C&W in Business November 2021

Issue 86 November - December 2021 This edition is delivered in partnership with

Steve Harcourt A Prime time for regional accountant Page 20

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Foreword

Contents

November - December 2021 Dear Chamber of Commerce Member,

by Louise Bennett OBE DL Chief Executive Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

As we approach the winter months, I guess our thinking and focus is on successful and strong business and organisational performance set in the context of keeping ourselves, our teams and our customers Covid-19 safe.

there are also challenges, not least, the ongoing and frustrating impact of our transition from the EU. If you are an importer/exporter and need support, do not hesitate to contact our Chamber International Trade Hub on 02476 654321.

We will all be hoping that the Government does not need to instigate its Winter Covid-19 Plan/s which could see restrictions again on the way we go about our lives. So, a simple message is to stay Covid-19 safe, keep our workplaces safe and please keep others safe.

In my mind, Coventry and Warwickshire continues to be a resilient and vibrant sub-region and, despite unprecedented challenging economic times, we have been fortunate to have windows of opportunity, such as Coventry, UK City of Culture.

For all of us, it has been a busy autumn, thus far. For your Chamber of Commerce, we have been highly focused on supporting businesses and leaders and offering a huge range of events and networking opportunities to our Membership. A huge "thank you" for attending our annual Economic Conference 2021 with our amazing keynote speaker, Sir Matthew Pinsent, and a superb and able conference host and facilitator, Dr Adam Marshall CBE. I noted, via social media, that many of you followed our reflections on the Chancellor's Autumn Budget in October 2021. On the face of it, it appeared a positive and give-away budget, but we must remember that we had already seen early indications of tax / cost hikes in business, notably the increase in National Insurance and the pressure on wages that will now arise from the 6.6% increase in the living wage.

I think there are many significant opportunities for business over the next twelve months and more, but, yes,

You may have seen some of the media attention on 'Amal' - an amazing, lifelike, but huge puppet that is walking around the UK and telling the story of the plight of refugees. Thousands of people flocked to Coventry to meet Amal; thousands are turning up to visit the Turner Prize at The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum; and thousands more will turn out to enjoy the Winter Ice Rink – Coventry Glides – at Coventry Cathedral. All of this is good for the local economy and affords us an upbeat feel about our wonderful sub-region.

On that positive note, can I wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a prosperous New Year with the hope that 2022 can see us build a strong recovery across Coventry and Warwickshire.

City of Culture 2021

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News

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Annual Conference

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21in21 9 News

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Business Engage Profiles 12-13 Chamber Training

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Women in Business

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News

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Profile

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Economy

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News

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Around the region

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News

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Education & Training

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News

Kind regards, Louise, Mrs L Bennett-Bayliss OBE, DL Chief Executive Chamber of Commerce

President & People

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New Members

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Members Offers

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Earlsdon Park 53-55 Butts Road Coventry CV1 3BH www.bandhattonbutton.com info@bandhattonbutton.com 024 7663 2121

putting imagination to work www.cw-chamber.co.uk

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Focus on Coventry 2021 The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce ••••

CONTACTS At the Chamber News desk Members are encouraged to send any news about their firm - new orders, staff, new products, expansions or relocations - for publication in C&W in business.

Whilst every effort will be made to publish submitted articles, we cannot guarantee inclusion.

Send them to: news@cw-chamber.co.uk Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Chamber House

City of Culture secures further funding

Innovation Village Cheetah Road Coventry CV1 2TL T: 024 76 654321 F: 024 76 450242

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Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in C&W in Business, neither Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies it contains. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber.

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The Coventry City of Culture Trust is delighted to announce that it has received a further £175,000 in grant funding from a range of funders to support events and programme throughout its tenure as UK City of Culture 2021.

Backstage Trust awarded £100,000 before releasing a further £25,000 to match a generous donation from David and Sandra Burbidge.

This funding enabled the delivery of Faith, a major participatory event that took place across the city in over the weekend of September 10 and 11. Directed by Erica Whyman, Acting Artistic Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, Faith invited thousands of audience members, both in-person and virtually, to immerse themselves in the diverse faiths of Coventry, a proud interfaith city, through music, theatre, art installations, rituals, discussion and dialogue.

A grant of £15,000 from The Eveson Charitable Trust will support Uncover/ Discover, a ground-breaking arts and education programme based around Coventry’s waterways for 1,000 schoolchildren with learning disabilities, delivered in partnership with Open Theatre Company. As well as supporting and showcasing participants’ creativity, the project will help develop a long-term cultural offer, embedding creative opportunities in local schools and supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

The Trust is also announcing that The Radcliffe Trust has awarded an additional grant of £10,000 to support the resilience and sustainability of Coventry’s music sector, particularly through the establishment of a new

sector-led, city-wide Coventry Music Steering Group. It will also contribute to commissioning Coventry-based musicians and composers, providing opportunities for artists to sustain their practice, and providing a platform to reach national audiences.

As the halfway point in Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture is approaching, the Coventry City of Culture Trust continues to work alongside its partners to shape plans and secure further resources for the legacy of Coventry 2021.

Martin Sutherland, Chief Executive of the Coventry City of Culture Trust, said: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Backstage Trust, David and Sandra Burbidge, The Eveson Charitable Trust and The Radcliffe Trust for their valuable support. This funding has enabled us to continue to co-create exceptional events with local artists and communities, to empower those who may face additional barriers to the arts and to support Coventry’s vital music sector as look towards securing the positive impacts of the festival beyond 2022.”

Helen Cave, Executive Administrator of Backstage Trust, said: “Backstage Trust supports projects which harness the power of the performing arts to bring communities together, encourage creativity, reduce isolation and reach out to those at the greatest disadvantage.

At the heart of Faith was the ambition to collaborate, explore values and ideas and celebrate with the Coventry community and in the wake of the pandemic this was never more needed.”

David and Sandra Burbidge said: “We are delighted to have supported Faith. Coventry has the richness of many diverse communities who contribute to the success and wellbeing of our city.

Faith was a wonderful way of bringing people closer together through shared understanding.”

Claire Bowry, Chief Executive of The Eveson Charitable Trust, said: “The Eveson Charitable Trust is delighted to contribute towards this project to increase creative opportunities for both children and artists with learning difficulties. The focus on the city’s waterways will give fascinating heritage and environmental perspectives to the artistic workshops. It’s particularly special that the project takes place during Coventry’s year as City of Culture and we hope that the project’s aim of long-term partnerships between SEND schools, art organisations & artists becomes a reality.”

A Trustee from The Radcliffe Trust said: “The Radcliffe Trust is proud to support Coventry UK City of Culture to provide a great platform for the best of Coventry-based musicians and composers.”

"As the halfway point in Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture is approaching, the Coventry City of Culture Trust continues to work alongside its partners to shape plans and secure further resources for the legacy of Coventry 2021." www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Focus on Coventry 2021

Select Committee experience life at the heart of a City of Culture A key group of cross-party MPs have been in Coventry to find out how the UK City of Culture year is going nearly six months in and discover the long term benefits it is having on the city.

Five members of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Select Committee visited Coventry to assess how arts and culture programmes are transforming communities across city, delivering long-term social and economic benefits.

The Committee Chair, Julian Knight – the MP for neighbouring Solihull – led the group which also included Kevin Brennan MP, Alex Davies-Jones MP, Clive Efford MP, and Jane Stevenson MP. They were met by Coventry City of Culture Trust Chief Executive Martin Sutherland and Coventry City Council’s David Nuttall and introduced to a range of organisations and individuals at the heart of the programme.

During the day they were given a tour of The Turner Prize Exhibition and the Coventry Biennial at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, found out more about the Broken Angel project at Coventry Cathedral and got a sneak peek at the Lost Lending Library at Drapers’ Hall.

The DCMS Select Committee members were also shown some of the public realm improvements in the city and new businesses – such as The Telegraph Hotel and Metropolis Restaurant that have opened during the UK City of Culture year.

Julian Knight said: “Our visit to Coventry allowed us to experience life at the heart of a City of Culture and to find out what it means to be part of it.

“We were particularly interested in how the organisers have worked with local communities and to find out where there are opportunities to benefit from the cultural legacy in the years to come.

“We’ve heard from the team that this is not just a one-year celebration but one that creates opportunities for the future.

It was great to meet some of the people involved with some of the ideas behind this celebration of Coventry.”

Martin Sutherland said: “We are close to being six months into our year and it was great to reflect on that with the members of the DCMS Select Committee.

“However, we know that there is still much work to do for the remaining six months of the year – and beyond – to ensure that being UK City of Culture brings all of the benefits we want to achieve for the city through holding the title.”

Cara Pickering (Coventry 2021), John Witcombe (Coventry Cathedral), Kevin Brennan MP, Julian Knight MP, Alex Davies-Jones MP, Clive Efford MP, Jane Stevenson MP.

Cllr George Duggins, Leader of Coventry City Council, said: “Our year as UK City of Culture really has changed our city, with new venues and attractions, a new-look city centre and so much more.

We have enjoyed a marvellous first six months of our reign and we are looking forward to the second half when there is so much more to come.

“We are using arts and culture to change people’s lives, now and for

the generations to follow, and we are working across the city with all our many communities to get everyone involved.

“This is a crucial year for Coventry and we are very proud of what we have achieved so far and we were delighted to share that with our visitors and show what the title of UK City of Culture means to us all and to the future of our city.”

“We’ve heard from the team that this is not just a one-year celebration but one that creates opportunities for the future. It was great to meet some of the people involved with some of the ideas behind this celebration of Coventry.”

Coventry Glides Chenine Bhathena, Creative Director of the Coventry City of Culture Trust, said: “There was something truly special about Coventry Glides transforming the Cathedral Ruins into a winter wonderland last year.

“We can’t wait to welcome the people of Coventry, and hopefully lots of new visitors, to take to the ice and enjoy themselves this festive season.

Coventry Glides – the stunning ice rink that transformed Coventry Cathedral Ruins into a ‘winter wonderland’ last festive season – is coming back by popular demand.

The magical, festive rink – a partnership between the Coventry City of Culture Trust and Coventry City Council, with support from the Coventry Business Improvement District – will be returning to the city from Friday 26 November, welcoming skaters of all ages until Thursday 9 January.

It will open seven days a week for one hour time slots, with prices starting from £5, which can be booked through the Coventry 2021 website from next week. It is suitable for anyone over the age of five. Popular slots sold out quickly in 2020, so skaters are being encouraged to book early.

Coventry Glides proved to be one of the highlights of last winter as the city provided a safe, fun, festive activity at a time when strict Covid-19 restrictions were in place. And now it is coming back to the city during Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture.

“As the nights draw in and the days get colder, Coventry Glides will bring great fun and excitement to our city centre, bringing more and more people into the city to enjoy all that Coventry has to offer. So, wrap up warm, grab your friends and family and book your ticket to the most magical experience this year.”

Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Events, Coventry City Council, said: “ The ice rink proved really popular last year, and it is great to see it back to add some festive cheer.

“With most COVID restrictions now lifted, the city is getting set for a really magical Christmas with so much going on as we celebrate our year as UK City of Culture, and Coventry Glides is a great attraction for all the family.

“I would urge anyone who didn’t visit last year to go along and try a festive skate in our beautiful Cathedral Ruins.

It really does add some extra magic to Christmas – and while you’re there, take a look around our transformed city centre, visit the shops and restaurants and enjoy the festive season in Coventry.”

Food and drink options will also be available for those visiting the rink.

Priority Booking opens on Tuesday 26 October with Public Booking opening on Friday 29 October.

Tickets will be available at www.coventry2021.co.uk.

Book early for best prices.

SIGN UP to the City of Culture Trust's newsletter to receive regular updates on Coventry 2021 at www.coventry2021.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

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News

Two firms land historic first Two Midlands companies have help land an historic first in the drive to help the UK move towards a carbon-neutral future.

Law firm achieves major eco-friendly office hub transformation Reclaimed pallet-clad walls, booth seating with sustainably sourced fabric, and tables made from recycled yoghurt pots are some of the eco-friendly features found in Shakespeare Martineau’s first revamped office hub in Stratford-upon-Avon.

The law firm has been operating from the historic medieval town since 2013. The space – located in Bridgeway House, just off the A3400 and near the River Avon – is the first in Shakespeare Martineau’s property portfolio to undergo a major makeover to reflect modern, new ways of working.

More than 80% of the materials used as part of the refurbishment were sustainably sourced, recycled or reused – supporting Shakespeare Martineau’s pending B Corporate status and 30 responsible business pledges, including achieving net zero by 2025 and becoming carbon negative by 2030.

The firm also ensured there was minimal impact on landfill by donating all items of furniture that were unable to be reused or upcycled to local charities, religious groups, schools and community groups.

PeakGen, a Leamington-based specialist in generation, transmission and distribution energy networks, has become the first private sector company in the UK to win a major contract as part of a move to open up the energy market.

The firm has won a contract to supply power services to the National Grid Electricity System Operator in the Mersey region. It involves the supply and operation of a shunt reactor which allows the grid to operate more efficiently by absorbing unusable energy from the system and maintaining consistent voltage levels.

It is the first contract won under the Pathfinder programme, which is designed to open up the market to a wider range of private companies to encourage innovation and competitive pricing.

PeakGen, which employs 18 staff, used law firm Wright Hassall to undertake the legal work on the lease of the land adjacent to the Frodsham 400kV substation.

Ian Graves, CEO of PeakGen, said: “We’re delighted to have won a contract under the Mersey Pathfinder to deliver the solution for the electricity system operator. It really is a major milestone for PeakGen and we hope it puts us in a good position to compete for and win similar contracts that are coming through the Pathfinder programme across the UK.”

Left to right: Nick Sillito (PeakGen), Matthew Roberts (PeakGen), Bhavika Patel (Wright Hassall), Ian Graves (PeakGen), Nisha Kandola (PeakGen)

PeakGen pitched successfully against 14 other companies to win the contract, and the legal aspects were handled by Bhavika Patel, part of Wright Hassall’s commercial real estate team.

She said: “This is not only a real achievement for Ian and his team but also a major milestone as the energy

“We’re delighted to have won a contract under the Mersey Pathfinder to deliver the solution for the electricity system operator. It really is a major milestone for PeakGen and we hope it puts us in a good position to compete for and win similar contracts that are coming through the Pathfinder programme across the UK.”

O.R. Jones & Sons ‘go paperless’ with TruTac’s CPT software software is its most recent addition and was, in part, a way for the company to ditch physical documents when the pandemic set in.

Chief transformation officer Karen Walker said: “We’re delighted with the finished look of our Stratford hub. It reflects our personality and aspirations, while demonstrating our investment in and commitment to our people, the town and Warwickshire.”

It also reinforces the firm’s ‘empowered work principles’, which encourage a true work-life balance and focus on outputs rather than where or when they are delivered. The principles act as a guide for enabling people to manage their own time and working patterns, while ensuring the needs of their clients, colleagues and team are met.

Chief marketing and people officer Ben Buckton said: “We also know that empowering people is the best motivation.

Our positive, high-performance work culture is already attracting top talent and expertise from across the UK which, in turn, delivers the best quality service for our clients.”

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industry looks to open its markets to private companies. The matter was more complicated than we first anticipated due to the site being part of unregistered land and the fact that we were dealing with the form of lease being the first agreement of its type.”

PSV technician Martyn Owens said: “During lockdown, I looked into doing the checks digitally. It seemed like a good idea, both operationally and because it meant we could go paperless.

Coach operator O.R. Jones & Sons has sharpened up its vehicle inspections and gone paperless with the help of TruTac’s CPT (Confederation of Passenger Transport) approved dedicated PSV software.

minibuses and the remainder multiseater coaches – and undertakes tours, local bus services, school runs and private hire, among other services. It is also accredited by the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT).

Based near Holyhead, Anglesey, the company was established in 1936 and is one of North Wales’s oldest coach specialists. It has a fleet of 30 vehicles – around a third of which are

O.R. Jones has been a TruTac customer since 2017 and uses the CPT Tacho Analysis, CPT Fleet Management and CPT Daily Checks systems across its three depots. The CPT Daily Checks

“From there, we decided to do the vehicles’ Preventative Maintenance Inspection (PMI) checks digitally.

Before that, we had to fill in a form, scan it and send it on, but TruTac and CPT introduced a new system that allowed us to do the full PMI check on a smartphone. It’s very good software; any updates from the DVSA are automatically added, so you don’t need to worry about them.”

In addition to the biosecurity benefits, going paperless has speeded up O.R. Jones’s approach to vehicle checks and improved its record-keeping. Transport managers at each of its sites have instant access to vehicle status and the age-old headaches with physical documents just do not exist.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

PLMR acquires Midlands PR firm PLMR, one of the UK’s most successful and fast-growing communications agencies, has acquired Coventry-based Advent Communications as it expands its footprint in the Midlands and further develops the breadth and quality of the services it offers to its clients.

A taste of Christmas

PLMR has been based in the region since 2017, with its office in Birmingham part of a network also spanning London, Chelmsford, and Glasgow. The agency already works with many clients in the Midlands including the University of Warwick, West Midlands Combined Authority, Coventry City Council and several major property developers.

Advent Communications is one of the region’s most well-respected communications agencies, with organisations including Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Fisher German, UK City of Culture, CWLEP, the Deeley Group and Wasps Group on its client roster.

The acquisition of Advent Communications in a seven-figure deal will bring together its many strengths with PLMR’s existing capabilities in the region to form one of the largest communications agencies in the Midlands, with a range of marketleading skills to offer to clients. Advent will continue to trade under its current name and brand from its Coventry base.

Will Savage, who will head PLMR’s Midlands team, said: “Since we were founded in 2017, PLMR’s Midlands office has been proud to support many leading organisations in the region. Over the years, we’ve worked closely with Advent

A new selection of corporate gifts, showcasing artisan food and drink producers from across the Midlands, is now available from British Regional Hampers. on a number of projects so coming together is both a natural progression for us and will be transformative in the way we serve our clients in the region.”

Adam Dent, managing director of Advent Communications, who will stay with the company, said: “This is a really

progressive move for Advent, our team and our clients. It’s great that we’re joining such a highly-regarded national group which will allow us to add to our services and help grow our client base.

We’ve worked with PLMR and it’s a very natural fit for both companies.”

“Since we were founded in 2017, PLMR’s Midlands office has been proud to support many leading organisations in the region. Over the years, we’ve worked closely with Advent on a number of projects so coming together is both a natural progression for us and will be transformative in the way we serve our clients in the region.”

NI increase could fund social care and the NHS In September the proposals for social care funding in England were announced, featuring a new lifetime cap of £86,000 on the amount individuals will be expected to pay for their personal care. The actual amount paid could total more than £86,000 because the cap excludes the so called “hotel costs” in respect of accommodation and meals.

payable by those still working and over state pension age.

To fund the costs, it is proposed to add an extra 1.25% to the rates of national insurance from April 2022, with 1.25% added to the tax rates on dividends.

The rate of employer National Insurance will also rise by 1.25% to 15.05%.

Someone with a salary (or profits) of £50,000 will face an additional tax charge of £505 per year rising to £1,130 at a salary of £100,000. From April 2023 the extra 1.25% will be

Therefore, it’s good housekeeping to maximise ISAs and/or pensions to protect savings from income tax and capital gains tax. Couples could also ensure that assets are split to make the most of personal allowances and tax bands.

This increase in tax is combined with an increase in corporation tax rates from 1 April 2023 with the main rate being set at 25% for businesses with profits above £250,000. A small profits rate of 19% will be introduced for companies with profits of £50,000 or

less. The rate for companies with profits between £50,000 and £250,000 will gradually increase from 19% to 25%.

The government plans will provide some certainty for families planning for care in later life, which will become clearer when the proposals are fleshed out. As always, the devil will be in the detail.

The increase in the dividend rate, coupled with the rise in corporation tax, could have a significant impact when you are making future decisions on how to take profits out of your business.

For more information, please contact Integrity Wealth Solutions at www.integritywealth.co.uk.

"The government plans will provide some certainty for families planning for care in later life, which will become clearer when the proposals are fleshed out. As always, the devil will be in the detail." www.cw-chamber.co.uk

The Henley-in-Arden-based company can customise requests for just ten boxes upwards, ideal for small-tomedium sized businesses looking for unique employee rewards or client gifts this Christmas. Large orders can also be catered for.

Working to a pre-agreed budget, the hampers contain a selection of products tailored to the preferences of the client and its employees/customers, including wines, spirits, cheeses, meats, smoked products, accompaniments, chocolates and desserts.

Other options include colourcoordinated and branded packaging and customised magazines with a message from the CEO, company profile, and a personal thank-you to staff and/or clients.

British Regional Hampers offers the best of UK food and drink from highquality independent suppliers, many of whom work alone or in small teams, selling via farmers’ markets, in local shops or online, and offering products not usually available in the mass retail market.

Local specialities from Warwickshire and Worcestershire in the corporate Christmas hampers can include a rosé wine produced on land once owned

by Shakespeare’s family, a vintage clothbound cheese from the oldest cheesemakers in Britain, an exceptional elderflower liqueur from the Ragley Estate, an aubergine pickle whose sales help support Worcester Cathedral, and a black salt developed in conjunction with Moseley’s Michelin-starred chef Brad Carter.

For more information visit www.britishregionalhampers.co.uk

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Annual Conference

The positive impact that business has on society

will be explored at a major conference in Warwickshire in November The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business & Economic Conference is taking place on Friday, November 12.

The event will be a hybrid of a live and virtual audience hosted from the IXL Events Centre on the site of the Dallas Burston Polo Club in Southam.

The conference, sponsored by Prime Accountants Group and supported by WCG, will be based on the theme of ‘Against All Odds’ and will hear from a range of businesspeople and key decision-makers looking at some of the inspirational stories of the past 18 months and looking ahead to brighter economic times.

The conference is being hosted by Dr Adam Marshall CBE who, in addition to being the former British Chambers of Commerce Director General, is now a senior adviser and Non-Executive Director to a range of business organisations, including the Government's Trade Remedies Authority.

The keynote address at the event will be given by one of Team GB’s greatest ever Olympians as Sir Matthew Pinsent CBE, who won rowing gold medals at the 1992, 1996, 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games, will be speaking.

Louise Bennett, the chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are looking forward to this year’s Conference and, once again, being in a room with colleagues, stakeholders and businesspeople across the region.

“At the Conference, we often look at the economy in isolation but this year we wanted to widen the conversation and look at the huge contribution that businesses make to society, particularly after what we’ve all faced over the past year-and-a-half.

“The theme of the Conference is Against All Odds and for firms in the region it really is testament to their resilience and innovation that they have come through the past 18 months.

Adam will lead a panel focused on the economic and social landscape of the region.

Mark Berrisford-Smith, Head of Economics at HSBC UK, will provide the conference with an economic outlook before joining a panel with Monica Fogarty, chief executive of Warwickshire County Council; Martin Reeves, chief executive of Coventry City Council; Declan Allen, managing director of HORIBA MIRA; Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants Group; and Angela Joyce, CEO of WCG.

“Not only that, they continue to provide employment and create the wealth that pays for public services as well as a range of other ways that business is at the centre of communities, so the link between business and society is stronger than ever.”

The panel will look at some of the challenges that businesses – and individuals – have faced over the past 18 months and look at the contribution that companies across the region make to wider society.

The Chamber’s Business Influence and Business Engage Members will be invited to be part of the live audience at the event, which will start at 8.30am and finish at 1pm, with live streaming available to all other businesses.

The event will also feature video contributions from the likes of West Midlands Mayor Andy Street and CWLEP Chair Sarah Windrum.

Sir Matthew Pinsent CBE

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We are delighted to be headline sponsors of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Conference once again. The past two years have been a challenge for every business; with business owners and managers having to make tough decisions while looking after their teams and customers. However, as business now starts to pick up and return to pre pandemic levels, it is essential that we all now pull together to support each other, to ensure our region comes back stronger than ever. We look forward to seeing everyone and catching up with you all, so we can start putting this message into action at the conference.

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Steve Harcourt, Director Prime Accountants Group Main Sponsor

The Government’s skills agenda means that is more important than ever before that colleges build effective partnerships with business.

We are committed to strengthening partnerships with regional business across all areas of our operation.

Alongside apprenticeships, we have introduced T Levels this academic year and local employers will be integral to their success with relevant work placements essential to developing highly-skilled young people.

The Chamber’s Annual Business & Economic Conference is an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire and ensure that we are delivering the right skills to support the regional economy.

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Angela Joyce, CEO WCG Supporting Sponsor

For more information go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/annual-business-economic-conference-2021/

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www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

21in21

Chamber Mentoring scheme helps to save Rugby business The owner of a Pilates studio in Rugby has praised the support of her ‘21in21’ Women in Business Mentoring Programme mentor for helping her Anne Simonsen business get back into shape just months after she considered closing it for good.

Anne Simonsen, owner of Shape It Up Pilates in Rugby, has turned her business around despite losing half of her clients and almost closing the studio during the pandemic – and has thanked her mentor Leigh Hunt for providing advice and encouragement during a period of uncertainty.

Leigh, who spent 20 years working as an e-business advisor for Warwickshire County Council, first met Anne in search of relief for her back problems, but has since returned the favour by providing mentor support to her as part of the Coventry and Warwickshire

Chamber of Commerce’s 21in21 Women in Business Mentoring programme.

The initiative, which sees ambitious businesswomen paired with successful business leaders as part of a year-long programme of mentoring and support, is sponsored by the West Midlands Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (WM RFCA) and builds on the Chamber’s successful Women in Business network.

The pair have been meeting once a month since the programme was launched in March this year.

Anne said: “Leigh’s advice has encouraged me to take more time to focus on what I want to achieve with my business rather than just fight to stay afloat, and since I have started to trust my own vision more, business has improved dramatically.

“There was a lot of pressure to rely on corporate clients and take our classes online and, while this is something we offer, I didn’t want to lose the personal interactions and buzz that you get from face-to-face sessions.

“To have the encouragement to stick with that goal, take time to reflect, and have another

perspective on how to move things forward has been crucial to the business and to my job satisfaction.

“The last few months have shown that if you have a vision and are prepared to stick with it, other people are likely to appreciate it too, and I think the effort we have put into improving the studio experience and generating personal connections has really paid off.

“After refurbishing the studio, I am now actively looking for more instructors to expand our team as we continue to build our client base, and a huge part of our success has been down to the guidance and support that Leigh has provided.”

Leigh said: “It’s important for all business leaders not just to know their strengths, but to use them in times of uncertainty to stay true to their vision.

“Anne has a fantastic reputation in the region, and it is by staying true to herself that she has been able to turn her business around.

“Anne’s real strength is in helping people with physical difficulties, who may have tried other solutions such as chiropractic and osteopathy but without lasting success.

“I know that she loves hosting one-toone sessions, getting to know her clients, and helping them on the road to recovery, but that would have been hard had she abandoned the values that made her studio so popular in the first place.

Leigh Hunt

“Now that life is getting back to normal, and people are realising that the last 18 months have taken a physical toll, the service that Anne provides will be incredibly valuable to more and more clients throughout the region, as it has been to me in the past.”

Keely Hancox, Operations Manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is great to see another successful partnership arise as a result of our 21in21 programme, which has helped Anne get her business back on track, and we are delighted that the mentoring relationship has been fundamental to her success.”

What does Remembrance Day mean to you?

West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association are proud to support and work with the Armed Forces community. The main event associated with the Armed Forces in November is Remembrance Day, so we asked Midshipman Millard from our Royal Naval Reserve unit, HMS Forward, what the day means to him: “Remembrance Sunday is something I have always known about, of course it is. Since I was young, I would buy and wear my poppy each year and go about my life believing that I had a real appreciation for the day’s meaning.

“Then in 2018, when I joined HMS Forward the Birmingham Royal Navy Reserves (RNR) unit - it became apparent that my ‘appreciation’ was, with reflection, somewhat superficial.

No doubt, I am not alone in having gained my understanding of the event’s significance from my school days, and dare I say, the big screen.

I’d wager that rarely do people stop and think deeply about what was truly at stake: what

Meet our

must the service personnel and their families have felt when saying goodbye, knowing that if they returned, they were unlikely to be the same.

“But the point of Remembrance Sunday is not only to remember the Great War, but to remember all those since. Not only to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but also to consider those left behind, friends, families, those wounded during service and those who, today, continue to put themselves in harm’s way across the globe to ensure that each of us can enjoy our way of life. However, most of all, I believe that it is only by remembering the horrors of the past that can we truly learn and seek to avoid the same mistakes in the future.

“Only by being a member of the RNR have I learnt to take time to reflect and truly consider the day’s meaning, how much it means to HMS Forward ships’ company and the Armed Forces as a whole. When the silence falls, either on Armistice Day or

Remembrance Sunday, I encourage you to take the time to sincerely reflect on their importance.

at HMS Forward, are honoured to continue the legacy of those before us, and we will remember them.”

“It is a privilege for all serving personnel, past and present, to be at the forefront of these ceremonies across the world, and we,

To find out more about the work of the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association visit www.wmrfca.org

We will be featuring our Mentors in each edition...

21in21 Mentors

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Pam Cain Director, Marchant Cain Group Ltd

Carol Thomas Principal & CEO, Coventry College

Trish Willetts Director, Coventry BID

9

News

Region to benefit from Autumn budget

Long term solution offered to recruitment crisis

Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire have been told that they can hire EU workers if they are struggling to recruit in the short-term but that the long-term answer is training and apprenticeships.

