Chamberlink Oct 25

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The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBER October 2025

LINK

Free to Members £5.00 where sold

A sporting powerhouse Cricket star leads Brumbassadors’ praise of global city status See page 5 • A tall story - revolution in city living • Search for top Asian business intensifies • Gaming and esports bonanza in Brum

Picture: Edwin Ladd

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Contents Chamberlink October 2025 Business News

1813 Club and Premier Members

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28 Sustainable freight network launched

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Editor’s View Ballet and Hot Metal weld into city triumph Business News Cricket legend praises Brum’s sporting legacy

10 President’s Focus Richard Wileman, president of Burton & District Chamber 12 The Griffin Report Matthew Bott, chairman of the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust 16 Meet the Team IT Department 22 Where Do You Fancy?

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, Bar & Grill

Chamber Patrons 26 SF recruitment expands with Frankfurt office

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Chamber Group 30 International Trade: Forging links with Turkey 32 ABCC: Patrons dinner given a sweet taste of success

Events & Training 42 The latest list of Chamber events and training courses

34 Cannock Chase: Affordable advertising on offer

Features

35 Burton & District: Marketing duo sponsor award

44 Enterprise & Innovation: Jobs fair highlights urgent need for tech skills

36 Lichfield & Tamworth: Exposing plight of unpaid carers

46 Skills development: The engine of innovation 48 Health in the Workplace: A healthy workplace

37 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Sustainable efforts earn Platinum award

Sector Focus

38 Solihull: Tile specialist in global demand

50 Business Travel: Striking gold accreditation

40 Future Faces: BCASS ball to raise vital funds for hospice

52 Finance: Accountancy firm climbs ranks 54 Legal: Mills & Reeve report record turnover 57 Manufacturing: First vegan car interior rolled out 58 Property: Autumn Budget could hit property market 61 Skills: The importance of GCSE resits 62 Technology: Tech gives patients healthy brain 64 The Arts: Jazz & Blues Fest to continue 66 Sport: Villa stand capacity to increase

Member Section 67 Chamber Insight Leonora Valdezco, LValdezco Ltd 68 New Members Chamber welcomes new members

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70 …any other business News from Chamber businesses

CHAMBER LINK

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

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

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

October 2025 CHAMBERLINK 3

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OPINION

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Ballet and Hot Metal weld into city triumph

B

allet is not one of my hot topics, although I have seen a few Nutcrackers and Swan Lakes.

Similarly, I cannot claim to have much knowledge of Black Sabbath, save for their being an iconic Brummie Heavy Metal band whose first manager was the legendary Jim Simpson, now saviour of Birmingham Jazz Festival.

So it was with no little anticipation that I found myself among nearly 2,000 fans of Ozzy Osbourne at Birmingham Hippodrome for Black Sabbath – The Ballet to be greeted by Birmingham Royal Ballet (BRB) director Carlo Acosta, no less.

He extended a warm welcome to “this exciting fusion” of ballet and Heavy Metal.

Carlos added: “We’re here to celebrate the legacy of Black Sabbath, one of Birmingham’s greatest exports, the most famous cultural entity to ever emerge from the city.”

The ballet was premiered in 2023 to rave reviews and has since enjoyed extraordinary success overseas, with a string of dates from Europe to the USA. Now it had come home. Sadly, Ozzy, who had been in poor health for a long time, did not survive to witness this momentous event.

But Black Sabbath’s lead guitarist Tony Iommi made a guest appearance towards the end of the breathtaking three-set performance, which was punctuated with voice-overs from the band – Ozzy, Tony, bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward.

FRONT COVER: Brumbassadors (left to right): Sally Insley, Chris Woakes, Henrietta Brealey, Iqbal Khan and Rose Ginday. See Page 5 Published by

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And, poignantly, among those voices was Sharon, Ozzy’s wife, recounting the band’s history and the mayhem of being part of the infamous group.

The collaboration between the BRB and Black Sabbath was first mooted by Carlos when he arrived in Birmingham in 2020.

‘As a novice to ballet and Black Sabbath, I can say that the ballet can be enjoyed whether you’re a devotee of neither’ The result is a pulsating, energetic and thrilling demonstration of what can be achieved when great and determined minds get together.

As Paul James, the BRB’s chief executive, said in his interview with Jon Griffin in September’s Chamberlink, “Our supporters are everyday people”. And he added: “It’s not an elite group of uber-wealthy people sitting in Monte Carlo.”

I’m sure Ozzy – and the surviving members of Black Sabbath – would have fully endorsed that view and it stands as a monument to what Birmingham is and stands for.

As a novice to ballet and Black Sabbath, I can say that the ballet can be enjoyed whether you’re a devotee of neither. Its pace, athleticism, brilliant choreography and amazing musical interpretation by an expanded Royal Ballet Sinfonia is a tribute Birmingham.

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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) October not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Business News Latest news from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

Inside

Promoting Brum: Iqbal Khan, Sally Linsey, Chris Woakes and Rosie Ginday with a Birmingham icon

Cricket legend praises Brum’s sporting legacy

By Feron Jayawardene

E

ngland cricket star Chris Woakes praised Birmingham’s status as a global powerhouse of sport during a Brumbassadors event hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

Over 100 delegates at Birmingham City Football Club’s stadium StAndrew’s@Knighthead Park heard the allrounder stress the importance of promoting more grassroots initiatives for the next generation of Brummies.

The Brumbassadors is an initiative launched by the GBCC in partnership with Birmingham City FC and comprises business and cultural leaders who are passionate about championing the city. The event was hosted by GBCC CEO Henrietta Brealey.

Chris, educated in a state school, said: “Ten years ago, it was unprecedented for state students to play professional cricket, but now there are more players coming in with around a 50/50 split.

“This is because of the grassroot developments of the sport in the region and it’s all about giving the ambition to the next generation with initiatives like Warwickshire Academy and the wider Birmingham City Football Club and Aston Villa academies.”

The “proud born and bred Brummie” has scored 3,705 runs and taken 396 wickets across Test, one-day and T20 cricket.

He made his first-class debut for Warwickshire in 2006 as a 17-year-old and, before he was 20, was topping the county's bowling averages.

Among the key highlights of his career are helping England lift their maiden World Cup at Lord’s in 2019 and, more recently, batting with a dislocated shoulder in a bid to win the final Test against India.

The globalisation of local sports clubs was also a key talking point during the event, with US-based investor Knighthead Capital owning stakes in Birmingham City Football Club and, more recently, in cricket franchise Birmingham Phoenix.

Elsewhere, Mumbai Indians acquired a minority stake in London-based franchise Oval Invincibles who compete in cricket’s The Hundred competition.

Chris sees this as a necessary investment to grow grassroots sports in the city.

An unsung city gem Griffin Report See pages 12-13

‘Birmingham is always in my heart. It’s where I see as home’ He said: “Foreign investments are new to the English game, but it’s important to grow the brand and sport.

“It’s positive to see people coming in and spending money and the funds are being fed down to grassroots cricket.

“People who prefer the longer format are the older generation. But we need to cater to the children and bringing in tournaments such as The Hundred will keep the investments going.”

According to Chris, bringing in large investments from India to the UK is a matchwinning move and the city is going from strength to strength.

“Birmingham is always in my heart. It’s where I see as home,” he said.

“The Hundred competition is evolving with each year attracting more and more kids and families to Edgbaston stadium. The 2023 Commonwealth Games was a fantastic portrayal of the city and we need to continue this for the upcoming Invictus Games too.

“There are things to improve on, but we are surely doing lots of things right!”

Meet the vegan car See page 57 Check out the 50 businesses which have newly joined the Chamber See pages 68-69 October 2025 CHAMBERLINK 5

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BUSINESS NEWS

Gaming excitement: ESL One Birmingham 2024

JLR cyber-attack impact revealed The wider impact of the Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) cyber-attack on West Midlands firms is revealed in a survey from the region’s three Chambers of Commerce.

The Greater Birmingham, Black Country and Coventry & Warwickshire Chambers of Commerce conducted a snap survey in a bid to understand the impact the cyber-attack has had on firms.

Eighty-four businesses, representing nearly 30,000 employees in the West Midlands, were consulted.

Of the firms surveyed, 77 per cent said the cyber-attack has had a negative impact on their business, with 44 per cent describing the impact as ‘significant’.

And 45 per cent reported a negative financial impact including loss of revenue, increased costs and a slowdown in customer payment slow down.

A further 33 per cent reported operational disruption, such as delays and system downtime.

More than half (57 per cent) want to see financial support – in the form of grants, compensation and access to credit – to negate the impact.

Businesses have adopted a number of measures to mitigate the impact – including reducing staff hours (35 per cent) and strengthening their own cyber security procedures (35 per cent).

Raj Kandola (pictured), acting deputy CEO of the GBCC, said: “The results make it eye wateringly clear the direct impact the JLR cyber security attack has had on businesses across the region, with many citing a notable drop in revenue, spiralling costs and huge operational disruption.

“These businesses have made it clear they need immediate financial support to get their operations back on track as time is of the essence.”

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Gamers to descend on city for two major events Two of the world’s biggest events in gaming and esports – DreamHack and ESL One – will be coming to Birmingham in March next year.

DreamHack Birmingham will be the first festival held on UK soil in its 20-plus year history, bringing together all gaming communities to celebrate games, esports and internet pop culture.

Featuring one of the most prestigious esports tournaments, ESL One returns to the UK for its fourth iteration, with a $1m prize pool, showcasing 16 of the world’s best Dota 2 teams.

‘Esports has exploded into one of the fastest-growing parts of our economy’ Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Esports has exploded into one of the fastest-growing parts of our economy. Our arenas are buzzing with global fans and players for events like DreamHack and ESL One. For us it’s much more than entertainment.

Our colleges and universities are full of young talent learning the skills to succeed in this multi-billion-pound industry. And with world-class studios already here, and backing from gaming’s biggest names, we’re making the West Midlands the UK’s number one place to create, watch and play esports.”

The UK has rapidly established itself as one of Europe’s fastest-growing esports markets, with revenues set to hit $250.7m in 2025 and user numbers projected to reach nearly 24 million by 2029.

The NEC Birmingham and bp pulse LIVE offer two of the UK’s largest and most versatile event venues, operated by the NEC Group. The venues welcome seven million visitors each year to hundreds of live events and trade shows.

Ian Taylor, managing director of the NEC, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome ESL One Birmingham back to the NEC and we’re equally excited to host DreamHack for the very first time.

“We’re perfectly located for bringing gaming communities together from across the globe, and we can't wait to host one of the biggest gaming events in the calendar.”

...as corporation delivers growth A new Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) will position the West Midlands as the most investable region in the country, according to the region’s political leaders.

The Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) is said to be the biggest and most ambitious of its kind in the UK, helping to create tens of thousands of jobs and bring in billions to the local economy.

It will incorporate the £3bn Birmingham Sports Quarter, the £4bn Birmingham Knowledge Quarter, the HS2 station at Curzon Street, the £2bn Smithfield development, and a major creative industries hub in Digbeth.

This new corporation – part of a wider Mayoral Development Zone – is being created by West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and Birmingham City Council leader John

Cotton. It aims to give investors speed, scale and certainty and help bring major schemes forward.

Raj Kandola, acting deputy CEO at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “Setting up an MDC is a pragmatic step to streamline the delivery of hugely important projects for our city... a key recommendation which was put forward by our Business Commission West Midlands last year.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Mayor addresses business concerns

By Feron Jayawardene West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker addressed key business challenges faced by local firms during a meeting organised by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

It was held at Chamber patron WSP and was hosted by GBCC acting deputy CEO Raj Kandola.

The audience comprised 35 representatives from various industries including hospitality, retail, and financial services, and the mayor placed importance on the “everyday economy” which employs around 60 per cent of people locally.

He also highlighted the West Midlands Growth Plan initiatives and emphasised the importance given to sectors such as manufacturing, health and life sciences, digital tech, creative industries – in which the region has a competitive advantage.

Under the growth plan, West Midlands is set to receive 100,000 jobs in fast growing industries, 120,000 homes and major improvements to public transportation during the next 10 years.

Driving economic growth (left to right): Raj Kandola, Richard Parker, and Jenni Kirby, client director, Property & Buildings at WSP

Towns and cities and their high streets will also be transformed through a series of major investments including £2.4bn of improvements to the region’s transport network.

Other major topics included skills challenges, transportation, investment zones, and the recent

leadership changes of the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Raj Kandola said: “It was great to catch up and hear about Richard Parker’s plans to drive economic growth and prosperity across our region.

“It’s clear that businesses in Greater Birmingham value the

opportunity to engage directly with the Mayor and share their perspectives.

“As a business community, we look forward to hearing the next steps, working in partnership with the Mayor, and playing our part in creating the conditions for even greater business success.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

IN BRIEF AN NHS trust has carried out the first robotic-assisted HIT list in their region, as an innovative way to reduce the number of patients waiting for treatment.

Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust carried out the high intensity theatre list, or HIT list, recently for patients waiting for hernia and gallbladder surgery.

Of the eight patients operated on, five underwent roboticassisted surgery, which is more than double the average number of robotic surgeries that are usually performed in a day.

WATERWAYS charity Canal & River Trust has received a Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management award for its transformative “unlocking biodiversity” project in the West Midlands that is helping to improve habitat for wildlife along the region’s historic navigable canals.

The aim of the project, which won the NGO Impact award, was funded by Severn Trent as part of their Great Nature Boost.

A BIRMINGHAM restaurant is putting an Italian spin on festive dining this year with the launch of its Christmas set menu.

San Carlo, based in the city centre, has unveiled a seasonal offering inspired by traditional Italian flavours, bringing a Mediterranean touch to the festive table.

The three-course menu includes dishes such as Gamberoni Luciana – king prawns with garlic, chilli, tomato and cream – and Tacchino con Ripieno di Castagne, turkey with chestnut stuffing and pancettawrapped chipolatas.

Initiative launched to champion entrepreneurs A groundbreaking initiative, called the Inclusive Innovation Catalyst, has been launched by TIN Ventures to transform inclusive entrepreneurship across the region.

The project has been introduced in collaboration with The Open University, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Black Business Collective (GBCC-BBC) and the Innovation Alliance for the West Midlands (IAWM) The Catalyst is the output of a series of National Co-ordinating Centre for Public Engagement (NCCPE) Catalyst Conversations, which explored the role of civic universities as key partners in driving inclusive community innovation and enterprise.

‘We’re ensuring that entrepreneurial support reaches the grassroots’ These conversations highlighted how universities, local organisations, and business networks can collectively overcome systemic barriers to growth for diverse founders. Too many diverse founders in the UK continue to face systemic barriers to validating ideas, accessing capital, and scaling businesses.

This gap stifles innovation, limits economic opportunity, and prevents communities from realising their full potential.

The Catalyst is designed to overcome these barriers, building investible and net positive businesses with overlooked talent.

Transforming inclusivity (left to right):Jack Francis Kelly, Karl George, Yetunde Dania, and Alex Cole

Alex Cole, CEO, TIN Ventures and chair of the GBCC – Black Business Collective, said: “The Catalyst comes at a pivotal moment. Too much entrepreneurial talent is still overlooked. By embedding inclusive venture-building in community hubs across the Midlands, we’re turning untapped potential into investible, net positive businesses aligned with the UK’s Industrial Strategy and West Midlands Growth Plan.”

Building on TIN Ventures’ role as a No Limits: Impact Partner of UKRI, the Catalyst will anchor a regional network of “Digisheds” Community Innovation Hubs, starting in Birmingham, offering inclusive access to venture-building and investment readiness support.

The Community Innovation Hub Birmingham, hosted at the Legacy Centre of Excellence, will act as a

gateway for grassroots founders, connecting them into national and global networks.

Keith Shaayam-Smith, CEO, Legacy CoE, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the Inclusive Innovation Catalyst within the Legacy Centre of Excellence.

“By anchoring this inclusive programme within trusted community spaces, we’re ensuring that entrepreneurial support reaches the grassroots while connecting founders into national and global innovation and investment opportunities.”

The Inclusive Innovation Catalyst is now inviting expressions of interest from founders at the curious, serious, and grow stages of their entrepreneurial journey to align with the Open Business Creators programme from The Open University.

...as charity hits milestone Smart Works Birmingham have celebrated nine years of transforming the lives of women across the region in what has grown into a thriving centre of support, hope and opportunity.

In that time, volunteers, staff and supporters have helped thousands of women take the next step in their journey into work.

Over 5,000 sessions were delivered – providing practical support, coaching and interview preparation and 4,724 women were supported – each with their own challenges and aspirations.

Centre manager Ann Powell says: “At the heart of our success is our community. Every volunteer, partner and donor has played a role in making sure women in Birmingham and the wider West Midlands have access to the tools and belief they need to succeed.

“Together, we’ve built a service that not only provides clothing and coaching but also restores confidence, dignity and hope.

“As we look ahead to our 10th year, our commitment remains the same: to ensure no woman feels alone in her search for work. The challenges facing women in our region are complex, but with compassion, collaboration and determination, we know what can be achieved.

Celebrating success: Smart Works

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

President’s Focus Richard Wileman, president of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce, urges business leaders to interact with their fellow Chamber members, who, he says, are the best source of education as well as encouragement.

I

am delighted to be President of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce and I am clear that this title enables me to express the views of both SME and larger business owners.

Being a business owner, either as a sole trader or larger enterprise, is a responsibility we embrace which has its rewards and risks.

The ever-changing market conditions mean we need to move with the times as we are all affected by those in government and their decisions.

We cannot achieve our targets without interaction from those around us and our fellow Chamber members are our best source of education as well as encouragement.

Building a brand that we are proud of is key but trust must be earned. My own business, Select Car Leasing East Midlands, stands by our ‘DRIVE’ values, reflecting on Dedication, Respect, Integrity, Value and Excellence.

‘I have always found guidance and inspiration from the local Chamber network – be it growth support, exporting, or networking’ I would encourage all business owners to engage with their customers and just as importantly their fellow employees - listen to their comments as this will add value to the services you offer.

The beauty of Burton lies in its people, and those people need businesses rooted in the community to thrive. That’s why I’m proud that 40 per cent of Select Car Leasing East Midlands’ sales now come from electric vehicles – helping to keep our region cleaner while showcasing the best of what we stand for.

As business owners, we are only restricted by the level of our ambition, and this is the same for us as individuals.

When the business landscape gets tough to accommodate these ambitions, I have always found 10 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

Richard Wileman

guidance and inspiration from the local Chamber network – be it growth support, exporting, or networking.

Always be confident to ask for help if you are not achieving your targets and I encourage all businesses of the area and the wider region to utilise your local Chambers to support your key business ambitions.

As a town, Burton-on-Trent, has a valued brewery history and is home to the original trading registered trademark in the UK. The Bass Brewery was founded in 1777 by William Bass and its triangle logo registered in 1876.

The town will now benefit from the newly announced High Street

Project, which is major regeneration scheme led by East Staffordshire Borough Council under the Towns Fund programme.

This will include the restoration of Bass House and Water Town with Public spaces facing on to the Washlands which have been a long-neglected part of the town.

A new visitor centre and conversion of Carling House into a branded hotel will complete the area. This is a breath of fresh air to the local community for regional businesses. This regeneration comes during a time where visitor numbers to Staffordshire are on the rise – with the region now needing more hotel bedspaces to accommodate the numbers.

A recent focus event organised by the Staffordshire County Council revealed the visitor economy is now valued at £2.7bn to the local economy – a 30 per cent increase on pre-pandemic levels.

Of 37 million visits to Staffordshire in 2024, four million stayed overnight, contributing to 31 per cent of overall visitor spend.

Hence, this high-street regeneration comes during a pivotal period of change.

I welcome the positive changes we’re seeing across the region, but there is still a need for greater investment and support. With that extra push, I’m confident the opportunities for Burton will be endless.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

The Griffin Report Birmingham’s “self-deprecating” mentality has partly been responsible for keeping its gem of a Jewellery Quarter in the shadows. Now it has achieved world-wide recognition and its chairman Matthew Bott told JON GRIFFIN about the impact that has had on an historic institution that has operated across two and a half centuries.

I

t’s a 250-year-old industrial powerhouse spanning just one square mile with a workforce of 4,600 shared among around 800 firms large and small – and an annual turnover of three-quarters of a billion pounds.

The Jewellery Quarter is undoubtedly one of Birmingham’s golden jewels in the crown, an historic institution of ingenuity and workmanship which has sustained tens of thousands of highly skilled jobs across two and a half centuries.

It’s been a shining beacon of excellence ever since the late 18th century, and now it’s been internationally recognised on the global stage by becoming only the eighth centre in Europe to be granted World Craft City status.

Birmingham’s very own jewel follows Stoke-on-Trent (pottery), Farnham (creative crafts) and the Outer Hebrides (Harris Tweed) as just the fourth centre in the UK to be granted the accolade, a worldwide tribute to arguably the leading jewel manufacturing, goldsmithing and silversmithing centre on the planet.

World Craft City status was granted following an intensive three-day tour of the area by a

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team of international judges from Mexico, India and Australia, who visited historic landmarks such as the School of Jewellery, the Assay Office, long-established manufacturer Fattorini, wholesale jeweller Cooksongold, the historic Coffin Works and other notable Brummie gems.

‘The amazing things that go on in the Jewellery Quarter are treated as normal by the people who work there’ Birmingham’s initial application and ultimately successful bid was led by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and Birmingham City University, with support from Birmingham City Council and the Goldsmiths Company.

Matthew Bott, chairman of the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust, told Chamberlink: “Personally I was overjoyed and somewhat relieved. We had got all our fingers crossed for it but it was not a done deal. The pressure is on to be able to demonstrate that everything that is said in the application is

“The amazing things that go on in the Jewellery Quarter are treated as normal by the people who work there”: Matthew Bott

true, within a three-day spell. Only eight have been awarded in Europe and we were just the fourth in the UK, so we are in good company.

“This is worldwide recognition.

