League football – and the club has come close in recent seasons, twice reaching the Championship Play-Offs but missing out in the final in 2023 and the semi-finals in 2025.
One of England’s all-time great players, Frank Lampard, was hired as manager in 2024 and owner Doug King completed the purchase of the Coventry Building Society Arena in 2025.
The club has topped the Championship for much of the 2025/26 season and has enjoyed attendances of 30,000 plus for much of the campaign.
Nicola Ibbetson, who has worked at a range of clubs from Manchester United to Paris St Germain, joined as chief business officer in 2025 and believes the club, the city and the region have got the foundations in place for success.
“I joined Coventry City Football Club about six months ago,” she said. “When I joined, it was a team that got into the playoffs but didn’t manage to get promoted. We were starting a new season with hope and ambition, but you never know where that might lead in football.
“Off the field, a lot of the work has already been done. We have the exhibition halls, the hotel, the casino, the restaurants, the bars, the car parks, the stadium. We actually have a huge infrastructure that you need for regeneration.
“It’s extremely expensive to create regeneration projects of this nature today but we are fortunate that much of the investment was made 20 years ago.
“We’ve got a 365 day a year venue and that is essential. We have 1.5 million people coming through our doors each year, over half on a non match day, and that’s a real sign that regeneration is working.”
So, what drew Nicola to Coventry? “The most important question I ask myself when moving clubs is: ‘Do I believe in the owner? Can I trust them?’ And I really believed in Doug King and Coventry City Football Club.
“You don’t just own a private asset. It’s a community asset, and you have to be responsible for that.
“I’ve never seen civic pride and civic cohesion as strong as Coventry. What we can do as a football club is use our platform to project that to the world.
“We need to use any success we have to promote the people and the industries we represent.”
She added: “The size of the prize isn’t just job creation, training or investment into the football club, it’s much bigger.
“It’s about perception. If you believe your football club is starting to develop and you see the infrastructure changing, it changes belief in a city and a region.
“It matters to investors. It matters to people who want to live in the city. It matters to businesses choosing where to locate, and to students deciding where to study.
“What we do as a football club is use our platform to help put the place on the map. We tell the world what we stand for. In my opinion, that’s the biggest regeneration asset sport can deliver.”
“Off the field, a lot of the work has already been done. We have the exhibition halls, the hotel, the casino, the restaurants, the bars, the car parks, the stadium. We actually have a huge infrastructure that you need for regeneration."
Business and Sport
Region plays host to World Corporate Games
Businesses from around the world are set to flock to the region and boost its economy as a multi-sport festival for UK companies has been elevated to include international entrants.
The 2026 UK Corporate Games, set to be hosted by the University of Warwick in August, has been officially upgraded to become the World Corporate Games.
It will be the first time Coventry has hosted the event, bringing a global spotlight to the city and the wider region.
This multi-sport festival will attract organisations from all sectors around the globe to compete in a celebration of business, sport and networking. Participants will compete in up to 20 different sports, including football, tennis, netball, volleyball, padel, basketball and even dragon boat racing with Warwick Castle as its backdrop.
Since the first World Corporate Games in San Francisco in 1988, host cities have included London, Lille, Geneva, Kuala Lumpur, Seville and Johannesburg, where the event was held under the patronage of Nelson Mandela in 1994. The last time the World Corporate Games was staged in the UK was in Liverpool in 2014.
The decision to elevate Coventry’s 2026 event to World status reflects both the strength of the region’s business community and the quality of facilities on offer at the University of Warwick and partner venues across the area.
As a result of the upgrade, many UK-based companies that had already committed to entering are now encouraged to invite colleagues from their international offices to join them, significantly increasing overseas participation.
Historically, international teams stay between five and seven days, delivering a substantial boost to the local economy through hotel stays, hospitality, transport and leisure spending.
The University of Warwick will once again act as the central hub for competition, athlete services and social events, supported by a range of high-profile venues across the region.
Doug White, CEO of Corporate Games Worldwide, said: “The elevation of the UK Corporate Games to become the 23rd World Corporate Games represents a significant milestone for our global community. From our beginnings in San Francisco in 1988 to today, our mission has remained constant - to unite businesses worldwide through sport, competition, and shared experience.
“Hosting this edition at the University of Warwick, in the dynamic city of Coventry and across such outstanding venues reinforces our commitment to delivering an exceptional international event.”
Councillor Kamran Caan, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Sport at Coventry City Council, said: “Elevating the UK Corporate Games to a World Corporate Games event reflects both the growth of the Games and the confidence that the organisers and our partners have shown in Coventry.
“We’re excited to welcome international participants for an even bigger event, whilst showcasing everything our city has to offer as a leading host city for major sporting events.
“We’d love to see loads of Coventry businesses getting involved in what will be a brilliant Games – there’s still time to sign up and be part of it!”
Paul Bartlett, director of Warwick Conferences at the University of Warwick, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the World Corporate Games to Warwick Conferences in 2026.
“We look forward to welcoming organisations from across the globe to one of the world’s largest corporate multisport festivals, making full use of our state-of-the-art facilities. The Corporate Games go beyond competition – championing teamwork, wellbeing, and connection – and we’re proud to play our part in bringing people together.”
It’s also led to a boost for other regional businesses too, with the likes of the Stratford Park Hotel & Golf Club hosting one of the days of golf.
From a participation point of view, organisers ensure that smaller businesses can compete with bigger firms by creating different divisions. Firms can enter anything from one competitor in one event up to hundreds across multiple events depending on their size.
Sports include:
- CGFit - Golf
- Chess - Karting
- Padel - Badminton
- Golf - Basketball
- Dragon boat - Netbal
- E-Sport - Poker
- Running - Table tennis
- Tennis - Soccer 5s
- Soccer 6s - Tenpin bowling
- Softball - Touch rugby
- Volleyball
The Corporate Games is partnering with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to help reach more businesses in the region and encourage them to take part.
As well as competition, the Corporate Games are designed to deliver clear benefits for participating organisations, including improved staff health and wellbeing, stronger teamwork, and valuable opportunities to network with other Midlands and national businesses in a relaxed and social setting.
Regional businesses will get the opportunity to compete and network with a range of multi-national companies, with the likes of Barclays, Balfour Beatty, EY, and Places for People regularly entering teams.
One local business already signed up for the 2026 Games is Armstrongs Chartered Accountants, which has offices in Coventry, Nuneaton, and Hinckley.
The firm will be sending a team to compete and connect with other organisations from across the region, demonstrating how SMEs can use the event to invest in their people while raising their profile among the local business community.
Cheryl Stanley, business development manager at Armstrongs, said: “The World Corporate Games are a fantastic opportunity to promote wellbeing, teamwork and engagement across Armstrongs.
“When we heard the Games would be returning to Coventry, we knew straight away we had to take part – they bring our people together, encourage healthy lifestyles, and instil a strong sense of pride across the company.”
Employment Land
Regional property firms have their say on national report highlighting planning issues
Economic growth is still being constrained by a planning system in England that is ‘too slow, under resourced and unpredictable’, according to a new British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) report.
The report, Planning for Business and Growth, says that while recent government reforms signal the right intent, further urgent action is needed. The BCC says there needs to be a ‘fundamental reimagining of how planning authorities operate and interact with the business community’.
The report is calling on ministers to:
• Go above and beyond its target of recruiting 1,400 planners by the end of this parliament.
• Ensure employment is given equal priority as housing in planning policy and guidance.
• Simplify and speed up the planning process for business, through the introduction of National Development Management Policies.
• Publish clear, time-bound implementation plans for each major element of planning reform.
• Introduce comprehensive fast-track services for priority projects that deliver on its economic growth objectives.
The report says business investment thrives on certainty, but the planning system in England is failing to deliver that.
The BCC says the task for policymakers is to transform planning into a ‘strategic tool for economic development’ that actively helps investment and innovation.
Kate Shoesmith, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Rather than being an accelerator for business growth, for too long the planning system in England has been acting as a handbrake on investment.
“The Government has rightly identified that reform is necessary, and we welcome the recent Planning and Infrastructure Act. But businesses need to be confident that the new legislation will deliver, and ministers need to go further and faster.
“That means more planners on the ground, clear timetables for reform and fast-track routes for projects that support economic growth.
“The business community is already stepping up, including through initiatives like the BCC Planning Skills Fund. Now government must match that ambition and turn planning into a driver of growth rather than a drag on it.”
Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire agree and members of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Employment Land group chimed in to back the British Chambers of Commerce.
David Penn, a former Chamber president and partner at Bromwich Hardy, said: “There’s no question that inadequate planning policies and service delivery have hampered economic growth for too long, with too much bureaucracy and too much weight of statutory consultees in the planning process at local and national levels.
“For properties for jobs, demand has consistently exceeded supply for well over a decade and we continue to have a lack of new stock for business decision makers.
“Ideally, we need a quantum change in the amount of land allocated for jobs, to enable the market to deliver the right stock in the right places, bringing artificially high land values down and making commercial property more affordable, particularly for SMEs.
“We would like to see mandatory five-year land supply for local authorities for land for jobs and better delivery of forward planning of infrastructure, such as power.”
Lucy Quibell, strategic land director at Holt Property, added: “In Coventry, Warwickshire, and the wider West Midlands, it’s time to give employment land equal priority to housing land. Without it, we hinder growth and opportunity. A mandatory five-year employment land supply would help unlock long-term prosperity.”
David Smith, director of planning & communities at IM Properties –which is developing a new industrial site in Stratford-upon-Avon but is locked in the planning process on a scheme in the north of the county, welcomed the report.
He said: “Economic growth is the Government’s central mission so the provision of employment land is an essential enabler, attracting inward investment and supporting the expansion of local, national and global businesses.
“Industrial and logistics is central to delivering national industrial strategy and Local Growth Plans and are powerful routes to generating real social impact –delivering thousands of jobs, developing skills, unlocking training opportunities to tackle youth unemployment and supporting grassroots organisations that underpin long-term community wellbeing.
“Yet for too long, strategic employment land has not been given equal footing to housing in planning policy.
“The Government’s planning reforms, including revised national policy and a return to strategic plan-making, are promising. The focus must now shift to delivery at local authority level including properly resourced planning departments and requiring statutory consultees to facilitate growth.
“This important report includes policy recommendations which, if implemented, could help create a system that better plans for employment land need, drives greater economic and social impact and provides businesses and investors with long-term certainty.”
"The BCC says the task for policymakers is to transform planning into a ‘strategic tool for economic development’ that actively helps investment and innovation."
Strong start to 2026 for Hall Reynolds
A south Warwickshire legal firm’s combination of approachability and expertise has seen the company make a flying start to 2026.
Hall Reynolds LLP, which has offices in Bidford-on-Avon and Stratford town centre, offers a whole range of legal services from residential and commercial property through to wills and probate.
The company, which was established in the 1980s, employs ten people and has plans to bring in another apprentice to continue its commitment to nurturing legal talent as its current graduate apprentice is set to qualify later in the year.
And Hall Reynolds, which is now run by Katy Taylor and Conchi Palacios, has experienced a busy start to the year in all areas of the business.
It’s a sign that market confidence is returning across the board – including business acquisitions, commercial property transactions and residential deals – and that the company’s down-to-earth, friendly approach is proving to be a hit.
Katy said: “There was certainly a feeling that decisions were being delayed until after the Budget and then we were very close to Christmas, so nothing much happened in December either.
“Now, those decisions have been made and individuals and businesses are moving
forward with plans. It meant a very busy start to the year for us!”
And, in a digital age, Hall Reynolds is finding the old saying that people buy from people is holding true.
Katy said: “As a team, we aim to be approachable and to remove some of the stuffiness from legal services. We make sure all the legal language is broken down into terminology that people understand.
“We also make sure that clients get the same person dealing with their transaction. They speak to that person or their assistant every time they deal with us, so they don’t feel like they are being pushed from pillar to post.
“Those traditional values of people dealing with people and wanting someone to understand you as an individual are proving to be very popular in this very digital age.
“Of course, we use technology where it has its advantages but it cannot replace the personal service that businesses and individuals are looking for.
“Our key focus this year is steady growth and really focusing on what clients want and what has made us successful so far.
“We have the expertise and that approachability helps to set us apart. If a client feels like they can work with you and that you come across to them in the right way, that’s half the battle.”
And it’s an approach that, literally, translates into other languages at Hall Reynolds with the firm being able to offer legal services in Greek, Romanian and Spanish.
“For some clients, having someone who understands them in their own language makes a huge difference,” said Katy, “especially for those who might be elderly or vulnerable.
“So, it’s an additional service we offer and is another example of giving our clients the human touch!”
For more information go to https://hallreynolds.co.uk/
Top 100 ambition for The Herd
One of Coventry’s fastest growing media agencies is aiming to break into the UK’s top 100 in its sector by 2028.
The Herd was established by brothers Paul and Keiran Scanlon in 2023 but it was at the start of 2025 when the firm truly got off the ground.
Since then, it has been growing rapidly winning a range of clients within Coventry and Warwickshire but also further afield in the UK, as well as overseas.
It is looking to expand into new offices over the next 12 months and will be taking on new staff, reflecting the growth it is experiencing.
The Herd is split into two distinct offers which can be brought together to offer a full-service agency for clients.
Herd Perform is a results driven service offering pay-per-click advertising, paid social media, search engine optimisation and AI optimisation.
It is highly data driven and focuses on accurate projections and focused media planning that deliver return on investment.
The Herd Evolve is the creative arm of the business and offers branding, website
design, organic social media and other creative visuals.
It now works with businesses from a range of sectors – from professional services through to sports clubs and academies – and wants to increase its client-base in Coventry and Warwickshire.
Paul said: “We still see ourselves as a relatively young agency, but over the past year we’ve been fortunate to build relationships with clients in Manchester, London and, through the Chamber, in a number of overseas markets as well. Our name is starting to become known in Coventry and Warwickshire, and we’re proud to be working with some brilliant businesses in the city and the wider region.
“The next 12 months are about steady, sustainable growth – moving into a space that suits a growing team, bringing in the right people, and continuing to improve the work we deliver. From the beginning, we’ve always had a clear ambition to become a Top 100 media agency by 2028, but we know that only happens if we stay focused on looking after our clients and doing great work – day in, day out.
“Right now, many companies are still being careful about where they invest,
so our job is to be honest about what we think we can achieve and then prove the value through results. That means being transparent with forecasts and helping businesses plan with confidence, and on the creative side it’s about building brands that stand out and support long-term growth.
“We’ve also tried to build in small touches that reflect our values, delivering what we call The Herd Experience, but, in the end, what really matters is that we deliver on what we say we’re going to do.”
For more information on The Herd, go to https://theherd.agency/
Business Engage Profiles
Home from home at Weston Hall Hotel
With spring fast-approaching, businesspeople who want to escape the winter gloom and the isolation of home-working are being offered a warm, welcoming venue to work and hold meetings.
Weston Hall Hotel, a historic 38-bedroom hotel situated in Bulkington, has boosted corporate bookings and enquiries over the past 12 months with everything from business meetings through to networking events taking place at the Warwickshire venue.
And the picturesque Elizabethan manor, which is situated in seven acres of countryside, is also the perfect spot for those home-workers looking for a professional environment to work in and a coffee of their choice to accompany it.
The Stone & Ivy Restaurant, which was launched at the hotel in 2024, is ideal for lunchtime meetings and is an opportunity to try the recently appointed chef’s latest menu. Owner Simon Evans said: “We offer a lovely location for businesses to hold meetings and events and we’ve seen our corporate clientele increase over the past 12 months.
“We’ve got five function and conferencing suites which suit a variety of needs and
everyone really likes the fact that we are a bit of a country retreat but, at the same time, we’re really easy to reach.
“But we can also offer that alternative to working from home for businesspeople in the area. We can bring a sense of community, comfort and a break from the isolation of being at home.
“We’ll make the coffee and we’ll wash up the mug for you afterwards! We just say treat it like your living room – the door is open, the coffee is on and so is the fire in winter. As we move to spring and summer, we’ve got the lovely grounds to enjoy too.
“If people want to host meetings when they don’t have their own office space, we’re a really impressive location too that gives a really good impression to clients and contacts.”
Alongside being a venue for businesses, the local community is also making the most of everything Weston Hall Hotel has to offer.
It hosts Slimming World sessions, line dancing and pilates as well as its own calendar of events which range from comedy dining through to its very own beer festival.
The hotel has even started its own wedding networking group that brings together regional suppliers to refer business to one another and also share intelligence.
Simon added: “As a hotel we do so much and we want to be embedded in the local community so people know they can come
here for a night out, a Sunday lunch, a family occasion.
“And that offer extends to the business community. Get in touch or pop in and make Weston Hall Hotel your home from home!”
For more information go to https://www.westonhallhotel.co.uk/
Recruiter supporting firms after ERA kicks in
Employment rights reforms will help weed out non-compliant employers and level the playing field for businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire, according to one of the country’s largest recruiters.
Pertemps Network Group, based in Meriden, believes the changes being phased in this year and next can help support employees and businesses alike – provided Government takes on feedback shared during consultations.
The number of people on zero-hours contracts has reached a record high, with recent research suggesting 1.23 million workers in the UK were employed but with no guarantee of any hours in December.
The number is driven largely by young people and those outside full-time education, showing a continued reliance on contracts, which remain legal, but leave some workers uncertain about their hours.
Cat Brown, Director of Corporate Business at Pertemps Network Group, said: “Pertemps has offered guaranteedhours contracts for years, so we were surprised to learn that zero-hours contracts are at record levels. Flexibility can be achieved without compromising stability for the individual worker.
“The Employment Rights Act is about taking out the unscrupulous employers skirting around the law. A handful of highprofile cases put the spotlight on poor labour practices.
“While there is a lot to unpack in the new legislation, ultimately, it is to the benefit of businesses who operate professionally and fully support employees, as they should.
“Our focus is on collaborating with our clients to navigate the new requirements, implement compliant solutions and ensure that workforce models remain effective, sustainable and supportive of both their people and their business.”
Pertemps was founded in 1961 by Connie Watts, in a small office above a dress shop in Temple Street, Birmingham.
A few years later, a second office was added in Wolverhampton, and it has not stopped growing since.
Now based just outside Coventry, Pertemps Network Group has more than 150 offices across the UK and has topped £1 billion per annum turnover. It places around 12,500 people into permanent roles each year and manages up to 30,000 temporary workers for clients each week at peak times.
An Employee Benefit Trust (EBT), Pertemps retains the ethics that Connie instilled from the start, including exceeding expectations and supporting the communities in which it works.
It liaises closely with clients to nurture long-term partnerships to ensure its recruitment consultants fully understand the organisations they are working with and can effectively manage a sustainable talent pipeline.
Pertemps recently hosted an exclusive HR Masterclass webinar, The Employment Rights Act: Practical Guidance for HR Teams, with Morag Hutchison, Partner at Shepherd & Wedderburn, to help HR teams and employers understand the potential impact of these changes and how best to prepare.
www.pertemps.co.uk
We are stronger when we work together and provide opportunities for the next generation.
Hosting a placement student from Coventry College is more than just offering work experience, it’s a genuine opportunity to spot incredible talent and future-proof your workforce .
Shape skills that align with your organisation
Unlock fresh ideas and new perspectives
Support long-term, sustainable growth
Fully managed and simple onboarding process
Low-risk way to recruit.
Get in touch with our team today! industryplacements@coventrycollege.ac.uk
024 7679 1700
SARAH FEARON, FARRANS CONSTRUCTION
Chamber Training
How apprenticeships build long-term careers and business growth
Chamber Training spent National Apprenticeship Week showcasing how apprenticeships create long-term opportunity, not just as a first step into employment, but as a foundation for continuous learning, career progression, and business impact.
For Jaycee Snow, an apprenticeship was the start of a career built on development, confidence, and giving back.
Jaycee joined Coventry BID (Business Improvement District) in July 2024, a businessled organisation dedicated to improving the economic and environmental vibrancy of Coventry city centre.
Shortly after settling into her role, she began a Business Administration Level 3 apprenticeship with Chamber Training, gaining hands-on experience and practical skills while earning a wage.
In her role at Coventry BID, Jaycee supports a wide range of activity including administration, stakeholder engagement, events, and marketing, directly applying the skills and confidence developed during her apprenticeship.
Jaycee said: “It’s very varied role. I still do quite a lot of admin such as answering phones, organising meetings, and communicating with partners, but I also work on the website and marketing tasks. I’ve just completed my first campaign completely on my own.”
The campaign, the Student Safety Walk and Talk, was designed to help students new to Coventry, particularly international students, navigate the city safely.
Jaycee led every aspect, from community engagement and sign-ups to artwork, printing, venue liaison, and co-ordinating local partners.
“That campaign was fully my responsibility,” she explained. “At first it was terrifying, I had to run meetings with venues and everyone was looking at me. But once I’d done it, I felt really confident. I used so many of the skills developed in my apprenticeship and the feedback was really positive.”
Rather than seeing her apprenticeship as a finish line, Jaycee has continued her learning journey. Building on the skills gained from her Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship, she is now undertaking a second apprenticeship in marketing, with ambitions to progress to a Level 4 apprenticeship in the future.
Jaycee said: “Earning while learning was a huge incentive for me. You’re gaining real experience, building confidence, and getting paid, all while learning skills you will actually use every day. I honestly recommend apprenticeships to anyone who’s considering their options.”
Alongside her role at Coventry BID, Jaycee remains actively involved with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce as a
A former hairdressing apprentice who is now cutting it as an employer is giving a new generation of stylist the same opportunity.
As the UK marked National Apprenticeship Week 2026, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training celebrated how apprentices don’t just earn qualifications, they build careers, confidence and long-term futures.
Under the national theme “Skills for Life”, apprenticeships are increasingly recognised as a powerful route into skilled employment, combining paid work, structured training and real-world experience.
For hairdressing apprentices, this means learning in live commercial environments, working with real clients and developing professional standards from day one.
Kim Fawcett, owner of Ruby Tuesdays Salon, has come full circle. Having trained as an apprentice through Chamber Training, Kim has progressed from learner to business
A local apprenticeship programme has empowered a Coventry resident to build “Skills for Life” while contributing to the community.
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training is celebrating the success of Kate Folan, a Path2Apprenticeship participant who has recently joined Voluntary Action Coventry (VAC) as a Level 3 Business Administration apprentice.
By the end of December, Kate’s first month, she had already showcased the impact of the programme in preparing local residents for careers and community engagement.
Kate is currently supporting VAC’s “Get Involved Coventry” initiative and their room hire service, bringing enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and a willingness to take on new challenges. Before Christmas, she shared her first-hand
Business Talent member, attending networking events and professional development sessions that support collaboration across the region’s 18-30 business community.
