Chamberlink July Aug 23

CHAMBER

July/August 2023

LINK

Strong voice of business joins Chamber’s top tier

See page 5

• Artificial intelligence – a business friend or foe?

• How overseas students made £3bn for region

• Chamber in LGBTQ+ link to promote diversity

Picture: Marc Kirsten

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Chamberlink July/August 2023

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 07508 317356 f.jayawardene@birmingham-chamber.com

Reporter: Darby Newman +447951245985 d.newman@birmingham-chamber.com

Editor’s View

By John Lamb

The tool of the future, or a disaster waiting to happen?

Predications about the global impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on business range from nothing short of Armageddon to a situation where humans work happily alongside robots.

There are those who believe that we have only two years left to tame AI before computers become cleverer than humans and get out of control. The warning came from none other than the Prime Minister’s AI adviser Matt Clifford.

However, this is only one side of the coin. So we asked University of Birmingham’s Professor Siddhartha Bandyopadhyay (“Prof Sid”) and his co-author Avik Chanda, two learned experts in this field, for their view on the impact on labour from AI.

They believe that job destruction is taking place in an environment where overall more jobs are being created than are being destroyed due to automation.

The impact on jobs, and in turn the economy, is, of course, one of the most worrying elements of AI for businesses of all sizes.

Rishi Sunak discussed the issue with President Biden during his visit to Washington with the Prime Minister, no doubt prompted by his adviser’s remarks, pledging that the UK would take the lead in tackling the threat posed by AI.

Mr Clifford had added that without urgent international regulation, a deadly bio weapon could be developed that would kill “many humans”.

Scary stuff. So it’s reassuring that people like Prof Sid, as he is known at the University of Birmingham, and Avik are applying their clever minds to the impact on business before it’s too late.

And their works should go some way to allaying fears that humanity could lose control of some form of super-inte lligent systems that could launch cyberattacks and threaten democracy by propagating mass disinformation.

It’s understandable that if the underlying threat is that AI could become more clever than humans, the recent quickening progress of AI development has caused experts to raise these fears in high places.

Even the people who are making these systems are surprised at the speed of progress.

And Gita Gopinath, second-in-command at the International Monetary Fund, has warned of “substantial disruptions in labour markets”.

She told the ‘Financial Times’ that the risks from AI were “very large” – though she added that it could boost productivity and economic output.

She is reported as saying: “We need governments, we need institutions and we need policymakers to move quickly on all fronts in terms of regulation but also in terms of preparing for probably substantial disruptions in labour markets.”

If people lose their jobs, the impact on society and in turn business is unknown but could obviously be devastating if we don’t learn to live with AI – quickly. See pages 12 and 13 to read the views of Prof Sid and Avik and the results of a new KPMG survey on the subject on page 78.

Chamberlink will be taking a break in August but we shall be back in September with an edition packed with business news and comment vital to the Greater Birmingham region.

FRONT COVER: Strong voices: Henrietta Brealey and John Webber at Colliers’ 103 Colmore Row headquarters. See page 5

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Business News

Latest news from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

Colliers join as patron of the Chamber

Colliers, the global commercial real estate firm with offices in Birmingham’s iconic 103 Colmore Row, have become patrons of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The leading diversified professional services and investment management company provide a comprehensive range of property services and are a Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Regulated firm.

In the UK and Ireland, Colliers have been trading for over 62 years and have over 1,250 employees across 15 offices providing a full range of services. Globally the firm has a presence in 66 countries and over 17,000 staff.

Their experts provide a full range of commercial and residential real estate services to occupiers, developers, owners and investors on a local, regional, national and international basis. Property sectors covered include retail, offices, industrial, leisure, residential and operational assets. Real estate services include business rates, valuations, lease advisory, property management and project and building consultancy.

The company says they aim to set themselves apart by being known “for not what we do but how we do it”.

They add that their people are passionate, take personal responsibility and always do

what’s right for clients, people and communities. They attract and develop industry leaders, empowering them to think and act differently to drive exceptional results.

The 125-strong Colliers dedicated rating department is one of the largest rating teams in the UK, spread across 13 offices, providing scalability of resources and flexibility of service.

‘We look forward to working with the Chamber in building our network in the region’

Having a team across the UK offers their clients a local presence around the country and means that Colliers have stronger working relationships with local Valuation Office Agency (VOA) surveyors, assessors, and billing authorities. The team has saved £2bn for their clients since 2010.

John Webber, head of business rates at Colliers, said: “We are extremely excited about our patronage of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, with whom we have already been working closely for many years.

“Birmingham and the West Midlands generally are extremely important areas of business for us at Colliers. Our commitment to the area has been

shown with our move into new offices at the iconic 103 Colmore Row development this year from which we offer a full property advisory service. Our national rating team is headquartered in Birmingham where we have been growing from strength to strength.

“The region has been a great base to grow our market-leading national team with an abundance of local talent.

“We look forward to working with the Chamber in building our network in the region further to help service our clients and lobby on behalf of business.”

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: "We are delighted to welcome Colliers as our 39th GBCC Patron. John Webber and the Colliers rating team are renowned experts in a key topic of concern for business and political debate - business rates.

“Colliers are a global business with a clear commitment to the region, underlined by their decision to move to new regional headquarters at the iconic 103 Colmore Row. We look forward to working with them as we fulfil our mission to Connect, Support and Grow Greater Birmingham's businesses."

• Shoosmiths move into 103 Colmore Row – see legal page 70

Welcome aboard (left to right): Henrietta Brealey; Richard Sheppard, head of accurates at Colliers, part of the business rates team; Raj Kandola, the Chamber’s director of external affairs; and John Webber

In Brief

Aston company Salts Healthcare has acquired ostomy product supplier MCare AB of Sweden.

The acquisition of MCare is part of Salts Healthcare’s continued strategy to increase its global reach. Having grown its turnover and market share in the UK in recent years, the family-owned business now has defined international markets across five continents.

Chief executive of Salts Healthcare Peter Salt, said: “We have worked closely with MCare for many years and know they also share the same values and ethics. Maud Jägerman built MCare AB into a fantastic business which has grown from strength to strength over the past 20 years.”

For more information visit www.salts.co.uk

Businesses throughout Birmingham are being urged to sign up to become friends of this summer’s Jazz and Blues Festival – as excitement builds towards the city’s 39th annual musical spectacular.

This year’s Birmingham, Sandwell and Westside Jazz Festival runs from 14 to 23 July and veteran organiser Jim Simpson is hoping that business sector will back the 10-day jazz and blues jamboree.

Jim said: “We ask for £1,000 from each business and they get accorded all sorts of privileges. They get their logo everywhere and a mention in 40,000 festival programmes.”

For more information go to www.birminghamjazzfestival. com or phone Big Bear Music on 01214547020.

Master systems integrator Vanti is set to continue its ambitious growth plans by securing funding worth £1.5m from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), provided by The FSE Group Debt Finance Fund and backed by the Recovery Loan Scheme.

The business has secured a loan facility which will be used to grow its team by 50 per cent to around 75 employees by the end of October, make improvements to its Birmingham HQ and invest in systems across the business to help deliver its growth strategy.

Vanti specialises in integrating technology and delivering exciting digital experiences within buildings and spaces.

Chamber LGBTQ+ link to promote inclusivity

A Midlands group for LGBTQ+ employees has joined forces with Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) in a key partnership to help make the region the best working environment for its members.

The Alliance Network, a non-incorporated body –neither business nor charity - was set up to bring together LGBTQ+ professionals and employee networks, aiming to make the Midlands the best place for its members to work.

Now the biggest business group across the region, the GBCC, has agreed to form a partnership with The Alliance Network to help the organisation to grow and prosper.

The Network’s management committee chair Paul Eaves-Seeley said: “The Alliance...is key to our strategy of growing and evolving our network. We have over 350 members from a wide range of organisations, including private and public sector.”

The Alliance Network says many LGBTQ+ people working in the Midland do not have access to the same support as their counterparts in London.

The Network was set up in the Midlands embracing three main themes around people, business and community.

Last year the Network arranged an array of activities, including a Commonwealth Games event hosted by PwC with a panel of athletes and a Birmingham Pride event in collaboration with Colmore BID.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “At the Chamber we are here to empower businesses and young professionals to fulfil their potential. In a region as spectacularly diverse as this, that means inclusivity must sit at the heart of what we do and how we do it.

"This partnership allows us to go straight to working with the experts on being LGBTQ+ in business in the region as a network led by and for LGBTQ+ professionals.”

King’s honour for transport boss

Anne Shaw, the executive director of Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), has been recognised with an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list.

Anne has been honoured for her key role in spearheading the successful transport planning and operations during last summer’s Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Anne said: “It’s a great honour to be recognised for our contribution to the success of Birmingham 2022. It is not just for me but also the fantastic team of talented people here at TfWM, as well as the wider transport community, who made sure that we were able to get a million-plus spectators, athletes and officials to and from their events – while the rest of the region went about their daily journeys.”

Anne also led on the development of the ground-

Team success: Anne Shaw

breaking Regional Transport Coordination Centre (RTCC) to oversee the West Midlands road, rail, bus and tram networks. First opened in 2020 it played a crucial role in traffic and transport management during last summer.

Growth Hub helps to create 4,623 new jobs

Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) Growth Hub has released a new report highlighting the impact on the region’s economy.

The Business Support Impact Report reveals the GBSLEP Growth Hub’s team of expert business advisers has helped businesses increase turnover by £103million, of which £32million is a direct result of the support provided.

A total of 7,189 companies have been helped since the Growth Hub was set up in 2016. The free and impartial service has also helped create 4,623 new jobs and safeguarded a further 8,528. This equates to £16.37 for every £1 invested.

Promoting awareness: The Aliance Network.

Former minister named airport boss

Former government minister Sir Hugh Robertson has been appointed as chair of the Birmingham Airport (BHX) board in succession to Tim Clarke, who announced his decision to retire earlier this year.

Sir Hugh has had a distinguished career in public service and in business. He has served in the Army, worked in the property division of Schroder Investment Management, and in government as Minister for Sport and the Olympics during London 2012, and as the Minister of State in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. He is currently chair of the British Olympic Association. From 2018 until earlier this year he was chairman of Camelot, the National Lottery operator.

Sir Hugh said: “It is a huge honour to be taking over from Tim, after such a successful six years as chair, and to continue his good work with the board, chief executive Nick Barton and the executive team, in delivering the airport’s growth strategy.

“I am particularly excited to be joining at a time when Birmingham

and the West Midlands region are enjoying such success on the back of last year’s outstanding Commonwealth Games and so much else that is happening in the region.”

Mr Clarke said: “I am delighted to be handing over to Sir Hugh, as someone with such a proven record of public and business service. He is well-qualified to lead the board in securing the airport’s ambitious growth plans and ensuring its vital contribution to the economy of the West Midlands, international connectivity and to the many thousands of jobs which it supports.”

Mr Barton said: “We thank Tim Clarke for his exceptional service over the past six years, leading the board through a period including two years of Covid travel restrictions and working tirelessly to ensure the airport’s financial resilience and subsequent strong recovery.

“We have much to look forward to as we welcome Sir Hugh, including a £40m new security hall due to open in summer 2024 and, once complete in the early 2030s the new HS2 railway.”

Honour: Sir Hugh Robertson

How students brought £3bn into the region

With the UK experiencing its biggest net migration boom on record, a new report has revealed the £42bn impact of international students to the UK economy, with £3bn generated in the West Midlands.

The joint report, released in partnership with Universities UK International, the Higher Education Policy Institute and Kaplan International with London Economics, is in its third iteration and was commissioned to explore the economic impact of international students on the UK economy.

University College Birmingham currently supports over 8,000 students from more than

teaching students in her native India.

“I loved teaching in India, but I’ve always wanted to explore the world and face new challenges. When I first told my family I wanted to study in England they were worried I’d get homesick, but I’ve had so much support from everyone at the university.

“I’ve always loved the hustle and bustle of city life, it reminds me of being back home - but it is a lot colder.”

Despite receiving a job offer to teach at a school in London, Jasmin is hoping to secure a position in the Midlands.

She added: “Birmingham has become my home. My husband and daughter joined me here last month. She’s really interested in mechanics and engineering, so she loves looking at all the construction work in the city.

these students as they move from abroad is really important to us.

“That support starts from the moment they apply and continues long after graduation. It’s fantastic to see the impact international students are making not just on our economy, but on our people and culture too.

90 countries, with 1,395 international students studying at the 2022 University of the Year.

Known globally as the youngest city in Europe, Birmingham plays host to over 8,000 first-year students, with 41 per cent of graduates choosing to live and work within the city.

Jasmin Anwar joined the university in 2022 to study for her PGCE, having spent 14 years

“I can’t imagine a better place to live, work and study. I feel very blessed to have had this opportunity.”

Alice Wilby, pro-vice chancellor of Access, Participation and Student Experience at University College Birmingham, said: “At University College Birmingham, we have a diverse student community, and supporting

“At this year's Whatuni awards we were recognised as the best university for international students and came second in four other categories, which shows just how dedicated we are to giving students the best possible university experience.”

To read the full report, visit hepi.ac.uk

...high and lows of studying abroad

FERON JAYAWARDENE is a Press & PR executive at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. He was born in Sri Lanka and here he presents a personal view of what it’s like to join an international student community far away from home. He graduated after studying English and Journalism at Birmingham City University while his dissertation project focused on homelessness in Birmingham earned him a firstclass accolade.

The economic impact brought by international students to the West Midlands economy is a no brainer.

The quality of education coupled with the prospect of being a part of the graduate workforce, contributing to the world’s fifth biggest economy, is enticing for any individual from outside the UK, like myself.

Birmingham has the second highest international student population and several highranking universities, making Europe’s youngest city a student hotspot.

The added prospects of having the biggest library in Europe, a vibrant nightlife with many indie pubs and clubs, and a very diverse community only strengthens this outlook for potential students. Adding to this is the high quality of

course content and the availability of diverse courses for creatives from around the world.

Of course, that is not to say that life of an international student is all a bed of roses. Although appealing, no one likes to be taken for granted, especially when you pay an inherently higher amount in fees than the locals for the exact same course.

There is much more universities and the government can do to make international students feel at ease, starting from better integration and signposting services.

One of the main reasons students choose Birmingham is the potential of studying with a diverse set of people. While students from around the world make this diversity a great feat, the lack of

integration with local students proves to be a dampener.

More networking and social events with the complete student community is a necessity in this age.

Coming to another country away from home comforts and especially parents is not an easy task itself. Newcomers often feel homesick during the first few months which potentially could lead to severe mental health issues, making proper signposting and mentoring schemes crucial.

Ongoing security issues pertaining to racism and knife crime severely dampens the encouragement levels. Being an Asian, there have been countless times I have been called certain words that does not warrant going further.

These inherent issues embedded in the population need to be addressed.

While Birmingham offers a quality place to live and study in, certainly, a lot more can be done to protect this £3bn strong workforce.

‘I can’t imagine a better place to live, work and study’

Support: Jasmin Anwar

‘Law firms must end the gender pay gap’

A leadership expert is calling on Birmingham law firms to demonstrate their commitment to abolishing the gender gap by signing up to a pledge.

Despite light being shone on the lack of women in senior leadership positions in the legal industry, only 31 per cent of partners within UK law firms are female. That’s why Rebecca Mander, chief executive of Henley-in-Ardenbased leadership coaching business GuruYou, wants every law firm in Birmingham to sign up to the “Women in Law Pledge”.

Rebecca’s call for action comes from a place of experience and knowledge, as she coaches multiple females within the Midlands law profession.

Rebecca said: “If you think the ‘old boy’s network’ is dead and buried, then think again. According to the Profile of the Profession report in 2018, 145 women compared to 246 men were encouraged to apply/invited to partner level. If we consider as a given that women are more likely to lack confidence or suffer with imposter phenomenon, then naturally they are less likely to speak up in meetings, assert their thoughts around career progression or ask for a pay rise. The horrific truth of the matter is that, as they have spent so long being interrupted and passed over for promotion, they truly don’t feel as valuable as their male counterparts.”

As a successful female business entrepreneur who specialises in coaching in the legal sector, Rebecca is on a mission to ensure women in the Midlands don’t leave law because they face too many barriers.

Rebecca added: “I’m privileged to have coached some incredible lawyers who give me an insight into their professional and personal worlds and the challenges they experience. Career progression is one of the most talked about concerns for these women.”

Rebecca’s research also revealed some Midlands firms are embracing the need for gender parity such as Shoosmiths, which has a High Performing Women Programme for female partners as well as a Gender Parity Network.

•More legal news - Page 70

‘Old boy’ network not dead: Rebecca Mander

President’s Focus

Mark Smith is president of the newly-created Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce (GBGCC). Here, the executive director of business engagement at Aston University explains how increasing globalisation is opening new opportunities for all businesses.

Iwant to use this article to talk about the potential arising for Chamber members from globalisation: the increasing interconnectedness and integration of economies, cultures and societies worldwide.

While the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce's primary focus is on local business development, our satellite Chambers also contribute to the broader goals of globalisation in several fundamental ways.

Firstly, we facilitate trade between businesses in our region and the global market, serving as intermediaries, providing resources, expertise, and networking opportunities to help companies navigate the complexities of international trade.

We can offer guidance on export procedures, compliance with international trade regulations, and market research to identify potential partners or customers abroad. By facilitating transactions, it is clear how the GBCC contributes to expanding global economic activity and helps foster greater integration between national and international markets.

Secondly, GBCC engages in advocacy and policy influence at both regional and national levels. We act as the voice of members, representing the interests of our region and seeking to influence favourable business environments.

This involves active participation in local, regional and national policy discussions, advocating for policies that promote global trade and investment. This influences government decisions regarding international trade agreements,

tariffs, regulations, and investment incentives. Through our advocacy, GBCC shapes the conditions necessary for successful globalisation.

Thirdly, GBCC is a platform for information sharing and knowledge exchange. Globalisation requires businesses to have access to accurate and up-to-date information about international markets, trends, and opportunities.

We fulfil this role by providing members with relevant market intelligence, research reports, and database access. We also organise seminars, workshops, and

conferences that bring together local businesses and international experts to share knowledge and experiences.

By fostering information sharing and knowledge exchange, we empower businesses to expand their global reach and make informed decisions in the global marketplace.

Additionally, the Global Chamber and its sister Transatlantic Chamber are crucial in building networks and fostering international partnerships. Together, we organise trade missions, business matchmaking

events, and international business delegations, facilitating direct contact between regional businesses and their counterparts abroad.

These networking activities help member companies to establish connections, develop relationships and explore potential collaborations on a global scale. Both Chambers also form alliances with other Chambers of Commerce worldwide, creating a support network for businesses seeking to expand their international operations.

Through these networking initiatives, we contribute to the integration and interdependence of companies across borders, furthering the objectives of globalisation.

Lastly, we promote cultural exchange and understanding, an essential aspect of globalisation, by organising cultural events and exhibitions showcasing members' products, services, and (occasionally) traditions.

We help foster mutual respect and appreciation among countries and cultures by celebrating and promoting cultural diversity. This cultural exchange contributes to the broader goal of globalisation by facilitating the diffusion of ideas and innovation.

In summary, I'm proud that all GBCC Chambers together play a role in assisting globalisation. Through our collective efforts to facilitate trade, advocate for favourable policies, share information and knowledge, foster international networks, and promote cultural exchange, we contribute to the integration and interdependence of businesses and societies across borders.

By supporting businesses in expanding their global reach and navigating the challenges of international trade, we actively contribute to the ongoing process of globalisation and improve the opportunities for all our members As Global Chamber president, I look forward to bringing many more opportunities forward over the coming year.

‘Globalisation requires businesses to have access to accurate and up-todate information about international markets, trends, and opportunities’

Creating opportunities: Mark Smith

Artificial (AI) – friend or foe? That is the burning question occupying the minds of some of the most brilliant academics worldwide. Reports suggest that we may have just two years left to tame AI before computers become out of control.

There are fears that humanity could lose control of super-intelligent systems and that AI could launch cyberattacks or threaten democracy by propagating mass disinformation on a par with nuclear weapons or a pandemic. There have also been warnings about the potential impact on society if AI leads to people losing their jobs.

Gita Gopinath, second-in-command at the International Monetary Fund, has warned of the potential of “substantial disruptions in labour markets”.

A leading expert in this field, Professor Siddhartha Bandyopadhyay, Professor of Economics at the University of Birmingham, has co-written a work with Avik Chanda, a business adviser and best-selling author, analysing the future of work. ‘Work 3.0’ is available at www.amazon.co.uk Chamberlink asked them to look at the prospects for the labour market in the face of the huge asset of AI.

AI, jobs and the future of work

data from the Netherlands, supports suggestions from theoretical work that automation affects different groups of workers in different ways. They argue that “directly affected workers seem to lose from robot adoption, while indirectly affected workers gain”.

The way workers gain or lose is not always obvious. AI helps people in highly specialised jobs and often in somewhat unexpected ways. As a recent article in ‘The New York Times’ found, many doctors actually find AI to be a friend.

By Siddhartha Bandyopadhyay (left) and Avik Chanda

There is little doubt that artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the world. However, the rapid rise of AI is also causing a lot of angst.

At its most basic level, the concern is about job losses. The recent news that BT would reduce its workforce by as many as 55,000 by 2030, including about 10,000 jobs replaced by artificial intelligence (AI), is part of a growing trend of job losses globally due to various forms of automation.

Industry reports recognise this with research from McKinsey Global Institute acknowledging that the job losses could be as high as 800 million.

This is however only one side of the coin. This job destruction is taking place in an environment where overall more jobs are being created than are being destroyed due to automation.

The net impact is widely debated, and economic theory suggests that labour that complements automation will do well, while those who perform tasks that can be automated (mainly blue-collar, routine occupations though many white collar middle management jobs could also be adversely affected), would stand to lose most from automation. This theoretical prediction is borne out by empirical evidence.

A recent study by the economists Daron Acemoğlu, Hans Koster and Ceren Ozgen, using

They use it not only to save on tedious tasks such as writing an appeal to insurance to fund a nonstandard treatment for a patient but also to learn how to communicate better with their patients.

At the same time various routine repetitive jobs will certainly get more and more automated, displacing workers in that sector. This is seen in the many types of jobs that are declining from data entry clerks to accountants and auditors.

Automation thus has significant impact on the workplace. In our book ‘Work 3.0’ we contend that this can create a two-tier workforce, those who thrive due to automation as well as newer ways of working (and workplaces) and those who do not (i.e. those whose jobs can be substituted by

automation) with consequently grave implications for the wellbeing of human employees.

This warning echoes what Brynjolfsson and McAfee predicted in their book, ‘The Second Machine Age’: “There’s never been a better time

to be a worker with specialist skills or the right education, because these people can use technology to create and capture value.

“However, there’s never been a worse time to be a worker with only ‘ordinary’ skills and abilities to offer, because computers, robots, and other digital technologies are acquiring these skills and abilities at an extraordinary rate.”

‘Various routine repetitive jobs will certainly get more and more automated, displacing workers in that sector’

Mind of its own: A Mobot

Humans and robots: Can they live together?

This creates a dual category of workers with those whose skills match the changing demands of the workforce doing very well while others see their wages stagnate or even fall with many forced to leave the workplace.

And as these changes affect the workplace globally, inequality has been rising. However, the nature of inequality has changed with inequality across countries less significant compared to inequality within a country.

Discussing this, we note in ‘Work 3.0’ that: ‘Inequality across nations represented only 32 per cent of total global inequality in 2020, whereas inequality within economies accounted for an astonishing 68 per cent.

