Chamberlink April 2026

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The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBER April 2026

Free to Members l £5.00 where sold

LINK

US focus on region Embassy target is key two-way investment See page 5 • Global store becomes GBCC patron • New Chamber No 2 is revealed • Broadcast star to host awards • Future is bright say property experts

Picture: Shaun Fellows

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Contents Chamberlink April 2026 Business News

Chamber Patrons

4

Editor’s View Embassy visit brings region and US closer

46 Rebrand for recruitment firm following growth

5

Business News West Midlands is key for US firms

1813 Club and Premier Members 48 Botanical Garden’s poetry trail honours Benjamin Zephaniah

10 President’s Focus Martin Hall, president of Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Group

12 The Griffin Report Greg Collings and Arthur Morgan, Fisher German 24 Where Do You Fancy?

KIBOU Solihull

50 International Trade: West Midlands mayor strengthens ties with India

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52 ABCC: Offa launches one-hour home purchase plan 54 Cannock Chase: How the retail sector can thrive in 2026

76 Finance: Jerroms expands local office 80 Health in the Workplace: Third cath lab is opened at Midland Met

55 Burton & District: Charities unite for wellbeing 56 Lichfield & Tamworth: £1.4m investment into local community 57 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Pride of Place plan moves ahead 58 Solihull: Security boss wins top award

82 Legal: University Law Clinic expands 84 Manufacturing: Sector remains positive in spite of challenges 86 Property: Office market on the rebound

60 Future Faces: Awards partner is revealed

89 Skills: Partnership supports graduate recruitment

Events

90 Technology: AI Lab builds start-up web apps in minutes

62 The latest list of Chamber events

Features

92 The Arts: Hit TV show’s finale on way to Symphony Hall

64 Growing Your Business: How I grow my business

94 Sport: Edgbaston Stadium set for tournament opener

66 How to handle the ‘should’ list 68 Hotels, Conferences & Exhibitions: The value of face-to-face meetings 72 Global exhibitions, domestic mindset

Sector Focus

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CHAMBER LINK

74 Business Travel: Station opening dates announced

Member Section 95 Chamber Insight Dan Evans, Expressive Arts Productions 96 New Members Chamber welcomes new members 98 …any other business News from Chamber businesses

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is here to connect, support and grow local businesses. Accredited by the British Chambers, we have acted as the voice of local businesses since 1813.

The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Editor: John Lamb 07814 539329 lambjohn@mac.com Deputy Editor: Dan Harrison 0121 274 3239, 0797 1144052 d.harrison@birmingham-chamber.com Assistant Editor: Jon Griffin 07963 405538 j.griffin@birmingham-chamber.com Reporter: Feron Jayawardene 0121 2743240, 07508 317356 f.jayawardene@birmingham-chamber.com Reporter: Saskia Masaun 07951 245985 s.masaun@birmingham-chamber.com

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

April 2026 CHAMBERLINK 3

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OPINION

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Embassy visit brings region and US closer Digbeth and Hollywood might seem like strange bedfellows. But the prospect of their becoming inextricably linked is now a probability.

This follows the visit of leading personnel from the US Embassy in London to key development points in Birmingham, including Steven Knight’s Digbeth Loc Studios, HS2 at Curzon Street and Birmingham City FC, which will be the centrepiece of the club’s transformational Sport Quarter project.

The delegation included Brenda VanHorn, senior commercial officer at the Embassy’s US Commercial Service.

She held talks with Steven Knight that centred on the prospect of US TV and film production at the Digbeth Loc Studios, a multi-million-pound studio complex in Birmingham’s Creative Quarter.

Steven Knight founded the studios for his Peaky Blinders series and new movie, now showing on Netflix and in cinemas.

The site also features three film studios, production offices and construction workshops managed by BBC Studioworks with space for filming, wardrobe, set build and props. Masterchef is one of the key BBC programmes now produced from Digbeth.

The studio is already linked to significant international-scale productions and Steven Knight has stated his intention to “bring Hollywood to Birmingham” with plans to open a satellite Digbeth Loc studio in Los Angeles.

This will form an important link between American production talents and those in the West Midlands.

The visit of Ms VanHorn and her colleagues will hopefully move the tantalising prospect of Hollywood coming to Digbeth a little closer.

And that is reinforced when she says: “Birmingham and the West Midlands remain a key strategic region for two-way trade and investment for my team.”

• See the page opposite for a full report on the US Embassy visit to Birmingham.

FRONT COVER: Talks: US Embassy’s Brenda VanHorn and Raj Kandola, Chamber deputy CEO. See Page 5 Published by

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

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

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

CHAMBERLINK is produced on behalf of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to members without charge. The Chambers and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither the Chambers nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise.

Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Chambers. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Business News Latest news from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

On location: The delegation received a tour of Digbeth Loc from the studio team

West Midlands is key for US firms

By Dan Harrison

U

S companies with eyes on UK expansion are increasingly looking outside of London and placing their confidence in the West Midlands.

That was the key takeaway when a delegation from the US Embassy visited Birmingham to find out how American investment is helping to transform the region into a world-class centre for business, culture and sport.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) welcomed the delegation led by Brenda VanHorn, senior commercial officer at the Embassy’s US Commercial Service.

Addressing business leaders during a reception at the University of Birmingham’s The Exchange building, Brenda said: “Birmingham and the West Midlands remain a key strategic region for two-way trade and investment for my team.

“In fact, if there’s one piece of advice that I have given to all the delegations and all the companies that come to visit us, it’s this – look beyond London.

“Go and see what’s happening in the rest of the country. This is where business is getting done and deals are getting done. I’ve seen that firsthand.”

Inside your 100-page Chamberlink

The Chamber-led programme kicked off with a visit to Birmingham City Football Club, where the Embassy delegation heard from CEO Jeremy Dale about the club’s transformational Sports Quarter project, which is backed by a £3bn investment from American owners Knighthead Capital Management.

A tour of Steve Knight’s Digbeth Loc Studios followed, while talks took place with the Peaky Blinders creator about opportunities for TV and film production in the region.

The delegation also visited HS2’s Curzon Street site to learn more about how the rail project is helping to attract inward investment and create jobs.

Meanwhile, a group of SMEs with an interest in growing or expanding into the US joined Ms VanHorn for roundtable talks at the city centre offices of professional services firm Forvis Mazars.

Rounding off the visit with a reception at The Exchange, Brenda highlighted American companies such as Amazon, Mondelez and Collins Aerospace who have “placed their confidence” in the West Midlands for “the good business environment that exists.”

She said 59 US companies have invested in the region since 2020 – creating more than 5,000 jobs.

She added: “Research shows that between January, 2020 and 2026, US companies announced 59 foreign direct investment projects in this region, estimated to create more than 5,000 jobs and committing $2.36bn in capital.

“And we want to see more going in the other direction as well, because it does go both ways over the same period, our research showed that West Midlands firms announced more than 20 investment projects into the US, creating another 1,500 jobs and investing about £243m in the US.” The US Embassy delegation – which also included commercial specialist Stephen A. Brown and deputy cultural attaché Jennifer Schueler – were joined by the GBCC’s deputy CEO Raj Kandola, head of Global Chamber Jayne Hume, the University of Birmingham’s assistant director for business engagement and research impact Richard Fox, and UOB’s director of global relations and research Andrea-Claire Edwards.

Staffs sets out their priorities

Exclusive restaurant offer for members

- page 22

- Page 24

‘If there’s one piece of advice that I have given to all the delegations and all the companies that come to visit us, it’s this - look beyond London’

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BUSINESS NEWS

Sutton boost: Lachlan Roach (centre) with (left to right) Ian Bain (chief financial officer, Harvey Norman), Raj Kandola and Russ Ashman (both Birmingham Chambers) and Charlie Elliott, head of Sutton and Lichfield/Tamworth Chambers of Commerce

Global superstore welcomed as Chamber patrons Global retail chain Harvey Norman, which is opening a new store in Sutton Coldfield, has become a patron of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The store specialises in furniture, bedding, computers, electrical goods and home appliances and is opening in the Gracechurch centre following a major refurbishment of the former BHS building.

Lachlan Roach, managing director for Harvey Norman UK, said: “Joining the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce is a natural step for Harvey Norman as we continue to grow our presence in the region.

“Our flagship store at Merry Hill has already given us a fantastic welcome to the West Midlands, and

with our new store launch in Sutton Coldfield, this really feels like just the beginning of our journey here.

‘We are delighted to welcome a global store with the prestige of Harvey Norman to our family of patrons’ “Birmingham has an incredible energy and we’re excited to put down even more roots as we expand with several more stores in the years ahead.”

Raj Kandola, deputy chief executive of the GBCC, said: “We are delighted to welcome a global

Key historical milestones include: • 1982: First Harvey Norman store opened in Auburn, NSW, following the sale of the founders’ previous venture, Norman Ross.

• 1987: Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).

• Early 1990s: Adopted the “category killer” superstore model, focusing on massive retail spaces for computers, furniture, and electrical goods.

• 1997: Expanded internationally, opening the first store in New Zealand.

• 1999–2003: Entered Asian markets (Singapore, Malaysia) and Europe (Slovenia, Ireland).

• 2000s–Present: Continued global expansion with over 300 stores worldwide, including a recent entry into the UK market with a flagship store in Merry Hill.

store with the prestige of Harvey Norman to our family of patrons.

“Their presence in Sutton will give the whole town a boost and we look forward to working with them to ensure they become an important addition to the regional business scene.”

Founded in 1982 in Auburn, Sydney, by Gerry Harvey and Ian Norman after leaving Norman Ross,

Harvey Norman has grown into a global retailer of electronics, furniture, and appliances. The chain pioneered the superstore format in Australia during the 1990s, expanding internationally to NZ, SE Asia, Europe, and recently the UK. The company is known for its “bricks & mortar” strength, but has adapted with online shopping channels.

Broadcaster to host awards Accomplished broadcaster and sports presenter Amber Sandhu has been confirmed as host of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s 2026 awards.

The awards dinner – the biggest of its kind in the West Midlands – takes place on Thursday, 14 May, at the ICC in Birmingham.

Wolverhampton-born broadcaster Amber will take to the stage as host, having previously compered the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year and Asian Business Chamber of Commerce awards.

Amber began her career as an intern at the BBC, quickly earning presenting opportunities across BBC Radio WM, the Asian Network, and Midlands Today, including prominent coverage during the Commonwealth 6 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

Games. Since then, she has gone on to cover some of the UK's biggest sporting events, including The Hundred, the Women’s Ashes, and regular reporting across the Premier League for Sky Sports News.

Beyond the studio, Amber is also a dedicated event host and an ambassador for the Wolves Foundation where she continues to be an advocate for her city and championing community outreach, youth engagement, and empowerment.

Marcella Meehan, event manager at the GBCC, said: “Having worked with Amber on both the GBYPY and Asian Business Chamber awards, we’re delighted to have her back as host for the biggest event in the Chamber’s calendar.”

Hosting biggest business event: Amber Sandhu

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BUSINESS NEWS

Chamber appoints Raj as deputy CEO Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has further strengthened its senior leadership team with the permanent appointment of Raj Kandola as deputy CEO. Raj, who leads the Chamber’s external affairs activity, takes on the role following a successful year co leading the organisation alongside chief financial officer Helen Bates, during chief executive Henrietta Brealey’s maternity leave.

Having already played a central role in driving the Chamber’s strategic direction, Raj’s appointment provides continuity and momentum as GBCC enters its next phase of growth and expanded support for local businesses. Raj has held the position of director of external affairs since March 2023.

Henrietta said: “I am delighted that Raj is now the GBCC’s permanent deputy CEO. “He is a high impact leader who has consistently driven meaningful change across the organisation from strengthening the strategic development of our business growth services to deepening our partnerships with patrons and key stakeholders. His ability to bring clarity and momentum to complex challenges makes a real difference to the Chamber and the wider

Building momentum: Henrietta Brealey and Raj Kandola

business community. This appointment further strengthens our ambitious leadership team as we enter an exciting new phase of growth, expanding the support we provide to - and deliver alongside -

local businesses.”

Raj said: “I’m delighted to be appointed as the Chamber’s permanent deputy CEO. I’ve really enjoyed stepping up to lead the Chamber alongside Helen since

May and it’s an honour to now be recognised with this new role. I’m excited to continue my work alongside Henrietta and the senior team to build on the momentum we have created as a Chamber.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Rep announces spring line-up The spring season at Birmingham Repertory Spring will include a major new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, marking the directorial stage debut of The Rep’s artistic director Joe Murphy and deputy artistic director Madeleine Kludje.

Half of the cast, including Adam Carver (aka cabaret sensation Fatt Butcher), are local Birmingham and West Midlands actors, with three of the cast members having been selected from the open casting call the venue launched last year.

It will play from Saturday 25 April to Sunday 24 May. The Rep is offering 5,000 tickets at just £5 for under-25s and schools across the city.

The autumn season will feature the third Rep coproduction with awardwinning deaf-launched and led theatre company, Deafinitely Theatre alongside Park Theatre.

They will be bringing Mike Bartlett’s Bull to the intimate The Door performance space from Saturday 12 to Saturday 19 September.

September will also see a major new revival of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time return to the stage (Saturday 5 September to Saturday 19 September).

September in The House concludes with the return of Bill Kenwright’s production of Twelve Angry Men - 13 years after making its stage debut at The Rep in 2013.

Birmingham Central Heart: A CGI of the scheme, produced by Gensler

Bold new scheme for the heart of Birmingham Birmingham City Council, along with key private sector and institutional partners, launched a “once in a generation” opportunity at MIPIM, the international property conference in Cannes.

The Birmingham Central Heart scheme brings together several major city centre sites, including Martineau Galleries, Martineau Place, Cherry Street, Cannon Street, Carrs Lane, Union Street, 42 High Street, and City Arcade, to regenerate around four hectares of under-used retail and office space.

‘The Birmingham Central Heart prospectus outlines one of the most exciting investment opportunities in the UK’ More than 5,000 new homes, over 400,000 sq m of commercial floorspace and more than seven hectares of new and improved public space, supported by new transport connections, are expected to be delivered.

Approximately 8,000 jobs will also be created, according to Birmingham City Council.

Joanne Roney, managing director of Birmingham City Council, who led the delegation at MIPIM, said:

“The Birmingham Central Heart prospectus outlines one of the most exciting investment opportunities in the UK, but it is not just about buildings.

“Our message to investors is clear; if you want to back a growing, youthful, diverse city with a clear plan and a strong partnership between the council, business and communities, Birmingham is the place to invest.”

Birmingham Central Heart will act as a key gateway between HS2 Curzon Street Station, the Bullring, New Street Station, the Colmore Business District and the wider city centre, with new linear green routes, safer streets for walking and cycling and better links to employment, education and cultural destinations.

The ambition is to double green space in the central area, creating new places to relax, play and meet in the city’s busiest streets. Birmingham Central Heart sits within the emerging Central Heart Growth Zone of the Birmingham Local Plan and is aligned with the Central Birmingham Framework 2045 and the Economy and Place Strategy, which identifies the area as critical to the city’s long-term growth.

The council is working closely with regional and national partners, including the West Midlands Combined Authority and government backed finance institutions, to link Central Heart projects with appropriate funding streams.

Young people shape BBC future The Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity (LHC) is leading a major UK-wide initiative to bring student voices into the national debate on BBC Charter Renewal – at a critical moment for the broadcaster’s future and its relationship with young audiences.

In partnership with the Media Reform Coalition (MRC) and supported by the National Union of Students (NUS), the centre is launching a nationwide series of student-led discussions to ensure 16–25-year-olds help shape how the BBC is governed, funded and run.

The first event took place in March at Birmingham City University (BCU), marking the start of a wider campaign to engage students across universities and FE colleges.

At a time when the BBC faces an ongoing challenge to engage younger audiences, who increasingly consume content via social media, streaming platforms and short-form video, the LHC and MRC say it is essential that young people are active participants in shaping its future.

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The launch at BCU featured a message from Sir Lenny Henry, whose Centre has been at the forefront of advancing inclusion and representation across the UK media industry.

He said: “Young people should be heard in the debate about BBC Charter Renewal. Their concerns need to be addressed. We need diversity of thought and representation at the BBC moving forward, and students must be part of that debate. I urge all universities and FE colleges to do all they can to make it happen.”

The initiative is part of the Alternative Green Paper on the BBC’s Future, developed by the MRC, setting out proposals for a more democratic, accountable and representative BBC. With the Government’s White Paper on Charter Renewal expected shortly before the summer recess - and the formal consultation process now closed – organisers say this initiative creates a vital space for public engagement, particularly among younger audiences.

Young people must be heard: Sir Lenny Henry

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

President’s Focus Martin Hall is president of Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce and managing director of M Hall Limited, a consultancy providing insurance market intelligence and mentoring. As an advocate for work experience, Martin feels some firms are wrongly using insurance as an excuse for not offering opportunities.

A

s president of the Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce - and as someone who’s spent nearly 10 years as an enterprise adviser I’ve heard every reason under the sun why employers “can’t” offer work experience.

But one excuse crops up more than any other: “We don’t have the right insurance.”

Let me be absolutely clear - in almost every case, that simply isn’t true.

Unless you’re manufacturing explosives or running a high-ropes maintenance business suspended over a high rise or cliff, your Employers’ Liability Insurance already covers work-experience students and interns.

They are included in the definition of “employee” in the vast majority of UK policy wordings.

The Health & Safety Executive and the Association of British Insurers both confirm this.

So, if insurance has been your barrier, consider it removed.

And that matters, because the landscape of work experience has just changed - significantly, and for the better.

The UK Government has updated its expectations around work experience, and educators are already adapting.

The new approach is built on six principles: 1 Prioritise young people who are missing out 2 Ensure experiences are employer-led in their design 3 Enable meaningful relationships between employers and young people 4 Start early - across all five years of secondary school 5 Provide access to multiple industries and occupations 6 Deliver meaningful experiences aligned with the updated Gatsby Benchmark 6.

‘What we need now is simple.

Stop looking for reasons not to engage. Start looking at the opportunities you’re missing by staying on the sidelines’

This is not the old “one week in Year 10” model. This is a structured, outcomes-driven, multi-year programme designed to build confidence, aspiration, and employability. Schools and colleges

are ready. They’re more proactive, more targeted, and more collaborative than ever. Now they need business to meet them halfway. Every time I sit down with a business in Lichfield, Tamworth or

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Work experience changing: Martin Hall

the wider West Midlands, the same challenges rise to the top.

Talent retention. Talent attraction. Skills gaps. We talk about them constantly, and rightly so. But here’s the uncomfortable

truth - you can’t solve a talent pipeline problem if you never meet the pipeline.

Work experience isn’t charity. It’s not a box-ticking exercise. It’s not “giving up time”. It’s talent scouting.

I’ve seen it time and time again.

A student comes in for a placement, impresses the team, returns for a part-time role, and eventually becomes a full-time employee.

Sometimes they become the star you didn’t know you needed.

If you want to future-proof your workforce, this is one of the smartest, lowest-cost, highestimpact strategies available.

One of the most exciting developments in Stoke and Staffordshire is the introduction of Tool Box Talks - short, targeted sessions where educators can request employer input on specific topics, sectors, or skills.

This is not “come in and talk for an hour about your job”. This is precision engagement.

It respects employers’ time. It ensures relevance. It delivers clear value to students and teachers.

And it builds the kind of relationships that lead naturally to work experience opportunities.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’d help if I knew what they actually needed,” this is your moment.

We have brilliant businesses in our region. We have ambitious young people. We have educators who are more open, more collaborative, and more strategic than ever.

What we need now is simple.

Stop looking for reasons not to engage. Start looking at the opportunities you’re missing by staying on the sidelines.

Work experience isn’t a burden.

It’s an investment - in your future workforce, in your community, and in the long-term success of our region.

So, the next time someone in your business says: “We’re not insured,” you can confidently reply: “Yes, we are - so what’s our excuse now?” And ideally, you’ll follow it with: “Why wouldn’t we get involved?”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

The Griffin Report The current image for outsiders looking at Birmingham is financial strife and bin strikes. But two property experts in the city, Greg Collings and Arthur Morgan, see a city on the cusp of a post-Covid renaissance that will generate a string of multi-billion-pound developments.

JON GRIFFIN spoke to the Fisher German executives about how they are working to reverse those negative vibes.

“The future is bright – the future is Birmingham’s…there is an exciting outlook for the city and lots of opportunities, we have just got to unlock them.”

T

he upbeat message comes from Greg Collings, associate partner at Colmore Row property consultancy Fisher German, a planning expert who in his own words has been working “in and around the city for more years than I care to remember”.

Greg and Fisher German partner Arthur Morgan were both attendees at a roundtable event chaired by Birmingham City Council leader Councillor John Cotton – a gathering which showcased the vast range of large-scale regeneration schemes on the horizon across the city.

Both property experts sat down with Chamberlink to highlight the continuing renaissance of the Midlands capital discussed at the roundtable – with tens of thousands of jobs in the pipeline as Birmingham battles to reverse negative narratives centred around Birmingham City Council’s financial plight and the bin strikes. And while the fallout from the council cash turmoil and the still unresolved bins dispute understandably remain in the public arena, there’s another often-

overshadowed story of economic growth and regeneration – as the Fisher German duo can relate.

Said Arthur: “There is so much that people from outside Birmingham do not see. All they think about is the council being in significant financial difficulties and the bins – they don’t appreciate the immediate working environment.”

That environment is on the cusp of a major post-Covid resurgence which will bring a string of new developments to the largest city economy outside London, with Brum contributing 40 per cent to the West Midlands economy.

The council leader’s roundtable shone a spotlight on an array of multiple large-scale regeneration projects including: • The Sports Quarter centred around Birmingham City’s new 62,000-seat stadium backed by £3bn of investment, creating 8,400 jobs and transforming the East of Birmingham.

• The Knowledge Quarter around Aston University and Millennium Point – delivering an estimated 20,000 jobs and a 4,000 home eco town.

“Historic stigma around Birmingham”: Greg Collings

• The Health Innovation Campus in Selly Oak, a £210m project providing state-of-the-art lab facilities, office and innovations space and up to 10,000 new jobs.

• The Smithfield, Ladywood Estate Regeneration Scheme delivering 12,000 new homes in the heart of the city alongside improved infrastructure, public spaces and community facilities.

• Regeneration schemes at Digbeth – including the Beorma Quarter development in the heart of the district offering luxury and boutique stores and 125,000 sq ft of office space – Druids Heath and the Langley development, delivering tens of thousands of jobs and new homes.

Sports Quarter: The Birmingham City stadium

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Greg told Chamberlink: “You can see transformation and constant evolution as each year passes, more

and more developments occurring.

It was very evident when we attended the roundtable event that key developments are being brought forward and pushing ahead. I think that HS2 is going to be key to unlocking private investment and housing development – that will really ramp things up but we are not quite there yet.

“There is so much potential in the whole east side of Birmingham waiting to be unlocked – it will really ramp up and transform that area.”

Arthur said: “There’s the Knowledge Quarter and the Gateway by which most people drive into Birmingham. Curzon Wharf is the big one planned right next to the Aston Expressway which would be a major improvement on what is currently there. Smithfield is a massive development that will bridge the gap between the city centre and Digbeth.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Fisher German sale: The Titan Works in Stourbridge

“Be good to see more private sector sites”: Arthur Morgan

Both property experts stressed that the glut of new developments were largely public sector projects – and called on private developers to join the clamour to build across the Birmingham skyline.

Said Arthur: “It would be good to see a few more private sector sites being delivered by private developers that speculatively want to choose Birmingham as a location where they want to build for sale, to rent or build affordable schemes.

“At the moment if you look around Birmingham all the cranes are pretty much on the back of public sector funded schemes, which is a positive thing. But I guess you wonder why aren’t we attracting the private sector in the same way that London obviously and Manchester – where there is a huge amount of development – are.”

Greg said the continuing growth of Birmingham would be helped considerably by a more streamlined

planning process. “The National Planning Policy Framework is under review and out for consultation.

The planning process in itself is quite cumbersome and slow so it takes time for these projects to build through.”

‘We have got the Euros and the Invictus Games coming up – we really need to shout about these things’ Arthur said the potential for adding to the boom by redeveloping other Birmingham sites was considerable – particularly car parks. “The opportunities are there – there are

Beorma Tower: Bridging the Bullring and Digbeth

car parks that could be repurposed into new development sites, creating jobs and new homes.”

Greg added: “I definitely think that there has been a bit of a historic stigma around Birmingham and its perception. If people who haven’t previously visited Birmingham were to come, they would have a different perspective.

The Commonwealth Games certainly helped change the narrative. We have got the Euros and the Invictus Games coming up – we really need to shout about these things.”

Said Arthur: “These things put us on a world stage – they are opportunities to elevate our status.

We should – and hopefully in time will – attract private development, the platform is there.”

Both agreed that investment in the region would also be boosted

by Birmingham Airport’s recently announced plans to restore flights to New York. Said Greg: “Restoring

connectivity to New York will absolutely help tourism and investment opportunities and everything else.”

A partnership approach to further growth involving the likes of the council, businesses, Homes England, the Combined Authority, universities and community groups was essential. Said Arthur: “It has to be done in partnership with the Council, the Combined Authority etc. The hard thing is making all these things in harmony – working together is tough.”

They said more housing was urgently required alongside the development boom. Said Greg: “The Government is pushing for millions of homes to be delivered so we have got to turn around and get them built quite quickly.”

Arthur concluded: “We definitely feel that we are on the way up – we have got to keep that momentum going.”

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BUSINESS NEWS ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

How the right workforce and culture drive sustainable business growth

By Gemma Richardson (pictured), founder & people strategy consultant, All About People The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) reported this month that people-focused organisations are four times more likely to outperform their peers. In other words, the way organisations design their workforce, engage their people and provide a culture in which they can thrive, has a direct impact on performance.

For many CEOs, growth strategies often centre on sales, operations or market expansion.