The Australian judge is the vicepresident of the World Crafts Council and he said “how do we not know more about Birmingham considering that all these global

Impressed: International judges start their three-day inspection of the Jewellery Quarter

Heart of the Jewellery Quarter: St Paul’s Church

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BUSINESS NEWS

Landmark: The Chamberlain Clock in the Jeweller Quarter commemorates Birmingham West MP Joseph Chamberlain’s visit to South Africa in 1903

brands are from the city”?

Matthew said the nature of the trades undertaken in the Jewellery Quarter allied to the “selfdeprecating” Brummie mentality had often played a part in keeping the daily work undertaken by thousands of skilled workers out of the headlines.

“The trade itself is an ecosystem and for security reasons and others it kind of keeps itself to itself. The amazing things that go on in the Jewellery Quarter are treated as normal by the people who work there.

“For me and others looking into it from the outside I am saying this is spectacular, it’s the best in the world where jewellery and allied trades – goldsmithing, silversmithing, anything complementary to trophies and medals, car badges as well as diamonds and pearls – are concerned.

Matthew said the Jewellery Quarter produced between 40 and 50 per cent of all jewellery made in the UK. “If you think of

mechanisation and overseas production and all that kind of stuff, it is still a substantial employer. World Craft City status is recognition for the area’s history and also for the people working there today.”

He said the global award would also help hundreds of firms in the Jewellery Quarter tackle skills shortages. “The status will hopefully help address some of the skill shortages and promote interest in the area and the goods it produces to sustain it for the next 250 years.”

Matthew said the highly skilled work undertaken in the Quarter depended on future generations learning the relevant trades. “There is a huge issue around skill shortages. The challenges are multiple, with low uptake on apprenticeships.

“Young school-leavers are often told you go to university, and then you have the professions of engineering, medicine, law etc to go into.

“There are plenty of young

Recognition: Derrick Anderson, Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, greets the panel of international judges

people that don’t necessarily realise they could have a career in the trade, and there are plenty of consumers who don’t realise that these things are made on their doorstep.

“World City status will help address that recognition, it will increase tourism and ultimately it will be great if it increases sales.

The jewellery trade across Birmingham is now eligible to use the World Craft City logo in their sales material and on their websites.”

We have had a lot of interest since World Craft City status was granted He said World Craft City status would also give “pride and impetus” to long-standing Brummie expertise in an era of Artificial Intelligence threatening traditional working practices. “There’s that broader civic pride of yes, this is made in Birmingham, and that in an era of artificial intelligence and automation people can have a career in hand-made things which will become all the more important because everything else is so automated.”

Matthew said firms throughout the Jewellery Quarter seeking to recruit new talent were often in competition with the likes of car manufacturers, law firms, hospitals etc rather than their near neighbours in the Birmingham district.

“People in the Jewellery Quarter are passionate about what they are doing. When the judges went around and said what would be a good legacy for World City status the majority of them said for young people to come in and pick up the skills that they have and then continue it for another generation.”

But despite the challenges facing the Jewellery Quarter Matthew said

Skilful hands: Global status

he was optimistic for its future.

“There are really exciting opportunities. We have had a lot of interest since World Craft City status was granted and anecdotally there has been an increase in footfall in the Quarter and we would like to sustain that.”

Plans are now afoot to stage a biennial fair and show with a trade conference, bringing together the best of British and potentially international exhibitors to further cement Birmingham’s reputation on the jewellery global map.

“The Jewellery Quarter is one of the big players in the world. We have the biggest School of Jewellery in Europe, if not the world, by student numbers. Chinese students want to come to Birmingham to study, which is breathtaking.”

He also highlighted the Quarter’s unique qualities as an enduring counterpoint to the homogenisation of much of the UK’s High Streets. “It becomes more and more important to celebrate what is special that you don’t get anywhere else, and the Jewellery Quarter is one of those places.”

Matthew said World Craft City Status had helped send out a ringing endorsement of the skills still sustaining a renowned Birmingham industrial landmark after around 250 years.

“The message came out loud and clear – if you want jewellery, you buy Birmingham-made jewellery.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

BCRS supports female firms BCRS Business Loans delivered funds to businesses led by women and ethnic-led companies at levels above national averages in the most recent financial year, a new impact report has revealed.

With 15 per cent of small to medium sized employers led by women nationally, in the 20242025 financial year 21 per cent of BCRS’s total lending was disbursed to female-led businesses, the report showed.

During the same period, the community development finance institution distributed 20 per cent of its loans to ethnic minority led businesses, compared with research showing seven per cent of SME employers national being ethnic minority group led.

As part of the drive by BCRS Business Loans to distribute investment where it is needed most, 35 per cent of total lending was disbursed into the UK’s top 35 per cent most disadvantaged areas according to the Index of Multiple Deprivation.

Free Curium coaching helps comp winners Birmingham-based Curium Solutions joined forces with Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) to boost career prospects for four winners of an International Women’s Day event.

Earlier this year, Curium celebrated Women’s Day by offering free coaching to a quartet of winners of a competition organised in tandem with GBCC – giving them the chance to pause, reflect, and invest in themselves. The winners were Charlotte Ritchie, Clare Noakes, Tracy Peddle, and Laura Suffolk, who have now embarked on impactful personal development pathways.

Charlotte, head of external communications and engagement at West Midlands Trains, entered the coaching experience with reservations.

She said: “I had quite a sceptical view beforehand of what coaching could achieve and what companies like Curium could actually do. My perception has wholly changed since engaging with Curium. I’ve been telling everybody how great the experience has been.”

For Clare, executive assistant at Aston University, the coaching came at a pivotal moment. Having unexpectedly gone from managing one person to leading a team of eight, Clare faced a steep learning

Motivation: Emma Taylor

curve. Coaching helped her clarify her thoughts, confront avoided issues, and build confidence in her leadership.

She said: “I found Jane, who I worked with, to be really receptive and understanding of both my situation and the sector I'm in” Tracy, senior executive assistant at Intercity Technology Ltd, described her coaching experience with Kate as “really positive,” highlighting the value of an external perspective.

Tracy said: “It was good for me to have an outside vantage point of what my world is like and receive guidance on how I could do some things differently.”

Laura Suffolk, regional director at NatWest, appreciated the informal and conversational style of her coaching sessions: “It didn’t follow a rigid process, making it feel more personal and tailored. The coaching brought greater clarity and helped me prioritise more effectively.”

Musician makes CBSO return Songwriter, composer and recording artist Laura Mvula (pictured) will return to her home city this October to perform with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) as part of the Classically Black festival.

The one-of-a-kind concert, which takes place at Symphony Hall on Friday, 10 October 2025, is part of Black Lives in Music’s celebrated classical music festival, Classically Black.

Although this is Laura’s first solo concert with the CBSO, she has a long history with the organisation.

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First as a member of the CBSO Youth Orchestra, before later working as a receptionist after graduating from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. It was during this time she began to write her own songs. Laura released her debut album, Sing to the Moon, in 2013, earning her two MOBO awards and a Mercury Prize nomination.

Laura said: “Coming back to Birmingham to perform with the CBSO feels like a full-circle moment. The orchestra has been part of my life since I was a child, so to now share my music at Symphony Hall is incredibly special.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

DEPARTMENT: IT

Meet the Team

While our focus is internal, the impact of our work extends far beyond. By keeping the Chamber’s operations secure and efficient, we enable the organisation to better serve local businesses, strengthening the wider business community through reliable, responsive and innovative support.

What does a typical day look like for your team?

Each day begins with proactive monitoring of our IT infrastructure, servers, networks, cloud platforms, and device, to ensure optimal performance and security. We maintain key business applications, provide responsive technical support, and troubleshoot issues as they arise. Alongside routine maintenance, we implement updates and plan strategic improvements, ensuring the Chamber’s technology remains robust and future-ready.

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

Despite being a small team, we’ve significantly enhanced the Chamber’s cybersecurity posture, achieving a level of resilience more than double that of similar organisations. This milestone reflects our team’s deep expertise and innovative approach, consistently thinking beyond conventional solutions to deliver outstanding results.

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

We support Chamber staff with a wide range of technology needs, including: • Securing access to systems and data • Protecting against cyber threats

Head of IT: Anthony Duncan

• Ensuring reliable connectivity for both on-site and remote working

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: ANTHONY DUNCAN Can you describe your role and your team’s primary responsibilities within the Chamber?

As Head of IT, my role within the Chamber is to lead the technology function, ensuring that our systems and digital tools effectively support and enhance business operations. Our core responsibility is to maintain a secure, resilient, and seamless IT environment that underpins the success of the organisation.

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

Our team delivers a comprehensive range of IT services to support internal staff and ensure the smooth running of the Chamber. These include: • Managing secure access to essential systems and resources • Maintaining collaboration platforms such as Microsoft 365 and SharePoint • Overseeing our Dynamics CRM to streamline customer relationship management • Implementing robust cybersecurity protocols to safeguard sensitive data • Managing backup and recovery solutions to ensure business continuity.

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IT team: Hilmi Mustafa (left) and Suk Johal

• Supporting collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and Dynamics CRM • Managing data backups and recovery • Guiding staff through updates, new tools, and best practices.

Our goal is to empower colleagues to work confidently and efficiently, no matter where they are.

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

The most fulfilling part of our work is knowing that we make a tangible difference. By enabling our colleagues to work effectively, we help the Chamber deliver greater value to local businesses, contributing to the region’s economic growth and resilience. That impact is something we’re genuinely proud of.

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

Much of our work happens quietly behind the scenes. We’re not just here to fix problems, we’re constantly working to prevent them. From strengthening security to ensuring systems run smoothly, our proactive efforts often go unnoticed but are vital to the Chamber’s success.

Despite our size, we deliver enterprise-grade IT support that keeps everything running securely and efficiently.

What are some fun facts about your team members?

Between the three of us, we bring over 75 years of combined IT experience to the Chamber, a serious legacy in tech! Outside the office, we’re just as diverse: one of us is always knee-deep in a DIY project, another is investing, and the third loves exploring the world. Any guesses who’s who?

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Sponsored by: Blue Light Wellbeing

Empower your team with Blue Light Wellbeing In today’s fast-paced world, stress, burnout, and overwhelm are all too common – especially in highpressure environments within the business and corporate sectors.

At Blue Light Wellbeing, led by wellbeing expert and coach Hannah Bailey, we offer tailored mental health and wellbeing coaching, speaking and training that truly resonates with employees’ lived experiences.

Our bespoke workplace wellbeing coaching goes beyond generic, tick-box delivery. Whether through one-to-one coaching, traumainformed workshops, consulting, or tailored wellbeing events, we help individuals and teams develop resilient, self-aware and empowered work cultures.

With real-world insight from Hannah’s 15 years as a former police detective, our programmes connect authenticity with evidencebased practices – from understanding overwhelm and burnout, to building confident and enlightened leaders.

Choosing Blue Light Wellbeing means investing in proactive support: equipping your staff with practical tools, fostering a culture where mental health and wellbeing is openly discussed and shared and ensuring your organisation is a psychologically safe one.

Discover how we can help your team regain balance, confidence, and improved wellbeing.

Please take a look at our website www.bluelightwellbeing.uk or contact me at hannah@bluelightwellbeing.uk in order to arrange a consultation meeting to discuss the needs of your team.

18 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

Towering sight: The Octagon dominates Birmingham city centre

Changing shape of city living is a tall story Birmingham’s skyline is changing dramatically – and at the same time city living is being transformed. The Octagon, now Birmingham’s tallest building and the world’s first pure octagonal residential skyscraper, has been completed ahead of the announcement that another luxury residential development is in the planning stages. CHAMBERLINK takes a close look at these two transforming projects.

The Octagon, Birmingham’s tallest building and world’s first pure octagonal residential skyscraper, has marked its practical completion, ending the threeyear construction programme which has seen the building come to dominate the city’s skyline.

The £110m built-to-rent building is backed by global real estate investor City Developments Ltd, of Singapore (CDL), and developed by MEPC, the specialist development management arm of Federated Hermes, working with main contractor and high-rise specialist Midgard, part of the JRL Group, to deliver the building.

Managed by Allsop, the 49-storey, 155 metre tower, features 370 spacious new homes with incredible views

across the city – and beyond – and has welcomed its first residents.

The Octagon has been sustainably designed by Birmingham-based award-winning architect practice Howells and has been built to the same ethos, drawing heavily on Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and lean production methods throughout the build.

The building is an integral part of the city’s £1.2bn Paradise estate which has been developed by MEPC. The Octagon’s 360-degree design ethos openly addresses each part of the city and offers a mix of one, two and three-bedroom homes, all of which enjoy spectacular views through the 10.5m wide windows on each elevation.

A development for wellness Birmingham’s city centre residential market is set to be transformed – thanks to luxury wellness-inspired residential development, Edition Birmingham.

Located off Centenary Square in the cultural heart of the city, the new Brindley Drive development – being delivered by Sphere Group and sold and marketed by Select Property – will offer more than 23,000 sq ft of five-star, wellnessinspired amenity.

This includes a pool, rooftop outdoor spa pool and a state-ofthe-art skyline gym, featuring yoga and spin studios and outdoor terrace.

On the doorstep of the £700m Paradise regeneration project, as well as food and drink hotspots including Brindley Place and Broad Street, the 581-home development includes one-and two-bedroom luxury apartments across two connected 15-storey (Park Residence) and 46-storey (Centenary Tower) towers.

The project is creating at least 300 jobs, including more than 60 apprenticeships and work experience placements in the local community. The development also includes a premium co-working lounge (The Study) as well as outdoor co-working space.

Pool included: Edition Birmingham

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BUSINESS NEWS Two leading members of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce give their views on two worrying trends hitting businesses in the UK. Dr JASON WOUHRA OBE, CEO of Lioncroft Wholesale and Aston University Chancellor, warns that recent cyber attacks are teaching us that technology can be our enemy when it should be a valuable friend. Jason’s article, which first appeared in The Independent, was written before Jaguar Land Rover reported a cyber attack on their systems, forcing the closure of their UK factories.

CONRAD BEIGHTON, director at the UK’s largest independent SME restructuring and turnaround specialists Leonard Curtis, examines why corporate failures have remained worryingly high in the UK.

M&S cyber attack offers a lesson for businesses

By Dr Jason Wouhra OBE

W

e all recognise the many, many ways technology enables us to innovate and scale. Virtually every UK business relies upon the latest technologies to keep the wheels of industry turning.

Technology is how we manage our systems, process orders, handle data, support our people and communicate with the outside world. Technology is the very backbone of our business, leaving us woefully unprepared for if, and when, things go wrong.

And go wrong they have, in recent months. It has been impossible to miss the news headlines screaming loud about cyber attacks which have wreaked havoc on UK household names such as M&S, the Co-op and Harrods, to name just three.

M&S was first struck in April, and at the time of writing, the business was still in recovery mode.

As if this weren’t enough, M&S must also brace itself for class action data lawsuits after private data, including millions of customers’ household information, telephone numbers and dates of birth, was leaked as a result of the attack.

‘As M&S continue to repair, the smart businesses will now be using this incident as a learning exercise’ The impact financially is staggering. The losses to the British high street stalwart look set to be unprecedented – Bank of America Global Research predicted the losses to equate to £43m per week, and estimated to run to more than £400m in total – acting as a harsh wake-up call for every business to think more about the technology it relies upon. And this is without taking into consideration the reputational damage an incident like this can cause.

The PR spin about technology – always on, always working – has made it a business essential. After all, technology never has an off day, it doesn’t make mistakes. It doesn’t get ill, tired or burnout.

It doesn’t get distracted from the task at hand by an unscheduled meeting or an unexpected phone call. It completes the

Insolvency pressure still high, warns report

By Conrad Beighton task efficiently and accurately and moves on to the next. Until it doesn’t.

So how can it go wrong? Stuart Machin, CEO of M&S, described the security breach as the result of “social engineering” which came about from “human error” via a “third party” although this has yet to be confirmed by the company’s internal investigation.

In other words, we are the weakest link.

We open emails, click on links, share passwords, leave laptops on trains… the list goes on. While it is people that operate the technology, there will always be risks, it is unavoidable.

As M&S continue to repair, the smart businesses will now be using this incident as a learning exercise. Every business, regardless of size and sector, is a potential target, so what can we learn from this? Are we protected? How would we respond? These are the questions we must ask ourselves.

The fact is, when it comes to cyber protection, the work is never done. The experts all agree that businesses need multi-layers of protection to secure their systems, combined with insurance.

Are you thinking ahead? We’re told that M&S had carried out a cyber attack simulation the previous year and could tap into the learnings from this, responding quickly and effectively. Its business continuity plan kicked in, minimising further damage.

Yes, cyber insurance is essential, but as many business owners have found, it is costly, complex and limited with what it will deliver. Explore the options carefully and with caution.

• Lioncroft Wholesale – now the Midlands’ largest independent wholesaler – was founded in June 2020 by Dr Jason Wouhra OBE. The business is rooted in the legacy of East End Foods, a family-run enterprise established over 50 years ago.

T

he Government, through its Insolvency Service, has released the latest report on companies entering insolvency procedures for January-June 2025.

While the first half of 2025 may not present any striking changes in insolvency trends, the data does show that corporate failures have remained consistently high, with circa 2,000 businesses entering insolvency each month since January.

This reflects a marginal increase on the levels recorded in the second half of 2024, suggesting continued pressure on financially vulnerable firms.

Beyond the numbers, there is a growing sense of business fatigue and subdued consumer confidence, driven in part by ongoing geopolitical instability – particularly the continued conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East – and the recent introduction of new tariffs. These factors are creating uncertainty and dampening growth prospects for many UK businesses.

Many businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to absorb rising operating costs, particularly where these are coupled with declining turnover. This combination is prompting a growing number of business owners to seek advice on their options.

In parallel, at Leonard Curtis we’re also continuing to support businesses with Time to Pay (TTP) arrangements, as HMRC adopts a more assertive approach to tax collection. For many businesses, the pressure to meet tax obligations is now becoming a trigger for wider financial planning or restructuring conversations.

While the data from the first half of the year may lack positive signals, it serves as a timely reminder of the importance of early action. Seeking advice at the first signs of pressure can open up a range of insolvency avoidance options, helping businesses stabilise, restructure, or recover before formal processes become unavoidable.

• Leonard Curtis is the UK’s largest independent restructuring and turnaround specialist in the UK. They combine funding, legal and other business services to provide bespoke distress and nondistress solutions to SMEs, larger corporates and their advisers.

October 2025 CHAMBERLINK 19

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BUSINESS NEWS ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

What value could better procurement unlock for your business?

For many SMEs, procurement is a necessary but frustrating part of running a business. Whether it’s navigating supplier price increases, managing contracts, or dealing with supply chain delays, procurement can feel like a drain on time and resources.

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Even if you don’t have a dedicated procurement team – or you have just one or two people managing purchasing alongside other responsibilities – you can still benefit from the right training, guidance and support.

That’s where Beaumont Procurement comes in.

Making procurement work for your business Led by Richard Beaumont, a procurement expert with over 30 years of experience in businesses of all sizes – from SMEs to global corporations – we specialise in helping businesses buy smarter, negotiate better and streamline procurement processes.

Unlike generic training programmes, we listen first, understanding your challenges before designing practical, handson training that delivers results.

Whether you’re looking to save costs, manage supplier risk, meet sustainability targets, or improve contract negotiations, we provide the tools, skills and strategies your business needs.

The UK economy continued to slow in July and recorded zero growth, according to latest figures.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said a decline in production offset meagre growth in services and construction.

It follows a 0.4 per cent increase in June, with the upturn in GDP marking an unexpected boost at the time figures were announced.

The manufacturing sector saw activity fall by 1.3 per cent in July, marking the biggest contraction in activity in a year.

‘There is hope that these long-term plans will stimulate economic growth in the region’

Richard Beaumont

Flexible training that fits your needs Whether you have a full procurement team, just one person handling purchasing, or no dedicated procurement resource at all, we offer training and coaching that fits your business, including: • Tailored procurement training – delivered in-person or online, for individuals or teams • Coaching & mentoring for business owners and procurement leads • Practical workshops focused on cost-saving, supplier management and contract negotiations • Procurement technology guidance – helping you make the most of digital tools and AI • Sustainable procurement strategies – ensuring your supply chain meets ESG and sustainability commitments.

Let’s talk If procurement is slowing your business down, let’s change that.

Visit: beaumontprocurement.com/cl1 Email: richard@beaumontprocurement.com Call: 0800 0842059

20 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

Long-term plans set to revive city growth

This held back growth in the wider economy, with the services sector up 0.1 per cent thanks to expansion of 0.6 per cent for retail and construction growing 0.2 per cent.

It marks a prolonged slowing of UK economic growth, between April and June as businesses battled higher costs and Donald Trump’s tariffs came into force.

Ruth Fleet, senior policy advisor at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), said: “Figures for July show that GDP growth flatlined from its peak of 0.8 per cent in April.

SMEs struggling: Ruth Fleet

“Insights from our Quarterly Business Report for the West Midlands reflect these challenges, showing that SMEs are struggling with a number of problems, from National Insurance hikes to challenges in recruitment.

“The latest GDP data tells us what was happening earlier this year, before a number of announcements across the summer, such as Government funding of £2.4bn to build a tramline to the Sports Quarter.

“There is hope that these longterm plans will stimulate economic growth in the region - although stubborn inflation continues to dog the Government.

“We will continue to argue that there should be no further taxation on businesses in the Autumn Budget to help build business confidence in the region.”

Autumn Budget will be ‘pivotal moment’ The UK economy is stuck in first gear with growth of just 1.3 per cent predicted for 2025 – and the looming autumn Budget a “pivotal moment” for firms.

The latest British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) economic forecast shows that UK growth has been revised up from the previous forecast of 1.1 per cent – but SMEs need tools to “invest, trade and expand” to avoid a “prolonged, low-growth trap.”

The upgrade reflects better-than-expected economic performance in Q1, supported by public spending. However, GDP is expected to slow slightly in 2026 to 1.2 per cent, before rising to 1.5 per cent in 2027, unchanged from the previous forecast.