“Things were quite the opposite in 1980, when inter-economy inequality accounted for as much as 57 per cent of global inequality.” While technology is creating a divide within the workforce, globalisation allows for adoption across the world to be quick, leading to a similar divide within workers of the same country.

For many though the worry about AI goes beyond job losses and is of a more existential nature. Their worry is that in a future where AI can do any job, including those involving high creativity, our unique place in the world as a “thinking creature” is in jeopardy.

If AI can paint like Rembrandt, beat grandmasters at chess and do more and more things that were exclusively in the human domain, where does it leave us as humans?

And, indeed, on its own these changes might seem alarming. Yet a look at waning and emerging sectors shows that far from taking over the creative industry from humans, AI actually enhances the demand for such creativity.

According to the World Economics Forum,

analytical thinking and innovation and complex problem solving constitute two of the three top emerging skills globally.

For sure, domains, skills and sectors are in flux. Yet this sort of creative destruction takes

Thus, one needs to see what sort of overlaps there are between the combination of one’s current sector, domain, job and skills and the emerging ones, and identify the key gaps that are to be filled in.

As we argue in a recent article, in the context of the India workplace, ‘”or the generalist middle manager, it might actually be easier to shift to the social economy, working with or as part of NGOs, provided one has the requisite behavioural skills –rather than attempt to secure a lucrative but hyper-specialised job in, say, the green economy”.

For the worker of the future, there is a need to do this identification early and develop skills that fit in with their aptitude. Educational institutions have a vital role to play in this regard.

And technological skills need to be complemented with emotional skills as we learn to navigate a workplace that requires adaptability. Thus, we argue in our book ‘Work 3.0’ that while STEM education is essential. ‘STEM by itself is no longer the full answer.

place all the time even if the pace of change seems dizzying today.

Ultimately, most people acquire the right skills even though the transition can be painful. But this reskilling does not happen without effort. Today’s and tomorrow’s worker needs to gain a thorough working knowledge about emergent sectors, domains, jobs and skills.

But that by itself is not enough, as there is only so much that a current worker can deviate from their existing knowledge and skill base.

“Expanding one’s cognitive abilities does not prepare one emotionally to adapt to an increasing pace of change, nor endow one with the abilities to continuously unlearn, relearn and acquire new skills to influence and motivate oneself and others, and to continuously deliver value in a workplace requiring higher-order thinking.

“Any framework claiming to be holistic and comprehensive can no longer ignore the dimension of emotional enablement.”

Educational institutions face a big challenge to prepare the worker of the future with this adaptable mindset who can thrive in a globalised milieu.

• The biggest barrier to AI - see page 78

‘Today’s and tomorrow’s worker needs to gain a thorough working knowledge about emergent sectors, domains, jobs and skills’

Harmony with machines

The Griffin Report

From ambitions to own a flock of sheep, Lis Lewis-Jones has now herded a collection of clients for her own thriving global PR business, Liquid. JON GRIFFIN met the “absolute Brummie” to examine the secrets of her success.

She launched in her mother’s garage with just a laptop, a phone and a desire to succeed. Less than 20 years later her business brainchild boasts clients across 26 countries, an office down under in Brisbane….and even an in-house chef.

In just under two decades Lis Lewis-Jones has built Birmingham-based Liquid into a global PR and marketing powerhouse employing nearly 40 people and voted the be st agency outside London by influential trade magazine ‘PR Week’.

It’s a real Brummie success story with plenty of twists and turns along the way – from an unheated garage in Bromsgrove to a plush Birmingham city centre office with its own media suite.

Its clients range a from a maple syrup producer in Canada to sweet potatoes in North Carolina – all created from a West Midlands childhood soaking up the secrets of business success to being named one of the UK’s leading crisis communicators.

Lis Lewis-Jones – in her own words “an absolute Brummie” – freely admits she is a workaholic driven by hard graft and determination. But that’s hardly surprising given her family genes…

She hails from a family of engineers - the first in eight generations not to go down the engineering route. Her great, great, great uncle George Dean developed his own combine harvester, another ancestor, William Dean, was chief engineer of the Great Western Railway.

Her grandfather was Herbert Austin’s chief pattern maker in the early days of Longbridge while father Charles ran two companies, Redgrave Dean and Coleshill Engineering. Her mother’s family – the Wraggs – had developed bottled spring water in Birmingham.

“My parents did nothing but talk about business at the dinner table. Business was always on the agenda,” she recalls.

Growing up near Coleshill and later on a farm in the West Midlands, Lis harboured few ambitions other than to have her own flock of sheep. “I just went with the flow at school.”

But her father Charles’s influence would transform dreams of sheep-rearing into the launch of an extraordinary business career which began with a summer placement at Birmingham Airport.

“I was always interested in planes and my father had a private pilot’s licence and his commercial pilot’s licence. He had set up Birmingham’s first charter airline based at

Elmdon, called Central Air Services, in the late 60s, early 70s. He was like me, an absolute workaholic.”

Lis’s burgeoning business career would take off in style, rising to press officer status where she soaked up an understanding of the regional and trade press and the public sector, with the airport then owned by the seven metropolitan West Midlands councils. “Today, Liquid, according to PR Week, is the third largest UK agency working in the public sector.”

In 1994 she switched to travel tourism, working for a Henley-in-Arden based company called Cellet Travel Services looking after Les Vegas, Nevada and North Carolina before wellknown Birmingham PR operator Julia Willoughby poached her.

Why Liquid?

Asked why she chose Liquid as the name for her PR firm, Lis replied:

“It reflects that we are transparent, not contained, go with the flow, can change pending the environment…and I was drinking a bottle of wine at the time!”

Within three years she had risen to director level and by the age of 31 was managing director of the largest independently-owned PR consultancy in the Midlands.

By now Lis was a proud mother of two – threeyear-old Charlie and five-month-old Will and her new motherhood commitments would ultimately prove the catalyst for the launch of Liquid.

“It was a huge gamble but I didn’t feel I could do a school drop-off for Charlie, a nursery dropoff for Will and then get into the centre of Birmingham and run a company like that.

I was in a very secure job, very well paid, but I think I don’t look at risk like that, I just look at the opportunities.

Business talk dominated her parents’ dinner table: Lis Lewis Jones

“I was in a very secure job, very well paid, but I think I don’t look at risk like that, I just look at the opportunities. You have just got to do it. At the time I was 34 and thought if I don’t do it now am I going to hit 40 and regret it?

“I spent three months before I had my first client because I couldn’t take any clients with me. The first client was a newsletter for Touchwood Shopping Centre...it was three months before I had my first invoice. I initially kept it very small because my children were my main priority.”

By 2006 Lis had set up in an office in Stoke Prior, near Bromsgrove. “Clients wanted to start to come to see you in your place of work and I couldn’t take them to a garage which had no heating and one cold water tap.”

By 2008 Lis had become the first president from the West Midlands of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, a voluntary national role which saw her speaking at conferences in Nigeria, Argentina, Bahrain, South Africa and across the UK.

By 2009 she set up a Channel Islands group for the CIPR – and quickly realised the business potential of the islands. “I became the first UK consultancy to have offices in the Channel Islands. As Liquid was growing it gave me the clients and the experience I wouldn’t have had if I had stayed in the Midlands.”

By 2015 Liquid had moved into premises in Edmund Street in Birmingham city centre and in 2019 the company relocated to larger offices in Waterloo Street. “We had wanted to put in a kitchen because we had our food clients – we had worked with Quebec Maple Syrup Producers from Canada for eight years.”

When lockdown struck in March, 2020, Lis

used her past experience of crisis management from her airport days to future proof Liquid.

“We managed to pick up a lot of new clients, we had some clients who increased their budgets, we spent a huge amount on training, I kept saying we are going to come out of lockdown better, bigger and stronger than before. We used it as a real turning point.”

Another Liquid turning point followed in 2021 when their long-standing Maple Syrup client took up Lis’s suggestion that they should set up a new market in Australia. “I said we can do that for you, it is just like the UK, they speak English, they drive on the left and they all play cricket.

“In July last year they said the board has approved for you to look after our Australian market for us. I went into overdrive and in August and September I incorporated a new

holding company.

“I knew I needed to move out of the Channel Islands and I set up and incorporated a new business in Australia. It opened in February, 2023, and we have got three people out there now and are building up other clients as well.”

To complement Liquid’s large food division, Lis had taken on as in-house chef director David Colcombe, formerly of the Dorchester, Opus in Birmingham and the Bank restaurant chain in the UK. “If you want to target chefs with products, you need a chef to talk to chefs…you do not want a smiley PR person.”

David is now chief operating officer of Liquid to Lis’s chief executive role - “I have to credit him with helping to grow the business” - while French patisserie trained chef Olivier Briault, formerly of Opus, Simpsons, the Edgbaston hotel and Jacques in Knowle has been hired as development chef.

“Once a client is here they can stay here. We don’t need to go out and get food. If people want to have a private conversation and don’t want to be seen in a restaurant, that’s fine.”

With services such as an in-house chef to help burnish a growing global reputation, it’s fair to suggest that Lis - who recently added membership of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Council and the committee of the Transatlantic Chamber to her CV alongside her role as chair of Governors at Bloxham School in Oxfordshire amongst other positions - and Liquid have come a very long way since she was writing newsletters for Touchwood Shopping Centre from her mother’s garage.

And it’s further still since her original teenage ambitions to have her own flock of sheep...

Photo-shoot: Food under the spotlight at Liquid’s own kitchen

The perfect time to boost your skills

As the temperature rises and everyone is looking forward to summer you may be forgiven for thinking that schools and colleges are breaking up until September.

However at Halesowen College, we appreciate that the summer months may be an excellent time for employers to upskill their staff and get them to gain new qualifications and abilities.

As such we are continuing to offer a comprehensive portfolio of on line learning courses throughout the summer months.

Strong team in place to drive Belfry forward

been made to bolster the leadership team at the Belfry Hotel & Resort.

They are hotel manager Varun Shetty, director of finance Emma Catterall, chief engineer Gary Williams and director of food and beverage Jacques Hobson. The appointments come just as work is set to begin on a redevelopment and enhancement of the resort.

and IHG.

Emma will be responsible for overseeing the resort’s financial operations and long-term growth and brings more than 19 years of experience leading financial teams across various industries.

Gary has long-standing experience in resort maintenance

Lucia.

Jacques has been promoted from food and beverage manager to director of food and beverage.

He began his career 12 years ago at The Belfry as food and beverage assistant and last year was announced as one of Acorn Award’s 30 under 30 for 2022.

We offer courses at level 2 and level 3 covering a wide range of subjects from customer service to a broad range of courses essential for working in the health and care sectors such as autism awareness, end of life care and dealing with dementia. Some of the online courses could also lead to embarking on a more high level qualification in September.

The skills your staff are able to learn in a flexible way to suit their busy lives and your business will add value to your organisation and bridge your skills gap. Courses are fully online with no need to attend college and come with a range of outstanding learning resources that meet a range of diverse learning needs. Learners can submit their work online and will have the support of a subject specialist tutor to help them along the way.

For further information about what we offer visit halesowencollege.theskillsnet work.com or contact 0121 602 7777 to discuss and enrol. We hope you enjoy the summer of 2023.

Varun has been promoted to hotel manager, having previously held the role of director of food and beverage and will be responsible for overseeing hotel operations, ensuring an exemplary experience for guests.

He has more than 20 years’ experience in hospitality, working across renowned hotel chains such

within the hospitality industry both in the UK and abroad, where he has overseen multiple redevelopments, refurbishments and new builds. His most recent venture before joining

In his role, Hobson is responsible for leading the resort’s multiple food and beverage outlets.

Chris Eigelaar, resort director, said: “These appointments are key to helping us to drive the resort forward.

“Their combined expertise and experience complement that of our fantastic team, ensuring we can continue to deliver the exceptional service and guest experience for which we are renowned.”

Expansion for Mr McDonald’s

McDonald’s franchisee and Chamber patron Doug Wright has acquired two more restaurants – taking his total to 23.

Mr Wright, awarded an MBE last year for services to charity and the economy, has completed the purchase of McDonald’s franchises on Chester Road, just outside Birmingham, and in Chelmsley Wood. The expansion of his business means Wright Restaurants T/A McDonald’s now employs around 2,700 people.

He said: “These acquisitions are the latest part of my velocity plan. I’m delighted to be expanding my restaurant company during what has been a very tough period for the hospitality sector.

“I welcome a further 250 staff into my business and look forward to working with both teams.”

Mr Wright’s association with McDonald’s began 42 years ago, when he took a part-time job with the organisation after leaving school. He worked his way through the ranks with the fast-food giant and acquired his first franchise two decades ago.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “It’s extraordinary to see Doug continue to grow his business at pace. Doug makes a mighty contribution to the region through employment, charitable and civic

Significant milestone: Doug Wright

activities, business mentoring and support for the wider business community. On behalf of the Chamber, I’d like to congratulate Doug on this latest significant milestone.”

Top team (left to right): Varun, Emma, Gary and Jacques at The Belfry

‘These appointments are key to helping us to drive the resort forward’

‘Some of the online courses could also lead to embarking on a more high level qualification’

Recruitment agency looks beyond UK

A Midlands recruitment agency with ambitious plans to expand into the United States have become patrons of the Greater Birmingham Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce (GBTCC).

Beyond The Book are a specialist creative and marketing recruitment consultancy, headquartered in Atherstone on Stour, near Stratford-upon-Avon.

Having opened their doors in 2009 and established themselves as a leading specialist recruiter, working with small and large organisations, the firm is set to expand its recruitment and talent acquisition services into the USA.

Led by dedicated US consultant Jack Keeling, Beyond the Book’s Stateside strategy will initially focus on digital marketing positions in Florida, as well as wider remote roles. Anna Smith, director and cofounder of Beyond The Book, said: “Having worked hard to establish a business that successfully works for our clients and candidates, we felt confident the time was right to launch into the US market. Our research showed a need for quality and specialist marketing recruitment, and with Jack’s experience living in the US we believe we have all the experience needed to make our mark, starting in Florida.

“We’d like to thank Mandy Haque and the GBTCC for providing us with the opportunity to make connections in the US and we are delighted to be partnering with the Chamber for mutual success in the US and the UK.”

The GBTCC is a chapter of the BritishAmerican Business network, the largest transatlantic networking organisation promoting trade and investment between the United Kingdom and North America.

Mandy Haque, international director at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, of which the GBTCC is part, said: “I'm delighted to welcome Beyond the Book as patrons of the Greater Birmingham Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce.

“Having spoken with the team at length about their US expansion plans, the connections and support through the Transatlantic Chamber –particularly involving the British American Business Network, of which the Chamber is one of 22 chapters across North America and the UK –will definitely benefit them to achieve their goals.”

Marketing candidates looking for opportunities in Florida, or a client looking to attract and retain talent across digital marketing, social media, content, paid media and SEO, contact the Beyond The Book team at info@btbpeople.co.uk or connect with dedicated US consultant Jack Keeling at jack.keeling@btbpeople.com

• More international news - pages 36 and 37.

Hippodrome trust chair to step down

Glenn Howells, chair of the Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre Trust (BHTT), will be stepping down in November. He became a Trustee in 2012 and has been chair since 2018.

He has overseen the Hippodrome significantly increase its reach with local communities, with the organisation’s programme of live performance, learning and participation and festivals, reaching up to one million people annually.

Glenn played a major role in steering the organisation through the Covid19 pandemic, through ongoing closures, the securing of the crucial financial Cultural Recovery Fund and helping the Hippodrome to continue on a steady path to reopening following the significant impact that the global crisis has had on the arts and entertainment industry.

He said: “I’m incredibly proud to look back at what the team has achieved since I joined in 2012. The Hippodrome has built on its rich heritage, seen significant growth and become a more diverse cultural organisation.”

Green Park will be leading the search for a new chair. To find out more go to: www.micro.green-park.co.uk

• More arts news – see page 80.

Connections: Mandy Haque and Jack Keeling at the BritishAmerican Business Network conference in London

Meet the Team

TRAINING

Everything a business needs to know about exporting and importing can be gained from the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) training team.

It covers a wide variety of courses, from international trade to Excel that any international trader would need to know about in their industry. Topics such as incoterms, rules of origin and customs procedures are among the topics.

Within the past two years the department, run by Leah Quarmby with support from Cheryl Henn, has delivered training to over 500 individuals, the majority booking on to public courses, with others completing a bespoke training course unique for their company.

There are many dates of courses available throughout the year, and if a company is looking for that direct approach to training for just their team, bespoke options can be created by Leah and Cheryl.

With the wide selection of courses, there is something for every industry. International

The small but dynamic Chamber training team, led by Leah Quarmby and assisted by Cheryl Henn, has delivered courses to over 500 individuals in two years, offering invaluable intelligence to any business that wants to become proficient in exporting or importing.

NEXT ISSUE: In the September edition of Chamberlink we will introduce readers to the Chamber’s IT department, the guys who beaver away in the shadows ensuring communication systems are super-efficient. Their roles will be particularly vital in the Chamber’s move to new offices in Hagley Road.

training launched with a huge success in 2021 and in the next year other courses were introduced, including health and safety and sales and marketing training.

New courses are constantly being worked on and this year new Excel courses will be introduced. All current courses are researched and worked on frequently to keep them up to date with new legislation changes, especially around international trade.

Businesses from all walks of life from sole traders to companies with 500+ employees will hopefully find something of interest.

Many international trade courses are British Chamber of Commerce (BCC)-accredited. This means that attendees will be given the opportunity to complete their Foundation Award in International Trade, a nationally recognised qualification which can be gained through the Chamber when completing six or more modules of BCC training. Call the team for further details.

Leah said: “For me, everyone at some point in their career needs training. My aim is to be able to provide the skills and guidance any industry needs to be successful within their business, but to also boost confidence to individuals within

their role. We are very competitively priced, with aftercare given to every individual who sits one of our courses. The importance of learning and continuing to learn within your role is key.

“The international trade training courses offer guidance and knowledge on many topics. Our most popular course would be understanding export and export documentation. This course is suitable for anyone in an export environment from a beginner to an experienced team member looking for a refresher.

“Rules surrounding export and import do change frequently. All our courses provide the most current and up to date details so attendees can receive information and leave feeling confident they are adhering to Customs requirements for shipping overseas.

“If international trade isn’t your industry, we will aim to provide any detailed course a customer requires. If it’s out there, we want to offer it.”

To contact the training division: email training@birmingham-chamber.com; call 07860258387 or 0121 274 3229

• See training courses – page 49

Training experts: Leah Quarmby (left) and Cheryl Henn

Top 3 Tips for hosting the perfect event

By eighteen’s F&B Manager, George Cochrane

Organising an event requires meticulous planning and attention to detail. Here are my top tips to ensure your event leaves a lasting impression:

1. Prioritise planning: Define the event’s purpose, target audience, and desired outcomes. Create a detailed timeline outlining all necessary tasks and identify the resources needed to achieve them. Avoiding unforeseen challenges will ensure a seamless experience for your guests.

2. Be the perfect host: The hospitality provided during your event can elevate the overall experience for attendees. Your team of friendly and professional staff members need to provide excellent customer service –from registration to wayfinding, from coat check to attendee assistance, every interaction should be handled with care and efficiency.

3. Don’t forget the details: Pay close attention to the finer details such as signage, seating arrangements, audiovisual equipment, and event branding. Complement the culinary offerings with a wellcurated selection of beverages, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. And consider incorporating special touches such as welcome gifts, personalised name tags, or branded event materials to make guests feel valued and appreciated.

Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, gala dinner, product launch, or a special celebration, eighteen would love to help. As well as first class hospitality, eighteen offers a vibrant bar and food offering, and a terrace with unrivalled views across Birmingham.

For more information, a cocktail, or to book a tour, get in touch with the team –eighteen@xandwhy.co.uk

A clean record for 20 years - and firm still going strong

A proud Brummie cleaning firm who have always set their frontline staff at the forefront of their operations are celebrating 20 years in business.

we clean was formed in 2003 by directors Paul Concannon and David Harker following a decade of operating within a large, national cleaning and facilities provider.

It was founded on the principle of providing core cleaning services without any bundled ancillary services.

The organisation has grown from humble beginnings, partnering with local, likeminded organisations with the ultimate goal of delivering absolute service excellence and ensuring total client satisfaction.

Since their inception they have organically scaled to a business with around £11m turnover but have always maintained the cornerstones that we clean was founded on.

David Harker said: “Integrity, genuinely caring and placing our staff first with a sustainable cleaning solution remain the focal points for everyone working within the organisation.

“We are proud to have formed longstanding relationships with a number of recognisable organisations and venues throughout the Midlands who

recognise our ‘desire and passion to do the job right’.” These include:

• Birmingham Hippodrome

• Brindleyplace

• Paradise Birmingham

• The West Brom Building Society

• Midlands Art Centre (MAC)

• Gateley Plc

• Birmingham Royal Ballet

• Salts Healthcare

• West Bromwich Albion Football Club

They say that critical to their success has been the flat management structure whereby they are very hands on and ensure that staff feel supported, cared for and are provided with the correct training and tools to do the Job.

David added: “20 years in business operating a people-led company is a fantastic milestone achievement and we have built we clean on solid foundations.

“We are now fortunate to have an enviable client base many of which we have worked with for over 10 years and we now look forward with great optimism for the coming years ahead.”

Young chef wins demanding award

Chapter restaurant’s young chef Amrita Phull has been awarded the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts ‘Award of Excellence – Kitchen’.

The Annual Awards of Excellence are regarded as the most prestigious for young members in the UK hospitality industry.

The RACA is the leading professional membership of chefs and front of house professionals and it advances cookery, food provenance and service education.

Rita passed this demanding skills-based examination on her first attempt. The exam tests the individual’s level of skill and excellence demanded by 12 eminent judges.

Having sailed through her semifinal conducted at University College Birmingham, Rita travelled to University of West London for the final. She participated in the five-hour exam which tested 13 finalists on imagination and skills in

producing three courses for the judges.

Chef director Ben Ternent said: “We are absolutely delighted with Rita’s result. She is a talented young chef who keeps her cool and has demonstrated her grasp of skills and flair at this demanding final.

“Born and bred in Birmingham and trained at UCB, Rita is well and truly flying the flag for our city. We are very proud of her.”

Central to we clean operations: The frontline staff

Where do you fancy?

Tattu Birmingham is an exquisite dining destination that blends culinary excellence with stunning aesthetics and Ying Yang principles. Located in the heart of Birmingham, this unique restaurant aims to offer “an unforgettable experience for diners seeking a harmonious fusion of contemporary Chinese cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere”. The restaurant and bar are in the former basement of the Grand Hotel.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

Food and drink

Tattu prides itself on offering a menu that showcases the best of contemporary Chinese cuisine, incorporating a harmonious blend of traditional flavours and innovative culinary techniques.

Each seasonal menu is created by Tattu’s talented chefs utilising only premium ingredients sourced from carefully selected suppliers. The concept follows Chinese dining traditions of delivering food to the centre of the table to be sampled by everyone rather than the customary starter, main and dessert structure. Dim Sum is a speciality at Tattu.

Lunch

Tattu’s £28 Moon Stand Lunch is a balance of creativity, luxury and value that will bring harmony to anyone’s day. The specially curated menu features 14 enjoyable dishes, ranging from light and refreshing to indulgent and decadent, a perfect moment for a lunch break or during a leisurely afternoon at the weekend. Guests can choose 3 dishes for £28.