Yet two of the most significant drivers of sustainable performance are frequently overlooked: the strategic design of the workforce itself and the culture of the organisation.

In many organisations, workforce planning still means little more than forecasting how many people will be needed next quarter.

Conversely, when culture is misaligned with strategy, even the best commercial plans can struggle to gain traction.

Turning people strategy into competitive advantage The opportunity lies in treating people strategy with the same rigour as financial or operational planning.

Strategic workforce planning, however, takes a far broader view.

It asks not only how many people you need, but what capabilities your business must develop to achieve its long-term strategy.

Strategic workforce planning helps CEOs to step back and ask more fundamental questions around capabilities, critical roles, internal talent and new expertise that may be needed in the future.

That means: • Designing the workforce around future capability needs.

Organisational culture is often spoken about in abstract terms, but in reality, it is about the behaviours that are tolerated and “how things get done around here.” It shapes decision-making, accountability, collaboration and ultimately the speed and quality of execution.

In high-performing organisations, culture acts as a performance multiplier. People understand the organisation’s direction, leaders reinforce consistent behaviours and teams feel empowered to deliver results.

The organisations that outperform are rarely those with the biggest teams – but those with the clearest alignment between their people and their strategy.

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• Identifying and developing critical leadership roles early.

• Embedding cultural behaviours that support execution and performance.

• Regularly reviewing whether the organisation’s structure still serves its strategy.

For guidance on creating your strategic workforce plan and desired culture, reach out to Gemma at: gemma@allaboutpeople.com

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BUSINESS NEWS

Meet the Team

DEPARTMENT: MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS

Head of department: Dan Harrison Can you describe your role and your team’s primary responsibilities within the Chamber?

It is our job to tell the story of the Chamber and its members.

The Media & Communications team work with every department in the organisation to ensure the Chamber gets its key messages across, as well as providing members with a platform to share their news and views.

We do this through a variety of media channels – including this magazine.

What are the key services your team provides to members and the wider business community?

As well as producing the editorial content for Chamberlink, we deliver the daily Greater Birmingham Business News bulletins (published every weekday morning before 9am), as well as weekly or monthly news bulletins for each division of the GBCC. We’re also responsible for generating proactive and reactive external media coverage – building on the Chamber’s longstanding reputation as the go-to organisation for TV, radio, written and online media when it comes to comment on matters affecting business.

Keeping up with the ever-changing digital media landscape is another key part of our job.

This includes creating compelling content for the various social media channels across the GBCC group, and producing podcasts (such as ‘CEO Stories’ and ‘Future Faces: The Young Professionals Podcast’).

The Media & Communication team: Jon Griffin, Saskia Kaur Masaun, Feron Jayawardene and Dan Harrison

Airport’s drive to reinstate direct flights to the United States.

This was a great example of a multi-platform communications plan which led to coverage in the print, online and broadcast media, as well as devoting a large part of last month’s Chamberlink to this story (see Jon Griffin’s exclusive interview with Birmingham Airport CEO Nick Barton in the March edition).

Media and communications manager Feron Jayarwadene has been working closely with Ruth Fleet from our Policy team on communications for the Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel project – an important body of work which involved producing content with members from across our Burton, Cannock Chase and Lichfield & Tamworth divisions.

The team have also just delivered another successful International Women’s Day campaign across our website and social media channels.

‘Many businesses – particularly small firms and start-ups – don’t realise they are sitting on great stories’

What does a typical day look like for your team?

It’s fast-paced! The nature of our work means we’re like a hybrid between a press office and a news desk.

There are always at least two news bulletins going out each day, which involves writing thousands of words daily – either about our members, initiatives within the Chamber or wider topics relating to business.

And, of course, you never know when a big story is going to break – often leading to enquiries from local or national media.

When this happens, it becomes our job to try and turn those enquiries into meaningful, highvalue opportunities for the Chamber and our members.

What are the most common challenges or needs your team helps members address?

Many businesses – particularly small firms and start-ups – either don’t realise they are sitting on great stories, or don’t have the resource internally to turn them into a compelling article or press release.

We help them unearth and share their good news – such as appointments, milestones, client wins or analysis of any hot topics affecting business.

With the unfortunate decline of dedicated local business news, we feel our local and hyperlocal news platforms are more important than ever.

What’s a recent project, initiative, or success your team is particularly proud of?

Regular Chamberlink readers will be aware of the Chamber’s role in backing Birmingham

What’s the most rewarding part of your work within the Chamber?

The answer to this is two-fold. From a personal perspective, as a journalist or media professional,

there is no substitute for seeing the fruits of your creativity published – whether it be in print, online or in multimedia form.

In terms of supporting members, it’s always a nice feeling when you’ve been able to use the power of news and media to help a local business achieve a positive outcome.

What’s something people might not know about your team’s work but should?

As referenced above, the Chamber has a longstanding reputation as the go-to organisation for business comment.

We have forged connections with journalists in the local, regional and national media.

Over the past 12 months, for example, the Chamber has been featured on national TV and radio, the Times and the FT on topics such as the economy, Trump’s tariffs and the JLR crisis.

We have also facilitated opportunities for members to appear in the Sunday Times, as well as on Bloomberg, Global Radio and local TV and radio.

We’re always looking for members to put themselves forward for media opportunities, as and when they arise.

What are some fun facts about your team members?

Dan and Feron are both musicians, while Feron is also an avid watch collector.

In his spare time, Dan hosts and produces a podcast ‘Foos Files’ about one of his favourite bands, the Foo Fighters.

Throughout his stellar journalism career, media and communications assistant and multi-awardwinning columnist Jon Griffin, has interviewed huge names including former Prime Minister Tony Blair and boxing legend Muhammad Ali. During her stint with the BBC, media and communications officer Saskia Kaur Masaun created a documentary on Spiritualism which aired on the BBC World Service.

John Lamb, editor of Chamberlink and former long-standing Chamber Press and PR director, is also a musician, a pianist specialising in the classical and jazz genres.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Job growth stalls in region A combination of economic uncertainty and rising cost pressures is hindering job growth in the West Midlands, business leaders say.

New figures from the Office for National Statistics reveal unemployment in the region rose by 0.2 per cent in the three months to January.

There was also a 4.4 per cent decline in employment over the same period.

The West Midlands unemployment rate now stands at 6.1 per cent – the second highest of any region outside London.

‘The West Midlands is struggling to keep pace with the national labour market’ Emily Stubbs, head of policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “Today's figures confirm once again that the West Midlands is struggling to keep pace with the national labour market.

“Employment has softened locally while unemployment has continued to rise at a rate above the national average, and this divergence is having real consequences for households and businesses.

“A combination of economic uncertainty and everincreasing cost pressures is hindering job creation and stifling economic growth.”

Chamber welcomes greater fiscal devolution The Chancellor’s plans to give regional mayors a share of national taxes to invest in their areas presents “a significant opportunity” for the West Midlands, business leaders say.

During her annual Mais lecture at the Bayes Business School in London, Rachel Reeves said the reforms would focus on giving regions a better say over how they spend revenues generated by economic activity in their area.

This would include giving mayors a share of national taxes, including income tax.

She said the government will publish a “road map for future fiscal devolution” at the budget in the autumn, adding that the task force would “look at income tax, alongside other taxes”.

The Chancellor used her Mais lecture to set out how the government will pursue the three biggest opportunities for economic growth in Britain - a closer and more stable economic relationship with the EU, a step change in AI and frontier technology, and unlocking growth in every region and nation of the UK.

‘The ambition to make the UK the fastest AI adopter in the G7 should also be applauded, and this is something the GBCC are proud to support’ Emily Stubbs, head of policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), said: “Businesses across Greater Birmingham will welcome the Chancellor’s focus on regional growth and a more stable trading relationship with the EU. "For a region as internationally connected as the West Midlands, reducing trade barriers and restoring predictability with our largest export market is essential to unlock the full potential of local businesses.

"The ambition to make the UK the fastest AI adopter in the G7 should also be applauded, and this is something the GBCC are proud to support through

Significant opportunity: Emily Stubbs

initiatives including the AI Academy and our Business Growth Studio.

“Greater fiscal flexibility presents a significant opportunity for the region.

“Allowing Mayors and Combined Authorities to retain and direct a proportion of locally generated income tax could enable more strategic investment in skills, infrastructure and trade support here in the West Midlands.

“Commitments to support innovation and pull back on unnecessary regulation will also be welcomed.

“However, after years of uncertainty and the publication of several strategic plans, delivery on all of these commitments will be key to driving productivity and prosperity.”

Prepare for employment law changes National law firm Clarke Willmott is urging retailers to take immediate steps to update employment policies, prepare staffing plans and train managers ahead of new family-friendly and sick leave entitlements coming into effect in April.

The upcoming reforms, part of the Employment Rights Act 2025, will give employees day one entitlements to paternity, parental and bereavement leave, as well as statutory sick pay.

‘These April 2026 reforms will affect day-to-day operation’ Further changes in 2027 will include unfair dismissal reforms, 16 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

Kathryn advises retailers to: • Review contracts and policies to ensure that these are legally compliant, reflect statutory entitlements and are fit for purpose.

• Strengthen recruitment and onboarding processes and procedures - with the impending changes to unfair dismissal rights to have robust screening, induction and probationary practices will be key.

• Train managers to ensure that they are aware of and able to consistently apply and enforce policies and procedures across the workforce. Employees are increasingly aware of and exercising their statutory rights, therefore it will be essential that managers understand and implement policies fairly and consistently if employers want to seek to limit exposure to Employment Tribunal litigation.

updated zero-hours contracts and stricter redundancy rules.

Kathryn Walters (pictured), a senior associate in the employment team at Clarke Willmott, said: “Retailers already operate in a challenging environment, with tight margins, rising rents and fluctuating footfall. These April 2026 reforms will affect day-to-day operations, from managing leave requests to planning staffing and scheduling.

“By reviewing policies, updating contracts and training managers now, businesses can protect their workforce, maintain stability and manage staffing challenges such as high turnover roles, seasonal recruitment and temporary cover.

“This isn’t just a compliance exercise - it helps reduce the risk of disputes or penalties.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Pertemps sponsors a knockout event Pertemps Network Group has been announced as the sponsor of It’s a Knockout, supporting the event for the second consecutive year.

Organised by the Kaleidoscope Plus Group (KPG), a charity that has championed mental health for over 50 years, the tournament brings businesses together for a day of fun, teamwork, and purpose.

Pertemps Network Group, based in Meriden, West Midlands, is one of the UK’s largest privately-owned recruitment agencies.

It’s A Knockout sees teams compete in a series of high-energy, collaborative challenges using the original props and costumes from the iconic BBC TV show.

Carmen Watson, chairperson of the Pertemps Network Group, said: “KPG have made great strides in encouraging employers to think about the mental health of their employees and make wellbeing a priority in the workplace.

“This is something Pertemps wholeheartedly agrees with. We were delighted to support the inaugural It’s A Knockout tournament last year—a fresh event that gets teams away from the office and into the fresh air for a fantastic day of collaborative fun, while also helping to support a local mental health charity.”

It’s a Knockout 2026 will take place at Avery Fields in Birmingham on 24 June.

To register go to: kaleidoscopeplus.org.uk/knockout

Rise in visitors for museum Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery are celebrating a 305 per cent increase in visitor numbers during 2025.

The figures were published by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) during English Tourism Week.

Following the beginning of its phased reopening in October 2024 after a period of closure, it welcomed 672,391 visitors through the doors last year.

This places Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery 62nd in the country and second in the West Midlands for the number of visitors to ALVA members’ sites in 2025.

The total number of visits to 409 ALVA sites in 2025 was 165 million, which was a two per cent increase on the previous year.

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23-storey potential: A computer-generated image of Horse Fair

City centre site offers 23 storeys of potential A Birmingham city centre property with potential to become a 23-storey residential tower has been brought to market for £2.1m.

Commercial property agency Shepherd Commercial, based in Birmingham and Solihull, has been appointed to market 31–33 Horse Fair, a prominent freehold property in the city’s Southside district.

The site, just a short walk from Birmingham New Street station, has been the subject of a pre-application process with Birmingham City Council, which provided positive feedback on a number of redevelopment scenarios, including a 23-storey scheme delivering around 80 residential units.

‘Opportunities of this scale and development potential rarely come to market in Birmingham city centre’ Known as Essex House, the 7,727 sq ft multi-storey commercial building currently provides a series of office suites with ancillary accommodation, a substantial basement and five parking spaces, offering flexibility for redevelopment as either purpose-built student accommodation or residential apartments.

Kaine Arkinson, managing director of Shepherd Commercial, said: “31–33 Horse Fair represents a rare opportunity to acquire a freehold site in a prime

Birmingham city centre location with significant redevelopment potential.

“The positive pre-application response from Birmingham City Council for a 23-storey tower delivering around 80 residential units highlights the scale of opportunity available to investors and developers – and we are already seeing huge interest in this property.

“With a freehold site within walking distance of New Street Station, opportunities of this scale and development potential rarely come to market in Birmingham city centre.

“At the same time, the existing property provides income through an existing tenancy and offers clear asset management potential in the short term.”

The property occupies a prominent position at the junction of Horse Fair, Bristol Street and Holloway Head, providing direct access to Birmingham’s inner ring road and the wider motorway network.

Part of the ground floor is let to Bank of China (UK) Limited, providing established rental income, while the first to fourth floors are offered vacant, presenting opportunities for refurbishment or alternative uses.

The proposal reflects the site’s location within a recognised tall building cluster and an area experiencing significant regeneration.

The investment will bring improved connectivity between New Street, the Chinese Quarter and the Smithfield regeneration area.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Award win

by Talbots Law Employee-owned law firm Talbots Law has been named conveyancing firm of the year - Midlands and Wales at the British Conveyancing Awards 2026 in Manchester.

The award recognises excellence in residential conveyancing and highlights the achievements of firms delivering outstanding legal services to homebuyers and sellers across the region.

Talbots Law’s property team supports tens of thousands of people each year with buying and selling homes across England and Wales, combining legal expertise with a proactive and client-focused approach to managing transactions.

The award judges praised firms demonstrating high standards of service, innovation and commitment to improving the conveyancing experience for clients.

‘This is a testament to the quality and dedication of our team’ The firm has now won this award in consecutive years, alongside finalist shortlisting for national New Build Conveyancing Team of the Year.

Talbots Law was also shortlisted in the Collaboration of the Year category for its work with legal technology company Orbital.

The collaboration focuses on the use of artificial intelligence to review leases and generate clear insights for legal professionals, helping to streamline elements of the legal process while maintaining high levels of accuracy.

CEO Dave Hodgetts said: “This is a testament to the quality and dedication of our team. It is a privilege to see their dedication rewarded on the national stage and I’d like to say a huge well done to each and every one of them.”

Talbots Law is one of the largest property law providers in the region, supporting more than 40,000 people every year with buying and selling homes across England and Wales.

• For more legal news turn to page 82.

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Business founder calls for more UK innovation support The founder of a West Midlands branding consultancy has met with Saqib Bhatti, Conservative MP for Meriden and Solihull East, to raise concerns about the challenges facing founder-led businesses in the UK and the potential impact on the country’s future job market.

Lizzie Ingram, founder of Althea Creative, met with the MP to discuss the wider implications following the overnight collapse of Birminghambased EV charging technology company Petalite – a business once seen as a promising innovator in the rapidly growing electric vehicle infrastructure sector.

The conversation focused on what the loss of high-growth, founder-led companies could mean for regional economies like the West Midlands, particularly in industries where the region has long-standing global expertise such as automotive engineering and advanced manufacturing.

Lizzie said the closure highlighted questions around how the UK supports innovative start-ups and protects the intellectual property developed by domestic companies.

She said: “This was a company of 60 people, with real strategic importance – not only for the UK’s engineering and automotive industries, but especially for the West Midlands.

“It’s incredibly heartbreaking to see a business I worked for since R&D days quite literally cease overnight, particularly when independent testing showed its

Stronger support needed: Lizzie Ingram

innovation could rival European competitors.”

Lizzie said the meeting also explored the broader role founderled businesses play in job creation and innovation, particularly at a time when the UK is trying to strengthen its position in emerging industries such as clean technology.

She continued: “I recently read a UK Parliament report stating that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the UK economy. However, there is growing

evidence that many are operating under significant pressure. Start-ups in particular report that their confidence is now ‘severely strained’.”

The discussion with Saqib – a past president of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce – formed part of a wider effort to ensure the experiences of entrepreneurs and founder-led businesses are better represented in conversations about economic growth and industrial strategy.

quietnote chief exec speaks up Future Faces Chamber of Commerce vice-president Will Crawford (pictured) is adding his business and musical expertise to a special event in Tamworth this month.

Will, founder and CEO of Birmingham-based wellbeing organisation quietnote, has been selected to deliver a talk at TEDxTamworth on 16 April.

The TEDx event will explore the powerful theme of belonging, with Will’s talk focusing on the idea of internal belonging - what it means to feel at home within your own mind and body.

His session will combine scientific insight with a live classical guitar performance, demonstrating quietnote’s distinctive “mindfulness through music” approach. quietnote attracted significant media attention last year following the launch of their world-first clinical

study, delivered in partnership with the University of Birmingham, exploring the measurable impact of their approach on stress, resilience, performance and overall wellbeing.

With its evidence-based approach to preventative healthcare, quietnote now works directly with communities and corporate organisations to build healthier minds and high-performance cultures.

In his upcoming TEDx talk, Will explores how combining the science of mindfulness with the art of music creates one of the most accessible wellbeing practices available.

Will said: “We no longer feel at home or comfortable in ourselves, we have lost our sense of intrabody belonging.

“By approaching music through the science of mindfulness, we can cultivate belonging not just in our communities and relationships, but within ourselves.”

• For more Future Faces news see pages 60 and 61.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Staffordshire sets out list of priorities to secure future

By Feron Jaywardene

B

usiness leaders from Staffordshire have unveiled 17 policy recommendations designed to ensure the county’s transition to a devolved Strategic Authority delivers real benefits for local firms.

The report is a culmination of the Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel, a research project conducted

by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), in partnership with Burton and District Chamber of Commerce, Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce, and Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber of Commerce.

It comes at a time when the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill is going through the House of Lords – and is anticipated to become law by late spring this year.

Regions like Staffordshire will see the establishment of a Strategic Authority (SSA), a statutory body which sits over unitary councils, to which the government will devolve the legal power and funding to control certain policy aspects for the region from inception.

Research for the report was conducted through four thematic roundtables, a survey of 153 respondents from businesses across South and East Staffordshire, and over 20 interviews and engagements with MPs, local authorities, devolution and policy specialists, and other key regional stakeholders.

Survey findings revealed that 51 per cent of businesses are not

Real collaboration: Ruth Fleet

22 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

operating at full capacity and the biggest transport challenges businesses faced were parking (32 per cent), road capacity (28 per cent) and staff commuting (22 per cent).

During recruitment, 60 per cent of respondents said they could hire and retain the right people for their business. Out of those who couldn’t, 82 per cent said that there was a lack of qualified candidates and over 47 per cent said that labour costs were an issue.

In business spaces, 15 per cent of businesses cannot access premises that suit their needs, 22 per cent of businesses believe they would benefit from access to business incubation spaces, and 46 per cent of firms believe they would benefit from an innovation or science park in the region.

Access to connectivity was a key point raised with 42 per cent of businesses struggling with internet connection, whether fibre connections, mobile connections, or both.

‘This report won’t just sit on a shelf. GBCC will be using this as a springboard for driving action’ Meanwhile, 51 per cent of firms said they have not engaged with the local authority in their area for business support in the last two years.

Of those who did engage, 56 per cent were satisfied or very satisfied with the support they received.

The survey also revealed that 58 per cent of respondents would like more funding advice, 46 per cent of businesses would like more support on skills or training, and 43 per cent of firms would like innovation support services.

The recommendations, based on the survey, centre around key themes that businesses raised during the research including preparing for a strategic authority, the business support ecosystem, the built environment, and people, process and skills.

Dr Ruth Fleet, GBCC senior policy advisor who led the project,

The full list of recommendations: 1.

Establish a Key Stakeholders Forum with regular meetings to support communications and strategic input on the development of the SSA in 2026.

2. Create a “Statement of Intent” that sets the direction for the SSA, bringing the various new Unitary Councils and other strategic partners together as a united front. The statement can define the parameters and vision of the new Strategic Authority, as well as setting short, medium and long-term goals.

3. Create a Business Board for the Staffordshire Region, which will hold a governance role on the SSA. 4. Under the remit of the Business Board, develop an anchor institution programme, identifying which businesses and institutions regionally have the power to drive change and to collaborate at a significant and strategic level.

5. Organise business support for Staffordshire centrally to ensure that all businesses across the SSA have the same opportunities of access, engagement, funding, and advice on finance.

6. Funding should be designed with the involvement of the business community, be available across the whole region and allow for flexibility in metrics.

7.

Ensure that business support is provided by a team of SSA employees rather than contractors, with representatives for each district, town or city.

8. Implement a ‘buy local’ policy for procurement processes to give priority to local firms over outside national suppliers.

9. Create a Tourism and Hospitality Taskforce to promote the visitor economy in Staffordshire.

10. Create a Strategic Housing and Infrastructure Taskforce comprised of local authority and political representatives, as well as key stakeholders from across the region, to address regional challenges.

11. Investigate, develop and approve plans for a science and innovation park in South and East Staffordshire.

12. Investigate, develop and approve plans for business incubation spaces, where start-ups and micro businesses have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from more experienced businesses.

13. Investigate the potential for live/work spaces across the region.

14. Create an Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Scheme like the one offered by the West Midlands Combined Authority, ensuring that unspent levy can be retained in the region and used by businesses that have capacity to spend more levy.

15. Develop a skills strategy for the region, using data to identify what skills are in shortage but also to plan for the future of work. This could focus on unemployment rates, youth skills and work readiness, older workers transitioning into new careers, and shifts in the labour market due to AI adoption.

16. Publish live employment / recruitment data at a regional level to support businesses and candidates in finding the right fit.

17. Ensure that adult skills courses are designed for adults and create support for transitioning between careers.

said: “This project has been a real collaborative effort between the Chambers and businesses across South and East Staffordshire to produce an evidence-based ‘stateof-the-nation’ assessment of the opportunities and challenges facing the region right now.

“Businesses are enthusiastic about further devolution of powers and funding to a Strategic Authority and have aspirational

ideas of how devolution could drive economic growth over the next ten years and beyond.

“This report won’t just sit on a shelf. GBCC will be using this as a springboard for driving action in the interim period before the establishment of a Strategic Authority, working to ensure that the voice of business remains at the heart of devolution in the region going forward.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Where do you fancy?

KIBOU Solihull is a contemporary Japanese kitchen and bar situated on Solihull High Street, housed in a beautifully transformed Grade II listed building. The restaurant combines a striking cocktail bar, open sushi kitchen and spacious dining room, all brought to life with bold mural artwork and golden Japanese acer details throughout the interior. KIBOU offers guests a genuine taste of Japan, from expertly crafted sushi and sashimi to steaming bowls of ramen, handmade gyoza and classic cocktails with a Japanese twist.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar, Solihull 134 High Street, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 3SX T: 0121 387 2400 E: solihull@kibou.co.uk W: kibou.co.uk Owner: KIBOU Restaurant Group Head chef: Zeus Ho

Food and drink Lunch KIBOU serves lunch from 12pm daily, with the full à la carte menu available alongside a set lunch menu. The Taste of Tokyo set lunch menu runs Monday to Friday, 12pm to 6pm, with two courses from £18.95 or three from £22.95.

Featuring Japanese classics such as chicken karaage, katsu curry, ramen and mochi ice cream. On Sundays, Bottomless Sushi runs 12pm to 3pm at £34 per person, with optional unlimited drinks packages available.

Dinner The full KIBOU menu spans all of Japanese cuisine. Classic sharers and small plates include chicken karaage, pork gyoza, nasu dengaku, takoyaki and bao buns.

24 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

The sushi covers hosomaki, nigiri, uramaki, gunkan, sashimi, tataki and signature rolls, including the famous Volcano Roll. Main courses include katsu curry (chicken, prawn or vegan pumpkin), teriyaki (chicken, salmon or truffle beef sirloin), ramen (chashu tonkotsu, crispy chicken or vegan miso), and sharing platters from the sushi kitchen.

Premium dishes include A5 Joshu wagyu beef in various formats.

Drinks include Japanese-inspired cocktails, an extensive Japanese whisky and sake selection, highballs and Japanese-brewed beers.

Vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree options are available.

Wines KIBOU's wine list is chosen to complement the bold, umami-rich

flavours of Japanese cuisine, with a range of whites, reds and sparkling available by the glass and bottle.

Alongside the wine list, KIBOU offers an ambitious selection of sake, from clean and refreshing Junmai to complex aged varieties.

Plus Japanese whisky, umeshu and cocktails, all chosen to enhance the food experience.

Business facilities Business deals: See lunch details.

Private dining facilities KIBOU Solihull has semi-private dining arrangements suited to business entertaining, team lunches and client events. The restaurant accommodates up to 70 covers.

Contact solihull@kibou.co.uk for availability and pricing.

Opening hours: Sun to Tues: 12pm to 10pm Wed to Sat: 12pm to 11pm Kitchen closed 3.30pm to 5pm Mon to Thurs

Exclusive offer for Chamber members* 15 per cent off lunch, Monday to Friday, 12pm to 4pm, at KIBOU Solihull.

• Discount does not include drinks.

Offer is not valid in conjunction with any other offer and is valid on the à la carte menu only. Only one discount can be applied per reservation.

Management reserve the right to withdraw this offer at any time. A valid Chambers membership must be shown to redeem.

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BUSINESS NEWS

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Region’s businesswomen are leading the way As part of International Women’s Day 2026, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce invited business leaders to share their thoughts on the power of reciprocity and support following this year’s theme of ‘Give to Gain’. The first question they were asked was: What changes would you like to see for women in business in Greater Birmingham? Chamberlink presents a snapshot of some of those answers from the hundreds received.

