Chamberlink March 25

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The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBER March 2025

Free to Members l £5.00 where sold

LINK

Awards triumph for the listeners Caring workplace wellbeing organisation takes top prize See inside

• Tom Cruise’s Chamber connection • M6toll becomes newest patron • Are you a Brumbassador?

Picture: Shaun Fellows

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Contents Chamberlink March 2025 Business News

52 ABCC: Vertical Mile racers raise hospice funds

4

Editor’s View In praise of the Punjabi strawberry growers

54 Cannock Chase: Energy broker plans to give back

5

Business News Big night at the awards

55 Burton & District: Padel court welcomes MP

10 President’s Focus Janie Frampton, president of Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce 12 The Griffin Report Michael Whelan, general manager, M6toll 27 Chamber Awards All the action from the Chamber awards

Chamber Patrons 46 Signage specialist in NEC deal

1813 Club and Premier Members 48 National Memorial Arboretum launches commemorative programme

Chamber Group 50 International Trade: Trump tariffs spark fear of ‘global trade war’

56 Lichfield & Tamworth: Campaign to find more volunteers

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57 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Plan to improve town centre’s public transport 58 Solihull: Chamber ready to choose new charity 60 Future Faces: Workshop hits the right chords

72 Unlocking the potential of Black women entrepreneurs in the UK

Sector Focus

Events 62 The latest list of Chamber events

76 Business Travel: Airport upgrades drop off area

Features

78 Finance: Lord Eatwell appointed to Unity’s board

64 Business Crime & Protection: Cybersecurity: The cornerstone of business resilience in the digital age

82 Manufacturing: New partnership for manufacturer

66 Email security all locked up

85 Legal: The benefits of mediation

70 Creative Industries: A family’s legacy - the Singh family’s pioneering spirit in British agriculture

86 Property: Duo in launch of new real estate firm 88 Skills: Half of workers on the lookout for a new job 90 Technology: Road safety boost from AI tech 92 The Arts: Ozzy meets Ozzy on Freedom tour 94 Sport: Edgbaston agrees food supply deal

Member Section 95 Chamber Insight Claire Dunsterville, The Harborne Hospital (HCA Healthcare UK) 96 New Members Chamber welcomes new members

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98 …any other business News from Chamber businesses

CHAMBER LINK

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

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

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

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OPINION

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Chamber members in fruitful partnership

I

t never ceases to amaze how such a variety of businesses make a profit, thus generating a myriad of successful off shoots.

In this edition (page 14) of Chamberlink we report on the success of a strawberry growing farm in Worcestershire run by a Punjabi family that has a Chamber connection.

And because Nexus Creative were aware of the farmers’ business they in turn have turned the strawberry farmers’ story into a feature film with the prospect of a Clarksonesque television series to follow.

Bal Padda and his family are from the Punjab region of north India known for its farming heritage and came up with the amusing title - “It’s Punjabi ‘innit”. for the film. “So it’s got that Brummie touch as well as Punjabi,” he says.

Mr Padda explained how he came up with the title of the film and said: "It's Punjabi because we're Punjabi and 'innit' because we're Brummies. So it's got that Brummie touch as well."

So it’s good to celebrate something as quintessentially English as strawberries and cream alongside a family who originated on the other side of the world.

And it was a night of high drama at a broader celebration of West Midlands business at the International Convention

FRONT COVER: Winning ways: Sharon McCormick and Joanna Benbow. See page 5.

Published by

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

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Centre in Birmingham when the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce awards were presented in front of over 1,000 guests.

And the stars of the show were The Listening Centre, the business created by Sharon McCormick in 2002 who were crowned Business of the Year.

They are dedicated to maintaining and improving mental health and wellbeing among employees across the West Midlands.

See full coverage of the awards night inside.

Sue Cooke It is with deep sadness that we report the death of journalist Sue Cooke, who for some years was deputy editor of Chamberlink.

Her great passion was cars and for the past 20 years she had pursued a career as a fulltime freelance motoring journalist.

Sue died in Birmingham Metropolitan Hospital on 11 February and is survived by her son Robert, daughter Joanne and grandchildren Lillianna and Rhyley.

She was 71 and her funeral will take place at Sutton Coldfield Crematorium, Tamworth Road, B75 6LG, on Friday, 21 March, at 2.30 pm.

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

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

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

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BUSINESS NEWS

Business News Latest news from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

Inside

Brum firm produces Tom Cruise Superbowl film See page 8 We did it! Founder Sharon McCormick (right) and service manager Joanna Benbow celebrate in style.

Wellbeing business wins big at Chamber awards Sharon McCormick, who has dedicated herself to supporting the wellbeing and welfare of company staff for over 23 years, has been crowned the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) Business of the Year.

She received the award along with her colleagues at a glittering ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham City centre at one of the city’s largest business gatherings.

The recipient of another major award was McDonald’s franchisee Douglas Wright, who was presented with the President’s Award by Nasir Awan. The President paid tribute to Mr |Wright’s philanthropic work and added: “Today, he proudly manages one of McDonald’s largest franchised organisations, employing over 2,900 people and contributing more than £50 million annually to the West Midlands economy. His dedication to the brand has earned him

numerous accolades, including the title of ‘Global Franchisee of the Year’ in 2016.”

Doug said: “It was extremely special to receive such a prestigious award from Nasir, who I hold in such a high regard. I also took a moment to realise that many of my achievements have been GBCC-supported and championed by so many different people since I became a patron.”

Currently the Sheriff of the West Midlands, Mr Wright is also at the forefront of the charity Kids’ Village, which is seeking to raise £5m to build the UK’s holiday village for sick children and their families.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker praised the CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce for her defence of Birmingham following a “damaging” article by a national newspaper.

The Punjabi strawberry growers See page 14 Join the Brumbassadors See page 7

• Full coverage on pages 27, 28 and 29.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Connectivity is key for newest Chamber patron

By Jon Griffin The UK’s only motorway Toll Road is looking to broaden its horizons – by signing up as patrons of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

The M6toll is keen to explore new avenues with fellow members of the Midlands’ premier business group whilst raising the profile of the 27-mile stretch of motorway first opened in December 2003.

M6toll general manager Michael Whelan said: “At the M6toll we’re keen to strengthen relationships with stakeholders and businesses across the region, and as a previous member of the Chamber we saw value in joining as a patron, to play a more active role in regional infrastructure and transport strategy.

“We’ve recently invested £20m in new tolling infrastructure, improving the customer experience and, for the first time, we are able to offer much cheaper tariffs to those making short hops on the road, meaning you only pay for the section of road you use. It’s not something people are aware of, and joining the Chamber will help

Internal auditing training relaunched Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) has relaunched the internal auditor training course to help organisations deliver improved efficiencies, regulate processes, manage risk, and achieve compliance.

The course will take place on Tuesday, 11 March from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm at Chamber HQ. Lunch and refreshments will also be provided.

Internal auditing enhances organisational operations by evaluating internal controls.

This process supports corporate governance, accounting procedures, compliance with laws and regulations, and ensures accurate reporting and data collection.

Email training@birminghamchamber.com to book.

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spread the word on this, and our ESG initiatives.”

He said the new patron membership of the Chambers would help bosses at the Toll Road interact with other businesses across the West Midlands.

‘We want to connect with local communities – I am interested in what our customers think and how we can support them’ “That is why we are joining organisations like the Chamber – it’s been established for over 200 years, it’s got an outstanding reputation.

“We want to connect with local communities – I am interested in what our customers think and how we can support them. Joining the Chamber gives us the chance to interact, particularly with other businesses – what are their challenges – and we can be a part of it. Being an active participant in the regional business community is a key part of this.”

The M6toll’s Michael Whelan (bottom right) and Joanna Seabright (back left) with Birmingham Chambers’ Henrietta Brealey (bottom left) and Raj Kandola

He said the M6toll are particularly keen to highlight the varied ESG initiatives, ranging from investment in solar technology and EV fleets, encouraging the growth of wildlife, flora and fauna, the legacy of one million trees coming to maturity over the last 20 years, water treatment, bee pollination and other ecology projects undertaken following the development of the motorway.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “Regional transport connectivity and reducing congestion on key routes are critically important to our business community.

“We are delighted that the M6toll are the latest influential organisation to join GBCC patronage. Their work speeds up journey times and takes 15 to 18 million journeys per year off the M6 and local roads, playing an important role in capacity in our road network.

“We look forward to building on our partnership with them and collaborating with our Patrons, a collective of the city-region’s most dynamic and civic minded organisations, on helping to shape the future of our great city-region.”

• See the Griffin Report – Pages 12 and 13

Meet the Buyer event offers access to new opportunities A Get Ready 2 Supply programme is offering eligible businesses the opportunity to meet large local buyers with live procurement opportunities.

Taking place on Thursday, 27 March, the event will offer local suppliers one-to-one meetings with members of procurement teams from Birmingham and Solihull’s Integrated Care System (ICS) to discuss live opportunities in areas including the LivingWell Consortium.

Get Ready 2 Supply seeks to enable firms in East Birmingham and North Solihull to access contract opportunities with some of the region’s largest institutions.

The programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) and Newable.

The programme also offers eligible firms in all sectors in East Birmingham and North Solihull: • One-to-one support from experienced advisers, including support to identify relevant contract opportunities for your business

• Networking sessions to discuss opportunities and pitch to key buyers • In-depth workshops to expand your skills and knowledge.

Emily Stubbs (pictured), GBCC head of policy, said: “Supporting businesses in East Birmingham and North Solihull to access new markets is critical to driving inclusive economic growth in Greater Birmingham.

“This upcoming Meet the Buyer event offers eligible local firms the opportunity to directly meet with those at large anchor institutions looking to procure the services they offer and hopefully win new contracts.

“For those in other sectors, our expert advisors can also help to identify new supplychain opportunities.”

Once registered for the programme, expert advisors will review eligibility for the Meet the Buyer event.

To find out more and apply for fully funded report go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com

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BUSINESS NEWS

City on the search for Brumbassadors Brummie ambassadors are being sought by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) to champion the city alongside Birmingham City FC. Brumbassadors - in a partnership with the Blues - is a network bringing together members of the business community with an interest in banging the drum for Birmingham.

‘It is a platform for amplifying good news and opportunities across business, culture and sport’ GBCC members of all sizes and sectors will have the opportunity to take part in a Brumbassadors meeting to hear from influential speakers and meet organisations who are doing great things in and around Birmingham.

The first Brumbassadors meetup is taking place on Tuesday, 8 April, at St Andrew’s@Knighthead Park.

A legendary Brummie is speaking, and there is an opportunity to gain exclusive

Up in lights: Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery’s Waterhall. © Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

insights on opportunities and the future direction of Birmingham, connect with fellow business leaders who are passionate about the city’s success and meet a number of charity exhibitors who are making a positive difference.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “This city has so much going for it. Barely a week goes by when I don’t hear about new

opportunities, investment or events (from the massive to the fabulously quirky) coming to Brum.

“And yet, what I hear time and time again from my network is ‘oh I didn’t know that was happening’.

So we’ve decided to do something about it.

“Brumbassadors is all about boosting pride in, and connectedness within, Birmingham

and its business community.

“It is a platform for amplifying good news and opportunities across business, culture and sport; the magic ingredients that make a great place to live, work and invest, and for connecting like-minded business leaders – whether you’re a Brummie or an adopted Brummie.

“Brumbassadors events will initially take place twice a year. We are delighted to be teaming up with Birmingham City Football Club – an organisation that are true Brumbassadors themselves.”

Sinead Quinn, head of commercial at Birmingham City Football Club, said: “Birmingham City are delighted to host the inaugural ‘Brumbassadors’ event in partnership with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

“We are looking forward to celebrating the pride within this amazing city, alongside showcasing our new and improved venue to those who have visited us previously and to those new faces who have never visited us before.”

Find out more about how to become a ‘Brumbassador’ go to greaterbirminghamnchambers.com

March 2025 CHAMBERLINK 7

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BUSINESS NEWS

Mission: Possible: Tom Cruise with members of the BTV crew Inset: A still from the teaser

City TV firm in Superbowl Cruise control British production firm BTV.UK, which has an office in Birmingham, produced the iconic opening teaser for the Super Bowl starring Tom Cruise, in partnership with Fox Sports.

The film produced by BTV.UK and filmed at Pinewood Studios, was a Mission: Impossible style introduction that set the tone for the most anticipated game of the year.

This marks the fourth major collaboration between BTV.UK and FOX Sports, following high-profile projects with Sir Ridley Scott, baseball legend Chase Utley, and ex-England manager Gareth Southgate Jesse Weiss, feature producer at FOX Sports, said: “BTV.UK is our go-to UK film partner, and they make our job easy.

“Their level of professionalism and trust is second to none, and they provide seamless production 8 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

every time. The Super Bowl is synonymous with high production values, and this project was about delivering a cinematic experience to match the scale of the game.”

Helming the production was Jake Barrett, founder and production director of BTV.UK, who described the teaser as an opportunity to blend sports history with blockbuster storytelling.

Jake said: “BTV.UK specialises in facilitating UK shoots for international clients, ensuring seamless productions across time zones.

“When tight deadlines and scheduling challenges arise, BTV.UK puts boots on the ground to organise, oversee and keep projects on track.

“This means international clients can fly into a fully prepared shoot, with high-end crew, ready to roll from the moment they arrive.”

Leading the visual storytelling

was Christopher Hood, director of photography, whose nearly decade-long collaboration with BTV.UK has produced exceptional work.

Hood’s impressive portfolio also includes projects for major brands like JCB, Sky, and Microsoft, showcasing his versatility and eye for striking visuals.

He said: “Capturing the spirit of the Super Bowl and working with Tom Cruise, who is the definition of a consummate professional, was an incredible experience.

“This wasn’t just another promo; it was a statement piece that set the stage for an unforgettable

night in sports history.

Collaborating with Jake at BTV.UK and Jesse at FOX is always a pleasure.

“Their expertise and calm approach make even the most high-pressure situations feel seamless.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished in the few hours we had Tom for.”

BTV.UK continues to make waves internationally, working with major brands including E.ON, Subaru, Isuzu, and leading marketing agencies.

To watch go to: vimeo.com For more information, go to: bvt.uk

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

President’s Focus Janie Frampton, newly installed president of Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce, brings a wealth of experience to the international stage and explains how that was enriched by being a men’s professional football referee.

I

n this ever-changing geopolitical world, the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce (GBGCC) continues to play a pivotal role in supporting existing and creating new international trade relationships in the region.

Recent developments, even in these difficult uncertain times, demonstrate the GBGCC’s commitment to connecting local enterprises with global opportunities.

In November 2024, I was delighted to be appointed as the new president of the GBGCC, succeeding Mark Smith, and along with my two vice-presidents Adam Parker and Amina Hussain, we will continue the good work Mark had undertaken during his tenure.

I believe I bring a different perspective, and a wealth of experience from my four-decade career in advancing gender equality in sports, including my time as a referee in men’s professional football, and cofounder of Team You, a social enterprise supporting underrepresented groups, especially young people.

‘As the Global Chamber, we need to ensure that we are promoting trade opportunities that are of maximum benefit to our current membership’ Not only do I hope my leadership will enhance the Chamber’s efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion within the international business community, but also by using my network to create new opportunities to showcase the region on the global stage.

While we are continuing to build our existing relationships, we are also looking at new partnerships and exploring new countries.

We believe partnerships around the world fall within multiple categories. Some are sources of trade, civic relationships, 10 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

investment, some sit in the category of multi-cultural that bring a completely different and exciting angle.

Others are intersectional by meeting more than one category.

Clearly from the point of view of the Global Chamber, working alongside all these categories will give us the maximum benefit for our efforts and ensure we are meeting the objectives of the Chamber.

However, ultimately from our unique point of view as the Global Chamber, we need to ensure that we are promoting trade opportunities that are of maximum benefit to our current membership and be of great interest to prospective members, in order to support the growth of the membership going forward.

Alongside others, the Global Chamber will seek to have at least one primary target country each month of 2025, ensuring that we reach every continent of the world.

We will link to other events in the region to ensure we achieve maximum impact, providing a platform for local businesses to explore new international trade opportunities.

Alongside this, our new Global Brunches led by Jayne Hume, have proved incredibly popular with our members.

The events feature discussions on the current state of UK trade, global economic analyses, and specialist panels focusing on key markets. As well as this, attendees benefit from networking sessions designed to create connections with potential international partners.

The Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce remains steadfast in its mission to connect, support, and grow local businesses by creating international relationships and facilitating access to new markets.

Through leadership transitions, strategic events, enhanced member services, and active advocacy, the GBGCC continues to empower businesses in the Greater Birmingham area to navigate and succeed in the global marketplace, and I am incredibly proud to be leading as president over the next two years.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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The Griffin Report The M6toll road has stood the test of time after a shaky start plagued with opposition and protest. It’s now celebrating its 21st birthday and JON GRIFFIN spoke to its general manager, affable Aussie Michael Whelan, about the impact it has made on the UK motorway network.

M

6toll general manager Michael Whelan sums it up neatly. “Just imagine if the M6toll wasn’t here. There would be almost 50,000 vehicles a day that would be using alternative routes such as the A5 or the M6, or clogging up local roads.

“We are able to better connect the North and the South, and I think we do a pretty good job of it.”

A lot of water has passed under the bridge – or to be more accurate many millions of cars and HGVs have driven along the 26 miles of the UK’s only motorway toll road – since the concept of a pay to drive motorway was first unveiled more than 30 years ago.

The M6toll opened in 2003 as an important addition to the country’s strategic road network.

Commissioned by government, six objectives were set including that the M6toll should “become an integral part of the continual motorway corridor along the backbone of the country”.

The M6 Toll has withstood initial opposition from local residents and environmental campaigners and has become a popular route for those looking to travel through the region, avoiding the congested M6.

More than two decades after green activists clambered up trees in a fruitless attempt to stop the road project, the M6 Toll is celebrating its milestone 21st birthday – and affable Aussie Michael Whelan is keen to highlight the considerable benefits the road has delivered to the UK transport network.

“When I first joined the business just under three years ago, I drove along the road and could tell the maintenance team were extremely proud of what they have done here – a clean, smooth and pot-hole free carriageway - that’s credit to them for the effort.

“The M6toll is a success story for the region. Built and operated with private investment, three million hours are saved each year for business and leisure travellers by enabling them to bypass the M6.

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“We are seeing up to 50,000 vehicles a day, or about 18 million vehicles a year. The HGV market in particular has grown significantly over the past five years, primarily due to the significant economic benefit of using the road. Our traffic split is roughly 20 per cent HGV, 80 per cent cars and vans.

“The haulage sector has really cottoned onto the economic benefits of using the M6toll. They experience an average journey time saving of 22 minutes, less stopstart, reliability of arrival time and a positive experience from a driver welfare perspective.

“This time and financial saving really adds up, especially when considering the average fuel saving of 2.3mpg. Reliability is probably the big thing for them. If they are late for a delivery, penalties are applied.

‘We know that 5,000 jobs have been created as a direct result of the M6toll, and an additional 1200 firms have located in the region’ “The M6toll has been a driver of economic growth locally too. We free up capacity along the M6 for those needing to deliver or do business in the Birmingham area, with the M6toll contributing a £400m boost to the region’s economy in 2019.

“We know that 5,000 jobs have been created as a direct result of the M6toll, and an additional 1200 firms have located in the region – we help connect people and businesses right across the UK.” At a time when the UK’s motorway network is under increasing strain to help support the attempts to steer UK PLC towards more stable growth, Michael reels off statistics that back up his claims that the Toll Road is the “safest motorway in the UK” and a “fast-track through the Midlands.”

“Vehicle miles travelled increase

every year, and we are seeing traffic volumes increase, particularly commercial traffic.

“We have recently undertaken some research with an independent organisation and we found that a haulage company with 100 vehicles each using the road once a day, the time and fuel saving would end up being about £72k a year.”

Michael can also point to 25,000 users of the Toll Road’s Breeze account. The recent £20m investment in ANPR technology opened up an opportunity for the operators to introduce new, fairer pricing for those making shorter journeys, and the ease of being able to breeze through the toll lanes without stopping, reducing congestion at the toll booths and increasing capacity as the company continues to grow.

“We rarely get congestion – and we want it to stay that way. We cannot have customers paying for a great experience and to beat the traffic on the M6 and then have them queuing at the toll booths.

“So now our customers can sign up for a Breeze account, and they have a dedicated lane that they can use. Customers can still ‘pay as you drive’ and tap as you go at the Toll booth, or you sign up for an account with us, and save money.

And we do all this, and our maintenance at no cost to the taxpayer. The road is completely funded through the tolls we collect.

“We have got about 25,000 account holders and the figure is growing – it’s a big focus for us.

The new digital approach ties in with the new Toll system.

Previously we did not know where our customers got on and where they got off.

“Now we can monitor VRNs (Vehicle Registration Numbers) at the entry and the exit and then we can price accordingly – it’s created new pricing options for customers that we didn’t have previously. That is something the local market has been calling out for, for such a long time.

“Previously local residents didn’t see the toll road as being useful to them. They saw it as of no benefit to them because no matter where

you get on and off, you may be charged the full price depending on the route taken.

“Now with the investment in the ANPR technology and new ‘zones’, customers pay for the section of road they use – that is meeting stakeholder expectations.”

Meanwhile, environmental expectations have also been tackled around a quarter of a century on from the sights of protesters climbing trees in the nearby Staffordshire countryside in protest.

Relocation of heathland has encouraged the siting of new habitats for animals such as deer, badgers and bees while allowing

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BUSINESS NEWS

Joining lanes (left to right): Michael Whelan, Raj Kandola (Chamber director of external affairs), Henrietta Brealey (Chamber chief executive) and Joanna Seabright (customer experience, marketing and communications director, at M6toll).

local flora and fauna to flourish.

Mowing regimes have been reduced providing more wildflowers for bee pollination – the M6toll team can even boast their very own beehives.

“We make sure that the run-off from the road doesn’t pollute local watercourses. We collect the water that runs off and we actually clean it before it makes its way out into the rivers.

“Also, going back 21 years ago when the road was being built, a million trees were planted and now they have matured and provide great habitats. We have had a significant major focus on ESG, and will be conducting species

‘Our priority is to continue to meet the objectives set out when the road was built – to provide through-traffic with an alternative to the M6’ monitoring activity to keep track of the wildlife around our road. We work closely with local charities, and this year we are supporting the work of the Lichfield and Hatherton Canal Society, as eventually the canal will cross our route over an aqueduct specially constructed for the canal.”

So in an era of seemingly interminable debate about the pros and cons of working from home, what does the future hold for the UK’s safest, pothole-free motorway

Toll Road, now owned by a partnership of Australian investors and UK pension fundholders?

“The road is definitely here to stay, the investors are long-term infrastructure investors, and there are another 29 years remaining on the concession. Our priority is to continue to meet the objectives set out when the road was built – to provide through-traffic with an alternative to the M6. We now need to leverage the recent investment we have made in the tolling system

to let more people know about the benefits of the road.

“We have certainly got more capacity and we can start to release that capacity further down the track with new technology.”

With committed owners investing in a 24-hour a day operation providing jobs for 130 staff, the £900m M6 Toll has stayed the distance since it was first dreamt up as the Birmingham Northern Relief Road to help ease the plight of harassed M6 drivers negotiating one of the busiest stretches of motorways in Europe.

• For more information visit www.m6toll.co.uk March 2025 CHAMBERLINK 13

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BUSINESS NEWS

Punjabi strawberry growers’ film role A creative company has helped to put a West Midlands strawberry farm run by a Punjabi family on the map.

Nexus Creative, a Worcesterbased Great Birmingham Chamber member whose managing director is Nigel Harte, have made a twopart documentary of 13 minutes.

Inspired by workers on the farm, it is currently being sold out at Evesham’s Regal Cinema to audiences of 240.

Nigel said: “It was a fabulous project to work on with the Padda family and so interesting to hear how their business interests mix with their faith.

“Tickets for the cinema were sold out within two hours when they went on sale and plans are well advanced to get it on TV.”

‘The Punjabi way is farming, it’s family, it's food, it's music, it's togetherness’ Bal Padda'’ family grow strawberries at their farm in Worcestershire and are from the Punjab region in north India, known for its farming heritage.

He said his father’s journey from the area known as the “India’s bread basket” - because of its grain production - to the Vale of Evesham was “quite unique”.

The documentary is called It’s a Punjabi Farm Innit - A Story of Strawberries, Faith and Farming.

The story is about the love, talent and faith of workers on the farm and includes a soundtrack sung in Punjabi by one of the workers.

