West & North Yorkshire Business Magazine SUMMER 2025

usiness

Work local, trade global

Up to 67% off † Business Breakdown

James Mason Chief Executive West & North Yorkshire Chamber

0113 247 0000 wnychamber.co.uk

@WNYChamber

Local connections, global connectivity

One of the many purposes of a Chamber of Commerce is to connect businesses in any locality with other businesses and people in the same region. I’d like to think that we do this day in, day out across our patch in West and North Yorkshire.

However, with a national network of Chambers across the country we also have the ability to make introductions to other organisations anywhere the UK. Further afield, thanks to the brand equity of the British Chambers of Commerce all over the world, this is a truly global organisation and in recent months some of the Chamber team have been planning trade missions to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain in November 2025 and China in 2026 respectively.

These are exciting but also necessary times as we help our members access new opportunities and overcome challenges that certain economic conditions place on the costs of running a business.

Summer is a particularly busy time for the Chamber team as we have elections across all our three areas whilst we are also present at events such as the Great Yorkshire Show, networking events and many business fairs in Leeds, Bradford and York as well as everywhere in between. Helping to showcase the very best of Yorkshire based businesses. This activity will continue into Autumn also as we plan one of the biggest Expos we have staged for some time with some of the region’s most highprofile business figures speaking to our assembled audience.

Add to all this, the launch of a membership model putting you and your business needs at the heart of our thinking. Ultimately, we hope to offer more choice and more value. Stay tuned across all our channels to learn about this exciting development in the next few weeks and months.

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West & North Yorkshire Business is a quarterly business magazine produced by the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce. The audience for this publication is comprised of a targeted audience of the major decision makers and senior executives across both the Yorkshire region and the wider UK business community.

© 2025 West & North Yorkshire Business - No Part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form of advertising or promotion without the express permission of the editorial team.

West & North Yorkshire Business has taken all reasonable care to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate on the date of publication.

BRADFORD NEWS

Proud Bradfordian

As the final chapter of my presidency draws to a close there is much to be proud of.

For the last few months it has felt like almost nonstop good news for Bradford.

Darley Street Market and Bradford Live have both confirmed their opening dates, with the former offering a fantastic array of food outlets and the latter already showing off some fantastic acts. I hope you have all booked tickets.

We welcomed Baroness Martha Lane-Fox, British Chamber of Commerce president to Bradford for a wonderful day of information sharing.

BD25 continues in full swing as it enters its second half.

The newly unveiled Norfolk Gardens are a triumph and a huge improvement on what was there previously.

And the mighty Bradford City are basking in promotion glory.

I do hope that this run of much-deserved good fortune continues.

Thank you to everyone in the network for your support these past two years. At our annual dinner at the Cedar Court I was struck with how much positivity there was in the room. We must keep this momentum going.

I leave the office in good hands with Rebecca Fitzgerald from Yorkshire Building Society assuming the role.

Being president of Bradford Chamber is to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Sir Titus Salt and it has been an honour to serve you this past two years.

Mark Cowgill

President Bradford Chamber

Chemical company environmental commitment

A chemical specialist has actioned part of its plan to be a net-zero company by 2045 with the completion of its first environmental project.

Forty members of staff at Airedale Group have volunteered 220 hours to the Aire Rivers Trust, helping nurture the waterways in the Aire Valley and encourage natural life in the area.

Across five sites in North and West Yorkshire, they have maintained 174 metres of footpath, trimmed 122 metres of hedgerow and cut 1000 square metres of grass as well as collected one tonne of rubbish. In addition, the team laid 30 metres of hedge, painted 30 metres of railings and cleared 30 metres of scrub.

Gareth Muir, project officer at the Aire Rivers Trust, explained: “Much of our work relies on the help of our volunteers and the figures clearly show the difference the Airedale Group team have made to our work over the last few months. They have also donated £500 of new tools which has helped all our volunteer groups carry out the tasks safely and efficiently.”

Commercial director of Airedale Group, Daniel Marr, said: “We’re incredibly proud of all our volunteers. The benefits of this kind of volunteering work doesn’t just help the environment, but our staff also benefit, gaining new skills, enjoying a change of scenery and a sense of satisfaction at the difference they’re making. The project has made a fantastic contribution to our ESG strategy and our plans to be a net zero company by 2045.“

Aire Rivers Trust is a charity set up to make improvements to the waterways in the Aire Valley to help reduce flooding and encourage nature in the area.

Schofield Sweeney welcomes Real Estate Partner

Award-winning Yorkshire law firm Schofield Sweeney has further enhanced its real estate expertise with the appointment of new partner Tim Richards to the 40-strong specialist team.

Tim brings with him a wealth of commercial real estate experience, including advising on land and property sales, leaseback, purchase and development funding agreements, as well as property portfolio management.

Tim is the fifth new appointment to Schofield Sweeney’s real estate team in recent months, making the team one of the largest and most experienced in the region. It also boasts specialist expertise in niche

Engineering expertise is expanding at the Environmental Protection Group

The team at EPG goes from strengthto-strength with the appointment of a leading and ambitious individual to bolster the current expertise.

George Grant, an award-winning engineer with a passion for innovative design, joins the team as Principal Engineer for the water team. George will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered effectively and to the highest standard and will continue to build and maintain relationships with existing and new clients.

George commented, “It’s great to be part of a company dedicated to creating innovative and sustainable solutions. I’m delighted to be working alongside a team of talented individuals who are really making a difference within the UK, and internationally, with first-class designs and a fresh, collaborative approach.”

areas such as biodiversity net gain (BNG), Islamic finance and the energy sector.

Tim said: “I’m excited to bring my own expertise to the table and play a proactive role in Schofield Sweeney’s continued drive to promote growth and professional excellence.”

Manjit Virdee, Partner who heads up the Real Estate team, said: “We pride ourselves on being named one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work, as well as a Times Best Law Firm, and it’s always a pleasure to welcome another committed and highly skilled legal expert into the Schofield Sweeney fold.”

Manningham Housing Association retains world-leading position on diversity and inclusion

Manningham Housing Association (MHA) has again met the global Standard for Diversity and Inclusion in HR Management – building on its unique status as the first housing association in the world to achieve it.

ISO 30415 is an internationally recognised certification that endorses exemplary practices in diversity and inclusion within organisations. The accolade is awarded after a comprehensive assessment, including on-site evaluations and extensive discussions with employees and stakeholders.

John Mulholland from the Centre for Assessment, an accredited certification body, praised the association, for: “Fostering an inclusive culture where people from a wide variety of backgrounds can be themselves at work and are encouraged to give their best at work.”

New management team at Verner Wheelock

Alison Wheelock, Managing Director of leading food industry training company Verner Wheelock Associates Ltd (VWA), has completed the acquisition from its founders, with Ms Wheelock buying out her parents’ shares in the family business.

The Company delivers awardwinning HACCP, food safety, auditing and specialist food industry training to hundreds of delegates every year – many from well-known food manufacturers.

Claire Lennon, VWA’s former Business Development Executive, has been appointed to the position of Sales Director, and will play a major role on the management team.

Under Alison’s leadership VWA has experienced exponential growth both in profit and training courses offered. She has also orchestrated the rise of a successful ethical audit department.

LEEDS NEWS

Promoting a united Leeds

It is incredible to think that it is now two years since I assumed the role of president of Leeds Chamber of Commerce.

I have been a Leeds-based businessman my entire career and am very proud to have represented the city’s business community during my time in office.

It is without dispute that Leeds is an improving city, with growing confidence, prosperity and prestige.

It was an honour to travel to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi as part of a trade mission organised by the Chamber earlier this year, forging links between our region and the UAE to foster new business opportunities. During my time there I was struck by the pro-business mentality of those venues and the degree to which its leaders valued commerce and entrepreneurs. Further trade missions are afoot, and we will as a Chamber continue to bring Yorkshire to the world.

