Chamberlink March 26

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The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBER March 2026

Free to Members l £5.00 where sold

LINK

NYC, here we come...

Chamber backs Barton’s bid to restore daily service See pages 5 and 12-13 • Powerful new patron joins up • Helping women overcome barriers • Awards headline sponsors revealed • Spotlight on Staffs growth challenges

Picture: Shaun Fellows

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Contents Chamberlink March 2026 Business News

Events & Training

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Editor’s View Case now compelling to restore Big Apple flights

64 The latest list of Chamber events and training courses

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Business News Airport drives NYC link

21 90 Manufacturing: Investment powers emotorbikes

Features 68 Business Crime & Protection: Protect your business against cyber crime

10 President’s Focus Monica Ghai, president of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce 12 The Griffin Report Nick Barton, chief executive of Birmingham Airport

92 Property: Global law firm takes up place in Paradise

70 Protection for your professional adviser

94 Skills: Conference highlights the impact of sport

72 Creative Industries: 230 years of engineering heritage, meets 30 years of digital momentum

96 Technology: Investment to benefit students

76 A culture of creativity

24 Where Do You Fancy?

San Carlo Birmingham

100 The Arts: A Shakespeare classic with a Brummie twist

Sector Focus

102 Sport: Uni student clinches judo bronze medal

Chamber Patrons

80 Business Travel: Cycle hire provider announced

Member Section

48 Gateley renews partnership 82 Finance: Bold ambition is key to growth, says report

103 Chamber Insight Ian Rogers, Iconic Event Solutions

50 Partnership facilitates children’s visit to forest

86 Health in the Workplace: Major roll-out for chronic pain programme

104 New Members Chamber welcomes new members

Chamber Group

88 Legal: Confidential chat-bot to offer divorce advice

106 …any other business News from Chamber businesses

1813 Club and Premier Members

52 International Trade: Customs experts advise on rules 54 ABCC: Tributes paid to Councillor Zaffar 56 Cannock Chase: AGM welcomes vicepresident 57 Burton & District: Students to cook up a storm in pro kitchen 58 Lichfield & Tamworth: Literature festival is returning for 20th year 59 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Cultural programme backed by retailer 60 Solihull: Talented youngsters to help raise money 62 Future Faces: Young lawyers shine at legal awards night

CHAMBER LINK

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

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

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

March 2026 CHAMBERLINK 3

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OPINION

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Case now compelling to restore Big Apple flights

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was amazed when I totted it up that the last time Birmingham had a direct daily air service to New York was nine years ago.

At the time United Airlines were operating a scheduled service to Newark, the city within the New York metropolitan area. But it was discontinued on 5 October, 2017, because of “poor financial performance”.

A year earlier, on 6 June, 2016, American Airlines, who had earlier operated daily flights between BHX and O’Hare Airport in Chicago, stopped their service to JFK, New York, giving the reason as “poor passenger demand”.

But now, come gather ‘around people, the times they are a changing.

Enter Nick Barton, the chief executive of Birmingham Airport, who tells Chamberlink’s Jon Griffin (see pages 12 and 13): “We know from our statistics how many people fly from our core catchment and from our wider catchment areas every single day.

“At the moment they’re going considerable distances to get those services so having those services here would be a great benefit to them – and the wider economy. We shouldn’t really have lost that service in the first instance in all honesty – the numbers of people flying on a daily basis from here would easily support daily services today, without any question.”

FRONT COVER: Airport chief Nick Barton’s New York mission. See Pages 12 and 13 Published by

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The argument for a resumption of direct flights between BHX and US is even more compelling today and that is why Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) are fully behind Nick’s campaign (see page 5), which moves ahead when he visits New York to talk to airlines.

He will carry with him messages of support from Birmingham’s businesses, regional investors, universities and exporters.

And Nick’s mission includes resuming flights in time for the start of the Invictus Games in Birmingham in the summer of next year.

But, more than that, Birmingham is now a much bigger attraction for commercial property developers and investors.

And that will be discussed in depth in the April edition of Chamberlink. Greg Collings and his colleague Arthur Morgan, experts at property consultants Fisher German, will explain Birmingham’s amazing property boom.

Both are agreed that investment in the region would also be boosted by restoring flights between Birmingham and New York. Greg says: “Restoring connectivity to New York will absolutely help tourism and investment opportunities and everything else.” ...a sentiment your Chamber fully supports.

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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

Airport drives NYC link US interest grows significantly – GBCC

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irect flights between Birmingham and New York could return after Birmingham Airport (BHX) announced it has committed funds to attract US connectivity back to the region.

The airport says a targeted, financial support package has been made to airlines – stating it “sends a clear signal BHX means business when it comes to reinstating the critical, direct transatlantic route”.

In the multi-year financial support offer BHX will invest several million dollars to secure direct, daily scheduled services between New York and Birmingham from summer 2027.

This would coincide with the Invictus Games landing in Birmingham.

The offer will also include marketing support and operational incentives as the new route establishes itself.

According to latest figures, approximately 485,000 US-bound passengers from the West Midlands alone are having to fly from other UK airports every year.

In 2024 a total of 1.88m passengers are reported to have travelled to the US from the wider Birmingham catchment area - equivalent to more than 5,100 daily passengers.

Nick Barton, CEO at Birmingham Airport, said: “We have been in airline discussions where we are reassured it is not if, but when direct US connectivity returns to BHX. “Now is the time to turn those conversations into a critical connection as the demand and business case is proven.

“This unique financial offer demonstrates our determination to secure the return of this direct US route. Re-establishing a direct air service to New York would be transformational for the West Midlands.”

Birmingham Airport’s announcement has been backed by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), whose acting deputy CEO Raj Kandola said: “The return of direct US air travel from Birmingham would be viewed as a huge positive by businesses in the region. Since a direct route was last in place, we’ve seen US

Inside your 108-page Chamberlink

Model employees: Members of staff from the wide range of operations at Birmingham Airport who are immortalised as LEGO figures in the model of the airport at LEGOLAND near Brindleyplace in the city centre

...and LEGOLAND shines a light on BHX personnel Birmingham Airport (BHX) has been recreated at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre in the city centre and features minifigures of airport personnel.

This is part of a campaign aimed at shining a spotlight on the incredible work that goes into “building” travel experiences.

The “building your journey” campaign showcases a variety of BHX team members in their place of work, accompanied by miniature LEGO versions of themselves.

Built entirely from LEGO, the new model at

the centre’s MiniLand attraction near Brindleyplace consists of 14,700 bricks and includes runway markings, luggage belts, forklift trucks, shops, passport control, and a fleet of LEGO planes.

“At our airport there are thousands of hard working and dedicated people that make every journey possible. In recognition and appreciation of some of the work that goes on every day at the airport 15 of our colleagues have been honoured in LEGO brick as minifigures.”

interest in the West Midlands grow significantly.

American capital is backing the transformation of Birmingham City Football Club and its wider Sports Quarter, while creative and media investment around Digbeth has raised the

region’s global profile and attracted attention from major production companies. Improved access to the US helps to strengthen our global competitiveness while drawing investment, talent and visitors to our region.”

Jon Griffin talks to airport boss Nick Barton – see pages 12-13

ABCC president celebrates Asian women - page 10

HS2 dig exposes hidden treasures - Page 43

March 2026 CHAMBERLINK 5

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BUSINESS NEWS

Promoting strength Heartbreaking experience: Ann Powell

Charity extends vital support Women’s charity manager Ann Powell has revealed the often-shocking plight of many clients facing the harsh realities of unemployment – including widespread domestic abuse.

The manager of Digbethbased Smart Works said: “When people lose their jobs through redundancy through no fault of their own, it’s like a bereavement, a loss of that identity and everyday sense of purpose and your network.

“We have referral partners including jobcentres, colleges, universities, lots of charities, domestic abuse organisations.

There is a different level of sadness there – they are just heartbreakingly shocking.”

‘A charity which over the last 10 years has helped put more than 4,000 women back on their feet’ Ann is manager of a charity which over the last 10 years has helped put more than 4,000 women back on their feet – with around 69 per cent of clients finding work within just a month of being referred to Smart Works.

Smart Works helps to pick women up and restore their confidence by providing quality workplace clothing suitable for interviews alongside coaching sessions.

After a 30-year plus career in retail and hospitality, Ann effectively made herself redundant to concentrate on her ambitions within the coaching sector.

Ann said: “By 2016 Smart Works was opening and were advertising for coaches to help get people back into work.

They opened in Northfield and were looking for volunteers, so I joined.”

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Multiple barrriers still stand in the way of women finding or returning to work. Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has been working to help overcome prejudice, violence and many other issues to promote the strength, diversity and expertise of women. Here Chamberlink examines some of those initiatives.

Month-long celebration To mark International Women’s Day on 8 March Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is launching a month-long series of features celebrating the achievements, insights and leadership of women across the region’s business community.

Throughout March, the Chamber will be publishing a series of feature interviews highlighting the experiences and perspectives from women across our membership.

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day, Give to Gain, recognises the power of reciprocity and championing collaboration.

Through this campaign, the GBCC aims to showcase the strength, diversity and expertise of

Reflects Chamber values: Helen Bates

women while reinforcing the value of peer support and shared access.

The GBCC is inviting female members to take part by completing a short survey which can be accessed on the GBCC website.

Responses will help shape the feature series and provide insight into the challenges, achievements and advice that have defined our members.

Helen Bates, acting managing director at the GBCC, said: “This year’s International Women’s Day theme is about the power of support, reciprocity and collaboration – which closely reflect our values here at the Chamber.

“We look forward to highlighting the achievements and experiences of women leading businesses across Greater Birmingham, while encouraging others to step forward and share their stories.”

For more information or to be featured complete the form at greaterbirminghamchambers.com

Helping mums get back to work Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) have joined forces with social enterprise Women’s Work Lab to provide a vital rung on the ladder back into work for local mums.

The Midlands’ premier business organisation has linked with Women’s Work Lab to host a placement helping female candidates back into the workplace.

Natalie Jones, regional head of Women's Work Lab, said: "We are keen to connect with Birmingham-based organisations across all sectors who are interested in becoming employer partners and hosting short, supported work placements for mums returning to work.

‘The work placement is a core part of our 12-week programme’ “Our first Birmingham pilot programme is now underway, and we are currently seeking organisations able to host a four-week placement.

“We support motivated mums - many of whom have taken time out of employment to care for their families - to help them rebuild their confidence, develop skills and take practical steps back towards meaningful employment.

“The work placement is a core part of our 12-week programme, giving mums recent experience, references and insight into real working environments. It is also hugely rewarding for the employer, as they gain very talented women with fresh perspectives and insight.”

Placements are part-time, up to 15 hours per week, short-term and flexible based around the organisation’s capacity and suitable for a wide range of roles, including

A light-hearted moment as mums seek to return to work

resident or customer engagement, administration, community-facing or other supportive roles.

Francesca Thomas, GBCC policy projects coordinator, said: “It’s been great to work with Natalie to support the work of Women’s Work Lab with this new cohort of mums as part of the upcoming placement.

“As a Chamber we work to support local business, and this programme widens that support further into the community. With our established work experience programme, this opportunity enables us to expand our support to a local mum, giving experience and insight to the work we do across GBCC.” Women’s Work Lab and GBCC are also calling on businesses in the city to contribute to these vital placements. Email Natalie at natalie@womensworklab.co.uk

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BUSINESS NEWS

of women in the workplace Chamber backs BRUMWIM events Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is to sponsor a new series of events led by Birmingham Women in Marketing (BRUMWIM), designed to strengthen representation and confidence among women across Birmingham’s industries.

As part of the sponsorship, GBCC will support a programme of events throughout the year, covering key themes including personal branding, public speaking, AI and creativity, and business rights.

‘From day one, we set out to champion gender equality’ BRUMWIM was founded to close the confidence gap for women in marketing, for Birmingham’s creative industries. The community has been built on collective action-

lifting women up, sharing powerful stories, and making sure every woman has the tools to lead with confidence. BRUMWIM run regular events throughout the year.

Upcoming events include:

GBCC partnership incredibly significant: Fran Nolan

Public Speaking: Thursday, 23 April AI and Creativity: Thursday, 25 June Business legal/rights: Thursday 24 September Paula Bates, GBCC head of marketing, digital and events, said “Sponsoring BRUMWIM’s event series was a natural decision for us.

“Their focus on closing the confidence gap for women in marketing strongly aligns with our wider commitment to promoting equal opportunities across Greater Birmingham’s business community.

“Our support goes beyond visibility. Through this sponsorship, we are helping to create practical forums where women can develop their personal brand, build confidence in public speaking, explore the role of AI in creativity and better understand their legal rights in business.”

Fran Nolan, founder of BRUMWIM, said: “BRUMWIM was never created to sit quietly and politely request change.

“From day one, we set out to champion gender equality, spotlight the extraordinary diverse

talent within Birmingham’s marketing and creative industries, and build the confidence of women navigating barriers that still exist.

“Having GBCC step forward as a proud sponsor of BRUMWIM is incredibly significant for us. It sends a commanding message that our purpose is central to the future of our city’s business community.

“Paula has been a massive advocate of BRUMWIM from the very beginning. Our partnership represents a shared ambition.

Together, we’re empowering women and elevating Birmingham.”

March 2026 CHAMBERLINK 7

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BUSINESS NEWS

National Grid welcomed as patron National Grid, the network responsible for powering millions of businesses and homes across the UK, has become a patron of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

Sitting at the heart of Britain’s energy system, companies within the National Grid group run the networks and infrastructure that connect millions of people to the electricity they use every day.

‘This will directly benefit Birmingham’s businesses and residents’ Regulated businesses within the National Grid group own and develop the high voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales, and the electricity distribution network in the Midlands, South West England and South Wales.

Much of the UK’s electricity network was built in the 1960s when the country was reliant on fossil fuels. Today, the UK needs to connect huge volumes of renewable power to the network, to help deliver the government’s energy security strategy and net zero targets and to support the nation’s transition to a

Powerful patrons (left to right): Russ Ashman (head of Business Development, GBCC), Andrew Mower (regional external affairs manager, National Grid), Mark Fox and Raj Kandola.

cleaner, more affordable, and more independent energy system. This forms part of National Grid’s The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest overhaul of the network in a generation.

National Grid has a strong presence in the West Midlands – with a base at Warwick Technology Park and an office in Solihull.

Mark Fox, external affairs advisor, National Grid Strategic Infrastructure, said: “We’re

Partnership to support graduates Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) has partnered with Birmingham City University (BCU) to help raise awareness of Higher Level Skills Match Plus (HLSM Plus) - a fully funded graduate recruitment service designed to support Birmingham-based businesses in attracting and retaining higher-level talent.

HLSM Plus is an accountmanaged recruitment support programme that connects employers with talented graduates and final-year students.

Delivered by BCU in partnership with the University of Birmingham, Aston University and University College Birmingham, the initiative gives organisations streamlined access to a large and diverse local talent pool.

GBCC acting deputy CEO Raj Kandola said: “Ensuring local firms have access to skilled talent remains fundamentally important.”

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delighted to join the Greater Birmingham Chambers and to work with its members to support growth, sustainability and innovation.

“National Grid is upgrading the electricity network across the country through The Great Grid Upgrade - the biggest investment in the UK’s electricity network for generations. This will directly benefit Birmingham’s businesses and residents.

“By strengthening the network, the projects will support the UK’s shift away from imported fossil fuels, improve energy security and attract clean industries and investment in skills and local jobs.”

Raj Kandola, acting deputy CEO at the GBCC, said: “We look forward to working closely with the National Grid team here in the West Midlands and supporting their goals as they set about a significant investment in the network.”

BCU recommits to supporting awards

Celebrating the best: David Mba

Birmingham City University (BCU) is returning as headline sponsors for the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Awards – reaffirming its commitment to the region’s biggest celebration of business.

Around 1,200 people are expected to attend the black-tie event on Thursday, 14 May, at the ICC in Birmingham city centre.

Thirteen awards will be handed out, including the overall Greater Birmingham Business of the Year.

BCU have been long-time supporters of the awards and vicechancellor Professor David Mba said: “As an anchor institution rooted in Birmingham, it is incredibly special for us to celebrate the very best in local business, and the achievements of those who excel in their sectors.

“By working closely with many local businesses, BCU is continuously able to develop the talent for tomorrow.

“Our collaborations with employers across the region are helping to drive innovation through our STEAM approaches, with the technical know-how to support innovation and entrepreneurship. Thanks to our Strategy 2030, we are on track to become the top university in the Midlands for boosting regional growth, innovation, and skills.

“BCU also powers Birmingham by being the largest supplier of graduate talent in the city and wider region, and we aim to retain local talent, support inclusive growth and reduce skills shortage too.

“By working together, we can continue to build an even better Brum.

“We look forward to celebrating with everyone at the awards night, and best of luck to all of those shortlisted!”

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BUSINESS NEWS

March 2026 CHAMBERLINK 9

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BUSINESS NEWS

President’s Focus Monica Ghai, president of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce, celebrates the rise of Asian women in business, marked in this month’s International Women’s Day.

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nternational Women’s Day on 8 March gives us an important opportunity to celebrate progress, reflect on challenges, and renew our commitment to equality in business and leadership. Here in the West Midlands, one of the most inspiring developments in recent years has been the remarkable rise of Asian women in business.

For decades, South Asian enterprise in our region has been defined by resilience, family values, and entrepreneurial spirit. While women have always played an essential role, usually behind the scenes, often balancing family responsibilities with supporting business operations, we are now witnessing a powerful shift.

• Supporting access to finance through targeted funding initiatives and investor networks.

• Promoting flexible working cultures that recognise the realities of modern family life.

• Family-owned enterprises — a cornerstone of South Asian commerce in the West Midlands also have a unique role to play.

Succession planning should actively include daughters and female family members, recognising leadership talent wherever it exists.

‘When young women see leaders who look like them, who understand both their cultural heritage and their professional ambition, it transforms what feels possible’ Asian women are no longer only contributors to family enterprises; they are founders, CEOs, directors, investors, and innovators in their own right.

Across the West Midlands and beyond, Asian women are leading in sectors as diverse as professional services, healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, digital technology, property development, and advanced manufacturing. They are launching start-ups, scaling established firms, and shaping boardroom conversations with confidence and vision.

This rise is not accidental. It is the result of determination, education, community support, and the breaking down of longstanding barriers.

One of the most significant drivers of change has been education. Young Asian women are achieving at exceptionally high levels in schools and universities.

Increasingly, they are entering fields 10 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

Women-led business are creating jobs: Monica Ghai

traditionally underrepresented by women such as law, finance, science and technology, and entrepreneurship, bringing fresh ideas and global perspectives into the regional economy.

However, education alone does not guarantee equal opportunity.

Access to networks, mentorship, and capital remains uneven. Many aspiring female entrepreneurs still face cultural expectations, unconscious bias, and funding gaps that their male counterparts do not encounter to the same degree.

Representation matters deeply.

When young women see leaders who look like them, who understand both their cultural heritage and their professional ambition, it transforms what feels possible.

In recent years, we have seen more Asian women taking visible leadership roles in business associations, chambers of commerce, advisory boards, and

civic institutions. Their presence is reshaping perceptions and strengthening our region’s leadership diversity.

But progress must not breed complacency. According to national data, women particularly women of colour, remain underrepresented in senior executive positions and face disproportionate challenges in securing venture capital funding.

International Women’s Day reminded us that equality is not inevitable; it requires active commitment.

As a business community, we must continue to remove structural obstacles. This means: • Expanding mentorship and sponsorship programmes specifically for Asian women entrepreneurs.

• Encouraging inclusive procurement practices that create opportunities for womenled businesses.

International Women’s Day is more than a date in the calendar. It is both a celebration and a call to action. It challenges us to accelerate progress, not simply acknowledge it.

The rise of Asian women in business strengthens not only our community but the entire regional economy. Diverse leadership drives innovation, improves decisionmaking, and enhances competitiveness.

Businesses led by women are creating jobs, mentoring the next generation, and expanding internationally, contributing to the West Midlands’ global profile.

As a President who represents the South Asian female community, I am immensely proud of the trailblazing women who are redefining leadership across our region. But pride must be matched with purpose.

Let us use this International Women’s Day to reaffirm our commitment to equity, opportunity, and inclusion. With that in mind we are proud to see the increasing engagement with our Asian Women in Business Initiative, which is a platform for women to network, learn and support each other and we look forward to continuing to develop this in the future.

When Asian women thrive, businesses flourish, communities grow stronger, and our region moves forward.

Let us continue to champion, support, and celebrate that future together.

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BUSINESS NEWS

March 2026 CHAMBERLINK 11

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BUSINESS NEWS

The Griffin Report Nick Barton, chief executive of Birmingham Airport, says that the resumption of air links between Birmingham and New York are the most common request he receives.

He tells Chamberlink’s JON GRIFFIN why he is determined to make that happen.

B

irmingham Airport CEO Nick Barton has hailed the planned reintroduction of direct flights to New York as a huge economic boost for the West Midlands – with two unnamed airlines potentially in the frame for a return of a daily service to the Big Apple.

Nick told Chamberlink he aimed to fly out to the US for talks with the two airlines as momentum grows for the return of daily services to New York from Birmingham – providing new regional transatlantic links for nearly two million stateside-bound passengers a year.

Airport bosses estimate that Birmingham is currently losing around 1.88 million passengers annually from its wider catchment area – the equivalent of 5,100 passengers a day - because of the lack of a direct service to New York, with flights only available through major European hubs such as Dublin, Amsterdam and Paris.

Now, a recently announced multi-year financial support programme aims to see the airport invest several million dollars to secure direct, daily scheduled services after almost a decade of the region being underserved for travellers to the US. Hopes of a renewed service to the city that never sleeps followed strong demand and pressure from businesses, regional investors, universities and exporters. The airport aims to resume daily flights from summer 2027 to coincide with the Invictus Games in Birmingham.

Airport CEO Nick Barton told Chamberlink: “Having a direct service, which ran for roughly 20 years or so on a daily basis, was clearly something that people needed and is clearly something we would like back. We know from our statistics how many people fly from our core catchment and from our wider catchment areas every single day.

“At the moment they’re going considerable distances to get those services so having those services here would be a great benefit to 12 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

them – and the wider economy. We shouldn’t really have lost that service in the first instance in all honesty – the numbers of people flying on a daily basis from here would easily support daily services today, without any question.

“Our industry, whilst it covers the world, is actually quite small. We know who the individuals are and which of the airlines to talk to which have the capability of flying that service. What you have to do is look at is there a business need for it from their perspective as well as ours? Clearly we have a business need and we need to match an airline’s strategy to us.”

He said airlines with the capability to operate a resumption of BHX-New York flights – scrapped at the end of 2017 - numbered very few. “You’re probably looking at a group of no more than four and in reality, probably two. There’s got to be certain types of aircraft in their fleet that are available or likely to be available, and you’ve got to look at their strategy as to how they operate.

‘We know that it’s a very, very important part of what the region wants and therefore we’re focusing on delivering it’ “I haven’t had it confirmed yet but I am hoping to go to the US in a couple of weeks to take time with those two headline airlines that we are looking at to talk about the proposal that we have put out. It’s the right thing to do because we’ve got all the data, we’ve got the case and the airlines are usually pretty warm when you make the effort to go and see them.”

Nick said a resumption of flights to New York was the “most common request” he regularly received, particularly from the business sector – while an estimated 5,000 passengers a day from the wider West Midlands

Happy landings: Midtown Manhattan, NYC

catchment area would benefit.

“We know that it’s a very, very important part of what the region wants and therefore we’re focusing on delivering it.

“A lot of it is leisure, a lot of it is visiting friends and relatives and an important part of it will be business.

It’s that market – supported by all the others – that has the most impact on this region through having that direct connectivity.

“You can see it from the businesses that are thriving and investing, for example Knighthead in Birmingham City Football Club, and they’re just one of many, many

companies. The US is an enormous market.”

He said the business market was a vital part of Birmingham Airport’s customer base – while BHX was a key component of the regional economy. “If you look at this airport as a business we are turning over comfortably over £200m a year, but the economic benefit of this airport is well over one and a half billion. There’s a real multiplier in terms of what we do and also how the region benefits.

“That’s not only for employment creation and the economic benefit of that but it’s also the business

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Two airlines in the fame: Nick Barton

connectivity and the business that flow from it – if you imagine a region like this one with all its international businesses, would it have those businesses if you had no access to international markets? The answer is almost certainly very unlikely.

“If we can carry on providing services and growing our coverage - with New York being an important part - then it follows that there’ll be a wider economic benefit that comes from that.”

Since April 2025 the airport – the UK’s seventh largest with 35 airlines operating over 140 direct destinations and 657 onward

‘If we can carry on providing services and growing our coverage - with New York being an important part - then it follows that there’ll be a wider economic benefit that comes from that’ destinations - has enjoyed its most successful year to date following nine months of consecutive, recordbreaking growth.

To keep up with demand, BHX has unveiled its biggest ever capital investment programme which will see £300m invested in every corner of the airport over a four-year

period, including next generation security halls, terminal and airfield upgrades, baggage and immigration efficiencies and an increase in food and retail offering.