In an interview with BBC Midland Today, Bal said: “The Punjabi way is farming, it’s family, it's food, it's music, it's togetherness as well and it's the struggles that we face and we overcome them. Farmers are heroes and people don't see that.

Fruity alliance (left to right): Haydn Rogers (Nexus Creative, filmmaker), Bal Padda (It’s a Punjabi Farm innit show host and soft fruit farmer), Oliver Tuzzio (Nexus Creative, designer), Colin Foxall (Nexus Creative, commercial director), Nigel Harte (Nexus Creative, managing director) and Annika Rosler (Nexus Creative, marketing account manager)

There’s eight billion people in the world. Farmers are feeding those eight billion - not just from this country in the UK but around the world. They’re heroes so let's appreciate what they do.”

Bal explained how he came up with the title of the film and said: “It’s Punjabi because we’re Punjabi and ‘innit’ because we’re Brummies. So it’s got that Brummie touch as well.”

Bal said he wanted to show in

Aston Villa scores prime retail spot in the Bullring Aston Villa are set to open a new store in Birmingham’s Bullring shopping centre, the Premier League club has confirmed.

The 10,000 sq ft retail store, located next to Selfridges, will open in May 2025. Villa previously had a shop in New Street but this closed in 2017.

The club are also introducing “Aston Works,” an area dedicated to product personalisation, allowing fans to customise their purchases.

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the film how diversity on the farm had united communities and also tackled unrest in the industry.

Farmers in the UK have recently staged tractor protests over a range of issues including the impact of inheritance tax changes.

“Farming at the moment has been attacked. Not only here in the UK with the inheritance tax but back home in Punjab as well so farming needs some positivity.”

Jaswinder Singh, a technical expert on the farm, added that workers at the farm were from all over the world including Europe, Pakistan, India and Indonesia.

“All these different nationalities work together and we welcome them as a family,” he said.

While the message of the film is largely positive, it also shows some of the harsh realities most farms face because of British weather.

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Solihull expo bonanza is back Solihull’s biggest business bonanza takes place in May with a packed agenda where organisations can showcase their businesses and catch up on latest developments in the region.

Solihull Expo 2025, organised by Solihull Chamber of Commerce, annually brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, and business owners from a wide variety of industries to foster connections, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

The expo takes place on Thursday, 22 May, at Cranmore Park, and will include seminars involving leading business personalities from the region.

It will be hosted by the Solihull Chamber President Eileen Schofield and is aimed at providing an update on Solihull's economy from a panel of high-profile businesses and political leaders. There will also be a Q&A session with the audience, and this event is open to both members and non-members.

The first seminar, “Make Every Word Count” will be led by Richard Newell. Shortlisted for the 2024 Solihull Chamber of Commerce Award for Excellence in Sales, Marketing & Communications, Rich is the founder of Perception Copywriting and a director of Creative Centre CIC. He helps businesses, charities, and community interest companies find their voice and connect with target audiences through compelling copy.

Rich also helps other budding freelancers find their way.

The second seminar will be announced later.

Places will be on a first-come, first-served basis on the day.

Pricing for exhibiting at the expo: • Member Price: £395 +VAT • Non-Member: £450 +VAT To purchase an exhibitor stand, scan the appropriate QR code and select the free delegate ticket then add-on the exhibitor package wanted. Once booked and paid, an exhibitor information form will be sent for completion.

A delegate ticket also grants admission to the seminars on the day, on a first-come, first-served basis and can be registered upon arrival at the venue. Registration for the speed networking session can be made via the appropriate QR code below.

The agenda for the day is: • 08:30am - 09:45am: Solihull Economic Update • 10:00am: Expo Opens • 11:00am - 11:30am: Seminar 1 -‘Make Every Word Count’ • 11:45am - 12:15pm: Seminar 2 - TBA • 1:30pm - 2:30pm: Speed Networking • 2:30pm: Expo Closes

Economic update

Expo

Networking

Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am delighted to launch the Solihull Chamber Expo and excited to be working with the team at Cranmore Park.

“I look forward to welcoming our exhibitors and day delegates and offering a full programme, starting with our annual Solihull Economic Update to engaging, interactive workshops and not forgetting the speed networking. The Solihull Expo is the perfect opportunity for members and non-members to promote themselves while making great connections.”

There are also sponsorship opportunities available for the expo. For more information, contact Samantha Frampton at S.Frampton@solihull-chamber.com

University partners with Brindleyplace Brindleyplace is strengthening its ties with the Birmingham community by partnering with Birmingham City University (BCU) for a series of projects to promote the city.

The partnership comes after the success of a fashion show collaboration in Oozells Square last summer.

The partnership will focus on four main areas: • Activations and events, which include student fashion shows • Educational courses linked to Brindleyplace, focusing on such subjects as urban regeneration and the built environment • Occupier engagement to include mentoring and sponsorship opportunities for BCU students • A programme for schools that allows both Brindleyplace and BCU to share its knowledge and expertise with pupils from across the West Midlands Professor Harris Beider, BCU’s pro vice-chancellor for engagement, enterprise and innovation, said: “The fashion show

Working together (left to right): Lee Lapthorne, head of college for jewellery, fashion and textiles, Matt Long, senior asset manager Brindleyplace, and Prof Harris Beider

highlighted the value of working together to raise Birmingham’s profile and provide opportunities for our local businesses and creative industries.”

Matt Long, senior asset manager for Praxis at Brindleyplace, said “Brindleyplace has stood the test of

time and remains a fine example of mixed-use development, but this year will see the start of several regeneration projects and major investment in our buildings.

“It is the ideal time for us to cement our relationship with a best-in-class university offering

urban regeneration courses locally.”

Professor Beider added: “Working with Brindleyplace will allow us to not only help shape the city’s future but also enable the university to achieve its goal to power prosperity in the region.”

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Chamber members are legal stars A number of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) members featured among the winners at Birmingham Law Society awards, labelled “the most difficult year to judge”.

Shoosmiths, Bevan Brittan, Gateley, Weightmans, No.5 Barristers’ Chambers and Trowers & Hamlins were among those in the spotlight at the 23rd Legal Awards the ICC. The glittering ceremony was hosted by Birmingham-based broadcaster PJ Ellis.

Richard Port, president of Birmingham Law Society, said: “This has perhaps been the most difficult year to judge in the history of the Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards, due to the record number of outstanding entrants.

“After careful deliberation, we are thrilled to have shortlisted 64 individuals and firms across 14 categories.

“The West Midlands and Birmingham continues to be home to some of the most influential and innovative legal professionals, and it’s an honour to recognise their exceptional achievements.

“The Birmingham Law Society is incredibly proud to celebrate this success at our prestigious awards ceremony.”

Sixty-four individuals and firms were shortlisted across the 14 categories. Among the winners, Becca Horley, of Shoosmiths LLP, fought off fierce competition in her category to be recognised as Solicitor of the Year 2025. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Claire Darley of FBC Manby Bowdler.

• See the Future Faces on pages on 60 and 61 for a full profile on Becca Horley.

FULL LIST OF WINNERS Outstanding Student Contribution of the Year 2025 Gurpreet Chaggar - The College of Legal Practice Apprentice of the Year 2025 Tyla Glover - Bevan Brittan LLP Trainee Solicitor of the Year 2025 Alexandra Hill - Trowers & Hamlins LLP Paralegal of the Year 2025 Tabitha Butler - Weightmans LLP Legal PA of the Year 2025 Claire Hanke - Veale Wasbrough Vizards LLP Solicitor of the Year 2025 Becca Horley - Shoosmiths LLP

Partner of the Year 2025 Matthew Giles - Squire Patton Boggs (UK) LLP In-House Lawyer of the Year 2025 Baljinder Singh Atwal - West Midlands Police Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award 2025 Gateley Legal Pro Bono Award 2025 Lottie Millington - Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP Law Firm of the Year 2025 (1-49 Employees) Spencer Shaw Solicitors

Junior Barrister of the Year 2025 (10 Years’ Call and Under) Sioned Davies - No5 Barristers’ Chambers

Law Firm of the Year 2025 (50+ Employees) Gateley Legal

Barrister of the Year 2025 (Over 10 Years’ Call) Michelle Heeley KC - No5 Barristers’ Chambers

Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 Claire Darley - FBC Manby Bowdle

Pick-up drivers face April tax hike Businesses and employees need to act fast to get ahead of the removal of a tax break for double-cab pick-ups which could leave them up to £8,000 worse off, Prime Accountants has warned.

Popular vehicles such as the Nissan Navara and Ford Ranger have historically been classed as commercial vehicles by the government, meaning they have enjoyed significant benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax breaks.

The previous government had announced plans to reverse this tax break but performed a U-turn following a backlash from industries including logistics and farming.

However, from the start of April 2025, the new government has reintroduced the rule which will see them reclassified as cars – a move which was in the small print of the 2024 Autumn Budget.

The changes come in from 1 April for corporation tax purposes and 6 April for income tax purposes – so anyone renewing leases and taking delivery of a new double cab before then will still benefit from four more years of the current rules.

Analysis carried out by Paislei Godley, an associate director at Prime Accountants Group, says the change could be worth as much as £8,000 per vehicle, based on a cost from new of £33,500.

Paislei said that for a diesel Nissan Navara double-cab pick-up with an estimated list price of £33,500 and Co2 Act fast: Paislei Godley 18 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

emissions of 248g/km, the total benefits in kind would be £4,717 if classified as a van.

However, when the vehicle is recategorised as a car, the benefit in kind would be £22,681, costing a basicrate taxpayer £4,536 and a higher-rate taxpayer £9,072 – before a fuel benefit for the company car can be considered as well.

This would mean an overall increase in the tax burden of £3,593 for a lower-rate taxpayer, and £7,185 for a higher-rate taxpayer.

Prime, which has offices in Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull, works with clients across multiple industries who benefit from the historic tax break, such as farming, construction and logistics.

Paislei said: “This tax break is one which historically I’ve encouraged people to take advantage of, particularly if they work in an industry where they need a vehicle bigger than a regular car but smaller than a Transit-size van.

“The new rules are something of a double-whammy – a significant increase in taxation for employees, plus a reduction in the tax breaks available for businesses.

“Action is needed before 31 March, so if you’re renewing your double cab, you need to do it all and take delivery before then to benefit from another four years of the old rules, giving you time to make a decision on what vehicle is next.”

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New development: Ready in time for the Ashes

Hotel with new boundaries

E

dgbaston Stadium has been granted planning permission by Birmingham City Council for a major ground redevelopment project that will include a new on-site hotel.

Members of the planning committee unanimously approved the £42m scheme and work is expected to start in September and be complete in time for the men’s Ashes Test against Australia at Edgbaston in 2027.

The proposed 146-bed Radisson Red hotel will include a rooftop terrace, pitch-view rooms with balconies, and other rooms that can be converted into hospitality boxes with external terraces to watch the match action.

It is estimated that around 60,000 people will stay at the site each year.

And the redeveloped stand – which will have a slightly bigger capacity than the existing Raglan and Priory stands – will include a new concourse with enhanced food and drink options, plus improved facilities for disabled spectators.

Craig Flindall, Edgbaston strategy director, said: “We’re grateful to Birmingham City Council for approving the plans and for sharing our vision to bring increased economic and social benefits to the region through international sport. Cricket will always stay at the heart of our thinking. But it’s important we develop a stadium that operates all year round, supporting new jobs in this part of the city and creates wider community opportunities.

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Sleep easy: Night watchman accommodation

“We are creating a mixed-use destination that will combine elite sport, conferencing and events and residential and hotel accommodation with community facilities that will improve education, employment and social cohesion in the area.”

Edgbaston Stadium currently contributes approximately £35m to the local economy every year and projections from the new hotel development increase that to over £40m.

It’s expected the project will create more than 376 jobs during construction and another 100 post completion, adding to the 1,000 jobs the stadium already supports locally.

The decision follows detailed consultation with stakeholders, including residents and Warwickshire members. No formal

objections were received by Birmingham City Council’s Planning Committee.

‘It’s what I want to see for the West Midlands – growth that ensures everyone can benefit’ West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has supported the project with a loan of up to £18m.

Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Edgbaston is a world-class venue and this redevelopment, backed by our investment, will ensure it continues to attract top-tier international cricket, thousands of visitors every year, and even more jobs for local people.

“It’s what I want to see for the West Midlands – growth that ensures everyone can benefit.”

Adela Cristea, vice president, business development UK, Ireland & Nordics at Radisson Hotel Group, added: “Radisson RED is the perfect fit for this world-renowned stadium and we’re so excited to bring this project to life.

“We look forward to working closely with the Edgbaston team on the design and details of the hotel to showcase the bold and vibrant Radisson RED brand, and we are extremely proud to be playing a part in supporting the wider community.”

The project is the latest development in the Edgbaston Masterplan to transform the stadium into a multi-use sports, residential, commercial, and community complex.

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UK economy in surprise growth The UK economy confounded expectations as it grew by 0.1 per cent in the final three months of 2024.

And Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce have called on the Government to use the results as “a springboard to drive further growth”, with the Comprehensive Spending Review in Spring.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a 0.1 per cent rise in gross domestic product (GDP) during the fourth quarter, driven by a recovery for growth in services and manufacturing during December.

Inflation mounts and so do costs A rise in inflation to three per cent further adds to the mounting cost pressure facing businesses across the country, a Greater Birmingham business leader said.

The surprise 0.5 per cent increase in January took inflation to a 10-month high, according to data from the Office for National Statistics.

The ONS said plane fares, rising food costs and a sharp jump in private school fees all contributed to higher living costs.

Emily Stubbs, head of policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The rise only highlights the mounting cost pressures facing businesses across the country and the Chancellor's national insurance contribution increases will only add to the strain.”

Interest rate cut warning Businesses in Greater Birmingham welcomed the cut in interest rates to 4.5 per cent – but warned further action is needed to support firms.

The Bank of England’s monetary policy committee voted to cut interest rates by 0.25 per cent to provide some financial relief to borrowers.

However, the Bank also downgraded its 2025 growth forecasts made in November from 1.5 per cent to 0.75 per cent because of a fall in household and business confidence since the budget.

Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “It was pleasing to see the Bank of England take the proactive step of cutting rates as businesses continue to operate in an uncertain economic climate.”

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Businesses need the right support to grow West Midlands entrepreneurs need to be plugged into the right support in order to thrive, business leaders have warned.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s (GBCC) Quarterly Business Report launch for Q4 focused on supporting entrepreneurship in the region.

Delegates at Birmingham City University’s (BCU) Curzon Building heard that while there is a willingness to support new businesses, better “signposting” is needed to help those who are beyond the start-up stage.

Jude Jennison, whose firm Leaders By Nature delivers leadership and team development programmes using her herd of horses, believes businesses who are looking to scale up often struggle to access the right support.

Jude, who previously managed large teams and budgets at tech giants IBM before founding Leaders

By Nature, said: “What I find is there's usually quite a lot [of support] for start-ups.

“And there's a lot associated with universities. So, if you're starting up it's relatively easy -

Speakers (left to right): Raj Kandola, Jude Jennison, GBCC CEO Henrietta Brealey, Professor Harris Beider, pro vice-chancellor for engagement, enterprise and innovation at Birmingham City University, and David Mellor.

particularly if you're starting a tech business, and there are lots of investors around.

“If you've got something that's more bricks and mortar – or in my case fields and horses - it's much harder to get support.”

David Mellor, head of growth and incubation at BCU’s STEAMHouse, agreed that the “mechanics” could be improved to signpost firms.

He said: “It’s one of the challenges that we're trying to

address within BCU. As a broad ranging university, we get a lot of businesses that come from creative backgrounds.

“And it isn't just about five or six trades. They are great and, yes, they are key, but we need to make sure that we're dealing with the other 900 sectors.”

In terms of the regional business support landscape, he added: “I do think we have a very clear sense that it is Team West Midlands.”

...as they grapple with tax rises The impact of tax rises weighed heavily on Greater Birmingham businesses during the final quarter of 2024.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s (GBCC) Quarterly Business Report for Q4 reveals concerns among firms following business tax increases announced in the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget.

This led to a fall in recruitment activity and the significant increase in the number of companies expressing concerns over price pressures.

However, there were signs of resilience from the region’s businesses – with both domestic and export

activity picking up towards the end of the year.

The report, produced in partnership with Birmingham City University (BCU), revealed 47 per cent of firms increased their UK sales (up 7 per cent from Q3), although nearly one in five (19 per cent) reported a decrease.

Export activity, which lagged behind domestic sales throughout 2024, showed signs of improvement in Q4, with 33 per cent of companies reporting an increase in sales, custom and bookings - the highest level since Q2 2023.

National insurance rise to cost businesses A hike in National Insurance contributions will cost Greater Birmingham businesses an extra £200,000 a year, according to new data.

A Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) report reveals that the increases announced in the Autumn Budget will lead to more than a quarter of firms decreasing their recruitment activity over the next 12 months. And 70 per cent of businesses surveyed said the Budget will have a negative impact on them, with just 7 per cent expressing positive sentiment.

The report was compiled using additional data from the GBCC’s Q4

Quarterly Business Report survey.

More than half of surveyed companies are anticipating the need to increase customer prices.

When asked about interventions they would like to see from government to support business growth, firms said tax reductions, funding for skills training and support for innovation and technology adoption were their three priorities.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of GBCC, said: “The Autumn Budget landed as businesses across Greater Birmingham sought stability after years of political and economic uncertainty.

“Our data reflects growing concerns over rising National Insurance Contributions and changes to the National Living Wage which simply add to the ongoing cost pressures many firms have faced for a number of years.

“While local businesses continue to display a noticeable streak of resilience, moving forwards, many are calling for the government to commit to reforming the business taxation system in order to turbocharge growth and drive prosperity.”

To read the full report, go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com

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BUSINESS NEWS Funding boost for manufacturer will support new projects A Shropshire-based manufacturer with a proud 50-year heritage is embarking on a new chapter of growth after a securing a funding boost from Lloyds Bank.

Founded in 1992, Hornsey Steel Panels and Sections, which specialises in metal roofing panels and structural steel products, has been able to complete a state-ofthe-art manufacturing site to support a range of high-profile customer projects, including a Netflix film and television set.

With popular UK Netflix productions such as The Crown and Bridgerton captivating audiences worldwide, the firm’s custom solutions are proving invaluable to major industry players.

Most recently, Samuel Hornsey, who took over as company director when his father Mark stepped down in 2014, led the construction of a state-of-the-art, 24-bay facility, creating an operational space that is 2.5 times larger than its previous premises.

The development was made possible by a £1.5m Clean Growth Financing Initiative (CGFI) development loan from Lloyds, a product specifically tailored to support sustainable growth projects.

Forging a strong future thanks to investment A West Midlands manufacturer of steel forgings is looking to the future as it enters its 140th year following funding from business investment specialists UKSE. Brockhouse Forgings, based on Howard Street in West Bromwich, has secured a six-figure funding package from UKSE to support the company’s top line growth and expansion into new markets.

Established in 1885, Brockhouse Forgings manufacture and supply high quality, forged steel components to a range of industries including mining, oil and gas, railway, nuclear, automotive, and defence.

Boasting the largest range of forging equipment in the UK, the business will use the funding to generate new business of its closed die hammer and upset forgings.

The business employs 43 people with many generations of family members employed by Brockhouse Forgings over the past 140 years.

UKSE provides finance of up to £1m to support local businesses in the West Midlands area. UKSE’s equity finance package leaves the management team in control, patient capital from a supportive partner.

Rather than obtain funding from mainstream lenders, Brockhouse Forgings was introduced to UKSE

by Select Business Finance.

Established by Chris Jones in 2008, Select Business Finance is an independent commercial finance broker, helping business source a range of finance products,

as well as equity investment and grants.

Brockhouse Forgings director Steve Walters said: “UKSE have been very supportive throughout the whole process. It’s great to know that there is funding out there for the steel related industries.”

Bright future: (left to right): UKSE regional executive Mike Lowe, Brockhouse managing director Steve Walters and Select Business Finance founder Chris Jones

Training firm in new partnership A new partnership between Sutton Coldfield Training (SCT) and West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) will expand apprenticeship support.

The partnership enables eligible employers to access financial support for apprenticeships through the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Programme.

This collaboration will help businesses across the region upskill their workforce, bridging the gap between education and employment while fostering economic growth.

Through this initiative, Sutton Coldfield Training will assist businesses in navigating the apprenticeship funding process, ensuring that they can fully utilise the levy transfer to support apprenticeship costs.

This means more employers can invest in the training and development of their teams, helping to create a skilled and sustainable workforce for the future.

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Triumphant: The Crowne Plaza team

City centre hotel receives top prize at awards ceremony Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre was crowned Hotel of the Year at the annual Centre Island Hotel Awards.

Centre Island is the management group for nine Crowne Plaza hotels across the UK and the Birmingham City Centre hotel beat competition from across the country to win the top prize.

Sixteen members of the Crowne Plaza Birmingham

City Centre team attended the awards at Crowne Plaza Liverpool.

Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre won the award for the high standards of customer service, the quality of rooms and the hotel’s financial results.

The award comes weeks after Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre completed its £8m refurbishment.

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All the winners: A mass celebration at the awards

Firm dedicated to workforce wellbeing wins big at awards

A

n organisation that has “set the bar higher” to provide workplace wellbeing across the Midlands is the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) Business of the Year 2025.

The Listening Centre (TLC) Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Ltd was presented with the award in front of 1,000 guests at the ICC in central Birmingham after winning the Excellence in Customer Service category.

The Lichfield-based EAP has dedicated itself to maintaining and improving mental health and wellbeing since it was founded in 2002 by Sharon McCormick.

Its operations include counselling/talking therapy, mediation, clinical supervision, bespoke training, critical incident/trauma support and psychological assessment.

And last year TLC expertise was highlighted in a BBC Radio 4 ‘File on 4’ investigation into what defines a ‘Gold Standard’ Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

TLC was nominated by the British Association of Counselling Psychotherapy Programme (BACP) when they were approached by a BBC investigative journalist.

The programme aired in March, featuring founder Sharon, who narrated TLC’s best practices

The judges’ comments included: Mike Hopkins (principal at South & City College Birmingham): The nature of the business is clearly customer service-focused and a really good analysis and explanation of its success has been provided.

Justice Williams MBE (editor-in-chief and co-founder of Black Business Magazine): TLC exemplifies excellence in workplace wellbeing through proactive community involvement, tailored solutions, and outstanding service delivery. Their recognition by BACP as a “Gold Standard” provider and their ability to consistently impress clients and customers with rapid, empathetic support highlights their position as a leader in their field.

Strong testimonials and innovative solutions reinforce their candidacy for this award.

Double delight: Sharon McCormick (left) and Joanna Benbow

placing TLC firmly on the map.

TLC was portrayed as an exemplary example of how an EAP customer service should operate, providing “prompt, personalised, person-centred support that anticipates and exceeds our customer's needs, leaving both commissioners and employees feeling valued and understood at every interaction”.

TLC also featured in BBP Media and HR Magazine, providing valuable insights for HR managers on critical questions to ask when selecting the right EAP provider.

Sharon, also the owner and managing director of TLC, has worked in the counselling sector industry for 23 years and is a “life-

long student” of the latest research in the wellbeing arena and helping people adopt to a “traumainformed” approach to make “better sense of their lives experiences...”

In their submission to the judges, TLC said they were established to achieve one purpose: “...to demonstrably improve the health and wellbeing of everyone we engage and support”.

They added: “We deliver services that are highly regarded by our customers, trusted by service users and most importantly, provide incredible results giving a sound return on investment.

“An EAP provides confidential support to employees facing personal or professional challenges, offering services like counselling, legal advice, financial guidance, and

crisis intervention, aiming to improve employee wellbeing and productivity by addressing issues that might impact their work performance, all while maintaining confidentiality. At a time when many national EAPs fall short, we continue to set the bar higher, providing not only solutions to workplace wellbeing in the Midlands but doing so with integrity...”

The GBCC awards were hosted by broadcaster PJ Ellis. Headline sponsors were Birmingham City University and Group X. Entertainment was provided by Candy and The Sound, while PR agency Rewired were table décor sponsors.

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BUSINESS NEWS: AWARDS

Chamberlink reporting team: Dan Harrison, Jon Griffin, Darby Newman and Feron Jayawardene.

Pictures: Shaun Fellows.

President rewards ‘a force for good’ A McDonald’s franchisee and philanthropist has been commended by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president Nasir Awan for “using his business success as a force for good”.

Doug Wright, the owner of Wright Restaurants (t/a McDonalds) and chair of the Kids’ Village charity, received the President’s Award during the GBCC’s annual awards at the ICC in Birmingham.