Last year, Coventry BID was also recognised as Winner of the Problem Solver – Business Diversification Award 2025 at the Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards, presented by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.
While the award celebrates the organisation’s strategic growth, it also reflects the importance of investing in people such as Jaycee, who grow with the business and contribute to its success.
Jaycee also gives back to Chamber Training by supporting interview techniques sessions with school leavers.
Through mock interviews and careers conversations, Jaycee helps young people build confidence, understand employability, and see apprenticeships as a credible and valuable alternative to university.
“I was once unsure about my next step when leaving school,” she added. “Now I get to support school leavers and show them what’s possible. Apprenticeships don’t just help individuals; they create a cycle of opportunity that benefits businesses and the wider community.”
Nicky Cheshire, business development manager at Chamber Training, said: “Jaycee’s
owner and is now employing and mentoring the next generation of talent.
Today, Kim works in partnership with Chamber Training to support her apprentice, Honour Mason, who is currently working towards a Hairdressing Diploma Level 3, an A-level equivalent qualification that develops advanced technical skills, professional practice and commercial awareness.
At Chamber Training, hairdressing apprentices typically spend four days a week embedded in the workplace, alongside one day a week in structured training.
This model ensures apprentices develop not only technical ability, but also confidence, professionalism and a deep understanding of how a business really operates.
Kim said: “My idea of an apprenticeship isn’t just someone to clean or run around after me. They’re here to learn how a salon really works, from client care to business operations, and to build the skills to work in the industry or even own their own salon one day.”
For Honour, the apprenticeship offers far more than a qualification: “You’re earning while you’re learning, and you’re working with real clients every day. Everyone in the salon specialises in different things, so you’re constantly picking up new skills.
experience of accompanying the Improving Lives team to a group volunteering session at Samaritan’s Purse.
Kate said: "I was pleased to discover how many people were in good spirits and helping while singing along to Christmas songs playing from the speakers.
"Our participants thoroughly enjoyed our group volunteering trip to Samaritan’s Purse, with all our Improving Lives participants keen to join us again to help more children get a Christmas shoebox.”
The Path2Apprenticeship programme, delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, offers local residents aged 19 to 29 the skills, guidance, and experience to pursue careers in sectors including health, social care, and business administration.
story embodies the core purpose of National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting how apprenticeships open doors, strengthen organisations, and create lasting value for the local economy.
“At Chamber Training, we remain committed to working with employers, learners, and schools across the region to develop talent that grows, progresses, and makes a meaningful impact.”
For more information on Chamber Training, visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk or follow C&W Chamber Training on social media.
“You take what you learn in the classroom and apply it straight away in the salon. That’s how you really build confidence and find your own way of working.”
Kim is also keen to stress the value apprentices bring to businesses. She said: “I genuinely couldn’t function without Honour. She keeps the salon running smoothly and takes on real responsibility. Having been through the apprenticeship route myself, I know the value of a well-supported apprentice.”
Kim’s story reflects the long-term impact of apprenticeships, not just filling vacancies, but creating sustainable career pathways.
Through National Apprenticeship Week, Chamber Training championed apprenticeships as a gateway to long-term careers and business growth. It is a leading provider of apprenticeships and skills development, working with employers across the region to connect people to real jobs, real experience and longterm career opportunities.
And Honour’s advice to future apprentices is simple: “Ask questions, take every day as it comes, and soak it all in. You’ll be grateful for it later.”
To find out more about Chamber Training and the apprenticeships it offers, please visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk
Participants benefit from:
A structured programme of workshops and training, delivered at no cost to them, over four to six weeks
• Mentoring and coaching support Real-world work experience placements, such as Kate’s role at VAC Nicky Cheshire, business development manager at Chamber Training, said: "Path2 Apprenticeships provides individuals with the confidence, skills, and practical experience needed to start a meaningful career.
“Kate’s journey is a perfect example of how apprenticeships develop essential skills, open doors to new opportunities, and contribute to the wider community which is the very essence of the 'Skills for Life' theme of National Apprenticeship Week 2026."
Sue Ogle, CEO for Voluntary Action Coventry said: "We're delighted to support Kate in these first steps of her career by offering her employment within our charity.
"Her paid placement has got off to a great start - she is getting real and valuable handson experience through her role plus she is also gaining a sense of achievement and value, contributing to a mission which supports the people of Coventry to get involved with community action."
Getting ready for one of the biggest nights of the year
Sixty businesses, community groups and individuals from across Coventry and Warwickshire have been named as finalists for a major awards event in the region.
The Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards, presented by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, has announced the shortlist in 11 categories, with the winners set to be announced at a celebration event on Thursday, April 23 at the Belgrade Theatre.
The finalists were chosen from more than 150 entries after a rigorous independent judging process, involving business and civic leaders from across the region.
Now, each finalist will meet with their category judges to help decide the final winners, who will be announced at the Awards Celebration Evening at the end of April, which was attended by over 650 guests last year.
Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are thrilled to announce our finalists for the Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards 2026.
“We were absolutely blown away by the quality and quantity of entries and our judges have spent the past few weeks making the really tough decisions to decide on the final shortlists.
“There are some incredible business and community organisations, as well as inspiring individuals, on the list – from micro businesses right through to some of the biggest employers in the region – which shows the true diversity of our economy in Coventry and Warwickshire.
“We are so grateful to all of our sponsors and judges – without them this just couldn’t happen – and we are looking forward to another fantastic celebration evening at the Belgrade Theatre in April.
“People are still talking about how much they enjoyed last year’s event and we’re aiming to top that this time!”
The Awards Celebration Evening will take place on Thursday, April 23 at the Belgrade Theatre and will, once again, be a showcase of everything that is great about Coventry and Warwickshire – including culture, entertainment, food and the handing out of the awards.
Sponsors for the event include Coventry Building Society, Genesis Employment, Lawton Tubes, Houlton by Urban & Civic, Warwickshire County Council, Coventry City Council, Coventry College, North Warwickshire & South Leicestershire College, HCR Wright Hassall, Guardian Ballers and omnigoa trusted partner of card payment company Dojo.
The Global Player, sponsored by Lawton Tubes
1. Power Torque Engineering Ltd
2. Rochester Sensors – an Amphenol Company
3. SolaaS Ltd
4. The Millboard Company Ltd
5. Truede Ltd
The People First, sponsored by Genesis Employment
1. Belgrade Theatre Coventry
2. Chadwick Accountants and Bookkeepers Ltd
3. Direct Air & Pipework Ltd
4. Holiday Inn Coventry
5. Spencer Gardner Dickins Ltd
6. Wodr Ltd
7. The Myton Hospices
The Problem Solver
1. Emergency Vehicle Products Ltd
2. Glued Ltd
3. omnigo®
4. Squab Group Ltd
5. The Pack Smart Group
The Community Champion, sponsored by Coventry College
1. Avon Studios Photo & Video
2. Harp Place Coventry
3. MES Systems
4. SLT Media Ltd
5. Spencer Gardner Dickins Ltd
6. Warwickshire Lavender Farm
The Equality Trailblazer
1. Coventry City Council
2. Diverse Matters
3. Inspire Education Trust
4. Think Active
The Planet Saver, sponsored by North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College
1. Ashorne Hill Management College
2. Coventry University Group
3. Gentle Roots
4. Mirius Global Hygiene Solutions
5. Wylde Connections
The Not-for-Profit Champion, sponsored by Coventry Building Society
1. Bardsley Youth Project
2. Coventry, Warwickshire & Worcestershire Mind
3. Muscular Dystrophy Support Centre
4. The Highlife Centre
5. The Myton Hospices
The Rapid Riser, sponsored by Warwickshire County Council
1. CLEANSERV Facilities Management
2. EXOVA Events
3. HeliosX
4. Playtime Prints Ltd
5. Sri Lankan Street Food & Café
6. The Herd
The Creative & Culture Activator, sponsored by Houlton at Urban&Civic
1. Belgrade Theatre Coventry
2. Bonanza Creative
3. Caste Away Arts
4. Chitrakalaimanram
5. Evolve Theatre
6. Motionhouse
The Inspirational Individual – Businessperson of the Year, sponsored by HCR Wright Hassall
1. Dave Hughes, Aspire & Thrive
2. Dawood Ibtehsam, People Arches Ltd
3. Lily Samuels, Lily Samuels Nutrition
4. Rachael Chadwick-Harrison, Chadwick Accountants and Bookkeepers Ltd
5. Sara-Jane Watkins, WCG
6. Tom Bromwich, Bromwich Hardy
The Inspirational Individual – Community Person of the Year, sponsored by Guardian Ballers
1. Lindsay Woodward, Lindsay Woodward Marketing
2. Lorraine Bryan-Arnold, RSPCA Coventry & District
3. Scarlet Morgan, Belgrade Theatre Coventry
4. Stefan Frater, TSOS Unity Hub
5. Sue Roberts, Young Minds Matter (YMM)
6. Treo Croos, Sri Lankan Street Food & Café
When should Directors explore insolvency advice
At BRI
Business Recovery and Insolvency (BRI), we meet directors daily to provide support, advice, and guidance on insolvency matters. In our experience, it is rare for directors to be fully aware of their legal duties and obligations when a company becomes insolvent.
When Should Directors Explore Insolvency Information
Many directors believe they should only speak to insolvency practitioners when closure is inevitable.
However, this is a misconception. The earlier a director seeks professional
Contact John Rimmer, Director and Insolvency Practitioner,
TMW Resilience appointed by major utility to support Cyber Essentials project
insolvency advice from BRI, the greater the chance that alternative options—such as rescue or recovery—may be available. Directors should seek insolvency information if warning signs arise, such as being unable to pay HMRC taxes, suffering a bad debt, or losing a key contract that affects cash flow.
Early advice from BRI is not about closing a company; it is about understanding available options and ensuring directors protect creditors and their personal financial position.
The Benefits Of Meeting With BRI
Meeting with BRI is free, confidential, and without obligation or judgment.
We work with directors from all backgrounds and offer a practical, problem-solving approach.
Many clients find that simply using BRI as a sounding board helps them resolve challenges that once seemed insurmountable.
Protection
Seeking timely advice is crucial, as directors who act with good intentions may unintentionally breach legal duties and risk personal liability.
Just as you would consult a solicitor or accountant for specialist advice, BRI is a trusted advisor when financial difficulties arise.
Why AI capability is becoming a business essential in the West Midlands
Intelligence is no longer a future consideration for businesses in the West Midlands.
It is fast becoming a practical capability that drives productivity, competitiveness, and resilience across sectors – from manufacturing and professional services to logistics, health, and the creative industries. The most important question facing business leaders today is not whether AI will affect their organisation, but how deliberately and responsibly they prepare for it.
Across the region, businesses increasingly recognise that AI adoption is not simply a technology upgrade.
It is a leadership and organisational challenge that touches skills, culture, governance, and decision-making.
Organisations that treat AI as an isolated IT initiative often struggle to realise value, while those embedding it into everyday ways of working are beginning to see tangible gains in efficiency, insight, and innovation.
This matters in a regional context. The West Midlands Combined Authority has identified AI as a critical driver of growth, particularly in closing productivity gaps and strengthening high-value clusters.
National data reflects this momentum, with AI use among UK businesses rising sharply in recent years. For West Midlands firms, this creates both opportunity and risk: those who move early, with clarity and intent, are better placed to compete in markets where AI-enabled speed, insight, and adaptability are becoming the norm.
Experience working with SMEs across the region shows that successful AI adoption follows consistent patterns.
One recurring risk is the development of an AI “monoculture”, where teams are restricted to a single large language model or platform by default.
Artificial intelligence is the wider capability that includes many different tools and systems, while large language models are just one type of AI – specifically designed to work with text and language – rather than a complete solution on their own.
Businesses that over-standardise too early can unintentionally limit learning, creativity, and critical judgement.
More effective adopters avoid this by recognising that different AI tools are suited to different tasks, and by giving teams structured choice over which AI systems or language models to use, supported by clear guidance on appropriate use.
This approach helps people understand strengths and limitations, replacing both hype and scepticism with informed confidence.
A second consistent pattern is the importance of building capability internally.
Organisations that retain ownership of decisions – using external expertise to coach, challenge, and support rather than dictate –tend to embed AI more effectively.
Coaching-based approaches allow AI to become part of daily practice, rather than something dependent on external suppliers or one-off interventions.
Governance also plays a critical role. Businesses seeing the greatest benefit are clear about how generative AI should be used, particularly for knowledge work. Rather than banning AI or relying on it to generate unchecked content, many organisations use it as a critical reviewer – improving clarity, coherence, and quality while preserving human judgement and organisational voice. This balanced approach builds trust internally and externally.
Focus is another differentiator. Effective adopters start with well-defined, high-impact use cases that solve real business problems. Early wins build confidence and momentum, allowing AI capability to scale in a controlled and credible way.
Yet technology, access, and skills alone are not enough. Successful AI adoption also requires a deliberate shift in attitudes and beliefs. People’s perceptions of AI – whether they see it as a threat, a shortcut, or a tool for better decision-making – shape outcomes as much as formal training.
As personal and professional use of AI increasingly overlap, organisational culture and individual mindset become central to success.
Leaders play a critical role here. Organisations that create psychological safety, encourage curiosity, and legitimise responsible experimentation are far more likely to see value from AI.
Where fear, ambiguity, or unrealistic expectations dominate, adoption stalls or produces superficial results. In this sense, AI is as much a change-management challenge as a technical one.
Coventry University is supporting West Midlands businesses through this peopleand capability-focused approach. Rather than offering standalone interventions, the University provides a coherent pathway from experimentation to embedded practice.
This includes practical upskilling through the AI Skills Academy, hands-on experimentation and coaching via the AI Adoption Lab, and longer-term innovation through doctoral research collaboration.
Businesses can engage at a level that matches their readiness, whether that is testing ideas, building workforce confidence,
or pursuing deeper R&D. For organisations seeking sustained embedding, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships offer a proven route to integrate high-level AI expertise while sharing cost and risk.
By combining technology, skills, governance, and a focus on people, West Midlands businesses can move deliberately from exploration to practical AI adoption. The competitive advantage is clear: organisations that embrace AI thoughtfully, build capability deliberately, and create cultures of trust and experimentation will outperform those that wait.
For West Midlands businesses, the message is simple. Engage with AI now, invest in people as well as tools, and draw on regional expertise to turn technological change into sustainable growth.
Authors Professor Elena Gaura, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor and AI lead
Professor Paul Noon, OBE. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Enterprise and Innovation)
Professor James Brusey, Professor of Computer Science
Dr Vicki Ensor, Director of Product and Business Development
Contact details
AI Adoption Lab adoption.ai@coventry.ac.uk
AI Skills Academy skills.ai@coventry.ac.uk
Coventry Centre for Doctoral Training cdt.ai@coventry.ac.uk
Your website is your way into the chat (and every customer search)
According to recent figures, 73 per cent of the UK population uses agentic AI on a daily basis. Your website is no longer just for Google; it is how people and AI decide whether you are worth recommending.
In 2026, tools such as ChatGPT sit alongside search engines as “answer engines”, pulling from the open web, local listings and trusted sources to decide which businesses to mention when someone asks: “who should I use?”
If your site is thin, outdated or confusing, you are far less likely to be the safe, recommendable answer - even if you are brilliant offline.
When ChatGPT (and similar tools) look for businesses to recommend, they favour content that is clear, specific and obviously helpful to real buyers.
That means your website needs to answer the questions people actually ask: what you do, who you serve, how much it tends to cost,
what can go wrong, how you compare to alternatives and what proof you have.
Pages with strong structure - clear headings, FAQs, tables, comparisons and plain-language summaries - are easier for AI to “read”, extract from and quote with confidence. In that sense, a good website has become a form of “Ask Engine Optimisation”. You are trying to be the obvious, low-risk recommendation when someone asks an AI for help.
The quality of your website also feeds into the wider signals these models rely on. A fast, modern site that is well interlinked, updated regularly and supported by reviews, press mentions and local SEO gives AI multiple reasons to trust you.
Your Google Business Profile, online reviews and mentions on reputable sites all point back to your domain - but your website is the home that ties those signals together and tells a coherent story. If that home is weak, generic
By Paul Scanlon, of The Herd
or inconsistent, you become much harder to pick out from competitors when answers are assembled at speed.
The opportunity for Coventry and Warwickshire businesses is that this bar is still relatively low. Many businesses and brands either rely on social media alone or have a site that has not kept up with how people search, compare and buy.
Modern platforms like Framer allow agencies to build fast, beautifully designed, AI-friendly websites that load quickly, showcase proof and structure information in a way both humans and machines can understand. Combined with smart content and local SEO, that kind of site makes you far more likely to appear when someone asks: “which companies near me are actually good at this?”
A simple test is to imagine a potential customer asking ChatGPT for the best provider in your category and area - would
your current website give it enough clear, specific, trustworthy information to put your name in the answer?
If the honest answer is “probably not”, now is exactly the time to treat your website as a strategic asset, not a tick-box, and invest in making it something both people and AI feel confident recommending.
Artificial
Re-generation continues at The Wigley Group
The Wigley Group is a family business built on values of ‘doing the right thing for six decades’, so C&W in Business caught up with the senior leaders at the company to find out what the future has in store.
Robert Wigley has been at the helm of The Wigley Group for almost 20 years and has been a part of its story since he was 18 years old.
Robert’s father – John – managed the business before him and while the group has become synonymous with delivering regeneration projects over many decades, it is now going through an evolution of its own.
“We’ve got a long and interesting history as a business – a family business – and while we love to look back, we have to move forward,” said Robert, the chairman of the company.
“I’ve got wonderful memories and our imprint is across the region through the projects we’ve been involved in, but there is a real excitement about what’s next and how we continue to develop as a business, moving forward with a new and refreshed leadership team.”
Robert works closely with senior executive directors James Ellerington and Claire Lynch to oversee the overall running of the group, while his daughter, Katie Wigley-Harris – a third-generation family member in the business – is being mentored to take on more day-to-day management.
Katie’s brother, Jonathan, is also part of the company. He has worked for the family business for 15 years now and uses his commercial property expertise to diversify revenue streams.
The business remains wholly owned by the Wigley family. John’s four children – Robert, Jane, Sarah and John – are all equal shareholders with active engagement in the business.
“There is responsibility when you work in any business but, of course, because it’s the family name you do feel it,” said Katie. “It’s not a burden you feel, but it’s a feeling of responsibility to the generations that have come before.
“It was never expected that we’d join the business, we joined because we wanted to. It doesn’t feel like coming to work. It’s a great place to be.”
James added: “It sounds like a cliché, but I’ve been here around 12 years, and I’ve always felt like a member of the family. If you can apply yourself and work towards our shared goals, there’s a place for you here.
“Once people settle in, they stay. That’s something we’re proud of as a whole team. We are bringing people through to be part of a long-standing, successful company.”
Profile: Robert Wigley
Claire agrees: “We’re all here because of the way the business has evolved. Everyone has contributed to making it a really accessible environment.
“Roles differ but no-one puts themselves above anyone else. Nobody is more important and, as directors, we’re not distant. There is a really good feeling about the business both now and moving forward into the future.”
There’s a reason more than 50 per cent of staff have been with The Wigley Group for five years or more.
It is a business rooted in values of integrity, expertise and trust that have been passed through generations, and this is felt by those employed by the group and its local community.
“We are proud to be part of Coventry and Warwickshire and take great pride in supporting our local community both as part of and in addition to our core activities,” said Katie.
Wigley has been serving its community on various levels throughout its history. The foundations of the business today were built on the investment in and regeneration of industrial property in Coventry.
“We’ve taken a lot of old property and regenerated it,” says Robert. “We’ve converted huge parts of Coventry, such as Alfred Herbert’s 40-acre site, which we breathed new life into, supporting a new generation of businesses in that part of the city.
“I think we got a reputation for regeneration in Coventry before that word was really being used. We may even have invented it!”
In its 60 years in business, the group itself has been through several periods of renewal too. When Robert joined the family business – then known as Wigley Contracts (Barby) Ltd, based near Rugby – much of the focus was on machine and plant hire, civil engineering, as well as the erection and manufacture of prison fencing.
“We lived on a farm,” said Robert, “and we had barns and portacabins for offices.
“My early memories are of being taken on sites where there was lots of plant, machinery and groundworks equipment. I was often caught trying to drive things I shouldn’t! It was a great place to grow up.”
In the 1970s, John identified an opportunity to invest in industrial property for the very first time. It was this that inspired an evolution.
Robert has played a big part in the group’s evolution too, growing its property portfolio and diversifying its revenue streams.
But with a new senior leadership team in place, there is a return to focus more heavily on its strengths of commercial property management and investment, which have played a huge part in its success over the past 45 years.
“There are lots of new ideas, but we’re not going to change direction,” said Claire. “We’re staying true to property, which is what we’re experts at, and true to the company’s values. We’re excited about the future.”
James adds: “We’re all aligned and know exactly what direction we want to take the business.”
Not bad for a family business set up on farmland in the 1960s.
“We’ve been through lots of change, but we feel like everyone knows what ‘Wigleys’ do and what we stand for, and that’s really important,” says Katie.
“A significant part of our role as directors is providing stewardship for the Wigley family,”
& Warwickshire in business
explains James, “we are supporting Katie in her role as a next-generation leader, ensuring she is equipped with the skills and knowledge to lead the business with confidence.”
Claire adds: “As a wholly family-owned business, it’s hugely important we keep the Wigley name at the forefront. It is essential to the family’s legacy.
“The business has always been run by someone who maintains and emulates strong values and a distinct culture. We are preparing Katie to step into that role and continue what has been built by her family over the past 60 years.”
“Looking at where we are today, I think my father would be very proud,” Robert concludes.
“I’ve got wonderful memories and our imprint is across the region through the projects we’ve been involved in, but there is a real excitement about what’s next and how we continue to develop as a business, moving forward with a new and refreshed leadership team.”
Profile: Robert Wigley
Born: 28th October 1960 in Rugby, Warwickshire
Lives: Broadwell, Warwickshire
Married: No
Children: Two – Katie & Jonathan
Hobbies: I’m a Manchester United season ticket holder, a keen darts & snooker fan and I’m passionate about collecting classic cars – I have nine!
Favourite Book: Bill Bryson’s A Short History of Nearly Everything
Favourite Film: The Green Book
Last Holiday: I’ve come back from nine days in Florida
Gadget: I couldn’t be without my iPhone
Coventry Rugby Club delighted with omnigo ‘conversion’!