To see them all go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com/support/women-in-business.html

Heather Woodhouse Communications manager at the Birmingham Colmore Business Improvement District (BID): I’d like to see even greater visibility and representation of women at decision‑making levels across Birmingham’s business community. We already have incredible female talent in the city, but too often it isn’t showcased or supported in the way it deserves.

Creating more structured pathways into leadership, improving access to mentoring, and ensuring women’s voices are genuinely listened to in senior level, strategic conversations would make a huge difference.

‘We already have incredible female talent in the city, but too often it isn’t showcased or supported in the way it deserves’

Sharon McCormick Clinical director of The Listening Centre, is an ex-RAF veteran, a business owner, a counsellor, a policy contributor, and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Business of the Year winner in 2025: Women-led SMEs in Birmingham are disproportionately building highquality, values-driven businesses - and then losing contracts to larger providers with inferior outcomes, simply because evaluation criteria favour scale over evidence.

I've experienced this firsthand.

The Listening Centre outperforms national EAP providers on every measurable metric – six-day response versus an 8.8-day industry average, five per cent dropout versus 16-27 per cent sector standard, two per cent missed appointment rate versus 10 per cent industry average, 99 per cent employee satisfaction – yet we’ve lost tenders to corporate providers whose track records don't come close.

When procurement defaults to “safe” national contracts, it doesn't just disadvantage women-led businesses. It delivers worse outcomes for employees, extracts profit from local economies, and rewards size over substance. Birmingham has incredible women building extraordinary businesses.

What we need is evaluation frameworks that ask: what does the evidence actually show? Not: how big is your organisation?

Level the playing field, and women-led businesses won't just compete – they'll lead.

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

BUSINESS NEWS

Lyndsey Kitching Co-founder of CAPE People Development: Greater Birmingham already has an incredibly strong community of women in business, and the region actually ranks among the top in the UK for female-led companies. But there is still more to do when it comes to access, visibility and support.

One of the biggest shifts I’d love to see is greater access to investment and growth opportunities for women-led businesses. Across the UK, only a very small proportion of funding goes to female-founded companies, which limits how many brilliant ideas scale.

I’d also like to see businesses continuing to normalise flexible and human-centred leadership and work practices.

When workplaces support different life stages, including parenthood and caring responsibilities, more women stay, progress and lead.

‘There is still more to do when it comes to access, visibility and support’

Vivean Pomell Founder of Learn with Lolonyo and Brynels British Millinery: At its heart, this year’s theme “Give to Gain” highlights the power of reciprocity and support. I believe this principle is fundamental not only in business but in how we treat one another more broadly.

One writer captured it simply: you reap what you sow. When individuals and institutions invest in others with generosity and integrity, the return is a stronger and more resilient business community.

In Greater Birmingham, I would like to see women consistently represented at every level of leadership, with equitable access to funding, mentoring, and growth opportunities.

Organisations such as the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce play a vital role in creating environments where women can collaborate, share knowledge, and scale their ventures.

As a Black woman in business, I am particularly passionate about ensuring that diverse voices are recognised and supported.

My own approach is grounded in values-based leadership, treating others with fairness, dignity, and respect.

When that ethos becomes embedded across our networks, women’s success becomes visible, valued, and inspiring to the next generation.

Sarah Griffiths Director, project management office (PMO) at Intercity Technology: I’d like to see more women represented in senior leadership and decision-making roles across Birmingham. We have incredibly talented women in this region, but too many still hit structural barriers or feel they have to over justify their credibility.

Creating more visible pathways into leadership, paired with genuinely inclusive cultures, would make a significant difference. I’d also like to see stronger support networks and mentorship opportunities that help women connect across industries.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Rise in demand for better benefits A wealth management and employee benefits company has reported a sharp rise in demand for its employee benefits technology solutions.

Mattioli Woods, a national firm with offices in Oldbury, said client adoption has increased by more than 350 per cent since 2023.

By the end of 2025, the number of clients implementing the firm’s technology solutions had more than tripled, reflecting a step change in employer appetite for digital, flexible and personalised benefits platforms.

The pipeline of clients and prospects engaging with Mattioli Woods in this area has reached its highest level on record, representing a 400 per cent increase on 2023.

‘We are seeing a fundamental shift in how employers view benefits technology’ To meet accelerating demand, the firm has expanded both its technology consulting and delivery teams, with further recruitment planned throughout 2026 as it continues to invest in this high-growth area.

One clear response is the growth of benefits that give employees more control over their time, such as tradeable annual leave, now offered by 69 per cent of employers (up from 65 per cent), according to the latest Alan Jones survey. At the same time, organisations are expanding benefits linked to sustainability and financial wellbeing.

Sean McSweeney, employee benefits team director at Mattioli Woods, said: “We are seeing a fundamental shift in how employers view benefits technology. It’s no longer a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a strategic tool for talent attraction, retention and compliance.

“The scale of growth since 2023 demonstrates that employers recognise the value of investing in modern, integrated platforms like MyWay. With upcoming regulatory changes and ongoing pressure in the recruitment market, we expect demand for benefits technology to remain exceptionally strong.”

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Talking business (left to right): Ihsaan Mohammed - Economic Development Officer, Solihull MBC; Vicky Aspinall, asset manager, IM Properties; Jon Lander - business investment manager, Solihull MBC; Simon Shiner, CFO, runyourfleet; Samantha Frampton and Steve Whitmarsh

Multifleet boss to lead Solihull networking group The boss of Multifleet Vehicle Management has taken on a leading role in the relaunch of a Solihull business networking group.

Steve Whitmarsh, chief executive of Multifleet, which trades as runyourfleet, is the new chair of the J4 Business Forum, a networking group for businesses based near to Junction 4 of the M42 motorway in the Cranmore and Monkspath areas.

Members of the J4 Business Forum gathered for the relaunch at IM Properties, which is based at The Gate on International Drive in Solihull.

‘This will see local business leaders and council representatives meeting regularly’ Steve said: “I’m really pleased to be relaunching the J4 Business Forum to help connect businesses, share ideas and shape the future of our local business community. This will see local business leaders and council representatives meeting regularly to discuss key

issues and mutual priorities, and to explore new opportunities in the area. The relaunch at IM Properties was well attended and will help to shape the direction of future forums, which I will be chairing every quarter.”

Those attending the relaunch included Ihsaan Mohammed, economic development officer at Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, and Jon Lander, the council’s business investment manager.

Others included Simon Shiner, chief financial officer at runyourfleet, Vicky Aspinall, asset manager at IM Properties, and Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, who presented to the group.

Also speaking were Councillor Heather Delaney, Solihull Council’s cabinet holder for the Economy, Business & Skills, Craig O’Donnell, of Business Growth West Midlands, and Syed Ahmed, Senior Employment Specialist at Solihull Council.

Any businesses interested in joining the J4 Business Forum can call Ihsaan Mohammed on 07467628823 or email ihsaan.mohammed@solihull.gov.uk • For more Solihull news see pages 58 and 59.

Retailers’ dangerous goods warning A leading association representing independent retailers across the UK has thrown its support behind new Which? research revealing widespread dangerous product safety failures on major online marketplaces.

The investigation by the consumer champion found 100 ladders sharing similar or identical designs to a product that ended an electrician's career after he fell 4.5 metres from a faulty telescopic ladder bought on Amazon Marketplace.

The research identified these products for sale across 21 online platforms including AliExpress, eBay, Shein and Temu.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, which represents over 6,000 independent retailers across the UK, said: “This deeply troubling research

exposes what independent retailers have long known - that online marketplaces are operating without the accountability that physical retailers are held to every single day.

“Our members must comply with strict product safety standards, yet dangerous goods continue to reach consumers through online platforms unchecked. The Government must use the forthcoming consultation on the Product Regulation and Metrology Act to impose a clear legal duty on online marketplaces and enforce it robustly.

“This is another example of how online marketplaces have become the wild west of retailing. We have unsafe products, fake products and widescale VAT fraud. The Government must take action as part of its own high street strategy

Wild west of retailing: Andrew Goodacre

– independent retailers cannot continue to compete on an uneven playing field while consumers are put at risk.”

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Hotel upgrades meeting spaces Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre has revealed a refurbished meeting space and upgraded Club Lounge following a £250,000 investment.

The revamp is designed to enhance the experience for both business travellers and corporate event organisers.

The hotel’s studio meeting room, located on the ninth floor, has undergone a transformation to create a contemporary, flexible conference environment.

The modernised space features upgraded technology, stylish furnishings and an abundance of natural daylight, with impressive views across the Birmingham skyline.

Designed with business meetings and workshops in mind, The Studio also includes a dedicated pantry area for refreshments and working lunches, as well as private restroom facilities.

Alongside the meeting room refurbishment, the hotel has also completed significant improvements to its Club Lounge, creating a space where guests can relax, work or enjoy complimentary refreshments in a comfortable and contemporary setting.

The £250,000 investment has delivered two refreshed spaces designed to meet the evolving needs of modern travellers and corporate guests, combining contemporary design with practical functionality, says the hotel.

New survey to shape future of local talent A major research project is underway in Birmingham, exploring current and future skills requirements, recruitment challenges and the impact of technological change across the West Midlands.

The Rigby Foundation has teamed up with the University of Birmingham’s City-REDI to gain a better understanding of the issues young people face when transitioning from education to employment.

A key objective of the research is to understand what a joined-up, future-focused skills agenda should look like in an AI-dominated workplace.

‘Ensuring workers, both present and future, have the skills they need to thrive is now urgent’ There are currently just over 20,000 unemployed young people across the region, and youth employment is double the national average in areas such as Walsall, Wolverhampton and Birmingham.

The Rigby Foundation is a Midlands-based charity that funds programmes working with local communities to enable young people, regardless of background, to access the best education possible and opportunities for meaningful and sustainable employment.

An objective of the partnership between The Foundation and the University is for the research to be meaningful and reflective of the region. Therefore, businesses are being urged to participate in the “Future Employment Trends Survey”.

By taking part, regional employers will help the project to understand:

Skills to thrive: Steve Rigby

• Current and future skills needs • Recruitment challenges • How technological change is reshaping roles • What young people need to thrive in a rapidly evolving labour market The survey is now closed and Steve Rigby, chair of The Rigby Foundation, said: “While AI offers significant opportunities for productivity and economic growth, it also carries risks.

“Ensuring workers, both present and future, have the skills they need to thrive is now urgent.

Shortlisting success for marketing expert A marketing director has been shortlisted for two awards in recognition of her work across both business and community initiatives.

Lindsay Woodward, marketing director at Solihull Chamber member Lindsay Woodward Marketing, has been shortlisted for The Inspirational Individual – Community Person of the Year Award at the Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards.

This recognition relates to her role in helping to develop the Rugby Literary Festival, a community focused event that completed its second year in 2025.

Alongside this recognition, Lindsay has also been shortlisted as a finalist for a Woman Who Achieves Award 2026, a programme that celebrates women who are making a significant impact in business and their communities.

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businesses to help them develop clear marketing direction and sustainable growth.

She is a Chartered Marketer and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, recognising over a decade of continued professional development and contribution to the marketing profession.

‘Seeing writers, readers, businesses and families come together has been fantastic’ In addition to running her business, Lindsay is also an author and has played a leading role in helping to establish the Rugby Literary Festival, working with partners and sponsors to create an event that celebrates creativity and encourages wider participation in the arts.

Lindsay said: “It’s been a brilliant start to the year. Over the past couple of years, I’ve felt passionate about supporting local businesses

Supporting business: Lindsay Woodward

and the local community, and for that hard work to be recognised in this way means the world to me.

“The festival is something I’m so proud of. Seeing writers, readers, businesses and families come together has been fantastic.”

The Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards will take place on 23 April at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry, while the Woman Who Achieves Awards 2026 will be on 8 May at the National Conference Centre in Solihull.

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Strengthening defence of region Midlands mayors Richard Parker and Claire Ward have appointed 16 senior defence industry leaders to support the sector’s growth in the region as the government prepares to boost national security spending.

Some of the region’s biggest employers and several SMEs will sit on the new Midlands Defence and Security Industry Council.

‘We’ve got 25,000 people working in defence and related sectors across the West Midlands alone’ They are tasked with attracting new investment to create highquality, well-paid jobs for local people by collectively championing and advocating for the Midlands defence and security industries, amplifying their strengths, capabilities, and potential.

The mayors were hosting the council members’ first meeting, alongside the industry chair Chris

Defence effort (left to right): Richard Parker, Chris Spicer and Claire Ward

Spicer, managing director of Engineering & Systems Integration at Babcock International, which employs more than 300 people in Walsall.

Chris has more than 15 years of experience in the global defence

Brindleyplace to host dragon boat race Birmingham Hospice’s dragon boat race is moving to Brindleyplace canal and running across two action-packed days this year.

Teams from across Birmingham are invited to come together – whether colleagues, friends or family – to compete in this water sport challenge, to raise money for Birmingham Hospice, which provides expert end of life care for local people.

This year the event runs across Friday 26 and Saturday 27 June.

Participants need no experience, and all training, safety gear and

equipment is provided, ensuring a safe and exciting day for all involved. Spectators are also encouraged to attend, with plenty of food and drink outlets on offer at Brindleyplace as well as familyfriendly activities available throughout the day.

Samantha Julius, events officer at Birmingham Hospice, said: “We’re so happy we’ve been able to extend the Dragon Boat Race across two days, so we can welcome more teams in 2026, and even more thrilled to be holding it at Brindleyplace.”

Fundraising: The Birmingham Hospice team

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industry. He said: “I am delighted to accept the role of inaugural chair of the Midlands Defence and Security Industry Council. Babcock has a long-standing relationship with the Midlands, where we have been an employer for more than 100 years

in vehicle conversions. This collaborative venture, underpinned by the recently launched Defence and Security Blueprint for the Midlands, is excellent news for the region. It not only supports the Government’s wider Defence Industrial Strategy, but also reinforces Babcock’s ongoing commitment to creating employment opportunities and driving growth across the area.”

Richard Parker said: “We’ve got 25,000 people working in defence and related sectors across the West Midlands alone, making us one of the UK’s biggest hubs.

“But I believe we’re only scratching the surface when it comes to maximising these economic opportunities at the same time as keeping our country and way of life safe.

“That’s why we’ve given Chris Spicer and the rest of this council the clear objective to champion our industrial and innovative strengths to make sure we’re the big winner from increased government spending.”

Faking it: Jackson’s “celebrities”

Celebrity lookalikes come to Lichfield BAFTA winning artist Alison Jackson is bringing her mischievously outrageous, live “celebrity” show to Lichfield Garrick.

Faking Famous: You Can Be a Celebrity Too, is an immersive, and ever-changing performance that fakes fame live on stage.

Offering the ultimate backstage pass into the absurd world of contemporary fame, Jackson promises to transform you into an A-list, first class, diva lookalike. Audiences can expect to see Jackson inviting people out of the audience to make them into a “celebrity” on stage, all while exposing the scandalous behind-the-scenes moments from her infamous photographs and video clips with the stars.

Jackson states: “It doesn’t matter if you are not the real deal, as long as you look the part.”

Jackson’s work offers audiences a chance to meet the “celebrities,” and have a selfie with the celebrities, which have included lookalikes of the Royals including the King and Queen, William and Kate, and Harry and Meghan, as well as Kim Kardashian, Donald Trump, Harry Styles, Taylor Swift and the Gallagher brothers, among others.

Alison Jackson's Faking Famous: You Can Be a Celebrity Too is heading to Lichfield Garrick on 3 June at 7.30pm, for one night only.

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Tram tribute by order of the Peaky Blinders Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight unveiled a West Midlands Metro tram named in his honour as part of the build up to the premiere screening of the feature film based on his blockbuster TV show.

The tram features an iconic image of Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby alongside the message ‘Home of the Peaky Blinders’, celebrating the show’s deep connection to the region.

Crowds gathered in Birmingham’s Centenary Square as Knight revealed his name on the newly-branded tram, recognising his commitment to championing Birmingham and the West Midlands on screen and his support for the region’s film industry through his Digbeth Loc Studios.

The acclaimed filmmaker and native Brummie said he was “deeply proud” to receive the honour in the city that inspired his show – especially on the day that stars and die-hard fans were coming together for the premiere.

He said: “This is a great honour for me, on a day when the world's gaze is on my home city, Birmingham, for the world premiere of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man. I am immensely proud of where I am from, and everything that goes on in this great city and look forward to help develop the cultural growth of the West Midlands as a whole.”

The unveiling took place outside the city’s Symphony Hall, which hosted the world premiere of the new movie – Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man. In addition to Knight, many of the film’s cast were lined up to attend including Academy Award winner Cillian Murphy (Oppenheimer, A Quiet Place Part II), Rebecca Ferguson (Dune, A House of Dynamite), Academy Award nominee Tim Roth (Reservoir Dogs, The Hateful Eight); Ned Dennehy (Culprits, The Peripheral), Packy Lee (Blue Lights) and director Tom Harper (Heart of Stone, Wild Rose).

Immensely proud: Steven Knight

...as coach company plays starring role Birmingham-based Bouden Coach Travel laid on a VIP transport service – ferrying guests to the world premiere of Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man at Symphony Hall.

The coach and minibus hire specialist, who are members of Greater Birmingham Chambers’ 1813 Club, played a starring role as film fans, cast members, media and invited guests gathered for the much-anticipated premiere, helping move attendees smoothly across the city.

With road closures, tight schedules and heightened security in place, detailed planning and precise coordination were essential to ensure every arrival and departure ran seamlessly.

For this prestigious occasion, multiple executive coaches were provided, all immaculately presented and operated by experienced, uniformed drivers.

The fleet was carefully scheduled to manage staggered arrivals and

All aboard: Vintage and modern transport delivery to the ICC in Birmingham

departures, ensuring guests were transported efficiently and comfortably to Symphony Hall and surrounding city centre locations.

In the lead-up to the premiere, the Bouden team worked closely with event organisers to map routes, plan contingencies and

coordinate access points around the venue. On the evening itself, drivers were positioned strategically to minimise waiting times and maintain a smooth flow of movement despite the excitement and activity surrounding the red carpet.

Driver Stefan Hall said: “It’s not every day you get to be part of a world premiere in your home city.

Seeing the red carpet, the crowds and the buzz around Symphony Hall was incredible. We are proud to represent Bouden Travel on such a big night for Birmingham.”

From film premieres and awards ceremonies to corporate conferences, exhibitions and sporting fixtures, Bouden Coach Travel are committed to keeping the city moving.

Bouden Travel said: “We would like to thank the event organisers for placing their trust in Bouden Travel for such a high-profile evening. Being selected to provide four executive coaches for an event of this scale is a testament to our reliability, professionalism and reputation.

“If you are planning a large-scale event, corporate function or private gathering, our team would be delighted to discuss how we can support you.”

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Visible: RSS Infrastructure’s branding at St Andrew’s @Knighthead Park

RSS Infrastructure backs foundation

Celebrating 25 years (left to right): Beth Allen (volunteer), Philippa Rawlinson, Commander David Childs CBE and Sue Elliott (volunteer)

Arboretum programme to mark milestone The National Memorial Arboretum has announced a programme of activities commemorating 25 years since it opened as the nation’s year-round place to remember.

The 150-acre estate in Staffordshire is hosting “25 Years of…”, a year-long programme of exhibitions, events, and activities celebrating the stories, milestones, and moments that have shaped the Arboretum’s story since it opened to the public on 16 May, 2001.

Philippa Rawlinson, director of the National Memorial Arboretum and director of Remembrance for the Royal British Legion, said: “What began as an ambitious vision and 150 acres of mud has grown into a vibrant Remembrance landscape, providing a dedicated space for the preservation of inspirational stories of service and sacrifice for future generations.

“Since those early days, saplings have become trees, more than 420 memorials have been created, and the National Memorial Arboretum has solidified its place as the nation’s year-round place to remember.”

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Arlington Cemetery and the National Arboretum in Washington DC. The estate, established on former quarry workings, is now recognised as an exemplar of visionary quarry restoration, having transformed a collection of muddy fields in the Staffordshire countryside into an inspirational living tribute to those who serve our nation.

‘What began as an ambitious vision and 150 acres of mud has grown into a vibrant Remembrance landscape’ The arboretum became part of the Royal British Legion in 2004 and currently welcomes more than 300,000 visitors each year, including 25,000 young people on learning visits.

Its garden and woodland landscape is home to more than 420 memorials commemorating the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces, Emergency Services, and civilian organisations.

• For the full schedule go to: thenma.org.uk

RSS Infrastructure has joined the Birmingham City Foundation Community Partnership, strengthening its commitment to supporting community initiatives and contributing to the continued growth and regeneration of Birmingham.

The partnership connects RSS Infrastructure with a network of Midlands businesses working together to support the community programmes delivered by the Birmingham City Foundation, while also promoting collaboration across the region’s business community.

RSS Infrastructure, a subsidiary of Auctus Management Group, delivers infrastructure services across the rail, highways, civils and utilities sectors.

The company supports projects throughout the West Midlands and beyond, helping to improve connectivity and deliver essential infrastructure.

Auctus Management Group is a member of the Midland Metro Alliance, supporting the delivery of the region’s expanding tram network.

Richard Toy, chief executive officer of Auctus Management Group, said: “As a lifelong Birmingham City supporter, this partnership is particularly meaningful to me. The work delivered through the Birmingham City Foundation makes a real difference across local communities, and we’re proud to see RSS Infrastructure joining the Community Partnership to support that impact.”

Showcase: Millennium Point

Campaign calls for visions of the city A major new creative campaign is calling on people across Birmingham to imagine what the city could look like in 2050.

The campaign kicked off this month with a chance for the public to start submitting ideas.

Birmingham 2050 launches as a city-wide call-to-action aimed at artists, designers, musicians, poets, schools, community groups, businesses and residents.

The campaign invites submissions in any creative form, from traditional artwork and models to writing, music, digital design and video. It just needs to be something that can be uploaded to the digital portal.

Abbie Vlahakis, CEO of Millennium Point, said: “Birmingham has always been a city of makers and thinkers. Right now, it is also a city on the rise. Birmingham 2050 is about giving people permission to imagine what comes next and to share that openly.

“We want young people in particular to feel that their ideas matter and that the future of this city belongs to them as much as anyone.

That is at the heart of what we do at Millennium Point. People need hope and direction. This campaign is about optimism, creativity and community. It’s an open invitation to help picture the Birmingham we want to build together.”

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Fieldfisher opens doors to new home at Paradise Birmingham The Birmingham office for European law firm Fieldfisher hosted clients, partners, and the local business community to celebrate the opening of its new 12,000 sq ft office space at Two Chamberlain Square, in the city’s £1.2bn Paradise development.

The strategic move will support Fieldfisher’s plans to double its regional workforce over the next five years, with an ambition to attract local talent and offer returning opportunities to legal professionals who may have left the region.

With more than 150 guests in attendance for the launch celebrations, Fieldfisher’s Birmingham team was joined by colleagues from across its European network – including Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and Poland – who were welcomed by a choral group performing songs in multiple languages.

Alongside speeches from visiting European partners, Robert Shooter (managing partner), and Ranjit Dhindsa (Birmingham office leader and head of UK and European people and work) spoke of the achievements of the regional team, noting how the relocation represents a new chapter for Fieldfisher in Birmingham.

Ranjit said: “Our new home at Paradise represents the significant level of investment Fieldfisher has committed to the region, and marks a landmark moment for the Birmingham team as we prepare for our next stage of growth. Being at the heart of the Midlands’ business community will allow us to deepen our client relationships.”

Fancy dress welcome: (left to right): Tom Rush, partner, corporate, Fieldfisher Birmingham; Katherine McPherson, chief strategy officer; Ranjit Dhindsa, Fieldfisher Birmingham office leader and head of UK and European People and Work; and Iain Lownes, Oaklins S&W

Emergency response vehicle replaced and back in service Arrive Alive Charity has announced that a new emergency response vehicle is now in service in Featherstone, Staffordshire, and is already attending 999 calls in the local community.

The vehicle will be dispatched by the ambulance service to lifethreatening medical emergencies, including cardiac arrests, severe chest pain, strokes, choking incidents and other category one emergencies where every second is critical.

The previous Featherstone vehicle, originally funded through generous community support during the Covid-19 pandemic, made a significant impact locally before being written off earlier this year following a road traffic collision. The incident was not the fault of the driver and no one was seriously injured.

The new vehicle ensures continued emergency response coverage for Featherstone and the surrounding area.

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It is operated by medically trained volunteers from Featherstone Community First Responders, who provide immediate care and early intervention alongside statutory emergency services.

Debbie Roscoe, founder of Arrive Alive Charity, said: “We are incredibly proud to see this new vehicle now serving Featherstone.

“This vehicle ensures that vital support is available when it is needed most.”

Standing by: Emergency response vehicle

Conference raises vital funds A business conference, hosted

by ISO Quality Services (QSL), has raised over £2,000 for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.

The conference at Worcestershire County Cricket Club celebrated the strength and diversity of local businesses, offering attendees the opportunity to showcase their products and services while gaining thoughtprovoking insights from expert speakers.

A total of 18 exhibitors created a dynamic and engaging environment for networking and knowledge sharing. Speakers each offered practical takeaways for businesses navigating an evolving landscape.

Further demonstrating their long-standing commitment to Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, ISO QSL donated all profits from the Love Local Business Conference.

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Best team: Chris Bagnall

Installation team named finalists Certified Pro Installs Ltd has been named a finalist for FM Project of the Year at the Facilities Management Awards 2026 (Ireland), recognising the company’s delivery of a largescale LED lighting upgrade programme across more than 240 retail locations throughout the UK and Ireland.

