Business Voice Q3 2026

THE MAGAZINE OF HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE TECHNOLOGY TRIANGLE - UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

AN INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM

The people, businesses and ideas shaping the future

CHAMBER NEWS

Emerging tech and innovation on full display at FutureScapes 2026

GREEN BUSINESS

Floating wetlands projects targets loss of important ecosystems

TRAINING

Voice

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HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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BY ROSS MCNALLY HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Our Super Cluster is powering up Hampshire

Welcome to this special technology edition of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce Business Voice magazine – a celebration of the extraordinary innovation ecosystem that defines our region.

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ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE

Business Voice is a quarterly magazine distributed to around 5,000 members, affiliates and key businesses in the Hampshire region.

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

TECHNOLOGY TRIANGLE - UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

Few places in the UK can match the depth and diversity of Hampshire and the Solent’s sector strengths. From Maritime and Marine to Defence, Aerospace, Life Sciences, Gaming, Digital and Advanced Engineering, our region is home to a remarkable concentration of world-class capability.

These interconnected strengths form what we proudly call our Super Cluster –a powerful fusion of transferable technologies, shared skills and collaborative

ambition. Geographically, it spans our Technology Triangle, stretching across the Solent cities of Portsmouth and Southampton and rising through Basingstoke to Farnborough. This triangle is more than a map; it is a dynamic engine of talent, research, and commercial opportunity.

As the Chamber, responsible for delivering the Local Skills Improvement Plan, we are committed to ensuring that skills development keeps pace with industry need, enabling this Super Cluster to attract investment, accelerate innovation and drive sustainable growth. This edition showcases some of the people, businesses and ideas shaping that future. I hope it inspires you to connect, collaborate and seize the opportunities ahead.

MODERN PARTNERSHIPS, 175 YEARS IN THE MAKING

A Chamber of Commerce Alliance Membership reflects your place as a leading member in our Chamber. The impact of your work, support or connections enables us to realise our strategic goals and add value for our network.

This recognition is an evolved form of what was once called patronages. Businesses and business leaders with an Alliance Membership will be invited to speak and present at certain events throughout the year and will be among the first to know about our signature events. On top of this, there will be invitations to work with the Chamber on engagement activity and our work shaping policy within the area.

The Chamber of Commerce Alliance Membership is an approach to partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and a call to help shape the business landscapes around you. Building on the pragmatic, creative and ambitious enterprise history of which you are soon to be a proud part of.

Interested in discussing a partnership like this? Contact the membership team on: membership@hampshirechamber.co.uk

MEMBER NEWS

THE LATEST NEWS AND SUCCESS STORIES FROM CHAMBER MEMBERS

Cyber resilience in the age of AI

By Gemma Stevens, Harwood Brittain Technology

As AI reshapes the way organisations work, it is also reshaping cyber threats. Cyber criminals are using AI to automate attacks, improve social engineering and create increasingly believable phishing emails, fake messages and impersonation attempts.

The growing use of AI is making cyber security more important than ever; it is a core business priority with direct impact on operations, reputation, compliance and commercial confidence.

Organisations that take a proactive approach to cyber resilience are better placed to protect their data, support their teams and respond quickly when issues arise. That means ensuring cyber security is actively maintained, with the right combination of technology, processes and people in place.

Saints sign Solent Uni’s Civic Charter

Southampton Football Club and its charity arm, Saints Foundation, have become the latest organisations to sign up to Southampton Solent University’s Civic Charter, strengthening ties between the city’s education, sporting and community sectors.

The club’s Chief Executive Officer, Phil Parsons, and the Foundation’s Managing Director, Sam Fulling, signed the charter recently alongside Solent Vice-Chancellor Professor James Knowles.

‘Together, we can help people of all ages and backgrounds realise their potential’

They join a growing list of leading institutions from across the city and surrounding area, including Southampton City Council, in backing Solent’s vision to support local people in achieving their potential.

The Civic Charter commits Solent and its partners to developing new partnerships that broaden the university’s course portfolio, creating skills development opportunities beyond the traditional undergraduate market. It also pledges to ensure provision is practice-

led, with industry voices embedded within Impact Boards spanning maritime, business and law, STEM, the creative industries, and health care and wellbeing.

Professor James Knowles, Vice-Chancellor of Southampton Solent University, said: “At Solent, we are proud to be practice-led and connected to industry and community partners. By working closely with Saints and the foundation, we can continue to broaden access to education and skills, open up our facilities to more people, and ensure our provision reflects the real needs of employers and communities.

“Together, we can help people of all ages and backgrounds realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to the future of Southampton and beyond.”

Phil Parsons, Chief Executive Officer of Southampton Football Club said: “Southampton Football Club is delighted to sign Southampton Solent University’s Civic Charter. As a club deeply rooted in the city, we recognise the important role we play in supporting our community.

“Partnerships between sport, education and civic institutions are vital in creating opportunities, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship with Southampton Solent University through this initiative.” TECHNOLOGY TRIANGLE - UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

The key importance of cyber security lies in prevention, detection and response. Regular reviews, staff awareness training, secure backups, expert oversight and incident response planning all play an important role in reducing exposure and strengthening readiness.

Whether this comes from an internal team or a trusted external IT partner like HBTech, the priority should be the same: making sure cyber risk is understood, managed and continuously improved.

For business leaders, the challenge is no longer deciding whether cyber security matters but making sure it will be strong enough to support their future business resilience in an AI-led world.

Professor James Knowles signing the Civic Charter alongside Saints representatives

Infinity Labs tops out at Science Park

Tax firm expands across the south with new merger

Moore Kingston Smith, a leading multidisciplinary advisory, tax and audit firm, has merged with Moore South. The deal unites two long established practices within the Moore UK network and combines the strengths of both firms while ensuring complete continuity for clients.

Guests gathered at The University of Southampton Science Park on Tuesday 14 April to mark a significant milestone in the build of Infinity Labs, an iconic commercial development which promises to set a new standard for innovation space in the Central South economy.

The traditional topping out ceremony celebrated the successful completion of its structural frame.

The event brought together over 50 key stakeholders from across the region including representatives from local council, businesses, academia, project team and supply chain partners. A keynote speech was delivered by Cllr Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council.

Infinity Labs boosts our offering further by providing the vital laboratory space needed to equip the South Central economy for growth and enterprise through scientific discovery.

TECHNOLOGY TRIANGLE - UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S

SKILLS POTENTIAL

“This building design is ingenious, offering technically optimised space for a healthy, productive and sustainably focused working environment, strategically located in an entrepreneurial setting geared up for breakthrough performance. We cannot wait to welcome our first residents to Infinity Labs!”

Cllr Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, was keynote speaker at the event. He said: “This is a major milestone in the development of the Infinity Labs at Southampton Science Park.

‘We cannot wait to welcome our first residents to Infinity Labs’

A highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic tightening of a bolt on the roof of the building with a golden spanner undertaken by Cllr Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council.

The moment represented the completion of the building’s highest structural point and served as a powerful acknowledgement of the collaboration and dedication demonstrated by all involved. Guests were also invited to sign the structure’s uppermost steel beam.

CEO of Southampton Science Park, Dr Robin Chave, said: “Southampton Science Park is the only commercial space in the Central South region that is dedicated to the needs of science and technology businesses. Our multi-million pound investment in

“Once finished, they will enhance the Science Park’s already significant innovation offer by providing purpose-built places designed to support the complex, evolving needs of science, technology and research and design organisations. This is a brilliant addition to the local economic eco-system, helping to retain Hampshire and the Solent’s place as a leading player in the country’s economy.”

Moore South, a 13-partner firm of accountants and business advisers, with five offices across the South of England, shares

Moore Kingston Smith’s longstanding commitment to helping clients realise their ambitions.

Moore South boasts a team of 92 people across offices in Chichester, Guildford, the Isle of Wight, Salisbury and Southampton. The firm has a longestablished reputation for supporting owner-managed businesses (OMBs), acting as a trusted adviser to individuals and entrepreneurs throughout each stage of their business lifecycle.

‘By merging, we can further support our clients in achieving their goals’

Following the merger, the Moore South team will join Moore Kingston Smith’s group of over 120 partners and 1,600 people across the UK and Ireland. The move further enhances the support available to clients, broadening their access to a wide range of additional advisory services, while ensuring continuity of the trusted relationships they rely on.

Matt Meadows, Managing Partner of Moore Kingston Smith, said: “Moore South’s long-standing relationships with start-ups, family-run firms and regional OMBs represent a strong strategic fit with our approach. Together, we can double down on our collaboration, and the international strength of the Moore Global network, in a more formal and joined-up way.”

Danielle Griffin (pictured), Managing Partner of Moore South, added: “We’ve been collaborative partners with Moore Kingston Smith for many years, which speaks to our shared priority of understanding our clients’ needs. By merging, we can further support our clients in achieving their goals, providing them with streamlined and integrated access to Moore Kingston Smith’s range of specialist services, while maintaining the close, longstanding relationships we have with local businesses.”

Infinity Labs will set a new standard for regional innovation

CEO of Southampton Science Park, Dr Robin Chave

Prestigious accolade for eco-friendly cleaning firm

Lbeen officially named Best Eco Friendly Cleaning Contractor in Hampshire, a prestigious recognition that celebrates more than two decades of innovation, environmental responsibility, and unwavering commitment to greener cleaning practices across the region.

The award, announced as part of the Facilities Management honours, recognises organisations that demonstrate exceptional leadership in sustainable cleaning. For Lion, the accolade represents the culmination of a mission that began over 20 years ago – long before eco friendly cleaning became an industry expectation.

‘When I started Lion, my aim was simple – I wanted to provide Hampshire businesses with a green, eco friendly option’

Founded in the early 2000s by Managing Director Nik Shore, Lion entered the market with a clear purpose: to offer Hampshire businesses a genuinely green alternative to the harsh, chemical heavy cleaning methods that were once considered standard.

“When I started Lion, my aim was simple – I wanted to provide Hampshire businesses with a green, eco friendly option – something safer, smarter, and more effective than the traditional chemicals that were not only harmful to the environment but often less efficient than the new products we now see as standard.”

Nik, a Hampshire Chamber of Commerce member for many years, has long championed the shift toward sustainable cleaning. At a

time when “eco friendly” was still a niche concept, Lion invested early in plant based products, microfibre systems, and low impact technologies that are now widely recognised as best practice.

A vision that became a standard Lion’s approach has always been rooted in practicality and measurable results. Rather than relying on greenwashing or marketing buzzwords, the company built its reputation on improved indoor air quality, reduced chemical exposure, and cleaning outcomes that consistently matched – and often exceeded – traditional methods.

Judges praised Lion’s long term commitment to environmental responsibility, its investment in staff training, and its

transparent communication with clients about the science behind eco cleaning.

A family business with a modern identity

Today, Lion is co led by Operations Director Max Shore, who has helped shape the company’s modern voice.

In a recent post celebrating the award, Max described the achievement as “a moment of immense PRIDE for our whole team,” emphasising that the recognition reflects not only the company’s environmental values but also the dedication of the staff who deliver those standards every day.

“Our team is the heartbeat of Lion. This award belongs to them as much as it does to the company.”

Taking pride in being green: Lion Commercial Cleaning Managing Director Nik Shore

Barnbrook Systems is flying high ahead of airshow

Global solutions provider

Barnbrook Systems is stepping up its support for the defence sector as it prepares for the Farnborough International Airshow.

The Hampshire-based engineering business will showcase new and upgraded technology and services when it attends the world leading event for the aviation and aerospace industry for the 15th consecutive time in July.

Barnbrook pioneers gamechanging Intelligent Internet of Things (IIOT) technology but also specialises in Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) to breathe new life into older defence assets such as fighter aircraft and warships.

Managing Director Andrew Barnett said: “The world is changing before our eyes and it is uncertain how events will unfold by the time Farnborough International Airshow opens. However, the direction of travel has been abundantly clear for some time with the Iran War just the latest example of geopolitical conflicts recalibrating the global order, disrupting supply chains and driving defence spending.

TECHNOLOGY

TRIANGLE - UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

“Innovation in modern military technology and complex systems continues to accelerate yet there is also a pivot to more cost-effective warfare solutions, such as drones. We have also noticed a renewed surge in demand for our own Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) solutions to extend the operational life of older military assets to allow militaries to maintain operational capability until new platforms come into service.

“We are looking forward to speaking to primes, supply chain contractors, militaries

and ministries of defence at the airshow to demonstrate how our timeproven and certified expertise can help them combat obsolescence and ensure critical defence capabilities in an increasingly unstable world.”

Barnbrook provides supply solutions and MRO services for components including engine controls and flight actuators for such fighter aircraft as the Tornado, Jaguar, Hawk and Sea Harrier.

The firm, which holds both Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) accreditations, recently won a seven-figure contract over 10

‘We are looking forward to speaking to primes, supply chain contractors, militaries and ministries of defence’

years to supply and provide MRO for relays on Rolls-Royce marine engines on a friendly foreign navy’s entire fleet of destroyers.

Barnbrook’s airshow attendance this year comes after record event in 2024 when it relaunched and unveiled new products including an E:BAG created with fellow technology firm Flair for the safe containment and suppression of lithium-ion battery fires and its groundbreaking BlueDot remote sensing and tracking system for green hydrogen

Barnbrook’s solutions also include its BlueCube© enabled IIOT refuelling switches for Leonardo helicopters that have transformed the safety and efficiency of inflight refuelling.