On the pitch, Coventry Rugby Club’s players operate in the fast-paced Championship and are proving once again to be one of the top teams in the division.
And, off it, the club has just made a different kind of conversion that could save them £50,000 per year and, not only that, it is dramatically improving the matchday experience for fans.
After being brought together with omnigo, the DOJO enabler, in late 2025, the club is already seeing the benefits of working with the Coventry-based provider.
Nicholas Gould, the founder of omnigo, said: “When omnigo carried out a full audit of Coventry Rugby Club's merchant services in late 2025, what we found was a familiar story.
“Legacy terminals, historic transaction rates that hadn't been reviewed in years and a payment setup that hadn't kept pace with how the club actually operates on matchdays.
“The audit led to a full infrastructure upgrade, with omnigo replacing the club's existing setup with a solution projected to save the club £50,000 per year in card transaction costs alone.
“Central to the project was the introduction of DOJO Go, the portable payment device, across the stadium's bars and service areas.
“Staff can now take payments anywhere in the ground, reducing queues and improving speed of service during peak periods rather than being anchored to fixed till points.
“We saw the club’s pain points and have worked with them to fix them.”
Matt Cannon, COO at Coventry Rugby Club, added: "Working with omnigo has been a game-changer for us.
“Their portable card machines have helped us bust queues and serve fans faster on matchdays, while the switch to their platform is on track to save us over £50,000 a year.
“The process was seamless, the support has been constant and they genuinely understand how stadiums like ours operate."
The project was brought to the club through Chris Hartley, hospitality and venues lead at omnigo, and reflects a wider shift the company is seeing across venues and stadiums, where long-standing payment agreements are being reviewed and found wanting against modern operational demands.
Nicholas added: “For omnigo, this is one example of a growing portfolio in Coventry and Warwickshire, where a payment audit has unlocked both financial savings and measurable service improvements, reinforcing our position as being more than a card machine provider.”
For further information, contact Nicholas Gould at ng@omnigo.tech or 07889 252717.
Homeworking stats flatline after post-Covid spike
Working from home is here to stay in Coventry and Warwickshire – but the number of new jobs offering hybrid work has flatlined.
That’s according to information from Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) which tracks working trends regionally and nationally.
More than 69,000 job postings were live from July 2025 to January 2026 in Coventry and Warwickshire and saw 0.8 per cent rise in the median wage, matching the national average rise.
More than one third of roles (35.9 per cent) required a bachelor’s degree level of education, while 34.4 per cent required GCSE or equivalent.
CIPD has also tracked data on the number of postings that offered remote, on-site and hybrid working.
It shows that after the pandemic the number of roles being advertised as hybrid peaked at 60 per cent in the UK by mid-2023 and in Coventry and Warwickshire it was even higher at 70 per cent.
However, the proportion of hybrid roles being offered has dropped significantly since then and has stabilised at around 30 per cent both locally and nationally, which is still four times the pre-Covid average and suggests that companies and organisations have scaled back on working from home.
That backs-up additional data that shows that 39 per cent of adults in Great Britain overall work from home some of the time, with 26 per cent engaged in hybrid work and 43 per cent travelling to work exclusively.
Esmeralda Bon, labour market analyst for CIPD, said: “There was a sharp rise in job
postings advertising hybrid working following the pandemic but that has fallen and started to flatten.
“Coventry and Warwickshire broadly follows the national trend, but with more pronounced rises and falls, suggesting that local employers may have adopted and scaled back hybrid working more rapidly than UK employers more generally.
“The statistics suggest that, while the number of working from home and hybrid roles has flattened, it is very much here to stay and is still way ahead of the numbers before Covid.”
Richard Evans is a director of Genesis Employment Services, an independent recruitment agency based in Coventry, specialising in industrial, engineering, logistics, and commercial recruitment across the Midlands.
He said: “Hybrid working has clearly settled into a more sustainable long-term position after the rapid changes seen during and immediately after the pandemic.
“While flexibility remains important to candidates, we are seeing many employers, particularly in industrial, logistics, and engineering sectors, returning to more sitebased roles due to operational requirements.
“Hybrid working is now less of a default expectation and more of a role-specific benefit, which means employers are focusing more on overall job quality, pay, and stability to attract and retain talent.”
Nick Baker, managing director of Baker and Baker Recruitment, specialises in recruitment for automotive, engineering, manufacturing, and executive search.
He said: “Hybrid working has definitely cooled from its post Covid peak, but it’s far from gone.
“Some clients that I work with have dropped the hybrid/remote working but, in general and on average, it is still above pre pandemic levels.
“It’s understandable that many roles require on-site working, but also some common sense from both employers, and employees having that balance.
“Many candidates that I speak to want some element of office working because they deem it important to interact with the wider team.”
Cat Brown, director at Pertemps, said: “What we’re seeing now is a recalibration. Employers aren’t moving away from flexibility, but they are being clearer about what their teams and customers require.
“There can be tension between candidate expectations and organisational needs, so success lies in designing roles around outcomes. When businesses define what good performance looks like and communicate that clearly, they’re far more likely to strike the right balance between flexibility and results.”
Windows Server 2016 End of Life: a hidden business risk – and why planning now matters
A leading technology firm is warning businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire to prepare now for an impending ‘End of Life’ date for Windows Server 2016.
Microsoft has confirmed that Windows Server 2016 will reach End of Life on January 12, 2027 and EBC Group believe many businesses and organisations run the risk of being left vulnerable by delaying upgrades.
Aidan Halling, of EBC Group, said: “For many businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire, IT infrastructure is something that simply “works” in the background.
“Servers run quietly, systems remain accessible, and unless something breaks, they rarely feature in strategic discussions.
“However, a significant milestone is approaching that businesses cannot afford to overlook.
“While that January 2027 date may feel some way off, the decisions businesses make now will determine whether this becomes a controlled, cost-effective transition, or an urgent and disruptive problem later on.
“When Microsoft ends support for a server operating system, it does not just stop working overnight. However, it does stop receiving security updates and vulnerability patches, bug fixes, and technical support from Microsoft.
“Mainstream support for Windows Server 2016 has already ended, with extended support concluding in January 2027.
“After this point, any new vulnerabilities discovered will remain permanently unpatched. From a business risk perspective, this is where problems begin to escalate.
“Many businesses delay upgrades because systems appear to be working normally. However, once a server reaches End of Life, that stability is misleading. Unsupported systems become prime targets for cybercriminals and significantly increasing the risk of ransomware, data breaches and network compromise.
“The risks go beyond cybersecurity. Unsupported servers can trigger compliance issues under frameworks such as GDPR and Cyber Essentials, raise concerns with insurers, and lead to higher premiums or reduced cover.
“As software vendors withdraw support, businesses may also face compatibility problems, reduced performance and increased downtime, turning a manageable issue into a costly disruption.
“Server upgrades are often perceived as disruptive, complex or expensive, which can lead to delays. Postponing action usually increases both cost and risk.
“Last-minute upgrades often result in rushed decisions, higher consultancy fees, increased downtime and greater exposure to security incidents. In contrast, early planning allows organisations to spread costs, reduce risk and align IT improvements with wider business objectives. Proactive upgrades are almost always more cost-effective and far less stressful than emergency responses.
“Every business is different, but most businesses will follow one of three paths.
“Most will upgrade to a supported version such as Windows Server 2022 or newer, gaining ongoing security updates, improved performance and continued vendor support.
“Others may choose to modernise further by moving workloads to the cloud, for example Microsoft Azure, reducing reliance on ageing hardware while improving resilience, scalability and cost predictability.
“Extended Security Updates (ESU) will be available after 2027, but should only be used as a short-term fallback. They are costly, increase year on year and do not resolve performance or compatibility limitations.
“EBC Group assists businesses by auditing server environments, identifying risks and dependencies, creating clear upgrade or migration roadmaps, and managing projects end to end, all aligned with business goals rather than purely technical requirements.”
For more information, contact EBC Group on 0121 368 0154 and hello@ebcgroup.co.uk or go to www.ebcgroup.co.uk
Agency completes ‘skilful’ branding exercise
A growing Coventry-based digital and design agency has completed a branding project for the organisation which is helping to shape skills across Warwickshire and the West Midlands.
LTCA, which moved into new offices at the start of 2026, was commissioned to deliver brand development support for the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), working in collaboration with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber is leading on the LSIPs in both the West Midlands and Warwickshire, helping to design solutions in order to ensure employer needs are met in the future development of training and skills provision across the region.
The brief for LTCA focused on the creation of two distinctive geographical brand identities that could be rolled out consistently across a wide range of media platforms, supported by a suite of printed materials.
A key objective of the project was to ensure the identities were flexible, scalable, and easy to apply across both digital and offline communications.
As part of the delivery, LTCA developed a series of branded templates designed to be adapted internally by the LSIP team, enabling ongoing consistency while allowing for efficient in-house content creation. The resulting brand provides LSIP with a clear, professional visual presence.
Leigh Torrance, the owner and founder of LTCA, said: “Working with the Chamber of Commerce and the LSIP team on such an important project has been great for the business.
“Of course, we are always passionate about delivering great results and, in this instance, we can see how important the work being undertaken by the LSIP is for the future of skills in the region.
“So, we are really proud of what we’ve been able to achieve with the new brand.”
LTCA moved into new office space at ImagePlus’s headquarters in Electric Wharf in Coventry to help support the company’s growth and future ambitions.
Leigh added: “LTCA’s growth plans are focused on strengthening our in-house capabilities, expanding our service offering, and continuing to invest in the people, processes and partnerships that underpin our success.
“We will build on our collaborative approach by developing new skills within the team, embracing emerging technologies, and creating further opportunities to work with trusted local suppliers and partners.”
Raj Kaur, who leads the LSIP team at the Chamber, said: “Working with LTCA has been seamless.
“They understood the brief straight away and have delivered eye-catching, professional brands that help to tell the story of what the LSIP is all about and stands out to employers who we are looking to engage with.
“We are extremely pleased with strong brand identity we now have, and have really enjoyed the process of developing the assets. We found Leigh and the team to be professional, accommodating and knowledgeable.”
For more information the LSIP or to be part of the conversation go to: lsip@cw-chamber.co.uk
For more information on LTCA go to: https://ltca.co.uk/
Cottons Group joins VIEW Group as part of UK expansion
Cottons Group has announced that it has joined VIEW Group, following the acquisition of 100 per cent of the shares in Cottons Group Ltd.
Headquartered in the Midlands, Cottons Group provides accounting, tax, payroll and
corporate finance services and employs around 120 people across seven UK locations.
The firm will continue to operate under the Cottons Group name, with its existing internal leadership and all employees retained.
The decision to join VIEW Group was made to ensure Cottons Group has the right level of long-term investment to continue supporting clients with the tools, systems and insight they need, as expectations of the profession continue to change.
Local DIGnitaries mark start of major HQ
A fourth-generation family business supplying copper into some of the UK’s biggest projects is set to more than double its capacity, after work on its new state-of-the-art headquarters in Coventry officially got underway.
Lawton Tubes, a supplier and manufacturer of 100 per cent recyclable copper tube and fittings, is gearing up to open a new £20 million facility next year to meet growing domestic demand for its plumbing and heating and air conditioning products.
The new building will be across the road from its current headquarters which was only built back in 2019.
To mark the first dig on site the Lawton board were joined by principal contractor Interclass, Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Andy Williams, director of Regeneration & Economy at Coventry City Council, and Cllr Jim O'Boyle, cabinet member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change at Coventry City Council.
The new facility will equal the size of approximately 40 tennis courts – double the size of its existing headquarters that will also remain operational.
It will include a 107,768 sq ft warehouse along with 17,220 sq ft of office space and welfare areas and a 40-metre service yard. The new solar-powered premises will contain Lawton Tubes’ manufacturing and storage operations, which will feature automated technology, as well as modern office and collaborative spaces to nurture the next generation of engineering professionals.
The milestone comes 107 years after the business was initially co-founded in Coventry by Albert Lawton, whose family still operate the business to this day.
Since the First World War the business’s copper tube products have continued to play an instrumental role in carrying heat, water, and energy into homes, hospitals, and cities across the country.
Lawton Tubes has also played its part in supplying the ongoing maintenance of iconic British landmarks – from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, to The Shard and Wembley Stadium.
Of the £230 million turnover generated annually by the business, £204 million comes from projects supporting British infrastructure from the NHS through to the Ministry of Defence.
The business is also growing its customerbase beyond its traditional markets of plumbing, HVAC, and medical gas into fastgrowing industries including data centres and renewable energy.
Giles Lawton, managing director of operations at Lawton Tubes, said: “Our new headquarters is about doubling down on what has defined our business’ success over the past 107 years: backing UK plc.”
VLR route to Coventry University
Coventry University’s Technology Centre will be the first stop on a pioneering new tram network set to be built in Coventry.
Coventry City Council has approved a new demonstrator line for its Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR) network, designed to showcase the huge benefits of the technology.
The initial 800m section will run from Coventry Railway Station to the Technology Park and will also include a new service area and charging station at the university’s Mile Lane site.
Should the demonstrator prove successful, the line would remain in place as part of the permanent network and be extended further afield.
The technology behind CVLR enables tram routes to be built quickly and cheaply, while the shallow tracks mean the majority of existing infrastructure such as pipes and cables can remain undisturbed underground.
The electric trams are also designed to cope with much sharper turns, allowing them to navigate through the existing city landscape and negating the need for wholescale changes to city layouts and for the acquisition of land for the route.
The non-invasive construction of the track routes means they don’t require planning consent which further expedites the project delivery.
The route to the Technology Park has been made possible thanks to an agreement by the university allowing Coventry City Council to use its land. The team behind CVLR also plan to base their delivery headquarters at the Technology Park.
It is not the first time Coventry residents have been given a glimpse of CVLR, with a short demonstrator line being temporarily installed in the city centre last year.
However, this new, much longer demonstrator line is an important step for the project as it will allow the CVLR to run alongside live traffic.
Coventry City Council want to see the demonstrator operational by October 2027, allowing delegates at the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) World Congress being staged at the NEC in October that year to be among those to experience it for themselves.
It is hoped that such exposure will increase interest in CVLR and potentially see the system adopted in other cities around the world.
To find out more about CVLR and Coventry University’s involvement with last year’s city centre demonstrator line visit https://www.coventry.ac.uk/news/2025/ coventry-universitys-research-centre-forfuture-transport-and-cities-to-help-shapecoventrys-very-light-rail-project/
Lawton Tubes continues to grow, and employs 140 staff across its bases in Coventry, Redditch and Poole; with that number expected to increase in the coming years.
Bank of England listens to concerns of regional firms
A member of the Bank of England’s committee that sets interest rates met businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire to get their take on the state of the economy.
Huw Pill, the Bank’s chief economist and a member of its nine-person Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), took part in a roundtable discussion organised by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.
Huw was joined by colleagues Graeme Chaplin, Glynn Jones and Tim Willems at the event at Coombe Abbey Hotel alongside 12 businesspeople from the region, representing hospitality, retail, manufacturing, property, utilities and technology.
The discussion covered a range of topics from the rising cost of doing business through to some of the factors holding back growth – from the planning process through to uncertainty over whether to invest.
Huw said the Bank remained focused on getting consumer price inflation back to the target of two per cent. He said: “Events such as this, along with the information our colleagues in the Agency team gather from businesses across the region, are extremely important in helping us to understand what it’s like on the ground for companies.”
Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It was great to have such a high-level, insightful conversation with Huw Pill and the team from the Bank of England, who we speak to throughout the year.
“Our members covered a huge amount of ground and all of their comments and intelligence were taken on board and will feed into the decision-making process around interest rates.
“What came across to me during this discussion and in the dozens of conversations we have with businesses on a weekly basis is that there are the green shoots of
confidence out there but that firms have been stung by a decade of uncertain and unpredictable times.
“They are, therefore, looking to institutions such as the Bank to create a stable platform for growth and to Government to remove – or at least not add to –some of the barriers that are blocking stronger economic growth.”
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Have your say on Local Government Reorganisation in Warwickshire
The government has launched a consultation to invite residents, businesses, and key stakeholders, to have their say on what Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) should look like in Warwickshire.
Currently, Warwickshire has two-tiers of local government, Warwickshire County Council as one tier and five District and Borough Councils - North Warwickshire Borough, Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough, Rugby Borough, Stratford and Warwick District Councils as the second tier.
Local government reorganisation (LGR) is planned for Warwickshire because central government has set out a national policy to
reorganise the current two-tier system of local government in England to one tier, and Warwickshire is one of the areas affected by that policy.
In line with the Local Authority Publicity Code, the councils are not promoting or advocating for any option within the consultation. The consultation is being led by Government, which is seeking views on the options that have been put forward.
The Government is only consulting on whether residents would prefer one unitary council for Warwickshire, or separate north and south unitary councils.
If you would like to share your views on Local Government Reorganisation in Warwickshire, the easiest way to take part is to provide your feedback through an online survey at https://consult.communities.gov.uk/local-government-reorganisation/warwickshire/ The consultation is open until Thursday, March 26.
Ten years
in business?
A marketing business is celebrating its tenth birthday by reflecting on all the ingredients that have gone into a decade of success.
Piece of Cake Marketing was borne out of a desire to bring a fresh perspective to the world of marketing across Coventry and Warwickshire by directors Emma Kavanagh and Kate Keene.
The company has worked with a huge variety of local businesses and organisations since its inception in 2016 – including Coventry BID, Destination Coventry, West Orchards Shopping Centre, The Pack Smart Group, and many more.
Emma and Kate have been supported by a close-knit team of expert freelancers and the agency has become known over the past decade for delivering marketing that combines standout results with a genuinely personal client experience.
Coventry and Warwickshire sits at the heart of everything the team does and, as proud locals, Emma and Kate are passionate about using their business to shine a light on the region they call home – helping to change perceptions, drive footfall, and
It’s a Piece of Cake!
celebrate all that makes Coventry and the wider area special.
While the business has experienced tougher times – particularly during the worldwide pandemic where many of the clients they worked with were forced to shut down without warning – Emma’s and Kate’s enduring optimism, resilience, and strong local network has helped them bounce back from every setback and propelled them forward to the successful agency they are today.
Kate Keene, operations director, said: “I am incredibly proud of this milestone, so many
Action plan for tourism
Business leaders from across the region are shaping an action plan which will guide the next five years of Coventry’s tourism strategy. Coventry’s hospitality, tourism and leisure industries are joining forces to help create a new Tourism Action Plan for the city.
Destination Coventry, the destination management organisation for the city, has partnered with tourism consultancy Tomorrow’s Tourism to develop the longterm action plan, which will help to maximise regional opportunities and support the city’s next phase of growth.
The work will be crucial in raising the profile of Coventry as a key tourism player within the West Midlands, the UK and internationally.
It will inform the future of tourism in the city, identify growth opportunities and the final plan will act as an advocacy document to help regional and national agencies understand the needs and potential of the visitor economy in Coventry.
The Visitor Economy Workshop, which took place at the Telegraph Hotel which sponsored the event, saw organisations across Warwickshire and the West Midlands share their ambitions for growth.
The findings from the session will guide the city’s growth as a visitor destination following its landmark tenure as UK City of Culture 2021 and record visitor numbers with 11.8 million people visiting in 2024.
Ambitions were discussed such as venues working more closely together to share knowledge and enhance the visitor experience, and generating pride over the city’s identity – from its industrial heritage to its role in the birth of 2 Tone, and even the iconic Ring Road –to help raise its profile.
Paul McMahon, managing director at Destination Coventry, which includes Visit Coventry as well as the Coventry & Warwickshire Convention Bureau, said: “We have a strong story to tell and real momentum
businesses just don’t make it. We didn’t get here alone. Thank you to everyone who gave us a chance, bought us a cuppa, or just listened to one of our ideas.”
Emma Kavanagh, business development director, added: “My personal ‘made it moment’ was when we sat looking out at the ice rink in Coventry city centre that we had marketed. Because our city means so much to us, and to make a real difference matters. It just looked beautiful and was so great to be involved in.”
As they mark a decade in business, Emma, Kate and the wider Piece of Cake Marketing team are taking a moment to reflect – but their focus remains firmly on the future.
Emma added: “With the same passion for both people and purposeful marketing that sparked the business ten years ago, we are excited to continue supporting organisations, championing Coventry and Warwickshire, and helping clients achieve meaningful, measurable results for many years to come.”
Find out more about Emma, Kate, and the team by heading to the website Piece of Cake Marketing or following them on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Chamber feeds back on council budget
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Corin Crane has met the team at Coventry City Council as part of its budget consultation.
The consultation, which closed on January 28, has provided an opportunity for residents and businesses in the city to feedback on proposals and Corin took the opportunity to put forward the business view.
Coventry City Council’s budget has had a different focus this year – with no cuts to services proposed and the potential for additional investment for the second year in a row.
For the first time in about 15 years, the council anticipates being able to meet its legal duty of setting a balanced budget for 2026/27 without requiring significant service reductions, thanks to expected improvements from the Government's Fair Funding reform.
Corin said: “We value our relationship with Coventry City Council which means we can feedback on what businesses need.
“It’s refreshing that there is room for fresh investment in this budget and, as businesses, we have to recognise the level of improvement that is taking place in the city centre. Again, we’ve been involved in that conversation and have received updates from the team on the latest with City Centre South over recent years.
“There are exciting times ahead for Coventry and we will continue to work closely with the City Council to help provide a voice of business and, also, support opportunities for growth.”
Coventry City Council’s Pre-Budget Report outlined potential themes for investment based on public engagement and council performance data.
To find out more information visit https://www.coventry.gov.uk/-budget
to build on and we need to be both bold and strategic in how we move forward, but it’s crucial we do that together.
“This plan will set the direction for our visitor economy for at least the next five years, and it’s vital that it reflects the insight and ambition of our business community, including all the valuable reflections and ideas we heard at our tourism workshop.
“We’re grateful to all our partners who took the time to contribute to this exciting process, including our hosts the Telegraph Hotel
who represent the city’s past as a hub for storytelling, as well as its exciting future as a focal point for visitors from across the country and the globe.”
The workshop was chaired by Maureen McAllister and Lucy Dowson from Tomorrow’s Tourism and included input from stakeholders across hospitality, transport, arts, events, and retail to shape Coventry’s future tourism offer, help attract investment, and engage regional and national partners.
Chancellor champions
West Midlands freight sector on visit to North Warwickshire
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, has hailed the freight and logistics sector as key player in the Government’s growth mission, during a visit to LTS Global Solutions’ headquarters in Hams Hall, North Warwickshire.