BHX currently attracts around 13.8 million passengers a year. “The intention is to incrementally grow – maybe not a million a year – but

maybe several hundred thousand each year and just keep on building the growth.”

Nick said BHX – launched as a Birmingham City Council-owned airport in May 1939 – stood at a “fantastic” juncture in its long history.

“While some people will roll their eyes a little bit one of the best things heading towards us is HS2.

That’s got a really tremendous backstop story for this airport.

We’d like to know obviously when it’s going to actually open but the fundamentals of it for this airport are incredible.”

March 2026 CHAMBERLINK 13

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BUSINESS NEWS

Region’s talent pool is growing The talent pool across Birmingham and the West Midlands should provide businesses with optimism – despite well-documented challenges around skills and recruitment.

That was the verdict at a launch event for Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s latest Quarterly Business Report, sponsored

by Birmingham City University.

‘We’ve got incredible universities here, incredible schools and other further education providers’ While the Q4 report reiterates the difficulty firms are facing in filling vacancies, delegates at Birmingham City University’s Curzon Building heard that “there is nothing stopping the West Midlands from being the best place to work”.

According to the latest report, 69 per cent of firms experienced hiring difficulties over the past three months – up from 60 per cent in Q3.

But guest speakers Lucy Fairclough, partner at accountancy firm Bishop

Report verdict (left to right): Raj Kandola (acting deputy CEO, GBCC), Nick Morton (Birmingham City University), Emily Stubbs (head of policy, GBCC), Lucy Fairclough (Bishop Fleming) and Mahfia Watkinson (West Midlands Combined Authority

Fleming, and Mahfia Watkinson, policy and skills lead at the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), believe a more optimistic future lies ahead for the region.

Lucy spoke of Bishop Fleming’s focus on a “human-led” approach to personnel, which includes developing soft skills such as communication and leadership.

Bishop Fleming launched its Birmingham office last year and Lucy said: “We decided to come to Birmingham because the

opportunity is massive. We’ve got incredible universities here, incredible schools and other further education providers.”

Lucy said Bishop Fleming took on five graduates within the first few months of operating in Birmingham and have placed a focus on in-house training to develop skills.

Meanwhile, Mahfia said labour force data for the WMCA area is improving. She said 1.3 million people are currently in work – up

by 23,000 – while the number of residents with no qualifications has reduced by three per cent.

“That doesn't sound like a lot, but if we think about the bravery it takes for somebody to admit they need support to join that skills ladder and to find that provision that will help them in that journey, that's a big step,” Mahfia added.

She said the WMCA is working with colleges, universities and training providers to ensure there are “flight paths for our residents.”

...as firms put a pause on new recruitment Businesses in Greater Birmingham held back on recruitment and investment in training of 2025 amid a “demanding” trading environment, according to a major economic report.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s (GBCC) latest Quarterly Business Report reveals the extent of operational and supply chain disruptions facing firms during Q4, 2025.

The trading conditions have led to weakening domestic demand, a scaling back in investment in training and fewer businesses attempting to hire.

Of the companies surveyed, 24 per cent reported an overall decline in sales – the highest since Q1 2021.

Similarly, the number of firms attempting to recruit dropped to 47 per cent, the lowest level since Q1 2021.

In the past three months, 69 per cent of firms reported experiencing difficulties filling vacancies (up from 60 per cent) – the highest level recorded since Q4 2023. And 10 per cent of firms now expect their

workforce to decrease (compared to six per cent in Q3). Investment in training also fell sharply, as 27 per cent of businesses revised their plans for training investment downwards.

Raj Kandola, acting deputy CEO of GBCC, said: “Against a backdrop of subdued national data and recent operational disruptions felt across parts of our supply chain, it is clear that many firms are navigating a more demanding trading environment.

“Labour market signals also merit close attention.

Fewer businesses are attempting to recruit yet hiring difficulties have intensified, especially in sectors that are critical to our export base.

“At the same time, while capital investment intentions have edged up, investment in training has slipped into negative territory for the first time since 2021. That should concern all of us – without sustained investment in people, the region’s medium-term productivity and competitiveness will suffer.”

Plans abandoned to delay council elections The government has abandoned plans to delay 30 council elections in England, including Cannock Chase District Council and Tamworth Borough Council.

The decision was made following a legal challenge brought forward by Reform UK, which was due to be heard in the High Court in February.

The elections were initially expected to take place in May 2026 but had been delayed to May 2028 after the government argued that this was necessary to allow more time for Local 14 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

Government Reorganisation.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has also urged the government to reverse its decision in delaying the Devolution Priority Programme and commit unequivocally to the timetables already set out.

This is one of two policy recommendations brought forward alongside forming key stakeholder forums with regular updates on the development of future new authorities.

The GBCC has also been conducting a

research project – the Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel – to develop clear policy recommendations to ensure a successful transition to the new authority or authorities in Staffordshire and to support economic growth in the region.

The launch of the report will take place on Friday, 27 March.

• An in-depth analysis of the issues faced in Staffordshire start on page 38.

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Law Society’s Legal Awards winners revealed Birmingham Law Society has unveiled the winners of its 2026 Legal Awards, celebrating the top legal talent across the region.

Fourteen winners were chosen from a shortlist of 69 individuals and firms across 14 categories.

The winners were: • Outstanding Student Contribution of the Year: Khadija Bashar (Birmingham City University) • Apprentice of the Year: Estelle Asante (Eversheds Sutherland LLP) • Trainee Solicitor of the Year: Hollie Gould (Anthony Collins Solicitors LLP) • Paralegal of the Year: Poppi Hall (Enoch Evans LLP Walsall) • Legal PA of the Year: Tracey Allsopp (Greens Solicitors Limited) • Solicitor of the Year: Joel Blake (The Wilkes Partnership LLP) • Junior Barrister of the Year (10 years’ call and under): Chloe Ashley (No5 Barristers’ Chambers) • Barrister of the Year: Baldip Singh (No5 Barristers’ Chambers) • Partner of the Year: Gemma Bell (Devonshires Solicitors LLP) • In-House Lawyer of the Year: Housing 21 • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Award: Sikhs In Law • Pro Bono Award 2026: Birmingham City University • Law Firm of the Year 2026 (1–49 Employees): Tenet Compliance and Litigation • Law Firm of the Year 2026 (50+ Employees): Weightmans LLP • Future Faces members star in legal awards – see pages 62 and 63.

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Lloyds announces £2.5bn package for the region Lloyds Banking Group has announced £2.5 bn of new finance available to businesses across the West Midlands in 2026.

This forms part of the banking group’s plan to make over £35bn of new finance available to companies operating and investing across the UK in 2026.

New research from Lloyds’ Business Barometer reveals 92 per cent of businesses have a clear view of their biggest opportunities for growth.

Businesses identified investing in their workforce, developing new products or services, and introducing new technology as their leading growth drivers over the next six months.

‘We’re committed to helping businesses turn their potential into growth’ Dave Atkinson, regional director for the West Midlands at Lloyds, said: “Lloyds Banking Group is proud to make £2.5bn of new finance available for local firms in the West Midlands, helping them grow their business, invest in innovation and create new jobs.

“Whether it’s supporting a small company taking its first step into exporting, or a larger firm scaling up to meet growing demand, we’re committed to helping businesses turn their potential into growth.”

Firms across the West Midlands are already benefitting from Lloyds’ support.

Staffordshire-based Autosmart International secured £36m from Lloyds to complete a management buyout and fund its next phase of growth.

Dave Atkinson, regional director for the West Midlands at Lloyds

The manufacturer supplies professional vehicle cleaning products to customers across eight countries through a franchise network of around 300 showrooms.

Justin Woodman, group managing director at Autosmart International, said: “We’re proud of our British manufacturing heritage and our franchise partnership model, and we’re investing in the people, systems and more sustainable ways of working that will help us grow.

“Lloyds understands our culture and ambitions and delivered a package that supports a smooth transition and our plans for the years ahead.”

Brumbassadors to lend a hand Chamber members will have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and volunteer at the region’s biggest food redistribution site during a special Brumbassadors event.

Brumbassadors – launched by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce last year – is a platform for amplifying good news and opportunities across business, culture and sport in the city.

The first in a behind-the-scenes series of Brumbassadors events will take place at Fareshare Midlands’ facility.

Tour: Fareshare at work

The member exclusive event is on Thursday, 5 March.

FareShare Midlands plays a critical role in Birmingham and the wider Midlands, rescuing surplus food and redistributing it to more than 650 charities and community organisations.

Every week, this food supports around 60,000 people while reducing waste, strengthening communities and creating opportunities through training, employability and volunteering.

Chamber members will receive a tour of the recently-opened Sir

Peter Rigby Coronation Food Hub before having the chance to spend two hours volunteering, either by supporting in the warehouse or cooking lunch.

Marcella Meehan, event manager at the GBCC, said: “We’re delighted to be teaming up with Fareshare Midlands for our first Brumbassadors Behind the Scenes trip, where members can not only learn more about the charity’s work, but take an active part in supporting them through a few hours volunteering.”

Simone Connolly, FareShare Midlands CEO, said: “This visit gives Chamber members a real insight into how surplus food is transformed into vital support for local communities, while also creating opportunities through training, employability and volunteering.

“By opening our doors to Birmingham’s business leaders, we hope to spark meaningful connections and inspire ongoing involvement, whether that’s through volunteering, fundraising or longer-term partnerships that help us reach even more people.”

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TOURS & TASTINGS Corporate groups welcome

Set amongst Herefordshire’s hopyards and cider orchards, we make award-winning still and sparkling wines, brandy and cider. Come and visit the vineyards; have a taste of everything and choose your favourites to enjoy at home.

Open for tours & tastings from April to October.

Visit our website for more details and to make a booking.

Or call to arrange a time.

01885 490768 / 07886 700976 info@fromevalleyvineyard.co.uk Paunton Court, Bishops Frome, Herefordshire, WR6 5BJ

www.fromevalleyvineyard.co.uk

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Birmingham set for major building growth in 2026 Birmingham is set for a critical year in 2026 with major building growth and regeneration projects on the horizon, according to a property consultancy.

The new year will also bring renewed financial stability at the council after several challenging years.

“This could set the foundation for increased growth and investment in the city,” said Arthur Morgan, partner at Fisher German.

Arthur Morgan and Greg Collings, partner and associate partner respectively in property consultancy Fisher German’s Birmingham team,

Boomingham: Last month’s front page of Chamberlink hailing the sell-out new development Edition in the city centre, part of the multi-million property investments that are turbocharging Birmingham’s economy in the wake of one of its most difficult financial periods.

were speaking at a roundtable event discussing the future of growth and opportunity in the city.

Despite its challenges, Birmingham remains the largest city economy outside London and one of the UK’s most investable urban centres, contributing 40 per cent to the West Midlands’ economy. Large-scale regeneration schemes, including the Sports Quarter around Birmingham City FC, the Knowledge Quarter around Aston University and Millennium Point, and a 12,000home transformational scheme at Ladywood to the west of the city centre, all show huge confidence, ambition, and commitment to the city.

Greg said: “The city is well placed to make the most of these opportunities, but there is still plenty to do to realise Birmingham’s full potential.”

Integral to unlocking this potential are the opportunities for further impactful placemaking. Against the backdrop of government planning reform, efforts are being made to push towards housing targets at a greater pace across the country. Crucial to achieving this is partnership between the public, private, or third sectors.

“Strong collaboration between the council, businesses, Homes England, the West Midlands Combined Authority, universities, and community groups will be vital if planned and future projects are to succeed,” said Arthur.

For Fisher German’s part, the political will to bring sites forward for development and support planning consent – partly due to Government reforms around the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) - is excellent news for the city’s property sector.

• See page 92 for more property news.

Growing city’s economy: Greg Collings

...as council invests in frontline services Birmingham City Council says it is no longer bankrupt and will invest an extra £130m in frontline services.

It comes almost two and a half years after the council issued a Section 114 Notice declaring effective bankruptcy. Now the authority says it has closed a £300m budget gap - but still needs to find £93m of cuts in the next budget.

In budget documents made public ahead of a council cabinet meeting, the authority states its financial situation for 2026-27 will be “balanced”, with services set for £130m investment.

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Since autumn 2023 and the emergence of a vast financial black hole linked in part to equal pay liability, residents have faced service cuts and a 17.5 per cent council tax rise over the last two years.

‘The ‘bankrupt Birmingham’ tag is now a thing of the past’ The council have said it was no longer in such dire straits, but a maximum tax hike of 4.99 per cent

was still planned.

Council leader Cllr John Cotton said: “The council is no longer under a Section 114 Notice. Thanks to the decisive, tough action we took to get the council back on track, the ‘bankrupt Birmingham’ tag is now a thing of the past.

"This is a significant moment in the council’s recovery and is down to the sheer hard work that has been undertaken here in Birmingham by members and officers, supported by commissioners.

“We are back in the mainstream of local government. We have

closed a £300m budget gap, we’ve tackled our equal pay liabilities, and we are getting to grips with improving the services that the council provides for the residents of Birmingham.

“This is an important milestone in our improvement journey and we will continue to take the difficult decisions required to be the council the people of this city deserve.

“I’m determined that the mistakes of the past will not be repeated, as we drive further efficiencies to deliver better services and value for money for council taxpayers.”

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Winners assemble: All of the victorious businesses and individuals from the SLTC Awards

Community impact recognised at awards

A

n energy broker who launched a millionpound mission to give back to good causes after overcoming a life-threatening brain condition has earned the top prize at an awards ceremony organised by three regional Chambers of Commerce.

T150 Energy, founded by Matt Small, was crowned overall Business of the Year at the annual SLTC Awards, staged by the Royal Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth and Cannock Chase Chambers.

The Rugeley-based firm also collected the Community Builder award during the event at Statfold Country Park, which was hosted by former Great Britain badminton star Gail Emms, and sponsored by Amazon and South Staffordshire College.

Founded in 2019, T150 Energy helps businesses get the best deals on their energy.

Matt 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.

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 –

ALL THE WINNERS Royal Sutton Coldfield Business of the Year Nexus Care Services Lichfield Business of the Year – Sponsored by Lichfield District Council The Boat Tamworth Business of the Year PI-KEM Ltd Cannock Chase Business of the Year Chasetown FC SLTC Breakthrough Business Award – Sponsored by Crown Highways The Holistic VA Limited

Community champion: Matt Small (centre) with Gail Emms and Headpoint Advisors’ Richard Benyahia

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. In 2025 alone, the T150 achieved more than £585,650 in combined savings and donations, with more than £20,000 donated through The Payback Scheme.

Judges said: “T150 Energy demonstrates exceptional community impact by combining business expertise with genuine care. They demonstrate how a small, purposedriven business can have a wider social impact.”

Meanwhile, Lewis Lydiard from Cannock-based managed IT support and cybersecurity provider Techcare Limited, took home the SLTC Young Professional of the Year award.

In his new role of service delivery director, Lewis has implemented new systems and innovations that have benefitted both colleagues and clients.

Judges praised Lewis’ “proactive nature, problem solving ability and dedication to improving the service.”

• See pages 38, 39 and 41 for a special feature on the dilemmas presented by the widespread local government shake-up proposed in Staffordshire.

Rising star: Lewis Lydiard

SLTC Community Builder Award T150 Energy Ltd SLTC Workplace Champion Award Moor Hall Hotel & Spa SLTC Young Professional of the Year – Sponsored by South Staffordshire College Lewis Lydiard, Techcare Limited SLTC Business of The Year – Sponsored by Headpoint Advisors T150 Energy Ltd Royal Sutton Coldfield President’s Award Nigel Waldron, Power Minerals Lichfield & Tamworth President’s Award Clare Lubrano, RD Apparel Cannock Chase President’s Award Steve Jones, Chasetown FC

• All the fun of the fair – see Any Other Business - 106 March 2026 CHAMBERLINK 21

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WMCA names new chief executive The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has confirmed Ed Cox as its permanent chief executive.

Ed has led the organisation since June, 2025, in an interim capacity, after the departure of Laura Shoaf.

Mayor Richard Parker and the leaders of the seven local authorities make up the WMCA board.

The Mayor said: “Ed has provided strong leadership at an important moment for our region.

‘Ed’s appointment gives us stability and momentum as we deliver the Growth Plan’ “He has driven delivery, strengthened our partnerships and brought clarity and focus to the organisation.

“We are moving at pace to create jobs, build homes and improve transport. Ed’s appointment gives us stability and momentum as we deliver the Growth Plan and secure more investment for the West Midlands.”

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Birmingham-born Ed joined the WMCA in May, 2020, as director of public service reform.

He later became deputy chief executive, leading strategy, economy and net zero, before being appointed interim chief executive in June, 2025.

Since stepping into the role, he has strengthened collaboration with local authorities and partners, helped secure a £2bn multi-year integrated settlement with the government and led reforms to stabilise finances, modernise governance and refresh leadership across the organisation.

These changes include a new people and culture strategy and an internal transformation programme aligned to the mayor’s priorities and recommendations from a recent Local Government Association peer review.

He said: “It has been a privilege to serve the West Midlands over the past five years, and I’m incredibly excited to continue this by leading the WMCA at such a critical moment for the region.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the mayor, our councils and partners to deliver real improvements for our people and

Strong leadership: Mayor Richard Parker (left) with Ed Cox

businesses with the most ambitious development opportunities we’ve seen in decades and a growing

range of devolved responsibilities that will build a stronger, more inclusive regional economy.”

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Where do you fancy?

San Carlo Birmingham on Temple Street is open for all occasions – from intimate dinners to corporate lunches and events in a semi-private dining space with an authentic Italian setting that includes a bar area in the lower section of the restaurant.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

Food and drink

San Carlo Birmingham

Only the finest, freshest seasonal ingredients are used – many flown in from markets across Italy for true authenticity.

From seafood and antipasti to grill specialities, pizza, pasta and signature dishes – including their world-famous tagliolini all’aragosta (lobster pasta) – everything is cooked to order to showcase real Italian flavour.

Desserts are made daily in the patisserie kitchen, and the wine list offers more than 150 expertly curated options to suit every taste and pocket, complemented by a selection of handcrafted cocktails and refreshing mocktails.

4 Temple St, Birmingham B2 5BN T: 0121 633 0251 E: birmingham@sancarlo.co.uk W: sancarlo.co.uk Owners: Carlo Distefano and Marcello Distefano Head chef: Salvatore Strano Opening hours: 12pm till 11pm every day

Lunch Antipasti options include tuna or beef tartare, creamy burrata from Corato in Puglia served with marinated beef tomato carpaccio and fresh basil, deep-fried calamari with fresh chilli and tartare sauce, authentic minestrone soup and a choice of delicious salads.

Lighter mains include ovenbaked seabass, pan-fried lemon sole with sautéed clams and green asparagus and grilled Dover sole.

More substantial specialities include steaks, handcrafted pizza, classic and signature pasta dishes like frittura di pesce Portofino, a sharing dish of deep-fried calamari, prawns, scampi and scallops.

Dinner The same extensive menu continues to offer something for every taste, including the spectacular tomahawk and chateaubriand sharers and a 24 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

selection of seafood, pizza and pasta.

Desserts range from delicious gelato to pistachio or Italian style millefeuille cakes, tortes and mousses, all made daily.

Vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree options are available.

Wines San Carlo’s list showcases more than 150 exclusively imported

bottles from across Italy and the wider world, ranging from house wines, Prosecco and Champagne with options by the glass to rare and fine selections.

Business facilities San Carlo’s semi-private dining space can accommodate up to 50 guests, making it perfect for private parties, corporate networking events, and more.

The original San Carlo location exudes authentic Italian charm and provides exceptional service.

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DEPARTMENT: POLICY

Meet the Team HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: EMILY STUBBS Can you describe your role and your team’s primary responsibilities within the Chamber?

The Chamber policy team exists to research business views, inform businesses of key policy decisions, legislative changes and opportunities that might impact them, and act as the voice of local business, engaging stakeholders on behalf of our members.

Our priorities are determined by business, for business, with the support of the Chamber Council, an elected group of representatives from across Birmingham Chamber membership, and other divisional Chamber committees.

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

The Chamber policy team undertakes regular research to produce up-to-date snapshots of the local economy – such as the Quarterly Business Report - and insights and analysis on key opportunities and challenges facing the region.

We use this research to engage with stakeholders on behalf of Chamber members, whether that’s local councils, regional authorities or national government and the Bank of England.

We also work with colleagues across the wider business to support the delivery of projects such as the Chamber’s Business Growth Studio, a hub for unlocking the knowledge, tools, and support that local businesses need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Keeping businesses informed (left to right): Francesca Thomas (policy projects co-ordinator), Emily Stubbs, Paige Bowyer and Ruth Fleet.

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What does a typical day look like for your team?

Working in policy means every day is different.

Often a day involves proactive work, like coordinating a roundtable event with our members on new employment rights legislation, analysing survey data for a research client, and writing a briefing on a proposed overnight visitor levy, alongside reactive activities, like participating in media interviews responding to the latest global developments impacting local businesses, and lobbying the government for support.

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

As Staffordshire sits on the cusp of a once-in-ageneration change in local government, we have recently convened the Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel - a research exercise led by business, for business, working to develop a roadmap for unleashing the potential of Staffordshire Gateway businesses.

We’re open to exploring any topic that’s important to the local business community. This builds on the success of the Business Commission West Midlands and represents an exciting opportunity to shape devolution in Staffordshire.

‘We’re open to exploring any topic that’s important to the local business community’ This work will culminate in the launch of the Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel report on 27 March with businesses, policy makers and political leaders from across South and East Staffordshire.

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

We provide unique, local intelligence to inform key policy and business decision making, and connect local businesses with stakeholders making decisions that will impact them.

Sometimes that’s achieved through our regular reports, or convening events for local businesses to meet senior political figures. Other times, it involves undertaking bespoke market

research and stakeholder engagement activities to support local businesses in navigating the political landscape and shaping their commercial objectives.

We also regularly work on government-funded projects, such as the West Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan, which aims to identify what employers across the region are already doing and where they would like support to meet current and future skills needs, and to produce actionable recommendations on how stakeholders regional stakeholders, educators and employers can collaboratively close regional skills gaps.

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

The most rewarding part of the job is where we’re able to make a meaningful difference to local businesses – whether that’s connecting them to a new contact who can resolve an issue they’ve been having, giving a firm the intelligence they need to make an investment decision, or successfully campaigning for business support.

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

We get a lot of questions from local businesses about the West Midlands economy, and we don’t always know the answers, but where we don’t, more often than not we know someone who does, or we can collaborate with the business who raised the query to find the answers.

We have conducted research into a whole range of topics over the last year – from business travel and software development to devolution, skills provision and cybersecurity… we’re open to exploring any topic that’s important to the local business community.

What are some fun facts about your team members?

Our policy and research analyst, Paige Bowyer, is a world champion Irish dancer. Senior policy advisor Ruth Fleet is a published author, having written a book Women Political Prisoners after the Spanish Civil War.

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£50m will improve Villa and Blues tram connections Funding to kickstart work on a tram line to the new Birmingham City Powerhouse Stadium and upgrade railway stations serving Villa Park has been approved by regional transport chiefs.

Mayor Richard Parker and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) board agreed to advance £50m to accelerate early work such as detailed design, surveys and business cases on several key transport projects, including the flagship scheme to extend the Metro to the Sports Quarter regeneration site in east Birmingham.

The funding will also be used to start work on upgrading the Witton and Aston train stations to support the expansion of Villa Park and to take the development of Very Light Rail in Coventry to the next stage.

The mayor said: “Fans deserve a modern, reliable and affordable public transport to get them to and from their stadium on matchdays – so we have made these projects a

priority and provided the funding to get them started straight away.

“This funding means we can complete essential design and survey work at an earlier stage and be ready to get spades in the ground next year.

“Together we are building a new transport network to fuel the economy, secure investment and bring the new homes and jobs local people need.”

The £50m is an advance on the £2.4bn Transport for City Regions funding coming from government to the West Midlands from 2027 to 2032. The money will be used for new road, rail, tram, bus and active travel investment.

The aim is to get the Metro extension from Digbeth to the £3bn Sports Quarter regeneration site ready for the opening of the new 62,000-seater stadium.

Getting the metro extension open in time is key to unlocking Birmingham City FC owner Knighthead Capital’s investment

Supporting Villa and Blues: Mayor Richard Parker (left) and Jeremy Dale, chief executive of Birmingham City FC, at the Millennium Point tram stop which will eventually go to the Sports Quarter

plans for the Sports Quarter which will bring new homes and thousands of jobs to the community.

And it means detailed design and planning work can start on the upgrades to improve the passenger experience at Witton and Aston railway stations.

This will support the wider £150m investment into Villa Park by Aston Villa's owners as well as getting the stations ready for hosting the Euro 2028 football tournament.

The WMCA board has already agreed to allocate £400m for Sports Quarter transport links.

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ABCC announces festival lineup The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce has announced its festival event lineup for 2026.

The three events will focus around Eid, Vaisakhi, and Diwali covering key highlights in the South Asian calendar.

The Vaisakhi celebration, where Sikhs around the world honour the work of farmers and pray for future prosperity, will take place on 22 April at the National Conference Centre near Solihull from 6pm.