I would, of course, be the first to say this, but Leeds United’s promotion to the Premier League is a huge plus for the city, not just in terms of pride, but in terms of prosperity as well. Plans to develop Elland Road to increase its capacity but also to regenerate the area that surrounds it, will be a massive benefit for us all. Not only will it mean thousands more fans inside the ground on match day, but it will also mean the stadium can be used for concerts and other mass gatherings to bring world-class entertainment to the city.

Increasingly, volumes of high-level decision-making roles are being relocated to Leeds, such as at the National Wealth Fund or the Bank of England, helping contribute to putting the city very much on the map as an international city.

Here’s to the continued rise of Leeds and a city that we can be proud of.

Chris Black President Leeds Chamber

Blacks Solicitors commitment to music talent

Leading Yorkshire law firm, Blacks Solicitors, is the proud sponsor of the ‘Sounds Of Leeds Conservatoire’ event series, an initiative focused on supporting and nurturing emerging regional talent and connecting budding artists with experienced industry professionals.

The ‘Sound Of’ series, hosted by specialist music and performing arts school Leeds Conservatoire, offers students and the public valuable access to real-world music industry insight through live performance, conversation and practical discussions.

Pete, whose work at Blacks spans artists representation, label and publishing deals and commercial strategy for creatives, offered key industry knowledge and unpacked the evolving nature of the industry. Commenting on the event’s success, Pete Bott said: “At Blacks, we believe in supporting artists from the very beginning of their careers, helping them navigate the industry and protect their work while giving them the space to grow creatively. We hope that events like this play a pivotal role in supporting artists early in their careers, helping to nurture and facilitate their growth in a complex and competitive industry. Through our long-standing relationship with Leeds Conservatoire, we will continue to offer insight to guide and empower young creatives.”

Image: Ian Hodgson

Waterstones opens at White Rose

Waterstones has opened a new bookshop at White Rose Shopping Centre, its second location in Leeds.

The UK bookseller’s newest shop has opened in a section of the lower-ground floor at the former Marks & Spencer unit at White Rose, opposite Primark.

The space boasts a large children’s section for younger readers, and an extensive range of books across

Chadwick Lawrence awards four new training contracts

Christian Licerdale has been awarded an 18-month training contract, working in the firm’s corporate and commercial and litigation departments.

Lisa Lowe has been awarded a training contract in wills and probate, in the Chadwick Lawrence family team.

Megan Lawson started her training contract in the home and property department. Megan graduating with a LLB law with criminology degree.

Hannah Evans progresses onto a training contract in the regulatory and crime department.

Neil Wilson, managing partner, said: “We are dedicated to investing in the future of legal talent, these promotions are testament to the hard-working individuals that are emerging from Yorkshire universities.”

genres in both fiction and non-fiction for all ages and reading tastes.

Steven Foster, Centre Director at White Rose Shopping Centre, said: “Waterstones is a brilliant addition to White Rose and our retail mix, and we’re delighted that the bookseller has joined us at the centre.”

Leeds marketer supporting medical aesthetics clinics with SEO

Digital marketing specialist, Jane Nriapia, has launched BoutiqueSEO, a search marketing agency dedicated to helping medical aesthetics clinics grow their online visibility and attract patients in a competitive industry.

With over 16 years of experience in digital marketing and four years working directly inside aesthetics clinics and training academies, Jane brings a unique blend of strategic SEO knowledge and real-world clinical insight to her clients.

BoutiqueSEO fills a much-needed gap in the market by offering transparent, ethical SEO services tailored to medical aesthetics professionals: “I’ve seen first-hand how aesthetics clinics often get poor marketing advice or generic SEO that simply doesn’t work for such a regulated, high-trust sector.”

Senior promotions at Lichfields drive continued growth

UK planning and development consultancy Lichfields has announced the promotion of Emma Gomersal and James Cox to Planning Directors in its Leeds office as its Yorkshire team continues to grow.

Emma has a strong background in strategic land, specialising in the promotion of residential and employment sites. She has worked extensively with landowner and developer clients, managing the planning and development process to maximise the potential of these sites. James works with clients in the retail, tourism and roadside development sectors. He also advises Anglo American on the Woodsmith Project; a significantly polyhalite fertiliser mine that is being developed in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park.

YORK & NORTH YORKSHIRE NEWS

Pause to reflect after two years

When I began my term, we were still a region without a mayor or devolved powers. Now, we have a seat at the top table. I am pleased to say that the chamber has established an excellent working relationship with David Skaith and his team. We continue to champion our members interests to his office and to our local authorities, whether this be improving inward investment into the region, upgrading the region’s transport infrastructure or making day-to-day life more bearable for business. The recent announcement about the establishment of an AI Growth Centre in the region is an example of how important devolved powers are to the region.

This past year has really seen us take the chamber to the world. Following on from our successful trade mission to New York, we followed this up earlier in the year with a further trade mission to the UAE. Our visit to both Dubai and Abu Dhabi forged connections, facilitated relationships and saw transactions carried out. Rest assured there is more to come on this front.

The seat of our shire, York, is about to witness significant change. The Helmsley Group’s ambitious plan to regenerate Coney Street is about to come to fruition, creating a 250,000 sq ft retail, leisure, commercial and residential spaceincluding the creation of a riverside walkway and student accommodation.

It is also wonderful to see York Central progressing so well. We recently welcome the news that the world-class design team of architects at Allies and Morrison and renowned landscape specialists Grant Associates have been appointed to the scheme. These are professionals who delivered projects like the regeneration of King’s Cross, BBC Media Village and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. York Central has the potential to boost York’s economy. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity and we must ensure it is realised in full.

The Chamber has been an advocate and champion of these developments and is playing a key role in enabling our region becoming what it deserves to be.

Sarah Czarnecki President York & North Yorkshire Chamber

Sandburn Hall wins VisitEngland Silver award for excellence

Sandburn Hall has won one of the country’s leading hospitality prizes with a Silver award for ‘Large Hotel of the Year’ at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence, held in Brighton this week.

Sandburn Hall, set on a 1,000 acre country estate at Flaxton, near York, is an outstanding Yorkshire hospitality, golf, wedding, events and business venue, with a 40-bedroom hotel, 18-hole championship golf course, Grand Hall, Tykes Restaurant and Griffon Forest holiday lodges.

James Hogg, director of Sandburn Hall, said: “This achievement is thanks to the incredible dedication, hard work, and passion of our team –we’re immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together. As an independent, family run business, we have the freedom to continuously adapt, improve, and provide the best possible experience for our guests.

“We are absolutely delighted to have won this award and we are now focused on how it can support the ongoing growth and future success of Sandburn Hall.”

Sandburn Hall had already won the Best Large Hotel category in the VisitYork awards in March and as one of 52 finalists across 16 categories in the VisitEngand awards it had been whittled down from 1,800 regional hospitality venues.

In winning the VisitYork awards, judges said that Sandburn Hall was: “A hotel with a clear identity and truly living its values. Being family owned is a real point of difference which gives the opportunity to create a unique atmosphere. Working with a number of local suppliers and attractions speaks to a commitment to the Yorkshire hospitality community.”

C-Kore hits a major milestone

C-Kore Systems is celebrating an exciting milestone with the deployment of their 1000th subsea testing tool, to Australia!

This significant achievement was marked by the mobilization of the C-Kore tools to an Australian offshore energy project for one of their key customers, Fugro. Australia is one of C-Kore’s largest markets, where their tools are helping oil and gas operators save money by simplifying their subsea testing operations.

C-Kore’s subsea testing tools have become a game changer in the offshore oil and gas industry, earning recognition with operators and contractors for their quick and accurate results. The ease of use of the autonomous units means specialized offshore personnel are not required, equating to big cost savings.