During the visit, the Chancellor toured the company’s state-of-the-art logistics warehouse and met with senior leaders from across the freight sector to discuss how skills and infrastructure investment can unlock further growth across the West Midlands and the wider UK economy.
The Chancellor was joined on the visit by Rachel Taylor MP, the Labour MP for North Warwickshire and Bedworth, who has made championing the freight and logistics sector one of her top priorities in Parliament.
Around 20 percent of Ms Taylor’s constituents are employed in freight and logistics, making it one of the most important industries in the local economy, and she is the Chair of the All-Party Group for Freight and Logistics in Parliament.
The West Midlands sits at the centre of the UK logistics industry with over half of the UKS businesses based in the region. More than 174,000 people are employed by over 13,500 logistics enterprises across the region.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, said: “The freight and logistics sector is fundamental to our economy. From getting food onto supermarket shelves to delivering vital medical supplies, this is the sector that keeps Britain moving, with its beating heart right here in the West Midlands.
“Businesses like LTS Global Solutions here in North Warwickshire are central to delivering the government’s mission to boost our economy. That’s why this government is committed to backing the sector with the skills and infrastructure it needs to thrive, creating good jobs, and driving long-term prosperity.”
Rachel Taylor MP, said: “I am proud to represent a constituency where over one in five people work in the logistics sector. As Chair of the APPG for Freight and Logistics, I am determined to champion this vital industry in Parliament — from boosting skills and training to tackling organised freight crime.
“It was a pleasure to welcome the Chancellor to North Warwickshire today to hear directly from local businesses about the challenges and opportunities they face, and about the government’s plans to support them in their vital work.”
Managing director of LTS Global Solutions, Dave Hands, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Chancellor and Rachel Taylor MP to our headquarters and to showcase the vital role that logistics businesses play in keeping the UK economy moving.
“The West Midlands is a powerhouse for our industry, and with the right support we can continue to invest, innovate and create high-quality jobs for local people.”
Chamber connection leads to civic visit at Bardsley Youth Project
Bardsley Youth Project welcomed Cllr Rachel Lancaster, Lord Mayor of Coventry, and Mark Smith, High Sheriff of the West Midlands, to Bardsley House on Hill Top, Coventry.
The visit followed an introduction made through the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, with chief executive Corin Crane and head of events, marketing and communications Chris Nagle playing a key role in facilitating the connection.
Their support created an opportunity for meaningful conversation between civic leaders and Bardsley Youth Project.
From the outside, Bardsley House looks like a small historic cottage, but inside is a fully functioning youth centre and offices supporting young people across Coventry.
Bardsley Youth Project works alongside 16–25-year-olds who are homeless, sofa surfing, or at risk of losing their accommodation, helping them find, secure, keep and equip a home.
Many of the young people supported are not visibly rough sleeping but are sofa surfing, staying temporarily with friends, or living in temporary accommodation.
Following the visit, a post shared on the Lord Mayor’s Facebook page stated:
“The Lord Mayor of Coventry, Cllr Rachel Lancaster, was honoured to attend a visit to Bardsley Youth Project alongside the High Sheriff.
“Bardsley Youth Project plays a vital role in supporting and inspiring young people in our community, providing
a safe space, guidance and positive opportunities. Thank you to the dedicated team for the incredible work you do to empower the next generation across Coventry.”
The High Sheriff reflected that he had “a most enjoyable visit” and highlighted the “vital support” provided to young people facing hidden homelessness.
“For a small charity, opportunities like this matter,” said Rachel Orman, Communications & Community Fundraiser at Bardsley Youth Project.
“It was a privilege to host the visit and share more about the challenges facing young people in Coventry.
"Bardsley Youth Project is grateful to the Chamber for bringing sectors together in this way. It was a privilege to open the doors of Bardsley House and share the work taking place here. Collaboration like this strengthens Coventry in practical, meaningful ways."
Castlebridge Hospitality appointed management company of ‘Courtyard by Marriott Keele’
Castlebridge Hospitality has expanded its portfolio of hotels, having been appointed the management company of ‘Courtyard by Marriott Keele’ in Staffordshire.
The move signifies further growth and strategic development of the privatelyowned hotel management company.
Based in Leamington Spa in Warwickshire, Castlebridge Hospitality already manages Hotel Indigo Coventry, Hotel Indigo Bath, Hotel Indigo Chester, Hotel Indigo Stratford upon Avon, voco Winchester Hotel & Spa and Holiday Inn Express Campo de Gibraltar – Los Barrios.
Craig Patterson, managing director at Castlebridge Hospitality said, “Everyone at Castlebridge Hospitality is delighted by the trust shown in us by the owners, KHT, and honoured to have been awarded the management contract for the Courtyard by Marriott Keele.
“It is a fantastic hotel with an exceptionally engaged team, and it has been a privilege to welcome them into the Castlebridge family. We are confident that Castlebridge is the right partner to unlock the asset’s full potential.”
Circle Insurance Services celebrates 35 years in business
Circle Insurance Services, a family owned, independent insurance broker that has proudly supported businesses and individuals across the UK since 1991, is celebrating its 35th year in business.
Founded by Tony Norcott, the company has grown to ten offices and a team of
150 dedicated professionals, with its head office based on Holyhead Road in Coventry.
For more than three decades, Circle’s mission has been to provide clear, honest advice and insurance solutions that genuinely protect what matters most.
In 2011, Circle Insurance Services was awarded Chartered status by the Chartered Insurance Institute, a mark of excellence held by only a select number of UK brokers.
A spokesperson said: “This accreditation reflects our commitment to professional standards, ongoing
development, and delivering the highest level of client care.
“As an independent broker, we work exclusively for our clients’ interests. We compare products across the market, negotiate directly with insurers, and design policies tailored to your specific risks. And if the worst happens, we act as your advocate during claims; ensuring fair, prompt, and stress-free outcomes.
“Our business is built on values that have earned the trust of our clients for over 30 years – honesty, value for money, exceptional service, and professionalism.”
Driving business growth from the heart of Coventry
Coventry Conferences is entering an exciting new phase, unveiling a refreshed brand identity that firmly reinforces its position within Coventry University.
As the university’s dedicated conference brand, it supports businesses, associations, and organisations with professional event spaces.
Ezra McCusker, of Coventry Conferences, said: “Our venues are open and ready for external clients, offering flexible spaces, advanced AV capabilities, expert on-site support, and delicious, sustainable catering options across multiple city-centre buildings.
“From large-scale conferences and exhibitions to strategic board meetings
and training events, we provide an environment dedicated to our clients, no matter how big or small the event may be.
“This rebrand signals more than a visual update. It reflects our ambition to play a stronger role in the local community where we want to create opportunities for partnership and connection across Coventry and the wider Midlands area.
“Backed by the strength of Coventry University and focused firmly on external growth, Coventry Conferences is ready for the next chapter.”
To learn more about how Coventry Conferences is shaping a more
experience, follow on Instagram and LinkedIn for updates on its Food for Life journey.
Rachel Hands, Head of HR and Communications, LTS Global Solutions, Rachel Taylor MP, Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer and Dave Hands, Managing Director LTS Global Solutions.
EZOO partners with Global Women in EV Day to champion industry role models
The inaugural Global Women in EV Day was launched in February and saw EZOO support as Benefits Partner, boosting recognition for women who work in the sector.
Founded by EV advocate Gill Nowell, the event aims to help build a representative, inclusive and well-rounded industry, focused on the future in this exciting market.
EZOO was co-founded by COO Charnjit Saranna, and is passionate about inspiring women, celebrating their achievements in the automotive market – one that has traditionally been heavily male dominated.
As one of the event’s founding partners, EZOO is proud to be part of the initiative, pledging to champion women in EV by sharing stories
of key people in the industry, wherever they work. Fierce advocates of the transition to electrification, EZOO is keen to get voices heard and ensure that female business leaders are recognised.
A recent recipient of the Auto30Club Inspiring Automotive Women Award, Charnjit said:
“Building a truly diverse and representative sector needs action and inspiration.
“Working alongside Gill and those running Global Women in EV Day, we are backing an event that can make a real difference in making women’s voices heard, changing working practices now, as well as making the way into the EV sector easier for women in the future.
I’m delighted that EZOO is on board from the very beginning.”
To find out more about Global Women in EV Day 2026, visit https://globalwomeninevday.com/ or head to www.ezoo.uk for more information on the company’s salary sacrifice schemes and business subscription solutions.
Local cyclists set to pedal 300 miles for The Shakespeare Hospice
Hospice has officially issued a rallying cry to local residents, adventurers, and cycling enthusiasts to join its new overseas challenge: The Ride to Remember 2026.
Taking place this September, the four-day, 300-mile journey will see a team of riders depart from the hospice in Stratford-uponAvon, traversing the rolling English countryside and iconic French villages, before a triumphant finish at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
The event aims to raise vital funds for The Shakespeare Hospice, which provides free, specialist palliative care and bereavement support to patients and families across South Warwickshire.
With each rider aiming to raise £1,950, the collective impact will fund hundreds of hours of frontline nursing and emotional support for those facing life-limiting illnesses, and the fundraising team are on hand to help.
“This isn’t just a physical challenge; it’s an emotional journey,” said Sarah Wakeman, senior fundraising manager at The Shakespeare Hospice.
RSC joins PM in Shanghai
The Prime Minister joined representatives from The Royal Shakespeare Company and The National Theatre at the Design Innovation Institute in Shanghai to celebrate the impact of British theatre in China.
During the event, the Prime Minister met Daniel Evans, co-artistic director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, for an exclusive performance and pop-up installation from the cast of Matilda The Musical, which returns to China for a third tour this year.
The acclaimed production is set to delight more than a quarter of a million audience members across China in 2026.
Showcasing world-class British creativity on the global stage, the installation featured guest appearances by cast members Seb Torkia (who plays Mr Wormwood) and Amelia Adams (Mrs Wormwood).
The delegation also learnt more about the world-class craftsmanship behind the
production with Matilda The Musical wardrobe supervisor Sharon Williams and wigs and make up supervisor Helen Keane.
Daniel Evans said: “The RSC is proud to share the best of British theatre with audiences around the world, strengthening the connections and joy that theatre brings across borders.
“The 2026 Matilda The Musical China tour showcases world-class British creativity and supports more than 100 jobs for UK nationals.
“Running from February to August, this acclaimed, multi-award-winning production will delight over a quarter of a million audience members across China.
“First performed on our stage in Stratfordupon-Avon in the heart of the West Midlands in 2010, Matilda The Musical continues to inspire audiences across the globe.”
The visit follows the Prime Minister’s trip to Beijing, where he was making the case for a more consistent and strategic partnership between the UK and China, to help unlock more opportunities for British businesses to grow and expand into China’s economy.
The delegation included 60 representatives from British business, sport and culture.
The UK theatre sector is a vital part of the UK’s fast-growing creative industries. The UK’s performing arts sector generates a total of £2.39 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) annually to the UK economy, supporting over 200,000 jobs.
Beechwood Trees success
Chamber member Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Ltd has been successfully appointed to the Framework Agreement for the Provision of Arboriculture Services with Staffordshire County Council, following a competitive tender process.
This award represents a significant milestone for Beechwood Trees and reinforces its commitment to delivering safe, reliable, high-quality arboricultural services across the region.
The framework covers a broad range of arboricultural works across Staffordshire, with multiple lots representing districts such as Newcastle, Staffordshire Moorlands, Stafford, Cannock, Lichfield, Tamworth, South Staffordshire and more, as outlined in the procurement pack
“Every pedal stroke helps ensure that no family in our community has to face their hardest moments alone. We provide the training plans and the mechanical supportall we need from our riders is the heart to take on the journey.”
The challenge is designed for all abilities, featuring a fully supported route with experienced tour leaders, luggage transfers, and a dedicated support vehicle.
Registration is now open, but spaces are limited. Those looking to make 2026 a year of impact are encouraged to sign up by March 31. For more information or to register for the Ride to Remember, visit www.theshakespearehospice.org.uk/ ridetoremember or contact the fundraising team at fundraising@theshakespearehospice.org.uk
A spokesperson for Beechwood Trees said: “Being appointed to this framework is a testament to the strength of our systems, training, safety culture and operational capability. It also reflects the dedication and professionalism of our teams who work tirelessly across the UK delivering complex arboricultural projects.
“It reflects a continued long-term partnership with a forward-thinking council; the fact we value the opportunity to support Staffordshire in delivering its arboricultural vision across multiple districts and shows our operational growth and increased regional presence.
“This framework complements our national reach and strengthens our footprint across the Midlands.
“It is an opportunity to contribute to community safety and environmental enhancement and is validation of our commitment to excellence.”
PR agency marks best year in business
A West Midlands PR and marketing agency has achieved its best year in business following a period of rapid growth.
R&Co Communications, which has offices in Leamington Spa and Birmingham, has generated its biggest-ever fee income after achieving 14 per cent growth year-on-year.
The milestone follows a 39 per cent increase in fee income in 2024, when the agency celebrated its 45th year in business.
R&Co, which specialists in PR, SEO and social media marketing, has welcomed new clients across a range of industries in the last 12 months, including the automotive, ecommerce, veterinary and charity sectors.
Its new partnerships include Romanian dog rescue charity Speranta Shelter, personalised children’s brand My 1st Years and veterinary industry specialists Ronda Vet and Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging.
The team received recognition for their ongoing success at the Midlands PRCA Dare Awards in Birmingham, picking up the Medium Consultancy of the Year accolade –a year after winning the Small Consultancy trophy.
Peter Robinson, managing director at R&Co, said: “We’re proud of our achievements over the last 12 months and
to be entering our milestone year in such a strong position.
“This is the result of the hard work and vision of our whole team, who deliver excellence across every area of the business and are committed to adapting to the changing needs of our clients, as well as the evolving media and marketing landscape.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what we can collectively achieve in 2026.”
The agency was founded in Leamington Spa in 1979 as Newsline PR, rebranding to R&Co Communications and expanding its digital marketing services in 2022.
For more information about R&Co, search for R&Co Communications on social media.
The Shakespeare
Business in the driving seat on skills
Businesses in Warwickshire have been helping to devise skills provision for the region as part of a Government plan to meet the needs of employers.
More than 130 businesses, training providers and education specialists attended a series of workshops across Warwickshire to help inform the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), which has been designed by Government to ensure that training providers listen to, understand and deliver on the needs of local employers.
In Warwickshire, the LSIP is being developed in partnership with Warwickshire County Council through the Warwickshire
Skills Hub and is being delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, with support from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.
It is building on the early success of the initiative which has helped Warwickshire to meet current and future skills needs in the region over the past two years by producing key priorities and actions for those responsible for training and education.
That includes the UK Government, Skills England, Warwickshire County Council, district and borough councils, colleges, independent training providers, adult education services, universities, chambers and other regional stakeholders.
The three workshops at Ashorne Hill, Warwick Racecourse and Weston Hall focused on different topics and, as well as discussing the barriers to better skills provision, business leaders were asked to discuss solutions too.
They were asked to give feedback on what would work better for their organisation and their staff and offer guidance on what might encourage more people to take up training and development.
The first workshop at Ashorne Hill covered Leadership Development and was followed by a session covering Digital Skills, AI and Adoption of New Technologies at Warwick Racecourse.
The series was rounded off at Weston Hall and looked at the Workforce of the Future – but the work doesn’t stop there.
The Warwickshire LSIP team will continue to engage with employers through surveys, over the phone interviews and face-to-face conversations to help inform a new report that will submitted to Government and written into statute for local providers to follow.
Fay Winterburn, head of employability and skills at the Warwickshire Skills Hub, said: “We have been so pleased to see the level of turnout but also the really positive engagement with what we are trying to achieve.
“Warwickshire has been a standard bearer when it comes to skills and employability over many years and the LSIP is the next phase of that.
“We’ve heard some brilliant ideas around solutions and we look forward to taking these forward to make sure we continue to meet the needs of employers and individuals in the future.”
Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Businesses are very passionate about skills and it’s something we talk about a lot, especially at our Local Business Forums.
“The real beauty of these sessions is that we’ve really been able to tease out of employers – of all sizes and sectors – what they’d like to see as solutions to the issues in an ideal world.
“Colleges and training providers want to put on courses and invest in facilities that meet the local economy’s needs and, through the LSIP, that’s exactly what we are bringing together.”
College welcomes President of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce
The newly appointed President of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Sandra Godley OBE, visited Stratford-upon-Avon College to learn more about the college’s work with students, employers, and the wider community.
A committed advocate for education, Sandra brings extensive experience across business, broadcasting, and charity work, with a clear focus on driving economic growth, innovation, and collaboration across the region.
As a performer herself, the visit was particularly fitting. Sandra toured the college’s creative and performing arts facilities, including the TV and radio studios, and met students from the music and performing arts programmes.
She also observed rehearsals in ballet and theatre, gaining insight into the breadth of training offered.
The tour concluded with a visit to the Heating and Ventilation Academy, offering insight into heat pump technology and more of the college’s industry-standard training facilities.
During her visit, Sandra met with staff who outlined the college’s strong partnerships with local employers through apprenticeships and skills bootcamps. The discussions provided a valuable opportunity to explore future opportunities for growth and continued collaboration with the Chamber.
Assistant principal Creative & Foundation Faculty, Julia Stevens, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Sandra Godley
OBE to the college and to highlight the exceptional work taking place across the campus. The conversations Sandra held with our students and staff were genuinely impactful, and it was encouraging to see such strong interest in the talent and ambition nurtured here.
“The initiatives championed by the Chamber of Commerce, supporting local business growth, driving innovation, and strengthening skills development across the region, align closely with our mission, and create real, lasting impact for our communities.”
Sandra said: “Seeing young people thrive and putting creativity at the heart of our regional economy are two of my greatest passions. Stratford-upon-Avon College is the epitome of this.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the visit, seeing the incredible the work they are doing on a daily basis and I left truly inspired by what I’d seen.”
For more information on any of Stratford-upon-Avon College’s courses, visit www.stratford.ac.uk or call the college on 01789 266245.
Rugby College students help bring sensory experience to life in Caldecott Park
Rugby College engineering students have played a key role in the creation of a new sensory garden at Caldecott Park, designed to provide a vibrant and inclusive experience for local residents and visitors.
As part of their engineering project, the students helped to design and manufacture laser-cut steel letters spelling out TOUCH, SEE, SMELL, and HEAR - words that form the centrepiece of the park’s new sensory area.
The installation celebrates the beauty of nature through all the senses, creating an engaging and accessible environment for the community.
The students’ work was completed under the guidance of Delroy Barnes, engineering lecturer at Rugby College, part of WCG, in collaboration with Rugby Borough Council’s Parks and Open Spaces team.
The sensory garden forms part of the council’s wider programme to enhance Caldecott Park, including new raised beds,
accessible play equipment, and improved pathways. The initiative has been supported by local sponsors such as the Cottons Group and is maintained by community volunteers and local organisations.
Stephanie Huggett, town park ranger at Rugby Borough Council, said: “The sensory garden has been designed to encourage visitors to connect with nature through all their senses, and the addition of the lasercut letters makes it truly special. We’re so grateful to the students and staff at Rugby College for their creativity and skill – their contribution adds real character to the space and will be enjoyed by residents for years to come.”
Delroy Barnes, engineering lecturer at Rugby College, added: “This has been a fantastic hands-on project for our students, allowing them to apply their design and manufacturing skills to something that benefits the wider community. The student
group have shown great teamwork and professionalism, and the finished pieces look fantastic in the park.”
Student Alex Wheeler said: “It was great to be part of something that people in Rugby can enjoy. Seeing our work displayed in Caldecott Park is really rewarding.”
Student Khush Kansagra added: “Working on this project taught us a lot about precision and creativity, and knowing it’s part of a community space makes it even more meaningful.”
The collaboration between Rugby College and Rugby Borough Council highlights the value of community partnerships in education, giving students the opportunity to contribute to real-world projects that enhance local spaces.
The new sensory garden is now open to the public, offering a peaceful and engaging environment that celebrates inclusivity, wellbeing, and connection with nature.
Rugby College student Alex Wheeler, engineering lecturer Delroy Barnes, and student Khush Kansagra with town park ranger Stephanie Huggett from Rugby Borough Council
MP for Nuneaton Jodie Gosling returns to celebrate success of award-winning programme
An award-winning scheme helping young people with learning disabilities and autism secure meaningful work experience and employment is going from “strength to strength” according to Nuneaton MP Jodie Gosling.
In a celebration of the continued success of local young people with learning disabilities and autism in securing meaningful work experience and employment, the former teacher and nursery owner visited North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College’s (NWSLC) Supported Internship students on placement at Asda Nuneaton.
The visit marked Jodie’s second opportunity to attend the store and speak to the students on the inspirational programme, following an earlier visit in January 2025. She met interns, job coaches and employer mentors, to see first-hand how the programme is supporting young people to
build confidence, develop workplace skills and progress into paid jobs.
Jodie praised the programme and its partners. She said: “It’s fantastic to return and see the Supported Internship Programme going from strength to strength. This partnership between NWSLC, Asda and DFN Project SEARCH is opening doors for young people who too often face barriers to employment.
“The confidence, pride and ambition shown by the interns today is inspiring, and it’s clear this programme is making a real difference not just to individual lives, but to our wider community.”
Marion Plant OBE, principal and chief executive of North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College said:
“We were delighted to welcome Jodie back to see how our Supported Internship Programme continues to transform lives.
“These young people are developing real, marketable skills and growing in confidence every day. With the right support from our job coaches, employers and partners, they are proving what is possible with the employment outcomes speaking for themselves.”
For more information about the Supported Internships programme or to find out how your business can get involved, please contact the Supported Internship team at NWSLC via enquiries.supportedinternship@nwslc.ac.uk.
Scrum & Fork training restaurant opens at Rugby College
A newly refurbished training restaurant at Rugby College has officially opened its doors, offering students the opportunity to learn and work in a vibrant, contemporary hospitality environment designed to reflect industry standards.
Formerly known as Courses Restaurant, the space has undergone a significant transformation to become Scrum & Fork, a modern, student-run training restaurant that both learners and staff are proud to work in.
The redevelopment forms a key part of the college’s catering and hospitality curriculum, supporting students to gain real-world experience in a professional setting.
The restaurant was officially launched in December, with a special six-course lunch prepared and served by students and supported by expert chef lecturers and front-of-house staff.
Dishes included a goat’s cheese moussefilled profiterole with beetroot and candied walnuts, smoked haddock rarebit, Marrakech-spiced lamb rump, a saffronscented panna cotta, and winter truffles, showcasing the creativity and technical skill of the students.