The Facilities Management Awards later this year recognise excellence, innovation, and leadership across the facilities management sector, celebrating organisations that demonstrate outstanding achievement in operational efficiency, workplace optimisation, compliance management, and sustainable facilities practices.

‘Recognition for the team and their efforts is always appreciated’ Certified Pro Installs, based in Birmingham at the Tile Cross Trading Estate, earned the finalist position following the successful completion of a sixmonth programme replacing outdated halide and fluorescent lighting systems with modern energy-efficient LED fittings across the retailer’s estate.

The project delivered energy savings exceeding 40 per cent, alongside a reduction of approximately 680 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

Chris Bagnall, from Certified Pro Installs, said: “Recognition for the team and their efforts is always appreciated, especially in what was a challenging year for many.

“We have the best retail FM team in the business across directly employed administration and engineers in my humble opinion. “

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Infectious personality: Mick Steele (centre) with Dan Vallance (left) and Jon White

Groundbreaking hot food expert takes retirement Flexeserve’s technical director, Mick Steele, has retired from the global leaders in hot-holding.

Having worked with new directors Dan Vallance and Jon White since their arrival, he now departs to enable the Engineering, Design and Technology (EDT) team to continue to thrive under their guidance.

“We both have huge respect for Mick and have learnt an incredible amount from him in the short time we’ve worked together,” Dan and Jon stated.

“We’ll miss his advice, positivity and infectious personality, but are excited to expand upon his

innovations and vision as part of a new era for Flexeserve.”

Long before the business was rebranded as Flexeserve, Mick arrived at Alan Nuttall Ltd in January 1988.

Having graduated from De Montfort University in 1985 with a distinction in mechanical and production engineering, he brought an excellent foundation to an emerging industry.

Mick said: “To support the needs of major UK retailers, we designed a range of groundbreaking selfservice and serve-over products, which used our own specialist heat lamps.”

Having learned from previous developments, consumer feedback and retailer pain points, Mick began to research the effects of recirculated hot air on food.

This research was pivotal in the creation of Turboserve, one of the most important innovations in company history.

The unit was considered such a step forward in hot-holding that Mick, his team and Turboserve were honoured with the Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2005.

Mick said: “The two Queen’s Awards were, of course, some of the most rewarding moments of my career.”

New chair elected

by BCC board The British Chambers of Commerce has appointed business founder, advisor and board leader Michael Hayman as its new chair.

Michael, who joined the BCC board in October last year, succeeds Sarah Howard, who has served as chair for the last six and a half years.

The BCC chair leads the organisation’s board, guiding the direction of the Chamber network to support business growth, influence government policy, and promote international trade.

The chair acts as a figurehead for 51 accredited UK Chambers, and 75 international Chambers.

Michael - who is recognised for his work as a brand innovator, author and campaigner for enterprise - cofounded Seven Hills BPI, the award-winning campaigns firm acquired by Bully Pulpit International (BPI), where he now chairs UK operations and serves on the global leadership team.

Michael said: “Supporting business has been at the heart of my career, as a founder, as a campaigner, and through the organisations I’ve helped lead.

“Becoming chair of the BCC is a privilege because this network represents the very best of British business.”

Privilege: Michael Hayman

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Hair-planting scam caught in the act

Caught in the act: A CCTV image shows the diner placing a hair on his meal before “doing a runner”

A restaurant in Burton has gone viral after releasing CCTV footage which shows a customer planting his hair on the plate in an attempt to dine and dash.

The incident happened at The Dial restaurant in Burton’s Station Street. According to general manager Jez Hives, two men had ordered some of the most expensive items on their menu, then walked out without settling the bill. Items included a £70 steak for two, £40 fillet steak, sides and cocktails.

After eating part of their meals, the men approached staff with their plates and

into tight margins already stretched by rising food, energy, and staffing costs.

“Unlike large chains, independent businesses don’t have the same financial cushion to absorb repeated losses.

“Beyond the money, it can be disheartening for staff who work hard to create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, only to have that trust taken advantage of.

“For places like The Dial, dine and dash isn’t just an inconvenience it’s a setback that affects the team, the business, and ultimately the wider local community that supports it.”

‘For places like The Dial, dine and dash isn’t just an inconvenience it’s a setback’ complained there was hair in the food, later refusing to pay and leaving the restaurant.

They are yet to be caught.

Jez Hives said: “Independent venues face real challenges when it comes to dine and dash incidents.

“As a restaurant serving the community, even a small number of unpaid tabs can cut directly

Fasting is often associated with stillness, reflection, and spiritual retreat. Yet for many professionals, business owners, and workers, fasting unfolds not in quiet spaces but in meeting rooms, courtrooms, classrooms, hospitals, construction sites, and offices. The challenge is not simply abstaining from food and drink — it is sustaining excellence, focus, and integrity while the body is in a state of restraint.

Work during fasting becomes more than productivity; it becomes intention in action.

Fasting teaches discipline, and discipline is the backbone of professional life. The same self-control that helps a person step away from food and drink strengthens patience in difficult conversations, composure under pressure, and resilience during long days. Hunger softens the ego. Fatigue refines priorities. Discomfort builds empathy. These are not obstacles to good work — they are qualities that elevate it.

There is also a quiet dignity in continuing one’s responsibilities while fasting. Showing up prepared. Meeting deadlines. Treating colleagues and clients with care.

Maintaining ethical standards even when energy dips. This transforms ordinary tasks into acts of worship through sincerity and service.

Fasting also reshapes our relationship with time. Energy becomes precious, so focus sharpens. Distractions feel heavier,

so intention becomes clearer. Many people discover they work more thoughtfully — planning better, speaking more deliberately, and choosing what truly matters.

Of course, balance is essential. Faith does not demand burnout. Taking breaks, managing workload wisely, staying hydrated outside fasting hours, and protecting rest are part of responsible stewardship of the body. Excellence includes sustainability.

Perhaps most importantly, fasting at work is a lived reminder that our professional roles are not separate from our values.

Integrity is not seasonal. Compassion is not occasional.

Service is not transactional. The workplace becomes another space where character is refined.

In a world that celebrates constant consumption and speed, fasting offers a counter-rhythm: restraint, reflection, and purposeful effort. Work continues — but with deeper presence, greater patience, and a heart anchored in meaning.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Brumbassadors tackle food waste Behind the scenes (left to right): Pauline Clarke (FareShare), Surjit Deuer (Mills & Reeve), Abbie Roberts (Mills & Reeve), Jules Mitchell (The Mental Wealth Revolution), Rahil Doshi (FareShare) and Kelly Evans (Optima UK)

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce members swapped boardrooms for aprons and warehouse gloves during a special Brumbassadors event at FareShare Midlands’ Sir Peter Rigby Coronation Food Hub. The visit gave Chamber members a behindthe-scenes look at how the Midlands’ largest food redistribution charity rescues and redistributes surplus food to charities and community organisations across the region.

Guests spent two hours volunteering at the newly-opened hub – preparing meals in the training kitchen and helping sort food in the warehouse – gaining first-hand experience of how surplus food is transformed into vital support for local communities.

Every week, FareShare Midlands redistributes good-to-eat surplus food to a network of 650

charities and community groups, helping provide meals for around 60,000 people across the Midlands, while also creating pathways into employment through training, skills development and volunteering opportunities.

The event was part of the Chamber’s Brumbassadors programme, launched last year as a platform for amplifying good news and opportunities across business, culture and sport in Birmingham.

The Sir Peter Rigby Coronation Food Hub at Gravelly Park is FareShare Midlands’ largest facility to date. It opened in December following a £2m donation from The Sir Peter Rigby Charitable Trust and has significantly expanded the charity’s ability to redistribute food, support frontline organisations and deliver employability programmes.

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Businesses interested in getting involved can contact Pauline Clarke, corporate partnerships manager, on 07843 134549 or fundraising@faresharemidlands.org.uk

Former CEO of Chamber takes on Barclays role

Museum opens new cafe bar Birmingham Museums have opened a new café bar and community space in the Jewellery Quarter.

Reflecting the cultural heritage of the Jewellery Quarter, the new cafe bar is on the ground floor of the building in Vyse Street.

Craft & Culture is being designed to evolve from a café in the day, serving speciality coffee in a social and workfriendly environment, to an evening bar with a thoughtfully curated wine list and craft beer selection.

Customers will also be able to order food from their favourite local restaurants to enjoy alongside their coffee or evening drinks.

The venue will be host to a regular programme of events and will also be available to hire for private events.

Simone Connolly, CEO of FareShare Midlands, said the Brumbassadors event was an opportunity to build deeper partnerships.

She added: “The event gave business leaders a powerful insight into how surplus food can be transformed into meals, training opportunities and community support across the Midlands.

“Through volunteering, food donations, skills sharing and corporate partnerships, companies across our region can help us reach even more people while tackling food waste together.”

FareShare Midlands is now inviting businesses across the Midlands to partner with the charity.

Leadership: Paul Faulkner

Paul Faulkner, the former CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, has been appointed as vice chairman of the Midlands for Barclays.

This newly created role will see Paul act as a senior leader across the region, strengthening the bank’s market presence and bringing greater cohesion to the way it serves clients.

Paul is the co-founder of business consultancy Element45 and previously held the CEO positions with Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest football clubs.

Barclays say Paul’s appointment reflects the banking giant’s ongoing commitment to growth and expanding its reach within the Midlands.

Stuart Foster, head of coverage for Barclays UK Corporate Bank, said: “Paul brings exceptional leadership and deep connections across the region, positioning Barclays to deliver even greater values.”

Paul said: “I am excited to be working with Barclays in this new role, focusing on growing and developing the bank’s presence across the Midlands and supporting colleagues who are working hard every day to provide great service and value to clients.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Chamber Patrons Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters Uni to offer Copilot training Aston University has become one of the first universities in the UK to offer Microsoft 365 Copilot to all staff with training and support.

The strategic partnership with the company, which is the first announced by a Midlands university, will equip students with future-ready skills and will strengthen teaching and research.

All staff will benefit from the full Microsoft 365 Copilot suite, including specialist agents such as Researcher and Analyst, and productivity apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint that have Copilot built in.

Professor Aleks Subic, vicechancellor and chief executive of Aston University, said: “Our collaboration with Microsoft illustrates Aston’s strategy to be a transformational university.”

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

Rebrand for recruitment firm following growth UK-headquartered recruitment firm SF Recruitment is rebranding as SF Partners, marking the next stage in the company’s evolution after more than two decades of growth.

Founded in Birmingham in 1998, the business began as a specialist provider of finance and accountancy recruitment across the Midlands.

Today the firm operates across the UK and internationally, with offices in Birmingham, London, the East Midlands, Manchester and Frankfurt, and has developed six specialist practice areas spanning Executive search, finance, technology, transformation, engineering and professional services.

The rebrand follows a period of significant expansion. Since 2020, SF Partners has more than doubled revenue, expanded headcount by

over 200 per cent and opened its first international office in Frankfurt The business is now approaching its 60,000th successful placement, an average of more than 2,200 hires per year since it was founded.

CEO Saira Demmer (pictured) said the new name reflects how the business increasingly works with

organisations and professionals.

“We’ve been in the market a long time and naturally our consultants have built strong relationships with both clients and candidates. It’s not unusual for us to place someone multiple times during their career and then go on to help them build out their own teams as they move into leadership roles.

“When we spoke to clients and candidates about what differentiates us, the word that came up again and again was partnership. As our business has evolved, we felt it was time to make that focus more visible.”

Looking ahead, the firm plans to continue investing in its specialist teams and international reach, with ambitions to grow revenues by a further 50 per cent over the next three years.

Leadership team strengthened at UCB

Working together: Claire Haymes (left), project support worker at Holbrooks Community Care Association, with M6toll project champion Ruth Webb

University College Birmingham has strengthened its senior leadership team for 2026 and beyond, with the appointment of three highly experienced professionals.

Dana Cameron has been appointed as executive director of strategic marketing and student recruitment, Vickie Pargetter-Garner as director of business and employer engagement, and Harriet Dickinson as University College Birmingham Sixth Form’s head of Year 13.

Vickie Pargetter-Garner joins University College Birmingham as its new director of business and employer engagement. Vickie spent 13 years at the University of Birmingham in senior business development roles.

Caring M6toll offers support to elderly Midland Expressway Limited (MEL), operators of the M6toll, have announced Holbrooks Community Care Association as a recipient of their “In the Community” funding.

The M6toll will provide £1,250 to help deliver a community-based programme offering practical, emotional and social support. The project will focus on reducing isolation, increasing confidence, and ensuring older residents can access meaningful activities and appropriate guidance.

Holbrooks Community Care Association, based in Coventry, aims to provide targeted support for vulnerable individuals within this age group, improving their wellbeing, independence, and overall quality of life.

Mark Graham, community development officer at Holbrooks Community Care Association, said: “We are incredibly grateful to M6toll for their generous support.”

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New faces (left to right): Dana Cameron, Harriet Dickinson and Vickie Pargetter-Garner

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CHAMBER PATRONS At work: Dr Mohammed Rahman

‘The case is one of the most unusual and troubling unsolved murders in the UK’

Lecturer’s film probes brutal killing mystery A documentary exploring one of the UK’s most chilling unsolved murders – and featuring the insight of leading criminologist and Birmingham City University (BCU) lecturer Dr Mohammed Rahman – has gripped audiences on Netflix.

The programme explores the brutal killing of Scottish banker Alistair Wilson, who was shot on the doorstep of his family home in Nairn, Scotland, in 2004.

“The case is one of the most unusual and troubling unsolved murders in the UK,” said Dr Rahman, whose research specialises in serious organised violence and crime.

Although the case has been characterised as a suspected contract killing, no one has ever been charged.

For Dr Rahman, the documentary was a rare chance to bring academic research into a live criminal case.

His work between 2014 and 2017 examined the psychology of socalled “hitmen” – how they justify extreme violence, the methods they

use, and how contract killings operate within organised crime.

“My research has long examined how contract killers rationalise and operationalise serious violence,” said Dr Rahman.

“The documentary provided an important opportunity to bring that academic insight into a live and still deeply significant case.”

The killing of Wilson, he explains, contains several hallmarks historically linked to contract hits.

“My contribution to the documentary was to apply established criminological research to help contextualise what we know – and what remains uncertain – about the offence,” he said.

“I hope viewers see how criminological research can help make sense of complex crimes.

Even when cases remain unsolved, research can highlight patterns and dynamics that deepen our understanding of serious violence.”

Several documentaries have examined the killing of Alistair Wilson, including the BBC’s Big Cases: The Doorstep Murder.

Smile please: Senior technician Michael Palmer (left) and BA Digital Film Production student Chun Yin Chan with new equipment

Media kits to power student filmmakers Birmingham City University (BCU) is investing more than £500,000 into upgrading photography, film and media kits for students.

The funding will deliver significant upgrades to industry-standard equipment and refurbish the sets in two of the five studios in the University’s Parkside building, as BCU looks to capitalise on the West Midlands’ rapidly expanding creative sector.

Ranked among the UK’s top 10 institutions for film and photography courses for three consecutive years (2024–2026), BCU continues to build on its reputation for excellence in creative education.

Dr Matthew Day, head of department of English and media, said: “It’s an exciting time to be studying film, photography, media and journalism at BCU. The investment in new equipment and studio sets will bring new creative opportunities for our students and give them more opportunities to grow and develop their ideas. These enhanced resources complement the strength of our teaching quality, workshops, the breadth of our industry speakers, and our sectorleading partnerships.”

The upgrades mark one of the university’s biggest investments in film, photography and media programmes since the Parkside building opened in 2014. With access to the latest professional equipment, students will be able to develop the skills they need to meet the needs identified in the Government report on growing creative industries in the UK. Chun Yin Chan, a BA Digital Film Production student, said: “BCU has given me the space and tools to experience the professional industry first-hand. This investment means I will be able to use highend technology to tell my own stories and will also get me ready for future employment opportunities.

“Our students are hoping to find jobs and produce work in a very competitive industry,” said Senior Technician Michael Palmer.

“With access to, and experience with, a wide range of equipment, our graduates will really stand out.”

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

1813 Club and Premier Members Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Premier Membership Contact: Gary Birch T: 07971 144059

Botanical Garden’s poetry trail honours Benjamin Zephaniah Poems inspired by the life and works of internationally acclaimed poet, author and activist Benjamin Zephaniah are taking over Birmingham Botanical Gardens (BBG) this spring.

Visitors will not only be able to read all 18 winning poems from Birmingham City University’s 2025 Benjamin Zephaniah Future Writers competition but also listen to them being recited – bringing each piece vividly to life.

Qian Zephaniah, Benjamin’s wife, said: “Benjamin believed that poetry should live and breathe in the world, not sit quietly on shelves. So, to have these voices – inspired by his work – echoing through the Birmingham Botanical

Voices in the Gardens: Qian Zephaniah (left) and Jen Ridding

Gardens, where he loved to walk and think feels like coming home.”

Thousands of young and emerging writers from across the

UK entered the second annual Future Writers competition, submitting poems inspired by Zephaniah’s book Nature Trail.

The winning entries, dotted around the gardens until 17 May, explore themes rooted in the natural world.

Birmingham-born Zephaniah, known for his passionate advocacy for social justice, equality and the environment, died in 2023 aged 63.

The project forms part of an ongoing strategic partnership between the Birmingham Botanical Gardens (BBG) and Birmingham City University (BCU).

Jen Ridding, head of engagement and learning at BBG, said: “The Gardens are the perfect setting for the trail – around every corner is a poem to discover while enjoying our amazing global plant collection.”

Director of sales joins Edgbaston Park Hotel

Sacrifice honoured: Jamie Naish and Mireille Harrison, of SPR

SPR pledges support to Armed Forces A West Midlands recruitment firm has signed up to a national commitment to support the Armed Forces Community ratified by the Ministry of Defence.

Multi-sector consultancy Starting Point Recruitment (SPR), based in Walsall and Birmingham, has joined the Armed Forces Covenant – “a promise from the 48 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

nation to those who serve or who have served, and their families”.

Jamie Naish, executive director at SPR, said: “The men and women who serve in our Armed Forces live by certain core values.

“It is only right that SPR honours their professionalism and sacrifice by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.”

Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre has appointed a new director of sales. Lisa Hadfield joins the senior leadership team during an exciting period of growth for the awardwinning hotel and venue.

Now operating in its eighth year, and proudly owned by the University of Birmingham, the hotel continues to strengthen its position as one of the city’s leading destinations.

Lisa brings with her a wealth of experience across the hospitality, conferencing and events sectors.

Most recently, she held the role of business development manager at Ashorne Hill.

Before that Lisa spent 11 years at Warwick Conferences.

In her new role, Lisa will focus on working closely with Edgbaston Park Hotel’s key MICE agency partners, while supporting wider commercial growth, increasing exposure of the venue, and

developing new partnerships across the sector.

Lisa said: “Edgbaston Park Hotel has an outstanding reputation within the industry, and I’m looking forward to working with the team to build on its success, strengthen agency relationships and create new opportunities.”

Experience: Lisa Hadfield

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

Cricket ground set to host free vegan festival

Benefits: Heather Mills pictured at Edgbaston

A crowd of around 3,000 is expected at Edgbaston cricket ground on Saturday 25 April as Vegfest Free arrives to the city, bringing what organisers describe as “the UK’s biggest free vegan event of the year” to Birmingham.

Backed by food entrepreneur Heather Mills and sponsored by her new wellness food brand ‘No Bloat’, the one-day event will feature up to 150 plant-based stalls, more than 40 speakers and performers and a full outdoor programme of live music, comedy and spoken word.

Heather Mills is supporting the event through her new food brand No Bloat, which will be exhibiting on the day and offering samples of its nutritious, gut-friendly readymeal pouches.

“Now more than ever it’s time to support each other and work together within the broader vegan community,” said Heather.

“Vegfest Free presents a unique opportunity to extend solidarity to so many organisations while introducing

West Midlands leads UK in reducing gender pay gap The West Midlands has recorded the largest reduction in the gender pay gap of any UK region - narrowing by 2.8 percentage-points to 12.2 per cent, according to PwC’s Women in Work Index 2026.

PwC’s 2026 Index, now in its 15th year, tracks the progress of women in the workplace across the 33 OECD countries using five indicators covering pay, participation, unemployment and full-time employment for women.

The Index shows that the UK has regained its position as the top ranking G7 country for women’s economic empowerment, though the improvement in ranking stems largely from other countries slipping behind.

Overall, national progress has slowed, as rising female unemployment and declining access to full time roles continue to weigh on overall performance and a continued shift away from full time work.

PwC’s latest analysis also shows the UK could unlock major economic gains by reducing the number of young women who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Returning to the UK’s 2021 low would generate a further £3 bn.

Alex Hudson, market senior partner in the East Midlands for PwC UK, said: “The journey toward gender equity still has a long way to go. The levels of young women who are not in employment, education or training is on the rise, and as workforce needs continue to adapt at pace, engaging with this group is essential to the economy. This is one priority we can’t afford to let fall down the agenda.”

Long way to go: Alex Hudson

thousands of people to the benefits of plant-based lifestyles.”

Alongside national brands, the event will showcase several Midlands-based artisan food producers, offering visitors the chance to sample a wide variety of plant-based foods.

The Birmingham show will welcome a wide range of guests including: actor and producer Dan Richardson; Plamil Foods director Adrian Ling; One Planet Pizza director Joe Hill; representatives from Plant Based Health Professionals UK; former professional footballer Simon Clist; 80-year-old UK champion powerlifter Pat Reeves; music journalist and punk icon John Robb; author John King; comedians Dawn Chorus and Ishi Khan; Dr Arielle Griffiths, CEO Just Be Kind Dog Food; Keith Lesser, CEO Vegan Accountants; lifestyle medicine physician Dr Shireen Kassam; presenters Karin Ridgers and Mike Kelson.

Company sale secures jobs The business and assets of JLC Form and Laser Ltd has been sold to Savekers Solutions Ltd, continuing the trade and securing all jobs within the business, assisted by Dean Nelson, head of business recovery and restructuring at PKF Smith Cooper.

Operating nationwide from a leasehold site in the West Midlands, the company is a family run business with over 27 years’ experience in the industry.

It delivers high precision components and fabricated products to customers across the country and specialises in the laser cutting and fabrication of products for a range of industries.

Dean Nelson was appointed administrator to the completion of the business and asset sale. He said: “I am delighted with the outcome we have achieved for the team at JLC Form and Laser; it is greatly rewarding to secure all jobs and the future for the business.”

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade

T: 0121 725 8994 E: ibh@birmingham-chamber.com

Finding real opportunities: The India trade mission led by Mayor Parker

West Midlands mayor strengthens ties with India A trade mission led by West Midlands mayor Richard Parker has strengthened economic and cultural ties with India’s subregions, building on the signing of the landmark UK-India Free Trade Agreement.

In the first outbound mission from the UK in 2026, the delegation of business, political and academic leaders visited Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Bengaluru.

With the aim of reinforcing the long-established partnership between the West Midlands and India, the mission set out to deliver real impact for the West Midlands, strengthening economic and cultural links and boosting collaboration for the benefit of the region’s businesses, people and academic institutions.

The mission was organised by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC), with support from the India Global Forum and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The delegation included Dr Julie Nugent, CEO at Coventry City Council, Prof. David Mba, vicechancellor at Birmingham City 50 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

University and Greg Clark, executive chair of University of Warwick Innovation District.

Official trade mission partners included Aston University, Birmingham City University (BCU), energy provider E.ON, GEDU Global Education, University of Birmingham and University of Warwick.

The delegation was also made up of a number of high-potential West Midlands businesses, led by the GBCC, interested in exploring trade opportunities in India.

These included Goldilock, School of Coding Limited, World Wide Generation Limited, Agilyx EMEA Ltd, Econominds, CyberQ Group and Cybercy Group.

Throughout the week, the West Midlands delegation attended a series of meetings with senior figures from leading Indian manufacturing companies, with discussion centred around their shared commitment to the future of engineering innovation.

The mayor also met with Natarajan Chandrasekaran, chair of Tata Group – the region’s biggest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) – to discuss how to accelerate

collaboration across technology, energy, steel and communications between the two markets.

This momentum was reflected through the announcement of a new alliance between the University of Warwick and Tata Power.

Richard Parker said: “This mission was about turning the UKIndia Free Trade Agreement into real opportunities for the West Midlands. In just one week we strengthened relationships with some of India’s biggest employers and fastest growing industries. We opened the door to new partnerships in clean energy, technology, education and the creative industries.

“The West Midlands already has one of the strongest relationships with India anywhere in the UK outside London. My job is to build on that foundation and turn it into practical results for our businesses, universities and communities.

“We’ve come back with a strong pipeline of partnerships and projects. The next step is simple turn those conversations into investment, collaboration and growth in the West Midlands.”

‘In just one week we strengthened relationships with some of India’s biggest employers and fastest growing industries’

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Global Chamber Patrons

...as university signs agreements During the mission, Aston Business School – part of Aston University signed agreements with two leading Indian education institutions.

The agreements are with XLRI, Xavier School of Management and All India Management Association (AIMA), India’s national body for the management profession, to open up new courses to students in India and the UK. The mission was attended by Aston University’s Professor Gurpreet Singh Jagpal, chief commercial officer, and Professor Pawan Budhwar, associate deputy vice-chancellor international.

The MoU with XLRI, Xavier School of Management (formerly known as XLRI – Xavier Labour Relations Institute) is expected to lead to dualdegree pathways, possibly including a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) tailored for the Indian market, and an MSc in Consulting subject to feasibility and approvals.

The agreement was signed in Mumbai by Professor Jagpal and Professor Santosh Sangem, convenor, international relations & collaborations at XLRI. A letter of intent was signed with AIMA, which is based in New Delhi and was established in 1957.

Their agreement is expected to lead the way to a UK-based AIMAAston “immersion programme” and short executive skills courses which could lead students to study Aston postgraduate programmes, professional development and online courses.

There is also potential for these courses to provide access to research or doctoral level study.