York Cares is marking its 20th anniversary with an ambitious £20,000 fundraising campaign.

York Cares, the independent employee-volunteering charity in the city, is celebrating two decades of bringing together local employers, employees, and community organisations to create lasting, positive change across York.

Since its launch in 2005 by the University of York, Aviva, and City of York Council, York Cares has grown into a thriving network of more than 30 employers.

Together, they have mobilised more than 25,000 employee-volunteers to tackle key social challenges, from reducing loneliness and improving green spaces to raising aspirations among young people.

C-Kore are incredibly proud to have received the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade 2024 and the Global Export Award 2025 from the Global Underwater Hub (GUH). These prestigious awards are a true reflection of C-Kore’s global presence, and the trust operators place in C-Kore’s innovative technology.

Barry Walsh, Project Delivery Director at Fugro said: “As frequent users of C-Kore’s subsea technology, we have consistently experienced its advantages firsthand; with easy deployment, prompt and reliable data.”

Cynthia Pikaar, Sales and Marketing Director of C-Kore, commented further, “Having worked closely with Fugro on numerous subsea projects, we have seen firsthand how our tools simplify their testing operations, delivering accurate results quickly and efficiently.”

Brighter classrooms, smaller bills: UK schools cut carbon and costs with Drax Foundation funding

Over £1.5 million worth of investment from the Drax Foundation has enabled 27 schools across the country to slash their carbon emissions, saving thousands on energy bills, to be reinvested into improving pupils’ education on green skills.

From LED lighting upgrades to solar panel installations and cutting-edge energy education tools, the initiative is proving that sustainability and smarter spending go hand in hand.

Schools have swapped outdated lighting for efficient LEDs, cutting lighting-related carbon emissions by an average of 59% and trimming lighting costs by a staggering 72%. That’s an average of £35,000 saved per school.

Plans to transform York city centre come under the spotlight at York Festival of Ideas

York Festival of Ideas in partnership with LNER offered York residents and visitors an exciting opportunity to find out more about the major developments taking place in the city centre.

The free event held in June, York: A 21st-century rail hub, turned the spotlight on the York Station Gateway project, which is transforming the area around York Station, making it more pedestrian friendly and showcasing the city’s heritage.

Expert speakers discussed how York Central is transforming brownfield land near the station and the National Railway Museum into a brand-new quarter for the city.

WEST & NORTH YORKSHIRE NEWS

Exports pay a high tariff

In my foreword for the Chamber’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey, I reported a mixed bag for our economy, with service sector firms performing well while manufacturers struggled.

For Q2 of 2025, the script has been reversed, with manufacturers reporting improving prospects while service sector firms reported a decline in sales, investment plans and confidence levels.

As a proud exporting region, it is disappointing to see international sales in such decline across all sectors, with order books fairing little better. One can only imagine the imposition by President Donald Trump of tariffs on US firms purchasing international goods and services is playing a factor in this picture.

As we feared following the Budget, the increase in National Insurance Contribution for employers is suppressing hiring intentions, with head-counts falling and likely to continue to fall. Rest assured your Chamber is campaigning heavily to ensure the tax burden does not increase further in the months ahead.

Given the strength of our region’s world class business community, we will hope to see improving confidence levels for all sectors when we head in Q3 for this year.

As a Chamber we stand ready to make sure life for all of our members feels more optimistic and we will be a tireless advocate for Yorkshire businesses of all size and shapes.

Amanda Beresford Chair of the Board West & North Yorkshire Chamber

Partnership to tackle skills shortage

A new education partnership designed to boost the number of qualified tilers in the UK has been launched by Topps Tiles.

The UK’s number one tile specialist is teaming up with Leeds College of Building and South & City College Birmingham to inspire the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

The partnership comes in response to a troubling decline in skilled tilers. The UK needs around 37,650 wall and floor tilers by 2028, according to CITB Labour Market Intelligence Report 2024-2028 forecasts. In 2004, over 47,300 tilers were recorded in the UK, but this plummeted by nearly 34% to 31,300 roles in 2020.*

To counter this, Topps Tiles is transferring 50% of its Apprenticeship Levy funds to support small tiling companies wanting to take on a tiling apprentice. This is the maximum Apprenticeship Levy amount an organisation can gift.

As part of the initiative, Topps Tiles will promote the tiling apprenticeship training delivered at Leeds College of Building and South & City College Birmingham via in-store and online promotions. The company has already donated tens of thousands of pounds of tiling equipment and materials to both colleges to support teaching.

Alan Heard, Leeds College of Building Wall & Floor Tiling Lecturer, said: “As one of the country’s largest specialist training providers for tiling, we were the perfect fit! It is incredibly beneficial for the College to be affiliated with such a prestigious national brand.”

First class feast

First Class TransPennine Express (TPE) customers can now tuck into a tasty new menu while travelling between Liverpool and Newcastle

The new service, TransPennine Kitchen: Coast to Coast combines locally sourced, mouthwatering dishes with exceptional hospitality.

Building on the success of TPE’s West Coast Kitchen service between the North West of England and Scotland, TransPennine Kitchen: Coast to Coast ensures even more customers can enjoy an extraordinary First Class experience.

Yorkshire Garden Centre Group creates new role for growth

Yorkshire Garden Centres group, owner of Dean’s Scarborough, has appointed Dan Campbell as its Buying Support Manager to work across all seven sites in West and North Yorkshire.

In his new role, Mr Campbell will be responsible for stock inventory and EPoS for the group and will be working with the buying, finance, and warehouse teams at all sites to implement new operating procedures for all stock related tasks.

Mr Campbell joins the Yorkshire Garden Centres team from Leeds United Football Club, where he was a stock controller for the retail department across multiple sites. He is enthusiastic regarding the opportunities the new role presents.

The new menu features a range of carefully crafted dishes designed to showcase the best local ingredients from suppliers along the route.

Dishes include a TransPennine bacon cheeseburger, topped with Northumberland smoked cheese, a hearty Steak & Newcastle Brown Ale pie, and a heavenly hog roast sausage roll, handmade by The Original Baker in Malton. A regional cheeseboard features Harrogate Blue and Northumberland Nettle, alongside a Harissa vegetable stew; a selection that caters to all tastes.

Leeds College of Building hosts UKREiiF property fringe events

The South Bank Campus of Leeds College of Building recently hosted two sold-out fringe events as part of the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF).

UKREiiF is the UK’s leading event within the real estate, property and infrastructure sectors, and saw over 16,000 industry professionals descend on the New Dock area of Leeds.

The College’s South Bank campus was chosen to host specialist sessions aimed at overcoming barriers to succeed in the construction industry.

Early Careers Coordinator at Stantec, Eve Ryan-Smith, said: “The main aim of National Association of Women in Construction is creating a supportive network for women in the construction and built environment industry.”

Andrew McClements, Customer Experience and Transformation Director at TPE, said:

“Our new offering brings fantastic food and worldclass hospitality together to create an experience that stands out.”

More than 20 new customer hosts have joined the team, bringing the total number of onboard hosts to 60 across the route, with each host undergoing specialist customer service training by world-renowned expert Geoff Ramm.

Keeping criminals and their money out of your business

Recent attacks on retailers such as Marks and Spencer and the Co-op have once again highlighted the harm, disruption, and reputational impact a cyberattack can cause. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in West and North Yorkshire face growing threats from financial crime, including money laundering, fraud, and cyberattacks. Our cities serve as economic hubs, creating attractive targets for criminals.

Colin Tansley of Scarborough based Intelect, is a former West Yorkshire and Cleveland Police officer who specialises in protecting businesses with cyber security training, Due Diligence investigations, and an AML compliance technology platform (Investigation Engine).