The Eid celebration will take place on 4 June at the National Conference Centre. Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, this is one of the most important Islamic holidays. It also marks the end of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca.

Birmingham City Football Club will host the Diwali Celebrations on 12 November. Diwali – the festival of light – celebrates the victory of good over evil and light over darkness and is a time of year when families, friends and communities come together in a spirit of celebration and joy. It is an important celebration among Hindus, Sikhs and Jains.

Lillian Elekan, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce director of membership,

Good over evil: A ABCC Diwali festival

said: “These celebrations reflect the rich cultural and faith diversity that is at the heart of Birmingham’s business and community landscape.

“By bringing together Eid, Vaisakhi and Diwali events across

Giving confidence: Kate Curry

Package to help SMEs thrive on LinkedIn CUDOS Creative, a Sutton Coldfield-based design, web and marketing agency, has launched a new suite of LinkedIn packages designed to help SMEs turn visibility on the platform into meaningful business opportunities.

CUDOS says its new LinkedIn packages are built to remove barriers by combining clear strategy, confident personal and company profile positioning, and consistent, value-led content designed to build momentum over time.

Kate Curry, director of CUDOS Creative, said: “LinkedIn works when it’s approached with intention and consistency. These packages are about giving businesses the structure and confidence to show up properly, build trust and start the right conversations.”

To mark the launch, CUDOS Creative is offering a free LinkedIn profile review to the first 10 people who follow the LinkedIn company page at linkedin.com and message ‘LEVEL UP’.

• For more news from Sutton Coldfield turn to page 59.

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the year, the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce is creating meaningful opportunities for communities, businesses and families to connect, learn and celebrate together. Each festival represents shared values of

generosity, resilience and hope, and we are proud to support initiatives that strengthen understanding and inclusion across our region.”

• For more ABCC news turn to pages 54 and 55.

Beckham spat highlights issue of name trademarks Owning your name personally doesn’t guarantee the right to use it commercially, a legal expert has warned.

Millie Bradshaw, at national law firm Clarke Willmott, was addressing the topic in relation to Brooklyn Beckham’s recent social media posts.

“Trademark ownership, not personal identity, decides who can legally use a name for business purposes,” says Millie, who advises on intellectual property and commercial law.

“Many public figures register names as trademarks to protect their reputations and prevent unauthorised use. Brooklyn’s experience shows why it’s important to know who controls the commercial rights to a name before using it in business or branding.

“Even high-profile individuals can face limits on using their names commercially.”

Brooklyn Beckham took to Instagram to express frustration that he does not have full control over the use of his own name, saying he was pressured to “sign

away the rights to his name” ahead of his marriage to Nicola Peltz.

He added that this could affect him, his wife and their future children. The posts have attracted global attention, not only for revealing aspects of the Beckham family dynamic but also for highlighting the legal complexities around personal names as trademarks.

Records show the Beckham children’s names were registered while they were minors, with Victoria Beckham listed as the owner. Under UK law, personal names can be registered as trademarks if they are used to identify the source of goods or services.

“While not unusual, this means that she, rather than the individuals named, holds the commercial rights associated with those registrations,” added Millie.

“Brooklyn’s experience demonstrates that simply being the owner of your own name does not guarantee control over its commercial use.”

• For more legal news turn to page 88.

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Display reveals history of Town Hall Visitors are being treated to a specially curated historic exhibition outside Birmingham Town Hall.

It will run until the end of March and will include photographs, posters, tickets and personal memories collected from the public.

It gives passers-by a chance to discover how the building has been used for music, public meetings and landmark cultural moments over the past 191 years.

‘Among the highlights are materials from landmark moments including Black Sabbath’s debut performance at Town Hall in April, 1970’ For the first time, those who have not yet stepped inside the Grade I listed building will be able to experience highlights from its extraordinary story.

Delivered by B:Music, the charity responsible for Town Hall and Symphony Hall, Amplify Town Hall

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History stretching back 191 years: Birmingham Town Hall

launched in 2025 with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, alongside the generosity of the Saintbury Trust, B:Music audiences, individual donors and public supporters, the campaign has safeguarded and celebrated the past, present and future of Birmingham’s oldest events venue.

Over its 191-year history, Town

Hall has played a defining role in Birmingham’s social, political and cultural life- yet much of this heritage has remained unknown.

Last summer, B:Music partnered with Birmingham Music Archive to preserve the venue’s remarkable legacy. Following a public call-out, more than 1,500 treasured items and memories were contributed by music lovers across the city and beyond.

Among the highlights are materials from landmark moments including Black Sabbath’s debut performance at Town Hall in April, 1970, and a 1949 poster signed by civil rights activist Paul Robeson.

These materials now form a permanent installation inside Town Hall, alongside a digital archivedeveloped with Birmingham Open Media – making nearly two centuries of history accessible worldwide for the first time.

As part of this new chapter, B:Music has announced internationally acclaimed author Lee Child as Town Hall’s latest Amplifier, joining a distinguished cohort including Joan Armatrading, Joe Lycett, Roger Taylor of Duran Duran, and Toyah Willcox.

The author of the Jack Reacher books said: “I spent hundreds of ecstatic hours in Birmingham Town Hall, with everyone from Led Zeppelin to Captain Beefheart to Nigel Kennedy to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

It was a huge part of my life. Let’s make it a huge part of the future, too.”

The Amplify Town Hall exhibition runs in Victoria Square until the end of March.

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BUSINESS NEWS ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Local female business owner clinches double award win the UK’s Top 100 Female Entrepreneurs (f:Entrepreneur #iAlso100 2026 campaign), highlighting her role as a vital voice for disabled and Asian heritage business leaders.

Empowering the community through innovation

Nabila Gardner (pictured), founder and director of Ways for Wellbeing UK CIC, celebrates transformative national recognition for community wellbeing, inviting corporate leaders to partner for the upcoming 2026 Birmingham Disability Festival at Aston University to drive inclusive social impact.

Birmingham entrepreneur Nabila is redefining the landscape of community health and inclusive entrepreneurship. She secured two prestigious accolades: the Diamond Distinction Award 2026 for exceptional service standards and the SME Community Wellbeing Coaching Company of the Year 2025. These wins follow her landmark recognition by Small Business Britain as one of

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Nabila’s work bridges the gap between clinical standards and community-led action. Her social enterprise provides essential health and wellbeing coaching, supporting individuals navigating mental health struggles, financial anxiety, and disabilityrelated barriers. By leveraging lived experience, Ways for Wellbeing ensure that support is not just a service, but a pathway to genuine empowerment.

A call for corporate partnership The momentum continues as Ways for Wellbeing lead the coordination of the Birmingham Disability Festival 2026, taking place on 4 July at

Aston University. This city-wide celebration serves as a dynamic platform for diversity, equity, and inclusion, featuring accessible sports, performances, and a marketplace for disabledled businesses.

To scale this impact, Ways for Wellbeing are calling on the corporate sector to move beyond traditional CSR and engage in active partnership.

Corporate involvement is essential to ensuring the festival remains a free, high-impact event that fosters community spirit and challenges societal misconceptions.

Driving sustainable social value By partnering with the festival or Ways for Wellbeing UK, businesses can demonstrate a tangible commitment to social value.

Opportunities range from event sponsorship and resource sharing to employee volunteering, providing a unique chance for brands to align with award-winning leadership while supporting the region’s diverse population.

Join us in championing inclusion: visit waysforwellbeing.com or email info@waysforwellbeing.com to partner today.

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Black Country to host Venturefest Venturefest West Midlands – the largest gathering of entrepreneurs and innovators from across the region – will take place in the Black Country for the first time.

Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton is the venue for the popular event on Tuesday, 10 March, co-hosted by West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and Innovation Alliance for the West Midlands, and sponsored by Medilink Midlands.

Now in its 11th year, Venturefest West Midlands brings together some of the brightest minds in the business and academic worlds, offering a platform to raise their profile by connecting them with influential decisionmakers, national investors, partners and support organisations.

Running alongside Venturefest WM for another year will be Pitch Up, a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style competition for business owners. This year’s £15,000 cash prize is the biggest in the competition’s history.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “I’m really excited about Venturefest this year. It’s bringing together a new generation of innovators to showcase the bright ideas and cutting-edge research that I truly believe can breathe new life into our economy.

Venturefest PitchUp winner 2025: Raoul Popescu-Ghimis, chief executive of RACE Solutions

“I’m incredibly proud of our global innovation heritage, and my Growth Plan is all about backing the people who will take it forward and harnessing the entrepreneurial energy of tech pioneers working in fast-growing areas like digital healthcare, AI and the creative sector.

“What matters most to me is turning those ideas into thriving businesses and high-quality jobs right here in the West Midlands, in industries that will shape our future just as profoundly as the factories and forges shaped our past.”

Harper James boss on Lawyer Hot 100 list The founder and CEO of law firm Harper James, Toby Harper, has been named in The Lawyer Hot 100, an annual list recognising the most influential lawyers in the UK. The list highlights individuals who are shaping the future of the legal profession through innovation, leadership and impact.

Toby’s inclusion reflects his role in building a law firm designed specifically around the needs of entrepreneurial UK businesses, while challenging traditional models of legal support.

Founded in 2014, Harper James provides subscription-based legal services to SMEs across the UK, offering experienced, in-house-style legal support without the overheads of a traditional law firm. The firm works with thousands of businesses supporting founders and leadership teams as they scale.

Toby said: “Being named in The Lawyer Hot 100 is a genuine honour, particularly given the calibre of people on the list. To be recognised alongside leaders from across the profession is a powerful validation of the different path we’ve taken at Harper James. I’m incredibly proud of the team and the businesses we’re trusted to support. Recognition like this proves that a law firm built for SMEs, and for lawyers who want to work differently, can stand alongside the very best in the industry.”

Law firm recognised for workplace culture A Birmingham law firm has been recognised for its outstanding workplace culture.

Weightmans has secured a place among the UK’s Top 10 Employers for the 19th consecutive year. The accolade, awarded by the Top Employers Institute, sees Weightmans achieve eighth position in the 2026 rankings.

Active in 131 countries and regions, the Top Employers Institute is the global authority on HR certification, benchmarking and advisory services.

Its programme celebrates organisations worldwide that demonstrate exceptional people-centric policies and practices, creating positive work environments that enable employees to thrive both professionally and personally.

Sarah Walton (pictured), managing partner at Weightmans, said: “This award holds particular significance for Weightmans, as it reflects our commitment to nurturing and developing our remarkable people, who truly are the beating heart of the firm. The ongoing enhancements to our workplace culture continue to create an environment where colleagues can thrive and deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients both in the UK and internationally.”

Firm built for SMEs: Toby Harper

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Cricket club name ex-Co-op chief as chair Warwickshire County Cricket Club has appointed Tracey Orr, currently senior independent director, as the new chair with effect from Friday, 1 May. Tracey was co-opted as a board director in February 2022 and then began her first full term in 2023, becoming senior independent director at the same time. She is a member of the cricket committee, board lead for professional women’s cricket, and a member of nominations and remuneration committees.

Tracey is a highly experienced commercial and human resources

leader having spent over 30 years working in the Co-operative sector, culminating in 2021 as chief operating officer of the Central England Co-operative. She is a long-standing West Midlands resident, settling in the region after graduating from Aston University in 1984.

Tracey said: “I have always been moved by the passion, enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated by everyone you meet since joining the club four years ago. It was this collective commitment from members, colleagues, players, communities and friends of this

Inspired by club: Tracey Orr

club that inspired me to want to lead it forward.”

The extensive process included external and internal candidates and was led by a specially constructed Board Committee for Chair Succession, comprising three

non-executive directors whose recommendation was approved unanimously by the board.

Tracey takes over from Mark McCafferty, who stands down after nine years on the board, with the last six as chair.

Practical help: Neil Betts with Claire Allsop from the Holistic VA, a startup that has consulted from Go True North

Tip of the iceberg: Andrew Goodacre

Scale of retail crimes highlighted A leading independent retailers association has said that new ONS crime statistics showing over half a million shoplifting offences highlight the scale of the retail crime crisis facing high streets.

Figures released by the Office for National Statistics show that shoplifting offences increased by 5 per cent to 519,381 offences in the year ending September 2025, compared with 492,660 offences in the previous year.

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of the British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), said: “More than 500,000 offences reported is still very high, and I still think it is the tip of the iceberg with many more crimes not being reported.

“Our members tell us what they really want to see is more police on the streets. I am pleased to say that in that respect the government seems to be listening and we welcome the commitments to more neighbourhood policing and an increased focus on organised crime.”

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Support programme for startups A new startup support initiative has been launched to help aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage founders across the region to turn ideas into viable businesses with confidence and clarity.

Created by business consultant and Go True North founder Neil Betts, Vision to Venture is a practical, lean startup programme that focuses on problem identification, customer validation and early traction rather than lengthy business plans or theoryheavy content.

The programme is aimed at individuals who are considering starting a business, developing a side venture, or validating an idea

before committing significant time or money.

It provides a structured, step-bystep approach to help founders reduce risk, gain clarity and take meaningful action.

‘Too many people feel stuck before they even start’ Through a combination of digital learning, live masterclasses and practical tools, Vision to Venture helps participants understand real customer problems, test solutions quickly and build businesses that are grounded in genuine demand.

As part of the launch, Vision to Venture is offering exclusive resources and introductory access to members of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, including free startup guidance and live taster sessions.

Founder Neil Betts said: “Too many people feel stuck before they even start. Vision to Venture is about giving founders a clear starting point and the confidence to move forward without guessing.

“You do not need everything figured out, you just need the right next step.”

Vision to Venture supports aspiring entrepreneurs, early-stage founders and business students.

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STAFFS DEVOLUTION DEBATE

What Staffordshire needs As Staffordshire sits on the cusp of a once-in-a-generation change in local government as part of the government’s reform programme, the Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel champions what local businesses in the area need from policy makers to thrive and grow.

Delivered by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s Insight & Intelligence Unit, in partnership with the Lichfield & Tamworth, Burton and District, and Cannock Chase Chambers of Commerce, the Growth Panel will harness the knowledge of business across the region on key enablers for local economic growth. Chamberlink’s FERON JAYAWARDENE invited views from key figures in the debate.

To read the Staffordshire devolution debate in full go to: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com

Regional inequalities: Ruth Fleet

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is urging the government to reverse its decision to delay the Devolution Priority Programme and commit unequivocally to the timetables already set out.

This is one of two policy recommendations brought forward, alongside forming key stakeholder forums with regular updates on the development of future new authorities.

GBCC senior policy advisor Dr Ruth Fleet said: “Successful devolution of power has proven to enable economic growth, while delay and indecision can only harm business confidence and damage regional equality. Devolution has the potential to deliver more regional equality in a way that previous grants and government packages have failed to do because 38 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

‘Slowing further devolution of power regionally can only hold back local authorities’ it allows self-determination for local people on how to best invest in their own communities.”

The GBCC has also been conducting a research project - the Staffordshire Gateway Growth Panel – to develop clear policy recommendations to ensure a successful transition to the new authority or authorities in Staffordshire and to support economic growth in the region.

The launch of the report will take place on Friday, 27 March.

Further devolution of power, including the award of Integrated Settlements in April 2025, has

given Mayoral Strategic Authorities (MSAs) more control over funding from national government.

As a result, MSAs have been able to deliver long-term strategic planning in areas such as skills, housing, transport and infrastructure.

Ruth continued: “MSAs are now central to the government’s plans for economic growth.

“Successive governments have driven funding through the MSAs, which represent around 41 per cent of the UK population, using them as a vehicle to stimulate growth and revitalise former industrial powerhouses. Slowing further

devolution of power regionally can only hold back local authorities in England outside of MSAs from working strategically towards economic growth.

“Businesses are already facing a postcode lottery when it comes to seeking funding from local authorities and the loss of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) looks as though it will cause further divisions between the availability of support for different communities.

“These regional inequalities can only be exacerbated by further delay to devolved funding via MSAs. “If devolution is not prioritised, the government risks achieving the opposite of its goal by creating uncertainty around where power lies regionally.”

• Turn to page 41 to read about Staffordshire’s challenges on jobs

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to flourish Staffordshire is a county of opportunities. From areas of natural beauty in Cannock Chase to the rich brewing history of Burton, the county is regarded as having everything in its palm to attract a diverse footfall.

There is much to celebrate, potential investors to inspire and moments to seize. And David Jackson, centre manager of the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet based in Cannock, is quietly optimistic.

David and the designer outlet lie at the centre of Staffordshire’s visitor economy, offering deals up to 60 per cent off across 75 fully let stores. These include brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Nike, and Boss.

According to David, a strong visitor economy needs to develop and thrive over time – something that McArthurGlen has been able to do.

The outlet now has an average dwell time of an hour and a half, a major increase from 2022. This signals that McArthurGlen is becoming a destination venue for Staffordshire rather than a stop off.

David is convinced that this is a positive stepping stone for the region: “As you become a destination, you naturally start attracting people from further afield. Visitors are more willing to travel longer distances if they know there’s enough to do, see and experience once they arrive.

“Ultimately, a successful visitor economy is one where collaboration drives repeat visits, longer stays, and delivers real economic benefit for the whole region, not just individual sites.”

The way forward, he says, is collaboration with a unified effort from hotels, retailers and shopping centres, cultural venues and the council. Different entities working together for a shared vision.

For David, this clarity of who does what is the biggest barrier hindering development alongside the absence of a clear framework.

He said: “We are often unclear who is championing Staffordshire, or who is ultimately responsible for driving its great benefits and location forward. There needs to be a clear understanding of who is leading, and who can channel and measure progress.

“Having a clear framework for how things will work is key to unlocking further growth. Without that structure, it becomes very difficult for businesses to engage with confidence.

“We genuinely don’t know what’s happening around us. I’d love to

know what hotel developments are coming. I’d love to know if a science park is being built. But the reality is, we don’t know. And without that visibility, we can’t plan future investment properly. Uncertainty makes long-term decision-making incredibly difficult.

“We’ve wanted to expand McArthurGlen by launching a phase two development process for some time. Planning restrictions have been a challenge but having visibility on what’s happening locally has kept both me and our investors bought into the area and its opportunities.”

Although big retailers can often carry on despite these issues, investor confidence to establish new businesses is dipping – hindering local reinvestment opportunities he says and adds: “As humans, we are ultimately averse to risk.

“If people don’t understand the opportunity or can’t see who else is investing or growing locally, they’re far less likely to take that step.

“I see other areas where new and younger businesses are starting up, and I don’t see as much of that activity here. There’s so much talent in the area, a real entrepreneurial spirit, however many are unsure where to start, and what support is available.

“It’s about being able to answer a simple question: what does growth look like locally? Until that picture is clear, reinvestment will always feel harder and riskier than it needs to be.”

With these lapses around clear and effective communication from authorities, David is curious about devolution coming into place.

“That curiosity isn’t about the idea itself, it’s about how informed businesses feel,” says David.

“My challenge to those involved is making sure all of those voices are heard, and that no one part of the county feels overlooked. “ The designer outlet is doing their part in helping the visitor economy – mainly by establishing recruitment pipelines through partnerships with schools in the area.

McArthurGlen has worked with Cannock Chase High School and Walsall College for many years through the Retail Academy, offering practical workshops and knowledge to students aspiring to start a career in retail.

They believe that if devolution is to mean anything for the Staffordshire’s visitor economy, it must begin with a shared understanding of what growth looks like, who is responsible for delivering it, and how progress will be communicated along the way.

Collaboration is way forward: David Jackson

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STAFFS DEVOLUTION DEBATE

For devolution to succeed, we need to make skills a priority Skills, brain drain and devolution – Lisa Massey, HR director of SOCOTEC UK, discusses what Staffordshire needs to do differently.

Once defined by an industrial heritage of coal mining, steel production, and the pottery industry, Staffordshire stands at a critical crossroads.

In 2026, we’re transitioning to a service-led economy, but this shift has created significant challenges in attracting, developing and retaining the talent needed to drive future growth.

The question isn’t simply whether talent is leaving Staffordshire. We do need to ask why this might be happening, and more importantly, what can be done about it.

It is important to understand where we are starting from, before addressing the current recruitment landscape. It’s not that opportunities don’t currently exist in Staffordshire, it’s that school leavers and young people aren't sufficiently informed about the career opportunities available in their own region.

Some of the most persistent recruitment challenges exist because educational institutions aren't offering or promoting relevant programmes of learning.

Fire engineering provides a clear example of this in practice. There are currently only four or five universities in the UK which offer postgraduate qualifications in fire engineering - we have just 150 chartered fire engineers nationally, yet consultation papers are being issued around the need to professionalise the fire engineering industry. How can we professionalise a sector when universities aren't training the future of the workforce to enter it?

This disconnect isn't unique to fire engineering, it exists across numerous technical and professional disciplines. Until schools, colleges and universities begin promoting these career pathways and the relevant qualifications, these gaps will remain.

The movement of talent to nearby cities and major employers represents a genuine threat to regional growth. However, the

solution isn’t simply about preventing people from leaving – it’s about creating compelling reasons for them to stay or return.

Businesses need to provide clear progression pathways that allow people to grow through promotions and transversely, with portfolio careers within a single organisation.

The days of a “job for life” are over, people want variety, development and the opportunity to build diverse skill sets. As a result, we as business leaders need to offer our people continuous learning and upskilling opportunities.

Devolution is frequently presented as a solution to regional skills challenges. However, the reality is quite complex. My experience of devolution thus far in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland has not been straightforward. It takes time to understand devolved funding streams, accessing funding and partnering with organisations offering apprenticeships within devolved frameworks, as well as being administratively burdensome.

If this complexity is multiplied across regions in England, with each county or devolved region implementing its own particular skills strategy, we risk creating a bureaucratic nightmare for employers who operate across the entirety of the UK. What works for a Staffordshire-only employer, could create hurdles for businesses with a national footprint.

For devolution to succeed, it must reduce bureaucracy, not increase it. Any skills strategy must account for the rapidly changing nature of work itself.

The question for Staffordshire is whether policy can catch up with the ambition and commitment of employers who are already doing the right thing and the expectation of the future workforce. If it can, the next five years could represent a genuine turning point – but if it can’t? Then the brain drain we are trying to prevent may only accelerate.

Lack of career information: Lisa Massey

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BUSINESS NEWS Hidden treasure: HS2 diggings reveal precious items

Treasures unearthed by hundreds of archaeologists during the ongoing construction of the HS2 train line have been shown exclusively to the BBC. The 450,000 objects, which are being held in a secret warehouse, include a possible Roman gladiator's tag, a hand axe that may be more than 40,000 years old and 19th Century gold dentures.

It is an “unprecedented” amount and array of items, which will yield new insights into Britain's past, says the Centre for British Archaeology.

Major building developments in the UK need land to be assessed by archaeologists as part of the planning process, to protect heritage sites BBC science reporter Harriet Bradshaw writes that since 2018 around 1,000 archaeologists have been involved in 60 digs along the route HS2 is set to take between London and Birmingham.

While the route is not currently scheduled to open until after 2033 due to delays, archaeologists say their fieldwork is largely complete.

The warehouse's location is a secret for security purposes. All we can say is that it is in Yorkshire.

Inside are shelves and shelves of pallets, loaded with around 7,300 boxes of historic items destined for further research.

The future of many objects, including whether they will stay in storage or be displayed, is still undecided, along with their ownership.

Historic England commended the team for revealing “new and exciting sites spanning over 10,000 years of our past”.

But building HS2 has changed the landscape along its route, cutting into fields and communities, and dividing opinion.

Pictures: Tony Jolliffe, BBC

Treasures found on HS2 route stored in secret warehouse 1

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HS2 ARTEFACTS 1: A medieval dice 2: Gold three lions pendant (13-14th century) 3: Gladiator tag 4: A Roman coin 5: Pottery from a Roman vessel

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BUSINESS NEWS Optimistic: The Vistage UK network

Firm earns accreditation Revitcus Consulting has been awarded corporate accreditation by the British Damage Management Association (BDMA), marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued commitment to professional excellence, best practice and ethical business development.

Based in the Midlands, the firm supports organisations to strengthen their business continuity and resilience strategies, safeguard operational stability and achieve sustainable, long-term growth.

The BDMA Corporate Accreditation is a nationally recognised standard that demonstrates an organisation’s dedication to quality, compliance and professionalism in damage management.

Achieving this status places Revitcus Consulting among a select group of organisations that have met the BDMA’s rigorous criteria for operational standards, governance and people development.

Charles Eurell, founder and lead consultant at Revitcus Consulting, said: “Achieving BDMA Corporate Accreditation is a proud moment for our team and a strong endorsement of the standards we work to every day.

“It reflects our commitment to professionalism, quality and delivering real value to our clients.”

Paris triumph: Previous funder raisers celebrate

Launch of new peer group for local SMEs Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, SME leaders across the UK remain cautiously optimistic about their own businesses, according to the latest Vistage CEO Confidence Index.

While more than half of leaders report that economic conditions have worsened over the past year, a majority still expect revenue growth and improved profitability in the year ahead.

This contrast between external uncertainty and internal ambition reflects the mindset of many SME leaders across the Midlands.