Tattu's signature dishes include the Seven Spiced Seared Tuna with Truffle aioli, caviar, and citrus ponzu. Wok Fired Angry Bird features flavourful crispy chicken,

Tattu Birmingham

Address: 18 Barwick St, Birmingham B3 2NT

T: 0121 236 5556

E: birmingham@tattu.co.uk W: www.tattu.co.uk

Owner: Adam and Drew Jones

Head chef: Manu Pundhir

roasted peppers, and a sesame honey soy sauce.

Dinner

The a la carte menu features a Modern Sharing and Emperor’s Choice sharing menus for large parties and a vegetarian tasting menu. The menu is broken down into different categories starting with hand-crafted dim sum, small plates, meat, seafood, from the wok, rice noodles and vegetables and desserts. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available.

Wines

At Tattu, they understand that wine preferences are unique to everyone. Knowledgeable sommeliers are always on hand to guide diners. The wine list offers a diverse range of options, catering to all palates and complementing the complexity the dishes.

Business facilities

Large party yin area: Much like all Tattu interiors, the main restaurant downstairs represents ‘Yin’. It is detailed in feminine finishes, including salvaged cherry trees that

Opening hours: Open daily from 12 pm to 12 am

are brought back to life by hand to create a canopy of blossom throughout the space. Parties can be seated across a large table holding between eight and 10 guests in semi-private while also enjoying the ambience of the main restaurant.

Yang private dining: Is the light element linked with masculinity, growth and fire. This new design is featured in our ground floor bar and dining areas. Polished brass reflects light to create a warm glow throughout. The semi-private dining area caters for between 10 –and 16 guests.

Exclusive offer for Chamber members 20 per cent discount when dining from the a la carte menu or a complimentary glass of wine/beer/soft drinks with the moon stand lunch menu. Proof of Chamber membership number will be required.

Tonight we are going to party like it’s 1929!

Eastside Rooms’ 2022 Christmas Party success, paves the way for the launch of the 2023 Twisted Prohibition Christmas Party.

Following the resounding success of their 2022 The Greatest Christmas themed parties, The Eastside Rooms is gearing up to launch their highly anticipated 2023 Christmas party with a captivating Twisted Prohibition theme. Building upon the triumph of the previous year’s festivities, this unique concept promises an unforgettable experience for attendees.

The first ever Eastside Rooms’ Christmas parties, in 2022, were an unparalleled success, leaving everyone in attendance spellbound. The venue was transformed into a circus extravaganza, completed with its very own tiger.

Drawing inspiration from the Roaring 20s era, the 2023 Christmas party will take a fascinating twist with a prohibition theme. Guests can expect to be transported back in time to an era of clandestine speakeasies, jazz music and glamourous flapper fashion. The venue itself will be transformed into a secret hideaway, surrounded by an air of mystery, promising a night to remember.

A team of talented performers will entertain guests with their mesmerising acts, while a specially curated menu will tantalise their taste buds.

The launch of The Eastside Rooms’ 2023 Christmas party has already generated significant interest. With the venue’s proven track record and dedication to crating memorable experiences, it is expected to be a memorable evening of fun and festivity!

Enquiries and bookings for the 2023 Christmas parties can be made by visiting www.eastsiderooms.com or by contacting the team directly on 0121 820 6060.

Festival to celebrate the best of Birmingham talent

Birmingham Festival 23, supported by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) among others, will celebrate the city’s creative talents and mark the one-year anniversary of the Commonwealth Games.

Across 10 days and nine evenings from Friday, 28 July, to Sunday, 6 August, Birmingham Festival 23 will welcome audiences, artists, local communities and volunteers, reflecting the diversity of the city, to watch, listen, relax, dance and play.

It will pay homage to the city’s big summer of sport and culture and present another bold showcase of Birmingham’s talent, character and reputation as a world-class destination for major events.

Raidene Carter, executive producer for Birmingham 2022 Festival, said: “Last year we really showcased Birmingham’s creativity and it ran through everything

from the opening and closing ceremonies watched by millions, the medal design process with local students, as well as handcrafted gifts and experiences created for athletes. We no longer have to prove to the world that this place is full of talent.

“So, this year is about really celebrating how creative this city is, and the thousands of people who took part. That’s why we’re encouraging more artists, collectives and creatives to get involved. Birmingham Festival 23 is just the start of what we imagine to be a longer-term cultural legacy of the city” Commissioned and supported by Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Festival 23 is also supported by Principal Partners Arts Council England and the University of Birmingham; Presenting Partner Hollywood Monster; and Festival Champions including the GBCC, Colmore BID, and West Midlands Growth Company/Visit Birmingham.

Record-breaking visitor numbers

The West Midlands welcomed an unprecedented 141.2 million visitors in 2022, smashing the previous record set before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The figures represent a 38 per cent increase on tourist numbers in 2021, and a five per cent rise compared to 2019 data, which was the last research carried out before the tourist industry was severely impacted by the global pandemic.

With the UK government’s aim to recover both domestic and inbound visitor numbers to prepandemic levels by the end of 2023, the West Midlands is leading the country’s Covid recovery 12 months ahead of schedule.

Spending by visitors to the West

Midlands in 2022 rose to £14.1bn, up by £4bn (39 per cent) from 2021 and £1bn (seven per cent) more than pre-Covid figures in 2019.

Birmingham alone attracted a record 45.5 million visitors in 2022, a six per cent increase compared to 2019. The city’s visitor economy is worth £7.9bn.

The findings were revealed by the West Midlands Growth Company – the region’s economic development agency – and independent tourism research body Global Tourism Solutions.

Neil Rami, chief executive of the West Midlands Growth Company, said: “The West Midlands was the place to be in 2022, reflected by

record visitor numbers to our region’s tourism and hospitality settings, accommodation venues and public spaces.”

The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games gave the West Midlands its time to shine on the international stage – and a record 1.5 million spectators bought tickets for events, making it the most popular Commonwealth Games to be hosted in the UK.

West Midlands mayor Andy Street added: “After what no one could dispute has been a challenging time for the world’s tourism industry, it’s great news to see that our region has defied national predictions to bounce back more rapidly than expected.”

In full swing: The Festival in Smithfield last year

‘Last year we really showcased Birmingham’s creativity’

£10,000 for charity of the year

A donation of £10,000 has been made to charity PANS PANDAS UK following a successful fundraising drive at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s (GBCC) annual dinner and awards.

Birmingham-based sports hospitality agency Eventmasters made the donation through its charitable foundation after hosting a silent auction at the event at the ICC in March.

PANS PANDAS UK is the GBCC’s charity of the year chosen by president Deb Leary. It was established by a group of parents with children who are affected by two specific conditions –PANS and PANDAS.

They are conditions which result in an inflammation of the brain, causing a variety of neuro-psychiatric conditions such as OCD, tics and eating restrictions.

These conditions are often misdiagnosed or blamed simply on bad behaviour and poor parenting.

Deb said: “When there are so many charities for people to choose from, I am eternally grateful to the Chamber membership and all those who attended the Chamber awards dinner for giving so generously to my chosen charity.

“The total is so amazing and will make such a difference.”

Vicky Burford, chair of PANS PANDAS UK, said: “As a small charity facing a rapidly growing demand for support, all the team at PANS PANDAS UK are delighted to have received this incredible donation from Eventmasters.

“It will make a huge difference to how many families and children we can help. Continuing our work raising awareness, improving health services and supporting families living with these

devastating conditions will be made possible through the generosity and backing of brilliant companies like Eventmasters.”

Based in St Paul’s Square, Eventmasters is a leading sports hospitality firm and an 1813 Club member of the GBCC.

Managing director Denise Sheasby said: “Thank you to all of the GBCC members who placed bids during the auction, it certainly was a terrific event.

Digital Glue launches video content service

Marketing firm Digital Glue has launched a dedicated social video content service line as part of their 2023 strategy.

The hire of Gabbie Armstrong marks Digital Glue diversifying their skillset and allows for an expansion of services.

Gabbie offers clients a depth of knowledge and experience of social video content, ranging across different channels and platforms.

She has over six years’ experience in the fashion industry, bringing with her a keen eye for style, aesthetics, and design.

She is also a successful influencer, with over 15,000 followers on Instagram and close to 600,000 likes on TikTok. She has worked with big fashion brands such as Boohoo, Superdry, and I Saw It First.

Digital Glue’s expansion with a dedicated social video content service line enables them to increase their value to current clients. With targeted video plans Digital Glue will help businesses appeal to a wide range of audiences through social media’s most engaging form of content.

Managing director and business owner Javan Bramhall said: “The evolution of consumer behaviour online has led to the exponential growth in consumption of video content. To ensure our clients get not only the best content, but also the insight they need, we wanted to strengthen our team and our offering.

“As an influencer herself, Gabbie understands what's needed to produce compelling content which engages varied audiences and she's already started delivering this for our clients.”

The social video content service will embrace a range of video formats, including short-form social media videos and longer-form video content for websites and YouTube. The service will be tailored to meet each client's unique needs and goals.

“Having spoken with Vicky, it is clear that young people who sadly suffer with this condition, and their families, are in vital need of the support that this charity provides.”

For more information about PANSPANDAS go to: www.panspandasuk.org

To find out more information on Eventmasters go to: www.eventmasters.co.uk

Amazing total (left to right): Denise Sheasby, Deb Leary and Vicky Burford

Fashion industry experience: Gabbie Armstrong

FEATURE

Milestone met with renewable investment

has become one of the largest family-run packaging companies in Europe.

At the start of the anniversary year, company boss Björn Schumacher, who runs the company in the third generation with his brother Hendrik, explained: “Along our anniversary motto ‘Unboxing the Future of Packaging’, we are pursuing clear goals for the future. We see considerable potential to make packaging even more climate-friendly across the entire value chain. That’s why we want to further reduce the proportion of plastics in packaging across all sectors and replace it sensibly with the natural raw material paper.”

completely natural. They are not waste, can be returned to the material cycle 100 per cent or decompose in nature within a short time without leaving any residues. Currently, more than 85 per cent of corrugated and solid board packaging is recycled – this means that it is reprocessed into packaging after use. Unlike plastic-based reusable systems, no CO2 is emitted during return transport and cleaning,” said Björn Schumacher. “We exploit this potential by leading the way and constantly developing new industryspecific and sustainable products. In this way, we can offer long-term security of supply and be a reliable partner - now and in the future.”

The Schumacher Packaging Group, one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of customised packaging made of corrugated and solid board (www.schumacher-packaging.com), successfully continued its dynamic growth course in 2022.

This year, the company celebrates its 75th anniversary and is investing more in sustainability: the focus is on expanding renewable energies and reducing plastics in packaging by using natural raw materials.

By 2025, Schumacher Packaging plans to invest around €700m in the expansion of existing plants and the construction of new ones.

For 2023, however, the focus is on sustainability. This is because the packaging specialist is pursuing the ambitious goal of climate-neutral production by 2035 and is therefore relying on the most modern, efficient and environmentally friendly technologies. Around €45m is being invested in the construction of solar power plants, and €10-20m is earmarked for the expansion of wind energy. Currently, a solar park is under construction at the German site in Forchheim, and two more parks are being built in Poland.

The construction of five more solar power plants in Germany and Poland is planned for 2023 and 2024. The total output of all photovoltaic plants will be around 12 GW/h.

Replacing plastics sensibly

With its innovative solutions made of corrugated and solid board, Schumacher Packaging has grown continuously over the past 75 years and

To achieve this, the family-owned company is leading the way in the industry: it provides information, works on innovations and seeks dialogue with stakeholders. The management assumes that more than one fifth of the plastic packaging currently used can be replaced by paper-based solutions. By using plastic-free, biobased barrier coatings, packaging with protective functions can be produced that can be fully recycled. Plastics can thus be completely replaced - with the greatest potential in the food industry.

Corrugated and solid board as the basis for a sustainable circular economy

Sustainability is of great importance to Schumacher Packaging’s business. “The biggest advantage of paper-based packaging is that it is

Raw material supply and security of supply still important

Despite the difficult economic situation due to the Ukraine war and the sharp rise in energy prices, Schumacher Packaging 2022 managed to grow.

The packaging manufacturer reacted flexibly and quickly in the crisis year and was thus able to guarantee supplies to its customers. Strategic decisions contributed to this, such as the acquisition of the Kaierde cartonboard mill, the majority stake in the Italian corrugated base paper manufacturer Cartiere Modesto Cardella SpA and the acquisition of the Leipzig Land GmbH cartonboard mill.

“The consistent expansion of our production and processing capacities represents an important contribution to securing the market's supply situation in the future and is part of our strategy for the future,” said managing director Hendrik Schumacher.

For more details contact Naomi Harvey at Schumacher Packaging sales_bir@schumacher-packaging.com

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HS2 gives back to community

HS2 Ltd has awarded £2.83m to community projects in the West Midlands area over the past six years.

In total 236 community projects have received £13,445,843 during Phase One and Phase 2a.

The latest figures are revealed in Groundwork UK’s 2023 annual report. which also confirms that £2,023,171 has been awarded to 39 projects between London and Crewe in the last 12 months.

Seven projects across the West Midlands area have shared £444,131 in funding in the last year.

Starting in 2017, HS2 created the Community and Environment Fund (CEF) and the Business and Local Economy Fund (BLEF) to aid community groups and business partnerships impacted by the construction of Phase One (London to Birmingham) and Phase 2a (Birmingham to Crewe) of the HS2 project. Community charity Groundwork UK independently administer the funds.

In June 2022, Wizzleworld Dramatics CIC in Solihull received a £74,724 from HS2 Ltd to create a series of bespoke new programmes aimed at encouraging outdoor exploration in children and improving wellbeing for West Midlands residents.

‘The funding will contribute towards the enhancement of green spaces at Smith’s Wood’

The funding will contribute towards the enhancement of green spaces at Smith’s Wood, making the outdoor learning space more accessible to the wider community.

In previous years, HS2 schemes have provided £75,000 towards the refurbishment of Streethay Play Park, built a new clubhouse and training facility at Chorleywood Cricket Club and funded

University staff face zip wire challenge

Aston University staff members are taking on a 160ft high zip wire challenge at the beginning of July to raise money for the Midland Met Appeal.

The event, run by Your Trust Charity, the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust's registered charity, was taking place at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital in Smethwick.

The Aston University team will feature staff members Rosa Amato, Sarah Collins, Matilda Blackwell, Adam Basdogan and Balraj Purewal.

The zip wire was being positioned on the top of a crane positioned on-site, with a length of 220 metres and speeds of up to 35mph. The event aims to raise awareness and funds for the Midland Met Appeal, a campaign to raise £2m to fund healthcare and facilities in the new hospital. All money raised from the challenge will go directly to the appeal.

A team from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce is also taking part.

an upskilling programme for students attending John Henry Newman Catholic School in Chelmsley Wood.

Cathy Elliott, Independent chair of the HS2 Funds said: “I have been lucky enough to visit several projects and see the impact of the funding first-hand, such as the opening of new playgrounds and thriving environmental regeneration initiatives. It’s clear to see the significant difference the funding makes and how important it is to local communities.”

The schemes will provide up to £45m of funding throughout the construction timeline of HS2, supporting community led projects that improve the environment, such as tree planting and energy efficiency measures.

The funds also support initiatives that bring benefits to local communities, such as the provision of new community facilities or support for local heritage and culture.

Royal facialist shares her success story

Local entrepreneur Deborah Mitchell visited the South & City College campuses in Hall Green and Longbridge to speak to beauty students.

She spoke about her experiences of studying beauty at college to founding a successful beauty brand in 1995, now reported to be worth £30m - all from her kitchen table.

Facialist to the stars Deborah has been working with Queen Camilla for over a decade. She has told the Daily Mail of Camilla's beauty routine, which includes products from her own Heaven skincare range.

Deborah said: “All of the students were very welcoming, engaged and filled the room with positivity. I see great careers ahead for them all.”

Emma Satchwell, a Level 3 Beauty Therapy student, said: “This talk and product demonstration really cemented everything I have learnt over the past year and Deborah’s outlook on life has inspired and reassured me that my future plans are on track.”

Head of school for beauty therapy Sukaina Haji said: “It was a pleasure to hear the positive comments from Deborah about our students. I am really proud of them all.”

Businesses who would like to give a talk to students about their industry sector should email marketing@sccb.ac.uk

Ready to plunge (left to right): Rosa Amato, Matilda Blackwell, and Sarah Collins from Aston University

Inspiring: Deborah Mitchell and Hall Green beauty students

Airport launches journey towards zero emissions

Progress continues towards zero-emission passenger flights as initial concepts were revealed for the creation of a hydrogen production facility at Birmingham Airport (BHX).

To realise this dream, early-stage concepts are being developed jointly by ZeroAvia, the hydrogen-electric aircraft developer, and BHX for an on-site hydrogen production aircraft refuelling facility, with the potential for multi-modal applications.

An area of land with access to the BHX airfield and the local road network has been earmarked as a suitable location for the facility. On-site solar power is being considered as a source of renewable energy to produce hydrogen.

Subject to funding, planning and regulatory permissions being secured, the ambition would be to use the pioneering plant to support early flight

demonstrations, and also refuel road vehicles, potentially including local buses. In advance of this, BHX has commenced talks with a major automotive company about trialling hydrogen buses and cars on its airfield.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said on visiting the site: “There is the seed of an idea herewith the ambition and creativity of the ZeroAvia team working with Birmingham Airport clear to see.

“Our region is leading the way in tackling the climate emergency - not least with our #WM2041 net zero commitment - so it’s the right time for us to be at the forefront of this effort to decarbonise flight journeys.”

Simon Richards, chief finance and sustainability officer for BHX, said: “This is a game-changing prospect underpinned by a steely determination to decarbonise and protect the future of our planet for future generations.”

New dean joins Business School

University of Birmingham has announced that Professor Edgar Meyer (pictured) has been appointed as dean of Birmingham Business School as they continue to champion responsible business practice. Professor Meyer joins the University of Birmingham in October, following more than three years as deputy dean at Leeds University Business School.

Professor Meyer said: “With responsible business at the heart of activities, I look forward to working with colleagues within the school and beyond to shape the future vision and drive impact locally, nationally and internationally in order to play our part in the creation of a sustainable future for individuals and organisations."

Zero ambitions (left to right): Peter Gallen from ZeroAvia, Andy Street and Simon Richards

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New managing director to lead training firm

Pavilion Training, part of the Novo Training Group - a leading provider of professional development and training solutions across three businesses - has appointed Joe Turner as managing director to spearhead leadership and growth across the group

Joe will be splitting his time across the Group’s new Jewellery Quarter HQ, enabling him to provide hands-on support to Pavilion’s “JumpStart” team, and working remotely to maximise outreach with 3Spirit Training’s national footprint of specialist Care trainers.

He is a seasoned veteran within the industry, having extensive operational and leadership experience across a number of top tier training providers.

Through Pavilion Training, the group has established itself as one of the leading champions of employability support for jobseekers across the West Midlands; working to create opportunities and develop workplace readiness skills for individuals out of work.

Joe’s appointment is part of the long-term ambition to increase the outreach of the team to create more opportunities that can change more lives within the community.

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He said: “Having been impressed with what was happening across the businesses, I’m delighted to be joining in an executive role to help deliver an ambitious long-term growth strategy working alongside the founders. The team we have here in Birmingham has an incredible track record of supporting jobseekers and helping both SMEs and large organisations to develop their workforces. Over the next three to five years, we aim to be part of the backbone of the employer and jobseeker communities across the West Midlands.

“I’m excited to support the national rollout of our enhanced Level 2-5 Adult Care Apprenticeships and some fantastic new additions soon to be announced.”

Clarke Willmott announces promotions

National law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has announced a series of appointments and internal promotions at its Birmingham office as part of ongoing plans for growth and expansion.

The firm’s commercial property team, which is one of the largest specialist commercial property teams in the UK, has been strengthened with the appointment of new partner Andrew Stokes and associate Amanda Whatmore.

Both Andrew and Amanda specialise in the banking and finance sector and their appointments add to the depth and breadth of the firm’s offering in the Birmingham market.

In addition, the Birmingham corporate team has also been bolstered with the appointment of associate Aiden Clucas, who joins under partner Kim Klahn and demonstrates the continued growth of that team since Kim’s arrival just over 12 months ago.

Clarke Willmott Birmingham has also made a double promotion in the insolvency team with Lara Saunders being promoted to senior associate and Alex Jones making the transition from solicitor to associate in a continuation of the firm’s commitment to people development.

Rayner Grice, partner and head of the Birmingham office, said: “The latest promotions and appointments at our office are a fitting demonstration of the growth we have seen in the last 12 months.

“Bringing on board strong lawyers who are experts in their field while at the same time

retaining and developing our own people means we can offer the best possible full service to our clients.

“Birmingham is an exciting city to be working in and the appointment of Andrew, Amanda and Aiden demonstrates the commitment we have to our clients in being truly full service.”

New chief executive of Clarke Willmott Peter Swinburn said: “I’m pleased to announce this year’s internal promotions. As always, this is an opportunity to recognise the strength of talent and diversity we have across the firm.

“It’s a pleasure to see how those being promoted have already stepped up in readiness for their new roles.

“Our people sit at the centre of our success and the excellent client service we offer. Ensuring their development is fundamental and part of creating a great people experience. The people we promote have all shown the skills, talent and aptitude vital for us to take advantage of future opportunities.”

Daniel Jones, Clarke Willmott’s director of human resources, said: “I am delighted that of the 29 lawyers promoted nationally, 20 are women. It demonstrates our commitment to building an inclusive and equitable environment where everyone can reach their full potential.”

Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.

For more information visit: www.clarkewillmott.com

Long-term growth (left to right): Taj Heer, Joe Turner and Talon Golding

Growth: Rayner Grice

Raft of appointments at PwC

PwC Midlands has welcomed 25 new team members to its Birmingham and Donington Court offices, following the acquisition of People Force.

The acquisition makes PwC one of the largest Ceridianimplementation partners in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) with a team of over 60 specialists in the UK.

The firm will look to grow its team of specialists, building on its presence in the US and in Mauritius working together to deliver global projects.

The UK-based People Force team supports clients through their transformational journey

specialising in implementing Dayforce, Ceridian’s flagship cloud human capital management platform that provides human resources, payroll, benefits, workforce management and talent management functionality.

members of the People Force team to our Birmingham and Donington Court offices.

“Businesses in the UK and globally are investing and moving to the cloud at pace. Accordingly, People Force’s market-leading technology expertise enables us to provide our clients with even greater human-led, tech-powered innovation solutions to help them drive efficiencies and cost savings, both in their HR processes and across the workforce as a whole.

the Midlands by PwC, which also marked the recruitment of 160 graduates in the region and the acquisition of Olive Horse in early 2022.

Tim Quan, global vice president, system integrator alliances at Ceridian, said: “The completed acquisition of People Force, one of Ceridian’s partners, further strengthens our longstanding relationship with PwC.

Matthew Hammond, PwC UK Midlands regional market leader and Birmingham senior partner, said: “We are thrilled to welcome

“The team will bolster our expertise here in the region and across the UK.”

The acquisition of People Force is one of the latest investments in

“Together, we look forward to delivering quantifiable value and world-class experiences to our shared customers through our industry-leading Dayforce platform.”

Freeths advises Frontier Development Capital on fundraising round

National law firm Freeths has advised Frontier Development Capital (FDC) on a further fundraising round for its SME-focused lending fund, FDC Debt LP.

New commitments from cornerstone investors British Business Investments and West Midlands Pension Fund take the fund over the £100m mark, paving the way for further investment in regional small and medium-sized businesses.