Members of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce joined their counterparts in Northamptonshire for an online meeting with Dame Andrea Leadsom, MP for South Northamptonshire.

The former Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy said firms could make use of a Skilled Worker visa for EU citizens to plug the gap.

She said: “Recruitment is a key issue as the economy recovers from the pandemic and I understand that there are many businesses out there in a range of sectors which can’t get the people they need to grow.

“Many EU citizens returned home to be with their families when the pandemic hit and haven’t come back to the UK and that has left a shortage of skilled people in some sectors.

“There is the opportunity to bring people into the UK from the EU on specialist visas to help companies grow but the long-term answer is training and development here in the UK. “We have many more people unemployed across the country than we did at the start of the pandemic and this is the ideal time to be bringing through our own through training and apprenticeships.

“We want to see more of our young people getting into the world of work through apprenticeships and, also, through the Government’s Kickstart scheme, and it is important for businesses to have greater ties with their local schools.”

The MP also told companies that the energy crisis was not one of security but one of cost, while a shortage of some products was a supply chain issue. Both, she said, would be short-term problems.

When asked about a rise in National Insurance, Dame Leadsom said: “I am someone who is in favour of low tax and I completely understand that not all businesses agree with the NI rise but taxes have to be balanced with being fiscally sound.

“One of the reasons we have been able to support the economy in such a big way over the past 18 months is because we have had such a strong fiscal policy over the past decade.”

Sean Rose, head of policy at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We were extremely grateful to Dame Andrea Leadsom for addressing questions from businesses from across Coventry, Warwickshire and Northamptonshire in a direct and honest way.

“Firms across the region got the chance to raise the issues that are holding back growth and, as a Chamber, we are proud to help give companies their voice into decision-makers in this way.”

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Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire want the region to benefit from a major announcement in the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce hosted a range of businesses at an event, sponsored

by Prime Accountants Group, to watch Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s Budget at the Telegraph Hotel.

The budget was given a cautious welcome as the Chancellor announced he was using the statement to invest in future growth and also support firms still suffering from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

That included a 50 per cent discount on business rates for those in the retail, hospitality and leisure sector; a freeze on fuel duty, £3.8bn investment in skills and further support for Research & Development.

Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said the region would look to benefit from a £1.4bn Global Britain Investment Fund which has money set aside for vehicle electrification.

She said: “It was a very upbeat budget delivery considering the 18 months businesses and individuals have faced.

“The devil is always in the detail with the budget statement because there are

always lots of big numbers mentioned but takes some time to understand exactly what it means for firms and the region.

“The Global Britain Investment Fund is something we believe could be positive for Coventry and Warwickshire and our hopes for bringing a Gigafactory to the region. This area has the potential to be at the forefront of vehicle electrification.”

Louise added: “There was a good acknowledgement of inflation but this was more with a focus on the role of the Bank of England, rather than any Government fiscal measures. There were predictions of four per cent inflation, but businesses in the room see this as potentially being higher.

“We welcome scale-up visas if they help businesses attract and bring-in critical skills and talent that cannot, otherwise, be home grown. Recruitment issues remain a major headache and drag on growth.

“Businesses hit hardest by Covid will welcome the 50 per cent discount on business rates and the business rates improvement relief will incentives businesses to make improvements to properties.

“We welcome strong and further investment in skills and it is important that we see strong alignment between employer needs and skills supply.

Business leaders assemble at the Telegraph Hotel to respond to the Budget

“There was also positive news around the fuel duty rise being cancelled which is a boost for business and the self-employed at a time when costs are rising.

“On that note, we support the principle of increasing the living wage and understand the need to increase the incomes of our lowest paid. However, business costs are rising across the board and will contribute further to rising inflation.

“As UK City of Culture, welcome additional for the sector as we have seen what a difference it can make in our cities and towns.

“On the whole, businesses will wait to see what details emerge as they look to recover from the most difficult period any of us have faced.”

Claire Lea, of Prime Accountants Group, said: “There were numerous references to investment relief on green measures and also investment in infrastructure and innovation, all of which Coventry and Warwickshire is known for so we will be hoping our area can benefit when the follow-on detail emerges from Government.”

ARLI & University of Birmingham join the World in tackling Climate Change

In 2021, colleagues from across the University of Birmingham community were invited to write articles about topics relevant to the COP26 climate change summit.

The University of Birmingham asked staff and students to contribute articles on issues relating to climate change. We are delighted to announce publication of this work. Entitled Addressing the climate challenge, the report is the work of nearly 100 contributors spread across five continents – all led by academics from the University of Birmingham.

A 2020 report by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) estimated that the building sector accounts for a staggering 38% of world-wide energy-related CO2 emissions and that the construction

industry is responsible for nearly 30% of this figure. The report also highlights the increasing levels of emissions from the sector with 2019 reaching an all-time high of almost 10 GigaTonnes of equivalent CO2. The construction industry is, under pressure from UK government to change practices and meet net zero by 2050.

Research being undertaken under the University of Birmingham’s ARLI programme (Alternative Raw materials with Low Impact) is already investigating how the sector can better use its waste streams. More interestingly, waste and by-product streams from the non-construction industries are also being evaluated.

Find out more https://blog.bham.ac.uk/publicaffairs/wp-content/uploads/sites/89/2021/09/Addressing-the-climate-challenge-comp.pdf

Sustainable solution to Recycle Electric Vehicle Batteries

As part of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s #FixingTheFuture campaign, ARLI Technical Officer, Dr. Zubera Iqbal recognised for her work on recycling car batteries.

Fixing the future focuses on influential individuals solving global issues through chemistry, #MakingADifference. The work Dr. Iqual and other research fellows do have a series impact on the global issues affecting future generations such as climate change, pollution, energy crises and more.

“Electric vehicles are part of the solution to cutting CO2.

In 2035, all new vehicles in the UK will be electric. My work

helps towards supplying the materials needed to power electric vehicles. They contain lots of different precious raw materials which are in limited supply and are mined abroad which can sometimes be difficult to source – my research focuses on giving the UK a source of lithium from recycled materials. Right now, only about 5% of batteries are recycled.

By investigating recycling and reuse of lithium-ion

batteries from electric cars, I hope to provide a sustainable process to power greener, low-carbon transport.

Dr. Iqual has since joined the ARLI (Alternative Raw materials with Low Impact) Project where she uses her research and skills to help local SMEs with sustainable solutions. ARLI is an ERDF funded research and development business support programme ran by the University of Birmingham.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

TruTac backs nationwide load security and transport safety push TruTac, part of the Microlise Group, is backing a push by transport authorities to highlight drivers’ and companies’ responsibilities around commercial vehicle load security this month.

National Highways, the DVSA and the Office of Traffic Commissioners are aiming to raise awareness about load security throughout October, alongside a campaign by multiple police forces targeting commercial vehicles and their cargo.

Transport software and compliance specialist TruTac is adding its voice to this important safety initiative. The company believes that, in most cases, properly trained professional drivers can easily ensure that

their vehicles’ loads, among other elements, are fully secure by performing straightforward checks before they begin a day’s work.

The TruChecks app allows drivers to conduct daily walk around vehicle inspections on their smartphones and immediately identify and report any issues. It covers all areas that the DVSA requires drivers to address, along with type-specific and configurable checklists for different vehicle models and trailers.

By using TruChecks, drivers can easily flag up inadequately secured loads or defective tyres and generate an instant audit trail with time stamps; they are also able to photograph any issues and send pictures to their office or depot.

Instantaneous communication means transport managers are immediately made aware of problems and can therefore minimise vehicle downtime.

TruTac’s Director of Commercial Operations and Marketing, Jemma James, is confident about the part the app can play: “Despite the majority of transport operators following strict safety and compliance procedures, there are still far too many incidents, which could easily have been prevented by applying some simple checks and procedures during driver walk around inspections.

“TruChecks not only helps drivers to improve safety, but it is also a useful tool to keep on top of minor defects and helps to reduce downtime and maintain compliance.”

According to National Highways, there were 8,675 obstructions between January and August on the Midlands road network alone, many of which were due to unsecured loads and defective tyres. It pointed out that a number of people were killed by a load or partial load being shed from a moving vehicle last year. Though

less severe, such incidents also create serious congestion, which has a direct logistical and cost impact on transport companies.

As part of its drive to raise awareness, the authority is reminding both drivers and transport companies of their legal obligations to ensure cargo is thoroughly secure in accordance with The Road Traffic Act 1988, The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 and, for operators, The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Operators can find out more about the requirements for load security on the government’s vehicle operator guidance page.

Free load security guidance is also available from the DVSA, while the HSE offers free workplace transport guidance and resources to help operators assess risks.

To learn more about TruTac products email sales@trutac.co.uk

#EventProfs Invited to Charlecote Pheasant Hotel’s Premier Agent Event Event professionals and booking agents are being offered an exclusive opportunity to explore the conference and meeting facilities at the newly reopened The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel in Warwickshire, including a first viewing of a new five-acre outdoor event site complete with luxury tipi structures.

Taking place on Thursday, November 18, 2021, and organised in partnership with Famtastic Rocks, this will be the first agent event hosted at the hotel since it came under new ownership of Vine Hotels in August 2020.

Visitors will be given the opportunity to explore a temporary event space from 10.30am, featuring four giant interconnecting tipis, and the Hotel’s indoor event facilities which will be fully dressed to illustrate how conferences could take shape within each of the spaces. Lunch from noon to 2pm and entertainment will be included.

Agents wishing to attend this free event, visit https://www.famtastic.rocks/famtastic-rockslunch and click the RSVP button under the list of events.

General manager, Alice Davies said: “We are already lucky enough to have first class facilities inside the Hotel, suitable for

events of all sizes as well as excellent transport links to the surrounding areas. On top of this we now have a huge, five-acre outdoor space with breath-taking views of the Warwickshire countryside, that, until now, has not been used to its full potential. We’re sure the setting will speak for itself on the day.”

Paula Kelsey from Cloud 9 Event Management who runs Famtastic Rocks added: “The setting at The Charlecote Pheasant is truly spectacular and I know the event professionals in attendance won’t fail to be impressed with the tipis. We will also give agents the opportunity to network with ten exclusive event suppliers and find out more about the venue options within Vine Hotels.

“I’m really excited about the vision that Vine Hotels has for The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel and I’m looking forward to sharing that with the representatives from the forefront of the event industry. It’s going to be a fantastic day.”

Rob Smith from Katachiefs, a Midlands-based company that specialises in luxury tipis for corporate and private events, is creating the new tipi structures and explains: “Whether you want to create a traditional rustic atmosphere or are seeking a bold, contemporary feel,

Business Awards victory is ‘testament to every single Myton employee, volunteer and supporter’ Celebrations were the order of the day as The Myton Hospices scooped the title of Third Sector Organisation of the Year at the Coventry Live Business Awards.

Myton’s entry focused on our response to the pandemic, both in terms of patient services and fundraising. Despite being up against some fantastic competition for the title, Myton was awarded the honour. The annual awards celebrate excellence across a broad range of categories and recognise the region’s finest businesses and organisations.

This year they were particularly looking for organisations that “looked the pandemic in the eye and used it as an opportunity to thrive and grow.”

A delighted Ruth Freeman, CEO for The Myton Hospices, welcomed the award.

She said: "We were up against some stiff competition, and it is testament to every single Myton employee, volunteer and supporter that we have received this accolade and it is fantastic to be recognised for our success in the face of adversity.

“I am very proud, and you should be too, well done and thank you all!"

To find out how you could make a difference and support Myton please visit www.mytonhospice.org

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Preventing a mental health pandemic I would urge all of us to take heed of the mental health narrative currently popular in the media.

As a survivor of burnout, my eyes and ears are tuned to the frequency with which we are warned, post pandemic, about its prevalence particularly in schools and the workplace. Thankfully, lock down inadvertently created a slow rising tide of action in the business community regarding mental health awareness and I would encourage business leaders to use the post pandemic dialogue as a catalyst for embedding sound mental health strategies in the workplace. We must ensure we do not pay lip service to the problem in a similar fashion to politicians and unwittingly follow the climate crisis approach. We will need more meaningful creativity than dress down Fridays and Whack-a-mole Mondays.

1st June 2019 11pm saw the arrival of my burnout (most survivors can pinpoint time and place). A tsunami washed me away, mentally, emotionally and physically. Like most, I had ignored my symptoms for decades, until my wife’s forceful coaxing as the family couldn’t tolerate my behaviours anymore.

The Charlecote Pheasant launches new outdoor space to event and meeting agents

tipis are an ideal outdoor structure to use.

Flexible options for events are also key right now, which is why tipis are proving so popular.

They are inter-linkable; meaning we can cater for small events with a standalone tipi or link several together for larger event. And that option of scaling up or down the space is hugely important to buyers.”

The Charlecote Pheasant is situated in the pretty Warwickshire village of Charlecote, close to Stratford-Upon-Avon, just four miles from the M40 and 18 miles from Birmingham Airport. The Hotel was originally Benham’s Farm, dating back to the 16th century, and is a venue that exudes charm with its original beams, character furnishings and exposed brickwork.

Pure Ideas Podcast Episode #2 – Trade Marks Did you know that Trade Marks aren’t just for your inspired logos and taglines?

They can also be patterns, colours, shapes and even sounds. This can be very useful in the effort to protect your brand.

What you need to know about Trade Marks Do you have a brilliant new logo for your goods or services that you would like to Trade Mark but are unsure of the process of obtaining it? Learn from our expert team what Trade Marks are and the process of protecting your Ideas and Innovations. In this podcast Pure Ideas explains what the specifications are that you as an applicant must meet and where Pure Ideas can help.

Sponsored Column

In the podcast Pure Ideas pay attention to renewing your application.

Your trademark lasts forever as long as you renew it every 10 years. Depending on the country of your filing your Trade Mark must be in use, or it could be vulnerable to non-use cancellation.

In the UK this is after 5 years, in the US it’s 3 years.

Unaware of my impending unravelling, I opened my mouth to defend and an immeasurable emotional torrent hammered me from nowhere. I fell off the face of the earth for the first 3 months and mostly slept (coma fashion) as walking a few paces, standing upright, generally functioning, were all bone achingly exhausting. Sights, sounds, inter-acting, were all overwhelming.

After 3 months, I returned to work (previous employer and 3 months too early) as full pay ended and it took a good 9-12 months before I was able to contribute again meaningfully.

Personally, my family would say, they’re still awaiting a complete return.

Not sure who I was during this phase, but with the support of my family, counsellor, dogs, nature, friends and colleagues, I slowly started to re-emerge and 2 1/2yrs on, thankfully, I have not returned to my old normal self and have embraced a version of me that continues to thrive.

We owe it to ourselves and each other to have meaningful conversations and encourage meaningful actions to prevent the need for sticking plaster solutions. The impact from both a business and, much more importantly, a personal perspective is too important to ignore. It is the responsibility of all to change the narrative of celebrating long hours and overwork at the expense of personal time and instead strategically plan in an impactful, reflective manner to reduce pressure points and celebrate a visible, well-practiced wellbeing culture.

Seeking professional help is not failure – I’ve accepted my continuing essential counselling sessions as an MOT or regular service.

DNA makes us all wonderfully unique and our individual life experiences mean our chemical and emotional responses to events will be different, along with our coping and healing strategies. Each business will require flexibility in their approach to mental health and, with compassion for ourselves and others, now is the perfect time for positive action.

If anyone would like to find out more or share experiences, please do get in touch mark.withington@dafferns.com.

Dafferns Chartered Accountants Trusted Advisers since 1896 Authentic, Agile, Connected

www.dafferns.com

Listen to the Pure Ideas Podcast Episode #2 – Trade Marks now by clicking here: https://pure-ideas.co.uk/resources/

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Business Engage Profiles

Business growth for digital marketing agency

A digital marketing agency based in the West Midlands has expanded to meet the growing demand from businesses looking to strengthen their online presence.

AIM Internet, which was established 25 years ago, has taken on two new full-time members of staff as Covid has seen businesses realise the importance of going digital.

Excitingly, the company is also actively looking for apprentices.

The AIM Internet team offers a number of services including search engine optimisation, content production, digital advertising, strategic consulting, social media marketing and website design and development.

They provide strategic advice to help clients to determine the most effective channels for growing their market, generating more leads and boosting income.

The company is also very well-connected with funding streams and can assess if a business is eligible for funding for a discount of between 33 and 50 per cent, and also offer support with the application process.

Based in Birmingham, AIM Internet supports SME clients in a variety of sectors that are primarily based across the Midlands, and has a specialism of working with manufacturing and engineering businesses.

Sales Director Sarah Whitticase owns AIM Internet alongside her Coventry-based business partner Mike Raybone.

Sarah said: “We use digital marketing to help our clients to grow and future-proof their business.

“We provide digital marketing solutions to open up new market sectors, create leads, and boost revenue, assisting clients in gaining more consumers, increasing revenue, or simply increasing client loyalty.

“We also have a research team that continually tests the latest ideas and methods the internet has to offer, to identify the best digital marketing techniques available for clients.

“We’re quite different to traditional digital agencies as we like to get under the skin of a business, offering a tailored solution to our clients depending on their individual needs and budget.

“We also like to demonstrate that what we do delivers results and that we can make a difference to our clients’ bottom line. Our connection with funding streams helps us deliver an even bigger ROI. “Although we are virtual, we are very personable and like to have face-to-face interactions with our clients.

“During Covid, businesses have realised the importance of having a strong online presence, and we have been supporting our clients to develop this.

“As a result of our ongoing growth, we have taken on two new full-time members of staff to meet this increase in demand.

“They previously worked with us as sub-contractors on a part-time basis, so it is fantastic that we have been able to expand the business and take them on full-time.”

Further information about AIM Internet is available by visiting www.aiminternet.co.uk, or by contacting Sarah directly at sarah@aiminternet.co.uk

“We’re quite different to traditional digital agencies as we like to get under the skin of a business, offering a tailored solution to our clients depending on their individual needs and budget."

Leading from the front A leadership coaching business which was launched just months before the pandemic has had its successes recognised after being shortlisted for an award which celebrates the outstanding achievements of companies across the West Midlands.

The Leadership Coaches was launched in January 2020 by Zoe Lewis who has more than 20 years of experience in leadership and management development.

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, she has since built up a diverse team of highly-accredited freelance associates who provide a range of coaching services to the business’s growing client base.

One of the services offered is one-to-one leadership coaching for executives through to frontline managers.

The programme includes a series of oneto-one sessions which help clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals, culminating in a final review to celebrate successes and look at any lessons that have been learnt.

Another service offered by the business is team coaching which helps teams to define their purpose and objectives and look at how to work together more collaboratively and efficiently to achieve their goals whilst enjoying their roles.

The Leadership Coaches also provides bespoke leadership and management training courses, bringing a wealth of knowledge, skills and experience to design, deliver and evaluate solutions that accelerate clients’ leadership and management capabilities to help them deliver results.

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The business provides face-to-face services to clients across the Midlands and in London, while technology such as Zoom means it is also able to operate on a global scale and has clients in the USA. It works with a wide range of corporate clients in sectors including financial services, manufacturing, retail and government.

The Leadership Coaches’ success has seen it shortlisted for the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Startup of the Year Award.

Zoe said: “Coaching is very different to training as it helps clients identify their own path and work through their own limiting beliefs.

“Although leadership coaching is not an accredited field, we have a very specific criteria to ensure that all of our associates are accredited so that our clients know they are working with the best of the best.

“We don’t work with just one particular industry as leadership transposes across all industries – what makes us unique is that we don’t have a one size fits all approach.

“We pride ourselves on sitting down with our clients, working out what their challenges are and spending time with them to understand what they are trying to achieve so we have the big picture.

“We also undertake systemic coaching as we often find that the problems being faced by a leadership team are systemic and are apparent in other areas of the business.

“We’re very passionate about our values, one of which is diversity and inclusion, and we provide pro bono coaching to

The Leadership Coaches team

Race Council Cymru, of which Black Lives Matter is a key part of, as well as Mind which is our current charity of the year.

“This is also brought into the heart of the business with our diverse pool of extremely talented leadership coaches.

“Launching just before the pandemic proved quite challenging, but we were able to move to a fully digital solution and have worked hard to develop our social media channels and website.

“We have also run a number of free workshops around topics such as creating a coaching culture, leading compassionately and leading in a remote or hybrid environment which has seen our client base grow.

“We also conduct interviews with inspirational leaders to shine a light on some of the very best senior professionals which are published on our LinkedIn page.

“We’re extremely pleased to be shortlisted for an Asian Business Chamber of Commerce award – it’s a fantastic achievement after what has been a challenging 18 months for so many industries, and we now look forward to the ceremony.”

Further information about the business is available at https://www.theleadershipcoaches.co.uk or by visiting The Leadership Coaches LinkedIn page.

“We pride ourselves on sitting down with our clients, working out what their challenges are and spending time with them to understand what they are trying to achieve so we have the big picture." www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Business Engage Profiles

New look for dbfb A regional, independent, communications business in Northampton has seen significant growth and is now strengthening the business further with a new look and feel. dbfb, which specialises in flexible connectivity, IT and telephony solutions, has experienced accelerated growth over the past five years, seeing its annual revenue increase from £2.5million to £8.5million.

With a new leadership team in place, the onboarding of new team members, strategic partnerships including CityFibre, and a growing solution portfolio - dbfb’s business plan to reach £15 million per year, within the next three years, is firmly on track.

With more than 1,000 customers around the UK, the company, which launched over 20 years ago, is particularly proud of its local offering within Northampton and Milton Keynes.

It’s partnership with CityFibre, which started five years ago, has only enhanced its presence within businesses in these areas due to the world-class fibre network offering.

After working with local councils and CityFibre, dbfb facilitated multi-million pounds worth of investment in both areas via a next generation full fibre network, connecting thousands of businesses and consumers. dbfb, as an original CityFibre launch partner, is advised of where the network rollout is heading next and decided that

Coventry would be the perfect location to address the connectivity available for businesses.

Simon Pickering, Managing Director at dbfb, said: “While we work with businesses around the UK, we are proud of our local presence, and we care about our local community which is why we launched CityFibre in Northampton and Milton Keynes first, to connect more businesses, but also to attract more businesses to the area.

“We are looking to enhance connectivity in the surrounding areas now, focusing on Coventry to bring faster connectivity, and enable more businesses to operate efficiently without disruption.”

As part of its growth plans, dbfb has also launched a new brand, including a strong, vibrant logo and a new website.

The company prides itself on its team and the service they offer, and wanted the new brand to reflect that.

Complimented by its impressive range of solutions and in line with its growth, the new website represents the quality

of service, people and products that make up dbfb - helpful, customer-centric and vibrant.

The new brand, website and logo is still recognisable as dbfb, and its ‘old school service’ that it is proud to offer, and what differentiates the company in the market, won’t change.

The new look and feel is simply a way to reflect the company’s successful growth and to further strengthen the business within the competitive and growing telecommunications market.

"Complimented by its impressive range of solutions and in line with its growth, the new website represents the quality of service, people and products that make up dbfb - helpful, customer-centric and vibrant."

Simon added: “Our rebrand isn’t about changing who we are, its simply us evolving and adapting to change. We wanted the brand to be more in keeping with the business we are today, reflect customers in both our local SME market and the wider enterprise market and enable us to challenge within the competitive market.

The new website focuses more on the customer, what they need from us and how we can support them.”

While dbfb prefer to communicate with their customers over the phone, the new website provides additional contact channels for customers to reach the team.

From live chat functions, to call back options, customers can contact them when they need to through the channel of their choice.

To find out more about dbfb and see the new branding in action, visit dbfb.co.uk

Rapid growth for WA Management A management consultancy headquartered in Leamington is moving to a bigger office after an exciting period of growth.

WA Management has experienced rapid growth since last year, with nearly half of its staff recruited after the start of the pandemic.

As a result, it is moving to a larger location with its new head office at Dormer Place, overlooking the Pump Room Gardens, from the end of November.

The health, safety, quality and environmental compliance management consultancy, which also has offices in London and the north, provides health and safety services and management system advice as well as a range of bespoke training courses.

Its new office will span two floors, and will include a dedicated meeting and training room for face-toface training, including First Aid and IOSH (Institute of Occupation Health) certified courses.

William Whittaker, Managing Consultant of WA Management, said that the new office is an exciting step forward for the business, and a great opportunity to build on the compliance and training services they offer.

He said: “We’ve loved running our online training sessions, and plan to keep offering them as some of our customers find them to be more convenient, particularly in regard to our director-level IOSH Leading Safely course.

“However, we’re very keen to host in-person First Aid sessions in our offices again and look forward to welcoming customers old and new for training courses accredited by QNUK, IOSH and other awarding bodies.”

With the easing of Covid-19 restrictions, along with the new office space at its disposal, WA Management is currently looking into expanding its in-person training options.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

The company’s qualified trainers offer a range of courses such as Emergency First Aid at Work and bespoke Health and Safety training, which are suitable for many different industries and can be tailored to suit the individual needs of the client.

Other areas of the business are also growing, including an online PPE retail store which is currently being developed, along with an online document portal which allows customers to access all of their important up-todate documentation conveniently and quickly.

New Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents accredited online training courses, including Mental Health Awareness Training and Abrasive Wheels Training, have also been added to WA Management’s online training shop.

William added: “We’re working hard to bring new services to our customer base.

“We pride ourselves on the long-term working relationships we establish with our clients, so we want to continue to offer services that are practical, add value to their operations, and reduce red tape, which will in turn allow their business to run more efficiently.

always keen to listen to our customers’ thoughts and use their feedback to drive improvement to the business.”

Alongside these new services, WA Management also offers Health and Safety support, including risk assessments, accident investigation, policies and more, assists with implementing and running ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) certified management systems and both bespoke and open certified IOSH training courses held either online, on a business’s site or in WA Management’s offices.

“As part of our management system, we are always looking for customer feedback to develop the services we provide.

As an ISO certified business itself, WA Management is a compliance professional which identifies and helps implement best practice processes across client operations.

“Therefore, some of the ideas we’re working on have come directly from our clients themselves, and we’re

Further information is available by visiting https://www.wamanagement.co.uk

“We’ve loved running our online training sessions, and plan to keep offering them as some of our customers find them to be more convenient, particularly in regard to our director-level IOSH Leading Safely course."

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Chamber Training

Making a Difference to Children’s Care and Education Apprenticeships through Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training have proven to be a successful pathway for two brothers, Joel and Daniel Silber, whose careers in children’s care and education are going from strength to strength at Beatle Woods Ltd, an outdoor nursery, situated in a 10-acre woodland site in Balsall Common.

Joel Silber achieved his apprenticeship at level 2, before progressing to advanced learning at level 3 (early years educator) which he is on track to successfully complete. Joel’s brother, Daniel Silber, is following in his brother’s footsteps taking up an apprenticeship in children’s care and education (early years practitioner) in the midst of the pandemic in 2020.

The brothers are truly inspirational role models, demonstrating excellent skills and knowledge of their profession.

As a leading provider of apprenticeships and business to business training courses, Chamber Training has a strong track record of working in partnership with employers to design and deliver apprenticeships that meet their specific requirements.

Commenting on Joel and Daniel’s success, Rachel Macbeth-Webb, Founder and Manager of Beatle Woods said: “Our first truly outdoor nursery in the West Midlands was set up in

Commenting on his progress, Joel remarked: “The team at Chamber Training have been so supportive and approachable. Gill has regularly helped me to address and deal with challenges.

I am really thankful for the guidance and advice I have received.”

“Our first ever apprentice, Joel, applied for an apprenticeship position with us in 2019 and the team at Chamber Training provided him with the right guidance and support to enable him to excel on his apprenticeship. Daniel then joined us in September 2020, after originally looking at a teaching assistant, but he realised his passion and also embarked on the early years practitioner apprenticeship.

Gill Dickson, Chamber Training, Joel and Daniel Silber and Rachel Macbeth-Webb from Beatle Woods

2017 to provide care for children aged from 2 to 5 years old and it has grown from an initial group of 5 staff to 16.

The children spend all day outside, engaging in activities of their choice.

We do not plan ahead or structure our days as we believe children learn best when they feel a sense of autonomy and are empowered to then develop resilience, high levels of self-esteem and independence.

“Working in partnership with Chamber Training has proven to be an extension of ethos of Beatle Woods.

Gill Dickson, our Training Adviser at Chamber Training, has provided us with a dedicated and personalised one-to-one support programme. She has helped us create solutions to any challenges we have encountered.

Daniel added: “I really enjoyed working four days at the nursery and one day off-the-job training at Chamber Training.

It has offered a nice working balance and I am able to come up with new, inspiring ideas each week, which helps me in my job.”

“Having a male perspective in the nursery works extremely well and the children love them. They both offer a unique approach to child care that works extremely well. We currently have four apprentices with Chamber Training and we look forward to continuing our partnership with them.”

Gill Dickson from Chamber Training concluded: “We are delighted to have worked with Joel and Daniel. They have shown a natural ability when working with children and we are pleased to have been part of their career success.

We are currently working with a number of nurseries and children’s care settings to provide relevant, tailored and structured learning pathways to support businesses to develop qualified staff.