That sentiment was evident at the launch of a new peer advisory group for small and scaling businesses in the region. Led by Alex Cook, the group forms part of the Vistage UK network and brings together founders, owners, managing directors and chief executives to support one another

through confidential peer discussion, challenge and shared experience.

Alex Cook, Vistage chair, said: “The latest CEO Confidence Index mirrors what I hear daily from leaders. There’s realism about the wider economy, but also a strong belief that, with the right decisions, their own businesses can continue to grow.

‘The first group meeting exceeded my expectations’ “Peer groups like this exist to help leaders make those decisions with more clarity and confidence.

“The first group meeting exceeded my expectations. Within a few hours, members were openly sharing challenges and advice, and it became clear just how much

Business discount in Paris charity ride Businesses are being invited to ride the London to Paris cycle route with Cure Leukaemia – at a special discounted entry fee.

The ‘London 2 Paris 2026’ initiative takes place from Thursday 4 to Monday 8 June.

Cure Leukaemia – the Birmingham-headquartered national blood cancer charity – has a special corporate team offer for firms who would like to ride with them.

The special price for a corporate team of five is £5,000 – a discount of £1,000. A minimum of £1,500 fundraising per person is required, with proceeds helping to fund the

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common ground there was despite very different sectors and backgrounds. That level of trust and openness so early on is exactly what makes peer advisory groups so powerful, particularly in challenging macroeconomic conditions.”

Vistage has been supporting business leaders for more than 65 years and today works with over 40,000 members across 40 countries. Members benefit from confidential peer groups, one-toone coaching and access to worldclass speakers, helping leaders improve decision-making, strengthen leadership capability and sustain growth.

The Midlands group is continuing to welcome interest from founders and senior leaders of small and scaling businesses who value trusted challenge, perspective from peers, and dedicated time to work on their business rather than in it.

charity’s globally-significant clinical trials.

Each team will receive four jerseys per rider (specific to each day of the event), return Eurostar travel, four nights’ accommodation, a team banner, full team support (including mechanics and sports therapists) and invites to a celebration gala dinner on the final night in Paris.

Cure Leukaemia is partnering with Flutter Entertainment for the challenge.

To find out more information and secure a place email L2P@cureleukaemia.co.uk

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Chamber Patrons Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters

Renewed partnerhsip (left to right): Andrew Hartshorn (partner at Gateley), Jan Gilder (associate director of partnerships and STEAM at BCU), Sam Meiklejohn (partner at Gateley), Professor Nick Morton (academic director of partnerships and STEAM at BCU), and Harprit Virdee (Innovation Fest manager, partnerships and STEAM at BCU).

20 years’ experience: Razia Gent

Appointment boosts Bishop Fleming Bishop Fleming is further strengthening its growing presence in the West Midlands with the appointment of Razia Gent as director of internal audit and risk advisory.

Based in the firm’s Birmingham office, Razia brings over 20 years of commercial experience, including senior roles at BDO, BT and Birmingham City Council. Her appointment is part of an accelerated growth trajectory for Bishop Fleming across its nine UK offices.

Prime nominated for hero award Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH) 100 Heroes Awards have nominated Prime Accountants Group for Corporate Supporter of the Year.

The nomination places Prime among a select group of individuals and organisations recognised for going above and beyond to support the seriously ill children and their families at BCH. The winner will be announced at the 100 Heroes Awards ceremony on 22 March 2026, which members of the Prime team will attend.

Prime has raised more than £112,000 for the charity over the years through a series of impressive and ambitious team challenges and continues to support key hospital services, including sponsoring the stem cell transplant ward.

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Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

Gateley renews partnership Professional services group Gateley has renewed its partnership with Birmingham City University (BCU) innovation centre STEAMhouse as it continues to champion the next generation of enterprise and skills development in the city.

In the partnership Gateley will offer expertise and mentoring to entrepreneurs, start-ups and small businesses based at STEAMhouse; support students and graduates by giving them exposure to real-world business challenges, skills development, and collaboration opportunities; and create avenues for academics and researchers to apply knowledge and creativity in practical, industry-linked settings.

The partnership dates back to Gateley’s early support for BCU in the early days of business incubation at Millennium Point and builds on years of

support for numerous STEAMhouse members through mentoring, business advice, and legal guidance.

Gateley’s branding will also feature prominently across the £70m state-of-the-art campus and provide the group with access to STEAMhouse’s podcast studio to create additional content.

The move also supports BCU’s ‘Strategy 2030’, reinforcing the University’s position as an anchor institution supporting business and industry in the region.

Sam Meiklejohn, partner at Gateley, said: “This partnership allows us to support the next generation of entrepreneurs coming out of the region and helps to turn those ideas and ambitions into commercial ventures that drive long-term growth and play a meaningful role in shaping the future of the city.”

...as artists get BCU support The Graduate Studio Programme, launched in 2017 in partnership with Birmingham City University (BCU), gives early-career artists a professional space to research, experiment, and produce new work – all while connecting with a vibrant community of creatives.

The programme, which also includes graduates Maryam Aisha, Sireen Martin, and Mads Washbrook, provides emerging artists with a collaborative, supportive environment to develop their craft and establish professional connections at a pivotal stage in their careers.

“The partnership introduces new graduates to the artistic community here in Digbeth,” said Cheryl Jones,

director at Grand Union, a gallery and artists’ studio complex.

• For more information go to: grand-union.org.uk

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CHAMBER PATRONS

New awards to recognise talented entrepreneurs Aston University is launching the Adrian Cadbury Entrepreneurial Awards to recognise starter businesses that are doing things differently.

Three prizes worth a total of £75,000 will be given to the founders of the most innovative AI, social enterprise and international business start-ups.

The new annual event, for which submissions are now closed, has been created to highlight excellence in business that is aligned to Aston’s 2030 strategy and is named after Adrian Cadbury to reflect his legacy of ethical leadership, enterprise and longterm impact.

The three chosen applicants will each receive £10,000 in cash and £15,000 in industry support provided at the new hub, from where they will run their enterprise.

Instead of providing an application, each competitor is required to describe their business

and ambitions in a five-minute video. To be eligible, businesses had to be less than five years old and be based in Birmingham, the West Midlands region, or be willing to relocate.

‘Aston University defines itself as inclusive, entrepreneurial and transformational, and these awards reflect our ethos’ They had to show innovation in a product, service or business model and provide potential for economic, social or international impact.

Professor Aleks Subic, vicechancellor and chief executive of Aston University, said: “I am delighted to launch the Adrian Cadbury Entrepreneurship Awards as the Aston University annual flagship awards that

Professor Aleks Subic

demonstrate our commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship that drive positive socioeconomic impact in business and community.

“Aston University defines itself as inclusive, entrepreneurial and transformational, and these awards reflect our ethos.

“The three prizes will provide exceptionally talented and progressive entrepreneurs the freedom to focus, the space to create, and the support to move

faster towards achieving their commercial goals. Big ideas deserve big backing.”

The winners will be named on 23 March at the official opening of the new Aston Business Hub, which will be located at 10 Woodcock Street in Birmingham.

Aston has also opened a new million-pound AI-powered business hub in Birmingham as part of a major investment in the city’s innovation and enterprise ecosystem.

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

1813 Club and Premier Members Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Award win for events firm Birmingham-based event management company Blackberry Events has secured the Collaboration of the Year award at the inaugural Beam Awards.

The ceremony was hosted by leading industry association Beam and brought together hundreds of professionals from across the meetings, events and hospitality sectors.

The awards took place in the newly unveiled Masters Suite at The Belfry Golf and Spa Resort.

Out of five award categories, Blackberry Events was recognised for Collaboration of the Year, alongside long-standing partners The National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT).

Premier Membership Contact: Gary Birch T: 07971 144059

Partnership facilitates children’s visit to forest Children from two Redditch-based first schools will have the opportunity to explore the Heart of England Forest thanks to funding from professional services group Gateley.

Pupils at St. Luke’s CE First School and St. George’s CE First School will each take part in 12 after-school sessions across the first half of 2026, as part of the company’s partnership with the charity. The children will have the opportunity to spend meaningful time in the forest, which is based near Stratford-upon-Avon.

Now in its third year, Gateley’s ongoing partnership with the Heart of England Forest has seen them facilitate access for hundreds of school children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Close inspection: Children examine forest life

Rebecca Sherwin, partner and Birmingham office head, said: “We believe that nature should be for all, which is why our partnership with the Heart of England Forest is

so important to us. It is fantastic to already see how pupils from St. Luke’s and St. George’s have been so excited and enthusiastic to visit the Forest.”

Boss to take on rickshaw challenge

City networking event returns to F1 Arcade Birmingham F1 Arcade Birmingham (pictured) has launched its business networking event for the second year running, offering an evening of high-speed connections, friendly competition, and relaxed networking.

The event, on Wednesday, 11 March, will bring together professionals from across the Midlands for an engaging networking experience with a twist.

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Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with like-minded businesses while enjoying unlimited access to F1 Arcade’s immersive racing simulators. Tickets cost £20 plus booking fee.

Iliyana Deliradeva, business development manager at F1 Arcade Birmingham, said: “Networking doesn’t have to be formal. This event is all about creating meaningful connections in a fun, engaging environment.”

A leadership expert is swapping boardrooms for back roads this International Women’s Day, driving a rickshaw 1,000km across India to raise funds for women and girls’ education and maternal health.

Jude Jennison, founder of Leaders by Nature and creator of the Ask Opus leadership platform, is taking part in the Sisterhood Rickshaw Rally 2026, joining 40 female founders to drive from Chennai to Goa in a three-wheeled rickshaw.

Known for her work with CEOs and senior teams using experiential leadership development with horses, Jude spends her working life helping leaders navigate uncertainty, pressure, and behaviour change.

Jude said: “I help leaders lead with clarity and confidence when things are unpredictable. This challenge takes me right into that territory. It’s going to be uncomfortable, noisy, exhausting and meaningful, which is exactly why I’m doing it.”

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

Rail Skills Hub to engineer careers

Partnership: Pat Carvalho (left), Principal, BMet College, with Hannah Connors, head of apprentice and graduate development, Network Rail

BMet College has partnered with Network Rail to launch a new preapprenticeship Rail Skills Hub, creating new pathways into rail and engineering careers for young people in the West Midlands.

The first-of-its-kind Network Rail Academy in the region was officially launched at BMet’s James Watt College.

The initiative is designed to support young people aged 1619 who are not currently in education, employment or training (NEET), helping to widen participation in the industry while addressing critical skills shortages across the sector.

The Rail Skills Hub will provide students with access to employer-led training, industry insight and technical qualifications designed to prepare them for progression into apprenticeships and long-term careers within the rail sector.

Abdelhamid Sahih, director of engineering at James Watt College, said: “This forward-thinking initiative offers great scope for the development of our students wanting to make their mark within a range of rail and engineering industries.

“Working with an employer like Network Rail creates a fantastic opportunity for BMet and our students, providing clear pathways into industry and supporting young people to progress with confidence into employment and further training.”

The rail academy courses aim to equip students with some of the vital engineering, learning and professional skills needed to stand out when applying for Network Rail apprenticeships.

Through completing a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification in engineering and functional skills at BMet, students will gain prerequisite qualifications enabling them to apply for Level 3 apprenticeships with Network Rail.

Engineering students will also benefit from enrichment and enhancement of the curriculum through industry-led expertise through the innovative partnership.

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade Customs experts advise on rules Entry Summary Declarations (ENS) are now mandatory for all movements into the European Union and Northern Ireland (XI), covering both accompanied and unaccompanied traffic.

These requirements have been set out by Samphire Customs, Chamber members who specialise in global customs clearance and freight transport services.

The regulations form part of the EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2), which strengthens safety and security data obligations for goods entering or transiting through the EU. Under ICS2, complete and accurate data must be submitted within strict timeframes before goods arrive at the EU border.

Hauliers, freight forwarders and exporters must ensure compliance to avoid delays, refusals at the border, or supply chain disruption.

For many businesses, particularly SMEs trading with the EU, the increased data requirements add another layer of complexity to crossborder operations. Understanding who is responsible for filing, ensuring correct commodity information is

provided, and meeting submission deadlines are now critical parts of the export process.

Gary Smith-Watson (pictured), managing director of Samphire Customs, said: “Exporting with confidence means having the right expertise in place. There are reports of errors currently being made which can cause problems with transits.

“We are fully prepared to support ICS2 compliance. Our experienced teams work closely with customers to manage Entry Summary Declarations accurately and within the required timeframes, helping to prevent disruption.”

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

UK firms can help rebuild Ukraine British businesses are well placed to help drive the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine despite “practical and systematic challenges,” according to a leading lawyer.

Last year the UK signed the 100 Year Partnership Agreement with Ukraine, a longterm, legally binding treaty designed to bolster Ukraine’s security, economy and resilience following the Russian invasion of 2022.

The agreement covers 11 key areas including infrastructure, energy and renewable energy, agriculture, defence, technology and innovation and healthcare, as well as other sectors where Ukraine requires foreign investment and support.

Ahead of an anticipated ceasefire in Ukraine national law firm Clarke Willmott has launched a dedicated Ukraine Desk to support reconstruction efforts in the war-torn country.

The desk is headed by corporate partner Oksana Howard (pictured), an English-qualified solicitor who grew up in the Ukrainian city of Zhytomyr. The desk assists UK companies wishing to work on projects in Ukraine to help rebuild the country. It also advises Ukrainian businesses and individuals looking to operate in the UK, providing comprehensive legal assistance across a broad range of legal matters.

Oksana said: “With foreign investment expected to become a major driver of Ukraine’s economic recovery, UK companies will require sustained legal support if they are to operate there with confidence.

We also anticipate that English law will be preferred by UK companies undertaking projects in Ukraine.

“All of this provides a higher degree of legal certainty and protection for UK companies compared to the Ukrainian legal system, despite some current practical and systematic challenges.”

Events to boost trade and shape the sector

Visit from Indonesia Embassy Head of Global Division Jayne Hume (centre) welcomes the Indonesia Embassy to Chamber HQ to explore potential collaboration and future trade opportunities.

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A British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Driving International Trade Conference at London’s QEII Centre on Thursday, 26 March, will bring together influential voices shaping the UK’s trade and economic landscape.

Attendees will hear from Andy Haldane, the new president of the BCC, alongside Lord Stockwood, the Department for business and trade minister; Bloomberg's Lizzy Burden; Rachana Shambhogue, business affairs editor for The Economist; UK Trade Commissioners, and other senior policy makers and business leaders.

A NEW project by the BCC, in partnership with NatWest and the British Chamber of Commerce in Singapore, is aiming to scale up UK exports.

The six-month pilot programme, the Singapore Life Sciences Trade Accelerator, will connect UK firms in the sector with the burgeoning South-East Asian market for their products. It will talent-spot up to 30 SMEs, with the greatest potential to grow sales in South-East Asia, and provide them with a bespoke service to enter the market.

Visit: britishchambers.org.uk

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Global Chamber Patrons

Free clinic to help firms expand to US Allentra USA is bringing a complimentary half-day US expansion clinic to Birmingham on 18 March.

It is designed to help Midlands firms develop successful US go-tomarket strategies and avoid the costly structural mistakes that typically emerge 12 to 18 months after launch.

The firm works with international companies looking to enter and grow in the US market, providing practical support across market entry strategy, company setup, and go-to-market execution.

The clinic, The Hidden Costs of Getting US Expansion Wrong: What UK Companies Need to Know Before They Launch, addresses the legal, tax, and operational decisions

that determine whether US expansion succeeds or stalls.

Three US-based specialists will cover entity formation, state tax obligations, IP protection, permanent establishment risk, transfer pricing, and employment law; the foundational issues that protect UK parent companies whilst enabling compliant U.S. operations.

Attendees receive expert briefings, interactive Q&A with all three specialists simultaneously, optional confidential one-to-one consultations, and a complimentary US Expansion Health Check (value £2,500) identifying common gaps before capital is committed.

Research shows most UK companies discover critical structural gaps after entities are

Align to US regulations: Ian Collins

formed and capital deployed.

The event comes as businesses grapple with whether US expansion remains viable amid tariff uncertainty, trade policy shifts, and

rising logistics costs - factors prompting companies to reassess their market entry strategies.

Ian Collins, founder of Allentra USA, said: “The US opportunity is real, but structural pitfalls are equally real. Whether you are starting out with a smattering of US sales, or have an existing U.S. presence, we see businesses stall not because products are weak, but because commercial plans aren't aligned with U.S. legal, tax and operating realities. This clinic helps leaders validate assumptions early and avoid expensive rework later.”

The Birmingham clinic is a halfday session starting at 10:00 in a city centre venue soon to be announced with networking and lunch.

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

Tributes to ‘dedicated’ Councillor Numerous tributes have been paid by Birmingham’s business community to Councillor Waseem Zaffar, who has died at the age of 44.

Cllr Zaffar ,who grew up in Lozells, served as a councillor since 2011 and occupied various key positions in Birmingham City Council – including cabinet lead for transport, environment, clean air, climate change, highways, equalities, social justice, community safety.

His community work was recognised by several awards including an MBE for services to the voluntary sector.

Paying tribute on behalf of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, immediate past president Nasir Awan said: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Councillor Waseem Zaffar.

“He was a dedicated and compassionate public servant, widely known for his engaging nature and his unwavering passion for the city of Birmingham, particularly for the residents of his Lozells constituency.

“Councillor Zaffar served his community with energy, commitment, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

“His loss will be felt deeply by colleagues, constituents, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Great loss: Councillor Waseem Zaffa

“All of us at the Chamber extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them, and we pray they are granted strength and patience to bear this great loss.”

Council leader John Cotton said: “It is so incredibly hard to put into words how I and so many of my colleagues across Birmingham City Council feel.

“Waseem Zaffar was a passionate advocate of his community, a father, a husband, a young man with so much more to give to the city he was so proud to call home.

“Tonight, we remember a life lost too soon, and a family that has suffered the most terrible and shocking of losses.

“My thoughts and prayers are with them all in the days to come.”

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said in a LinkedIn Post: “I’m heartbroken to hear about the loss of my friend and colleague Cllr Waseem Zaffar.

“He was a tireless advocate for his community and a genuinely good man. My thoughts are with his family and especially his wife and his young children.”

Charity to host Ramadan event Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity, and Heartlands, Good Hope and Solihull Hospital Charities are asking the local community to get involved this Ramadan, forecast to end on 18 March.

Imam Mohammed Asad, Muslim Chaplain at University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB), said: “Around two billion Muslims from around the world will start fasting to observe Ramadan and fast during daylight hours. Young children, pregnant women, the old, the sick, and travellers are examples of those who are exempt from fasting.

“By getting involved in Ramadan we acknowledge, appreciate and understand each other much better.”

The charity is hosting its second ever Iftar Dinner this year. This year’s event will be raising money for the Heartlands Hospital Charity’s Cancer Appeal.

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Businesswomen invited to free event on wellness and health The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce hosts an evening of wellness, connection, and cuisine in an event exclusively for female members of the Chamber network (pictured).

This free event was organised in partnership with Mahirs Experience to upskill business leaders by promoting healthy cooking.

Chef Daksha Parekh, from Mahirs Experience, spoke about health and nutrition while guests enjoyed a fine dining plant-based taster menu.

Chef Daksha, also known as Chef D, advocates healthy cooking and is a plant-based educator. She is also a hospitality consultant with over 20 years’ experience as a pioneering businesswoman.

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ABCC PREMIER+ PARTNERS

ABCC Patrons

Food waste charity in call for volunteers FareShare Midlands, the region’s largest food redistribution charity, is urgently calling for volunteers to step up in their mission to tackle food poverty.

Each week, the charity collets and supplies surplus and nutritious food for over 60,000 people through a network of 650 frontline organisations including community centres, breakfast clubs, and homeless shelters.

‘The opening of the Coronation Food Hub has given us vital extra space’ Volunteers are vital to every part of the operation: picking and packing food, cooking meals in community kitchens, and driving vans to deliver to local partners.

In return, they gain skills, confidence, friendship, exercise, and the knowledge that they are making a meaningful difference.

Over the past year, the charity has saved 5,000 tonnes of good food – the equivalent of 11 million meals – from going to waste, redirecting it to vulnerable families, children, and older people across the Midlands.

With the launch of the Sir Peter Rigby Coronation Food Hub, FareShare Midlands is now operating from a larger facility with the capacity to redistribute significantly more food – particularly fresh produce.

Volunteer Sue Pool said: “The work we do combats food poverty while preventing perfectly good food from going to waste. It’s great to know that the time I spend here directly supports families and individuals who need it most.”

Built for collaboration: The Eastside Rooms

Support: Sue Pool at the larger distribution centre

Simone Connolly, chief executive of FareShare Midlands, said: “The opening of the Coronation Food Hub has given us vital extra space to fight hunger across the region.

“But FareShare Midlands urgently needs kind people to step forward.

“Just a few hours a week can have a huge impact.”

Event venue targets sports organisations Eastside Rooms is strengthening its meetings and conference offer to the sporting industry, providing a flexible and performance-focused base for professional teams, touring squads and sports organisations visiting Birmingham.

The Woodcock Street venue has already welcomed a range of clubs and organisations, including Nottingham Forest, West Bromwich Albion, Stoke City, FC Salzburg, Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday, and Leicester City.

The venue also hosts boxing events and has previously worked with UEFA, building a track record of delivering professional standards for sport.

With multiple rooms and layouts available, squads can run tactical briefings, opposition analysis, coaches’ meetings, nutrition planning, leadership sessions, and media activity under one roof, all supported by modern AV and experienced service team.

Tim Sparrow, general nanager at The Eastside Rooms, said: “Teams need more than somewhere to sleep.

“They need a base that protects focus, supports planning, and gives staff the space to do their jobs properly.

“Eastside Rooms is built for collaboration, from tactical briefings and analysis through to quieter moments that help players reset. We are proud to have hosted clubs from across the UK and Europe, and we are ready to support more teams visiting Birmingham.”

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CANNOCK CHASE CHASE CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

AGM welcomes vice-president Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce appointed Neil Betts from Go True North as their new vice-president at the annual general meeting 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.

The AGM also welcomed new council members Sarah Thompson (STC-PR), and Stuart Russell Taylor (Velorim Group Ltd).

They will work alongside existing council members, including Emily Kenny (Enoch Evans), Matt Small (T150 Energy), Chris Wheeler (Auditel), Gill Durkin (Performance Through People), and Pam Evans (Cannock Chase District Council).

Ben Bradley (Cosmik Carrot) was re-elected to the divisional council for a further term and David Jackson (McArthurGlen) was co-opted.

Sarah Thompson, founder of STC-PR, is a strategic communications professional who helps brands craft clear, compelling stories that resonate with key audiences.

With experience spanning public relations, media strategy and editorial leadership, Sarah

Marketing masters: The team collect their awards

Two awards for South Staffordshire College South Staffordshire College secured two awards at this year’s FE First Awards 2026.

The marketing team took home silver in the Internal Impact category, an award that recognises outstanding work in strengthening communication, engagement, and culture within an organisation.This category highlights initiatives that make a measurable difference to staff experience and internal collaboration.

The team was also awarded another silver within the Small Marketing Team of the Year category.

Hannah James, director of commercial, marketing and events, said: “This double award win means so much to us as a team.

“We work incredibly hard to champion the college, so to have that recognised is really rewarding.”

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New committee (from left to right): Russel Taylor, Ben Bradley, David Mitchell, Sarah Thompson, Neil Betts, Emily Kenny, Chris Wheeler, Gill Durkin, and Pam Evans

brings both journalistic insight and consultancy expertise to her work.

Russel Taylor is the director of Velorim Group, a sustainability-focused SME working in urban materials mining and circular-economy activity.

Alongside the role at Velorim, Russel also brings experience through Inovaplus, providing specialist support in risk management, procurement, communication systems, and scalable delivery.

Richard Brooks, head of Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am genuinely proud of the direction Cannock Chase Chamber is heading.

“We are a division in growth, with committed volunteers and strong local partnerships.

“The ambition now is simple, to keep building momentum and deliver even greater value for our business community.”

Fashion forward duo open pop-up at McArthurGlen A new store opening at the McArthurGlen designer outlet has shifted the spotlight to a local designer duo.

On The Common was opened in January as a pop-up store by Sophie Kolakovic and Lauren Boate with a focus on everyday essentials.

The designs include a selection of key pieces for wardrobe including loungewear, denim, accessories, basics, tailoring and more.

Sophie started designing clothes in 2012.

Since then, she has held a stall at Spitalfields market in London over weekends for many years.

Later in 2022, a new On The Common store was opened at Milford and Sophie was joined

by Lauren, bringing her extensive knowledge of retail design and marketing to the business.

The duo also started to host themed fashion shows quarterly and have gained a strong supportive community.

Sophie and Lauren said: “Opening our pop up store in January at McArthur Glen has allowed us to now consider buying bigger and more diverse collections and we are constantly looking for ways to make a greater customer experience including more styling

sessions for customers, more accessories including footwear and looking at the plus size market.

“We're here to celebrate individuality, uplift each other, and create a space where women feel their best.”

Celebrating individuality: Lauren Boate (left) and Sophie Kolakovic

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BURTON & DISTRICT BURTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Students to cook up a storm in pro kitchen Students and staff at Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) have launched a professional standard kitchen that will help train the next generation of hospitality professionals.