It was made official in Bangalore, signed by Professor Jagpal and the director of AIMA’s centre for management education Professor Rohit Singh and its programme director of new age courses Professor Ganesh Singh.

Professor Jagpal said: “This mission to India and the signing of the MoU and letter of intent shows Aston University’s commitment to collaboration with Indian partners to expand access to industry-relevant education and skills.

“It is a key step in delivering Aston University’s 2030 vision to extend our reach, scale our impact, and enhance our reputation in India, one of our most strategically important global markets.”

Major investor into the West Midlands: The mayor visits the TVS Motor Company

Firms should prepare for new customs rules Simpex Express has updated hauliers and logistics operators moving goods between the UK and France, as new French customs requirements come into force this spring.

From 20 April 2026, Envelope Logistique Obligatoire (ELO) will become mandatory for all crossChannel freight travelling into France. The requirement, confirmed

by French customs authorities, means that every vehicle must have a valid ELO created before arriving at the border.

The ELO acts as a digital envelope that links together the customs and safety documentation associated with a vehicle’s journey.

Without a valid ELO in place, vehicles may face delays at the border or be diverted to inland border facilities for processing, potentially disrupting supply chains and delivery schedules.

Simpex Express, a Birminghambased logistics provider, is supported through its specialist customs division, Samphire Customs. The company provides 24/7 ELO creation, 24/7 T1 transit document release and simple completion of ICS2 Entry Summary Declarations (ENS), supported by an experienced customs team.

Stacy Woodall, of Simpex Express, said: “The introduction of mandatory ELOs is an important change.

Ensuring the correct documentation is in place before reaching the border will be essential to avoid delays. With customs teams based in both the UK and France, we are well positioned to keep goods moving efficiently.”

Businesses that regularly transport goods between the UK and France are encouraged to review their processes ahead of the April deadline to avoid disruption.

Tech firm joins Spanish IT talks A Sutton Coldfield firm has been involved in high-level talks about technology with Spanish businesses at the British Embassy in Madrid.

FICODE joined discussions with representatives from the UK Department for Business and Spanish companies about how UK firms are delivering impactful solutions to advance AI for enterprise.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) member FICODE has been operating in the tech and software sector for over 10 years and is supporting businesses in Birmingham and across Europe to scale their business operations through AI, tech and software solutions.

The company supports businesses and organisations locally through their digital transformation journey – providing services such as AI, cloud solutions and security, API integrations, data analytics and software development and consultancy.

Managing director Gurmeet Singla said: “I am always very grateful for the continued support the GBCC and our community has shown FICODE across the years.

“Our hardworking FICODE team always stand ready to support businesses across Birmingham in their digital transformation process across various sectors such as health, finance, education, legal and real estate.”

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ABCC Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK Contact: Lillian Elekan T: 07581 629815

Offa launches one-hour home purchase plan Offa, the Solihull-based Islamic property finance fintech firm, has launched a Home Purchase Plan (HPP) - the Islamic equivalent of a conventional residential mortgage.

Under the new plan, an offer will be made within an hour depending upon credit rating and risk criteria – thanks to a modern, paperless and ultra-fast application process.

Offa’s HPP includes the first Sharia-compliant family assist feature, allowing customers to add family members to their finance plan, helping them get more finance than they otherwise could while remaining the sole owner of the property. Customers can also take advantage of “gifted equity” where they can buy a property at an under-value price from family members.

Offa then uses the full value for finance purposes, entirely avoiding the need for a deposit.

Offa’s HPP is designed to be accessible – with a minimum five per cent deposit, up to seven times income being accepted, subject to affordability and underwriting criteria, and family members being allowed to help with payments.

The Home Owners Alliance estimates that it takes two to four weeks to process a conventional mortgage application, whereas Offa’s modern Islamic HPP application system allows offers to be made within an

Speedy process: Sagheer Malik

hour depending upon credit rating and risk criteria.

Sagheer Malik , chief commercial officer and managing director of Home Finance at Offa, said: “We are revolutionising the cumbersome world of Islamic finance – challenging and beating conventional high street banks on speed while also allowing family members to help with payments.”

‘The AGM is an important moment for members to reflect on the progress made over the past year’

A boost for women’s centres The Anawim – Birmingham’s Centre for Women charity has welcomed the government’s announcement to invest almost £32m in women’s services.

This is a 50 per cent uplift in the money available for Women’s Centres and specialist women’s services.

The announcement comes as the Women’s Justice Board’s recommendations are published, which include a strong emphasis on diversion from the criminal justice system, recognition of the harm of VAWG and the need for a whole system approach.

Anawim CEO Joy Doal said: “This is a very encouraging announcement which recognises the specific issues facing women in the criminal justice system; and that to change things women’s centres need secure, sustainable funding.”

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Top Asian wedding venue: Arun Kalair (centre) with event host Jack Andrews (left) and venue manager Dan Powell

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ABCC PREMIER+ PARTNERS

ABCC Patrons

New committee members to be announced The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) annual meeting takes place on Wednesday, 15 April, at Chamber HQ, 54 Hagley Road, from 9.30 am to 11.30 am.

Three new executive committee members will be announced – two of whom will be named as vice presidents.

The annual meeting provides an opportunity to reflect on the work of the Chamber over the past year, including the support provided to businesses through economic challenges and pressures.

The executive committee provides the Chamber with valuable feedback, which influences its strategy and business plan.

It is also a forum to ensure that the voices of Asian businesses are heard locally and regionally.

A new charity will also be nominated. Throughout the year, ABCC will aim to fundraise for the charity through various Chamber events and provide exposure to members and the wider business community.

Lillian Elekan (pictured), director of membership at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce executive committee plays a vital role in shaping the direction of the Chamber and ensuring the voice of Asian businesses is heard across the region.

“The AGM is an important moment for members to reflect on the progress made over the past year, while also looking ahead to the opportunities and challenges facing businesses.”

Museum top choice for Asian weddings The National Motorcycle Museum has been named Asian Wedding Venue of the Year at Britain’s Asian Wedding Awards 2026 at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in Birmingham.

The award recognises the venue’s outstanding contribution to the Asian wedding industry and its continued growth in 2025, hosting Sikh, Hindu, Muslim and multicultural celebrations from across the Midlands and beyond.

With over 20 years of experience, the National Motorcycle Museum has built a strong reputation for delivering large-scale Asian weddings, regularly hosting around 300 guests and accommodating up to 700.

Its museum setting offers couples a distinctive backdrop, while its flexibility allows for both traditional ceremonies and high-impact contemporary production.

A key part of the venue’s success is its dedicated wedding coordinator, Arun Kalair, who brings more than 17 years of industry experience.

Arun said: “This award means so much to us because it reflects the trust our couples place in us during one of the most important moments of their lives. We work incredibly hard to understand every family’s traditions, vision and expectations, and to deliver weddings that feel both culturally authentic and truly spectacular. To be recognised nationally is a huge honour for the entire team.”

The venue is located near Birmingham Airport, the NEC and several temples, including Leamington Spa Gurdwara.

United beyond beliefs (from left to right): Zahir Ahmed ABCC executive committee member, Imaam Mohammad Asad MBE, Aneesah Farooq Khan, cochair of Shakespeare Martineau Muslim network, and Imran Ilias co-chair of Shakespeare Martineau Muslim network

Business community unites for fasting day The Greater Birmingham business community came together for a day of fasting during Ramadan, culminating in an event to break the fast together.

The event, organised by the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC), was held at the Birmingham office of Shakespeare Martineau in collaboration with the Ampa Muslim network.

Attendees took part in the Iftar, the nightly feast that breaks the fast and prayers were led by Imam Mohammad Asad.

ABCC president Monica Ghai said: “At ABCC, collaboration sits at the heart of everything we do, and this event was a wonderful opportunity to come together with the Shakespeare Martineau Muslim network and the wider business community during such an important time in the calendar.”

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CANNOCK CHASE CHASE CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

How the retail sector can thrive in 2026 Dave Jackson (right), centre manager at the McArthurGlen designer outlet in Cannock, gives an update on the state of the retail trade and wider sector performances.

News is plentiful, and in a wide market of retail, leisure and placemaking, there’s a lot to choose from. I wanted to step away from what you can read online, and give you what we see every day, as a team, immersed in the sector.

So, here’s the honest version….

Retail isn’t falling apart. It’s just changing faster than most people are comfortable admitting. And if you look at what’s really performing, the patterns are pretty clear: the places and brands that win today aren’t simply stores or large shopping centres – they’re creating reasons for people to visit, stay, purchase, and come back for more.

Customers right now are looking for two simple things at the same time: a good deal and a good day out. Not one or the other – both.

The old approach of “put product on shelves and hope for the best” doesn’t cut it anymore.

Consumers want to feel like their time is worth something. If a destination or store can give them value, authenticity, something interesting to do, and a reason to bring the family, behaviour starts to change. It’s why outlets are outperforming the market, why experience-led schemes are gaining ground and why retailers that offer more than “the latest season’s trends” are the ones we’re seeing pull ahead.

Food waste recycling scheme is rolled out A major new recycling initiative is set to transform how Staffordshire deals with its waste, as the county council supports the rollout of a new weekly food waste collection service for all households.

The county council is working in partnership with the district and borough councils to ensure that all households can recycle their food waste separately every week.

Under the Government’s Simpler Recycling initiative, all district and borough councils in Staffordshire will introduce weekly kerbside food waste collections. This service will allow food waste to be separately processed into renewable energy and also fertiliser for farms and parks.

Andrew Mynors, cabinet member for connectivity at Staffordshire County Council, said: “It is staggering to think that nearly half of what ends up in our general rubbish bins is food.

That is a massive wasted resource. This new weekly food waste service is about turning Staffordshire’s waste into something useful.”

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This isn’t about footfall for the sake of footfall.

It’s about relevance, enjoyment, authenticity, and – most importantly – keeping it simple.

What is the biggest difference between the destinations and retailers that feel busy and the ones that feel empty?

If you look at somewhere like Merry Hill, the model is clear: space isn’t just being filled – it’s being repurposed with intent. Former anchors are becoming long-term leisure, multiple new uses under one roof, food and social spaces that actually get used, and a mix that fits how people want to spend a few hours, not just a few pounds.

‘The old approach of “put product on shelves and hope for the best” doesn’t cut it anymore’ It’s not a “shopping centre” in the old sense anymore. It functions like a local ecosystem retail, leisure, convenience, entertainment - all feeding each other.

You see the same in West Midlands Designer Outlet, opening brands like Pretty Pots, a local partnership giving guests a first-class pottery

Retail isn’t falling apart: Dave Jackson

experience (a must try!), and Polo Ralph Lauren, with timeless product at a value price point.

Every brand intentionally adds to the experience.

Marks & Spencer is the retailer version of this: great product and pricing, sizing for 2026 not 2002, food that feels like a treat, and, of course, enough choice in store to be individual in your style choice.

Where this is all heading?

The places and retailers performing well right now aren’t just trading. They’re adapting. They’re listening. They’re building environments that make sense for today, not for 2012.

The winners will be the ones that adapt, learn, and listen, and above all, keep it simple.

Two million viewers for Go True North’s channel Go True North, a UK-based business consultancy, has announced that its YouTube channel, GTN Vision to Venture, has surpassed two million views.

The achievement marks a significant moment for the Cannock-based consultancy, which launched its UK operation in 2024 after founding the original business in Australia in 2013.

The channel’s two million views were accumulated in under six months, with the first million milestone reached in October, 2025.

The GTN Vision to Venture channel is available on YouTube, and further information about Go True North’s services can be found through the website.

Two million and counting: Neil Betts (left) and Mark Goode, managing director of the Inspired Selections Group

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BURTON & DISTRICT BURTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

United against abuse: Delegates at the TryWellbeing Day

Charities unite for wellbeing Three leading specialist charities – Staffordshire Women’s Aid, Pathway Project and SARAC – combined to deliver the first TriWellbeing Day, a full-day conference dedicated to supporting the wellbeing, resilience, and professional strength of their teams.

Hosted at Uttoxeter Race Course, the event brought together staff and volunteers working across domestic abuse and sexual violence services.

It marked a significant milestone in the partnership between the three organisations, who collectively support thousands of survivors

across Staffordshire each year. The programme featured an opening address by Jess Phillips, MP for Birmingham Yardley and secretary of state for safeguarding and violence against women and girls.

Caroline Fotheringham, chief executive for service development and sustainability at SARAC (Sexual Abuse and Rape Advice Centre), said: “Frontline workers in domestic abuse and sexual violence services carry out some of the most emotionally demanding work in the charity sector. They support individuals living with trauma, fear, crisis, and long-term harm, often

while navigating complex systems to secure safety and justice for survivors.

“This work is vital, but it also takes an emotional toll. Investing in staff wellbeing is not optional, it is essential.”

The TriWellbeing Day was created to acknowledge this reality and to offer staff dedicated time to rest, restore, and feel appreciated.

The three organisations emphasised that wellbeing is not a one-day activity, but a pillar of long-term organisational culture — something they are committed to championing together.

Willshee’s becomes official club partner Outstanding: The Burton and South Derbyshire College team

Skillsfest celebrates next gen of talent Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) took part in an inaugural SkillsFest inter-college competition, hosted by Chesterfield College.

Held during Colleges Week – a national celebration of further education – the event brought together students from Chesterfield College, Derby College Group and Burton and South Derbyshire College.

Students from Burton and South Derbyshire College achieved exceptional success, securing victories in nine different categories.

These included public services, digital, beauty, performing arts, hospitality, travel and tourism, business and childcare, showcasing the wide range of talent, creativity and dedication demonstrated by the college’s learners.

Julie Richards, principal and CEO of the Chesterfield College Group, said: “To host the first ever Skillsfest competition is a massive honour.

“I’m delighted not just with how well the event has gone, but also with how brilliantly each competitor has represented their college. They are a real testament to the incredible further education sector.”

Willshee’s Waste & Recycling has become an official club partner of Burton Albion Football Club.

The new partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between the two organisations. For more than a decade, Willshee’s has worked closely with the club, overseeing waste removal and recycling at the Pirelli Stadium throughout the week and on matchdays.

Dean Willshee, managing director of Willshee’s, said: “We have worked closely with the club for over 10 years, and this is the next step for us in developing our long-lasting relationship.”

Jordan Worthington, head of sales at Burton Albion, said: “I am delighted to officially welcome Willshee’s, who are already a key part of the operation of the stadium, on board as an official club partner.”

Unlocking new goals: Dean Willshee (left) and Jordan Worthington

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LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

£1.4m investment into local community

Happy holiday: The Cloud Accounting software team

Employees appreciated with half-day holiday A Tamworth-based business is recognising the value of its team this year by giving employees the opportunity to book a half-day off as a thank you for their hard work.

Cloud Accounting Support Services (CASS), based in Tamworth, introduced the initiative to mark Employee Appreciation Day, allowing staff to take some time back when it suits them.

The gesture reflects growing awareness among employers that recognising staff contributions plays a key role in motivation and retention. Research shows that 88 per cent of British employees say they work harder when they feel appreciated at work, yet nearly one in five UK workers say they have never been thanked by their employer.

Paul Barnes, managing director of Cloud Accounting Support Services, said: “Running a business is always a team effort and we’re incredibly grateful for the hard work our staff put in every day to support our clients.

“Offering the team a half-day off that they can book when it suits them felt like a simple but genuine way to say thank you and recognise the effort they consistently bring to the business.”

As a growing SME, the Tamworth firm says investing in its people is central to maintaining a positive workplace culture and delivering highquality service to its clients.

Karen Kirby, HR consultant at Greenshoot HR, says recognition doesn’t need to be complicated to make a difference.

“Employee appreciation is about creating a culture where people feel valued and recognised for the contribution they make.

“It doesn’t have to be grand gestures, often the most meaningful recognition is simply giving people flexibility or acknowledging their efforts.

Small actions like offering time back can have a big impact on morale, wellbeing and staff retention.”

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Community projects across Lichfield District are set to benefit from a major investment after councillors approved more than £1.4m of funding to support local facilities, sports clubs and community spaces.

The funding comes from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is collected from developers and reinvested into local infrastructure to help communities grow and thrive.

A total of £1,475,534 has been allocated to projects across the district, supporting improvements that will benefit residents of all ages – from new and improved sports facilities and play areas to community spaces, cultural venues and life-saving equipment.

The projects receiving funding are: • £500,000 to Streethay Parish Council towards the delivery of Streethay Community Centre • £200,000 to Chasetown Football Club towards the delivery of the Changing Room project • £105,000 to Burntwood Rugby Club towards the delivery of pitch enhancement and maintenance

• £99,454 to Fazeley Town Council towards the delivery of the Victory Terrace Play Area • £80,000 to Burntwood Dragons and Phoenix Football Club towards the delivery of the conversion of disused changing facilities to a seated café area along with a toilet facility.

• £75,000 to South Staffordshire College towards the delivery of the Lichfield College Art Gallery • £60,000 to Lichfield Hockey Club towards the delivery of the pitch resurfacing • £36,000 to Lichfield Sports Club & Vale View Crown Green Bowling Club towards the delivery of constructing a Crown Green Bowling Green • £14,500 to Elford Boys Football Club towards the delivery of the Elford Sports field Car Park • £3,000 to Wigginton and Hopwas Parish Council towards the delivery of the Hopwas defibrillator project • £2,580 to Kings Bromley Bowling Club towards the delivery of the Path Renewal and Green reboarding.

Grace Cares selected for sustainability initiative Lichfield-based Grace Cares has been selected to be part of the Green Growth 100, an initiative launched by Small Business Britain in partnership with BT to spotlight small businesses successfully using sustainability as a core driver of growth.

The Green Growth 100 champions 100 small businesses across the UK that are embedding sustainable practices into their operations, from cutting waste and energy use to rethinking supply chains, attracting new customers and strengthening long-term resilience.

Founded in 2023, Grace Cares is dedicated to stop care equipment going to landfill and help people. It has been led by founders Hannah Montgomery, Emma Smith and Adam Harrison, who have placed sustainability at the heart of the not-for-profit organisation's work. Grace Cares operates a circular reuse model, collecting,

Increased collections (left to right): Grace Cares founders Emma Smith, Adam Harrison and Hannah Montgomery

redistributing and reselling quality preloved care equipment that would otherwise go to landfill.

Grace Cares has also expanded its van operations thanks to new support from Severn Trent - enabling significantly more care equipment to be rescued from landfill.

Until now, van collections have relied heavily on volunteer drivers and limited operational capacity. With Severn Trent’s backing, that capacity will significantly increase - allowing Grace Cares to collect and deliver more large, heavy items such as profiling beds, rise and recliner chairs and mobility scooters.

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ROYAL SUTTON COLDFIELD CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

Pride in Place plan moves ahead The Government has endorsed Royal Sutton Coldfield’s Pride in Place Regeneration Plan unlocking a £20m programme of investment over the next 10 years.

The programme will help revitalise the town centre, improve green spaces, including Sutton Park, and strengthen surrounding communities.

More than 4,600 people - including residents, community groups and private and public sector partners - have had their say to ensure the plan and its priorities tackle the issues and challenges which affect them most.

‘Local voices have shaped this plan from the very beginning’

Delivering real change: Douglas Wright

Alongside the 10-year vision for Sutton Coldfield, an investment plan has also been established for the first four years of the programme.

Douglas Wright, independent chair of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Pride in Place board,

which his overseeing the programme, said: “Local voices have shaped this plan from the very beginning.

“The endorsement we’ve received reflects the commitment and passion of our communities across Royal Sutton Coldfield.

“It also demonstrates the government’s continued confidence in the board and our partners.

“This is just the beginning and I am delighted that we can now move forward to start delivering real and lasting change for our town and its communities.”

The town’s MP Andrew Mitchell added: “It is tremendous news that the Government has endorsed the Royal Town’s Pride in Place Regeneration Plan.

“It’s a plan which is Royal Sutton Coldfield through-and-through. Driven by a dedicated and passionate board of local people, it was shaped by the views and hopes of Sutton residents, and will crucially be delivered locally too – making a real difference to local lives.”

Hotel offers support to trio of local charities

New chapter: The property was formerly home to popular bakery On The Breadline

Chance of fresh start for landmark property A landmark Sutton Coldfield property – formerly home to much-loved local business On The Breadline – has been brought to market by estate agents Edwards & Gray.

Having opened prior to lockdown, the bakery On The Breadline became popular within the local community, with queues often stretching down nearby Worcester Lane as residents shopped for fresh bread and sweet treats.

But the business closed last year and now the property itself is ready for a fresh chapter.

Charlotte Edwards, founder of Edwards & Gray, said: “Properties like this don’t come to market very often. There’s a real story behind it that many people locally will remember, but it also offers something incredibly practical for the next owner.

“The flexibility here is a big draw – whether someone is looking for more space, a project, or somewhere they can live and work from, there’s so much potential to make it their own.”

The Belfry Hotel & Resort has announced it will be supporting three charities throughout the year.

Having fundraised over £120,000 in 2025, the independent hotel near Sutton Coldfield is aiming to raise even more this year for chosen charities St Giles Hospice, the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and Hospitality Action.

Lichfield-based St Giles Hospice provides specialist palliative and end of life care and support, free of charge, to patients and families across Staffordshire, North Birmingham and the surrounding areas.

The Motor Neurone Disease Association is a national charity dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by MND, as well as improving access to care and funding research.

Meanwhile, Hospitality Action provides relief for hospitality workers in crisis – offering everything from financial assistance to mental health resources.

Chris Eigelaar, managing director at The Belfry Hotel & Resort, said: “Charity is a powerful part of who we are at The Belfry, and I’m consistently inspired by the energy, creativity and generosity shown by our teams.

“Without them, it wouldn’t be possible to provide all our charity partners with muchneeded support, and I can’t wait to see the imaginative initiatives they deliver this year to make 2026 our best fundraising year yet.”

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SOLIHULL

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

Security boss wins top award A security expert who is driving real change in his sector has been named as the “Business Person of the Year” at The Signature Awards.

Iain McCallister, CEO of Solihull-based Man Commercial Protection, impressed the judging panel with building the UK’s leading privatelyowned security business in the heart of the West Midlands, placing a strong “people” culture at its heart.

Held at The Vox in Birmingham, Iain beat off competition from some of the region’s leading entrepreneurs to claim one of the main prizes in front of 540 delegates from the world of industry and commerce.

His attention to detail and entrepreneurial longevity was also highlighted, with the firm now employing 1600 people and generating annual revenues of £60m, supporting a host of corporate clients in commercial, logistics, property management and manufacturing.

The Solihull business is also a recognised name in the boxing and music worlds and has

made its first successful foray into football stadium security with Solihull Moors FC this season.

‘When you consider the calibre of entrepreneurs I was up against, this is one of the biggest honours I’ve received’

Driving change: Iain McCallister

Iain will help grow the company through acquisitions with MAN Commercial Protection currently in talks with potential targets.

He said: “When you consider the calibre of entrepreneurs I was up against, this is one of the biggest honours I’ve received. I have been working hard alongside my industry peers to build the reputation of the security industry, and being recognised like this helps change the narrative.

“We invest heavily to ensure we can protect premises, events and, importantly, people.”

Heart of Solihull Chamber (left to right): Jas Rohel, Becci Fox, Rob Wells, Kevin Johns, Lynsey Kitching, Eileen Schofield, Amanda Holden, Steve Whitmarsh, Emma-Louise Hewitt, Samantha Frampton, Kim Hulse, Phil Webb, Louise Dunn, Uko Umotong, Nancy Buckley, Pauline Clarke, and Tony Elvin

Vice-presidents elected at Chamber AGM Two new vice-presidents were elected at the Solihull Chamber of Commerce annual meeting.

Louise Dunn, co-founder of The Recruitment Duo, and Steve Whitmarsh, CEO of runyourfleet, will join current vice-president Kim Hulse. Emma-Louise Hewitt will continue as president for the second year running.

New committee members are: Becci Fox - projects and partnerships manager, Colebridge Trust; Kevin Johns – director, Prime Accountants; Tony Elvin – general manager, Touchwood; Eileen Schofield – founder/owner, 58 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

Schofield and Associates; Neil Bayliss – director, Hubtel IT; Phil Webb – CEO, Vu Agency; Lynsey Kitching – co-founder/director, CAPE People Development; Nancy Buckley – vice principal, Solihull College and University Centre; Rob Wells – COO, Sport 4 Life UK; and Uko Umotong – co-founder/director, UB Healthcare.

They will join existing committee members Amanda Holden, Jas Rohel, Mark Wilson, Pauline Clarke and Susie Ankrett.

Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber, said: "I give my sincere gratitude and thanks to our

executive committee, whose dedication, guidance, and hard work behind the scenes ensure that we continue to deliver meaningful value to our members and represent the interests of our business community effectively.”

Emma-Louise said: “As we mark another successful Solihull Chamber AGM today, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to our outgoing vice presidents for their dedication, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to the Chamber.

“Their contributions have helped shape a remarkable year of progress and collaboration.

“I am equally delighted to welcome our newly appointed vice presidents and the new members of our executive committee; your expertise and fresh perspectives will be invaluable as we continue to champion and support the Solihull business community.

“I look forward to what the next year holds for our Chamber.”

• For full details of the annual meeting scan the QR code.

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SOLIHULL SOLIHULL CHAMBER PATRONS

Appointment is an ‘honour’ for St Basils’ CEO St Basils, the youth homelessness charity dedicated to preventing young people from becoming homeless and supporting them to build independent futures, has appointed Marsha Blake as its new chief executive.

Marsha, who has been with St Basils since 1999, will succeed Jean Templeton, who will step down after 26 years in the role.

Marsha has had a variety of roles at St Basils and has led on many key initiatives, including developing the nationally recognised Youth Hub and Transition Hub. She has played a pivotal part in shaping services, strengthening partnerships, and driving innovation to ensure vulnerable young people receive the support they need to thrive and prosper.