Andrew, who is also chair of the South Central Regional Defence and Security Cluster (SCRDSC), said: “The government must commit the time, energy and funding to ensure our military is fit to meet the demands of modern warfare and I am sure that this will come into the conversation at the airshow this year.”

Barnbrook Systems managing director Andrew Barnett, left, met Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the 2024 Farnborough International Airshow

Venturefest South: Ten years of supporting innovation

Venturefest South marked the start of its 10th year of supporting regional innovation and business growth as partners and stakeholders gathered for the latest Southern Innovation Catalyst event at the University of Winchester on 17 March.

Hosted by Venturefest South partner, the University of Winchester, the event brought together leaders from business, education, investment and the wider innovation ecosystem, creating a vibrant space for collaboration and new connections. The strength and diversity of conversations reflected the programme’s continued role in connecting people, ideas and opportunities across the region.

‘We’re calling for more of the region’s major businesses and organisations to get involved and help us take the Programme to the next level’

The session focused on turning conversations into action, encouraging more organisations and individuals to engage with the Venturefest South programme and play an active role in shaping the region’s innovation future.

Speakers included Ed Gould, Chair of Venturefest South; Jo Stark from the University of Winchester; Naomi Smith from

South Hampshire College Group; Fred Bassett from the Southern Innovation Catalyst; and Teresa Hogsbjerg from Hampshire County Council, who highlighted the importance of partnership-led innovation in driving regional growth.

Teresa Hogsbjerg, Strategic Economy Lead (Economy & Skills) for Hampshire County Council, said: “Venturefest South plays a vital role in bringing partners together to turn ambition into action. As the region enters a new era of devolved economic opportunity, the new Combined Authority will need strong, credible partners who can mobilise businesses, innovators and investors quickly. Partnerships like Venturefest South already do this, helping to connect universities, business and investors.”

Naomi Smith, Director – Innovation, Projects & External Funding for South Hampshire College Group, said: “Over 3,000 of our students have had exposure to potential future pathways and inspiration over the years that we have been involved with Venturefest South. We believe that this is invaluable experience for them as we look to support the talent and ambition pipelines that will fuel the region’s growth in the future.”

Now entering its 10th year, Venturefest South has become one of the South’s leading partnership-led, not-for-profit innovation programmes, connecting businesses, universities, investors and public sector partners to accelerate productivity and inclusive prosperity. Over the past decade, the programme has engaged more than 50,000 innovators and businesses, facilitated hundreds of investor introductions and supported companies to scale through collaboration and access to opportunity.

Ed Gould, Chair of Venturefest South, said: “I am extremely proud of the impact that Venturefest South has delivered over the last nine years. As a not-for-profit programme, we couldn’t do what we do without the support of our partners and supporters, and I am grateful for all their input over the years.

“We’re excited to be entering our 10th year and as we do so, we’re calling for more of the region’s major businesses and organisations to get involved and help us take the programme to the next level.”

Partners and key stakeholders of Venturefest South at the annual Festival of Innovation

Ed Gould, Chair of Venturefest South

AI should not just be a bolt-on - it’s a strategic initiative

Adam Galfskiy (pictured), has spent much of his career at the junction of technology and business, but even by his standards, the current moment feels different and that’s down to artificial intelligence (AI). “We’re facing a fundamental revolution in how organisations operate,” he said. “AI isn’t just another tool or widget, it’s a complete shift in the way people work.”

As Head of AI at Aura Technology, Adam is helping to guide clients, and his own firm, through that shift. His promotion in November 2025 was both a natural progression after seven years with the company and a reflection of how central AI has become to Aura’s vision.

Aura was founded in Hampshire by four colleagues who believed IT support could be done better. Today, that founding ethos sees the more than 100-strong team operate as a strategic technology partner rather than a reactive service provider.

Aura combines day-to-day managed services with strategic advice and roadmap planning. Client sectors include professional services, charities, financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, the public sector and technology firms.

From their Hedge End headquarters, alongside an office in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, the team support organisations of all sizes. While a ‘typical Aura’ client might employ between 50 and 500 people, Adam is quick to point out that Aura’s AI proposition has no such boundaries.

“I’m speaking with companies of every size, from 10-employee businesses to organisations with 30,000 employees,” he explained. “AI is being democratised. There isn’t one right solution, and any business can adopt it in some form.”

about asking: what kind of business do you want to be tomorrow?”

For Aura, AI is now the broadest crosssector activity the firm undertakes. But Adam is clear that successful adoption requires more than enthusiasm. One of the most common pitfalls, he says, is treating AI as a bolt-on solution rather than a strategic initiative.

TECHNOLOGY

That breadth of opportunity excites Adam. Having previously worked at another managed service provider, he says Aura stands out because of its forward-looking mindset. With a background spanning IT management, telecoms and data analytics, he has long been immersed in technology, but senses AI is altogether more transformative.

“This is where the vision is,” he said. “It’s not just about implementing systems, it’s

“You need to think of it as change management,” he explained. “If you don’t bring people on the journey, if you don’t align it with your business goals, you won’t see the return on investment.”

That focus on ROI underpins Aura’s approach.

When helping a client with AI enablement, Adam often begins with a one-day workshop involving senior leadership teams, asking a deceptively simple question: What are you trying to change? From there, it becomes possible to define key performance indicators, assess current processes and measure the impact of AI over time.

“It’s about comparing the cost of how you operate now with how you could operate with AI,” Adam said. “And being honest, does this initiative actually deliver value?”

Equally important is recognising that every organisation is different. “Each business has its own characteristics,” he said. “The way AI adds value in a manufacturing company will be different from a healthcare provider or a charity.”

Looking ahead, Adam believes the current wave of large language models is only the beginning. Future developments in predictive modelling and AI could reshape everything from stock replenishment and logistics to risk analysis and public safety.

He points to health and safety as one example. “AI can analyse risk profiles and spot things a human might miss,” he said. “That has real implications for protecting people and improving standards.”

At the same time, he is keen to challenge one of the biggest misconceptions around AI, that it is primarily about replacing jobs.

“The aim isn’t ‘let’s replace people’, it’s about empowering them,” he said. “It’s about eliminating repetitive, boring tasks and freeing people up to do more meaningful work.”

For organisations considering their first steps, his advice is straightforward: start early, but start thoughtfully.

“Create a buzz but keep leadership and strategy at the heart of it,” he said. “Look at where the gaps are in your current processes, and don’t lose sight of compliance. The good news is that compliance isn’t a blocker, there are now tools that make it entirely achievable.”

Adam added with a smile: “I’m excited by what the future holds.”

ADAM’S ADVICE: HOW TO SET UP YOUR AI FOR SUCCESS

• Treat AI as a strategic initiative, not a bolt-on

• Bring your people with you by focusing on adoption

• Back every AI use case with clear, measurable outcomes

A local tech firm with an impressive global reach

When Simon Hill talks about technology, he talks less about software and more about people.

The Winchester-based CEO of Xperate believes the future of business technology lies in giving organisations the confidence to innovate.

Founded in September 2021 by Simon and COO Mark Garnish, Xperate has quickly become one of Hampshire’s fastest-growing

tech businesses. The company delivers consultancy, software development and implementation services for law firms, legal technology providers, SMEs and corporates, helping organisations modernise systems, automate workflows and embrace AI-driven efficiencies.

From its city centre offices in Winchester, Xperate employs around 150 experts across the UK, India, Canada, Australia and Europe, achieving 50% year-on-year revenue growth.

“We started in legal technology together 35 years ago,” said Simon. “We saw our initial PE-backed business grow rapidly through acquisitions and rapid organic growth and then our next, Tikit plc, was acquired by BT Group. We’ve experienced the whole cycle of building, scaling and integrating technology businesses.”

After BT sold Tikit to one of the UK’s leading software groups, OneAdvanced, Simon and Mark spent time evaluating what businesses truly needed.

“We knew from experience how difficult it was to find high quality development resources at a reasonable cost,” Simon explained. “There’s a shortage of developers in the UK, but there is incredible talent in India. The challenge is how to access it safely and effectively.”

TECHNOLOGY

TRIANGLE

- UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

To address that, Xperate recruited senior leadership from Infosys who they’d worked with while at BT and built what Simon describes as a ‘more transparent’ offshore model. Bharat Gidde was a rising star with Infosys and had worked with Simon and Mark at a high-profile business unit within BT. Bharat quickly became the third board member at Xperate as CTO based in Pune. “Depending on their client, large outsourcing companies often operate with a hierarchy of A, B, C and D teams which you’re migrated through over a few years,” said Simon. “Instead, what we offer is a hybrid solution. That means local but global services, face-to-face relationships and trusted expertise.”

Having lived in Winchester for nearly three decades, Simon says Hampshire has always been central to his business ambitions.

“There’s a strong Hampshire connection to everything we do,” he explained. “We’re local, accessible and consultative, but we also offer global capability. That combination is quite rare.”

Before entering the technology world, Simon was an officer in the Army. The experience of a number of operational tours taught him teamwork, service and resilience and, he says, shaped his leadership style. “I’ve always had an entrepreneurial instinct, but I also like seeing things through properly. Building businesses is about people trusting you.”

That trust is increasingly important in a business landscape being transformed by AI, automation and rising operational pressures. Xperate specialises in helping firms unify fragmented systems, modernise outdated platforms and create bespoke applications tailored to specific business requirements. Much of its work remains focused on the legal

Simon Hill with an LDC One to Watch award reflecting his place among the top 50 most ambitious business leaders in 2025

profession, where complexity around compliance, accounting, case management and regulatory processes creates significant operational challenges.

“The legal profession has huge complexity,” Simon said. “You’ve got PMS (practice management systems), CRM systems, document handling and time recording, and in some cases none of them talk to each other, along with very stringent regulatory requirements.”

He believes AI will become essential in solving these inefficiencies.

“Businesses are asking: how will AI help me? Our answer is that it needs to be customised to your business requirements and opportunities,” he said. “Generic AI is one thing, but legal or business-specific AI is where the real value sits.”

‘Businesses need to get on the front foot now because AI will influence every part of their work and infrastructure’

Importantly, Simon believes AI should ‘augment not replace’ employees.

“It’s not AI that will take jobs,” he said. “It’s people who know how to use AI effectively who will move ahead. Businesses need to get on the front foot now because AI will influence every part of their work and infrastructure.”

Xperate is now expanding further into SMEs and corporates beyond the legal sector, while continuing to recruit heavily in Hampshire. Simon said: “We believe we’re the largest tech company in Winchester and probably the highest-growth tech company in Hampshire. If you have a development problem, you can reach out to people who have built businesses themselves. We’re very consultative. Clients often start with a limited project and quickly realise we genuinely want to help.”

Ultimately, Simon’s message is that technology should remove fear rather than create it. “We help people realise their aspirations and dreams when perhaps they have uncertainty. That’s what innovation should do, unlock potential.”

New hire boosts Azets’ insolvency services

UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets has appointed a new insolvency practitioner on the South Coast as business demand grows. Nick Cusack has joined as a Director in Restructuring & Insolvency team at the Southampton office.

Previously based in Norfolk and across the southern region, he has worked in the profession for over 22 years been a licensed Insolvency Practitioner for over 10 of those.

He has gained a breadth of experience in all types of corporate rescues, but with a particular focus on construction, retail, IT and pharmaceutical industries.

Nick said: “I am looking forward to helping business owners and stakeholders across the south with any issues they might encounter.

“The team at Azets is highly skilled and approachable, and the firm-wide

collaborative approach means we are uniquely positioned in the area to offer bespoke solutions using our multi-discipline expertise.”

Chris Tate, Southampton-based Insolvency & Restructuring Partner, said: “We welcome Nick as a seasoned all-rounder whose sector specialisms dovetail perfectly with those of the team here.

“With businesses continuing to face challenging times this year due to rising costs, economic uncertainty, consumer cautiousness and other outside pressures, there will an increasing demand for insolvency advice and support and Nick’s experience will be invaluable.”

Outside of the office Nick is a keen golfer and non-league football fan and speaks fluent German from a period spent studying abroad.

LOCALiQ wins Standout SEO Agency of the Year at UK digital awards

LOCALiQ, which includes the Southern Daily Echo and Hampshire Chronicle news brands, has been named Standout SEO Agency of the Year at the 2026 UK Digital Excellence Awards, further cementing its reputation as one of the UK’s leading digital marketing agencies.

The award recognises LOCALiQ’s sustained agency-wide growth, exceptional client retention, and the measurable commercial impact delivered through its SEO strategies. In addition to this major win, LOCALiQ also took home Standout B2C Website of the Year for its work with client Prestige Granite, marking a double success

at one of the industry’s most respected award programmes.

Judges commented: “LOCALiQ demonstrates outstanding sustainable growth built on strong client performance and exceptional retention. The sophisticated use of tenure data to evidence compounding SEO value, combined with clear commercial alignment between CPD, pipeline and revenue, makes this a confident and compelling winning entry.”

This latest recognition builds on LOCALiQ’s long-standing reputation in search marketing, having also been named SEO Agency of the Year at the 2024 UK Agency Awards.