Nasir paid tribute to the business success and charitable endeavours of Mr Wright, who employs just under 3,000 people at his McDonald’s restaurants across the region and is currently serving as High Sheriff of the West Midlands.

The president said: “Over the years, Doug worked his way up within the McDonald’s corporation, becoming a franchisee in 2002 with aspirations to own two restaurants.

“Today, he proudly manages one of McDonald’s largest franchised organisations, employing over 2,900 people and contributing more than £50 million annually to the West Midlands economy.

“His dedication to the brand has

earned him numerous accolades, including the title of ‘Global Franchisee of the Year’ in 2016.

“Doug is deeply committed to charity work, a passion sparked by a life-altering car crash at the age of 20 that left him partially paralyzed for three months.”

Mr Wright raised millions of pounds during his six years as chair of Ronald McDonald House in Birmingham.

In 2023, he was appointed chair of Kids’ Village, the Lichfield-based charity which is seeking to raise £5m to build the UK’s first holiday village providing respite care for sick children and their families.

Nasir added: “Doug also supports various organisations, including Birmingham Pride, Sense, Birmingham Hippodrome, and 15 grassroots football teams, and serves as a special adviser at Miss Macaroon.

“In his role as High Sheriff of the West Midlands, Doug has visited over 100 different organisations and charities since the beginning of his shrieval year, emphasising the importance of promoting social cohesion and reducing knife crime, among other community-focused

Honour: Doug Wright (left) and Nasir Awan.

initiatives. His commitment is to use his business success as a force for good.”

Mr Wright said: “It was extremely special to receive such a prestigious award from Nasir who I hold in such a high regard.

“I also took a moment to realise that many of my achievements have been GBCC-supported and championed by so many different

people since I became a patron.

“Congratulations to all of the award winners and thank you to everyone who has contributed to my success. Our city and collective wider region have so much to celebrate and the GBCC awards truly demonstrate the importance of business using our collective forces to influence the vitality and vibrancy of the West Midlands.”

With business ‘every step of the way’ – CEO Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has stood alongside businesses “every step of the way” during a dramatic 12 months of national and global developments, guests at the ICC were told.

Reflecting on some of the GBCC’s activities over the past year during her speech at the annual awards, chief executive Henrietta Brealey said: “What a year it’s been - from elections to the budget and some frankly unsettling messaging coming from the USA. “It’s been a lot to navigate as a business community. But here at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, we’ve stood alongside you every step of the way.

“We are a not-for-profit organisation that has been ‘in business, for business’ since 1813.

“Over just the past year, we’ve been proud to achieve some remarkable milestones.”

Ms Brealey said the Chamber had supported more than 200 businesses in protecting, commercialising and scaling their innovations, facilitated 900 introductions between members and supported 11 international trade missions to “put Greater Birmingham businesses on the global map”.

She added: “I think it’s pretty obvious - I absolutely love what I do, and I also love that I get to do it in this incredible region because I’m a bit of a Greater Birmingham superfan.”

Dramatic year: Henrietta Brealey 28 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

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BUSINESS NEWS: AWARDS

Full list of winners: Excellence in Contribution to the Community – sponsored by runyourfleet B:Music Excellence in Customer Service – sponsored by Birmingham Airport The Listening Centre EAP Ltd Excellence in Hospitality, Retail & Events - sponsored

by Translift Bendi Eventurous Excellence in Inclusive People Development - sponsored by Close Brothers Asset Management Birmingham Hospice Excellence in International Business - sponsored by Gowling WLG Solotech Excellence in Manufacturing – in partnership with JLR Translift Bendi

Promoting the region: West Midlands mayor Richard Parker

Henrietta praised for defying ‘Brum bashers’ West Midlands mayor Richard Parker praised the CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce for her defence of Birmingham following a “damaging” national newspaper article.

‘I was so disappointed that there was a politically motivated article in The Times that was damaging to this region and very critical of it’ Speaking at the Chamber’s annual awards at the ICC, the mayor referenced an article in The Times from 10 February which was fiercely critical of the city.

Chamber CEO Henrietta Brealey used her column in last week’s Birmingham Post to dismiss the “Brum bashing” and highlight the many positives about Birmingham.

Mr Parker said: “ The theme of promoting this region and driving it forward is critical to our success and we all need to do better at it.

“And that's why I was so disappointed that there was a politically motivated article in The Times that was damaging to this region and very critical of it.

“And it's also why I was so pleased to read Henrietta's riposte in the Birmingham Post that dealt more than adequately with the issues raised in that article.

“Henrietta - on behalf of all of us in this room, I think you deserve a massive round of applause.”

Excellence in Sales & Marketing - sponsored by Pyvital Lichfield Garrick Theatre Excellence in Sustainability sponsored by South & City College Birmingham Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre Excellence in Technology & Innovation – in partnership with Birmingham City University Empro Business Group Ltd Excellence in Third Sector – in partnership with Wesleyan Roshni Birmingham Excellence in Training & Education - sponsored by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group Birmingham City University Greater Birmingham Business of the Year - sponsored by Crowe UK LLP The Listening Centre EAP Ltd

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Business showcase: Delegates and exhibitors at a business fair

Community theme at Sutton The Royal Business Fair - Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce’s biggest networking event of the year - is returning this summer with a new host venue and fresh theme.

The 2025 Business Fair, taking place on Tuesday, 24 June, at the Gracechurch Centre in Sutton Coldfield Town Centre, is centred around the theme of “Community”.

The fair is an opportunity to meet and network with fellow businesses, showcase any company to a highly-engaged audience, engage and learn through seminars and workshops and boost visibility.

Charlie Elliott, head of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber, said: “The Royal Business Fair 2025 is all about community – bringing

Dealmaker gets promotion Tom Joy has been promoted to corporate finance director at PKF Smith Cooper, his fourth promotion in a sevenyear career at the company, after playing an “instrumental” role in building the firm’s dealmaking reputation in the West Midlands.

After joining the firm in 2017 as a corporate finance senior executive, Tom has assisted and advised on a wide variety of deals including company acquisitions and disposals, management buyouts, fundraising and strategic reviews.

He has developed specialist expertise in automotive, technology, telecommunications and selfstorage and provides high intensity deal management to deliver successful outcomes for all his clients.

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businesses together to connect, support, and grow.

“With this year’s move to the Gracechurch Centre, we’re creating an even more accessible and visible space for local businesses to showcase what they do and build meaningful relationships.

“This fresh approach reflects our commitment to fostering a thriving business community, and I’m excited to see how this new setting helps the event flourish.

“It’s going to be a fantastic day of collaboration, networking, and celebrating the strength of our local businesses.”

A spokesperson for the Gracechurch Centre said: “We're excited to host this year’s Royal

Business Fair in partnership with Royal Sutton Coldfield and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

“The Chamber is full of inspiring organisations and we’re delighted to bring this energy to the centre in June.

“We thank the Chamber for inviting us to participate in this way and we're pleased to play our role at the heart of the town to support local businesses.”

Businesses interested in exhibiting at the Royal Business Fair can take advantage of an earlybird exhibition stand offer at: greaterbirminghamchambers.com Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Office manager up for award A vital member of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) team who “works tirelessly to make the Chamber a great place to work” has earned a nomination in the West Midlands PA Awards.

Kate Warnaby, who is executive assistant to CEO Henrietta Brealey as well as being office manager at the GBCC’s headquarters, is a finalist in the Office Manager of the Year category.

The awards, operated by the PA Forum, take place on Friday, 11 July.

‘She really is the heart of the team and works tirelessly to make the Chamber a great place to work’ Kate joined the GBCC in 2019, having spent many years working in the arts sector, including 14 years as executive assistant to the artistic director and CEO at Birmingham’s Hippodrome theatre.

Kate also leads on a number of wider Chamber initiatives, including the Environmental Social Governance group.

She was also instrumental in co-ordinating the move from Chamber House to new offices at 54 Hagley Road in November, 2023.

Heart of Chamber: Kate Warnaby

Henrietta Brealey said: “A huge congratulations to Kate. She really is the heart of the team and works tirelessly to make the Chamber a great place to work, whether it’s leading our approach to Environmental Social Governance, team engagement or managing and maintaining the office.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Mohsin’s efforts are exam-plary Mohsin Sadiq, audit associate at PKF Smith Cooper, has been praised for his dedication and hard work, after going the extra mile to sit his accounting exams while in New York due to exam cancellations in the UK. The corporate reporting exam, the first of three ICAEW exams Mohsin was scheduled to sit in Birmingham last November, was cancelled due to internet and IT problems, as well as the second exam the next day being moved to Leicester.

‘I was determined to pass and make my family and colleagues proud’ Audit trainees then had the choice to either attend the rescheduled date in two weeks’ time or defer until the summer. Like a few other candidates, Mohsin was unable to make the rescheduled exam date, as he was taking a break visiting family in New York after taking back-to-back exams for almost 18 months.

After a long period of commitment to the exams and studying in his office during after work hours for months, Mohsin was determined to sit the exam. He was assisted by PKF Smith Cooper operations partner Selma Delic, who used her international connections within the PKF Global network of firms to arrange for Mohsin to sit the exam in New York.

Selma contacted PKF O’Connor Davies in New York, where Mohsin was able to sit the exam in one of the office meeting rooms.

Mohsin received a tremendous amount of support from his team at PKF Smith Cooper and the firm’s training and compliance director Greg Whiting, who communicated directly with the highest contact possible at ICAEW and ensured Mohsin could sit his exam in a different country and time zone.

Despite sitting his exams under challenging and stressful circumstances, Mohsin found out in December that he had successfully passed.

He said: “Sitting for an exam abroad in New York while on

Moshin Sadiq

holiday under unfortunate circumstances was incredibly stressful. However, the unwavering support from Greg and my colleagues in the office motivated me to persevere.

“I was determined to pass and make my family and colleagues proud. I am extremely thankful for the support I received, and for the global reach of the PKF network.”

Lee Arrowsmith, audit manager at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “The team and I are extremely proud of Mohsin and what he has achieved.

He was able to remain positive and optimistic, and not only complete his exam under challenging circumstances but also pass.

“Despite the unfortunate timing of the exams, this situation is a great testament to Mohsin’s hard work.”

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186 Drews Lane, Ward End, Birmingham, West Midlands B8 2SL 0121 773 5444 | enquiries@leemarkspinnings.co.uk | www.leemarkspinnings.co.uk March 2025 CHAMBERLINK 31

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BUSINESS NEWS

Survey to assess areas of growth A barometer of British manufacturing business will give a clear picture of which way the wind is blowing for one of the UK’s most vital sectors.

National audit, tax, advisory and consulting firm Crowe has launched its annual Manufacturing Outlook Survey, in conjunction with CBM, the Confederation of British Metalforming.

The survey is running until Wednesday, 9 April, and will gauge the opinion of those who work in the industry on key issues.

Johnathan Dudley, partner and head of manufacturing at Crowe, said: “If the government is serious about going for growth, then they need to understand the very real problems facing UK business at present.

“Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our GDP, and it has been proven time and time again that when manufacturing is strong, the UK economy is in a good place.

“This survey seeks to throw light on both the day-to-day problems and the long term strategic decisions that manufacturing businesses are facing.”

The short multiple-choice survey will assess opinions on key issues including: • Skills and education • Investment, digitisation and innovation • Energy, decarbonisation and the route to net zero • Supply chain strategy and security • Access to finance and funding.

The manifesto argues that successive governments have been listening to the wrong voices.

Jonathan said: “Without manufacturing, the country would not have goods to trade and the foundations of the UK’s financial services and legal sectors, so often vaunted as the main driver of the economy by economists and news media, would suffer in both volume and global relevance.”

The survey can be accessed at crowe1.co.uk and further information is available from johnathan.dudley@crowe.co.uk

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Major milestone as giant HS2 junction is completed The first huge viaduct has been completed at HS2’s Delta Junction in North Warwickshire, marking a major milestone as construction ramps up on the high-speed line in the region.

A team of 40 people working for HS2’s contractor in the Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI, used a giant cantilever structure to build the 472-metre single-track River Tame West Viaduct. It is the first time in the UK that the technique has been deployed - moving the concrete segments into place span-by-span, making it an efficient and flexible construction process.

Work started on the viaduct’s piers in 2023, followed by the concrete deck construction starting in early 2024. Since then, 190 precast concrete viaduct segments have been lifted into place using the specialist cantilever technique.

The River Tame West Viaducts will carry three rail tracks in total, made up of one single track viaduct and one double-track viaduct. Work is now underway on the double-track viaduct.

These precast segmental viaducts are located at the northern tip of the Delta Junction – the triangular section of the railway that enables trains to run between London, Birmingham and the north. In total, Delta Junction is made of 13 viaducts and more than 10kms of track to carry HS2 over rivers, existing rail lines, local roads and motorways.

Sam Hinkley, lead senior project manager for Delta Junction at HS2 Ltd, said: “The completion of the River Tame West single-track viaduct is a big milestone for the Delta Junction team. In this very complex construction area, we’re building a network of 13 viaducts to

carry new high-speed trains over motorways, existing rail lines, rivers and floodplains.

“Nearly 10,000 people in the West Midlands are delivering this world-class engineering, which will lay the foundations for Britain’s future rail network.”

In this location HS2 is also building the single-track River Tame East Viaduct. In addition, two Water Orton Viaducts are being built on either side of the River Tame West Viaducts, making it one of the most complex sections of the HS2 railway.

Used in the UK for the first time, the specialist cantilever method is being used to build nine of the 13 viaducts in Delta Junction, totalling 6,500 metres in length. The process installs pre-cast concrete segments produced at HS2’s nearby factory at Lea Marston.

First time: A construction process new to the UK was used

Inspector Morse to hit the stage A new production in which Tom Chambers will play the detective in Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts has been unveiled by Birmingham Rep. This new show will open at The Rep on Thursday, 28 August, to Sunday, 14 September, ahead of a major UK tour.

Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts marks the first major stage adaptation of the iconic detective.

ITV’s long-running Inspector Morse, hailed by Radio Times as “The greatest British crime series of all time”, has inspired equally beloved spin-offs, Lewis and Endeavour.

Starring Tom Chambers (Father Brown, Strictly Come Dancing) as

Thrilled: Tom Chambers

Inspector Morse, this original story was written for the stage.

This chilling mystery begins

when a young actress suddenly dies on stage during a performance, and Detective Chief Inspector Morse embarks on a gripping investigation.

Tom Chambers says: “I am absolutely thrilled to be bringing to the stage the nationally loved character of Inspector Morse.

“Played by John Thaw in the TV series, it is an iconic role which audiences clearly loved alongside the Morse murder mysteries.

“This brand-new production is a tantalising tale, rich in story and character and even unpicks some of Morse’s closely guarded personal life.

‘It’s going to be a fabulous evening of entertainment.”

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Nighttime economy gets boost Birmingham’s nighttime economy has received a major boost after 2,000 NTE professionals, including global leaders, visited the city for a two-day summit hosted at Hockley Social Club.

Organised by the Night Time Industries Association, the Night Time Economy Summit (NTES) 2025 welcomed representatives from industries and sectors including arts, culture, entertainment, event management, local government, media, music, NTE, policymaking, and venues.

The event – Europe’s biggest gathering of the NTE community – was opened by Silvana Kill, chief operating officer for the NTIA, and Birmingham City Council cabinet member for digital, culture, heritage and tourism, Cllr Saima Suleman, alongside a video message from Jess Phillips, MP for Yardley, Birmingham.

‘In spite of the challenges we have faced over the past five years, the night time industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability’ Alongside showcasing the 10,000 sq ft former industrial print works turned cultural and nightlife centre Hockley Social Club, NTES led to a mid-week uplift for the city’s bars, hotels, restaurants, and transport systems.

The boost to Birmingham’s visitor economy was complemented by a significant number of summit discussions on NTE policymaking with local and regional authorities.

Licensing barrister and NTIA board member Philip Kolvin KC, and Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, also delivered keynote speeches, with the mayor meeting delegates and exhibitors to understand the challenges the UK and region’s NTE currently faces.

Jack Brabant, founder-director of Hockley Social Club, said: “In spite of the challenges we

Dains partner with cloud expert Dains accountants has forged a new partnership with Xero, the global small business platform renowned for its cloud-based accounting software.

For years, Dains has utilised Xero to deliver reliable and efficient cloud-based accounting services to clients.

This partnership builds on that established relationship, positioning Dains as a leader in smarter financial solutions and strengthening its ability to support clients with innovative technology, seamless integration, and expert guidance.

The Dains and Xero partnership marks a new chapter in delivering smarter financial management solutions, making it easier than ever for clients to optimise processes, enhance decision-making, and strengthen their business.

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Night-time challenges: Delegates debate the issues during the two-day conference

have faced over the past five years, the night time industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability.

“The Night Time Economy Summit has only served to further highlight our collective power.

However, we cannot rely on that alone.

“Almost 2,000 NTE businesses in the city have closed since 2020. To secure long-term security, recovery and growth, there is a need for greater engagement and support from government at a regional and national level.”

The six-stage event also provided the opportunity for the world’s largest gathering of NTE professionals from across the globe, with around 50 representatives from Argentina, Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Republic of Ireland, Romania, Spain, Ukraine, USA in attendance.

Other national and international industry bodies represented included the Association for

Electronic Music, Attitude Is Everything, International Nightlife Association, Music Managers Forum, Music Venue Trust, PRS Foundation, Sound Diplomacy, VibeLab, and the UK Crowd Management Association.

Jack added: “As a Birmingham-based business that has been part of the NTE for more than a decade, we have experienced firsthand the knock-on effect that a lack of support can have.

“It impacts not only the venue operators but also the local communities we serve – musicians, performers, hospitality workers, food traders, local suppliers, and more.

“The night time economy is a fundamental part of the UK’s social, economic and cultural fabric, and it is vital we have the necessary backing to continue to thrive as an industry.

“We were delighted to have been able to facilitate national and international debates on these mission-critical issues.”

Holmes Christmas caper to premiere at Birmingham Rep Birmingham Rep has announced the world premiere of Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas from Friday 14 November, 2025 to Sunday 11 January, 2026.

The new comedy whodunnit is written by Humphrey Ker and David Reed, stars and creators of the award-winning comic troupe The Penny Dreadfuls.

Sherlock Holmes and The Twelve Days of Christmas also features original songs by the legendary musical theatre duo Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Co-writer: Humphrey Ker

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A Gladiator for women

By Feron Jayawardene British athlete and TV personality Karenjeet Kaur Bains, more widely known as Athena from the hit BBC hit series Gladiators, has revealed how she is inspiring a new generation of female athletes.

Karenjeet was the keynote speaker at an International Women’s Day event, staged in partnership with the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and supported by Connected Places Catapult.

Guests were welcomed by ABCC president Omar Rashid, who spoke about this year’s International Women’s Day theme of Accelerate Action. The Q&A session was hosted by ABCC vice president Sapreena Kumari The debate was in the background of figures from the World Economic Forum stating that it will take until 2158, roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity.

A trailblazer in powerlifting and television, Karenjeet has made history as the first South Asian woman to feature on Gladiators.

Her journey, shaped by a strong sporting heritage and unwavering

determination, is now inspiring a new generation of female athletes.

She said: “My dad, a humble powerlifter, coached me from a young age, while my mum came from a family of wrestling champions. I was determined to make my mark.”

Growing up, she was inspired by her older twin brothers’ speed on the track. “Watching them run fast made me want to be just like them. My parents encouraged me to chase my dreams,.”

That drive led her into athletics, but at 17, she found her true passion – powerlifting.

“You don’t need anything fancy – just passion and the drive to push your limits. For me, the limit doesn’t exist – it’s always about reaching the next level.”

This mindset helped her break barriers, culminating in her history-making role on Gladiators, as the first woman of South Asian heritage.

She continued: “Representation matters. Breaking barriers and smashing glass ceilings takes us one step closer to female empowerment.

“When I started, there were very few female powerlifters, but now, more women compete than men. Access to sports is growing, and I want to help open the floodgates for young girls.

I want to make it easier for women to succeed in sport.”

‘You don’t need anything fancy - just passion and the drive to push your limits’

Top: All attendees strike the signature Accelerate Action pose Above: Karenjeet Kaur Bains Right: Omar Rashid, Neelam Afzal, Karenjeet Kaur Bains, Sapreena Kumari, Anjum Khan and Lillian Elekan Pictures: Edwin Ladd, Edwin Media 36 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

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Lawyer boxes clever in and out of ring A Midlands law firm is set to play a role in helping one of its trainee solicitors take the next step in his professional boxing career. mfg Solicitors are supporting trainee corporate solicitor Oscar McCracken – dubbed ‘Oscar De La Lawyer’ - who recorded his fifth professional victory at the Holiday Inn near Birmingham Airport when the welterweight beat Shane Smith over four rounds.

The 25-year-old began his two-year training contract at mfg Solicitors in September 2024 and when he qualifies in 2026, the former University of Worcester student will become the UK’s first ever qualified solicitor and boxer.

‘To have the backing from all my colleagues at mfg Solicitors really does make it extra special for me’ Oscar, based at the firm’s Birmingham office, comes from a respected boxing family.

His father is a former professional boxer and current trainer, and his uncle Rob McCracken CBE is credited for training

champions such as Anthony Joshua and Carl Froch.

Oscar said: “It means so much that the firm has chosen to support me for my next fight. Boxing is in my blood but I’m also committed to having a successful legal career and I’m loving my training contract so far.

“To have the backing from all my colleagues at mfg Solicitors really does make it extra special for me. I couldn’t be happier to be part of such a fantastic firm.”

Clare Lang, partner at mfg Solicitors, said: “Oscar has made a big impact since he joined us last year and is showing real promise. We love that he has such a unique story and we are all fully behind his boxing career.

“Sponsoring this fight was a part of our support for him and we were delighted to see him extend his unbeaten record.”

Attracting national attention for his unusual career path, the trainee lawyer has taken on the nickname ‘Oscar De La Lawyer’ – partly in homage to the great multi-weight fighter Oscar De La Hoya, who he is named after.

Clear verdict: Oscar McCracken

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Workshop secures funding A custom workshop has secured funding from British Business Bank’s start-up loans programme to kick-start the promotion of their work as well as creating prototypes.

Worcester-based Black Pear Bespoke, which offers handmade furniture inspired by sustainable materials, has been awarded £9,000 from the bank’s First Enterprise Enterprise Loans service.

Black Pear Bespoke commissions each piece individually to perfectly match the interior design for the customer and provides a collaborative approach to furniture design using materials such as oak, ash and walnut teamed with brass and steel.

Founder Nicholas Munn began his career after completing an industrial design degree at Loughborough University.

After more than 20 years in the industry, Nicholas is returning to his roots with quality and good design being at the heart of everything that he makes.

The funding from First Enterprise will be used to invest in new prototypes ND design a new website and for advertising.

First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans provides business loans ranging from £500 - £150,000, which are funded through several regional funds, for start-ups and SMEs that are unable to borrow from traditional high-street lenders.

Haven: The Kids’ Village logo

Kids’ Village gets boost from designer outlet McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands has selected Kids’ Village as its 2025 charity partner, building on the success of its 2024 fundraising campaign for local charities.

Kids’ Village is the UK’s first holiday village dedicated to providing magical escapes for children with critical illnesses and their families.

This partnership marks a significant milestone as McArthurGlen’s first dual-centre collaboration, joining forces with McArthurGlen East Midlands to make an even greater impact across the region.

Kids’ Village will aim to create a haven where children and families can escape the pressures of illness and create cherished memories.

Founded by the Fletcher family after their own experience with childhood cancer, Kids’ Village understands the profound impact a relaxing and supportive environment can have on families facing these challenges.

David Jackson, centre manager at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands, said: “We are incredibly proud to partner with Kids’ Village in 2025.

Their work is truly inspiring, supporting children and families in need.

“As McArthurGlen’s first dual-centre charity partnership, this marks an exciting milestone for us.

“We are thrilled to be able to collaborate with both our East and West Midlands centres and our communities to make a real impact alongside Kids’ Village, not just locally, but across the region.”

Katrina Cooke, CEO of Kids’ Village, said: “We are thrilled to have been selected as the 2025 charity partner for McArthurGlen at their East Midlands and West Midlands designer outlets.

“A big thank you to the McArthurGlen centres for their support in fundraising for our capital build project, and in spreading awareness about our special project.”

High Sheriff backs rehabilitation scheme A pilot scheme designed to help rehabilitate women who have entered the criminal justice system break the cycle of reoffending has received praise from the High Sheriff of the West Midlands.