The kitchen, supported with a grant from the Savoy Educational Trust, is designed to create inclusive opportunities and features a height-adjustable kitchen and flexible learning spaces.

This expansion will support students with diverse needs, including those transitioning from Foundation Learning into vocational

hospitality programmes, apprenticeships and supported internships. By providing realistic, industry-standard environments, BSDC aims to empower students to thrive and progress into meaningful employment in the hospitality sector.

Bawan Khanthong began on a Foundation Learning course at BSDC before progressing to the Level 1 Hospitality (Foundation) course.

He said: “I love food and often cook at home, but I needed to start with the Foundation Learning course to build my confidence.

Building confidence: Students and staff in the college kitchen

“I was nervous about starting the Level 1 course, but it’s been really good. I’d like to go on to be a chef, and I think this course will set me up well.”

BSDC delivers an extensive range of highly successful full and parttime hospitality and catering programmes, from vocational entry level through to advanced qualifications. Students gain handson experience in the College’s

Mulberry Restaurant and Bistro, which has been awarded the AA College Rosette Highly Commended by the AA Hotel and Hospitality Services.

Lizzy Wootton, curriculum team leader of catering and hospitality at BSDC, said: “This investment will not only enhance our facilities but also ensure that learners of all abilities have the opportunity to develop skills and confidence.”

Stepping up: Katie Johnson

SOCOTEC graduate apprentices: A £2m investment over five years

SOCOTEC celebrates record number of apprenticeships Global leader in testing, inspection and certification (TIC) services, SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, has invested approximately £2m in apprenticeships over the past five years – helping over 450 employees on programmes in the process.

In a record-breaking 2025, 130 new apprentices started their learning journeys, the highest number in a single year so far.

Lisa Massey, HR Director at SOCOTEC UK & Ireland, which has several bases in the UK including Burton, said: “We’re incredibly proud of how our learning and development opportunities have enhanced the careers of so many colleagues.

“Some of our people have been working on their courses for up to five years, showing real tenacity and determination to get to the end of their learning journeys. We currently have over 200 active apprentices, with over 120 managers supporting them.

“This investment isn't just about numbers – it’s about creating genuine career pathways and recognising the exceptional talent we have throughout the business, from early careers apprentices to upskilling employees at every stage of their career.”

The company's apprenticeship programmes span 50 different courses delivered through 26 apprenticeship providers, catering to both early career professionals and those seeking career changes or skills enhancement at any stage of their professional journey.

Trust appoints new head of community Burton Albion Community Trust have appointed Katie Johnson as the new head of community, stepping into the role vacated by Dominic Anderson.

Katie joined the Trust in 2014, supervising the teaching element of the Futsal & Education programme, and subsequently leading a variety of different sessions in local schools including overseeing a successful period of growth as education manager.

She then took the extensive role of community manager, working across the full scope of the trust’s initiatives.

Phil Pusey, chair of Burton Albion Community Trust said: “As chair of the board, I am excited to work with Katie to progress the development plans that were already in the pipeline, as well as continuing to work on the joint strategy with the football club.”

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

Literature festival is returning for 20th year

Seeking Beethoven: John Suchet

From politics to environmental science, history to fiction, comedy to cuisine, four packed days of events have been announced for the 20th Lichfield Literature Festival.

Taking place in settings across the city from 19-22 March, Lichfield Literature celebrates the written word with a plethora of leading authors addressing wide-ranging topics from their recent book releases.

Among the highlights are broadcaster and music lover John Suchet, who goes In Search of Beethoven; celebrated historian – and Lichfield Festival patron – Tracy Borman, who uncovers the true events of James I’s succession; and best-selling

historian Alison Weir on five 15th century queens caught up in wars that changed their lives.

In fiction, award-winning author and comedian Robert Newman (best known as one half of TV’s Newman & Baddiel) brings his novel about wartime love and espionage.

There is fascinating insight and comment from both sides of the political divide, from the diaries of former Conservative Chief Whip Simon Hart, whose term spanned Brexit, Liz Truss and the invasion of Ukraine, and from Guardian parliamentary sketchwriter and satirist John Crace.

Lichfield Literature opens on 19 March with novelist Annie Garthwaite and her story of the fierce maternal ambition of Cecily, Duchess of York.

Years of development: Liam Dillon

Recording loved sounds: Lucy Watty (left) and Laura Evans, of Cathedral Hearing

Loved sounds recorded for the hard of hearing Lichfield independent audiology practice Cathedral Hearing celebrated World Hearing Day by creating a library of well-loved Lichfield sounds.

The Sandford Street practice recorded multiple events, people and locations throughout the city and placed the recordings on its website Sounds of the City at cathedralhearing.co.uk Principal audiologist Laura Evans hopes that creating this catalogue of familiar local sounds will encourage people to empathise with those who struggle with their hearing.

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Laura Evans said: “Hearing often deteriorates gradually, meaning everyday sounds can fade into the background until they are much less audible. The most common type of hearing issue affects the higher frequencies, which can impair hearing clarity and enjoyment of sounds such as birdsong and music.”

The Cathedral Hearing Sounds of the City project includes recording of: Lichfield Cathedrals bells tolling; staff preparing coffee at the Auction Café; birdsong at Beacon and bands performing at The Hub at St Mary’s.

Michelin star awarded to Lichfield restaurant Lichfield restaurant The Boat Inn – operated by chef-owner Liam Dillon – has been awarded a Michelin star.

The venue is one of two Midlands restaurants to pick up a Michelin star for the first time – and one of only 20 new additions in the UK and Ireland.

A spokesperson for the Michelin Guide said: “The Boat’s star is the culmination of years of development by chef Liam Dillon.

“His intricate dishes spotlight superb local produce, plus some from his own micro farm.”

Based on Walsall Road on the outskirts of Lichfield, The Boat also has its own micro farm and places a strong focus on sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients.

The accolade means the area now has two Michelin-starred restaurants after Upstairs by Tom Shepherd in the city centre was previously honoured.

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ROYAL SUTTON COLDFIELD CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

IN BRIEF

Supporting the community (left to right): David Pears (Sutton Coldfield Town Hall trustee), Michelle Holland (managing director, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall), Sir Andrew Mitchell (MP for Sutton Coldfield and president of Sutton Coldfield Town Hall), Claire Bridges (chair of Sutton Coldfield Town Hall), Lachlan Roach (managing director, Harvey Norman UK) and Mark Dennis (head of marketing, Harvey Norman UK)

Cultural programme backed by retailer Harvey Norman, one of the world’s leading retailers in furniture, bedding, home appliances, and technology, has announced a major partnership with the Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, becoming the venue’s main sponsor and supporting its cultural and community programmes.

The collaboration comes ahead of Harvey Norman’s newest UK store opening in the Sutton Coldfield’s Gracechurch Centre this summer.

With more than 300 stores across Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, the United Kingdom, Central Europe, Singapore and Malaysia, Harvey Norman is known for combining leading brands with expert local service.

‘Our partnership with Sutton Town Hall allows us to bring cultural experiences to our store’ The brand launched its first store in England in the Merry Hill Shopping Centre in October 2024 and has confirmed the West Midlands as a strategic growth region, underlining its longterm commitment to job creation, investment and community engagement.

Harvey Norman’s partnership with the Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Hall will support the venue’s 2026 community events programme while boosting local cultural engagement.

As part of the collaboration, live performances from the Town Hall will be showcased in-store, giving shoppers a taste of its diverse arts programme and reinforcing Harvey Norman’s commitment to enriching the community beyond retail.

Claire Bridges, chair of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Community Town Hall Trust, said: “The trust is absolutely delighted with our new partnership with Harvey Norman. Through their sponsorship, we are launching a new annual Community Arts Programme which will feature a Heritage Variety Show in March and a weekend Literary and arts festival in September.

“The trust is fulfilling its mandate, following a public campaign to save the Town Hall building, and is establishing a major arts centre for all in the heart of the town.”

Lachlan Roach, managing director of Harvey Norman UK, said: “We are hugely excited to be opening our store in Sutton Coldfield in the coming months. Harvey Norman is more than just a retailer – we aim to be an active and positive force in the communities we serve.

“Our partnership with Sutton Town Hall allows us to bring cultural experiences to our store while supporting events and initiatives that make a real difference locally.”

Sutton MP Sir Andrew Mitchell, president of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Harvey Norman as our main sponsor. Their support allows us to continue offering vibrant cultural and community programmes for the people of Sutton Coldfield.”

Mark Dennis, head of marketing for Harvey Norman UK, who was also born and raised in Sutton Coldfield adds: “The Town Hall has always been a cornerstone of Sutton Coldfield life and being able to support its programmes while bringing elements of that cultural experience into our store is incredibly special. Strong partnerships between local businesses and community organisations are essential to creating a thriving town centre.”

Tinga Umera, managing director of Nexus Care Services, has planned his next venture to raise money for Good Hope Hospital in Sutton Coldfield.

Tinga will take to the skies with a skydiving adventure planned for Saturday, 16 May. Over the past few years, he has participated in the Wolverhampton 10K, raising more than £3,000 for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), hiked in the Peak District in aid of Cancer Research and climbed the Wrekin in Telford for the Race Against Dementia.

All funds raised will be going towards supporting the work of Good Hope Hospital Charity, which helps deliver the additional care and resources to patients and families that fall outside standard NHS funding.

Nexus has supported Good Hope Hospital Charity for a number of years, including the team’s most recent Christmas toy drive for children in hospital.

Elle Huguet, assistant fundraising manager at Good Hope Hospital, said: “Our mission is to support patients, their families and staff, in a range of ways. Tinga and Nexus’ fundraising is a huge help and will make a massive difference.”

To support Tinga go to: justgiving.com The Belfry Hotel & Resort’s Classic Golf Day is set to return this year and will again raise vital funds for its charity partners.

The launch event last year raised over £100,000 for charity and award-winning journalist, broadcaster and TV presenter Dan Walker will once again host the inviteonly event.

The tournament will be over The Belfry’s legendary Brabazon golf course on Thursday, 21 May. The iconic home of the British Masters and four-time host to the Ryder Cup, The Brabazon provides a fitting location.

Celebrities from sport and television will compete in a four-ball format.

Chris Eigelaar, managing director at The Belfry, said: “Our inaugural Belfry Classic Golf Day surpassed all expectations...and we’re looking to build on that momentum in 2026, with interest for this year’s event already extremely strong.”

The day will include a dinner where guest chef John Williams, of The Ritz London, will curate menus.

Proceeds from the day will go to the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association and Hospitality Action.

For more information and sponsorship opportunities contact: belfryclassic@thebelfry.com

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SOLIHULL

All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community Contact: Samantha Frampton T: 0121 678 7488

Talented youngsters to help raise money

Supporting children’s charity: Sharon Steadman

Fabulous fundraiser for children’s charity A Warwickshire woman is celebrating 18 years in business by helping to raise funds for a local children’s charity.

Sharon Steadman is hosting a Knight with NV in aid of Molly Olly’s.

The event marked the 18th anniversary of Sharon’s independent clothing boutique, Sharon’s NV, in Warwick’s Market Place.

Sharon said: “We are delighted to be celebrating 18 years of business in fabulous Warwick. We would like to thank all of our customers for making the shop what it is and for their continued support.

“We are all looking forward to celebrating and raising funds for Molly Ollys. We wanted to partner with a local charity. Local charities often step in where larger organisations can't reach or respond fast enough.”

Molly Ollys was established in 2011 by Rachel and Tim Ollerenshaw, from Warwick, following the death of their eight-year-old daughter Molly from a rare kidney cancer.

A variety show spotlighting talented young people from across Solihull will help to celebrate the Mayor’s year in office and raise money for good causes.

Solihull Shines brings together an eclectic mix of entertainment and spectacular performances at The Core Theatre on Friday, 10 April, from 7pm.

The event is hosted by the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Annette Mackenzie, with proceeds raising money for her three Mayoral charities: Cameron Grant Memorial Trust, Newlands Bishop Farm and OVOS (Our Voice, Our Services).

Tickets are now available to buy online from The Core Theatre’s website, or you can contact the Box Office on 0121 704 6962 or email thecoretheatre@solihull.gov.uk.

‘Solihull Shines will help to raise funds for three charities which support young people in different ways’ Standard tickets are priced at £20 while VIP tickets cost £40 and include access to the Courtyard Gallery from 6pm with exclusive preshow entertainment, grazing boards and a complimentary drink on arrival, access to the show plus a dessert platter and a complimentary drink during the interval.

Councillor Mackenzie said: “Solihull Shines will help to raise funds for three charities which support young people in different ways. It is therefore fitting that this evening showcases some of the most talented young people in our borough. We have a brilliant mix of acts in store, showcasing magic to music and everything in between, so grab your ticket and join me for

Three charities: Mayor Annette Mackenzie

what is promising to be a fantastic evening of entertainment.”

Audiences can expect to be mesmerised by the talented magician Ben Hunt, enjoy music from Pop Voices Youth Choir, and be entertained by the multi-awardwinning performing arts school Born2Sing.

Japmeh Kaur Gujral – who is current Young Poet Laureate for Birmingham – will take to the stage, while award-nominated independent filmmaker Nicola Prestage will be compere for the event.

College student chases American Football dreams An aspiring American Football player, studying at Solihull Sixth Form College, has returned from Sweden after representing Great Britain.

Joel Stokes has been playing American Football for the past three years, having started at school. He also shared an interest in the sport from watching NFL matches with his father.

He now plays for Birmingham Lions at tight end, running-back and receiver positions, as well as being a part of the South Coast Crusaders Academy in Farnborough.

Joel was selected to play for Great Britain through trials and travelled to Sweden in January 60 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

for his second GB match, having already played a match against an All-American side.

The team established a comprehensive first half lead over Sweden before the game was forfeited, but it was a good first experience for Joel.

He said: “My ambitions with American Football have always been to get into the NFL Academy in Loughborough. I am delighted to have been invited to attend trials for the academy in February and I‘m hoping I will be successful.”

Joel is currently studying A levels in English Language, Politics and Psychology and hopes to forge a career as a solicitor or a barrister.

Ambitions: Joel Stokes with college principal Martin Sullivan

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SOLIHULL SOLIHULL CHAMBER PATRONS

Speakers (left to right): Paige Bowyer, Cllr Karen Grinsell, Emma–Louise Hewitt and Kevin Johns

Snapshot offers insight on Solihull Leading business voices will come together for The Doing Business in Solihull – Economic Snapshot, bringing insight and expertise from across the local and regional economy.

Taking place on 26 March from 9am– 10.30am at Cranmore Park, the session will explore Solihull’s current economic performance and provide analysis of the outlook for the wider West Midlands region.

Speakers include Kevin Johns, Director at Prime Accountants and event sponsor; Paige Bowyer, Policy and Research Analyst at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce; Cllr Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Council; and Emma-Louise Hewitt, President of Solihull

Chamber and Head of Employment at Sydney Mitchell.

Samantha Frampton, Head of Solihull Chamber, said: “I would like to thank our sponsor, Prime Accountants Group, for their valued support in making the Doing Business in Solihull report possible.

“Their continued commitment to our local economy ensures we can keep championing growth and success across the borough.

“Solihull remains one of the most dynamic and business-friendly locations in the West Midlands and has recently been recognised as a UK top 10 location for high-growth business potential.

“This report highlights the scale of opportunity across Solihull and reflects the strong confidence we are seeing from businesses of all sizes.”

Following the session, the Solihull Expo will run from 10:30am to 1:30pm, providing delegates with further opportunities to connect and network.

The Solihull Chamber Annual General Meeting (AGM) will then take place from 2:00pm to 3:00pm.

To register, visit: tinyurl.com/2k242yc8

National recognition for college campaign The marketing team at Solihull College & University Centre and Stratford-upon-Avon College is celebrating national recognition after being honoured at the FE First Awards 2026.

Held alongside the College Marketing Network’s annual conference, the FE First Awards spotlight outstanding marketing achievements across the further education sector.

The team were highly commended in the innovation and creativity category for their “Skill Up: Passion to Profession” campaign.

To bring the campaign to life, the college partnered with Spark Media – a local agency specialising in TV advertising – to produce a series of dynamic new adverts aimed at school leavers.

Following recent investment in cutting-edge facilities, a central focus was to highlight the real-world learning environments available to students. Indoor drone videography was utilised to showcase these spaces in an immersive way, giving viewers the sense of flying through the facilities and experiencing them alongside students.

The adverts formed a core part of the colleges’ wider “Skill Up: Passion to Profession”

Powerful messages: The college marketing team

campaign, which ran across Sky TV, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, radio, Spotify, YouTube, outdoor media and more.

The judging panel commented: “(The college's campaign) showcases how creative technology can be used to tell a powerful, immersive story that resonates with both young people and their influencers.

“Authentic student involvement, striking visuals and platform-first thinking ensured the work felt credible, contemporary and aspirational.”

College principal Rebecca Gater said: “We are delighted to receive such recognition for this campaign. We are committed to creating transformative learning experiences, and this campaign mirrors that ambition.”

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FUTURE FACES FUTURE FACES CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell T: 07540 751590

Young lawyers shine at legal awards night

Confidence: Joel Blake

Commitment: Poppi Hall

New Members Acquinie Kwenga Arden University Callum Watson Withers & Rogers LLP Chelsea Mountain Enoch Evans Solicitors Chloe Caven iLockerz Ltd Emma Hawkins Arden University Hamish Hull Midland Heart Hannah Smith Enoch Evans Solicitors Isabelle Farrugia Financial Services Katriana Lightfoot Arden University Kwame Boateng Arden University Logan Ho The Boss Partnership Lola Freer Birmingham Metropolitan College Lucy Wheaver Enoch Evans Solicitors Matthew Suddaby Arden University Mehr-un Nisa Birmingham Metropolitan College Mia Bowdler The Boss Partnership Natalie Birch Enoch Evans Solicitors Penny Hickox Enoch Evans Solicitors Poppi Hall Enoch Evans Solicitors Precious Bacchus Arden University Toby Wright iLockerz Ltd Umar Farooq Arden University Will Dunn Arden University Zulakha Desai Arden University

62 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

Two Future Faces members have been recognised as stars of Birmingham’s legal sector.

Joel Blake, a committee member of Future Faces, was crowned Solicitor of the Year at the 2026 Birmingham Law Society Legal Awards, at the ICC in Birmingham city centre. Poppi Hall won the Paralegal of the Year prize.

In his role as a solicitor in Wilkes’ Private Client team, Joel has taken the lead on complex wills, trusts and estate administration matters.

Alongside his client work, he has made a significant contribution to the wider Birmingham legal and business community - delivering talks, contributing to podcasts, supporting mentoring initiatives, and sharing practical insights on Private Client matters and career development within the profession.

Ellie Holland, managing partner at Wilkes, said: “It’s been a privilege to see Joel develop from trainee to solicitor within our Private Client team.

“He trained with Wilkes and over the past year has stepped forward with real confidence, taking

ownership of complex matters and delivering excellent results for clients.

“This award recognises not only his performance, but the leadership and commitment he shows every day. We are extremely proud of him.”

Poppi is an advanced paralegal at Enoch Evans Solicitors.

The award recognises exceptional achievement and dedication within the legal profession, recognising individuals who demonstrate both technical expertise and a strong commitment to client service and professional development.

Poppi said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been named Birmingham Law Society’s Paralegal of the Year 2026.

“It was such a strong category, and it’s fantastic to see the level of talent, experience and dedication we have in and around Birmingham.

“I’m excited to continue expanding my knowledge and growing my presence across the city.”

‘It was such a strong category, and it’s fantastic to see the level of talent, experience and dedication we have in and around Birmingham’

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FUTURE FACES

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

Dedicated: Sarah Griffiths and Sophie PoduvalMorrell with the Future Faces committee

AGM to look back on ‘special’ year - and start next chapter The Future Faces Chamber of Commerce annual meeting will be on 16 April from 8:30am till 10:30am at Albert’s Schloss in Paradise, Birmingham city centre.

It will highlight the Chamber’s plans for the year ahead with an outline of Future Faces’ events and plans to keep making a positive impact in Greater Birmingham.

Sophie Poduval-Morrell, manager of Future Faces, said: “It has been a real honour to work alongside our president Sarah Griffiths and our dedicated committee over the past 12 months.

“Sarah has played an important role in supporting the continued growth and direction of Future Faces, and I am looking forward to continuing working with her over the next year as we continue to build on that momentum.

“Future Faces is proud to represent a thriving network of more than 500 young professionals across Greater Birmingham. This year has been particularly special as we celebrated the 25th anniversary of our Greater BYPY Awards – a milestone that reflects both the strength of our community and the incredible talent within it, as well as the legacy of Greater BYPY. “As we approach our AGM in April, I am excited to welcome new committee members who will help shape the next chapter of Future Faces, while thanking those who have given their time, energy and passion to the network. It is a community I am incredibly proud to lead.”

A number of committee positions are currently available. Those interested in standing are encouraged to contact S.Poduval-Morrell@birminghamchamber.com for further information.

Event will teach delegates how to handle tough talks Rebecca Mander, personal coach and founder of GuruYou, is hosting an event titled Tackling Tough Conversations as part of Future Faces’ professional development series.

The event will take place on 9 March at Forvis Mazars in Birmingham city centre from 4pm to 6pm and will offer a compassionate and honest exploration of loss, drawing on Rebecca’s personal journey.

This is the third and final event of the exclusive three-part series delivered by Rebecca and attendees will gain insight into navigating

emotions, fostering empathy, and creating a more compassionate workplace culture.

The session will also introduce aspects of the bounce mindset programme, designed to help high achievers recover from personal setbacks.

Rebecca said: “We believe that building on your own strengths, awareness is key and we begin all programmes with this in mind, forging trusting relationships in a confidential setting.”

For more information, visit the events section at www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com

Insight: Rebecca Mander

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Widespread interest: Last year’s Expo in full flow

Double the expo opportunities A double-header of major business expos – providing firms with more opportunities to showcase their services – has been unveiled by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

The popular Greater Birmingham Business Expo will take place twice during 2026, with events on 23 June and 10 November.

Both editions of the region’s biggest networking event are being hosted at Edgbaston Stadium.

Each one is expected to attract more than 500 delegates and around 60 exhibitors.

As well as offering a platform to network and promote goods and services, the expos will also feature a silent seminar programme.

‘We’re excited to be staging two Greater Birmingham Business Expos this year’ Marcella Meehan, event manager at the GBCC, said: “We’re excited to be staging two Greater Birmingham Business Expos this year, which means double the chance to showcase your business at the biggest event of its kind in the region. We also have a new range of expo packages to suit all budgets and businesses – with discounts available if you book for both the summer and winter expos.”

Joanna Lees, marketing manager at runyourfleet, said: “The Greater Birmingham

Business Expo is an event in the business calendar not to be missed. We have made some fantastic connections and raised our brand awareness.”

Holly Vaughan, director of The Recruitment Duo, added: “The seminars are always very topical and a great value add to businesses in attendance.”

Terry Hodgetts, business and corporate engagement partner for the West Midlands at the Canal & River Trust, said: “I find these Expos invaluable to get my message out there to the right audience, and they are always so well run.”

To find out more about both Expos, go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com

Global Brunch - AI as a Global Enabler Date: 12 March Time: 09:30 – 11:30 Venue: Aston University - John Cadbury House Division: Global Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

Networking Lunch & Speed Networking Date: 19 March Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Millennium Point Division: Birmingham Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15 +VAT Non-members: £25+VAT

Brumbassadors Behind the Scenes: Fareshare Date: 5 March Time: 9.15 – 13.30 Venue: Fareshare Midlands Division: GBCC Cost: Members only

1813 Club & Premier Members Exemplar Visit Date: 12 March Time: 16:00 – 18:00 Venue: Sandbox VR Division: GBCC Cost: 1813 Club & Premier Members only

The 3 O'Clock Club: LinkedIn in the Wild Date: 23 March Time: 15:00 – 17:00 Venue: Moor Hall Hotel & Spa Division: Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15 +VAT Non-members: £25+VAT

Future Faces Professional Development: Dealing with Bereavement and Grief in the Workplace Date: 9 March Time: 16:00 – 18:00 Venue: Mazars Division: Future Faces Cost: Future Faces members only

Burton & District Business at Breakfast - Cyber Security for International & Domestic Date: 18 March Time: 08:30 – 10:00 Venue: Holiday Inn Division: Burton & District Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

Women in Export - Closing the Gap: Unlocking Growth Date: 24 March Time: 09:30 – 11:30 Venue: HSBC - 10th Floor Division: Global Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

MARCH Chamber Connect: Fast for a Day Date: 4 March Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: Shakespeare Martineau Division: ABCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free

For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/networking-events 64 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

Solihull Expo Date: 26 March Time: 09:00 – 14:00 Venue: Cranmore Park Division: Solihull Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: Free Making the Most of Your Membership Date: 27 March Time: 09:30 – 10:30 Venue: Online Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Social Networking Date: 31 March Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Birmingham City Centre TBC Division: Future Faces Cost: Future Faces members only Chamber Connections / netwalking Date: 31 March Time: 16:00 – 18:00 Venue: Park Gate Division: Cannock Chase Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-Members: £25+VAT

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CHAMBER EVENTS Awards acclaim: The winners celebrate at last year’s event.