She Trades delegation

Chamber welcomes delegates from Nigeria and Bangladesh

West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce welcomed five Nigerian and five Bangladeshi women-led businesses to Bradford in a bid to unlock new market opportunities in the United Kingdom.

ITC She Trades

The firms, working sectors as diverse as processed agrifood, spices, beauty and modest apparel sectors, were part of the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme, funded by UK International Development and delivered by the International Trade Centre (ITC).

The programme is designed to facilitate export-ready women entrepreneurs in securing new business leads by putting them in direct contact with UK companies.

This market access activity aims to bridge the gap of Nigerian and Bangladeshi women-led businesses with UK markets, addressing the gender and regulatory hurdles women entrepreneurs often face in accessing key market information and business connections to export. It also responds to growing UK interest in sourcing products, such as spices, and creates opportunities to increase women’s participation in international trade.

Representatives of the SheTrades Bangladesh and Nigeria Hubs – hosted by Small and Medium Enterprise Foundation and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council – also joined the programme, building up the Hubs’ institutional knowledge of UK market entry requirements and the overall business environment – with the aim of sharing and disseminating this information to women-led businesses and other key stakeholders in their respective countries’ trade and business environment.

The Bangladeshi delegation also attended a networking event, organised in partnership with the Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Manchester, to engage with British importers and buyers, particularly those of Bangladeshi origin, to maximize market access opportunities.

James Mason, Chief Executive Officer of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber said: ”We are delighted to be working alongside SheTrades Bangladesh and Nigeria Hubs, the SME Foundation (Bangladesh) and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) respectively on this event to connect UK buyers and women-led businesses from Nigeria and Bangladesh working in agrifood, textiles and apparel, and beauty products.

“Chambers of Commerce exist to create new trade opportunities, and our Chamber International team are world class in knowing the emerging markets across the world for our members. This is a great opportunity to meet export-ready producers and explore sustainable and high-quality goods across a range of sectors. We look forward to welcoming the delegation to Yorkshire and we know they will find the visit impactful and fruitful for many years to come.”

Donna Morris, Head of Events and Marketing at the Chamber, added: “It was wonderful to welcome so many inspiring female entrepreneurs to the city. Forging new trade links is a top priority for so many of our members and, as a Chamber, we are helping take Yorkshire to the world.”

About the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme – Funded by United Kingdom International Development and launched in April 2018, the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme aims to foster an enabling gender-inclusive business ecosystem by promoting inclusive policy and data and engaging business support organizations, private-sector partners, and women-led businesses in the Commonwealth countries and its key trading partners, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region

EXPORTS

Accelerating export success

Practical training programme to help businesses trade smarter

For UK businesses looking to begin or improve their exporting journey, understanding international trade processes is no longer optional—it's essential. To meet this need, Chamber International offers the Export Trade Accelerator programme, a comprehensive, practical training solution tailored for new and developing exporters.

Delivered live online via Zoom over six half-day modules, the programme offers step-by-step guidance to help businesses build in-house expertise across key areas of export operations. Each module is delivered by experienced trade professionals, focuses on practical application, compliance, and commercial efficiency.

What the Modules Cover

Module 1 – Preparing to Trade Internationally

Build a solid foundation for export success by exploring internal readiness, supply chain considerations, and key documentation required to trade overseas.

Module 2 – Transport Procedures

Learn about transport modes, Incoterms® 2020, and documentation involved in the physical movement of goods, reducing errors that often lead to costly delays.

Module 3 – Getting the Best Out of Your Freight Forwarder

Understand the role of the freight forwarder and how to work collaboratively to ensure your goods are moved efficiently, economically, and compliantly.

Module 4 – Payment Methods

Explore secure international payment options including Letters of Credit, and understand how to mitigate the risk of non-payment when trading globally.

Module 5 – Official Procedures

Gain clarity on customs declarations, commodity codes, EORI numbers, and the UK Global Tariff—ensuring your exports are compliant and correctly processed.

Module 6 – Advanced Customs Procedures

Examine schemes such as Inward and Outward Processing Relief, AEO status, and Customs Warehousing to streamline operations and reduce duty costs.

Programme Benefits

Participants in the Export Trade Accelerator benefit from:

• Faster, more efficient export processes

• Reduced risk of errors, delays, and penalties

• Improved internal knowledge and compliance

• Cost-saving opportunities through smarter use of trade procedures

• Access to ongoing mentoring with international trade specialists

The course has helped businesses improve confidence, performance, and profitability in international trade without requiring strategic consultancy or export market planning. Delegates from companies like Asynt and NaughtOne have already seen measurable results, strengthening in-house capabilities and streamlining export operations as a direct result of participating in the programme.

Whether you're looking to improve compliance, reduce costs, or build a confident export team, the Export Trade Accelerator programme offers a practical, accessible route to sustainable international growth.

Explore upcoming dates and book your place at: chamberinternational.com/export-trade-accelerator

Get Support: Funding Available Through the Get Exporting Programme

For businesses based in York and North Yorkshire, attending this programme could be even more accessible thanks to the Get Exporting Fund—part of the £5 million Business Innovation Fund launched by the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire.

With over £600,000 in grant support available, the fund is designed to help businesses unlock new export markets. Eligible companies can apply for funding to support the cost of training such as the Export Trade Accelerator, along with other activities that contribute to international growth.

A previous version of the scheme helped generate over £15 million in export sales from just £200,000 in funding, and the new programme builds on that success.

To learn more and check eligibility, please contact carlaa@chamber-international.com

British creative studio announces US book tour

Leeds-based design studio, Buttercrumble, has set their sights on the USA. They are proud awardees of a highly competitive bursary delivered through the Creative Export Accelerator programme. The accelerator (designed by Full Circle and funded by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority) aims to provide creative entrepreneurs with the confidence to break into international markets.

The bursary will enable Buttercrumble to attend the Library of Congress Book Festival in addition to delivering outreach and speaker sessions with women’s business organisations. The mission is to promote Buttercrumble as the branding agency of choice for female founders in the US, using their book ‘The Brand Power Manifesto’ as a key conversation starter.

The Brand Power Manifesto, a book dedicated to helping female founders build strong brands, has

secured international distribution in major US retailers (such as Target and Barnes & Noble). This book serves as a gateway to deeper market penetration and credibility within the US business landscape.

The studio is keen to strengthen their existing relationship with the USA and build new connections in the Washington D.C. area because they understand the importance of the UK and US’ ‘special relationship’. International export builds business resilience and widens horizons, leading to more innovative and creative client solutions.

The US branding and marketing industry is cut-throat, but female-led businesses are an under-served segment. According to a recent Forbes (2024) article, women-owned businesses make up 39.1% of all US businesses, yet many struggle with brand visibility; this highlights a need for Buttercrumble’s brand expertise.

Moreover, The National Women’s Business Council (2024) states that women generate $3.3 trillion to the US economy. Given that Buttercrumble works largely with female business owners and their book is marketed specifically to female entrepreneurs, there is a sizable opportunity for them in the US.

The studio has previously worked with US-based clients, demonstrating a demand for British-led creative branding services. Their US clients include small independent brands and well-known corporations, including Meta, Discover, and Anthropologie.

This trade mission would allow Buttercrumble to maximise the impact of its book launch, leveraging it as a tool to connect with US businesses and position itself as a thought leader in branding and design. The trip will happen in early September, and the team would love to connect with likeminded organisations.

Artist impression of Royal Armouries redeveloped waterfront in the future

Inside the Royal Armouries at UKREiiF

Leeds Shines on the National Stage and Beyond A look back at UKREiiF

We reflect on the resounding success of UKREiiF 2025, the UK's largest property and infrastructure conference, which for the fourth year running transformed Leeds Dock and the Royal Armouries into a vibrant hub bringing people into the city from all over the world.