Nick Cusack has joined UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets as a Director in Restructuring & Insolvency team at the Southampton office

Xperate developers at work in the firm’s Pune, India, office

Talent on display at college Engineering Project Day

HSDC recently showcased the college’s fantastic engineering students during the annual Engineering Project Day. This event, held at South Downs Campus, brought together students, staff and industry professionals for a dynamic celebration of technical achievement and innovation.

The showcase was held in the college’s newly refurbished Engineering Department, made possible via a partnership with the South Coast Institute of Technology (IoT). Students on a range of engineering pathways, including T Levels, Apprenticeships and Higher Education programmes, were all given the opportunity to present their projects to a wider audience.

‘Engineering Project Day was a fantastic showcase of the talent, professionalism and creativity of our students’

Kurt Hintz, HSDC’s Interim Principal and CEO, was exceptionally proud of the students and praised their projects on display, saying:

“Engineering Project Day was a fantastic showcase of the talent, professionalism and creativity of our students. What makes HSDC special is the way we connect learning directly to industry, ensuring students develop the technical, problem-solving and communication skills employers genuinely

need. Seeing learners present work of this quality, engage confidently with industry professionals and use first-class equipment and facilities was incredibly inspiring. As someone who started out as an engineering apprentice myself, I could only have dreamed of training with the kind of industry-standard technology and kit our students now have access to at HSDC.”

been so great to see the creativity on display today, there are so many different branches of engineering coming together!”

TECHNOLOGY TRIANGLE

- UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

HSDC’s students were also offered the chance to engage and network with industry professionals, forging important relationships that will help them to secure jobs in the future.

The college’s T Level Engineering students each designed and manufactured a working air engine, as well as multiple smaller projects.

T Level student Prince Nwuko designed a fitness application that allows athletes to track their progress, tailor their nutrition and shop for products. Speaking about his experience at Engineering Project Day, Prince said: “It’s

HSDC’s HE Engineering students studying the Higher National Certificate and Diploma (HNC/D) were given the brief of ‘Reliability’ for their final projects. Reliability is increasingly more important in the digital age, ensuring that the college prepares students adequately for the needs and expectations of modern workplaces.

Jordan Turner studies the HNC in Electrical Engineering, and took a very creative approach to her project. After noticing significant flaws with her company’s own packaging for their technology, Jordan took it upon herself to design a new form of eco-friendly, reliable packaging. Jordan’s new packaging design has already passed the prototype stage, with her company beginning to use it in their shipments, demonstrating how Engineering at HSDC is truly unrivalled when it comes to work experience for students.

HSDC remains proud to be a steadfast supporter of local and national businesses, ensuring that its curriculum remains aligned with the needs of industry. Events such as Engineering Project Day stand as a testament to this relationship, bridging the gap between education and employment.

Kurt Hintz (right), HSDC’s Interim Principal and CEO, praised the projects

AIMing to help teachers master AI

At City of Portsmouth College, one of its leading lecturers on the subject has come up with an innovative new tool to do just that.

William McDowell, a curriculum manager in computing, digital and IT, has created an AIM Lesson Builder, designed so teaching staff can create structured prompts for use in Microsoft Copilot, particularly for lesson planning and wider curriculum planning.

“The motivation came from the Continuing Professional Development sessions I was delivering on using Copilot to support teaching and learning. Staff were interested in using AI, and a lot of them could see the potential, but the biggest barrier was prompt engineering,” said William.

“What I kept finding was that staff were getting quite weak lesson plans, generic resources, or activities that didn’t really fit their learners. The issue wasn’t necessarily

Copilot itself but often the quality of the prompt going into it. Staff were asking quite broad questions and then getting broad answers back.

“That led me to an idea. I wanted to create something that made AI feel more accessible and useful for everyday teaching, not something that only confident prompt engineers could use or having to type out a long script every time.”

What followed was a period of intense research and testing, assessing what worked best for the needs of the College, and met with Ofsted’s Education Inspection Framework, without overcomplicating the process for staff who would need to learn how to use it.

William said: “A professor at MIT held a talk on what AIM stands for. Actor – telling the AI who it should act as, for example an experienced teacher or subject specialist; Input – giving the AI the key context, such as the subject, level, topic, learner needs and lesson length; and Mission – clearly stating what you want the AI to produce.

“The AIM Lesson Builder builds on that approach by turning it into a simple tool. Staff complete a few fields, and it creates a highquality structured prompt that they can copy straight into Copilot.”

TECHNOLOGY

TRIANGLE

- UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

The final product is a fantastic –and simple – form, which works across curriculum areas, including vocational, academic, adult and HE provision. It is designed to be broad enough for all teaching staff. It’s currently being tested by almost 40 members of staff, with early feedback extremely positive – 97% say it is easy to use and 100% agree that the tool helps to create a clearer lessonplanning prompt and qualitative feedback.

“The key benefit is that it makes AI accessible for all teachers, not just those who are already confident with it,” William said. “Staff can use the tool to generate structured lesson ideas, learning objectives, starters, main activities, differentiation, stretch and challenge, checks for understanding, plenaries, teacher guidance, worksheets and practical tasks.

“This has the potential to benefit students because it supports teachers in producing more consistent, structured and engaging learning materials. It also helps staff think more clearly about differentiation, misconceptions and how to support learners at different starting points.”

Building on solid foundations to promote further growth

Greendale Construction’s growing Winchester headquarters has moved its offices to Northfields House, Northfields, Twyford, Hampshire, SO21 1NZ, in a move to support the firm’s continued growth across Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and the M27/M3 corridors.

The Winchester office team, comprising of Andy Musselwhite, Contracts Director; Simon Copping, Contracts Manager; Aedan Carroll, QS/CM, and Jamie Mulholland, Assistant QS, are main contractors for a large number of school SCOLA reclad contracts for Hampshire County Council, as well as successfully completing works for Lasham Gliding Society where works involved the renovation, rebuild and remodelling of the Society Clubhouse, after a fire on 29th September 2021 devastated most of the building.

Conservation and heritage works for National Trust property, Uppark House and Gardens, South Harting, Petersfield, West Sussex, included essential repairs and upgrades, whereby the 17th century property benefitted from new electrical systems, new fire alarm installations, fire protection works, a new water treatment plant, and two new Biomass boilers.

The Winchester office can also add the Royal Household to its portfolio, having completed works at Windsor.

Andy Musselwhite, Contracts Director, Greendale Construction, commented: "Greendale Construction opened its Winchester office in March 2020, but our move to the Northfields House location gives us even easier access to the rest of Hampshire, which is exactly what we need to support our continued growth across the county and beyond.”

The Greendale Construction Winchester office, L-R: Andy Musselwhite, Contracts Director; Aedan Carroll, QS/CM; Jamie Mulholland, Assistant QS; Simon Copping, Contracts Manager

The product is designed to be broad enough for all teaching staff

Business groups unite in stand against antisemitism

The UK’s leading business organisations have signed a joint letter pledging to take a stand against antisemitism, committing to concrete action to support Jewish employees and foster inclusive workplaces.

The initiative, co-ordinated by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), brings together a wide coalition of major industry bodies representing millions of employees across the UK.

‘We must be unequivocal that antisemitism has no place in our society’

The letter follows roundtables hosted by Number 10 (Tuesday 5 May) and the Department for Business and Trade (Wednesday 13 May). Senior business leaders met with ministers and Jewish community representatives to discuss the rise of antisemitism and the need for a whole of society approach to tackle it.

In the letter, signatories make clear that antisemitism is racism and has no place in modern Britain, warning that the experiences faced by Jewish communities have ‘reached a level that requires specific attention’.

The coalition says businesses have a shared responsibility to act, recognising their

THEIR ORGANISATIONS HAVE COMMITTED TO A SERIES OF ACTIONS, INCLUDING:

• Speaking out publicly against antisemitism

• Taking a zero-tolerance approach to incidents in the workplace

• Improving awareness through education and training

• Offering tailored support to Jewish colleagues

influence in shaping both workplace culture and wider society.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC, said: “No-one should feel unsafe in the workplace. Businesses have a fundamental role to play in delivering that. The rise in antisemitism is deeply concerning and demands a clear, collective response.

“This letter is the starting point. All businesses have a responsibility to turn words into action – ensuring that Jewish employees feel safe and protected.

“Companies across the UK are already stepping up to show leadership and set expectations. We must be unequivocal that

antisemitism has no place in our society. By acting together, business can be a powerful force for good.”

Rain Newton-Smith, Chief Executive of the CBI, said: “Antisemitism is abhorrent and has no place in business or wider society.

Employers have a responsibility not only to condemn it, but to help prevent it wherever it appears. This joint letter sets out clear commitments to educate, support and act, so that Jewish colleagues feel safe, respected and valued at work.

“The breadth of organisations backing this statement reflects the strength of feeling across the business community. We will continue working with government and partners to turn these commitments into meaningful action. Inclusive workplaces are vital for individuals, for businesses and for the success of our economy.”

Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Business and Trade, said: “We hear far too often from the Jewish community that antisemitism is all too normal in our society, including in our workplaces.

“That’s why I’ve met business groups and Jewish community organisations to build on last week’s critical summit, and I'm pleased to see workplaces begin to discuss the action they can take to combat this hatred.

“Nobody should go to their place of work fearful of suffering antisemitic abuse and businesses have a crucial role to play in facing this challenge head on.”

No-one should feel unsafe: Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the BCC

ADVICE, NEWS AND UPDATES FROM THE CHAMBER

Robot steals the show at Solent FutureScape 26

Hampshire & Solent LSIP, part of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce were delighted to sponsor Solent FutureScape 2026, held in March at the King’s Conference Centre in Hedge End.

The event welcomed more than 500 delegates for a full day of demos, panels, fireside chats and exhibitions designed to help SMEs adopt AI and emerging technologies. Attendees praised the event’s practical insights and clear, supportive approach to innovation.

A standout attraction was Titan the Robot, whose humour and futuristic performance drew large crowds and sparked lively conversations about the future of automation and robotics.

Waseem Mirza hosted the Intelligent Innovation Panel and offered an inspiring reflection on the day: “I thought it was absolutely amazing… yes, new things can be daunting… (but) AI and innovation don’t have to be… the more you understand something new, the less daunting it feels… AI is a tool that can help us imagine our futures… it’s here, it’s now, and we need to grasp it with both hands to succeed in the future.”

Waseem – an award winning technology presenter and former BBC Click reporter –brought deep expertise in explaining emerging tech and its real world impact.

Felix Manoharan, Vice President at Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, shared why he joined the programme: to help SMEs understand how scalable cloud and AI technologies can open new opportunities, streamline operations and unlock capabilities previously accessible only to major enterprises.

Delegates enjoyed hearing from Dame Wendy Hall, Regius Professor of Computer Science at the University of Southampton and one of the UK’s most respected leaders in AI, Web Science and digital governance. As cochair of the UK Government’s AI Review and advisor to governments worldwide, she

Titan the Robot sparked lively conversations about the future of automation and robotics

TECHNOLOGY

TRIANGLE - UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

His fireside chat provided delegates with practical routes to adopting cloud and AI at a pace that suits them.

Solent FutureScape welcomed more than 500 delegates

offered a frank and balanced look at both the promise and the challenges of AIemphasising responsible, people centred adoption.

Throughout the day, delegates explored:

• Live demonstrations of AI across sectors

• Panels and fireside chats turning complex concepts into accessible guidance

• An innovation marketplace showcasing solutions from regional SMEs

• Support for digital skills and capability building.

About Solent Growth Partnership

Solent Growth Partnership (SGP) is an upper tier local authority partnership between Isle of Wight, Portsmouth, and Southampton Councils that brings together local industry, private sector organisations and academic leaders across the Solent to work together as a collective to provide what is needed to deliver prosperity, profitability and sustainability to our region.

Working together, they have a focused ambition. They want the Solent to become a world-class, innovative, dynamic low-carbon economy – a collective powerhouse that targets the long-term goals set out in the Solent Growth and Prosperity Strategy.

The Solent Business Growth Service is delivered by SGP, and it promotes and encourages the simplification of business support. It provides programmes of expert support focused on growth and productivity, to businesses based in the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton and is funded by the Department for Business and Trade.

BCC data shows that 21% of firms experienced cyber-attacks in

BCC calls for stronger action against business crimes

Decisive action is needed to tackle the ‘hidden threat’ of crime against businesses damaging growth, according to a new report from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Theft, fraud, scams and cyber-attacks are increasingly affecting firms of all sizes and across all sectors.

The report reveals that:

• Two fifths (42%) of UK firms say they have experienced some form of crime

• A fifth (21%) of businesses say they have experienced cyber attacks.

BCC research carried out last Autumn shows that 42% of UK businesses experienced some form of crime in the past year.

The data reveals larger firms are more vulnerable, increasing from 32% among micro-businesses to 58% among firms employing more than 250 people. The manufacturing sector is the hardest hit, with 50% of firms reporting business crime.

‘Crime against business is now a serious barrier to growth and investment across the UK’

Cyber-crime and fraud are also becoming increasingly widespread. BCC data shows that 21% of firms experienced cyber-attacks in the past year, while 20% reported fraud or scams. The BCC report concludes that business crime is a ‘structural constraint’ and ‘measurable brake’ on UK economic performance.

Among the actions the BCC is calling for are:

• A National Business Crime Strategic Assessment to properly measure the economic harm caused by crime against businesses.