The opening was marked by a ribboncutting ceremony led by the Mayor of Rugby, Councillor Barbara Brown, alongside John Slinger MP (Rugby) and WCG’s deputy principal, Stuart Evans, who were joined by professional cookery students from the
college. Guests included local stakeholders, key suppliers, regular customers, and college leaders.
Rugby College campus principal, Simon Philpott, speaking at the event, said: “Today marks the realisation of a vision. Scrum & Fork is not just a dining space; it is a professional environment where our students can hone their skills, learn what it means to work in hospitality and gain the real-life experience they need to succeed in the world of work. We are incredibly proud to open a restaurant that connects our college with the local community and showcases the exceptional talent of our students.”
The refurbished restaurant mirrors a real commercial environment, giving students
experience of managing a working kitchen and front-of-house operation. Open to external customers, Scrum & Fork also offers event and group bookings, allowing guests to enjoy high-quality dining while supporting students as part of their educational journey.
Rugby College’s head of School for Health, Wellbeing, Hospitality & Lifestyle, Tracy Gibson, said: “Scrum & Fork plays a vital role in our Catering and Hospitality curriculum. It allows students to apply their learning in a realistic environment, helping them build confidence, professionalism and the practical skills that employers are looking for.”
Level 3 Advanced Professional Cookery student Finley Lomax, from Rugby, said the transformation of the restaurant has had a major impact on his experience.
Finley said: “If you had seen me cooking last year, it’s a night and day difference. I’ve improved so much since being here, and I’ve learned a lot from some really great people. The restaurant now feels like a proper, working restaurant and that makes such a difference. The food used to be good, but now it’s getting great, and it’s exciting to see how far we can keep taking it.”
Scrum & Fork will now operate as a studentrun training restaurant throughout the academic year. To find out more, including opening times and event bookings, visit wcg.ac.uk/scrumandfork
Organisations join forces to improve post-16 education
A university group and two colleges are creating a strategic partnership to improve post 16 education and training in the West Midlands and South East.
The partnership between Coventry University Group, North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) and Unified Seevic Palmer’s (USP) College is designed to benefit learners, staff and employers.
It will enable collaboration on curriculum planning, supporting the needs of regional industrial strategies through joined-up place-based planning, improving learner progression across institutions, sharing of facilities and staff and joint bids and project activity.
The partnership also allows for the creation of one-stop shops for employers looking for apprenticeships and upskilling for employees at all levels of their workforce. Building on existing relationships, the
agreement is fully in line with the UK Government’s policy aimed at enhancing collaboration and alignment between Higher and Further Education.
Coventry University Group has seven locations in England, including Coventry, London and Scarborough. NWSLC has a network of seven campuses in the Midlands and has a long history of impactful collaboration with industry. USP serves communities across three campuses in Essex with a strong focus on regional and national careers opportunities. Marion Plant, principal and chief executive officer of NWLSC, said: “At the heart of this partnership is a strong ambition to support more of our students to progress into advanced level skill training and degrees.
“The huge impact of our current partnership working is embodied at the acclaimed MIRA Technology Institute (MTI) where we deliver a ‘skills escalator’ of
From NEET student to mission leader for digital skills
A former Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce apprentice has come full circle by providing digital training programme for current members of the Chamber team!
Louise Campton, once labelled a NEET – not in education, employment, or training – has since become a leading voice in digital skills, workforce development, and inclusive education.
A turning point came when she began her career as an apprentice with the Chamber – an opportunity which, Louise says, gave her more than a job.
“It provided direction, confidence and a set of values that continue to guide my work today,” said Louise.
Those foundations led to the creation of Primary Goal, an organisation focused on upskilling teachers and building digital confidence across schools and workplaces.
Initially rooted in classroom practice, its services expanded rapidly during the pandemic as the need for digital capability across entire organisations became vital.
What began as support for educators grew into a broader approach to digital transformation, professional development, and cultural change.
Now, through Primary Goal, Louise is working alongside Chamber chief executive Corin Crane and members of the leadership team to deliver a structured digital CPD programme for staff across both Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Training.
Louise said: “The aim is not simply to introduce new systems, but to build understanding, confidence, and shared ownership of digital change.”
training into the automotive industry and its supply chain. We aspire to replicate this into other priority sectors, such as health and care where regional demand is huge.”
Dan Pearson, CEO at USP College, said: “This partnership is about securing USP College’s long-term prospects and prosperity for our students, staff and communities. It strengthens our ability to respond to national priorities, including the UK’s Industrial Strategy 8, while aligning curriculum, progression and skills provision to future economic demand and building long-term resilience for the college.”
Ian Dunn, provost at Coventry University Group, said: “This commitment is grounded in the shared goal of expanding educational opportunities, supporting economic growth and putting ‘place’ at the centre of future development. The partnership will generate new momentum and accelerate joint efforts to meet skills needs across the regions.”
Corin said: “The impact of this programme goes beyond technology itself. By developing staff confidence and capability, conversations have shifted from uncertainty to informed debate about systems, solutions, and future possibilities.
“Digital skills have enabled people to articulate what they need from the organisation and what could be achieved with the right tools in place. It’s impressive”.
Last year, Louise created the Future Ready Foundation designed to bridge the long standing gap between employers and learners by bringing education, skills and opportunity closer together.
She said: “By aligning digital skills, careers insight and employer engagement, the Future Ready Foundation supports learners to build confidence, relevance, and aspiration, while enabling organisations to invest in sustainable, inclusive talent pipelines. Its mission is simple but powerful – to ensure no learner is left behind in a rapidly changing digital economy, and that employers play an active role in shaping a workforce that is truly future ready.”
Supported interns taking part in their curriculum based learning with Nuneaton MP Jodie Gosling
Mayor of Rugby, Councillor Barbara Brown (middle front), poised to cut the ribbon officially opening Scrum & Fork alongside John Slinger MP (middle right) and WCG Deputy Principal Stuart Evans (middle left), flanked by students from Rugby College’s catering and hospitality department
WA Management’s health and safety support at international boxing event
WA Management acted as the event safety advisor and competent persons for the 2025 World Boxing Championships, held at the Liverpool Arena.
The event took place in September last year and was the first edition of the championships organised by World Boxing, the International Olympic Committee-recognised governing body of the sport.
It was also the first ever event where both male and female boxers competed in Olympic-style boxing.
WA Management provided a total of 22 days of support, which included seven days pre-event; three days supervising event build safety; ten days at the event; and two days supervising post-event take down.
This support was delivered by three members of the team including commercial lead and managing director William Whittaker, technical lead and senior SHEQ consultant Jake Sansom and SHEQ consultant Elizabeth Davis.
And, with nearly 8,000 spectator tickets sold, and 92 per cent of attendees describing their experience positively, the event was a clear success.
WA director William Whittaker said:
“It is always a delight and an honour to be chosen to support the health and safety of these major sporting events, particularly in the case of the 2025 World Boxing Championships where we were working on an event with such historical importance for the sport.
“To have the opportunity to share our expertise with such an important worldwide event is very special, and a great opportunity for our team as well – both in experience and in witnessing a part of boxing history!”
WA Management has supported a range of high-profile events, such as the World Taekwondo Grand Prix Final 2023, ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships 2023, and Formula Kite European Championships 2024.
Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North
Skewb partners with Chamber of Commerce to strengthen commitment to the region
A fast-growing utility industry consultancy has joined Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce as its newest business influence partner.
Skewb, which is based at The Woods in Warwick and works with up to 300 employees and partners, is proud to announce its membership of the Chamber, marking an important step in strengthening regional engagement, expanding partnerships, and deepening its involvement within the local business community.
The company, which was co-founded by Shashi and Indu Seshadri in 2018, delivers targeted outcomes through specialist digital products, transformation initiatives, and business change activities for organisations across the gas, water, power, and wider infrastructure sectors.
By joining the Chamber, Skewb becomes part of an influential network of organisations committed to collaboration, innovation, and shared economic growth across Coventry and Warwickshire.
This connection supports Skewb’s ambition to build meaningful relationships, broaden
its regional footprint, and contribute to the success of the wider business ecosystem.
The Chamber plays a vital role in championing local businesses and lobbying on key economic issues - an area where Skewb is keen to contribute its expertise and voice.
Shashi Seshadri, co founder and CEO, said: “At Skewb, we believe progress is achieved through collaboration and purposeful partnerships.
“Becoming part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce strengthens our commitment to the region.
“We are excited to work alongside fellow members, share our expertise, and contribute to the growth, innovation and resilience of the wider business community.”
Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, paid a visit to the company’s offices and believes Skewb’s values align with those of the Chamber.
He said: “We are thrilled to welcome Skewb to the Chamber as Business Influence Partners. What an incredible business
and what an amazing success story for Warwickshire.
“This is a company that is growing significantly and is doing that through innovation, investment in training and development and through a very clear commitment to culture, which shines through when you visit their very cool offices in Warwick.
“We’re really excited about this partnership!”
Five Commercial Lease pitfalls Small Businesses must avoid
Many small businesses sign commercial leases without understanding key terms such as security of tenure, repairing duties, or rent review. Contracting out of security of tenure can leave a tenant with no right to stay or renew, even when the business is flourishing.
Full repairing and insuring obligations can expose tenants to major building costs, including structural repairs. Rent review clauses, break clauses and service charges can create sudden cost spikes when they are one-sided or unclear. Working with an experienced team such as Askews Legal LLP, taking early legal advice and carrying out proper checks on the building, helps small businesses avoid expensive surprises and negotiate better terms.
Pitfall 1: Overlooking Security of Tenure
Security of tenure comes from the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. It gives a business tenant the right to stay at the end of the lease and request a new one unless the landlord has specific grounds to refuse.
Many modern leases contract out of security of tenure. When the term ends, the tenant must leave if the landlord says so. Picture a young coffee shop whose owners invest heavily in fit-out and build a strong customer base. The lease ends after five years. Because the lease was contracted out, the landlord can refuse renewal or ask for a rent that no longer reflects what the business can afford.
Ask early whether the lease includes security of tenure and understand what that means for your long-term plans. If contracted out, consider safeguards such as a longer fixed term, an option to renew or agreed compensation if the landlord ends the lease at a critical point for your business.
Pitfall 2: Underestimating Full Repairing and Insuring Obligations
A full repairing and insuring lease means the tenant takes responsibility for repairs, insurance, and in some cases the structure or common areas through a service charge. Without a schedule of conditions, a tenant
may take on the responsibility of putting an old property in a far better state than when they arrived — including brickwork, roofing, drainage and external decoration.
A surveyor can identify issues before you sign. Negotiate a schedule of conditions to limit repairs to the property's condition at the start. Clarify who pays for major works such as roofs, lifts or heating systems. A few early tweaks can prevent large and unexpected bills.
Pitfall 3: Rent Review and Break Clauses That Do Not Work for You
Rent reviews take place every three to five years in many leases and are often upwardonly. A one-sided clause can push rent up even when the market falls. Vague drafting can make the review process unpredictable. Break clauses give tenants a chance to exit early and protect cash flow. Yet many contain strict conditions — full compliance with all covenants or the absence of rent arrears. A minor dispute about the service charge or an error in serving notice can make the break useless. Imagine a tenant planning to break the lease at year five who serves notice, only for the landlord to argue that a small, historic service charge shortfall makes the break invalid.
It is crucial to have an experienced commercial property solicitor review a break clause. Try to limit conditions to compliance in all material respects. Diarise notice dates and understand how to serve notice correctly. Clear rent review drafting saves time, stress and money later.
Pitfall 4: Ignoring Service Charges and Hidden Costs
Rent is not the whole story. Service charges, insurance contributions, management fees, business rates and utilities can push total occupancy costs much higher than expected. Uncapped service charges create uncertainty, particularly in converted mills, business parks or multi-let offices.
Ask for at least three years of service charge accounts. Look for caps or limits on unusual expenditure. Clarify what the building insurance covers and negotiate limits on the landlord's ability to recover professional costs from you.
Pitfall 5: Failing to Plan for Exit, Assignment and Change
Business plans evolve. Leases often include detailed provisions on assignment, underletting and sharing occupation that control how you can pass the lease to another business. Reinstatement clauses can require costly works at the end of the lease.
Negotiate balanced assignment rights, understand whether landlord consent is required for fit-out changes, and keep dilapidations in mind when budgeting. Exit planning at the start saves time and cost later.
A commercial lease is one of the most significant commitments a small business makes. Take your time, visit the building, and instruct a commercial property solicitor and a surveyor before signing.
If you have any questions regarding this article, please email enquiries@askewslegal.co
Indu Seshadri, Corin Crane, Shashi Seshadri
Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks
- Rugby
Chambers ‘manufacture’ new regional partnership
A jewel in Warwickshire’s high-tech, economic crown has played host to businesses from Cambridgeshire as part of a new partnership between the two regions.
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce invited members of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce to MIRA Tech Park for its first Manufacturing, Automotive, Construction & Engineering (MACE) group event of 2026.
The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber’s MACE Group was established around six years ago as a way of bringing together companies from the world of manufacturing, engineering and construction to network and share best practice.
Then, at the end of 2025, it reached out to colleagues in Cambridgeshire to join forces and host events in each other’s areas to broaden the network, resulting in the first event at MIRA.
Sarah Windrum, head of cluster development at MIRA Tech Park, said: “We were privileged to host the inaugural meeting of the CW and Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce MACE event and welcome manufacturers from across both geographies.
“We highlighted the investment we have made in virtual engineering and simulation to reduce the cost and carbon footprint of vehicle and vehicle technology development alongside showcasing the precision measurement equipment manufactured across the world by our parent company HORIBA.
“It was inspiring to hear from SME businesses on the positive opportunities they are creating by encouraging new talent into manufacturing and engineering and by embracing and investing in new technologies themselves."
Group chair Tom Mongan, a former president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I loved the idea of bringing two Chambers of Commerce’s manufacturing groups together and was intrigued and excited by the prospect of chairing the group once again.
“It was an inspirational plan and we were very lucky to have Sarah and her team host us at MIRA Tech Park. They put on a first class event, which left the Cambridgeshire delegation looking forward in eager anticipation to hosting the return event and
they had to admit that the bar has been set extremely high!
“After an impressive introductory presentation from Sarah, we were taken on a tour to view two incredible projects currently being undertaken, at what is undoubtedly one of the most valuable manufacturing assets in the UK.
“MIRA Tech Park is a crown jewel in our region and all of the companies working within its cluster are truly world class.”
Zoe Brennan, events & training manager at Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce, added: “Cross-county collaboration like this is vital for our manufacturing community. By bringing businesses together to share knowledge, explore innovation and strengthen connections, we create real momentum across our regions.”
Stratford hotel lands gold for green successes
One of Stratford-upon-Avon’s leading boutique hotels has landed gold recognition for its sustainability successes.
The Arden Hotel, on Waterside, has been recognised by Green Tourism – a certification that has been assessing travel, tourism and hospitality businesses’ approaches to sustainability for more than 27 years.
Expert assessors provide certification via bronze, silver and gold gradings, with The Arden awarded bronze in 2023 and silver in 2024, before clinching gold this time round.
It comes as the hotel reduced its food waste by nearly 50 per cent in 2025 versus the previous year, which has been driven by considered purchasing, enhanced waste segregation and the introduction of composting on site; with other residual food waste anaerobically digested.
The team has also been praised by Green Tourism for starting their own kitchen garden in their Stratford grounds, with fresh produce grown and used inhouse for guests to enjoy when dining, and for garnishes with their seasonal cocktails.
The Arden Hotel was also applauded for having a sustainable impact on the wider community by playing its part in supporting the work of important charitable causes –
including donating £400 to The Stratford Food Bank; hosting a fundraising event with the Shakespeare Soroptimists to support a local women’s refuge; and sponsoring a local under-15s girls football team.
Sai Nathan, general manager at The Arden Hotel, said: “The team has really risen to the challenge of adopting environmentally friendly practices, and is a great achievement for a hotel that is busy all year round thanks to the beautiful location that it sits in.
“Guests love the fact they can consume produce grown in grounds associated with William Shakespeare – and just across the road from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre – and is just one of many ways that we have continued to improve our sustainability practices over the last three years.”
For more information about The Arden Hotel visit www.theardenhotelstratford.com
MP hosts Chamber president
A local MP hosted a key regional figure in Parliament to discuss how to strengthen the business community in Coventry and Warwickshire.
Sandra Godley OBE, the president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, met Coventry North West MP Taiwo Owatemi to discuss the future of business in the region.
The high-profile meeting focused on shared ambitions to strengthen, support and grow the Coventry and Warwickshire business community, as Taiwo reaffirmed her strong commitment to supporting the Chamber and its members, recognising the vital role the organisation plays in championing enterprise, innovation and inclusive growth.
They explored plans for a dynamic programme of future events designed to provide practical support, shared learning and meaningful connections for local businesses.
Sandra said: “This was an incredibly positive and energising conversation. The Chamber is about bringing people
together, breaking down barriers and creating spaces where businesses can learn, connect and thrive.
“I’m especially excited to explore how this partnership and collaboration can help our members grow with confidence and purpose.
“Central to these plans is the power of networking, the importance of passing on knowledge and experience, and tackling the often-overlooked challenge of working in
Chamber members collaborate to give old tech a new purpose
Two Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce members have joined forces to support a local charity by giving redundant IT equipment a second lifehelping young people develop practical technology skills in the process.
SolaaS, a Coventry-based IT, telecoms and connectivity specialist, has partnered with fellow Chamber member SGD to securely repurpose outdated IT equipment for use by the charity Culture Coventry Trust, a local organisation supporting young people through hands-on technology programmes.
The collaboration began when Demsey Slater, director at SGD, met René Wheeler, managing director at SolaaS, at a Chamber networking event.
During discussions about IT upgrades, Demsey learned about SolaaS’s initiative to collect donated technology, securely wipe all data and redistribute suitable equipment to the charity.
SGD was in the process of upgrading its own IT infrastructure and was seeking a secure and responsible disposal solution.
Demsey said: “We were upgrading our IT equipment and I wasn’t quite sure what to do with it.
“We needed to be confident that any disposal method was secure and wouldn’t compromise any data on the machines.
“After meeting René and hearing about this charity, we were convinced. SolaaS dealt with everything. They collected our old tech, completely wiped it clean and issued us with certificates to validate that. We were pleased to be able to support such a fantastic initiative.”
isolation faced by many entrepreneurs and leaders.
“The conversation also addressed how multicultural businesses can be better supported, extended and grown, unlocking the full potential of Coventry and Warwickshire’s diverse economy.
“I was able to highlight Chamber’s core ethos of partnership and collaboration, emphasising how collective action creates stronger, more resilient businesses and communities.
“This shared commitment opens the door to many exciting opportunities to work together in new and impactful ways.”
Taiwo Owatemi MP said: “The Chamber plays an important role in bringing together organisations from across sectors and at every stage of growth, creating opportunities for collaboration, shared learning and a strong collective voice.
“I’m committed to working closely with partners across the region to ensure our business community has the support it needs.”
SolaaS applies professional-grade data sanitisation processes to all donated equipment, ensuring complete data security before issuing certification to donor organisations.
René added: “We deal with old IT equipment on a daily basis and it’s fantastic that it can be reused in this way. Culture Coventry Trust runs programmes to help young people to learn new skills. Being able to take a computer apart and understand what’s inside can spark an interest in technology and potentially a future career path.”
The charity uses the donated equipment to deliver practical learning experiences, helping young people build confidence, develop technical understanding and explore possible career pathways in the technology sector.
Businesses across the region upgrading their IT infrastructure are encouraged to consider donating redundant equipment through SolaaS’s secure recycling programme. For more information, visit: www.solaas.it and www.sgduk.com
Taiwo Owatemi MP with Sandra Godley OBE
Demsey Slater (director at SGD) René Wheeler (director at SolaaS) Martin Chapman (director at SGD)
No Ordinary service
Hospitality experts in Coventry and Warwickshire have launched a new service to help operators respond to major new employment laws and growing compliance demands.
No Ordinary Hospitality, which operates 12th century Coombe Abbey Hotel and 14th century St Mary’s Guildhall, has unveiled No Ordinary Compliance Services to help hospitality businesses navigate growing regulatory measures – including the Employment Rights Act 2025.
The Act, passed in December 2025, will be phased in over the next two years with widespread changes for thousands of hospitality operators to navigate – including rules on flexible working, zero-hour contracts, statutory sick pay and parental leave.
As well as responding to major government legislation, the service has been created to help hospitality businesses stand out from competitors, strengthen operational standards and protect both teams and guests by enacting robust health and safety practices.
It is led by hospitality compliance specialist Hugh Boyd, who is a technical member of the Institution of Occupational Safety & Health, and an Associate of the International Institute of Risk & Safety Management.
Hugh said the service would provide clear guidance, practical solutions, and ongoing support tailored to hospitality operators, covering the implementation of the Employment Rights Act as well as other legislation and industry standards.
“Regulation is becoming more complex and more closely enforced, and for many hospitality businesses, staying compliant is a growing challenge and absolutely essential for being competitive in a challenging market,” Hugh said.
“The industry is having to move quickly in response to the new employment laws, and with the next set of measures set to arrive in April 2026 it’s crucial that operators know exactly what’s required and seek help if they need it.
“We want to give employers peace of mind by taking that pressure off them and helping them maintain high standards not just to meet legal obligations, but to support safer workplaces and more resilient businesses.”
Packages range from compliance checks and on-site audits to training for every member of staff, incident and accident management, unannounced audits, monthly risk reviews and access to an advice line.
No Ordinary Hospitality is offering an initial consultation free of charge, with packages starting from £350 per month. For more information visit www.noordinaryhospitality.com
Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks -
Major investment to boost fleet
AMCO, a specialist provider of global supply chain solutions, has made a significant investment in its fleet with the addition of 12 new state-of-the-art Mercedes Actros trucks. This takes the firm’s total fleet to 73 vehicles, plus 95 trailers.
This investment, which is in the region of £2 million, signals the Redditch-based firm’s vision to continue to grow its portfolio of customers – which include high street names and luxury automotive brands – offering bespoke contract transport solutions across the UK.
AMCO’s fleet director Mark Jones said: “As business grows and compliance becomes increasingly rigorous, a modern fleet is essential to serve customers and keep our drivers safe and comfortable. This investment is part of our commitment to that. The new trucks feature quilted leather seats, a luxury bed with mattress topper and under bunk fridge. They were specifically designed and prepared for our drivers who work around the clock on our blue-chip partner contracts.”