Not including this year, UKREiiF has already brought over £38.5 million worth of economic benefits to the city and has grown from just 4,000 delegates back in 2022 and 300 speakers, to over 16,000 delegates this year, with over 1,250 speakers and 150 fringe events across the city. Plans for the Royal Armouries to become a world-class conference and event destination have recently taken a step forward with an exciting announcement at UKREiiF.

The week itself was a brilliant and bustling affair, with a packed agenda showcasing the work we are doing with partners right across the city. Our panels covered a breadth of ground, delving into everything from the ambitious regeneration plans for South Leeds to the city's established powerhouse status in financial and professional services. Discussions also explored the crucial future of construction and skills, the transformative impact of connectivity and transport initiatives, and the vibrant role of culture, communities, and sport in shaping thriving places.

A consistent message echoing throughout the event and further afield is Leeds' unparalleled collaborative spirit and its ability to combine with partners across sectors to achieve amazing and ambitious results. Our plans for South Leeds in particular served as a powerful testament to this, showcasing the strength of global and local partnerships as we work hand-in-hand with Leeds United, major cultural anchors like the Royal Armouries and the British Library, and crucial community and thirdsector organisations such as Holbeck Together.

The confidence in Leeds is evident in the substantial investments we are attracting. We heard from the National Wealth Fund, the FCA, and the Bank of England at UKREiiF, all advocating for the moves and praising the city for local talent in this sector and the willingness to work together - these are all testaments to Leeds’s growing national significance.

We worked closely with our neighbours from across West Yorkshire, highlighting the successes and opportunities being unlocked across the region including the biggest investment in transport infrastructure in decades through the introduction of a new tram network and the new bus network – the Weaver Network and what more we can expect through local devolution and trusting our local leaders to deliver.

During the week it was also an honour to host international delegations from across the world, including China, Nigeria, Czech Republic and Germany, showcasing Leeds on a global stage and fostering invaluable knowledge exchange. A speaker from Borussia Dortmund FC joined other experts from Leeds United FC, Everton FC and the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 to look at the power of sport in regenerating cities and communities. The Mayor of West Yorkshire also hosted a delegation of Ukrainian Mayors exploring opportunities for post-war reconstruction of their towns and cities.

Find out more on our dedicated webpage -

The Chamber had a strong presence at UKREIIF, staging two of its own events and supporting several more.

One of the biggest business conferences in the country, UKREIIF attracted circa 16,500 people to Leeds from all over the world.

The Chamber hosted its own fringe event at the offices of Rider Levett Bucknall in which our CEO, James Mason, was joined by David Skaith, Mayor of York & North Yorkshire, and Lorna Pimlott, Managing Director of Local Authority Advisory and Lending at the National Wealth Fund.

On the merits on investing in the region, the panel also spoke about the need for the right environment to make the region investable. From transport to housing and digital connectivity, there are clear areas to invest and work with the private sector is key to deliver.

There was also a clear need for unity in the northern regions to compete with the southeast, with Chambers across the region backing the Great North partnership between mayors to benefit those who live, work and do business in West & North Yorkshire.

We worked with British Chambers of Commerce to host our event on planning reform with BCC deputy head of policy, Jane Gratton.

We attended an all-things York & North Yorkshire session where it was great to hear Max Reeves MRICS and Karen Stafeckis talk about familiar projects in the shape of Coney St and York Central. These projects are game changers for the city and have our full support.

Equally, Kathryn Daly provided an inspiring presentation on North Yorkshire Council’s exciting plans for Scarborough.

Finally, some great updates from Jeremy Nolan and Chris Davidson on their respective organisations plans for North Yorkshire, plans which truly are exciting and transformational.

It’s an exciting time for York and North Yorkshire and James Farrar and his brilliant team at the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority are to be congratulated.

Our head of policy Mark Casci was also in demand, appearing at two roundtable events hosted by both patron members Arup and Northern Powerhouse Partnership, as well as a breakfast event at the Double Tree Hotel, hosted by Turner & Townsend.

Navigating the new normal

Tackling the Export Barriers Facing UK Businesses in Key Global Markets

Since the UK’s departure from the European Union, the global trade landscape for UK exporters has shifted dramatically. While opportunities remain robust—especially in high-growth regions like the Middle East and the US— exporters now face a wider range of operational, regulatory, and compliance challenges that require new levels of agility and preparation.

The Shifting Terrain of EU Trade

For decades, UK businesses traded with their EU counterparts almost seamlessly. Today, that frictionless flow has been replaced by customs declarations, import VAT charges, and rules of origin checks that have significantly increased the administrative burden on exporters.

One of the most pressing challenges is navigating the complex customs procedures that are now required. From ensuring the correct classification of goods using Harmonised System (HS) codes to adhering to UK and EU regulatory standards - small mistakes can result in delays, penalties, or even rejected shipments. Compliance doesn’t stop at customs either—VAT registration and fiscal representation are now often required in the destination country, further complicating matters for firms that previously traded within a single market.

To support exporters in overcoming these hurdles, Chamber International offers tailored services including customs check-ups and hands-on workshops on HMRC audit preparation and customs record keeping.

Barriers Beyond Europe: The Middle East and United States

While many UK exporters are pivoting towards markets beyond Europe, they are discovering that trade with the Middle East and US brings a new set of hurdles.

In the Middle East, requirements often include consular legalisation of documents, product conformity inspections, and strict labelling and language requirements, particularly for regulated goods such as food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Without adequate preparation, businesses risk rejection of their consignments at the border.

Meanwhile, in the USA, exporters are encountering challenges ranging from complex customs procedures and import regulations to state-level requirements that differ from federal mandates. Compliance with standards such as FDA or FCC regulations for specific product categories is essential but often overlooked.

Additionally, recent geopolitical developments—including new or changing tariffs and trade measures—require exporters to stay constantly informed in order to adapt pricing and logistics strategies accordingly. In response, Chamber International provides country-specific training and advisory support to help UK businesses manage these requirements with confidence.

Tackling the Export Barriers Facing UK Businesses in Key Global Markets

Equipping Exporters for Success

The good news is that UK exporters are not navigating these challenges alone. A range of specialised services now exists to help businesses maintain compliance, reduce risk, and improve operational efficiency.

Training and capacity building have become essential. Programmes like the Export Trade Accelerator offer comprehensive modules that cover everything from international payment methods and incoterms to complex customs procedures. Importantly, these sessions are tailored to reflect the realities of post-Brexit trade and can be supplemented with mentoring to support businesses through real-world scenarios.

In parallel, customs check-up services help companies audit their existing trade practices. These assessments often uncover gaps in record-keeping, incorrect use of HS codes, or missed opportunities for duty relief—issues that could trigger fines or delays in future HMRC audits.

For those dealing with sensitive or high-value shipments, documentation support remains crucial. Chamber International offers comprehensive services for Certificates of Origin, EUR1 Movement Certificates, and ATA Carnets, ensuring businesses present the right paperwork at the right time.

For Middle Eastern markets, consular legalisation services streamline a complex and often misunderstood requirement, reducing potential bottlenecks. Product conformity support and translation services are also available, helping exporters meet both technical and cultural expectations with professionalism.

A New Era of Trade Support

In today’s global marketplace, exporting from the UK is not so much about simply shipping goods abroad - it’s more about navigating a multi-layered ecosystem of regulations, documentation, and cultural expectations. By acknowledging the challenges and pro-actively seeking out expert support, UK exporters can not only stay compliant but also gain a competitive advantage.

With demand for British products remaining high, especially in areas like advanced manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food and drink, the potential is there. The key lies in being prepared—through training, strategic partnerships, and the right tools for the job.

Trading through supply chain disruptions

When South Yorkshire based manufacturer, CW Fletcher required a new reliable supply of high-quality titanium for its aerospace division, Becky Willis, Finance Director, turned to Lloyds, securing a £1.7m structured trade loan facility.