• The creation of a single cyber-attack reporting system for firms, reducing administrative burdens while improving protection.

• The creation of Regional Business Crime Hubs bringing together police and Business Crime Reduction Partnerships.

• Expand cyber and fraud resilience support for SMEs and improve incentives for businesses to invest in security measures.

Ellis Shelton, Policy Manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Crime against business is now a serious barrier to growth and investment across the UK. Our research shows many firms are dealing with rising levels of theft, fraud and cyberattacks. Bosses are being forced to divert crucial time and money to tackling this anchor on growth.

“Crime is becoming more sophisticated and there needs to be a step change in the support businesses can count on. Reducing crime against business isn’t just about protecting balance sheets. It’s about removing structural barriers to growth.”

To read the full report visit: www.britishchambers.org.uk

QUARTERLY ROUND-UP: SUPPORTING BUSINESS, DRIVING GROWTH

It’s been a busy and productive quarter at Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, with the team continuing to support businesses, strengthen partnerships and champion economic growth across Hampshire and the wider Solent region.

Through a programme of events, strategic engagement and business support activity, we have remained focused on creating opportunities for members while ensuring the voice of business is represented across the region.

Strategic leadership & regional engagement

Strategic engagement has remained a key priority throughout the quarter. CEO Ross McNally has continued to lead the Chamber’s involvement in the Hampshire & Solent Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), ensuring employers’ views remain central to discussions around workforce development and future skills provision.

Additionally, the Chamber has maintained strong relationships with key regional stakeholders through engagement with Southampton International Airport, Solent University and national Chamber colleagues. Ross chaired the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and Bank of England Panel Meeting, bringing together regional perspectives and economic intelligence to inform wider business discussions.

Business support & member engagement

Supporting businesses remains at the heart of everything the Chamber does. Over the quarter, members benefited from a variety of events, workshops and networking opportunities designed to help organisations connect, learn and grow.

Highlights included: an AI-focused event at Farnborough Airport; social media and LinkedIn training sessions; specialist webinars covering topics such as international trade and overseas market opportunities; networking events at the Army Flying Museum, Stockbridge and Paultons Park and a Business Breakfast at Farnborough Airport. These events provided valuable opportunities for businesses to build relationships, share experiences, develop new connections and gain essential knowledge.

Skills, employment & local growth

Skills development and supporting employment opportunities have remained major areas of focus. Through ongoing LSIP activity and collaboration with employers, education providers and stakeholders, we have continued to champion the importance of developing a workforce equipped for future economic needs.

Barry Smith has been particularly active in supporting careers and employment initiatives across the region. This included engagement with local strategy groups, planning for jobs and careers events, and speaking to 1,000 students to help develop confidence, communication skills and awareness of future career opportunities.

The Chamber has also explored new STEM engagement initiatives and continued strengthening links between education and business communities.

We continue to work closely with partners across the public, private and education sectors to support collaboration on key regional priorities, helping to identify opportunities for future growth and innovation.

Sustainability

& collaboration

Sustainability continues to be a key area of focus for the Chamber and its members. Through the

‘Over the quarter, members benefited from a variety of events, workshops and networking opportunities’

Hampshire Sustainable Action Network (HSAN) and our Green Innovation Steering Group, discussions have focused on the opportunities and challenges surrounding the transition to net zero and the role businesses can play in driving sustainable growth.

International trade & business growth

The quarter also brought significant success for the Chamber’s International Trade team, which successfully passed its British Chambers of Commerce inspection.

This achievement reflects the high standards of support and expertise provided to businesses trading overseas and reinforces the Chamber’s commitment to helping organisations access international markets with confidence.

Looking

ahead

Preparations are already underway for two key events in the Chamber calendar: the Southampton Boat Show Lunch and Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential. Both events will bring together business leaders, partners and stakeholders to explore opportunities for growth, innovation and collaboration across the region. We are currently seeking sponsorship partners for both events. For sponsorship opportunities, email events@hampshirechamber.co.uk.

The past quarter has demonstrated the value of partnership, collaboration and business leadership. Hampshire Chamber of Commerce remains committed to supporting businesses, driving regional growth and creating opportunities that benefit members and the wider economy alike.

Attendees helping themselves to lunch at the networking event at Paultons Park in May

CHAMBER GLOBAL

SUPPORT AND ADVICE TO BUSINESS IN ALL AREAS OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE

A new resource for Hampshire’s globally minded businesses

Hampshire has always looked outward. From world class ports and naval capability to cutting edge life sciences and advanced manufacturing, this is a county built on international connections.

Local firms don’t just sell at home – they operate across global supply chains, export high value expertise and compete in complex overseas markets.

But the rules of the game are changing. Geopolitics is no longer background noise. It shapes markets, disrupts routes, shifts regulation and can redraw commercial plans overnight. For businesses trading internationally, understanding political risk has become a core business skill.

That’s exactly why the Diplomatic Advisory Hub exists.

What is the Diplomatic Advisory Hub?

The Diplomatic Advisory Hub is a joint initiative between the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the British Chambers of Commerce. Its purpose is simple: to give UK businesses – especially small and medium sized firms – access to practical diplomatic and geopolitical insight that helps them trade, invest and grow overseas.

Think of it as a front door into government geopolitical expertise, combined with a feedback loop that ensures business experience informs policymaking.

Staffed by FCDO diplomats and led by a former Ambassador, the Hub focuses on what companies consistently tell us they need: clear, usable insight on geopolitical risk, regulatory change and fast moving conditions in overseas markets – including periods of instability. In short, we translate complex global politics into commercial decisions you can act on.

The Hub is launching as a one year pilot and will be shaped by the businesses that use it. Early engagement with firms across the UK is already sharpening the offer, keeping it grounded, practical and business led.

Why this matters for Hampshire

For Hampshire businesses, global events don’t stay global for long. A political shock can

ripple quickly through maritime routes, defence supply chains, regulatory regimes or research partnerships.

Shipping disruption can affect ports and logistics overnight. Sanctions or export controls can reshape defence and security markets. Regulatory shifts can alter life sciences approvals. Political instability can disrupt advanced manufacturing inputs and insurance costs.

At the same time, many Hampshire firms are actively expanding their international footprint – diversifying markets, exporting specialist services and embedding themselves deeper into global value chains. In that environment, political context isn’t a “nice to have”. It’s a source of competitive advantage.

The businesses that succeed are the ones that plan for disruption, understand risk early, diversify suppliers and routes, and keep delivering under pressure. Geopolitical awareness isn’t about predicting the future –it’s about being ready for it.

What does support from the Hub look like?

The Diplomatic Advisory Hub supports businesses through:

• In person outreach, meeting firms where they already are – including at Chamber events.

• Targeted webinars focused on priority regions, sectors and live issues, drawing on FCDO insight from around the world.

• One to one support, requested directly via the Hub’s website for specific geopolitical or market entry questions.

• Referrals to the right government or non government support when issues sit outside the Hub’s core geopolitical remit.

Crucially, what we hear from businesses flows back into government. That means real world commercial experience helps shape how policy is developed and delivered.

Strengthening Hampshire’s international ecosystem Hampshire Chambers of Commerce already plays a vital role in convening businesses, championing the county’s strengths and supporting international ambition.

The Diplomatic Advisory Hub adds a diplomatic lens to that ecosystem – helping firms connect global politics to commercial reality, spot risk earlier and make smarter calls about where to focus, when to move and what to watch.

If you want to hear more, share feedback or put a question to the team, use the ‘Contact us’ button on the Diplomatic Advisory Hub page on the British Chambers of Commerce website.

The Diplomatic Advisory Hub team – Charlie, Richard and Gail (from left to right) – at the launch event, March 2026

UNLOCK YOUR TEAM’S POTENTIAL

Is your organisation ready to take team performance to the next level? Our expert-led workshops are designed to equip your teams with the tools they need to thrive. We work with companies of all sizes to create engaging, results-driven learning experiences that make a lasting impact. Let’s talk! If you're looking to invest in your people and cultivate stronger teams, reach out today. We’d love to explore how we can support your success.

TRAINING COURSES (VIRTUAL)

CHAMBER POLICY

REPRESENTING OUR MEMBERS LOCALLY, REGIONALLY AND NATIONALLY

POINTS FROM THE PROFESSIONALS

Enjoying the summer? The sound of the ice-cream van, the smell of the sun cream, the slightly worrying buzzing from the air conditioning units… Let’s take a look at what’s happening in the world of professional services. Pour yourself an iced tea and settle in for updates from some of the region’s top experts.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Zoe Drew, HCS Safety

Too hot to work? What you need to know about employee safety

As our climate changes, workplace temperature is becoming more than a comfort issue. The human body is adaptable, but only within limits. Here’s a quick look at the science, health impact and legal position. Temperatures in the workplace – what matters?

• Air temperature/surround temperature. Outside in the sun or indoors with no air con.

• Radiant temperature. What other heat sources are there? Engines, hot products such as tarmac or food, or hot surfaces like roof tiles or granite.

• Humidity. High humidity stops sweat from evaporating, trapping heat and forcing the core temperature upward.

• Air velocity/wind speed. Affects the “feels like” temperature and allows our body’s cooling mechanisms to work.

What is the body doing?

• Working hard to maintain its core temperature at around 37˚C. Your brain’s hypothalamus is the thermostat.

• Generating metabolic heat- physical work increases core temperature – highly relevant to your workers who have manual jobs.

• Dehydrating – we lose a lot of fluid through sweating, and it needs to be replaced.

What does the law say?

• There is currently no maximum legal limit for working temperatures, but…

• The law does require employers to ensure a “Safe Working Environment” (Section 2(2) e of the Health & Safety at Work Act).

Think about the above and the solutions are clear. Can we create shade, reduce manual work through better planning, improve airflow and keep people hydrated? Cooler clothing, hats and sun cream can help too, but the priority should be tackling the risk at its source.

How do we ensure this?

Feeling the heat: workplace temperature is an important issue

COMMERCIAL LAW

Emma Ship, Paris Smith

Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is changing the rules for landlords

Assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) have long been the default for private renting in England. Usually granted for a fixed term, they have allowed landlords to recover possession at the end of that term using section 21 of the Housing Act 1988, without proving tenant fault.

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is set to change that significantly. From 1 May, ASTs and section 21 began to disappear, with existing agreements moving to periodic tenancies.

In practice, open-ended renting is likely to become the norm. Tenants will still be able to leave with notice, but landlords will only be able to regain possession using the statutory grounds under section 8, such as selling the property, moving in themselves or a close family member, rent arrears, antisocial behaviour or damage. The process is also likely to become more formal, with greater evidence requirements and additional procedural steps.

The Act also changes the rules on rent. Rental periods will be capped at one month, landlords will be limited to requesting no more than one month’s rent in advance, and rent increases are expected to be limited to once a year through the revised section 13 process on two months’ notice.

Other changes matter too. Landlords will need to take a more reasonable approach to pet requests, and blanket refusals of applicants simply because they receive Universal Credit are being restricted. What could this mean in practice? Some landlords may decide to leave the market, which could tighten rental supply and keep pressure on rents. At the same time, more homes coming up for sale may affect pricing and availability for buyers and investors.

RESTRUCTURING & INSOLVENCY

Joseph Clayden, AZETS

Distress is the new ordinary

(and why this can be positive)

Conditions have not worsened dramatically in recent months, but they have not improved either. Across the UK, insolvencies remain at just over 2,000 a month. The more important shift is what is driving them.

In sectors such as construction and retail, many businesses are not short of work. The issue is margin. Wage inflation, input costs and overheads are eating into profitability, so turnover can look healthy while the bottom line weakens.

Much of that pressure is structural. Employment law changes this year, including wider statutory sick pay eligibility and more day-one rights, are adding both cost and administration for employers.

At the same time, creditors are acting faster. HMRC, suppliers and lenders are enforcing more quickly than they were 12–18 months ago, leaving less time to correct course when cashflow tightens.

There are positives, though.

In property, the direction of travel is towards flexibility. Residential tenant protections have strengthened, and landlords are already taking a pragmatic approach to renegotiation. In practice, a tenant on revised terms is often better than an empty unit.

Credit control is becoming tougher as businesses protect cashflow, but early renegotiation remains one of the best ways to future-proof a

business. Where a credible alternative is backed by good financial information, landlords, lenders and suppliers are often open to discussion.

Many businesses are still performing well. The ones that run into serious difficulty are often those that leave advice, decisions and meaningful engagement too late.

PENSIONS

Rohit Siqueira Partner at First Actuarial LLP

Pension contributions are falling short

of what most people need

The Pensions Commission’s interim report paints a stark picture of retirement saving in the UK: many people are simply not saving enough. Millions are either not contributing at all or are relying only on minimum automatic enrolment contributions, which are unlikely to deliver a comfortable retirement.

But behind the numbers lies a deeper issue: a growing sense of mistrust and confusion around pensions.

Key incentives that once encouraged long-term saving have been removed or are set to go.

From April 2027, pensions will no longer be exempt from inheritance tax, and the planned loss of National Insurance advantages through salary sacrifice from 2029 risks reinforcing the sense that the rules keep changing.

The decline of final salary schemes has also shifted more responsibility onto individuals. These have largely been replaced by defined contribution arrangements under automatic enrolment. While this has increased participation, contribution levels still fall well short of what most people will need.