If you’re looking to recruit an apprentice or train your existing staff, we can help you on that journey.”

For further information about Chamber Training’s Apprenticeship Programme, call 024 7623 1122 or enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk View Beatle Woods’ video on YouTube https://youtu.be/8Yv5_4ploCk

Two apprentices, Daniel and Joel Silber from Beatle Woods.

Coventry City of Culture Two-tone hair competition The apprentices were challenged to explore two-tone, its influence on music, fashion, politics and culture, and create a total look for the skills competition.

Jayne Powell, Trainer at Chamber Training, remarked: “Our apprentices were exposed to working under pressure with strict time scales when styling the hair. They had to plan their look creating a mood board and ensure they had all tools, products and equipment.

To celebrate Coventry as the City of Culture 2021, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber Training’s hairdressing apprentices have tested their skills as part of a celebration of Coventry’s rich musical heritage, two-tone.

“The work of a hairdresser during a competition is very different to working in a salon. Different techniques may be required, depending on the style and theme of the event and the apprentices had to research the era, explore the key influences and culture in order to create their version of two-tone style.”

Training Courses 2021/22

Chamber Member Price + VAT

The apprentices produced a high standard of work, battling against the clock and each other as part of their apprenticeship journey. Chamber Training believes in stretching and challenging apprentices through skills competitions, enabling individuals to extend their skills, gain valuable experiences and learn new things in fun ways. Apprenticeships are all about combining theory and practice whatever the job role is about. Chamber Training ensures that apprentices gain a wide range of experiences and opportunities to develop valuable skills.

To discuss how Apprenticeships could benefit your business contact Chamber Training’s Business Development Team on 024 7623 1122 or enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk Non-Member Price + VAT

View Chamber Training’s two-tone hair competition video on YouTube https://youtu.be/S9nYJ7jy8so

Duration

Nov 21

Contact Chamber Training for a list of dates enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk

ILM Level 3 Diploma in Leadership and Management

£2000.00

£2000.00

29 days

Microsoft Excel - Intermediate to Advanced Effective Communications Microsoft Excel Basic to Intermediate (FULLY BOOKED) Time Management Managing Customer Expectations Key Account Management Microsoft Excel - Basic to Intermediate Manage Change Successfully Communicating Assertively Complaint Handling

£130.00 £110.00 £130.00 £220.00 £110.00 £110.00 £130.00 £220.00 £110.00 £110.00

£160.00 £135.00 £160.00 £245.00 £135.00 £135.00 £160.00 £245.00 £135.00 £135.00

1 day Half Day - AM 1 Day Half Day - AM Half Day - PM 1 Day 1 Day Half Day - AM Half Day - PM

First Aid at Work (HSE Recommended)

£240.00

£265.00

3 Days

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A look at some of the competition winners

Dec 21

Jan 22

18 24

Please note: All courses will be held face-to-face at Chamber Training (unless otherwise informed) * Plus registration. Prices subject to VAT.

8 15 12 12 19 19 26 26 28 Jan + 4,11 Feb www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Chamber Training

Apprenticeship Talent Pipeline in Partnership with Chamber Training well on course to achieve and progress her career to the next level.

L-R Jack Baker, Sumaya Miah, Ella Pollard are seen here with James Rose from McGlone Wardzynski

Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training is celebrating apprenticeship success with Coventry-based accountants, McGlone Wardzynski Limited. The accountancy firm, which has been supporting businesses for over 20 years, has worked closely with the team at Chamber Training to develop a successful pathway for apprentices across its workforce.

Throughout the pandemic Nicky Cheshire, Training Manager at Chamber Training, has been providing dedicated support and guidance to ensure the apprentices at the accountancy firm continued to progress with their training despite the challenges in the wider world.

Jack Baker joined McGlone Wardzynski in 2017 following his A Levels. He decided to take the apprenticeship route, seeing the mix of learning, work experience and earning a wage as a great way to start a career. Jack is currently studying to qualify as a professional accounting technician at Level 4, after which he aims to progress on to the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).

Jack’s colleague, Ella Pollard, spent a year in the sixth form before deciding the world of work offered greater opportunities. Ella joined McGlone Wardzynski in 2020 and is storming ahead with her accountancy qualifications and workplace training, becoming a valuable member of the team.

Sumaya Miah is following in the footsteps of her manager, Amanda Asbury, who was a former accountancy apprentice with Chamber Training so is well equipped to support the development of Sumaya. After starting her apprenticeship in 2020, Sumaya is

Commenting on the support gained from Chamber Training, James Rose, Director at McGlone Wardzynski who started his accountancy career through the apprenticeship route many years ago said: “We have been working in partnership with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training for the past 10 years to source and train our apprentices. They have been an essential part of our business and it is a great way for apprentices to gain first hand work experience and qualifications in their chosen profession.

It gives them the opportunity to put into practice what they have learnt and make a valuable contribution to the business.

We are also looking to take on another apprentice with Chamber Training in the very near future.”

Sally Lucas, Executive Director at Chamber Training, added: “At Chamber Training, we have a strong track record of supporting businesses to design and deliver a plan of learning to match their needs. We are currently working with a number of accountancy firms to develop their future workforce through apprenticeships. The mixture of on and off the job learning ensures that apprentices develop the skills that employers require.

“Furthermore, it is also a good time for employers to take advantage of Government financial incentives to support businesses to create new jobs and apprenticeships.

“Employers can receive £3,000 for new apprentices of any age who join their organisation before 31st January 2022. This is in addition to the £1,000 employers already receive for hiring an apprentice aged 16 to 18 years old or ages 19-24 with an education, health care plan or who have been in care of the local authority. Our team are on hand to provide guidance and support to make the apprenticeship journey easy.”

To discuss how apprenticeships could benefit your business or to find out more about the financial incentives, contact Chamber Training’s Business Development Team on 024 7623 1122 or enquiries@cw-chambertraining.co.uk View McGlone Wardynski’s video on YouTube https://youtu.be/RB2pLU6koTc

“We have been working in partnership with Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber Training for the past 10 years to source and train our apprentices. They have been an essential part of our business and it is a great way for apprentices to gain first hand work experience and qualifications in their chosen profession." www.cw-chamber.co.uk

WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH

the tough get growing!

The Chancellor delivered a sparkling Budget recently – champagne Conservatism, help for the Beerage and hospitality sectors, long overdue rates relief for the retailers that are left on the High Street – a drinking person's Budget! Three cheers!

By Graham Freakes hg technology ltd

W

hile this all brings immediate and much needed relief after the pandemic, the future was also addressed with support for apprenticeships, T level training, increased R & D spending and support for growing companies.

This is the kernel of the Budget as far as I'm concerned. Growing businesses are the cornerstone of the future from the Governments point of view - they generate wealth, jobs and therefore tax revenue. However many fast growing businesses fail to recognize that they are fast growing, are unprepared for fast growth and fail to seize the opportunity. The consequences aren't just 'the one that got away' but a loss to your business and everyone involved including the Chancellor.

Having been part of several fast growing businesses I understand how invigorating and exhilarating it feels – holding on to a tigers tail and not daring to let go! In these situations it's very difficult to wave the flag and shout 'Help!' if you're sinking because you might feel it's a sign of failure, when actually it's crucial that you do!

Equally if you are part of the senior team it's all too easy to ignore the excessive hours being worked, the heightened stress levels among staff because you're so busy yourself.

By the time accidents and sick leave starts increasing it's probably way too late: the opportunity will move out of reach and your business will have suffered financially and physically.

To avoid this fate careful planning to scale up is required. Ask yourself if you have a fast growing business?

In these strange and volatile times it's quite difficult to know whether you're a fast growing company or not. A standard test is >10% year on year growth in sales but at the moment the past is not particularly helpful so sales forecasts and order books are the only guide you have. Not recognising it early enough will deny your team the one of the best experiences of their lives – there really isn't very much better than being part of a fast growing business!

If you are fast growing, start by envisaging how your business will look in three years time – turnover, facility size, headcount, equipment. Work backwards from there to next month and you'll probably find you should have started recruiting yesterday, especially in the current labour market. You may also be able to take advantage of the Help to Grow scheme announced by the Chancellor.

It will be hard work, it will be tough but it will be worth it!

I've been there, got the scars and learnt how to avoid the pitfalls. If you want to avoid 'the one that got away' and grow fast just contact me.

❛❛If you are fast

growing, start by envisaging how your business will look in three years time – turnover, facility size, headcount, equipment.❜❜

email: graham.freakes@handgtechnology.co.uk call: 07774 200321 www.handgtechnology.co.uk

15

Women in Business “The plan will come together through partnership working – and that is vital in every aspect of business, it is not just the transport authorities that are involved but other businesses and people who are interested in the Games to ensure we deliver this efficiently."

Laura Murphy (Billesley Manor Hotel and Spa), Keely Hancox (Chamber), Anne Shaw (Transport for West Midlands), Claire Lea (Prime Accountants Group), Hazel Pilling (Chamber)

Partnership working to help Commonwealth Games strike gold

T

he woman spearheading the transport plans across the West Midlands and in preparation for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games told a business audience of the importance of partnership working.

Anne Shaw, Interim Managing Director at Transport for West Midlands, was a speaker at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s first face-toface Women in Business Networking Lunch event since autumn 2019 due to Covid-19.

The networking lunch attracted around 60 businesswomen from across the region to the Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa in Warwickshire, which has recently completed a £5.6 million refurbishment.

Anne, who started her career as a drainage technician at Birmingham City Council, said she had been working on the Games Transport Plan for the last four years.

“The plan will come together through partnership working – and that is vital in every aspect of business,” she said.

“It is not just the transport authorities that are involved but other businesses and people who are interested in the Games to ensure we deliver this efficiently.

“We will be supporting the transportation of the athletes from their accommodation at the University of Warwick, the NEC Hotel Campus and the University of Birmingham as well as putting the services in place to bring visitors and spectators to all the venues which includes the bowls and Para bowls in Leamington, Rugby Sevens, Judo and Wrestling in Coventry and the Cycling Road Races in Warwickshire.

“We also need to ensure we have a smooth public transport system for the thousands of visitors coming to our region because we want to encourage them both to stay and come back which has an impact on the local economy. We want them to leave with the right impression of the West Midlands.

16

“The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games will leave a fantastic legacy and will show we are the place to hold events of this stature and continue to grow.

“My job is to make sure the transport is invisible and that everyone leaves the region having had a great time.”

She was followed on the speaker’s podium by Claire Lea, a Director and Head of Advisory Tax at Prime Accountants Group which has offices in Coventry, Birmingham and Solihull.

Claire spoke about the importance of mentors and how they had proved invaluable throughout her 16 years in the profession as a tax advisor.

The former University of Warwick student said: “I would encourage women to find a mentor particularly those starting out.

“I now head up the tax advisory team for my firm but without my mentors over the years, I wouldn’t have done a lot of the things I have achieved in my career.

“It gives you a lot of support and confidence which is something that women often lack but they shouldn’t because one of my top tips is ‘what’s the worst that can happen?’.”

Keely Hancox, Operations Manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said it had been fantastic to resume the Women in Business events in person.

She said: “It is so important for Coventry and Warwickshire businesses to connect with each other and you could hear the buzz in the room and there was a feeling that business is starting to return to normal.

“We hope this will inspire the business community to come to more of the Chamber’s events which are the lifeblood of our organisation.

“Anne and Claire both gave important messages in their talks about the power of partnership working and mentoring – and the Chamber’s 21in21 mentoring programme which brings together senior female business leaders with aspiring women leaders, entrepreneurs or young people is proving a great success.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Women in Business

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

“We also need to ensure we have a smooth public transport system for the thousands of visitors coming to our region because we want to encourage them both to stay and come back which has an impact on the local economy.

We want them to leave with the right impression of the West Midlands."

“It is so important for Coventry and Warwickshire businesses to connect with each other and you could hear the buzz in the room and there was a feeling that business is starting to return to normal. We hope this will inspire the business community to come to more of the Chamber’s events which are the lifeblood of our organisation."

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

17

News

Chamber series helps push business towards a net zero future The Sustainable Business Series was the first Chamber campaign focused on sustainability, delivered in partnership with Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. The campaign featured free content covering five webinars, a Business Summit, supported by blogs, podcasts and videos over four themed weeks: energy, circular economy, transport and sustainable business management.

Marion Plant, chair of CWLEP’s Productivity and Skills Business Group

Preparing for the world of work

About 60,000 students in Coventry and Warwickshire have been prepared for the world of work this year, a major event was told.

The Coventry & Warwickshire Careers Hubs, which were launched by The Careers & Enterprise Company, have worked with 81 schools and colleges since they were established in the area in 2019.

The Careers Hubs give schools and colleges the chance to link up with employers, training organisations, colleges, universities, and career professionals so that pupils have information about all the options that are available when they leave education and the different career paths they want to pursue.

The Coventry & Warwickshire Careers Hubs, which receives funding from Think Higher Coventry and Warwickshire, which is a partnership of local higher and further education providers and local authorities, are supported by the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership.

The Coventry & Warwickshire Careers Hubs organised its Celebration Event at Coventry University Technology Park to recognise the work of schools, employers and colleagues who are supporting careers education for young people in the area.

Matt Alvarez, Coventry & Warwickshire Careers Hubs lead, said this had been a fantastic opportunity to highlight the impact of its work.

He said: “We had originally planned to hold our Celebration Event last year but that had to be cancelled due to the pandemic so this has been our first chance to re-arrange it.

“It was a great opportunity to hear about the progress of the Careers Hubs in Coventry and Warwickshire over the last two years as well as meet a large cross-section of employers, stakeholders and influencers that support careers education.

“Work experience has been pretty non-existent since Covid-19 began but our virtual events and the materials we have put together for careers education teachers to access to ensure students have as much high-quality information as possible has been really important in making sure young people are aware of the options available to them.

“Ensuring young people in our area are ready for the world of work in their chosen path is extremely important for their wellbeing and for employers who are looking to recruit the next generation.

“We wanted this event to act as an inspiration and motivation to continue or broaden the support for young people from those responsible for careers education in their schools and colleges in Coventry and Warwickshire so that students can make informed choices about their next steps.”

Marion Plant, chair of CWLEP’s Productivity and Skills Business Group, added: “Providing good jobs and levelling-up opportunities is one of the key aspects of CWLEP’s Strategic Reset Framework.

“To achieve this we need to make sure young people in Coventry and Warwickshire are armed with information to make informed choices about their careers and providing quality careers education is vital so that they acquire the skills which employers need.”

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Regional support and best practice examples were shared across the themed weeks, including the webinars.

The campaign culminated with a Business Summit, featuring keynote speakers Bim Afolami MP and Jo Gilroy, as well as engaging panel discussions on the financial case for sustainability and the role of businesses on net zero.

Businesses have been surveyed on their sustainability activity, which will feature in a report of local business sustainability across the two chambers. This will help inform next year’s sustainability activity for the Chamber, including support and lobbying activity to help businesses to navigate their net zero journey.

Key advice to businesses from the campaign was to start measuring their environmental impact, creating a strategy, engaging with stakeholders along the process, revaluating progress and taking corrective action and then finally sharing your success with stakeholders.

Aston University, Morgan Sindall, Arup and University of Birmingham have sponsored the campaign Patricia Thornley, Director of the Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute at Aston University said, “Aston University are proud to have supported the Chamber as they help businesses move towards a more sustainable future. Our work on COP 26 is charting a path to net zero emissions using EBRI’s expertise on low carbon energy and products; but that will only be achieved if we work together with businesses towards shared climate goals”.

Helen Davis, Director at Arup commented, “We are delighted to have sponsored the Sustainable Business Series. We hope by sharing our expertise in infrastructure and climate resilience, our experiences during our own journey to net zero and our knowledge from making transformational step changes to our region’s energy systems, we have enabled our local business community to begin their own sustainability journey. Leading them to go on and produce tangible economic, environmental, and social benefits, and ultimately build long-term success”.

Richard Kirkham, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure’s operations director for the A45 Sprint project said, “Morgan Sindall Infrastructure and the A45 Sprint Team were delighted to be involved in this great campaign. We are proud to have helped the local business community meet the net zero challenge through sharing our learnings on transport decarbonisation and emission reduction targets under our 25% reduction in carbon emissions by 2025. We aim to continue supporting the Chamber on environmental support as it aligns with our business ethos”.

Gurmit Kler, Director of Business Engagement, University of Birmingham, said, “Supporting the Chambers’ first sustainable business campaign was a fantastic opportunity to join the

Bim Afolami MP

region’s green business renaissance.

Sharing University insights, knowledge and resources in energy week from Birmingham Energy Institute and ATETA showcased the wealth of support and expertise that University of Birmingham can provide to regional businesses progressing towards net zero. The Summit event, joining together businesses and academia as a community on a shared mission, highlighted expertise from our Sustainable Financial Innovation Centre.

The campaign plays an important and timely role for businesses in the lead up to COP26, boosting the spirit of sustainability for local industries”.

"Businesses have been surveyed on their sustainability activity, which will feature in a report of local business sustainability across the two chambers. This will help inform next year’s sustainability activity for the Chamber, including support and lobbying activity to help businesses to navigate their net zero journey."

Carbon Neutral Status A Midlands developer has achieved carbon neutral status and is targeting to be net zero by 2036.

Deeley Group, which is headquartered in Coventry, has achieved Carbon Neutral status for its reporting period of May 2020 – April 2021 and has been working in partnership with industry experts Carbon Footprint Ltd to put measures in place to achieve net zero by 2036.

The family-owned construction and development firm is now in the second year of measuring its carbon footprint.

From May 2020 to April 2021, the firm produced 12.1 tonnes of CO2 per £1 million spent and offset the CO2 produced by donating to a wind project in India.

The construction and built environment sector is one of the larger producers of emissions, but Deeley Group will be using targets supported by scientific research to drive down its emissions.

Deeley Group has already introduced sustainable measures at its headquarters as part of its commitment, including the installation of EV charging points, solar panels, rain water harvesting measures and PIR lighting.

As part of Deeley’s roadmap to net zero, created in partnership with Carbon Footprint Limited, it will be implementing a host of measures over the coming years.

This will include introducing electric vehicles across its fleet, installing LED lighting at head office, work to Future Homes standards and providing incentives for staff to use greener transport methods.

The UK Government has launched its Net Zero Carbon Procurement policy recently and this requires firms tendering to government and related bodies to annual measure their carbon footprint and reach net zero carbon by 2050.

Deeley Group is aiming to reach this target 14 years earlier and will publish its progress annually. Eleanor Deeley, deputy managing director at the Deeley Group, said: “With our targets we will be looking to go above and beyond the latest definition of net zero and will be working in partnership with Carbon Footprint Ltd to reach our objectives.

“While we continue to work toward net zero carbon status, we will continue to offset our carbon to ensure we are having a positive impact as soon as possible on the environment during the process.

“It’s important that businesses, regardless of their size, act now and take vital measures to protect the future of our planet.

“We will be working closely with our clients to ensure that sustainable practice is being followed at all of our developments and contributing to our ultimate target of being net zero carbon by the time the company celebrates its 100th year.

“The target date of 2036 is ambitious but it is a challenge we are ready to meet.”

Dr Wendy Buckley, co-founder of Carbon Footprint Ltd, added: “I’m delighted to see Deeley - as a responsible construction business - taking leading steps to achieve net zero carbon emissions way ahead of the UK’s target date of 2050. An example that I hope many other businesses in this sector will take note of and follow.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Triple Awards win for Local Coach Operator at National Tourism Awards

From L to R: Helen Conway, Andy Day, Kyran Flynn, Nicole Smith, Lauren Davies, Rachel Knight, Rebecca Peet, John Johnson, Anne Johnson, Gary Harridence, Teresa Mallinson, Barry Cobb, Heather Allen and Chris Hollins.

Johnsons Coach Travel of Henley-in-Arden has beaten off competition from coach tour operators from across the UK to win three prestigious awards at the National Coach Tourism Awards 2021, the ‘Oscars’ of the British Coach Tourism industry.

The firm scooped up the awards for ‘Coach Tour Operator of the

Year’ (Large Fleet), ‘Coach Tour Operator Social Media Campaign’ and ‘Coach Tourism Professional of the Year’ for their Tours Manager, Barry Cobb. After being postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the awards were held on Wednesday 22nd September 2021 at The British Motor Museum.

The awards recognise excellence

and innovation across the industry from coach tour operators, tourist destinations, attractions and industry suppliers.

In giving the ‘Coach Tour Operator of the year’ award, the presenter said “Johnsons continue to recognise their marketplace, having introduced the sell-out Luxury Traveller brand in 2020 which enhances their already popular programme. The judges felt that the innovative way of utilizing local TV hubs an developing their customer feedback questionnaires show how this company are the deserved winner of Coach Tour Operator of the Year 2020.”

John Johnson, Commercial Director of Johnsons Coach Travel, collected the award with his team in front of a large audience of tourism industry professionals and presented by TV personality and Strictly sensation, Chris Hollins.

Commenting on the company’s success, he says: “We are

delighted with these awards which are a fantastic accolade for our great team here. I am especially pleased for our Tours Manager Barry Cobb; his award demonstrates industry-wide recognition and respect for his many years of excellent work.”

This is Johnsons second consecutive win for the Large Coach Tour Operator category.

The judges were looking for a company with more than 15 tour coaches that demonstrated a commitment to quality, innovation, training, and customer service, with an excellent industry reputation, but also examples of how it has developed and enhanced its product. After a difficult 18 months for all in the industry, these awards are a welcomed success and are a testament to the hard work, innovation and perseverance for all the staff at Johnsons.

For more information, visit www.johnsonscoaches.co.uk

Darren Astbury named Road Transport Engineer of the Year Darren Astbury, Chief Technician at National Express West Midlands, was named Road Transport Engineer of the Year at a national award ceremony held in Birmingham last week.

The 41-year-old, from Kings Norton in Birmingham, has been recognised for his diligent work in protecting customers and staff and for consistently producing excellent results.

The Society of Operations Engineers’ Safety and Sustainability Awards took place on 7th October 2021, recognising excellence in safety and sustainability across the road transport, plant, environment and surveying sectors.

Adam Fraser-Hitchen, SOE President, said “The SOE Safety and Sustainability Awards recognise special achievements of members who have demonstrated professionalism, expertise, teamwork and integrity over the past year in their engineering roles.

“We are delighted to be able to acknowledge these exceptional individuals and celebrate their success.”

Among other pieces of great work, Darren was nominated for the SOE Road Transport Engineer of the Year award due to his interrogation of vehicle breakdowns. His

dogged determination ultimately led to a 47% reduction across National Express West Midlands’ 1,600-strong bus fleet. Through detailed root cause analysis he was able to develop and implement preventative long-term fixes, ensuring vehicles remain out on the road serving customers.

During the pandemic, hundreds of thousands of customers relied on National Express West Midlands bus services to make essential journeys, including key workers needing to get to work in schools and hospitals. Darren developed a seating map to support social distancing, ensuring customers and drivers could continue to travel safely. This seating map was held up as an example of good practice by others within the bus industry.

Commenting on his award, Darren said “I was a little surprised and am extremely grateful to the SOE for this award and recognition. I’ll be the first to admit that as engineers we tend to just get on with the job that we love, but this serves as a timely reminder of the important role that we play in the bus and coach industry and that it should be celebrated.

Mike Curran (UK National Account Manager for FCL), Darren Astbury (NX Bus Chief Technician) and Sir John Parker (SOE Patron)

“If I think about where I started 24 years ago and where I am now, it’s been quite the ride with all of the projects and challenges I’ve worked on and the knowledge and skills I’ve gained.

“There are so many brilliant opportunities for engineers to make a difference in public transport. With the introduction of zeroemission vehicles and the advancements in technology that are becoming increasingly important, it really is such an exciting time to be an engineer.”

Darren started his career with National Express 24 years ago as an Apprentice Diesel Fitter before moving to the company’s central engineering team as a Technical Assistant in 2001.

Connect, create and collaborate

Prof Andy Hardy, CEO of University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, speaking at the Medici event

‘Connect, create and collaborate’ were the key themes from the third annual Medici event to encourage innovation in the healthcare sector in Coventry and Warwickshire.

This year’s event — Unlocking Innovation Together — was organised by University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust and held at its Innovation Hub in the Clinical Sciences Building at University Hospital in Coventry.

Among the 80 delegates who attended were businesses in the healthcare sector that have received help and advice from the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) Growth Hub, including medical

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software specialists Optimed and medical delivery drone start-up Skyfarer.

Professor Andy Hardy, Chief Executive Officer of UHCW NHS Trust, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to see so many colleagues and partners from across Coventry and Warwickshire coming together to celebrate and discuss innovation.

“At UHCW NHS Trust we have ambitions to be a leader in the creation and adoption of innovation. We are very proud of our commitment to this and our Innovation Hub space which is designed to bring people together to solve problems creatively.

“We are also committed to supporting our communities and local economy, as demonstrated by our work with CWLEP to support businesses to develop their health-related innovations.”

Craig Humphrey, Managing Director of the CWLEP Growth Hub, added that the Medici event had been an excellent evening of networking and an opportunity to celebrate innovation in the healthcare sector.

“During the pandemic, the Growth Hub helped so many businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire to diversify,” he said.

“Our area has always been renowned for its innovation and the Growth Hub is working with UHCW NHS Trust to help identify businesses with innovative ideas that could help the healthcare sector and to signpost them to the expertise they need.

“This is a really exciting collaboration which will have long-term benefits for our economy.”

Sarah Windrum, CWLEP Chair, who gave a keynote speech at the event, spoke about the potential of digital transformation and the power of local collaboration.

She said: “Technology is only part of the importance of Unlocking Innovation Together because we also need to focus on infrastructure, investment and inclusion.

“CWLEP has been working closely with UHCW NHS Trust to form stronger relationships as part of our Strategic Reset Framework, with innovation being at the core.

“Innovation thrives when we create opportunities, develop blended skills and embrace new ways of thinking. It was really interesting to hear about all the ideas staff at UHCW NHS Trust have to further improve healthcare for patients and those working in the sector, and this event was an excellent platform to move those ideas forward.”

Warwickshire hotel to launch new artisan produce shop An award-winning Warwickshire hotel is launching a new artisan produce shop and 50s-inspired dessert diner later this month to coincide with a spectacular illuminated winter light trail.

Coombe Abbey Hotel, just outside Coventry, is set to showcase local food and drink at The Abbey Artisan Market in the remodelled former Visitor Centre ranging from craft beers to handcrafted chocolate, baked goods, handmade pies, preserves and pickles from across the region.

It will stock highly-acclaimed sausages, bacon and assorted hampers from the award-winning Warwickshire-based top UK butcher and deli, Aubrey Allen in Leamington Spa. Other suppliers will include Warwickshire’s Windmill Hill Brewing Company, a bespoke chocolatier in Warwick, speciality fine food from Cotswolds Fayre and chutney, relishes and pickles made by The Bay Tree Food Company, as well as outdoor wear by Regatta Clothing.

Milkshakes, crepes, waffles and desserts will be on the menu at a brand-new retro American style diner, The Sundae Club Dessert Diner, as part of the ambitious new plans.

The mid-November opening is planned to coincide with Coombe Abbey’s winter light trail, Luminate Coombe, a stunning mile long trail, set to ambient music, which will run from Thursday November 18 until Christmas Eve. The hotel, which has a country park, woodlands, and Go Ape treetop experience within the grounds, has around 450,000 visitors a year.

Ron Terry, Operations Director at Coombe Abbey Park Limited, said: “This is a first for Coombe Abbey Hotel. Quality local food is at the forefront of our vision for The Abbey Artisan Market.

"This is something we really value as a business. We are really excited to be working with so many local and regional producers.

“We are also pleased to welcome The Sundae Club Dessert Diner to Coombe Abbey, another first. It will offer a range of good value desserts, waffles, ice-creams in a fun 1950s inspired environment and really helps to support our aim to deliver a vibrant retail-led environment for local residents and visitors in the park.”

Tickets for Luminate Coombe need to be pre-booked online in advance. Visit here for further information https://luminate.live/coombe-abbey

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Profile: Steve Harcourt the lonely accountant in the room to see what he needed to do if he was to follow in his grandad’s footsteps.

“He was all on his own, nobody else wanted to chat to him!” said Steve. “I asked him how you become an accountant and he told me there were two routes – to go straight into it from A-Levels or go to university and that would mean you could skip some of the accountancy training when you started.”

Steve took the university route, studying Geography and Environmental Science at Middlesex which included several field trips overseas but, when he left three years later, he hadn’t settled on his chosen career – until his parents gave him some unsubtle advice.

“After university, I came back to Bedworth and I told my parents I still didn’t know what I wanted to do and they told me I needed to get a job,” he said.

“I went along to an agency and they had a role at National Grid, when they had offices in Coventry, in the accounts team.

“I worked there for about six months but I realised that this wasn’t the path my grandad had took in his career. It was a large corporate business and it was just processing information. It wasn’t getting to know businesses or getting to know people.

“I looked for a role in a practice and got an interview at a firm called Chaplin Hall & Co who were based in Coventry. They were looking for a trainee. I got the job and started my ACCA training with them. Three years later, I qualified and I stayed with them for ten years.

“I got to the position of manager with the firm and because it was a small firm, there was no clear progression for me from there.”