Awards shortlist is revealed after ‘exciting’ judging process A bumper shortlist has been revealed for this year’s Greater Birmingham Chambers Commerce awards – after a record number of entries were received for 11 new-look categories.

Judges have praised the quantity and high calibre of award entries for the event at the ICC in Birmingham on Thursday, 14 May. Birmingham City University are headline sponsor and 11 award categories were revamped for 2026 to enable a wider range of firms to enter. As in previous years, one of the category winners will be crowned overall Greater Birmingham Business of the Year (sponsored by Crowe UK LLP).

A high-profile judging panel included Tony Elvin (general manager, Touchwood Solihull), Nicola Turner (CEO, United By 2022), Alex Cole – (founder and CEO, Tinventures), Zak Mensah (coCEO, Birmingham Museums Trust), Hanifa Shah (pro vice-chancellor, Research, Enterprise, Engagement and STEAM, Birmingham City University), Jayne Hussey (partner and head of office – Mills & Reeve), Taj Lalli (partner, Bishop Fleming), Rob Nagra (head of site, Deutsche Bank), Anthony Tattum (chief marketing office, Leopard Co), Martin Ward (CEO, Silicon Square Consulting), Claire Umney (managing director, Alwayse Engineering), Suzie BranchHaddow (vice principal of external development, BMet College) and Sharon Thompson (deputy mayor of the West Midlands).

Chair of the judges was the GBCC’s director membership Lillian Elekan, who said: “Interest in our new-look award categories for 2026 surpassed all expectations.

“A record number of entries led to an extremely challenging but exciting judging process for our panel.

“Congratulations to all of those who have been shortlisted.”

THE SHORTLIST IN FULL: Breakthrough Business 2026 – sponsored by runyourfleet Brew Find me a solicitor Go True North Midlands Health and Safety Consultancy popcorn CRM Power Fibre Ltd quietnote ltd UB Healthcare Ltd Business Ambassador 2026 – sponsored by Turkish Airlines Talbots Law And Evolve Ltd Johnathan Dudley (Crowe UK) Joanna Lee-Mills (Ward Hadaway) Robert Bull (TransLift Bendi Ltd) Visit Knowle Kim Wildborne (West Midlands Circus Centre) Women in Business Network Birmingham Business Without Borders 2026 – sponsored by Gowling WLG Burns & McDonnell Eventa Ltd Gensler M Barnwell Services Ltd Moflash Signalling Ltd Primo Dialler The Orange Notebook Truflo Marine Community Builder 2026 – sponsored by South & City College Birmingham Balfour Beatty VINCI Birmingham Hospice Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival Gateley Greater Birmingham and Solihull

Institute of Technology Lichfield Garrick Theatre Touchwood Solihull West Midlands Railway Customer Commitment Award 2026 – sponsored by Translift Bendi Ark Media Group BHSF Blackberry Events Crown Highways Edgbaston Priory Club F1® Arcade Selfridges Birmingham Techcare Digital Revolutionary 2026 – sponsored by Gateley PLC Agilyx Group BlackRook Academy CyberQ Group Digital Search Academy Ltd Empro Business Group Ltd EvoPhase Netcom Training Vu Agency Influencer 2026 Birmingham Royal Ballet Go True North Lichfield Garrick Theatre R&Co Communications runyourfleet South and City College Birmingham The Sandwell Colleges Visit Knowle Non Profit Champion 2026 – sponsored by Midland Eye Acorns Children’s Hospice Anawim – Birmingham’s Centre for Women

Arrive Alive Charity Birmingham Hospice Midland Mencap Midlands Air Ambulance Charity Smart Works Birmingham YMCA - Heart of England Pioneer 2026 – sponsored by Sandwell College B13 Bonafide Marketing Find me a solicitor popcorn CRM Power Fibre Precision Health Technologies Accelerator Ltd The Listening Centre EAP Ltd Word360 Sustainability Trailblazer 2026 – sponsored by Caledonian Sleeper Baxter Freight DWS Grace Cares Solus Ceramics Limited South & City College Birmingham TransLift Bendi Ltd University of Birmingham Enterprise Velorim Group Ltd Workplace Champion 2026 – sponsored by University College Birmingham Duncan Lewis Solicitors (Birmingham office) Entec Si Gateley Mills & Reeve Shelforce University of Birmingham West Midlands Railway YMCA - Heart of England

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CHAMBERLINK

66 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

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CHAMBERLINK ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

X-PRO Learning Solutions: Business performance through high-impact learning solutions

Learning that delivers real results X-PRO Learning Solutions partner with clients across differing sectors as a ‘safe pair of hands’ for a high-profile project, to ‘scale up internal capability’ where there is skills gap or to ‘insource managed services’ so you can keep abreast of the latest technology and learning thinking.

It may sound counterintuitive but X-PRO work not only with end clients and their business but also learning and development businesses to digitise face to face learning libraries, minimise skills gaps and provide a dedicated project team for their high value clients.

Award-winning innovation and global reach With clients spanning defence, energy, transport infrastructure, retail, and professional services, XPRO’s global footprint is matched by an impressive list of accolades: • BAE Systems Outstanding Achievement Award – Global Winner 2024 • Brandon Hall Group Silver Award – Best Use of Mobile Learning 2024 • eLearning Innovation MD of the Year – 2025 (Carl Robinson) • eLearning Solutions of the Year - 2026

Find out more At X-PRO, you will always speak directly with one of the leadership team, so reach out for a virtual coffee and lets start the conversation and see how we can transform your organisations learning offer.

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How do we do it…SHE case study Client brief: Create an engaging and innovative way to deliver safety, vessel orientation and procedural information for VIPs, project sponsors, executives, contractors, and other interested parties that could be consumed across digital platforms upon entering the visitor reception at the Naval Dockyard in Portsmouth.

The previous method of delivery had been a PowerPoint presentation, which then required a person with the appropriate knowledge to deliver this, which could mean doing so several times a day, and/or visitors having to wait for the previous presentation to be completed before they could then be inducted.

X-PRO Learning Solutions approach: Given the high profile of the project a full Learning Needs Analysis was undertaken, which included interviews with key stakeholders, security advisors and SMEs, a review of the existing materials and mapping of this content.

The mapping of the content facilitated the development of measurable learning outcomes that aligned to Blooms Taxonomy and the identification of Key Learning Points with their references, which was visualised as a Task Scalar in Mind Manager.

The design of the module was completed in Evolve, for its templated approach to enable a more rapid development, but with the ability to customise the key aspects, a method XPRO have used previously for the ‘below surface’ fleet inductions.

This produces a rich tiled menu with micro learning doses of information and a user interface that is familiar to those using Netflix, Amazon or other such apps, with scroll bars and the ability to navigate around the content in a way that is logical to the learner, while being fully responsive so can facilitate the clients mobile first aspirations.

The primary learning was designed to mix the page builds, using interactive components, sequenced builds using images and illustrations, alongside imagery captured on site, to contextualise the environment for the consumer.

The module was not designed to provide ‘training’ for those working on site, as they would need their trade certificates for this, but to brief them before accessing the site to keep them safe, update them on new policy and procedures and recognise the latest security and safety situation.

Summary: X-PRO Learning Solutions have developed an induction that is impactive, micro dosed so doesn’t feel too heavy, engaging and visually appealing. It is fully responsive and able to be consumed under the supervision of the visitor reception, reducing delays and increasing efficiencies in terms of time to site, and meets the clients need for a mobile first solution.

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FEATURE: BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

Protect your business against

cyber crime any small and medium business owners operate under the belief that they are too small to be a victim of cyber crime – then find out too late that this belief is completely incorrect.

While it is true that an SME might not have as much to steal as a large, national or global company, they also often tend to have less secure networks, as cyber security isn’t seen as a priority, making it much easier for cyber criminals to attack.

A lack of time or a worry about the cost are often the reasons cited for why a business’ cyber security efforts aren’t up for scratch – but there are many ways to protect your businesses and avoid being a victim of cyber crime without breaking the bank.

M

Multifactor authentication

Use a firewall

Back up data

One of your first lines of defence against a cyber-attack should be a firewall, as it sets up a barrier between your data and cyber criminals. Don’t just focus on your work computers – make sure you install a firewall on all company laptops and home networks if any of your staff work from home.

While it’s important to prevent attacks, never assume that your efforts will work 100 per cent of the time.

With this in mind, it’s important to back up all of your data regularly, in case malware completely wipes your network; backups should either be stored in a separate location, in case of physical theft, fire or flood, or on the cloud. It’s also worth noting that you should check your backup regularly, to ensure it that it is functioning correctly.

Anti-malware software Alongside a firewall, install anti-malware software. It’s easy to assume that your employees would never interact with a phishing email or open a suspicious file: however, cyber criminals are getting more sophisticated and it is becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference between a genuine email and a dangerous one.

Passwords Data breaches aren’t always the cause of someone inadvertently clicking on a dangerous link – weak or stolen passwords can also result in a significant loss of data. As well as making sure that all devices and networks are password protected, get your staff in the habit of changing their passwords regularly. The most secure passwords contain a range of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and symbols.

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Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a security system that verifies identity by requiring multiple credentials; for example, rather than just asking for a username and password, MFA will also ask for additional verification, such as a timed response to an email, a code sent to the account holder, the answer to a security question, a fingerprint, or facial recognition.

MFA is a simple tool that adds an extra layer of protection – while a cyber thief might have cracked an employee’s password, it’s extremely unlikely they will also have access to their email account, phone or fingerprints. Best of all, most email accounts, smart phones and networks already have a built-in MFA setting: all you have to do is activate it.

Policy and education It’s essential that all of your employees that access your networks are trained in cyber security best practices.

Cybercrime is, unfortunately, constantly evolving, especially with new technological advancements such as artificial intelligence, so it’s important that you and your staff stay up-to-date with the different types of cyber crime and how you can all help protect the business.

It would also be prudent to draw up cyber security policies and make sure that all staff are aware of what is expected from them to help deter cyber threats, and the correct protocols to follow should your business fall victim to cyber crime.

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FEATURE: BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

‘It is becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference between a genuine email and a dangerous one’

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FEATURE: BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

Protection for your professional adviser

Professional advisers are on hand to help growing businesses remain compliant of the law, keep their finances in order and build their brands. They hold confidential and sensitive data on behalf of their clients – and if that information were to be exposed, compromised or stolen, it could result in brand damage, financial loss or even complete ruin. As cyber criminals become more and more sophisticated, so too grows the risk of data breaches. Chamberlink offers some top tips on how to minimise that risk.

Who are these professional advisers?

• Accountants hold information on mergers and acquisitions, staff payroll and sensitive documents on a company’s financial health.

This data can be used easily for corporate identity theft or to perpetrate more complex scams.

• Solicitors may hold sensitive data on larger financial transactions, such as property purchases. They know intimate details on tenders and on confidential legal proceedings and may also hold information on legal proceedings with employees, customers or other companies, presenting a risk of blackmail.

• Insurance brokers know every risk a client business faces. If any weakness in the business became common knowledge, it could be easily exploited.

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• Marketing agencies know a lot about a client’s business because they have to promote the positives and hide the negatives.

This business is responsible for the personal data that an agency stores on its behalf and if the agency suffers a data breach, the firm is ultimately accountable.

They can also have some control over a company’s brand and, thereby, its brand reputation. A business needs to be aware of the potential repercussions of a of its marketing agencies integrity.

• Security companies, such as those which install alarm and security systems, will often hold on file a detailed schematic layout of a client’s premises and of the systems installed. Discovering this information can make physical access, and bypassing of systems, much simpler.

Why are these trusted relationships a risk?

The key truth is that technology has become increasingly present in the workplace. But while it has enabled people to work faster, it is also easy to exploit. Business relationships can be exploited by unauthorised middlemen (con artists and hackers) in what is called a ‘social engineering’ attack.

The most basic of these cyber

attacks comes in the form of phishing. A legitimate looking email, appearing to be from a trusted contact, requests that you undertake an activity, such as providing personal or sensitive information or transferring funds.

The more ‘real’ the message appears, the more likely the recipient is to immediately act on it. Organised crime syndicates have realised that the more specific their messaging, based on in-depth research of their target, the more likely they are to land a good pay day.

‘Ensure that employees have the knowledge and skills to spot suspicious emails, and the confidence and training, backed up by corporate processes, to handle incidents when they arise’

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FEATURE: BUSINESS CRIME & PROTECTION

How can you minimise the risk?

The first part of the solution is to ensure that employees have the knowledge and skills to spot suspicious emails, and the confidence and training, backed up by corporate processes, to handle incidents when they arise.

Managing information security governance within a company’s supply chain solves the second part of this problem.

This means making sure the businesses to which you trust sensitive information have their house in order.

A few simple steps include: • Ensuring the professional adviser carries appropriate professional indemnity insurance and has a cyber insurance policy.

• Being clear precisely what information each adviser holds about the business. Ask the

adviser to provide appropriate warranties or details on controls taken to minimise the likelihood of unauthorised access to the information or consequential loss as a result of misuse of the information.

• Ask the adviser if the business has a Cyber Essentials certificate. This is a sign that it subscribes to at least the minimum recommended actions for securing both its business and yours.

• Make your advisers aware that any instructions received from you by email should be queried with you on the telephone prior to being carried out. This will reduce the risk of fraud through fake emails or social engineering attempts.

Undertaking these activities will provide a stronger framework for reducing the risk of fraud and other cyber crimes against your business.

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

230 years

of engineering heritage,

meets 30 years of digital momentum

Gold & Wassall Ltd appoints Greater Birmingham Chamber premier member Nexus Creative Ltd as its marketing and business development partner

T

wo Midlands-based businesses, both built on craft, consistency and long-term thinking, have come together in a new strategic partnership.

Gold & Wassall, the UK’s longestestablished specialist hinge manufacturer, has appointed Nexus Creative Ltd as its marketing and business development partner marking an important step in how the business presents its 230-year manufacturing story to today’s market sectors.

Founded in 1790, Gold & Wassall is a rare example of true British manufacturing longevity. Operating from its purpose-built facility in Tamworth, the company designs and manufactures high-quality hinges for various sectors including rail, defence, marine, agriculture and industrial fabrication. While its products are engineered for performance, reliability and repeatability, the business is equally focused on evolving how it communicates its values in a modern, digital-first world.

That is where Nexus Creative Ltd comes in.

Working across the Greater Midlands region, Nexus Creative Ltd is a Business Development and Marketing Agency specialising in intelligent digital marketing, website design and strategic growth for B2B and manufacturing-

led organisations. The partnership brings together Gold & Wassall’s deep engineering heritage with Nexus Creative’s expertise in translating complex capability into clear, compelling digital actions, that generate revenue.

The collaboration will focus on strengthening Gold & Wassall’s brand presence, modernising its website and creating marketing platforms that better support customers, specifiers, and partners.

From clearer product storytelling to enhanced digital journeys, the goal is simple: make it easier for the market to understand the depth, precision and value behind Britishmade engineering.

For Gold & Wassall, the partnership reflects a forwardlooking mindset. While the company remains rooted in tradition, it recognises that future growth depends on strong partnerships, modern communication and a confident digital presence that matches its manufacturing capability.

For Nexus Creative Ltd, working with Gold & Wassall is a natural fit.

Both businesses share a belief in long-term thinking, attention to detail and building things properly – whether that’s a precisionengineered hinge or a digital platform designed to perform over time.

This partnership is also a positive example of Midlands collaboration.

‘The goal is simple: make it easier for the market to understand the depth, precision and value behind British-made engineering’ 72 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

For Nexus Creative Ltd, working with Gold & Wassall is a natural fit

Two regional businesses, each leaders in their field, working together to strengthen British manufacturing and ensure that heritage brands continue to thrive in a changing commercial landscape.

As Gold & Wassall looks ahead to its next chapter, supported by the Greater Birmingham Chamber Premier Member – Nexus Creative

Ltd, the focus remains clear: honour the past, invest in the future and build partnerships that add new business to this historic company.

For the wider Midlands business community, it’s a reminder that when engineering excellence meets modern digital strategy, longestablished manufacturers can continue to move forward and expand their market reach.

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

From Birmingham to Mumbai: How one global mission sparked an awardwinning partnership to protect children

I

n April 2019, I stepped onto a plane to India as part of the Global Business Innovation Programme for the Creative Media sector — never imagining that this journey would help spark an international partnership that would one day be recognised with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The programme, delivered by Innovate UK and the Department for International Trade, with local support from the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, brought together UK innovators and leading Indian creative studios.

Among them was Munjal Shroff, Director and COO of Mumbai-based animation studio Graphiti.

We didn’t begin working together immediately — but something important happened all the same. There was a spark. A shared understanding. A belief that animation could be a powerful tool not just to entertain, but to educate and protect children.

Despite the disruption of Covid-19, we stayed in touch. When the world reopened, our conversations resumed — and in 2024, I approached Munjal with a heartfelt request: would Graphiti help bring a new Conies animation to life, teaching young children the importance of brushing their teeth?

What happened next genuinely moved me.

Graphiti embraced the project not as a commercial commission, but as a shared mission.

They offered their expertise at a special reduced rate — effectively volunteering their time and

“When creativity meets purpose, real social change becomes possible.”

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creativity — and became part of The Conies Charity global volunteering family.

For a month, Birmingham and Mumbai were creatively connected. I worked closely with Munjal and his team to shape a joyful twominute animation, brought to life by the voices of children from Haslucks Green School and Damson Wood Infants.

Then came an unexpected and wonderful idea from Graphiti: a printed comic version of the story, complete with a QR code linking directly to the animation — allowing thousands more children to learn through playful, accessible storytelling.

What began as a government-supported innovation mission had quietly grown into a powerful international partnership dedicated to safeguarding children. And in 2025, The Conies Charity was honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service — the highest accolade a UK voluntary group can receive.

Reflecting on this journey, I often say: “The Conies were created to help children stay safe whether on the roads, online, at home, or out in the world. To have a world-class creative studio like Graphiti join us in that mission is both humbling and inspiring. It shows what global cooperation and shared humanity can truly achieve.”

Munjal beautifully summed it up from his side: “Thanks to the Global Business Innovation Programme, I met Fay years ago. Her passion stayed with me. The King’s Award recognises a partnership built on purpose, trust, and creativity. We’re honoured to continue this journey — one animated story at a time.”

As Birmingham enters a period of renewed confidence and creative re-imagining, this collaboration feels especially timely.

The launch of The Conies’ Brushing Your Teeth

animation is more than a new resource for children — it’s a celebration of global collaboration, community spirit, and the strength of Birmingham’s creative industries.

Together, The Conies and Graphiti are proving something powerful: Animation can do more than entertain. It can educate, inspire — and help protect children everywhere.

And this is only the beginning.

Fay Goodman Author, Creator, Director, Composer

A message of support “I am delighted to support The Conies ‘Keep me clean and healthy’ products.

The concept is to encourage children to look after their teeth at a very early age by making it a fun part of their daily regime. Mouth hygiene is an essential part of maintaining a healthy body.

Forming good habits at a young age will ensure that our children have the best chance of having healthy teeth in the future. The Conies is a very innovative and entertaining animation idea promoting a range of great initiatives to help children keep themselves safe, healthy and confident.”

Dr Anoup Nandra BDS MFGDP MJDF Dip.IMP.DENT MSc PGCMedEd Best Young Dentist - 2012 Best Practice Finalist - 2012, 2013 Private Dentistry Elite 20 Dentist - 2014

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

From Lady Samurai to The Conies: How culture inspires safeguarding

THE CONIES: BRUSHING YOUR TEETH A joyful animation created through a global partnership between Birmingham and Mumbai to help children stay healthy and safe.

LADY SAMURAI – THE FINAL CUT An award-winning documentary celebrating resilience, tradition and the protective spirit that runs through Japanese culture.

SHICHI-GO-SAN IN JAPAN A moment of cultural reverence for childhood that inspired the safeguarding ethos behind The Conies.

CHILDREN AT THE HEART OF THE STORY Young voices from Haslucks Green School and Damson Wood Infants bring The Conies animation to life.

My award-winning documentary Lady Samurai – The Final Cut — which has now received over 30 international awards worldwide — explores my journey through Japanese martial arts, music, and cultural understanding.

One of the most moving moments in the film takes place in Japan during Shichi-GoSan — Children’s Day celebrations for ages three, five and seven. Watching families honour their children’s growth, protection and wellbeing left a deep impression on me.

It became part of the inspiration behind The Conies Charity — a creative safeguarding initiative using animation, music and storytelling to help children understand how to stay safe in the real world.

That same philosophy now extends beyond childhood.

Through Shefuay Safe & Sound, we support adults and young people with practical, confidence-building personal safety and self-defence skills — designed to be inclusive, engaging, and easy to learn, regardless of age or ability.

“Safeguarding is not just about protection - it’s about confidence, culture and connection.”

Join us on the journey Our mission is simple — and vital: To help make the world a safer place for children and young people.

We believe meaningful change happens when business, creativity and community come together. There are many ways to be part of this journey: Partnerships – creative, educational or community-based Sponsorship – local, national or international impact Skills & Support – sharing expertise, resources or platforms Advocacy – helping amplify safeguarding messages worldwide Whether you are a company, organisation or individual, your contribution — in whatever form feels right to you — can help protect, empower and inspire the next generation. We would love to welcome you to our Happy Conies Team!

Like to find out more? Get in touch today!

T: 07976 426463 E: film@goodmedia.co.uk Visit: goodmedia.co.uk theconies.org

From children’s safety to lifelong empowerment.

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

A culture of

creativity

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

A diverse team Just because something works the same way it always has, doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement. To improve, you need creative thinking – and diversity here is the key. People from the same background are more likely to think and work the same, which can result in stale ideas, repetitive suggestions and out-dated methods of problem solving that can’t keep up with the modern world. However, a talent pool drawn from a diverse background can offer fresh ideas and new ways of approaching certain tasks and problems, as well as introducing different learning and management styles.

New ideas An open-minded employer is more likely to be approached with new ideas. Alternately, an employer who isn’t open to experimentation is likely to be left behind – and lose their brightest thinkers to employers who want to hear what they have to say. So it’s important to create an environment that welcomes experimentation and innovation. Invite your staff to share their ideas – for example, you could hold a weekly suggestion meeting – and give team leaders the flexibility to 76 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

implement new ways of working and monitor their progress. Even if not every idea goes as planned, the trial-and-error method could still provide valuable insight and offer solutions for future problems.

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

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

Energise Creativity can’t flourish in stressful conditions.

Stress and burnout are becoming increasingly common in the workplace, which, as well as impacting job performance, can also have a serious affect on an employee’s mental and physical health. Make sure that staff are taking

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

Collaboration Bringing different teams together can have a positive impact on creativity, because different teams have different strengths and different ways of solving problems. Sometimes, it’s impossible to see the woods for the trees – maybe your product testing team can’t overcome a hurdle, for example, and a collaborative session with outsiders might be just the thing they need to get the creative juices flowing again. Maybe your staff from finance can offer an analytical solution, or maybe your marketing team can lend their communication skills to the problem. Opportunities to trade personal insight and ideas are also great ways to get your staff bonding, creating a happier workforce.

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FEATURE: CREATIVE INDUSTRIES

‘To improve, you need creative thinking – and diversity here is the key’

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CHAMBERLINK

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CHAMBERLINK

We are a forward-thinking independent electrical design engineering consulting firm committed to driving the decarbonisation of the power system with a particular emphasis on electricity networks.

We specialise in crafting customised electrical design solutions tailored to empower even the most energy-intensive network.

Our goal is to ensure that the transition to a "Net Zero" future is not only reliable but also economically viable and sustainable.

We offer an array of services including: • Power System Analysis • Electrical Plant Design Engineering • Cable Design Engineering • Electrical Procurement Support • Project Lead Engineering & Management • Electrical Commissioning & Construction Support

www.elecwatts.com contactus@elecwatts.com

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Sector Focus The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

Cycle hire provider announced More than 2,000 new bikes and escooters are set to hit the streets next month following the appointment of Lime as the region’s latest cycle hire provider.

Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has selected Lime, a global leader in micromobility (the collective term for bikes and scooters), to take on management of the official regional hire scheme following a competitive bidding process.

Easy riders: Reducing congestion and improving air

‘We’re thrilled to be coming to the West Midlands and to be working with WMCA’ The agreement means that for the first time the scheme will operate at no cost to the taxpayer. Until now cycle hire has cost £1.4m a year to run.

Lime is introducing a new fare structure but has committed to maintain existing overall price levels

for the first two years to make sure sustainable travel remains affordable.

Both bikes and e-scooters will be available immediately after the launch on 1 April in the areas

Timisoara: Historical city

Wizz Air unveils new Romania route Wizz Air is to operate a new route from Birmingham to Timisoara, Romania.

The service will operate twice weekly, on Thursdays and Sundays.

The new route strengthens Wizz Air’s presence at Birmingham, where the airline now serves seven destinations, including new routes to Sibiu and Rome, announced last year.

The new route will launch on 21 May with fares starting at £22.99.

Tickets are available on wizair.com and via Wizz Air’s official mobile app.