Marsha said: “It is an honour to take on the role of chief executive at St Basils, an organisation that has been such an important part of my professional life.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved under Jean’s leadership and look forward to building on that strong foundation.

Key initiatives: Marsha Blake

“Our mission remains clear: to work with young people aged 16-25 in the West Midlands to enable them to find and keep a home, grow their confidence, develop their skills, increase opportunities and prevent homelessness.”

‘It is an honour to take on the role of chief executive at St Basils’ Under Jean Templeton’s leadership, St Basils has expanded its reach and influence, strengthened its voice in national policy discussions, and developed innovative prevention models that have supported thousands of young people.

Jean Templeton said: “Leading St Basils has been a privilege. I am delighted that Marsha will be stepping into this role.

“Her passion, integrity and deep understanding of both our services and the young people we serve make her exceptionally well placed to guide the organisation into its next chapter.”

Recruitment consultants earn national recognition KSB Recruitment Consultants Ltd have been named Best Hospitality & Catering Agency UK at the Corporate Vision HR and Employment Awards 2026.

The Solihull-based recruitment specialist, which works with hospitality and catering businesses across the UK, received the award in recognition of its consistent delivery, sector expertise and commitment to both clients and candidates.

Founded and led by managing director Dawn Bannister, KSB Recruitment has built a strong reputation within the hospitality sector, supporting hotels, restaurants, contract caterers, care providers and event venues with

both temporary and permanent staffing solutions.

The business is known for its hands-on approach, industry knowledge and focus on long-term partnerships. It celebrated its 35th birthday in March.

Alongside its commercial success, KSB Recruitment has a strong commitment to social and corporate responsibility within the local and wider community.

The business is a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and holds the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award, demonstrating its ongoing support for veterans, reservists and military families.

MP launches awards for local businesses Neil Shastri-Hurst, MP for Solihull and West Shirley, has launched a new independent business of the year competition to celebrate outstanding local firms across the constituency.

The initiative aims to recognise entrepreneurs, shopkeepers and business owners who go the extra mile for the community.

Neil said: “I know how challenging the past few years have been for small and independent firms. Yet time and again, our local businesses have shown determination, innovation and community spirit. They deserve recognition.”

Residents are invited to vote for their favourite independent business by emailing neil.shastri-hurst.mp@parliament.uk

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FUTURE FACES FUTURE FACES CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell T: 07540 751590

Awards partner is revealed The 2026 Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards, organised by Future Faces, will take place at the Town Hall on 24 September.

Arden University has already been confirmed as a headline sponsor. Arden will also be sponsoring an Executive MBA at the university for the overall prize of Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year.

The awards cover a wide range of sectors, with the following categories: • Apprentice of the Year • Creative Industries and Culture • Digital, Tech and Innovation • Sustainability and ESG • Events and Hospitality • Finance • Legal • Built Environment and Engineering • People and Wellbeing One of the category winners will be crowned the overall Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2026.

The awards are open to both members and nonmembers who work within the Greater Birmingham region - including the Birmingham, Burton, Cannock Chase, Lichfield, Tamworth, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield postcode areas.

Future Faces has announced Make Strides as a partner for this year’s awards.

The consultancy works with organisations and high-potential leaders across the UK to develop strategic leadership and performance.

Celebration: The 2025 winners

All award winners will be invited to join an exclusive Make Strides Leadership Programme cohort, created specifically for Future Faces award recipients and will bring together the region’s top young talent into one high-calibre development space.

Make Strides director Gemma Stuart-Young (pictured) said: “We’re delighted to be sponsoring the 2026 Future Faces Awards and to be partnering with the Chamber in recognising some of the region’s most exciting emerging leaders.

“As part of our sponsorship, we’re proud to offer all 2026 category winners a fully funded place on a dedicated Make Strides Leadership Programme.”

...as streamlined process makes entering easier Future Faces is introducing a simpler nomination process for the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards – making it easier to recognise talented young professionals across the region.

Instead of requiring nominees to complete the full application form, individuals will now be able to nominate someone by submitting a few basic details, including their name, email address and a short statement outlining why they deserve recognition.

Once the nomination has been submitted, the nominee will receive an email informing them of their nomination and inviting them to complete the full application.

The nomination process is free, and shortlisted finalists will be invited to attend the awards ceremony. The deadline to apply for the awards is 10 July.

Lillian Elekan, director of membership at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “We’ve seen a really encouraging rise in 60 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

young professionals putting themselves forward for the awards over the last few years. It takes confidence and courage to step forward, and we absolutely celebrate that.

‘We’ve seen a really encouraging rise in young professionals putting themselves forward for the awards’ “At the same time, however, we know there are many talented individuals who may not naturally put themselves in the spotlight and sometimes just need that extra encouragement.

“Introducing a simple nomination process makes it easier than ever to recognise emerging talent, while still giving individuals the opportunity to tell their own story through the application stage.”

Arden University to back award winner Future Faces Chamber of Commerce has announced Arden University as a headline sponsor for this year’s Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards.

As well as the sponsorship, Arden University will be offering an Executive MBA for the person named Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year, as well as sponsoring the Charity and Social impact category.

Arden University is a modern, careerfocused institution committed to making higher education accessible, inclusive and flexible for all. With a strong presence across the UK, including a thriving campus in Birmingham, Arden delivers high-quality degree programmes through innovative online and blended learning models designed to fit around students’ lives.

Founded on the belief that everyone, everywhere deserves the right to higher education, Arden harnesses the power of technology to break down traditional barriers to education such as time and geography. It ensures support mechanisms are in place so students of any age and background can study for a degree.

Professor Dilshad Sheikh, Arden University’s provost and chief academic officer, said: “Arden University is proud to sponsor the Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards for a second time.

Birmingham is a city built on ambition, enterprise and opportunity, and these awards recognise the extraordinary talent emerging from across our region.

“We are delighted to offer a fully funded Executive MBA scholarship to the overall winner of this year’s awards.”

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FUTURE FACES

The Chamber’s ever growing network for young professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.

Continued growth: Sophie Poduval-Morrell (right) with Sarah Griffiths

Incredible opportunities: Becca Horley

GBYPY awards boosted my career, says winner The overall winner of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2025 says that the award was a springboard for her career.

Becca Horley, a medical negligence solicitor at Fletchers, also won the GBYPY award in the legal category.

She said: “Winning GBYPY gives you a platform to get incredible opportunities and applying for the awards is a celebration of your achievements.

“But it’s actually the beginning of a springboard for your career to have opportunities that you wouldn’t otherwise have access to.

“It puts you in rooms with people that are like you and you wouldn’t have that if you didn’t apply for them. I think people need to be resilient and just go for it.”

Since winning the award Becca has worked on building her personal brand on social media and was named one of the top ten legal LinkedInfluencers at the start of this year.

AGM to welcome committee members The Future Faces annual meeting will be held on the Thursday, 16 April, from 8.30am to 10.30am at Albert’s Schloss in Birmingham city centre.

The session will highlight the Chamber’s plans for the year ahead with an outline of Future Faces’ vision to keep making a positive impact in Greater Birmingham.

Sophie Poduval-Morrell, manager of Future Faces, said: “It has been a real honour to work alongside Sarah Griffiths, president, and our dedicated committee over the past 12 months.

“As president, Sarah has played an important role in supporting the continued growth and direction of Future Faces, and I am looking forward to continuing working with her over the next year as we continue to build on that momentum.

“Future Faces is proud to represent a thriving network of more than 500 young professionals across Greater Birmingham.

“This year has been particularly special as we celebrated the 25th anniversary of our Greater BYPY Awards – a milestone that reflects both the strength of our community and the incredible talent within it, as well as the legacy of Greater BYPY. “As we approach our AGM this month, I am excited to welcome new committee members who will help shape the next chapter of Future Faces, while thanking those who have given their time, energy and passion to the network. It is a community I am incredibly proud to lead.”

New Members Cameron Penwill Bishop Fleming Charles Brooks Bishop Fleming Dominic Mould Domographics Shannon Whyte Bishop Fleming

Dedicated event on grief in the workplace Future Faces hosted the third and final event of an exclusive three-part series titled Dealing with Bereavement and Grief in the Workplace.

The event was hosted at Forvis Mazars by Rebecca Mander, founder of GuruYou and former police officer turned trauma therapist Hannah Bailey.

They discussed how grief can affect individuals in the workplace and offered guidance on navigating loss, supporting others and creating an environment where empathy and performance can coexist.

Molly Fellows, a Future Faces member and associate for Mills & Reeve LLP, first suggested the idea of the event after struggling with the loss of her dad five years ago.

Molly said: “The event was incredibly impactful – it offered practical, compassionate tools for supporting colleagues through bereavement or traumatic experiences.”

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Awards headline sponsor revealed Elonex – the Birminghamheadquartered outdoor media advertising company – is returning as a headline sponsor along with Birmingham City University for the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce 2026 awards at the ICC on 14 May. The firm operates over 3,000 digital advertising billboards located on roads and motorways, in city centres, at sports stadiums, motorway service areas, entertainment venues and shopping centres.

The Sunday Times Fast Track 100 firm also delivers market leading LED architecture to major destinations and venues, and digital display technology to event organisers and exhibitors.

Adam Stockton, group partner at Elonex, said: “We’re proud to return as headline sponsor of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Annual Awards. The event celebrates the ambition, innovation and resilience that make the Greater Birmingham business community so powerful.”

Bookings close on 21 April and tickets are £170+VAT or £1,700+VAT for a table of 10.

Go to GBCCAwards@birminghamchamber.com for more details.

APRIL Brumbassadors Date: 14 April Time: 9.30-11.30am Venue: Birmingham City Football Club Division: Birmingham Cost: Members only ABCC AGM Date: 15 April Time: 09:30 – 11:30 Venue: 54 Hagley Road Division: ABCC Cost: Free for member and non-members Online Speed Networking Date: 15 April Time: 12:00 – 13:00 Venue: Online Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non‑members: £20+VAT Digital Carnet Workshop Date: 16 April Time: 10:00 – 11:30 Venue: Zoom Division: GBCC Cost: Free

Broadcasting legend to inspire Brumbassadors Award-winning journalist and broadcaster Marverine Cole will be the keynote speaker at a major Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) event this month.

She will be the keynote speaker at a members-only Brumbassadors meeting at Birmingham City FC on Tuesday, 14 April (9.30am-11.30am).

Marverine appeared on some of the UK’s most watched and listened to broadcasts, including Sky News, Good Morning Britain, 5 News and the BBC. This year she was awarded an honorary doctorate from Birmingham City University (BCU). She won a postgraduate diploma in broadcast journalism in 2003 from the forerunner of the BCU, the University of Central England.

Marcella Meehan, events manager at the GBCC, said: “Birmingham has faced some tough headlines but beneath the noise is a bold, youthful, and diverse city full of energy and innovation. There’s so much here to be proud of and that’s exactly what Brumbassadors is all about. It is a platform for amplifying good news and opportunities across business, culture and sport; the magic ingredients that make a great place to live, work and invest.”

Brought to you twice a year by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce in partnership with Birmingham City Football Club, Brumbassadors is exclusive to GBCC members and designed to: • Inspire – hear from Marverine, a legendary Brummie, and a panel of leaders in business with real stories of impact from across business, culture, and sport

Future Faces Social Networking Date: 16 April Time: 08:30 – 10:30 Venue: Albert Schloss Division: Future Faces Cost: Future Faces members only Networking Lunch Date: 16 April Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Hednesford Town FC Division: Lichfield & Tamworth, Cannock Chase, Burton Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non‑members: £50+VAT Solihull Business at Breakfast Date: 16 April Time: 09:30 – 11:00 Venue: Touchwood Division: Solihull Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £25+VAT Non-members: £50 Premier Breakfast Date: 21 April Time: 08:30 – 10:30 Venue: Howden Insurance Division: 1813 Club & Premier Members Cost: Premier & 1813 Club members only

Keynote speaker: Marverine Cole

• Connect with organisations making a positive difference in the city • Champion the good news we don’t hear enough about with opportunities for delegates to be part of the discussion on what makes Brum brilliant and what makes a Brumbassador.

Vaisakhi Business Networking 2026 Date: 22 April Time: 18:00 – 20:30 Venue: The National Conference Centre Division: ABCC Cost: ABCC members: Free Members: £30+VAT Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £60+VAT Black Business Collective Date: 22 April Time: 16:00 – 19:00 Venue: Albert’s Schloss Division: GBCC Cost: Free for members and non-members Chamber Connections: SLTC Awards Winners Celebration Date: 27 April Time: 16:30 – 18:30 Venue: South Staff College Division: Lichfield & Tamworth Cost: Free for members Solihull Networking Lunch and Netwalking Date: 27 April Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: The Bull's Head Division: Solihull Cost: Members: Free

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Future Faces: £25+VAT Non‑members: £50+VAT QBR Briefing (Q1) Date: 29 April Time: 09:00 – 11:00 Venue: Birmingham City University – Curzon Building Division: GBCC Cost: Free for members and non-members Royal Sutton Coldfield Speed Networking & Networking Lunch Date: 29 April Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Walmley Golf Club Division: Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non‑members: £50+VAT Professional Development Date: 30 April Time: 16:00 – 18:00 Venue: Gas Street Social Division: Future Faces Cost: Future Faces members only Making the Most of Your Membership Date: 30 April Time: 09:30 – 10:30 Venue: Online Division: GBCC Cost: Free

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FEATURE: GROWING YOUR BUSINESS

How I

grow my

business

By Malachi Farquharson, director of The Learn Active Coaching Group

T

aking your business to the next level isn’t about one big move – it’s about making the right strategic decisions consistently. Through my work with Learn Active Coaching and across education, mentoring, and wellbeing, I’ve found that growth comes from a mix of intentional planning, strong relationships, and delivering real impact.

Here are some of the keyways I approach growing my business.

Strategic Growth Partnerships and collaboration One of the most effective ways I grow is by working with schools, colleges, local authorities, and organisations that align with our mission. By collaborating, we’re able to expand our reach, share expertise, and create more opportunities for the young people and adults we support.

In some cases, this looks like joint programmes, co-delivered workshops, or integrating our mentoring into existing services.

• Creating opportunities for progression and leadership.

When the team grows, the business grows.

It’s about making sure our services stay relevant, impactful, and forward-thinking.

Building reach Increasing visibility is key. I focus on: • Strengthening relationships with schools and referral partners • Growing our presence both locally and online • Showcasing the impact of our work through case studies and outcomes.

This helps us reach more people who can benefit from what we do.

Organic Growth Expanding services Growth also comes from evolving what we offer.

I regularly review the needs of the people and communities we work with, then develop new programmes to meet those needs.

For example, this has included: • Mentoring programmes for disengaged students • Leadership programmes for young people • Workshops around behaviour, mindset, and relationships • Employability-focused mentoring for adults.

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Developing strong relationships At the core of everything is trust. By delivering high-quality sessions and maintaining strong communication with schools and partners, we naturally grow through referrals and long-term partnerships.

Investing in people A business only grows as much as its people do.

That’s why I focus on: • Training and developing mentors • Ensuring staff are confident, skilled, and aligned with our values

Improving what we do I’m always reviewing and refining our programmes. Whether it’s improving session delivery, updating resources, or responding to feedback, continuous improvement is key to staying effective and competitive.

Scaling the model Another area of growth is looking at how our programmes can be replicated or expanded. This could be through: • Delivering in new regions •

Creating structured programme models that can be rolled out

•

Exploring future opportunities like training others to deliver our approach.

The key to success For me, growth isn’t just about getting bigger it’s about creating more impact.

Having a clear plan, strong systems, and the right support (whether that’s financial, operational, or strategic) is essential. I also make sure the foundations of the business are solid – from safeguarding and compliance to contracts and delivery standards.

If you’re looking to grow your business, my advice is simple: stay clear on your purpose, invest in your people, and build strong partnerships. Growth will follow.

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FEATURE: GROWING YOUR BUSINESS

‘The problem is that handing it over feels like one more thing to manage – so you keep doing it yourself’

How to handle the

‘should’ list

By Becky Benbow, founder, A Burden Shared

Y

ou have two lists.

There’s the to-do list – the one you actually work from. And then there’s the ‘should’ list.

The one that lives rent-free in your head while you’re answering emails, formatting reports, and writing content you didn’t really have time to write.

The ‘should’ list sounds something like: I should have someone managing my inbox. I should not be the one doing this. I should stop being the person who does everything.

Sound familiar? Good. Because that list is where your growth is hiding.

The problem isn’t that you don’t know what to outsource. You absolutely do. The problem is that handing it over feels like one more thing to manage – so you keep doing it yourself. And every week you do, it’s costing you.

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Put a number on it Take your day rate. Now think about how many hours last week you spent on work that had nothing to do with your actual expertise.

Admin. Chasing. Scheduling.

Content you cobbled together at 10pm because it had to go out.

That’s the obvious number. But the bigger one is harder to see: the proposal you didn’t send, the client you didn’t follow up, the conversation you kept putting off because you had no headspace left.

That’s not lost time. That’s lost revenue.

Doing everything yourself isn’t efficient. It’s expensive.

They write it because it feels too personal to hand over. Because “nobody else will get my voice.”

And in the meantime, it either doesn’t go out at all, or it goes out late and flat and sounds like every other business on the internet.

Here’s what’s true: your voice can absolutely be captured, documented, and written by someone who isn’t you. What you actually need is someone who asks the right questions, listens properly, and knows the difference between writing that sounds professional and writing that sounds like you.

The two are not the same thing.

And the right one converts.

How to actually start Let’s talk about your voice specifically One of the most common things I see founders doing themselves – badly, slowly, and with a lot of quiet suffering - is their own copywriting.

Website pages. LinkedIn posts.

Proposals. Emails to prospects.

Go through your week and ask one question about each task: does this genuinely require me – my specific expertise, my relationships, my judgement – to be done well? For most business owners, the honest answer is yes to far fewer things than they expect.

Before you hand anything over, be clear about what good looks like.

Not a lengthy document – just enough that someone else can hit your standard. Then start with one thing. One task. Hand it over properly. See what comes back.

In my experience, what usually comes back is better than expected.

And what usually follows is the question: why did I wait so long?

The ‘should’ list is trying to tell you something You already know what needs to come off your plate. You probably knew before you started reading this. The ‘should’ list doesn’t need to get any longer – it needs to get shorter.

Pick one thing this week. Not next quarter. This week. Hand it over, brief it properly, and get back to the work that actually needs you.

That’s where your business grows.

Everything else is just noise you’re paying a premium to keep making.

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FEATURE: GROWING YOUR BUSINESS

CHANGES TO EMPLOYMENT LAW COULD BE COSTLY HOW PREPARED ARE YOU? The new Employee Rights Act 2025 is the one of the biggest shake ups in the business world and many business leaders are underestimating the impact these changes will have. I’m not just talking about the introduction of day one SSP and paternity leave, but also the reduced service time to qualify for unfair dismissal, the removal of the cap on unfair dismissal awards and the extension of time to bring a claim to tribunal. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Now, more than ever, is the time to make sure you have robust policies and procedures that ensure you recruit the right people and minimise the risk to your business should things not work out.

FOR A FREE HR AUDIT ON YOUR CURRENT PRACTICES PLEASE GET IN TOUCH. Phone: 07946 511 028 Email: karen@kr4hr.com Website: www.kr4hr.com LinkedIn: Karen Robinson

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FEATURE: HOTELS, CONFERENCES & EXHIBITIONS

The value of

face-to-face

meetings

By Kelly Smith (pictured below), head of events, Cranmore Park

O

ver the last few years, we’ve all become experts in the ‘efficient’ meeting. We’ve traded the morning commute for a quick click, and the conference suite for a gallery of pixelated faces.

But as the novelty of digital convenience starts to wear thin, an old truth is resurfacing…you can exchange data through a screen, but you build culture, chemistry, and trust in a room.

As we navigate this new world of hybrid work and AI-driven communication, getting together in person has shifted from a routine mustdo to a high-value strategy. Here’s why I believe the ‘Human Premium’ is the ultimate competitive advantage for our local businesses.

The magic of the in-between moments Digital meetings are transactional by design.

They start on time, follow a rigid agenda, and vanish with a click. But what’s missing is the serendipity factor.

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that brief stroll to the car park, or through a chance introduction in a breakout lounge.

These unplanned, messy human moments are the real seeds of innovation. In a physical venue, you aren’t just attending a talk, you’re stepping into a space where anything could happen.

Reading the room (literally) We’ve all felt that awkward ‘no, you go first’ lag on a video call. Real communication is about so much more than words; it’s about microexpressions, body language, and the general vibe of a space.

When we meet face-to-face, we bypass the mute button and the frozen screens. We get the nuance.

For our business community here in Solihull, being in the same room creates a shared reality.

It strengthens bonds in a way that a monthly newsletter or a LinkedIn comment simply can’t touch. There is no digital substitute for looking someone in the eye.

Permission to focus Be honest. We’ve all multitasked through a webinar. It’s hard not to sneak a look at an overflowing inbox or reply to a ping on Teams when you’re sat at your desk.

A physical event offers something that is becoming incredibly rare: undivided attention.

By physically stepping away from the laptop and into a dedicated space, we give ourselves permission to actually focus.

This kind of immersion doesn't just lead to better ideas, it leads to a genuine sense of renewal.

A community you can see Beyond the psychology, there’s a quiet power in simply showing up. When we get together at event venues like Cranmore Park, we aren’t just individuals in a room, we are a living, breathing map of the local economy.

Seeing the sheer scale of local talent in one place breeds a special kind of confidence. And in business, confidence is the fuel that drives growth.

The verdict Digital is great for the ‘what’, but face-to-face is for the ‘who’ and the ‘why’.

As we look ahead, the businesses that truly thrive won’t be the ones hiding behind screens.

They’ll be the ones who understand the irreplaceable value of a firm handshake and a real conversation. The screen might be convenient, but the room is where the magic and the real work - happens.

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FEATURE: HOTELS, CONFERENCES & EXHIBITIONS

Global

Exhibitions, domestic mindset

By Ahmed Elkest (pictured), project director, Eventa Global Exhibitions

F

or many UK businesses, exhibiting internationally feels like a straightforward next step. If a stand performs well at events in the UK, the assumption is often that the same design, messaging and approach will work just as effectively abroad.

This is where many companies fall into what can be described as a domestic mindset. They approach global trade shows using assumptions formed in their home market, without fully considering how different exhibition environments can be.

In reality, international exhibitions operate under very different conditions. Cultural expectations, labour regulations and global logistics can all shape how a stand is built, delivered and experienced by visitors.

Businesses that overlook these factors often discover that exhibiting overseas is not simply a larger version of a UK event. It is a different environment entirely.

Culture influences how visitors engage One of the most overlooked differences between exhibition markets is how visitors engage with stands.

In countries such as Germany, trade fairs are often highly structured. Meetings are frequently scheduled well in advance and visitors expect 72 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

detailed technical discussions. Stands therefore tend to emphasise product demonstrations and engineering credibility.

By contrast, exhibitions in the United States often place greater emphasis on visual impact and on-stand presentations. Audio-visual displays, large graphics and confident product pitches are commonly used to attract attention across busy halls.

In markets across the Gulf region, including Dubai, premium finishes and hospitality can play an important role in signalling brand positioning. In Saudi Arabia, demonstrating cultural awareness and respect for local business customs can be equally important in building trust with potential partners.

These differences do not mean that one approach is better than another. However, they do highlight how a stand designed for the United Kingdom, where space efficiency and practicality often dominate, may not automatically resonate in a different exhibition environment.

Cultural differences also influence how business discussions develop during and after the event. In the United Kingdom, companies are often accustomed to formal procurement processes, detailed contracts and extended email exchanges before agreements are finalised. In parts of the Gulf, however, relationship building can play a far greater role.

Conversations may begin informally on the exhibition stand and continue afterwards through messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, where business relationships often develop more quickly through direct personal communication.

Labour rules can change the budget Operational realities can also surprise businesses exhibiting internationally for the first time.

In the UK, exhibitors are used to relatively flexible installation periods and the ability to manage many aspects of stand assembly themselves. Overseas venues can operate very differently.

At some large exhibition centres in North America, labour rules dictate who is permitted to perform certain tasks. Electrical connections, rigging or unloading equipment may require authorised technicians. Even simple tasks can incur additional costs if they fall under specific regulations.

Restricted build hours can also affect schedules. If installation windows are shorter than expected, additional labour or overtime may be required to complete the stand on time.

Logistics have become less predictable Another challenge is the movement of exhibition structures across borders.

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FEATURE: HOTELS, CONFERENCES & EXHIBITIONS

‘One of the most overlooked differences between exhibition markets is how visitors engage with stands’ In recent years, global supply chains have become less predictable. Shipping disruptions, fluctuating freight costs and evolving customs procedures have added complexity to international logistics.

Recent geopolitical tensions involving Iran have also demonstrated how quickly conditions can change. Disruptions to shipping routes and regional airspace can affect freight movements across the Middle East, particularly for major exhibition hubs such as Dubai that depend heavily on international transport networks.

For businesses transporting stand structures and products internationally, this means allowing additional lead time and planning for potential delays.

Strategy before stand design International trade shows remain one of the most effective ways for companies to enter new markets and build global relationships. However, they require more than simply replicating a successful domestic stand.

Cultural expectations, operational rules and logistics all shape the exhibition environment.

Companies that understand these factors before committing budget are far more likely to see a return on their investment.

In many cases, success overseas does not come from having the largest stand. It comes from understanding the market in which that stand will operate.

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Sector Focus The latest news from the sectors that matter to business Back in use: The new Kings Heath station

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and the mayor at the new station

Station opening dates announced Five new railway stations are due to open to passengers in the West Midlands – completing a £185m project to reconnect communities to the rail network for the first time in generations.

In the Black Country the new Willenhall and Darlaston Stations have opened. They were last visited by train services in 1965.