The trucks boast best-in-class driver technology and comfort, including multimedia cockpit and active brake assist. Smart MirrorCam replaces traditional mirrors to improve aerodynamics, which, alongside intelligent GPS driver programmes, helps reduce fuel consumption
The trucks were purchased from Midland Truck & Van, winner of the Mercedes Benz Truck Dealer of the Year 2025.
They are fully compliant with all ULEZ areas set in the UK and are fitted with the ‘Progress’ safe system – a radar enabled pedestrian warning – along with nearside camera and audible warning. The mirrorless cameras enable the vehicles to operate within London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS) zone.
AMCO is committed to driver and vehicle safety, and is one of only 136 businesses in the UK to be accredited under the DVSA’s (Driver and Vehicle Safety Agency) Earned Recognition Scheme. The company conformed to rigorous criteria over a two-year timeframe to gain accreditation.
AMCO’s group deputy managing director Justin Miller added: “We have a long-standing driver workforce which is testament to our dedication to providing a good working environment.
“From the vehicles we provide and the people management, through to our purposebuilt modern facility AMCO Park, from where our 24/7 365-day operations take place. This vehicle investment is part of that ethos and will enable us to continue, and expand, the solutions-oriented offering our customers enjoy and have come to expect.”
Leadership that delivers: from theory to tangible business impact
In today’s fast-moving workplace, leaders aren’t shaped by titles – they are forged through practice, purpose, and performance.
In a thought leadership article for the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Dave Bownes, owner and director of Haynes Oliver, says that for organisations serious about thriving in the post-pandemic world, leadership must be more than a concept; it must be a measurable force that drives both people and commercial outcomes.
Leadership is human first, strategic second Too often, leadership is taught as a set of models or theories. Yet the real test comes when managers are expected to lead through ambiguity, change, and pressure. Many newly promoted managers – excited, capable, and ambitious – also feel isolated and underequipped to answer questions. This sense of loneliness is not a personal failing; it’s a signal that leadership development needs to be immediate, embedded, and connected to real work.
Learning that connects to business reality
Too many leadership programmes promise transformation but fail to connect with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
When leadership development is delivered in a vacuum, organisations get polished presentations – and little measurable impact.
The most effective programmes start with the business’s live challenges. Instead of abstract modules, leaders work on projects that matter – such as reducing staff turnover or improving customer experience. This real-world alignment gives leaders both the confidence to apply learning and the organisation tangible return on investment.
Embedding leadership through action, not just insight
What separates good leadership programmes from great ones is the link between learning and performance. Leaders become better not because they attended a workshop but because they were asked to do, reflect, fail, and adapt.
In successful initiatives:
• Learning is blended – mixing online and in-person experiences.
• Managers tackle real problems, not hypothetical case studies.
• Outcomes are presented to senior leadership, creating accountability and visibility.
This kind of learning culture not only builds competence – it reveals insight. When leaders dive into projects that matter, they often uncover deeper organisational truths, such
as gaps in communication or unclear cultural expectations.
Leadership is a team sport
Strong leadership doesn’t happen in isolation. It needs:
Senior-level sponsorship to reinforce priorities.
• Peer support to normalise learning challenges.
• Mentorship and coaching to navigate the messy middle between theory and practice.
For new managers especially, having trusted mentors – either internal or external – shortens the distance between doubt and confidence.
What leaders must do now
If you’re responsible for leadership in your organisation, ask yourself:
Are your development programmes linked to your strategic goals?
• Do your leaders have opportunities to apply what they learn today, not six months from now?
Have you created a culture where leadership learning is visible, supported, and valued?
If you’d like to know more about how you could transform your leadership capabilities get in touch with Dave directly for a no obligation chat: davebownes@haynesoliver.com
Local accountancy firm specialising in SMEs
A local accountancy firm has been acquired by Nuvo, marking the company’s arrival in Warwickshire.
In a seven-figure buy-out, Pentlands Accountants and Advisors, in Warwick, has become the 34th acquisition in 21 years by the Derby-based firm which was last year ranked 73rd in the UK Top 100 Accountancy Firms.
The deal is said to be a perfect fit for both businesses whose core client base is SMEs and micro businesses.
And it marks a watershed moment for Elinor Perry who last year celebrated her 20th anniversary in charge of the 28-year-old business where nine full and part-time staff service the needs of more than 250 loyal clients from its Pegasus Court offices.
She said: “This acquisition brings strength to our ability to deliver services to clients. We are now part of a much bigger organisation that has lots of skills and resources which we can tap into to help clients with their growth plans.
We were very good at doing that but now we can do it on a much bigger scale.
“Nuvo aligns seamlessly with our values and culture. By joining the Nuvo Group, we will be able to further enhance our ability to assist our clients in growing their businesses. This partnership will also enable us to offer new services and support, ensuring our clients' continued success.”
Nuvo was named the fastest growing accountancy firm in 2025, this latest acquisition is part of Nuvo’s growth plan to become a top 25 UK firm by 2030. The teams offer expertise in accountancy, tax, audit and advisory.
Founder and CEO Steve Sharp said: “It’s great to welcome Elinor and her team to the Nuvo Group. From our first conversations it was obvious the alignment between the businesses especially in terms of the culture, values and the way Pentlands position themselves as a people focused, modern firm.
Pentlands has a strong brand in the region which is why we will be co-branding.
“Our message to the Pentlands clients is that it really is business as usual, it's the same team delivering the same services from the same office and the same service levels that they've been used to just with the benefit of having a larger group behind Pentlands, which offers them access to additional services where they're needed.”
AMCO’s fleet director Mark Jones (left), with Jason Naylor of Midland Truck & Van, and Rob Evans, AMCO’s head of fleet maintenance and compliance
Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby
Indigo and green proves to be the perfect mix!
Two of the Midlands-based Hotel Indigos - Hotel Indigo Coventry and Hotel Indigo Stratford-upon-Avon, have been awarded the ‘Green Key Certification’ reaffirming their commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism.
This is the first year for both hotels to be accredited with this prestigious certification. The Green Key certificate is a leading standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. The certificate represents a commitment by businesses that their establishment adheres to the strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education and highlights the establishments’ efforts to develop a sustainable and responsible business.
Over 4,000 establishments across more than 60 countries hold a Green Key. To achieve the award, establishments are assessed against 130 criteria in 13 categories. Each application is assessed by an independent panel before being awarded.
Green Key is one of the five programmes managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The programmes are recognised by FEE’s institutional partners including the World Tourism Organisation and UN Environment Programme.
A ‘Green Team’ was set up at both hotels which have implemented several initiatives to improve the ecological footprint of operations. The accreditation signals to guests that both hotels are dedicated to reducing the environmental impact of their stay.
Jane Kendrick, chief operating officer from Mission Net Zero, who helped both hotels prepare for their accreditation, said: “Huge congratulations go to both hotels for achieving their Year One Green Key England certification, which is a fantastic achievement.”
As a celebration and thank you for every successful eco-certification from Mission Net Zero, 100 trees are to be planted in Kenya as part of a tree planting project. Each tree is estimated to capture 1.81 tonnes of CO2 over its lifetime, meaning that 100 trees equate to an estimated 181 tonnes of future CO2 captured.
Scott Rankin, group operations manager at Castlebridge Hospitality, said: “We’re delighted that both hotels have been accredited with the Green Key. We believe in providing exceptional service to our guests, but also in a way that minimises our impact on the environment. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on the environment and create a brighter future for generations to come. This is the first step in not only reducing our carbon footprint but encouraging our guests to make more sustainable choices.”
For more information about Hotel Indigo Coventry visit https://coventry.hotelindigo.com/ and for more information about Hotel Indigo Stratford-upon-Avon visit https://stratford.hotelindigo.com/
Knowledge shared is a problem solved
A Warwickshire accountant is sharing her knowledge to help firms make better decisions and reduce stress.
Rachael Chadwick-Harrison, chartered accountant and managing director of Chadwick Accountants and Bookkeepers Ltd, has built a reputation for transparency through her multi-award-winning practice.
Now, through her podcast FFS, For Finance’s Sake, she is extending that ethos far beyond her own client base, offering free, practical business advice to anyone who wants it.
With more than 55 episodes available across Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and Podbean, the podcast has steadily grown into a trusted resource for start-ups, scaling companies and established business owners who want straight answers.
“We don’t believe knowledge should sit behind a paywall. If advice can help a business owner make better decisions, reduce stress or avoid a costly mistake, it should be shared,” said Rachael.
Topics range from demystifying VAT returns and understanding bookkeeping properly, to navigating tax traps that catch out growing businesses.
Cashflow, often the silent pressure point in entrepreneurship, is addressed openly, with practical strategies that listeners can implement immediately.
There are deep dives into property investment structures, retirement planning for business owners who have prioritised growth over long-term security, and honest discussions about pricing mistakes that quietly erode profitability.
Episodes also explore HR challenges, recruiting the right team members, building a business from the ground up and scaling sustainably without burning out.
Listeners hear candid conversations about leadership, resilience and the emotional reality of entrepreneurship, including the moment many founders realise the business they created now demands more than they ever anticipated.
Light up the night at The Myton Hospice’s Moonlight Walk 2026!
Businesses across the region are invited to support an unforgettable evening of community spirit and fundraising, as The Myton Hospice’s Moonlight Walk returns to Warwick Castle and Warwick Town Centre on Friday, April 17.
Participants can take part in either the 5km or 10km route, soak up the atmosphere, and help make a difference for their local hospice.
Businesses are being urged to encourage their team to get involved, support a fantastic cause and help make a meaningful difference close to home. They can sign up at www.mytonhospice.org/Moonlight
There are also ongoing sponsorship opportunities with Myton, offering businesses valuable exposure and partnership benefits in association with a well-known and recognised charity.
The conversations heard on the podcast reflect real issues faced by real clients, from VAT confusion and cashflow crises to expansion plans and succession thinking.
For those launching a start-up, navigating growth, investing in property or planning for retirement, For Finance’s Sake provides accessible insight grounded in professional expertise.
To find out more, contact its corporate fundraising team on corporate@mytonhospice.org
Reward Electrical supports ongoing development
Reward Electrical brought a group of eight Coventry based electrical installers to the Scolmore Group’s training facilities for a specialist CPD session on the proposed updates to BS 7671.
The day provided installers with clear, practical insight into how future changes to wiring regulations may shape everyday installation work, alongside the
University of Warwick launches new spin out
The University of Warwick has announced the launch of a new spin-out company, VerIQ Limited, to transform how medical device and health technology clinical trials are designed, initiated and delivered across the UK.
Formed in partnership with University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust, VerIQ will combine Warwick Medical School’s world-leading academic and clinical research expertise, providing an integrated national clinical trial platform that enables faster, higherquality, and more cost-efficient evaluation of novel medical technologies.
“VerIQ harnesses the success and strength of our scientific leadership and showcases the impact that academic–industry collaboration can achieve,” said Dr Tim Hart, director of Warwick Innovations.
“By enabling this new company to commercially leverage Warwick’s existing capabilities and expertise, we can help position the UK at the forefront of global Medtech innovation and evidence generation.”
The launch of VerIQ supports the UK governments’ ambitions to make the UK the destination of choice for health technology development and evaluation, accelerating the pathway for innovation adoption within the NHS and improving patient outcomes.
"When having surgery, our patients want access to the best technology available," added Warwick Medical School Professor and UHCW orthopaedic surgeon Andy Metcalfe, chief medical officer at VerIQ.
“We need to deliver world-class studies that makes the UK the first place to come to for medical innovation. VerIQ will deliver efficient, high-quality medical research to ensure that patients get access to new technologies quickly and safely, improving their care and outcomes.”
The spin-out will create an integrated clinical ecosystem that supports Medtech innovators - from early-stage start-ups to established multinational manufacturers - to design, launch, and execute clinical studies with unprecedented speed and scientific rigour.
“The UK has the talent, infrastructure, and regulatory framework to lead the world in Medtech innovation,” said Dr Joe Dupere, chief executive officer of VerIQ Limited. “VerIQ Limited will transform proven research excellence into an agile commercial platform, helping to ensure that life-changing technologies reach patients faster, without compromising scientific integrity.”
opportunity to engage directly with one of the industry’s leading manufacturers.
For Reward Electrical, which is independently owned and rooted in Coventry, the initiative reflects a broader ambition to help strengthen the regional skills base and encourage closer collaboration between local businesses, installers and suppliers.
Warwick brings extensive experience in translational research and clinical trial design, supported by strong partnerships with NHS Trusts and national health technology evaluation programmes.
Initial work through VerIQ will focus on orthopaedics and wider Medtech trials, combining Warwick’s academic leadership with the new spin-out’s dedicated operational capacity to streamline trial start-up, accelerate participant recruitment, and deliver consistent, high-quality data.
From her base in Bidford-on-Avon, Rachael leads a fast-growing, awardwinning accountancy firm supporting hundreds of businesses across the UK.
Louise dives into her business after making the most of swimming trend
The rise in open water swimming has led a Warwickshire woman to make a splash with a successful venture.
And now Louise Powell, who runs Together We Swim, is looking to grow the business in 2026 after giving up her day job as an occupational therapist and receiving support through the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.
Louise began open water swimming as a hobby and once she felt the benefits to her own health and wellbeing, she was hooked. That passion grew and she trained to become an open water swimming coach and launched Together We Swim, offering group introductory sessions once a month.
Louise has gone on to support more than 250 people to start open water swimming in the idyllic setting of Burton Farm Cafe in Burton Hastings.
The business is now opening up additional courses and is developing a strong community of swimmers who stay in touch and swim together long after they have completed their lessons.
The fully funded support through the Chamber was part of the Project Warwickshire programme which saw Louise receive oneto-one help from adviser Russell Grant, who has helped build her knowledge of business and encouraged her to find recurring revenue streams.
Project Warwickshire forms part of Warwickshire County Councils, Business Growth Warwickshire Business Support programme. The Project Warwickshire strand is delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council. It is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council.
Louise said: “I was looking for a hobby a few years ago. I wanted something inclusive where it didn’t matter how you looked and could just be yourself.
“I discovered open water swimming and absolutely loved it. I was approaching 50 and was starting to think about retirement plans and was looking at potentially starting a business.
“I decided to combine the two and trained to be an open water swimming coach and as it’s becoming more and more popular, I am getting more enquiries. The physical and mental wellbeing benefits are huge, especially when you swim somewhere like Burton Farm where it is natural spring water and surrounded by trees and nature.
“I’ve been running the business at the same time as working as an occupational therapist within social care. I’ve now given up the day job and will carry on being an occupational therapist privately but the extra time gives me an opportunity to grow the business.
“I met Russell at a networking event and he got in touch after that and I’ve loved every minute of the support he’s been able to give.
“He’s helped me with new ideas and he’s given me lots of practical tips too to help me run the business. I’ll be honest, I was pretty clueless when it came to business before this and he’s made it really easy for me to ask questions and not feel silly for not knowing the answer.
“One of the big things he’s urged me to look at is finding repeat revenues and that’s something I am going to be working hard on in 2026 now I have more time to focus on the business.”
Russell said: “Open water swimming is incredibly popular but it is important that people understand what they are doing and get some form of lessons beforehand – and that’s why Together We Swim is proving to be such a success.
“Louise has pulled together her experience as an occupational therapist and her love for open water swimming and created a great business. We’ve had some great meetings and she has put into practice everything we’ve discussed, ready to make an even bigger splash in 2026.”
Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Project Warwickshire supports small businesses in the hospitality, leisure and tourism sector, such as Louise’s. The support provided is fully funded and can help to bring in additional business knowledge and support to Warwickshire’s small businesses.
“Louise created a business from a passion which has allowed her to share her love for open water swimming and through the dedicated business support and guidance from Project Warwickshire she has been able to sustain and grow her business for the future.”
Councillor Nicky King, Portfolio Holder for Business and Regeneration at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said: “Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council are committed to helping businesses in the borough flourish. In partnership with Warwickshire County Council, we are delighted that Louise Powell, who runs Together We Swim, was able to access support with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce as part of the Project Warwickshire programme. I would encourage every business owner to contact us to see what support is available.”
Success baked in after Nuneaton business receives support
A home-based Nuneaton bakery business is on the rise after receiving support.
Wild Breads Bakery was established by Siyana and Alex Yanarov from their Camp Hill home and has gone from baking breads for friends to producing up to 350 loaves a week which are sold to a range of customers including individuals and businesses, as well as at local markets.
Such has been the success of the bakery, the couple have invested in creating a separate micro-bakery building in their garden to stop the business taking over their house, where Siyana home-educates their children.
The sourdough breads – as well as a host of other products that have been added to the range – are made with a variety of natural ingredients, including items such as elderflower and blackberries that they forage for locally.
The rapid growth, which has also seen the company pick up a string of awards, will see the business take on new members of staff in 2026 in order to meet the strong demand for its baked items, which also include cookies and banana breads.
Wild Breads Bakery has been supported by the Warwickshire Start-Up Business Support programme, which is delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of Warwickshire County Council, via Business Growth Warwickshire. The programmes are funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council.
The business received one-to-one help from Chamber business adviser Cathy Homer, who has vast experience within the food and drink industry.
Cathy helped with everything from registering the home kitchen through to Siyana achieving her Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
On top of that, Cathy advised on a range of topics such as financial record-keeping, managing start-up costs, and issuing professional customer invoices.
The support also included help with branding and storytelling, with Siyana attending marketing and social media workshops.
Siyana said: “I started baking bread for my family because I just wasn’t happy with what was on the market. I wanted real bread, without additives or chemicals and there was nothing available.
“After that, I started to get requests from friends, and it just took off from there and we decided to launch the business.
“I home educate my children and I wanted something that would allow me to continue to do that so having a home bakery was ideal.
“When we launched, we were so overwhelmed with orders that we had to carry some over to the next weekend. Then we bought a second oven and then we decided we needed to invest in a dedicated building and oven in the garden, because demand was so high.
“We are really pleased that we can use locally sourced, foraged products and that we can highlight the benefits of eating such natural foods. It is something that is important to us and played a part in the name of the business.
“We wouldn’t be where we are today with the business without the help of Cathy and the Chamber of Commerce. She understood straight away what we were trying to achieve and gave such great advice. There is so much behind running a business from finance to marketing and it was great to get help on all of that.
“But Cathy also helped us to know how to set boundaries and remember the reason for starting the business in the first place. We’re excited for the next 12 months and what is has to offer.”
Cathy added: “I am really pleased to see the progress that Wild Breads Bakery has made in such a short space of time.
“The demand for the products was there from the outset and, through our support, we could help to ensure that Siyana and Alex got some of the fundamentals right in order to make sure the success worked for them, not only as a business but also as a family.”
Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “The Business Start-Up programme is dedicated to supporting new businesses to fill the knowledge gap, helping them towards a successful start.
“The programme supported Siyana and Alex to set up their new business, scaling up from baking in their kitchen to creating dedicated premises in their garden. They received guidance through the process of registering the business, ensuring they have processes in place to run an efficient business and opportunities to develop their marketing skills to help grow their customer base.”
Councillor Nicky King, Portfolio Holder for Business and Regeneration at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said: “I am delighted that Siyana and Alex Yanarov of Wild Breads Bakery, were able to access business support provided by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of Warwickshire County Council, via Business Growth Warwickshire.
“Their expertise combined with our commitment to fostering local economic growth provides a foundation for supporting our entrepreneurs. I hope that the support available will help even more local businesses to flourish.”
Heleni Lindsell (Warwickshire County Council), Russell Grant (Chamber), Louise Powell (Together We Swim)
Carol Ingleston (Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council), Cathy Homer (Chamber of Commerce), Siyana Yanarov, Alex Yanarov, Rob Howard (Warwickshire County Council), Rebecca Corr (Warwickshire County Council).
Business Support
Business support helps fitness studio to shape up!
A fitness studio in Kenilworth has more than doubled its client base after working with an adviser who helped to get the business into shape!
CrossFit Time Keeper was established by Jack Hill and Steve Turbit three years ago when Jack decided to quit his job as a teacher and start a business, building on his background in sports science and martial arts.
The business moved to its own training hub in Farmer Ward Road, Kenilworth, and specialises in CrossFit methods of training which includes varied workouts to improve functional fitness and movement.
It had attracted a handful of members but its approach to marketing meant it was struggling to bring in a wider variety of customers.
Jack enlisted the help of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, through the fully funded Project Warwickshire Business Support Programme and worked with business adviser Marie Stephenson.
Project Warwickshire forms part of Warwickshire County Councils, Business Growth Warwickshire Business Support programme. The Project Warwickshire strand is delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council. It is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council.
Through the support, Marie helped to give the business a sharper marketing focus by targeting specific demographics rather than adopting a scattergun approach, which led to an increase in women signing up as members.
Jack also attended social media classes to help gain practical skills which he has put into practice at the same time as getting a better understanding of financial and business planning.
Marie also encouraged him to look at other businesses in the same field to see if he could draw inspiration from them.
As a result of the support, membership has doubled with a near 50/50 split in genders compared to its male-dominated customerbase only a few months before.
Now, CrossFit Time Keeper is ready to make the most of people’s desires to get fit in the New Year by signing up more clients and focus on retention by helping them become active for the long term too.
Jack said: “I decided it was time to leave the teaching profession and wanted to pursue my passion for fitness as a business.
“Steve and I had become good friends and we decided we would combine our knowledge and skills to launch our own gym.
“We had really good feedback from clients but we needed to grow, and the support from Marie was absolutely invaluable. It was like having our own personal trainer but on the business side!
“Where we help get people into shape physically, Marie coached us in marketing, finances and business planning and we saw results really quickly.
“It’s given us that extra confidence and knowledge to help us grow and we’re looking forward to 2026 with real positivity.”
Marie said: “I really enjoyed working with Jack because he was willing to take everything on board and it has been a real success.
“When he decided to widen the target audience for the business to include women, we changed the website to reflect this and encouraged more social media posts featuring women and their success stories.
“His membership doubled in just a few months and then grew even further. We worked really well together and I am
so pleased to see them in good shape to expand again in 2026.”
Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “The dedicated support from Project Warwickshire has allowed Jack and Steve to build upon their fitness knowledge and create a targeted marketing plan to increase their membership over a short period of time.
Project Warwickshire also supported Jack and Steve to identify and create a long-term approach to membership ensuring steady growth for the business.
“The support from programmes such as Project Warwickshire is there to help small businesses grow and thrive by providing
additional business-based knowledge to create lasting local businesses within Warwickshire.”
Councillor Ella Billiald, Portfolio Holder for Arts, Culture and Economy at Warwick District Council commented: “The District Council is pleased to lend its support to CrossFit Time Keeper and other fledgling businesses in our district through this excellent support programme.