David Bharier (pictured), head of research at the BCC, said: "Our latest forecast underlines the difficult reality facing UK businesses – and shows that economic growth is stuck in first gear.

“The forthcoming Autumn Budget will be a pivotal moment. The Chancellor faces some tough decisions as more tax rises risk severely undermining sentiment and investment even further.

“Sustainable growth depends on driving productivity through modern infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and seizing the opportunities of the AI revolution. SMEs need the tools to invest, trade and expand. Without this, the UK risks being locked into a prolonged low-growth trap.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Mayor to boost regional markets Mayor Richard Parker has unveiled plans to revitalise the region’s street markets with a £300,000 support package to expand the variety of stalls on offer and draw in more shoppers.

Action to help town and city centre high streets recapture their centuries old role as the heart of the local community has been set out in the Mayor’s Growth Plan, a blueprint for reigniting the regional economy and raising living standards.

The scheme will be delivered in partnership with Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) and councils in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall, Wolverhampton.

The Mayor visited Wolverhampton’s historic city centre market to announce the new investment as a first step towards putting the buzz back into market days in towns and cities across the West Midlands.

The funding will be used to develop initiatives that breathe new life into marketplaces and support new and existing traders.

The mayor said: “For centuries, street markets have been at the heart of our towns and cities.

They’re hubs of local enterprise and I want more people to see them as launchpads for exciting careers and businesses.

“But it’s not just about the traders, it’s about the shoppers too. Visiting your local market

First step: Mayor Richard Parker with Wolverhampton Market traders Taban Ali and Terry Watson and Cllr Stephen Simkins, leader of the City of Wolverhampton Council

means discovering fresh produce, unique products, and supporting homegrown local talent.

“I promised to back our markets and regenerate our high streets when I was elected, and this is just the start.”

There are around 20 regular council-managed markets across the region.

As part of the Mayor’s Street Markets Catapult, councils will be

able to offer new entrepreneurs free or discounted stalls on a short-term trial basis, helping the next generation of local businesses get a foothold.

The funding will back vital improvements to market facilities, from modernised stalls and additional power points to advertising campaigns and special events that will attract new waves of customers.

A pilot scheme will also see well-established traders given specialist business growth advice and a mentoring programme specifically for new street food sellers.

The West Midlands Street Markets Catapult is funded with money secured by the Mayor and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

...as locals prioritise high street shopping People in the West Midlands place a slightly higher priority on high streets compared to the UK average.

That’s according to the Demos-PwC Good Growth for Cities Index 2025. The Index ranks 50 of the UK’s largest cities, excluding London, based on both the public’s assessment and the actual performance of 12 economic measures, which this year, in order of public importance, were – income, income distribution, safety, work-life balance, health, jobs, housing, environment, transport, high streets, skills and new businesses.

The higher the city scores on the public’s top priorities, the better the city performs on the Index.

Financial measures such as income and jobs have previously led in their importance to the public by a wide margin, but results from this year’s survey reveal a rise in the importance of non-financial measures.

Skills, high streets, housing and transport have all risen on the public agenda.

Income and income distribution remain the top two priorities but have seen their sharpest year-on-year decline.

Cities in the West Midlands generally performed below the national average when measured against public priorities, except for Stoke-on-Trent.

‘Our local high streets really matter to people in the West Midlands’ Both Birmingham and Coventry scored above average for new businesses. Rankings in the Index are as follows: • Stoke-on-Trent: ranked 13th (16th last year) • Coventry: ranked 26th (27th last year) • Wolverhampton: ranked 39th (no change from last year) • Birmingham: ranked 48th (49th last year) • Walsall: ranked 50th (48th last year) David Morris, central region market lead at PwC, said: “Our local high streets really matter to people in the West Midlands, so it’s encouraging to see recent investments in this area. The research also tells us that a collective vision for community-centred economic

Room for growth in region: David Morris

regeneration will be crucial to driving local growth and resilient communities.

“The region has ample opportunity for growth, with Birmingham forecasted for significant growth compared to other cities in the region. However, we mustn’t ignore the challenges, particularly in skill development, income, and health. Addressing these issues is fundamental for enhancing economic resilience.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Where do you fancy?

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, Bar & Grill is described as the “epitome of affordable glamour” set in a delightful Georgian manor house in the centre of the village of Meriden, the heart of England. Their menus offer the best seasonal produce prepared skilfully by a brigade of chefs complemented by a varied and eclectic range of wines, Champagne and cocktails. There is also an array of beers, ciders and spirits.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

Breakfast Full English and Continental breakfast.

Lunch and dinner The menu presents a polished blend of contemporary BritishEuropean fare, showcasing expertly prepared steaks and grill selections alongside lighter seasonal starters like heritage tomato and burrata, caponata of Mediterranean vegetables, and classic prawn cocktail.

Generous cuts of aged, grass-fed beef take centre stage with signature sauces and refined sides.

Pescatarian and vegetarian options include black truffle and ricotta ravioli, sea bass alla Siciliana, and grilled salmon Béarnaise.

Vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree options and a wide selection of wines are available.

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, Bar & Grill Meriden Manor Hotel Solihull 127 Main Road Meriden, Solihull CV7 7NH T: 01676 522 735 E: restaurantandbarmanager @mpwsteakhousemeriden.com

Business facilities

W: www.manorhotelsolihull.co.uk /marco-pierre-white-steakhouse

Corporate guests can enjoy a relaxed yet refined business lunch at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill and choose to dine in the stylish bar or the elegant restaurant, where a set menu offers two courses for under £21. With spacious public areas ideal for working before or after a meal, the hotel provides a balance for business and leisure.

Owner: Manor Hotel Solihull Head chef: Dave Wilson Food Opening hours: Monday - Saturday: 12pm - 9:30pm Sunday: 12pm - 9pm

Private dining The Manor Hotel offers versatile private dining options to suit every occasion.

Within the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, the Private Dine room is an elegant setting for intimate lunches or dinners for up to 16 guests—ideal for client meetings, celebrations, or small gatherings.

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For larger events, the hotel also boasts a choice of private suites accommodating up to 300 guests, all complemented by expert service and tailored menus. Whether hosting a board lunch, networking dinner, or a milestone celebration, Manor Hotel provides the perfect backdrop for memorable private dining experiences.

Conference facilities Choose from elegant rooms for up to 300 guests, supported by a dedicated business centre. Between sessions, guests can network in the contemporary bar or dine at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse.

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BUSINESS NEWS

SMQ Services Ltd (trading as The Health Insurance Group) is an Appointed Representative of Health and Protection Solutions Ltd. Health and Protection Solutions Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. This can be checked on the FCA’s website or by calling them on 0800 111 6768 (freephone). Not all products and services offered are regulated by the FCA. SMQ Services Ltd is registered in England and Wales number 03687904. Registered office: Lumaneri House Blythe Gate, Blythe Valley Park, Solihull, West Midlands, United Kingdom, B90 8AH

October 2025 CHAMBERLINK 23

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BUSINESS NEWS

Parents can help girls get into engineering A leading Midlands recruitment specialist has been working with an industry expert to attract more girls into engineering.

Lina Huertas (pictured), industry executive for manufacturing with Microsoft, is an advocate of pushing for more ways to get females interested in engineering and has been working with Meriden-based recruitment specialist Pertemps on a series of podcasts to showcase female career paths into prominent engineering positions.

She says parents can play a key role into getting more girls into engineering roles – by creating a supportive environment at home as the children grow up.

Only 16.9 per cent of the UK workforce of engineers is made up of

24 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

women, compared to 56 per cent in other professions.

But while schools, colleges and businesses are working to improve this ratio, Lina has warned not to underestimate influence of early life at home on naturally opening doors for STEM careers for girls.

She said: “It’s just hard to imagine yourself as something that you don't know. So if you don't know something, you're probably very unlikely to become it. But if you've had the chance, if you’ve had the exposure to it, then it suddenly becomes a possibility.

“When I was growing up, my dad was really interested in cars. We were two girls and one boy. We were all treated the same and we were all given the chance to go and have a

look at the engine or, when I was learning to drive, dad would have taught me how to do a quick fix in the engine at the back.

“They also have a small manufacturing business and, because they both worked during holidays, they'd bring us to the business and so we’d have plenty of chances to see machines, materials, kind of production lines and design.

And I think just having the chance to do it really got me involved.”

She added that school projects can also help significantly as they make related topics that girls may

shy away from more attractive and entertaining. And she firmly believes that what they are exposed to at home in their childhood really can impact the career they pursue.

She added: “It’s important that boys and girls are given the exposure.

Parents are the first and probably most lasting influence in people's lives. I think, from parents to teachers and mentors, we all have that duty.”

Pertemps have also published a book for primary school girls talking about the opportunities in engineering. Girls Can Engineer is available at amazon.co.uk

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BUSINESS NEWS

October 2025 CHAMBERLINK 25

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Chamber Patrons Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

SF recruitment expands with Frankfurt office SF Recruitment has opened its first international office in Frankfurt, Germany, marking the next stage of its continued growth journey.

The new office will focus on finance and accountancy recruitment, supporting businesses and professionals across the RheinMain region.

The launch follows a series of major successes for SF Recruitment. In 2024, the business was recognised in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work list, won Recruitment Agency of the Year at the Recruiter Awards, and CEO Saira Demmer was named on Management Today’s Women in Leadership Power List for 2025.

With a growing presence in key hubs including Manchester, Birmingham, London and the East Midlands, SF has also recently celebrated new sector expansions and an increase in international client demand.

Leading the Frankfurt office is Lisa Drumm, business manager, who brings specialist expertise in finance appointments across accounting, controlling, tax, M&A and treasury. Lisa is well known in the region for her transparent, quality-first approach.

‘Our expansion into Germany marks the start of a new and exciting phase’ To mark the launch, SF Recruitment is partnered with AICPA, CIMA and the British Chamber of Commerce in Germany to host its first German event, The Power of Finance Storytelling, in Berlin.

Saira Demmer, CEO of SF Recruitment, said: “Our expansion into Germany marks the start of a new and exciting phase for SF

Frankfurt presence: Saira Demmer (left) with Lisa Drumm

Recruitment. For more than 26 years, we have been dedicated to putting people into jobs they love and supporting businesses with the talent they need to succeed.

“Frankfurt is one of Europe’s most dynamic financial centres, and with Lisa’s expertise on the ground we are in a strong position to

Multifleet delivers sustainable cars to business consultancy Multifleet Vehicle Management has delivered more than £350,000 worth of cars to Skewb Ltd, a Midlands-based business consultancy working in the utilities sector.

Multifleet, which trades as runyourfleet and is based in Solihull, designed and proposed a new company car policy which delivered low emission hybrid and electric vehicles.

Tony Rostill, the runyourfleet manager who looks after the Skewb account, explained that the new contract involved various models, with the most popular model being the fully electric Ford Explorer.

Tony said: “We are delighted to have entered a partnership with Skewb for their company car fleet.

“The business brief was to provide a vehicle policy which aided Skewb’s ambition of reducing their carbon footprint and to enable ‘Benefit in Kind’ tax savings for their drivers.

“We worked quickly to find the ideal models that worked best for this purpose, and Skewb have currently taken a range of fully electric and hybrid vehicles from us, all on contract hire as company cars.

“The vehicles replace their previous agreement which was on short term hire with a different provider.”

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Skewb, based in Warwick, is a leading provider of consultancy and digital transformation services and products to the energy and water sector.

Steve Douglas, chief financial officer at Skewb Ltd, said: “We asked runyourfleet to put together an EV fleet solution at relatively short notice.

“This they did on time, with great clarity and with an air of confidence that they could deliver what they promised.

“The ordering process was extremely straightforward, the cars have arrived on time and have been well received.

“Post delivery, runyourfleet have always been available to assist with any queries, and we would highly recommend them as a trusted business partner.” runyourfleet, based in Solihull Business Park, is a fleet management and vehicle leasing company with a customer base of more than 1,200 businesses across the UK, providing fleet management and leasing services for 32,000-plus vehicles.

Customers range from SMs to large multinationals, using a wide range of services including fleet management, leasing, rental and salary sacrifice schemes.

deliver long-term, sustainable recruitment solutions for both clients and candidates.”

The Frankfurt launch represents the latest step in SF Recruitment’s expansion strategy, as the business continues to build on its success and broaden its reach across the UK and Europe.

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Major support for growth toolkit Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s Business Growth Studio – designed to help SMEs thrive in today’s competitive business landscape – has received backing from a major university.

University College Birmingham has agreed to become a Pioneer sponsor – the top level of sponsorship – for the Business Growth Studio over the next two years.

Launched earlier this year, the Business Growth Studio is a toolkit featuring essential resources – offering Chamber members access to a dedicated programme of workshops, a wealth of digital resources and a high impact conference all designed to aid small businesses through different stages of their journey.

Support: Raj Kandola (left) and David Paulson

‘At UCB, we’re focused on producing the talent you need’ Free to all GBCC members, the Studio brings together expert insights, tools and support from across the Chamber network.

David Paulson, executive dean of the Business School at University College Birmingham, said: “University College Birmingham exists to Put Knowledge to Work, helping SMEs across the West Midlands to grow by developing their existing and future workforce.

“As a former SME managing director myself, I know how critical

Partnership: Steve Douglas (left), of Skewb Ltd, with Tony Rostill, of runyourfleet

it is to hire and retain staff with a can-do attitude and the skills to keep you growing.

“At UCB, we’re focused on producing the talent you need adaptable, pragmatic, down-toearth graduates with up-to-date knowledge that they use to get things done, and we are proud to sponsor the GBCC’s Business Growth Studio.

“It’s a fantastic initiative that will help you develop yourself and your

existing staff, boosting your company’s productivity and helping you grow sustainably.

“We look forward to helping your business thrive.”

Raj Kandola, acting deputy CEO at the GBCC, said: “We are delighted that University College Birmingham have agreed to become a headline Pioneer partner for our inaugural Business Growth Studio.

“Exclusively for members of the Chamber, the Business Growth

Studio focuses on supporting SMEs around the key pillars of business growth and navigating through the different stages of their development journey.

“Given UCB’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurialism and harnessing an ecosystem that empowers SMEs to grow, we felt it was the perfect match to partner with them on such a high-profile programme.”

Partnership to transform legal services with generative AI Aston University’s digital transformation experts are partnering with Birmingham-based commercial law firm Harper James to develop an intelligent legal services platform, powered by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), that will reshape how lawyers deliver services.

Through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), the three-year project will involve specialist expertise in data science and AI to create new technologies for Harper James. The law firm, which specialises in supporting SMEs, will use the system to enable its commercial lawyers to speed up work by automating processes like project scoping, proposals contracting and client onboarding.

The project will apply and extend the latest research on

GenAI to develop novel AI models to analyse and learn from legal services data.

The intelligent platform will be capable of tracking and learning from past cases to assist with forecasting the range of outcomes and potential legal procedures involved in future projects.

Harper James aims to differentiate itself in the UK legal sector through the way it delivers legal services and its subscription model.

To further enhance its services, deliver more value to clients and maximise internal efficiencies, the firm is transitioning from a traditional billable-hour pricing model to a new value-based pricing model. With an AI-enabled legal services platform, the KTP will create efficiencies that allow this transition, supporting the law firm

to adapt and grow in a rapidly evolving sector.

Toby Harper, founder and CEO of Harper James, said: “The innovation developed through this project with Aston University is a fundamental pillar that will set us apart from the rest of the legal services sector.”

Professor Abdul Sadka, director of The Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute at Aston University, said: “KTPs like this form a very important part of our contribution to society as academics. By working in partnership, we can extend our specialist knowledge while being a solution provider to ambitious businesses like Harper James, enabling them to overcome digital challenges faced along their growth and innovation journeys.”

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

1813 Club and Premier Members Greater Birmingham’s leading companies Three healthcare contracts won BRW Consulting, in conjunction with Contact Web, has launched a solution for the health sector and has successfully won three contracts for MyHealthChecked, Yourgene Health and The Slimming Clinic.

The solutions address the employment cost issues raised in the Chancellor’s Budget together with addressing operational efficiencies.

BRW Consulting support the full patient or client journey and align their approach to the patient personas and service objectives, whether supporting private practices, NHS service providers, wellness programmes, or clinical trial enrolment.

BRW Consulting has also secured new business with retail, hospitality, financial services and telecommunications clients, covering customer service, sales activity, logistics support, complaints management and collections.

Brian Wigley, director of BRW Consulting, said: “In conjunction with our partners at Contact Web, we have successfully launched solutions to address the cost and employment issues raised by the Budget changes to national insurance and minimum wages, whilst also offering day to day operation improvements and cost reductions to our clients.”

Successful launch: Brian Wigley

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Premier Membership Contact: Gary Birch T: 07971 144059

Greening freight: Richard Jeggo (left) and Thomas Isler of Baxter Freight

Baxter Freight launches sustainable network Logistics specialist Baxter Freight has launched the Sustainable Freight Network (SFN), a specialist consultancy solution designed to help businesses take practical, data-driven steps to reduce supply chain emissions and move closer to global climate goals.

The European Environment Agency has stated that the logistics industry could contribute up to 40 per cent of global CO2 emissions, without significant change, by 2050.

Baxter Freight developed the SFN with its core mission in mind to drive customers’ long-term success by optimising their supply chain while minimising environmental impact.

Richard Jeggo, sales director at Baxter Freight, said: “We’ve spent the last three years focused on putting together an innovative proposition to support the marketplace in addressing the significant challenge of tackling scope three emissions in their supply chains. What we’ve

Millennium Point is cooking up a storm Millennium Point has unveiled a new £700,000 commercial kitchen, built to cater for up to 1,000 guests per day and designed to elevate the venue’s event experience while driving forward its sustainability ambitions.

The kitchen, created in partnership with AC Event Catering and designed

by DSA Consultants, means the award-winning city-centre venue is now able to deliver a seamless onsite catering service for conferences, exhibitions, banquets, and private events.

The fully electric kitchen underlines Millennium Point’s commitment to sustainability.

It eliminates the use of natural gas across the site and is future-proofed to integrate with renewable energy sources such as PV and carbon-neutral shippers as they come online.

This move not only enhances green credentials but also reduces operational emissions for every event held at the venue.

created is that unique proposition – a holistic consultative carbon management system backed by our own logistics expertise.”

Thomas Isler, innovation and sustainability manager at Baxter Freight, added: “The SFN is challenging the industry to move forward, to consider logistics in a new green lens. We provide the most innovative solutions to the largest problem our customers will face in the years to come.”

Lloyds man is new Unity COO Unity Trust Bank has appointed Martin Barrett as its chief operating officer (COO).

Martin previously worked at Lloyds Banking Group for 24 years, and brings a wealth of experience in commercial banking, payments, financial crime, and operational and change management.

His work will focus on unlocking business growth potential in new sectors and segments, improving operational capacity, and strengthening the bank’s strategic objectives for the future.

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

Room with view: The Brabazon Suite

New chapter begins as The Belfry shows off transformation Two years after embarking on a multi-million pound expansion project to reimagine its resort for the future, the Belfry Hotel & Resort has unveiled the results of its transformative development.

The independent hotel is opening the doors to its events venue, state-of-the-art fitness and leisure club and stunning new accommodation.

Almost doubling The Belfry in size, its new Brabazon House wing features 149 stylish bedrooms, including the resort’s first twobedroom suite, and balcony rooms with views over The Belfry’s legendary Brabazon golf course, host to the Ryder Cup on four occasions.

‘For the past two years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to bringing this vision to life’ Chris Eigelaar, managing director at The Belfry Hotel & Resort, said: “This has been a passion project for us all, and it’s incredible that the day has finally arrived when guests can enjoy the complete Belfry Resort experience.

“For the past two years, we’ve dedicated ourselves to bringing this vision to life.

“Our guests have been the driving force behind every decision, and everything we’ve done has

Making a splash: The Belfry Pool

been with their enjoyment and experience in mind.

“To do all of this ahead of schedule shows trust and credibility from our clients, our guests and the industry, which is outstanding.”

At 852sqm, and with a max capacity of 920, The Masters Suite is the resort’s largest events space, receiving over £80m in enquiries and securing £10m in confirmed business before its much-anticipated opening.

The club is the ultimate home for all things fitness. With a sleek design, highlights include a vast Technogym with views over the resort’s PGA National golf course, and studios dedicated to yoga, reformer Pilates and spin activities.

Entec Si hailed as a great place to work Birmingham-based business change consultancy Entec Si is officially one of the 2025 UK’s Best Workplaces in the Consulting & Professional Services list.

Revealed by Great Place To Work UK, the list recognises Entec Si among organisations in the small and medium category, and follows the company becoming Certified by Great Place To Work in July. The survey found that every Entec Si employee considered it a great place to work, compared to 54 per cent of employees at a typical UK based company.

Across the 59 questions employees were surveyed, the company scored an average of 98 per cent overall, with 100 per cent category scores for: team, intimacy, competence, community, camaraderie, personal job, engagement, integrity and hospitality.

In recent years, Entec Si has fully leaned into the hybrid working culture, making work-life balance a core value of the firm. Implementing flexible business hours, hybrid office and home working and structures for professional development have helped to solidify Entec Si’s positive company culture both in and outside of the workplace.

Eman Al-Hillawi, CEO at Entec Si, said: “I believe people are at the heart of change and our team are our greatest assets – to know each employee feels valued and think Entec Si is a great place to work is really rewarding and encouraging.”

Happy in their work: The Entec Si team

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade

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

Forging links with manufacturing hotspot in Turkey A trade delegation from the Turkish region of Kocaeli visited the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

As part of the trip, facilitated by the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce, delegates also attended the UK Metals Expo at the NEC, reflecting shared strengths between the two regions.

Kocaeli is responsible for around 13 per cent of Turkey’s total manufacturing output and is home to major automotive, chemical, and basic metals industries.