On the Camp Hill Line in Birmingham, the stations of Moseley Village, King’s Heath, and Pineapple Road were opening on Tuesday, 7 April – giving locals access to rail services for the first time since the Second World War. This major construction project has rebuilt all five stations to modern standards with sheltered

Airport unveils green strategy Birmingham Airport (BHX) has published its new sustainability strategy for 2026 to 2030, outlining the next steps on its journey to becoming a more sustainable and socially responsible business.

Split across 10 key strategic themes aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the new plan maps out key actions to support local communities, mitigate operational impact on the environment and be more energy efficient.

The new strategy looks to build on significant progress already achieved towards becoming a net zero airport by 2033. Alongside continued management of noise levels, reduction in waste and water saving strategies, the airport has now committed to widening its focus to target indirect emissions by engaging and collaborating with key partners.

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platforms, accessible lifts, ticket machines, and secure cycle racks. Darlaston Station also includes a car park with 300 spaces for park and ride commuters, while Willenhall includes an additional 33 parking spaces.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “When I took office, I promised we would get these stations finished for the community, and now we are delivering on that promise. These vital new services will not only restore a historic link between the railways and our communities, they will create a new lifeline for local people – supporting our high streets, opening up new opportunities and connections, and driving economic growth.”

The project is led by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), and the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE), in partnership with Network Rail, West Midlands Railway, Birmingham City Council, Walsall Council, and the Department for Transport.

Moseley Village, Kings Heath and Pineapple Road will get a half-hourly train service between Birmingham city centre and Kings Norton.

Willenhall and Darlaston stations will be added to the timetable for the hourly Shrewsbury to Birmingham New Street Station service via Wolverhampton.

easyJet launches flights and package holiday deals to Rome easyJet has launched flights and package holidays on its new route from Birmingham Airport to Rome.

With flights operating four times a week on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, there is plenty of connectivity whether it’s a weekend city break, a week-long escape or for those travelling for business.

Seats are available at easyJet.com and via the app from £22.99.

This summer easyJet will also welcome a sixth A320 family aircraft to its fleet at Birmingham Airport, enabling the airline to offer customers even more choice for flights and holidays across Europe and beyond. easyJet holidays also has a wide range of city break packages to Rome from Birmingham starting

Rome here we come: The easyJet crew prepare to leave BHX

from £195 per person. All city break packages include flights and hotel, covered by easyJet holidays’ Ultimate Flexibility.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said: “Our continued success in the Midlands is a clear testament to the

popularity of our flights and holidays.

“The growth of our fleet with an additional aircraft in Birmingham this summer will further unlock the opportunity of the demand that we see for both leisure and business travel.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

‘Bringing both teams together under one roof creates a more experienced, more capable practice’

Togetherness: The Jerroms and Price Pearson teams

Jerroms expands local office following Price Pearson merger Midlands leading accountancy and finance firms, Jerroms, part of the Sumer Group, has welcomed the Price Pearson team into its Halesowen Office following the merger of the two firms.

By bringing both teams together, the firm is expanding its capacity, deepening its specialist expertise and significantly enhancing the breadth of services available to clients.

The merger also enables Jerroms to broaden its portfolio further, now

offering probate and will-writing services.

With a combined legacy of more than 100 years supporting individuals and businesses across the region, both firms share a longstanding commitment to helping local people and businesses thrive.

The merger represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the diverse and rapidly growing SME community throughout the Black Country have access to a comprehensive, expert-led range of

financial services, all delivered under one roof.

Chris Casey, director at Jerroms Halesowen, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome our Price Pearson colleagues into the Halesowen office.

“Their expertise and strong client relationships are incredibly important to us and they will play a key role in strengthening the services we provide across the Black Country.

“Bringing both teams together under one roof creates a more experienced, more capable practice

with the scale and depth needed to support local SMEs with the insight, guidance and hands on support they need to grow.

“This is a really positive step for the region, and we’re excited about what we can achieve together.”

Jerroms have assisted with the acquisition of Boston Insurance by JMG Group. Yorkshire-headquartered JMG Group’s latest acquisition brings Solihull-based Boston Insurance Brokers into its growing national portfolio.

Gateley Legal advises LDC on partnership Gateley Legal has advised LDC, part of Lloyds Banking Group, on its partnership with Frankham Group (Frankham), to support the property and construction consultancy’s next phase of growth.

Headquartered in Sidcup, Kent, and established in 1982 by Steve Frankham MBE as a building surveying practice, Frankham has become one of the UK’s leading multidisciplinary consultancies for the built environment.

Today, employing c.250 people, it delivers a broad range of end-to-end services, spanning fire and building compliance, surveying and project management, engineering, and design.

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It has over 700 private and public sector clients and works on projects across the housing, infrastructure, commercial and other sectors.

LDC’s investment will help Frankham accelerate its 2030 growth strategy, targeting further geographic expansion.

LDC has a track record of supporting a wide range of businesses serving the built environment, including environmental TIC specialist HSL, fire door sector TIC and compliance business IDSL, water and environmental sustainability specialist Stonbury, cost benchmarking and valuation platform BCIS, and passive fire protection manufacturer ARC Building Solutions.

Gateley Legal’s team was led by partner and national head of corporate Beth Mather, supported by corporate partners William Bowler and Matt Hussey, senior associate Jamie Gillespie, associate Hannah Hogarth, and solicitor Nick Holder. Tax advice was provided by partner and head of tax Bernhard Gilbey and solicitor John Gumery, with employment support from legal director Helen Webster.

Beth Mather said: “We’re pleased to have supported LDC on its partnership with Frankham, a business with an impressive track record and strong platform for continued growth. It was a pleasure to work with Tom and the wider LDC team.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Firms adopting AI see gains, says report AI is helping West Midlands firms work more efficiently and unlock new opportunities for growth, according to new findings from the Lloyds Business Barometer.

West Midlands businesses integrating AI into their operations are reporting significant financial benefits, with 89 per cent seeing increased productivity and 59 per cent reporting higher profits over the past 12 months.

Of those who reported a profit boost from using AI, 49 per cent recorded an uplift of 11 per cent or more, with a further 41 per cent saying profits increased by 6-10 per cent, and 12 per cent saying profits increased between 0-5 per cent.

The findings come as investment in AI accelerates, with more than three-quarters (78 per cent) of West Midlands businesses confirming they have invested in AI. The research from Lloyds found that most firms spent less than £25,000 (32 per cent) to enhance their AI capabilities, followed by 17 per cent of firms who spent between £25,000-£100,000, 18 per cent spending between

£100,000-£250,000 and 10 per cent spending £250,000 or more.

Alongside these gains, West Midlands businesses are investing in the skills needed to make AI adoption effective.

The survey shows that customer service roles have been upskilled the most by AI (46 per cent), followed by sales teams (36 per cent).

Dave Atkinson, regional director for the West Midlands, said: “West Midlands businesses are approaching AI as a powerful strategic advantage – with profitability and productivity increases just some of the ways that it’s helping them grow and compete.

“As firms make further investments in the technology and expand its use, they

Self-storage business expands with Coventry buy The Corporate Finance team at PKF Smith Cooper acted as lead advisers to the shareholders of Storagely in their successful acquisition of U Can Store It-Coventry.

The transaction represents the expansion of Storagely’s operations into a further Midlands site in addition to their two self-storage sites in Dudley and Preston.

PKF’s involvement included developing an acquisition strategy, identifying targets that closely met the criteria, unlocking deal opportunities, valuing potential acquisitions, assessing funding options, leveraging deep industry knowledge to agree terms, and managing the transaction through to completion.

Tom Joy, corporate finance director at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “We are delighted to have supported Storagely to accelerate their growth through a strategic acquisition. The transaction represents an important

will need clear oversight and robust processes so that it is used responsibly and transparently.”

Earlier this year, Lloyds developed a generative AI tool, ‘CRE AI’, which processes complex real estate tenancy schedules in minutes, rather than the 75 hours previously required.

Strategic advantage: Dave Atkinson

Saved jobs: Dean Nelson

step in their broader growth strategy, and we look forward to continuing to work with them on their journey.”

The transaction was advised on by the PKF Smith Cooper Corporate Finance team, led by Tom Joy with support from Jason Sackey.

PKF were also engaged to assist with the sale of the national “new homes only” property portal New Homes For Sale.co.uk Limited to Zoopla Limited, one of the UK’s leading property websites.

Adam Rollason (tax partner) and Nick Skidmore (senior tax manager) provided tax structuring advice on the deal and sell-side tax support to each of the selling shareholders.

Dean Nelson, head of business recovery and restructuring at PKF, assisted in the sale of the business and assets of JLC Form and Laser Ltd to Savekers Solutions Ltd, helping them to continue trading and securing all jobs.

Milestone year for accountant A director at a leading West Midlands accountancy practice is celebrating a quarter of a century at the firm he joined straight from university.

Jeremy Kitson joined Prime Accountants Group – then known as Pilley and Florsham – at the end of 2000 after studying business at Coventry University.

He has been on a growth journey ever since with Prime, which operated from a converted residential property in Coventry in the Pilley and Florsham days but now boasts three ultra-modern premises in Birmingham, Solihull and Coventry.

Jeremy is in good company in his milestone year, with fellow director Jamie Skelding celebrating 40 years with the firm, giving the pair a combined 65 years of knowledge and experience between them.

Jeremy said: “When I started in 2000, the practice was a 25-person firm based in an old house in Coventry. We are now significantly larger and very different from those early days – so much has changed.

“The technology was certainly different back then.

There was lots of handwritten work and paperwork, including 16-column pads and similar manual systems. I remember introducing spreadsheets in Excel to aid accuracy and efficiency, which was novel at the time.”

Based at Prime’s Birmingham office, Jeremy heads up the audit and accounts department and also leads the business’s charity department.

Prime director Paul Guise is urging the self-employed and landlords to prepare for the long-awaited Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD for IT) rule change, which marks a fundamental shift in how they report their income to HMRC. From this month, all sole traders and landlords with gross qualifying income over £50,000 before expenses will be legally required to change how they keep records and report to HMRC. The new MTD for IT replaces the traditional oncea-year Self-Assessment tax return with a fully-digital reporting system.

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HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Third cath lab is opened at Midland Met The Midland Metropolitan University Hospital has opened a new cardiac catheter lab, which will reduce waiting times for patients undergoing cardiology procedures.

The new cardiac catheter lab, otherwise known as a cath lab, will specialise in cardiac pacing, which means patients who need a pacemaker will be seen quicker.

Last year, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust performed just under 500 pacing procedures.

It will also improve the hospital’s ability to provide emergency care to patients who need urgent lifesaving treatment, as it will free up space in the hospital’s other two interventional cath labs.

Dr Abdul Maher, consultant cardiology with a special interest in complex cardiac devices and cardiac imaging, said: “The extra capacity

that this development creates and the fact that it will be primarily for patients needing pacemakers and defibrillators will be of huge benefit to those we look after.

“These devices can be lifesaving and life transforming, so the opening of this cath lab at the Midland Met is a very exciting day for our teams and great news for our patients.”

‘These devices can be lifesaving and life transforming’ One of the first patients to be treated in the new cath lab was 63year-old Jean Farnsworth.

Jean was told by cardiologists in January that she would need a pacemaker fitted. She said: “I’ve been on the waiting list for an

appointment and then I was offered this surgery earlier than planned.

“I only found out on the day of my surgery that it was happening in the new cath lab and that’s probably why I was given this appointment, so

I’m really pleased that it’s being done sooner rather than later.”

Vinoda Sharma, consultant interventional cardiologist and Cardiology clinical speciality lead, who worked on the opening,

Coach makes expo debut Partnership: NHS and Better Signage personnel

Lichfield-based coaching practice Nicola Kathryn Coaching exhibited at one of the UK’s leading workplace wellbeing events to mark the launch of a new boutique fractional coaching offer, designed to help organisations develop their people and strengthen sustainable performance.

Making her debut at the Health & Wellbeing at Work Conference at the NEC, founder Nicola Forsyth (pictured) also offered delegates the opportunity to win a free breathwork workshop for their workplace.

Nicola Kathryn Coaching partners with organisations to support the personal and professional growth of their people.

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Better signage delivers social value through NHS partnership A new partnership between NHS’s Birmingham & Solihull Procurement Collaborative and Better Signage will provide name badges to staff across the region.

Better Signage will supply “My name is…” badges to clinical and ward staff across five NHS trusts within the Birmingham and Solihull Integrated Care System.

These include University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Heartlands Hospital, Good Hope Hospital and Solihull Hospital), the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, and Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.

Around 16,000 badges are expected to be supplied each year, helping ensure staff are easily identifiable

while maintaining a professional and consistent brand identity. The badges have been carefully designed to combine durability, accessibility and practicality.

Simon Clarke, managing director of the BSOL Procurement Collaborative, said: “This partnership not only supports the practical needs of UHB and the wider ICS but also contributes to a wider social purpose – empowering individuals and creating real opportunities for change.”

The NHS project builds on Better Signage’s growing reputation for delivering high-quality, socially responsible signage solutions. Last year, the organisation completed an end-to-end signage project for fellow Chamber member Multifleet at its new offices in Shirley, further demonstrating the value that social enterprises can bring to local businesses and organisations.

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HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Programme to support workplace wellbeing

Cutting waiting time: The “cath lab”

added: “This is an amazing achievement for us.

“The third cath lab will help patients get timely care, cut down waiting lists and help with patient flow.”

A major new research programme will review, develop and test the effectiveness of workplace health and wellbeing initiatives in reducing employees time off sick.

The £3.7m five-year programme, led by University of Birmingham (UoB) and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, will begin in May. It aims to investigate the effectiveness and implementation of “workplace health and wellbeing initiatives that are free at the point of use to workplaces”, known as WHISPAs. These are offered freely to employers and funded by local government or voluntary and community organisations.

The research will focus on small and medium-sized organisations with less than 250 staff.

UoB will lead on the collaboration between Newcastle University, Teesside University, Imperial College London, University of Hertfordshire, University of Exeter, East Sussex County Council and the British Chambers of Commerce.

The number of people out of work due to long-term sickness has been steadily rising over recent years and in 2024 it reached a record high.

One of many barriers to uptake of workplace support is cost, especially for smaller organisations.

Over 60 local government regions provide free and

Diplomat visits lifesaving surgeon The British Ambassador to Brazil met with the Birmingham surgeon who helped to save her life. Hector Vilca-Melendez, from Birmingham Children’s Hospital, flew to Brazil, to perform an emergency liver transplant on Her Excellency Mrs Stephanie Al-Qaq in January last year.

Mrs Al-Qaq had contracted dengue fever in December 2024 and was one of a small number of patients who develop acute liver failure (fulminant hepatitis), a complication with a 50 per cent mortality rate.

Joyful meeting: Stephanie Al-Qaq with Hector Vilca-Melendez

She became seriously ill and suffered inflammation and swelling of her liver. Hector was flown over to Brazil and worked with surgeons to carry out the 11-hour procedure.

And following the successful surgery, the diplomat was keen to meet the British transplant surgeon, originally from South America, at his place of work to show her gratitude more than a year on.

The Ambassador said said: “It was a great joy to meet Mr VilcaMelendez again and learn more about his work and that of his colleagues at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.”

Hector said: “It was a pleasure to see her fit and well, reassuming already her important work as Ambassador. She had a real interest in what we do at the Children’s Hospital and how we are developing treatment for our liver patients.

“Surgery is just one part of the process of liver transplantation and the steady post-transplant recovery of our ambassador, is confirmation of the high-quality care that the local transplant team provided for her and I am very grateful for their friendly support.”

subsidised support, but more is needed to understand and develop their work.

“There are many initiatives that support workplace health and wellbeing, but we need to ensure support is accessible, effective, and appropriately tailored, especially for smaller and medium-sized organisations, which employ the majority of the UK workforce,” says Dr Laura Kudrna, lead applicant and associate professor in health research methods at UoB. “Across the UK, local government already provide substantial support for these workplaces. This research is about working with local government and these businesses to expand and learn from their approaches.”

Free: A travel assistance card

WMR’s sensory packs restocked in stations West Midlands Railway (WMR) raised awareness of support options for neurodiverse passengers as part of Neurodiversity Celebration Week.

Following the positive reception of WMR’s sensory packs, which launched last summer, the train operator restocked stations with the free bags. Each pack contained foam ear plugs, sunglasses, fidget toys and a stress ball to support neurodiverse customers.

Journey planner notepads are also being rolled out to stations across WMR’s network following a successful trial earlier this year. Recognising that some passengers prefer information to be written down on paper, ticket office staff can use the notepads to write down journey plans.

For customers who need support communicating, Travel Assistance Cards are free to request from stations or order from WMR’s website.

Javeriah Abbas, passenger assistance delivery manager at WMR, said: “Making the railway accessible for everyone is a key priority for us.

“We recognise that railway stations can be a difficult environment for neurodiverse passengers, so this Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we wanted to raise awareness of the options available to help manage sensory overload and support communication.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

University Law Clinic expands to reach those in urgent need Birmingham City University’s (BCU) award-winning Law Clinic is expanding its vital pro bono services to support the city’s most vulnerable residents.

The move will not only allow the clinic to reach more people in urgent need of legal help but also give even more students with valuable hands-on experience in real-world law.

Last year alone, the clinic helped more than 4,000 people across the West Midlands and involved 200 law students in a wide range of impactful projects.

Students have been actively engaged in: • Educating hundreds of school children on knife crime • Supporting vulnerable refugees • Providing vital volunteer capacity to Support Through Court • Free advice to those in need of Family Law support.

The clinic is the largest to deliver pro bono law within Birmingham city centre and won the Pro Bono

Official opening: BCU honorary doctorate and chair of Birmingham Law Society, Dr Eileen Scholfield, and BCUSU President, Shoukat Mehsud.

Award at the 2026 Birmingham Law Society Awards.

It has also stepped in to fill gaps after government spending on legal aid fell by £728m, the equivalent of

Freeths advises on Zoopla acquisition Freeths, the leading law firm who have a base in Birmingham, has advised property website Zoopla Limited (Zoopla) on its acquisition of specialist new homes property portal New Homes for Sale.

Zoopla is one of the UK’s most prominent property platforms, offering property search, market data and valuation tools to millions of users across the country. The platform provides buyers, renters and homeowners with

Team leader: Francis Dalton

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comprehensive listings, insights and digital tools to support informed property decisions, and works closely with estate agents, landlords and developers across the UK. Founded in 1998, New Homes for Sale is the UK’s leading specialist new-build property portal, supporting more than 200 developer customers and showcasing over 2,500 active developments across England, Scotland and Wales. The business connects more than one million buyers with new homes each year.

The addition of New Homes for Sale will further strengthen Zoopla’s capabilities and deepen its relationships with home builders across the UK. This follows a series of strategic partnerships with major developers, including Taylor Wimpey and Persimmon Homes.

The multi-disciplinary Freeths team was led by corporate partner Francis Dalton, supported by senior associate Christian Davison and associate Shivani Fakey. The tax and incentives team was led by partner Claire Boyce and associate Dhruv Shah.

28 per cent, between 2021 and 2022.

“We want to give back to the community but also recognise that many of our students belong to our

local community, building their civic and ethical identity as law students,” said Fiona Farrell, associate professor and director of the Law Clinic.

“The Law Clinic takes students from theory to practice-based education. We want to be able to offer this type of education to more students, because we really believe in the impact it’s having on their studies and employability, but also the local community.”

In conjunction with the Central England Law Clinic (CELC), BCU students have been providing legal advice on employment, housing, social welfare and immigration matters.

Head of employment and discrimination at CELC Katherine King said students’ input has been invaluable: “The Law Clinic means we can be more responsive and help more clients.

“This relaunched space will give us an opportunity to expand our own remit in Birmingham and be more versatile in the work we’re doing.”

Shaping the next gen of Legal AI Aston University is supporting a programme to help law firms shape the next generation of Legal AI. The initiative is run by SuperTech, which supports technology and innovation for the professional and financial services sectors in Birmingham and the West Midlands.

It is calling for companies to take part in its second LawTech Innovation Challenge which consists of eight weeks of ProfTech companies working with law firm teams to evaluate the use of AI in real workflows.

Aston University researcher Dr Alexeis Garcia-Perez will be participating in the programme to ensure the benchmarking frameworks which support law firms with legal AI adoption have academic rigour.

Dr Garcia-Perez, who is based at Aston’s Centre of Excellence for Enterprise AI will provide independent insight, support the development of an industry white paper and contribute his knowledge and research interests.

Despite firms adopting GenAI the market continues to lack shared benchmarks, comparable evidence and consistent evaluation methods for assessing value, risk and operational impact. Many firms are running isolated pilots and duplicating effort.

SuperTech believes the sector needs clearer, evidence-based insight to guide responsible, effective and transparent implementation.

Hilary Smyth Allen, SuperTech CEO, said: “Legal AI is advancing rapidly, yet the sector still lacks the shared evidence and real-world testing needed for safe and confident adoption.

“This challenge gives technology SMEs and legal firms a trusted space to work on practical problems together and generate insights the whole market can use.

“I encourage SMEs with relevant or adaptable technology to get involved and help shape the next wave of Legal AI.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Legal essentials for building your brand Building a brand is an exciting journey, but long-term success relies on strong legal foundations. From choosing the right business structure to protecting your intellectual property, early decisions can make all the difference, says Amy Ralston, (pictured) associate solicitor at Stephens Scown LLP.

Start with structure

Get contracts right

Whether you operate as a sole trader or form a limited company, your set up affects tax, liability and growth. A clear structure defines ownership, protects personal assets and supports collaboration or investment.

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Protect your IP Your content is your business asset.

Copyright covers photos, videos, writing and designs, while trade marks can secure your brand name, logos and slogans. Keep trade secrets confidential and use written agreements to make ownership and usage rights crystal clear.

Top tips: audit your IP, register key rights and never sign what you don’t fully understand.

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Ready to strengthen your brand’s legal foundations? Get in touch with our specialist team to ensure your brand is protected as it grows.

E: ip@stephens-scown.co.uk T: 0345 450 5558 W: stephens-scown.co.uk

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

Sector remains positive in spite of challenges g

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The UK manufacturing sector continues to face significant challenges, ranging from supply chain attacks to high energy and employment costs, but two thirds of manufacturers remain on a positive growth trajectory, highlighting the sector’s resilience.

That’s the finding of the latest Manufacturing Outlook Report produced by audit, tax, advisory and consulting firm Crowe, conducted in partnership with the Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM).

The report examines what is driving this resilience, and how businesses are responding to challenges.

It reveals 82 per cent of manufacturers are using their own resources and internal reserves to fund growth – up 30 per cent from 2024.

And while 66 per cent expect their business to grow in the next

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12 months, 54 per cent see ‘uncertain return on investment’ as the primary barrier to investing in innovation or R&D.

‘The time is now for UK manufacturing to reassert itself on the global stage’ Forty-one per cent see “cost volatility” as their biggest supply chain concern.

Fifty-six per cent are “actively implementing” a Net Zero strategy but 39 per cent believe the “high cost of green technologies” is the biggest challenge in reducing carbon emissions Johnathan Dudley, partner and head of manufacturing at Crowe, said: “The time is now for UK manufacturing to reassert itself on the global stage. Through 2025, rising energy and employment

Return manufacturing to the jewel in the crown: Johnathan Dudley

costs, new cybersecurity risks in supply chains, and a shortage of skilled workers have continued to hamper our businesses.

“In spite of this, the sector has remained resilient, with businesses expecting growth and continuing to invest.

“The obvious need, which will unlock the sector’s true potential, is tangible government support. It is time for the UK to deliver on the industrial strategy and make manufacturing the crown jewel of the economy once more.”

He said the government’s call for defence “reinvestment” is a welcome sign of encouragement.

“Manufacturers now have a patriotic duty to play their part in

revitalising growth. Resilience remains the key growth buzzword for 2026.

Jonathan added: “Cybersecurity risks in supply chains have created anxiety and uncertainty, with the long-term impact of the Jaguar Land Rover cyberattack yet to fully play out, while an over-reliance on trading partners is now creating tension due to the geopolitical climate.

“As defence spending surges, the manufacturing sector must capitalise. But with 82 per cent of businesses funding growth using their internal reserves, unlocking the sector’s potential relies on attracting more external investment.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY

Office market on the rebound • The largest deal of the year was EY’s 93,780 sq ft lease at Three Chamberlain Square, representing 14 per cent of annual take-up and 20 per cent of H2 take-up.

• The Colmore Business District accounted for 458,826 sq ft — 70 per cent of city centre take-up - supported by sustained demand for larger, high-quality space.

The Birmingham city centre office market finished 2025 strongly with take-up on a par with 2017 in the final quarter, according to KWB’s latest Birmingham Office Market 2025 Review and H2 Report.

KWB’s research shows total city centre takeup reached 651,507 sq ft across 98 transactions in 2025, with momentum accelerating sharply in the final quarter.

Q4 alone delivered 290,059 sq ft - the best Q4 in eight years and the biggest since 2017 accounting for 45 per cent of annual take-up.

‘After a mixed first half, Birmingham’s office market finished 2025 with real momentum’ Key findings from KWB’s 2025 Birmingham office market review include: • 651,507 sq ft total take-up across 98 transactions in 2025 • 72 per cent of annual take-up completed in H2 2025 • 290,059 sq ft transacted in Q4 2025 (45 per cent of the annual total)

Real momentum: Malcolm Jones

Malcolm Jones, head of office at KWB, said: “After a mixed first half, Birmingham’s office market finished 2025 with real momentum.

“With nearly three quarters of take-up completing in H2 – and a standout final quarter occupiers showed renewed confidence, particularly for larger, high-quality workspace in core locations.

“The scale of activity in Q4, alongside major professional services commitments such as EY at Three Chamberlain Square, underlines that bestin-class space continues to outperform.”

KWB’s analysis highlights a shift in sector activity versus 2024, with professional services taking 383,134 sq ft – 59 per cent of total annual take-up –- and completing 48 of the year’s 98 transactions.