Headquartered in Birmingham, with additional offices in Manchester and Bristol, FDC supports businesses and property developers with debt funding of between £1m and £20m.

The Freeths legal team was led by private funds partner George Metcalfe.

He said: “We are delighted to have advised FDC on its latest raise, and it is a pleasure working with the FDC team and their investors.

“The deal also demonstrates our strong credentials in supporting fund managers operating in the SME investment arena, which we look forward to continuing to grow.”

‘The team will bolster our expertise here in the region and across the UK’

Specialist team: PwC welcome People Force to their HQ

‘We are delighted to have advised FDC on its latest raise, and it is a pleasure working with the FDC team and their investors’

Freeth’s strong credentials: George Metcalfe

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Scheme offers an Australian opportunity

Businesses in Greater Birmingham with interests in the Australian market can take advantage of a new initiative which offers “high-potential” employees the opportunity to live and work Down Under.

And Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) pledged its support to the Australia-UK Innovation and Early Careers Skills Exchange Pilot (IECSEP) during talks with Australia’s High Commission and Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade.

On the back of the UK signing a Free Trade Agreement with Australia, new short-term opportunities for early career and innovative UK citizens to work and live in Australia are now available.

The IECSEP scheme is open to applicants from 25 September.

The Australia government believes mobility of skilled individuals between the two nations supports knowledge exchange and skills

development, as well as promoting innovation.

The visit to Chamber House by Daniel Simpson from the Australian Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Zinat Hoque, of the Australian High Commission in London, further strengthened the GBCC’s ties with Australia on the back of successful work around the Commonwealth Games.

Ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Games, the GBCC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Queensland Trade & Investment.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “The UK-Australia FTA opened up a whole range of opportunities for Greater Birmingham businesses on bilateral trade.

“The Innovation and Early Careers Skills Exchange Pilot visa offers a unique opportunity for businesses with offices or partners in, or an interest in developing connections with, Australia to develop high potential employees or facilitate innovation.

“We look forward to continuing to develop our partnerships and with them, support facilitating trade opportunities for local businesses through our Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce division and research activity.”

More information on the IECSEP scheme is available by visiting immi.homeaffairs.gov.au or emailing aukfta.iecsep@dfat.gov.au

...and trade deals reaffirm Antipodes links

Business leaders in Greater Birmingham have welcomed the UK’s “landmark” trade deals with Australia and New Zealand.

The deals mean all tariffs on UK goods exports to Australia and New Zealand will be removed, while the government says red tape has also been slashed for digital trade and work visas.

Alongside the new trade deals, ministers say young Britons will benefit from opportunities to travel to Australia with the expansion of the shared Youth Mobility and Working Holiday Maker visa schemes.

The government previously said it expects its deal with Australia to add £2.3bn to the UK economy, and a further £800mn added from the trade deal with New Zealand.

Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “These are landmark deals for the UK –the first of their kind since the UK’s departure from the European Union.

“The terms of the deals are particularly suited to those firms specialising in exporting green goods and it’s great to see a reduction in red tape for digital trade and work visas.

“The GBCC has been working with businesses to achieve their global trade ambitions since 1813.

“Locally, the GBCC has strong ties with our Australian counterparts having worked closely with Queensland Trade and Investment through our Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce division.

“Through this partnership we support bilateral trade by connecting

businesses to opportunities as well as exploring the wider economic benefits that last year’s Commonwealth Games could bring to the region.

“We are currently conducting research into the business legacy of the Commonwealth Games as we approach one year on, as well as businesses’ experiences of trading internationally.

“I would encourage all those reading this to complete our Q2 Quarterly Business Report Survey so that the Chamber can best amplify and respond to your experiences."

William Bain, head of trade at British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Combined bilateral trade with Australia and New Zealand amounts to over £15bn per year. Inward foreign direct investment from both countries into the UK is £16.6bn, and in the other direction represents a combined £42.1bn.

“By 2035, the Australia deal could boost our economy by £2.3bn per year, and the New Zealand deal by £0.8bn, over the long-term, with benefits felt across the UK.

“Of course, the success of any free trade agreement comes down to whether businesses use it and across the UK only 10 per cent of firms are currently exporting. If we are to realise the UK’s ambition to be at the forefront of the continuing revolution in life sciences, digital services and green innovation we must look to trade more.

“A recent BCC survey found almost a quarter of firms (23 per cent) said finding a business partner or distributor overseas would encourage them to either start exporting or export more.”

Exchange deal (left to right): Daniel Simpson, Andrew Hipgrave (international logistics support manager, GBCC), Zinat Hoque and Henrietta Brealey

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Chamber’s key role in UK-US trade talks

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce played a key role in transatlantic trade talks when business leaders from the UK and North America met for a major conference in London.

BritishAmerican Business Network – the leading transatlantic trade body, of which the Greater Birmingham Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce (GBTCC) is part – held its annual conference, hosted by the London chapter at venues across the capital, including the Bank of America’s UK headquarters.

Bringing together more than 20 chapters and 2,000 member companies from across the BAB network in the UK, United States and Canada, the multi-day conference convenes business executives and government representatives actively involved in trade and investment on both sides of the Atlantic.

Network (BABN) during the organisation’s annual meeting, she led a Chamber delegation which included Transatlantic Chamber president James Tait, Andy Dawson, of change management consultancy Curium Solutions, and Jack Keeling of new Transatlantic Chamber patron Beyond the Book.

In her role as BABN’s vice-president, Mandy attended discussions with Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham about the importance of transatlantic trade.

She also joined Transatlantic Chamber patron Flexeserve for talks about their ongoing US expansion with the Prime Minister’s trade envoy Sir Conor Burns and the US Embassy’s commercial counsellor Brenda VanHorn.

Mandy said: “Attending the annual conference for BABN was a great opportunity to hear from some high-profile speakers on transatlantic trade initiatives.

“It was also really helpful to make new connections to support our Transatlantic Chamber activity and meet up with the US Embassy commercial team and the Canadian High Commission’s Agent General for Ontario.

“Mayor Burnham provided the early fireside chat and this received rousing applause with its focus on the importance of international relationships.

Visit helps to forge ties with Germany

Germany’s Ambassador to the UK, Miguel Berger, spelled out the challenges and opportunities surrounding bilateral trade between the two countries during a visit to Birmingham.

Mr Berger, who was in Birmingham to meet with the city’s universities as well as the new leader of Birmingham City Council Cllr John Cotton, took part in a discussion at Hotel du Vin which was attended by representatives of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The GBCC’s international director Mandy Haque had an active role in the conference.

As well as being re-elected as the UK vicepresident of the BritishAmerican Business

“The conference brings all the BABN chapters together and allows us to come up with new ways of collaborating together for the benefit of all of our members.”

He told delegates: “Co-operation is so important and the need to collaborate. Germany has its target to become net zero by 2045 so energy is an important sector. Energy security is a big topic.”

On the impact of Brexit, he added: “UK was Germany’s fifth largest trading partner. There are over 2,500 German companies based in the UK.

“The mood is quite positive, but there are still challenges with paperwork, more so for those that produce goods in the UK to move to the German market.”

Mandy Haque, the Chamber’s international director who attended the event alongside president Deb Leary, said: “It was great to have the opportunity to hear from and put questions to Ambassador Berger.

“I asked him about the challenges of Brexit and advised on how some of our member businesses had been impacted.

“He said that Chambers play a big role in bringing those challenges together to lobby for change.

“After the next General Election, there is one year before the revisions of the TCA (UK-EU Trade Co-operation Agreement) and that is enough time for government to realign and make the necessary revisions.”

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‘Attending the annual conference for BABN was a great opportunity to hear from some high-profile speakers on transatlantic trade initiatives’

Challenges: Mandy Haque (left), Ambassador Berger and Deb Leary

Mandy Haque (second left) at the conference with, from left: James Hayes (Flexeserve), James Tait, Beverley Dunn (Carousel Marketing/Flexeserve), Rosemary Gallant (Minister Counselor at the US Embassy) and Jamie Joyce (Flexeserve)

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Community hub opens its doors

A new community hub was opened by Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) after 21 years of service locally.

Over 100 guests attended the opening ceremony including councillors and business professionals.

The BYSA empowers young individuals and fosters personal growth through the dynamic fusion of sports, apprenticeships and education.

BYSA's vision empowers young people through sports, leadership development, and apprenticeships/educational programmes.

The academy's facilities have been enhanced, allowing them to cater to a larger number of individuals and expand their services. Charitable donations have played a pivotal role in renovating classrooms for mentoring programmes and seminars, establishing an office for career guidance and creating an environment that nurtures academic development.

These initiatives not only promote physical and mental well-being but also provide invaluable resources for young people seeking employment, apprenticeships and educational opportunities.

The story of BYSA is a testament to the power of perseverance, coming from humble beginnings as a small group of children playing football at Small Heath Park, Today, the academy caters to young individuals aged six to 18, providing them with professional coaching sessions tailored to their age groups.

With over 400 young participants attending weekly sessions, BYSA has become an indispensable pillar of the community, instilling the values of teamwork, leadership and fitness.

BYSA has also established a girls’ and women’s project, encouraging them to embrace sports, fostering active lifestyles and nurturing a genuine passion for the game.

Additionally, BYSA's expansion includes the creation of a Center of Excellence, showcasing their dedication to nurturing talent and providing young athletes with opportunities to advance their sporting careers.

Chairperson Paul Cadman said: “The BYSA female/male coaches have done an amazing job starting the boys and girls' project, and we are thrilled to see it grow year upon year.

“We hope to continue organising vocational/educational trips, mentoring classes, and tutoring programs, as well as expanding youth participation in league football and tournaments. We extend our gratitude to street games, sports Birmingham, big lottery fund, heart of England, PHTA, West Midlands Combined Authority, Birmingham City Council and Asian Business Chamber of Commerce for their support.”

Hat-trick of new hires at finance provider

The UK’s first Sharia-compliant bridge property finance provider Offa have announced the arrival of Ben Reeves as head of operations and Svetlana Ghadiri as the head of compliance, along with Ginny Wong as a compliance and risk analyst.

The trio, whose finance backgrounds include stints at NatWest, Al Rayan Bank and the Bank of Communications, bring more than 55 years of combined experience in operations and compliance to the Solihull-based business. All three will be reporting into Offa's chief finance officer, Amir Firdaus.

He said: “We are delighted to have Ben, Svetlana and Ginny on board. They bring a wealth

of experience to their respective roles, arriving at an exciting time as Offa expands and gears up to new-Sharia compliant product launches.

“Operations and compliance are vital components in the best-in-class customer service we are building at Offa. The trio are key in helping us to deliver robust, reliable and streamlined processes as part of a compliant framework that supports all our stakeholders, while staying true to our company ethos and ambitious business goals.”

Ben returns to the finance world after working in packaging for the past three years. He had spent over 20 years at National Westminster (NatWest) Bank and its parent group, the Royal

Bank of Scotland, in a variety of senior operational roles.

Svetlana as head of compliance will be responsible for monitoring and implementing regulatory requirements, and ensuring Offa's internal processes, reporting and staff training adhere to these requirements. She joins from Al Rayan Bank, where she was general counsel to the board.

Ginny Wong is a compliance and risk analyst with over 15 years’ experience in financial services. She spent 11 years as a senior compliance monitoring manager with the Bank of Communications - the fifth largest bank in China.

Empowering the community: Guests at the new BYSA community hub opening

Ginny Wong

Svetlana Ghadiri

Ben Reeves

Pupils bowled over by cricketer’s visit

paid a special visit to a local Leigh Trust school to host a hands-on cricket session and encourage young people to pick up a bat and ball this summer.

Last summer, a mural depicting Abtaha was unveiled at Marlborough Primary School in Small Heath and almost a year on, the talented cricketer returned to the local area to meet pupils of the school and their parents to host an active cricket session and inspire children from Birmingham to play the sport.

The Birmingham Phoenix bowler visited Wyndcliffe Primary School in Bordesley Green, where more than 60 children and 40 parents came together to participate in a game of cricket with the sporting star and hear in her own words how she got into cricket and became one of Scotland’s most promising spin bowlers.

surprised the children and their parents with goodie bags and complimentary tickets to watch Birmingham Phoenix in action at Edgbaston as part of The Hundred this summer.

Abtaha, who will be back in action in the Birmingham Phoenix women’s team for a third year of The Hundred this summer, hopes her ongoing activity in the local community will inspire the next generation of female talent from the local area to pursue a career in sport.

She said: “It’s truly fantastic to be reunited with pupils and parents from Marlborough Primary School and to see and hear the positive impact that cricket is continuing to have among the local community.

“I’m really looking forward to playing in front of our home crowds again and feel the atmosphere of The Hundred.”

Race raises funds for charity

Cheltenham Racecourse raised over £15,500 for the Midlands Air Ambulance charity after giving exclusive access to the racecourse’s only evening fixture of the season. The total will help fund 30 lifesaving missions.

The charity and its partners’ hospitality tickets included entry into Cheltenham Racecourse and the National Hunt restaurant, with a post-race DJ set from BBC Radio 1’s Jordan North.

Special guests who attended in support of the charity included experts from Jonjo O’Neill racing, alongside former professional footballer and charity ambassador Marlon Harewood.

Ticket sales as well as fundraising on the night raised over £15,500 for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s advanced pre-hospital emergency service.

Pam Hodgetts, corporate partnerships. manager at Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, said: “We would like to say a huge thank you to

The Jockey Club for providing us the exclusive opportunity to be the chosen charity at Cheltenham’s season finale. We are thrilled to see that the event has raised an incredible amount for our lifesaving service.”

Thyagaraja Festival launches new award

Birmingham Thyagaraja Festival launched a new award to coincide with the 75th independence anniversary of India.

The Young Indian Cultural Ambassadors Award (YICA) was launched during the festival - an exceptional celebration of Indian classical music and dance to commemorate the birth of the Singing Saint and composer Thyagaraja.

The festival is also the most popular annual festival of Indian classical music and dance held in the West Midlands, bringing artists, professionals and young music aspirants together from across the globe. The festival was held under the patronage of UNESCO and ShruthiUK

James Omer Bridge, secretary-general and chief executive of UK the national commission for UNESCO, said: “I am delighted that the ninth annual Birmingham Thyagaraja Festival (BTF) has the patronage of the UK National Commission for UNESCO. This festival brings people together and in the words of UNESCO’s constitution, helps bring greater mutual understanding and a truer and more perfect knowledge of each other’s lives.”

West Midlands mayor Andy Street said: “This cultural collaboration brings together the British Indian community from around the Midlands and the wider UK as well as supporting the strengthening of the links between Britain and India. I am pleased to take this opportunity to send my best wishes the BTF team for a successful Thyagaraja festival.”

The festival again had an overwhelming response in a two-day festival featuring over 100 performances of Indian classical music by professionals and young people from across continents showcasing their talents with great enthusiasm to honour and pay homage to Saint Thyagaraja.

Curator Dr Chithra Ramakrishnan, founder and artistic director of ShruthiUK, said: “The BTF gives us an opportunity to celebrate and showcase India’s unique cultural heritage through the Indian art forms with great respect and fervour globally.”

ABCC Patrons

Premier+ Partners

Coveted cup: Pam Hodgetts and Marlon Harewood pictured with the famous Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup

Centre of attraction: Birmingham Phoenix cricketer Abtaha Maqsood with children and parents from Leigh Trust school

Cultural links: Dr Chithra Ramakrishnan

Cannock Chase

Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

T: 07796 242029

Praise for conservation project

its gorilla conservation work, which started in 1978. It also aimed to highlight the importance of “wild” patches in British gardens.

The

The

The garden’s gorilla nest set was designed by Cambridge primatologist Angelique Todd, who spent 20 years in Africa studying silverback gorillas.

She said: “The Chelsea Flower Show was a wonderful opportunity for Fauna and Flora to showcase their work saving nature. The charity's conservation work was not just about

Malvern challenge helps raise funds for vital equipment

Two members of staff at Newlife, the charity for disabled children, put their best foot forward to undertake the Malvern End to End challenge, raising around £600 between them to help provide essential specialist disability equipment for children.

In the guided walk, organised by Blue Sky Adventures, Newlife’s digital marketing manager, Sarah Chattwood, and friend Katie McDonald joined Newlife’s lead graphic designer, Jennifer Mottram, on the hike, which took in nine miles of breath-taking views across Worcestershire and Hereford.

Newlife, which has its headquarters in Hemlock Way, Cannock, is the largest charity provider of essential disability equipment in the UK – and provided 2,581 pieces of specialist equipment, equipment loans and sensory toy loans to children throughout 2022. It is also the chosen charity of the Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce this year.

Sarah said: “It was a hot day which made it a bit more challenging, and it was steeper in parts than anticipated, but Newlife is a great cause to raise money for and it really spurred us on and kept us motivated.

“Working for Newlife we know how important it is for disabled children to receive the equipment they need – and the money we have raised so far will mean that a child can now receive a piece of equipment such as a specialist car seat or buggy that meets their needs, so they can travel to school, attend vital medical appointments and enjoy those family days out that make childhood so special.”

Jennifer added: “It was a great day and we all enjoyed it. We want to thank everyone who has donated so far - we have received so much support and encouragement. It’s a great feeling to be able to help disabled children and their families receive the specialist equipment and support they need.”

Dame Judi, vice president at Fauna & Flora, commented: ‘’This has been beautifully put together, I can’t believe it is done in such a short time.”

Despite the elevation and topography, not one element of concrete or cement was used. The entire garden had been carefully designed with a low carbon footprint and sustainability. The garden will be rebuilt at the Eden Project.

GeoGrow offer full inhouse services from manufacture, design, installation and vegetation.

To support the charity there is a wide range of challenges people can sign up to, from the Cannock Chase half marathon in October or the Alton Towers 5k, 10k or half marathon in November to the Swim Your Way challenge, which is taking place now to October. Go to www.newlifecharity.co.uk to find out more.

Chase Chamber Patrons

Contact: Richard Brooks

installed a rootlok wall at the Chelsea Flower Show – drawing praise from acting legend Dame Judi Dench.

rootlok wall was designed, installed and planted by GeoGrow as a retaining structure at the Fauna & Flora International Charity Garden.

garden – designed by Jilayne Rickardsaims to replicate a gorilla conservation project in Africa, demonstrating how both humans and gorillas can co-inhabit.

Designed with man and gorilla in mind: The GeoGrow garden at Chelsea

Scaling the heights for charity (left to right): Jennifer, Katie and Sarah

Youngster completes stadium run for charity

the Pirelli Stadium to help raise awareness of a disease that devastatingly took the life of her best friend.

When Kasie Kirby, of Burton-on-Trent, was struggling to focus in January, 2021, her mum never expected to be given the news she had a life-limiting diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) brain tumour.

She died five months later, devastating her family and best-friend Seren-Grace Warner, 10, of Branston. Since then, Seren has pledged to raise awareness of the disease.

As part of DIPG Awareness Day, Seren completed a jog around the perimeter of the Pirelli Stadium pitch to mark the half-way point of her 26.2 Miles in May Challenge in aid of the charity Brain Tumour Research.

It’s the third year the young fundraiser has taken on the challenge and she said: “I mentioned to my mum that I wanted to do something for Kasie after she was diagnosed and thought a month-long challenge would be fun.

“My favourite run so far has been at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium. Although there were no crowds, I felt like a superstar being there.”

Kasie’s mum, Laura Jones, has lent her support to the charity to help reach 100,000 signatures on its petition to increase research funding, and prompt a parliamentary debate.

The charity is calling on the government to ring-fence £110m of current and new funding to kick-start an increase in the national investment in brain tumour research to £35m a year by 2028.

To sign and share the petition go to: www.braintumourresearch.org

To donate to Brain Tumour Research via Seren-Grace’s fundraisergo to: www.facebook.com/donate/971402317358489

Finance expert joins Willshee’s

Waste and Recycling firm Willshee’s has appointed Jon Cox (pictured) as financial controller.

The move comes after a new position was created following another record year for the company, which experienced a 20 per cent increase in sales and the need to recruit additional team members across the business.

Jon is a double qualified accountant (FCMA & MAAT) and has 23 years’ experience in business and finance, having worked for a number of highprofile regional businesses including Solmar Villas, Cott Beverages, Thorntons, Castlerock Brewery and the Spirit Group. As a result, he has built sector expertise across a number of growth areas for Willshee’s, including manufacturing and engineering, FMCG, leisure, retail and ecommerce. Jon has latterly focused on

developing business systems, adding value, and improving processes and KPI reporting.

His biggest achievement to date was helping to grow one business from £4m to £20m in under three years and being part of a project to open a factory in the USA. Known for his people skills, Jon said: “I am really excited to have joined Willshee’s and am also very grateful for the opportunity. Being very much a team player, I’m looking forward to working with my new Willshee’s colleagues to continue the growth trend.”

Willshee’s managing director Dean Willshee added: “Following a sustained period of growth, we have set ourselves ambitious financial targets for the next five years and are now expanding our team in order to get the business to the next level and beyond.

“It is fantastic to welcome someone of Jon’s calibre, bringing a new dimension to the company.”

College students support Pride Month

Students and staff at Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) have collaborated on a series of events and activities to promote Pride Month.

They held their inaugural Pride Party to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community. The event started with a parade led by the members of the College’s LGBTQ+ lunchtime club.

The party included music from local DJ Dominic Dunbar, ice pops and sweets, hair colours, wrist bands, flags and stickers.

An event was also held at the college’s Stephen Burke Construction Academy to support and promote LGBTQ+ rights and equality. In addition, the carpentry and joinery department created a free-standing wings display painted with vinyl by the creative team for a colourful LGBTQ+ prop for photographs during the day.

Every year during the month of June, the LGBTQ+ community celebrates in a number of different ways. Across the globe, various events are held during this month as a way of recognising the influence LGBTQ+ people have.

Marie Linehan, progress coach team leader, said: “The Pride Party was a huge success and we were delighted to see so many students and staff getting involved. Burton and South Derbyshire College is a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and our regular Be Social LGBTQ+ Club creates safe and fun spaces for students to feel welcomed, meet new people and promote LGBTQ+ issues.

“The idea for the Pride Party came following the success of the club and we hope that this will become an annual event at BSDC.”

Burton & District Chamber Patrons

‘The Pride Party was a huge success and we were delighted to see so many students and staff getting involved’

Proud support: Students back the LGBTQ+ community

Time check: Kasie puts in the miles

Contact:

Chris Brewerton

T: 0845 6036650

Top brass band helps students

Lichfield schoolchildren are to get world-class tuition on how to blow their own trumpets –from the famed Grimethorpe Colliery Band. Twenty Year 5 pupils from Willows Primary School are receiving free tuition and free instruments, thanks to Lichfield Festival’s Aspire! learning and participation programme.

The programme has partnered with Entrust Music Service Staffordshire, Warwick Music Group – manufacturers of the colourful pCornets and pTrumpets – and Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

Classroom sessions are well underway as the young learners prepare for their high-profile Lichfield Cathedral concert on Saturday, 8 July. They will join the leading brass band for “A Grimethorpe Adventure” in front of an audience.

The children are receiving expert tuition from Entrust Music Service brass tutor Mark Glover, recently appointed as a solo euphonium player with Grimethorpe.

Grimethorpe Colliery Band are one of the UK’s top brass bands having won the National and British Open Championships on numerous

Aspects named Business Events Venue of the Year

Aspects, the dedicated events space at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, has been named the national Business Events Venue of the Year by VisitEngland.

The state-of-the-art, flexible events facility, with a capacity for functions of up to 500 guests, offers spectacular views of the memorials, gardens and woodlands located within the 150-acre grounds of the nation’s yearround place to Remember.