There are reasons for optimism. Innovations such as Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) schemes are beginning to emerge, aiming to provide a more predictable retirement income by pooling risk across members and bridging the gap between certainty and flexibility.

The challenge now is to rebuild trust, simplify the message and help people engage with their pensions. Without that, even well-designed systems will struggle to deliver the retirement outcomes people need.

Residental protections have strengthened

EMPLOYMENT LAW

Laura Wood, Blake Morgan and Dereen Kakabra, Warner Goodman

explicit right for employees not be dismissed or subjected to a detriment as a result of raising a concern around sexual harassment.

• Holiday pay records: Employers are required to keep adequate records to show they have complied with holiday pay and entitlement rules. These records need to be retained for 6 years from the date they were made.

Further changes are expected in October, including extending the time limit for most Employment Tribunal claims from three months to six, with more reforms expected into 2027.

TAX & ACCOUNTING

Mike Rule, HJS Accountants

Tax & accountancy update for July 2026

Making Tax Digital

Employment law updates –employment rights act changes

• From January 2027, employees will only need six months’ service to bring an unfair dismissal claim (currently a two-year qualifying period is required). Hence, any employee employed on or after 1 July 2026 will already have accrued the requisite six months’ service by the time the change takes effect. In addition, the removal of the compensation cap for unfair dismissal claims also increases the potential financial risk for employers.

• Statutory Sick Pay: More employees qualify, with no earnings threshold and no three-day waiting period. This will lead to an increase in costs for businesses as these payments will need to be paid from the first day of absence.

• Day-one family leave: Employees are now entitled to Paternity Leave and Unpaid Parental Leave from the first day in a new job.

• Third Party Harassment: from October 2026, additional protections against harassment by customers, visitors, contractors and service users are expected to take effect. Employers should consider whether anti-harassment policies clearly address third-party behaviour and whether reporting procedures are accessible and well understood by employees.

• Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave: New right to time off following the death of a child's mother or primary adopter.

• Collective redundancy protections: Increase to the protective award for non-compliance from 90 days’ pay per employee to 180 days’ pay. This highlights the importance in complying with collective consultation obligations as failure to do so will be costly.

• Whistleblowing protections: Disclosing sexual harassment has been added to the list of what counts as a “qualifying disclosure” for the purposes of whistleblowing legislation. This means that there is an

As you read this, many of you will be preparing for your first submission under Making Tax Digital (MTD), the biggest change in personal taxation since self-assessment was introduced 30 years ago.

The new regime affects the self-employed and landlords with income above £50,000 in 2026/27. From April 2027, the threshold falls to £30,000.

Here, “income” means gross income before expenses. For the selfemployed, that is turnover. For landlords, it is the gross rent received before agent fees or mortgage payments.

Taxpayers must make quarterly online submissions to HMRC. The first quarter runs to 5 July 2026 and is due by 5 August 2026. After all four quarters, a final submission for 2026/27 must be made by 31 January 2028.

Records must be kept using HMRC-compatible software, or on a spreadsheet filed via bridging software.

Key points: partnerships and dividend income are not included; jointly held property is generally included; HMRC is taking a softlanding approach to penalties at first; and no tax is paid with the quarterly submissions.

P11Ds

P11Ds are the annual returns of benefits in kind provided to employees. They relate to the year to 5 April 2026 and must be filed by 6 July 2026. HMRC is also looking closely at directors’ loan accounts that have remained overdrawn throughout the year, including where the balance is cleared at year end. If you may be affected, take specialist advice.

Big changes to employee rights Making Tax Digital is the biggest

Why hazardous waste requires specialist handling and expertise

By Shaun Owen (pictured), Commercial Manager, AMS Group

Managing hazardous waste is a responsibility many businesses face, yet it can often be complex, time-consuming and highly regulated.

From contaminated materials and chemical waste to fly-tipped hazardous substances, ensuring safe handling and legal compliance is essential. AMS Group supports businesses, organisations and public sector bodies across Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight with specialist hazardous waste collection, transport and disposal services.

Trusted by leading organisations

AMS works with a wide range of clients, from local businesses to nationally recognised organisations. Recent projects have included supporting the RNLI in Poole and on the Isle of Wight with hazardous waste management requirements, while AMS is also a trusted contractor for local authorities dealing with the safe removal of fly-tipped hazardous materials. The company also works with major industrial operators, helping ensure hazardous waste is managed safely, efficiently and in full compliance with environmental legislation.

Specialist equipment and expertise

Hazardous waste requires more than standard waste collection. AMS operates specialist vehicles and provides a range of approved containers designed specifically for the safe storage and transportation of hazardous materials. Whether handling contaminated absorbents, paints, chemicals, oils, asbestosrelated materials or other hazardous waste streams, AMS can provide tailored solutions to suit individual site requirements.

Compliance you can rely on Environmental regulations continue to evolve, placing increasing responsibility on waste producers. AMS helps businesses navigate these requirements with a fully compliant service from collection through to treatment and disposal. The company’s ADR-trained drivers and experienced hazardous waste team ensure materials are handled safely at every stage, providing customers with complete waste transfer documentation and peace of mind that their legal obligations are being met.

‘AMS delivers responsive hazardous waste solutions throughout Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight’

Supporting businesses across the South

From construction sites and manufacturing facilities to marine operators, commercial premises and local authorities, AMS delivers responsive hazardous waste solutions throughout Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. With a reputation built on reliability, compliance and customer service, AMS helps organisations minimise risk while maintaining safe and environmentally responsible operations.

Need expert hazardous waste support? Contact AMS Group on tel 01202 579579, email sales@ams-group.co.uk, or visit www.ams-group.co.uk to arrange a free consultation.

GREEN BUSINESS

CELEBRATING HAMPSHIRE FIRMS TAKING THE STEPS TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY

Floating wetlands project targets loss of ecosystems

Anew project is set to transform degraded coastal environments through the installation of pioneering floating wetlands – including a rarely trialled floating saltmarsh system in a marine setting.

The project, led by the University of Portsmouth in partnership with Southern Water, will see specially designed floating pontoons, engineered to support saltmarsh vegetation, deployed in coastal waters. Their purpose will be to recreate crucial lost “green” habitats in areas dominated by concrete infrastructure such as seawalls and flood defences.

Researchers say the approach offers a practical, scalable solution to the widespread loss of essential coastal ecosystems, with more than 85% of aquatic and marine vegetation, including saltmarsh, seagrass and kelp, lost over the past 50 years.

The floating wetlands will host a diverse range of saltmarsh plants, with marine species being trialled on a floating system – which has only been trialled six times previously. By effectively creating a floating saltmarsh, the project aims to provide vital habitat for fish and marine life, enhance biodiversity, and restore valuable ecosystem functions to heavily modified coastal environments.

Dr Ian Hendy, from the Institute of Marine Sciences at the University of Portsmouth, is

leading the project. He said: “This is an exciting step forward in how we think about restoring coastal ecosystems. By creating a floating saltmarsh, we are reintroducing habitat into spaces where it has been completely lost to development. These systems can provide refuge for marine species, improve water quality and help rebuild biodiversity in some of our most impacted coastal areas.”

‘This collaboration demonstrates how innovation and partnership can help tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges’

The wetlands have been set up at the Southcoast Wake Park in Portsmouth as part of a long-term research programme, using a before-and-after monitoring approach to assess their environmental impact. Scientists will track changes in water quality, biodiversity and ecosystem resilience over time.

As a nature-based solution, the floating wetlands are designed to deliver multiple environmental benefits. These include improving water quality by absorbing

nutrients and pollutants, supporting biodiversity net gain for both aquatic species and terrestrial pollinators, and contributing to carbon capture.

The project will also explore how these systems can help mitigate the effects of urbanisation, including nutrient pollution from runoff and impact from storm overflows.

The initiative builds on the University of Portsmouth’s expertise in constructed wetlands for water remediation and habitat restoration.

Using environmental DNA (eDNA) sequencing, researchers will monitor changes in biodiversity, from bacteria and fungi to fish and invertebrates, providing detailed insights into how ecosystems respond to the installation of the wetlands. eDNA work will also allow the origin of bacteriological communities to be identified; for example, human, avian or livestock, which is an important part of Southern Water’s approach to protect shellfish and improve bathing water quality.

Dr Hendy added: “This collaboration demonstrates how innovation and partnership can help tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges. Floating wetlands offer a promising, nature-based solution to improving water quality and enhancing biodiversity in coastal and urban environments.”

The wetlands have been set up at the Southcoast Wake Park in Portsmouth

The floating wetlands are designed to deliver multiple environmental benefits

FOCUS FEATURES

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK INTO THE KEY BUSINESS SECTORS OF THE REGION

How prepared are you to realise value from AI?

By Graham Neill (pictured), Director Isalex Consulting

Organisations are under increasing pressure from customers, investors, employees and competitors to demonstrate that their organisation is embracing AI. Yet many organisations are making a fundamental mistake: they are focusing on the technology itself rather than the business outcomes it is supposed to deliver.

The result is a growing number of AI initiatives that generate excitement but struggle to create measurable value.

Over the past year, I have spoken to organisations of all sizes that have launched AI pilots, purchased AI licences or experimented with AI-powered tools. While enthusiasm is high, many leaders struggle to answer a surprisingly simple question: “What business problem are we trying to solve?”

The rush to adopt AI has created a situation where organisations are often selecting tools first and identifying use cases later. This technology-led approach may create shortterm momentum, but it rarely delivers sustainable results.

The organisations seeing the greatest success with AI are taking a different approach. Rather than starting with technology, they begin by identifying business challenges, inefficiencies or opportunities where AI can make a measurable difference.

Whether the objective is reducing administrative effort, improving customer experience, accelerating decision-making or increasing operational efficiency, the focus remains firmly on outcomes rather than features.

Start with value, not technology

One of the biggest risks facing organisations today is investing significant time and money into AI without a clear understanding of how success will be measured.

Many AI projects begin with ambitious goals such as "improve productivity" or "become more innovative". While these aspirations are understandable, they are difficult to quantify and even harder to govern.

Successful organisations define clear measures from the outset. They establish baseline performance metrics and identify the specific improvements they expect AI to deliver. For example:

• How many hours could be saved through automation?

• How much faster could customer enquiries be resolved?

• What financial benefit would be created?

If these questions cannot be answered, it becomes difficult to determine whether an AI initiative has genuinely succeeded.

Focus on the right automation opportunities

AI has enormous potential to automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks. However, not every process is a good candidate for automation.

Many organisations target highly visible use cases rather than areas that will deliver meaningful business impact. This can lead to resources being spent on projects that demonstrate AI capability but provide little practical value.

The most effective approach is to identify processes that are repetitive, rules-based, datarich and time-intensive. These are often the areas where AI can produce measurable efficiency gains.

Importantly, organisations should view automation as a business transformation exercise rather than a technology deployment exercise. Understanding how people, processes and technology interact is essential if benefits are to be realised.

Don't ignore governance and risk

Employees are increasingly using AI tools without formal oversight, creating what many organisations now refer to as "shadow AI". Sensitive information may be entered into public AI platforms, intellectual property may be exposed, and decision-making processes may become less transparent.

At the same time, emerging regulation and evolving customer expectations mean organisations must be able to demonstrate responsible AI practices.

This does not mean innovation should be slowed down. In fact, effective governance often accelerates adoption by giving employees confidence about what they can and cannot do.

Organisations should establish clear policies, define accountability, understand their AI inventory and ensure that appropriate security, privacy and compliance controls are in place before scaling adoption.

AI readiness matters more than AI adoption

Perhaps the most important lesson emerging from the current wave of AI adoption is that readiness matters more than technology.

An organisation that understands its business objectives, has strong data foundations, clear governance arrangements and measurable success criteria is far more likely to succeed than one that simply purchases the latest AI tools.

The conversation therefore needs to shift from “How quickly can we deploy AI?” to “How prepared are we to realise value from AI?”

Those organisations that take the time to answer that question will be far better positioned to achieve meaningful outcomes, avoid unnecessary risks and turn AI from a promising technology into a genuine business advantage.

Why workplace community matters more than ever

by Simon Bateman (pictured), Asset Manager at Lakeside North Harbour

The role of the workplace has changed significantly in recent years. While businesses still need high-quality office space, we're seeing growing demand for something less tangible but equally important: a sense of community.

As working patterns continue to evolve, the answer goes beyond desks, meeting rooms and amenities. People want opportunities to connect and feel part of something bigger than their team. At Lakeside North Harbour, we've learned that creating a thriving workplace community doesn't happen by chance. It requires a genuine commitment to bringing people together and creating experiences that add value to everyday working life.

Here are three lessons we've learned along the way:

1. Create opportunities for connection

One of the biggest challenges facing businesses today is helping people build meaningful relationships in an increasingly flexible working world.

While technology has made communication easier than ever,

it can't always replace the benefits of face-to-face interaction. Some of the most valuable conversations happen outside formal meetings, whether over coffee, at a networking event or through shared activities. Recently, businesses across our community came together for an annual Lakeside football tournament that brought colleagues from different organisations onto the same pitch. Connections were formed throughout the day. People who may never have met during their normal working routines had the opportunity to interact, collaborate and build relationships in a completely different setting.

More importantly, events like these also play a vital role in supporting wider initiatives, including Lakeside’s Charity of the Year, Rowans Hospice. Fundraising and awareness in community events ensure that coming together as a campus also contributes to making an impact beyond it.