The report also notes a marked increase in serviced office operator activity.

Homes exposed to inheritance tax rise A home purchased in Birmingham in 2025 was seven times more likely to expose a family to inheritance tax (IHT) than in 2009, according to new research by law firms Shakespeare Martineau and Lime Solicitors.

Analysis of HM Land Registry’s price paid data reveals that in 2009, just three per cent of all property purchases in Birmingham (284 of 8,663) were at or above the £325,000 IHT threshold. By 2025, that proportion had surged to 22 per cent (1,990 of 9,114).

The £325,000 nil-rate band has remained frozen since 2009 and is set to stay at that level until at least 2031, despite sustained house price growth and inflation – steadily pulling more households into the inheritance tax net.

Julia Rosenbloom, tax partner and chartered tax adviser at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “When modern inheritance tax – originally introduced as estate duty in the late1800s – was created, it was designed to apply only to the very wealthy.

“However, with the tax-free allowance frozen for almost two decades, rising property prices have steadily drawn more families into the scope.

“Many people assume inheritance tax will never affect them. But, as our 86 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

Unexpected bills: Julia Rosenbloom

analysis shows, a growing proportion of homes now approach or exceed the £325,000 threshold – before savings, investments or personal possessions are even considered.

“With inheritance tax charged at 40 per cent above the threshold, families can be left facing a substantial and unexpected bill at an already difficult time.”

Inheritance tax is payable when an estate – including property, savings and possessions – exceeds £325,000. The standard rate is 40 per cent on the value above that threshold.

In the latest financial year (2024/25), inheritance tax receipts reached a record £8.25bn, up from £7.5bn in 2023/24.

New director: Ross Bendall (centre) with Chris Peutherer (left) and Kaine Arkinson

Property agency boosts leadership Birmingham and Solihull-based commercial property advisory firm Shepherd Commercial has strengthened its senior leadership team with the promotion of Ross Bendall to director.

Ross, who joined the firm as associate director in 2024, now joins existing directors Kaine Arkinson and Chris Peutherer in overseeing a growing portfolio of agency, management and valuation instructions across the Midlands.

The appointment comes during a sustained period of growth for the West Midlands-based firm, which brought 575,000 sq ft of commercial space to market last year and expanded into larger headquarters in Solihull as it marked its 20th anniversary.

The firm also operates from Eleven Brindleyplace in Birmingham city centre.

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CHAMBERLINK

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

ART Business Loans backs more businesses with new funds

The ART Business Loans team

ART Business Loans is ready to support more companies to grow and increase jobs after securing new funding. The Birmingham-based finance provider has been allocated £7m through the British Business Bank’s Community ENABLE Fund to issue loans above £25,000 to underserved, smaller businesses across the West Midlands.

Access to the new finance increases the range of funds available through ART Business Loans, which lends to companies wanting to borrow between £10,000 and £250,000.

The Community ENABLE Fund is aimed at community development financial institutions like ART Business Loans, supporting up to £150m of lending over its first two years.

ART Business Loans chief executive Steve Walker said: “More than 75 per cent of the businesses we have helped are from underserved areas and communities, and this aligns closely with the British Business Bank’s wider mission to improve access to finance for underserved entrepreneurs across the UK.” Business lending manager Roz Haque added: “We are looking to support businesses who need finance to grow, create employment opportunities, upskill their team and positively contribute to their local communities.”

Among the business to access funds through ART Business Loans is Birmingham commercial maintenance specialist M & BG, which has its head office in Lightning Way, West Heath.

M & BG has increased its head count from 45 staff at the time of its first loan in 2017 to 250, while turnover has more than doubled from £3m to £8m.

The senior management team at M & BG recently took out their third loan, having used the previous borrowing to fund an acquisition and the purchase of new equipment.

Phil Marsh, group managing director, says accessing finance through ART Business Loans has been integral to the growth of M & BG. Phil said: “We find the team very easy to deal with, as they have always taken an interest in the company and have procedures which are clear to meet the requirements around due diligence and legal undertakings. We would recommend them to other business owners as they are great people to deal with.”

For more information on ART Business Loans visit: www.artbusinessloans.co.uk

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

Partnership supports graduate recruitment Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce is continuing its work with Birmingham City University to promote Higher Level Skills Match Plus, a fully funded graduate recruitment service supporting Birmingham-based employers to access higher-level talent.

The programme connects businesses with graduates and final-year students from across the city’s universities, providing a streamlined route into the local talent pipeline.

Participating employers benefit from dedicated, end-to-end recruitment support, including vacancy promotion, candidate shortlisting, and guidance on inclusive recruitment practices, alongside ongoing support to aid retention and progression.

‘We’re pleased to be working with Birmingham City University’ Delivered at no cost to employers, the initiative is designed to help reduce barriers to recruitment and make it easier for businesses to access the skills they need.

Raising awareness: Emily Stubbs

Alongside this, a series of upcoming webinars will offer additional practical support to businesses looking to develop their workforce and make the most of available funding opportunities.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) held a session focused on how employers can access the Apprenticeship Levy Gifting Scheme.

Funding boost for recruitment firm

Emily Stubbs, the GBCC’s head of policy, said: “We’re pleased to be working with Birmingham City University to help promote Higher Level Skills Match Plus and raise awareness of the support available to local employers, ensuring that businesses are informed about initiatives to strengthen access to graduate talent and wider opportunities to build skills.”

IN BRIEF Netcom Training, the Birmingham-based digital training provider, has launched its Innovation Employer Board.

The board has been established to strengthen collaboration between industry, education, and policy, ensuring that digital training remains employer-led, future focused and aligned to real labour market demand across the UK digital economy.

Founding members include leading organisations such as WM5G, EvoPhase, Curium Solutions, OneAdvanced, QSafe, Cisco, PwC, Intel, Six Degrees, Version 1 and ARUP, creating one of the most diverse employer collectives in the UK digital skills landscape.

New skills and opportunities are set to be unlocked as The Sandwell Colleges have officially opened their highly anticipated Cradley Heath Skills Campus.

The campus will play a transformative role in boosting skills, employment, and social inclusion across the Black Country, acting as a catalyst for opportunity and regeneration, and bringing practical training, adult learning and communityfocused education into the heart of the town.

Support: Sarah Grace and Mike Lowe

A female-led recruitment company is set to grow following a significant contract win supported by business finance provider UKSE. Solihull-based KC Group, formerly Kate & Co, has secured £100,000 in investment from UKSE to support the delivery of a four-year contract which is anticipated to grow the workforce from 13 to 21 in the next 12 months.

Established in 1997 and led by managing director Sarah Grace, the planned growth represents a major milestone for the business, which specialises in the recruitment of business operation, HR, accountancy and finance roles across the UK. The business will provide operational roles across 122 universities, colleges and higher education providers on behalf of two university procurement consortiums, Northwestern Universities Purchasing Consortium and South Universities Procurement Consortium.

In addition to growing the workforce, it will also upgrade its technology, including the investment in Paiger, a business development platform for recruiters to automate and streamline processes.

Sarah said: “The investment from UKSE has come at the perfect time. We needed to look at how we could futureproof the business and the two university procurement contracts is how we will achieve that goal.

“It was my first time speaking to a company like UKSE and their approach was so refreshing. We worked in partnership and my business will grow and flourish because of the funding.”

UKSE regional executive Mike Lowe added: “Sarah and the team perfectly illustrate how UKSE support can have a positive impact on job creation and the long-term prosperity of a business.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Touchwood gets online boost

Collaboration: DF4 Labs and University of Warwick personnel

AI Lab builds start-up web apps in minutes A new service which helps SMEs and start-ups roll out market-ready web apps in minutes instead of months through a collaboration with a cutting-edge AI firm has been unveiled at a leading Midlands science park.

The University of Warwick Science Park has launched its new ‘Ignite Applied AI Lab’, designed to help start-ups and SMEs turn ideas into fully functional, production-ready

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web applications for a wide range of sectors in a matter of minutes.

Delivered in collaboration with software start-up DF4 Labs, the service gives businesses access to an AI system built from the ground up to generate structured, scalable applications engineered to ensure continuity, governance and production reliability.

Unlike much of the “vibe-coding” software currently on the market,

DF4’s system focuses on generating robust applications that can support real-world growth from day one.

The launch began with an exclusive hands-on workshop at the Science Park’s Venture Centre in Coventry for selected members of the Science Park community, where founders and innovation teams defined a business use case and watched it become a working web application during the session itself, led by DF4’s experts.

The Ignite Applied AI Lab builds on the University of Warwick Science Park’s growing reputation as one of Europe’s leading start-up hubs and reflects its determination to remain at the forefront of AI innovation by offering practical, implementationfocused support.

It was created as an evolution of the Ignite Alumni Network, which brings together businesses and associates that have been supported by the Science Park’s Ignite incubation and Business Ready support programmes.

Dirk Schaefer, SME engagement lead at the University of Warwick Science Park, said the initiative signals a bold step forward for ambitious businesses.

“We are seeing enormous interest in AI, but many founders still feel it is out of reach or too complex to apply in a meaningful way,” he said.

“The Ignite Applied AI Lab changes that completely. There is something incredibly energising about seeing a concept become a live, scalable application almost instantly.

“After seeing DF4’s solution in action at the last Ignite Alumni Network event, we felt it could make a huge difference to many of the start-ups and SMEs we work with.

“We want the Science Park to be known as a place where cuttingedge technology is put to work in a way that transforms businesses.”

Birmingham-based agency, SEO Results, has helped Touchwood shopping centre in Solihull to enhance its visibility across high-intent local and regional searches through a tailored organic search strategy.

SEO Results strengthened Touchwood’s ability to compete online with other large shopping and retail centres, building awareness and influencing customer journeys from online discovery through to in-centre visits.

Touchwood has evolved in response to changing consumer behaviour and increasing competition from other major retail destinations across Birmingham and the UK. In this environment, digital visibility is critical, ensuring customers can easily discover stores, events and experiences at the point of active search.

Touchwood shared positive news regarding rising footfall during 2025, highlighting the centre’s continued growth.

Tony Elvin, general manager at Touchwood Solihull, said: “It has been a great experience working with SEO Results, not just seeing our meteoric rise to prominence on Google, but also getting the opportunity to review results with the team and explore opportunities to continue growing our digital footprint through SEO.” Dan Tweedie, commercial director at SEO Results, said: “It’s been a pleasure to support Touchwood as such an iconic Solihull destination, and to see firsthand how our organic strategy is contributing not only to the Touchwood brand, but also to increased visibility for its tenants.”

Improved visibility: Dan Tweedie and Tony Elvin (right)

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SECTOR FOCUS: THE ARTS

Hit TV show’s finale on way to Symphony Hall The grand final of hit Channel 4 series The Piano will take place at Symphony Hall on Tuesday, 9 June, bringing six talented pianists from across the UK together for a live finale.

Presented in partnership with Channel 4 and Love Productions, the finalists will perform on one of the UK’s most prestigious stages, following a nationwide search for emerging musical talent.

The finalists will be mentored by internationally acclaimed musician Mika, alongside a series of guest mentors from across the UK. The evening will be hosted by broadcaster Claudia Winkleman.

Martha Delap, executive producer at Love Productions, said: “The Piano has always been about showcasing talented performers and giving them a platform to shine. Bringing The Piano: The Final Concert to Symphony Hall allows us to celebrate the finalists on one of the UK’s most iconic stages, and we’re incredibly excited to share this special live event with a Birmingham audience.”

Chris Proctor, head of programme at B:Music added,: “We’re incredibly proud to be hosting the Grand Final of The Piano at Symphony Hall. Birmingham has a rich musical heritage and a strong reputation for supporting emerging musicians. This event puts the city centre stage for a national audience, and Symphony Hall provides the perfect setting to celebrate live music.”

Waitress cast is announced Full casting has been announced for smash hit romantic musical comedy Waitress, which comes to Birmingham Hippodrome from Tuesday, 28 April until Saturday 2 May. Joining the previously announced Carrie Hope Fletcher as Jenna, Sandra Marvin as Becky, Evelyn Hoskins as Dawn and Les Dennis as Joe, will be Dan Partridge as Dr Pomatter, Mark Anderson as Ogie, Mark Wilshire as Earl and Dan O’Brien as Cal. The company is completed

by Will Arundell, Yochabel Asante, Alice Croft, Jamie Doncaster, Daniel GeorgeWright, Will Hardy, Bayley Hart, Olivia Lallo, Emma Lucia, David Mairs-McKenzie and Ellie Ruiz Rodriguez.

Dan Partridge most recently starred as Charlie Price in the UK and European tour of Kinky Boots.

Waitress is based on the 2007 movie written by Adrienne Shelly.

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Piano finale: Claudia Winkleman and Mika

Midlands Arts Centre secures funding for gift shop project Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) has redeveloped its gift shop.

The ambitious project is designed to improve MAC’s visitor experience and strengthen its position within the local economy while supporting emerging and established artists and designermakers.

Showcasing a range of fresh finds and unique creations, the bright and inviting new space will carry product lines spanning ceramics, textiles, jewellery, painting and more. It will also create new income opportunities and support profile for leading designer-makers and artists from the region and beyond.

The project is supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund through the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), Birmingham City Council, and a private donor.

The redevelopment will improve access to art and art supplies for MAC’s communities by making it easier to purchase original artwork and build more sustainable

connections between Midlands audiences and local talent.

Ultimately, this transformation will provide a refreshed invitation to MAC, encouraging a greater sense of belonging for visitors and stakeholders as part of a vital creative community.

Deborah Kermode, chief executive and artistic director, said: “We are grateful to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the West Midlands Combined Authority and our private donors for their investment

New space: CGI of the MAC gift shop

in this strategic redevelopment.

Their support enables us to further align our visitor welcome and retail offer with MAC’s mission, championing regional creativity while strengthening our long-term sustainability.

“More than a physical transformation, these renewed spaces reflect our commitment to a vibrant and welcoming environment for artists and audiences, while expanding how people can engage with and support MAC.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: SPORT

The Business of Sport Edgbaston Stadium set for tournament opener

Empowering young people: Sport 4 Life

New home for Sport 4 Life Youth employment charity Sport 4 Life UK has relocated its office to Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, marking an important step as the organisation continues its work supporting young people across the West Midlands.

The move provides a new base for the charity’s team and creates a more accessible space to bring together partners, supporters and local businesses who share a commitment to improving opportunities for young people.

Sport 4 Life UK works with disadvantaged young people aged 11 to 29, helping them develop the confidence, skills and qualifications needed to move into education, training and employment.

Being located in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter strengthens the organisation’s connection with the local community and creates new opportunities to collaborate with businesses and organisations across Birmingham.

COO of Sport 4 Life UK, Rob Wells, said: “Moving to the Jewellery Quarter is an exciting step for Sport 4 Life UK. It gives our team a fantastic base in the heart of Birmingham.

“We look forward to welcoming partners to our new home and continuing to work together to help young people build confidence, develop key skills and move into brighter futures.”

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Edgbaston Stadium will host the curtain-raiser to a landmark summer of women’s cricket when tournament hosts England face Sri Lanka in the opening game of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on Friday, 12 June.

The venue hosts a total of three matchdays, with the opening game being followed two days later by a double header, with qualifiers Bangladesh and the Netherlands facing each other before India take on Pakistan later in the day.

Pakistan then take on South Africa on Wednesday, 17 June.

The full schedule for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 has been confirmed following the

conclusion of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal – officially completing the 12 team line up for a month of international T20 action.

Bangladesh, the Netherlands and fellow qualifiers Ireland and Scotland, who each secured their place after a qualification campaign that showcased the strength and depth of the women’s global game, are the four teams who complete the line-up. It also marks a historic moment for the European nations as they account for a third of the competing teams in this year’s tournament.

England will take on Scotland at Headingley on 20 June, marking

the first time the two countries will meet at either a women’s or men’s World Cup staged on English soil.

Ireland kick off their World Cup campaign with an all-Celtic clash at Old Trafford, as they face Scotland on 13 June.

A trip to the south coast follows as they take on England at the Hampshire Bowl on 16 June as part of a thrilling double-header featuring current World Cup holders, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka earlier on the same day.

The qualifying quartet now join England, Australia, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the West Indies on the global stage from 12 June until 5 July.

Turkish Airlines announced as golf day headline sponsor Air-gold partnership (left to right): Neil Walker, account director – golf ; Safa Sinan Basaran, sales manager; Ceren Albayrak, sales and marketing executive; Gurhan Sozen, general manager Birmingham; Chris Eigelaar, managing director

Turkish Airlines has been announced as the headline sponsors of The Belfry Hotel & Resort‘s Classic Golf Day. The event is making its return to the resort’s worldfamous Brabazon course on Thursday, 21 May. Flying to more countries than any other carrier, Turkish Airlines operates double daily flights from Birmingham Airport, offering seamless connections worldwide via its Istanbul hub.

The award-winning airline connects the Midlands to over 350 destinations across six continents.

Turkish Airlines’ general manager for Birmingham Gurhan Sozen said: “We are delighted to be the headline sponsor of this year’s Belfry Classic Golf Day

and to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with The Belfry. As the world’s most connected airline, we are glad to support prestigious sporting events that bring communities together and create meaningful impact beyond the course.

“Our strong presence in Birmingham and the wider Midlands region remains an important part of our UK network, and we look forward to contributing to another successful event while welcoming guests from across our global network.”

Raising over £100,000 for charity on its debut last year, the Belfry Classic will bring together VIPs and celebrities from the world of sport and television to play in a four-ball formation.

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CHAMBERLINK

Chamber Insight Focus on a member

Name: Dan Evans Company: Expressive Arts Productions Job Title: Company director

What does your company do?

We provide video production services to businesses looking to bring their story to life through brand films, podcasts, events and training content that drives awareness, builds trust, and connects with audiences.

at a course in marketing. I knew how to shoot and edit, but forming a marketing strategy is where the real value is.

How did it all start?

In 2008 I was working as a video journalist before that role fizzled out and I was facing unemployment. Instead of starting the incredibly hard process of trying to find a job, I set up Expressive Arts Productions. I’ve always wanted to work in video production so this was my chance to back myself.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Network. People buy from people they know and trust. If you’ve got a strong work ethic, the rest will follow.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

We produced a travel documentary TV Pilot out in the Philippines and we’re now in development of the rest of the 13part series, due for broadcast in the Summer 2027.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?

Not so much a risk we took, but we had to adapt the way we worked during the Covid years.

We captured interviews via video calls and utilised existing company footage and stock elements to build out the video. Glad that’s now all behind us...

What keeps you awake at night?

Balancing consistent outreach for new clients with having the capacity to deliver for them. I suppose that’s a good challenge to have.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

I’d love to have understood the business-side more or maybe look

What has surprised you most in your job?

The many hats I have to wear!

Which business do you most admire?

I’m very fond of Oatly and Surreal for their playful and human tone of voice and I always scroll through their carousels for a chuckle.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

The TV show I mentioned earlier is probably the most exciting project at the moment. A one-month shoot in the Philippines - what’s not to like?

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

We joined for several reasons.

Firstly, to connect with other businesses in the local community and attend networking events.

Secondly, being a member of the GBCC strengthens our credibility and adds authority to our brand.

Finally, as a small business that relies on outreach and word of mouth, having a platform that increases our visibility among local companies is incredibly valuable.

Contact Tel: 07746 709030 Visit: www.eapfilms.com

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

New Members Your guide to new sign-ups

Whatever your business size and requirements, the Chamber has a membership scale to suit your needs.

For more information visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/membership

AFIsec Cybersecurity Ltd Abdulhakeem Ozigis 07440767690 www.afisec.co.uk IT and software development Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Aston Student's Union Tom Ayrton 07407265840 www.astonsu.com Events and hospitality Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Average Joe's Productions Joe Whittaker 07983746766 www.averagejoesproductions.co.uk Marketing and media services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Business 2 Business (UK) Ltd Veejay Patel MBE FIEP 0116 2512998 www.business2businesslimited.com Educational support Birmingham Chamber of Commerce DrClear House Clearance Krzysztof Szczesny 07958429751 www.drclear.co.uk Environmental services and waste collection Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Event Electronics Ltd Lloyd Spindler 07467342212 www.eventronics.co.uk IT and Software Development Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce face2face HR Burton on Trent Caroline Rigby 07375344056 www.face2facehr.com/consultants/hrconsultant-burton-on-trent Administration, support services and HR Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

Odyssey Contractor Solutions Ltd Daniel White 0121 6636900 www.odysseycs.co.uk Financial services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

REGENT DISTRIBUTORS LTD Sukwinder Chaggar 01213477010 www.regentclean.co.uk Trade and retail Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Twogether Digital Hannah Millist 07914966216 www.twogether-digital.co.uk Marketing and media services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

PrintMonster Clive Poole 01543 462 323 www.printmonster.co.uk Marketing and printing Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Shiraz Endodontic Practice Christopher Rogers 01217091660 www.shirazendodontics.com Health & social services Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Uniq Recycling Ltd Hayley Shorthouse 0800 6893157 www.uniqrecycling.co.uk IT and software development Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

Gumbudii Ltd Alexios Zachariades-Layland 0121 5171 943 www.gumbudii.co.uk Marketing and media services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Proftech Talent Ltd Deb Pettingill www.proftechtalent.co.uk Employment agency Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Stalworth Wealth Ltd Peter Stalworth 01543 548011 www.stalworthwealth.co.uk Financial services Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

Labile Consults Ltd Emmanuel Sanusi 07572 168961 www.labileconsults.com Marketing and media services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Pukka Padel Ltd Paul Binning 07746933097 www.pukkapadel.com Sport clubs Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Strategic Payments Consulting Ltd Inderpaul Dhillon www.strategicpayments.consulting Management consultancy Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Magnetize Ltd Robert Evans 07753214375 www.magnetize.uk Marketing and media services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce 96 CHAMBERLINK April 2026

Up Stride Ltd Mark Blake www.up-stride.co.uk Other Birmingham Chamber of Commerce VATIT Stream UK Limited Alessio Lencioni 020 4603 6193 www.vatitstream.com Trade and retail Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

As the voice of local business since 1813, we strive to help firms across the region

connect, support and grow.

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

April 2026 CHAMBERLINK 97

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MEMBER SECTION

...any other business A roundup of news from Chamber members

Landmark hotel to host festival Top musicians from around the world performing at this summer’s Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival will be staying at the city’s historic Plough & Harrow hotel.

The 18th century Best Western venue has been announced as the official Hotel Partner for the festival, which runs from Friday, 24 July, to Sunday, 2 August.

This means the hotel on the Hagley Road in Edgbaston will host musicians from America, Asia and Europe.

International stars already booked to stay at the Plough & Harrow include Stacy Mitchhart and B.D. Lenz, both from the USA, Swing Cats from Barcelona, and Andres Roots, from Estonia.

Jim Simpson, whose Big Bear Music company organises the festival, said: “We’re pleased to have acts confirmed from all over the world, as well as numerous great local and UK performers.

“With so many musicians travelling to Birmingham, we’re delighted that the Plough & Harrow has become our official Hotel Partner.

“The hotel will provide accommodation to visiting musicians as well as to the veritable army of visiting music fans, who like to stay in the same hotel as the jazz and blues stars they have travelled to see and hear.

“The Plough & Harrow will become a real hang-out, a hub of activity within easy reach of

Ready to swing: The Plough & Harrow staff (left to right – general manager Paul Smyth, Yana, Carly and Angela get in the mood

the city, with more than 200 hours of jazz, blues and related music on its doorstep.”

Headlining the festival will be King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys, one of the world’s greatest jump, jive and swing bands.

The band, this year celebrating its 40th anniversary on the road, will play a rare 'Home Town' gig at the newly refurbished Botanical Gardens Ballroom.

The Plough & Harrow is a former coaching inn dating back to 1704. Among many famous guests were Edward VII and J.R.R. Tolkien, who stayed there in 1916 while recovering from illness during World War I. Other festival venues in Birmingham city centre include The Brasshouse, Old Joint Stock, Bacchus Bar, The Wellington, All Bar One, Millennium Point, The Exchange and Winterbourne House.

Celebrating two years of research project Historic sugar bowl is sweet find Birmingham Museums has announced that a silver sugar bowl (pictured) produced by one of the most important Birmingham manufacturers of the 19th century has been acquired for the city’s collection.

The acquisition was made possible thanks to the support of the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, Art Fund and the Ivan Witton Bequest.

The decorated bowl was designed and made in 1870 by John Hardman & Co at their factory in Birmingham.

It was one of eight objects commissioned by Charles Lygon Cocks (1821-1885), an army officer.

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A landmark event at the Library of Birmingham marks two years of the Small Performances research project, bringing together scholars, craftspeople and scientists to share pioneering findings.

The project, which investigates the renowned typographic punches of John Baskerville (1707-75), is a collaboration between Birmingham City University (BCU), University of Cambridge and Cambridge University Library.

John Baskerville was England's foremost printer, and his typeface remains familiar to billions of readers and computer users across the world.

Yet the story of how that typeface was made, punch by punch, in steel, in his Birmingham workshop, had never been subjected to rigorous scientific scrutiny.

Launched in March 2024, the three-year, AHRCfunded project, aims to learn more about one of Birmingham’s greatest innovators, reveal the 18th century craft and discover the impact of Baskerville’s work in the modern age.

ABOVE: Poem: Dr Caroline Archer LEFT: Now computerised: 18th century Baskerville punch

The event marked the two-year point, with several talks from the inter-disciplinary research group. At the heart of the Small Performances project is the collection of typographic punches designed, cut, and used at Baskerville's Birmingham workshop, now held at Cambridge University Library.

Co-lead of Small Performances, Dr Caroline Archer, who is also Professor of Typography at BCU and chair of the Baskerville Society, presented a poem titled “They call me alpha”.

It charted the story of the creation of a single a punch in Birmingham, to its engagement with the French Revolution, rediscovery in 1917, return to Britain in the 1950s, and now its modern-day impact.

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