Mark Ellis, National Memorial Arboretum lead, said: “Our business facilities in Aspects are stateof-the-art, but it is the unyielding efforts of our incredible team that transform it into a world-

class venue. The versatility of the event spaces and the dedication of our team members provide assurance to organisers that they will be able to realise their vision for an event in Aspects.

“What sets an Aspects event apart is the uniquely thought-provoking and inspirational setting offered by the Arboretum.”

The National Memorial Arboretum was longlisted after winning the Enjoy Staffordshire Business Events Venue of the Year category in March and made the shortlist of three venues after judges evaluated dozens of entries from across the country.

occasions and have received a BAFTA nomination for their starring role in the global hit movie ‘Brassed Off’.

Caroline King, head of development at Lichfield Festival, said: “Lichfield Festival is thrilled to be spearheading such an exciting musical initiative and it’s testament to the commitment of Willows Primary School, Entrust Music Service Staffordshire, Warwick Music Group and, of course, Grimethorpe Colliery Band who are sharing their passion and knowledge of brass band music with the children.

”By removing any financial barriers, we’re increasing access to the arts – that’s lifechanging, as the benefits of learning to play an instrument go hand-in-hand with confidence, creativity and educational attainment.”

Lichfield Festival takes place between 6-16 July. Tickets from www.lichfieldfestival.org

Sharing mental health tips

A Lichfield-based mental health first aid training business and video production company have joined forces to create a short video offering advice on managing anxiety.

Beacon Mental Health Training and Embrace Video Ltd released the film to mark the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week. The collaboration aims to raise awareness of mental health issues and provide valuable tips for individuals struggling with anxiety. Observed globally, Mental Health Awareness Week serves as a platform to promote understanding and empathy around mental health.

Michael Wood, founder of Embrace Video Ltd, said: “I am passionate about using the power of visual storytelling to promote awareness and understanding of important social issues. By collaborating with Amanda, we hope to help people who are struggling with anxiety and inspire positive change in the way anxiety is perceived.”

Amanda Jackson, founder of Beacon Mental Health Training, said: “I hope this video can not only raise awareness, but also give some practical tips that people can implement straight away that will make a real difference.”

To watch the video go to: www.vimeo.com

Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber Patrons

Expert tuition: Mark Glover

Top events venue: Neill Martin-Hoare (left), head of events at the National Memorial Arboretum, with Mark Ellis with the VisitEngland award

Contact: Chris Brewerton

T: 0845 6036650

Outdoor cinema to pop up in town centre

Summer visitors to Sutton Coldfield town centre will be able to grab their popcorn and settle down to enjoy the magic of the silver screen when a pop-up cinema is unveiled.

Sutton Coldfield BID (Business Improvement District) has been given the go-ahead to bring the open-air pop-up cinema to the town centre this summer, as part of its ongoing Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield brand.

The outdoor cinema will open on The Parade for three days from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 July featuring a large screen, deckchairs and grass floor to create the perfect summertime experience in the middle of the Royal Town.

The cinema will be free to enjoy and will screen a selection of films and this year’s Men’s and Women’s Wimbledon tennis finals.

Michelle Baker, Sutton Coldfield BID manager, said: “We’re always looking for new attractions for the town centre and what could be better in the summer months than a pop-up cinema, where shoppers can sit down and soak up a little bit of Hollywood glamour, or enjoy the excitement of Wimbledon?”

The Pop-up Cinema has been arranged by Sutton Coldfield Business Improvement District, as part of its vibrant Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield brand, which aims to make the town centre a destination to spend time, eat, drink, shop and relax.

All events arranged by the BID are made possible by 377 local businesses who pay a levy which funds town centre initiatives. Confirmed films will be announced nearer the time on the BID website and social media pages.

Trust CEO joins AP board

Arthur Terry Learning Partnership chief executive Richard Gill is part of the government’s new national board to oversee its planned reforms of alternative provision (AP) and services for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Richard, also chair of the Teaching Schools Council Teaching School Hubs Council (TSHC), is among the 21 board members who will work with the Department for Education and the Department of Health and Social Care on the actions in the SEND and AP improvement plan. SEND and AP improvement plan sets out the actions government will take to improve children’s outcomes, and parents’ and carers’ experience of both systems in England.

Richard said: “I am delighted to be on this panel of professionals who are committed to ensuring that all children and young people have consistent, high-quality experiences and that they are supported to reach their full potential.

EDGE expands team with two new hires

Sutton Coldfield-based marketing agency EDGE Creative has continued its growth in 2023 with the addition of two new talented team members.

Following a series of business wins, new business from existing clients and partner referrals, the opportunity arose for EDGE to add their fourth and fifth recruits of the year.

EDGE Creative provides digital and traditional marketing solutions nationwide and overseas. The agency is built up of content creators, strategists, account managers, digital & SEO specialists, web developers and graphic designers.

The integrated agency welcomed Sophie Casewell as a junior graphic designer and Irina Pirciog who joins the agency’s content team as a digital marketing assistant.

EDGE say these additions highlight their commitment to ensuring that their methods and strategies remain constantly refreshed, bringing new experience, knowledge, and skills to the team.

EDGE creative’s founder and creative director Louise Panayides said: “As a forward-thinking company, we are constantly looking for ways to elevate our brand and maintain our competitive edge in the industry.

“With business growth comes the need for fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, which is why we have invested in recruiting two highly talented and creative individuals to join our team.

“We believe that their unique skill sets and diverse backgrounds will bring a new level of creativity and expertise to our projects, allowing us to exceed our clients' expectations and continue to evolve as a company.”

Newcomers: Sophie Casewell and Irina Pirciog

Wimbledon watch: A pop-up cinema in action

Richard Gill

Visit Knowle marks its fourth birthday

Visit Knowle have celebrated their fourth birthday - and said it seems like their feet haven’t touched the floor in the last 12 months.

In the last year, Visit Knowle have been busy with no less than 16 events, including the recent Coronation celebrations, a heritage walk, town tidy day, fundraising ball and Christmas events.

They’ve helped make the High Street an attractive place by introducing the parklet, requesting the refurbishment of planters and litter bins and recently launched a "Knit for Knowle” hanging basket campaign.

Over the last year, the marketing team have championed Knowle and its businesses by shining a spotlight on the various independent companies in Knowle. The team say one of the highlights was winning the Solihull Chambers of Commerce excellence in sales and marketing award.

Visit Knowle continue to work alongside Solihull organisations, regularly attending Solihull Chamber and Solihull Tourism Forum events, and one of their team (Kim Hulse) is part of the executive committee at Solihull Chamber.

Businesses have been connected through regular networking sessions, a members WhatsApp group and a monthly newsletter to members.

Dave Pinwell, co-founder and director of Visit Knowle, said: “We’ve come such a long way. We wouldn’t be where we are now without our members and our team, who between them have given over 2000 hours of their time over the last 12 months.”

To continue their work, they would like more businesses to join as a member and more residents to become a friend of Visit Knowle. Contributions will help support them to deliver projects such as a 2024 midsummer celebration, street markets, business expos and further improvements to their street scene.

To find out more visit www.visitknowle.co.uk or meet them at their next networking event, which takes place on 19 July at The Ale Rooms from 6pm.

Contact: Samantha Frampton

T: 0121 678 7488

Success stories from Work Inspiration Group

The Work Inspiration Group, made up of Solihull Chamber executive committee members, has achieved several successes.

The group was put together by former Solihull Chamber President, Tony Elvin, and led by Amanda Holden (Wilkes Partnership).

During their 2022 term, the working group was tasked with curating inspirational stories from across the borough.

And now the group have announced a number of further success stories, beginning with Chet Parmar and The Colebridge Trust.

The trust, led by chief executive Chet Parmar, has had particularly huge success in gaining employment for individuals within the construction and manufacturing industries. And over the past few years they have regularly placed a few hundred people into work each year, enabling individuals to raise their attainment levels.

Another success story came from Sarah Wilson, a supported employment engagement officer and her team at the Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) employment and skills

department. Working closely with a diverse network of employers, from small independentlyowned businesses, SMEs and large corporates, the team consults on how they can best support new employees and agree on any special adjustments required in the workplace to ensure a supportive working environment.

And Andrew Landell, managing director of LTK Consultants Ltd, attended a Chamber event and heard about the work of the SMBC Employment and Skills team. This led him to taking a stand at a recruitment event.

Andrew explained: “Having a stand at the event allowed people to come and talk to us. There was just a buzz. We wouldn't have been able to achieve that just by posting on a job board”.

All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community

Scan the QR code to watch the success story testimonial videos

Celebrating success: The Visit Knowle team

Sucess stories: Chet Palmer and Maria Dolan. Bottom (left to right) Sarah Wilson, Roy Nash and Andrew Landell

Logistics firm marks its 171st milestone

Röhlig Logistics, a leading global logistics provider, is marking the celebration of its 171st anniversary with a series of events and initiatives across the UK.

With a presence in over 30 countries worldwide, the company based in Monkspath Business Park has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses seeking comprehensive logistics solutions.

Röhlig Logistics has come a long way since its inception in 1852. Founded by Carl Röhlig in Bremen, Germany, as a small shipping agency, the company has grown exponentially over the years. Today, Röhlig operates a vast network of offices and warehouses strategically positioned worldwide, catering to the logistics needs of businesses across various industries.

The company’s services encompass air freight, ocean freight, contract logistics, project logistics and supply chain management. Röhlig Logistics

said they pride themselves on delivering tailored solutions that address the unique needs of its diverse clientele.

Robert Lawry, the managing director of Röhlig UK Ltd, took to LinkedIn to express his excitement about this momentous occasion.

Alongside a picture of a Röhlig branded cupcake, he captioned: “It’s our 171st birthday so naturally we would have cake to celebrate.”

Mr Lawry further stated: "Celebrating our 171st anniversary is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team and valued customers. Throughout the years, Röhlig has continuously adapted to industry changes and customer requirements, allowing us to thrive in a dynamic business environment.”

He emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with customers, saying, “Our success is intrinsically linked to the success of our clients. We prioritise building long-term

partnerships based on trust, our partners and suppliers, reliability and mutual growth.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our gratitude to our suppliers for their unwavering support and dedication. Together, we will continue to deliver exceptional service and ensure our customers' satisfaction.”

Solihull Chamber Patrons

Robert Lawry

Explore new realities while you network

By Darby Newman

Future Faces members are set to have a networking event that’s truly out of this world with virtual reality gaming at Hockley Social Club in the Jewellery Quarter.

The event will take place on Thursday, 3 August, from 6:30pm until 8:30pm and members will be greeted with a free drink on arrival.

Entertainment for the evening will be provided by local, family-owned VR gaming business Matrix VR and the event has been organised by Yuup.

Yuup is an experiences marketplace that offers small, local businesses a platform to host awesome things, unusual events and hidden gems in the city.

Yuup is partnering Greater Birmingham’s Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) to provide August’s Future Faces event, and they say it is set to be an exciting networking evening with a Yuup twist.

Yuup’s founder Dominic Mills said: “We’ve been proud to partner with Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce since we launched Yuup in the city in summer 2021 and I’ve been fortunate to see firsthand the positive impact that Future Faces has on so many young professionals as well as the wider Birmingham community.

“I’m delighted Yuup has the opportunity to host Future Faces members for their August social, with the support of two of our brilliant Birmingham experience hosts, Matrix VR and Hockley Social Club.”

Those attending the Future Faces event in August will be able to try a range of virtual reality games from light saber battles and surviving the zombie apocalypse to virtual dodgeball and paintball.

Guests are welcome to continue their night at Hockley Social Club, where there is a vast selection of drinks and street food eats on offer.

Scan the QR code for more information and to book your place

Future Faces Chamber Patrons

Founder of Yuup: Dominic Mill

Amy’s award leads to greater career success

One of the many accolades up for grabs at this year’s Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year awards is the Future Faces Ambassador award.

Amy Jacklin, brand and community manager at Virgin Money, won this honour at the 2022 awards, and says it pushed her career to heights she would never have imagined previously.

“The experience of putting myself forward for awards last summer was something I will carry with me for the rest of my career,” says Amy.

“I used the application as a chance to update my CV and reflect on everything I’d done over the last five years…which happened to be a lot.

“Being shortlisted was a jaw-dropping moment and winning an award was a moment where the world stood still. As someone who had previously struggled with confidence and presence it flipped a switch for me. Along with the award, I won a spot on the Common Purpose leadership course.

“As someone that had imposter syndrome regularly, the award reminded me that I am really confident and capable in what I do.

“With people like Kasim and Jaccy pushing me to join the Future Faces committee, and colleagues at work cheering me on, I applied for vice-president too. Finding out I was voted in was another massive ‘pinch me’ moment.

“I came under new management around this time. Although it had only been a few months of getting the award, I leveraged it, and through all of the other tools I’ve built through Future Faces to build a case to take on more responsibilities at work. Instead of looking after one ‘city store’ at Virgin Money, I now have three, at which I regularly manage events and community activities across Birmingham and London.

“For me, winning this award has been a huge domino effect. It’s grown my presence and credibility locally and with all of the resources of Future Faces, it’s also progressed my career too.”

This year’s Greater BYPY Awards take place on 22 September at Eastside Rooms. Sponsors include Aston University, Schumacher Packaging, Staffordshire University, Squire Patton Boggs , mfg Solicitors, Birmingham City University and Common Purpose.

Mindfulness that hits all the right notes

By Darby Newman

Birmingham start-up company quietnote has published their ground-breaking online wellbeing course designed to offer an innovative and highly accessible route to mindfulness, all through the power of music.

New Members

James Griffiths Ballards LLP

Mike Fahy Claritas Tax Limited

Rianna Hayer Claritas Tax Limited

Faye Jacklin Claritas Tax Limited

Elliott Morrell Claritas Tax Limited

Roshan Paul Claritas Tax Limited

Aaron Riley Claritas Tax Limited

Brandon Laroiya McCarron- Claritas Tax Limited

Faith Ross Claritas Tax Limited

Natalie Tran Claritas Tax Limited

Michael Bell Claritas Tax Limited

Hope Drew Colonel Duck Productions

Ellie Sapstead Culture Recruitment Ltd

Lewis Wastell Culture Recruitment Ltd

Charlotte Hale Culture Recruitment Ltd

Naveed Ajmal Forward Carers

Adam Coxshal Forward Carers

Jessica Hardcastle Forward Carers

Georgina Koceli Forward Carers

Mia Perry Forward Carers

Edward Dempsey Freeths LLP

But what actually is mindfulness? Everyone is talking about it, but Will Crawford, founder of quietnote, says every time he has a go at meditation, he just ends up more frustrated than he was before he sat down. That’s where quietnote comes in. They use their expertise in music to offer an innovative and highly accessible approach to mindfulness. quietnote state that they know teaching mindfulness through music can offer a simple yet effective way for people to finally “get mindfulness”. quietnote in tune is a ground-breaking course designed to teach everything there is to know about mindfulness through music. Spanning six

engaging episodes, quietnote in tune takes delegates on a unique journey.

Drawing from Will’s own experiences and knowledge, each episode explores a distinct theme, from mindful listening to mindful walking, giving you an in-depth overview of the practice.

One of the unique elements of the course is the immersive experience provided through the classical guitar. In addition, they maintain a strong focus on breathing – arguably our most personal and readily available mindfulness techniques. Alongside this relaxing atmosphere, the course aims to improve focus, reduce stress levels, and boost energy. Delegates are invited to bring mindfulness into everyday activities, fostering positive habits of presence and appreciation day to day.

Will said: “I am committed to sharing the power of music and mindfulness. The tools and insights offered in this course provide an invaluable aid for navigating our busy lives by reconnecting with yourself and what truly matters to you. This is more than just a course; it's an opportunity to tune into the world and yourself in a more meaningful, deeper way.”

To start a quietnote in tune journey, scan the QR code or get in touch with Will Crawford at info@quiet-note.com

The Chamber’s ever growing network for young professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.

Amy Jacklin: Winner of the 2022 Future Faces Ambassador award

Minds in tune: Will Crawford, founder of quietnote

Summer events for all ...and many are free

One of the highlights of the Chambers’ packed events programme during July and August is a networking event, giving members the opportunity to get together – and it’s free. It takes place at The Studio in Cannon Street, Birmingham, on Wednesday, 19 July, from 11.30am to 2.30pm.

The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce will be holding networking and Eid celebrations at Moseley Rugby Club, Billesley Common, Yardley Wood Road (B13 0PT) on Wednesday, 12 July (6-9.30pm).

And many of the Chamber divisions throughout Greater Birmingham are holding events of special interest to their regions.

For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/networking-events

Networking Lunch Lichfield and Tamworth

Date: 4 July 2023

Time: 12pm – 2pm

Venue: Coton House Farm

Division: Lichfield and Tamworth

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15+VAT

Non-members: £20+VAT

Networking Lunch Burton and District

Date: 5 July 2023

Time: 12pm – 2pm

Venue: The Deer Barn

Division: Burron & District

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

ABCC Member Social

Date: 5 July 2023

Time: 5pm – 7pm

Venue: Alam Restaurant

Division: ABCC

Cost: Members: Free

Speed Networking Solihull

Date: 12 July 2023

Time: 8:30am – 10:30am

Venue: The Bear Grylls Adventure

Division: Solihull

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Future Faces Wellbeing café

Date: 12 July 2023

Time: 12:30pm – 1:30pm

Venue: BT Offices

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: Free

Networking and Eid Celebration

Date: 12 July 2023

Time: 6pm – 9:30pm

Venue: Moseley Rugby Club

Division: ABCC

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Quarterly Business Report Q2: B2022 Commonwealth Games

Date: 18 July 2023

Time: 9am – 11am

Venue: Birmingham City University

Division: GBCC

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: Free

Non-members: Free

Business At Breakfast Burton and District

Date: 19 July 2023

Time: 7:30am – 9:30am

Venue: Pirelli Stadium

Division: Burron & District

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Summer Networking BBQ –Birmingham

Date: 19 July 2023

Time: 11:30am – 2:30pm

Venue: The Studio

Division: Birmingham

Cost: Members: Free

Social Networking Sutton Coldfield

Date: 20 July 2023

Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Venue: TBC

Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Networking Lunch Cannock Chase

Date: 25 July 2023

Time: 12pm – 2:00pm

Venue: TBC

Division: Cannock Chase

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Speed Networking Lichfield and Tamworth

Date: 26 July 2023

Time: 8:30am – 10:30am

Venue: Lichfield Cathedral School

Division: Lichfield and Tamworth

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Networking Lunch Solihull

Date: 26 July 2023

Time: 12pm – 2pm

Venue: Hilton Birmingham Metropole

Division: Solihull

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Future Faces Social Networking with Matrix VR

Date: 3 August 2023

Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Venue: Hockley Social Club

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: Free

Joint Business at Breakfast Lichfield & Tamworth, Burton & District and Cannock Chase

Date: 8 August 2023

Time: 8am – 10am

Venue: Tamworth Castle

Division: Tamworth

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Networking Lunch Sutton Coldfield

Date: 9 August 2023

Time: 12pm – 2pm

Venue: Wallmey Golf Club

Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Speed Networking Burton

Date: 15 August 2023

Time: 8:30am – 10:30am

Venue: Burton-on Trent Golf Club

Division: Burton & District

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Social Networking | Netwalking

Birmingham

Date: 15 August 2023

Time: 12pm – 2pm

Venue: TBC

Division: Birmingham

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Speed Networking Lichfield and Tamworth

Date: 16 August 2023

Time: 8:30am – 10:30am

Venue: Snowdome, Leisure Island

Division: Lichfield and Tamworth

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Greater BYPY Shortlist BBQ

Date: 17 August 2023

Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Venue: Library of Birmingham

Division: Future Faces

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: Free

Speed Networking – Raise Your Profile in Birmingham

Date: 22 August 2023

Time: 9am – 11am

Venue: TBC

Division: Birmingham

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Speed Networking Sutton Coldfield

Date: 23 August 2023

Time: 8:30am – 10:30am

Venue: GMK House

Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield

Cost: Members: Free

Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Networking Lunch Cannock Chase

Date: 23 August 2023

Time: 12pm – 2pm

Venue: TBC

Division: Cannock Chase

Cost: Members: Free Future Faces members: £15 +VAT

Non-members: £50 +VAT

Premier Members Networking Lunch

Date: 24 August 2023

Time: 8:30am – 10:30am

Venue: The Boat Inn

Division: GBCC

Cost: Members: Free

Training courses

The Chamber’s International team has a portfolio of documentation training, aimed at those who are exporting goods to Europe and all over the world. The majority of the courses are British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) accredited and cover everything from customs procedures to Incoterms. For more information, contact training@birmingham-chamber.com

Importing Made Easy - A Guide for Beginners

Date: 13 July 2023

Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members £180 + VAT

Non-members: £240 + VAT

The attendee will gain knowledge and understanding on the terminology used in an import role as well as an understanding as to why import procedures must be adhered to correctly. This course also expl ains the consequences for business if they are not compliant. As this is a beginner’s course, procedures will be explained from the very beginning in a very easy to follow manner. It would suit those with little to no experience in importing.

Methods of Payment (BCC accredited)

Date: 13 July 2023

Time: 9.30am – 12:30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £180 + VAT

Non-members: £240 + VAT

This course will provide an overview of all methods of payment available to exporters when they are trading internationally including the risks and benefits involved of each. The day will explore the most suitable options for different potential scenarios and the subsequent paperwork involved in each method.

Documentary Letters of Credit (BCC accredited)

Date: 13 July 2023

Time: 1.30pm – 4.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £180 + VAT

Non-members: £240 + VAT

This course is suitable for those working in international trade, who are involved in the management and presentation of letters of credit or who would like to increase their knowledge on the process. Delegates who are looking to learn about letters of credit in more detail as well as the alternative options to a letter of credit will benefit from this course.

International Business Trading; The Risks and the Rewards Explained

Date: 14 July 2023

Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £110 + VAT

Non-members: £170 + VAT

This bespoke half day course has been developed to help businesses and their staff understand the different areas of risks of International Trade. Allowing them to be able to make informed decisions as to the potential risks of different scenarios and where possible, reduce/mitigate them.

Exporting for Beginner’s; Practical and Precise

Date: 3 August 2023

Time: 9.30am – 2.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members £250 + VAT

Non-Memberst: £295 + VAT

The attendee of this course will learn how to create a commercial invoice correctly from the practical session that occurs on the day, it will show the attendee how to do this from a predefined set of documents. As this is a beginner’s course, procedures will be explained from the very beginning in a very easy to follow manner. This course is suitable for anyone with little to no experience in exporting.

Understanding Export and Export Documentation (BCC Accredited)

Date: 17 August 2023

Time: 9.30am – 3.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members £295 + VAT

Non-Members: £345 + VAT

The attendee of this course will see an overview of the end-to-end Export process and gain an in depth understanding of the requirements of Export documentation, including knowledge on shipping, the correct way to use a freight forwarder and couriers.

UnderstandingCommodity Codes (BCC Accredited)

Date: 23 August 2023

Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £180 + VAT

Non-members: £240 + VAT

This course would be suitable for those working in an export or import environment and are interested in developing their understanding on what commodity codes are, what they mean and how to determine the correct code for their product.

Agents and Distributors (BCC accredited)

Date: 23 August 2023

Time: 1.30pm – 4.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £180 + VAT

Non-members: £240 + VAT

This detailed course is suitable for anyone in an international trade environment who is currently leasing with different Agents & Distributors or are looking for opportunities to lease with an agent / distributor and would be interested in learning the best way how.