Just as he began to look for a new opportunity, he was told by a friend – a previous colleague at Chaplin Hall & Co – that Prime was on the hunt for a new manager in Solihull.

He applied and got the job.

That was in 2007 and his own progression has directly correlated with the company’s expansion.

A Prime time for regional accountant It’s fair to say that most teenagers don’t dream of being an accountant. Even in Steve Harcourt’s case, it would be a stretch to suggest that he had his heart set on the profession from an early age.

In fact, like most youngsters he headed to college and then university without really knowing where it might lead in terms of a career path.

But there was always a pull towards accountancy and, thanks to his grandfather, Steve saw beyond the idea of it being a daily number crunching exercise and more of a people business.

Something else drew him towards the sector too.

“My grandad was an accountant in Norfolk and ran a practice with a few other partners,” said Steve, who is a director and shareholder at Prime Accountants Group, which has offices in Coventry, Solihull and Birmingham.

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“He used to tell me how he liked looking after people’s businesses and took great pride in helping them. He’d say to me that if you could help them save money on tax, they’d always appreciate that.

“He ran the business and being your own boss sounded really good to me as a teenager at the time. He played a lot of golf too and went out for a lot of meals so it sounded like quite a nice life – of course it’s not quite as easy as that when you do it!”

Since then, Prime Accountants Group has grown from around 40 staff to having more than 100 across three offices. Some of that growth has been organic but also through acquisition – including buying Steve’s previous employer.

In 2017, he became a director of the company and then, more recently, became a shareholder within the business. It’s a rise that he has enjoyed but says it is not without complication.

“Initially, it’s quite strange because you have an affinity with the team you work with and enjoy working with them but as my career has progressed, there are sometimes difficult decisions to be made when you are running a business,” said Steve.

“It takes time to square that off. It’s been four years since I became a director and, even after becoming a shareholder, my attitude has changed even further.

“To make the business work and grow you have to make those tough decisions because, ultimately, they are made to help everyone and develop the business.

“It will probably be a different experience in whatever firm you work at. We are a progressive company and are at the forefront of many technological advances within the sector. We promote ourselves and develop people but it takes time to do that. This is all part of our long-term strategic plan.”

And the company fits his and his grandad’s ethos of being more than just another supplier to a client.

Steve said: “We like to help all businesses – we’ve got clients from small, sole traders to large multi-national businesses.

Steve grew up in Bedworth, attended George Eliot School in Nuneaton and then King Edward VI College (KEGS) for his A-Levels.

“For me, it’s all about building relationships with clients. We want our clients to be successful and be an active part of their progress. We are always approachable, friendly and, of course, offer great advice to our clients.

He remembers attending a careers event at college, still unsure of what path to take but decided to chat to

“Ultimately, we want to help businesses to create wealth, which benefits them, us and the wider society.

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Profile: Steve Harcourt “We focus on providing a tailored solution for our clients, which not only meets their accounting needs, but exceeds their expectations and in turn makes their lives easier. We want to use our services to help our clients run their business more efficiently, so they have more time to spend running their business, and not dealing with day-to-day accounting tasks.

“We continuously aim to progress our business and have brought in a number of in-house experts to provide a more streamlined service, such as experts in VAT, corporate tax and private client tax. All of these join our team which already benefits from having its own wealth team, which allows our clients to gain advice from our financial advisor, plan ahead and achieve their own financial aims, not just business goals.

“We try to take a personal approach to the way we treat our clients and have a family atmosphere within our team. We take part in lots of staff and charity events that we organise, which brings our teams together.”

Lockdown tested every business’s capability of servicing clients in a personal way and in keeping a team culture among staff, with everyone working remotely.

But through constant communication with the team, the Prime staff were given clear direction and, from a business point of view, it soon became clear that the company was going to be even more important in supporting clients through the unprecedented economic times.

“Quickly, Government help such as the furlough scheme and CBILs were introduced and we had to support clients with that. Cashflow was a massive headache for businesses so we were there to help with that. It was a large task but one that our clients hugely appreciated our ongoing support with.”

“The QES was predicting that we might be back at pre-pandemic levels around now – positive steps are being taken and things are slowly returning to normal, however there are still some barriers for certain sectors of the economy. Issues such as recruitment and the movement of goods, for example.

More than most, Steve has his finger on the economic pulse and that will ultimately bring benefits to clients too.

He is on the Chamber Board of Directors, the company is a Business Influence member and also sponsors the regional Quarterly Economic Survey.

“The majority of clients have come through the darker times and are now looking ahead positively to the next 12 months, albeit with some caution after lessons learnt in the past 18 months.”

“The QES is always a very interesting read and gives a vital insight into the local economy which is of great interest to local business leaders,” he said.

“The great thing is that information feeds straight into local government and back into Westminster to bring about policy change.

“It’s going to be tough for the next 12 months – whether it’s recovery from Brexit or the pandemic. There will be challenges for businesses relating to employment, training and cashflow.

“If we can work through the difficulties that are surfacing and get to this time next year in a positive position, then the economy can start to rebound.

“Lockdown was a massive shock to everybody,” he said. “I don’t think many of us thought it would last this long but, even now – 18 months on – we’re still feeling the effects of it.

“As a board of directors, we made the decision that there were three priorities – we had to look after the business, look after the staff and look after the clients.

Everything we did, whatever planning we undertook, whatever changes we had to make, we had to bear those three factors in mind.

But the ultimate question is whether being a director of Prime Accountants Group has afforded Steve some of the perks his grandad told him about as a teenager?

“I do play a bit of golf and I do a lot of cycling,” he said.

“I am a big fan of Coventry City and I get there as much as I can – it’s great that they are back in the city and winning a few matches!

“But ferrying my kids around is probably one of my biggest pastimes! I take my daughter dancing most days of the week and then to shows at the weekend.

“Oh, and then there’s Dougie the dog – a little spaniel – who is nearly one. He was a lockdown puppy and walking him seems to take up the rest of my spare time!”

“As a board of directors, we made the decision that there were three priorities – we had to look after the business, look after the staff and look after the clients."

About Steve Harcourt: Born:

George Eliot Hospital, Nuneaton

Live: Nuneaton Married/Partner: Married to Claire Children:

Alex, 17 and Isobel, 13

Hobbies:

Golf, Cycling and watching live sport

Favourite Book: The Last Kingdom series of books

by Bernard Cornwell Favourite Film:

The Empire Strikes Back

Last Holiday:

Loch Lomond - Scotland

Gadget:

Would be lost without my iPhone

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Economy

Confidence takes a dip according to latest survey The economic outlook and confidence among businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire has dropped for the first time in 2021 – despite most Covid-19 restrictions being removed.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s third Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) of the year showed that firms across the region are less optimistic than they were just three months ago. Manufacturing, the survey showed, has been hit harder than the service sector.

The survey, which is delivered in partnership with Prime Accountants Group, is analysed by the Economy & Skills Group at Warwickshire County Council. Its analysis uses a similar score to the national Markits Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) where 50 is the balance and anything above means the majority feel positive and anything below means the reverse.

As well as giving a barometer for the local economy, the results are fed into the British Chambers of Commerce’s national QES and send a strong message to Government on business sentiment across the UK. Confidence in the service sector fell marginally from a score of 84.4 to 83.8 but in manufacturing the drop was much more significant, from 80.0 to 62.9.

In the service sector, there has actually been a small rise in the domestic and overseas orders but manufacturers are feeling the pain of rising prices and supply chain issues – with domestic sales down from a score of 51.3 to 50.5 and overseas sales falling from 57.1 to 39.7.

That is having a knock-on effect when it comes to employment, with firms in the service sector more likely to be looking to recruit than those in manufacturing.

Overall, it means the economic outlook for the wider region is down from 63.2 at the end of the second quarter of 2021 to 59.7 for the third quarter of the year.

Sean Rose, head of policy at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The QES results bear out what we are hearing from members. There was real confidence that there would be a big rebound as restrictions were fully lifted but issues around recruitment, the supply chain, cost increases and Brexit have dampened that.

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Louise Bennett (Chamber) and Steve Harcourt (Prime Accountants Group)

“As the most recent GDP figures showed, the economy is growing but it is still significantly short of pre-pandemic levels.

“It’s vitally important that decision-makers look at how businesses are feeling, understand the issues they are facing, and look to find solutions that how the economy to come back stronger from Covid in the months and years ahead.”

Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants Group, said: “The overall economic outlook in Q3 has fallen from the levels of Q2, however it is important to point out that both service sector and manufacturing sector in Coventry and Warwickshire remain above the 50-point index marker, indicating optimism within the local economy for the next 12 months.

“It really is a tale of two sectors in Q3 with a drop off and slowing in demand for manufacturing, while the service sector which

makes up around 80 per cent of the economy, is seeing improvement nearly all the way across the board; with overseas and domestic sales, employment and investment/cashflow all increasing, suggesting the region is getting back to work and returning to near capacity in this sector as remaining restrictions are lifted.

“Manufacturing businesses across the region are highlighting key areas of concern as we move through this period of recovery – supply of product, supply of labour and price demands on both of these components.

“Recruitment difficulties are being reported across all sectors of the economy, which has its origins in leaving the EU and then the pandemic putting a halt to training and apprenticeship progression in most businesses, leaving local businesses with a shortage of skilled people to recruit from.

“The QES results bear out what we are hearing from members. There was real confidence that there would be a big rebound as restrictions were fully lifted but issues around recruitment, the supply chain, cost increases and Brexit have dampened that." www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Economy

“Speaking to clients in manufacturing we are hearing of large raw material price rises.

For example, sheet metal prices are at twice the level per tonne than two years ago. It is unsustainable for a business not to pass these rising costs on during Q4 and on in to 2022.

“The continued unlocking of the economy at the beginning of the quarter has had some positive impacts, particularly within the local service sector which has seen a buoyant performance in terms of its orders, employment, cashflow and investment indexes in Q3.

“All that said, Coventry and Warwickshire is still trending above the UK average when considering general business confidence, which historically has always been the case as we see solutions to challenges, innovation and opportunities throughout our economy.”

“However, the quarter was also dominated by issues surrounding material and labour shortages and supply chain delays which have most notably impacted the local manufacturing sector, in turn constraining business activity. This is reflected in the reductions seen in terms of its overseas orders, employment, cashflow and investment indexes within the sector.

Sunny Parekh, of Warwickshire County Council, said: “Quarter three’s QES presents a mixed bag of results for Coventry and Warwickshire’s business and economic landscape. The overall economic outlook index has fallen for the first time this year, presenting a slowing in the pace of expansion, especially when compared to the highs seen in Q2.

“For a second consecutive quarter price pressures dominated the survey results and to add to the worry, we could see a period of ‘stagflation’ if prices continue to rise at a faster rate due to material shortages and demand continues to cool off from the heights it experienced in Q2.”

“All that said, Coventry and Warwickshire is still trending above the UK average when considering general business confidence, which historically has always been the case as we see solutions to challenges, innovation and opportunities throughout our economy.”

Summary of 2021 Q3 Key Numbers: Economic Outlook Overall, 59.7, down from 63.2.

Service Sector 63.2, up from 61.0.

Manufacturing Sector 51.0, down from 65.0.

Domestic Sales Service Sector 59.7, up from 59.5.

Manufacturing Sector 50.5, down from 51.3.

Overseas Sales Service Sector 44.8, up from 43.5.

Manufacturing Sector 39.7, down from 57.1.

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Employment Service Sector 59.9, up from 55.0.

Manufacturing Sector 45.5, down from 68.6.

Investment & Cashflow Service Sector 56.1, up from 52.0.

Manufacturing Sector 49.7, down from 60.5.

Business Confidence Service Sector 83.8, down from 84.4.

Manufacturing Sector 62.9, down from 80.0.

Chamber members meet Bank of England Inflation is above the Bank of England’s two per cent target and is expected to rise further in the coming months before falling back to target, businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire have been told.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce held a regular roundtable event with Graeme Chaplin, the Bank of England’s Agent in the West Midlands, to discuss the issues firms across the patch are facing and to receive an update from the Bank.

Graeme heard from companies in manufacturing and the service sector on recruitment difficulties, supply chain issues and rising prices but also positive news around a return to pre-pandemic output levels.

He told guests at the virtual meeting that GDP was expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by the turn of the year and then grow gradually, while the unemployment rate was predicted to ease back slowly.

Graeme said: “The Bank will continue to set interest rates to support households and businesses and ensure inflation returns to target.

“We expect inflation to rise further in the coming months. As Covid restrictions have eased around the world, there has been a big increase in demand for certain products. Some businesses have struggled to meet this extra demand, which is pushing up costs and prices.

“But we don’t think that demand will continue to rise as fast, and we expect some of the difficulties businesses are facing in producing their products to ease. So, we expect inflation to fall back, reaching our two per cent target in around two years’ time.”

Sean Rose, head of policy at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It was great to receive an update from Graeme on the Bank of England’s forecasts and objectives.

“But this was also an opportunity for members to feedback on the issues that they – and their clients – are facing in order to give the Bank a clearer picture of how businesses are performing and might perform in the weeks and months ahead.”

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Economy

Economy improving but more needs to be done Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire felt the economy pick up in August according to new figures but the Chamber says there is still ‘some way to go’ to reach pre-pandemic levels.

before Covid-19 struck so it looks likely that we will have almost two years’ worth of lost growth.

“Arts, entertainment, recreation and hospitality were the fastest growing sectors in August which is understandable when you consider that, in England, it was the first full month without any restrictions.

The UK economy grew by 0.4 per cent in August – the first full month since Covid-19 restrictions were lifted in England – but it remains 0.8 per cent short of its height pre-Covid.

Tom Mongan, president of the Chamber, said many firms had the demand to grow more quickly but are being hit by a range of issues.

He said: “The economy continues to slowly recover from the pandemic and the restrictions that have been placed up on businesses – and the whole of society – over the past 18 months.

“There is still some way to go to achieve parity with the level the economy was at

“At the Chamber we speak to lots of businesses on a daily basis and there is real pent-up demand and an opportunity for growth. However, recruitment difficulties, rising costs and supply chain issues are holding that back.

“It’s vitally important that the Government moves quickly to address these issues and that the Chancellor’s Budget later this month helps companies across Coventry and Warwickshire achieve the growth that will help our economy drive forward.”

Unemployment remains lower than first feared Business leaders in Coventry and Warwickshire say the low unemployment rate has been one of the success stories of the past year.

But the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce believes difficulties in recruiting staff is a major factor in holding back a stronger economic recovery in the region.

The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics showed that the number of job vacancies across the UK has hit a record high and Sean Rose, head of policy at the Chamber, said this is being reflected in the city and the county.

He said: “One of the biggest economic fears since we were hit by Covid-19 was that it was going to lead to very high unemployment.

“It’s a testament to firms across Coventry and Warwickshire that this hasn’t materialised and, also, the very speedy support offered to companies at the beginning of the pandemic.

“Almost every business we speak to that wants to take on new people to help them rebuild and grow is struggling to do so. There are high-profile sectors such as HGV drivers and hospitality – but it really is across the board.

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“However, our members across the city and the county are now faced with a massive challenge in recruitment and it’s a key factor in holding back the recovery.

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“This, along with rising costs, increased tax and supply chain difficulties, is making it difficult for many businesses to drive growth which would, in turn, help the whole economy to recover.

“The Government must look at the recruitment crisis as a matter of urgency and expand the list of occupations where businesses can more easily access skills they need from overseas to help them grow.”

British Chambers of Commerce Director of Policy James Martin said: “With the number of employees working in the UK economy at the end of September climbing back to prepandemic levels, the overall UK labour market is showing some recovery. Businesses who have shown innovation and creativity to survive and rebuild from the pandemic should take much of the credit.

“But there remain very real difficulties under the overall numbers, with labour and skill gaps, rising cost pressures and an increasingly onerous tax burden showing that the Government needs to act now to improve business conditions.

“Today’s figures show a second month with a record number of vacancies, now at more than a third above their pre-pandemic levels. With Brexit and the pandemic driving a more deep-seated decline in labour supply, businesses throughout the UK tell us they cannot access the skills they need even as their costs balloon.

“These recruitment difficulties are likely to dampen the recovery by limiting firms’ abilities to fulfil orders and meet customer demand. Business investment will then suffer, curbing any chance of a prolonged recovery.

“Expanding the Shortage Occupation List will help businesses access the skills they need when they can’t recruit locally in the shorter term, supporting them to create a truly high-wage and high-productivity economy in the longer-term.

“Furlough ended in September, and the impact of that decision may not be fully picked up in the latest data. Skills mismatches are very likely to limit how many of those seeking jobs after furlough can move into available roles.”

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News

New state-of-the-art convention centre Paul Michael (Commercial Director, Coventry Building Society Arena) and Zamurad Hussain (CWLEP).

Work is underway to create the new south pavilion entrance to Coventry Building Society Arena ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

It is the fourth stage in a multi-millionpound project to create the state-of-the-art Commonwealth Convention Centre at the venue.

The new south pavilion will be the main gateway to the convention centre and provide seamless access to the 7,750 square metres of indoor conference and exhibition space at the Arena.

Work already completed includes the renovation of the 6,000 square metre Indoor Arena, the aesthetic transformation of the existing 1,750 square metres of space beneath the Arena, which is now the convention centre, and the creation and launch of a popular new sports bar, The Anecdote.

When completed, the pavilion entrance will provide access to the new Convention Centre Lobby, an open plan multi-purpose reception space offering flexible options for event organisers.

The south pavilion is the centre-piece of the multi-million-pound redevelopment of the venue and will be clearly seen from Jimmy Hill Way. The Commonwealth Convention Centre is set to open its doors in early 2022 as Coventry Building Society Arena gears up to host rugby sevens, judo and wrestling at the Commonwealth Games.

After the games, the convention centre will further cement the Arena as a modern, flexible and market leading facility for the conference and exhibition industry.

The project is funded through the £3.8 million granted to the venue by the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP), via the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) as part of the Government’s Getting Building Fund.

An additional £1.4 million has also been made available to Coventry Building Society Arena via CWLEP from the Local Growth Fund and Growing Places Fund.

Stephen Vaughan, Wasps Group Chief Executive, said: “The south pavilion entrance will provide the perfect gateway to our new state-of-the-art convention centre.

“In recent months, the Arena has undergone a significant transformation and the updates we have made so far have been incredibly well-received by organisers holding their conferences and exhibitions with us.

“We are making these changes to further establish the Arena as a market-leading convention and conference centre. The creation of the new south pavilion is integral to those plans and to see construction underway is fantastic.

“With the completion of the south pavilion we will be ready for the attention of the world to be focused on Coventry Building Society Arena as part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.”

Sarah Windrum, Chair of CWLEP, added: “It is fantastic to see another step forward in creating the south pavilion which is certain to attract delegates from across the UK to the city and boost our economy.

“This type of venue is vital not only during Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture 2021 and the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games but also to secure the long-term future of conferencing in the region.”

Recognition for property and construction company The Wigley Group has been named joint winner of the Property and Construction Business of the Year at the Coventry Live Business 2021 Awards.

Partnership brings new opportunities

The company was one of 30 finalists in 11 categories that celebrated the finest businesses, entrepreneurs and organisations in Coventry and Warwickshire.

Wasps Rugby have partnered with a college in the birthplace of rugby to launch a new rugby programme in Warwickshire.

The partnership with Rugby College, which is part of WCG (formerly Warwickshire College Group), will create opportunities for young rugby players aged over 16 to secure a college qualification while developing their skills on a rugby pitch.

Players will study for a Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Sporting Excellence and Performance while also representing Rugby College in the British Colleges Sport League.

The course will include strength and conditioning workshops, training sessions and matchdays. It will cover health, wellbeing, nutrition, anatomy, physiology, sport massage and more units focused on professional sports performance.

The first cohort of students/players will start on the course in September 2022 and will be based at Rugby College while also accessing local facilities for strength and conditioning, training and competitive matches.

Students will be given opportunities to visit

Over the past year, The Wigley Group has completed the first phase of the regeneration of the site of the former Daimler car factory in Coventry, with the major refurbishment of the powerhouse building into a £2.4million creative hub.

Wasps’ state-of-the-art Elite Performance and Innovation Centre and home stadium Coventry Building Society Arena.

The partnership is set to bring wider benefits to students and staff across a wide range of courses.

Simon Philpott, Assistant Principal at Rugby College, said: “To be partnering with Gallagher Premiership rugby club Wasps on this programme is a major boost and the programme will give young people from across the region the chance to study and play the sport they love at the same time.

“The programme aims to motivate young people by combining sport and academic studies to maximise their potential.

“We have seen great success at Moreton Morrell College with the Leamington FC Academy and hope to mirror that success with this partnership with Wasps.

“The partnership will bring a wide range of benefits across a range of courses and departments at the college and we are now recruiting for the first cohort of students to join the associated new course.”

Theo Vukasinovic (Wasps senior squad), Sam-Amos Simpson (16), Marley Forrest (16), George Nixon (18), Simon Philpott (WCG) and Kevin Harman (Wasps).

Kevin Harman, Head of Recruitment and Academy at Wasps, said: “This is the first time Wasps has entered into a partnership of this type and we’re looking forward to strengthening our relationship with WCG and Rugby College.

“There will be a number of opportunities from the programme away from the rugby pitch, from masterclasses and work placements, to special visits and career advice sessions.

“While the programme with the college won’t provide a direct pathway into our Wasps Academy set-up, we are always looking for excellent rugby players to join our academy and there will 100 per cent be a chance for students at Rugby College to show us what they can do.”

New advisory board members required

A leading college group is calling on industry leaders in key sectors to help it deliver on local, regional and national skills agendas.

WCG (formerly Warwickshire College Group) is looking for individuals to join the advisory boards of each of its six colleges – and new board members will have a key role in ensuring the college delivers skills to support the economies it works in.

The college group operates across Warwickshire and Worcestershire, and is seeking new advisory board members for Royal Leamington Spa College, Rugby College, Moreton Morrell College, Warwick Trident College, Pershore College and Evesham College.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

It is particularly looking for representatives in sectors which are key to the localities in which its colleges are based. The key sectors in which the college is seeking new advisory board members range from hospitality, horticulture and IT, to engineering, railway engineering and construction.

Advisory boards at each college play a central role in identifying key local needs and ensuring the college offering is responding to those needs.

The boards meet each term to discuss new strategies on the educational character of the colleges and the needs of local stakeholders, while counselling on whether their curriculum matches the area’s economic needs.

Angela Joyce, CEO of WCG, said: “As a college group we look to involve businesses at every stage in the development of our courses and apprenticeship provision.

“This has been backed up by the Government in recent months as they have

urged all FE colleges to work closer with businesses in their surrounding areas.

“Our advisory boards are one of the means by which we ensure that we are using our resources in the right places to support the economy in the regions where our colleges are based.

“By strengthening ties with WCG, advisory board members get access to new contact networks and a direct link to the brightest young talent to support the future of their businesses.

“While we are looking for people to join our boards across all sectors, we are particularly keen to speak with industry leaders in hospitality, horticulture, IT, engineering and construction to help guide our provision in these areas.”

For more information about joining an advisory board at WCG contact executiveoffice@wcg.ac.uk and to find out more about the college group and its colleges visit www.wcg.ac.uk

Other significant projects completed include the high-performance training complex in Henley-in-Arden for Wasps Rugby Club, the purpose-built Red Kangaroo trampoline park in Exhall, Coventry, and the first phase of improvements at Ashton Lodge Country House in Warwickshire, an Edwardian property that is now run as a wedding venue.

All four were carried out by Wigley Building & Development.

The Wigley Group has also sealed two seven-figure commercial property deals and carried out its own internal reorganisation with all of the newly-created roles filled through internal promotions while previous participants of its graduate and placement schemes have been given permanent jobs.

A £10,000 annual community fund to support people living around its HQ has been launched, and the four-year sponsorship of former paratrooper Jaco van Gass culminated in the cyclist winning two gold medals and a bronze medal at the Paralympic Games.

James Davies, Chief Executive of The Wigley Group, said: “It has been very much foot to the floor for our businesses during the pandemic, and this award is great recognition of the work all of our teams have done in what have at times been very challenging circumstances.

“This is an exciting time as we continue to adapt in order to drive the growth that we have seen in recent years.”

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News

Local MP Mark Pawsey goes back to school in visit to Houlton The Queen’s Baton for the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay with co-creator Karl Hamlin, MD at Kajul.

Glued Agency communicate success for Kajul and the Queen’s Baton Branding experts Glued Agency recently supported client Kajul in breaking their news about co-creating the Queen’s Baton for the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay.

The Branding Agency worked with Kajul, a Midlands-based design development company that specialises in delivering innovative, cost-efficient engineering solutions, to support the brand during this project. Glued based in Leamington-Spa deliver compelling creative marketing campaigns.

Glued Agency have worked with Kajul on previous ventures – including a progressive brand proposition, brand, marketing, website and signage - and were delighted to support them again with this prestigious project.

Houlton School teachers and pupils welcomed Mark to the state-of-the-art education facility Rugby MP Mark Pawsey joined founding pupils and staff of Houlton School to explore the new site, which officially opened its doors to 180 Year 7 pupils in September.

Located at the heart of the growing neighbourhood of Houlton, the £35million project has been delivered seven years ahead of schedule and has seen the historic Grade II-listed Rugby Radio Station building transformed into a state-of-the-art education facility.

Mark was joined by Nigel Hugill, Chief Executive of Urban&Civic, Johanne Thomas, Regional Director for Communities at Urban&Civic and Houlton School’s Principal, Michael McCulley, for a tour of the school to celebrate the culmination of over two years of development, restoration and iconic transformation funded by Urban&Civic with support from the Department for Education.

Standing in the historic Rugby Radio Station’s Transmission Hall, which is now at the heart of the school campus, Mark saw how many of the building’s original features have been carefully restored to link the new school to the heritage of the former Rugby Radio Station. Mark was also shown the newly built additional school buildings,

which includes a humanities block and science labs.

Speaking after his visit, Mark said: “I’ve had the opportunity to see the development of Houlton School since work began and it was great to see the first cohort of Year 7 pupils enjoying the new facilities. The school delivers on creating a fully modern, state-of-the-art, educational centre whilst still recalling the unique heritage of the former Rugby Radio Station Building. It is also thanks to the hard work of Urban&Civic and those who worked on building Houlton School that it has been able to open on time, despite the challenges of the pandemic.”

Mark continued: “Houlton School has also been delivered seven years earlier than originally proposed and is a great example of delivering infrastructure in tandem with new houses. The school is a real jewel in the crown of the growing community at Houlton, and it is another example of how Urban&Civic is paving the way for the future of building communities, not just here in Rugby, but throughout the country.”

Johanne Thomas added: “We were keen to show Mark just how resilient Houlton has been through this challenging period – from all perspectives. Transforming a listed building into a school, through a global pandemic, has been a huge challenge but

Can you support The Myton Hospices this Christmas and beyond?

In order to co-create the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton, Kajul worked alongside Raymont-Osman, the main Product Designers, as well as MAOKWO, Artists, and Birmingham Open Media, Technology Practitioners, and asked Glued to support them with their communications.

Karl Hamlin, MD at Kajul, says: ‘From start to finish, this has been such a wonderful project to be a part of. From working on the prototype, to fabrication and completion of the baton, then unveiling our work in Birmingham, ahead of the Games, seeing the relay start at Buckingham Palace to seeing our work in the headlines – we’ve had a blast!’

Rob Harrison, Partner at Glued, agrees: ‘Our team were thrilled to be able to join in on the action and support Karl and the team at Kajul with this amazing project.

Well done Karl and co!

For further information about Kajul and their Commonwealth project visit www.kajul.co.uk To find out more about Glued vist www.gluedlimited.co.uk

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made possible through the commitment of our contractors and partnership with Principal Michael McCulley and Transforming Lives Education Trust (TLET).”

Michael McCulley commented on the visit: “It was an honour to take Mark Pawsey on a tour of our finished school. As a new school, we have had the great privilege of building our community from scratch. We have taken so much inspiration from the iconic heritage and stunning architecture of our location and have developed a campus featuring state-of-the-art facilities that will provide so many world class opportunities for our pupils.”

For more information visit www.houltonrugby.co.uk

The Myton Hospices is appealing to businesses across the region to play a vital part in its festive fundraising campaigns and the launch of its 40th anniversary year.

At Myton, Christmas takes on a very special, and poignant meaning.

Many, patients, and their families will be facing what may be their last Christmas together – doing all they can to make every moment as special as it can be and create forever memories.

Myton relies. almost entirely. on the support of the local community across Coventry and Warwickshire to fund the amazing work it does to care for patients with a terminal illness and their families.

It has, to raise a staggering £7.8million each year to provide its care, free of charge.

Which is why the season of goodwill is so important and why it is appealing to fellow

Chamber members to dig deep at a time we know could be hard to do so, and support Myton in any way you can to help continue their amazing work.

Myton would be delighted if you were able to take part in their Festive Fun Days – simply picking a day in the run up to Christmas where you undertake some kind of fundraising - either having a Christmas Jumper/dress down day, festive quizzes, Christmas Tote Cards and donate a few pounds to the cause.

Myton also needs help with its annual Christmas Tree Collection campaign, which is run in partnership with Coventry charity Pass the Smile – and are looking for support in the following areas: • Sponsors – with opportunities ranging from £200 to £1,000 all offering great brand exposure opportunities.