The visit highlighted parallels between Birmingham and Kocaeli, both of which were shaped by industrial heritage and today

continue to lead in advanced manufacturing. Kocaeli also imports financial services, technology, and raw materials from the UK, underlining the potential for closer business ties.

‘It underlines exactly why the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber exists’ Both the GBCC and the Kocaeli Chamber of Commerce date back to the 19th century, and representatives on both sides noted the longstanding history of supporting regional enterprise.

Exploring opportunities: Global Chamber president Janie Frampton accepts a commemorative gift from Kocaeli Chamber

Head of the Chamber’s global division Jayne Hume said: “This visit is a strong example of the type of trade delegation that comes to Birmingham to explore opportunities and build lasting connections.

“It underlines exactly why the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber exists – to open doors, showcase our region’s strengths, and help businesses on both sides grow through international partnerships.”

HS2 benefits discussed at airport talk A joint site meeting has taken place between Birmingham Airport’s CEO and Mark Wild, CEO of HS2 Ltd, as discussions and planning for enabling works continue. These works will help deliver the fastest connectivity between Birmingham Airport and London.

Visiting the airport, HS2 bosses were shown facilities and areas in which the airport needs to start work on next year, allowing the creation of assets including work compounds for the project.

Also demonstrated were the re-routing of utilities, relocation of car parking facilities and reconfiguration of road layouts needed to remain on track to welcome HS2 engineers on site.

The arrival of HS2 into Birmingham Airport will mean that it will become the equivalent of Zone 5 on the tube map, into central London.

Access into the capital will mean people from the West Midlands can reach Euston in 38 minutes and Bond Street in 48 minutes.

Speaking of the project, Nick Barton, CEO of Birmingham Airport said: “The benefits of HS2 have been debated for many years and, despite its challenges, this conversation demonstrated the need to begin the work that will turn this project into reality. We are a huge supporter of HS2 and look forward to working in partnership to help create jobs and opportunities for so many in this region.

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Indicative image of the automated people mover

“However, just to clear, the site needed for engineers and equipment will take around two years as we will be doing so in a live operational environment, ensuring that minimal disruption is caused to the airport, its passengers, people and partners. Showing Mark first-hand the scale of this is valuable, ensuring adequate time for enabling works is factored in.”

Mark Wild, CEO of HS2 Ltd, said: “It was great to meet Nick and the team at Birmingham Airport to discuss construction of the shuttle that will take passengers from our new HS2 Interchange station to the Airport. Once complete, HS2 will free up space on the existing line through Birmingham International, creating huge economic benefits for the wider area.”

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

Global Chamber Patrons

The power of partnerships

Report launch (left to right): Steve Lynch MBE (British Chamber of Commerce), Raj Kandola, Dan Carins (WMCA), Ruth Fleet, Corin Crane, Keely Hancox (Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce) and Lorna Taylor (Black Country Chamber of Commerce)

West Midlands exports are booming, says report A new Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) report has found that West Midlands exports grew by 32 per cent between Q1 2021 and Q1 2025 – well above the national average of 24 per cent.

The Global Growth Report 2025 – produced as part of the Export Support Programme – provides intensive, customised support to help West Midlands businesses thrive in global markets.

The programme is delivered across the West Midlands by GBCC, in partnership with the West Midlands Combined Authority and includes one-to-one expert guidance and workshops and training to help businesses start exporting.

The report was developed using data from the Office for National Statistics, the Department for Business and

Trade, and the Quarterly Economic Survey conducted by the Chambers of Commerce across the UK, looking at the last five years of trading.

The report was launched at the West Midlands International Trade Summit 2025 by GBCC acting deputy CEO Raj Kandola, and GBCC senior policy advisor Ruth Fleet. She said: “Digging into the longerterm data for the region highlighted just how much the West Midlands economy has grown in the last five years and how much potential for future growth exists.

“Although the local economy is still heavily dependent on our automotive and manufacturing sectors, the West Midlands is well-positioned to take advantage of the growing demand for service exports and emerging markets in the Middle East and North Africa.”

A Global Brunch organised by the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce focused on The Power of Partnerships.

It brought together business leaders and experts to share practical insights on how collaboration fuels international growth.

Now in its fifth edition, the series – hosted by the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce head of global Jayne Hume – has become a platform for interactive discussions on global business trends.

This session highlighted how partnerships open doors to new markets, expand product reach, and drive innovation across sectors.

Delegates heard how collaborations ranging from trading partnerships and distributor agreements to university alliances can accelerate growth while helping businesses manage risks through shared investment.

The next Global Brunch will take place on 16 October, with a focus on developing a global mindset through curiosity and confidence.

Global Supper Club brings leaders together The inaugural Global Supper Club took place at Chapter restaurant, bringing together senior business leaders to reflect on Birmingham’s growing influence on the global stage.

The initiative – organised by the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce – was hosted by acting deputy CEO Raj Kandola. The evening provided a forum for open discussion, networking, and the exchange of ideas among leaders with a shared interest in strengthening the city’s international presence.

Designed to foster collaboration and deepen connections, the Global Supper Club forms part of the Chamber’s wider efforts to support businesses engaged in overseas markets.

Following the success of the launch event, regular supper clubs will now be held, creating further opportunities for members of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce to come together, build relationships and explore international opportunities.

The overarching topic is “Brand Birmingham on Global Stage”.

Worldly discussion: Members attend the inaugural Global Supper Club at Chapter

Discussion points include how the region can maximise the export potential of new emerging sectors

and enablers to global growth that the Chamber can support at lobbying level.

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

Diwali event to spark networking Members of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce are invited to celebrate Diwali – the festival of lights - by attending a business networking event with the theme Spark to Start at Birmingham City Football Club.

The event, taking place on 23 October, is sponsored by Barclays Bank.

Diwali 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.

The event attracts a wide range of businesses from across the region and Asian communities providing an excellent opportunity to make new contacts and meet potential suppliers/customers, raise business profiles, develop existing business relationships and share ideas and experiences.

Dr Rupa Parmar and Jigna Varu will be on the panel of speakers – with more speakers set to be announced soon.

Dr Parmar, a private GP and a medical director at Midland Health, established the clinic as a private pay as you go healthcare brand in Birmingham in 2018.

Jigna Varu is an awardwinning entrepreneur, recognised among the UK’s Top females of the UK in business.

She is the founder and CEO of VARU Beauty, a pioneering brand of fiercely kind cosmetics.

This event is free for all ABCC members, with two delegates allowed per company. Additional tickets can be purchased at £30 plus VAT. Tickets are priced at £30 plus VAT for Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce members and £15 plus VAT for Future Faces members. Non-member price is £60 plus VAT.

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Patrons dinner given a sweet taste of success

By Feron Jayawardene The inspiring story of Heavenly Desserts, which paid dividends through hard work, resilience, and exceptional customer service, was celebrated during the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Patrons dinner.

Yousif Aslam, co-founder of Heavenly Desserts, was the guest speaker. He shared the journey of Heavenly Desserts – beginning from a small shop in Ladypool Road to a global brand with 60 locations in three countries.

The dinner, at Malmaison, was hosted by ABCC co-presidents Neelam Afzal and Sapreena Kumari.

Yousif said: “I dropped out of university after my father, who was a taxi driver, fell ill.

“At the time I had no dreams, no plans and no foresight. I worked at the DWP, picked up a security job, and juggled two jobs just to get by.

“One of the biggest turning points was meeting a close friend who would later become my business partner. And in London, we came across a place that served

Sweet success (left to right): Sapreena Kumari, Money Chopra, Yousif Aslam, ABCC director Anjum Khan, and Neelam Afzal

only desserts. That sparked an idea.

“In 2008 we opened our first location on Ladypool Road. The first two years were dead, but slowly we began to build a reputation and a culture.

“To grow the right way, we hired a franchise director and by 2017 we

started franchising. That opened up a steady stream of franchisee businesses.

“As a franchiser, my responsibility goes beyond my direct team – it extends to every franchisee and the people they manage. That’s a duty I don’t take lightly.”

Lahore partnership for WCCC Warwickshire County Cricket Club (WCCC) has formed a joint global venture with Pakistan cricketing franchise Lahore Qalandars.

The collaboration is part of the clubs’ long-term strategic vision that will help to grow cricket across Warwickshire and Lahore in Pakistan.

The partnership includes the roll-out of mutually beneficial ventures for 2026 and beyond that will focus on talent and performance development through player and coach exchanges, academies and scouting networks, community projects, support for grassroot cricket, and commercial opportunities.

The partnership, announced by WCCC, follows the milestone acquisition for the club of Birmingham Phoenix alongside partners Knighthead LLP. Abraham Khan, finance director of WCCC, said: “Collaborating with Lahore Qalandars is not only about cricket at the highest level, but is about creating opportunities that will further enhance the growth of the game.

“By working together, we can pave the way for youth pathways, bolster funding and support for grassroot cricket, launch community initiatives and pool shared resource for development across all levels of the club.

“Our commitment to a collaborative approach comes from a shared belief that cricket can be a

Partnership (left to right): Samreen Rana, Lahore Qalandars owner and COO, Haseeb Bin Aziz, deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan to the UK, Abraham Khan, Warwickshire County Cricket Club finance director

powerful force for positive change. This is a new chapter for the club and places WCCC and Lahore Qalandars at the forefront of a global cricket partnership, and I’m excited to see the impact this will have for our fans, our cities, and the future of the game.”

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ABCC PREMIER+ PARTNERS

ABCC Patrons

Winning feeling: Last year’s winners celebrate in style

ABCC honours up for grabs as awards shortlist announced A set of high-impact businesses will be competing for Asian Business honours across eight categories as the shortlist has been unveiled.

The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce annual awards and dinner ceremony will take place on 27 November at The National Conference Centre.

The shortlist for this year’s award categories is: Outstanding Charity of the Year Acorns Children's Hospice Our Community Foundation FareShare Midlands Crisis Outstanding Contribution to Diversity & Inclusion – Sponsored

by South and City College Birmingham

Minor Weir Willis Ltd Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Charity Freshbreeze Environmental Ltd Birmingham Impact FC Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the Year Active Clinics ltd – Tammy Takkar Midland Health – Rupa Parmar Physio & Health Matters Ltd – Kiran Sharma Afsar Williams - Naz Williams Outstanding Male Entrepreneur of the Year – Sponsored by V12 Sports & Classic Verity Partners - Mehmood Rajoka Uniguard - Harry Hussain Lawtech 365 - Azeem Rashid Evolving Families - Dr Lucky Ganatra

Outstanding Professional Services Business of the Year Uniguard Freshbreeze Environmental Ltd Vasu Legal Services Limited Offa Operations Ltd Lancers Solicitors

Outstanding Young Achiever of the Year - Sponsored by Scholars School System Lawtech Software Group – Azeem Rashid Chase de Vere - Jay Dhaliwal KPMG – Zoya Hassan BK Networks – Belinda Kaur

Outstanding Small Business of the Year Kapadia Rose Afsar Williams Solicitors HEART Career Services Uniguard Its Halal

Tickets for the event are priced at £120 plus VAT per person. A corporate table of 10 is priced at £1,200 plus VAT and a platinum table of 10 wand a VIP food menu is £1,500 plus VAT.

Outstanding Start-Up Business of the Year MUSAFIR ESIM LIMITED MANSION 28 LTD Lancers Solicitors Decorum Restaurant

• For sponsorship opportunities, contact ABCC director Anjum Khan on a.khan@birmingamchamber.com • To book tickets, go to: greaterbirminghamchambers.com

JCC students snap up university places Joseph Chamberlain College (JCC) is celebrating success stories after many students landed successful university placements.

The placements come after JCC achieved the best results in their history.

Securing a place on a medical degree is one of the most competitive and challenging paths to pursue, requiring consistently high academic achievement, success in rigorous admissions tests, and strong performance at interviews.

Among this year’s successful medicine applicants is Mashaal Khattak, who achieved a triple A* in biology, chemistry, and physics, and is now set to study medicine at the University of Birmingham.

Mashaal said: “My time at JCC has been very memorable - during the last two years I have felt supported and heard in every aspect possible.

“The excellent staff and my teachers who always believed in me have made it possible for me to make huge leaps towards my dreams.”

Zinedine Ahmed also attained an astounding triple A* in further mathematics, mathematics, and physics, and will be undertaking a degree in electrical engineering at the University of Birmingham.

Zinedine said: “My experience at JCC has been amazing, the teachers are very professional and have given great support throughout my 2 years at JCC. JCC has helped build me into the man I am now.”

Class act: Successful students at Joseph Chamberlain College

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CANNOCK CHASE CHASE CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Data gurus (from left to right): Charlotte Jones & Ben Bradley Visible: The advertising site near the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands

Cosmik Carrot makes awards shortlist again Cosmik Carrot, a digital marketing agency, has been recognised as a finalist in the Best Use of Data category at the Midlands Marketing Awards 2025 at The Grand Hotel, Birmingham.

This is the second consecutive year the agency has been shortlisted, reflecting consistent performance in turning insight into action.

“Being named a finalist again shows the value of keeping data at the heart of creative work,” said Ben Bradley, director at Cosmik Carrot. “We focus on removing guesswork, improving the customer journey, and delivering results that teams can measure and trust.

“As full stack marketers, we believe the thoughtful adoption of AI is how we will help businesses manage the rollercoaster of change that is upon us all.”

From conversion-focused websites to development with targeted SEO and PPC management, the agency aligns creative with clear metrics that matter to growth.

Affordable advertising on offer for businesses An initiative offering local firms affordable advertising opportunities alongside the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands has been launched.

The LED advertising billboard is run by the Park Plaza office complex in Cannock, owned by the family company Valbrian Enterprises Ltd. It sits on the A460 roundabout serving as an entrance/exit to the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet West Midlands, a retail destination attracting between two and four million visitors annually.

With an estimated traffic flow of 230,000 vehicles passing the board every fortnight, the elevated LED screen offers advertisers highprofile visibility to a diverse and engaged audience.

Danny Nicoll, spokesperson for Valbrian Enterprises, said: “This is a unique opportunity

for local organisations to showcase their brand to thousands of shoppers, commuters, and outdoor enthusiasts heading to Cannock Chase.

“Many high-profile digital boards are operated by large agencies and can be out of reach for small businesses. We’re changing that.”

The billboard is illuminated 16 hours a day, 365 days a year, and its LED technology ensures vibrant, weatherproof visibility day or night.

Valbrian Enterprises is offering Chamber of Commerce members a discount, bringing advertising costs down to £8 per day.

Danny added: “This is a cost-effective way for local businesses to raise their profile, promote offers, or share community messages.

“We’re proud to offer a platform that’s accessible, impactful, and rooted in supporting our local economy.”

Enoch Evans welcomes new intake of talent Enoch Evans Solicitors has welcomed the arrival of its latest intake of future legal experts – with trainee solicitors Katherine Carter and Sophie Micklewright joining the firm.

The firm, with offices across the West Midlands, including Sutton Coldfield and Cannock Chase, was recognised in the Legal 500 and prides itself on offering a comprehensive trainee programme designed to cultivate the skills and knowledge of trainees.

The programme includes diverse learning opportunities and hands-on experience across various legal disciplines.

Trainee partner Sukie Shemar said: “It’s the start of an exciting journey where invaluable insights and expert guidance are readily shared.”

Managing partner Stephen Nixon said: “At Enoch Evans, we believe in nurturing talent from the very beginning. Katherine and Sophie have already demonstrated great promise, and we are happy to be part of their professional journeys.

“Our firm is committed to providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to thrive in their legal careers.”

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Future talent (left to right): Sophie Micklewright, Sukie Shemar with Katherine Carter

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BURTON & DISTRICT BURTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Marketing duo sponsor award

Founders: Lara Denney (left) and Sally Greaves

A marketing agency led by a duo experienced in championing ambitious business is backing an award in the Burton Celebratory Lunch at the Branston Golf & Country Club on 24 November.

Sallara Marketing will sponsor the award for Burton & District Start-up Business of the Year.

The agency was founded by Lara Denney and Sally Greaves to support ambitious businesses with flexible, hands-on marketing expertise.

Sally said: “At Sallara, we’re passionate about supporting ambitious businesses at every stage of their journey.

“Sponsoring the Burton & District Start-up Business of the Year Award gives us the chance to celebrate the creativity, resilience and innovation that start-ups bring to our region. We’re delighted to champion local talent and their contribution to our business community.”

Directors: Jane Henderson, Tony Garner and Kathryn Hall outside their Grade II listed office The Maltsters on Wetmore Road

SOCOTEC announce major acquisition

AI Global Media looks back on 15 years in the business Burton-based AI Global Media is staging a major celebration to mark its 15th anniversary with a party at the Pirelli Stadium.

Directors Kathryn Hall and Jane Henderson have been at the helm for those 15 years and third director Tony Garner for eight years.

Jane said: “AI Global Media took its name from its first publication Acquisition International in 2010. The publication was focused primarily on the M&A market and included thought leadership pieces, deal news and key feature articles on topics impacting those operating within the M&A world.

“The second publication Wealth & Finance International was launched in 2014 and now in 2025 the group boasts 11 brands. The team have digitised their offering entirely and ceased

circulating printed copies more than 10 years ago. Now it has a full social media suite, website and digital publications for each of the 11 brands.

“We are acknowledging and celebrating 15 years in business with an extra special Christmas party this year at Burton Albion Football Club’s Pirelli Stadium.

“We will celebrate the team members who have been key to our success both in the early days and right through to now. We will be presenting awards on the evening and will congratulate those who have particularly gone above and beyond for the benefit of the business.

“We would like to thank the Burton & District Chamber of Commerce in supporting our business over recent years. The membership has assisted us in raising our business profile locally.”

Leading provider of testing, inspection and certification services, SOCOTEC UK and Ireland, has acquired Belfastheadquartered Lloyds Datum Group (LDG), experts in foundation testing, structuring, geotechnical and environmental systems.

The acquisition enhances the Burton Chamber patron’s capabilities in the infrastructure field, with LDG’s expertise expanding SOCOTEC’s overall offering, as well as marking further growth into Ireland.

SOCOTEC CEO Hervé Montjotin said: “Acquiring Lloyds Datum Group aligns with the outline set in place by SOCOTEC Group and brings further growth on the island of Ireland for our UK and Ireland operations, which now boasts a presence in both Belfast and Dublin.

“We already provide air emissions and fire safety services in the Republic of Ireland and are looking forward to the customer bases of LDG and SOCOTEC benefitting further from our shared knowledge base.”

Incredible platform: Nigel Dillon (left) with Matthew Marriott

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

Exposing plight of unpaid carers Lichfield-based not-for-profit Grace Cares has released a powerful new White Paper highlighting the urgent need to support the UK’s millions of unpaid caregivers.

They say this group is too often overlooked in policy, services, and public understanding, according to the paper which has been produced in collaboration with Ontex Global.

Titled “Caring by Love, not by Pay: Stories and Solutions from Unpaid Caregivers”, the report is based on a national survey and in-person consultations with over 75 unpaid caregivers.

It brings their lived experiences into sharp focus, revealing a widespread lack of recognition, poor access to support, and serious impacts on emotional and mental wellbeing.

“Unpaid Caregivers are the hidden backbone of our health and care system. They save the

government billions – yet many are exhausted, isolated, and invisible. This white paper is about listening and acting,” said Hannah Montgomery, co-founder of Grace Cares.

‘Unpaid Caregivers are the hidden backbone of our health and care system’ According to Carers UK, there are around 5.7 million unpaid caregivers in the UK, providing care worth an estimated £132bn per year – equivalent to a second NHS. Yet the White Paper reveals: • 54 per cent of respondents feel the Unpaid Caregiver role is under-recognised • Over 50 per cent reported emotional and psychological distress from their caregiving role

• 76 per cent are unsure how to access support that already exists • Many do not initially identify as an unpaid caregiver, meaning they miss vital help.

In response, Grace Cares and Ontex Globalare co-developing a programme of local and national resources, drop-in sessions, and peer support initiatives, built to directly address the needs of unpaid caregivers.

Recommendations in the report include: • Better national and local recognition of the unpaid caregiver role • Access to emotional and psychological support, including counselling and peer networks • Funding for respite care and training for complex caregiving tasks.

...as auctioneers help Grace Cares Richard Winterton Auctioneers are partnering with not-for-profit Grace Cares in support of its mission to make care more sustainable.

The family firm carries out around a dozen house clearances each week across the area and holds weekly sales at The Lichfield Auction Centre, featuring hundreds of lots.

Care equipment sourced through these clearances will be donated to Grace Cares, Lichfield & Tamworth Chamber’s Charity of the Year, and will be rescued, refurbished, and rehomed to help those who need it most.

“The auction world revolves around recycling in one way or another,” said Tom Winterton, auctioneer and associate director at Richard Winterton Auctioneers.

“Buying and selling under the hammer ultimately prevents a huge amount of potential waste through reuse, upcycling, and restoration.

“We regularly come across care equipment that could still make a real difference to someone’s life.

Working for those in need (left to right): Richard Winterton, Adam Harrison and Lawrence Smith (both Grace Cares) and Tom Winterton

“This partnership ensures that nothing goes to waste, and everything goes to those who need it.

“There is tremendous synergy with Grace Cares and we couldn’t be happier with this partnership.”

Here’s your chance to join the Chamber committee

Honour: Fiona Rouse

36 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

Applications are being invited to join the committee of the Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber’s annual meeting is on 30 October (4-5.30pm) at The Hub at St Mary’s in Lichfield.

All Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber members are invited to put forward nominations for selection to the executive committee.

Those standing for the committee must be an individual whose business is a member of the Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber.

Nominees should fill out the application form at greaterbirminghamchambers.com\ All applications should be supported by an existing Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber member and submitted by 11:59pm on 11 October.

Fiona Rouse, who will complete her term as president, said: “As outgoing president, the last three years have been an absolute honour to champion Lichfield and Tamworth Businesses.

“None of this would have been possible without the support of the executive committee.

We encourage you to register your interest.”