Creating these opportunities helps strengthen workplace culture and encourages a greater sense of belonging across the wider business community.

2. Think beyond the workplace

At Lakeside North Harbour, we've seen the value of creating opportunities for engagement that extend beyond the office itself. One example is My Lakeside, our workplace experience platform, which helps connect occupiers with events, wellbeing initiatives, networking opportunities and the wider campus community.

The platform was created in response to a simple belief: people get more from their workplace when they feel informed, involved and connected. Whether it's signing up for a wellbeing activity, attending a sustainability workshop or discovering what's happening across the campus, the app helps create a stronger sense of belonging.

It's an approach that has helped shape the occupier experience at Lakeside and contributed to recognition through the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management Awards, where My Lakeside was recognised for its role in enhancing workplace experience and community engagement.

3. Listen and evolve

Perhaps the most important lesson we've learned is that successful workplace communities are never static.

The needs of businesses and employees continue to change, which means engagement strategies need to evolve alongside them. The most effective way to understand what people value is simply to ask.

At Lakeside North Harbour, regular occupier meetings, ongoing conversations with people and annual occupier surveys play a key role in shaping our approach. It provides valuable insight into everything from amenities and

‘The strongest workplace communities are built through a commitment intentionally to bringing people together’

wellbeing initiatives to events, sustainability and the wider campus experience. Rather than assuming what our community wants, we focus on creating opportunities for occupiers to influence future decisions which led to the business campus adding a new well-being room for those who need it.

Technology has also helped strengthen this dialogue. Through the My Lakeside platform, occupiers can share feedback, engage with campus initiatives and help shape future improvements. The platform was designed not only to connect people but also to provide valuable insight that enables continuous improvement across the campus experience.

This commitment to listening has helped ensure that community initiatives remain relevant and meaningful. It has also reinforced an important lesson: the strongest workplace communities are built with our occupiers, not simply for them. When people feel heard, they are far more likely to engage, participate and contribute to the wider success of the community.

The strongest workplace communities are built through a commitment intentionally to bringing people together and we will continue this approach as we know 90% of our occupiers are engaged.

Creative thinking is vital to any business. A genius idea for a new product or service can help increase revenue and reputation, streamline operations, and boost employee motivation, especially if staff feel they have the support to share their ideas and innovations. But how can employers foster a culture of creativity in the workplace? Business Voice shares its top tips.

creativity culture A of

People from the same background are more likely to think and work the same, which can result in stale ideas, repetitive suggestions and outdated methods of problem solving that can’t keep up with the modern world.

However, a talent pool drawn from a diverse background can offer fresh ideas and new ways of approaching certain tasks and problems, as well as introducing different learning and management styles.

New ideas

An open-minded employer is more likely to be approached with new ideas. Alternately, an employer who isn’t open to experimentation is likely to be left behind – and lose their brightest thinkers to employers who want to hear what they have to say. So it’s important to create an environment that welcomes experimentation and innovation.

Invite your staff to share their ideas – for example, you could hold a weekly suggestion meeting –and give team leaders the flexibility to implement new ways of working and monitor their progress.

Even if not every idea goes as planned, the trial-and-error method could still provide valuable insight and offer solutions for future problems.

Criticism that’s constructive

Constructive criticism is a very important part of the creative process, because ultimately it will allow your staff to reflect on their ideas and improve them. If something isn’t working, don’t shut down the idea with a firm ‘no’, because this may deter them from ever suggesting something new again. Instead, give your staff the opportunity to reflect and improve.

This in turn can also hone their critical thinking skills, making them better employees in the long run.

Energise

Creativity can’t flourish in stressful conditions. Stress and burnout are becoming increasingly common in the workplace, which, as well as impacting job performance, can also have a serious affect on an employee’s mental and physical health.

Make sure that staff are taking regular breaks and create a breakout space in the workplace where staff can relax away from their workspaces. Plants, artwork and water features can all contribute to a more soothing work environment. A relaxing break can boost creativity and give staff the energy needed to resume working on an important project.

Collaboration

Bringing different teams together can have a positive impact on creativity, because different teams have different strengths and different ways of solving problems.

‘It’s important to create an environment that welcomes experimentation and innovation’

Sometimes, it’s impossible to see the woods for the trees – maybe your product testing team can’t overcome a hurdle, for example, and a collaborative session with outsiders might be just the thing they need to get the creative juices flowing again.

Maybe your staff from finance can offer an analytical solution, or maybe your marketing team can lend their communication skills to the problem. Opportunities to trade personal insight and ideas are also great ways to get your staff bonding, creating a happier workforce.

EVENTS

DEVELOPING YOUR BUSINESS

THE LATEST LIST OF CHAMBEREVENTS TO HELP YOU NETWORK AND GROW

Attract business - host a Chamber event

Partnering with Hampshire Chamber of Commerce to host events is an excellent opportunity for venues looking to attract new business, showcase their facilities, and become part of the region’s thriving professional community.

The Chamber’s networking events are well attended, often drawing 30–60 local business leaders, decision-makers, and entrepreneurs who are eager to connect in an engaging and welcoming setting.

Each event is promoted widely across Hampshire Chamber’s communication channels, including dedicated email campaigns, the Chamber website, and active promotion across social media platforms, giving your venue valuable exposure before, during, and after the event.

Hosting a Chamber event positions your space as a hub for professional growth and collaboration, encourages repeat bookings from businesses that experience your hospitality first-hand, and demonstrates your commitment to supporting the local economy.

Get in contact with events@hampshirechamber.co.uk to find out more about hosting an event with us!

CHAMBER EVENTS

Treasure Hunt & Networking at New Place Hotel

Date: 23 July

Time: 10:00-14:00

Join us at the elegant New Place Hotel for an unforgettable Treasure Hunt and Networking Event! This unique experience blends professional networking with a fun, interactive treasure hunt set across the hotel’s stunning grounds. Connect with fellow professionals as you solve clues, complete challenges, and uncover hidden treasures.

New Members Coffee Morning

Date: 11 August

Time: 10:00-12:00

This event is for members who have recently joined Hampshire Chamber only

We would like to invite all new members from July 2026 to an informal coffee morning at Fareham College! - An exclusive invite from our Membership Manager will be dropping into your inbox if you joined last month.

Business Breakfast at Double Tree

Date: 19 August

Time: 07:30-09:30

Start your day right with breakfast and connections at Double Tree by Hilton! Enjoy a delicious breakfast while networking with local business leaders, decision-makers, and professionals in a relaxed yet professional setting.

Southampton Boatshow returns for its 57th year this September

Hampshire Air Festival Business Networking

Date: 11 September

Time: 10:30-14:30

Join us for the inaugural Hampshire Air Festival Business Networking Event in Partnership with the Hampshire Air Festival. Taking place at Thruxton Aerodrome on Friday 11 September, join members from Omni Business Development Network and Total Business Network, alongside other professionals, in a setting that breaks away from the usual format of business networking; a behind the scenes airshow environment.

Southampton Boat Show Lunch 2026

Date: 18 September

Time: 11:00-14:30

Join us for an unforgettable networking experience at the prestigious Southampton Boat Show Lunch, held in proud partnership with Southampton International Boat Show. The event begins with a drinks reception in the bar area of the Novotel Southampton, setting the perfect tone for an afternoon of connection and conversation. Enjoy a warm welcome as you mingle with influential business leaders and likeminded professionals in an atmosphere of prestige, celebration and exclusivity.

TRAINING

BOOST YOUR WORKFORCE WITH CHAMBERTRAINING

PREPARED FOR GROWTH

Updated training courses coming soon!

In response to changing business needs, Hampshire Chamber is currently reviewing and enhancing its training programme to ensure it delivers maximum value. By adapting course content, introducing new topics and focusing on the skills most relevant to today’s workplace, the programme is evolving to provide members with more practical, beneficial and impactful learning opportunities that support both individual development and business growth. Keep an eye on our website to keep up to date with the training programme!

CHAMBER TRAINING COURSES

Create Marketing Messages That Sell

Date: 15 September

Time: 09:30-11:00

Learn how to craft marketing offers, social media content, and marketing materials that get attention and make your ideal customers say ‘yes’. You’ll walk away knowing what messaging will spark curiosity, build trust, and turn interest into customers, the words that sell and those that repel, and buyer psychology principles that you must bring into your content.

Advanced Social Media Skills

Date: 15 October

Time: 09:30-12:00

Our advanced social media training course is perfect for people who already understand the basics and want to elevate their strategy. Building on core knowledge, this session dives deeper into audience personas, tone of voice, content pillars and platform best practices. By the end, you will have a confident, strategic approach that helps your brand stand out and drive stronger results across every platform.

SECTOR FOCUS

NEWS AND ADVICE FROM THE SECTORS THAT MATTER TO BUSINESS

Design partners for AGS Airports’ revamp revealed

AGS Airports has appointed one of the world’s leading professional services firms WSP and internationally recognised architectural practice Pascall +

Watson as its design partners for the next stage of its £350m AGS Reimagined transformation programme.

This marks a significant step forward in delivering AGS Reimagined, the airports long term project and vision to create

‘These appointments represent an important milestone in the delivery of AGS Reimagined’

modern, sustainable and passenger centred airports across Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton.

Following a competitive procurement process, WSP has been selected as the lead development designer for Southampton Airport, while WSP together with Pascall + Watson Architects will lead design for the transformation of Glasgow Airport. The design phase will shape the future layout, flow and

passenger experience at both airports, ensuring they meet the growing needs of customers, airline partners and their regions.

For Southampton, WSP will provide full architectural and engineering design services across all key elements, including structural, fire safety and ventilation. For Glasgow, WSP and Pascall + Watson Architects

AGS Airports Chief Executive Kam Jandu, Chief Operating Officer Ronald Leitch and Airport Development Director Martins Tamovics with David Shaw and Andrew Robertson from WSP

will jointly lead the terminal design transformation, a central investment priority within the group’s £350m capital programme.

Kam Jandu, Chief Executive of AGS Airports, said: “These appointments represent an important milestone in the delivery of AGS Reimagined.

“WSP and Pascall + Watson bring world class capability and deep experience of designing modern airport environments, and their expertise will help us create facilities that are more intuitive, efficient and enjoyable for our passengers.

“With our £350m investment now being put to work, we are moving at pace to deliver transformational change across our airports. This is a major step in shaping the next chapter of Glasgow and Southampton, ensuring they are future ready and reflective of the regions they serve focussing on great sense of place.”

Mark Wolfe, Aviation Sector Lead, WSP, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with AGS Airports on the next stage of AGS Reimagined at Glasgow and Southampton. Drawing on our

THE PROGRAMME WILL:

• Modernise the main terminal at Glasgow Airport

• Upgrade Southampton’s terminal facilities

• Retail transformation at Aberdeen

• Improve airfield infrastructure at all three airports

• Accelerate AGS’ ambition to achieve net zero direct emissions by 2035

These improvements sit at the heart of AGS Reimagined, the group’s strategic identity that brings together modern design, sustainability and regional strength to create airports that deliver for passengers, partners and communities.

multidisciplinary design, building services and systems expertiseand collaborating closely with Pascall + Watson – we’ll create intuitive, resilient terminal environments that improve passenger flow and experience while supporting low carbon goals. With our teams embedded locally, we’re excited to help shape facilities that authentically reflect and serve their regions.”

The design phase marks another major advance in AGS’ wider transformation programme, underpinned by an investment of £350m.

Artist’s impression of Glasgow Airport terminal revamp

TECHNOLOGY TRIANGLE

- UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS POTENTIAL

Showcasing the next generation of top talent

SUniversity’s Engineering Poster Day 2026 brought together final-year students, industry leaders and academic experts in a dynamic showcase of innovation, creative problem solving and careerready engineering talent.

This year’s event demonstrated the strength of Solent’s industryfocused approach, with students presenting their final projects to employers, industry advisory board members and sector specialists. Throughout the day, students exchanged ideas, built professional connections and explored a wide range of career opportunities with potential employers and industry partners.

Poster Day challenges finalyear engineering students to

INDUSTRY AWARDS 2026

Outstanding student achievement was recognised through a series of industry-linked awards:

Automate-BEST Innovation Award

• Alec Parkin - BEng (Hons) Electronics Engineering (Degree Apprenticeship)

• James O'Leary – BEng (Hons) Renewable Energy Engineering

• Dylan Packham – BEng (Hons) Electronics Engineering (Degree Apprenticeship)

Zestec/Industry Excellence in Renewable Energy Engineering Prize

• George Hammerton – BEng (Hons) Renewable Energy Engineering

communicate complex engineering concepts with clarity and confidence – a vital skill for today’s competitive engineering landscape. As well as showcasing their knowledge, skills and creativity, the event provides a platform from which final-year

students are able to launch their engineering careers. One student secured a job offer on the day, while others were invited to company site visits to discuss potential career opportunities.

By connecting students directly with industry, Solent University

opportunities for hands-on experience, professional networking and employer engagement.

Dr Marc Molinari, Deputy Dean (Education) for Science and Engineering courses in the School of Technology and Maritime Industries, said: “Engineering Poster Day is a powerful example of how we prepare our students for the realities of industry. By presenting their work to employers and professionals, they gain invaluable experience in communicating ideas, building confidence and making connections that can shape their careers.