“We are delighted to see the positive impact it is having and would encourage similar organisations to get in touch with the Chamber to find out about the specialist help that is available to them.”
Project Warwickshire Business Support for Tourism, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality SMEs is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council. Responsibility for the planning and delivery of UKSPF was part of the Level 2 Devolution Deal secured by Warwickshire County Council in 2024. Warwickshire’s allocation of UKSPF is supporting a package of communities & place, business support, and people & skills activities in 2025/26.
To find out more about the programme and others available to your business, including eligibility please go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/
Labour of love as mums launch new business
When Warwickshire mum Melissa Schmidt decided to launch a business to improve the experience of pregnancy, birth and parenthood for other families in the region, little did she know that Vicky Morgan, who lived just a few miles away, was planning to do the same!
Both Melissa, who lives in Moreton Morrell, and Vicky, who lives in Heathcote, had given birth to their first children in the spring of 2020 but neither had the ‘best experience’. And, despite not knowing each other at the time, both of them saw a gap in the market for a business to support families across the area in everything from antenatal classes through post-birth bonding.
“I knew that there was a better way of doing things and was thinking about how it might work as a business,” said Melissa. “Then I saw a post from Vicky on Facebook pretty much describing everything I was thinking and that she was looking for a name for the business!
“I thought: ‘that’s my idea!’ I got in touch and we decided to go for a coffee to see if there was a way we could work together.”
Fast forward three hours and they were launching a new business – Beyond the Bump – together and jump to today and they have already supported hundreds of families in the area, and both have another two children of their own!
And now, after receiving support from Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce business adviser Saffron Medway, they have just taken on their first premises in Market Place, Warwick, to deliver their services and classes.
Saffron’s support came through the Business Start-Up Support programme delivered by the Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of Warwickshire County Council, via Business Growth Warwickshire. Melissa said: “There were so many coincidences leading up to setting up the business and they have continued, including the timings of the birth of our second and third children!
“The first coincidence was our experience leading up to, during and after the birth of our first children. We both thought there was a better way and had the idea for a business.
“When we launched, we would deliver classes in community centres and sports halls, and we could see that there was a real market for what we were doing.
“We could see that there was potential to grow and to reach more people. Working with Saffron, we refined what we were doing from a marketing point of view and looked at how we could do things in a much more efficient way.
“She has just been a brilliant support – we realised there was so much we didn’t know about actually running a business and Saffron has helped us to have confidence in our ideas.”
As well as growing into its own centre and expanding its range of support, Beyond the Bump is now able to reach more people after becoming a community interest company which is seeing referrals from the NHS and other bodies.
Saffron said: “From the moment I met Melissa and Vicky, it was clear they had ambitious plans for their business. Together, we turned those ideas into actionable strategies. I supported them through staffing challenges, developed social media marketing concepts, and helped shape a clear growth plan.
“Since then, they’ve relocated to a larger, more suitable premises and are thriving, evidence of the solid foundations we built together.
“Remarkably, both Melissa and Vicky welcomed new babies during our time working together, yet their drive and determination never wavered. Their commitment to their business has been truly inspiring.”
Councillor Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “The Business Start Up programme provides dedicated support for our new local businesses.
“This support has helped Melissa and Vicky to develop and set out their growth plan and strategy for Beyond the Bump, helping them overcome challenges and grow their business including securing their first premises where they will continue to deliver their services and classes.”
The Warwickshire Start-Up Business Support programme is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council. Responsibility for the planning and delivery of UKSPF was part of the Level 2 Devolution Deal secured by Warwickshire County Council in 2024. Warwickshire’s allocation of UKSPF is supporting a package of communities & place, business support, and people & skills activities in 2025/26. To find out more about Business Support and others available to your business, including eligibility please go to www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/
Jack Hill (CrossFit Time Keeper), Heleni Lindsell (Warwickshire County Council), Marie Stephenson (Chamber), Joanne Randall (Warwick District Council).
Cllr Rob Howard (back) with, left to right, Saffron Medway (C&W Chamber of Commerce), Vicky Morgan (Beyond the Bump), Melissa Schmidt (Beyond the Bump) with baby Bryony, Rebecca Corr (Warwickshire County Council)
New summer events programme coming to Coventry city centre
A new and exciting programme of summer events is set to take place in Coventry city centre later this year, offering music, culture and creative celebration.
At the heart of the free and low-cost events programme will be Godiva in the City, a two-day event on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July showcasing local musicians and creative talent.
These new events will take place in a year when the long-running Godiva Festival is being paused to allow time for a full review of how it can be delivered sustainably in the future. The pause by Coventry City Council follows rising costs and industry challenges affecting festivals across the UK.
The replacement programme will include events that support the city’s local creative sectors and represent its values and heritage.
Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, deputy leader of Coventry City Council and cabinet member for Events, said: “Godiva Festival has been part of Coventry for over 25 years and we recognise its importance to residents, artists and wider audiences.
“However, like many festivals across the country, we are facing rising costs and industry challenges, and it is important that we carefully review how the festival can be delivered in a sustainable and cost-effective way that is affordable for Coventry’s residents. This time will allow us to explore future options.
“Whilst the Festival will not take place this year, our support for Coventry’s creative sector and community events continues.
"We’d like to thank everyone who has supported Godiva Festival over the years, and we remain committed to supporting local music and creative talent.
“Our programme of exciting free and lowcost city centre events will be taking place for residents to enjoy this summer, and we can’t wait to tell you more about our plans.”
Flying the flag for the night-time economy
Coventry’s night-time economy has been awarded a major international accreditation for the very first time, recognising the city as a safe destination after dark.
The city has been recognised with prestigious Purple Flag status, highlighting Coventry city centre, Earlsdon High Street and the Kasbah in Primrose Hill Street as providing a safe, entertaining, diverse and enjoyable night out.
Coventry Business Improvement District (BID), Coventry City Council and West Midlands Police have been working in partnership to raise standards and ensure positive night-time experiences for residents, visitors and people working in the city centre.
Purple Flag accreditation reflects coordinated work across the partnership. Through the Coventry Community Safety Partnership, the Night Time Economy Steering Group and the Responsible Authority Working Group, partners have put in measures to strengthen city centre management and safety.
This work includes licensing and compliance activity, taxi safeguarding checks, Ask for Angela and Best Bar None, and preparedness activity under Protect & Prepare.
The BID and Coventry City Council relaunched the Ask for Angela scheme, which provides a way for anyone who feels vulnerable in a bar or venue to discreetly ask for help from staff. This included launching a training scheme, with 150 people completing the training over the last 12 months.
Over the last three years the BID has also purchased 200,000 safety items for venues to distribute free of charge, including DrinkSafe anti-spiking covers, bottle toppers and DrinkSafe testing strips to allow venues to spotcheck if a drink has been spiked.
Further joint activity includes, the installation of 100 public defibrillators and bleed kits over the last three years.
Coventry City Council’s Licensing Team in partnership with Coventry BID, delivers the Best Bar None accreditation scheme in the city. Now in its fourth year, the accreditation highlights to customers that a venue excels in safety, training, management and customer experience.
Visitor boost for city venue
Coventry Building Society Arena welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors in 2025 as it celebrated its 20th anniversary and continued its rise under new Coventry City ownership.
The leading venue for business, sport and entertainment saw a seven per cent increase in visitor numbers last year, with growth in live events, football attendances and casino visitors.
It signalled a record year since the pandemic for visitors to the venue which was brought under new ownership in August 2025.
The venue saw an increase in enquiries for its conference and exhibition space of six per cent, which includes recently launched ‘The Curve’, despite a challenging economic environment for the events sector.
This led to the venue hosting 547 exhibitions, conferences, meetings, annual awards and dinners, and live events over the year.
Coventry Building Society Arena has also attracted major national brands to host private events for staff and suppliers, contributing to the £2.8 million of new business brought into the venue by its conference and exhibitions business. Conferences, exhibitions and meetings remain the foundations of the Arena’s success,
reflected in improved utilisation across its main halls and convention centre, with utilisation rising to an average of 61 per cent across both spaces.
This has been supported with a move by event organisers toward longer, multi-day events, with exhibitions utilising more space across the venue and extending their tenancies and, as a result, attracting additional visitors.
Live performances in the Indoor Arena from artists including Ed Sheeran, Bob Dylan and Tom Grennan welcomed more than 38,000 visitors to the venue.
That number is set to grow again in 2026 when the stadium bowl welcomes Take That for three nights and as the venue continues to build the profile of its live events brand, CBS Live.
The on-site Grosvenor Casino also recorded a strong year, welcoming around 200,000 visitors, supported by the continued success of flagship events including Goliath, the UK’s largest live poker tournament.
The Arena’s on-site Doubletree by Hilton Hotel saw occupancy rates, average room rates and revenue per available room remain stable. This was against the backdrop of a
Taxi marshals have also been introduced in the city centre to help people get home safely and Coventry BID’s street patrol team has expanded its service to patrol in the evening to deter crime and anti-social behaviour, while education sessions have been held with students arriving in Coventry for the first time.
The city welcomed independent assessors from the Association of Town Centre Management in November, who spent a full day and night in the city centre and visited pubs, bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
The assessment took place alongside the Christmas Market and Festival of Christmas, showcasing Coventry at one of its busiest and most dynamic times of year.
major refurbishment project, which saw all 121 bedrooms completed last year and is now focused on public areas in its final phase. The venue has also committed to continue to support the local supply chain and community through a series of partnerships sealed over the last year, including the launch of its work with two charity partners Coventry Foodbank and Coventry & Warwickshire Children’s Charity.
Partners and events hosted at the venue have been able to benefit from the growing digital marketing footprint of the venue too, with social media impressions up by 236 per cent and website visitors growing by more than 500,000.
Paul Michael, managing director at Coventry Building Society Arena, said: “It was another huge year for the venue, headlined by our 20th anniversary celebrations, new ownership and continued investment.”
Local NHS charity celebrates 30 years of “sprinkling some magic” across
SWFT NHS Charity is proudly celebrating 30 years of supporting patients, staff and services across South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust.
Since its establishment in May 1996, the charity has been “sprinkling some magic” across Warwick, Leamington Spa, Stratford upon Avon and Shipston hospitals, as well as local NHS community services, funding important extras that go beyond core NHS funding and help to create the best possible environments for patient care.
As the charity enters its milestone 30th birthday year in 2026, it is inviting businesses, supporters and the wider community to join a year-long programme of celebrations, fundraising events and partnership opportunities designed to create magical memories while making a lasting impact.
South Warwickshire
A spokesperson said: “With the help of our community, we can provide our local NHS with state-of-the-art medical equipment, bright and welcoming décor in patient and waiting areas, entertainment and wellbeing resources for inpatients and initiatives that boost wellbeing and morale amongst our amazing NHS staff.
“By funding these additional extras, the charity helps hardworking NHS teams deliver exceptional care in comfortable, supportive environments for everyone who relies on local NHS services.”
It also leads to inspiring stories such as that of Amber Lechmere, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021 and had treatment at the Aylesford and Rigby Cancer Units at Warwick and Stratford upon Avon hospitals.
Her treatment inspired her to join SWFT as a member of staff, working at the Rigby Unit.
Amber said: "Thanks to the exceptional level of care and treatment I received from our cancer and chemotherapy units at Stratford Upon Avon and Warwick Hospitals, I not only survived cancer, but it inspired me to change career. So now I work in the very unit I spent many hours in receiving chemotherapy."
In October 2025, Amber raised an incredible £3501 for the SWFT Charity Cancer Fund by doing a sponsored head shave, marking four years since her diagnosis.
As part of the 30th anniversary celebrations, SWFT is inviting 30 businesses across the Warwickshire region to join the “SWFT Charity 30 Club” by each raising or donating at least £1,000 over the course of 2026, the year of its 30th birthday.
For more information on SWFT Charity contact charity@swft.nhs.uk
The Heart of England Conference and Events Centre Your Destination for Unforgettable Corporate Events & Festivals
Set within acres of picturesque Warwickshire countryside, surrounded by open parkland, lakes and woodland, The Heart of England Conference and Events Centre offers a distinctive backdrop for corporate gatherings, team-building days and large-scale company festivals.
The venue is perfectly positioned to deliver engaging corporate fun days and fully personalised festival experiences. Whether it’s a leadership retreat, an action-packed outdoor challenge or a company-wide celebration, the experienced team works closely with organisers to bring every vision to life.
What truly sets the venue apart is its flexibility and attention to detail. The expansive grounds provide a blank canvas for creativity — from woodland adventure challenges and lakeside competitions to branded festival zones and relaxation areas. Events can be enhanced with bespoke catering, live entertainment, staging, themed décor and even fairground rides, ensuring every occasion feels unique and memorable.
A Standout Space: The Tipi
Among its collection of versatile event spaces is the much-loved Tipi — a striking Nordic-style giant tipi that combines rustic charm with contemporary style. With twinkling festoon lighting and a relaxed yet atmospheric setting, it offers an unforgettable environment for private dining, networking events and festivalstyle celebrations that naturally bring people together — ideal for companies seeking something more dynamic than a traditional function room.
Designed to Inspire
From tailored team-building programmes that strengthen collaboration and morale, to vibrant corporate and family festivals filled with live entertainment and gourmet food stalls, The Heart of England creates events that leave lasting impressions. If you’re planning a corporate event that goes beyond the ordinary, The Heart of England offers the space, creativity and expertise to make it exceptional.
01676 540333
www.heartofengland.uk
Local healthcare business highlights value of Chamber support in entering regulated market
A Coventry and Warwickshire-based healthcare business is demonstrating how local business support can help SMEs successfully enter complex regulated sectors.
Oras Medical, which operates in the bladder scanners and medical equipment field, has been developing its presence in the healthcare market - a sector often seen as difficult for smaller businesses to access due to strict compliance requirements, long procurement cycles and the need to build strong clinical credibility.
Like many SMEs entering regulated industries, the business initially faced challenges around funding readiness, structuring the organisation appropriately and gaining a clearer understanding of how healthcare providers evaluate suppliers.
These early hurdles highlighted the importance of both financial planning and access to practical sector insight.
Support from Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce played a key role in helping the business navigate this stage of its development. Access to funding guidance helped shape a more sustainable operating model, encouraging a focus on governance, risk awareness and long-term viability rather than rapid expansion.
Alongside this, the Chamber’s networking opportunities provided valuable peer learning and cross-sector insight. Engagement with other local businesses operating in regulated or capital-intensive environments helped the company identify potential blind spots, refine its approach and better understand the expectations of healthcare stakeholders.
As a result, the business has progressed with clearer structures in place, improved funding readiness and a more measured route into the healthcare market. This includes placing greater emphasis on compliance, staff training and long-term service delivery, reflecting the realities of working in a sector where credibility and consistency are essential.
Jeffrey Oravbiere, of Oras Medical,said: “The experience highlights the wider role that regional business networks can play in supporting SMEs moving into complex markets. Access to both practical advice and meaningful connections can help businesses reduce risk, make informed decisions and build sustainable foundations for growth.
“With Coventry and Warwickshire continuing to support innovation across multiple sectors, the case illustrates how structured business support can help local companies turn ambition into responsible progress while strengthening the region’s reputation for enterprise and resilience.” For more information, go to https://orasmedical.com
The Letter before Action as a Commercial Debt Recovery Tool
A Letter Before Action (LBA) is often treated as a perfunctory "final warning" before issuing proceedings. In commercial debt recovery, it can be far more powerful. Used properly, and supported by technology and specialist solicitors, delivered by a partner like Debt-Claims Solicitors, an LBA becomes a repeatable, data-driven tool for protecting cashflow, reducing write-offs and giving businesses and insolvency practitioners control over entire ledgers, not just individual disputes.
Where the Letter Before Action Sits in Commercial Debt Recovery
Before issuing court proceedings for a commercial debt, the Civil Procedure Rules require a creditor to act reasonably and attempt resolution at the pre-action stage. For pure B2B debts, there is no dedicated protocol, but parties are expected to follow the Practice Direction on Pre-Action Conduct, which emphasises early information exchange and genuine attempts to settle.
In practice, this means sending a structured Letter Before Action setting out what is owed, why it is owed, how and when it must be paid, and what will happen if payment is not received. Where the debtor is an individual or sole trader, the more prescriptive Pre-Action Protocol for Debt Claims applies instead, requiring a detailed Letter of Claim and a longer response period. Courts expect a fair, transparent warning before litigation.
What a Robust Commercial LBA Must Do
A well-drafted commercial LBA should cover the parties' names and addresses; the total amount owed, including contractual or statutory interest and late payment compensation; brief details of the agreement and outstanding invoices; how payment can be made; a clear deadline, often 7–14 days in commercial matters, and an explicit warning that proceedings may follow if payment is not made or terms agreed.
Content alone is not enough. Strategically, an effective LBA should be drafted with evidence in mind so it can be exhibited if proceedings follow. It should strike a commercial tone, firm but not needlessly antagonistic, and present choices rather than a simple ultimatum: immediate payment, a payment plan, or engagement to discuss any dispute.
This is where solicitor-led drafting adds value. Many businesses assume a strongly worded email will suffice, yet courts take pre-action conduct seriously and may impose costs sanctions where behaviour is unreasonable or documentation is lacking.
Treating LBAs as a System, Not a Single Letter
The traditional approach is reactive: a debt becomes problematic, and an LBA is sent. For growing businesses and insolvency practitioners, that mindset overlooks one of the LBA's greatest strengths - standardisation.
Through structured workflows and online portals like Debt-Claims, compliant LBAs can be generated quickly, issued on solicitor letterhead, and resolved at an early stage without court action. For in-house teams under pressure, moving from ad hoc drafting to a consistent process often marks the difference between sporadic recovery and predictable results.
Centralised systems also enable effective triage. Patterns quickly emerge: who pays on first contact, who engages to negotiate, and who ignores correspondence. Persistent non-responders may justify faster escalation, while constructive debtors may be suitable for instalment arrangements or alternative dispute resolution.
Standardisation also produces valuable data, issue dates, response times, recovery rates and sector trends. When surfaced through a realtime portal, LBAs stop being an administrative burden and become a cashflow management tool. Finance teams gain clearer forecasts, and
owner-managed businesses obtain a concrete view of cash tied up in unpaid invoices. Protecting Commercial Relationships
Enforcing payment does not always require damaging a commercial relationship. Clarity without hostility is essential, neutral, factual language about the debt and its consequences is more effective than emotive accusations. Offering genuine routes to resolution, inviting the debtor to raise disputes or propose instalments, demonstrates reasonableness, something courts strongly encourage. Where the debt is modest relative to the long-term value of the relationship, the LBA can signal that litigation is not the preferred outcome while making clear it remains an available step. When to Move Beyond the LBA
Even the most carefully structured LBA process will not resolve every debt. Typical next steps include issuing a County Court or High Court claim, obtaining judgment if the claim is undefended, and selecting an enforcement method such as High Court Enforcement Officers, charging orders or third-party debt orders. Where the LBA has been managed through a structured, solicitor-led process, much of the required information is already organised, reducing delay at the point where momentum matters most.
For modern businesses, the real innovation lies not in the existence of the Letter Before Action, but in how systematically it is deployed. If your business needs debt recovery advice and guidance speak to the team at Debt-Claims. enquiries@debt-claims.com
Coventry and Birmingham-based integrated communications agency, PLMR Midlands, has achieved B Corp Certification, joining the global movement of businesses committed to using business as a force for good.
Certified by nonprofit B Lab, B Corp status recognises for-profit companies that meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. PLMR Midlands achieved its certification as part of the PLMR Group, which has offices across the UK.
There are now more than 10,000 B Corps worldwide and over 2,600 in the UK, including almost 200 in the Midlands.
The B Corp certification process assesses an organisation’s performance on environmental, governance and community issues, as well
as how it treats its customers and workers.
Additionally, as part of its score, PLMR was recognised for having an ‘Impact Business Model’, reflecting the nature of its client work for ‘Purpose-Driven and Underserved Enterprises’, with a significant majority of the Group’s revenues coming from organisations
such as schools, universities, charities, healthcare providers, public sector bodies and renewable energy companies – as well as other B Corps.
PLMR Midlands delivers a full suite of communications services to a range of industry sectors from the built environment and professional services to construction, property, leisure & tourism, education and the public sector.
The announcement follows a strong year for the group, which rose 20 places in the 2025 PRovoke Global Rankings, cemented its position amongst the PR Week Top 50, and has been shortlisted in three categories at the PRCA Public Affairs Awards next month, including large consultancy of the year.
BOXing clever with new product
Bayton Road based EXOVA unveiled a new exhibition ‘box’ at the Bicester Motion Scramble.
The company customised Alusion NV’s Flexbox on behalf of SPV, keeping the team warm and weatherproof in zero-degree temperatures at the popular event. And the company is now offering any clients its EXOBOX product, where it can tailor it to the customer’s needs, creating an eye-catching ‘on-brand’ presence for exhibitions and events.
Business development director Jenny Forbes said: “Every unit we create is fully customised for each client and each brief, to the point where it’s often completely unrecognisable from its original form.
“That’s why we’re officially giving it a new name – the EXOBOX!
“Our latest EXOBOX install for SPV provided a warm, weatherproof sanctuary at the Bicester Motion Scramble.
“Whilst others relied on stretch tents and gazebos, SPV stood out with a fully heated, premium sales and hospitality suite proving that comfort, style, and brand presence don’t need to be compromised.
“Whatever the weather and when you’re showcasing world-class brands, only the best will do!
“If you’re looking for a high-end, professional finish that delivers real impact without blowing your marketing budget, the EXOBOX could be exactly what you need.
“We have the ability to turn any brand’s crazy ideas into a reality, working with our incredible creative team and exceptional production crew to create something special!”
“Women’s health is underserved, underfunded, and incredibly important”: Jade Scott on The Traitors and the power of women’s health research
Nearly 10 million people tuned in to watch Warwick’s very own PhD student and graduate teaching assistant Jade Scott in the Traitors final. Known for her sharp instincts, calm focus, and quietly commanding presence, Jade fought off round table suspicions before finally being betrayed by the winning traitors, Stephen and Rachel.
Alongside her time in the castle, Jade is conducting pioneering research into women’s health and pregnancy, focusing on how the placenta develops and why complications occur. And she has been reflecting on what it’s like to juggle academia, national television, and the emotional intensity that comes with playing one of the UK’s most gripping games.
She said: “I was a fan of the programme already and when watching it last year I thought, ‘why not? I can do that!’
“Being a keen player of online socialdeception games, which make you think a few steps ahead, I didn’t think I’d be too bad at it.
“Entering the castle I always wanted to be a faithful, I didn’t think I could be a Traitor.