Doug Wright visited Birmingham Magistrates Court to learn about the Intensive Supervision Courts (ISC), a pilot launched in the city.

The programme began in June 2023 and aims to support women who enter the criminal justice system due to mental health issues, addiction or domestic abuse.

Instead of custodial sentences, women aged 18 and over who are at risk of immediate custody are offered intensive orders, which means their sentence can be served in the community rather than in prison.

Among Doug’s duties as High Sheriff is supporting and championing the work of the judiciary system.

He handed out High Sheriff Awards to those involved in delivering the scheme.

He said: “I was encouraged to hear that early insights show positive engagement from participants, with many achieving employment and integrating back into society.

“The collaborative approach of this new team and their agency partners has already received national recognition for its impact.

“I had the honour of presenting High Sheriff Awards to recognise the outstanding contributions of those involved in this brilliant pilot scheme.”

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Recognised: Doug Wright with recipients of High Sheriff Awards

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New heights: The R&Co team

Record growth and award for PR agency A West Midlands PR agency is celebrating another record year in which it generated its biggest fee income and scooped its first national award.

R&Co Communications, which has offices in Birmingham and Leamington Spa, followed up growth of more than 30 per cent in 2023 with a further 39 per cent spike in fee income in 2024.

In the last calendar year, the agency won three awards including its first national prize, the PR Campaign of the Year at the Veterinary Marketing Association (VMA) Awards in London.

R&Co also picked up the Low Budget Campaign Award at the Midlands PRCA Dare Awards in Birmingham, alongside the Small Consultancy of the Year – its first whole-agency award.

Both the VMA and Low Budget Campaign prizes recognised the agency’s work raising awareness of Alabama Rot, a rare dog disease, with clients Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists and Mars Petcare-owned Linnaeus, one of the UK’s biggest veterinary groups.

As well as a rapidly-filling trophy cabinet, R&Co successfully expanded its social media and search engine optimisation (SEO) departments in 2024 with new team members and clients.

New SEO clients included 80-year-old Worcestershire logistics experts Marshall’s Transport; growing Buckinghamshire fulfilment firm e2b and European pallet poolers IPP – a media relations client of the agency for nearly a decade.

The team also grew by three, with the addition of social media account director Kirstie Robinson, SEO account director Jack Stocking and social media account manager Joe Tabb.

Peter Robinson, managing director at R&Co, said: “We have enjoyed another landmark year at R&Co, based on hard work, quality recruitment and delivering results for clients who trust us to go the extra mile for them.

“When we rebranded the company from Newsline PR to R&Co in 2022, it was to reflect our ambition to offer all communications services under one roof.

“That ambition has now turned into reality, with growing specialist teams offering new and expanded digital marketing services to our clients.

“As well as our first SEO-only clients – a landmark in itself for R&Co – the outstanding work delivered before 2024 was reflected in three award wins, including our first national prize and first whole-agency award.

“We look forward to seeing where 2025 takes us. With the ambition and hard work this team offers, the sky is the limit.”

For more information about R&Co, search for R&Co Communications on social media.

‘When we rebranded the company from Newsline PR to R&Co in 2022, it was to reflect our ambition to offer all communications services under one roof’ 42 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

Experience: Paul Faulkner (right) with David Colcombe and Elisabeth Lewis-Jones

Former Chamber boss joins Liquid Liquid, the Birmingham-based communications consultancy, has appointed former Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) chief executive Paul Faulkner as senior counsel.

Paul has held high-profile leadership positions across both the corporate and sports sectors.

Liquid says the appointment reinforces its commitment to strengthening the leadership team and enhancing the firm’s ability to serve clients worldwide.

Liquid is an integrated communications agency offering social, digital, design and PR services, representing clients from all over the world.

The company has offices in Birmingham and Brisbane, as well as multiple industry awards, including a PR Week “Best Agency Outside London”.

Paul brings over two decades’ experience in leadership, governance and stakeholder management.

He has held key roles including chief executive officer at Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest Football Clubs, as well as at GBCC. He is also the co-founder of Element45, an advisory business that provides board-level support and leadership services.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Paul has demonstrated a strong

commitment to civic and charitable initiatives.

He has been actively involved with several charities and sports organisations, including as a trustee for Kids' Village, a charity that provides respite breaks for sick children and their families.

In 2024, Paul was honoured with the Brummie of the Year award at the Birmingham Awards for his outstanding contributions to the local community.

He said: "I am delighted to be working with Liquid in this senior advisory capacity. I’ve known and admired the business leaders Elisabeth Lewis-Jones and David Colcombe for many years and have always been impressed by both the quality of work the team delivers and the scale of their ambition.

“Liquid may be based in the heart of Birmingham, but it has always operated on a global scale and demonstrated serious ambition, especially with its expansion into Australia.

“The agency is now at a pivotal moment in its journey, and I’m excited to collaborate with Lis, David, and the wider team to help shape and execute their next phase of growth."

Elisabeth said: “Liquid’s expansion into new markets and its growing client base make this the perfect time for Paul to join the team.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

March 2025 CHAMBERLINK 43

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BUSINESS NEWS ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Empowering Your Business with Tailored Software Solutions In today’s business landscape, many organisations assume that off-the-shelf software is the safest and most cost-effective option.

But as businesses grow, they often find themselves battling inefficiencies, disjointed systems, and operational bottlenecks. The reality is that custom software doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. In fact, modular and scalable solutions allow businesses to invest in only what they need—making tailored software an adaptable and cost-effective alternative.

Modular software: adaptable and cost-effective

Customer portals: transparency made simple

The common misconception is that custom software comes with high costs and lengthy development cycles. However, modular software changes this narrative. Businesses can implement essential features first and expand functionality as requirements evolve.

For instance, a company might start with a simple system for tracking resources, later integrating predictive analytics, dynamic pricing, or compliance tracking. This incremental approach keeps upfront costs low while delivering immediate value.

Adopting modular, scalable software enables businesses to reduce IT costs by optimising resources and streamlining updates. A study by Flexera found that effective Software Asset Management strategies can cut software costs by up to 30%." (Flexera)

Today’s customers expect seamless, tech-enabled interactions. A welldesigned customer portal provides a centralised platform for managing bookings, tracking orders, or accessing personalised services—all with realtime updates.

Imagine empowering your customers with self-service tools while reducing the burden on your internal teams. Whether it’s order tracking or secure document access, customer portals enhance satisfaction, build trust, and improve operational efficiency.

Tailored customer portals offer cost-effective solutions and integrate seamlessly with existing systems, ensuring customers' most frequent needs are met. According to Salesforce's State of the Connected Customer report, 88% of customers say the experience a company provides is as important as its products or services, while 78% expect consistent interactions across departments." (Salesforce)

Best practice tip: Work with your software provider to identify a scalable, modular strategy that fits your current and future needs without overcommitting on costs.

Best practice tip: Prioritise simplicity in your portal design—focus on features that directly enhance the customer experience while reducing manual intervention for your team.

Scalable ERP systems: one solution for growth Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems unify operations across departments, enabling businesses to streamline processes, improve decisionmaking, and scale efficiently. When enhanced with vendor scoring and additional features, ERP systems provide a comprehensive view of both operations and supplier performance.

Modern ERP systems are highly scalable, allowing businesses to tailor their setup without a full system overhaul. Instead, companies can add features incrementally, keeping costs manageable while ensuring long-term flexibility.

Much like a well-conducted orchestra where each instrument plays its part to create harmony, an ERP system ensures that every department functions in sync—delivering seamless efficiency and precision.

Seamless workflows for complex projects Businesses managing large-scale projects often experience delays due to communication gaps or inefficient processes. Custom software streamlines workflows by automating repetitive tasks such as compliance tracking, resource scheduling, and bid management.

For example, automating bid evaluations and integrating them with project management tools can save valuable time while ensuring transparency. Similarly, consolidating workflows across teams ensures everyone operates from the same, real-time data—reducing errors and unnecessary delays. Much like a relay race where smooth handovers are crucial to success, well-integrated workflows ensure that projects progress seamlessly, reducing inefficiencies and keeping operations on track.

Custom workflows are not just for large enterprises; tailored solutions can fit various budgets and team sizes. In the UK construction industry, project delays remain a persistent challenge. According to a 2022 survey by Cornerstone Projects, 91% of construction professionals reported experiencing project delays, while 28% stated that more than half of their projects had been delayed. These setbacks often lead to increased costs and extended delivery times. Implementing customised workflows can improve communication, streamline project management, and reduce unnecessary delays. (Cornerstone Projects)

Best practice tip: Start small by automating specific processes, then expand as you see the benefits. Workflow improvements often pay for themselves by reducing labour hours and accelerating project timelines.

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Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system can significantly enhance organisational performance. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems enhance operational efficiency and streamline processes. According to The Manufacturer, UK businesses implementing ERP systems report increased productivity and improved supply chain visibility (The Manufacturer). The report highlights that many respondents experienced positive outcomes post-implementation, underscoring the value of ERP solutions in streamlining operations and facilitating informed decisionmaking.

Best practice tip: Choose a modular ERP system that grows with your business. This ensures scalability without unnecessary expenses.

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BUSINESS NEWS Seamless integration: bridging off-the-shelf tools with custom modules Many businesses rely on off-the-shelf software for day-to-day operations.

However, integrating these systems with bespoke modules creates a unified ecosystem that addresses unique challenges. Custom integrations allow legacy systems, cloud applications, and industry-specific tools to work together seamlessly improving efficiency and reducing manual data transfers.

Companies that integrate custom solutions with standard software experience higher operational efficiencies and fewer data silos. This approach preserves the reliability of off-the-shelf products while unlocking innovations that redefine customer and operational experiences.

Best practice tip: Identify critical integration points where custom modules can enhance your existing systems, eliminating redundancies and streamlining data flow.

Futureproofing with adaptable solutions In an unpredictable business environment, adaptability is key. Much like a chameleon seamlessly adjusting to its surroundings, businesses must evolve with changing markets, customer expectations, and emerging technologies.

Custom software ensures organisations remain resilient by enabling realtime monitoring, automating compliance processes, and offering predictive insights.

Investing in adaptable technologies is crucial for long-term resilience. A report by TechMarketView highlights that UK businesses prioritising flexible and scalable software solutions can better respond to shifting market conditions and accelerate digital transformation." (TechMarketView)

Best practice tip: Regularly review software capabilities to ensure they align with growth plans and market changes. Futureproofing means building tools that evolve alongside your business.

Agile innovation: iterative development for continuous growth The pace of business change means that the software you implement today might need tweaks—or even overhauls—tomorrow. Agile development methodologies support this need for constant evolution by promoting rapid prototyping, regular stakeholder feedback, and iterative improvements.

Custom software built using agile principles can quickly adapt to market changes and evolving business goals. Agile projects are more likely to meet their goals and remain aligned with user needs. With agile innovation, you’re not locked into a rigid system; instead, you continuously refine your tools to maintain a competitive advantage.

Conclusion: empowering your business through tailored innovation While off-the-shelf software remains an excellent option for standard operational tasks, integrating it with custom-developed modules can unlock innovative business models, drive efficiency, and elevate customer experiences. These additional strategies—from seamless integration and datadriven insights to AI automation, agile innovation, and user-centric design— offer a roadmap to transformation that adapts as your business grows.

Let EEvolution help you build the tools your business needs to thrive.

Contact us today to explore tailored solutions designed for your success.

Email: info@eevolution.co.uk

Tel: +44 (0) 844 818 2 818

Best practice tip: Adopt short development cycles and incorporate regular reviews with end users and stakeholders. This iterative approach helps ensure that your software remains relevant and that each upgrade delivers immediate, practical benefits.

User-centric design: crafting digital experiences that stand out While many off-the-shelf systems focus on broad functionality, custom software development puts user experience at the forefront. By designing interfaces and interactions tailored to your customers’ specific needs, you can create digital journeys that are both intuitive and engaging—turning routine transactions into memorable experiences. Custom design not only reinforces your brand identity but also builds lasting customer loyalty through personalised experiences.

Tim Mahoney, Director

Best practice tip: Invest in UX research and testing early in the development process. Engage with your customers through surveys, usability tests, and feedback loops to ensure your design choices resonate with their expectations and needs.

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Chamber Patrons Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

Hollywood Monster in NEC deal Hollywood Monster, a leading wide format print and signage specialist based in Birmingham, has partnered with the NEC Group, which manages multiple venues across the Midlands including the UK’s largest exhibition venue.

For over three decades, Hollywood Monster has been working closely with the NEC Group to provide branding solutions for its event and exhibition spaces.

This includes the NEC, a venue that welcomes 2.3 million visitors and 45,000 exhibition companies to over 500 events every year, and it has now selected Hollywood Monster to be its official print partner for future events.

With over 30 years of experience in the events and exhibition industry, Hollywood Monster prides itself on delivering sustainable printing solutions, recognised by its Gold win at the 2024 UK Graphic Awards for The Green Award.

Operating 24/7, the Midlands based company offers fast turnaround times to meet urgent needs, such as last-minute support for stands at the NEC.

Uni launches lecture series The University of Birmingham (UoB) has launched a free public lecture series at Edgbaston Park Hotel for guests and campus visitors.

The 30-minute lectures are free to all guests and campus visitors and will be followed by a 15 minute Q&A session.

The series has announced as the university celebrates its 125th anniversary.

Lectures were launched in February but will continue on Wednesday, 26 March, and Thursday, 8 May. Each session will start at 4pm.

The series began with Dr Melanie Jouaiti of the UoB school of computer science talking about how Artificial Intelligence will shape the future of the increasingly digital world.

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Print pals: Mel Smith (third from left) and Tim Andrews (third from right) are joined by staff to celebrate the new partnership

Tim Andrews, chairman at Hollywood Monster, said: "We’re very excited to further cement our 30-year relationship with the NEC Group by becoming its official print supplier, providing quality design options and print solutions to exhibitors. We have a vast amount

of experience in the events market and our extensive print and production facilities will enable us to fulfil exhibitor requirements at some of the UK’s busiest event venues.”

Mel Smith, CEO of the NEC Group, said: “We are delighted to

welcome Hollywood Monster as our preferred print partner.

“Their expertise in wide-format printing and signage, and innovative approach will be instrumental in ensuring that our events continue to set the benchmark for excellence in the industry.”

Birmingham to host ‘T-riffic’ conference Birmingham has won the bid to host the annual international conference for experts in the field of vertebrate palaeontology.

The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology’s 85th annual meeting will bring together 1,200 scientists, students, artists, writers and scholars from across the world at the ICC Birmingham from 12-15 November, with University of Birmingham palaeontologists acting as the local hosts.

Birmingham will become just the second UK city and third European destination to welcome the event in its 85-year history, which has traditionally taken place in North America, with Toronto, Canada (2022), Cincinnati, USA (2023) and Minneapolis, USA (2024) the most recent hosts.

The event is expected to be worth more than £1.5m to the West Midlands’ economy. It was secured by the Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau –

part of the West Midlands Growth Company – and The ICC, Birmingham – part of the NEC Group – working with VisitBritain, MCI USA and University of Birmingham.

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CHAMBER PATRONS

New chancellor pledges to build on diversity work Ade Adepitan, Birmingham City University’s (BCU) new chancellor, says the UK is “just scratching the surface of its talent” by failing to embrace diversity.

And the television presenter, disability advocate and Paralympic bronze medallist admits the appeal of building on the work of BCU predecessor Sir Lenny Henry by pushing the British media to become more diverse is a key reason he took the prestigious leadership role.

‘Everything that's public facing, if it's not diverse, we can't call ourselves ‘Great’’ “We can't truly call ourselves Great Britain unless we have a diverse media,” Ade told Sir Lenny in a wide-ranging interview for the latest edition of Representology.

“Everything that's public facing, if it's not diverse, we can't call ourselves ‘Great’. ‘Great’ means you utilise and maximise the talent of everyone that surrounds you everyone. That's what ‘Great’ is about. ‘Great’ is not about only maximising the talent of one group of people.”

Ade, who uses a wheelchair after contracting polio as an infant, added: “Just think of how many potential Einsteins, potential Lennys, potential incredible superstars we’ve lost because we’ve just decided to pick from a tiny talent pool.

“The UK, at the moment, is only just scratching the surface of its talent - and the only way it's going to be the best that it can be is when it starts having media that look like the country.”

During his eight-year tenure as BCU chancellor, comedian, writer and actor Sir Lenny, 66, oversaw the creation of the Centre for Media

Meaning of great: Ade Adepitan

Diversity that bears his name.

Established in 2020, the Centre, which is based at BCU, has become increasingly influential within the media industry, publishing a growing list of valuable research.

When asked by Sir Lenny if he saw his role as Chancellor as an

opportunity to contribute to social change, Ade, who set up his own media production company to give more mainstream opportunities to disabled talent, responded: “Yeah, I would be disappointed with myself if I hadn't done something like that in three years’ time.”

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

1813 Club and Premier Members

Premier Membership Contact: Gary Birch T: 0121 274 3236

Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Remembering 1945: The National Memorial Arboretum

Remembering how it was in 1945 To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is launching “The Year Was 1945...”, a special programme of events and activities themed around 1945.

The events, running at key points throughout the year, will include a VE Day celebration weekend, taking inspiration from the iconic street parties of 1945, alongside Acts of Remembrance, themed exhibitions and guided talks and tours.

The programme will focus on two major anniversaries: Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15

August. VE Day marks 80 years since the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany.

But while Europe rejoiced, the war in the Pacific continued, with Japan still resisting Allied advances. It was not until 15 August, following the dropping of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, that Japan surrendered, officially bringing the global conflict to an end.

Life in Britain in 1945 was a time of both celebration and challenge. The nation rejoiced as VE Day signified the end of the war in Europe, subsequently followed by the relief of VJ Day in August, bringing six years of global conflict to a close. Yet, for many, the hardship was far from over. Communities continued to grapple with

rationing, the return of loved ones from military service, and the enormous task of rebuilding their lives and cities.

Mark Ellis, from the National Memorial Arboretum says: “At the Arboretum this year, ‘The Year Was 1945…’ will take visitors on a journey back to that seismic period, sharing real stories from those who lived through these historic moments.

“Our programme of events will offer opportunities to reflect, learn, and commemorate these significant anniversaries.”

For more information on the upcoming programme of events, visit ww.thenma.org.uk

Logistics firm marks French office milestone

An event to mark National Apprenticeship Week highlighted the hard work of three apprentices from Sandwell College. The overall star award went to Charlotte Goode (right), an early years apprentice at The Darlaston Day Nursery; followed by Ben Stanford (left), customer service apprentice at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council; and Jake Howard, dental nursery apprentice at Sedgley Dental Care

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Birmingham-based 1813 member Simpex Express is celebrating the first anniversary of their sister company, Samphire Cargo’s French office.

Simpex acquired Samphire Cargo, a customs clearance specialist in Dover, in 2019 - a move that proved pivotal during Brexit.

Today, Simpex and its customsfocused sister company, Samphire Cargo, employ a combined total of 53 people.

Gary Smith-Watson, managing director of Samphire Cargo, said: “Samphire France has been the highlight of 2024, and huge credit

has to go to Youcef Mahmoudi for how he’s handled every step of its development.

“The Lesquin office has been a vital part of the group’s growth, delivering seamless customs clearance and logistics solutions on both sides of the Channel, and we’re determined to build on this throughout 2025.”

Samphire France also celebrated being a finalist in the industry BIFA Awards Specialist Services category, while Simpex was shortlisted for 2025 Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce International Business award.

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

Caring business aids deprived young The charitable arm of a leading Midlands family business has announced a £3m commitment to help raise the aspirations of disadvantaged young people in Birmingham.

It has also launched a new project to help re-engage parents in their child’s education and rebuild communication and trust between home and school.

In its 50th year, Rigby Group, through its charity The Rigby Foundation, has launched a groundbreaking social mobility project called “Inspiring Futures” aimed at 11- to 25-year-olds from low-income backgrounds.

‘It is our hope that our funding of this programme will allow disadvantaged, young people in Birmingham to strive and succeed in education’ The programme pairs 10 schools and colleges from the city with 10 leading charities who will provide support with activities like maths and English attainment, mental

Family commitment: Peter Rigby (centre) with his sons James (left) and Steve.

health, debating skills and preparing for employment.

According to a recent report by Action for Children, 46.4 per cent of children in the West Midlands live in poverty. The Rigby Foundation is committed to funding programs that help the region’s young people succeed in education and secure meaningful employment.

Steve Rigby, chair of The Rigby Foundation, said: “In keeping with mayor Richard Parker’s West Midlands Youth Employment Plan, we are focused on nurturing and supporting our region’s young people into work.

“That starts with a good education and we hope by bringing together schools, colleges and charities, we can

raise the aspirations of our city’s students.

“Inspiring Futures’ is the result of many months of research, meetings with more than 30 potential charity partners, and mapping the secondary school systems alongside Birmingham City Council.

“It is our hope that our funding of this programme will allow disadvantaged, young people in Birmingham to strive and succeed in education, and to go on to sustainable and meaningful careers.”

The 10 school partners are Ark Boulton, Ark St Albans, CORE City Academy, CORE Jewellery Quarter, Grace Academy, John Henry Newman Catholic College, King Edward VI Sheldon Heath Academy, Small Heath Academy, St Thomas Aquinas Catholic School and South and City College.

The trust has also launched a new project to help re-engage parents in their child’s education and rebuild communication and trust between home and school. It has joined with the Centre for Social Justice, a leading national think tank, to maximise children's potential across the country. The project will involve schools, families and local authorities from across England.

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade

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

Trump tariffs spark fear of ‘global trade war’ Transatlantic business chiefs believe the UK’s “balanced” trade relationship with the USA could negate much of the impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs – but warned nothing should be taken for granted.

President Trump ordered a 25 per cent import tax on all steel and aluminium entering the US, ending previous exemptions for allies including Canada and the EU and marking a major expansion of trade barriers.

The move has sparked fears of a global trade war, with Trump promising to target countries which charge tax on US imports by matching them with a reciprocal tariff.

BritishAmerican Business (BAB) believe the UK could avoid much of the impact due to its open market and balanced trade with the US. BAB CEO Duncan Edwards said: “At BAB we regret this decision but acknowledge it is part of the new administration’s economic strategy to strengthen US manufacturing and protect the US steel industry from the effects of cheaper steel leaking through to the global market from China and other places.

“The policy to seek tariff reciprocity with countries that the US trades with should not come as a surprise.

“The US has long been one of the world’s most open markets for exporters, and many countries with which the US has a trade deficit have higher tariff and non-tariff barriers than the US currently is allowed to impose on them under WTO rules.

Many people close to the President believe this is unacceptable. Exactly how the reciprocal tariff will be calculated, and whether it includes charges like VAT and Digital Services Taxes, will be the focus of much attention in Treasuries around the world.

“Our hope at BAB is that the UK’s relatively open market and balanced trade with the USA gives it a chance to avoid much of the impact of this policy but nothing should be taken for granted.”

Switch to an E-Visa, warns immigration law expert All immigrants currently holding a form of status in the UK, but not yet British citizens or granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme, are advised to switch to an E-Visa as soon as possible.

The advice comes from André Minnaar (pictured), head of the immigration law team at West Midlands firm Sydney Mitchell, in preparation for the UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) department switching to digital documents this year.

Andre explained: “Everyone who currently has a biometric resident permit, or BRP, card, wet ink stamp in a passport, or another form of proof that is not an E-Visa, must create an E-Visa as soon as possible. Importantly, it is not a person’s status that changes when the digital switch becomes live. It is how to prove status that is changing. My advice is to 50 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

create the E-Visa as soon as possible, to avoid delays or any last-minute errors, which could leave them with little or not enough time to resolve any problems before travelling.”

Once an E-Visa is created, it remains the responsibility of each individual to check their details are up to date, including updating any new passport details before travelling. As an additional safeguard, UKVI has advised BRP and BRC holders to keep and continue to travel internationally with their old BRP/BRC cards.

André added: “Currently, people granted entry clearance will still get a vignette sticker in their passports to allow travel to the UK within a certain time-window, after which they must create an E-Visa either immediately or when they arrive in the UK.”

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Global Chamber Patrons

TRANSATLANTIC CHAMBER PATRONS

Uni strengthens Philippines ties

Prime location: The Gymshark store in Bank Street, New York Credit: Ben Francis

Gymshark takes bite out of the Big Apple Ben Francis, the billionaire founder and owner of sportswear giant Gymshark, has opened a flagship store in the heart of New York.

The store, set to open at 11 Bond Street, will be the retailer’s fourth store and its second overseas. Their first store outside the UK was opened last year in the UAE’s iconic Dubai Mall.