“From job offers to new industry partnerships, the outcomes of these events demonstrate the real impact of creating these opportunities.”

‘By connecting students directly with industry, Solent University continues to create meaningful opportunities for hands-on experience, professional networking and employer engagement’

INDUSTRY COLLABORATION BOOSTS ENGINEERING EDUCATION

A new collaboration between Solent University and Fortis IBA is providing Mechanical Engineering students with valuable opportunities to gain hands on industry experience and tackle real engineering challenges as part of their degree.

Students on the University’s Continuous Improvement Module will work directly with Fortis IBA over a four-month period on a live project designed to mirror real-world professional environments.

The partnership includes site visits to the A303 IBA Recycling Facility, where students are briefed on a genuine operational challenge before analysing it and presenting their recommendations to the company.

With both organisations keen to strengthen ties between education and industry, this collaboration builds on an already strong relationship between Solent and Fortis. Over the years, the company has supported the university through prize sponsorship, guest lectures, and mock interview sessions.

This new initiative forms part of Solent’s wider commitment to practice-led learning. Through real-world case studies and live briefs, students are able to apply the skills and knowledge they acquire in the classroom to current industry issues.

Abdulla Tahhan, Engineering Lecturer, said: “Industry collaboration is essential in preparing students for professional practice. Working with Fortis allows students to engage with real challenges, apply their learning in an authentic context, and understand industry expectations first-hand. These experiences build confidence, encourage ownership of learning, and significantly enhance students’ readiness for employment.

“This collaboration reinforces Solent University’s mission to empower students with the practical experience, confidence and industry insight needed to thrive in their future careers.”

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Commercial property on the South Coast

– why getting the right advice matters

The South Coast continues to attract investment, development and business growth, with commercial property playing a crucial role in the success of many organisations.

Whether expanding into new premises, acquiring investment property or managing an existing portfolio, businesses face an increasingly complex property landscape where the right advice can make a significant difference.

Commercial property transactions are about far more than completing legal documents. From negotiating lease terms that support future growth, to managing development opportunities and protecting long-term investment value, businesses need advisers who understand both the legal and commercial realities of the market.

At Stephens Scown, our experienced Commercial Property team supports businesses, investors, developers and occupiers across the South Coast, including Hampshire and Dorset. Based in our Bournemouth office, we provide practical, commercially focused advice designed to help clients move forward with confidence.

Partner Chris Twaits has extensive experience acting for investors, developers and occupiers across a broad range of commercial property matters. Roisin Fisher, Senior Associate, advises on freehold and leasehold acquisitions and disposals, as well as landlord and tenant issues, while Jo Hammersley,

Senior Property Consultant, is a specialist in self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs) and small self-administered scheme (SSAS) property pension work.

Clients value the team's responsive approach, attention to detail and ability to explain complex legal issues in straightforward terms. Whether supporting a business taking on its first commercial premises or advising experienced investors with substantial property portfolios, the focus is always on delivering clear, pragmatic advice that helps achieve commercial objectives.

As one of the largest Commercial Property teams in the region, Stephens Scown is proud to support businesses across the South Coast as they navigate opportunities, manage risks and plan for future growth.

E: enquiries@stephens-scown.co.uk

W: stephens-scown.co.uk

Roisin Fisher, Jo Hammersley and Chris Twaits, members of Stephens Scown’s Commercial Property team in Bournemouth.

How rental law changes can affect mixed-use properties

By Kerry Houston-Kypta (pictured), Commercial Property Partner at Paris Smith

From 1 May 2026, changes to England’s private rental sector introduced by the Renters’ Rights Act could have significant implications for commercial property owners and investors across the South Coast, particularly those dealing with mixed-use buildings such as shops or offices with flats above.

Much of the attention around the Act has focused on residential landlords. However, its impact on mixed-use property risks being overlooked, despite such buildings being common across local high streets and town centres.

Under the new regime, assured shorthold tenancies and the Section 21 “no-fault” eviction process will be abolished. Existing and new residential tenancies will become periodic assured tenancies. This means landlords will no longer be able to recover possession simply by serving notice without a specified reason. Instead, landlords must rely on one of the prescribed grounds under Section 8 of the Housing Act 1988, such as wanting to sell the property or serious rent arrears. Each ground carries its own notice requirements and

evidential thresholds. This makes possession slower and less predictable where a residential tenant is not at fault.

Kerry Houston-Kypta, a commercial property partner at Paris Smith, says the changes are particularly relevant for those buying or selling mixed-use property.

‘Understanding exactly what residential arrangements are in place, and what they mean under the new law, is critical before committing to a transaction’

“For anyone acquiring a building with a residential tenant in place, it is no longer safe to assume that vacant possession can be achieved easily. That can affect pricing, funding and the viability of redevelopment or restructuring plans.”

The consequences are not limited to buyers. Sellers may find that prospective purchasers and their solicitors scrutinise residential tenancy arrangements

far more closely than before, particularly where occupation of the whole building is important to the transaction.

“Missing paperwork or uncertainty over whether statutory information has been correctly provided to tenants can delay a transaction or make a property less attractive to buyers,” Kerry added.

The Act also introduces new obligations around rent increases, prescribed tenant information, repairs and discrimination protections. Incoming landlords will need to comply with these requirements from completion.

For those granting commercial leases of mixed-use buildings,

clarity around the status of any residential accommodation has become increasingly important. Commercial tenants and investors will want to understand who occupies the residential element, on what terms, and what their options are if possession is required.

“These changes do not make mixed-use properties uninvestable,” Kerry said. “However, they do make early legal advice and thorough due diligence essential. Understanding exactly what residential arrangements are in place, and what they mean under the new law, is critical before committing to a transaction.”

Gulf trade deal is ‘vital’

for

UK’s exporting firms

Responding to the news that a free trade agreement has been made with the six Arab states which comprise the Gulf Cooperation Council, William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “This deal is great news for the UK economy; it will open up new opportunities for inward investment, exports and supply chains. Once ratified, there will be improved market access for key UK services sectors and lower tariffs on food and drink, automotives, and industrial goods.

“There is great potential to expand our trade with this key region, which already generates

‘This

£57bn a year for the UK economy. Securing long-term economic benefits with close trade partners, like the GCC, is vital for tens of thousands of UK firms with high ambitions on export growth.”

Katy Keenan, CEO of the British Chamber of Commerce Dubai, said: “This agreement is greatly anticipated.

“The GCC FTA is reflective of the progressive nature of the business landscape, and it carries promising potential for even greater collaboration across the GCC. That applies to both those already established in the UAE and those looking to explore the region from the UK.”

Emad Turkman MBE, Chairman of the British Chamber

of Commerce Qatar, said: “The announcement of a Free Trade Agreement between the UK and the GCC represents a significant and highly positive step forward for trade, investment and longterm economic collaboration across the region.

“From Qatar’s perspective, this agreement has the potential to further strengthen already strong bilateral ties with the UK, while creating new opportunities.

looking to trade and invest between the UK and the GCC.”

Ross McNally, Chief Executive and Executive Chair of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This new free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council is a major step forward for Hampshire’s business community. It opens the door to fresh inward investment, stronger export potential, and more resilient supply chains at a time when our firms are hungry for growth.

new free trade agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council is a major step forward for Hampshire’s business community’ TECHNOLOGY

“As the British Chamber of Commerce Qatar continues to grow its membership and business network, we welcome initiatives that support increased market access, stronger commercial partnerships and greater confidence for businesses

“Our region is home to world class innovators, manufacturers, and service providers – this deal gives them the platform they need to reach new markets and scale with confidence.”

Laboratory containment experts celebrate King’s Award

CTS Europe Ltd has won a King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade, recognising the business’ sustained growth, innovation and export success.

Formed in 2010, CTS Europe is a family-owned company based in Portsmouth. They specialise in the design and build of laboratory containment systems used for handling highly potent drug compounds. Their systems are used by major pharmaceutical research companies all over the world to protect scientists handling research drugs that pose significant pharmacological risks without proper containment.

CTS not only make specialised containment systems for potent drug compounds, but also manufacture test equipment used to prove the effectiveness of cabinets handling biological pathogens, such as the Covid virus and more recently the Hantavirus.

The test equipment they manufacture is the only one of its kind in the world and is recognised as an essential test device for cabinets used for containing highly hazardous substances.

- UNLOCKING

SKILLS POTENTIAL

Having won the Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2019, the King’s Award for Enterprise now underpins the success CTS have had to date and the ambitions they have for growth.

Managing Director and Founder Sean Codling has invested heavily in the very best equipment, facilities and staff to ensure product and service

quality is at its utmost. This award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the team, whose efforts have driven the business forward, CTS continues to follow their vision of being a specialist company in their field, and to be recognised as an innovative engineering company that has a loyal customer base.

The Gulf Cooperation Council free trade agreement is great news for the UK economy

The team at CTS Europe

University hosts roundtable to discuss jobs of the future

Local employers and education leaders have met to discuss how graduates can be better equipped with the skills the region’s businesses need now and in the future.

The Future Jobs roundtable, hosted by the University of Southampton, is one of a series of events happening across the UK as part of a broader national conversation about how universities can better match graduate skills to the needs of employers.

It is estimated that more than 11 million additional graduates are needed to fill high-skilled jobs in the UK between 2020 and 2035. On average, 82% of new priority jobs crucial to economic growth – including in the life sciences, creative, digital and tech and defence sectors – will require workers with higher education level qualifications.

The Future Jobs sessions, coordinated by Universities UK, are exploring how universities and businesses can respond to this demand and work together to grow the pipeline of graduates thriving in these industries and

‘The Future Jobs campaign is about listening to businesses and understanding what they need from graduates for their businesses to thrive, and for graduates to have great careers’

create new high-quality jobs for local people in Southampton.

Evidence gathered from the Future Jobs roundtable will feed into a national roadmap setting out practical steps universities and employers can take to ensure graduates’ skills better meet the needs of businesses, both now and in the future.

Local businesses who attended the event in March included Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, ABP, Boeing and Carnival UK, alongside representatives from the University of Portsmouth and Southampton Solent University.

University of Southampton Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Mark E. Smith, said: “The University of Southampton has a proud tradition of supporting local and national employers via the graduates we educate, the cutting-edge research and innovation we conduct and the relationships we have with employers, business groups, local councils and other bodies that help to generate economic growth in our region.

“The Future Jobs campaign is about listening to businesses and understanding what they need

from graduates for their businesses to thrive, and for graduates to have great careers.

“Through sessions like this, the University of Southampton is playing our part in creating a bold and optimistic long-term vision to ensure higher education drives a brighter future for decades to come.”

Karen Wheeler, Head of HR, ABP Southampton said: “It’s been really valuable to hear about the challenges facing our industry and to see how many of them are shared across other sectors. It’s also been helpful to understand the university perspective and how they are preparing graduates who are joining our industry straight from education. Overall, it’s been a great opportunity to share ideas and gain insights.”

Professor Malcolm Press CBE, President of Universities UK, the representative body for 142 universities in the UK, said: “Our Future Jobs roundtables, like this one in Southampton, are about sparking the conversations between business and universities to make sure we’re equipping people with the skills they’re going to need for long, successful careers.”

Business leaders came together to discuss how graduates can be better equipped with the skills needed now and in the future

How AI is unlocking the UK’s solar potential

British businesses are unknowingly overlooking millions of pounds in potential energy savings, with fewer than five per cent of buildings around the UK currently utilising onsite solar.

Now there’s a new AI-powered tool that makes this easier, by assessing any commercial building’s solar feasibility in under a minute.

Absolar Orbit is an AI-driven platform being dubbed the ‘Rightmove of commercial solar’ which is designed to unlock the UK’s commercial solar potential in seconds. No physical, onsite assessments needed.

It’s a simple process that produces remarkable results and uses very advanced technology developed over years of research from Chamber of Commerce member, Absolar which originated from the University of Southampton.

Immediate search via a postcode

As high energy costs continue to squeeze margins, Absolar Orbit allows any organisation to input just than their postcode to receive a full solar feasibility audit in under a minute, for free. The tool provides instant data on projected bill savings, payback periods (currently averaging under five years), CO2 reductions and more.

“UK businesses are sitting on a huge amount of untapped energy assets,” said Dr Phil Wu, CEO of Absolar. “Solar has enormous potential to de-risk balance sheets against volatile energy markets, but the lack of reliable data has historically slowed investment. Our technology removes that friction and the barriers traditionally associated with a solar assessment.”

Proving commercial value

The technology has already proven its commercial value with the 107-year-old British brand Draper Tools. After a oneminute assessment via Absolar Orbit the company went on to commission a full installation across its Hampshire sites. Draper Tools now generates over half a million kWh of clean energy annually, covering more than 50% of its total energy needs.

Meeting government solar targets

The UK government has plans to increase solar capacity nearly fivefold to 70GW by 2035, with its Solar Taskforce focusing on leveraging the untapped potential of commercial rooftops to meet this goal.

By replacing traditional, costly engineer site visits with high-accuracy remote sensing, Absolar Orbit is well positioned to accelerate the UK’s transition to a high-efficiency, low-carbon economy.

The company behind the technology

Absolar is a multi awardwinning clean tech company, founded by scientists and engineers from the University of Southampton, who specialise in commercial solar installations.

It can assess single buildings, multiple portfolios and even whole cities.