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ROYAL SUTTON COLDFIELD CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Contact: Charlie Elliott T: 07753 453624

Kaiser is making waves in new role

Top for sustainability (left to right): Carolyn Day, Andrew Mitchell MP, Ian Hazel and Brendan Day

Sustainable efforts earn Platinum award A Sutton Coldfield-based funeral directors has become the first in the UK to achieve full marks for its commitment to sustainability.

Ian Hazel Funerals has earned a Platinum accreditation from the Greener Globe Funeral Standards, with a 100 per cent score.

The family-run firm initially joined the scheme as Bronze members in May 2024 and have since undertaken a wide-ranging review of policies and practices to achieve this milestone.

When the company’s purpose-built head office was constructed in 2013, environmental sustainability was front and centre.

The building includes rainwater harvesting, low-energy lighting with motion sensors, underfloor heating, a mechanical heating and ventilation recovery system, high levels of insulation, and 78 solar panels.

Ian Hazel said: “Even with all these environmentally friendly features, it wasn’t guaranteed that we’d reach Platinum level – let alone achieve a 100 per cent score.

“We’ve looked closely at all areas of our operations and had to think outside the box to ensure we’re running the business in the most environmentally responsible way possible.

“We now avoid engine idling, actively inform clients of eco-friendly options – from coffins to natural burial grounds – and operate our premises at more economical heating levels.”

Brendan and Carolyn Day, founders of the Greener Globe Funeral Standards, visited the Ian Hazel Funerals head office in Four Oaks to present the award. They were joined by the Rt Hon Andrew Mitchell, MP for Royal Sutton Coldfield.

Video and social media agency Big Wave Creations has achieved a major milestone in its growth, welcoming its first official team member to the business.

Kaiser Mandinga joins as post-production assistant, bringing fresh energy and technical skills to the company’s content offering.

Founded by Scott Billing, Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber member Big Wave Creations specialises in producing standout video and social media content for brands looking to elevate their presence online.

Scott said: “Bringing Kaiser on board is a huge moment for us.

“We’ve had a strong start, and now, with extra hands and new creative energy, we can push our content even further. I’m absolutely buzzing about what’s to come.

“It’s not just about adding capacity. It’s about building a team that believes in bold, creative content – and Kaiser fits that perfectly.”

Welcome aboard: Scott Billing (left) and Kaiser Mandinga

Swapping the pitch for paintball fun Walsall Football Club’s first team squad left the green grass of the PalletTrack Bescot Stadium behind recently to take on a very different challenge – an afternoon of team-building paintball battles at NPF Bassetts Pole Adventure Park.

Split into two sides – Reds v Blues – the players, manager and coaching staff clashed across a series of woodland combat game scenarios, where tactics, communication, and teamwork were tested to the limit.

Each mission carried vital points and was designed to encourage communication, strategic thinking, and camaraderie – all vital skills for success both on and off the field.

After a string of fiercely contested games, it was the blue team that took the win, proving themselves sharp shooters in the woodland arena.

Individual honours were also awarded on the day: • Top Gun awards went to Daniel Cox and Jake Hollman for their impressive skills on the battlefield.

• A special “Mentioned in Dispatches” award went to defender Priestley Farquharson, recognised great sportsmanship and hilarious manoeuvres.

Now you see them..: Camouflaged Walsall FC squad ready for paintball action

Walsall FC now joins the ranks of Aston Villa, Fiorentina, Nantes FC, UK Athletics and the Indian International Cricket Team – all of whom have chosen NPF as their “centre of excellence” for professional, quality team bonding and morale-boosting events.

NPF events director, Mrs Kerry Mayo, said: “It’s been a pleasure to welcome elite sporting teams from across the UK and Europe this summer as part of their pre-season training tours or ahead of major sporting competitions. Here at NPF we take pride in offering a friendly, personal, bespoke service to event planners, PAs, and businesses.”

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

Tile specialist in global demand A tile specialist that started its journey at a family dining room table is marking 30 years of growth, from a local supplier to a global commercial brand, thanks to a long-standing partnership with Lloyds.

Solus Ceramics was founded in 1995 by husband-and-wife team Peter and Jane Bentley, now headed by their son Marcus Bentley and son-in-law Ryan Bennett.

Today, the business is one of the UK’s largest privately owned distributors of sustainable porcelain and ceramic tiles employing over 100 people. With a turnover of more than £25m, the company operates showrooms in Birmingham, London and Manchester.

As demand from global brands over the years continued to grow, so has the company’s ambitions. A key turning point came in 2008 when Lloyds supported Solus Ceramics with funding to move into a new £3.5m headquarters and laid the foundation for further growth.

Over three decades, Lloyds has continued to provide tailored support across all areas of the business – from everyday banking to foreign currency accounts, international guarantees, and advice on investing in infrastructure and sustainability.

That support has played a crucial role in helping the business expand its footprint, build new showrooms, and serve a growing international client base.

Thanks to additional support from Lloyds, the business is now investing in a refreshed

Showroom: Solus Ceramics

Birmingham showroom and launching a new architectural studio in Digbeth – a thriving area at the heart of the city’s major redevelopment zones, including Smithfield and Curzon Street.

The business, a member of Birmingham and Solihull Chambers, continues to operate with the same family values it was founded on, putting long-term relationships, community and quality service first.

Sustainability is also central to Solus Ceramics’ vision, with the company having received

industry certification to accredit the business for responsible sourcing.

Ryan Bennett, managing director at Solus Ceramics, said: “We’re proud to support commercial designers and architects with technically brilliant, beautifully designed, sustainable products.

“Having a proper home made a real difference.

Lloyds supported us then, and they continue to be a great partner today, helping us manage international payments and guarantees with ease.”

Solihull Council charges ahead with EV infrastructure Solihull Council is celebrating the successful upgrade and expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, delivered in partnership with leading charge point operator Qwello.

Since the launch of the council’s ambitious EV destination charging programme last year, Qwello has successfully upgraded existing Council owned EV chargers and expanded provision at several key locations.

Attention has now turned to growing the network even further and installing easy-to-use new charge points at additional locations.

Accessible new charge points are currently being installed in Knowle, Castle Bromwich, Lyndon and within Solihull town centre.

This expansion supports the council’s recently updated Electric Vehicle Strategy, which sets out a clear roadmap for increasing accessibility to EV infrastructure, encouraging wider adoption of electric vehicles, and reducing carbon emissions in line with Solihull’s climate and air quality goals.

Earlier this year, the council hosted its first EV Experience Day, giving residents the opportunity to test drive electric vehicles, speak with industry experts, and learn more about the benefits of going electric. The event was a resounding success, drawing hundreds of attendees and reinforcing the borough’s commitment to a cleaner, greener transport future.

38 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

Shoppers’ parking: Qwello UK’s managing director, Martin Hale (left) and Councillor Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet portfolio holder for Climate Change and Planning, in front of recently installed Qwello infrastructure at Knowle shoppers car park

Councillor Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet portfolio holder for Climate Change and Planning, said: “We’re proud to reflect on the progress we’ve made in transforming Solihull’s EV infrastructure.

“With Qwello’s support, we’ve not only upgraded our existing network but are actively expanding it to ensure every community has access to reliable and convenient charging options.”

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SOLIHULL SOLIHULL CHAMBER PATRONS

Wilkes’ marketing team is best in show

Röhlig UK Ltd team Picture: Studio Forty-Six

Logistics experts take home top prize Logistics giant Röhlig UK Ltd scooped the top prize of Business of the Year at the Solihull Awards 2025, after triumphing in the Solihull Business without Borders category.

The awards ceremony, hosted by Solihull Chamber of Commerce, took place at The National Conference Centre, in front of 325 guests.

Solihull College & University Centre were the headline sponsor for this year’s awards, while the event was compered by Brummie-born BBC West Midlands Breakfast Show presenter, PJ Ellis.

The night also featured insights from guest speaker Scarlett Allen-Horton, multi- awardwinning recruitment entrepreneur.

The judges said Röhlig UK Ltd stood out with a clear and compelling submission, showcasing six initiatives that reflect global excellence. From sustainability and logistics expertise to local impact in Solihull through training, leadership, and charity, Röhlig exemplified international success with community heart.

Rory Pickin, regional marketing manager North and South Europe at Röhlig, said: “For us this is a big win. We’ve been shortlisted for the Solihull Awards now for the fourth year running and we have never won, so the fact that we have won two awards this evening is such a huge testament to the hard work the team has put in.

“With it being the Business without Borders award, we specialise in logistics and that is so important to be able to empower businesses both locally and also internationally to be able to further invest into Solihull.

“It is really nice to get that recognition and I really hope the team can go out and enjoy everything this award means for them.”

AWARD WINNERS Solihull Breakthrough Business 2025 - Vu Agency Presented by Scarlett Lily Allen-Horton, Harper Fox Partners Solihull Business without Borders Award 2025 Röhlig UK Ltd. Sponsored by runyourfleet

Law firm Wilkes’ marketing team has been named Team of the Year at the Midlands Marketing Awards 2025.

The judges recognised the team’s focus on delivering measurable results, with campaigns that combined creativity and attention to detail.

From digital engagement projects to multi-channel campaigns and internal communications, the team has consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver impact across the firm.

Launched to celebrate excellence across the marketing industry, the Midlands Marketing Awards bring together organisations and professionals from a wide range of sectors.

Winners are chosen by an independent judging panel.

Maria Heckel, head of marketing and business development at Wilkes, said: “This award is a fantastic recognition of the team’s hard work, creativity, and dedication. Our focus has always been on delivering results that make a difference for the firm and our clients, and I’m proud to see the team’s achievements acknowledged in this way.”

Ellie Holland, managing partner at Wilkes, added: “Our marketing team plays a crucial role in supporting the firm’s growth and reputation. Their ability to deliver impactful campaigns, while paying close attention to detail, sets them apart. We are delighted to see their efforts recognised with this award.”

Solihull Community Builder 2025 - runyourfleet.

Sponsored by Birchmere Mews Solihull Customer Commitment Award 2025 Touchwood Solihull. Sponsored by Midland Eye Solihull Digital Revolutionary 2025 – Wise.

Sponsored by Schofield & Associates Solihull Influencer 2025 – Eric Lyons Splendid Foods. Sponsored by MAN Commercial Protection Ltd Solihull Non-Profit Champion 2025 - Knowle and Dorridge Memory Café. Sponsored by Hubtel IT Solihull Pioneer 2025 – VGC Group. Presented by Cllr Karen Grinsell, leader of Solihull Council Solihull Sustainability Trailblazer 2025 – Birmingham Business Park. Sponsored by Touchwood Solihull Solihull Unsung Hero 2025 - Birmingham Dogs Home - Areika Bickerton. Sponsored by Solus Ceramics Ltd Solihull Workplace Champion 2025 – CAPE People Development. Presented by Dr Neil ShastriHurst MP Solihull Business of the Year 2025 - Röhlig UK Ltd. Sponsored by Headpoint Advisors

Wilkes celebration: Zara Reed (left), HR director, and Maria Heckel, head of marketing and business development

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

Groundbreaking study hits all the right notes Birmingham-based healthtech company quietnote won the Innovate UK Creative Catalyst Grant of £50,000 in 2024 from Innovate UK. One year later, quietnote have launched the results of its groundbreaking clinical study, demonstrating that their healthcare approach of mindfulness and music is not just a passing trend or a fad, but a scientifically validated approach to mental wellbeing.

The launch, hosted at The Exchange, brought together leaders in health, business, and culture to celebrate the findings uncovered by the study.

Conducted in partnership with the University of Birmingham, the year-long study is one of the most comprehensive investigations in the UK into how mindfulness combined with music can strengthen and improve mental wellbeing.

The results demonstrate measurable benefits for participants – offering new, science-backed tools to tackle rising levels of anxiety and burnout in workplaces and everyday life.

“This research is more than an academic milestone,” says Will Crawford, founder and CEO of quietnote and Future Faces vicepresident. “It’s proof that our approach can change how we address mental health and wellbeing. Our mission is to empower the country with our approach, giving millions of people accessible ways to build their mental fitness, resilience, and lifestyle.”

The launch event featured the first look at the clinical study’s results, keynote insights from quietnote and University of Birmingham researchers, and networking with leaders from health, local business, and the arts. quietnote has been growing quickly since it was founded in 2021, having worked with large organisations such as HSBC, Selfridges, The Woodland Trust, and PureGym, as well as working directly with the local business community in Birmingham.

Will continued: “We want to see our approach at the forefront of the mental wellbeing space, whatever your views on the subject, there is a global movement towards a deeper understanding and connection to ourselves, and we want to be leading the way.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work the team has done over the last year, over 100 people have been involved with this project and we’re throwing a huge launch party to celebrate the success of this project.”

40 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

Having a ball - the accountants’ committee (left to right): Julia Shields - social media representative, Alex Rossookh - ISC representative, Dylan Evans - ISC representative, Natasha Care - secretary and ISC representative, Saffron Barclay - sponsorship and social media representative, Anders Giles - vice chair, Joe Roadknight – treasurer, Lynsey Shepherd - vice president and John Bezzant - president

BCASS ball to raise vital funds for hospice Birmingham Chartered Accountant Student Society (BCASS) has announced the return of their annual ball, taking place at the ICC Birmingham on Friday, 7 November.

It will start at 6:30pm, and tickets will be available to people on the BCASS mailing list.

Future Faces member Natasha Care is part of the committee organising this year’s flagship event.

The Birmingham Chartered Accountant Students Society (BCASS) are the student society representing ACA students across the West Midlands.

This year the ball is raising money for Acorns Children’s Hospice with a charity raffle during the evening.

Natasha, an audit associate at PKF Smith Cooper, said: “I’m incredibly excited to be helping plan this year’s event and can’t wait to celebrate the evening, all while supporting Acorns Children’s Hospice."

Podcast to tackle the myths of neurodiversity In the next episode of The Future Faces Podcast, hosted by Sophie Poduval-Morrell, listeners are invited to explore the topic of neurodiversity.

Exploring neurodiversity (left to right): Sophie Poduval-Morrell, Iveta Pudilova and Sophie Allen

Joined by Sophie Allen, a creative entrepreneur and founder of Serrano Media, and Iveta Pudilova, founder of National Neurodiversity Training, the conversation delves deep into the myths, strengths, and changes surrounding neurodiversity in the modern workplace.

Neurodiversity recognises the variety in human brain function as part of the diversity spectrum. The trio discuss common misconceptions, like ADHD being linked to laziness, and dispel misconceptions about conditions like Tourette's, dyslexia, and autism.

They also highlight strengths such as creativity, directness, pattern recognition, and resilience.

The episode drops on 7 October. Scan the QR code to listen to previous episodes.

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FUTURE FACES

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

The finalists of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards 2025

Awards shortlist is celebrated

By Darby Newman Future Faces staged a special shortlist celebration to honour past and present GBYPY alumni and finalists together.

Sponsored and hosted by Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, the drinks reception celebrated the successful applicants of the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards 2025, as well as looking back at previous BYPY winners to the first awards ceremony in 2001.

The celebration also fell on the International Day of Birmingham, making it a great way to further celebrate Birmingham and the West

Midlands and the people that make it a great place to live, work and thrive.

Seventy-seven young professionals across wider Birmingham have been shortlisted for this year’s awards, spanning across a diverse range of sectors and professions.

‘Celebrating 25 years of BYPY only makes this year more special for the short listers’ The new Future Faces charity of the year was also revealed at the celebration. Games charity United By 2022 were chosen for 2025-2026,

succeeding Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA).

As part of the new partnership, United By 2022 will open up 100 places for Future Faces members to join its dedicated Volunteers Collective, which works to bring communities together by supporting a variety of large-scale events across the region.

Sophie Poduval-Morrell, manager of Future Faces, said: “Celebrating 25 years of BYPY only makes this year more special for the short listers.

They are becoming part of a beautiful legacy in our city and region.

“Being shortlisted shows bravery, ambition and drive, and I am so proud of these young professionals and cannot wait to celebrate them!”

...as more category sponsors are revealed Future Faces Chamber of Commerce has announced further category sponsors for this year’s Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards 2025.

Coaching experts GuruYou will be sponsoring the training and education category, law firm Lodders Solicitors LLP will be sponsoring the built environment category, and student utilities provider The Student Energy Group will be sponsoring marketing, sales and communications.

Graham Spalding, partner and head of the business services group at Lodders, said: “We have always been proud to champion our own young professionals and, since growing our presence in Birmingham over the past year and getting involved with the Chamber, it felt like a natural step to sponsor the GBYPY Awards.

“Birmingham is filled with talented young professionals across many different sectors, and by supporting them, we are investing in the leaders of the future.”

Rebecca Mander, founder of GuruYou, said: “I am so delighted to be supporting the GBYPY Awards 2025. Birmingham is blessed with a bright future thanks to the young people I see in our organisations and I cannot wait to celebrate the incredible finalists on this very special 25th year of Birmingham Young Person of the Year Awards.”

Alex Back, co-owner and managing director of The Student Energy Group, said: “We’re proud to sponsor the marketing, sales and communications category at the BYPY Awards, recognising the creativity and innovation that young professionals bring to this space.

“At The Student Energy Group, we believe in championing emerging talent, and we’re looking forward to celebrating the individuals who are helping shape the future of Birmingham’s business community."

Taking place at the ICC Birmingham on Friday 17 October, the awards will celebrate the talent and successes of young professionals across Greater Birmingham.

Find more information on the awards, such as sponsorship opportunities and ticket prices on the GBCC events website at www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/eventcalendar/greater-bypy-awards-2025.html

New Members Jordan Albrighton Knights Birmingham Benjamin Homans Allica Bank Georgia Antonopoulou Misbah Rahman Royal College of Nursing Rebecca Vernon Knights Birmingham Michael Kokkinoftas Knights Birmingham Rae Rodien Blackberry Events Ltd Ellie Cashmore Blackberry Events Ltd Mia Drury Knights Birmingham Tony Singh Purewal Knights Birmingham Mohammed Amine Ait Moulay Alice Astefanesei Harrison Clark Rickerbys LLP

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Another month packed with events After kicking off the month with a major Business Expo at Edgbaston Stadium, the heavy events programme continues with a variety of attractions across the whole Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce network.

…and most are FREE for members

Awards return – and with new categories Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s annual dinner and awards is returning in 2026 – with a revamped set of 11 new award categories.

The flagship event is taking place at the ICC in Birmingham on Thursday 14 May, 2026.

Among the new categories is the Business Ambassador Award, voted for by GBCC members in recognition of an individual or organisation who make a difference to the business community.

'Earlybird' ticket prices are £999 (plus VAT) for a table of 10 or £170 (plus VAT) for individuals.

One of the category winners will be crowned Greater Birmingham Business of the Year (sponsored by Crowe UK LLP).

The categories are: • Non-Profit Champion 2026 • Community Builder 2026

OCTOBER ABCC Chamber Connections Date: 1 October Time: 9:30 – 16:00 Venue: Edgbaston Stadium Division: GBCC Cost: Members only Greater Birmingham Business Expo 2025 Date: 1 October Time: 9:30 – 16:00 Venue: Edgbaston Stadium Cost: Free Joint Chamber Business at Breakfast Date: 7 October Time: 8:30 – 11:00 Venue: Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Hall Division: Royal Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15 +VAT Non-members: £50+VAT Premier Members Networking Breakfast Date: 7 October Time: 8:30 – 11:00 Venue: Millennium Point Division: GBCC Cost: Premier members only

• Workplace Champion 2026 - sponsored by University College Birmingham • Pioneer 2026 - sponsored by Sandwell College • Sustainability Trailblazer 2026 • Digital Revolutionary 2026 - sponsored by Gateley PLC • Breakthrough Business 2026 - sponsored by runyourfleet • Business without Borders 2026 - sponsored by Gowling WLG • Customer Commitment 2026 - sponsored by Translift Bendi • Influencer Award 2026 • Business Ambassador 2026 - sponsored by Turkish Airlines Applications must be submitted through the awards portal on the Chamber website, by Sunday 12 December.

Black History Month Celebration (GBCC Black Business Collective) Date: 7 October Time: 16:30 – 19:30 Venue: The Grand Hotel Division: GBCC Cost: Free Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes at runyourfleet Date: 13 October Time: 16:30 – 18:30 Venue: runyourfleet Division: Solihull Cost: Solihull Chamber members: Free GBCC Patrons: Free ABCC Women’s Network Event Date: 15 October Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Kabuli Division: ABCC Cost: Free for female-identifying ABCC members Cannock Chase Chamber Connections Date: 15 October Time: 15:30 – 17:30 Venue: TBC Division: Cannock Chase Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £25+VAT

Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber Connections & Future Faces Date: 15 October Time: 16:30 – 18:30 Venue: NPF Bassetts Pole Adventure Park Division: Future Faces, Royal Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: Free Non-members: £25+VAT Global Brunch – Curiosity and Confidence Date: 16 October Time: 9:30 – 11:30 Venue: Albert's Schloss Division: Global Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £25+VAT Greater BYPY Awards 2025 Date: 17 October Time: 18:00 – 23:00 Venue: The ICC Division: Future Faces Cost: General sale tickets: £120+VAT Corporate table of 10: £1,200+VAT Diwali Business Networking 2025: Spark to Start Date: 23 October Time: 18:00 – 21:30

For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/networking-events 42 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

Venue:

Birmingham City Football Club Division: ABCC Cost: ABCC: Free Members: £30+VAT Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £60+VAT Solihull Networking Lunch Date: 24 October Time: 12:30 – 14:00 Venue: Voco St John's Solihull Division: Solihull Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT Burton & District Business at Breakfast – Celebrating Black History & Business Date: 28 October Time: 8:30 – 10:00 Venue: The Deer Barn Division: Burton & District Cost: Members: Free Future Faces: £15+VAT Non-members: £50+VAT Lichfield & Tamworth AGM & Networking Date: 30 October Time: 16:00 – 17:30 Venue: The Hub at St Mary's Division: Lichfield and Tamworth Cost: Members: Free Non-members: Free

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CHAMBER TRAINING

and international training courses The Chamber is again organising a comprehensive programme of training courses for businesses of any size who are looking to brush up on their international trade knowledge. Those planned for April are listed below.