Ben, 32, said: “The very first event we did in real life was in a tiny 1000 square foot pop-up on Mercer Street in New York. It set the tone for so much that followed.

“The fact that, almost 10 years later, we are preparing to open a flagship store in the city that is ten times the size of that first store absolutely blows my mind.

“New York has really become our North American home. Our headquarters are here, and to welcome so many members of the community to Lift:NY last year was incredible.

“But to have a permanent location that allows our community to train, shop and hang out, and for us to hang out with them, really takes it to another level.

“I can’t wait to tell you more about it and for the doors to open.”

Ben, a former Aston University student, launched his business, now valued at 1.4m dollars, in his parents’ garage in Birmingham using a sewing machine and printer bought with £1,000 savings.

Aston University has strengthened its ties with the Philippines by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with one of the country’s top universities.

Mapúa University, located in Manila, is one of the country’s leading engineering and technological institutions and is one of just five Philippine organisations in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025.

The agreement builds on Aston University’s close ties with the sustainability sector in the south-east Asian country where it has been exploring the use of rice straw as an alternative fuel.

The document was officially endorsed during the International Conference on Sustainable Environmental Technologies (ICSET) 2025, which this year was co-hosted

by Mapúa.

It establishes a formal relationship and marks a joint commitment to future research and education collaborations.

The agreement was signed by Dr Bonifacio T Doma, executive vice president for Cintana partnership and global alliances and Dr Delia B Senoro, assistant vice president for International linkages, relations, and development cooperation.

Aston University was represented

by Professor Mirjam Roder, who said: “This signing marks a significant step in Aston University’s commitment to working on a global level, building on the vast experience and collaborative research projects and relationships already established in the Philippines.

“The MoU will allow the two institutions to explore a range of joint academic programmes, research projects and events “Aston University’s 2030 strategy states our purpose is to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation and this agreement highlights our commitment to this by fostering advancements in sustainability.”

The signing comes as Mapúa marks its 100th anniversary and Aston University marks 130 years since the founding of the Birmingham Municipal Technical School, one of its founding institutions.

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ABCC Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK Contact: Anjum Khan T: 0121 274 3255

Fund-raisers (left to right): Neil McGinty (CDL), Andy Bushell (MEPC), Emma Harewood (Acorns) and Sharon Bhambra (MEPC)

Chamber director in podcast interview “It’s not just about LinkedIn connections or a polished elevator pitch - it’s about confidence, authenticity and creating your visibility,” says Anjum Khan, director of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce, in an interview.

She was talking to Sophie PoduvalMorrell, host of The Young Professionals Podcast and manager of the Future Faces Chamber of Commerce, sharing her insights on building a personal brand.

‘It’s about confidence, authenticity and creating your visibility’ Reflecting on her own professional journey, Anjum revealed how she overcame initial uncertainty at her first networking event to become a confident advocate for personal and professional growth.

The conversation delves deeper into key topics such as work-life balance, personal development, finding your purpose amidst challenges, and the crucial role of representation in business.

Listeners can access the full podcast on all major listening platforms to gain valuable advice on forging their own path to success.

Mahirs recruits from training academy Award-winning South Asian caterer Mahirs Experience has welcomed new recruits to its team.

Ayomide and Claudia have joined the team through the newly established Mahirs Culinary & Hospitality Training Academy which was formed in partnership with the Compass Group, Pathway to Apprenticeship, DWP, and specialist training providers.

The academy offers a comprehensive learning experience that combines classroom-based instruction with hands-on kitchen training and practical opportunities at live events.

This approach ensures that apprentices and trainees develop essential skills while gaining real world experience in a dynamic and professional environment.

Mahirs experience will also be celebrating their 20th anniversary this year.

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Vertical Mile racers raise hospice funds Paradise Birmingham and its development partners have raised £5,104 for Acorns Children’s Hospice.

During last autumn’s topping out event, 15 teams from the building’s development, design and construction partners provided more than 80 runners who all raced up the 888 steps to the top of the 155-metre tall, 49-storey skyscraper.

The world’s tallest pure octagonal residential tower and Birmingham’s tallest building, The Octagon is due to open to residents later this summer.

As well as raising £5,104 for Acorns, last year’s topping out celebrations were extensively featured on local broadcast, print and online media outlets.

Local architecture practice and designers of The Octagon, Howells, swept the board with the fastest team, fastest female with Evie Richardson who came in with a time of seven minutes and 12 seconds, and fastest male, Jamie Parish, who completed the climb in five minutes and seven seconds.

Every entrant completed the challenge, with all 80 runners reaching the top of the building safely.

City Developments Ltd, Midgard MEPC, Howells, Turley, Arup, Quantem, JRL Ark, SOM, OFR, Design MEP, Thompson AV, D Line, Spray Plaster Specialists Ltd and Flick Lighting all contributed to the final amount as well as individual donations made during the event.

Andy Bushell, development manager at Paradise developer and asset manager MEPC, said: “The Vertical Mile was a highly successful part of last year’s ‘topping out’ that not only allowed many teams to run to the top of Birmingham’s tallest building, but also raised more than £5,000 for Acorns in the process.

“The cash will help Acorns to continue providing its brilliant services across the West Midlands region that helps many hundreds of local families every year.”

Vicki Rowles, director of fundraising at Acorns Children’s Hospice, said: “We’re extremely grateful to everyone who took part in this historic event – every penny raised will go direct towards our lifeline care for seriously ill children across Birmingham and the West Midlands.

“Not only has the event helped ensure we can be there for families when they need us most, it has highlighted the towering challenges that families caring for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions face every day.

“But with the help of supporters like Paradise Birmingham and its development partners, we can make sure families never face those challenges alone. From everyone at Acorns, thank you.”

Further information and live progress on The Octagon and other aspects of Paradise can be viewed on the paradisebirmingham.co.uk

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ABCC PREMIER+ PARTNERS

ABCC Patrons

Opportunities (left to right):Rosie Ginday, ABCC director Anjum Khan, Omar Rashid and Money Chopra

Impact of social enterprises celebrated at patrons dinner Patrons of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) heard firsthand about the impact of social enterprises at an exclusive dinner.

The dinner at Malmaison, attended by over 50 patrons and guests, was hosted by president Omar Rashid.

Rosie Ginday, the founder of Miss Macaroon, spoke about how the business is giving an opportunity to young people from deprived backgrounds in the city through their premium, hand-made French macaroons.

Miss Macaroon is a community interest company that reinvests 100 per cent of their profits into helping unemployed young people gain skills that will help to change their lives.

The kitchen that was set up in 2011 with only one team member has now made over five million French macaroons.

Rosie said: “My inspiration comes from my family. I wanted to create meaningful opportunities for young people and help shape their future.

“There are so many people on the verge of homelessness. As a business community, it is

‘Our growth is driven by strong partnerships and the invaluable support of large organizations that believe in our mission’ our responsibility to drive change and give them a fair chance.”

In 2016, Miss Macaroon opened their first retail store after securing funding and converted their original site to a training kitchen in 2017.

In 2021, they opened their second retail store in Resorts Word Birmingham.

They also launched the Miss Macaroon’s MacsMAD training course, enabling long-term unemployed young people to build their confidence and skills to become work ready.

Rosie continued: “We offer in-depth training in small groups of just six-to-eight participants per session.

“The programme is divided into two key phases: training and hands-on work

experience, followed by personalised one-onone sessions. This approach makes a significant difference in their development.

“We have also introduced in-house psychotherapy support to ensure the wellbeing of our employees.”

The course has now helped 254 young people with Autism, mental health issues, learning difficulties, lone parents, Care leavers and ex-offenders to complete the MacsMAD programme and get into work.

Speaking about the future of social enterprises, Rosie said: “Social enterprises have proven their success in the market. Statistics show that consumers are more likely to support businesses that create a positive impact.

“Our growth is driven by strong partnerships and the invaluable support of large organizations that believe in our mission.”

During the event, Money Chopra, cluster sales manager of Malmaison and Hotel Du Vin outlined the opportunities available at the hotels and how businesses can benefit from their offerings.

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CANNOCK CHASE CHASE CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Energy broker plans to give back A Staffordshire energy broker who overcame a life-threatening brain condition is on a millionpound mission to give back to good causes – by making a donation every time they secure a new energy deal.

Matt Small, managing director of Rugeleybased T150 Energy, was told he had just six months to live after being diagnosed with a colloid cyst on the brain in 2020.

But against all odds, he made a full recovery after undergoing lifesaving endoscopic surgery.

A colloid cyst is a rare condition in which a fluid-filled sac forms in the brain.

It is the same condition for which TV star Davina McCall underwent surgery last year.

Following his recovery, Matt embarked on a challenge to generate £1m for organisations in the care, education and charity sectors through energy brokering.

Through the Payback Scheme, T150 secures competitive gas and electricity rates for good causes – and then donates a portion of its brokerage fee directly to those organisations.

The scheme results in lower utility bills and additional funds for those involved in charity, care and education.

Matt with Davina McCall at the Care Managers Show at the NEC in 2023

So far this year, around £10,000 has been donated to organisations through the Payback Scheme.

Matt said: “I’m really lucky to be here – it’s as simple as that.

“After my surgery I knew I wanted to give something back but I hadn’t figured out how I was going to go about it.

“Then I got more involved with the care sector and I’d been invited to Care Manager Awards show.

“So, I came up with the idea of donating part of our brokerage fee back to organisations in the care, education and charity sectors.

“With my own personal experience, knowing how fortunate I am to have been looked after by the NHS, this is my way of giving back.

“Without organisations in these sectors, we would be so much worse off.”

T150 Energy was formed in 2019 to offer the best energy deals to businesses in the UK. The firm, which is a member of the Cannock Chase and Asian Business Chambers of Commerce, specialises in helping a range of businesses and organisations including schools, restaurants and manufacturers.

Read more about the Payback Scheme: paybackscheme.co.uk • Matt is offering all GBCC members free analysis and forecasts of their energy costs contact matt@t150energy.co.uk, quoting your membership number.

Lawyers strengthen commercial division Enoch Evans Solicitors, the law firm with offices in Cannock, has expanded its commercial offering with the addition of two senior professionals Ian Little and Amritpal Bhogal.

Ian Little has joined the firm as a solicitor, delivering support on employer and employee law matters across the firm’s offices, in Walsall, Cannock and Sutton Coldfield.

Amritpal Bhogal has been appointed as a senior associate solicitor in the Commercial Property team.

Partner and head of the commercial litigation department, Stephen Nixon, said: “The strategic addition of Ian allows us to bolster the growth of our team while further enriching the expertise of the Commercial Litigation department.”

Sukie Shemar, partner and head of the commercial property department, said: “With the addition of Amritpal to our team, we are confident that we can continue to meet and exceed our clients’ expectations.”

Growing team: Ian Little and Amritpal Bhogal

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New committee: From left - Chris Wheeler, Pam Wallis, Matt Small, Richard Brooks, David Mitchell, Emily Kenny, Ben Bradley and Neil Betts

AGM unveils new council Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce welcomed four new members to its divisional council at its Annual General Meeting, held at Chasetown Football Club.

The event brought together members and key stakeholders to reflect on the Chamber’s achievements and future plans.

David Mitchell, managing director of The Marketing People, will continue as president.

He is joined by new council members Emily Kenny (Enoch Evans Solicitors), Neil Betts (Go True North), Matt Small (T150 Energy), and Pam Wallis (Cannock Chase District Council).

They will work alongside existing council members, including Chris Wheeler (Auditel), Gill Durkin (Performance Through People), and Ben Bradley (Cosmik Carrot).

The Chamber has also co-opted David Jackson (McArthurGlen) and Lynn Pritchatt (The Mel Evans Foundation) to the council.

In addition, The Mel Evans Foundation has been named Cannock Chamber of Commerce’s Charity of the Year. The foundation, set up in memory of Mel Evans MBE, supports those affected

by Motor Neurone Disease (MND) and promotes grassroots Crown Green Bowls. To date, it has raised over £100,000.

Richard Brooks, head of Cannock Chase Chamber, said: “I’m so pleased to work with our new divisional council members and to welcome The Mel Evans Foundation as our new Chamber Charity of the Year. We’re proud to support their important work.”

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BURTON & DISTRICT BURTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Burton’s first padel court welcomes MP Branston Golf & Country Club, one of the leading golf, health and fitness facilities in Staffordshire, welcomed Burton and Uttoxeter’s local MP Jacob Collier to the newly opened padel tennis venue in Burton on Trent.

This state-of-the-art court facility hosts three outdoor, LED flood light panoramic courts, built to the highest specification ensuring all abilities get the most out of the game, all year round.

Managing director and co-owner Ben Laing said: “Padel is expanding at an incredible pace, and we’re thrilled to have opened our courts.

“We aim to establish a strong and sustainable grassroots foundation for the sport’s growth, especially as we are the first in Burton-on-Trent.

“The beauty of padel is it’s accessibility - it’s easy to pick up and is enjoyable for people of all ages and skill levels.”

Social housing firm announce rent increase Rents at Trent & Dove will increase by 2.7 per cent this year in line with government guidelines, the social housing firm said.

The increase, which is in line with the government’s Rent Setting Policy and Regulatory Standards, aligns with the September, 2024, Consumer Price Index 1.7 per cent (CPI) plus 1 per cent, as stipulated by the guidelines for social landlords.

Trent & Dove further said that they will continue to provide customers with highquality service, ensuring it delivers on its mission of providing affordable homes and services that enable people and communities to thrive.

As the cost of living continues to impact customers, the housing firm has experienced increases in the costs of materials, labour, and running its services, which in some cases have increased by more than 20 per cent in the last year.

Ursula Bennion, chief executive at Trent & Dove, said: “At Trent & Dove, my priority is always to provide high-quality safe, secure and warm homes. We fully understand the financial pressures many households face due to the rising cost of living. That’s why, we work hard to offer good value for money to our customers and ensure we maintain high quality homes. This year’s rent increase is significantly lower than last year, at 2.7 per cent, in line with government guidelines.

“This modest adjustment has been approved by our Board and Customer Committee to enable us to continue investing in our homes, services, and communities.”

Club Padel includes a pro shop, clubhouse, spectator areas, access to changing rooms and shower facilities, plus the opportunity to become a member at Branston Club.

Visitors have the option to rent rackets and book lessons with LTA-approved coaches, making it easy to enhance their skills and enjoy the game.

Club manager Donna Smart outlined the vision of the club, saying: “By bringing everyone together and welcoming all abilities; from complete beginners, children, and advanced players we are making Padel accessible to everyone.

“Padel is a fun, dynamic, social sport that allows players to quickly improve. It’s been wonderful to see the people of Burton and beyond embrace this fantastic game.”

New venue: Ben Laing (left) with and Jacob Collier

First-hand insight: The Korean and Burton students visit Hardy Signs

Korean students get a look behind the scenes Hardy Signs welcomed a group of students from Korea as part of an educational visit with Burton and South Derbyshire College.

The students had the opportunity to tour the Burton-based sign manufacturer’s cutting-edge facilities and gain first-hand insight into the world of modern signage manufacturing.

The students explored how Hardy Signs operates, from initial design concepts to the final production of high-quality signage solutions.

This visit was part of an ongoing collaboration with Burton and South Derbyshire College, which aims to provide international students with practical learning experiences in innovative UK

businesses. The students engaged with their expert team, asking insightful questions about the business and the processes that drive our success.

Blu Hardy, marketing manager of Hardy Signs, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the students and showcase the expertise, technology and craftsmanship that go into our signage solutions.

“At Hardy Signs, we believe in encouraging learning opportunities and inspiring the next generation of talent in manufacturing and design.

“We hope the students found the visit insightful and enjoyed their experience with us.”

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

Campaign to find more volunteers Lichfield-based not for profit Grace Cares – which offers over-70s living alone vital friendship links – has launched a heartwarming campaign to attract new volunteers to help the elderly.

The initiative, endorsed by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), aims to bring people together, foster community spirit, and enhance the quality of care and support services provided to those in need.

A spokesman for Grace Cares said: “Volunteering with Grace Cares offers a unique chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. It's an opportunity to give back, connect with like-minded individuals, and develop new skills. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a retiree, your time and talents can contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive community.

“Grace Cares’ volunteer campaign is diverse, offering various ways for community members to contribute.”

The spokesman said volunteers were needed for marketing and outreach activities.

“If you have a knack for communication, help Grace Cares spread the word about their services and events.

Volunteers can assist with social media management, content creation, and community outreach initiatives. Your efforts will help raise awareness and drive engagement with Grace Cares’ programmes.”

New volunteers could also assist with cleaning and maintenance, tea parties and social events. And help for support with tenders and bids was also needed.

The spokesman said volunteering with Grace Cares was “easy and rewarding”.

Interested individuals can sign up through the Grace Cares website. For more information or to sign up, visit Grace Cares’ website or contact the volunteer coordinator at hello@grace-cares.com

Friendship links: The Grace Cares' volunteer team

Thrills and spills: Midland Karting

Go-karting open day to put businesses on track Businesses are invited to experience karting, networking and local partnerships at Midland Karting during a corporate open day.

The event on Friday 21, March, from 1.30 pm onwards, offers businesses an opportunity to experience the thrill of karting while connecting with other local professionals and showcasing the best of Staffordshire’s vibrant business community.

The Corporate Open Day at Midland Karting in Fradley park, Lichfield, will feature karting taster sessions where businesses can experience the adrenaline rush of the track.

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In addition to the racing, the event will highlight and celebrate other local businesses from the Staffordshire area.

Managing director at Midland Karting Garry Mitchell said: “We’re excited to bring local businesses together for this Corporate Open Day. “It’s not only an opportunity to enjoy karting, but also to network, connect with fellow businesses, and discover what makes Staffordshire’s business community so special.”

Midland Karting is an award-winning outdoor karting venue in Lichfield, offering a range of karting experiences for all ages and skill levels.

Celebrating legends of music at the Garrick Barry Steele’s The Roy Orbison Story is coming to Lichfield’s Garrick - celebrating the legendary Roy Orbison and the iconic Traveling Wilburys. The show takes place on Friday, 7 March.

Audiences will enjoy classic Orbison hits with a sprinkling of selected songs from Johnny Cash, ELO, and Tom Petty, The Roy Orbison Story which showcases the vast influence of The Big O and his friends on rock and pop music.

Meanwhile, the multi award-winning West End show Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story runs at the Garrick from 2 to 7 March.

The drama, passion and excitement are experienced as a multi-talented cast of actormusicians tell Buddy Holly’s story, from his Texas rockabilly beginnings to international stardom.

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ROYAL SUTTON COLDFIELD CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

Plan to improve town centre’s public transport A transport scheme is set to improve public transport, walking and cycling infrastructure around Sutton Coldfield.

Sutton Gateway aims to enhance access to, from, and around the heart of the town and to remove the barriers posed by the ring road for pedestrians and cyclists and encourage a shift from private vehicles to more sustainable travel options.

Birmingham City Council has been working with Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, West Midlands Combined Authority and local stakeholders to develop the Sutton Gateway scheme. Proposed changes include bus interchange improvements at lower parade and south parade, transformation of the ring road transformation including fewer lanes for general traffic, segregated cycle routes in key areas, improvements to crossing facilities and speed limit reductions and improving the connection between the town centre, Sutton Park and Sutton Coldfield railway station.

Andrew Mitchell, MP for Sutton Coldfield, said: “The 15 projects which collectively make up the Sutton Gateway scheme will help revitalise our town centre.”

Cllr Simon Ward, leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council and chairman of the Town Centre Regeneration Partnership, said: “Achieving

Town transformation (left to right): Cllr Majid Mahmood, Andrew Mitchell MP and Cllr Simon Ward

this key milestone for the Sutton Gateway scheme represents a real success story for both the town council and Royal Sutton Coldfield.”

Cllr Majid Mahmood, cabinet member for environment and transport at Birmingham City Council, said: “There is so much to see in and around Sutton, whether the wonderful park, historic quarter or hospitality offer.

However, we need to ensure they are all as accessible as possible.”

Lover of boats: Graham Cooke

Tributes paid to Cookes Furniture boss

Ready for the off: Fun Run stalwart Andy Perks, business development manager at supporting sponsor Inktree, alongside Royal Sutton Coldfield mayor, Councillor John Perks and his wife Sarah

Fun run places snapped up Registrations for the Royal Sutton Fun Run are off to a flying start – with more than 30 per cent of available places snapped up in the first three days.

In-person registrations for 1 June event were launched at the Gracechurch Centre and online registrations quickly topped 1,500.

Event director Tracey Spare said: “We’ve had a phenomenal start to registration. It was great to see so many people in-person at the official launch.

“There was a real buzz in the centre. I must extend our thanks to Royal Cinemas for the

cinema tickets, main sponsor Cookes Furniture for the sweets and balloons and to Studio 55 for photography and Ark Media for recording video footage for use on our social media platforms, which all added to the atmosphere.

“Royal Sutton Coldfield Mayor Councillor John Perks kindly attended the official launch with his wife Sarah, and before they left, both had confirmed they’d be on the start line on 1 June to walk the 8.5-mile course.”

Registration via the Fun Run web site will close when all 5,500 have been filled or by 11 April – whichever occurs first.

Cookes Furniture have paid tribute to chairman Graham Cooke following his death at the age of 72.

In a statement, Cookes said: “It is with great sadness the Cooke family announces the passing of Graham Cooke of Cookes Furniture.

“Graham passed away peacefully from cancer on Sunday 2 February, surrounded by his family.”

Sutton Coldfield-born Graham joined his father in the family business after leaving college. They opened Cookes’ first showroom in Jockey Road in the late 1970s and went on to open the renowned Goosemoor Lane premises in Birmingham.

Graham will be remembered for his contributions to the local community, through his support of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Fun Run, as well as several local charities and organisations.

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SOLIHULL All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community Contact: Samantha Frampton T: 0121 678 7488

Great start to the year for marketing firm Solihull-based marketing communications agency Astute Media have announced four new client wins, hot on the heels of ending 2024 on a high with Midlands Air Ambulance Charity renewing its creative marketing contract.

And their initial contact with two of the clients was through the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, as they continue to make the most of their membership and the support the Chamber offers.

The new clients, from different business sectors; civil engineering, express freight, training and machinery parts manufacturing, all require a diverse range of services from Astute Media.

Bob Mountford, client development manager, said: “While all of our services are in demand from our clients, it’s great to see that our social media training courses continue to go from strength to strength.

They are one of the things that differentiate us in the marketplace along with our marketing metrics platform.”

Astute Media is a full-service marketing agency with clients across the UK providing website design and development, social media strategy and development, digital marketing, content marketing, advertising, social media training and marketing metrics services.

Chamber ready to choose new charity

Wonderful opportunity: Samantha Frampton

Shortlisting for the selection of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce 2025 charity will be starting at the beginning of March.

The Chamber chooses one charity every year to support in their fundraising efforts and help spread the word about the work they are doing within the local community. The next charity will take over from Solihull Moors Foundation, who work tirelessly to create a positive pathway for people in the Solihull community.

Applicants must be a registered charity as well as a member of Solihull Chamber of Commerce.

Shortlisting was taking place at the beginning of March followed by pitches to the executive committee in the week commencing Monday, 10 March.

The new charity of the year will then be announced on Thursday, 20 March, at the annual meeting at Cranmore Conference Centre.

Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber, said: “Becoming the Solihull Chamber of Commerce charity of the year will provide the chosen charity a wonderful opportunity to raise their profile within Solihull and increase their fundraising.

“I would encourage all Solihull member charities to look at applying.”

Changing world: The students during their visit to the academy

Sustainable students recognised by JLR Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has praised three students from WMG Coventry Academy for taking part in a sustainability initiative.

The students - Jignesh Bosamia, Nelly Rejek, and Lauren Taylor – have helped the vehicle manufacturing giant by recording their voices and being filmed for a sustainability-focused company initiative.

JLR’s senior sustainability team attended the academy along with Kate Ambrosi, CEO of Baker Dearing Educational Trust, to congratulate the students. During their visit, the sustainability team toured the academy's state-of-the-art engineering hall and teaching facilities. The highlight of the visit was a special assembly where the students showcased the video they created with the team from JLR. This was followed by a Q&A

58 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

session with aspiring young engineering students, giving them the opportunity to learn from the team’s wealth of knowledge and experience.

Alison Nuttall, JLR senior sustainability manager, said: “The world of tomorrow will be shaped by the generation in school today and so it is vital that organisations listen to the experiences and views of young people, and act in the interests of their futures. The students at WMG helped us to explain that idea to our colleagues at JLR and we are grateful for that input. JLR is committed to supporting the young people in our communities to reach their potential, so that they can meaningfully contribute to building a more sustainable future.”