TECHNOLOGY TRIANGLE -

UNLOCKING HAMPSHIRE’S SKILLS

POTENTIAL

Using proprietary AI, LiDAR, and GIS technology, Absolar conducts remote solar surveys combining world leading digital mapping technology with full end to end solar installation and continuous optimisation.

‘To tackle climate change, we need tools that make sustainable decisions easier, faster and based on reliable data’

The company has drawn interest from major institutions including NatWest and the Royal Air Force, which commissioned Absolar to assess solar potential across its estate as part of its commitment to reach net zero by 2040 (10 years ahead of its original target).

Dr Wu added: “Solar has enormous potential to reduce carbon emissions, whilst at the same time, save businesses a huge amount of money. To tackle climate change, we need tools that make sustainable decisions easier, faster and based on reliable data. Our new technology supports this by translating complex modelling into clear, measurable statistics that eliminates any guess work or unnecessary complexity to understanding a building’s true solar potential.”

Dr Phil Wu, CEO of Absolar

NEW MEMBERS

HAMPSHIRE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME ITS NEW MEMBERS

Lead Membership

Centerprise International

Benjamin Ogden

Hampshire International, Business Park, Chineham, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 8GQ

www.centerprise.co.uk 01256 378000

For over 40 years, Centerprise International has called Basingstoke home.

From our Hampshire base, we've grown into a trusted UK technology partner, delivering IT services, secure infrastructure, business continuity and sustainable IT lifecycle solutions to some of the country's most demanding organisations across government, defence, education and the wider public and private sectors.

We operate exclusively from the UK, with a firm commitment to security, sovereignty and sustainability, giving customers one accountable partner for modern workplace IT, resilient infrastructure and responsible, ADISA-certified asset disposal.

But while our work reaches across the UK, our roots are firmly local. Joining Hampshire Chamber of Commerce reflects something we feel strongly about: that a business of our size and history has a part to play in the success of the region that has supported us for four decades.

Hampshire organisations face real pressures: rising IT costs, supply chain disruption, and growing demands around cyber resilience.

We believe local businesses deserve a technology partner with national-scale capability and genuine local accountability.

Through our Chamber membership, we want to build closer relationships across Hampshire, support fellow members, and help strengthen the regional business community.

We look forward to connecting.

Privilege HR Hampshire

Chloe Ditton 23 Goodlass Road, Liverpool, Merseyside, L24 9HJ privilegehr.co.uk 0333 0341470

Privilege HR Hampshire is proud to be opening our new office, supporting local employers at a time when HR has never been more complex or high risk. With constant changes in employment law and a rise in tribunal claims, businesses simply can’t afford to get it wrong. Our role is to help organisations navigate these challenges quickly, commercially and with minimal disruption.

We support employers with the issues that matter most: reducing absence, managing disciplinaries and grievances, handling restructures, and ensuring contracts and policies are robust, compliant and fit for purpose.

Whether it’s a sensitive employee relations matter or wider organisational change, our guidance is clear, practical and designed to protect your business.

What sets us apart is how we work. We employ local consultants who spend time in your business, getting to know your people, culture and pressures. By building genuine relationships with owners, managers and teams, we deliver solutions that work in the real world. Alongside our Hampshire team, clients also benefit from nationwide specialists in areas such as recruitment, occupational health and employment law.

As an award winning, people first consultancy, we offer more than 80 HR services, from retained support and on demand advice to leadership development, investigations, talent support and culture programmes.

Our Hampshire office reflects our commitment to being local, responsive and fully invested in helping organisations build confident leaders, engaged teams and workplaces where people and performance thrive.

Aspire Membership

PortsMed Limited

Kerry Wells 4a Exchange House, 122-124 London Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO2 9DD www.portsmed.co.uk 02394 421000

At PortsMed, our passion is your health. We know how important healthcare is, and we understand how difficult it can be to access.

We aim to provide rapid, high-quality primarycare services to our community – bridging the gap between over-run GP surgeries and emergency/urgent-care centres and the highly expensive, less-local private alternatives.

We know many people are struggling to access the care they need, from simple one-off examinations or procedures to comprehensive investigations, and we want to help.

We are unique in the area for providing this service, and we aim to do it in a calm, relaxing environment.

We offer face-to-face appointments only – no telephone or virtual consultations – alongside investigations, tailored treatments and follow-up care. Investigations include blood and microbiology tests, with some results available on-site in as little as 20 minutes through an established London laboratory.

All clinicians have access to specialist diagnostic equipment, alongside fast, affordable treatments including joint injections and minor surgery.

We also provide specialist referrals and arrange imaging services such as MRI and ultrasound scans.

Our experienced clinicians have worked locally for many years, understanding patient needs through listening carefully to concerns and frustrations, and shaping PortsMed to deliver practical, patient-focused healthcare solutions.

The Affable Partnership Ltd

Laura Tutt

Arena Offices, Lancaster Court, 8 Barnes Wallis Road, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 5TU www.affablepartner.co.uk 01329 757566

At The Affable Partnership Ltd, we’re proud to be a Hampshire-based business supporting organisations across the region with practical, straight-talking HR.

Founded on the belief that people are the backbone of every successful business, we work closely with local employers to navigate complex people challenges with clarity, confidence and care. From employment law and compliance to leadership development and workplace culture, our approach is always tailored, it’s never offthe-shelf.

Being rooted in Hampshire matters to us. We understand the unique pressures facing local businesses, from growing SMEs to established organisations, particularly in sectors like construction, logistics and engineering. That local insight allows us to provide HR support that is not only legally robust but commercially relevant.

We don’t operate as a distant helpline. Instead, we become a trusted extension of your team - offering consistent, expert guidance without jargon or unnecessary complexity.

As proud members of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, we’re excited to connect with fellow businesses and continue helping organisations build stronger teams, healthier cultures and more resilient futures – right here in Hampshire.

The Montagu Arms Hotel

Davide Santocono

Palace Lane, Beaulieu, Hampshire, SO42 7ZL www.montaguarmshotel.co.uk 01590 612324

The Montagu Arms Hotel, nestled in the picturesque village of Beaulieu in the heart of

the New Forest, is a distinguished country house hotel that blends heritage charm with contemporary comfort.

Dating back to the 18th century, the building was originally established as a coaching inn, serving travellers passing through the Forest.

Over the years, it has evolved with care and craftsmanship into the elegant hotel it is today, while retaining many of its original architectural features and historic character.

Renowned for its warm hospitality and timeless appeal, the hotel offers individually styled bedrooms and suites that reflect its rich heritage alongside modern amenities.

Guests can enjoy exceptional dining, with menus inspired by seasonal produce sourced locally from the New Forest and surrounding areas.

The Montagu Arms is also a popular venue for weddings, celebrations, and business gatherings, with versatile spaces set within beautiful gardens.

Its prime location provides easy access to the New Forest’s scenic landscapes, making it ideal for both relaxation and exploration.

Further cementing its reputation, The Montagu Arms has been recognised by The Telegraph as one of its 250 Best Hotels in the UK, underlining its enduring commitment to quality and guest experience.

Grow Membership

Andover Mind

Lilia Bitouche

Westbrook Close, South Street, Andover, Hampshire, SP10 2BN www.andovermind.org.uk 01264 332297

Andover Mind is an independent local mental health charity serving Andover and surrounding Hampshire communities. Our purpose is to promote good mental health by enabling and

empowering people experiencing difficulties to live with, manage, and recover from their condition.

As part of the Federation of Local Minds, we deliver services shaped by local needs and raise our own funds to provide counselling, peer support, wellbeing activities, crisis support, and tailored community programmes.

We continually develop preventative, community-led projects that complement NHS services.

Last year, we supported over 20,000 people. We rely on donations and community support to continue our work.

With one in four adults affected, we aim to be there for everyone, creating lasting change and a strong sense of belonging for all people.

Citizens Advice – Hart District Limited

Samantha Mabbott

Civic Offices, Harlington Way, Fleet, Hampshire, GU51 4AE www.citizensadvicehart.org.uk 01252 878435

Citizens Advice Hart is a trusted local charity dedicated to supporting individuals and families across Hart in North Hampshire.

We provide free, confidential and impartial advice to help people overcome a wide range of challenges, from debt and housing issues to employment, benefits and consumer rights.

Our team of trained advisers offers tailored guidance, empowering clients to make informed decisions and improve their circumstances.

In addition to one-to-one support, we deliver specialist services and outreach to reach vulnerable members of the community.

Committed to promoting financial resilience and wellbeing, Citizens Advice Hart works collaboratively with local partners to create lasting positive change and ensure everyone has access to the advice and support they need.

Start Membership

The Absent Pony

Charlotte Bootle

Brockenhurst, Hampshire, SO42 7RR 07841 210524

Two sisters, one big dream, and a horsebox full of coffee. The Absent Pony has proudly served speciality coffee, cakes and savouries in Brockenhurst for two years, building a warm community hub. We are now ready to expand and find our next site – could your location be the one?

Affluent Insurance Solutions Limited

Paul England

Andover, Hampshire, SP10 5DT 07833 461891

Affluent Insurance Solutions was founded to provide bespoke, tailored insurance solutions to High Net Worth, SME and Commercial clients. With over two decades in the industry, I forge longstanding relationships through listening, engaging and growing trust. Insurance can be simple when the advice you receive is easy to understand

AI Business Systems

Chris Hart Hampshire aibusinesssystems.io

AI Business Systems helps Hampshire SMBs put AI to work – practically. We identify where it can genuinely save time and reduce costs, then build the systems to make it happen. Starting with a free 30-minute discovery call and a structured AI Opportunity Audit. No jargon. No tech background needed. Aibusinesssystems.io

Counselling And Facilitation Services

Gerrie Jordan Havant, Hampshire wwwcounsellingandfacilitation.com 07810 430689

With 26 years’ experience, I provide expert therapy, relationship counselling, and coaching across Hampshire. I specialise in the Story Links

trauma model for children (four-plus), domestic abuse recovery, and local authority family care. I deliver compassionate, tailored strategies to empower clients, foster resilience, and promote lasting healing.

Evorio

Gary Deighton

Unit 3-4, Crumplins Business Court, Odiham, Hampshire, RG29 1DU evorio.co.uk 01256 704518

Join the Modern Workplace with the help of Microsoft technology. With 15-plus years of experience digitally transforming SMBs in the UK, we understand how daunting modern business technology can feel. Get in touch for a demo of the modern workplace – from IT support and cyber security to bespoke CRM systems

Fareham Live

Robyn Hayes

Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 7DB trafalgartickets.com/fareham-live-fareham/enGB/venue-hire 01329 557071

Fareham Live is a contemporary venue in the heart of Fareham, offering a main auditorium for theatre, conferences and dining, a studio theatre with cinema-style projection, flexible multipurpose spaces, terraces with garden views, and excellent access across the south coast. Ideal for conferences, celebrations, and events with exclusive VIP options

George's Rockstars

Shona Brooks

Sovereign House, 37 Middle Road, Park Gate, Hampshire, SO31 7GH georgesrockstars.com 02392 007110

George’s Rockstars provides music therapy for children in hospitals across Hampshire, Dorset and Sussex. Supporting young patients facing serious illness, disability and mental health challenges, the charity uses music to improve emotional wellbeing, encourage engagement with treatment, aid development, and help children and families create positive experiences during difficult hospital stays.

JOIN THE CHAMBER

Projects For Profit Ltd

Bob Menlove

Winchester, Hampshire, SO22 6HT projectsforprofit.co.uk 07780 546383

Projects for Profit helps organisations turn ideas into measurable results through practical program delivery, AI-enabled process design, and outcomes-focused transformation. We support leaders to prioritise, implement, and scale initiatives that drive value quickly, combining structured governance with agile thinking to unlock efficiency, improve performance, and deliver sustainable business growth again.

Secure Inheritance Legal Services

Clive Beesley

Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 6SN 07958 956287

With three decades of corporate experience, provide comprehensive personal and business estate planning services, with expertise in exit and disaster preparedness. As a patron of the HCA, I facilitate complimentary seminars for staff and families, and LPA awareness training for employees. Also support charitable organizations in implementing effective, costefficient fundraising.

The Active Organisation

Adam Clark Tadley, Hampshire, RG26 3TL www.oobacreative.co.uk 01256 578007

Growth, lead generation, cash flow, sharper decision making. Every business wants them. Goals, KPIs, and data analysis are all great tools, but what most successful business transformations need are better ideas. Innovation is the lifeblood of business, and ideas are the lifeblood of Innovation. That’s where Ooba Creative comes in.

The Property Edge

Milesh Lakhani

Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7BF www.thepropertyedge.co.uk 07976 707755

The Property Edge is a strategy-led property network based in Farnborough and expanding through its On Tour events across the UK. Founded by active property developer and consultant Milesh Lakhani, it brings together investors, developers, and property professionals for serious property conversations, commercial insight, meaningful connections, and better investment decisions

Words 'N' Stuff

Becky Coote

Locks Heath, Hampshire, SO31 6RT www.wordsnstuff.co.uk 07834 789402

I provide copywriting training, workshops, consultancy and done-for-you copywriting support for in-house marketing teams. I help businesses improve writing confidence, create consistent brand messaging and reduce time lost to endless rewrites. Practical and tailored, my work helps teams write better, work smarter and build stronger marketing.