ALL CHAMBER MEMBERS CAN ENJOY REDUCED COSTS. For more details contact Leah Quarmby, international trade training manager, on 07860258387

Documentary Letters of Credit (BCC accredited) Date: 29 October Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: David Reader Cost: Members: £180+VAT Non-members: £250+VAT This course is ideal for professionals in international trade who manage or present letters of credit, or those seeking to deepen their understanding of the process. It offers a detailed exploration of how letters of credit work, along with insights into alternative trade finance options.

Delegates will benefit from practical guidance and expert-led discussions, making it valuable for both newcomers and those looking to refresh or expand their existing knowledge.

OCTOBER ISO14001 Environmental Management System (EMS) Training Date: 7 October Time: 9:30am – 16:30 Venue: Birmingham Chamber house Trainer: ISO Quality Services Ltd Cost: Members: £200+VAT Non-members: £290+VAT The ISO 14001 Environmental Management Training Course provides comprehensive guidance on both establishing and managing an ISO 14001 Environmental Management System, while also addressing common challenges encountered along the way.

Whether you're exploring ISO 14001 for the first time or already involved in the daily operation or auditing of an existing system, this interactive classroom training offers valuable insights. By engaging with the trainer and fellow participants, you'll gain fresh perspectives and practical knowledge. The course is designed to support all levels of experience – from newcomers to seasoned professionals in environmental management.

Agents and Distributors (BCC accredited) Date: 9 October Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: David Reader Cost: Members: £180+VAT Non-members: £250+VAT This comprehensive course is ideal for professionals working in international trade who currently liaise with agents and distributors, or are seeking to explore opportunities to engage with them effectively.

Throughout the training, delegates will gain valuable insights into the distinct roles and responsibilities of agents versus distributors, key factors to consider when appointing either party & the legal implications involved in establishing these relationships.

Combined Import and export – A detailed overview Date: 9 October Time: 9:30 – 15:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Exporter Services Cost: Members: £260+VAT Non-members: £330+VAT Our specialised full-day course offers a comprehensive overview of both import and export procedures, covering all key elements involved and outlining the essential documentation required to ensure smooth and compliant operations.

This course is ideal for those who may not have completed a beginner’s

programme but already possess a basic understanding of international trade. It’s particularly well-suited to individuals seeking a fact-based, practical approach to deepen their knowledge across both import and export topics.

ATA Carnet Step-by-Step Workshop Date: 14 October Time: 10:00 – 12:00 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: TBC Cost: Members: £115+VAT Non-members: £185+VAT The ATA Carnet serves as an international "passport" for your goods, simplifying temporary exports – but navigating its requirements can be complex.

This practical workshop will guide you through the step-by-step application process, helping you submit accurate information and avoid costly customs delays.

Whether you’re new to carnets or an experienced exporter looking to refresh your knowledge, this session is designed to support all levels of experience with clear, actionable insights.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Champions Training Date: 15 October Time: 9:30 – 16:30 Venue: Birmingham Chamber house Trainer: The Kaleidoscope Group

Cost:

Members: £170+VAT Non-members: £250+VAT Mental health affects every workplace, regardless of industry or size. This course is tailored for organisations that want to foster a supportive environment and confidently identify when colleagues may be struggling.

By participating, your business can enhance its wellbeing strategy and cultivate a network of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) champions – trained individuals equipped to offer informed, compassionate support when it matters most.

Customs Procedures & International Documentation (BCC accredited) Date: 27 October Time: 9:30 – 15:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Exporter Services Cost: Members: £290+VAT Non-members: £360+VAT Designed for professionals in internationally trading companies, this course offers a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding of customs compliance procedures and stay up to date with evolving requirements.

It’s equally beneficial for experienced staff seeking a refresher, especially in light of the changes brought about by Brexit. With a focus on accurate and current customs documentation, the course ensures participants are wellequipped to navigate today’s regulatory landscape with confidence.

Methods of Payment (BCC accredited) Date: 29 October Time: 1:30 – 16:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: David Reader Cost: Members: £180+VAT Non-members: £250+VAT This course is ideal for professionals working in international trade who handle cross-border payments or wish to expand their understanding of the various payment methods available.

It’s particularly valuable for those looking to enhance their ability to facilitate smooth, secure transactions with overseas customers and partners.

Participants will gain a comprehensive overview of international payment methods, including the associated risks and benefits. The course explores how to select the most appropriate option for different trading scenarios and outlines the documentation required to ensure efficient and compliant processing.

Social media essentials Date: 31 October Time: 9:30 – 13:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Netcom Training Cost: Members: £165+VAT Non-members: £215+VAT Using social media in your business isn’t just trendy, it’s transformative.

Attendees of the session will learn why it’s a game changer for industries of all sizes and fields, and leave with essential knowledge and hands-on skills to harness social media as a powerful marketing tool for growing their business.

The day will explore essential topics like building a strong brand, navigating various social media platforms, and measuring success through effective progress tracking.

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

Jobs fair highlights urgent need for tech skills

By James Edwards, head of progressions at Netcom Training

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‘There are currently 80,000 people out of work in Birmingham alone, according to the city council’ 44 CHAMBERLINK October 2025

he West Midlands is on the cusp of something big. With one of the fastest-growing tech sectors in the UK, our region has the chance to position itself as a national leader in digital innovation. Yet, there’s a challenge holding us back: a widening digital skills divide and a pool of job hunters that need to see the value of retraining for opportunities in tech.

There are currently 80,000 people out of work in Birmingham alone, according to the city council, with an estimated 727,000 job vacancies in the UK (Office for National Statistics). West Midlands Combined Authority partner with Netcom Training to close these digital skills gaps, providing government funded training for

eligible learners in key growth areas such as cyber security, AI, IT support and data analysis.

In August, Netcom, Birmingham Job Centres and Starting Point Recruitment joint-hosted an event focused on connecting Netcom learners and out of work individuals with digital training opportunities and employers actively hiring in tech. Held at Birmingham’s Millenium Point, the event’s response was overwhelming with more than 1,000 attendees, 80 per cent of whom were unemployed and actively seeking training or entry-level roles.

The Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, was in attendance, and the event’s turnout underlines a crucial point: the appetite for upskilling is strong and the opportunity to connect

motivated individuals with pathways into digital careers is right in front of us.

Netcom conducts an annual study into West Midlands tech skills, primarily analysing data from open job roles across our region. This year’s report revealed what many employers already know: demand for digitally skilled workers is surging, but the local talent pipeline isn’t keeping pace. In fact, 84 per cent of employers in the region say they struggle to recruit candidates with the right digital skills, while vacancies in areas like cyber security and cloud computing remain some of the hardest to fill.

At the same time, two-thirds of businesses say AI and automation are already reshaping the skills they need. The risk is clear: without urgent action, businesses will

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION struggle to remain competitive and individuals will miss out on opportunities for high-value, future careers.

So, what can be done?

1. Employers must be part of the solution Closing the skills gap isn’t just a training provider’s job, it requires businesses to invest in their workforce. From recruiting freshly trained tech individuals to supporting entry-level employment, employers who engage early benefit from talent that’s already aligned to their needs.

2. Training must reflect the realities of industry It’s not enough to focus on technical knowledge alone. Employers increasingly want candidates who can communicate, collaborate and adapt. Courses that combine technical skills with problem-solving and professional behaviours give learners the confidence to add value from day one.

3. Accessibility and inclusivity are key The report shows that barriers to entry are still holding people back.

Over 40 per cent of jobseekers in

the region cite cost as a major obstacle to gaining digital skills, while others highlight a lack of flexible learning options. If we want to futureproof the West Midlands economy, training must be fully funded where possible, flexible and open to people at all stages of their careers.

4. Individuals should identify training with career support When choosing a training provider, learners should look for organisations that offer quality careers coaching to increase their chances of securing a job. This can look like CV advice, job search support and even introductions to employers that are actively hiring in tech.

Kevin Varshi, managing director at Netcom Training, added: “Digital

skills are no longer optional; they are the foundation of future growth for both individuals and businesses. We see every day how the right training can open doors for people who are unemployed, underemployed or looking for a career change. Our mission is to make sure that talent across the West Midlands has access to these opportunities, and that employers benefit from a workforce equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.”

The good news is that change is already underway. The West Midlands is home to forwardthinking employers, dynamic training providers and a wealth of untapped talent. By working together, we can turn the digital skills gap into an opportunity – one that strengthens our businesses, transforms careers and ensures the West Midlands leads the way in digital innovation.

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

Skills development

The engine of innovation

By Tatiana Ameri, B2B marketing manager, Gloucestershire College

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n a world defined by rapid technological change, global competition, and shifting workforce expectations, skills have become the currency of professional longevity and business innovation. The organisations that thrive are not those with the biggest budgets or longest histories, but those that place skills development at the heart of their strategy.

For employers, this means investing in people as much as in products or processes. For educators and training providers, it means designing pathways that are flexible, inclusive, and aligned with the evolving needs of industry. And for individuals, it means recognising that soft skills and lifelong learning are no longer a nice-to-have but a core part of employability.

Why skills development matters more than ever The UK economy is undergoing a transformation.

Automation, artificial intelligence, and digitalisation are reshaping jobs faster than ever before. At the same time, new industries are emerging in green technologies, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare innovation.

Yet while opportunity abounds, there is also a widening skills gap. The CBI estimates that nine in 10 workers will need to reskill by 2030. Without a systemic approach to skills development, businesses risk stagnation and individuals risk being left behind.

The human factor It is tempting to see innovation as purely technological: new apps, tools, or systems. But at its core, innovation is human. It comes from people who are empowered to think differently, to solve problems, and to collaborate across disciplines.

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Companies that prioritise upskilling and reskilling foster cultures of curiosity and adaptability. Apprenticeships, for example, create opportunities for people who may have been overlooked by traditional educational pathways and recruitment methods, including neurodivergent individuals whose strengths often bring fresh perspectives and problem-solving skills.

Government bodies and organisations like EngineeringUK, CyNam, and others are actively promoting apprenticeships as a tool to address gender imbalances by attracting more women into sectors that have historically been maledominated, from engineering and construction to digital technologies. With generous government funding available, apprenticeships offer businesses a way to diversify their workforce, grow talent from within, and even upskill existing staff so they remain agile in the face of change.

Building bridges between education and industry One of the most powerful levers for skills development lies in collaboration. Colleges, universities, and training providers have long been engines of talent. But the most successful models are those where education and industry work hand-in-hand.

Employer-designed apprenticeships are a prime example. They ensure that training is relevant, practical, and immediately valuable. Similarly, professional development programmes co-created with staff lead to conversations that are more meaningful and motivating than top-down directives.

These partnerships are not only good for business – they are vital for regional growth. When local employers and educators align around a

shared skills agenda, they create ecosystems where talent flows into opportunity, and innovation drives prosperity.

Towards a skills-first future To embed skills at the centre of business strategy, leaders need to act on three priorities: Make skills development continuous: One-off training courses are no longer enough. Businesses must invest in ongoing learning pathways that evolve with the needs of the organisation and the ambitions of individuals.

Embrace inclusivity: Skills strategies should open doors, not close them. That means designing opportunities for people of all backgrounds, ages, and stages of career progression to engage with training.

A practical way to do this is by connecting with local training providers, who can act as long-term partners and can advise on apprenticeship programmes, available funding, provide tailored upskilling opportunities, and sector-specific initiatives to keep skills current and open the door to more diverse talent.

Measure impact, not input: Counting training hours tells us little about outcomes. Instead, employers should track the real impact of skills development: improved performance, stronger innovation, and higher retention.

People as catalysts for innovation Business and innovation thrive when people thrive.

In every sector, from digital to healthcare to green technologies, the winners will be those who see skills not as a cost, but as an investment in their greatest asset: their people. Organisations that embrace this truth are not only preparing for the future, they are actively shaping it.

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

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FEATURE: HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

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healthy workplace

There’s a business case for making sure your staff are happy with their working environment. A healthy, happy workplace can help raise morale, improve productivity and minimise staff turnover. But what can employers do to champion employee wellbeing?

Take mental health seriously Work can be a big cause of stress to your employees, which may not only effect their job performance but can also take a toll on their relationships and overall health. Long hours and high levels of stress are common triggers for mental health issues, as well as fears of redundancy, a lack of control and increasing expectations, all of which can lead to a burn out.

There are number of steps an employer can take to support mental health in the workplace.

Discuss the needs of your staff, and what they feel that you as an employer can do to help them to reduce or manage stress. Give your managers the necessary training they need to better support employees with mental heath issues, and show them that you value their health and wellbeing.

Look after employee physical health For a great number of people, going to work means spending a large portion of the day sitting at a desk in front of a computer. For others, it can mean being on their feet for hours at a time. Over time, the physical effects of work could have a negative impact on the health of your employees, so it’s important to encourage healthy habits.

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Encourage regular short breaks away from computer screens and provide guidance on how to maintain a healthy posture when sitting at a desk for long periods of time. You can also encourage your staff to take a short, brisk stroll on their lunch breaks, or implement a cycle-towork scheme. Additional benefits, such as private healthcare, free eye-tests and gym discounts, are all valuable perks that will demonstrate your commitment to employee health.

Flexible working The standard nine-to-five workday has come under much scrutiny in recent years, with studies suggesting it’s not the most productive or healthy schedule for a growing number of workers. Allowing your workers some flexibility to balance their work and personal lives can have a hugely positive impact on their wellbeing.

While allowing your staff to come and go as they please might not be the most practical option for most employers, it is a good idea to offer a degree of flexibility wherever possible.

For example, do your staff have to take their lunch break at the same time everyday, or can they choose the hour most convenient to their workload? Is there the possibility to allow staff to work from home a few days a week? Giving

your employees greater control over their hours can reduce stress, improve morale and boost productivity. Offering flexible working hours is also a great tool for recruitment, as it demonstrates your commitment to the wellbeing of your staff.

Improve the working environment Most people spend the majority of their waking hours at work, so offering a pleasant and comfortable working environment can improve wellbeing, morale and productivity.

A simple place to start is with temperature and lighting. Is your workplace too hot, too cold or too draughty, and if so, what can be done to achieve an ambient temperature? Does your workplace get enough natural light, and if not, can you install daylight bulbs to mimic this effect?

If you workplace is a little bland, or even austere, a few simple touches can help brighten up the space. Hanging artwork, buying a few plants (making sure you appoint someone to water them) and encouraging staff to de-clutter their workspaces can all help improve the look and feel of a workplace. Additionally, installing a comfortable break area can provide a space for your staff to socialise and relax in away from their desks.

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FEATURE: HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Sector Focus The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

Striking gold accreditation a second time Travel management company Access Bookings has achieved the Investors in People (IIP) ‘We invest in people’ Gold accreditation for the second time running.

The accreditation places the Lichfield-based firm in the top 28 per cent to achieve this globally recognised benchmark for people management.

The Investors in People ‘Gold’ standard highlights organisations that demonstrate a proven commitment to delivering a positive and nurturing work environment for their people.

To secure the accreditation, businesses undergo a rigorous assessment of their practices, policies, leadership and strategy, all conducted by IIP’s independent assessors combined with feedback from employees.

Access Bookings, which has achieved silver and gold in previous years, has secured this latest accreditation for three years, reinforcing its commitment to creating a supportive environment where its 174 strong team can grow and thrive.

The firm, which specialises in worldwide travel management and bookings for the entertainment industry, is dedicated to delivering exceptional expertise and puts both its clients and people at the heart of everything.

Daniel Aston-Bell, HR business partner, at Access Bookings, said: “Our people are our greatest asset, and we constantly strive to create a workplace that is nurturing and dynamic at every level.

“Our team is supported to achieve both career development and work-life balance, and this, alongside an inclusive, collaborative environment, is what makes Access such a great place to work.”

People in focus: The Access Booking team

Rhia Oliver, EDI and wellbeing lead at Access Bookings, said: “Continuing to invest in our people is a key growth strategy for us, and scooping gold again means that every single person who took part in the process provided vital feedback on their experience of working at the company and how best to make work better.

“Knowing that we already have a fantastic platform and a highly engaged workforce gives strong foundations to build upon.”

Gordon Stopani, IIP Practitioner, said: “On behalf of Investors in People, I’d like to congratulate Access Bookings on achieving Gold accreditation in the ‘We Invest in People’ Standard. This is a fantastic recognition for anyone, and places Access in fine company with those organisations which understand the true value and benefits of deploying high quality people practices within the day-to-day working culture.”

From Birmingham to Derry: easyJet announces new route easyJet has launched its first flight on a new domestic route from Birmingham to Derry in Northern Ireland. The new twice-weekly service will operate every Monday and Friday. easyJet is the only carrier directly connecting Birmingham and City of Derry, providing customers in the Midlands with even more convenient connections across the UK. City of Derry lies on the west bank of the River Foyle and is home to Northern Ireland’s only completely intact historic Walled City.

It offers a vibrant food scene, and award-winning museums aplenty as well as a great gateway to discover where the Wild Atlantic Way meets the Causeway Coastal Route, not to mention the setting of iconic series Derry Girls.

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Derry here we come: An easyJet crew at Birmingham Airport

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the launch of our new service from Birmingham to City of Derry Airport, providing even more choice for our business and leisure customers alike.

“We are proud to offer great value fares and convenient connections for our customers, as well as for those across the UK looking to explore the fantastic experiences Northern Ireland has to offer.”

Ryanair launch Tirana links Ryanair has announced a new route from Birmingham to Tirana for summer 2026.

From April 2026, the low-cost airline will be operating the route from Birmingham Airport on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The route is part of Ryanair’s new three-aircraft base at Tirana – a significant €300m investment that will supply over 3,000 jobs and provide 10 new European routes from the Albanian capital. Further growth at the Tirana base is also scheduled over the next five years.

Al Titterington, terminal operations director at Birmingham Airport said: “We’re delighted that Ryanair is expanding its presence at Birmingham Airport next summer with the scheduled service to Tirana.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Getting the region on its bike A new partnership between Birmingham City Council and The Active Wellbeing Society has been announced to deliver the next phase of the award-winning Big Birmingham Bikes project, designed to encourage people to switch from cars.

Big Birmingham Bikes was first launched in 2015 and to date has seen over 7,500 bikes distributed across the city.

The next phase of this initiative will bring together local partners to provide residents in East Birmingham with access to bikes, cycle skills and maintenance training, along with support to switch from car to bikes for short trips.

The Active Wellbeing Society CEO Karen Creavin said: “We are thrilled to be working with Birmingham City Council and our local partners again to make cycling more accessible to the residents of Birmingham. We know from our previous work in

Transforming: Getting commuters and others into the saddle

Birmingham and the southeast how transformative cycling can be for residents’ health and wellbeing, community cohesion and social mobility.”

Councillor Majid Mahmood, cabinet member for environment and transport for Birmingham City Council, said: “We are pleased to be collaborating with The Active

Wellbeing Society and other partners to enable further delivery of the Big Birmingham Bikes project.

“This award-winning initiative plays an important part in ensuring access to cycling across Birmingham so that everyone can benefit from the opportunities this provides.”

Busiest month: Birmingham Airport

A record breaking summer for Birmingham Airport Birmingham Airport (BHX) recorded its busiest month ever in August following a record-breaking summer for passenger volume.

A total of 1,519,621 passengers travelled through the regional transport hub in August 2025 – a 4.8 per cent increase compared to the same period last year and the highest total number of passengers recorded during a single month in the airport's history.

The milestone month is bolstered with new routes from the airport to popular destinations including Gibraltar, Jerez, and Rome. Birmingham Airport remain on track to experience its busiest year ever with nearly 14 million passengers forecast to travel through the transport hub in 2025/26.

Some of the most popular destinations for August included sunshine spots such as Tenerife, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca and Faro. Other busy routes included Dublin, Dubai and Amsterdam.

Al Titterington, terminal operations director of Birmingham Airport, said: “We’re delighted to report that August was our busiest month ever here at BHX with over 1.5 million passengers choosing to travel through the Airport.

“This historic milestone is indicative of our extensive route network and our ongoing commitment to enhancing our operations to facilitate sustained growth.

“As we enter the final part of this year, we are pleased to see the launch of even more new routes from BHX including services to City of Derry, LaplandRovaniemi and Sibiu. We are also continuing the delivery of our most ambitious investment programme ever, which will bring significant improvements to capacity which our customers will experience when they travel through the airport.”

The Active Wellbeing Society (TAWS) will be joined by partners, Wheels for All, Sähëlï Hub and Cycling UK, to deepen their offer to residents living in Birmingham.

Inclusive cycling provider, Wheels for All, will be collaborating with partners to create an accessible cycling hub, providing adapted bikes, trikes and tailored cycling support.

Sähëlï Hub, a community hub based in Balsall Health with a focus on supporting women into activity, will be hosting “learn to ride” and cycle skills sessions, community support and events.

Andrew Cremin, head of Behaviour Change England at Cycling UK, said: “The training and support we provide for these volunteer-led activities and rides is proven to work. By showing people what big changes can come from swapping some car journeys for bike rides, we hope to make our streets safer, greener and more connected.”

Student rail tickets available London Northwestern & West Midlands Railway has announced that student season tickets are officially on sale.

They provide unlimited travel between two chosen stations until 23 December – at up to half the cost of a Standard Season Ticket.

Under the new season ticket rules, 16s and over can save 50 per cent on a standard Adult Season Ticket. Students aged 15 and under can save 25 per cent on a standard Child Season Ticket. The tickets allow any time travel between two chosen stations during the specified travel window.

Sophie Gardner, senior sales and marketing manager at London Northwestern & West Midlands Railway, said: “Our Student Season Ticket offers an incredible discount for anyone in full time education and the positive feedback we’ve received so far from educational establishments has been greatly received.