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SOLIHULL SOLIHULL CHAMBER PATRONS

Study duo: Susan (left) and Rachel Arnold

Learning is a family affair at Cambridge

By Darby Newman A mother and daughter staff duo from Solihull College & University Centre are blazing a trail by studying at the University of Cambridge.

Adult English and Family Learning lecturer Susan Arnold is studying a master’s in creative writing while her daughter, Quality Coach and English lecturer Rachel Arnold, is completing her PhD. At college, Susan inspires people to upskill by completing their English Functional Skills qualification to improve job prospects and fulfil their potential. She also teaches a community creative writing course and delivers Family Learning courses to help parents support their children’s learning. But she always had a desire to return to studying.

She said: “I really wanted to get back to studying and after making a couple of applications I couldn’t believe it when I was accepted at Cambridge. At 56, I am the oldest in the class and I feel as though I have imposter syndrome! But I do have something to prove to myself. That I can do this. This is a dream come true for me, and I did think it was now or never.”

Susan is also encouraged by her students and their stories of success. She remembers a time when she went into hospital and her nurse was a former student she had taught five years before.

The nurse had needed her English qualification to progress onto her chosen career in nursing and Susan was the one who helped her get there.

Rachel says her study is helping improve student prospects. She said: “After completing my

Master’s in Educational Leadership and Improvement I still had unanswered questions about how to improve the GCSE resit experience for students.

“This led me to securing funding for my PhD in the Learning Sciences to investigate the potential impact of role reversal for teachers and learners and whether this builds confidence, relationship, empathy and skills.

“In my research I am working with colleges across the country to explore how to more meaningfully engage our GCSE resit students.”

Rachel was on hand to introduce her mum to Cambridge and is incredibly proud. She said: “My mum has invested so much in raising her family and teaching us to strive to excel in whatever we pursue. It has been amazing to see her switch that focus in recent years and embark on her own educational pursuits, first at Oxford and now a Master’s at Cambridge.

“She is a very talented creative writer and I love that her skills are being recognised and developed with this incredible achievement and opportunity.

By studying and developing this skill she is giving back to her learners and enhancing their learning experience.”

Principal Dr Rebecca Gater said: “We have worked tirelessly over the past few years to cultivate a culture of research and innovation among our staff. By embedding action research into practice and supporting qualifications for those interested in advancing their careers, we’ve seen significant success in encouraging professional growth and development.”

Call for businesses to sign up for career fair Solihull College & University Centre are inviting organisations to attend their 2025 Careers & Apprenticeship Fair.

The face-to-face event on Wednesday, 19 March, from 10.30am to 1pm will be at their Blossomfield Campus in Solihull.

The college offers a wide range of courses from health and social care to early years, animal management, information technology, media, arts, business, sport, hair & beauty, science and built environment.

They offer programmes from foundation stage learning to degree level, with this event being open to all learners.

The college has a strong reputation with local and national employers, producing young people and adult learners with relevant qualifications for employers and a skills and knowledge base that enable their students to quickly be effective in the working environment.

The Careers & Apprenticeship Fair is aimed at enabling students to build knowledge of local and national businesses, charities, volunteering organisations or training providers. The college is interested in organisations that are currently recruiting or plan to recruit during 2025 or would just like to raise their profile/brand.

Jane Findlay, careers advisor at Solihull College & University Centre, said: “Solihull College & University Centre are keen to recruit employers and apprenticeship providers to attend our annual face to face careers fair in March. The event will be attended by hundreds of our own students from all campuses “Our event is totally free, with refreshments and lunch provided to all our exhibitors.”

Financial services firm expands global network Jerroms, a leading Midlands-based SME accountancy and business advisory firm, and part of Sumer Group, has become a member of with GGI Global Alliance, the foremost international network for professional services firms.

This strategic partnership opens a wealth of new international growth opportunities for Jerroms and its clients, enhancing their ability to provide top-tier services on a global scale.

By becoming a member of GGI Global Alliance, Jerroms is set to tap into an extensive network of resources and expertise, further strengthening its ability to support clients’ ambitions for international expansion, share best practices, and drive innovation at scale.

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FUTURE FACES FUTURE FACES CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell T: 07540 751590

Enriching experience: Sophia Poduval-Morrell (left)

Workshop hits the right chords City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) hosted a special workshop for members of the Future Faces network.

The winners of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards 2024, as well as the award sponsors and members of the Future Faces executive committee, were invited to take part in a conducting workshop with the orchestra.

The aim of the workshop was to showcase the importance of leadership and working together as a team.

Claire Tilt, director of development at the CBSO, said: “Having the winners and sponsors from the Greater BYPY awards come and experience how a conductor and orchestra work together was an exciting opportunity for both the BYPY winners and us here at the CBSO. “To enable young business professionals to get up close and personal with our fantastic musicians, while drawing parallels between the intricate workings of an orchestra and the dynamics of effective leadership in business, was truly rewarding.

“I hope this experience will empower them to apply the lessons learned from the workshop into their own workplaces.”

Jack Lovell-Huckle, assistant conductor at the CBSO, said: “As a conductor, my role is not only to direct the music, but to guide each individual player, helping them to understand their unique contribution to the repertoire being performed.

“Leading the workshop with young business professionals was an enriching experience, especially enabling some of them to step into the role of conductor themselves.

“I hope that the skills they’ve gained - collaboration, creativity, and the empowerment to bring their best selves forward - will serve them well in their careers, both in their personal growth and team dynamics.’

Sophie Poduval-Morrell, manager of Future Faces, said: “The CBSO welcomed the Greater BYPY winners and sponsors of the 2024 awards to this exceptional conducting workshop, which was an incredibly moving, inspiring, and enriching experience.”

First golden ticket found The first winner of their VIP golden ticket giveaway for the 2025 Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards has been announced by Future Faces.

Ugonna Okoro, a software engineering apprentice at Lloyds Banking Group, bagged the first golden ticket to be won at a recent professional development event on goal setting, hosted by Weightmans.

Members will have the chance to uncover 10 golden tickets randomly hidden at Future Faces events throughout this year. Winners will receive VIP access to the awards, ensuring a night of celebration and networking among the region’s top talent and industry leaders.

Ugonna said: “Winning a VIP ticket feels surreal. Ever since I heard about the awards, I've wanted to attend the event but wasn’t sure I could make it happen. Winning a gold VIP ticket is an incredible opportunity, and I’m deeply grateful for it.”

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Winner: Ugonna Okoro (right) with Future Faces’ manager Sophie Poduval-Morrell

New Members Adam Dee FlexABL Ltd Anna-Symone Bateman University College Birmingham Anouska Sengupta Ana Capital Investment Limited Ben Thompson Sunrise Energy Solutions Grace Higgs Gateley Plc Jessica Nelson-Saunders Olivia Rose Pilates Limited Josh Axtel FlexABL Ltd Katie Sheppard Engineius Lucie Nelson Olivia Rose Pilates Limited Mariana Saranchuk University College Birmingham Nighat Islam Jacobs Olivia Grogan Sunrise Energy Solutions Reaha Sanghera Jacobs Rohim Mohammed University College Birmingham Sarah Nsinjo Jacobs Shannon Whyte Busy Bees Nurseries Will Naylor Colour Cubed Creative Communications

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FUTURE FACES

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

Change your mindset and get back on track Law firm Squire Patton Boggs will host the third and final session of the Bounce Mindset programme, Future Faces have announced.

The session on Monday, 10 March, at the Squire Patton Boggs offices in Rutland House, will focus on the imposter phenomena and is designed for Future Faces members who feel they “get in their own way” of their career.

The session will unravel the term “impostor syndrome” commonly understood as self-doubt that leads sufferers to worry that someone will discover you’re a fraud and that you don’t deserve the success you’ve earned.

The final Bounce Mindset session is designed to tackle those inner demons and get people back on track to reach their goals.

The Bounce Mindset Programme is designed and delivered by Rebecca Mander, founder of GuruYou. She said: “We believe that when building on your own strengths, awareness is key and we begin all programmes by forging trusting relationships in a confidential setting.”

Squire Patton Boggs partner Michelle Adams, who leads the firm’s emerging talent initiatives in Birmingham, said: “The Future Faces development programme provides young professionals with an excellent forum to build skills and progress their career, and we are very pleased to be able to offer our support with this upcoming session.”

Sarah Griffiths, vice-president of the Future Faces executive committee, said: “Rebecca's events so far have been extremely popular with our members for good reason - her insights and expertise make her an outstanding speaker, and we are beyond excited to have her lead this important discussion.”

Young lawyer in prestigious award win Winner: Becca Horley with her award

A Future Faces member who is making waves in the legal sector has recently won Solicitor of the Year at the Birmingham Law Society Awards.

Becca Horley, an associate in the serious injury department at Shoosmiths, scooped the award after only being qualified for three years.

The judges’ comments included praise for her commitment to fostering change, excellence and positivity in the legal profession.

Becca was also a finalist in the legal category of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards 2024.

She is the first in her family to study law and is passionate about promoting social mobility and inclusivity. She also mentors students from Birmingham universities, sharing her experiences to empower them in their own career paths.

Becca said: “I am so excited to have been awarded Solicitor of the Year 2025 at the Birmingham Law Society Awards. It’s amazing to get recognition for my commitment to fostering change, excellence and positivity within the legal sector.”

Becca will also be featured in an upcoming Future Faces: The Young Professionals Podcast episode in March, discussing the topic of imposter phenomena and how young professionals can recognise and combat it.

Pleased to offer support: Michelle Adams

Podcast to tackle imposter syndrome For many young professionals, the early years of their careers are marked by an unsettling feeling: the sensation that they don’t quite belong, that they are somehow faking it.

This phenomenon, often referred to as imposter syndrome or imposter phenomena, is an all-too-familiar experience for high achievers who, despite external success, feel like they’re unworthy of it.

In the next set of episodes of Future Faces: The Young Professionals Podcast, host Sophie Poduval-Morrell will be diving deep into the concept of imposter phenomena, exploring its impact on self-esteem, mental health, and career growth.

The upcoming episodes will feature: • Belinda Kaur - red-carpet host, public speaker and mentoring manager. She will focus on her journey from young entrepreneur to multi-faceted young professional.

• Becca Horley - associate at Shoosmiths. Her episode will

Student support: Samantha Strong

dive into how she has built her career as a legal professional as well as how she has created her own personal brand to stand out from the crowd.

• Samantha Strong - senior lecturer at Aston University, and winner of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2024 for Training and Education. Samantha’s episode will focus on her journey in the education sector, and how she supports students to stay at university and to get the most out of their experience in terms of skills development.

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Catch up with Trump’s 100 days There promises to be no shortage of topics at a Global and Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce at the end of April. The subject will be President Trump’s 100 days of office and like many Chamber events it’s free to members.

AND MOST OF THE EVENTS ARE FREE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS MARCH Solihull Networking Lunch Date: 5 March Time: 12:30 – 14:00 Venue: Brightsmith on the Water Division: Solihull Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT Royal Sutton Coldfield Networking Lunch and Speed Networking Date: 07 March Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Walmley Golf Club Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT Future Faces Professional Development: Impostor Syndrome Date: 10 March Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: Squire Patton Boggs Division: Future Faces Cost: Members: Free Premier Members Breakfast Date: 11 March Time: 8:30 – 10:00 Venue: Tattu Division: Premier Members Cost: Free, members only Fast for a Day Date: 11 March Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: 54 Hagley Road Division: ABCC Cost: Free for members and non-members Non-Member Networking Date: 12 March Time: 15:30 – 17:30 Venue: Albert’s Schloss Division: Non-members Cost: free Joint Business at Breakfast Date: 12 March Time: 8:30 – 10:00 Venue: Aquarius Ballroom Division: Burton & District, Chase, Lichfield & Tamworth and Royal Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT

Global Brunch Date: 13 March Time: 9:30 – 11:30 Venue: Chapter Division: Global and Transatlantic Cost: Free for members and non-members Speed Networking Online Date: 17 March Time: 12:00 – 13:30 Venue: Online Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £20+VAT 1813 & Premier Members Connect session Date: 18 March Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Sandbox VR Division: 1813 & Premier Members Cost: Free, members only Future Faces Social Networking Date: 19 March Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: Exhale Conscious Bar Division: Future Faces Cost: Members: Free Solihull Annual General Meeting Date: 20 March Time: 10:00 – 12:00 Venue: Cranmore Park Division: Solihull Cost: Free for members and non-members Lichfield & Tamworth Social Networking Date: 24 March Time: 16:30 – 18:30 Venue: The Fig & Olive Division: Lichfield & Tamworth Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15 +VAT Non-members: £50+VAT Burton & District Social Networking with Future Faces Date: 25 March Time: 16:30 – 18:30 Venue: TBC Division: Burton & District and Future Faces Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free

APRIL Birmingham Social Networking Date: 13 March Time: 16:30 – 18:30 Venue: Manahatta Division: Birmingham Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT 62 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

Global Brunch Date: 3 April Time: 9:30 – 11:30 Venue: Trowers & Hamlins Division: Global & Transatlantic Cost: Free for members and non-members

Brumbassadors Launch Date: 8 April Time: 9:00 – 11:00 Venue: St Andrews, Knighthead Park Division: GBCC Cost: Free, members only Lichfield & Tamworth Speed Networking and Networking Lunch Date: 8 April Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Brewhouse & Kitchen Division: Lichfield & Tamworth Speed Cost: Members: free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Joint Social Networking Date: 9 April Time: 16:30 – 18:30 Venue: New Hall Hotel & Spa Division: Burton & District, Cannock Chase, Lichfield & Tamworth and Royal Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £ 15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT ABCC Annual General Meeting 2025 Date: 9 April Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham Division: ABCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Kick Off 2025, Breakfast Networking and AGM Date: 10 April Time: 8:30 – 10:30 Venue: Albert's Schloss Division: Future Faces Cost: Members: free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free Solihull Goes International Date: 10 April Time: 16:00 – 18:00 Venue: Gymshark HQ Division: Solihull, Global and Transatlantic Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Business at Breakfast Date: 15 April Time: 8:30 – 10:00 Venue: TBC

Division: Burton & District Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £ 15+VAT Non-Members: £50 + VAT The Good Business Forum Date: 17 April Time: 14:30 – 16:30 Venue: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Vaisakhi Celebration Date: 23 April Time: 18:00 – 21:00 Venue: TBC Division: ABCC Cost: ABCC Members: Free Members: £30 Non-members: £60 Q1: Quarterly Business Report Date: 29 April Time: 9:00 – 11:00 Venue: Birmingham City University, Curzon Building Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free Pro Solihull Networking Date: 29 April Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: Birmingham Dogs Home Division: Solihull Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Trump 100 Days Date: 30 April Time: 9:30 – 11:00 Venue: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham Division: Global and Transatlantic Cost: Free for members and non-members Cannock Chase Speed Networking and Networking Lunch Date: 30 April Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: TBC Division: Cannock Chase Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

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

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CHAMBER TRAINING

Training courses The Chamber is again organising a comprehensive programme of training courses for business of any size who are looking to brush up on their international trade knowledge. Those planned for March are listed below.

ALL CHAMBER MEMBERS CAN ENJOY REDUCED COSTS. For more details contact Leah Quarmby, international trade training manager, on 07860258387 MARCH Course Title: Customs Procedures & Documentation (BCC accredited) Date: 3 March Time: 9:30 – 3:30 Venue: Online remote training Cost: Members: £300+VAT Non-members: £370+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.

Course Title: Introduction to Global sustainability Compliance Date: 5 March Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Cost: Members: £280+VAT Non-members: £380+VAT Attendees on this introductory course will learn about the core imperatives of sustainability regulation being implemented across the EU via the Commission and globally via the ISSB, namely: circularity, supply chains, decarbonisation, and greenwashing and their respective regulation and governance. It provides a detailed overview of the global regulatory framework, accompanying standards, and implementation timeframes whilst importantly giving practical advice and recommendations on how businesses can optimally prepare, even prosper through diversification and new opportunities.

Course Title: Rules of Origin explained (BCC accredited) Date: 6 March Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Cost: Members: £200+VAT Non-members: £270+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.

managers who are overseeing an audit process, quality and compliance professionals or anyone involved in performance and assurance systems.

This training is suitable for any ISO Management System including the popular 9001 Quality, 27001 Information Security, 14001 Environmental and 45001 Occupational Health and Safety.

Course Title: Internal Auditor Training Date: 11 March Time: 9:30 – 4:30 Venue: Birmingham Chamber house Cost: Members: £230+VAT Non-members: £300+VAT This course will support team members who are looking to support their internal audit function,

Course Title: Inward & outward processing, and Customs special procedures (BCC accredited) Date: 25 March Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Cost: Members: £200+VAT Non-members: £270+VAT The course is suitable for those working in an import environment

and looking to gain knowledge on special procedures, with a main focus on inward and outward processing.

export process and what other documents may be needed for certain items.

Course Title: Exports solved; Decoding the documents Date: 26 March Time: 10:00 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Cost: Members: £90+VAT Non-members: £140+VAT Ideal for individuals who handle documentation daily or weekly, newcomers to paperwork, or anyone seeking clarity to ensure an understanding of what documents might be required and also a deeper understanding of their purpose and necessity.

The course will solely focus on what documents are and needed for the

Course Title: ATA Carnet step by step workshop Date: 26 March Time: 14:00 – 16:00 Venue: Online remote training Cost: Members: £100+VAT Non-members: £180+VAT This workshop will develop attendees knowledge of the step-by-step process of applying for a Carnet, to ensure information is accurate thus avoiding any costly customs delays.

This workshop is designed for both beginners who are new to completing Carnets, or experienced exporters looking to refresh their knowledge.

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FEATURE: BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

Cybersecurity The cornerstone of business resilience in the digital age

By Shaz Naeem, CEO, Portech Systems Ltd

I

n today’s hyperconnected world, cybersecurity is no longer a luxury or a compliance checkbox – it is a fundamental pillar of business survival.

The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks have transformed digital security into a strategic business issue rather than just an IT concern. Whether a business is a multinational corporation, a mid-sized enterprise, or a small startup, the risks associated with cyber threats can have severe financial, operational, and reputational consequences.

The growing cyber threat landscape Cyberattacks have evolved from isolated incidents to systemic threats that can cripple entire industries. Ransomware attacks, data breaches, phishing schemes, and supply chain vulnerabilities are just some of the many tactics used by cybercriminals to exploit businesses. According to a 2023 UK Government Cyber Security Breaches Survey, 32% of UK businesses reported experiencing a cyberattack in the previous 12 months, with many incidents leading to significant financial losses and operational disruption.

Even more alarming is the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in cybercrime. Hackers now deploy AI-driven attacks to bypass traditional security systems, creating an ever-evolving battlefield where businesses must constantly adapt. With the rise of remote work, cloud computing, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, the attack surface has expanded exponentially, making cybersecurity a nonnegotiable investment.

Regulatory pressures and compliance challenges in the UK The UK has some of the most stringent data protection and cybersecurity regulations in the world, and businesses must stay compliant to avoid severe penalties. Key regulations include: • UK GDPR & Data Protection Act 2018 – These laws impose strict obligations on companies handling personal data, requiring them to implement robust security measures. Noncompliance can lead to fines of up to £17.5 million or four per cent of annual turnover.

• Network and Information Systems (NIS) Regulations – These regulations apply to essential service providers and digital service operators, ensuring they maintain strong cybersecurity standards to prevent service disruptions.

• Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Cybersecurity Guidelines – Financial institutions must adhere to strict cybersecurity rules to protect consumers and ensure financial stability.

The FCA actively monitors and penalises firms that fail to manage cyber risks effectively.

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• Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act – This legislation, introduced to improve the security of internetconnected devices, places greater responsibility on manufacturers and businesses using these technologies.

Beyond compliance, cybersecurity has become a key governance issue. Boards of directors and executive teams must now treat cyber risk as a critical business concern, with failure to do so potentially leading to legal liability, reputational damage, and loss of investor confidence.

The business case for proactive cybersecurity Many UK businesses still treat cybersecurity as an operational cost rather than a strategic investment.

However, proactive security measures provide significant long-term benefits, including: • Financial protection – Preventing a cyberattack is far cheaper than dealing with the fallout of a breach. The average cost of a UK data breach in 2023 was £3.4 million, covering legal fees, downtime, and reputational damage.

• Customer trust and brand reputation – UK consumers are highly aware of data privacy issues. Businesses that demonstrate strong cybersecurity gain customer loyalty and a competitive edge.

• Regulatory compliance and legal protection – Adhering to UK data protection laws reduces the risk of hefty fines and legal action.

• Business continuity and resilience – Cyberattacks can disrupt operations, but robust security measures help ensure continuity, minimising downtime and losses.

• Competitive advantage – Companies with strong cybersecurity frameworks are more attractive to investors, partners, and customers who prioritise data security.

Building a cyber-resilient UK business To stay ahead of evolving threats, UK businesses must adopt a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. Here are key best practices: Cybersecurity Training and Awareness – Human error is a leading cause of data breaches. Regular employee training on phishing, password security, and threat detection is crucial.

• Zero-trust security model – Businesses should implement a zero-trust approach, where no user or device is automatically trusted, and verification is required at all levels.

• Robust incident response plans – Having a tested incident response plan ensures businesses

can quickly detect, contain, and recover from cyber incidents.

• Regular security audits and penetration testing – Conducting frequent security assessments helps identify vulnerabilities before attackers can exploit them.

• Third-party and supply chain risk management – Many breaches occur through suppliers and partners. UK firms must ensure vendors follow strict cybersecurity standards.

• Cyber insurance – As cyber risks grow, more UK businesses are investing in cyber insurance to mitigate financial losses in case of an attack.

Conclusion: A cybersecurity-first mindset In an era where cyber threats are inevitable, businesses cannot afford to be reactive.

Cybersecurity must be embedded into the corporate DNA, with leadership taking an active role in fostering a security-first culture. Those who view cybersecurity as a strategic advantage rather than a burden will be better positioned to thrive in the digital economy.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, one thing remains certain: UK businesses that prioritise cybersecurity today will be the ones that survive and succeed tomorrow.

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FEATURE: BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

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FEATURE: BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

Email

security all locked up In the business world, the majority of communication is done by email. Busy business people might fall into the habit of ignoring email management, without paying attention to where an email originates from and whether it is safe to open in the first place. Knowing what to look for and how to identify fake emails will help keep your data and systems protected, and Chamberlink offers its top tips for keeping your inbox safe.

What to watch out for 1. Be wary of “urgent” actions you are asked to take. A common email scam will try to trick you into clicking a link by suggesting that if you don’t take action, you will receive some sort of penalty.

2. If an email contains a zip file or attachment that you have not requested, be very cautious, as it may contain a virus. Word and excel documents which need macros enabling are also a huge red flag.

3. Have you received an email claiming to be from a reputable company but it is littered with spelling and grammatical errors? If so, you can be fairly certain it has come from a questionable source.

4. Duplicate emails – you may see the same email again and again, but with a few words altered each time and supposedly from a different sender.

5. Don’t forward suspicious emails. If you receive an email that you think has been sent to you in error, question the mix up. You can contact the original intended recipient to check but do not 66 CHAMBERLINK March 2025

forward the email until it is certain it is legitimate.

Passing dangerous emails on only increases the chance an infection may occur.

6. If you are offered something that seems to be to good to be true, it probably is.

Scammers try to trap you into supplying personal information to enter competitions you are almost guaranteed to ‘win’ or offer goods that you will never receive.

How to stay safe If you don’t spot a potentially dangerous email and do become a victim of an encryption virus,

‘Invest in regular software updates in order to ensure your email security solution provides the most advanced threat protection’

the only real solution you have is to restore your data and systems from a recent backup. A vital component of a good backup schedule is to actually periodically test your backups to confirm they are indeed working. If you can't restore a backup, you might as well not have had one, so identify what your backup needs are and ascertain if a remote disaster recovery facility is needed.

Invest in regular software updates in order to ensure your email security solution provides the most advanced threat protection. As technology becomes more and more intelligent, so do the dangers, so it’s vital your systems are up to date.

You should also implement multifactor authentication (MFA) to prevent individual email accounts being compromised.

Finally, educate your staff on what to look out for and how to spot a potentially dangerous email. An employee is usually the first line of defense when it comes to email security, so make sure they’re aware of the dangers by investing in user awareness training.