• Van donations – we need 30 vans to collect all the Christmas trees in early January, if you have a van to spare (even better if it comes with volunteers) then please contact us.

• Volunteers – we need as many people as we can to drive the vans and collect the trees, if your company has willing volunteers/a CSR scheme in place, your support would be hugely welcomed.

• Business – if you have a Christmas tree that needs recycling in return for a donation, please get in touch – and spread the word!

Chris Willmott, Corporate Fundraiser at The Myton Hospices, said: “Christmas is a key fundraising time for us at Myton – and a great opportunity for our supporters to have some fun while raising vital money to fund our work and support our patients and their families.

“We have lots of ways to get involved, but are happy for people to raise money in any way that suits them.

“Any support you can give, no matter how small or large, will make a huge difference to the lives of our patients, so please do get in touch.”

All details including our fabulous Santa Dash on Sunday 12th December – can be found on our website: www.mytonhospice. org, where you will also find details, as and when they are announced, of all our plans for our 40th anniversary.

The corporate team at Myton are always on-hand to answer any questions and support you through your fundraising journey. Contact Chris Willmott on chris.willmott@mytonhospice.org or Yasmin Audhali on Yasmin.audhali@mytonhospice.org

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Full house adds up to funds for charity BINGO numbers added up to a successful evening of fundraising for a Warwickshire charity thanks to local law firm Alsters Kelley.

More than £3,400 was raised for The Friendship Project, thanks to match funding

by Four Acres Trust.

It was a ‘full house’ for the bingo event, at The Bulldog in Whitnash last month, which provided a much-needed boost for another charity impacted by the pandemic.

Supported by the Social Services of Warwickshire, the charity matches children who are in need, for a variety of reasons, with volunteers for friendship and fun.

Established in 1986, it has helped around 1,000 children in the Alcester, Atherstone, Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, Nuneaton, Rugby, Shipston, Stratford, Southam and Warwick areas.

Angela Truman, from The Friendship Project said: “Lockdown has been extremely difficult for everyone; however, we received a lot of interest from people

during this time to help and support as volunteers which is fantastic. But the requirement is constant and growing.

“The children we support may be caring for a sick parent or be limited to where they can go on holiday because of a disabled sibling or other family member. For some children, even playing in the park or going to the cinema are a rare treat. Having some time out from often difficult home situations really does improve the child’s self-esteem and self-worth. Our volunteers report that they too enjoy spending time with their Younger Friend knowing that they are really making a difference to a child’s life.”

Angela added: “Our focus is now very much on raising money so that we can provide the opportunities for the carers to take the children and young people away from their normal environment to have some fun. So, we are very grateful to the team at Alsters Kelley for their ongoing support this year and for all the funds raised by the bingo night and raffle – it was great night and we enjoyed taking part.”

The Friendship Project is just one of the nominated charities being supported by Alsters Kelley, which was established in the 1980s and now has offices in Coventry, Leamington, Southam, Stratford and Nuneaton.

Legal assistant and one of the firm’s charity champions Britanie Jeffery, who organised the event, said: “We had a great evening – the support we had was fantastic

and there was so much laughter in the room, everyone was so generous.

“My initial fundraising target was £500 so to have tripled it and then had it matched was way beyond what we had expected.”

Further information on how to volunteer to be a Friend or donate to The Friendship Project can be found at: https://friendshipproject.co.uk/

IPP pledges to prevent empty running to cut carbon emissions and create a sustainable future

LEADING pallet pool provider IPP has pledged to play its part in preventing empty running by launching an educational campaign targeting UK hauliers, retailers and the entire supply chain within the FMCG markets.

The campaign, called ‘It’s What’s Inside That Matters’ has been developed alongside the many other collaborative solutions IPP offers, but focuses on empty running.

Working in such turbulent times, IPP understands that maximising all empty trailers is imperative.

This campaign seeks to show how the solutions that IPP employ ensure supply chains can continue to run seamlessly, leading to a more efficient and sustainable way of working. A reduction of empty vehicles significantly reduces the amount of carbon emitted and supports IPP’s commitments towards a sustainable future.

As part of the campaign, IPP is running a competition to thank customers and the haulier heroes who the industry relies on. To do this, 500 free IPP branded mugs are being given away and placed inside delivery vehicles nationwide.

Hauliers who find an IPP mug are

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

then invited to show their support to prevent empty running by entering IPP’s competition. Anyone else who would like to enter is also welcomed to get involved by following the below instructions.

To enter, entrants will need to take a photo with their free IPP branded mug or any other IPP branded item they may own, follow the IPP Pooling page on LinkedIn and then tag the photo with #ItsWhatsInsideThatMatters and @IPP-Pooling. The best photos will win either the top prize of a 102cm toy IPP 12v lorry, which is ideal for the next generation of hauliers, or one of two £25 Greggs vouchers.

The deadline for all entries is 12 December 2021*.

Shelley Harris, commercial director at IPP, said: “Empty running is an issue throughout the supply chain - it is inefficient, costly, and ultimately doesn’t positively contribute towards sustainability targets.

“We are committed to raising awareness that throughout the supply chain we can achieve more by working together. It’s critical to ensure we are maintaining and

promoting strong communication in the ever changing fast paced networks. Eliminating empty running is greatly beneficial for not only the businesses but also the environment.

“As well as the promotional engagement with our customers through the giveaways and social media competition, three of our partners are now out on the road with specially branded “It’s What’s Inside That Matters” curtains on their vehicles. These not only look amazing and will remind others of our campaign message, but they demonstrate the value we place on working in partnership with others to make a real difference to the supply chain.”

Keith Clark at Clark Transport Ltd/ UKPC (UK Pallet Collections Ltd) said: “There is a growing awareness in the industry that something needs to be done to prevent empty running and we are delighted to be working in partnership with IPP and to proudly have the campaign promoted on our curtain. We would encourage other hauliers to join us in working with retailers to prevent empty running as it’s beneficial to everyone.”

In addition to Clark Transport, key partners, Hawkins Logistics and Robert M Lawson are also backing the campaign with their customer lorries already on the road across the country.

IPP ships more than 50 million pallets each year to the fast-moving consumer goods industry (FMCG), such as food and clothing, and to recycling sectors through its European network of 61 service centres.

For more information about IPP visit www.ipp-pooling.com

Help build our legacy #GettingGamesReady The Canal & River Trust is #GettingGamesReady as we look forward to 2022 and the celebrations across the West Midlands in advance of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

to celebrate our heritage and beautiful blue waterways as part of showcasing the West Midlands to the world and building a legacy for the future.

We’re proud to have the United by Birmingham 2022 community brand – specifically for volunteering, community engagement on our canals and for plastics challenge – clearing our canals of harmful waste.

Business can get involved in many ways – from helping to enhance our waterways through corporate social responsibility; be it employees contributing through volunteering, working in partnership, or sponsorship opportunities.

This is just a snapshot of the work of the Trust and we would love business partners to come on board in coming months to join us

Help us build communities, celebrate, and nurture the history of our canals and create accessible green and blues spaces for all.

To find out more contact: Terry.Hodgetts@canalrivertrust.org.uk

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News

TruTac demonstrates easier fleet control at busy CV Show Coventry hotel named one of the top 100 hotels in Britain Coventry’s Telegraph Hotel has been named one of the top 100 hotels in Britain in a leading hospitality guide – just five months after opening The luxury 4* hotel, which celebrates the cool Mid-Century style of the former Coventry Telegraph offices, has been included in the annual Sunday Times 100 Best British Hotels guide

TruTac, the tachograph and compliance expert, reported great success with numerous enquiries from many sectors across of the transport industry at this year’s CV Show.

Commercial operations and marketing director, Jemma James, said: “I put it down mainly to our lively and enthusiastic stand team. Also, our TruFleet management control software with EPMI – electronic document control attracted a great deal of interest and numerous fleet managers commented on how they expected the system to make vehicle management and compliance control a lot easier.”

Approved under DVSA’s Earned Recognition scheme, TruFleet enables transport managers to plan, organise and control all aspects of day-to-day fleet and operator licence management, including vehicle history, maintenance planning, document online storage, audit checks, safety inspections, brakes and tyres defect reporting, LOLER checks and repairs, tax and insurance updates, and tachograph calibration.

Ian Harrabin, who with his brother Brian, developed and owns the hotel – which is operated by Bespoke Hotels – said this was the highest accolade to date.

He said: “To be included in the Sunday Times top 100 after just five months trading is testament to the quality and design of the Telegraph, but also to the team, led by Amy Windsor, who have provided such a high level of customer service.

“We had to twice delay opening because of Covid but have delivered what we promised – a hotel which not only provides something new and different to people visiting the city and the region, but will also attract people purely to sample what we have created.

“To see the Telegraph Hotel featured in the Sunday Times guide really is a reward to everyone involved in the project and hopefully it will drive more people to come experience the hotel, but also Coventry, in what is a massive year for the city.

For further information about the Telegraph Hotel visit www.telegraph-hotel.com

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system can be accessed via the web to help maximise resources during the current driver shortage.

She said: “Apart from anything else, TruTime enables drivers to clock in and out, while managers can compare clock-in times against actual times driven, thereby keeping within WTD regulations and generally getting the most out of every driver and vehicle, while at all times remaining compliant.”

Lodders retains top place in elite legal guide

The survey highlights the quality design of the hotel, and the food and drink served in the Forme & Chase bar and restaurant, and the Telegraph is one of only two hotels from the West Midlands chosen in the guide.

The Telegraph opened in May after a two-year, £18 million investment programme, and has won praise from a string of national media who have visited and reviewed the hotel.

Also catching the eye of many show visitors from the PSV sector was TruTac’s TruFleet CPT Fleet Management. This is a similar yet adapted system developed in conjunction with the CPT (Confederation of Passenger Transport) for PSV operators to plan and manage all vehicle maintenance and compliance requirements using the latest TruTac technology.

Jemma added that the team was also pleased to advise fleet managers of the various ways in which TruTac’s TruControl

Ten of law firm Lodders’ senior team who are specialists in family, agriculture, private client, real estate, and charity law, have been named as among the best in the UK by the legal profession’s elite guide to the country’s leading lawyers.

The Chambers Guide ranks UK individual lawyers and law firms based on their expertise and client feedback. The 2022 edition sees Beverley Morris, head of Lodders Family Law practice, James Spreckley, head of its agricultural practice, and head of the firm’s private

client team Louise Igoe retain the highest Band 1 position for lawyers in their individual area of the law.

The latest edition of Chambers also names the firm’s David Lodder and Martin Green as ‘Senior Statesperson’, with Dan McLeod – senior associate in Lodders’ real estate practice – given the accolade of ‘Associate to Watch’ in recognition of his advice on all aspects of the residential development life cycle for landowners, land promoters and developers.

Agriculture lawyer Ian Flavell is recognised for his work in protecting clients’ land assets, and specialist tax and succession planning advice with a Chambers’ Band 2 ranking. Charity law expert

Mark Lewis, family lawyers Caroline Dresden - a specialist in financial remedy proceedings for high-net worth individuals – and partner Vivienne Middleton, together with Jane Senior and Victoria Khandker both partners in Lodders’ Dispute Resolution team, are all recognised by the guide.

Lodders’ managing partner Paul Mourton says the firm’s rankings by Chambers UK, not only continue its year-on-year recognition for many of its specialist teams, but are also evidence of the firm’s best in breed lawyers, legal excellence, exceptional client service and sustained performance: “Chambers is respected for its integrity, independence and objectivity in researching and

finding the very best lawyers in their fields, and it is a fantastic achievement for Lodders and so many of our lawyers to be highly recognised once again.

It is credit to the firm’s talent, exceptional work, commitment to excellence, client service and quality of advice provided each and every day.”

Last month, several of Lodders specialist teams also retained the coveted tier 1 spot in the Legal 500 that analyses the capabilities of law firms and assesses and ranks their strengths, including its real estate, family law, agriculture, and private client teams.

For more information: www.lodders.co.uk

Charity Golf Day raises £10,000 for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice A charity golf day organised by members of the Zoë’s Place Business Group has raised £10,000 for the hospice.

It was third time lucky for the 4 Ball Better-Ball event, at Coventry Golf Club, which had originally been due to take place in the summer of last year.

Due to Covid the event was rescheduled for July 1st this year – the 10th anniversary of the hospice opening its doors – but was again postponed due to ongoing restrictions.

Nineteen teams took part in the event – a mixture of individuals, club members and corporate companies.

Proceeds raised will help provide palliative, respite and end-of-life care

for babies and children up to the age of five with life-threatening or life-limiting illnesses.

Organiser Martin Sutliff is Head PGA Professional at Coventry Golf Club and a member of Zoë’s Place Business Group.

He said the event proved so popular the golf club has already pencilled in a date for another golf day in aid of Zoë’s Place next year.

He said: “The Club is proud to host this fantastic event – the second of its kind on behalf of Zoë’s Place. The hospice is an excellent cause, and the players were excited to be able to support it.

“The first event, held in 2019, raised £6,000 and it was always our ambition to smash through that target this time around,

especially as we were unable to host the same event last year. We are delighted with the support received and how much it raised. It was a wonderful day.”

The event was won by a team led by former Coventry City physio Neil Sillett and former midfielder Dave Phillips.

A silent auction held at the event raised £1,920 including £1,245 alone for the top prize of a Four-Ball at the exclusive JCB Golf and Country Club in Uttoxeter.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

CityFibre

Exclusive

Member-Only Competition Today, we expect our broadband to work and to work well because let’s face it, it is an integral part of our everyday lives. But for so many of us, our digital connectivity is a frustration that we just put up with.

This is part of our wider £4 billion investment to bring the best network technology available to communities across the UK – this has been designed to ensure our always-on, always connected world, works the way it should.

From enabling faster, more reliable broadband at home, to helping businesses grow and powering new technologies in our towns and cities, great digital connectivity will only push us forward, rather than hold us back.

At CityFibre, we don’t believe we should, that is why we are investing £72.5m in Coventry to connect almost every home and business to a new city-wide full fibre network.

That is why we are challenging Chamber members to demand better broadband – and get it!

In less than one minute you can register for updates as to when full fibre is coming

to your area and from which internet service providers. And in doing so, you could bag your business a tech boost with up to £1,000 of technology.

Simply visit www.cityfibre.com/cwcc and enter your details – this is not a sales pitch as CityFibre doesn’t sell direct to residents, we just want to let you know when our full fibre service is available in your area and how you can connect.

Leigh Hunt, Regional Partnership Director and City Manager for Coventry said: “The pandemic has made us rely on tech more than ever before. Whether we use it for shopping, work, education entertainment or just keeping in touch it’s no longer a nice to have, its vital for us to conduct our everyday lives.

“But with our gadgets being used more than ever, some are starting to show the signs of age or slow down in general. So, we thought it would be good opportunity for one lucky business to get an upgrade where they need it most. Whether it’s a laptop, mobile phone, printer or state-of-the-art video conferencing kit, work is more enjoyable when you have the tools to do the job.”

And what’s more… The competition is open to all Chamber member businesses and their employees.

With one lucky entrant also winning dinner for two at the fabulous new Telegraph Hotel in Coventry city centre.

So, what are you waiting for you have from now until 24 December 2021 to get your registrations in visit www.cityfibre.com/cwcc - Good Luck

Your business could win tech equipment worth up to the value of £1000!

Exclusive member offer Plus... dinner for two for one lucky entrant at the new Telegraph Hotel up for grabs.

Enter now in our FREE prize draw www.cityfibre.com/cwcc

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

29

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Electric Zoo sparks interest in sustainable car options for Glued Agency Lash Saranna, Electric Zoo, with the Hyundai Kona Electric and Rob Harrison, Glued Agency.

Electric Zoo, the electric car company based in Holt Street, Coventry, have inspired Leamington Spa-based marketing firm Glued Agency to test-drive their Hyundai Kona Electric – with roaring results!

Rob Harrison, partner at local branding firm Glued Agency, test-drove the new Hyundai Kona Electric in a bid to decide if electric cars were an affordable and sustainable option for him and his business.

The pay-as-you-go car company said: “When it comes to choosing an electric car, it’s a jungle out there so when Rob decided to look into leasing a new company car, he spoke with fellow Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber members about their electric and hybrid offerings.

Rob said: “I was surprised how enjoyable it was to drive – a totally different driving experience from a geared petrol or diesel car. I am now a convert and just working out the affordability to make my next lease an electric car.”

To take a step into the world of electric cars, visit www.electriczoo.co.uk for more information.

Stuck with a boring brand and need some design and marketing support?

Visit www.gluedlimited.co.uk

Security firm supports showpiece event The Libertines, Roni Size and The Lightning Seeds were supported by Kopek Security for a four-day festival curated by musician Terry Hall.

The Coventry City of Culture event, which Specials singer Mr Hall helped to deliver and took part in, was the first time he has performed in more than two years.

Some of the events that were held in the ruins of the city’s cathedral, which was bombed by the Luftwaffe in 1940, included fans favourite Pete Docherty singing Coventry City football songs and many more.

Mr. Hall described it as “a live version playlist of my favourite artists.”

The festival, which took place on the July 29-August 1, featured live music, DJ sets, films and spoken word events in locations around the city.

There were also performances by Libertines who Mr Hall joined on stage and sang songs with, which was a real hit with the crowd.

The full festival line up which was announced in early July was fully supported by Kopek Security, which had been part of the planning for more than six months.

Marketing director Anthony Johnson said: “It was a huge task and an honour to be able to supply all of the security for this event.

It did show the extent of Kopek Security’s capabilities with a team of over 65 fully qualified and local managers, supervisors, security guards and stewards.”

Kopek Security also supplied monitored mobile CCTV towers for the control room to monitor the whole event in real-time, drug detection dogs, overnight assets and protection dog handlers.

Mr Hall said curating the event in the middle of a pandemic had been an extraordinary experience.

He said: “It was my first live performance for two years and very unlike anything I’ve performed before. I enjoyed performing in front of an audience again and seeing some live music in my hometown of Coventry.”

Restart Scheme already changing lives in Coventry

Serco is proud to have been selected by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) to deliver its Restart Scheme alongside regional and community-based delivery partners in Coventry.

Tom Beard, Employment Engagement Manager, says, “We work with a diverse range of employers to minimise their recruitment challenges and bring job ready candidates through the door. Feedback has been really positive, particularly because employers enjoy a fully funded service and benefit from one point of contact to reach a vast pool of candidates sourced through our network of delivery partners.”

We want candidates to add value to employers from day one. So, when Jobcentre Plus refer eligible Participants onto the DWP Restart Scheme, we assign a dedicated

Job Coach to prepare them with the skills and resilience that businesses need. For example, pre-employment training may come from partners with a stake in the local community and the expertise and funding to upskill candidates. And after they start work, we offer further support to make sure businesses have the employee skills they need to flourish.

We’ve had numerous successes helping people to be job ready.

James* was a graduate struggling to find work in the UK, despite being open to any sector and any role. But after looking for three

years his confidence was low. His Job Coach trained him and helped reposition his language skills and overseas work experience as a positive. Shortly after joining the Restart Scheme, James was able to accept a permanent role on the shop floor within a large manufacturer of windows and doors in Warwickshire.

If you want to know how the Restart Scheme could benefit your business and help someone turn their life around, get in touch: www.serco-ese.com/ restart-scheme *James is not his real name

Coventry-based XL Motors scoops major win at British Bodyshop Awards XL Motors, an automotive repair centre based in Longford, has won the prestigious Kitemark Excellence Award at this year’s British Bodyshop Awards.

Winning the accolade is no mean feat – the hotly contested award recognises Bodyshop’s that have excelled in the way they promote their Kitemark certification, and the positive impacts it has had for their business.

The accolade reflects XL’s commitment to ensuring that it goes above and beyond in everything it does, from the way it interacts with customers to the training and support it offers staff.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

To even qualify for the award, Bodyshop’s must hold the BSI Kitemark standard BS 10125 for Vehicle Damage Repair, which XL Motors has proudly held since 2008. The category’s judging criteria focused on whether nominees have excelled in promoting their BSI Kitemark, whether they have boosted customer satisfaction and engagement, and how successfully they have embedded the Kitemark into their business.

Based in Longford, XL Motors has experienced significant growth and development over the last few years, winning plaudits in the local area for its high level

of service. The business is an approved repair centre for a wide array of vehicle brands, including Jaguar Land Rover and Volvo. Having invested heavily in state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, as well as in training and customer service.

Reflecting on XL’s award win at the glitzy London awards ceremony, XL’s Managing Director, Rob Ally, commented: “We are absolutely thrilled to have been recognised with the Kitemark Excellence Award. It is a real testament to the dedication of every member of our team, and it shows how far we have come as a business in recent years.

XL Motors Managing Director, Rob Ally (left) and Operations Manager, David Lloyd (right)

This is a clear sign that what we are doing is working, but the hard work won’t stop here.”

For more information about XL Motors visit www.xlarc.co.uk

Freight Forwarder puts himself in the ring Coventry-based Retail Transport is extremely proud of its freight forwarder Rob Harrison for putting himself in the ring for a good cause.

The company has spent the last two years raising money for a local charity, The Children’s Air Ambulance. Many staff have taken part in different events to raise money and the company will be doubling whatever is raised by the end of 2021.

Robert Harrison said: “I’ll be taking on the biggest challenges of all.

I’ve struggled with social anxieties throughout my life and even though I find being the centre of attention excruciating, I’ll be taking part in a charity boxing match on Friday November 19 at Sports Connexion Leisure Club & Venue in Coventry.

Rob started work at Retail Transport as an apprentice in 2010, gradually working his way up from administration roles to running his own groupage department and taking on sales & marketing roles.

Managing director Dave Hughes said: “We’re extremely proud of Rob; he really has taken on all the opportunities that have come his way whilst working for RTS. The proof of this personal quality to take himself out of his comfort zone is shown in his determination to take on this challenge.”

During this year, Rob has featured in BBC Midlands today, The Coventry Telegraph and local radio to share his remarkable story about his social anxiety disorder.

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Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Furniture firm needs staff to fulfil growth potential Tom Mongan (Chamber), David Needham (FPM), Hazel Pilling (Chamber)

Chamber president meets property firm with big ambitions A multi-disciplinary property company in Coventry has plans to grow its turnover by more than 400 per cent by developing new areas of business.

The FPM Group (incorporating First Project Maintenance, and FPM M and E), which is based on the Charter Avenue Industrial Estate, has hired David Needham as Operations Director to help expand the business with plans for new jobs, more investment and an increase in contracts.

The company is a specialist in refurbishments and fit-outs but also undertakes projects in traditional hard services facilities management, such as heating and ventilation, building fabric maintenance, water services, and gas installation.

David is working with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to help increase his network of contacts in order to grow the company’s mechanical and electrical division.

He said: “There are huge opportunities for the business to grow and I am really looking forward to working with the Chamber and its president, Tom Mongan, to ensure we do everything we can to expand.

“One big area of business for us is our continuing work with schools and there are a whole host of projects we undertake on educational properties across the region.

“But we can see areas of growth in a range of sectors – from hospitality through to local government, and construction to automotive.

“Our plans are to go past £1 million in turnover and then get to £5 million in a short space of time. We are ambitious and we want to expand, take on new people and contribute to the regional economy.

“It will mean ongoing investment on our side – in achieving quality standard marks and in people – but we want to do that to help achieve our business aims.

“We want to expand in the Coventry and Warwickshire area first and then look at other geographical areas in the coming years.”

Tom Mongan, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, visited the company as part of his drive to get the economy growing again beyond prepandemic levels and to find out any issues holding back businesses.

He said: “I was delighted to meet David and hear about the plans for FPM. For the company to be able to meet its very ambitious growth plans it needs to be able to get out there and network once again

because they recognise the fact that people still buy from people, even in this digital age.

“As the economy reopens further, the Chamber will be there to point David and the team towards the right events and the right people in order to help them grow and contribute even further to the regional economy.”

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A Coventry-based furniture business, which has offices and clients all over the world, says its growth is being hampered by a shortage of staff and has 15 roles that urgently need filling.

X4Office, which is based on the Pilot Business Park in the city, is ready to recruit 12 new furniture fitters on full-time contracts, with full training, to help fulfil contracts in the coming months.

The company delivers and fits furniture from a range of suppliers into businesses and residential properties across the UK and beyond – and has seen a major increase in demand in recent months.

It currently employs 34 fitters and wants to increase that significantly but is struggling to bring people in so has enlisted the help of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce president Tom Mongan to help solve the problem.

The company, which has been running for 20 years and has offices in Manchester, London, Miami and Amsterdam, launched its sister business, Studio 44, in 2018.

It supports clients with the specification, procurement and installation of furniture on everything from high-end

boutiques through to largescale commercial role outs and is also recruiting for office roles including admin and sales.

X4Office Director Kerry Simms said: “We are an international business but our HQ is here in Coventry and we want to grow but recruitment is proving to be difficult.

“We could probably more than double the number of staff we already have based on the current demand, however, we are looking to bring in 12 new fitters very quickly. They don’t need experience, they just need to be relatively fit because there is physical work involved.

“We will train them and offer them a good working environment but not being able to recruit is really hampering our ability to grow – it’s hampering our ability to grow.”

Lisa Haigh-Jones, Furniture Consultant at Studio 44, added: “As a business we pride ourselves on offering

Kerry Simms (X4Office), Leanne Dennis (Studio 44), Lisa Haigh-Jones (Studio 44), Hazel Pilling (Chamber), Tom Mongan (Chamber).

an impeccable service to our customers on a range of project sizes and budgets, and provide an end-to-end solution.

“We can see a great opportunity for growth but need the right people to come in, be part of a great team and help us to take the business to the next level.”

Chamber president Tom Mongan visited the firm as part of his drive to support local companies as the economy recovers from the Covid-19 crisis.

He said: “I was really pleased to meet Kerry, Lisa and the team and to hear about the work they do all over the world.

“We can see a great opportunity for growth but need the right people to come in, be part of a great team and help us to take the business to the next level.”

“The company is in a really strong position to grow but, like so many businesses across Coventry and Warwickshire, it is struggling to bring in the people it needs to fulfil those ambitions.

“Having been to visit X4Office and Studio 44, I’ve seen for myself what a great working environment it is and heard all about the way they reward staff and look to develop them.

“So, with unemployment at a much higher level than it was pre-Covid, it would be great to see local people taking this opportunity to find good employment with a growing company.

“We are also looking at ways that the Chamber might be able to support through our network of business contacts.”

For more information, go to www.x4office.co.uk & www.studio44.co.uk

Manufacturing Technology Centre looks to recruit engineers of the future First open evening since Covid will showcase Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre The Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry is inviting engineers of the future to explore the latest apprenticeship opportunities available at its Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre.

In the first live apprentice open evening since the beginning of the pandemic, the MTC is looking to recruit nearly 100 new apprentices for its employer partners across the country.

Based at the AMTC, on the MTC campus at Ansty Park, the MTC is already making a significant contribution towards closing the skills gap that threatens the UK’s manufacturing sector, having trained 500 apprentices since 2017.

This year, the centre plans to recruit around 100 new apprentices on behalf of some of the UK’s top engineering and manufacturing businesses, with training starting next September. The apprentice open evening will provide potential candidates with an insight into the benefits of earning while they learn through a future-focused apprenticeship programme designed to create the next generation of top engineering talent.

The open event will be held on Thursday, November 18 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm and pupils, parents, careers advisors, teachers and college staff are all welcome. Anyone interested should register at https:// the-amtc.co.uk/apprenticeships/openevenings/ The AMTC is a flagship facility for the MTC’s advanced apprenticeship programme. As well as the foundational engineering skills they will need to succeed today, the apprentices are exposed to the latest technical innovations in future skills areas such as intelligent automation, metrology and advanced manufacturing.

They will develop their skills through a combination of formalised in-centre training and on-the-job training as they work onsite for their employers.

David Hughes MBE, managing director of MTC Training said, "Our purpose is to seed the manufacturing sector with a pipeline of future-proofed engineering technicians.

Employers can maximise their levy spend with our programmes, giving them a genuine return on investment and business impact while ensuring they become increasingly globally competitive. The open evening gives potential apprentices the chance to find out everything they need about our programmes before they apply."

Apprentices at the AMTC

The MTC was founded by the University of Birmingham, Loughborough University, the University of Nottingham and TWI Ltd. The MTC’s industrial members include some of the UK’s major global manufacturers.

The MTC aims to provide a competitive environment to bridge the gap between university-based research and the development of innovative manufacturing solutions, in line with the Government’s manufacturing strategy. The MTC is part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, supported by Innovate UK.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Name the baby bear Stratford-upon-Avon Mayor Cllr Kevin Taylor (left), with Glyn Slade and the toy polar bears available as prizes for winners of the competition. The animatronic bears will be unveiled at the Victorian Christmas Market

A family of polar bears will be lighting up Stratford town centre this Christmas – and the town’s children are being asked to name them.

Stratford Town Council has purchased three animatronic polar bears to create a fun display to be unveiled on the first day of the town’s Victorian Christmas Market on Thursday December 9.

The bears – a baby bear, granny bear and grandpa bear – are all

in need of names, so the town council has invited Stratford’s schoolchildren to name them.

Children aged four and five can name the baby bear, ages six to seven can name the granny bear, and children aged eight to 11 will name the grandpa bear.