“We want as many school, college and university students as possible to be aware of this product and take advantage of the substantial savings, choosing rail as their main transportation to and from their educational establishments.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Accountancy firm climbs advisor ranks The Dains Group has climbed Experian’s UK financial advisor rankings for the first half of 2025, marking a significant step up in the firm’s M&A activity.

After completing 20 deals, Dains secured 17th place nationally, building on its breakthrough into the top 20 in Q1.

Regionally, Dains rose to fourth in the Midlands (from seventh) with 13 deals. Headline transactions during H1 2025 included Linnaeus’ acquisition of Rutland Veterinary, the Pancholi family’s sale of Just Egg to Noble

Foods and the management buyout (MBO) of Freshview.

The firm also advised the shareholders of Meet & Engage on its sale to Unseen Group, as well as a significant fundraise for chartered surveyor firm Greenhatch with Virgin Money, building on Dains’ earlier advisory work on its Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) transaction.

Consilium Chartered Accountants, which became part of the Dains Group in January, completed its first deals under the new group by advising on the sale

Wellbeing provider strengthens team Health and wellbeing provider BHSF has made two senior additions to its executive leadership team, reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence and regulatory integrity. The appointments come as the organisation continues to evolve its digital capabilities and reshape its service offering to meet the changing needs of the modern workforce.

Clare Enstone joins as director of risk and compliance, bringing extensive experience in governance, regulatory frameworks, and enterprise risk management. Clare is responsible for BHSF’s risk and compliance strategy, ensuring the organisation continues to meet the highest standards across its operations.

Georgina Callaghan has joined as chief operating officer, a role previously held by current CEO Stuart Hayhurst. Georgina brings over 20 years of experience in business transformation, digital innovation, and operational leadership, having held senior roles at Key Group, Coop, PwC, and Barclays.

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Great milestone: Roy Farmer

Streamlining (left to right): ART lending manager Martin Edmonds, Foresee Fixed Line Myla Iqbal and Halo commercial finance broker John Pocock

of food-to-go producer PJs Foods to Tiffin Sandwiches and on HVAC specialist Cleartech Group’s acquisition of ECB (Water Solutions).

Roy Farmer, corporate finance partner at Dains, said: “Breaking into the UK top 20 with 20 completed deals in H1 is a great milestone for our team and our clients.

“The step-up in both the Midlands and Scotland reflects the breadth of our sector expertise - from healthcare and industrials to food and beverage and technology - and our ability to execute across buy-side, sellside, MBOs and growth capital. “ Dains has also broadened its horizons with the acquisition of independent consultancy TBAT Innovation. The transaction sees Dains, provider of advisory services to the SME market, unveil its third acquisition since securing private equity backing from IK Partners (IK).

Funding boost for IT firm to build AI solutions An IT and telecommunications provider serving businesses and schools across the UK has secured funding from ART Business Loans to develop innovative artificial intelligence solutions.

Foresee Fixed Line, based in Erdington, Birmingham, has recruited two new staff to take its headcount to seven after receiving a five-figure funding package to invest in the development of artificial intelligence systems and to acquire state-of-the-art IT equipment for rental to business customers.

The company specialises in delivering bespoke IT solutions, fixed line and mobile infrastructure services. The introduction of advanced AI solutions, including landline solutions, will enable the business to collaborate with its

customers to streamline processes, optimise procedures and save valuable time.

‘ART Business Loans have been crucial to our business as they are a lifeline’ By leveraging AI, Foresee aims to achieve measurable results for clients, such as reducing operational costs by up to 30 per cent and improving efficiency by 40 per cent.

The funding has also helped the business to purchase hardware including tablet devices and mobile phones to be used in hardware rental services to companies.

Foresee Fixed Line director Myla Iqbal said: “ART Business Loans

Phoebus secures ISO recertification

Blueprint: Warren Higgins

Solihull-based Phoebus Software Limited has achieved recertification to the updated ISO 27001:2022 standard, underlining its long-standing commitment to safeguarding client and customer data against evolving cyber threats.

The global standard, which sets out best practice for information security management, was revised in 2022 to reflect the changing digital landscape.

The new framework introduces enhanced controls for cloud-native services, threat intelligence, data leakage prevention, and incident response – areas that are critical to modern SaaS operations.

Securing the latest recertification ensures the company continues to operate at the highest levels of security resilience, particularly for its SaaS mortgage servicing and lending platform.

Warren Higgins, chief information officer at Phoebus, says: “For us, ISO 27001:2022 isn’t simply a certificate for the wall. It is the blueprint we follow every single day to keep our platform secure. The process challenged us to scrutinise emerging threats like never before, particularly in cloud security and threat intelligence.”

have been crucial to our business as they are a lifeline. Martin Edmonds, our loan manager, and the team take time to listen and understand our business plan. They are business funders who are there to listen to business owners.”

ART Business Loans manager Martin Edmonds added: “Foresee Fixed Line is an excellent example of how the right funding can help innovative businesses expand their capabilities and serve their customers better.

“We are pleased that ART Business Loans could provide the support for their business growth ideas. Their focus on providing bespoke IT solutions and building long-term relationships with businesses and schools shows the kind of sustainable growth we like to support.”

Bank to offer more grants Unity Trust Bank’s grant programme has returned for a second year – and this time a total of £50,000 will be distributed through 10 awards of £5,000.

Eligible customers are invited to apply for funding to support projects and activities that deliver positive social, economic and environmental impact in their communities.

Joshua Meek, chief impact officer at Unity Trust Bank, said: “As a social impact bank, supporting worthwhile causes is an integral part of delivering inclusive growth for our communities.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

Mills & Reeve report record turnover

Strong performance: Jayne Hussey

Freeths move into new office Freeths, which has a base in The Colmore Building in Birmingham, has moved its Milton Keynes office into new, state-of-the-art premises.

The 8,000 sq ft office space in the heart of Milton Keynes’ city centre is designed to foster collaboration, support hybrid working, and provide a welcoming environment for clients and colleagues alike.

Key features include: • Sustainable design, with office furniture made from recycled materials • A dedicated faith and wellbeing room for colleagues • Two outdoor, solarpowered pods designed for collaborative working • Excellent transport links, including access to the city’s proposed Mass Rapid Transport system.

Freeths has also advised Ben-Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund (Ben) on its strategic disposal of three care home and retirement village sites. A leading legal adviser in the health and social care sector, Freeths advised Ben on the disposal of three sites – Lynwood Care Centre and Village in Ascot, Town Thorns Care Home in Easenhall, Rugby, and Birch Hill Care Home in Norham, Northumberland.

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Law firm Mills & Reeve has announced turnover growth of £13m in its 2024/25 financial year, resulting in record revenues of £181m.

The firm’s Midlands business has seen a turnover increase of 12 per cent in its 2024/25 financial year and celebrated one year at its office in One Centenary Way, Paradise.

As in previous years, staff have shared in the firm’s growth through the annual allstaff bonus.

This year's national bonus pool, which is directly linked to the firm’s profits and varies

each year, was £1.4m, meaning the majority of people received a bonus of at least £1,000.

The strong financial results follow another successful year which has achieved several significant milestones and embarked on a range of exciting projects, including: • Major investment in people, including two lateral hires in partner Rob Biddlecombe, who leads Mills & Reeve’s environmental law practice, and Catherine Savage, a partner in its regulatory, public law and commercial disputes team who

specialises in academic litigation. The team has also announced five promotions in the region.

• Continued support in the communities its team lives and works in with partnerships with local charities.

• Increased Fearless Feedback scores with 90 per cent of clients saying they would recommend the firm, getting closer to the 2030 target of 95 per cent client recommendation.

• Strengthening the firm’s international offering to

Law firm shortlisted for two wills and probate awards Wilkes has once again been shortlisted at the British Wills and Probate Awards 2025 - this year for Probate Provider of the Year North & Midlands and Community & Charity Champion.

The law firm has demonstrated its commitment to making a meaningful difference beyond legal services through a range of initiatives.

These include partnerships with both Birmingham Hospice and Marie Curie Hospice, support for KidsOut and Let’s Feed Brum, regular foodbank drives, mentoring with Leadership Through Sport & Business (LTSB), and funding for grassroots sports groups.

The dual recognition reflects the strength and technical excellence of Wilkes’ Private Client team in wills, probate, and estate planning, as well as the firm’s deep-rooted commitment to supporting the local community.

Launched in 2018, the British Wills and Probate Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and impact across the private client sector. Finalists are selected following a rigorous and independent judging process, with winners revealed this month at a ceremony in Manchester.

Ellie Holland, managing partner and head of the Private Client Department at Wilkes, said: “This recognition reflects the hard work of the firm as a whole and the dedication of our Private Client team, who consistently go above and beyond to support clients through complex and often emotional matters.”

Important sale: Gareth O’Hara

Wilkes has also advised on the successful multi-million pound sale of the entire issued share capital of Johnsons Cars Limited to AWR Holdings UK Limited, part of the UAE-based AWR Rostamani Group.

As part of the wider transaction, Johnsons Cars Limited also completed the sale of its Toyota and Lexus dealerships to Beadles Medway Limited, a subsidiary of Group 1 Automotive Limited, and further strengthened its portfolio with the acquisition of the VW Bilston dealership from Greenhous Group Limited.

Gareth O’Hara, senior partner at Wilkes, said: “We are really pleased to have supported Johnsons Cars on this important sale. Having worked with the business for over 20 years, we have advised them on a wide range of matters, and it’s rewarding to see the shareholders reach this milestone.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

‘This is a strong performance for our team in a challenging market’ clients and re-branding to M&R Global, with the aim for 40 per cent of all work to have an international element by 2030.

Jayne Hussey, partner and head of the Birmingham office, said: ‘This is a strong performance for our team in a challenging market. We’ve continued to invest in our people, technology and offices to push forward with our 2030 firm-wide strategy.

“It’s an exciting time to be working in the Midlands. The West Midlands Growth Plan sets a clear blueprint for future success.”

Expansion for Weightmans Weightmans is opening a new office in Nottingham, further strengthening its presence in the Midlands.

This strategic move is a step forward in Weightmans’ ambition to expand its market share across priority sectors – notably health and public bodies, as well as services tailored to owner managed businesses and private clients.

Sarah Walton, managing partner, said: “The opening of our Nottingham office marks a strategic investment that reinforces our long-term commitment to the Midlands.

This expansion not only strengthens our geographical reach but also allows us to harness the expertise of the region’s dynamic talent pool.”

Hot topic: David Perry

Technology trends Amy Ralston (pictured), associate in Stephens Scown LLP’s Intellectual Property, Data Protection and Technology team, considers the latest technology trends, and how to mitigate the risk of these trends without being left behind.

Technology is developing at a breakneck speed, and while affordable products offer great opportunities, it can also pose significant risks: • A recent safety collaboration between OpenAI and Anthropic found that OpenAI’s ChatGPT provided bomb-making instructions and illegal drug recipes to researchers, raising significant safety concerns.

• In August, US-based technology leader Salesforce experienced a data breach, which impacted numerous organisations. During this incident, threat actors compromised and extracted sensitive customer information.

Businesses can mitigate the risks posed by digital and technology trends by: • Ensuring you have dedicated, regularly updated AI, cybersecurity, and disaster recovery policies.

• Evaluating and auditing your third-party contractors and platform integrations (who might provide an “easy” way into your systems).

• Having robust contractual documentation with third parties for outsourced services or, if you are a provider of services or technology, your customers.

• Actively monitoring and staying compliant with the regulatory regimes relevant to technology and data, including complying with data protection legislation. Tools and guidance are offered by the Information Commissioner’s Office, and by our specialist data protection team.

To speak to a member of the team about the use of AI in your business, contact: technology@stephens-scown.co.uk | 0345 450 5558

Affordable housing expert joins HCR Law Real estate lawyer David Perry has joined HCR Law’s Real Estate team as a partner in its Birmingham office.

Previously a partner at a London-headquartered law firm, where he acted as national head of affordable housing, David is a well-respected expert in his field, ranked in Chambers and Partners and recognised as a leading partner in social housing by the Legal 500.

David has built a strong reputation for advising on buy and sell side transactions across the affordable housing and build-to-rent market, specialising in residential development, housing and regeneration schemes.

His appointment to HCR Law’s Real Estate team reflects ongoing growth across the built environment, following the recent additions of social housing and retirement living expert Louise Drew, also based at the Birmingham office, and commercial property and data centre specialist Lauren Perdikis.

David said: “HCR Law has made a strong name for itself in Birmingham and beyond, and with its impressive growth nationwide, I’m excited to join the firm at such a pivotal time.

“Affordable housing remains a hot topic for the UK. I’m more determined than ever to advise clients nationwide, supporting registered providers, housebuilders, developers and funders to help deliver the housing stock our country so urgently needs.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

Mercedes-Benz rolls out the world’s first vegan car interior The first car to offer interior fittings certified by the Vegan Society’s market-leading Vegan Trademark has been unveiled by Mercedes-Benz.

The new GLC with EQ technology can now be ordered to include a Vegan Package, which means that all touch points in the vehicle’s interior, from the high quality ARTICO replica leather seats to the steering wheel, door trims and centre console have been tested and certified by the Vegan Society’s Trademark team.

This confirms that the materials contain no animal ingredients, derivatives or by-products.

The interior has not been tested on animals by the company or on its behalf.

Gabriela Chalkia-Jackson, client relations manager at The Vegan Society, members of

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce, said: “With this joint project between The Vegan Society and Mercedes-Benz, we have reached a new milestone: it is the first time that a car interior has been third-party certified and approved by the Vegan Trademark.

“We are thrilled that Mercedes-Benz chose to partner with us on this journey and we have certainly learnt a lot from the two-year project.”

The world's leading certification system for vegan products tested a total of around 100 material components from various MercedesBenz suppliers in accordance with Vegan Trademark certification standards.

These high standards were particularly important to Mercedes-Benz in its choice of

which independent organisation used to certify its new Vegan Package.

Markus Schäfer, chief technology officer, development and procurement and member of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, said: “At Mercedes-Benz, we don't take shortcuts – instead, we go the extra mile.

“Our customers can rest assured that our vegan interior materials do not contain any animal products and meet very high testing standards. We are delighted to be able to offer them this assurance through our partnership with an independent and globally recognised certification organisation.”

Mercedes-Benz’s vehicle configurator will be labelled with the Vegan Trademark’s sunflower logo.

Aston University partnership to offer pioneering AI tools Aston University and financial technology provider Phoebus Software have joined forces to develop the UK’s first suite of generative AI-powered tools for banks, building societies and lenders to service mortgage and savings accounts.

The Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project will enhance and revolutionise the way customers and agents interact with Phoebus’ mortgage and savings software, introducing intelligent conversational interfaces capable of delivering realtime, personalised support.

Across multiple industries, older, “legacy” software platforms are difficult to adapt and maintain, and users often need to spend considerable time navigating complex data across multiple screens. To help tackle the challenges of ageing software,

Phoebus has already made a multimillion-pound investment to eradicate these issues.

To create new tools for Phoebus and its latest online “Software as a Service” products, the KTP project brings together the company’s technology developers with Aston University’s AI and digital transformation experts. The combined team will apply the latest academic advances in natural language processing, metadata generation and data mining.

The AI-powered tools developed will allow users to have natural, intuitive “conversations’”with Phoebus’ mortgage and savings technology. This will modernise what is traditionally a complex and opaque experience into one that is seamless and customer-focused, so servicing is more efficient, userfriendly and responsive.

Joint project (left to right): Salah Ebrahimpour (KTP associate), Philip Weber (Aston University), Nicolas Nicholas (Phoebus Software), Paul Warrington (Innovate UK Business Connect), Abdul Sadka (Aston University) and Samuel Burrows (Aston University)

Phoebus is working with researchers in The Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute. Established at the intersection between the engineering, health and social sciences, the institute’s growing footprint in the digital technology space and track record for delivering AI tools for businesses is spearheading Aston University’s contribution to the economic regeneration of Birmingham and the West Midlands.

Professor Abdul Sadka, director of The Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute at Aston University, said: “Co-creating innovative solutions for finance sector challenges using our expertise in AI data analytics will be very rewarding for our institute.

“We’re bringing together a nationally leading academic team who are at the forefront of AI/GenAI technologies and multimodal data analytics.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY

Constructing a future in Brum Construction experts Frankham have laid down solid city centre foundations, with the launch of a new office in the heart of Birmingham.

Specialising in construction consultancy and building compliance, Frankham has contracts across the UK. John Powell, managing director for Frankham Risk Management Services, said: “With a recent emphasis on new and extended programmes of work in the West Midlands, it made strategic sense for Frankham to establish an official foothold in Birmingham.

“Increasingly, we’re being asked by organisations to support them in their building compliance approach, whether due to the niche and complex nature of their compliance requirements, the specialised expertise needed, or resourcing pressures.”

Ian Chand is Frankham’s newest recruit in the Midlands, taking the role of regional head of fire safety at Frankham Risk Management Services. Ian’s distinguished career, rooted in the fire safety and risk sector, has positioned him as a leading expert in managing complex fire safety challenges for high-risk buildings.

Autumn Budget could hit property market The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget, Chancellor might replace SDLT or scheduled for 26 November, could Council Tax with an annual have a profound effect on the UK property tax, and it has been property market, Parris Britton, a suggested that this could be a 0.54 senior manager in the professional per cent tax levied on a home value practice and private clients team between £500,000 and £1m when at Crowe, has cautioned. bought, and 0.18 per cent on any She said: “Having repeatedly value above £1m. ruled out increases to employee national insurance, income tax of VAT, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has limited room for manoeuvre, but she needs cash, and fast.

“We have huge changes to inheritance tax already announced and looming Business Property Relief and Agricultural Property Relief changes in April, 2026, and Pension IHT changes from April 2027. Just one of the many rumours swirling about on the announcements we may hear in the Autumn 2025 Budget include changes to how tax is charged on properties.”

She said the options could include changes in how Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and Council Tax are levied.

“An abolition of SDLT would see prices rise and changes to thresholds would prompt price shifts, but what would SDLT be replaced with?”

Reports have been Chancellor needs fast cash: circulating that the Parris Britton

Building expert reissues book New challenges: David Watt

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An expert within the building sector has released the latest edition of his renowned book, Building Pathology.

David Watt, associate director at Hutton + Rostron, has published the third edition of the title – 26 years after the first edition was released in 1999.

Hutton + Rostron is a SOCOTEC company, the latest patron of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce.

David said: “This edition arrives as the wider industry is facing an increasing number of new challenges – between building safety, climate resilience, retrofitting and the increasing complexity of heritage assets in active use.

“As a result, the case studies featured within the text have been updated and expanded to reflect that change, with a stronger focus of applying principles in varied, realworld contexts. Ultimately, we need to strive to give professionals the confidence to diagnose and act, not just observe, and hopefully that will be achieved with this updated edition.”

A prolific author with several titles published within the surveying and building space, David is focused on using his extensive experience as a chartered building surveyor and historic buildings consultant to help unpeel the layers of buildings and their users in Building Pathology.

David said: “Often, there is a rush to treat the symptom without fully diagnosing the cause, but true building pathology is all about getting to the heart of what is going on.”

Parris pointed out: “This raises as many questions as answers. Who is getting the annual national property tax? Local councils or central government? How often is a property revalued? How is it revalued? And many have suggested that these changes would not increase revenues, so what would be the point of making them?”

She said that an annual property tax would be a significant issue for those that are asset rich but cash poor. Moving on to proposed changes on Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and Private Residence Relief (PRR) for properties valued over £1.5m, she asked if these changes would simply be a rate change to all chargeable assets as forecasted before last year’s Budget, which did not happen, and will CGT rates be moved closer to income tax rates?

“If this only affected main residences, there would be a disincentive to sell.

“And if the Chancellor removes PRR on properties above a certain value, will there be a cliff edge threshold meaning that prices are skewed to reflect this?”

Work complete on portfolio Enoch Evans Solicitors, which has offices in Sutton Coldfield and Cannock Chase, has successfully completed legal work for a portfolio of mixeduse properties in Birmingham.

Senior solicitor Anita Patel managed the intricacies of the financing for the portfolio, ensuring all lender requirements were met and title issues were efficiently resolved. The client expressed their appreciation for the dedication and professionalism demonstrated

by Anita - highlighting her commitment to overcoming challenges and advancing the process.

Anita said: “We regularly deal with similar size and larger-scale matters, and our experience, including mine of over 20 years, helps ensure a smooth transaction.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS Successful exams partnership: SCCB and The Rigby Foundation

The importance of GCSE resits As the government considers whether to scrap GCSE resits, a Midlands charitable foundation argues that funding pioneering resit programmes is a game-changer for disadvantaged young people from the region.

The Rigby Foundation, based in Warwickshire, is dedicated to funding programmes that enable young people, regardless of their background, to access the best education possible and to have the chance of securing meaningful and sustainable employment.

The foundation funds the Get Further resit programme, which takes place at South and City College Birmingham (SCCB).

The scheme addresses the fact that while tutoring can be transformative for students who fall behind in English and maths, the cost puts it out of reach for many. By providing free extra tuition for students, this approach has removed that barrier.

Currently, 43 per cent of children in Birmingham live in poverty; the region has the highest poverty rates in England, with child poverty surging to 43 per cent in early 2025. There are more than 130,000 children in

Birmingham living in the bottom quintile of deprivation nationally, and the city is ranked the seventh most deprived local authority in England.

Sixty students at SCCB followed weekly tutoring sessions to prepare for their resit exams in either maths or English GCSE. Pass rates for young people resitting GCSEs in the West Midlands have historically been below the national average. In 2023-24, just 16.8 per cent of resit students in the region passed at grade 4 or above (standard pass) in GCSE English, while 12.6 per cent secured a grade 4 or above in GCSE maths. Pass rates this year for students at SCCB on the Get Further programme, however, were 25 per cent higher than the regional average in English and 59 per cent higher in maths.

Steve Rigby, chair of The Rigby Foundation said: “Our mission is hinged on wanting young people across the West Midlands from less advantaged backgrounds to have the same opportunities as their peers from wealthier families, and so we are proud to invest in their potential and to be part of a partnership that is delivering real, measurable impact.”