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CHAMBERLINK

SMQ Services Ltd (trading as The Health Insurance Group) is an Appointed Representative of Health and Protection Solutions Ltd. Health and Protection Solutions Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. This can be checked on the FCA’s website or by calling them on 0800 111 6768 (freephone). Not all products and services offered are regulated by the FCA. SMQ Services Ltd is registered in England and Wales number 03687904. Registered office: Lumaneri House Blythe Gate, Blythe Valley Park, Solihull, West Midlands, United Kingdom, B90 8AH

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CHAMBERLINK

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

A family’s legacy The Singh family's pioneering spirit in British agriculture

By Nigel Harte, managing director at Nexus Creative

I

magine this. You are standing in a field on a Strawberry farm in a village called Evesham in the heart of rural Worcestershire. Ripe strawberries and the smell of summer surround you, quintessentially English. You are looking for the grandson of the owner.

The jingling of Kara jewellery makes you aware of him before you see him in all his glory. Master Singh emerges from between the strawberry cloches, resplendent in his traditional Sikh uniform with turban and dagger. You realise this is not a typical farm in the UK. This is the scene that greeted me during my first visit to Vicarage Nurseries. I was there, playing the role of producer overseeing the recording of an episode of ‘It’s a Punjabi Farm innit’ a new behind-the-scenes documentary focusing on the farm and the vibrant team that runs it and the history of how it came to be. My guide is one of the stars of the show and the driving force behind raising awareness of the lack of diversity in farming is Bal Padda, youngest son of the patriarch and owner Mahkan Singh Padda.

So, why does this matter to the world of business?

The Singh family’s story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of perseverance and a lesson for us all to learn. Their journey from the fertile fields of Punjab to the heart of the English countryside is a narrative that resonates with anyone who has dared to dream.

Makhan Singh, the patriarch of the family, embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that has defined generations of Indians. His migration to

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‘There are no doubt plenty of strawberry growers in the UK but there is only one that has its origins in India, who realise that their diversity is their power’

the UK in the 1970s was a bold step, and his decision to venture into farming was even bolder.

His unwavering determination and hard work have laid the foundation for the family’s success.

It underlines the fact that those who are bold, who have unwavering commitment and back themselves in the face of adversity will find a way to succeed in business.

Today, Vicarage Nurseries, under the stewardship of Makhan’s sons Bal Padda and Harjit Singh, stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. The farm has always been dedicated to producing high-quality fruits but as Bal and Harjit set the business in a different direction, you realise what is on show here is marketing differentiation, which is fundamental to any business success.

There are no doubt plenty of strawberry growers in the UK but there is only one that has its origins in India, who realise that their diversity is their power and that the best way to market your business is to stand out from the crowd.

The documentary, produced by Nexus Creative Ltd, offers a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of farm life and the challenges faced by farmers. It is a heartwarming tale of love, labour, and legacy. As the world grapples with issues of food security, climate change and tension the Singh family's story serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable agriculture and the power of family and faith.

To watch It’s a Punjabi Farm, innit search on Youtube.

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

‘The Singh family’s story is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of perseverance and a lesson for us all to learn’

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

Unlocking the potential of

Black women entrepreneurs in the UK

By Aisha Jallow (pictured inset), founder of BeePro Cosmetics What needs to change?

T

he UK’s entrepreneurial landscape is thriving, yet Black women remain significantly overlooked when it comes to investment and business support. Despite being one of the fastest-growing groups of entrepreneurs, securing funding, accessing high-value networks, and scaling businesses remains a major challenge.

The investment gap Research shows that Black entrepreneurs receive just 0.24 per cent of venture capital funding in the UK, with an even smaller fraction going to Black women.

This lack of investment isn’t due to a lack of viable businesses but rather systemic bias in funding allocation. Many Black women entrepreneurs self-fund their ventures, relying on personal savings, which limits their ability to grow and compete in saturated markets.

Missed economic potential The lack of investment in Black womenowned businesses is not just a diversity issue – it is a missed economic opportunity. Studies show that diverse leadership teams outperform their less diverse counterparts, leading to higher returns and greater innovation.

Black women entrepreneurs are leading high-growth industries such as beauty, fashion, wellness, and digital commerce. Their brands don’t just serve niche audiences; they influence mainstream consumer trends, shaping the future of these markets. Investing in them is not charity – it’s smart business.

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To unlock the full potential of Black women entrepreneurs, we must take practical steps: 1. Increase investment in Black women-led ventures • Investors must expand their networks to include diverse founders and fund scalable, high-growth businesses run by Black women.

2. Provide meaningful business support • Many accelerator programmes and grants exist, but few are designed to meet the needs of Black women entrepreneurs.

Support must go beyond symbolic initiatives to offer funding, mentorship, and market access.

3. Recognise the power of social commerce & digital innovation • Black women are pioneering new models of e-commerce, AI- driven beauty tech, and social commerce. Investors who understand these emerging trends will be ahead of the curve.

4. Move beyond token diversity efforts • Many investment firms have diversity pledges, but few allocate real capital. A shift in mindset is needed, where Black women are recognised as valuable business leaders, not just diversity quotas.

The future is changing Black women entrepreneurs are not waiting for permission – they are creating their own opportunities. However, to scale and dominate industries, access to funding and high-value networks is crucial.

The real question is no longer whether Black women are ready to lead.

They already are. The question now is: Who will be forward-thinking enough to invest in them first?

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

‘Many Black women entrepreneurs self-fund their ventures, relying on personal savings’

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Sector Focus The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

Airport upgrades drop off area Birmingham Airport has announced plans to introduce a barrierless system for vehicles dropping off passengers at its premium set down and drop off areas.

The changes, which will be rolled out in phases beginning with the Elmdon multi-storey in February, and the drop off facilities will follow in spring. The removal of barriers will assist the flow of vehicles in the relevant areas and reduce congestion during busier times.

The new system will use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology and eliminate the need for parking barriers, ensuring

Mayor joins visitor economy council A new Visitor Economy Advisory Council aims to boost collaboration between government and the tourism industry.

The group will inform the government’s forthcoming National Visitor Economy Strategy and its plans for the UK to welcome 50 million international visitors per year by 2030.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker and chief executive of the West Midlands Growth Company Neil Rami have been invited to join a new national taskforce aimed at securing growth in the UK’s worldclass tourism sector.

Richard Parker said: “The West Midlands is full of heritage, creativity, and world-class events – from sport to music – making it a must-visit destination for millions worldwide.

“By working nationally with industry leaders, we can attract even more visitors, create exciting new jobs and opportunities, and deliver lasting benefits for our communities here and beyond.”

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vehicles will be able to exit seamlessly, helping to ease congestion and enhance traffic flow around the airport.

Drivers must pay the relevant parking/drop-off tariff due within 24 hours of leaving the car park, and for added convenience customers will have various payment options including via an autopay account, post-pay at home or at the existing pay machines on-site.

The reduction of queues within the Premium Set Down and drop off area will reduce carbon emissions and air quality impacts. This further supports the airport’s drive to become net zero

carbon by 2033 and its existing plans to manage and reduce air quality impacts.

Nikki Bains, head of planning, transport and strategy at Birmingham Airport, said: "Scheduled to launch this spring, the new barrier-free system will simplify passenger drop-offs, enhance vehicular surface access by offering a smoother and faster experience. By minimising waiting times for drivers, it will enhance traffic flow and improve efficiency across the area."

Further information about the project, as well as how to register for AutoPay, will be made available to our customers soon.

Extra funding to improve cycling and walking routes A £21m scheme to encourage people to take more active commutes has been launched by West Midlands mayor Richard Parker.

This investment will deliver more cycle routes, junction upgrades, safer road crossings and support community projects to encourage more people to take up cycling and walking across the region.

The two allocations to the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) were announced from the Government’s Active Travel Fund: A £5.2m to cover activity this year and a £15.9m allocation, the largest in the country, for 2025/26. Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), part of the WMCA, will now work with local councils to allocate the funding to specific projects to secure the greatest benefit from the investment.

Previous rounds of Active Travel Fund grants have been used on a wide range of projects including extending the A38 cycle route in south Birmingham and cycle lanes and safe pedestrian crossings on the

Healthy journeys: West Midlands mayor, Richard Parker (right) with active travel commissioner Beccy Marston

Wolverhampton City Centre ring road.

The mayor said: “I’ve secured £21m - the largest active travel funding allocation in the country - to make walking and cycling safer, easier, and more accessible for people across the West Midlands.”

West Midlands active travel commissioner Beccy Marston added: “The West Midlands is making an unprecedented investment in new infrastructure and initiatives to support walking, wheeling, and cycling. I am committed to helping to deliver mayor Richard Parker’s ‘Journeys for Everyone’.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Private equity deals increase The number of private equity transactions completed in the Midlands increased marginally in 2024, while the total investment figure fell, according to the latest UK Private Equity Review from KPMG UK. The comprehensive annual study into private equity deal activity found that investment in the region declined by 27.4 per cent in 2024, to a total of £13.3bn.

The findings come following a period in which the UK experienced a more stable economic climate, with falling inflation and greater interest rate stability; increased political certainty following elections; and a surge in transactions ahead of anticipated changes to Capital Gains Tax. Despite this fall in investment levels, the volume of deals in the region increased slightly from 157 to 160 yearon-year.

Investment in the Midlands accounted for 8.3 per cent of total new PE backing in the UK. Stuart Sewell, head of M&A for the Midlands at KPMG UK, said: “Although private equity investment by value in the Midlands fell in 2024, deal volumes remained encouraging, with interest rate cuts likely to stimulate the market in 2025.

“Once again the Midlands made a solid contribution in terms of national investments and the region’s plethora of innovative businesses look to be in good shape to target even larger deals in the coming months.”

Alex Hartley, head of corporate finance at KPMG UK, said: “There are encouraging signs from the 2024 data that deal activity may have bottomed out in the UK in 2023, as we saw activity, both in volume and value, pick up last year. In particular, we saw significant activity in the second half of the year as many business owners tried to get ahead of expected changes to Capital Gains Tax. “Given the current signals in the market around increased activity levels – alongside reducing inflation and interest rates and greater political certainty – there is cautious optimism that UK private equity deal activity will see further growth through 2025 and 2026.”

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Lord Eatwell appointed to Unity’s board Unity Trust Bank has appointed leading British economist Lord John Eatwell to its board as an independent non-executive director.

Lord Eatwell has had a distinguished career as a professor, political advisor and member of the House of Lords and has a wealth of experience in banking, financial policy and regulation.

He taught economics at Cambridge, where he was Professor of Financial Policy, and was President of Queens’ College for over two decades.

‘I’m excited to join Unity’s board because it brings together all of the elements of my career that I’m interested in’ While his early interests were in economic theory, from the early 1980s his work included policy issues relating to employment, growth and finance and he became an economic adviser to former Labour Party leader, Neil Kinnock.

Growth: Lord John Eatwell

In 1992 he entered the House of Lords.

Lord Eatwell said: “I’m excited to join Unity’s board because it brings together all of the elements of my career that I’m interested in.

“Unity has a ‘double bottom-line’ strategy of careful and responsible financing alongside a commitment to social purpose.

“I’m looking forward to being involved in the bank’s next stage of growth.”

Growth fund (left to right): Karen Davies, of Purple Shoots, with BCRS CEO Stephen Deakin and BCRS business development manager Niki Haggerty-James

Business loan provider lends support to charity lender Loan provider BCRS Business Loans has given a £27,000 grant to Purple Shoots to support the growth of small businesses and help those starting their own companies.

Wolverhampton-based BCRS has backed community development finance institution Purple Shoots with an evergreen grant, which will not be required to be paid back.

Purple Shoots, a not-for-profit micro finance organisation and registered charity based in Pontypridd, South Wales, will use the funds to offer micro loans up to £5,000 to budding businesspeople to support their growth aspirations in the West Midlands and Wales.

Repayments made by businesses borrowing from Purple Shoots will not go back to BCRS but will be used to provide more loans.

The grant has been provided as part of a commitment by BCRS to support community development finance institutions.

Stephen Deakin, chief executive at BCRS Business Loans, which is a community development finance institution, said: “The funding we have provided to Purple Shoots allows us to increase our impact by supporting an organisation that provides incredibly important support.

“Through its lending and self-support groups, Purple Shoots really changes people’s lives and as an impact-driven lender it made sense for us to provide this grant. As an organisation they do so much with relatively small amounts of funding, and it is a shame that they had to pause their lending for four months last year.

“I hope other lenders, organisations and individuals will follow our lead and provide financial support to Purple Shoots to support the life changing work they do.

“BCRS are a story-based lender, and, like Purple Shoots, we support businesses that often find it difficult to access finance through traditional routes.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

The Carbon Committee 2025 (left to right): Jack Holder, Kerrie Given, Jamie Skelding, Paul Guise, Natalija Carlsson, Kevin Johns and Pam Rai

Prime reveals net zero strategy Award-winning West Midlands accountancy practice Prime Accountants Group has unveiled a far-reaching carbon-cutting strategy to help it achieve net zero by 2040.

Prime, which has offices in Solihull, Birmingham and Coventry, has partnered with Carbon Happy World to develop and implement a plan to measure, reduce and compensate for its greenhouse gas emissions.

The firm cut emissions by 32 per cent year-onyear in 2023, based on a strategic plan developed during the Covid-19 pandemic which included reducing the use of printers and introducing staff incentives to explore alternative methods of transportation.

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Its initial analysis revealed petrol and diesel vehicle emissions as the main source of environmental harm from all three of its offices.

Prime has pledged to make a 42 per cent overall reduction by 2030 to meet the crucial Paris Climate Goal target of 1.5°C limit of global warming.

It will then go even further by aiming to offset all remaining emissions over the following decade.

The plan has been developed by Prime’s sustainability board – directors Kevin Johns and Paul Guise, associate director Kerrie Given and finance director Jamie Skelding, alongside team members Natalija Carlsson and Pam Rai.

Kerrie said: “In a world where environmental consciousness and sustainability are becoming increasingly important, the responsibility to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions extends to every sector of society.

“We recognise our role in this endeavour and are committed to making a positive impact.

“By implementing the steps outlined in this plan, we aim to not only fulfil our environmental responsibilities but also set an example for our industry, clients and the broader community.

“We recognise that our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint is a long-term endeavour, and we are ready to adapt, innovate, and collaborate to achieve our targets.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

New partnership for manufacturer Alwayse Ball Unit Solutions has announced BIL Group as its latest UK distribution partner. This new collaboration combines Alwayse’s standing as the leading designer and manufacturer of ball transfer units with BIL Group’s reputation for excellence in material handling solutions.

Customers will soon be able to purchase Alwayse’s range of groundbreaking solutions directly from the BIL Group website, with the added benefit of a no-minimum order policy. By stocking single units in its warehouse, BIL Group guarantees quick delivery for all

orders, ensuring businesses can operate efficiently and without delay.

Claire Umney, managing director of Alwayse Ball Unit Solutions, said: “We’re very excited to announce BIL Group as a new distribution partner.

“As a leading supplier of material handling and equipment solutions, BIL Group’s website is the perfect place to promote our industryleading range of ball unit solutions.

Designed to help end-users reduce workplace injuries from heavy lifting and repetitive strain, they offer effortless, precise, and multidirectional load handling – all

‘We feel confident that this marks the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial collaboration with BIL Group’ Experience: Grace Alom

Rhino appoints accounts director Workplace design, build and commercial fit-out specialists Rhino Interiors have appointed Grace Alom as key accounts director.

The Birmingham-based group, renowned for delivering high-quality commercial design, build, and fit-out projects, is currently expanding its operations to meet growing market demand.

Grace brings extensive experience and a proven track record of building strong client relationships.

Ben Wheatcroft, managing director of Rhino Interiors, said: “We are delighted to welcome Grace to Rhino. Her industry knowledge, strategic mindset, and people-first approach will be instrumental in enhancing our relationships with key clients and expanding our reach across the commercial fit-out landscape.”

Grace said: “I am thrilled to be part of such a forward-thinking company.

Rhino’s values and culture resonate strongly with me, and I look forward to working closely with clients to deliver exceptional projects.”

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On the ball: Alwayse and BIL Group

without the need for a power source.

“We feel confident that this marks the beginning of a long and mutually beneficial collaboration with BIL Group, and we look forward to working closely with the team.”

Chris Davies, product and sales director at BIL Group, adds: “We are thrilled and honoured to be working alongside Alwayse to promote their ball transfer unit solutions, and we see this partnership as a great opportunity for growth.”

MPB Structures wins HS2 contract HS2’s Curzon Street Station contractor Mace Dragados Joint Venture (MDJV) is preparing for construction work to ramp up on Birmingham’s flagship station in 2025, with the first of a series of major contract awards.

Civil engineering specialist MPB Structures, with offices in Birmingham, have been awarded the contract to build the substructure foundations.

This work follows the piling operation currently being delivered by Keltbray to install 2,000 concrete piles to support the foundations for the station.

A team of around 140 people from MPB have started work on site, building the complex substructure for the station.

The work includes removing 65,000m3 of earth, using around 17,000 cubic metres of concrete to install 417 pile caps, and over 4,700 tonnes of reinforcing steel to make the station’s ground beams.

The team will also be waterproofing the new concrete structures, building the drainage network within and around the station, and constructing the attenuation tanks to store rainwater that will be recycled for use within the station when it’s operational.

Dave Lock, HS2’s project client director for Curzon Street Station, said: “This contract award marks the next stage of our construction programme to build the flagship Curzon Street Station, and we’re delighted to have MPB on board.

“Further contracts will be awarded in the coming months as we move towards starting on the main station structure next year.”

Patrick Boyle, board director and business owner of MPB Structures, said: “We are delighted to have secured this prestigious contract on the Curzon Street Station build.

“Our business has a long and rich history of successfully delivering major projects for key clients across Birmingham and the West Midlands.

“We are fully committed to this project and to the opportunity to support and deliver a significant social value proposition for MDJV and HS2.

“In addition to local employment, one of our main aspirations is to create work placements and workless jobs starts for local people building on other successes we have had in this arena, coupled with West Midlands Mayor Parker’s ambition to create 20,000 jobs and opportunities within the region.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

The benefits of mediation Gavin Evans (pictured), dispute resolution partner at the Wilkes Partnership, discusses whether mediation should be consensual or compulsory following a change in court rules.

In civil or commercial disputes, lawyers are well used to advising their clients that mediation is a consensual process and whilst in most cases a good idea, it is not a compulsory step in resolving a dispute.

That all started to change a couple of years ago when, following a decision of the Court of Appeal the court rules were changed to give the court the power to order the parties to a dispute to mediate before the court was prepared to allow the case to go to trial.

As ever it takes a while for changes to filter down, but now we have the first reported case in which a court has ordered a compulsory mediation before trial.

In DKH Retail and others -v- City Football Group Limited, a trial was looming and the claimant wanted to mediate. The defendant thought it was all too late in the day, and a waste of time because there was no chance of a settlement. We need the judge to decide the outcome, they said.

The judge noted that mediation was “capable of cracking even the hardest nuts”, and despite the defendant’s objections ordered that the parties must mediate during the course of the following month and report the outcome back to the court.

This is groundbreaking stuff. Traditionally there has been an argument that the court being seen to force parties into an “alternative” process when at least one of them wanted to have their day in court, was preventing access to justice in that the court

should be prepared to hear every case that was put before it.

There is – perhaps justifiably – a perception that the move to compulsory mediation is designed to take the pressure off an overloaded court system that is understaffed, underfinanced and riddled with delays.

Certainly, an increase in cases being settled outside the Court process will be those who work within the court system.

And yet – whisper it – orders that the parties must engage in compulsory mediation might also be made because mediation works. It can deliver far more flexible (and commercial) outcomes and is almost always going to be quicker and cheaper than a full-blown trial. Plus, the time and effort in preparing for a mediation often pales into insignificance compared with the costs and stresses of dealing with a court case.

So is mediation the future? The courts seem to think so.

And, if you want another opinion, just ask the parties in the DKH Retail case. A postscript to the judgment records that the parties did indeed mediate as ordered… and settled their dispute as a result. Another nut cracked.

Freeths advise on acquisition The private equity portfolio team at Freeths has advised Lloyd’s List Intelligence, the leading maritime data, insights and analytics provider, on its acquisition of Infospectrum, an independent provider of counterparty risk appraisal reports and data, due diligence research and KYC intelligence.

This acquisition expands Lloyd’s List Intelligence’s ability to deliver market-leading analysis and risk management intelligence solutions.

The Freeths team was led by corporate partner Emily Settle,

closely supported by managing associate Elizabeth Cotton and associates Charlotte Collard, Ellie Harrison and Hollie Plumb with trainee Victoria Naylor alongside director Mel Mapstone.

‘We were delighted to work alongside the LLI and Montagu teams to deliver this acquisition’ Emils said: “We were delighted to work alongside the LLI and Montagu teams to deliver this

acquisition, which showcased the strength and breadth of our multi-discipline international PE Portfolio Team. This deal was supported by excellent teams from PWC and Evelyn Partners.”

Freeths also advised the founders of the UK franchise of Wingstop on the sale of a majority stake in the business to global private equity firm Sixth Street as well as a multimillionpound seed round co-investment into the University of Sheffield spinout robotics software business Bettering Our Worlds Limited (BOW).

Law firm expands residential team Gateley Legal has expanded its specialist residential development team in Birmingham with the lateral hire of partner Simon Robinson.

He joins Gateley Legal with approaching 20 years of experience advising housebuilders, land promoters and developers on housebuilding and urban residential development matters. He also specialises in strategic land, regeneration and complex joint venture schemes.

He has spent his entire legal career working in Birmingham and previously seven years as a partner at Trowers & Hamlins, as well as holding roles with firms including Gowling WLG and Eversheds Sutherland.

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY

Property duo in launch of real estate firm Commercial property experts Jon Ryan-Gill and John Sambrooks have joined forces to launch a new firm, Garrison Real Estate.

With over 50 years’ combined experience in the industrial and logistics sector, and both qualified chartered surveyors, Garrison Real Estate aims to serve a wide range of clients including occupiers, property companies, funds and developers.

Jon Ryan-Gill, who has worked in the Midlands property sector for over 25 years, said: “From day one, our goal was to stand out as a forward-thinking, innovative firm, specialising in the acquisition, disposal, and development of commercial property across the Midlands.

“We’re a business born from many years of industry expertise, we know the market inside and out.

“Our vision is to be the region’s trusted partner of choice, delivering tailored support for all your property needs.”

John Sambrooks, specialising in industrial and logistics properties, said: “We have seen the significant changes in the real estate market over the last five years, increasing operating costs, rising industrial rents, energy and

New partners: Jon Ryan-Gill (left) and John Sambrooks

labour costs – so it’s vital that companies seek proper advice when considering their real estate decisions and we're looking forward to supporting businesses with our unique perspective.’’

Before founding Garrison Real Estate, both directors held influential senior positions at Gerald Eve in Birmingham, representing regional and national occupiers across retail, logistics, manufacturing, and trade sectors.

Their backgrounds also include senior roles at Knight Frank, CBRE, DTZ, and Cushman & Wakefield.

Howden offices consolidated

Demand for space on the rise

Insurance intermediary group Howden has relocated its team of more than 120 advisors into one central hub in Birmingham city centre.

Howden says the new office, located on Church Street in Birmingham business district, underscores the firm’s growth and ambitions for future expansion in the Midlands.

The Birmingham office will welcome and train apprentices as part of Howden’s Early Careers Programme, providing opportunities for school and university leavers.

Carl Shuker, CEO Howden UK&I Retail, said: “Howden has an established network and strong relationships with clients and communities across the Midlands.

“We’re committed to continuing our growth story by investing in our next chapter, which has brought colleagues together to form a city centre hub.

“Meaningful growth is only possible with talented people, which is why Howden is dedicated to attracting and retaining the best local talent to drive sustainable business growth.

“We welcome anyone with an interest in or an established career in insurance to learn more about our talent opportunities.”

Commercial property specialists Fisher German believe 2024’s highest annual figures for office leasing transactions in central Birmingham since 2017 will spark even more demand in the city this year.

Figures from the Birmingham Office Market Forum (BOMF) reveal the total office take-up in 2024 was 854,672 sq ft, a major leap from 702,993 sq ft the previous year.

The Q4 figures totalled 137,118 sq ft and 96 transactions were concluded throughout the calendar year. The largest transaction in 2024 was the headline-grabbing 189,053 sq ft secured by Aston University at 10 Woodcock Street, followed by the BBCs 84,000 sq ft relocation at Typhoo Wharf in Digbeth, and the Global Banking Schools 68,192 sq ft at 1 Brindleyplace.