The children who pick the most interesting and fun names will win a cuddly polar bear toy of their own, provided by LSD Promotions.

The funding to purchase the three bears was provided through the Welcome Back Fund, from the European Regional Development Fund money through the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The programme is managed by Shakespeare's England on behalf of Stratford District Council.

Grants are given to projects that

help to attract local residents and visitors alike into high streets or town centres post-Covid.

The money was also used by Stratford Town Council to purchase a full-sized sleigh to go with the council’s previously-acquired animatronic reindeer.

Sarah Summers, Town Clerk at Stratford Town Council, said: “We’ve always looking for ways to make our town centre even more magical, especially for children who attend.

“When we heard we had been awarded funding through the Welcome Back Fund, we wanted to purchase something new that would enhance what we already have for the Victorian Christmas Market.

“And when I saw these polar bears, I thought they would be perfect. We bought some

animatronic reindeer a few years ago for the Christmas lights switchon, so having polar bears along with a sleigh was only natural.

“All they need now are names, so we’ve written to all the primary schools in the district to see if their pupils have a flash of inspiration.

We’ve already received plenty of entries and we’re looking forward to receiving even more – and revealing the polar bears during the market.”

Glyn Slade, Welcome Back Event Manager from Shakespeare’s England, said: “The Welcome Back Fund is specifically designed to help our towns attract people back onto the high street as we come out of the pandemic, and this competition to name the newly-bought polar bears and engage our younger residents is a really fun way of doing that.”

Ambitions for growth Over £2 million of government funding is available to businesses in Stratford District and Rugby Borough who can demonstrate their ambitions for growth postCovid.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council has been awarded £1.2 million and Rugby Borough Council has been given £916,176 from The Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) scheme, which supports businesses that are not covered by other grant schemes or where additional funding is needed.

Both local councils independently sought the experience and expertise of the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) Growth Hub to identify businesses that have been adversely affected by the pandemic that can outline and demonstrate a clear and robust recovery strategy.

Unlike previous rounds of the ARG where funds have been distributed during a period of survival to recovery, these new grants are to be strategically allocated to targeted businesses with growth a key focus.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Rugby Borough Council will look to support businesses that have plans which can show a clear and positive impact of the grants on their

recovery, their growth and their ability to employ local people.

Craig Humphrey, Managing Director of the CWLEP Growth Hub, said this was not a rescue fund to sustain businesses through to the latter stages of the recovery from Covid-19.

He added: “The fact Stratford-onAvon District Council and Rugby Borough Council independently approached the Growth Hub for our help underlines the great work of our account management team and the excellent partnerships the Growth Hub and the CWLEP have built throughout the area.

“With this stage of the ARG funding, we expect to be able to demonstrate the impact of real key strategic growth on each business as a vital outcome of each successful application.

“We are urging businesses in all sectors to apply who can clearly prove their investment in their recovery and growth.

“Both Councils want successful applicants to have been thoroughly vetted for the commercial viability of their business plan or proposal before going to the next stage of the process, and they will then decide which companies to support as well as the amount of funding to be allocated from the ARG scheme.”

Cllr Jo Barker Portfolio Holder for Business Rates at Stratfordon-Avon District Council said: “During the different phases of the pandemic, the Council has paid out over £70 million to businesses in grants and business rate relief.

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is one of only a few Councils that spent all of its Central Government funding which has allowed this additional money to be made available. This demonstrates the tremendous effort from our staff to ensure that 100 per cent of available funding was distributed to businesses to help them through lockdown and closed periods.

“As restrictions are lifted this new funding now needs to focus on local businesses looking to expand, diversify and support jobs across the district. Our working with the Growth Hub throughout this period has demonstrated that by coming together to target this funding is the best way to help reach those businesses who are planning for the future.”

Cllr Jill Simpson-Vince, Rugby Borough Council portfolio holder for growth and investment, said: “Rugby Borough Council has already distributed more than £3 million in Additional Restrictions Grants to nearly 350 businesses in the borough, and we’re delighted to have secured this new allocation

Craig Humphrey, Managing Director, CWLEP Growth Hub

of Government funding to offer businesses further support.

“While previous ARGs focused on supporting businesses through lockdowns and pandemic restrictions, this new funding aims to drive the borough’s recovery from the pandemic by backing businesses which have robust plans for growth.

“Working with CWLEP Growth Hub, we want to provide ambitious businesses with the funding and support to grow, create jobs and boost the borough’s economy.”

These funds are limited so businesses that feel they are eligible to apply should complete an initial Expression of Interest form which can be obtained from https://bit.ly/ CovidARGRecoveryFund. Once assessed, suitable businesses will progress to a full application.

This round of ARG funding must be allocated by the end of March 2022.

Coventry Building Society Arena has made two key appointments to its business development team

Peter Barrett and Ross Stewart have joined the venue as business development managers and will be bringing their wealth of local, regional, national and international experience to the Arena.

Peter joins as Business Development Manager for Exhibitions and has more than eight years’ sales experience in exhibition design and build.

He has worked with global clients across a range of sectors including banking and financial services, automotive, aerospace, healthcare and technology.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

During his career, he has supported clients at many of the world’s major exhibition venues in locations ranging from Las Vegas, Dubai and Osaka, to Amsterdam, Barcelona and the UK. Peter said: “I am delighted to be joining Coventry Building Society Arena as Business Development Manager for Exhibitions at this exciting time for the business and its customers.

“The venue’s location, layout, facilities and its team, all make this a really exciting place to host exhibitions. With the new Commonwealth Convention Centre opening in early 2022, the opportunities for organisers will be even greater – allowing for more creativity and an enhanced visitor experience.”

Ross has more than five years’ experience in the events industry and joins Coventry Building Society

Arena as Business Development Manager for Agency.

He has worked for major venues across the UK and says that working for the Arena fulfils a career ambition of his.

“I am delighted to be joining Coventry Building Society as Business Development Manager – Agency,” Ross said.

“I have worked in venue sales for the events industry for over five years, for the likes of Stadium MK, Silverstone and, more recently, as Head of New Business for NAEC Stoneleigh.

“It has been a goal of mine from very early on in my events career to have the opportunity to work at Coventry Building Society Arena.

In this role I will be focusing on the agent and corporate market where I have enjoyed great success previously, working with the likes of Nationwide, O2, Fat Face,

National Grid and Aston Martin to name a few.”

Jenni Ford, Head of Sales at Coventry Building Society Arena, added: “We are pleased to be welcoming Ross and Peter to our growing team here at the Arena.

“This is a very exciting period for the business as we continue to bounce back following the pandemic. There has been, and continues to be, significant investment made in the venue as part of the Commonwealth Convention Centre which will strengthen our position as an industry leader.

“Both Peter and Ross have vast experience in working with high-profile clients across the conference and exhibition sector and will be real assets to Coventry Building Society Arena.”

Mecalac takes home gold at CoventryLive Business Awards Mecalac Construction Equipment UK has taken home gold in the ‘International Trade and Export’ category at this year’s CoventryLive Business Awards. The ceremony, which took place at the CBS Arena (14 October), celebrated success and achievement from the region’s most innovative companies.

Recognised as one of Coventry’s leading businesses, Mecalac was rewarded for its commitment to continued export sales success through innovation, investment and working locally with the Chamber of Commerce. The judges were impressed by the company’s incremental increase in international trade, despite the continued impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as its pivotal role in the global construction marketplace.

Mecalac has now won the coveted award twice, taking home gold in both 2018 and 2021. During this time, the company has continued to refine, redesign and expand its product offer with a number of innovative new models and state-of-the-art machine technologies.

Mark Royse, Head of Sales at Mecalac Construction Equipment UK, commented: “Being recognised for our commitment to international trade and export is testament to the team’s hard work and dedication. With more than 60 years’ manufacturing experience, we’re hugely proud of our Coventry roots and consider it a real honour to be taking home such a prestigious accolade.

“While the ongoing impacts of COVID and Brexit have proven challenging, we’re committed to further developing our class-leading portfolio of compact construction equipment. From an export perspective, we continue to experience significant demand from across the globe, with construction professionals looking to invest in future-proof equipment for some of the world’s most innovative construction projects.”

For more information about Mecalac, visit www.mecalac.com/en

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Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Chamber Summit hears how the north of Warwickshire is ready to grow

Intrepid Triple record team 3, from left Kevin Booker, Fergal McGrath, Adam Wood (ICS-UK)

Intrepid supports triple world record achievement Intrepid Control Systems UK recently supported a successful triple world record attempt involving a Ford Mustang Mach-E driving from John O’Groats to Land’s End. The records awarded to the drivers – Fergal McGrath, Kevin Booker, Paul Clifton and Adam Wood – include lowest energy consumption, shortest charging time and fewest charge stops.

The first of the three records were attempted at the beginning of July and led to a successful attempt to break the lowest energy consumption record for driving from John O’Groats to Land’s End in an electric car. A second attempt took place just four weeks later in which the team broke a further two world records.

Throughout the attempts, Intrepid Control Systems provided wireless data logging equipment in the form of its all-in-one vehicle network tool, the neoIV ION, which collected data and uploaded it wirelessly for in-depth analysis and continual inspection by the remote support team.

By analysing the data recorded during the first attempt, the team was able to identify key moments of the journey in which the electric vehicle (EV) range could be significantly improved, thereby assisting them in securing their second and third records. During the second attempt, the team also used Intrepid’s versatile CAN tool, VividCAN, which provided essential information such as energy consumption, EV regeneration and state of charge.

Following the completion of the world record attempts, Intrepid provided a technical report to sufficiently validate the conditions required by Guinness World Records. Through the use of Intrepid’s cloud-based reporting software, the team were able to demonstrate the full driven route, the energy flow of the battery and vehicle charging.

Adam Wood, engineering sales manager at Intrepid Control Systems, said: “It was an absolute pleasure supporting the drivers in their world record attempts. I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together as a team and how well our equipment showcased our application.”

For more information visit www.intrepidcs.com

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The north of Warwickshire, Nuneaton and Bedworth have the potential for major economic growth as the region recovers from Covid-19, a major event has heard.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce held its first regional Business Summit at the MIRA Technology Institute, on the HORIBA Mira campus, to look at the opportunities ahead for North Warwickshire and Nuneaton & Bedworth as well as underlining the support the Chamber can offer to businesses.

The event, hosted by Sean Rose, head of policy at the Chamber, heard from Tom Mongan, the Chamber’s president; and Hazel Pilling, the Chamber’s membership manager.

Delegates were also given an insight into economic developments in the area by Steve Maxey, chief executive of North Warwickshire Borough Council; Tom Hamilton-Dick, deputy principal of North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC); and John McGuigan, who spoke on behalf of the Transforming Nuneaton programme.

The event heard how North Warwickshire’s local plan had been ratified by Government and would mean 100 hectares

of additional employment land in the area and 4,000 new homes.

It also heard how there is already £157,000,000 committed by various bodies to the Transforming Nuneaton programme that will radically change the town centre over the next few years.

There was also an update on how NWSLC is working with businesses to ensure that students emerge with softer skills as well as qualifications when they complete their studies there.

Tom Mongan, who also chairs the Chamber’s North Warwickshire branch, said: “It was great to be back out meeting people face-to-face.

Technology continues to play a major part in the way we all communicate and do business, but I much prefer meeting in person.

“I have been involved in this region all of my life and I am passionate about North Warwickshire, Nuneaton and Bedworth and about business in this region.

“You couldn’t wish for a better location and we have some truly world class organisations here such as HORIBA Mira, BMW, Brose and Holland & Barrett to name but a few.

Hazel Pilling (Chamber), Tom Mongan (Chamber), John McGuigan (Transforming Nuneaton), Sean Rose (Chamber)

“We’re home to a range of businesses across a range of sectors including retail, hospitality, manufacturing, innovation, education and even a zoo!

“Every business that is operating today in our area can be proud of the fact that they have come through the past 18 months – an unprecedent period in all of our lifetimes.

“But, now, it’s not just about surviving, it’s about thriving and when you look at everything going on in the region, there is a real opportunity for the north of Warwickshire to achieve major economic growth.

“My advice to firms in the area is to engage with the Chamber and be part of this network.

I very often hear companies say that nobody listens to them. By being part of the Chamber, you amplify that voice so it is heard by decision-makers at a local, regional and national level.

“There is also a whole range of support on offer and the opportunity to develop new contacts with businesses right across the region.

“These are exciting times and I’d urge businesses across the area to come and be part of it.”

For more information on the North Warwickshire Local Plan, go to: https://www.northwarks.gov.uk/info/20002/planning/1082/what_is_the_local_plan_for_north_warwickshire For more information on the Transforming Nuneaton Programme, go to: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/transformingnuneaton For more information on MIRA Technology Institute, go to: https://miratechnologyinstitute.co.uk/ For more information on how the Chamber of Commerce can support your business, go to: https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/membership/

Grrrrreat news for Bear Cleaning as it’s named Family Business of the Year

Photo Credit: Suzie Hunt Photography

A Kenilworth cleaning company has won big at the Midlands Service Excellence Awards.

Bear Cleaning, run by husband and wife Ted and Kate Hunter, was crowned Family Business of the Year at the Midlands Service Excellence Awards 2020.

The awards (which were postponed five times due to the pandemic) recognise individuals and companies that offer excellent customer service. The judges commented, “Bear Cleaning truly has the feel of a family business. They demonstrated a real entrepreneurial spirit in a niche market with no previous experience. They started off on their own and only later sought help and advice and have achieved 60% growth.”

Established in 2017, Bear Cleaning has become Warwickshire’s go-to company for

wheelie bin-cleaning, gutter-cleaning and other external domestic cleaning services.

It also works on commercial properties and has seen growth in this area. For example, the team is currently cleaning 8,000m2 of the Coventry Building Society Arena (formerly the Ricoh) ahead of the new season and the Commonwealth Games.

On the Midlands Service Excellence Award, Kate commented, “Ted and I were thrilled to win, especially as we faced competition from more experienced, multi-generational businesses. But what is overwhelmed and humbled the whole family is the wave of congratulations we have received from the community. We’re a proud Kenilworth business, so it’s a delight to share a good news story.”

As well as Kate and Ted, the Bear Cleaning team includes their 19-year-old son working during his gap year, Kate’s brother who works on an ad-hoc basis, and Kate’s dad, Martin. Martin provided financial and practical support in the business’ early days and even cleaned wheelie bins. He may have hung up his high-viz in 2020 but is still involved.

It is a family affair, but the enterprise is looking to grow. Kate explained, “One of the

reasons we entered the Family Business of the Year Award was to highlight our recruitment plan. We are focused on offering employment to ex-servicemen and women who find themselves homeless or in financial difficulty.

We recognise that wheelie bin cleaning is not necessarily an aspirational career choice and therefore believe it should fulfil a more meaningful social purpose. We aim to offer a ‘hand up’ rather than a ‘hand out.’ The role can be a stepping stone to a different career, or (hopefully) our new staff members can grow and thrive within Bear Cleaning as we develop the roles accordingly. We’re still actively recruiting.”

Compassion is a key element of the business as both Kate (a former social worker) and Ted (a former police officer) have suffered mental health issues. “We’re in no doubt that the support of family and friends aided our recovery,” explained Kate. “We want to extend the same ‘in it together’ feel to our employees and ensure they benefit from the care and encouragement a family has to offer.”

If you are interested to find out more, visit www.bearcleaning.co.uk and get in touch.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks - Rugby

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Warwickshire venue is making up for lost Christmas

Hazel Pilling and Atul Lakhani

A Warwickshire venue is looking forward to entertaining the region’s businesses with the glitz and glamour of a Rio carnival this festive season after their Christmas was cancelled in 2020.

The IXL Events Centre, which is situated on the grounds of the Dallas Burston Polo Club in Southam, has – like so many in the hospitality sector – been left unable to trade for the vast majority of the past year-and-a-half.

Now, the team at the prestigious venue cannot wait to welcome guests this Christmas and say they are seeing a surge in demand from businesses that want to let their hair down this December after a testing time.

The Christmas parties take place on December 3rd, 4th, 10th and 11th and include a three-course meal, Rio-themed entertainment, including colourful costumes and an awe-inspiring samba parade, as well as a live show, charity casino and resident DJ. Guests will be able to party until 1am in the morning and can capture all of the fun with colleagues and friends inside a photo booth.

Atul Lakhani, who runs the IXL Events Centre, said: “The past year-and-a-half has been difficult for everybody and, as everybody knows, the hospitality sector has been hit hard.

“So, ever since the country began to re-open we have been doing everything we can to bring guests back to our amazing venue. We’ve held 50 weddings but, in most cases, it was staging weddings that had been postponed during Covid.

“It’s important to us, as a business, to start driving revenue by holding new events and we have a wonderful team here ensuring everything we do is of the highest quality – from food to entertainment.

“Our Christmas parties have gained a reputation as being a wonderful night out, offering visually stunning entertainment, fantastic food and just a chance to have a great time.

“It was incredibly sad that we couldn’t go ahead last Christmas but that just means this

A forwardthinking approach to green issues A Coventry tree surgery and arboricultural business is starting an academy to attract and train new talent as demand for work continues to grow.

Beechwood Trees & Landscapers Ltd, provides a variety of services including tree surgery, site clearance, stump removal, and machinery hire to clients in the public and private sectors. As it emerged out of the pandemic, Beechwood saw demand for its services increase significantly, and new environmental innovations have further bolstered its income.

Managing Director Simon Rotheram, who founded the business in 1998, said he is able to take on up to ten new members of staff thanks to this success, but finding them and keeping them was proving difficult.

He said: “Like lots of businesses, we found it difficult during the pandemic. We usually would send our workers on site in teams of three, but restrictions meant it had to be one staff member per vehicle, which massively increased our costs.

“But once restrictions started to ease and projects were able to move forward at a faster pace, demand came back in a big way. By September, we were booked up until Christmas with jobs.

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“We’re in a great position, but our problem is that we are limited by the number of staff members on our books.

And finding talent, like in a lot of industries at the moment, is difficult. Some look to go self-employed, while others start and find the work is too physically demanding.

“One idea we had was starting an academy for those who are looking to get into our line of work. We would provide quality training, and a clear progression pathway so new staff can see where they can get to if they stay with us.

“Ultimately, we want to make Beechwood a really attractive place to work. It’s not easy work, but we want to show that it can be a great job with great benefits if you can handle the physical side of things.”

Simon was visited on site by Tom Mongan, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, along with Hazel Pilling, Membership Manager at the Chamber.

They listened to Simon’s concerns around hiring new talent, as well as its drive to make the business greener.

For example, Beechwood recently started using an innovative woodchipper which converts waste wood from sites into fine

year is going to be even bigger and better.

“There is a real feeling that people missed out 12 months ago so they are going to make it up for this time round.

“We are seeing very high levels of enquiries from businesses and individuals who want to come and enjoy a great night out this Christmas.

“There are also opportunities for larger businesses to book the whole venue for an exclusive Christmas party and we’ve had interest in that too from regional companies.

“After the year we’ve all had, this is going to a special festive season and we are here to help companies make it a memorable one for all the right reasons.”

Hazel Pilling, membership manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The IXL Events Centre is a magnificent venue and the team ensures that everything they do is of the highest quality – whether its food or entertainment. We’re looking forward to our own Annual Economic Conference taking place there this November, with a range of speakers.

“The Christmas parties do sound like they are going to be truly amazing and are just what we all need after not being able to go out and let our hair down last year!”

For more information or to book go to: www.ixleventscentre.com

Simon Rotheram, Tom Mongan and Hazel Pilling

biomass for fuel, which it can then sell to other businesses.

It is now a key part of their income stream, and Simon said he wanted to be proactive around the issue as many clients are looking for contractors to have green credentials in the tendering process.

Tom said: “It was really interesting to visit Simon at Beechwood and hear about job shortages limiting the growth of what is a very successful business.

“The success of Beechwood postpandemic and its forward-thinking approach to green issues shows it has great potential but finding the staff has proven to be a sticking point.

“We told him about the FinditinCW platform, which enables businesses in our region to advertise their services and find new suppliers and told him about the government’s Kickstart scheme which gets 18 to 24-year-olds into work, as initial ways to get the ball rolling in finding new staff.

“We are here as a Chamber to help businesses like Beechwood connect with the right businesses and give them the tools to solve their problems, and we wish them all the best with their academy and future growth.”

Stratford legal firm eyes B-Corp status Stratford-upon-Avon-based Ampa has become the first legal and professional services group in Warwickshire to announce its pending B Corporation status.

Ampa – which includes full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau, consumer-focused law firm Lime Solicitors, planning and design consultancy Marrons Planning, and debt, asset and uninsured loss recovery firm Corclaim – has also announced a raft of ambitious responsible business pledges, including achieving net zero by 2025 and delivering 10,000 volunteering hours.

The benchmarks to achieving B Corporation status are incredibly high and Ampa will be the first legal service provider in Warwickshire – and one of the first in the UK – to be accredited. As part of its commitment to using business as a force for good, the group has also committed to 30 responsible business ‘ambitions’ to support its communities, people and the environment to be achieved by the end of 2022.

Highlights include increasing female representation within the membership (those with equity in the group) by five per cent and racial diversity by two per cent, as well as becoming carbon negative by 2030, with all registered office hubs using 100% renewable energy, as well as increasing use of sustainably sourced or recycled office supplies and furniture.

Group CEO Sarah Walker-Smith said: “Achieving B-Corp status is something that’s important to us; it’s not a box-tick exercise, but a reflection of how we do business by enshrining our people, client and community commitments at our core.

“Our ambitions provide us with targets to challenge ourselves on, while being open about what we want to achieve and how we’re going to do it. We have a lot to do over the coming years, but not only is it the right thing to do for our people, clients, communities and planet, it’s also the commercial thing to do for our business.”

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Coventry business born in a bedroom celebrates 21 years in 2021 Craig Tracey MP welcomes Chancellor’s £15 million Levelling Up Fund allocation for key Bedworth project

Craig Tracey, local Member of Parliament for North Warwickshire and Bedworth, has welcomed today’s announcement at the Budget by the Chancellor of the Exchequer at Bedworth being awarded £15 million to build a Physical Activity Hub, as part of the first tranche of funding allocations from the Government’s new Levelling Up Fund.

The brand-new facility will provide Bedworth with a new 8 lane 25-metre swimming pool (along with a teaching pool), a larger fitness suite and a fourcourt sports hall. The funding will also support plans for a new MUGA pitch and a skateboard park, which builds on Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council’s strong commitment to create a new mountain biking track in the park, which is currently under construction.

In addition to this, this funding will also create a green connectivity corridor to connect Bedworth Town Centre and the new physical activity hub, therefore kickstarting the regeneration of Bedworth Town Centre.

Commenting immediately after the announcement in the House of Commons, Craig said ‘’I am absolutely delighted to see our joint efforts at securing muchneeded investment for Bedworth pay off. Since being elected as a Member of Parliament back in 2015, it has been a huge frustration for me that the previous Council Administration always knocked back my plans for regenerating Bedworth, choosing to prioritise their focus on Nuneaton instead.

It has been a breath of fresh air working with the new administration and the much magnified local representation for Bedworth on the Council has really shone through. I have been lobbying Ministers, and the Chancellor himself for months now about backing the bids put forward for the constituency and so it’s fantastic to see this proposal will be coming to life.

It’s great to see the that the Chancellor shares my ambition for our Town, however, this is only a starting point for what I know can be a very bright and exciting future for Bedworth."

Cllr Kyle Evans, Cabinet Member for Public Services at Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council and leader of the application bid said “This is a great example of what Bedworth can achieve under new management. Bedworth has never received substantial Government funding on this level before, and the new Conservative Council has managed to secure this major investment just six months into office. I want to publicly thank all of our Council Officers who have been working with us, sometimes very late into the night, to help us secure this funding”.

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A Coventry design agency that started in a bedroom using a business grant is celebrating a milestone 21 years in 2021.

JADE Brand Agency was started by childhood friends Jason Dickens and Matthew East in 2000 using a grant from the Prince’s Trust.

Initially run from Jason’s bedroom at his parents’ house, the studio has been based at Electric Wharf for over 15 years and works with organisations across the country from Premiership Football Clubs to some of the biggest names in music.

JADE, which offers a range of graphic design, print and media solutions, celebrated its 21st birthday at the start of November, marking a major milestone for the business, who focus on recruiting locally and championing all things ‘Coventry’ while simultaneously working on a national scale.

In its 21 years, the business has completed more than 24,000 projects, with Coventry City Council as its longest-standing client. JADE, which rebranded itself from The Jade Studio to JADE Brand Agency in 2020 to reflect the agency that they’ve become, helped produce the bid documents that brought the 2012 Olympics to Coventry, then did the same for City of Culture 2021, playing a key role in helping Coventry win the title. In fact, JADE have worked with the Trust since day one.

JADE has won multiple awards, including ‘Creative Communications and Digital Business of the Year’ at the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards in 2018, as well as winning a shared FirstPro ‘Marketing Campaign of the Year’ for its work on the City of Culture 2021 bid. The company also beat over 100 other UK agencies to be named a University of Warwick framework design agency, and have created more than 5,000 pieces of artwork for them to date.

The agency works with eight Premiership and Championship football clubs and with some of the UK’s biggest and best venues such as Warwick Castle, Bristol Zoo, M Shed and the Imperial War Museums. It has also created artwork promoting some of the biggest names in music, including Coldplay, Take That, P!nk, Oasis, Muse and Kings of Leon, as well as creating a healthy eating brand for a wellknown celebrity chef.

On top of that, JADE was named Key Partner to Positive Youth Foundation and the company is a member of Coventry and Warwickshire Champions as well as an Associate Member to Coventry BID. Co-founder and Business Development Director Jason Dickens said: “Matt and I have been friends since childhood.

We both went to ‘The Butts’ [Coventry

JADE Brand Agency team Sara Simoés, Barrington Simon, Matthew East, Jason Dickens, Mikey Baxter and Armani Conway.

Technical College] and back then had talked about starting a design agency one day. We started JADE with a grant from the Prince’s Trust and initially ran it from my bedroom at my mum and dad’s house.

“Maybe some people thought we wouldn’t last but here we are 21 years on having worked with some of the biggest names and projects in the country. We are incredibly proud of our portfolio of clients but we’ve never forgotten our roots. We’re proud of where we’re from which is why we try to recruit locally where we can, including from Coventry University.”

Managing Director Matthew added: “We’re not standing still - in 2020 we rebranded and have plans to spread our wings even further, moving even more into the digital arena.

“We’re looking to recruit again in the new year, and purchase a larger studio in the next couple of years to meet the needs of our growing team - in Coventry of course!”

Project Warwickshire launches to help tourism, leisure and hospitality businesses A £557,000 contract to help the county’s small businesses in the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors bounce back from the Covid pandemic has been awarded by Warwickshire County Council to Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.

The contract, with £320,000 of County Council funding supplemented by a further £230,000 of European Regional Development Fund money, will enable the Chamber to implement a wide range of support through to April 2024 to boost the sector and help small businesses take advantage of a potential rise in home vacations.

Project Warwickshire will provide a package of help across the sector, including 1:1 advice, networking and a range of masterclasses. The project will support businesses to seek and access grants and funding, as well as co-ordinating a series of networking events and webinars to share good practice and links.

The tourism, leisure and hospitality industry was among the hardest hit sectors when the country went into lockdown in 2020. Tourism previously translated into significant economic value for the local economy, with Warwickshire’s tourism sector contributing £858 million towards local GVA (approximating to 6.7% of the county’s total economic value) (Economic Modelling Specialist International, 2021).

Warwickshire’s tourism sector employed 22,123 people as of 2019, equating to 8% of Warwickshire’s total workforce (EMSI, 2021).

Many small businesses were supported through the crisis with the Government’s furlough scheme as well as a series of grants and business support schemes,

including many funded by the County Council. Among these was the county council’s Survive, Sustain and Grow programme which engaged over 600 businesses and awarded over £400,000 of recovery grants to a selection of these businesses. It marked the shift in getting through the immediate crisis and focused instead on the bounce back, helping small businesses to review and adapt their practices to make themselves more sustainable in the future market. Project Warwickshire will involve partners including Shakespeare’s England and Northern Warwickshire Tourism to look at the future wants and needs of the sector’s previous, current and potential customers and how businesses can best be advised to make changes to their practice, such as increase digital presence and engagement.

In all, Project Warwickshire will look to engage 300 businesses across Warwickshire in the sectors, supporting 1,200 jobs, safeguarding 100 and creating a further 50. It will deliver an increase of £1.29m in GVA (Gross Value Added) for Warwickshire and maintain £2.58m GVA in Warwickshire’s economy with a return yield of £7.51 for every £1 invested up to the end of March 2024.

Cllr Kam Kaur, Warwickshire County Council’s portfolio holder for economy and

place said: “There has been money available to businesses through the Government’s Restart grants and there has been other short-term support available through the County Council and our partners.

"Project Warwickshire takes us beyond that point and will help small businesses to establish themselves in the changing market place so that they can do more than just get by but flourish, offer employment opportunities, particularly to our young people, and get back to the point where they were making such a significant contribution to our local economy. I’m delighted that we will be working with such experienced partners as the Chamber to push out this package of innovative support.”