Incoterms 2020 (BCC accredited)

Date: 6 September 2023

Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members £180 + VAT

Non-members: £240 + VAT

This course looks at each Incoterm in detail and explains what each term ‘does’ and ‘doesn’t do’. The half-day session will explore whether your current term is correct for your exports and provide details of how to decide on which term to use and when.

Introduction to Authorised Economic Operator

Date: 12 September 2023

Time: 9.30am – 3.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £200 + VAT

Non-members: £280 + VAT

The attendee will gain an insight as to why their business should consider obtaining AEO status, what being AEO registered means for a business as well as the application process.

Preference, Rules of Origin (BCC accredited)

Date: 13 September 2023

Time: 1.30pm – 4.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost: Members £180 + VAT

Non-members: £240 + VAT

This course is suitable for anyone who would like to gain more knowledge on origin calculations. Detailed information will be provided on how origin affects the purchase and sale of products, as well as documentation needed depending on origin.

Trading with Ireland and Northern Ireland

Date: 26 September 2023

Time: 9.30am – 12.00pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £110 + VAT

Non-members: £170 + VAT

Whether you are currently trading or looking to trade, information will be provided on what procedures to follow, what the Northern Ireland protocol is, how it effects the delivery of goods as well as what Export Documentation is required.

Customs Procedures & Documentation (BCC accredited)

Date: 27 September 2023

Time: 9.30am – 3.30pm

Venue: Online remote training

Trainer: David Reader

Cost: Members £295 + VAT

Non-members: £345 + VAT

This course would be suitable to those working in an Export environment who wish to further develop their understanding on the procedures of Customs compliance. The day will look at Customs procedures in depth along with the documentation process for audit.

Working together to achieve sustainability goals

By Rachel Houghton, managing director, Business Moves Group

In today's world, where environmental sustainability is increasingly crucial, businesses are seeking innovative ways to embrace the circular economy. One approach gaining traction is sustainable furniture management, which not only promotes sustainability but also generates social value in local communities.

Sustainable furniture management involves finding an alternative to landfill when an item is no longer wanted. In fact, there are numerous options before we should even consider recycling unwanted furniture, such as reusing, refurbishing, selling, storing or donating items. These practices help reduce waste, conserve resources, save money and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Reusing

This should be the first option for any business that operates across multiple sites. It may sound obvious, but I’ve seen cases where a businesses has discarded furniture, only for another site to purchase new items weeks later.

Refurbishing

By refurbishing furniture, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. The average office chair has a carbon footprint of 72 kgCO2e, and a sixperson bench desk has a carbon footprint of 228 kgCO2e. So, extending the life of these items can make a big impact.

We’re worked with numerous clients to refurbish their furniture and the results are items that are essentially as good as new. It can

also lead to big savings by avoiding buying new furniture, so I’d recommend this as an option for any business reassessing its inventory.

Selling

Unwanted furniture can be sold, either as it is or after being repurposed. This accessibility ensures that other businesses in the community can have access to functional and well-designed furniture at a lower cost than buying new, and again avoiding the embodied carbon that is generating when manufacturing new items. It also promotes inclusivity and social cohesion by bridging economic gaps and creating a sense of shared responsibility towards sustainable living.

Storing

Sometimes businesses need time to decide on the use of items, such as during a workplace change project. In this case, storing can be a suitable option. While I wouldn’t advocate for putting items in storage indefinitely, it can be a good solution for freeing up space while decisions are made about how and where items may be used in the future.

Donating

Donating unwanted furniture and IT equipment is a fantastic way to support worthy causes in the Midlands.

We have partnered with Business2Schools for many years, a charity that distributes unwanted office furniture to schools. Many of our clients also have their own

charities that they choose to donate to. In all cases, we’re happy to manage the donations, including the transport of items between sites.

Recycling

There are times when items have come to the end of their lifecycle and need to be recycled. In this case, look for a partner that reports on how items are recycled and the journey of each material. Chairs and desks can include wood, metal, plastic and textiles, all of which should be separated before reentering the circular economy.

Asset management

Sustainable furniture management requires strategic planning in order to be successful. The best way to do this is through digital asset management (also called asset verification). This involves creating a digital inventory of all furniture items at every site. You can record furniture location, condition, age, size, and include images too.

A digitised asset list is great because it can be accessed by anyone from anywhere, reducing confusion about assets and helping leaders to manage furniture in a sustainable, cost-effective way.

Connecting the Midlands

Sustainable furniture management is also a great way to connect with like-minded businesses in the region, forge new partnerships and give back to the local community. We’ve proudly served Birmingham and the surroundings areas for decades and look forward to supporting many more Midlandsbased businesses to reach their sustainability goals.

Far Left: Many schools gratefully accept unwanted business furniture

Above: BMG employees unload filing cabinets from a truck

Left: Secondary school staff surrounded by donated furniture

‘Sustainable furniture management involves finding an alternative to landfill when an item is no longer wanted’

From a second-hand potato peeler to 90 years in business

You might not have heard of Drywite Ltd before, but you will most likely have tried some of their products, especially if you are a fan of fish and chips. Founded in 1933, this thirdgeneration family business are pioneers within the world of fish and chips.

Malcolm enrolled on a chemistry night class at Birmingham College. Together with his course lecturer and his father they formulated their own preservatives, which lead to the invention of ‘Dry’ & ‘White’ potatoes – and this innovation and time saving product caught the attention of the fish fryer community. Word spread quickly and in no time Malcolm and Harold were inundated with orders. Buying a ‘fish and chip salon’ was the next step for further innovation and focus within the fish and chip industry.

War outbreaks:

When WW2 broke out, it gave chance for Harold Lee to buy back the 50% shareholding from Harry Worrall. The fish and chip shop was sold and the profits used to buy a larger premise in the Top Hill area of West Bromwich, which had previously been used as a munitions factory.

takeaway food revolutions, with fish and chip shops having ever increasing competition, yet fish and chips remains the UK’s favourite take away. Drywite has diversified to meet new ethnic food markets; however Drywite Potato Preparation Powder remains the company’s most important product. “Fish fryers know it is the most effective and efficient method of treating fresh fish and chips”.

The future:

With Susan Grant, Finance and Administration Director, and Dr. Matthew Cave, Operations Director leading the business, the focus has shifted to organic products and expanding the ranges and industries that Drywite caters for. To celebrate the 90th anniversary of H.G. Lee founding the business, Drywite are soon to release a new range of products that will venture into the deli and farm shop sectors.

From a second-hand peeler to a world-wide business:

Dating back to December 1932, when former Navy personnel Harold George Lee needed to help his Wife, Daisy, bring food to the table. Harold started delivering milk to customers, which soon grew to include eggs and potatoes. At the same time their son, Malcolm, aged 14, finished school and got a part-time job peeling potatoes in a local fish and chip shop. One lunchtime, the fish fryer allowed Malcolm to take some pre-peeled potatoes home to his mother, the convenience of which spurred Harold and Malcolm to set up business supplying pre-peeled potatoes to housewives and caterers. With a second-hand potato peeler, an investment and 50% stake from Harry Worrall, The Pioneer Potato Company Ltd was set up, on 22 July 1933.

Innovating for further markets:

As soon as the potatoes were peeled, they would start to brown. To overcome this problem,

Expanding

business areas and new growth:

After the war, with all the business profits going back into the business, Harold and Malcolm could now invest into other areas; the infamous wirax wire wares were introduced, alongside the glass salt and vinegar pots. Outgrowing the site the business moved to Park Lane, in Halesowen on 1 April 1960. This saw the third-generation family members join the business; Malcolm’s eldest daughter, Briar Wilkinson, who later became Sales Director, and son, Kelvin Lee, who took over as Managing Director.

A current workforce of near 500 collective years:

Drywite has always been fortunate in having a remarkable loyal and dedicated workforce with many staff members over the years completing 40 or more years of service with the company –even today many staff have over 25 years of service under their belt. This might be due to the families link to a humble beginning and staying humble throughout success.

Reflection of 90 years in business:

Over the past 90 years in business the company has naturally witnessed many changes, from the

Kelvin said: “I am very proud of everyone who has contributed to Drywite’s success over the past 90 years. As well as the efforts of my family members, much of our success has been due to our long-serving and loyal staff.”

For more information about Drywite, their new offerings, business and innovations, you can call their friendly team on: 01384 569556 or see their website: Drywite.co.uk

Harold George Lee

Kelvin Lee

10 members of staff with over 25 years’ service

Making connections

For businesses large and small, networking is an important and powerful tool. Networking is a great way to generate new business leads, from new partners to potential customers. It’s also an easy way to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your industry, gain perspective from likeminded businesses owners and ultimately, grow your business. Chamberlink offers its top tips on how to go from a networking newbie to the most connected person in the room.

Go online

Thanks to social media, it’s incredibly easy to grow your networking circle. You can meet other business owners online simply by following their social media profiles and engaging with their posts. LinkedIn is perhaps the best social media platform for growing your professional network, but don’t discount Facebook groups – you’ll probably be able to find a niche group that fits your business perfectly! As well as joining online support groups, you can also sign up for online events, discussions and workshops.

Meet and greets

Meet and greet events are a great way to meet lots of other business owners, from lots of different industries, at once. The Chamber regularly hosts networking events (see pages 48-49) designed to help members make connections; make sure you prepare your ‘elevator pitch’ so you have a ready answer when asked “so what do you do?” and take business cards that you can swap with other business owners. You never know, over a casual cup of coffee you just might find your next business partner or someone who could go on to become a major customer.

Join an organisation

If you’re reading this, you already know the benefits of joining Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, especially when it comes to helping you grow your customer base and professional networks. But consider that there might also be other organisations you can join; smaller, more niche groups that are catered specifically to your industry. Not only will these provide ready-made support that is tailored to your profession, they can also provide a wealth of advice on how to grow your business, offered by people who have been in the exact same position as you.

Attend conferences

A conference will bring together hundreds, potentially thousands, of people in your field, from all across the globe, including a number of experts and influencers. They offer opportunities to learn about new developments/products/ services in your industry, so you’ll be able to gain new insights or learn new skills. As well as lectures and talks, there will be plenty of social events across the conference too, giving you ample opportunities to network in a more relaxed setting.

Volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to get out in the community and network with people. Not only does it put you in direct contact with other small businesses, but also it could make your brand more visible in the wider community. As well as offering up your time to help out or raise money for a charitable organisation, you could also consider joining the committee or taking a seat on the board. Often, these are made up of other business leaders, so it will provide an opportunity to work closely with other successful enterprises.

Follow up

So you’ve been to a meet and greet, attended a conference and are following inspiring business owners online. You may have also exchanged business cards and contact information – but none of that will truly grow your network if you don’t take the time to follow up and nurture those connections. If you met someone you’re particularly keen to work with or continue talking to, make sure you follow up promptly (within 48 hours). Emails can get lost, or go unnoticed, so consider sending personalised notes instead (with samples of your product, if applicable). Explain how much you enjoyed meeting them and ask to meet up in person (or via Zoom) so you can continue the conversation.

Is in-house training right for your business?

Choosing an effective training course for your managers and employees can be difficult – and one of the first issues is deciding whether to send your employees to an external course, or organising in-house training. Chamberlink explores some of the benefits of bringing the trainer to you.

Access the best

To deliver the best training, you need the best trainers. And, while your senior managers will undoubtedly know your business inside out, they might not have the most up-to-date information and training tools to hand in order to deliver the best possible experience. Not only will an external trainer be qualified, they will also have all the latest knowledge at their disposal, as well as the hands-on experience needed to facilitate an engaging and successful training course.

Your trainer will bring all the necessary supplies your staff will need to take part, and you won’t have to come up with any ideas, tasks or activities. Your trainer will be able to draw upon their experience working with other companies; content and activities that have proven successful elsewhere can be replicated for you.

In order to get the most out of your investment, check testimonials and read reviews. Find out how effective the content and techniques were – after all, you want to make sure the training sticks.

Convenient and cost-effective

When it comes to training your employees, few business owners would disagree that an in-house course is the most convenient option for everyone involved. Not only will it minimise the hassle of travel, it will completely eliminate expensive travel costs.

Additionally, in-house training is cheaper per head than sending your staff on a training

course, and it will reduce the amount of time your staff will have to spend away from their usual, day-to-day tasks, decreasing the chance of them falling behind with their work.

In-house training will also allow your staff to learn in a familiar environment, which should put them at ease and more open to absorbing new information.

A tailored fit

You’re considering sending your staff off on a training course – but some aspects of the course aren’t relevant to your business, while other aspects don’t go into the level of detail that you require. This can be frustrating, especially when you know exactly what you want your staff to get out of a training session (and considering how much a training course can cost) – but a good in-house trainer will be happy to tailor a course to your business’ unique needs. Before the session, you will have the opportunity to discuss the company’s history, goals, and, most importantly, your expectations of the course, and your trainer can make the sessions as relevant and specific as you need them to be. Your staff won’t have to waste time covering things that aren’t relevant and you can get the most out of your investment.

Fresh ideas

In-house training can breathe a breath of fresh air to your business. An internal trainer might know the company well – but they might also be blinkered by old ideas and the old ways of doing

things. An external trainer will shake things up. They might suggest new ideas and techniques that haven’t been explored before, which will encourage your staff to challenge themselves, develop new ways of thinking and discover better ways to tackle tasks. Innovative new ideas can help motivate staff to strive for excellence and be the best they can be.

Skills for the future

Since the pandemic, many business owners have identified skills gaps in their workforce. The word of work has rapidly evolved over the past three years, and technology has shifted to keep pace with the rise in home and hybrid working. Upskilling could teach staff new skills (or enhance their current ones) in order to adapt for the future, while reskilling would equip employees with brand new to enable them to work in a different part of the business if their role no longer exists. An in-house trainer would help you identify if your staff need upskilling or reskilling, and best of all, conduct a tailored training session over Zoom!

‘When it comes to training your employees, few business owners would disagree that an in-house course is the most convenient option for everyone involved’

Conflicted about conflict resolution?

It can be difficult to avoid conflict in the workplace. From fridge raiders wreaking havoc every lunchtime, to disagreements over ideas and opinions, even the smallest conflict can have a big impact on productivity, moral and motivation – which makes conflict resolution an essential skill to have in the workplace. Conflict resolution training will not only teach your staff how to communicate effectively, compromise and collaborate with each other, but it could also boost your bottom line too. Chamberlink explores some of the benefits of investing in conflict resolution training for your staff.

Improve communication

Conflict resolution training can improve communication skills right across your workforce. It will give your staff the tools to adequately articulate their issues calmly, and teach them how implement outcomes that work for everybody. Improved communication will, in turn, build respect and trust in the workplace, as your staff will know how to make difficult conversations easier for all involved in them. Senior employees and team leaders will be able to lead by example, serving as peacekeepers within their teams, while junior employees will gain the confidence to speak up and advocate for their work and their ideas. If you have a customer care department, conflict resolution training will also help your staff better communicate with difficult customers.

Better relationships

Improved communication leads to better working relationships. Staff who are constantly locked in arguments will not want to collaborate together or listen to each other’s ideas, no matter how good they may be. Conflict resolution training can overcome this by helping your staff build solid working relationships; they will be taught to recognise each other’s strengths and the art of constructive feedback – how to give it and, most importantly, how to take it.

Work as a team

With conflict resolution training, you can also improve your staff’s team-building skills. Through the training, they will learn how to discuss, rather than debate (or argue!) the issues at hand. They will also learn

how to understand people will different points of view and how to work together without bias getting in the way. Additionally, working on their techniques to manage conflicts will also have a positive effect on your staff’s problem solving skills, as they will learn how to work together to reach a common goal.

Boost productivity

Ask yourself how much time and energy is wasted on workplace conflicts. Disputes take vital time away from projects, which can mean deadlines are missed, money is wasted and opportunities are lost. The emotional toll of a workplace dispute alone can hinder creativity and innovation, which then restricts the company’s growth. Firms that offer conflict-solving training are essentially offering a favourable and productive workplace, which leads to reduced employee turnover and increased employee satisfaction. No one wants to work in a powder keg! Decreased absenteeism (workplace stress is a major cause of sick leave) due to a less toxic workplace will also have a positive impact on productivity and growth.

Attract top talent

A positive work environment and opportunities for staff development are both a huge draw for potential candidates, so if you’re looking to grow your workforce then offering conflict resolution training ticks both of those boxes. Young people especially are more mindful of working for companies that take a stance on discrimination, bullying and biases. They are also attracted to companies that offer opportunities to boost their skills sets and care about helping them become more well rounded individuals. Offering training shows that you are committed to the development of your staff.

‘Conflict resolution training can improve communication skills right across your workforce’

Are you looking to partner with a pragmatic and relatable HR consultancy who understands your culture, values and people, and who can support you with commercially aware support and advice?

Here at Limelite, we focus on making HR simple and effective, so it supports you to achieve your business ambitions!

We can help you with everything from day-to-day queries to creating whole new processes and procedures, from managing complex employee relations cases to recruiting and training brilliant staff!

We can work together on a one-off basis, a project or be retained as an outsourced HR function. Get in touch now to explore this further.

If

We also provide engaging, fun and impactful management, leadership and diversity and inclusion training.

We have accredited and non-accredited options both face to face and online.

We are DiSC psychometric facilitators, an ILM approved training centre and have many years of delivering bespoke training and away days that make lasting change!

Get in touch now if you’re looking for a training partner with a di fference!

you’re looking for support with any HR or training need get in touch now: enquiries@limelitehr.com

Sector Focus

The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

SunExpress rises in Izmir

A new route from Birmingham Airport to Turkey’s third largest city, Izmir, has had a successful take-off, operated by carrier SunExpress.

In addition to its new twiceweekly Izmir rotations, SunExpress has increased its service to Antalya to daily and Dalman to three times a week.

Peter Glade, SunExpress commercial director, said: “Our guests from Birmingham will enjoy flying to Izmir, the ‘Pearl of the Aegean’, with the best leisure airline in the world.

“With our increased capacity from Birmingham to Turkish Riviera, we continue to increase our footprint further in the UK.”

Tom Screen, Birmingham Airport’s aviation director, added: “The expansion of SunExpress here at BHX comes as a further vote of confidence for us as an airport and for the West Midlands region.”

New flights to France

Birmingham (BHX) this winter.

From 30 October, easyJet flights to Paris Charles de Gaulle will operate daily and flights to Lyon will depart three times a week - on Mondays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Adding these two French cities brings easyJet’s domestic and international routes from BHX to a total of 13.

The news comes after easyJet announced it will create a base at BHX for three of its 186-seater A320neo aircraft from March 2024 - a move which will bring 100 direct jobs and a further 1,100 indirect jobs to the West Midlands.

Ali Gayward, easyJet’s UK country manager, said: “We’re delighted to announce our new routes and package holidays from Birmingham to Paris and Lyon, which will enable our customers in the Midlands to explore even more fantastic destinations across Europe, reconnect with loved ones and do business.

base opening in Birmingham next spring demonstrates our confidence in the resilient strength of demand for travel in the UK, with customers choosing us for our trusted brand, unrivalled network and great value fares and we can’t wait to welcome more customers on board.”

Tom Screen, aviation director for Birmingham Airport, said: “Lyon and Paris are wonderful additions to easyJet’s BHX flight roster. Paris is renowned for its iconic landmarks, museums and cuisine, while Lyon is famed for its gastronomic scene, historic old town and picturesque riverfront.

“Bolstering capacity to the French capital and starting services to currently unserved Lyon have been key priorities for BHX since the first iteration of Flybe went out of business back in 2020.”

easyJet is the largest airline in the UK. Since launching nearly 30 years ago it has flown over 800 million customers to and from the UK, having grown to serve 21 UK airports.

Longest-serving bus driver retires

National Express West Midlands has given a fond farewell to its longestserving employee after an incredible 56 years of loyal service to his customers and colleagues.

75-year-old Bob Smith’s lengthy career was celebrated by family, friends and colleagues at the bus operator’s Acocks Green garage with a traditional bus pull of a MCW Metrobus.

The bus was provided by Bob’s colleague, National Express West Midlands’ driver development coach Andy Walcott, who acquired the Metrobus for preservation in 2010.

Bob, who lives in south Yardley in Birmingham, joined the company as a bus conductor in 1967 when he was just 18. From the age of 21 he then spent the next 54 years driving hundreds of thousands of National Express West Midlands bus passengers and colleagues around the region.

Bob was considered a top-class driver and was awarded Master Driver status, making him one of the safest drivers on the road. He plans to spend his retirement renovating his house, working on his garden and travelling.

To find out more about careers with National Express West Midlands visit: careers.nationalexpress.com

Community to create mosaic

Residents, students and staff are being invited to help create a mosaic for the new University Railway Station building ahead of its opening later this year.

The local community, including students of the University of Birmingham and patients of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, will be able to create clay tiles which will feature in the finished art work.

The tiles will depict a University Railway Station logo for display at the station.

The new station buildings are nearing completion as part of a major redevelopment to replace out of date facilities.

Bob Smith

Turkey-bound: SunExpress

French connections: easyJet Birmingham links

Rail tech scoops apprentice prize

A West Midlands Railway (WMR) apprentice technician has won female apprentice of the year at the 2023 Women in Rail awards.

Rio Pearce, 21, from Rowley Regis, scooped the award while in her third and final year as an apprentice technician for WMR at Tyseley depot.

Rio’s hands-on role includes the diagnosis and repair of train faults as well as safety-critical briefings and working closely with technicians.

Rio’s commitment to the job and determination to thrive in the rail industry has shone through and her confidence has grown to the extent that she is admired by young apprentices across the business.

Rio received her award at a

gala presentation evening in London, where she was recognised alongside inspirational female rail employees from across the UK.

Jonny Wiseman, WMR customer experience director, said: “I am thrilled that Rio has deservedly won female apprentice of the year at the Women in Rail awards and everybody at West Midlands Railway is very proud of her.” Rio said: “I am delighted to win this award and I would say to anyone who wants to get into engineering or the railway to go for it.

“I wanted to join West Midlands Railway as an apprentice because the scheme offers multiple opportunities to learn from others who are experts in their industry. I don’t think being a female apprentice is much different from being a male apprentice. We all treat each other equally and with respect.”

WMR aims to inspire the next generation to get involved in the railway. There are a number of apprenticeship schemes on offer and they can be viewed at:

www.westmidlandsrailway.co.uk

Pushing back boundaries: Rio Pearce

Money and mortgages

7.5m households with mortgages will be impacted by revised interest rates between Q4 2021 – when the Bank of England first started raising rates – and the end of 2026, according to a report from the Resolution Foundation*. Half of these are yet to see any change in their mortgage rate.

The Bank of England has been steadily raising interest rates over the last 18 months to curb inflation, raising the official bank rate 4.5% in May 2023, up from 0.1% in December 2021.

HSBC launches fund to support small businesses

A third (36 per cent) of UK businesses plan to adapt their strategies to navigate financial challenges over the next six months, new research from HSBC UK reveals.

The findings demonstrate a resilient UK businesses community, with 29 per cent stating that they had to adapt their business strategy over the past five years to survive – and 12 per cent said this adaptation enabled them to increase their profits.

One in five (20 per cent) businesses feel optimistic that business will get better, despite a similar figure (22 per cent) reporting that the current challenges were having a worse impact on their business than the Covid-19 pandemic.

The research reveals the top three issues currently affecting businesses are rising energy bills (77 per cent), travel costs (76 per cent) and rent (23 per cent).

Mortgages can be fixed-rate or variable-rate, and the type determines how rising interest rates may impact you. Most UK homeowners have a fixed-rate mortgage – repayments remain the same over a set period. Repayments are only affected at the end of the fixed period, but around a third of these are short agreements of 24 months or less.