Charles Warrack, partner at Fisher German, based in Colmore Row in Birmingham, said: “The figures for 2024 proved the city’s resilience and onward renaissance, given the changes being seen to the office sector, including hybrid and flexi working policies which are popular with many employers and indeed employees. 2024 was the highest annual transaction figures in central Birmingham since 2017, showcasing a robust recovery from the COVID-19 years of 2020-2021 and beyond.

“It is encouraging to see an upward trend in every year following 2020 and I think this momentum will clearly continue in 2025.”

The figures for 2024 highlight that occupiers are looking for office space in central Birmingham and a good proportion of the figures have been boosted by the education sector.

Charles said 2024 highlighted the city’s resilience and popularity among students, which is superb news for employers who are attracting highly skilled staff to their workforces. He said: “Birmingham city centre is buzzing with positivity thanks to the major office schemes which have attracted occupiers who are eager to build and expand for the future, especially as more employers encourage staff to return to the office.

“It is superb news that some big names are committing to Birmingham. There is much encouragement for the 12 months...”

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Resilience: Charles Warrack

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

Half of workers on the lookout for a new job Nearly half of UK workers are prioritising landing a new role this year, new data reveals.

Research by Midlands recruitment specialist Pertemps showed that 47 per cent said a new role was a goal for 2025.

Meanwhile, 26 per cent said they wanted to get a better work/life balance, 19 per cent wanted to learn new skills and eight per cent said a promotion was their top target before the end of the year.

Tracy Evans, director of HR and Quality at Meriden-headquartered Pertemps, said: “We have just under half of people saying they want to move jobs this year.

“That is a significant number and maybe suggests that employers still have work to do on their offering for workers.

“We know money will likely remain the top motivator for most people, but it’s things like training and development, career advancement, work-life balance and benefits packages that come with the pay check that people need to make them feel settled and happy in the work.”

‘We have just under half of people saying they want to move jobs this year’ A recent report showed that flexible working and enhanced sick pay were the most desired benefits.

Pertemps has appeared in an annual list of best companies to work Half want new jobs: for over the Tracy Evans past 18 years.

Courses to tackle leadership issues Colleges and training providers across the West Midlands and Warwickshire have launched a suite of free, online, modular courses to help tackle the region’s leadership and management challenge.

Six courses are available, free of charge, on the Skills West Midlands and Warwickshire website.

Leadership and management was highlighted as a key issue for the

Short of leaders: Suzie Branch-Haddow

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region in West Midlands and Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan published in 2023.

The report called for an increase in the fundamental leadership and management capabilities within West Midlands and Warwickshire businesses through the provision of flexible, modular, stackable training and business support for current and future leaders and managers.

Suzie Branch-Haddow, chair of Skills WM +W and vice principal at Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet), said: “We have seen the emphasis given to the need to enhance skills and training opportunities by both Government and the West Midlands Mayor with a view to delivering economic growth.

“These free, online, modular courses begin to address what employers told us represents one of their biggest barriers to growth and opportunity – leadership and management, including strategy development, performance management, project management and change management.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Road safety boost from AI tech Near misses between drivers and pedestrians are being detected using the latest artificial intelligence (AI) technology as part of a West Midlands-wide pilot scheme to improve safety and save lives.

VivaCity’s AI-powered vision sensors detect and record near misses, such as when a vehicle passes within inches of a slower moving pedestrian or cyclist, so that potential collision hot spots can be identified before someone is actually hurt.

A total of 40 existing sensors across the region have been upgraded with the Smart Road Safety and Near Miss technology, which uses object speed and path data to estimate collision risks between road users.

The analysis provided by the award-winning technology is being used by Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) and VivaCity to determine where safety measures are needed.

Until now, highway planners have had to use data from collisions that have already happened when deciding

Safer roads (left ro right): Mayor Richard Parker (left) with Road Safety Commissioner Mat MacDonald, Darren Divall, Road Safety manager for TfWM and VivaCity partners Shane Foley and Rob Stait at the Road Traffic Control Centre (RTCC) where a demonstration of how the technology works in action took place

where to install safe crossings or speed reduction measures.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “One life lost on our roads is one too many. That’s why I’m committed to Vision Zero – no more deaths on our roads.

Expanding: Fayyaz Shah, Mike Lewis and Ian Vickers

Cybersecurity firm creates 100 jobs METCLOUD, the multi-award-winning sovereign cloud and cybersecurity services provider, is expanding its presence in Birmingham - with plans to create up to 100 jobs.

METCLOUD, which takes up the entire fifth floor of Lyndon House, Birmingham, is creating up to 100 skilled roles in cybersecurity.

The software and services company’s expansion has been enabled by a number of contract successes, including being selected to provide cybersecurity services to specialist defence manufacturing firm, NMS UK. The international manufacturer invested in a new facility in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, which will focus on manufacturing protected patrol vehicles for the UK defence industry and for international export.

METCLOUD’S secure sovereign cloud solutions will support NMS UK’s compliance with stringent defence industry regulations.

The West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) – the region’s official investment promotion agency – supported METCLOUD’s expansion by providing dedicated sector-focused consultancy and PR support to help the business raise its profile in the local marketplace.

Ian Vickers, CEO at METCLOUD, said: “Our expansion reflects our continued growth nationally and our unwavering commitment to Birmingham and the West Midlands.”

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“This new AI technology is helping us prevent collisions before they happen, protecting pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. And Coventry is leading the way as the first place to roll out measures that have been guided by high-tech AI.”

Latest provisional figures show that while road deaths in the West Midlands have fallen by 12 per cent over the last two years, 43 per cent of all fatalities were pedestrians.

Mat MacDonald, the region’s Road Safety Commissioner, said: “Instead of waiting for tragedy to unfold we will be able to allocate resources in a way that reduces the chance of a collision occurring in the first place.

“Acting pre-emptively at danger hotspots to tackle speeds, reduce the volume of traffic and improve physical protections for the most vulnerable road users will without doubt reduce deaths and serious injuries in collisions, which must be our overarching focus.”

The AI near-miss sensors build on the Regional Road Safety Action Plan’s broader crackdown on dangerous driving, complementing other actions such as additional funding for extra staff to review speed cameras and dashcam footage.

Funding for water treatment project The Aston Institute for Membrane Excellence (AIME) has been awarded £6.1m in funding from the UK Government Department of Science, Industry and Technology (DSIT), with a further £7.1m in cofunding from partners including Science Card and Bruntwood SciTech.

The money will fund the MEMetic project, which will develop natureinspired (biomimetic) polymer membranes for water filtration.

MEMetic is being led by Professor Alan Goddard, from the School of Biosciences and AIME’s training and industry lead, and Dr Matt Derry, from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies and AIME’s marketing and comms lead.

The funding award for MEMetic builds on the success of the BIOMEM project, an international collaboration based on research from Professor Goddard, Dr Derry, Professor Roslyn Bill, Professor Paul Topham, Dr Alice Rothnie and Professor Brian Tighe. BIOMEM won a €3m European Innovation Council (EIC) Pathfinder grant in 2024.

Professor Goddard and Dr Derry said: “MEMetic represents the culmination of years of planning a significant, challenging, interdisciplinary research programme which promises massive real-world benefits.

“This RVC award will allow us to leverage our fundamental science to create bespoke bioinspired filtration membranes for a range of industries.”

Funding award: Dr Matt Derry and Professor Alan Goddard

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SECTOR FOCUS: THE ARTS

Stage adaptation comes to Brum Aaron Sorkin’s stage adaptation of Harper Lee’s novel To Kill a Mockingbird is coming to Birmingham’s Hippodrome as part of a first UK and Ireland tour.

The courtroom drama about racial injustice and childhood innocence that became a Broadway and West End sensation lands in Birmingham Hippodrome from Monday 14 to Friday 18 April, 2026.

Set in 1934 Alabama, To Kill a Mockingbird was inspired by novelist Harper Lee’s own childhood and has sold more than 45 million copies worldwide. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature and was long at the top of the banned book lists.

Oscar winning writer Aaron Sorkin’s stage adaptation of To Kill A Mockingbird is paired with Bartlett Sher’s visionary direction.

Kooky comedy for the family Following two hugely successful UK and Ireland tours and sold out concerts at The London Palladium last year, The Addams Family musical comedy will run at Birmingham Hippodrome from Thursday 10 to Saturday 12 July.

The Addams Family has a book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice (writers of the multi award-winning hit musical Jersey Boys), with music and lyrics by Tony Award-nominated Andrew Lippa, based on the characters created by Charles Addams.

It is produced by Katy Lipson for Aria Entertainment, John Stalker Productions and Bill Kenwright Ltd, with coproducers ADAMA Entertainment and Guy James and is presented through special arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide.

Tickets can be booked at birminghamhippodrome.com or be calling 0121 6893000.

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A year to paint the picture: Ian Morris

Ozzy meets Ozzy on Freedom tour Artist Ian Morris took his new painting of Ozzy Osbourne and Ozzy the Bull on a tour of Birmingham’s entertainment quarter, visiting the famous Black Sabbath Bench and various other top sites.

The video and picture tour of the journey was arranged to celebrate the real Ozzy and his fellow original members of Black Sabbath having their individual Freedom of Birmingham honours confirmed.

At the first stop Ian introduced the Ozzy images to each other on the bench, installed by Westside BID back before his picture then visited “The Golden Boys” statue of Matthew Boulton, James Watt and William Murdoch, the Industrial Revolution’s founding fathers.

The tour then stopped at Gillian Wearing’s sculpture of “A Real Birmingham Family” and at the Hall

of Memory, both on Centenary Square, then onto Gas Street canal basin, and Brindleyplace, including a 30-second exhibition at the Ikon Gallery.

‘I am thrilled that all of the members of Black Sabbath are being given a Freedom of Birmingham honour’ The tour came in the same week that Birmingham City Council officially confirmed that Ozzy, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward are to be given the Freedom of Birmingham honour.

Artist Ian, who comes from Rowley Regis in the Black Country, said: “I am thrilled that all of the members of Black Sabbath are being

Heavy metal legends at the heart of BRB highlights Birmingham Royal Ballet has unveiled its 2025-26 season – with a string of highlights including Black Sabbath - The Ballet returning to the UK for an autumn tour.

Other notable productions include the Royal Ballet returning to Japan with Cinderella and The Sleeping Beauty while The Nutcracker makes its way back to Birmingham Hippodrome and the Royal Albert Hall.

Meanwhile, Carlos Acosta’s Don Quixote will tour the UK in the spring of 2026 and will also return to the Royal Opera House stage in the summer after a 10-year absence.

given a Freedom of Birmingham honour.

“I painted Ozzy just to follow my dream… he and Black Sabbath are iconic so I thought I would immortalise him in oils.

“When the Bull was named after Ozzy, I thought I’d put it in the background looking up at him, with Ozzy in the pose he had during the Commonwealth Games closing ceremony.

“It took me a year to paint the picture. With oils you can add layers and layers and layers – which then means you have to work out when to stop. The detail on the Bull, for example, is very intricate.”

Ian, who as well as his art is a welder turned carpenter, says he has already turned down an offer of £20,000 for his Ozzy painting.

While he would sell his painting, he is hoping to have it exhibited first.

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SECTOR FOCUS: SPORT

The Business of Sport Edgbaston agrees food supply deal Edgbaston has signed a new longterm contract with Fordhall Farm Event Caterers to be the stadium’s official concession management company.

The deal will see Fordhall Farm Events, based in Market Drayton, supply over 50 street food style units around Edgbaston during Vitality Blast games, Blast Finals Day, and international matches.

It extends a partnership between the two brands which stretches back to 2015.

Edgbaston operations director Claire Daniel said: “Edgbaston is committed to sustainability and prioritising sourcing products from local suppliers. Fordhall Farm very much mirror our ethos.

“They are a family-led business, one of the first organic farms in the country, and supply much of the

produce to units at Edgbaston from their on-site farm butchery.

And other products they don’t supply are sourced from suppliers in the region.

“We first met Ben (Fordhall Farm Events director) ten years ago when he popped into Edgbaston to see if we’d be interested in any of their farm products. It started with four units…and I’m delighted the relationship has blossomed since then.

“The food they supply is top quality, a great offering for Bears fans during the Blast and visitors at Edgbaston for England games.”

The deal also extends to providing catering options at Rugby School for Warwickshire’s three Metro Bank One Day Cup games in August.

Ruby celebrations: Royal Ascot, scene of the Eventmasters milestone

Eventmasters to sponsor Trials Day Eventmasters are to sponsor Royal Ascot Trials Day on Wednesday, 30 April, as part of the corporate hospitality business’ ruby anniversary celebrations.

The sponsorship is one of a number of events planned to help mark 40 years of providing VIP corporate hospitality at a range of major sporting and cultural events both in the UK and around the world.

Royal Ascot is a key event in the hospitality calendar and in June 2025 Eventmasters anticipate in excess of 3,500 guests will be in attendance.

Felicity Barnard, chief executive at Ascot Racecourse, said: “Eventmasters are longstanding hospitality partners of ours and to formalise this relationship with the headline sponsorship of one of our most important fixtures in the calendar is really exciting.”

Denise Sheasby, CEO of the Eventmasters Group, said: “We are delighted to have the ability to sponsor Royal Ascot Trials Day. This will give us the opportunity to celebrate a special year.”

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Long standing relationship (left to right): Hannah Davis (head of operations at Fordhall Farms), Claire Daniel (Edgbaston operations director) and Ben Hollins (Fordhall Farms director)

Fordhall Farm Events are tenants to England's first communityowned organic farm, The Fordhall Community Land Initiative.

Director Ben Hollins added: “The long term contract gives Fordhall

Farm Events the ability to invest in infrastructure to enable us to support Edgbaston on improving customer experience while improving the match day sustainability aspirations.”

Gala dinner to raise awareness of MND Multiple celebrities have signed up to take part in a Masked Entertainer gala dinner at Edgbaston Stadium to raise awareness and vital funds for Motor Neurone Disease research.

The event at the home of Warwickshire CCC will take place on April 12 for the Mel Evans MBE Foundation, set up in memory of Mel Evans, a renowned Crown Green Bowls player who died of MND in 2017.

The foundation was set up by Mel’s wife, Lynn Pritchatt, and this event is the second major gala dinner she has organised after a fundraiser at Headingley in Leeds last year.

Lynn is promising another line-up of famous faces at the spring event, which will also welcome former England cricketer Chris Broad and former Sunderland and Bristol Rovers footballer Marcus Stewart, who is living with MND. Birmingham-born Lynn said: “Headingley was the first time I had organised a gala dinner of this magnitude. I thought about what to do next long and hard and here we are in Birmingham, the city of my birth. As with the last event, there’s a serious undertone but we want to make it fun.”

Born in 1952, Mel was a passionate cricket player in his youth and was offered a contract with Warwickshire County Cricket Club. However, he took a different path, working as an auditor for Finning (UK) for more than 40 years and developing a passion for Crown Green Bowls. Mel played at the highest level, earning more than 100 caps for his county of Staffordshire.

Lynn is looking to attract more partner businesses to complement the British Crown Green Bowling Association, which has made the foundation its nominated charity. There are also several sponsorship packages available for the gala night at Edgbaston. Get in touch via email: lynn@melevansfoundation.org.uk

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Chamber Insight Focus on a member

Name: Claire Dunsterville Company: The Harborne Hospital (HCA Healthcare UK) Job Title: CEO What does your company do?

The Harborne Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, is a purposebuilt, multi-specialty private hospital in Birmingham, offering advanced diagnostics, cancer care, and comprehensive medical services.

How did it all start?

The Harborne Hospital is a partnership with University Hospitals Birmingham. While we’re a standalone independent hospital providing private care, there’s also extra capacity for NHS patients in a dedicated space. And the partnership creates resources that can be reinvested into NHS services.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

One year since opening, I could not be prouder of our incredible team, and the care they have provided to thousands of patients.

This week we completed our 1000th operation - a complex craniotomy for a brain tumour.

What keeps you awake at night?

Being excited about what we can achieve in the Midlands, offering unique services like the region’s first private da Vinci robot for minimally invasive complex surgery.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

Introduce our urgent care centre and acute admissions service earlier. These are key services that set us apart from our competitors.

What has surprised you most in your job?

The incredible willingness of a newly formed team to roll up their sleeves, collaborate, and tackle challenges together with determination.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

The more you prepare, the more confident and capable you’ll feel when challenges arise. You can never do enough prep!

Which business do you most admire?

Our parent organisation, HCA Healthcare, for their unwavering commitment to operational excellence, innovation and culture.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

We’re excited to launch our new urgent care centre, providing accessible care outside regular hours for minor injuries, illnesses, or when same-day doctor appointments aren’t available.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce allows us make connections with the wider Birmingham business community to raise the profile of The Harborne Hospital and the complex care services we offer.

We have seen increased demand across the region for private healthcare and by bringing together our expert teams in our state-ofthe-art hospital we will be able to provide a depth and breadth of private care on a scale not previously available in the region.

I look forward to The Harborne becoming more embedded in the local community and the Chamber. I will be attending many of the Chamber’s events and I hope to meet some of my follow members there!

Tel: 0121 812 3051 Visit: www.hcahealthcare.co. uk/locations/hospitals/theharborne-hospital

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

New Members Your guide to new sign-ups Absolute Works Joy May 0333 200 5153 www.absoluteworks.co.uk Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Edita KS Edita Klimaviciute-Sieradzka 07862 292620 www.editaks.co.uk Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Alliance Barinder Sumon 0738421568 www.alliancelocal.co.uk Other human health activities Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Greenworks Innovations Ltd Abdul Farooq 07853 361755 www.greenworksinnovations.com Activities of head offices Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Althaus Digital Ben CHEEMA 020 3649 9000 www.althausdigital.co.uk Other education n.e.c.

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

HCA Healthcare UK The Harborne Hospital Claire Dunsterville 0121 468 8837 www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/locations/h ospitals/the-harborne-hospital Hospital activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Ana Capital Investment Limited Subhajit Sengupta 020 7511 7893 www.anacapitalinvestment.com Administration of financial markets Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce Avante Financial Ltd Aaron Sanderson 0116 436 1306 www.avantefinancial.co.uk Financial intermediation not elsewhere classified Burton and District Chamber of Commerce Bowdraper Ltd David Draycott 01926 487848 www.bowdraper.co.uk General cleaning of buildings Birmingham Chamber of Commerce City of Birmingham Hockey Club Men's and Juniors Jeevan Singh Chagger 07583 108128 www.cobhcmen.co.uk Activities of sport clubs Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Consort Architectural Hardware Ltd Peter Jenkins 0121 359 8189 www.consortme.com Wholesale of hardware, plumbing and heating equipment and supplies Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Davies Learning Solutions Ltd Victoria Miles 020 8304 3666 ext. 3 www.talent.davies-group.com Other education n.e.c.

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Kinrise Cal Taylor 0121 296 3000 www.kinrise.com Management of real estate on a fee or contract basis Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Lovell Partnership Limited Matt Hickman 0121 421 8300 www.lovell.co.uk Construction of domestic buildings 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

Orderly Peter Evans 0330 016 5170 www.orderly.io Information technology consultancy activities Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce Popcorn and Co Video Ltd Matt Cooke 07966 281544 www.popcornandco.com Video production activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Power Minerals Nigel Waldron 0121 321 3416 www.powerminerals.co.uk Agents specialised in the sale of other particular products Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce Red Air Media West Midlands Philip Southern 0800 999 1836 www.redairmedia.co.uk/westmidlands Other specialist photography Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Midland Eye Shaun Rathod 0121 711 2020 www.midlandeye.com Hospital activities Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Region Security Guarding Ltd Chris Gowlett 01902 544321 www.regionsecurityguarding.co.uk Private security activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Miele Company Ltd Ashley Hoar 0330 160 6600 www.miele.co.uk Retail sale of electrical household appliances in specialised stores Solihull Chamber of Commerce

SIPS Education Ltd Brian Cape 0121 296 3000 www.sips.co.uk Educational support services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Moxie People Consultancy Ltd Molly Johnstone- Ellis 07585 115306 www.moxiepc.co.uk Human resources provision and management of human resources functions Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Smiths Business Supplies Luke Smith 01543 753286 www.sbssupplies.co.uk Manufacture of printing ink Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Nikki Hibbins Marketing Nikki Hibbins 07802 512629 www.nikkihmarketing.co.uk Public Relations and Communications Activities Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Statfold Country Park (Statfold Narrow Gauge Museum Trust) Lauren Jones 01827 830389 www.statfold.com Event catering activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Sunrise Energy Solutions Ben Thompson 01902 937938 www.sunriseenergysolutions.uk Other specialised construction activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce T150 Energy Limited Matthew Small 01889 227700 www.t150energy.co.uk Agents specialised in the sale of other particular products Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Tomato Energy Dhiren Katwa 01256 644064 www.tomato.energy Trade of electricity Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce Tyrecrete Ltd James McGirl 01782 621711 www.tyrecrete.co.uk Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce UACB Education Paul Kelly 0121 798 1908 www.uacbeducation.com Educational support services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Ultra Power Solutions Ltd Liam Morris 0121 714 8334 www.ultrapowersolutions.co.uk Electrical installation Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce University of Wolverhampton Sara Aslett 01902 321000 www.wlv.ac.uk First-degree level higher education Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Vivus Group Natalie Priftis 0800 002 5504 www.vivusgroup.co.uk General cleaning of buildings Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce Wise Origin Charlotte Compton 07821 786175 www.wiseorigincollege.com Primary education Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

As the voice of local business since 1813, we strive to help firms across the region

connect, support and grow.

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MEMBER SECTION

...any other business A roundup of news from Chamber members Babies react to foods in the womb Babies show positive responses to the smell of foods they were exposed to in the womb after they are born, according to research by scientists at Aston University in Birmingham.

The findings, led by Durham University, UK, could have implications for understanding how healthy eating habits might be established in babies during pregnancy.

Newborns whose mothers had taken carrot powder capsules when pregnant were more likely to react favourably to the smell of carrot.

Likewise, babies whose mothers had taken kale powder capsules while pregnant reacted more positively to the kale scent.

Research co-lead author and supervisor Professor Nadja Reissland, of the Fetal and Neonatal Research Lab, Department of Psychology, Durham University, said: “Potentially this means we could encourage babies to react more positively towards green vegetables, for example, by exposing them to these foods during pregnancy.”

Charity dinner to celebrate local comic

‘He is a true legend, one of the funniest comedians the region has ever produced’

Jasper has been a great supporter of the charity for many years and was recently appointed vicepresident.

He said: “If I am still alive by 2 May, it will be my pleasure to entertain many close friends from the worlds of journalism and entertainment.

“Nothing is planned so nothing can go wrong. I am so looking forward to it I have bought a new bib and a pair of socks. Come and join me – I would really love to see you all.”

Derek Inman, chairman of the charity’s Midlands District, added: “Jasper at 80 – what a milestone. He is a true legend, one of the funniest comedians the region has ever produced. It is a real honour that he was chosen to celebrate this special occasion with us.”

Tickets for the event cost £125 and include a three-course meal, table wines, reception drinks – and a lot of laughs.

Further information and booking forms are available from Marie-Helene Matthews at mariematthews@gmail.com

By Jon Griffin Midlands funnyman Jasper Carrott is gearing up on his funky moped to celebrate his 80th birthday in May – at a special event organised by the Journalists’ Charity.

The charity’s Midlands District has announced a very special – and probably very long – lunch to help Jasper mark his looming milestone.

And Carrott fans can join his birthday party at Edgbaston Cricket Ground when the Midlands’ favourite comedian looks back on a life of laughter.

Full steam ahead for birthday A popular tourist destination which houses the historic Statfold Barn Railway is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

Statfold Country Park in Tamworth has a host of seasonal events planned throughout the year as part of the milestone.

The rural attraction, which has the two-foot gauge steam railway at its heart, provides family experiences full of history and fun.

Statfold’s events programme features steam-powered attractions, such as Spectacle of Steam in March and Steam in Miniature in May, as well as themed events like Easter Eggspress and Halloween Spooktacular.

Last year’s Magical Santa Express event attracted more than 22,000 guests.

Among new initiatives for 2025 are A Day Out With Thomas, running over three days to celebrate 80 years of Thomas the Tank Engine.

Statfold Country Park has also become a popular destination for corporate and private functions. The destination has a choice of spaces for conferences, teambuilding activities, or product launches.

Private functions and parties can also be accommodated for up to 500 indoor or 5,000 outdoor guests – with the option to incorporate steam train rides into the event.

Lauren Jones, head of sales and marketing at Statfold Country Park, said: “We are proud of our heritage as well as our developments over the past 20 years and look forward to our expansion in the future.”

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