Distinction for Dan despite setbacks A management apprentice has achieved a distinction in his Level 5 Operations Management Apprenticeship despite significant setbacks to his learning journey.

Daniel Jennings, a CAD specialist who manages a small team at Brown MacFarlane, joined Performance Through People in 2023 when his previous training provider ceased trading. This not only brought about a change of tutor, but also a different awarding body and, compared with his previous provider, a new way of learning.

Dan said: “With my old training provider, all of the learning was online. When I moved to PTP, it was much more of a hands-on experience. Dave Price, my tutor, came and saw me on-site and provided me with real individualised support.

“It was tough at the beginning because much of the work that I had completed wasn’t relevant to what I needed to produce for my End Point Assessment. However, Dave helped me to gather practical evidence from my real work

Launchpad: Cooper Parry trainees get their first taste of life at Cooper Parry

Record intake at accountancy firm Overcoming setbacks: Dan Jennings (centre) with his HR manager Linda Miller and his line manager Ant Ellis

experiences that I could use to fill the gaps in my portfolio.”

Dave Price said: “Dan could have given up when hit with the challenges he’s outlined, however he had such a positive attitude to the whole process it was a pleasure to work with him.”

HR Manager Linda Miller said: “We always saw the promise in Dan. It’s great to see that he has done so well and I know Dave’s support has been a big part of this.”

Leading accountants Cooper Parry are investing strongly in the future – with over 140 new trainees marking their biggest student intake to date.

This year 102 new trainees are joining the group across its seven UK hubs, with an additional 45 already on board from earlier this year.

To mark the occasion, Cooper Parry hosted its annual Launchpad event — a special induction programme at The Studio in Birmingham to enable new joiners to get their first taste of CP life, culture, and values.

CEO Ade Cheatham said: “Welcoming over 140 new trainees to Cooper Parry this year is another huge milestone for us — and a reflection of the energy, ambition and growth we’re driving across the firm.”

Trainees are joining from across the UK, with the new intake going to offices in the East Midlands, London, Reading, Birmingham, Manchester, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Pioneering tech gives patients a healthy brain...

Technology that restores healthy brain function for a number of conditions, including anxiety, burnout, binge eating and sleep regulation, has been developed by Solihull-based general practitioners Daleswood Health.

The Chamber member has launched Exomind, a pioneering non-invasive neuromodulation technology, making it available for the first time in the region.

Positioned at the forefront of healthcare innovation, Exomind uses gentle, non-invasive stimulation to rebalance neural activity and restore healthy brain function.

Unlike traditional approaches, this drug-free technology offers a personalised solution for optimising mental performance and addressing a wide range of modern health challenges.

‘We are extremely proud to introduce Exomind to the Midlands community’ Exomind has demonstrated significant benefits for conditions including: • Anxiety and chronic stress • Burnout, fatigue and brain fog • ADHD, focus and executive dysfunction • Addiction and compulsive behaviours • Emotional and binge eating • Sleep and mood regulation.

Dr Alison Denton, co-founder at Daleswood Health, said: “We are extremely proud to introduce Exomind to the Midlands community.

Brain health pioneers: Doctors Oliver and Alison Denton, the husband-and-wife team at Daleswood Health

“This technology not only represents the future of personalised brain health, but also has the potential to transform productivity, resilience, and wellbeing in the workplace.”

With stress, burnout and cognitive challenges increasingly

AI project to detect fraud

UK’s largest: CEO Andy Hague with members of the Tech Week team

Tech Week makes its return Birmingham Tech Week, the UK’s largest regional tech festival, is returning for a seventh consecutive year this month.

Organisers say it cements the West Midlands’ reputation as a global hub for innovation, talent and transformative technology.

Taking place between 20 to 24 October, Birmingham Tech Week 2025 will welcome over 8,000 attendees, as well as international delegates from countries including Korea and Germany to venues across the city, like ICC, Millennium Point, and the award-winning STEAMhouse innovation centre.

The event’s programme, powered by TechWM and supported by some of the biggest local tech giants, multinational corporations, and universities, will be driven by thought-provoking discussions on frontier technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, and quantum computing.

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impacting professionals and businesses, the launch of Exomind offers a timely, science-led solution to support both individual wellbeing and organisational performance.

Exomind is now available exclusively at Daleswood Health.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, is among high-profile guests who will be speaking at the Exclusive Leadership Breakfast on Monday, 20 October.

He said: “Technology is rapidly changing people’s lives across the Midlands, from how we travel and work, to how we learn, make things, and even how we care for others.

“The West Midlands is on the rise, with a rapidly growing sector that has been heralded as the fastestgrowing tech region in the UK, and that now makes up over 20 per cent of our economy, providing jobs for tens of thousands of local people.

“This is no longer a promising tech cluster, it’s a national growth engine with global ambition.

“With leadership from TechWM, Birmingham Tech Week shows the world what is possible when you back local talent and their ideas.”

A partnership between Aston University’s Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute and Domestic & General (D&G), a global insurance and household appliance repair provider, will develop an insurance fraud detection system that uses generative artificial intelligence (AI).

Although certain fraud detection techniques – such as identity verification and fraud databases – are already available to insurance companies, there is no off-theshelf technology that can integrate these and make them fit for purpose for D&G’s particular needs.

Professor Abdul Sadka, director of The Sir Peter Rigby Digital Futures Institute at Aston University, said: “This KTP offers a really exciting challenge, involving novel sources of data and uses of AI. “We’ll be drawing together a suite of tools and techniques and integrating those to create an end-to-end system, which will be bespoke to Domestic & General but also pushes the boundaries of what’s currently possible in this field.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: THE ARTS

Jazz & Blues Fest gets support to continue High honour for Carlos Acosta Carlos Acosta (pictured), the director of Birmingham Royal Ballet, has received another accolade.

He has been selected to receive the Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre Award by the UK Theatre board, in recognition of his extraordinary career both on and off stage, and his commitment to broadening access to dance across the UK and internationally.

He will receive the award at the UK Theatre Awards ceremony on Sunday, 12 October.

Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival has announced that the popular event will continue in 2026 after “overwhelming support” this year.

Jim Simpson, Birmingham’s legendary music impresario behind the festival, had previously voiced fears that this summer’s 41st festival might be the final one because of reduced funding.

But Mr Simpson revealed how the general public’s ongoing generosity, plus the beginnings of relationships with new funding partners, had given him the confidence to organise the 42nd consecutive festival next year.

While more funding is still required, he explained there was now enough momentum to confirm next year’s Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival would run from 24 July to 2 August 2026.

Mr Simpson said: “The real influence has been the overwhelming support shown by our audience.

“Not only were average audience numbers higher this year, but we were also humbled by many individuals’ generosity for the festival via financial contributions.

“These have ranged from old age pensioners insisting we accept a fiver to one individual donating £3,000.

‘The real influence has been the overwhelming support shown by our audience’ “The current total of crowdfunding donations from the public has also nearly reached £6,000 and they are still coming in.

“Django Chutney, one of the bands in this year’s festival, even refused their performance fee to support us. On top of this, we have had new funding from the West Midlands Combined

Authority, and we will explore this and other funding avenues for the 2026 festival. We very much need more funds to fully finance what will be the 42nd year, but we’re already in a much stronger position than this time last year.”

This year’s Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival involved 178 performances, 166 with free admission, in 101 venues across the West Midlands, to a total audience of 64,498.

Other 2025 festival sponsors were Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council and The Musicians Union, who between them provided funding of £20,975. The festival’s GoFundMe campaign has raised £5,731 to date, while another £3,637 was contributed by private donors, making total funding of more than £30,000.

The festival’s hotel partner, Aloft Birmingham Eastside Hotel, also provided rooms free of charge for visiting musicians.

IN BRIEF Ikon will present the first major survey exhibition of Guyanese-British artist Donald Locke (1930– 2010) at the gallery in Brindleyplace from this month until 22 February, 2026.

The exhibition explores the development of his work across Guyana, the UK and the United States over five decades, from the late 1960s to the early 2000s. It features over 80 works, from early ceramics that evoke human and natural forms to mixed-media sculptures and monochromatic black paintings from the 1970s.

Birmingham Rep has announced that its highly anticipated World Premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the Twelve Days of Christmas has been extended to mid-January due to popular demand.

This new play, penned by writing duo Humphrey Ker and David Reed, and featuring original songs by the legendary musical theatre duo Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, opens at The Rep on Friday, 14 November, and will now run until Sunday, 18 January 2026 – an additional week of performances.

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Legendary impresario: Jim Simpson at his Birmingham desk

...as Birmingham is hailed as the UK’s ‘home of blues’ Birmingham has become the UK’s home of blues following reports in multi-media outlets that the eyes of the world are on the city.

The constant stream of attention has been driven by Big Bear Music and Big Bear Records, the Birmingham-based company still active after more than 55 years.

Big Bear is headed by Jim Simpson and media interest is sparked by how this music impresario once managed Black Sabbath, initially a fledgling 1960s

blues band called Earth before Simpson changed their name and they transformed into heavy metal.

The July edition of Living Blues, the USA’s largest blues magazine, highlights how Henry’s Blueshouse nights, launched by Big Bear in 1968 at The Crown pub in Birmingham, where Earth once played, are now held every Tuesday at the city’s Snobs nightclub.

The magazine discusses Big Bear’s flagship Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival and now Earl Pryor

– grandson of legendary harmonica player Snooky Pryor – is quoted by Living Blues as wanting Simpson to launch a facsimile blues festival in Chicago.

Earl says: “What Jim does in Birmingham has shown that, once people hear what the blues is about, they love it. In Birmingham, I saw blues transcending barriers between people and bringing them together to dance, sing and laugh. Right now, we need that more than ever.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: SPORT

The Business of Sport Vision: A computer-generated image of the new North Stand

North Stand capacity to increase Aston Villa FC’s redevelopment of its North Stand will increase its seats capacity to over 12,000.

As the latest instalment of the North Ground regeneration plans, the North Stand expansion Villa say it underlines their commitment to levelling up the fan experience whilst becoming a world-class sports and entertainment venue.

Combined with ongoing upgrades to Villa Park’s other three stands, total capacity at Villa Park will increase to over 50,000.

The stadium renovation is set to be completed in the second half of 2027, ahead of the UEFA EURO 2028 Tournament for which Villa Park will be a host venue.

Championing a sustainable approach, Aston Villa FC will adapt and reuse the existing North Stand structure for the expansion. This will ensure that the capacity for Villa Park will not decrease during construction.

Trio join Sport 4 Life UK board Sport 4 Life UK, a leading sport-for-development charity delivering life changing programmes to young people, has announced the appointment of three new trustees to its board: Carolyn Keenan, Gurdeep Boparai, and Chris Sharman.

Carolyn Keenan is head of Aston University’s student enterprise and entrepreneurship team and programme manager for the Aston Centre for Enterprise and Entrepreneurship.

Gurdeep Boparai is interim deputy general counsel at IPF plc.

Chris Sharman is the founder of Kidztivity and a certified non-executive director.

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‘This project will mark an important milestone in the Club’s journey to becoming a world-class sports and entertainment venue’ Since the expansion plans were announced in 2022, mayor Richard Parker has committed in his campaign manifesto to rebuild Witton Station.

Improvements suggested include replacing the current station passenger shelters, introducing larger and safer queuing systems, delivering a new station footbridge and introducing higher capacity trains in order to double the current passenger handling capability of the station to 10,000 passengers per matchday.

Nassef Sawiris, executive chairman of Aston Villa FC, said: “Since Wes Edens and I became

owners of this storied Club in 2018 and Atairos joined us as partners in 2024, we have shared a clear ambition: to restore Aston Villa to its rightful position competing at the highest levels of English and European football, and to transform the Club into a global brand and European powerhouse.

“Thanks to the mayor’s commitment to develop Witton Station and to improve local transport links, this project will mark an important milestone in the Club’s journey to becoming a world-class sports and entertainment venue.”

Richard Parker said: “Aston Villa is a vital part of our region’s identity and I’m proud to support the club’s ambitious plans to redevelop the North Stand. We have been working closely with the club, Network Rail and other partners to ensure the necessary improvements at Witton Station will be made in time for the Euros in 2028.”

Team building fun on offer as circus meets Company Games Inspire Activity – organisers of the Community Games, Retro Games and Company Games – are bringing more fun to the Greater Birmingham business community.

The Company Games is teaming up with performers and trainers from the House of Mash in King’s Heath, Birmingham, for a host of new challenges in a fun team building event on Tuesday 28 October (4pm to 7pm).

Teams will take on challenges such as juggling, plate spinning and tight wire balancing, as well as other retro favourites.

It takes place at the House of Massh’s state-of-the-art circus skills centre.

Dennis Kennedy, founder of Inspire Activity, a member of the

Team building: The Company Games team

Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce, said: “It’s an experience designed to spark laughter, build bonds, and leave everyone talking

long after the last plate has stopped spinning.”

Entry is £395 (plus VAT) for a team of four to six people.

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CHAMBERLINK

Chamber Insight Focus on a member

Name: Leonora Valdezco Company: LValdezco Ltd Job Title: Founder & buyer agent

What does your company do?

Unlike estate agents, I work solely for buyers, helping them find, negotiate, and secure properties with complete independence and trust.

How did it all start?

I realised buyers were left unsupported while agents prioritised sellers so I launched a service dedicated only to buyers.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

Through strong connections, clients access both market and off-market homes securing dream properties like a footballer’s house and a forever bungalow in days.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?

Leaving the traditional route to build an independent buyer agency. It was bold, but it transformed how clients purchase property.

What keeps you awake at night?

Ensuring more buyers know they don’t have to face the process alone they can have independent representation on their side.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

I’d start earlier, bringing buyers the confidence and savings that come with having their own agent.

What has surprised you most in your job?

How quickly trust builds when clients learn I represent only them not sellers or estate agents.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Believe in your value, focus on people, and stay consistent – relationships and trust will open every door.

Which business do you most admire?

In my industry, DDRE Global, for their innovative, client-first approach to property, setting high standards that mirror the ethos I strive to deliver.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

Opening access so first-time buyers, movers, and investors alike can benefit from independent representation and off-market opportunities.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

I joined to raise the profile of buyer agency. The Chamber offers me connections, collaborations, and platforms to champion buyers’ interests.

Contact Tel: 07426 737535 Visit: www.lvaldezco.com

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

New Members Your guide to new sign-ups

A Burden Shared Limited Becky Benbow 07950 193603 www.aburdenshared.co.uk Administration Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Arkk Alliance Ltd Laurence Collins 01675 466986 www.thearkk.co.uk Accounting and auditing Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Advisory Conciliation & Arbitration Service (ACAS) Liz Rajasingam 0330 109 3144 www.acas.org.uk Facilities support Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Avy DBM Ltd Avy Pruthi 07365 536636 www.avy.me Advertising agencies Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Allica Bank Benjamin Homans 0330 094 6666 www.allica.bank Banks Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Birmingham Garner Hotel Sara Nurse 0121 706 5900 www.brightstarhospitality.co.uk Hotels and similar accommodation Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

ALT Agency Craig Murphy 0121 663 0202 www.altagency.co.uk Web portals Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Birmingham Industrial Therapy association Ltd T/A Better Pathways Sue Roberts 07753 327821 www.betterpathways.org.uk Education Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

AP Property Sourcing Ltd Andrew Potter 07800 733527 www.appropertysourcing.co.uk Construction and real estate Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Bitesize HR Limited Lucy Clark 07828 290502 www.bitesizehr.co.uk Human resources Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Arcadian Industries Samuel Palmer 0333 880 5466 www.cfurnitures.com Furniture Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Black Heritage Walks Network CIC Garry Stewart 07593 894406 www.blackheritagewalksnetwork.com Cultural education Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

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Whatever your business size and requirements, the Chamber has a membership scale to suit your needs.

For more information visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/membership

Blackberry Events Ltd Sophie Millman 01527 878761 www.blackberry-events.co.uk Conference organisers Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Hudson 5 Consulting Paul Hudson 07734 394770 Management consultancy Burton & District

Caledonian Sleeper Wendy Russell 0330 060 0500 www.sleeper.scot Passenger transport Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

International Lifting and Shipping Spencer Brown 07949 939598 www.ils-logisticslive.co.uk Exhibition and fair organisers Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Easy Storage Iqbal Razaq www.easystorage.com Transportation & Logistics Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Enterkey Training Layla Perry 0121 773 3410 www.enterkeytraining.com Education Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Excelsior Multi Academy Trust Jonathan Smart 0121 17160444 www.excelsiormat.org Educational support Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Executive Training & Consultancy Ltd Doug D'Aubrey 07946 730475 www.exec-tc.com Management consultancy Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Hasnat Bashir (St Ives Chambers) Hasnat Bashir 07585 119505 Solicitors Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Knights Tiran Sandhu 0115 947 1509 www.knightsplc.com Solicitors Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Lead With Story Ltd Gavin Dell 07917 297625 www.leadwithstory.co.uk Marketing and media Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Lichfield City Council Sarah Thomas 01543 2500111 www.lichfield.gov.uk General public administration Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce LValdezco Bespoke Property Matchmaker Leonora Valdezco 07426 737535 www.lvaldezco.com Real estate Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS Malabar Gold & Diamonds Limited Ashir Sahal Koyiloth Kandy 07443 888916 www.malabargoldanddiamonds.com Watches and jewellery Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Matrix Structures Phil Bagnall 07496 197369 www.matrixstructuresuk.com Construction and real estate Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce Midland Fitness and Nutrition Ltd Travis Mcintyre 0121 439 4460 www.midlandsupplements.co.uk Trade and retail Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Nicola Kathryn Coaching Nicola Forsyth 07809 121015 www.nicolakathryncoaching.com Administration and support services Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce NOPRBLM LTD Clare Maguire 07825 233038 www.noprblm.com Other IT and software development Solihull Chamber of Commerce Nova Solar Renewables Ltd Jim Thomas 0800 080 3150 www.nova-solar.co.uk Electronic components Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

Openbox Procurement Ltd jay Birdi 07973 159612 www.openboxprocurement.co.uk IT and software development Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Tamworth District Scouts Peter Seedhouse 07802 196323 www.tamworthscouts.org.uk Other Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Orange Orchid Ltd Liz Crutchley 07898 189326 www.orange-orchid.co.uk Human resources Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Telesphorus Health Limited Dan Brown 020 3921 0931 www.telesphorushealth.co.uk Medical practice (specialist) Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Rise and Align Samantha Walker www.risealignthrive.com IT consultancy Cannock Chase Chamber of Commerce

Temple Quality Management Systems Ltd Jaz Tanwar 07449 189707 www.templeqms.com Legal and compliance Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Shire House James Austin 01543 273517 www.shirehouse.uk Other Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce skyVac Kate Hill 01604 968700 www.skyvac.com Machinery and industrial equipment Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

The Pristine Team Ltd Chukwudube Nnabuife 07751 865028 www.thepristineteam.net Cleaning Birmingham Chamber of Commerce TM Ware Lisa Walton 01827 304100 www.tmware.com Software development Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce Valenta Alex Whitelaw 07790 801120 www.valenta.io IT consultancy Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

The Health Card Emma Dean 0333 800 5202 www.thehealthcard.com Medical practice (specialist) Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Work in Process CIC Leighton Campbell 07956 888820 www.work-in-process.org Health and social services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

The Mental Wealth Revolution Ltd Jules Mitchell 07583 203444 www.mentalwealthrevolution.co.uk Health and social services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Youneek Productions Luke Evans 01926 754118 www.youneekproductions.co.uk Video production Birmingham 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 Night out: Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Christmas nights at the museum After-hours party nights in two of Birmingham’s best-known cultural venues are available for the festive season this year.

The elegant surroundings of Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery will be opened up for revellers as will Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, offering a drink reception under the iconic Spitfire aircraft.

The private after-hours evenings at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery and Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum

combine exclusive access to galleries and exhibitions with premium dining, a festive atmosphere and entertainment options.

In a setting of grandeur and elegance at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, guests can enjoy a drinks reception in the stunning Round Room and explore the galleries after hours, followed by a three-course festive dinner.

For a fun and interactive atmosphere, guests at Thinktank will begin the evening with a drinks reception under the iconic Spitfire aircraft,

followed by time to engage with the futuristic exhibits, before sitting down to a three-course dinner in the Thinktank event suite.

Kingston Myles, director of enterprise and innovation at Birmingham Museums Trust, said: “We are delighted to be launching our Christmas hospitality packages, which offer a blend of history and festive atmosphere in our unique spaces. Nights at the Museum are perfect for impressing clients, rewarding teams or celebrating with valued customers.”

Generous Jan makes garden contribution A charity campaigner with a passion for flowers has donated the centrepiece of a special garden designed for BBC Gardeners’ World Live to Birmingham Hospice.

Jan O’Brien has given the hospice a special weeping willow and bench, which has been installed in the hospice’s garden for patients to use and enjoy.

The items were the heart of the design called “Willow Moments and Memories” and featured in the event at the NEC. The garden was awarded a silver merit and named Best Interpretation of Theme Beautiful Border.

It was dedicated to the Willow Foundation charity, which had previously supported Jan and provides memorable experiences for those aged between 16 and 40.

Jan donated the tree and bench after she was diagnosed with cancer of the jaw in 2006 and needed a bone transplant from her leg to save her life.

The weeping willow was donated to Jan by Yorkshire firm Oriental Trees.

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Improvements for staff room

Gift in charity: Jan O’Brien hands over the willow tree to John Ridd and James Hogan from Birmingham Hospice

The staff room at the Lions Ward in Kings College Hospital’s children’s unit in London has been repainted and refurbished to create a more welcoming environment for the paediatric staff thanks to a collaborative project involving Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce members SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, Compass Group and PwC UK. Led by the SUEZ South East account management team of Vaughan Fountain, Leah Poultney and Gemma Dickens, the goal was to improve the look and feel of the space, making it more comfortable and supportive for hospital staff during their breaks.

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