A variable-rate mortgage means repayments will increase as interest rates increase. Mortgage providers will inform of rate changes.

Whether you are on a fixedterm or a variable interest rate and looking at re-mortgaging soon, one of our expert advisers can help.

If you have any queries on any of the issues raised, please contact us via email QPCAadvice@quilter.com or call 0121 752 8140.

*UK mortgage borrowers face painful refinancing, warns thinktank | Financial Times (ft.com)

Approver Quilter Financial Services Limited & Quilter Mortgage Planning Limited 13/06/2023.

Peter McIntyre, head of Business Banking at HSBC UK, said: “SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK economy. During the pandemic, many businesses had to act fast to successfully adapt - and we’re seeing the same resilience again now.

“The UK is home to many fast growing, robust and innovative businesses who, together with the support of their banks, can seize opportunities and become stronger.

‘SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK economy’

“HSBC UK package of support is designed to give businesses access

to the help they need to weather current challenges.”

HSBC UK has committed to putting a range of support in place to support SMEs that may be struggling with Cost of Living challenges, including a dedicated £15bn fund, Cost of Living customer webinars, a new Financial Worries and Wellbeing Hub and support from HSBC UK’s specialist financial support team.

Firm advises on ‘waste’ sale

Cooper Parry Corporate Finance advised the shareholders of UK Waste Solutions on their sale to Reconomy, a portfolio company of EMK Capital LLP, marking the team’s second high profile circular economy deal in the last 18 months.

Headquartered in Newark, Nottinghamshire, UK Waste Solutions Limited are sustainability consultants and managers who specialise in supporting clients across the hospitality, distribution, transport, facilities management, manufacturing and construction sectors.

Through its flagship Novati brand, it works with many well-known and highly respected brands, including Marston’s, Prezzo, Roadchef, Network Rail, CBRE and Birmingham Airport. The business has enjoyed significant growth in recent years and now has 3,500 customers.

The acquisition of this fast-growing, profitable business and the foremost independent waste broker in the UK includes all four of UK Waste Solutions Limited’s primary brands (Novati, AMA, Click Waste UK and Evolution) and its 160 employees.

The transaction follows the acquisition of Denmark-based greentech business Combineering in February this year.

Tom Summers, associate partner, said: “UK Waste Solutions is a fantastic local business. The focus on sustainability solutions it shares with Reconomy makes for an exciting partnership and a combined outsourced business service offering that will support the UK’s transition to a circular economy.

“We are proud to have supported the Shareholder group and Management team through this transaction and wish both them and the business every success going forwards.”

Reconomy Group recorded revenues of over £1bn through FY 2022 across its 30 offices worldwide and is one of the UK’s largest and fastestgrowing businesses operating in the circular economy, waste management and sustainability sectors.

The Cooper Parry Corporate Finance team was led by Ben Rookes, Tom Summers and Alex Ydlibi. Legal support on the deal was provided by Kuit Steinart Levy LLP.

Exciting partnership: Tom Summers

Business resilience: Peter-McIntyre

‘Most UK homeowners have a fixed-rate mortgage – repayments remain the same over a set period’

Fast food firm drives green growth

A Birmingham-based fast-food supplier is one step closer to hitting its own ambitious target of reaching net zero by 2027, thanks to support from Lloyds Bank.

Founded in 1999, TCR Food Services is an independent, family-run supplier of food and drink, packaging, equipment and cleaning products to takeaways across the Midlands. The £20m turnover business employs 45 people and owns four warehousing facilities in the Midlands.

To ensure its deliveries are as carbon efficient as possible, it approached Lloyds Bank, securing £120,000 asset finance and a £60,000 funding package via the bank’s Clean Growth Financing initiative.

This initiative provides discounted lending towards measures that reduce a business’s environmental impact.

The business has now purchased two new MG ZS electric vehicles for its sales colleagues and two new delivery vans that meet Euro 6 emissions standards, complete with electric fridges to transport food products.

TCR Food Services also paid for at home EV charging points for two of its drivers to make the transition to electric as streamlined as possible.

It also has ambitions to open the UK’s first carbon neutral cold store, powered by solar energy, where it can further prioritise its net zero targets. It has also introduced recyclable packaging that is made from a minimum of 30 per cent recycled material. Around 95 per cent of its products are also sourced in the UK.

Brian Matthews, director at TCR Food Services said: “Sustainability is something that has been really important to me and to the company since it

began. It is also a significant driver for our growth as a business and thanks to the funding from Lloyds Bank, we can now increase our efforts to lower our emissions while continuing to supply the Midlands’ fish and chip shops with highest quality products.

“I’m grateful that Lloyds Bank have been so supportive with our green ambitions and in making sure our investments make a real difference to our business and our customers.”

Vijay Chouhan, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “It’s refreshing to see businesses that take sustainability so seriously and recognise both short-term and long-term benefits.

“As the UK heads towards its target of reaching net zero in 2050, we are incredibly proud to support firms like TCR Food Services as they put plans in place to help the country meet its target.”

Clean machines: Part of the TCR electric delivery fleet

Law firm Shoosmiths has opened the doors to its new home in the heart of Birmingham’s business district at 103 Colmore Row, 20 years after the firm established a presence in the city.

Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street and more than 140 stakeholders attended Shoosmiths’ opening in the city’s highest office space to celebrate the firm’s new home, which has reimagined old ways of working and ensures accessibility and inclusion are at its heart.

Working together with local design consultancy Office Principles, office heads Alex Bishop and Beth McArdle have transformed the 32,900 sq ft of BREEAM Excellent Grade A space into the ideal, hybrid workplace destination for more than 350 Shoosmiths’ colleagues and clients across its 11th, 12th and 20th floors.

The space pays homage to the region’s rich history and incorporates details that represent Birmingham’s position as a city of a thousand trades.

The floors are divided to offer a range of workspace options across The Retreat (11th Floor) – a zone for concentrated work; The Co-Lab (12th Floor) a collaborative, social space; and The View (20th Floor) a cuttingedge client suite with unparalleled views of the city.

The hospitality-led design offers flexible client hosting areas and event spaces including The Lounge, The Gallery, ‘Spaghetti Function’ and The Raging Bull Bar.

Supporting Shoosmiths’ ambition to be carbon net zero by 2025, sustainability is a key feature of the design.

Local lawyer joins pro bono committee

A lawyer from Bevan Brittan’s Birmingham office has been invited to join a prestigious national committee.

Senior associate and clinical negligence expert Elena Goodfellow has joined the attorney general’s pro bono committee of England and Wales as part of her role as chair of Birmingham Law Society’s Pro Bono Committee.

The attorney general’s pro bono committee meets twice a year in Parliament and encourages effective, collaborative and coordinated legal pro bono work in England and Wales.

Pro bono work is free legal advice provided in the public interest to individuals, charities or community groups who cannot afford to pay for legal help and cannot get legal aid or any other means of funding.

Elena’s invitation to join the national

committee follows her shortlisting in the pro bono category of the Birmingham Law Society 2023 Legal Awards.

Elena said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to represent Birmingham Law Society on this national group.

“As a lawyer I have gained the knowledge and skills to handle problems that may occur in day –to-day life and pro bono work allows me to share that experience with others who may not be able to afford to pay for legal help.

“I’m lucky to work for a law firm like Bevan Brittan that encourages us to give back to the community.”

Rebecca Pendlebury, head of Bevan Brittan’s Birmingham office, added: “Elena does a fantastic job of sharing her passion for pro bono work and I know she will make a great contribution on the Attorney General’s committee.”

Planting features prominently across the space, with sunset and sunrise gardens on the uppermost floors that take inspiration from the Botanical Gardens and offer panoramic views of Birmingham’s skyline.

Shoosmiths has incorporated a host of innovative features, many of which support the diversity, inclusion and wellbeing of the firm’s people and are designed to be visible and non-visible disability friendly. These include a wellbeing room, a multi-faith contemplation pod and washing facilities, a platform lift between floors to provide disabled access, brail signage for those with impaired vision, sit and stand desks, dressing rooms and a mindful colour palette.

Alex Bishop, co-head of the Birmingham office and head of Shoosmiths’ national dispute resolution and litigation practice, said: “This year marks Shoosmiths’ 20th anniversary in Birmingham.

“Creating a space like this is not only a homage to our amazing people, but also a toast to our future.

“We have a new space, a new brand, and a clear vision: to be the law firm that clients turn to for what matters.”

Shoosmiths opens office on Colmore Row Star Live secures funding from LDC

A leading independent Midlands law firm has advised Star Live, whose projects have included the Coronation Concert and the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, as they secured significant funding from LDC, part of Lloyds Bank Group.

The Wilkes Partnership began working with David Walley, founder of The Arena Group and executive chairman of Star Live, in 2016 and has supported his successful buy-and-build strategy through the acquisition of four companies, including Star Live.

Throughout that time, the Wilkes team worked closely alongside David Tucker at Regent Assay, who provided corporate finance advice.

Star Live has experienced considerable growth in the past year and have increased revenues by more than 30 per cent. It has also secured a

multitude of projects at highprofile events, including the Coronation Concert, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2022 Commonwealth Games

Mr Walley said: “We have always found the Wilkes team to be proactive, approachable and capable. They have been invaluable in helping us solve the problems that we have faced and in taking advantage of our business opportunities. They worked incredibly hard to help us deliver on the LDC investment. We were delighted to have Rick (Smyth) (pictured) and his team with us on this deal.”

On the LDC investment, the founders of Star Live were advised by the deal team of Rick Smyth (partner), Kiran Munawar (solicitor) and Alex Golding (paralegal), with specialist support from colleagues in employment, litigation, immigration, commercial contracts and property.

Top table: The view from Shoosmiths’ new office

Asset: Elena Goodfellow

In recent years, the introduction of “no fault” divorce applications and the rise of “DIY divorces” have made obtaining a divorce more accessible. While this change has brought about positive outcomes, such as increased autonomy and reduced costs, it has also given rise to some concerning trends.

The Rise of “No Fault” Divorce

For over 49 years, divorce law remained largely unchanged until the introduction of “no fault” divorce applications. This significant change has led to a surge in divorce applications, reaching the highest level in a decade. The ease of initiating a divorce without the need to establish blame has provided individuals with a simpler and less acrimonious path to end their marr iages.

The Growing Trend of “DIY Divorces”

In line with the rise in “no fault” divorce applications, the prevalence of “DIY divorces” has also increased. Many divorcing spouses are opting to handle their divorces independently, often utilising online services to streamline the process. However, it is crucial to recognise the risks involved in solely relying on these services without seeking legal advice.

The Importance of Financial Settlements

While divorce itself may bring a marriage to an end, it does not sever the financial ties between the parties. It is paramount for divorcing spouses

to understand the significance of obtaining a financial settlement order. Unfortunately, recent data reveals that only 27% of divorce applications included a financial settlement application. This statistic raises concern s regarding the long-term financial security of divorcing individuals and their dependents.

The Risks of Online Consent Orders

With the increasing market presence of online consent order companies, divorcing spouses may be tempted to save costs by opting for these services to draft their financial consent orders. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks involved. Witho ut seeking advice from a solicitor, parties may inadvertently enter into agreements that do not align with the principles of fairness outlined in the Matrimonial Causes Act 1975.

Avoiding Future Financial Claims

A common misconception arises when divorcing couples believe that a financial order is unnecessary in situations where there are no

significant marital assets. However, failing to obtain a financial order can leave individuals exposed to future claims. Obtaining a Clean Break Order is essential to prevent either party from making a claim against the other in the future.

For anyone in need of expert legal advice on divorce or obtaining a financial order, our Family Law Solicitors are here to provide the necessary guidance and support. Please contact us.

Expansion boost for tile maker

Pioneering roof tile manufacturer Russell Roof Tiles (RRT) has announced £18.5m investment in expansion, doubling output at its Burton site.

The company is a leading independent pitched roof tile manufacturer supplying products for top housebuilders and highprofile social housing and commercial projects. The company produces thousands of concrete roof tiles and accessories tiles every week used nationally.

e expansion will help Russell Roof Tiles meet increasing demand for its products for the UK’s housing needs of 300k new homes every year.

The project is a multi-national co-ordination of supply partners from Sweden, Denmark, Germany and British suppliers and is funded by the business. The expansion will ultimately create about 25-30 skilled and semi-skilled jobs in engineering and maintenance.

Ground works have already started on preparations for the new factory and line. Construction will start towards the end of 2023 with the new facilities completed, and product output starting from mid July 2024. The current site will continue to manufacture while the major project takes place.

The firm employs 150 over three sites, two in Burton and one in Lochmaben, Scotland. The Nicolson Way site in Burton was first opened in 1990 and now covers nine acres. The new investment will deliver more manufacturing lines and a new 1600sq m building which will house a state-of-the-art curing chamber (only the second of its type in the country) for the concrete tiles.

The new facility, a QUADRIX® from Kraft Curing Systems GmbH, accelerates the curing process through the controlled addition of heat and humidity.

This latest investment is part of Russell Roof Tiles’ ongoing capital improvement plan to further enhance quality across the business, by utilising the latest innovations in manufacturing.

Andrew Hayward, managing director at Russell Roof Tiles, said: “This is a major milestone for Russell Roof Tiles, marking the biggest ever single investment for our business. It is the culmination of 18 months of planning and will increase manufacturing efficiencies, using the latest innovations to reduce our environmental impact.”

Doors firm names Danish distributor

Birmingham-based manufacturer Kenfield has appointed leading wholesaler and cold-room specialist Daencker as its Danish distributor as part of the firm’s growth ambitions.

Following its success at the world’s largest retail trade fair, EuroShop, the doorway solutions manufacturer has extended its reach in Europe. Daencker, which specialises in cold-room equipment, will offer Kenfield’s innovative range of products, including its popular K750 Energy Door.

Jon Carn, managing director of Kenfield, said: “We can’t wait to transform cold-rooms for a variety of businesses in Denmark. Our products will open the door to new levels of efficiency, usability and reliability for Danish customers, with the help of Daencker.”

With a sales infrastructure supported by over 200 technicians and dealers, Daencker provides Kenfield with everything necessary for success with its products in Denmark.

The two companies will place a particular focus on major supermarket brands, to echo Kenfield’s strong sales in the UK.

Jon continued: “Daencker is an excellent asset to our developing operations in Europe – they understand how our products will be revolutionary for their customers. Not only are the team Denmark’s experts in cold-room equipment and efficiency, but they’re passionate about delivering an incredible service.

“Working with them, we’ve recognised that

we share similar company cultures, which makes doing business that much easier. We’re really looking forward to seeing this relationship grow and evolve.”

The new partnership has hit the ground running. Kenfield is delivering on-site training of their products and, together, they are creating Danish-language documentation.

Kenfield has also supported Daencker with shipping, delivery and import processes.

Founded in 1999 Daencker has more than 20 years of experience in cold-room equipment.

Pia Daencker, director at Daencker, said:

“We’re delighted to incorporate Kenfield’s innovative solutions into our portfolio – they’re a perfect fit. We pride ourselves on the work we do and the results we achieve for our customers, and they’re going to love Kenfield’s products.

“Our knowledgeable and comprehensive network of cooling technicians, installers and dealers allows us to go beyond standard levels of service. It helps us provide a customised and detail-oriented offer that meets our customers’ individual needs.”

Opening doors: Jon Carn

£18.5m project: Andrew Hayward shows MP Kate Kniveton the site, which will create 25-30 new jobs

Tax warning issued to landlords

Buy-to-let landlords in the Midlands are being warned that they face hefty tax penalties unless they personally fill in a capital gains tax return within 60 days of selling a property.

The advice to the UK’s 2.74 million landlords, from a tax specialist at UK top 10 accountancy firm Azets, comes as record interest rate rises triggered a wave of property disposals from investors cashing in due to increased borrowing costs.

Tax partner Clare Clifford said: “We have seen cases involving a number of buy-to-let landlords who have cashed in because they cannot afford to service higher mortgage debt; the rents aren’t covering the increases.

“They were caught off-guard by the Bank of England’s consecutive interest rate rises, which have gone up at the fastest pace in a generation and are now at a level last seen nearly 15 years ago.

“The hikes have to be seen in context – the last time the Bank Rate was this level, at 4.5 per cent, was in October, 2008, at the height of the global financial crash.

“The era of subsequent cheap debt, when the rate plummeted to an all-time low of 0.1 per cent during the pandemic, has now ended.

“With the monetary war on stubbornly high inflation now the only

Landmark space is snapped up in deal

Commercial property agent Siddall Jones has sold a landmark Birmingham mixed use office and retail development for £825,000.

Swali Investments & Holdings Ltd has purchased Rocky Lane House, a 6,332 sq ft office building which fronts Aston Cross Business Village.

The Birmingham-based property investment company intends to occupy the offices for its own use. Siddall Jones sold the building on behalf of Aston Cross 4 Holdings Ltd.

Ed Siddall-Jones, managing director of Siddall Jones, said: “There was keen interest in Rocky Lane House, demonstrating the continuing upward appetite for quality investment opportunities in Birmingham.”

David Swali, chief executive at Icare24 Group, said: “With its spacious and light-filled areas, Rocky Lane House offers an ideal office base for our team.

“We eagerly anticipate completing the design and development process by Estilo and moving into our new office this summer. This milestone signifies our commitment to growth and providing a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration within the Icare24 Group.”

Rocky Lane House is located in Aston Cross Business Village in the Waterlinks area of Birmingham, within two miles of the city’s central business district and close the A38(M) Expressway, leading on to the national motorway network via Junction 6 of the M6.

Mr Siddall-Jones said: “Aston Cross benefits from excellent communication links to the national motorway network and offers high quality office accommodation with extensive car parking outside the Clean Air Zone.

game in town, and further rate rises a possibility unless the cost of living trends downwards, apprehensive buy-to-let landlords with high loanto-values on their portfolios are getting out before repossessions become a nightmare reality.

“But what some exiting landlords don’t realise is that there is a capital gains tax return they must personally submit to HMRC upon disposal of a letting property.

‘Rents in the UK are at the highest ever recorded’

“That gateway form and process is not particularly well known among landlords.

“If you don’t submit the form within the 60 days, there is a £100 penalty. If the matter is still outstanding three months after that, its £300 or five per cent of the capital gains tax.

“The process is not straightforward for landlords to report the capital gains on properties sold; you have to have your own gateway account, so it’s best to consult your tax advisor, who will be able to support and advise on the process.”

Rents in the UK are at the highest ever recorded, with a median monthly rent of £800 for England and £1,475 in London, according to data released by the Office for National Statistics.

Clare said: “While many buy-to-let landlords are doing well, there are some, either accidental landlords or ones too highly leveraged, who are selling up in order to avoid financial pain due to the interest rate environment and corrosive inflation. There are around 2.74 million landlords in the UK, so you can understand how important it is for them to understand why the 60-day deadline matters and that it shouldn’t be confused with annual self-assessment tax returns.”

“The office element has recently undergone a comprehensive refurbishment and boasts an impressive ground floor reception area with two meeting rooms off, and kitchen, shower and toilet facilities also on this level. “The first floor space comprises an open plan suite with toilets and fitted kitchen. The demand for this kind of investment opportunity is clearly there and we are keen to speak to landlords seeking to maximise the value of their property assets.”

£825,000 sale: Ed Siddall Jones (second right) with the team from Swali Investments & Holdings (from left) John Swali, Simon Swali, Bobby Sawli and David Swali outside Rocky Lane House

Landlords off guard: Clare Clifford

Partnership launches new training centre

One of the UK’s leading automotive suppliers has joined forces with InComm Training to boost its learning and development offer and support employee retention.

Gestamp, which manufactures metal components for use in car body structures, has invested in a dedicated training centre at its plant in Four Ashes in Wolverhampton.

The six classrooms are being used to deliver LEAN manufacturing apprenticeships for a minimum of 60 existing team members every year, as well as a host of other development activities designed to increase the skills base of its 650-strong workforce.

The Gestamp Training Centre (GTC) took 12 months to develop and houses two In-Comm training experts, as well as Gestamp training specialists to oversee the Level 2 course that combines theory with significant practical training on the shopfloor.

Recruited from all production areas within the business, staff undertake a 10-week programme of training before completing an improvement project on the shopfloor and an endpoint assessment.

This project has been supported by the West Midlands Combined Authority, allowing Gestamp access to unspent levy funding by other organisations to use the apprenticeship model to develop existing staff and new recruits.

“We’ve transitioned and recruited up to 650 staff to our new Four Ashes manufacturing facility and, now this is complete, the next step was to get the training centre up and running,” said Philip Carr, learning and development manager at Gestamp.

“In-Comm Training has been supporting us with apprenticeships and upskilling courses for more than a decade, so are the perfect partner to team up with to make this a reality. In the first few weeks of the centre being open we’ve delivered over 1000 hours of training.”

Gestamp invested more than £50m in the purpose-built facility in Four Ashes, a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant which produces hot and cold

stampings to all of the major automotive brands. The company also invests heavily in its people and, in addition to the GTC, is working with In-Comm Training to deliver apprenticeships in toolmaking, robotics, skilled maintenance and continuous improvement.

Bekki Phillips, chief operating officer at In-Comm Training, said: “This is another fantastic example of how we are taking an employer-led approach to bridging the skills gap in industry.

“It’s more than just delivering courses; it’s about working with manufacturers to identify current and future issues then creating innovative solutions that provide both short and long-term answers.”

Online retailer commits to staff upskilling

More than a dozen staff at an expanding computer and gaming online retailer are attending new upskilling workshops leading to apprenticeships with Midlands training experts Performance Through People (PTP).

Overclockers UK, based in Stokeon-Trent, is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of PCs, hardware, components and accessories for customers across the UK, as well as trading globally.

The company has relocated into larger 100,000 sq ft premises in Stoke-on-Trent’s ceramic valley, and the training investment has been agreed as part of its continuing growth.

Tracey Boulton is programme leader at PTP, part of the BCTG Group, and is based at the training firm’s offices in Newcastle-underLyme.

She explained that 13 staff from Overclockers were already booked onto workshops that would result in Certificates in Principles of

Customer Services and Principles of Team Leading.

Ms Boulton said: “We are already discussing the potential progression of staff from the first course onto Customer Service L3 apprenticeships.

“Once the team leading workshops are held, we will also be discussing more progressions to

Team Leading/Supervisor L3 and Departmental/Operational Management L5 apprenticeships.”

Melanie Taylor, senior HR and office manager at Overclockers, said the company’s relocation to Shelton Boulevard was a symbol of the investment being made back into the business and its colleagues.

She added that this had already resulted in the first batch of Overclockers’ technicians and customer support staff completing the Customer Services certificate, which will now benefit customers seeking technical support and sales advice.

Ms Taylor said: “We are providing a modern workplace and facilities with the space to improve the service we offer, enabling us to grow quickly.

“We are also making investments into future growth through education and training, by partnering with PTP to upskill colleagues and find new ways of working to bring even more value to customers, suppliers, partners and stakeholders.

“We’re delighted with the support that PTP has already provided and look forward to developing the workshops that will see many of our staff enrolling onto formal apprenticeship programmes.”

Upskilling (left to right): Overclockers staff Marcel Trif, Melanie Taylor, Steve Ling and Nemo Shikari

Partners in training: Bekki Phillips and Philip Carr

Providing assistive technology in the workplace, at home, and in education

Adapt-IT are specialist IT and gaming solution and service providers for people with disabilities.