CW Fletcher is an advanced manufacturing business operating in a wide range of market sectors including aerospace, nuclear waste storage and space exploration.

Whilst the business has banked with Lloyds for over a decade, supported by a variety of financial services including working capital management, the contraction in worldwide supply of high-quality titanium, due to Russia being excluded, meant that this resource became scarcer. This pushed up prices and more importantly left manufacturers like CW Fletcher concerned about their supply chain.

Lloyds provided a structured trade loan facility of £1.7m which enabled CW Fletcher to buy high-quality titanium in bulk rather than phasing the purchase of the material when needed and avoid any potential delays or not receiving the raw material at all. This enabled the business to preserve margin and ensure it had sufficient raw material to fulfil its full order book.

“The product was tailored exactly to what we needed but also offered flexibility to cope with the usual unknowns associated with trade, for example movement in shipment dates.”

Becky Willis, CW Fletcher.

An expert overview

“Supply chain risks are just one of several considerations when exploring international trade opportunities for your business”, says Ralph Edwards, Head of Trade Sales, Lloyds. “It’s also important for businesses to manage any exposure to fastchanging currency markets, providing cost certainty and profit protection at times when foreign exchange rates are increasingly unpredictable.”

Lloyds has a large network of over 1,000 relationship managers across the UK, dedicated regional trade teams, and other product specialists on hand to help identify, quantify and manage international trade ambitions for your business.

With an extensive range of well-established solutions, ranging from mitigating the risks associated with trading with counter-parties in new jurisdictions, through to finance options that can address working capital requirements. We’ll take an expert overview of all your needs to make sure you are aware of all the tools that are best suited for your requirements, whatever changes and challenges come your way.

You can find out more about how Lloyds can support your international trade ambitions at: lloydsbank.com/business/international.html

You can also contact one of our Regional Trade Directors, Paul Wheelright at: paul.wheelwright@lloydsbanking.com

Advertorial by Lloyds

Lloyds and Lloyds Bank are trading names of Lloyds Bank plc. Registered Office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Registered in England and Wales no. 2065. Telephone: 0207 626 1500.

Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under Registration Number 119278.

Developing an effective strategy for new markets could give your businesses the opportunity to scale and diversify.

Expanding into international markets requires careful research, robust financing, and sound risk management. But with planning, selling goods and services abroad could offer exciting opportunities for your business.

The value of research

Research is essential to determine where demand for your product or service is strongest.

What to consider:

Look for signs of high demand: Use government trade data, industry reports and news articles to identify demand in particular markets.

Research the regulatory environment: Different countries have different trade laws, tariffs and import and export processes - including trade agreements. Research these thoroughly early on and consider them fully in your strategy.

Assess cultural fit: Will your product or service need to be adapted to local tastes, preferences or languages to be successful? If so, consider the cost of making these changes.

Survey the competitive landscape: Try to identify any local competitors and potential barriers to entry. How might these affect your success in the market?

Philomena Chen, who advises UK businesses on trade for the Department for Business and Trade, says: “First and foremost, businesses need to understand the target market’s demand, competition and consumer practices. Conducting thorough research at the outset helps identify suitable markets and how to tailor your business approach accordingly.

It’s also important to visit the market in person to get a better understanding of the business landscape, the people and the culture. This will not only help establish good relationships, but many cultures actually expect in-person meetings between business associates.”

“First and foremost, businesses need to understand the target market’s demand, competition and consumer practices.”

Plan export logistics and distribution

Once you've identified a new market, you will need to decide how to offer your products or services efficiently and cost-effectively. This may involve coordinating several external providers.

Consider trade and export financing

“Expanding into new markets often requires investment and can change your funding requirements. There are a variety of financing options available to support your international growth wherever you are on the journey,” says Nicholas Clark, Head of Sales Channel Management, Working Capital Sales at NatWest. “It’s important to find the right financing solution for the size and scope of your trade strategy, as well as one that’s suited to your target market and your particular business.”

Things to consider:

Government grants and support: the UK Export Finance (UKEF) scheme supports banks to provide funding and can directly provide insurance for exporters. And the British Business Bank, operated by the DBT, can also support UK businesses looking to set up an export capability.

Trade finance: Banks and other financial institutions might offer trade finance products such as letters of credit and invoice financing to eligible businesses.

Trade loans: Financial institutions could also offer loans designed for businesses entering new markets. Learn more about trade loans.

Investment partnerships: You might also consider working with investors or venture capitalists who could support your expansion into new markets.

Tax reliefs and incentives: Explore trade tax-credits and reliefs, like the zero-rating of VAT charges, that may apply to your exports.

At NatWest, we help businesses from SMEs to the largest corporates embrace the challenges of trading domestically and internationally, our team are committed to support you to

• Manage risk when dealing with suppliers or buyers.

• Win contracts in the UK or overseas

• Build trust with your trading partners, allowing you to negotiate preferential trading terms to benefit both sides of each transaction.

• Provide the financing required to achieve your ambitions. To find out more on how we can support you, please reach out to Simon Heighes, our Trade Director, at simon.heighes@natwest.com

Engineering global success

Located at the Bradford Chamber Business Park in Laisterdyke, MM Engineering Services Ltd are a company who specialise in the supply and support of electrical components and automation solutions, including electric motors, gearboxes, and other automation systems. Being a global business, the company covers all of Yorkshire, the UK and large parts of the world including Africa, the Middle East and more! MM Engineering also have a base out in Dubai.

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE

Celebrating 10 years at the Business Park!

MM Engineering Services Ltd started out during a recession in 2011, with Managing Director Mo Patel working from a small facility in the centre of Bradford. Fast forward a few years, MM Engineering are now celebrating a decade of being in trade at the Business Park, having continued to develop their business throughout challenging times such as Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. We spoke with Mo Patel (Managing Director) and Zed Ali (General Manager) to learn more about their story.

Aiming for Expansion

After conquering markets in the UK, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, MM Engineering are now looking towards South America as a potential new market for expansion; with particular focus on targeting the marine and mining industries, who typically use electric motors and automation products. The company has previously dealt with luxury yachts and cargo ships, taking their business across the globe and literally chasing business to provide their products and services where needed.

MM Engineering have also worked with several household names including the NHS, McDonalds, Nestlé, Network Rail, Shell, DP World and even a Formula 1 team too. As experienced consultants, Mo and Zed both have strong links to the manufacturing and engineering sectors, particularly having studied the same subject together at university. Mo also spoke briefly about his background working at a local engineering firm in Bradford, prior to establishing MM Engineering Services Ltd. Both representatives are very customer service focused, always looking to adapt their business model to support the needs of others.

Over the next ten years, Mo and Zed hope to further diversify MM Engineering. Having already taken steps to work across various markets, they are always looking for new opportunities to scale. This business model approach comes from tackling challenges such as Brexit, Covid-19 and a recession to name a few, whereby the company had to adapt to the times and implement new ways of trading and achieving growth. MM Engineering are also using the power of AI to help with streamlining processes. A brand-new system helps them deal with enquiries and quoting, using such tools responsibly to manage their time and take away some admin tasks.

One final ambition for the company is to continue developing their team. Recent colleagues have studied at Bradford College and the University of Bradford, including Josh and Zunnayrah. With new websites in development, including a portal for customers to input their part numbers and get instant prices and delivery times, it’s clear that MM Engineering certainly seem to be improving their efficiency through use of technology and support of their staff. The company has upgraded their ERP/CRM software to focus on customer relationship management and are further using AI and data analysis tools to help direct the business into new markets based on historical purchasing and enquiry data.

Why the Business Park?