Keely Hancox, Operations Manager for the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce said: “Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is delighted to be working with Warwickshire County Council and our partners to deliver a comprehensive package of support for our Tourism, Hospitality and leisure businesses across Warwickshire. Our advisors are able to offer practical advice, technical support and that all important sounding board for Business owners within this sector. The aim to support businesses in their recovery, enabling them grow and thrive post pandemic.”

For further information, please email the Chamber on chamberbusinessprograms@cw-chamber.co.uk or call 02476 654321 For information about other support available to grow your business or general information and enquiries, contact the Coventry & Warwickshire Growth Hub on 0300 060 374 *This project is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund, forming part of the CW Business: Start, Grow and Scale Programme

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Coventry & Warwickshire in business

News

Safetyflex Barriers launches first solar-powered crash gate at the International Security Expo Coventry-based Safetyflex Barriers will launch its first zero-carbon product at one of the first large scale security events to be held in-person for almost two years.

The family-run company, which has become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of anti-terrorism bollards and barriers, will unveil a new crash-rated, solar-powered hydraulic raising arm gate at the International Security Expo at Olympia London.

The flagship event in the security sector will bring together government and other end-users with manufacturers and suppliers.

Safetyflex’s vertically opening gate is one of the few products of its kind on the

market to be surface mounted, and requires no ground fixings or power source. It is crash-tested to IWA-14 standard to stop a 7.5 tonne truck, and can be installed in four hours as a permanent solution or at temporary events.

The HVM gate was tested at the worldleading Horiba-Mira testing ground just a few miles from the company’s headquarters in Foleshill, and is also available as a battery powered, vertically opening gate and as a manually operated swing gate.

Visitors to the International Security Expo will also get their first look at Safetyflex’s new fully automated crash-rated ‘coffin’ bollard which can be operated from a control panel or remotely by an app

downloaded to a mobile device. It has also been crash-tested to IWA-14 standard to stop a 7.5 tonne truck and has a shallow foundation.

Marcus Gerrard, director of Safetyflex Barriers, said: “The International Security Expo is our first opportunity for almost two years to mix face-to-face on this kind of scale with contacts and potential customers in the security sector.

“In today’s HVM marketplace, the majority of gates require foundations, but while shows like this have not been able to happen due to restrictions, our research and development has continued at a pace and after major investment we are able to add a surface-mounted gate to our range.

Perhaps more significantly, it is also our first fully automated product that is solar powered.

“Our new products will further enhance our reputation as one of the most innovative suppliers to the global security sector with our HVM solutions now installed in almost 20 countries in Europe and around the world.”

The International Security Expo has a focus on government and infrastructure, and attracts a senior audience of buyers looking to source the latest innovative products and services from market-leading suppliers, and to share best practice in response to evolving challenges in the industry.

Coventrian’s skills secure top spot at UK engineering challenge Craig Perkins, National Express West Midlands IRTE challenge

Craig Perkins, Engineering Technical Trainer for National Express West Midlands, has been named best Mechanical Technician at a national IRTE Skills Challenge award ceremony.

32-year-old Craig, from Coventry, secured his top spot by demonstrating his skills, knowledge and quick-thinking during the IRTE Skills Challenge competition in June.

Craig achieved the highest score against his category competitors from across the whole UK bus and coach industry.

Competitors had to complete a range of practical and theory tests and Craig was able to quickly diagnose gearbox, brake and caliper faults while clearly and easily explaining how the faults occurred.

His speed and problem-solving skills were again put to the test when he was challenged to set up a valve clearance on an older engine model.

When asked how it felt to win his award, Craig said “This has to be one of my proudest achievements in my working career - I never thought I would even get close to the top ten, never mind win the whole category.

“It was a team effort so I want to say a massive well done to Chris and Glenn who were there with me. We all helped each other in any way we could and I'm really proud of the whole team.”

Lee Sandford, Engineering Training Manager for National Express West Midlands, said "The entire team performed fantastically throughout the competition, applying the skills and knowledge from their respective trades to exceptionally high levels.

“I am extremely proud of them all for having the confidence to put themselves forward and be part of the event. Their achievements bode well for future competitions - bring on next year’s challenge!"

In addition to his win in the Mechanical Technician category, Craig was named runner up in the Inspection Technician category. And his National Express team members were also recognised for their achievements. Bodymaker Chris Little was runner up in the Bodywork Technician category and Glenn Danks, who is a

Mechanic by trade, did brilliantly in the electrical category.

Craig started his career with National Express 15 years ago when he was just 17.

After working in a customer-facing role he went on to the company’s apprenticeship scheme, qualifying four years later and starting as a Fitter. In 2016 Craig briefly left the company and worked as a DVSA Vehicle Inspector before returning to National Express Coventry as an Engineering Supervisor in 2018. Craig now uses his passion for sharing knowledge as part of his role as an Engineering Technical Trainer.

The 10th IRTE Skills Challenge was held earlier this year, with the award ceremony taking place at the Williams F1 Conference Centre in Didcot on Thursday 21 October 2021. The awards were presented by Adam Fraser-Hitchen, President of the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE).

Daimler Wharf Plans for the major regeneration of the site of Coventry’s world-famous Daimler car factory into a vibrant new neighbourhood for living and work, culture and leisure have taken a significant step forward.

Warwickshire-based property and development company The Wigley Group has submitted an outline planning application to Coventry City Council for the mixed-use development on Sandy Lane in the Radford area of the city.

The seven-acre brownfield site sits on the side of the Coventry Canal and is currently a business park and industrial estate. It is designated for housing by Coventry City Council.

Central to the proposals is the integration of the site — to be known as Daimler Wharf — with the existing community by reconnecting the area to Coventry Canal and creating a large public common.

The outline planning application includes up to 480 new homes and flexible work-live units.

At the heart of the high-quality development will be a linear park and two public squares. Direct pedestrian and

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cycle links through the new community to Coventry Canal will also enhance the pedestrian corridor into the city centre.

There, will be electric car charging points, and an electric bike and scooter station.

The first phase of the Daimler Wharf scheme has already been completed, with the refurbishment of the Daimler Powerhouse building — the only part of the car factory to survive Second World War bombing — into a creative hub. The Daimler Powerhouse Creation Centre is run by Imagineer Productions and home to four other resident creative arts companies.

The centre is also playing an integral part in supporting Coventry’s year as UK City of Culture 2021 as a production centre for major performance works.

Mike Vining, Land and Development Director at The Wigley Group, said: “Our vision has always been to build on the site’s great heritage. We have already started to deliver on that by investing in the only remaining part of the Daimler car factory to once again make this important heritage asset a real focal point as a state-of-the-art creative hub.

“The wider plans that will build on phase one are for a new and vibrant

Artist’s impression of Makers Row which will reconnect the existing community to Coventry Canal through Daimler Wharf.

neighbourhood that addresses local housing need and offers visual improvements alongside environmental benefits that will contribute to the city’s aspirations for a cleaner and greener future.

“Over the past three years we have consulted widely with local stakeholders and the surrounding community. The feedback has been very positive and has helped shape the scheme which we are now delighted to be presenting to Coventry City Council.”

James Davies, Chief Executive Officer at The Wigley Group, said: “When we acquired this site in 2006, we saw straight away the potential that it had for redevelopment

and the contribution that a high-quality northern quarter could make to the wider regeneration of this part of the city and how it will link through the Canal Basin the heart of the Coventry.

“This site has been designated for housing by Coventry City Council for a number of years and this scheme presents the opportunity to now bring this site forward to realise its full potential in helping to address local housing needs, but also to reinvigorate the area through the creation of a northern gateway to the city centre that celebrates Coventry’s industrial past and cultural future.”

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Has HMRC lost its bite?

Following the winding back of Covid-related legislation, which has undoubtedly helped many businesses survive, HMRC are once again able to petition to wind-up companies.

The press has often reported that the insolvency profession will be rushed off its feet when things implode. However this simply hasn’t happened yet and, if it does, I doubt it will be because of HMRC. HMRC are not actively petitioning for companies to be wound up. HMRC are actively encouraging those with debt

to get in touch and discuss the situation no matter how dire the position might be.

In the past we may have seen companies with a clean track record able to obtain time-to-pay arrangements of, on average, 12 months, sometimes 24 months, in order to spread debt repayments. If the track record of paying HMRC was less than perfect it would have been very difficult to obtain a time-to-pay arrangement. Now HMRC are saying that they will actively work on whatever realistic proposals are put to them even if that means much longer agreements which certainly provides more breathing space.

HMRC understands that this is a unique time those companies find themselves in. What may have been a thriving business that always paid its tax on time before the pandemic may be a far cry from the state of the business now.

HMRC will still, rightly so, wind-up those that are actively evading taxes and causing undue harm. For those with genuine reasons for default the message we are hearing is that the support from HMRC is there.

Time will tell if that is the reality.

If you would like to discuss this in further detail please do contact me or any of the management team at BRI Business Recovery and Insolvency on 02476 226839 or jrimmer@briuk.co.uk We offer an initial meeting without obligation and free of charge.

Coventry University deliveries on Proof-of-Concept programme

Brett Vye, Chief Executive of Percuro, Martin Lucy, Operations and Development Manager at Coventry University Services Ltd, Denise Saber, co-founder of Percuro, and Reg Brown, Chief Financial Officer of Percuro.

Coventry University has helped a Warwickshire-based sustainable pet brand that is behind the production of a low carbon pet food to secure contracts with retailers in the UK and globally.

Percuro Primal Pet Food Ltd — which has its headquarters in Henley-in-Arden — secured funding from the European Regional Development Fund through the ‘Proof-of-Concept’ programme which is delivered by Coventry University.

The innovation and growth programme supports SMEs in Coventry, Warwickshire, Greater Birmingham and Solihull in the early-stage development of a new product through access to funding, tailored one-to-one innovation support, and workshops.

The funding that Percuro was able to access through the university was crucial to it being able to carry out a full feasibility study that helped to establish market demand for the product through extensive consumer research among pet owners in the UK and Germany.

As a result, it is now selling direct to consumers in Europe via its own website, and has secured supply contracts with big name UK brands: Pets at Home, Monster Waitrose, Ocado and Amazon, as well as others overseas in Italy, Singapore and South Korea.

The company was founded by Denise Saber, who has a background in investment management, working with family and institutional investors around their sustainability agenda, and Chief Executive Brett Vye, who has a background in the pet and brewing industries. They are part of a five-person executive team.

Denise said: “We came away from the ‘Proof-of-Concept' research that the team at Coventry University helped us to fund with a clear market that was commercially viable and one that also helped us come up with a narrative.

The university’s support really got us going and was an important part of our process to get to where we are now.

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“We were confident we had something special but we needed to test it. We ranked each of the ingredients against peer groups, comparing the effect on pets’ health and wellness (low inflammation) and how the effect the sourcing of each ingredient would have on the planet.

We then conducted an independent five-day palatability and digestibility 2 bowl test with 20 dogs and benchmarked against our UK leading competitor 9 out of 10 dogs preferring Percuro.

“We also knew anecdotally that sustainability would be important to consumers, but we needed something to really help get us to understand if we were on the right track with something that consumers would actually buy.

“We believe that this is innovation at its best because of the positive impact it can have on animal health and life expectancy, and also climate change. Through having 100 per cent sustainable insect protein and plant-based ingredients that are traceable, and 100 per cent livestockfree, this is a business that can scale up and become a leading brand globally.”

Percuro is the Latin word for ‘heal completely’ and key to the company’s sustainability credentials is the use of black soldier fly larvae as its protein source for its products.

Dogs and cats alone consume 20 per cent of the world’s animal-based sources of protein such as meat and fish, but as the edible insect protein in Percuro’s pet food uses only a fraction of the land, water and energy, it is a climate change positive regime for feeding pets.

All of its plant-based ingredients are 100 per cent sustainable with no hidden animal fats or derivatives, and 95 per cent are sourced within a close proximity to its manufacturing site in mainland Europe, which further limits its carbon footprint.

The research funded through Coventry University found quality of ingredients was the most important factor when choosing food product for their pet. Through many respondents were not aware of products that used insects as a source of protein, they were willing to at least try the product after reading the concept.

Others showed a positive response towards pet food having limited impact on eco-systems and said they would prefer a brand having a proactive stance towards the environment and would spend more to do so.

Martin Lucy, Operations and Development Manager at Coventry University Services Ltd, said: “Percuro are developing a novel environmentally aware product and accessing the ‘Proof of Concept’ ERDF funded grant enabled them to undertake the research aspect of the project to better understand the size of the commercial opportunity and the best way forward, reducing the financial risk of their project.”

Businesses can check to see if they are eligible to join the Proof-of-Concept grant programme or other business support provided by Coventry University at www.cuebusinesssolutions.com.

Pensions & Divorce

There are different things to consider when going through a divorce or a dissolution, it’s a distressing time and emotions run high, which can be confusing.

During this time, pensions are likely to be the last thing on your mind, however it’s important to include them when considering how your assets will be divided.

What are your options when divorcing or dissolving a partnership?

PENSIONS OFFSETTING The value of any pensions is offset against other assets.

For example, one party may get a larger portion of the family home in return for the other keeping their pension.

This can offer a simple, clean break which doesn’t alter existing pension arrangements.

PENSIONS SHARING A percentage of one person’s pensions is transferred to the other, allowing them to manage it as they wish.

This can be transferred into a pension in their name which can be a new or existing pension, or they might have the option to join the scheme the pension has come from. This will be dependent on the pension scheme rules.

Whilst this option also offers a clean break, consideration needs to be made for life cover or death benefits.

PENSION EARMARKING/ATTACHMENT ORDERS One party agrees to pay a percentage of their own pension to their ex-partner when they start taking income from their pension.

You can get an income, a lump sum or both, however you will not be able to access any payments before your ex-partner starts accessing their pension.

This option doesn’t offer a clean break because the person who owns the pension will always control when and how it’s used at retirement.

Please get in touch with Integrity Wealth Solutions if you would like more information or help.

www.integritywealth.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

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Education and Training

The Leadership Coaches Shortlisted for Start Up Business of the Year Award

Here at The Leadership Coaches, we are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for Start Up Business of the Year in the Asian Chamber Business Awards.

Following our launch in January 2020, we have built a credible team of leadership coaches, all of whom provide leadership coaching, management development, bespoke consultancy services, and leaderships and management development courses to our clients.

During the pandemic we were awarded the Heroes award by HRH the Duchess of Sussex for our voluntary coaching support for the NHS, RCC and local support our coaches provided to their communities. We have also recently been awarded Exceeding Expectations at a supplier performance review by one of our clients, and we continue to deliver exceptional customer service.

In addition to the above, we have now facilitated 15 exclusive invite-only workshops for clients and prospects on: • Compassionate Leadership • Building Trust in Hybrid Teams • Leading virtually • How to create a coaching culture We are soon to host our next workshop in November, which we are sure will be a huge success. Sharing her thoughts on being shortlisted for Start Up Business of the Year, Director of Coaching Zoe Lewis said “To be shortlisted as Start Up Business of the Year means a lot to us all at The Leadership Coaches.

From a small idea and creating a team of proven, credible leadership coaches to where we are now; building a strong brand, providing exceptional service & becoming known as a reliable and reputable service provider is more than we’d anticipated given the additional challenges provided by the pandemic.”

Empower your Team for Success

We are living in unprecedented times, with Covid-19 and Brexit putting pressure on businesses that most of us have never seen in our lifetime. Revenue is down, the market is hard, and you may have been put in the difficult position of having to say goodbye to valuable members of staff. Employees have had to take on extra work and the pressure is on to be more efficient and achieve more with less resources than ever before.

The current circumstances look different for everyone. Your staff work remotely now. Your teams may not have met face to face in months, if at all, and you may not even have met any new hires you have made. It is hard to engage staff from a distance and build meaningful relationships.

Or you have just returned to the office for the first time since

March 2020. The new staff you have hired during the pandemic are struggling to adjust and be fully accepted into the team. Your staff do not want to return to the office. Your processes have had to change to accommodate Brexit and it has been tricky. The only thing that can be said for certain is that every business faces its own unique situation and challenges.

So, what is the answer to bringing your team together and making them stronger than ever before? We believe there are three key facets that will mobilise your team and set them up to succeed in this new world.

1. Hire the Right People Take proactive steps to ensure that you’re hiring people who don’t just fit the job description, but also fit your team and company culture. Hire people who will complement the staff in your existing team and fill the gaps that you have got. It is tempting to hire people who have the same skills and ways of doing things as you do, but this is more likely to lead long term to unbalanced teams and a continued skills shortage and job dissatisfaction. Look for innovative ways to find out who

they really are. We put all our new hires through our escape rooms providing us with a fascinating way to expose their true characters.

2. Build a Strong Team Be available to invest in building strong relationships within your teams. Highlight the strengths of each staff member and encourage them in these. Discover their weaknesses and spur them on to turn them into strengths. Help your teams develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork and time management.

Encourage them to develop good working relationships with each other. With the challenges we all face today, we must work “Smarter, not harder”, and to get the job done the most efficient and effective way, we need people operating in their sweet spot. To do this you need to know each other and have a balanced team. We would encourage every business to invest time in team building and developing staff both individually and as a collective. Doing so in an interactive way helps staff engage with it and get involved and we have found they are more likely to walk away with some new skills and a fresh perspective.

3. Empower your managers to Lead and Engage One of the biggest causes of poor performance is disengagement and Gallup research has shown that 70% of the difference between engagement and disengagement is due directly to the Manager.

For Managers to lead effectively, they need to believe in what you do as a company, be loyal to your brand, believe in your products.

The best way to develop this is to take time out to help your managers engage with your brand, values and products. Give them opportunities to discover them in an interactive way, facilitate exploration, encourage questions, invite them to give honest feedback and respond to it. Listen to what is said and where you can, make changes in response to what they say. Empower them to take their newfound enthusiasm and engagement back to their teams and pass it on. This small sacrifice will likely have a positive ripple effect across your entire company as your managers pass it on and lead by example.

For more information visit www.timesquaredltd.com

Business boost for employability through supported internships Young people with special educational needs and disabilities are being supported into work through a new internship programme led by North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) in partnership with local and regional businesses.

National Grid Metering and Nuneaton Signs are already on board with the programme and are providing work placements for students that aim to see them move into paid employment. As a large employer in the area with over 600 staff, NWSLC has also made a commitment to offering five supported internships within its own teams with placements in sports, floristry, construction, automotive and catering already in place.

Tom Blount and Scott Edmond have already started work at National Grid Metering where they have been introduced to the systems and processes involved in the customer service centre, the metering department, and the IT support team. Students Warren Evans, Darren Sneddon and Connor Deakin have recently joined Nuneaton Signs which has manufactured signs, stickers, and banners since 1982.

The new scheme was officially launched at the college’s Nuneaton Campus with a formal induction and NWSLC is calling on more employers from across the region to lend their support by offering new supported internships.

Faye Dowling, Change Specialist & Employability Lead (Solihull) for National Grid Metering said, “Tom and Scott started with National Grid Metering in September, and we have never seen such a huge transition in confidence and abilities in such a short period of time. Within just five weeks both Tom and Scott were independently organising their own workload, learning multiple systems and processes, taking part in team meetings and community projects, and have even delivered ‘All About Me’ presentations to our employability team.”

Holly Hunter, Social Impact Officer for Nuneaton Signs said, “Our business was originally founded as a sheltered workshop to provide opportunities for adults with disabilities. Getting involved with the college’s scheme enables us to extend our reach to young people and help them to bridge the gap between education and employment. We have over 60 members of staff and 65 per cent have at least one disability.

We have 20 mentors within our workforce and everyone at Nuneaton Signs was pleased to welcome Warren, Darren and Connor and are now helping them to settle in.”

Marion Plant, Principal and Chief Executive of NWSLC said, “We were delighted to host our students and employer partners at the launch of this scheme which provides a vital stepping-stone for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. The scheme is structured so that students benefit from the support of a dedicated job coach to help them adapt to the demands of their new work routine and have someone to check-in with them on a regular basis. This is very important for these students and helps to make sure that they remain in the placement and thrive, moving on to paid employment when the time is right.

“We’re grateful to our employer partners who have helped us to secure placements for our first intake of students, and we are happy to support the scheme ourselves by offering the opportunity for students to work at the college in a variety of roles from sports coach to catering assistant. With around 100 students currently enrolled in our foundation learning programme, it will be

important to develop a robust pipeline of future opportunities so we urge businesses to get in touch if they feel that they can offer a placement to one of our students.”

Supported internships are structured study programmes designed to enable young people with special educational needs and disabilities to achieve sustainable, paid employment by equipping them with the skills they need for work through learning in the workplace. Internships normally last for a year and include unpaid work placements of at least six months. Wherever possible, they support the young person to move into paid employment at the end of the programme.

Students complete a personalised study programme which includes the chance to study for relevant substantial qualifications, if suitable, and English and maths to an appropriate level.

For more information visit www.nwslc.ac.uk

Green 4 Motor Company and Coventry College

Green 4 Motor Company has been working with Coventry College since March of this year, playing a pivotal role in helping grow the business in key areas, including Marketing, Accounts and Administration.

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Green 4 Motor Company operates three modern and welcoming dealership locations in the Warwickshire region. They have been supplying their dedicated customers with new Mazda vehicles for over 25 years.

The dealership has since taken on three apprentices, through Coventry College, the first being Kian Sheehy. Kian is currently attending the business administration course and says “So far, the overall experience has been great. My college tutor Denise is very friendly and is always available to assist me if I ever need help.”

Erin Stapleton has been studying at Coventry College since 2018 and is now enrolled on the Association of Accounting

Technicians (AAT) Level 2 Accounts/Finance Assistant apprenticeship. Erin explains “The best part about Coventry College are the tutors. I have had a great experience with all of them and they are always very understanding. If you have a problem or do not understand everything, they are very supportive and help you wherever they can.

I feel extremely welcome there and everyone is very friendly.”

Along with Kian and Erin, Charlotte West has also decided to go down the ‘earn while you learn ‘route and is currently studying a Level 3 Digital Marketing apprenticeship. Erin believes “Despite only attending the college for a month, I already feel that the knowledge and

skills that I have been taught so far will be critical for me to use in the workplace.”

Alison France, HR Director at Green 4 Motor Company said, “We’re really privileged to work with Coventry College, they have sourced some great apprentices for our business, and we look forward to a long relationship with them.”

Robert Jones, Sector Engagement Officer for the college says, “I have really enjoyed working with Green 4 Motor Co and they have embraced the worth of taking on apprentices, and the value they can bring to a business. I look forward to working with them in the future and achieving some very positive results.”

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Education and Training

Coventry manufacturer chooses apprenticeships to drive future

A Coventry manufacturing business is taking the apprenticeship route to support its development as it moves into a new era.

MPL Fabrications has taken on a new Welding and Fabrications apprentice, through college group WCG, after coming through an uncertain period for the business.

The light sheet metal company has been in business for 40 years and was taken over by managing director Kevin Duffy,

whose father-in-law founded the company, after the former owner passed away suddenly.

Kevin was tasked with guiding the business through a difficult period and it is now enjoying significant growth, with sales growing by 20 per cent month-on-month.

MPL Fabrications’ workforce has its foundations in apprenticeships, with one former apprentice having been with the business for 36 years.

Richard Wilson, 16, is the company’s latest apprentice and will be completing a Welding and Fabrications apprenticeship through college group WCG – with time spent studying at its Royal Leamington Spa College site.

Kevin said: “We have strong track record with apprentices over the years and supporting them in their development “Working with WCG has been seamless. The funding opportunities were explained well to us, the college dealt with administration and supplied a good selection of candidates.

“I’m a firm believer that offering apprenticeships can be as beneficial to the business as the employee.”

John Colclough, Business Development Manager at WCG, added: “Apprentices can be a valuable asset to any business – be that a start-up or a business that is pursuing a growth strategy “We were pleased to be able to work with Kevin to ensure he had the right calibre of candidates for his position and that now he has been able to fill the vacancy.”

Atherstone sweet treats retailer takes on first apprentice A sweet treats retail business, based in Atherstone, has taken on its first apprentice after thriving since the launch of its online shop in lockdown.

To find out more about WCG Apprenticeships, contact the WCG Business Development team: E: employerenquiries@wcg.ac.uk T: 0330 135 6940 W: wcg.ac.uk/employers

Lisa’s Sweet Treats is owned by Lisa Organ and until recently she had been managing the day-to-day operations of the growing business on her own.

Students celebrate success

The business was set up in September 2019 and mainly supplied sweet carts for weddings, corporate events and the hospitality sector. But when the pandemic hit Lisa pivoted the business and launched the online shop and ecommerce business.

Warwickshire and Worcestershire graduates at college group WCG have been celebrating their success in a series of graduation ceremonies in Warwick.

Around 250 graduates from Royal Leamington Spa College, Rugby College, Moreton Morrell College and Pershore College graduated across four ceremonies at St Mary’s Church.

The graduating students were a mix of 2020 and 2021 graduates – as 2020 graduates were finally able to celebrate their achievements after disruption caused last year due to the pandemic.

Angela Joyce, CEO of WCG, was on hand to present students with certificate scrolls and was joined by the representatives of the college’s board of governors across the three days of celebrations.

Peter Manford, Linda Norville, Rachel Sandby-Thomas and Chris Bradshaw represented the board of governors at individual ceremonies.

The ceremonies also featured a trio of keynote speakers, with Helen Peters, CEO of Shakespeare’s England speaking at the first ceremony. Nik Spencer, an entrepreneur, inventor of the HERU and former student at Moreton Morrell College addressed graduates during the second ceremony.

Helen Peters said: “It’s been fantastic. I felt so sorry for graduates last year who didn’t get this opportunity. It’s great that they have that chance today and then also that the class of 2021 hasn’t had the same disruption.”

Nik Spencer added: “I was educated at Kineton High School, went to Moreton Morrell and my education was here in Warwickshire. To be here today and

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

This move has seen the business thrive as sweet-toothed customers headed to her website to send gifts. It has now sent more than 6,000 sweet packages and that success has led to the business moving out of Lisa’s home office and into its first office premises in Atherstone.

be able to address the students was a fantastic honour to me.

“I know how important a day like this is for the students. It’s a day you will remember for the rest of your life.”

For the two final ceremonies on the third day, WCG welcomed Chris Moody, who recently retired as CEO of Landex. He spoke with Moreton Morrell College and Pershore College graduates about the importance of the land-based industries in which both colleges specialise.

Chris said: “The opportunities available to students graduating in the land-based industries today are enormous and they’ve made a very wise choice.

“It’s always quite the achievement to achieve a degree, but to do so given the circumstances of the last two years is a doubly impressive achievement.”

Angela Joyce, CEO of WCG, said: “After an incredibly difficult couple of years it was fantastic to bring together all of our graduates to celebrate their achievements – which had been a long time coming for our class of 2020.

“Our degree-level courses pride themselves on providing the skills and knowledge to help our graduates to succeed in the next stage of their development, and that is reflected in the latest figures showing that 95 per cent of our graduates currently are in employment or undertaking further study.

“Graduation day is a culmination of three years of hard work for many of our students, who may have been juggling jobs with education and overcoming other personal challenges. Add a pandemic into that and it is all the more impressive that they have achieved what they have.

“We would like to congratulate all of our graduates on this magnificent achievement and look forward to following their development as they take their next steps into employment or by continuing to develop in education.”

WCG offers higher education courses in a wide range of subjects through full time and part-time options. To find out more visit www.wcg.ac.uk/study

As a result, Lisa has taken on Alice Porter as a Digital Marketing apprentice and she will be completing the apprenticeship through college group, WCG. She said: “By taking on an apprentice, it will help me to grow my business. Alice brings new skills into the business and is already making a massive impact in terms of digital marketing.

“WCG has been really helpful and have made signing-up an apprentice possible.

“My plan is to take on more apprentices, move into a bigger office and expand my staff.”

John Colclough, Business Development Manager at WCG, added: “Apprenticeships are a brilliant way for small businesses, like Lisa’s Sweet Treats, to expand.

“Lisa is already seeing the benefits of someone joining with new ideas and a fresh perspective which will help her business to continue on its current upward trajectory.”

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News

Changing the face of tourism On day two, the convention itself saw key figures from Coventry City Council highlight £44 million investment in the public realm, range of new attractions and facilities being built, and the steps being taken to promote sustainability in the city.

Cllr Jim O’Boyle (centre) with Amanda Lumley (to his right) and joined by representatives from the Tourism Management Institute.

Coventry has been showcased to leading national tourism figures and destination management organisations (DMOs) from across the country as part of a major convention held in the city.

Conference Coventry and Warwickshire facilitated bringing the national convention – which saw a focus on sustainability - to Coventry and worked closely with TMI to deliver the event.

More than 60 tourism leaders attended the Tourism Management Institute (TMI) Annual Convention was hosted

by Coventry Conferences at Coventry University Technology Park – with more than 50 industry professionals joining online via live stream.

Tourism leaders arrived for a packed two-day schedule of events which began with a walking tour of the city to showcasing the changing face of Coventry as a result of City of Culture and significant investment in the public realm.

Leading figures in attendance included Nick de Bois, Chairman of the Visit England Advisory Board, Sally Balcombe, CEO of VisitBritain and Tourism Alliance’s Kurt Janson. They were joined by representatives from DMOs ranging in location from Cornwall to Durham.