With more and more services being made digital, access to digital devices is more important than ever. People with disabilities are over 50% more likely to face barriers to accessing digital and online services.

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Adapt-IT has been helping companies, students, individuals and carers etc. for 20 years through management awareness training to complete assessments, solutions and life support.

FOLLOW US on all social media for support and guidance.

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ASK US about our 45-minute Awareness Presentation on Assistive Technology, that could inform and support you, your business and/or your clients with neurodiversity and physical disabilities.

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W: www.adapt-it.co.uk

While some consumers would use artificial intelligence (AI) to support everyday tasks, 82 per cent have concerns or challenges that prevent them from using it, according to new research from KPMG.

A survey found that one of the biggest barriers to AI adoption among consumers is that they prefer to interact with a human.

More than half of the 55 to 64 and the over 65 age groups said they wouldn’t use AI because they prefer to interact with a human.

However, this dropped to less than a third for consumers aged 18 to 24.

A third of consumers (30 per cent) surveyed reported that they have data privacy concerns which stop them from using AI. Eighteen to 24-year-olds were the age group most concerned with data privacy.

While 18-24-year-olds, part of the Gen Z population, were more likely to be open to using AI, almost half (45 per cent) reported cost as the biggest barrier for adoption, citing that AI-enabled technologies were too expensive.

Voice assistance was the most popular answer (43 per cent) when consumers were asked which tasks and activities they’d be open to using AI for, with self-driving vehicles the least popular (19 per cent).

Much to think about: Ian West

Consumers still wary of artificial intelligence System to save NHS time and money

A system which will deliver unprecedented cost savings and save countless staff hours within the NHS has be en created by four businesses which have joined forces to reshape the health and care sector.

The launch of the Integrated Improvement Partnership (IIP) is a collaboration aimed at providing data-driven population health solutions to Integrated Care System (ICs) leaders through the combined healthcare and data expertise of Develop Consulting, Vuit, click2 learn, and Innovative Online Products (IOP).

This collaboration will redefine how ICs can access data, training, improvement solutions, and established resources. The comprehensive offering aims to enhance population health evaluation and analysis, improve provider and process efficiency, and enable capacity building.

The over 65s are more hesitant with more than a third saying they wouldn’t use AI for any tasks.

Saving time was the most popular primary motivation chosen by consumers for why they’d use AI, with 30 per cent of respondents choosing the answer.

Ian West, head of technology and alliances at KPMG UK, said: “AI is incredible technology with huge potential but there is much for businesses to think about when it comes to consumers’ views of AI. There are several barriers to adoption that need to be addressed by tech companies and by businesses who are rolling out the technology.

“Businesses need to be clear about the benefits of the technology and how it is transforming the proposition available to consumers for it to become accepted.

“There are issues that you can’t really get around like preferring to interact with a human, however the integration of smarter AI that adapts to a consumer’s conversation style and preferences may help the interaction seem more natural.

“Data privacy concerns also seem to be very prevalent amongst consumers. Tech companies and regulators need to look at what can be done to protect data and ease concerns if these technologies are to become widely adopted.”

Launching at the NHS Confed Expo, the IIP is set to transform the healthcare landscape through this innovative collaboration to save money and create staff efficiency.

Steve Boam, chief executive of Develop Consulting, said: “We are really excited about the launch as we want to be able to make it easier for ICs leaders to get the support they need while making cost savings and optimising staff efficiency in the process and all through the use of their data.

“The ability to promptly access regional data, assess patient risks, and effectively address key factors

and complexities is crucial in developing focused and efficient transformation plans.

“We have campaigned for over eight years for integrated and regional healthcare management and provision and so to be able to quickly and easily visualise what is happening to then focus on risk areas and process redesign is a huge advantage and will transform the healthcare landscape indefinitely.”

Visit: www.integratedimprovement.co.uk

‘We have campaigned for over eight years for integrated and regional healthcare management’

Easier support: Steve Boam

Payroll help for recruitment firms

Birmingham-based outsourced payroll solutions and worker benefits provider HIVE360 has launched two new solutions as powerful alternatives to the traditional umbrella providers.

Delivered through HIVE360 Plus, and developed specifically for recruitment businesses with volumes of temporary workers on PAYE payroll, the new solutions are HIVE360 Umbrella Plus and HIVE360 PAYE Plus, which are “a new generation of protection and support for agency payroll”, according to HIVE360.

HIVE360 chief executive David McCormack said: “Both of the HIVE360 Plus solutions represent a new era for the recruitment sector, as we now offer them far more choice in the way they can outsource their temporary workforce payrolls.”

“Recruiters now have all the benefits of outsourcing payroll and associated employment liabilities, but not at the cost of their compliance, or the agency’s reputation, and all while providing a better deal for workers with additional cost-saving opportunities.”

Mr McCormack, who has over 20 years’ experience as a director within the recruitment sector and more than 15 years running payroll businesses, adds: “Developed in direct response to calls for more transparency of payroll solutions from workers affected by the growing concerns over ‘skimming’, disguised costs, and hidden agency kickbacks, HIVE360 Plus offers two alternative payrolling solutions that challenge the traditional umbrella model used by many temporary recruitment agencies.

“Both take over the full employment liability for a temporary workforce, including processing their PAYE pay and auto enrolment pension on a fully transparent basis, but with different approaches to charging structures and the worker experience.”

HIVE360 Umbrella Plus tackles the typical umbrella challenges head on. It ensures a better, fairer deal for workers by ensuring their net pay is the same as via traditional umbrella models, but at a fraction of the cost to them, with a flat £5 per week charge to the worker.

HIVE360 PAYE Plus is a new concept that sits between standard PAYE payroll outsourcing and a full Umbrella Payroll solution, as Mr McCormack explains: “Unlike the traditional umbrella solutions that charge the workers anything up to £25 per week or more, HIVE360 PAYE Plus makes no charge to the temporary worker, meaning recruiters can give their candidates much more in their pay packet.

“The model absorbs the charge via the agency weekly payroll charge on a flat fee basis of £5 per week that still adds savings and more importantly long-term value in the business. It also allows clients to operate a PAYE structure with a fixed overhead for the protection of a sub-contract provision.”

For more information go to: www.hive360plus.com

New era: David McCormack

‘Life of Pi’ sails into Birmingham

‘Life of Pi’, which stars an extraordinary lifesized puppeteered Bengal Tiger, comes to Birmingham Hippodrome next February.

Divesh Subaskaran is confirmed to make his professional debut in the central role of Pi in a Simon Friend Entertainment production that begins its first tour of the UK and Ireland in Sheffield in August.

He heads the casting in Lolita Chakrabarti’s Olivier Award-winning stage adaption of Yann Martel’s best-selling novel which concluded its West End run in January.

‘Life of Pi’ won five Olivier Awards in April 2022 as well as Best New Play, and Best Actor for Hiran Abeysekera (the original Pi) and in an

historic first for the Olivier Awards the seven performers who puppeteer the Tiger were collectively awarded Best Actor in a Supporting Role.

Based on one of the best-loved works of fiction – winner of the Man Booker Prize, selling over 15 million copies worldwide Life of Pi is a breath-taking new theatrical adaptation of an epic journey of endurance and hope.

After a cargo ship sinks in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, there are five survivors stranded on a single lifeboat – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, a 16-year-old boy and a 450-pound Royal Bengal tiger. Time is against them, nature is harsh, who will survive?

Award-winning writer Yann Martel’s works include ‘The Facts Behind the Helsinki Roccamatios’ (1993), ‘Self’ (1996), ‘We Ate the Children Last’ (2004) and ‘Beatrice and Virgil’ (2010).

He also wrote a New York Times Bestseller and a Financial Times Best Book, ‘101 Letters to a Prime Minister’ (2012) – a collection of letters to the prime minister of Canada; and ‘The High Mountains of Portugal’ (2016).

Life of Pi comes to Birmingham Hippodrome from Birmingham Hippodrome 12-17 February. Tickets can be booked at www.birminghamhippodrome.com or by calling 0844 338 5000*

Strictly star takes new show on tour Lang Lang leads classical line-up

‘Strictly Come Dancing’ star Johannes Radebe will present a new production ‘Johannes Radebe: House of JoJo’ at The Alexandra Birmingham on 23-24 May next year.

Joha nnes toured the world in the international dance show ‘Burn The Floor’ before being headhunted by Strictly. He moved to the UK to dance on the flagship BBC show and in his second series he was partnered with Catherine Tyldesley and danced the first same-sex routine with fellow Strictly star Graziano Di Prima.

In 2021, he and his celebrity partner, John Waite, made history by being the first all-male partnership to compete on the show. The pair made it to the final and won the British LGBT Award for Media Moment of the Year.

In 2022, he was partnered with comedian and actress Ellie Taylor. Johannes will return to the ballroom for his sixth series in September. The UK Tour of ‘Johannes Radebe: House of JoJo’ is presented by ROYO.

Internationally-acclaimed pianist Lang Lang is among the stars named for the Birmingham Classic Series at Town Hall and Symphony Hall for the 2023-24 season.

The new season will showcase some of the pinnacles of orchestral music as well as newer discoveries.

B:Music, the charity responsible for Symphony Hall and Town Hall, continues its mission to reach new audiences across the West Midlands and beyond with all tickets priced at £10 for the Symphony Orchestra of India, There will Sunday morning concerts with coffee and cake, and international household names such as Lang Lang performing on the world-famous Symphony Hall stage.

One of the world’s great figures in modern classical music, Lang Lang comes to Symphony Hall on 27 October in one of just a handful of UK dates this autumn. Lang Lang has given concerts the world over, played for billions of viewers at the 2008 Olympic Opening Ceremony in Beijing and is a recent star of Channel 4’s ‘The

Piano’, through all of which his charisma and artistry shone through.

A wide array of leading soloists will perform in the new season, including British pianist and one of the all-time great performers of Franz Schubert’s music, Paul Lewis, who will perform Schubert’s final piano sonatas in Town Hall on 5 December and 11 April.

The Symphony Orchestra of India return to Symphony Hall with a programme including Strauss’s rousing Rosenkavalier Suite and Stravinsky’s orchestral showcase Petrushka (1 December).

Symphony Hall will also welcome the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine on 24 October as part of its biggest UK tour to date.

Other highlights of the 2023/24 season include a performance by the China Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra (11 March). Tickets for concerts in the Birmingham Classical Series are priced from £10.

Find out more at bmusic.co.uk

Roaring success: Divesh Subaskaran in the title role

Strictly at the Alex: Johannes Radebe

The Business of Sport

Inspiring teen excels at games

A teenager from Kingswinford who was given the “Gift of Life” through organ donation, has returned home from the World Transplant Games with four gold medals.

Kristof Polgar travelled to Perth, Australia, and proudly flew the flag for Great Britain at the 24th global event.

He returned a world champion taking titles in four events in his age group –tennis, badminton, squash and table tennis - with his performance earning him the prestigious Best Overall Junior Athlete prize.

The 15-year-old also bagged a bronze in the men’s doubles table tennis event after standing in as a late replacement.

Kristof, who attends the Summerhill School, Kingswinford, underwent a life-saving liver transplant operation at Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s worldrenowned specialist unit when aged three after being diagnosed with the rare condition, Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis.

Proud mum Erika said: “It was such an inspiring event.

Like the British Transplant Games, you just look around and see the amazing difference that transplantation makes. All possible because of organ donation.”

It’s estimated that more than 7,000 people are currently on a transplant waiting list in the UK. To find out more about registering a decision visit: www.organdonation.nhs.uk

Major matches to bring boost to Birmingham

Edgbaston’s status among the world’s leading cricket venues has been underlined after the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the stadium will host its biggest ever programme of major matches for both men and women from 2025 to 2031.

The Men's Ashes will return to the venue in 2027 while India will compete in Test matches against England in 2025 and 2029.

Edgbaston will stage a Men’s Test match in every year, except 2030, and international white-ball cricket will be hosted each summer. England Women's white-ball team will also be a regular visitor during this period.

Vitality Blast Finals Day will remain at Edgbaston, the home of T20 cricket, until 2031, while The Hundred will continue to be hosted in Birmingham until at least 2028. Men’s Test Match cricket will come to Birmingham every year, between 2024 and

2031, apart from the ICC T20 World Cup year in 2030 when tournament games will likely be played at the stadium.

As well as Ashes and India matches, additional Test opponents will be announced in due course. Edgbaston will host a range of women’s whiteball internationals in 2025, 2027, 2029, 2030 and 2031.

Birmingham Phoenix men’s and women’s The Hundred fixtures will continue to be played at Edgbaston until at least 2028.

Based on previous economic impact reports, this seven-year allocation could be worth up to £250m to Birmingham’s economy.

Edgbaston chair Mark McCafferty said: “This is massive news for Edgbaston, Birmingham and the West Midlands, bringing a tangible boost to the economy as well as world class cricket to fans who love the unique Edgbaston atmosphere.”

Rockets in Italian partnership

City of Birmingham Rockets

Basketball Club have announced a new International partnership agreement with Italian club Aquila Basket Trento and their Dolomiti Energia Academy.

The agreement opens opportunities for Rockets players and coaches with the Birmingham club’s Italian partners.

The agreement sees Rockets become the exclusive UK partner of Aquila Basket Trento and their Academy.

Rockets chief executive Robert Palmer said: “We are very excited to be entering this agreement with Aquila Academy.

“This partnership creates significant possibilities within our performance programme pathway for our players and unique learning opportunities for our coaches.

“During our talks it has been

clear that our two organisations share personal values and integrity, which we believe will form the basis of a long and successful partnership.”

Marco Crespi, technical director of the Dolomiti Energia Basketball Academy, said: “Development is

the goal of our academydeveloping through the sharing of ideas and the opportunity to connect with inspiring people.

“We are pleased that Rockets are the first club outside Italy to join the academy and that Aquila can have a partner in the UK.”

Partners: Robert Palmer (left) and Marco Crespi

Racket supremo: Kristof with his WTG medals in Perth

Flying high: Edgbaston in all its glory

Chamber Insight

Focus on a member

Name: Esther Wakeman

Company: Pioneer Talent Ltd

Job Title: Co-founder

What does your company do?

An executive search and selection firm specialising in the health and social care sectors.

We headhunt senior leaders and through intricate market mapping we find the best talent for important roles.

How did it all start?

My husband Tom and I worked together at a boutique executive search firm. We saw a gap in the care sector, which is close to our hearts, and used our experience to help the betterment of the sector and the people being cared for.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

The relationships we have built with our clients, our candidates and our team. We feel very fulfilled and admire those who devote their lives in the health and social care worlds. On a personal note, our daughters Hannah and Chloe are our greatest achievements.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?

I think anyone who starts their own business would resonate with the obvious risks, as the buck truly does stop with you. You can’t switch off fully, but the pros far outweigh the cons.

What keeps you awake at night?

Apart from a late coffee, it’s an amalgamation of thoughts. Did I reply to that email? Are my team getting what they need and are they happy? Am I doing everything I can for our clients? Is the job right for our candidate?

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

I have a positive outlook. I have made mistakes but without sounding too much like a cliché I

wouldn’t have had the lessons learned if that hadn’t happened.

What has surprised you most in your job?

Working with people throws all sorts of surprises at you, especially when they are making such huge decisions like moving jobs. It is important to stay as resilient and it really is the key to productivity. If something doesn’t go our way, it is important to pick yourself up quickly and move on.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Believe in yourself and do the job well and give your clients a reason to come back again and again.

Which business do you most admire?

All our clients and other providers within the care sector, particularly those people on the front line who work tirelessly to care for the most vulnerable.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

We have recently rebranded to refresh and make our message clear, so are very much enjoying getting our name out there within the sector and among Chamber members.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership? Although we operate nationally, we wanted to have a presence from where we are born and bred in the Midlands. We are conscious we can learn from people from all types of business so are keen to make great connections and learn from others.

Tel: 07791 693340

Visit: pioneertalent.co.uk

New Members

Your guide to new sign-ups

Achill Spa Ltd

Mary Liszewski

01564 774090

www.achillspa.com

Physical well-being activities

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Aims Accounting for Business

Livia Iglodiova

07778025895

www.aims.co.uk/accountants/liviaiglodiova

Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

Albert's Schloss

Sophie Cassidy 0121 314 8858 albertsschloss.co.uk

Public houses and bars

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Amazon Security Services Ltd

Muhammad Adil 07368163457

amazonsecurityservices.co.uk

Private security activities

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Antalis Limited

Rebecca Tunstall 0370 241 1466

www.antalis.co.uk/home

Activities of head offices

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Arc Metal Design

Mark Potter 0121 461 8169

www.arcmetaldesign.co.uk

Manufacture of metal structures and parts of structures

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

AWE Technologies.co.uk

Ewen Rankin

07515527522

www.awetechnologies.co.uk

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Birmingham Festival 23

Nicole Malatesta 07886 277426

www.birminghamfestival23.co.uk

Activities of exhibition and fair organisers

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Birmingham Impact Football Club

CIC

Zehir Kadra

+447932357478

www.birminghamimpactfc.co.uk

Activities of sport clubs

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Burning Barn Ltd

Katherine Jenner 0121 724 0406

www.burningbarnrum.com

Distilling, rectifying and blending of spirits

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Claritas Tax Limited

Talia Masters 0121 726 1717

claritastax.co.uk

Tax consultancy

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Concept Furniture International Ltd

Johnathan Hathaway 0844 822 1424

www.conceptfurniture.co.uk

Activities of exhibition and fair organisers

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Culture Recruitment Ltd

Leanne Parry 03330 151 530

www.culturerecruitment.co.uk

Other activities of employment

placement agencies

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Whatever your business size and requirements, the Chamber has a membership scale to suit your needs.

For more information visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/membership

CyberCy

Sunny Vara 0330 133 0133

www.cybercy.co.uk

Information technology consultancy activities

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Daniel Thwaites t/a The Bulls Head

Earlswood

Lucy Burrows 07773 342528

Public houses and bars

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Divine Healthcare Solutions Limited

Diana Hanson

www.divinehealthcaresolutions.co.uk

Residential care activities for the elderly and disabled

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Equans Regeneration Ltd

Joseph Quigg 01675 461661

www.keepmoat.com

Construction of domestic buildings

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Future Match

Kufa Matiya 07712351616

www.futurematch.tech

Business and domestic software

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce development

Grosvenor Cleaning Services Ltd

Elly Dargan 01754 879076

grosvenorservices.com

Other building and industrial cleaning activities

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

In Touch With Ali Mahmood 07827738349

www.intouchwith.co.uk

Networking Organisation and provide Corporate Hospitality

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Junior Einsteins

Birmingham

Lucy Hill-Brown 07502889464

junioreinsteinsscienceclub.com/Birmi

ngham-sandwell

Educational support services

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

La Stalla Limited

Aidan Stables

07785 714876

Maintenance and repair of motor vehicles

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

MIH Solutions

Jon Beech 01283 215605

www.mihsolutions.co.uk

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

OOR LTD

Roweena Lindo

07983333945

Buying and selling of own real estate

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Protean Management Limited

Philip Chater 07966 120275

www.protean-ml.com

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Skywise Solutions Ltd

Everita Strelca

07855 788788

www.skywisesolutions.com

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Transatlantic Chamber

Sport 4 Life

Rob Wells 0121 456 1818

www.sport4life.org.uk

Other education n.e.c.

Solihull Chamber of Commerce

STC INSISO

Holly Munro 01224 937497

www.stcinsiso.com

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Tavistock Private Client Chan Singh 01223869074

tavistockinvestments.com

Financial intermediation not elsewhere classified Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

The Overseas Business Forum UK Ltd

Salman Dossa 0121 771 1169

www.overseasbuinessforum.co.uk

Other social work activities without accommodation n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Think Manufacturing Ltd

George Voicu 07508490264

www.igad.co.uk

Non-specialised wholesale trade

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Three UK

Padraig McGarrigle 07454 959 715

www.three.co.uk

Wireless telecommunications activities

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Vector Business Coaching

Jacquie Hale 0121 517 0822

www.vectorbusinesscoaching.co.uk

Management consultancy activities other than financial management

Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Wardell Armstrong LLP

Luke Prazsky 0121 580 0909

www.wardell-armstrong.com

Support activities for other mining and quarrying

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

...any other business

A roundup of news from Chamber members

Operation Paw-pose wins big at awards

A Christmas campaign that gave thousands of animals in Ukraine the Christmas they deserved, has been recognised with an international marketing award.

Midlands PR agency spottydog communications and leading Ukrainian charity UHearts Foundation launched Operation Pawpose in 2022.

Receiving over 1,700 votes and surpassing all other entries, Operation Paw-pose won the XRay Award for the best marketing project in the international company category.

The award-winning initiative called upon the UK pet-loving population to purchase a festive hamper made up of essential items for the abandoned pets living in war-torn Ukraine. At the face of the campaign was TV dog groomer

Verity Hardcastle. In addition, the campaign called on the pet industry to lend a helping paw by donating unused stock from the 2022 PATS trade show and £12,000 worth of pet products was successfully collected by spottydog communications from over 30 brands.

Emily Wardle, associate director at spottydog communications, said: “We’re delighted our work in supporting the incredible charity U-Hearts has been recognised by the X-Ray Awards — adding to our collection of over 30 industry awards.

“Due to the devastating war in Ukraine, thousands of pets were left without homes and proper care and U-Hearts was founded in 2022 to provide a lifeline to the animals and their families. Through our deep understanding of the pet market and experience supporting not-for-

Belfry gin triumph is just the tonic

The Belfry Hotel & Resort’s new signature gin, 1960, has won bronze at the 2023 International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC).

The London dry gin, which launched in December, is an herbaceous gin with a distinct blend of home-grown botanicals offering flowery notes from the roses and lavender in the resort’s courtyard, willow from the golf courses and honey from its own ‘Belfry Bees’.

The name of the gin, 1960, represents the year The Belfry was founded, and the tipple is presented in a stylish Belfry Bell-shaped cut glass bottle topped with a gold glass golf ball as a nod to the resort’s distinguished golf heritage. In line with environmental policies at The Belfry, once empty all 1960 bottles from the resort will be sent to the distillery to be refilled and returned.

Varun Shetty, hotel manager, said: “We have worked extremely hard to create a gin that is truly special and to have it acknowledged by such a respected competition is a great honour. It’s proving extremely popular with guests here at The Belfry and has received glowing feedback, so it is fantastic for it also to be recognised internationally.”

profit organisations, we were perfectly placed to help U-Hearts with their important cause and we are so proud that our communications helped make a positive difference to hundreds of homeless pets.”

Spock moves to ‘logical’ new home

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s (GBCC) beloved Spock the bear has reached his final frontier.

The Star Trek-inspired sculpture – created in 2017 for public art trail The Big Sleuth – will “live long and prosper” at Birmingham conference and event venue Millennium Point after being donated by the Chamber.

Spock was one of 100 bears on display throughout Birmingham before the bears were auctioned in aid of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.

The Chamber decided to boldly go with Spock due to then president Paul Kehoe’s love of the classic science series.

The move was aided by Chamber patron Restore Harrow Green, who supported The Big Sleuth as official transport and logistics supplier.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC, said: “Millennium Point’s focus on supporting STEM education makes it the perfect place. Spock’s relocation is part of the Chambers’ preparations for a relocation of our own – our move to 54 Hagley Road this autumn.”

Environment-friendly: The Belfry gin

The final frontier: Spock arrives at Millennium Point with (left to right): Liz Russell, head of relocation service Midlands at Harrow Green, Abbie Vlahakis, Millennium Point chief executive, and Henrietta Brealey

Tail-wagger: A dog enjoys its Christmas presents in Ukraine