When MM Engineering first arrived on the scene, their facilities were not ideal. Working from a small space in the centre of Bradford, there was a lack of parking, no windows, no hot water and no lifts which often meant lots of heavy lifting carrying items up and down stairs. After knocking several walls through to continue scaling the business, MM Engineering decided to look elsewhere to support their expansion.

Mo explained how they always liked the idea of being in a business centre environment. As such, they enjoyed the Business Park feel and the ‘hustle and bustle’ of working alongside other companies. They commented on how the community structure at the Business Park has helped to benefit their company.

In fact, MM Engineering use other firms such as IT Wiser LLP for their internet and IT solutions, as well as Shape 3D Ltd for office and packaging supplies. It’s through working at the Business Park that they have built these relationships over time and learnt from others too.

The facilities are well placed to help with the company’s attack ability for gaining future clients and staff, with essential needs being met such as having meeting rooms for hire, sufficient parking, security measures, spaces to expand, communal areas and friendly reception staff. MM Engineering rent multiple spaces at the Business Park, including a sales office, an area for storing products and packaging, with the option to expand into warehouse units too in the future. Being a tenant has also led them to use our Chamber International services too, for support with certified documentation when trading abroad.

A message to other businesses

The Business Park offers great flexibility and safety. It’s the perfect option for new or start-up businesses. Not only can you use the facilities to learn from others, but a community trust has also been created there which places importance on supporting one another. When asked to provide some personal advice, Mo and Zed both agreed that you must remain flexible as a business, and that you should never rely on one sole market or customer. Shown best by their own development, it’s important to diversify your business as and when appropriate.

Touching on some of their memorable highlights over the past 10 years at the Business Park, they referred to the challenge of tackling and adapting to the difficult times that were brought by Covid-19, having to remodel the business slightly to continue its development. Perhaps the greatest sign of their success in recent years, is the expansion of their space at the Business Park.

To learn more about MM Engineering Services Ltd, please visit the website: www.mmengservices.co.uk/. Get in touch by calling 01274 288777.

INTERNATIONAL

University of York partnership improves food security for children in Ghana

In northern Ghana, 33% of children are stunted, 11% are reported to be underweight, and 6.3% face a high risk of death (Unicef/WHO/World Bank Group Joint Report, 2021). The situation is exacerbated by climate change, causing double the amount of droughts and floods in the cropping season, especially in northern Ghana. This leads to excessive malnutrition, which remains a pressing challenge especially for vulnerable populations, particularly children.

Understanding the complex nature of this problem, Dr Karolos Papadas from the School for Business and Society (UoY) in partnership with Professor Mamudu Akudugu and Professor Seidu Al-hassan of the University for Development Studies (UDS), Ghana and Mr Senyo Kpelly of the Savannah and Sahel Commodities Limited (SSCL), a social business-driven SME located in northern Ghana joined forces to devise a targeted intervention to foster lasting change and improve the lives of those affected by food insecurity and malnutrition in northern Ghana, particularly among children.

In 2021, following a successful grant application, this team was awarded the first African Agrifood Knowledge Transfer Partnership (AAKTP) by Innovate UK (£136,816.25). The ultimate goal of this AAKTP was to develop a new, branded, and fortified blended meal with soy, rice, and maize to feed over 200,000 schoolchildren in Ghana. This project was timely and responded to recent calls to improve the quality and safety of free school meals through the Ghanaian School Feeding Programme.

Two years later, by applying cutting-edge knowledge in supply chain management and marketing, a new product was developed using fortified flour and only locally sourced,

indigenous ingredients. An innovative and nutritious cereal product, named “C-Real”, aims to primarily feed school children and promote regenerative agriculture to improve smallholder livelihoods. This project recently won two Innovate UK awards at the national KTP Awards 2024 ceremony: “Best AAKTP” and “Changing the World” for its contribution to address a complex challenge such that of malnutrition in Ghana.

This KTP project was co-funded by UKRI through Innovate UK and Official Development Assistance (ODA) funding. Innovate UK Knowledge Transfer Partnerships aim to help businesses to improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills within the UK knowledge base. Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), is the UK’s innovation agency. It works to create a better future by inspiring, involving, and investing in businesses that develop life-changing innovations.

The AAKTP was supported by the University of York Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) team. (Rukmal Abeysekera, Fiona Bond and Katie Ritchie).

Leeds Bradford

Airport looking to unlock Yorkshire’s international connectivity for years to come

With the opening of the new terminal extension at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), airport CEO Vincent Hodder is making the most of celebrating the potential economic growth prospects and future international connectivity for Yorkshire and the Humber.

“We unveiled our Vision 2023 strategy in August last year and since then LBA has been on a transformational journey,” says Hodder. “Backed by £200 million in private investment, our plans will create 5,500 new jobs and contribute nearly £1 billion to the local economy as we aim to reach an anticipated seven million passengers a year by 2030.”

The first part of this transformation is the £100 million extension of the existing terminal. Construction got underway in April 2024 on a threestorey extension to the existing terminal. Passengers will benefit from more seating, new shops and eateries, a larger baggage reclaim area and immigration hall, and improved access for passengers with restricted mobility. Phase 2 will kick off upon completion of Phase 1 and include improved security and check-in areas, alongside larger duty free, retail and arrivals areas. The entire project is due to complete in Winter 2026.

Vincent Hodder, CEO, Leeds Bradford Airport comments: “We’ve built our strategy around a core set of stakeholders. We want to deliver an outstanding customer experience – as in any business, an outstanding customer experience is your starting point. But in order to deliver an outstanding customer experience the thing that makes the difference is having staff who are engaged and motivated, proud to work in the business that they work in. We didn’t have that at the time and I feel like we do now. There’s been a material change in the culture and environment of working at Leeds Bradford Airport over the last four years. Delivering a better experience for the customer, a better environment for our workforce, and engaging with our stakeholders to grow in a more sustainable way. This is the core of what everything else that we do is all about.”

Overall, LBA will be increasing terminal floorspace by 38% per cent, as well as making investments in the existing airfield to create up to 10 new aircraft stands for overnight LBA-based aircraft. These stands are intended to attract airline partners to base quieter and more efficient planes, as well as provide options to introduce new destinations and build upon existing routes. These modern aircraft have on average 21% more seats available than the current offering. Included in those plans, LBA has highlighted ambitions to secure more routes to European hub airports with onward connectivity. This can only boost the Yorkshire and the Humber region which has a diverse and dynamic economy with strengths in multiple traditional sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture, but also financial services and the digital industry.

Wyedean Weaving serves international re-enactments

The military expertise of Haworth’s Wyedean Weaving is “front and centre” of international commemorations of the American Revolution.

Orders of Wyedean’s regimental lace have increased by nearly 20% as reenactment groups across the UK create their replica British regimental uniforms associated with the 250th anniversary of the American War of Independence.

Since January, the Haworth-based team has fulfilled re-enactment orders totalling 500 metres of regimental lace alone, in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. In addition to this, there has been a notable uplift in sales of other decorative trims such as herringbone twill design laces, flat braid, and worsted braided cord — all commonly used to adorn military uniforms for celebrations, reenactments, and historic occasions.”

Wyedean’s Business Development Director Rosie Wright said that regimental lace is made on the company’s site at Bridgehouse Mill with the family business holding 5,600 metres of lace across 70 distinctive designs, each woven with heritage in mind.

“The regimental laces are woven on traditional shuttle looms onsite in our Haworth Mill, and where required we

can create new designs or tweak the old designs according to customer requirements. Over the last six months we have also dedicated one of our needle-looms to weaving these intricate laces due to the increase in orders.”

She added: “As specialists in military uniform accoutrement, we have a rich history spanning 50 years of creating 128 unique designs, many of which have subtly evolved to reflect regimental changes over time.

“Every thread tells a story of tradition excellence and our commitment to quality and we are finding an increasing number of orders from UK and overseas re-enactment groups whose eye for detail and accuracy means they want the very best replica lace for their uniforms.”