“For the first-round table you’re blindfolded, sitting so close to the person next to you, you can hear them breathing. When the blindfold came off, my face gave me away I wasn’t the only one who was flustered, but it somehow became a thing and it made me feel constantly on the defensive. That shaped my entire experience from the start.
“I was also accused of being defensive when I challenged. what was I expected to do, just sit there silently? I got so much heat, and it really annoyed me, especially when everyone else was allowed to challenge, argue, and speak freely. It felt like double standards. It was hard not to react to that. It took me a long time to stop playing defensively and grow into playing the game.
“It’s been a whirlwind since the programme! I’ve not really had chance to settle back into ‘normal’ life yet.
“I’ve got about seven months left of my PhD, and then I need to figure out what comes next. I’m weighing up my options across industry, research, and science communication and building on the nutrition business I’m working on alongside my research.
Half a million saved!
A high-net-worth property investor reduce their projected inheritance tax liability by more than £500,000, through strategic, proactive advice.
Chartered accountant and MD
Rachael ChadwickHarrison of Chadwick Accountants and Bookkeepers Ltd, based in Bidford-onAvon, Warwickshire, supported the client, a seasoned UK landlord, who had built a substantial residential property portfolio over many years.
All properties were held in their personal name, a common structure for investors who start small and grow organically. While the portfolio delivered strong rental income and consistent capital appreciation, it also created increasing exposure to higher-rate income
tax and a significant inheritance tax (IHT) risk.
As property values rose and the wider estate expanded, concerns emerged around longterm tax efficiency and the impact this could have on passing wealth to the next generation.
Upcoming legislative changes, including the planned inclusion of pension assets within taxable estates from 2027, added further urgency to what was already a growing liability.
A comprehensive review was undertaken, examining the client’s personal financial position, property ownership structure, income streams and long-term estate planning objectives. The priority was clear: reduce tax exposure while maintaining control and flexibility.
Chadwick Accountants designed and implemented a strategic restructuring of how assets were held and the solution was carefully tailored to improve overall tax efficiency, reduce higher-rate income tax exposure, and
“Without a doubt the biggest takeaways for me is not giving in to imposter syndrome. You’re capable of more than you think, I went in convinced I couldn’t play certain roles, and I proved myself wrong just by surviving as long as I did. I’ve certainly grown in confidence.
“My research at the University specialises in women’s health and pregnancy, focusing on understanding how the placenta develops. Complications in pregnancy can come about when there are errors in how the placenta forms or how it works and I’m looking to understand the ‘trophoblasts’ which are the cells that deliver nutrients to the developing baby.
“By looking at how these cells develop and form a working placenta, I’m hoping this research will help us to understand certain pregnancy complications.
“Being in the castle has made me a lot better at explaining what I do to non-experts. I’ve had to learn how to summarise years of work into a sentence or two. That’s a real skill, and one I struggled with at first.
“Now, I feel much more comfortable speaking to wider audiences. Women’s health is underserved, underfunded, and incredibly important and it matters to me that people understand why.”
create a more robust and controlled pathway for succession planning, without disrupting the client’s investment strategy.
“Tax doesn’t become a problem overnight, it builds quietly in the background while your wealth grows,” said Rachael.
“Many property investors focus on acquisition and income, but without strategic structuring, the long-term tax consequences can be substantial. The earlier you take advice, the more options you have. Good planning isn’t about avoiding tax, it’s about protecting your family, your legacy and the assets you’ve worked hard to build.”
The outcome was significant. The restructuring reduced the client’s projected inheritance tax liability by over £500,000 and delivered annual income tax savings of approximately £17,000. Crucially, these results were achieved without compromising ownership control or future investment flexibility.
Director celebrates four decades at Midlands accountancy firm
A director at a leading West Midlands accountancy practice is marking a magnificent four decades in the job – a role he feared he would lose in the first year after “spectacularly” failing his accountancy exams.
It’s a year of double celebration for Jamie Skelding, from Prime Accountants Group, as he marks 40 years in the role in the same year he will celebrate his 60th birthday.
Jamie puts his longevity and success down to being a grafter and always going the extra mile for his clients – but joked that he feared the role might be a short-lived one after he failed an early accountancy exam three times.
Fortunately, the firm then known as Pilley and Florsham saw plenty of promise in the Bablake School alumni and he worked his way through the ranks, qualifying as a chartered accountant in 1996, before becoming a partner in 2000 and a director in 2016.
“These days, I’m told people entering the workforce might have six or seven jobs over
their career. I left school, joined the firm as a junior and simply grafted,” said Jamie.
“I never wanted to be the top dog – that was never really my personality. I’ve always been half-decent at numbers, but ironically that’s not really what mattered most in the role.
“I worked diligently and always tried to do a bit more than was necessary, without expecting anything in return. That stood me in really good stead professionally and helped me progress through the firm.”
Jamie said the differences between the role he first took on in 1986 and the job he holds with Prime today are significant.
He said: “I started at our Coventry office, then spent some time in the former Leamington office – which even had an outside toilet! I’m sitting here now in the third of our refurbished offices, and it’s incredible to see how far things have come.
“Computers were literally just coming in. We had one computer in a room – in fact, it
filled the room! You had to book your slot and sit at this huge thing, which you’d leave running for what felt like hours. You’d go away and do something else and come back when it had finished doing what you needed it to do.
“To see that change to everyone having a laptop that fits in your hand, with enormous computing power, email and instant communication – it’s a completely different world.”
He added: “It’s a really exciting time for the business, with significant growth among our team and a very high calibre of talent being attracted to join us from national firms."
For more information on Prime Accountants Group, visit www.primeaccountants.co.uk.
Celebrating the legacy of George Michael at IXL
IXL Events Centre will host an extraordinary evening of music, memory and luxury, welcoming the original George Michael backing singers – Shirley Lewis, Jay Henry and Jo Garland – for a one-night-only live performance.
This special event, on May 16, 2026, marks a poignant milestone, commemorating ten years since the passing of George Michael, and honouring the enduring legacy of one of Britain’s most iconic and influential artists.
Atul Lakhani, of IXL Events Centre said: “Renowned for delivering exceptional live experiences, the IXL Events Centre provides the perfect setting for an evening of this calibre.
“Known for its grand architecture, premium production and refined hospitality, the venue will transform this performance into an immersive celebration that goes far beyond a traditional concert.
“Guests can expect an atmosphere of elegance and emotion, where world-class music meets the IXL’s signature attention to detail.
“Shirley, Jay and Jo were not simply backing singers – they were an integral part of George Michael’s sound and stage presence.
“Their harmonies helped define his live performances across decades of global tours, television appearances and intimate showcases.
“From powerful ballads to uplifting anthems, their voices added depth, soul and authenticity to songs that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Their reunion at the IXL offers a rare opportunity to experience those unmistakable harmonies live, performed by the voices that helped shape a generation.”
The evening will take guests on a carefully curated musical journey through George Michael’s timeless catalogue, celebrating his artistry, vulnerability and musical genius.
Alongside the music, the trio will share reflections and stories from their years performing alongside George, creating an intimate and meaningful tribute to an artist whose impact remains as powerful today as ever.
Atul added: “Elevating the experience further, all table packages will include an exquisite dinner provided by Sanjay Foods, one of the UK’s most highly regarded fine dining caterers.
“Renowned for their flawless execution and bold, refined flavours, Sanjay Foods will deliver a premium dining experience that perfectly complements the sophistication of the IXL and the emotional depth of the performance.
“This is more than a live show – it is a celebration of legacy, artistry and excellence. Whether you are a lifelong George Michael fan or simply seeking an unforgettable night of live entertainment in a luxury setting, this event promises to be one of the standout cultural moments of 2026.”
For more information or to book tickets go to info@ixleventscentre.com
BE THE CHANGE: Small Actions to Reduce Stress and Build Everyday Resilience
Stress-related absence, burnout and disengagement are rising and the impact on organisations is significant. Reduced productivity, increased sickness absence and higher staff turnover are often the visible signs of something deeper: teams operating under sustained pressure without the right tools or support.
April’s Stress Awareness Month 2026 theme, Be The Change, is a timely reminder that meaningful workplace wellbeing doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when organisations move beyond awareness and take practical action.
At MHIB, we help organisations turn intention into impact. Our work combines lived experience, leadership insight and evidence-based approaches to deliver practical, skills-based learning that builds confidence and shifts behaviour.
To support employers this April, we’ve launched a new workplace webinar: Be The Change – Small Actions To Reduce Stress And Build Everyday Resilience
Designed specifically for businesses and their teams, this interactive session explores:
• How stress shows up in workplace behaviours and performance
• Early signs managers and colleagues can spot
• Small, practical actions that reduce risk and build resilience
• How leaders can model healthier, more sustainable ways of working
This is not a generic awareness session. It’s a practical, action-focused webinar designed to help teams make immediate, meaningful shifts.
If you are planning wellbeing activity for April, or want to strengthen how your organisation manages pressure and performance, now is the time to act. Find out more or book the webinar for your team: https://mhib.co.uk/webinar-be-the-change
President & People
Sandra Godley OBE, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce
It has been an absolute whirlwind first few months as president of this amazing Chamber.
I obviously knew what the Chamber did before I took on this role, but seeing the work from the ‘inside’ in the way it brings businesses together, the way it connects members and the voice it provides at a local, regional and national level has blown me away.
I am absolutely determined to make the most of my time ‘in office’ and I have already been the length and breadth of the region, meeting the most wonderful businesses and organisations.
Again, I knew Coventry and Warwickshire was a special place but this is being underlined by every place I visit and every person I meet.
I returned to the Coventry Building Society Arena which was both an honour and a full circle moment for me.
This place holds decades of memories for me, moments where sport, culture, music, community and purpose have powerfully intersected.
My relationship with Coventry City Football Club runs far deeper than a single visit.
Over the years, this iconic venue has been a true creative and cultural home. I even held a performing artist residency at the casino, brought the Gospability Choir to perform in one of the exhibition halls, judged a singing competition, and had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Kanya King and the MOBO Awards to the city, a first for Coventry.
In February 2009, I performed at half-time during the FA Cup Fifth Round replay against Blackburn Rovers, singing in front of over 22,000 people as Coventry City went on to secure a historic 1–0 victory, progressing to the quarter-finals. A powerful reminder of how music, belief and shared energy can lift an entire stadium.
One of the most profound moments came in March 2018, when I performed to a full cathedral audience at the memorial for the late Cyrille Regis at Coventry Cathedral. honouring a man whose legacy transcended football and reshaped culture.
These moments remind me that stadiums and cathedrals alike are more than buildings. They are stages for leadership, remembrance, unity and aspiration. I was excited to hear about future plans the arena has, visit their large and small conference spaces and sample one of the world-famous Double Tree by Hilton Hotel cookies, seriously good! Plus, I got to see a bedroom that turns into a box for match days!
As you’ll see throughout this magazine, I’ve also been to Parliament to discuss business with Taiwo Owatemi MP and down to Stratford College to meet some of the wonderful young people whose energy and creativity will help to drive our region forward.
I visited the Job Shop in Coventry city centre to find out more about the great work that they do and I was fortunate enough to take in the amazing Blyth Hall – in the very north of Warwickshire – which is a beautiful venue that played host to a Chamber networking event. These first few months as president have made me proud of the past; energised by the present; and fully focused on the future of Coventry and Warwickshire.
Coventry man makes history with award recognition
A Coventry quantity surveyor has become the youngest recipient of a construction and development company’s most prestigious award.
Tom Jeffrey, assistant quantity surveyor at Deeley Group, has been named as the 16th recipient of the Gary Neville Award. The award was created in 2012 in tribute to former contracts manager
Gary Neville after he passed away in 2011. It is voted for by colleagues and recognises the employee who has demonstrated the highest level of commitment to their role over the previous year.
Tom, a 22-year-old from Earlsdon, joined the business in 2020 after spending a week with Deeley Group on work experience the previous year.
Bromwich Hardy recruits another partner
Fast growing commercial property agency Bromwich Hardy has recruited another experienced partner to join the Warwickshire firm.
Jo Watters (née Pate) is returning to her Midlands roots after working in Northern Ireland since 2007.
She started her career in the early 2000s with Bromwich Hardy’s managing partner Tom Bromwich, who at the time worked with her at Peter Bromwich and
Company, and she then worked with Tom when he helped found EHB Commercial.
Ms Watters said: “The experience I gained gave me the essential background to develop my career.
“Having worked with Tom before, I understand the drive and ambition behind Bromwich Hardy, so the chance to join him again and help push this business forward is incredibly exciting.”
George Eliot Hospital Charity celebrates 30 years of making a difference
George Eliot Hospital Charity is proudly celebrating its 30th birthday – marking three decades of making a real difference to patients, their families and staff at George Eliot Hospital.
Founded on 15 August 1996, the charity has worked hand-in-hand with donors, staff, community groups and partners to enhance care and wellbeing, fund vital equipment, and improve patient experiences beyond core NHS provision.
From Nuneaton, Bedworth and North Warwickshire to south-west Leicestershire, Coventry and beyond, the support of local communities has helped the charity go above and beyond for the NHS year after year.
In 2026, the charity is encouraging local people and organisations to help celebrate 30 years of the George Eliot Hospital charity.
To mark this special milestone, it is inviting local people to support its 30 for 30 campaign in aid of the hospital’s special Dorothea Unit.
The Dorothea Unit is an oncology and haematology day unit being used every week by hundreds of local people.
The charity’s aim is to raise £30,000 to replace the specialist reclining chairs that patients use when receiving chemotherapy and blood-related treatment.
Its current chairs are starting to age and would like help buying new ones that will not only improve patient comfort but also add a splash of much needed colour.
Bhim Saru, mayor of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said:
“I am honoured to have been invited to George Eliot Hospital to help launch this very special campaign in support of the Dorothea Unit.
“This appeal will make a real difference to local people receiving cancer and blood-related treatments. I encourage our community, local businesses and organisations to get behind the 30 for 30 campaign and support the fantastic work of George Eliot Hospital Charity.”
Follow George Eliot Hospital Charity on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, or visit its website to find out more.
Charnjit Saranna, co-founder and COO of EZOO, has been named by Auto30Club as a recipient of its 2026 Inspiring Automotive Women Award.
Celebrating the individuals leading inclusivity, driving cultural change and serving as role models, the initiative recognises passion, purpose, drive and commitment.
With a career spanning almost 30 years in the automotive industry, Charnjit founded EV salary sacrifice and business subscription provider EZOO in 2018 alongside husband Lash. Renowned for its unique service offer and unmatched customer care, the business aims to play a driving role in accelerating the transition to electrification.
The judges were impressed with Charnjit’s continued work to make the automotive industry a welcoming career for the next generation of female business leaders.
Charnjit said: “I’m delighted to be named alongside some of the automotive industry’s most inspiring female leaders in the Auto30Club’s Inspiring Automotive Women Award.
“Championing underrepresented groups and helping women thrive in the workplace is one of my passions, so I’m glad it has helped to put EZOO on the map as a business challenging the status quo and doing things differently.”
This recognition is the latest in a long line of recent successes for Charnjit and EZOO. Alongside expanding the team and announcing a number of important new partnerships, the business has taken home a host of awards over the past 12 months – including Charnjit being named as one of ElectricDrive’s Top Women in EV.
He joined Deeley Group as an apprentice, the same route taken by Gary many years ago.
Peter Deeley, Tom Jeffrey and Julie Neville
President & People
WMCA confirms new chief executive
The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has confirmed Ed Cox as its chief executive.
Ed has led the organisation since June 2025 in an interim capacity, driving delivery of the Mayor’s priorities on jobs, homes, growth and transport.
Following a meeting of the Employment Committee, his appointment was confirmed by the Mayor Richard Parker and the leaders of the seven local authorities that make up the WMCA Board.
Mayor Richard said: “Ed has provided strong leadership at an important moment for our region. He has driven delivery, strengthened our partnerships and brought clarity and focus to the organisation.
“We are moving at pace to create jobs, build homes and improve transport.
Ed’s appointment gives us stability and momentum as we deliver the Growth Plan and secure more investment for the West Midlands.”
Birmingham-born, Ed joined the WMCA in May 2020 as director of public service
reform. He later became deputy chief executive, leading strategy, economy and net zero, before being appointed interim chief executive in June 2025.
Since stepping into the role, he has strengthened collaboration with local authorities and partners, helped secure a £2 billion multi-year Integrated Settlement with government and led reforms to stabilise finances, modernise governance and refresh leadership across the organisation.
He said: “It has been a privilege to serve the West Midlands over the past five years, and I’m incredibly excited to continue this by leading the WMCA at such a critical moment for the region.”
Flagship appointment for Prime
Leading independent accountancy practice Prime Accountants Group has seen its team of tax experts grow again with the “flagship” appointment of Andrew Cockman.
Andrew takes up the role of head of private client at West Midlands-based Prime after gaining widespread experience with global firms including Deloitte, PwC and Grant Thornton.
He brings extensive experience in advising high-net-worth individuals, international families and trustees on complex private client tax matters, specialising in inheritance tax (IHT) and capital gains tax planning.
Andrew said: “It’s really exciting to work with a growing business like Prime so the team can benefit from the experience I've garnered over the years.
Lodders appoints director of client experience
Law firm Lodders has appointed experienced business development specialist Kathryn Small as director of client experience.
With over 25 years’ experience in professional services marketing and business development, Kathryn joins the firm from Clearwater, Corporate Finance.
At Lodders, Kathryn will be focused on business development across the firm’s
Promotion at IPP
Leading European pallet pooler IPP has promoted experienced supply chain professional Demi Crabbe to commercial director – her second senior management promotion in as many years.
The move comes just 12 months after IPP, which has its UK and Ireland headquarters in Coventry, promoted Demi to senior commercial development manager.
Demi, who has been with the business for 14 years, will report to regional managing director Andy Maddock as part of the role, which is focused on
shaping and delivering the UK and Ireland commercial strategy.
The position will include leading IPP’s commercial vision and teams along with supporting its growth plans and digital transformation agenda.
Demi will also help identify new opportunities, strengthen and evolve the customer experience and help ensure alignment across European markets.
Demi said: “I’m really looking forward to putting my own stamp on the role and helping shape our strategic direction at a higher level. I’ve developed lots of ideas
full breadth of services as well as streamlining and enhancing the client experience and leading the marketing team.
She said: “In a heavily saturated legal market, providing an outstanding client experience is a key differentiator. My role will be to show clients ‘the Lodders way’ of doing things and going beyond the transaction to understand how clients feel following every interaction they have with us.”
over the years, and now I’m in a position to implement them and drive meaningful change.”
New manager for four-star hotel
A four-star Coventry hotel has appointed a new manager as a major multi-million-pound refurbishment enters its final stage.
Doubletree by Hilton Coventry Building Society Arena has welcomed Mark Smith to lead the team at the 121-bedroom hotel. Mark brings neary 40 years of hospitality experience to the role, having worked for hotels across the UK, and recently led the serviced apartment portfolio for Coventry University.
Victoria up for two awards
founder of
been nominated for the Woman
Awards
placing her amongst inspiring female entrepreneurs making significant impacts across UK business.
The awards celebrate women driving change within their industries. For Victoria, who has built her marketing business in Coventry, the nomination validates almost two years of dedicated effort in establishing Bearhat Marketing as a trusted partner for ambitious businesses.
The growing tax team at West Midlands-based Prime Accountants Group. (L-R) Jagdeep Sahota (tax manager), Stuart Gooderham (tax director), Paislei Godley (tax director) and Andrew Cockman (head of private client).
Mark Smith, new manager of Doubletree by Hilton Coventry Building Society Arena, with Paul Michael, Managing Director at Coventry Building Society Arena.
Victoria Steele,
Bearhat Marketing, has
Who Achieves
2026,
Lodders’ managing partner Paul Mourton and director of client experience, Kathryn Small.
Business Influence Members
Skewb Ltd
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01926 505 444
info@skewb.uk
https://skewb.co.uk/
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C-MAC SMT Limited
Electronic Manufacturers & Sub Contractors 01926 453050 www.cmac.com
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Konduit Ltd
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6th Sense PA
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Charities & Benevolent Organisations 07976 731496 ariana.mirbagheri@ ymcaheartofengland.org.uk https://ymcaheartofengland.org.uk/ Your Man With A VanNuneaton/Coventry/Leicester/ Derby/Nottingham
At Chadwick Accountants & Bookkeepers, we’re offering a FREE 20 minute Tax Efficiency Check for businesses.
Expiry Date: 30/04/2026
Circle Insurance Services Ltd
As your business evolves, so do your risks, and your insurance cover should keep pace. That’s why we’re offering a complimentary 30-minute mid-term business insurance review with one of our experienced Account Executives.
Expiry Date: 31/05/2026
Reward Electrical Distributors Ltd
We are offering Chamber members Free Lighting Design Service and Free Solar Survey.
Expiry Date: 31/03/2026
BUSINESS CONNECT & GLOBAL Members
CJS Safety Systems Ltd (SafeGate)
Exclusive Offer for Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Members of 15% off all training courses booked before 31st March 2026.
Expiry Date: 31/03/2026
omnigo®
Chamber members can now access an exclusive payment review and rate guarantee through omnigo, official partner to DOJO. If you’re taking card payments, there’s a strong chance you’re overpaying.
Expiry Date: 31/03/2026
TMW Resilience
This March, Chamber of Coventry & Warwickshire members can take advantage of an exclusive deal: sign up to our virtual Data Protection Officer service and receive 14 months of cover for the price of 12.
Expiry Date: 31/03/2026
Custom Heat Ltd
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce members and their employees will receive a 10% discount when purchasing either a new Custom Heat Care Plan or a Boiler Service.
Expiry Date: 30/04/2026
St. Swift Consulting
St. Swift Consulting is offering a complimentary 90-minute strategy session to support leaders navigating people, performance or organisational challenges.
Expiry Date: 01/04/2026
The Impact of Food Culture on Wellbeing in the Workplace
The Meriden Hospital, part of the Circle Health Group, is offering 20% discount on health assessments to Chamber members.
Expiry Date: 31/03/2026
Westfield Health
For a limited time, Chamber members will save £80 per person when they buy a single place or multiple places on our online Mental Health First Aid course — from £285 per person (RRP from £365 per person).
Expiry Date: 30/06/2026
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Draycote Hotel
Draycote Hotel, London Road, Thurlaston, Rugby, CV23 9LF
Date: 15 March 2026
Time: 12.00pm – 3.00pm
Mother’s Day at Bosworth Hall Hotel
Bosworth Hall Hotel, The Park, Market Bosworth, Nuneaton, CV13 0LP