Timisoara is a vibrant and historic city located in the Banat region of western Romania. Known for its elegant squares, colourful baroque buildings and leafy boulevards, the city’s character reflects a longstanding multicultural heritage.

Nick Barton, CEO of Birmingham Airport, said: “We’re delighted that Wizz Air has further increased its presence at Birmingham Airport with the launch of a new route to Timisoara. This is a new addition to our departures board and accompanies Wizz Air’s current direct routes from Birmingham to Rome, Bucharest, Craiova, Budapest, Sibiu and Suceava.”

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currently served, but local councils, TfWM, which is part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), and Lime can also work together to grow the network.

West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: “By bringing in a new fleet of bikes and scooters and freezing prices for the next two years, we’re making sure there’s a practical and affordable green alternative for shorter journeys helping to tackle traffic congestion and improve the air we breathe.

“And by securing a partnership that operates at no cost to the taxpayer, we are saving the public purse more than £1m a year. This is money we can now reinvest back into our regional transport, delivering better journeys for everyone.”

Tom Newham, Lime senior manager of public affairs, said: “We’re thrilled to be coming to the West Midlands and to be working with WMCA. “Through WMCA’s continued investment in micromobility and supporting infrastructure, there’s a real drive to make e-bikes and escooters a popular, practical and affordable choice for getting around.”

Expansion planned for departure lounge Birmingham Airport (BHX) will open three eateries and a new executive lounge in the departures lounge during 2026 as part of the airport’s ongoing transformation.

Located between Gates 1 to 20 and the main departures lounge, the new reconfigured airside space will seamlessly connect all areas of the airside terminal and will feature a variety of new openings for passengers.

The new expanded development will significantly broaden the regional transport hub’s dining offerings for passengers and will cater for a variety of dietary preferences.

In addition to restaurants, the new space will include a new executive business lounge designed to cater to the airport’s growing business travel market. The transformed space will mark the arrival of one of the UK’s most successful casual dining brands, Wagamama, to BHX. Richard Gill, commercial director of Birmingham Airport, said: “We’re delighted to announce these new openings in our departure lounge during this record period of growth at Birmingham Airport including Wagamama.”

Airport future: Concept imagery of the new walkway

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Flexible cover for homeowners Norton Insurance Brokers has launched a new home insurance product designed to better reflect how people live today, amid growing concern that many UK homeowners may be underinsured.

The new product, Norton Home & Lifestyle Cover, has been built to offer greater flexibility for homeowners whose lifestyles, belongings and values have changed.

Valuable hobbies, collections and specialist items are now common in UK homes, yet they are not always properly accounted for in traditional home insurance policies. Many households also own high-value items including watches, jewellery, photography equipment, cycling gear, vinyl collections and memorabilia.

Industry research suggests many homes now contain £75,000 or more in contents after everyday belongings, hobbies, collections and specialist items are taken into account. As a result, a significant number of homeowners could be underinsured if they needed to make a claim.

Norton Home & Lifestyle Cover has been designed to address this gap by allowing homeowners to insure individual valuables or entire collections, as well as specialist hobbies and equipment, within one flexible policy.

The product can also accommodate second or holiday homes that are not commercially let, helping homeowners ensure their cover reflects how they actually live today.

Mark Wilkinson, managing director at Norton Insurance Brokers, said: “Many people don’t think of themselves as having an unusual lifestyle, but the reality is that homes today often contain far more value than they did 10 years ago.

“Watches, collections, hobby equipment and everyday possessions have all increased in cost, yet insurance policies aren’t always reviewed to reflect that.

“We designed Norton Home & Lifestyle Cover to give homeowners the flexibility to insure what really matters to them and the opportunity to check whether their cover still reflects today’s values.”

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Bold ambition is key to growth, says report Birmingham’s financial ecosystem is “punching above its weight” on the global stage, according to a new report from PwC and CityUK. The report urges bolder ambition and faster, more decisive action to secure financial and related professional services’ competitiveness in the next decade and to drive investment and growth.

And Birmingham is identified as one of the regional hubs which is home to specialist areas the global market needs, specifically banking operations, professional services and data analytics.

With a decade of expected geopolitical turmoil and technological change ahead, the report calls for the UK to reinforce its status as an open, internationally connected financial centre.

It says delivering this could see the industry generate an additional £53bn in annual economic output by 2035 – the equivalent of adding a city almost the size of Edinburgh and Glasgow combined to the UK economy each year.

Will Stevns, Midlands banking partner at PwC UK, said: “Financial

Birmingham is a fast-growing hub: Will Stevns

and professional services is one of the UK’s greatest national success stories, and crucially, most of it sits outside London. Two thirds of the 2.5 million people working in this industry are based across our regions and nations, in relatively well-paid roles that help drive local growth.

“Many of the industry’s future growth markets – AI, tokenisation, cyber and sustainable finance – are already regional specialisms.

“With the right reforms, the regions will be at the forefront of the next wave of UK financial services leadership.”

Apple partnership revealed Leading consumer finance provider BNP Paribas Personal Finance UK has announced that it will be providing the new flexible finance account for Apple customers in the UK at Apple Stores, the Apple Store Online and Apple Store App. UK-based customers purchasing Apple products will now benefit from greater choice and more

flexibility with the ability to combine different financing options for multiple products in a single transaction thanks to BNP Paribas Personal Finance UK’s consumer finance solution available through its consumer brand, Creation.

The range of finance options available via the Flexible Finance Account for Apple purchases, includes: • A credit line customers can use repeatedly dedicated to purchases across Apple’s core products • The option to trade in an existing device to reduce the monthly cost of a new device or to pay off an old device credit plan • A range of highly competitive zero per cent and interest-bearing offers • One monthly payment enabling customers to spread the cost of their purchases.

Stephen Hunt, chief executive officer at Birmingham-based BNP Paribas Personal Finance UK, said: “We are delighted to launch this new programme with Apple, enabling customers across the UK to benefit from a great choice of financing options when purchasing Apple products.

“We’re making this possible by bringing fairness and flexibility to how consumers break down their purchases into affordable instalments.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Tax firm expands to meet rising demand

Phenomenal year: Iain Wright

Claritas Tax, which has a Birmingham base in Edmund Street, has expanded its national presence after achieving a headline growth of 38.6 per cent during 2025.

During last year, the firm completed its first acquisition, bringing the UK tax incentives and reliefs business of Markel International in Sheffield into the Claritas wing.

This milestone was complemented by the opening of new offices in Leeds and the City of London.

To meet growing demand, Claritas strengthened its team by recruiting 44 new professionals across all service lines, bringing total headcount to over 100, with further expansion planned for 2026.

Iain Wright, founding partner and Birmingham office lead, said: “2025 was a phenomenal year, but we’re not slowing down. Our team’s dedication and expertise have set us apart, and

2026 will be about pushing boundaries even further.

“We’re committed to bold growth, exceptional client service, and maintaining the culture that makes Claritas unique. The pipeline is strong, and we’re incredibly excited about the future.”

‘Our team’s dedication and expertise have set us apart’ Matt Hodgson, partner and Manchester office lead, continued: “The appetite to grow and expand our services is stronger than ever, and our reputation in the mid-market continues to soar.

“Despite wider economic challenges, we’re confident that 2026 will be another recordbreaking year. Our people are the driving force behind this success, and together we’ll keep outperforming expectations.”

Brand power: Wade Lyn Picture: Joseph Allen Keys/Black Business Magazine

Growth for Island Delight Funding SMEs: Members of Midlands SME Finance

Finance provider to host event on scaling businesses Funding partnership Midlands SME Finance is to host a networking event to bring together two speakers with expertise on scaling businesses.

Midlands SME Finance, launched by six leading regional finance providers to promote the local funding options accessible for small and medium-sized enterprises, will hold the free event at Elle’s, Coventry’s first food hall.

Midlands SME Finance is a group effort bringing together community development financial institutions ART Business Loans, BCRS Business Loans and Coventry & Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust alongside invoice finance lender FlexABL and community-based lenders UKSE and Frontier Development Capital.

The partners have invited Dal Dhillon, CEO of award-winning Dhillon's Brewery, to headline the

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event, sharing his entrepreneurial journey and success story with delegates.

Dal’s latest venture, Elle’s, was established following significant investment from Frontier Development Capital on behalf of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II, launched by British Business Bank to support regional growth, alongside investment from Coventry & Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT) through the British Business Bank’s Community ENABLED Fund Programme.

Delegates will hear how entrepreneur Dal has expanded from his micro-brewery business to a number of successful venues.

Joining Dal will be Craig McVoy, founder of Turnkey, a business consultancy specialising in helping high potential start-ups scale into successful growth-stage companies.

Island Delight, the Birmingham-headquartered Caribbean food brand, has announced a strong 7.2 per cent year-on-year growth outperforming key competitors Pukka and Ginsters in the chilled savoury pastry category.

The supplier has also expanded its footprint across major retailers, wholesalers and independent stores, underpinned by strong consumer loyalty, increased penetration in major cities and sustained investment in above the line activities.

Wade Lyn, founder of Island Delight, said: “This result reflects the power of our brand and our deep connection with our consumers. Beating established players like Pukka and Ginsters is reinforces our confidence in continued growth across the UK.”

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HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Major roll-out for chronic pain programme A new partnership between University College Birmingham (UCB) and the Health Innovation Network (HIN) South London – an innovative knee, hip and back pain programme, which has helped over 40,000 patients and saved the NHS tens of millions of pounds – will soon be available more widely across the UK. UCB is operating the Enabling Self-Management and Coping with Arthritic Pain Exercise (ESCAPE-pain) programme.

It opens new opportunities for students as well as providing the accredited training for sports therapists, physiotherapists and exercise professionals across the UK, to deliver the ESCAPE-pain programme to people with hip/knee osteoarthritis or lower back pain.

By delivering ESCAPE-pain, students will enhance their links with the community and provide musculoskeletal (MSK) support to those living with chronic joint pain, alongside existing MSK clinics locally and across the UK. Both sports therapy and physiotherapy students will support the delivery of the programme in the heart of Birmingham and in doing so, will gain valuable, hands-on work experience.

Dr Mark Godwin, director of strategic partnership projects, said: “Our ethos is to create opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience in realistic settings.

“Supporting ESCAPE-pain is an excellent way for them to interact with real patients, in real settings, having a positive impact on them and their

Easing the pain: UCB partnership

patients. As an institution, we are committed to supporting the community in many ways, and providing support for those living with chronic pain is another example of this. “I am excited by the opportunity to work with the Health Innovation Network South London on this project and look forward to the positive impact it will have in Birmingham and the wider region.”

ESCAPE-pain was developed by Professor Mike Hurley at St George’s University of London and Kingston University to help people with MSK issues. In 2013 it was originally identified as a local innovation that was ready for adoption by the HIN South London. It was then supported by Versus Arthritis, Sport England, the NHS Innovation Accelerator (NIA) and the national Health Innovation Network. Between 2021 and 2025, the programme was operated under licence by Orthopaedic Research UK (ORUK).

In the 13 years since the programme was established, delivery of ESCAPE-pain has scaled up to over 300 clinical and leisure centre locations across the UK, with nearly 3,000 trained facilitators supporting over 40,000 people. A series of evaluations of the programme have shown a consistent positive impact on clinical outcomes for patients, as well as long-lasting improvements in quality of life. In 2021, the programme was named MSK initiative of the year by the Health Service Journal.

Patient resources for individuals experiencing knee, hip or back pain will continue to be available on the escape-pain.org

How to raise those hidden suicide issues in the workplace Eye care for 20 years: The Midland Eye Clinic

Expansion at eye care provider Midland Eye Clinic has announced the opening of a new clinic at Virginia House, Olton, marking a significant expansion of its services within the Solihull area.

Midland Eye Clinic has delivered high-quality ophthalmic care to NHS and private patients for more than 20 years, earning a strong reputation for clinical excellence, patient focus and community commitment. The new Olton clinic represents a major investment in local healthcare infrastructure and reflects growing demand for accessible specialist eye services.

Lawrence Willis, chief executive of Midland Eye, said: “This expansion is an important step for Midland Eye Clinic and, above all, for the people of Solihull.

“This investment underlines our long-term commitment to the area, allowing us to support more NHS patients, expand our Dry Eye services and maintain the high standards of care we are known for.”

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Councillor Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care at Birmingham City Council, looks at the growing problem of suicide in the workplace.

Deaths by suicide are not inevitable; they are preventable.

In 2024, Birmingham lost 89 people to suicide - each death a profound loss for families, communities, workplaces, and for the city as a whole.

Research shows that every suicide directly affects 135 people.

That means that as many as 12,015 people were affected by suicide in Birmingham in 2024 alone.

Suicide is the elephant in the room, yet it is the leading cause of death in young men and women in England today.

We all have a role to play in preventing deaths by suicide, starting with how we talk to one another. Building an open, compassionate culture – at home, in our communities, and at work – is a shared responsibility.

Given that one-third of a person’s life is spent at work, employers and colleagues are uniquely positioned to notice changes in behaviour or mood that may signal someone is struggling.

Suicide: The elephant in the room

For employers, business leaders, and line managers, sharing clear, consistent information is key to helping your colleagues feel confident having supportive conversations with their peers. By encouraging peerto-peer conversations around suicide, you can help create a workplace culture where people feel safe to speak up and support one another.

To find local crisis support and/or advice on how to have open, compassionate conversations about suicide with colleagues, visit birmingham.gov.uk/suicide prevention To take part in a free, half-day suicide prevention training, readers can register at bit.ly/3NSP6h

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

Confidential chat-bot to offer divorce advice

Help when life gets tough: Elizabeth Wyatt

Social purpose law firm Anthony Collins has announced the launch of Aida, its free online support service designed to help people take their first steps in divorce with confidence and privacy.

Developed by experienced family lawyers, Aida is a chatbot-style service that provides discreet, judgment-free guidance 24/7.

It’s free, anonymous, and designed to make early-stage support accessible to everyone. All conversations are treated as private and confidential, with data automatically erased after 30 days.

For many people, reaching out to a solicitor during a relationship breakdown can feel overwhelming, especially in the early stages.

Traditional sources of free tailored information, such as Citizens’ Advice, can be hard to access out of hours, and some individuals avoid them altogether to protect their anonymity.

The Talk to Aida service is trained to pick up on signs of specific issues,

such as domestic abuse, and will guide individuals to relevant support organisations where needed.

Aida draws exclusively on information curated by qualified and experienced family lawyers.

This means users can have confidence that the guidance they receive is accurate, reliable, and free from misinformation that can sometimes appear in AI systems trained on the open web.

Aida combines the convenience of technology with the reassurance of expert knowledge – making it a trusted starting point for anyone considering separation or divorce.

Elizabeth Wyatt, partner and divorce law specialist at Anthony Collins and the creator of Aida, said: “We created Aida because everyone deserves access to guidance when life gets tough.

“Too many people suffer in silence because they fear judgment or cost. Aida changes that, offering a safe, supportive starting point for anyone facing a relationship breakdown.”

Aida has been developed as part of Anthony Collins’ commitment to social purpose. The family law team believes everyone should have access to professional guidance when considering separation or divorce, helping them navigate the challenges ahead with confidence and dignity.

Freeths advise on two major deals

Community created for junior lawyers

Law firm Freeths has advised leading rolling stock financier and asset management company Porterbrook on its acquisition of 404 rail vehicles from Corelink Rail Infrastructure Limited.

Owning and managing around 25 per cent of Britain’s passenger rail fleet, Porterbrook, a long-standing client of Top 50 UK law firm Freeths, who are Premier members of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, is a key player in driving innovation and sustainability across the rail industry.

Leading the Freeths team on this acquisition was partner Tom Johnson, supported by corporate partner Dahren Naidoo, commercial director Rachel Crosier, corporate director Melanie Mapstone, corporate managing associate Megan Atack and commercial Senior associate Michael Wells.

Tom said: “This transaction marks a pivotal moment for Porterbrook. Our team was delighted to play a role.”

Freeths’ corporate team has also advised G=mc², a fast growing, tech enabled brand strategy consultancy, on securing a transformative investment from Mobeus Equity Partners. The Freeths team was led by corporate partner Malin Svanberg Larsson, who said: “This partnership will enable G=mc² to accelerate its ambitious growth plans and continue delivering cutting-edge, AI-driven insights.”

Birmingham Law Society has launched its new Junior Lawyers Division (JLD), a new, unified and inclusive community for aspiring and earlycareer legal professionals across the city.

Formed through a collaboration building on the work of the Birmingham Solicitors Group, the JLD brings together students, trainees, newly qualified solicitors and junior lawyers under one banner. It will serve as the collective voice of junior members within Birmingham Law Society and the wider legal profession.

Matt O’Brien, president of Birmingham Law Society, said: “The launch of the Junior Lawyers Division is an important step forward for Birmingham Law Society and for the future of our profession. By creating a single, dedicated division for junior lawyers, we are ensuring their voices are heard.”

Pivotal moment: Tom Johnson

Step forward: Kristian Campbell-Drummond, of Weightmans, and Christie Nelson of Freeths LLP, co-chairs of the Junior Lawyers Division

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Accelerating growth: Malin Svanberg Larsson

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Employment matters As the Employee Rights Act 2025 ushers in one of the most significant shifts in UK workplace regulation in recent years, employers across all sectors need to ensure they are fully prepared for what’s ahead, explains Ellie Hibberd, (pictured) head of Stephens Scown LLP’s specialist Employment and Immigration Law team.

The Act will strengthen day one rights, widen protections for vulnerable workers, enhance job security and introduce more robust mechanisms around consultation and transparency. For employers, this means revisiting employment contracts, reviewing HR policies and ensuring that organisational culture is aligned with the new compliance landscape.

Key areas requiring attention include the anticipated expansion of flexible working rights, enhanced protections around unfair dismissal, strengthened safeguards for pregnant employees and carers and clearer obligations around the use of ‘fire and rehire’ practices. Employers will also need to ensure their people management practices are consistent, fair and well documented – reducing risk while supporting a more engaged workforce.

Our Employment team is already advising organisations on how to get ahead of these changes. From conducting readiness audits and updating policies, to providing training for HR teams and leadership, we help employers navigate the complexities with confidence, deep sector expertise and a solutions focused approach.

Contact: enquiries@stephens-scown.co.uk Stephens-Scown.co.uk

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

Investment powers e-motorbikes West Midlands flair and innovation for all things automotive is helping to drive a revival of Britain’s motorcycle industry, with one regional manufacturer powering it towards an electrifying future.

After being virtually wiped out by foreign competition in the 1970s, the industry’s spiritual home is once again attracting international attention following the return of some of Britain’s most legendary marques.

Triumph, Norton, BSA and Royal Enfield are all building or designing bikes in the Midlands and now there’s a new name on the scene – Maeving – the UK’s only electric motorcycle manufacturer.

Based in Coventry, the city that kickstarted the industry more than a century ago, its fusion of retro design and innovative green technology has caught the eye of investors, including Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands. He has contributed £500,000 from the

Revved up: Mayor Richard Parker is backing region’s electric bike production

West Midlands Co-Investment Fund (WMCO) towards an £11m package to help Maeving grow its overseas sales in key markets like North America and Europe.

The mayor joined Rupert Lyle from Future Planet Capital

Regional, which manages WMCO investments, at Maeving’s factory in Sibree Road to see the bikes roll off the production line.

The mayor said: “Maeving represents the very best of West Midlands innovation.

“And there is nowhere better than Coventry – the original beating heart of the British motorcycle industry – for them to set up and write a new success story.

“Motorcycle production is a proud part of Coventry’s identity.

Maeving means its future in Coventry is bright.

“This investment shows that the green industrial revolution is happening in the West Midlands, creating high-quality jobs for local people and cementing our place as a dynamic exporter and a leader in advanced manufacturing.”

Support for fast growing sectors like advanced manufacturing and green technology is at the heart of the mayor’s West Midlands Growth Plan, which sets out to boost the region’s economy by £17bn over the next decade, creating 100,000 good jobs, 120,000 new homes, improved public transport and higher living standards.

Uni partnership to improve airport AVs Aston University has joined forces with Aurrigo, a provider of autonomous vehicles (AVs) and related software for international airport operations, to develop AI to make its fleet even more efficient, responsive and sustainable.

As the number of autonomous vehicles used for baggage and cargo handling at airports continues to grow, managing these fleets becomes increasingly complex. Traditionally, task allocation and scheduling have relied on centrally controlled systems overseen by human operators. They must interpret large volumes of real-time information (for example, battery level and location) and respond to frequent changes such as flight delays or gate reassignments. While effective at smaller scales, this approach can create decision bottlenecks and limit the ability of fleets to adapt quickly.

Under the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), Aston University’s research team will develop new algorithms that allow individual vehicles to make smart, safe decisions locally, based on their real-time status.

Simon Brewerton, chief technology officer at Aurrigo, said: “Our latest partnership with Aston University builds on the excellent outcomes obtained in previous KTP projects. The academic team brings exceptional technical expertise and a deep understanding of how to apply research to complex operational challenges.”

Dr Farzaneh Farhadi, of the Aston Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research and Application, is the lead academic on the project.

She said: “We want each vehicle to act more autonomously while still working as part of a fleet. By combining advanced techniques within AI and machine learning, our goal is to give vehicles the intelligence to cooperate and adapt – without waiting for human direction.”

Lone working: Autonomous airport baggage handlers

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Deep sea solutions: Shahid Mughal (left) with Ian McLaughlan, who runs Business Growth West Midlands, at the opening event of this year’s West Midlands Business Festival

Funding sought for deep sea robot Birmingham may be landlocked, but the city’s reputation for supporting innovators convinced Shahid Mughal, CEO of Innvotek, that it was the ideal place to develop Amphibian – an autonomous robot designed to inspect and clean structures deep under the ocean.

Shahid runs Tyseley-based Innvotek, which develops robots to carry out maintenance tasks in challenging environments.

The company’s latest invention, named Amphibian, is specifically designed to clean and inspect structures deep under the ocean, saving time, money, and reducing the need for potentially dangerous underwater work for human divers.

Innvotek Ltd is working with West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker's business advice service, Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM), to secure the funding needed to scale Innvotek and get Amphibian into production.

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY

Global law firm takes up place in Paradise Global law firm Eversheds Sutherland will be the latest commercial occupier to take space at Paradise when it moves its Birmingham office from Colmore Row to Three Chamberlain Square in 2027.

Eversheds Sutherland has taken a 15-year lease on two floors in Birmingham’s most sustainable commercial office.

The firm’s 500-plus strong Birmingham team will be joining global firms CBRE, EY and Forvis Mazars, with the building now fully let just over six months since completion.

With a long history in Birmingham, the firm today has

over 70 offices across the globe in more than 30 countries, with lawyers advising its international clients on their full-service legal requirements.

‘The building marks a step change in zerocarbon aspirations’ Emma King, Eversheds Sutherland’s senior office partner, Birmingham, said: “As a global firm that has had a local presence in Birmingham for over a hundred years, we’re immensely proud to be taking a new space in the city for our people and clients that will

Occupying two floors: Eversheds’ Emma King with Ross Fittall from Paradise developer MEPC

deliver everything we’re looking for – a net zero carbon future, a flexible and efficient work space to support modern hybrid working, good transport links, and a real destination for our people, clients and visitors.”

The building marks a step change in zero-carbon aspirations for both Paradise and its occupiers, with a host of sustainability and environmental accreditations,

including BREEAM Outstanding, NABERS 5* accreditation and Active and Wired Score Platinum ratings.

Ross Fittall, commercial development director at Paradise developer and asset-manager, MEPC, said: “Attracting another major international occupier like Eversheds Sutherland is a huge vote of confidence in both the approach to and delivery of the estate.”

Merging charm and character: The Bradford Works vision

Quality compliance: Jonathan Fish

Firm hailed for property expertise Birmingham-based WJF Developments have been hailed for their expertise in the property sector in a leading industry online platform.

The Midland company featured as a case study in “The HMO Roadmap”, a prestige educational resource in the property sector, highlighting its latest luxury coliving project in Pelsall, Walsall.

Director Jonathan Fish was selected to be included in The HMO Roadmap case study series due to his “practical, real-world approach to transforming underperforming residential property into highquality, compliant shared accommodation”.

Jonathan said: “Being included as a case study was a proud moment for us, as it recognises the importance of doing property development the right way – with quality, compliance and long-term impact at the forefront while demonstrating how responsible local developers can play a positive role in improving housing stock.”

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Lloyds supports ambitious Birmingham property scheme Birmingham-based property developers and investing specialists Cordia UK have secured a sustainable finance package to support the redevelopment of a new project.

The Bradford Works project is a key part of the company’s ambitious Great Hampton Street Masterplan.

The financing recognises Cordia’s commitment to urban regeneration and energy-efficient design across the UK and Birmingham’s built environment.

Bradford Works, located at the corner of Harford Street and Barr Street on the northeastern edge of Birmingham’s historic Jewellery

Quarter, will transform a derelict industrial building into a 54-unit shared living scheme aimed at postgraduate students, young professionals, and Gen Z renters.

The project balances architectural heritage and modern sustainable designs, making it a flagship example of Cordia’s environmentally conscious approach to city regeneration.