The tour saw TMI visit a cross-section of venues from across the city who were given a chance to showcase what they can offer to event organisers from outside of the region, and the first day closed in a private tour of the Turner Prize at the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.

TMI President Amanda Lumley opened the proceedings, before Cllr Jim O’Boyle, of Coventry City Council, welcomed delegates to the event.

Cllr O’Boyle said: “Coventry is open and welcome to visitors. We’re proud of our city and have been completing a number of projects to refresh it over recent years.

“Our projects and investments mix the old with the new. We have a great past and a great future as well.”

David Nuttall, Strategic Lead City of Culture and Commonwealth Games at Coventry City Council discussed how major events are changing the face of tourism in the city and how public realm investment is affecting how people use the city centre.

Brett Willers, Head of Climate Change at Coventry City Council, highlighted the city’s pathway to sustainability and how it is positioned to be a green city of the future.

Amanda Lumley, President of the Tourism Management Institute, said: “‘TMI’ is the voice of destination management nationally and we represent destinations and associated organisations small and large cross the UK. “We have had a fantastic two days in Coventry and really been looked after by the new ‘Visit Coventry’ team and Coventry Technology Park conference centre. It has been impressive to see what the city has achieved over the last two years as part of their City of Culture 2021 regeneration programme.

Paul Jones, Managing Director of Conference Coventry and Warwickshire, added: “It was a pleasure to welcome key figures from the tourism sector and DMOS from across the country to Coventry for the TMI Annual Convention.

“It was a great platform to promote our city and shout about the improvements being made citywide to develop Coventry as a business and leisure tourism destination.

“Significant changes have been made and are being made across the city and there was a great sense of pride to have industry-wide peers join us in Coventry to see the scale and range of improvements.”

Electric motorcycles at forefront of commuter revolution The market for electric vehicles is experiencing a boom within the commuter and leisure sectors as demand spikes for electric motorcycles according to a UK business that delivered its Horwin CR6 model to the MIRA Technology Institute (MTI) this week. The motorcycle is on loan from Artisan Electric, which describes the Horwin brand as a ‘global challenger to the electric market’. The business has seen interest in e-motorcycles and scooters skyrocket in recent months in line with lifestyle trends and increased awareness.

Adam Bowen from Artisan Electric, delivering the motorcycle to the MTI where it is on display in the atrium said, “Electric motorcycles are proving to be a completely different proposition to the current petrol sector. We operate in the commuter and leisure market and our

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customer base is totally different from the typical biker profile.

“The power of this Horwin model is equivalent to a 125cc engine and it’s top speed is 60mph. With a range of up to 60 miles, the battery can be fully charged using a three-pin plug in just three and a half hours. Research shows that most commuters live within 20 miles of their workplace on average, so the bike, which retails at £5,047, is proving to be a popular alternative to the car and to public transport.

“Most of our customers hadn’t even considered an electric-motorcycle until they saw one. We have had huge interest this year at events such as CarFest and 90 per cent of our customers have never ridden a motorbike before. Bikes like these deliver enhanced leisure options that go one step further than e-bikes and

complement active lifestyles and outdoor hobbies. The CR6 is lightweight and easy to manage weighing in at only 138kg.

Lisa Bingley, Operations Director at the MTI said, “It is great to see the Horwin CR6 at the MTI and we’re grateful to Adam from Artisan Electric for its loan.

Our students and visitors will be able to see one of the very latest models in this exciting new market that is already generating demand for new skills across the sector.”

Marion Plant, OBE FCGI, Principal and Chief Executive of North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College said, “Electrification of transport is really taking hold now and we are seeing increasing levels of interest in our portfolio at the MTI which encompasses skills in all types of transportation.”

Phil Griffin, Artisan, Lisa Bingley, MTI, Adam Bowen, Artisan.

The MTI is helping to create specialist skills in some of the new emerging technology areas including electrification and driverless cars.

Since it first opened its doors, the MTI has welcomed over 12,000 students and delegates.

For more details on the MTI skills email enquiries@mti.ac.uk

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

President & People

Metcloud shortlisted for Investors in People award Metcloud has made the final shortlist for The Investors in People Awards 2021, in the UK Employer of the Year Gold category.

In a record-breaking year for entries, with nearly three hundred organisations involved, this is an outstanding achievement and one that everyone at the company is proud of.

Where has this year gone?

I truly cannot believe it has been a year since I had the honour of becoming President of this great and historic Chamber of Commerce, and, in my humble opinion, there are none better!

What a year it has been, I am probably the first President in our Chamber’s history that had to put the Chain of Office over their own head due to the Covid restrictions in place at the time.

Fast forward nearly 12 months and due to the success of the vaccine we are in a slightly better position, not that we can take anything for granted, as the virus is still with us and people are still testing positive; even those who have been double jabbed.

I should know, as I was one of those individuals, although double jabbed that still tested positive after attending a public event and had to isolate for ten days. Thankfully, I had extremely mild symptoms, however people are still losing friends and family, indeed sadly I lost a very good friend to Covid in late October.

So, my message to everyone especially over the festive period, is simply to remain aware, don’t be too blasé, if you feel comfortable wearing a mask and regularly sanitizing your hands, just do it and don’t be swayed by peer pressure, stay safe and stay well.

As I reflect on my first 12 months in office, I can genuinely state that after restrictions eased somewhat, that I have thoroughly enjoyed getting out and meeting Chamber members, either at events or through visiting their premises.

I have enjoyed being able to support and promote a wide range of businesses through the Chamber’s initiatives of “Building Back Stronger” and “Let’s Talk Business”.

I have also enjoyed getting to know the Chamber of Commerce staff, those that I have met are truly outstanding in everything that they do, hardworking, personable and a credit to this organisation; thank you to each and every one of you that has helped me during this first year, especially Chris, Hazel, Sean and Gemma and I look forward to working with you all over the next 12 months.

Although late starting due to the pandemic, I would also say congratulations to Chenine Bhathena, Martin Sutherland and the team for the truly brilliant work they have done and continue to do during our City of Culture year.

In my opinion, the city has been transformed, there have been many highlights; including The Assembly Festival Garden, The Choir of Man, The Turner Prize and, for me, the most moving was Little Amal (The Walk). I had the good fortune of witnessing the event with Louise Bennett on a quite chilly windy evening, but it will live long in the memory, as it was in equal measures one of the most moving and spectacular events to date.

Speaking of Louise, I cannot let it pass without saying a huge thank you to her for the help and support offered to me during my first year in office. I don’t think I have ever met such a hardworking and totally dedicated person as Louise, she is one exceptional lady.

Finally, as President of the Chamber I want to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Peaceful and Prosperous New Year.

Best regards Tom Mongan

44

The Investors in People Awards celebrate the very best organisations and individuals from around the world across various organisational, people, wellbeing and leadership categories. Each year, hundreds of organisations from the UK and abroad battle it out to take home one of the soughtafter trophies to show their award-winning commitment to investing in their people.

Sonia Vickers, head of HR at Metcloud, said: “It’s a privilege to be shortlisted for this prestigious award, a clear indication of the dedication and hard work the team has invested in the business.”

Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, aid: “Now in our eighth year, it always makes me feel immensely proud to see so many fantastic organisations staking their claim to be the best. Every year, the entries do get more and more competitive and the judging even tighter. Reaching the final shortlist is a testament to the amazing commitment these organisations are making to make work better for their people, and they truly deserve this recognition.”

The winners will be announced at an online ceremony on November 23.

For the full shortlist and more information about Investors in People, visit www.investorsinpeopleawards.com.

The Investors in People Awards 2021 are proudly sponsored by Activate Apprenticeships, Ambu, Boost Awards, CIPD, Fineprint, Gaudio Awards, Make a Difference Summits, The Youth Group, Troup Bywaters + Anders, United Grand Lodge of England, WAVE Refrigeration and Working Families.

The unsung professional heroes of the pandemic Charlie Higgins, Tina Chander (both Wright Hassall) and Matthew Hammersley (C&W Chamber)

A leading Midlands law firm led a toast to the unsung professional heroes of the pandemic, celebrating the work of HR departments across the region.

Leamington-based Wright Hassall hosted more than thirty-five workforce professionals at its recent HR Leaders Networking and Afternoon Tea event, with plenty of cuppas, cakes and tips of the employment trade shared amongst peers.

The two-hour event was held as a way to highlight the work of HR departments

across Warwickshire and the West Midlands during and after the pandemic, as well as resolve any burning employment law questions.

Guests were given the chance to talk to Wright Hassall’s employment law team and meet other HR professionals in a relaxed and informal setting at the law firm’s Leamington offices at Tachbrook Park.

Tina Chander, Head of Employment Law at Wright Hassall, said: “This event was an excellent way to celebrate the incredible work that the region’s HR teams have done since the start of the pandemic.

“It allowed peers to reflect on some of the biggest issues they have faced and talk shop about the latest challenges in the HR profession, with the added bonus of free treats and refreshments for all.

“HR departments have worked continuously throughout the pandemic to support us as we adapted to new ways of working and kept businesses going during a prolonged period of uncertainty.

“There were naturally a host of employee issues in response to the pandemic, and these people were tasked with coping with and resolving all of these, which no one could have foreseen before the first national lockdown.

“I’d like to thank all who attended for the fantastic work they have done over the last 18 months.”

For more information about Wright Hassall’s work in Employment Law and HR visit wrighthassall.co.uk/expertise/ employment-law-and-hr

Two Neil’s Collaboration Two local businessmen have been collaborating over recent months as they seek to highlight some of the hidden gems of Coventry and Warwickshire.

The businessmen, who coincidentally are both called Neil, met at a recent business networking event.

Neil Porter, a local photographer from “Capture Life” was proudly displaying his t-shirt which had a photo of Chesterton Windmill from South Warwickshire at the event. Neil Young, a local independent Financial Adviser at “Plan with Neil”, was unaware of the windmill’s existence and thought it would be ideal for his “Hidden Gems” series on his YouTube Channel, Elephant & Bear.

Neil Young said, “Coventry and Warwickshire, has so many hidden gems that I want to find them and highlight them to viewers through my YouTube channel and podcast, when I spotted the Windmill, I knew it would make great content for it”.

“I asked Neil to help me with the video as his photos of the Windmill are so fantastic”.

Neil Porter was delighted to support so they met up to record a video at the site in October. Neil Porter said “Chesterton Windmill is a real highlight of Warwickshire; it is such as tranquil place. It is a joy to visit it at any point of the year”.

The windmill is located south of Leamington on the aptly named “Windmill Hill Lane”. It is available to visit at any time, and twice a year the windmill building is open for the public to see inside.

Since recording the video, Neil Porter has also appeared on Neil Young’s Elephant and Bear Podcast, which is launching in the coming months. This podcast has guests on from across the area such as Aaron Ashmore from Etch & Pin and Steve Tyrell who hosts popular YouTube channel “Narrowboat Precious Jet”.

The podcast and YouTube channel are all focused on Coventry and Warwickshire.

Neil Young set it up for two reasons, one is to promote his new financial planning business, Plan with Neil and the second is because Neil is passionate about showing off all the things the area has to offer.

Neil Young said “I have lived in Coventry, practically all my life and I’m proud to be a local business. When I was thinking about ways to promote my business, I wanted to do things a bit different. So, I decided that promoting the local area, with small adverts about my financial advice business could work”.

Neil Porter’s photography has also been used by Plan with Neil client reports.

Neil Porter told the Chamber “This type of collaboration is exactly the type of thing I was looking for when I started networking.

For my photography, I work with individuals and companies, taking photos of people, their homes for sale as well as iconic locations across Coventry”.

You can find out more about Neil Porter’s photography at www.CaptureLife.uk.

Neil Young’s Financial advice firm can be found at www.planwithneil.com. The YouTube channel and podcast can be found by searching for “Elephant & Bear”.

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

President & People

Glide Group appoints Bruce Girdlestone as Sales Director for Higher Education Sector Glide Group, a market leader in ultra-fast broadband connectivity and deploying fibre infrastructure today announces the appointment of Bruce Girdlestone as the organisation’s Sales Director for Higher Education.

Bruce Girdlestone joins Glide having previously worked in the fixed and wireless telecommunications industry leading sales, business development and product teams.

With over 25 years of experience in telecommunications, Girdlestone has spent the past 2 years setting

up a new sales team at Wireless Infrastructure Group to deliver mobile connectivity to commercial, hospitality and residential sectors.

Prior to that, he ran a number of sales teams at Virgin Media Business.

This announcement marks the continued strengthening of Glide's senior management team. Earlier this year, Glide also added three other members to its leadership team, Chief Financial Officer, Chris Bates, Chief Technology Officer, Sean Lowry, and Chief Operating Officer, Phil Duggan. These announcements were soon followed by Glide Group’s acquisition of fibre network builder, Concept Solutions People (CSP).

Now, continuing the organisation’s 2021 momentum, Girdlestone will be responsible for leading the Student sector sales team focussing on PBSA and Higher Education requirements for student accommodation. He will be ensuring that student communities and providers benefit from the market leading connectivity and managed service solutions Glide offers.

“Glide is the leader in a growing market serving customers with high expectations. It's great to be part of such an exciting market that requires the smart and innovative solutions Glide can provide. What we do has a real positive impact on student communities.” said Girdlestone. “Glide has many strengths and great people with

a can-do attitude. This places us strongly to scale our business as demand for fibre based connectivity, internet access, and smart technologies continues to grow.

I look forward to the challenge of being the best in class provider.”

Tim Pilcher, CEO of Glide Group, said: “We are delighted to have Bruce join the Glide team during this great period of growth. With an extensive background in the telecommunications Industry, Bruce will add extraordinary knowledge and expertise. His appointment is a significant next step forwards for Glide in being the best in class provider - it’s great to have him on board and we’re excited to see what the future holds.”

Midlands accountants help local businesses claim almost £14m in furlough pay A leading Midlands accountancy firm has helped businesses claim a staggering £13.6 million in furlough payments since April 2020.

Prime Accountants Group, which has offices in Solihull, Birmingham, and Coventry, helped local employers with more than 2,600 claims which substantially helped keep their businesses afloat during a period of acute uncertainty.

At the height of the pandemic, the UK government announced a series of wide-ranging measures to assist businesses and employees through the COVID-19 crisis, including the

coronavirus job retention scheme, otherwise known as the furlough scheme.

Many businesses in the region signed up to the scheme and most required assistance with submitting claims, particularly at the beginning.

Kerrie Given, senior payroll manager at Prime Accountants Group, said a lot of research went into understanding the process so the business would be in the best position to submit claims on behalf of its clients as quickly and efficiently as possible.

She said: “The scheme was introduced at a time when there was a lot of change and uncertainty going on around us.

“The country was effectively shut down and we wanted to assist our clientele as much as possible to make sure they didn’t have to close down their business permanently.

“When we were approached with a request to help with furlough, our entire team went above and beyond to provide the client with as much advice and information as possible to make the submission of a claim easier.

“I am happy to report that we made a total of 2,666 claims resulting in £13,599,999 being claimed from the government to help several businesses in the Midlands survive.”

Prime director, Jamie Skelding, who oversees Prime’s payroll department added: “We are so

incredibly proud of our team who really pushed themselves at a particularly difficult time to make sure our clients were well looked after.

“There were several occasions where we answered calls and helped clients out very early in the morning or late at night to make sure they met the right procedures in the right time frames.

“It is this commitment to client success that helps us stand out in the crowd and we are humbled to have been able to provide the right help to deserving businesses in the region.”

For more information about Prime Accountants Group visit www.primeaccountants.co.uk

Midlands’s accountancy firm completes exciting business merger A firm of chartered accountants based in Warwickshire has merged with a national awardwinning Midlands firm.

Bishop Simmons, a longstanding practice based in the north of Warwickshire, has come together with Armstrongs Chartered Accountants and will now be known as Armstrongs Bishop Simmons.

Jim Simmons and Jane Biggs have run Bishop Simmons together since 2005 and have recently made the decision to join forces with a larger firm.

Paul Farmer, Director at Armstrongs Bishop Simmons commented “As a firm, we have been looking to grow our North Warwickshire presence for some time. So, when the opportunity arose for Armstrongs to merge with Bishop Simmons, we knew

this would be the ideal route for expanding our Nuneaton practice.

“We are excited about the merger and look forward to working with the existing Bishop Simmons team and their clients from our offices on Bond Street, Nuneaton.”

Jim Simmons, who is remaining with the firm as a consultant said “Armstrongs is highly regarded across the Coventry & Warwickshire area and shares similar values to Bishop Simmons, so it was a natural fit for both companies.”

Armstrongs Bishop Simmons Director Jane Biggs said ‘I am looking forward to the future and being part of a bigger practice.

Our clients will still receive the same high level of service as before and will now have access to specialist services such as

wealth planning, cloud accounting, corporate finance and inheritance tax planning.

With Armstrongs and Bishop Simmons coming together in Nuneaton, there is an enhanced offering of accountancy and tax services to individuals and businesses across North Warwickshire, with Armstrongs Bishop Simmons becoming the largest independent firm of accountants based in the town.

Armstrongs was a finalist in the Professional Services Firm of the Year category at the recent Coventry Live Business awards 2021 and was a finalist at the last British Accountancy Awards in the Independent Firm of the Year

category. The firm has offices in Nuneaton, Coventry & Hinckley Armstrongs Bishop Simmons provide a wide range of services including accounting, tax, bookkeeping, payroll, corporate finance, wealth planning, audit and assurance, business support and business development.

For more information on Armstrongs Bishop Simmons please visit www.armstrongs-bishopsimmons.co.uk

Apex Connected opens Midlands office with the appointment of Richard Lamb as Sales Director Apex Connected Ltd (Apex) is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Lamb as Sales Director. Located in the vibrant and creative offices of Mill Street, Leamington Spa, Richard will develop the company’s sales strategy and support the sales team as the company gears for growth.

Richard will help schools, charities, and businesses in the Midlands to save money and refine their business processes by providing cost effective photocopying, managed print, document, and production print solutions.

Richard commented: “I am delighted to be joining Apex Connected having worked with directors Chris Hutchings and Mike Catterall previously, as well as Apex’s recent accreditation as a Konica Minolta Elite partner it seemed like an opportunity not to be missed.

In my role as Sales Director, I intend to use the knowledge I have gained over the last 12 years in the various sectors of the industry. From solidifying Apex’s already outstanding reputation within Education to using my understanding of the Commercial Print sector to bring Apex’s excellent service levels to clients in that area.

Apex’s core principles, Simple, Ethical and Transparent stuck a cord with me.

It’s those principles myself and my team will be working to when we partner with businesses to provide their managed print service”.

Chris Hutchings, Apex’s Managing Director added: “We are delighted to announce that Richard has joined our management team as Sales Director.

Having worked with Richard for over 6 years previously, I have seen at first hand, Richard’s business professionalism and excellence in delivering valuable sales propositions and strategic sales partnerships”.

For more information about Apex Connected visit www.apexconnected.com

Red Marlin puts the pedal to the metal with new recruits

Warwickshire-based automotive communications specialist, Red Marlin, has added three new members to its growing team in support of a number of new client wins.

Red Marlin’s grid row of new clients includes a vehicle manufacturer, an original equipment manufacturer and an international motorsport

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

team. To support activity on the expanding account roster, Joe Slinn and Holly Sennett have been appointed as public relations and social media account executives, respectively.

While studying Business MSc at Aston University, Joe interned at an awardwinning Hong Kong-based communications specialist, where he worked on accounts in the engineering, renewable energy, and lifestyle sectors. After graduating, Joe furthered his experience in PR with a specialist SEO agency.

Holly joins the team following a successful period as a freelance social media manager, specialising in the motorsport and automotive

industries. Holly has worked with a variety of national and international clients to increase brand awareness and develop social strategies, including working as part of the Goodwood Festival of Speed social media team in 2021.

Meanwhile, new office manager, Debbie Onions has swapped a career working with blue-chip companies for a new chapter with Red Marlin. With 40 years’ experience working for a variety of high-profile companies in London and the Midlands, including as PA to the Duke of Westminster, Debbie’s new role will be to oversee the day-to-day smooth running of the office.

Danny Rughoobeer, managing director and founder of Red Marlin, commented: “Despite the economic and practical challenges the industry has faced throughout the pandemic, we are delighted to have come out the other side of the tunnel in such a strong position.

“We are excited to welcome a great group of talented people to join our team at such an important time for the company.”

Red Marlin, founded in 2009, is an independent PR and digital marketing agency specialising in the automotive sector based at the heart of the UK’s car industry inLeamington Spa, Warwickshire.

To find out more visit www.redmarlin.co.uk

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New Members Business Influence Members WorldFirst

Foreign Exchange 02038 691093 Simon.Smallwood@worldfirst.com http://worldfirst.com

Business Engage Members Coventry Building Society Arena Event Management 02476 933444 heather.morgan@cbsarena.co.uk www.cbsarena.co.uk

Wasps Rugby Coventry Building Society Arena Tourism & Leisure Activities 02476 933444 info@wasps.co.uk www.wasps.co.uk

Whittaker Associates (Worcestershire) Ltd

Health & Safety Consultants 01926 883600 info@wamanagement.co.uk www.wamanagement.co.uk

Business Global Members Alvis Robotics Ltd

Manufacturing 02476 638100 nasser@alvisrobotics.com

Bladon Jets (UK) Limited

Manufacturing 02476 511268 nicole.abbey@bladonjets.com www.bladonmt.com

Retail Transport Services Limited International Freight Forwarders 02476 234566 info@retailtransport.com https://retailtransport.com

Wetlab Ltd

Medical Goods & Services 01926 850289 kevin@wetlab.co.uk www.wetlab.co.uk

Business Connect Members Access Panel Shop Limited Construction & Development 02476 326625 lc@accesspanel.shop www.accesspanel.shop

Capture Life UK Photographers 07539 964808 neil@capturelife.uk www.capturelife.uk

PatrolGuard Ltd Security Services 01926 760000 gareth@patrolguard.co.uk www.patrolguard.co.uk

Alderman Stone Chartered Surveyors Property Agents, Commercial & Industrial 02476 741174 enquiries@aldermanstone.co.uk www.aldermanstone.co.uk

Gamewagon Limited Gaming Events/Parties 08000 886510 niki.rice@gamewagon.co.uk www.gamewagon.co.uk

Plan with Neil Independent Financial Advisers 02475 264392 neil@planwithneil.com https://planwithneil.com

Anchoram Ltd Electrical & Electronic Engineering 02476 405449 contact@anchoram.tech www.anchoram.tech Andy Christie - Digital Design Digital Marketing 07989 696477 andydigital1972@hotmail.com www.andychristie.co.uk Apex Connected Ltd Office Supplies 01925 202315 richard.lamb@apexconnected.com http://apexconnected.com/ Ballicom Ltd Technical Information Services 07572 405618 paul.mccormick@ballicom.co.uk www.ballicom.co.uk

Hartley Events Business Consultants 07736 107770 chris@hartley.events

Printrite Ltd Printing Services 02476 448913 harun@printrite.co.uk https://printrite.co.uk/

Hodgetts Estates Construction & Development 01827 892297 info@hodgettsestates.co.uk www.hodgettsestates.co.uk

Productive Innovations Limited Engineering Supplies & Services 01608 637220 Hello@ProductiveInnovations.co.uk https://ProductiveInnovations.co.uk

I4Excellence Ltd Business Consultants 02476 696103 steve.fannon@i4excellence.co.uk www.i4excellence.co.uk

Resume Foundation Charities & Benevolent Organisations 02030 269380 info@resumefoundation.org.uk https://resumefoundation.org.uk/

Ignite Coaching & Consulting Ltd Business Consultants 07718 664222 nicola@ignite-coaching.org https://ignite-coaching.org

Sable Forex Foreign Exchange 01213 680036 c.goate@sableinternational.com www.sableinternational.com

Breaking the Silence Charities & Benevolent Organisations 07535 568424 Breakingthesilence.today@outlook.com

Konnect Linguistics Ltd Translators & Interpreters 08000 025657 info@konnectlinguistics.co.uk www.konnectlinguistics.co.uk

Butterfly Tapping Ltd Mental Health Training 07967 162183 hello@butterflytapping.co.uk www.butterflytapping.co.uk

NUHA Retail Traders 01789 290089 nuhashoeshop@yahoo.co.uk www.nuhashoes.co.uk

Sip ‘n’ Swig Mobile Catering Services 07872 921415 cheers@sipnswig.co.uk https://sipnswig.co.uk/ SLM Personal Performance and Business Coach Business Consultants 07828 614965 sachamathers@icloud.com https://sachamathers.co.uk/

Southam Automations Ltd Engineering, Design & Manufacture brett@meadowcare.biz StaffZilla Ltd Recruitment Advisers 01788 438080 danny@staffzilla.co.uk The Business Cube Business Support 07702 358066 joan@thebusinesscube.co.uk https://thebusinesscube.co.uk/ The Exam House Educational Services 02071 128105 Exams@theexamhouse.co.uk https://theexamhouse.co.uk/ The Pack Smart Group Handling & Fulfilment 01926 853190 seanna.holland@thepacksmartgroup.com https://thepacksmartgroup.com/ TimeSquared Ltd Tourism & Leisure Activities 02477 921931 subscriptions@timesquaredltd.com http://www.timesquaredltd.com Tree-V Carbon Offsetting 07748 135401 amanda@tree-v.com https://tree-v.com/ Ventures with Verity Tourism & Leisure Activities 07425 179053 Tours@ventureswithverity.co.uk www.ventureswithverity.co.uk Voolu Ltd Property 07535 707769 hello@Voolu.co.uk

Business Builder Members Kangen Centre Leamington Spa Ltd Environmental Consultants 07514 807738 office@lifeinaglass.co.uk www.waterstories.co.uk

46

www.cw-chamber.co.uk

Featured Offers from our Chamber Members:

Coventry & Warwickshire in business

Business Engage Member

Business Influence Member

The Billesley Manor Hotel

IXL Events Centre

1 in 12 goes free on all Christmas parties at Billesley Manor!

Expiry Date: 24/12/2021

Experience the magic of Rio Carnival this Christmas with a free drinks package worth £100 when booking a table.

Expiry Date: 11/12/2021

Business Connect Members

The Business Partnership Free no obligation company valuations are offered Expiry Date: 31/12/2021

Best Western Plus Windmill Village Hotel Golf Club & Spa Free glass of prosecco per person for Christmas party nights Expiry Date: 17/12/2021

DELTA By Marriott Warwick

Festive Afternoon Tea – 1 in 10 go free Expiry Date: 20/12/2021

10% off 3-course Christmas Fayre Menu at the Hatton Arms Expiry Date: 23/12/2021

15% off Christmas party bookings for Chamber Members Expiry Date: 24/12/2021

Metropolis

British Regional Hampers

PC Renewed Ltd

Chase Meadow Opticians

Apex Connected Ltd

Hatton Country World

Discount for Chamber Members on Laptops and Desktop PC’s Expiry Date: 31/12/2021

The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel

20% match contribution towards your new spectacles Expiry Date: 31/12/2021

£300 gift card when ordering any A3 colour photocopier Expiry Date: 21/12/2021

Alpha Administration

SawiTECH IT Recycling & Data Disposal Solutions Ltd

Winter Mini-Break Offer for Chamber Members at The Charlecote Pheasant Hotel Expiry Date: 25/02/2022

Discounted payroll processing Expiry Date: 31/12/2021

Tec Transnational Ltd

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15% discount to Chamber members on all training courses Expiry Date: 01/01/2022

Want to share your Member Offer?

Email the details and your logo to info@cw-chamber.co.uk

10% discount on hampers for Chamber Members Expiry Date: 25/12/2021

Free: SEO Audit, Competitor review, report & Zoom Expiry Date: 01/12/2021

Free Computer, Mobile and IT Recycling & Data Destruction Service Expiry Date: 31/03/2022

J E Monk Ltd

Employment matters workshop – two managers can attend for the price of one Expiry Date: 31/12/2021

Member Offers are included in our Online Marketplace and shared to over 18,000 followers across social media.

To view these and all of our Member Offers, head to cw-chamber.co.uk/marketplace www.cw-chamber.co.uk www.cw-chamber.co.uk

47

MOTIVATE, INSPIRE, RETAIN

GROW YOUR OWN WORKFORCE As 2021 draws to a close, give your business a final boost by offering apprenticeships with WCG. Apprenticeships offer businesses a cost-effective route to harness fresh new talent. Apprentices can help your organisation to increase productivity, improve competitiveness and ensure you have a committed and competent workforce to meet future challenges.

At WCG Apprenticeships, we offer the widest range of apprenticeship standards in the region, allowing us to meet the needs of almost all businesses. We are able to offer apprenticeships within the following sectors: •

Agriculture

•

Health & Care

•

Animal Care

•

•

Business & Professional

Horticulture Inc. Golf Greenkeeping & Sports Turf

•

Construction

•

Hospitality

•

Engineering

•

IT

•

Equine & Farriery

•

Motor Vehicle

•

Hairdressing

•

Veterinary Nursing

Contact our Business Development team to find out more on how apprenticeships can benefit your business:

0330 135 6940 | employerenquiries@wcg.ac.uk Visit wcg.ac.uk/apprenticeships for more information. info@wcg.ac.uk

wcg.ac.uk/warkscovapprenticeships

CENTRE FOR DIGITAL & CYBER TECHNOLOGY