András Kárpáti, CEO of Cordia UK, said: “Bradford Works embodies our mission to merge the charm and character of Birmingham’s industrial heritage with forward-looking urban living.

“We’re proud to breathe new life into a historic structure while

introducing energy-efficient technologies that reduce our residents’ environmental footprint while enhancing their quality of life.

“This development is a testament to how thoughtful design and sustainability could coexist — setting a new standard for urban regeneration across the UK.” Lloyds supported the project with a £5.25m Clean Growth Financing Initiative (CFGI) finance package, a solution that recognises firms that demonstrate measurable progress in a range of environmental considerations, including carbon reduction, energy efficiency, and responsible material use.

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS Sport-led regeneration (left to right): Stuart Cain, Nicola Ibbetson, Neil Rami and Jeremy Dale at Connections for Prosperity - Beyond the Sport

Igniting change: Matt Bullock

Consultancy joins Chamber A West Midlands consultancy is aiming to transform leadership and workplace culture across the UK. Ignite Performance Consultancy, which was cofounded by Matt Bullock and Kerrie Sprason, delivers tailored executive coaching, leadership development, talent acquisition, learning ecosystems, and cultureshaping solutions.

‘Matt and Kerrie bring expertise and community insight through their leadership roles’ The company has joined GBCC, underlining its commitment to supporting local businesses with practical, people-centred solutions.

Matt, COO and co-founder, said: “We launched Ignite Performance Consultancy to create agile, measurable, people-centred interventions that accelerate capability, engagement, and business outcomes.

“Our focus is on building environments where everyone can consistently succeed, while helping leaders and teams develop the agile mindset needed to navigate continual change. We equip people with the confidence and tools to deliver real impact in a fastevolving world.”

Matt and Kerrie bring expertise and community insight through their leadership roles with organisations such as Acorns Children’s Hospice and Birmingham Royal Institution for the Blind.

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Conference highlights the impact of sport Sports regeneration across the West Midlands will bring thousands of jobs into the region – including 16,000 linked to Birmingham’s proposed Sports Quarter – delegates at a major conference were told.

More than 250 leaders from sport, business, infrastructure and policy gathered at Edgbaston Stadium for the Centre for the New Midlands’ Connections for Prosperity: Beyond the Sport conference.

Alongside the proposed £4bn Sports Quarter, speakers pointed to the wider programme of sports-led regeneration activity already underway, including Aston Villa FC’s significant redevelopment plans, Edgbaston Stadium’s £45m redevelopment and hotel project,

and the continued expansion of elite training facilities and community hubs across the region.

The conference, chaired by broadcaster Amber Sandhu, opened with a discussion on the scale of opportunity facing the region.

Jeremy Dale, chief executive of Birmingham City FC, joined Stuart Cain, chief executive of Warwickshire County Cricket Club, Nicola Ibbetson, chief business officer of Coventry City Football Club, and Neil Rami, chief executive of West Midlands Growth Company, to examine how sporting assets are being used to unlock jobs, skills and long-term economic growth.

Experts explored the region’s readiness to consistently host major events and the implications

for infrastructure, tourism and legacy, as well as the importance of delivering sustainable employment and upskilling opportunities for local communities.

The mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, highlighted the role of sport in showcasing the region internationally.

Chris Smith, founder and CEO of the Centre for the New Midlands, said: “Connections for Prosperity: Beyond the Sport has reinforced the West Midlands as a living laboratory for ambitious and sustainable sport-led regeneration.

“It’s been a fantastic opportunity to bring experts and policymakers together from right across the region to share ideas and engage in thought-provoking discussions.”

Mock interviews give young people a boost of confidence

Collaboration: CEO of Sport 4 Life Tom Clarke-Forrest MBE with Leanne Perry

A Birmingham-based consultancy has partnered with a youth employment charity to give young people hands-on interview experience as they enter the world of work.

The day included mock interviews led by the PYVITAL team, giving young people the opportunity to experience realistic interview scenarios and receive honest, constructive feedback.

Sport 4 Life works with young people across the West Midlands to improve confidence, life skills and employment prospects.

Leanne Perry, founder of PYVITAL, said: “For many young people, interviews and recruitment processes can feel unfamiliar and intimidating.

“Being able to offer practical experience and honest feedback helps build confidence and prepares them for real-world opportunities.

“We’re grateful to Sport 4 Life for the opportunity to support the important work they do across the West Midlands.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Investment to benefit students University College Birmingham (UCB) has been awarded £900,000 as part of the Office for Students (OfS) capital funding.

The funds will be invested straight into projects that will give students access to real-world technologies.

The OfS funding is allocated in accordance with a robust bidding process that aims to ensure the funds are distributed as widely as possible.

Eligible training and education providers in England could bid for a minimum sum of £150k and a maximum of £2.5m.

All bids were judged as to how well they met the following criteria: • the funding was for relevant expenditure (as defined in the OfS’ ‘Capital funding allocations and outcomes for financial year 2025-26’ document) • the project and associated risks will be well managed, and the project will provide value for money and support environmental sustainability in reducing energy usage.

EPC launches new website Edgbaston Priory Club (EPC) has launched a newly redesigned website in a move to enhance digital accessibility for prospective members, guests and the wider community.

The new website has been developed with the support of Republic Marketing to reflect the club’s prestigious heritage and includes a refreshed design, improved navigation and enhanced functionality.

The platform makes it easier to explore membership options, discover upcoming events and stay connected with all aspects of EPC life.

Visitors can now enjoy clearer information on the club’s extensive sporting facilities.

Katie Goodfellow, marketing lead at Edgbaston Priory Club, said: “Our new website represents an important investment in how we communicate with our prospective members and showcase everything the Club has to offer.

“It reflects the quality of our facilities and the vibrant community that defines Edgbaston Priory Club.”

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Robotics in action: UCB drives training

Investment of the allocated funds by further and higher education providers should prioritise both innovative and exciting opportunities for students, alongside supporting local business, the regional economy and national growth, in alignment with government objectives.

Professor Rosa Wells, FE principal and dean for STEM at

UCB, said: “It’s an exciting opportunity for us. This allocation of funds recognises the work we’re already doing to enhance our student experience and empowers us to do more.

“The funding also represents a chance to support local employers to ensure that our students experience aligns with their needs.

Producing graduates, not just with

the skills our network of employers is telling us they desperately need, but the confidence to enter the workplace and use those skills to make an impact.”

UCB is one of only 60 institutions from England to have been awarded funds and will use the £900,000 investment to deliver two capital expenditure projects – AI & robotics and health & social care.

These investments will enhance student and apprentice access to real-world technologies and they respond directly to the West Midlands Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP).

The funds will also be used to update and refurbish the existing engineering and construction spaces to ensure that they are flexible and adaptable for interdisciplinary delivery.

The health and social care project will give students the chance to train for real life scenarios, putting their skills into practice and bringing the theory to life.

Kumar and Company to sell assets of security firm Kumar and Company, Midlands-based surveyors, auctioneers and valuers, have been instructed to handle the sale of assets of a specialist security equipment company that has gone into liquidation.

SDMS Security Products supplied a wide range of equipment sold at home and abroad, including the NATO standard Mark 5 EOD bomb disposal suit.

The specialist nature of the asset sale is likely to attract interest from bidders from both across the UK and internationally.

Tim Heaselgrave, of the Timothy James Partnership, was appointed liquidator of SDMS. He has instructed Kumar and Company to prepare an auction sale of its extensive range of specialist security assets.

Rajiv Kumar, managing director of Kumar and Company, said: “SDMS, which was based in Fulham in London, was a manufacturer and supplier of anti-terrorist and internal security equipment such as metal detectors, surveillance and counter surveillance systems, communication and radio systems, person and property protection equipment including full bomb disposal suits and helmets. There are even three sets of night vision binoculars, valued at £5,000 each. As such, this will be a highly specialised sale and is likely to attract interest internationally.”

SDMS was one of the UK’s largest suppliers of antiterrorist and internal security equipment to governments and government departments worldwide.

Global interest: A bomb disposal suit

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Security expert invests in new tech Revenue from systems solutions have quadrupled over the past 12 months for a security specialist as it looks to provide a single-source solution for protecting people, places and property.

MAN Commercial Protection, which works with hundreds of customers across engineering, manufacturing, logistics, commercial and retail, has seen orders for its CCTV monitoring, intruder detection systems and remote access technology reach £400,000.

Led by CEO Iain McCallister, the company believes this appetite to embrace technology will complement the traditional security services it has provided for more than 32 years, such as security guarding, key holding and concierge services.

“While people will always be the heartbeat of our sector, we are aware of how new advancements in security systems can deliver greater efficiencies and potential cost savings for certain scenarios,” said Daniel Moseley, technical director of MAN Commercial Protection.

“That is why we’ve spent the last three years exploring new technology and innovations that we believe can add value to the MAN approach – we now have a

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comprehensive hybrid guarding model, combining on-site officers with technology that can be tailored to suit the requirements and resources of all customers.

“Orders for our systems are testimony to this, with sales up to £400,000 and the real potential for this figure to double again in 2026.”

MAN Commercial Protection, which employs 1,500 people, offers concierge, CCTV monitoring, security guarding, systems solutions and keyholding services, as well as providing services to high profile boxing, sporting and music events.

The company first introduced E-Guard intruder detection systems two years ago, which provide real-time customer alerts for incidents.

Claus Andersen, commercial director of MAN Commercial Protection, added: “With the recent investment in technology, we know we are offering innovations that really make a difference.

“We’re not stopping there. Our tech team are currently integrating AI-assisted video analytics, the latest drones and digital site performance management, and launching a new client dashboard to keep track of KPIs and incidents.”

New technology: The E-Guard intruder detection system

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SECTOR FOCUS: THE ARTS

A Shakespeare classic with a Brummie twist A Birmingham-inspired production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream is coming to the city in the spring.

Birmingham Rep’s artistic director Joe Murphy will make his main stage debut with the production Dream, co-directed with deputy artistic director Madeleine Kludje.

As well as being “distinctively Birmingham”, part of Joe’s mission was to adopt a renewed focus on The Rep, producing new shows “Made in Birmingham” providing opportunities for local actors, creatives and communities.

For The Rep’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which plays on the main stage from Saturday, 25 April, to Sunday, 24 May, this has included an open casting call for Birmingham and West Midlands actors, a successful fundraising campaign to subsidise 5,000 £5 tickets for young people under 25 and state schools for the production, plus an exciting costume design competition for young people in Birmingham.

The Rep’s acclaimed Creative Learning team sent a call-out to their network of primary and secondary schools across Birmingham and wider parts of the West Midlands for pupils to design fairy-costumes, where the winning design would be brought to life by The Rep’s

in-house wardrobe and costume department, and used in the production.

Over 200 imaginative entries were received, showcasing extraordinary creativity, originality and engagement with the wonder and environmentalism of Shakespeare’s magical tale.

‘We were so impressed by the creativity and imagination shown in these designs’ From these entries, 10 finalists were selected by a judging panel, which included A Midsummer Night’s Dream set and costumer designer Carl Davies, who selected two joint winners. They will see their designs brought to life on stage by Carl and the in-house wardrobe and costume team at The Rep in April.

Co-directors Joe Murphy and Madeleine Kludje said: “We were so impressed by the creativity and imagination shown in these designs. Each finalist has engaged so inspiringly with the magic, mischief and imagination of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, while bringing their own playfulness to the designs – honestly it was hard not to use them all.”

Celebrating 40 years of crafts Craftspace is celebrating 40 years of craft making in the Midlands and beyond with a new craft commission 40 Objects for 40 years, created by Stewart Francis Easton, on display at Midlands Arts Centre (MAC) until 12 April.

Commissioned by Craftspace, this new textile mural invites visitors to explore Craftspace’s 40year story through 40 objects, chosen by staff and board members as important and meaningful from the last 40 years.

The work will be four quilted wall hangings which will have illustrations of each object.

Over 40 years, Craftspace have curated and commissioned work by 2500 artists in over 500 exhibitions viewed by 2.8 million people working in the Midlands and across the UK, as well as getting around 265,000 people making and engaging in meaningful craft interactions.

Craftspace is a Birminghambased charity creating opportunities to see, make and be curious about exceptional contemporary craft.

Director Deirdre Figueiredo said: “Craft and making is a foundational skill practised by humans and remains as vital and progressive now as it has for centuries. When people are making, they are productive, mindful and resourceful.”

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West End star to take on Todd Birmingham Rep has found its Sweeney Todd - with IranianCanadian musical theatre star Ramin Karimloo (pictured) confirmed to play the lead role.

Directed by The Rep’s artistic director Joe Murphy, and designed by award-winning designer Elin Steele, The Rep’s production of the razor-sharp musical thriller Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street comes to Birmingham from Saturday 4 July to Sunday 9 August.

Having starred in some of the biggest musical productions in the UK, West End, Broadway and across the world, Ramin Karimloo will now add Sweeney Todd to his extensive theatre credits.

Making opera accessible: Birmingham Royal Conservatoire

Grant to make opera accessible Royal Birmingham Conservatoire (RBC) is taking opera out to the streets of Birmingham. Backed by a £210,000 grant from The Linbury Trust, the RBC will spend the next three years transforming community venues, schools and public spaces into unexpected stages for sopranos, contraltos, tenors and baritones.

The Opera Outreach programme will reach more than 9,000 audience members, 3,000 schoolchildren, 240 young people and 200 RBC students.

“This generous support from The Linbury Trust is a powerful endorsement of our vision to make

opera accessible for all,” said Stephen Maddock, Principal of RBC. “This will enable us to continue to nurture talent, champion diversity and bring world-class opera into under-served communities across our city and region.”

The grant will fund initiatives such as: • Securing Artists Who Shape the Future – attracting leading UK conductors and directors to work with RBC students, embedding industry insights and best practice into the curriculum.

• From Stage to Street – transforming community venues

into vibrant performance spaces, bringing opera to new audiences in unusual and unexpected public spaces.

• Opera in the Making – engaging students and local young people in designing costumes, sets and props to create productions.

• Access All Arias – delivering workshops and outreach projects in Birmingham’s most deprived and culturally under-served schools.

• The Voice Within – expanding RBC’s Young Singers project to uncover talent, champion diversity, and provide opportunities for aspiring performers.

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SECTOR FOCUS: SPORT

The Business of Sport Bronze in sight: Ben Levy on his way to victory against Japan’s Tatsuki Ishihara

Hundred 2026 fixtures revealed Birmingham Phoenix will begin the 2026 Hundred campaign with a home tie against Trent Rockets on Friday, 24 July, at Edgbaston Stadium.

The Hundred returns for a new era in 2026, with refreshed team identities and a new ownership model for each franchise.

The games come thick and fast once The Hundred gets under way, with the opener against Trent Rockets being followed two days later with a trip to Emirates Old Trafford to face Manchester Super Giants.

The second of back-to-back away matches takes place on Thursday, 30 July, with Southern Brave the opponents at Utilita Bowl, before a return to Edgbaston to face Welsh Fire on Saturday, 1 August.

The return fixture against Trent Rockets at Trent Bridge takes place on Wednesday, 5 August, with Sunrisers Leeds visiting Edgbaston on Friday, 7 August.

Just two days later, Birmingham Phoenix will travel to Lord’s to face London Spirit, before returning to Edgbaston as the group stages come to a close with a home tie against reigning champions MI London on Wednesday, 12 August.

Two further dates are for the eliminator on Friday, 14 August, at the Kia Oval, with the final taking place two days later at Lord’s.

Phoenix have made a strong start to building their squad for the 2026 season, with the retentions of Jacob Bethell and Ellyse Perry being complemented by the direct signings of Rehan Ahmed, Donovan Ferriera and Mitch Owen for the men’s side, with Alice Capsey, Lauren Filer and Lucy Hamilton being added to the women’s ranks.

Additionally, Birmingham Phoenix Men will be led into the new season with fresh ideas following the appointment of former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond as head coach.

Phoenix Women will again be coached by Ali Maiden.

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Uni student clinches judo bronze medal British judoka Ben Levy, a University of Birmingham student, has announced himself on the world stage after claiming a bronze medal at the Paris Grand Slam, securing Great Britain’s only podium finish at one of judo’s most prestigious international events.

Competing at the iconic Accor Arena, Ben claimed his first Grand Slam medal on his debut appearance at this level – a remarkable achievement for the 21year-old student-athlete in a field stacked with Olympic and world champions.

Widely regarded as the crown jewel of the IJF World Tour, the Paris Grand Slam sits just below the Olympic Games and World

Championships in prestige. The event consistently attracts the strongest field in world judo and is considered a true benchmark of elite international standing.

‘When I heard the bell, I couldn’t believe it was real’ Alongside his academic studies at the University of Birmingham, Ben trains full time as part of British Judo’s World Class Performance Programme at the British Judo National Training Centre in Walsall.

Ben’s lost his semi-final against Italy’s Manuel Lombardo, an Olympian, multiple-time Grand Slam gold medallist.

Standing between him and a Paris Grand Slam medal was Japan’s Tatsuki Ishihara, a former Paris Grand Slam champion and multiple-time Grand Slam medallist.

Ben closed out the contest to secure a historic bronze medal.

Ben said: “This medal means a lot to me. I’ve felt it’s been a long time coming after just missing out at the end of last year. This result has, in a way, made up for those defeats and put me in a really good mindset for the start of Olympic qualification in a few months.

“On the last exchange in the bronze medal fight, I saw only a few seconds were left. When I heard the bell, I couldn’t believe it was real — that I had actually medalled at my first Grand Slam.”

...show support for British Judo British Judo, a member of the Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, has launched its new Patron’s Club – an exclusive initiative inviting businesses and individuals to support the long-term development of judo in Great Britain while aligning with a nationally recognised sporting organisation based in the West Midlands.

Headquartered at the University of Wolverhampton’s Walsall Campus, British Judo delivers national programmes that impact communities across the UK. The Patron’s Club represents a new opportunity for Chamber members and regional businesses to engage with British Judo’s mission while contributing to a lasting sporting and social legacy.

Judo is more than a competitive sport. It is a discipline that builds resilience, respect and confidence – values that resonate strongly with the business community.

Through the Patron’s Club, British Judo is bringing together supporters who want to play a direct role in strengthening grassroots participation, developing talent pathways and supporting elite athletes on the world stage.

The Patron’s Club offers three membership levels – Gold (£5,000–£10,000), Silver (£3,000–£5,000) and Bronze (£1,000–£3,000) – each providing a range of benefits designed to recognise support and encourage engagement.

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Chamber Insight Focus on a member

Name: Ian Rogers Company: Iconic Event Solutions Job Title: Founder

What does your company do?

We make sure people have an incredible time. Behind that, we deliver festivals end-to-end, handling everything from talent to safety and logistics.

How did it all start?

It started DJing at 18, then nightclub events, radio, running my own entertainment agency and eventually booking talent for major events...and now delivering the events.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

Selling out four events in one year and realising we were creating experiences people genuinely wanted to be part of.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?

I would say starting my business… and starting it with minimal festival experience. I lost a quarter of a million in year one but kept going and now deliver national festivals.

What keeps you awake at night?

Numbers. Finances, crowds, timings. If my Fitbit could talk, it would tell me to stop planning festivals at 3am.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

Nothing. I lost my house and all my money, but failure taught me everything. I believe in failing forward and learning fast.

What has surprised you most in your job?

That events are constant, yearround work. We plan next year during the current event and learn to block out noise and focus on supporters.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Understand finances properly, build multiple income streams within the festival work and be realistic. This isn’t a nine-to-five, if it’s not your passion, don’t do it.

Which business do you most admire?

Aldi. Their humour, self-awareness and engagement are brilliant.

They know their market and make customers feel valued.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

Delivering our largest project yet, Summer Fest at the Beach, marking our move into large-scale national festival delivery. Check it out...

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

To connect with like-minded business owners. It’s been great for sharing insight, building partnerships, and supporting others stepping into live events.

Contact: Tel: 07900 811343 Visit: summerfestatthebeach.com

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

New Members Your guide to new sign-ups Acora One Catherine Kilbourn +44 (0)1603 431200 www.acora.com/one IT and software development Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Equi-Can Active Toni Smith 07767716325 www.equi-can.co.uk Other Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

ActionCOACH Solihull Mark Banini 07952642342 www.actioncoach.co.uk/solihull Other Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Fairstone Corporate Management Scott Simpson 01384 390039 www.fairstone.co.uk Other Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Allentra Group Ian Collins 07734 606861 www.allentra.net Other Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Family Fund Trust Alison Jones 01904 550055 www.familyfund.org.uk Health and social services/charity Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Andy Moss Advisory Limited Andy Moss 07894 034377 Financial services Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce Barclays Bank PLC Saty Kaur 0800 015 4242 www.barclays.com Administration and support services/banks Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Certified Pro Installs Ltd Chris Bagnall 0121 7796548 www.cpi.limited Administration and support services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Collett Marketing & Coaching Ltd Cath Collett 07593887096 www.collettmc.com Administration and support services/management consultancy Burton and District Chamber of Commerce Daniel Dennis Media Ltd Daniel Dennis 07594544766 www.videoformula.co.uk Marketing and media Burton and District Chamber of Commerce Eastcote Care Limited.

Ben Dalgetty 0121 269 1236 www.cinnamoncc.com/carehomes/eastcote-park Health & social services/residential care Solihull Chamber of Commerce Electro Automation UK Ltd Gavin Hancox 01212 130 130 www.electroautomation.co.uk Manufacturing and engineering Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce 104 CHAMBERLINK March 2026

FieldFisher LLP Ranjit Dhindsa 0121 210 6000 www.fieldfisher.com Solicitors Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce Flooid Limited Meryl Hewitt 02476694455 www.flooid.com/uk Trade and retail Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce GARO Electric Limited UK Dan Dempsey 0121 3899 444 www.garo.co.uk Manufacturing and engineering Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce HTC Engineering LTD James Cummings 07530 468842 www.htcengineering.co.uk Manufacturing and engineering Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Hymans Robertson Personal Wealth Stuart Pryor 02070826420 www.hymanspersonalwealth.co.uk Financial services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce iLockerz Ltd Ryan Slaney 0121 2706153 www.iLockerz.com IT and software development Birmingham Chamber of Commerce J & J SOLAR CAR PARK LTD Jon Graham 07749 034687 www.solarcarpark.co.uk Construction and real estate 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

KR 4 HR Coaching & Consutlancy Karen Robinson 07946511028 www.kr4hr.com Administration and support services Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce Meditech Ltd Paul Stefanovic D.M.S. 07547151868 www.meditech-pharma.com/en Other Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce MF Engineered Solutions Munashe Mututa 01527 911511 www.mf-eng.co.uk Manufacturing and engineering Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Next Level Recruitment Claire Summerfield 07908829063 www.nextlevelrecruitment.co.uk Other Solihull Chamber of Commerce Nexus Care Services Tinga Umera 0121 308 2906 www.nexuscareservices.co.uk Health & social services Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce Oaktree Connect Ltd Meetu Singh 020 39277699 www.oaktreeconnect.co.uk Health and social services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Pearson Ball Ltd Joshua Ball 01543 547013 www.pearsonball.co.uk Construction and real estate Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce Private Medical Clinic Birmingham Private GP Simon Khela 0121 798 0729 www.privatemedicalclinic.com/private -gp/birmingham Medical practice (specialist) Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Proline Internals Ltd Gareth Davies 0800 612 7857 www.prolineinternals.co.uk Construction and real estate Birmingham Chamber of Commerce R & R Health Management Ltd Dinesh Sharma

07824811144 www.rnrhealth.co.uk Medical practice (general) Birmingham Chamber of Commerce SimkissGuy Recruitment Ltd Rebecca Simkiss 0121 262 4070 www.simkissguy.com Employment agency Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Solihull Windows & Conservatories Ltd Anne Ryan 01217444550 www.solihullwindows.biz Construction and real estate Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Spinners Solihull Limited Grace Manka www.spinnersuk.com/solihull Public houses and bars Solihull Chamber of Commerce Sutton United Football Club Chris Purcell 0121 378 2482 www.suttonunitedfc.co.uk Other Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce The Hart School Laura Gilmore 01889 802440 www.hartschool.org.uk Education Secondary education Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce Think Posture Mark Walker 0808 164 8085 www.thinkposture.co.uk Other Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Torque Operations Shaun Gray 07747270011 www.torqueoperations.com Management consultancy Burton and District Chamber of Commerce Van Leeuwen Ltd Christopher Spittle 01384 487647 www.vanleeuwen.co.uk Other Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Zennor Ltd Rachel Essex 07538 421 035 www.rachaelessex.com Marketing and Media 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

All’s fair at Chamber awards night Members of three divisions of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce were treated to a black-tie awards ceremony with a difference.

They gathered at the Statfold Country Park in Tamworth to celebrate the winning entries from members of Royal Sutton Coldfield, Lichfield & Tamworth and Cannock Chase Chambers.

As well as dinner and other entertainment, they could enjoy all the fun of the fair before sitting down for their meals. A barbershop quartet welcomed all winners to the stage.

Attractions included a visit to the National Fairground Museum, where guests could enjoy eight vintage fairground rides, including dodgems, a carousel, and a spooky ghost train or try their luck on the 2p slot machines.

• Turn to page 21 for more pictures and the list of award winners

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