Armed with his Wyedeanaccoutrement adorned uniforms, Richard travelled to Boston in April for the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Lexington and Concord - the first battle of the war in which the 23rd Foot fought.

Richard said: “It’s critical that we research our uniforms from scratch and go for the highest quality. For this particular re-enactment, organisers can refuse you entry to an event if your uniform isn’t authentic. To achieve this, we go thread to thread comparing today’s recreations with examples

from the past. For this event, we worked with Wyedean to base our 23rd Regiment of Foot, Royal Welch Fusiliers military lace on the original sample held in the 1768 Lace Book at Windsor Castle.

“Wyedean were fantastic in ensuring the lace was a truly accurate representation of that used on the uniforms from the era and as a result the lace looks more striking than ever before and my uniform passed the reenactment authenticity standards –which is a real achievement.”

Wyedean was founded as a manufacturer of braid and military uniform accoutrement in Haworth in 1964 by David Wright. In 2023, the family-run company secured the £5million, seven-year contract to replace British Armed Forces’ Colours and Standards with the new King’s insignia and the Tudor Crown.

Rosie added: “While a high percentage of our time is spent on producing ceremonial military uniform accoutrement for armed and uniformed services at home and abroad, we’re delighted to use our resources and expertise to recreate military wear from the past and help others in their retelling of important historical moments by facilitating the high quality uniform needs of reenactment groups across the country.”

ASK The Office celebrates 40th anniversary with brand refresh

ASK The Business Supplies Specialists are proudly celebrating their 40th trading anniversary here in Bradford. The company was founded four decades ago in Shipley and then moved to its existing premises in 1987 in the centre of Bradford, off White Abbey Road. ASK has been a trusted provider of business and office supplies throughout Yorkshire since day one and have also operated nationally for many of their trading years.

To mark this significant milestone, ASK has embarked on celebrating this achievement with the first announcement culminating in the unveiling of a fresh and modernised brand identity. The business’ new branding reflects the changing trading conditions and trends over the 40 years and brings a more modern and refreshing logo driven from their innovation and growth in different product sectors and via acquisitions, and the updated branding signals a bold step forward for the company.

Managing Director of ASK, Greg Colehan, a proud Bradfordian, has steered the company’s growth over the last 16 years and is enthusiastic for the organisation’s continued evolution: "As someone born and bred in Bradford, this anniversary holds a

special significance for me personally as I have worked at ASK for 37 of the 40 years trading.”

The refreshed branding embodies a modern aesthetic brand, symbolising ASK’s continued forward and innovative mindset. Colehan added, "We’re incredibly grateful for the support we've received over the past four decades from our loyal customers and suppliers, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for that support and a special mention to the dedication from the long serving team members of ASK who have contributed to the success over these many years. Here's to the next 40 years of growth, innovation and continued partnership!"

In celebration of the anniversary and brand refresh, ASK invites customers, suppliers and stakeholders to join them in celebrating this anniversary. With a renewed sense of purpose and its strapline of Advice, Service and Knowledge, ASK looks forward to serving the community for many more years to come.

“Bradford is blessed with some longstanding businesses that have traded through many difficult times and each time pivoted or chosen to adapt to see them come out the other side stronger. Under Greg’s leadership, Ask the Office have become one of the go-to

brands for office supplies and it’s really pleasing to see them recording such good results after 40 years in existence.” James Mason

“ASK have been proud Chamber members for several years and it’s been a privilege to support Greg and the team both locally and nationally. Their 40 years of growth and innovation deserves to be celebrated, and we look forward to partnering with them for their amazing journey ahead!” Liz Wood

About ASK The Office:

Established in 1984, ASK The Office has been a trusted provider of business and office supplies in Bradford, Yorkshire and throughout the UK. With a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, ASK The Office offers a wide range of products and services to support the needs of businesses large and small. For more information, visit www.asktheoffice.co.uk.

A century of expertise and innovation in insurance

Founded in Bradford in 1919, TL Dallas has grown into one of the UK’s leading independent insurance broking and financial services firms. Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, the business continues to thrive as a values-driven company with a national footprint and international reach.

Still headquartered in its birthplace of Bradford, TL Dallas employs over 220 people across 15 offices throughout the UK, including London, Belfast, Edinburgh, and the Shetland Islands. The company remains privately owned by its management and staff, preserving its founding principles of integrity, service, and independence. Group Managing Director Polly Staveley and Group Director Mackenzie Dallas, both greatgrandchildren of founder Thomas Lessels Dallas OBE, are part of this proud legacy.

TL Dallas offers a full suite of commercial and personal insurance products, alongside expert independent financial advice. From business protection and liability insurance to home, motor and pension

planning, the firm caters to a diverse range of client needs. One standout area of expertise - especially relevant in today’s economic climate - is Trade Credit insurance.

Trade Credit insurance is an increasingly vital tool for businesses navigating the complexities of domestic and international trade. With insolvency rates on the rise and global uncertainty persisting, this form of cover shields companies against the risk of non-payment by customers. Beneficial for businesses operating on unsecured credit terms, it offers financial protection if invoices aren’t paid due to insolvency or default.

TL Dallas provides tailored Trade Credit insurance solutions for businesses of all sizes, across every industry. Beyond covering bad debts, these policies support commercial growth - facilitating increased confidence when offering credit, assisting in debt collection, and improving access to finance. Some products also include enhanced services such as credit analysis and customer risk assessments, helping

businesses make smarter, safer trading decisions.

Supporting clients both in the UK and abroad, TL Dallas helps companies protect their cash flow, strengthen supply chains, and expand into new markets with confidence. With more than a century of knowledge and a forward-looking approach, the firm remains a trusted partner to thousands of clients navigating today’s fastchanging business landscape.

Explore how TL Dallas can support your business with Trade Credit insurance or other services.

Visit: www.tldallas.com

Phone: 01274 465 500

Email: creditbfd@tldallas.com

Schofield Sweeney is an awardwinning full-service commercial law firm, recognised as a Times Best Law Firm and one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work in 2025.

Our 175-strong team of legal professionals is dedicated to providing ambitious businesses and individuals with the full range of commercial legal advice, to help them grow, deal with challenges and plan for the future.

Among the broad spectrum of advice offered to clients is a comprehensive package of landing services guidance, for overseas businesses looking to operate in the UK. Our experts advise on everything from business immigration including applying for sponsorship licences, to commercial and regulatory challenges around establishing a UK operation.

Companies wishing to bring foreign nationals, or existing employees from an overseas business, into the UK to work, need to apply for a sponsorship licence from the Home Office. Not all

jobs are eligible for sponsorship and, with the recent immigration proposals announced by the Government covering minimum skill level and English language requirements, it is more important than ever to seek legal support with this process.

Our skilled team of lawyers are also able to support businesses looking to employ UK citizens in its new operation, helping them understand UK employment law and contracts; health and safety protections; as well as right to work checks to ensure they don’t employ illegal workers.

From a commercial perspective, businesses wanting to establish a UK operation can choose to register a UK subsidiary by incorporating a private limited company, or operate it as an ‘arm’ of the existing business. Any business wishing to buy commercial property must however be registered with Companies House, and anyone employing people in the UK must be registered with HMRC.

The experienced team at Schofield Sweeney can offer comprehensive support across all the above, as well as specific advice depending on the type

of business operation and data protection legislation which affects all businesses trading in the UK.

As a full-service law firm Schofield Sweeney is well placed to provide assistance across all aspects of establishing and running a business in the UK, including corporate structure and governance, protection of intellectual property rights and private wealth and succession considerations for business owners.

No two businesses are the same, and our lawyers take the time to get to know their clients and the practical issues they face in order to help them mitigate business risk and exploit commercial opportunities. We consider ourselves an extension of the client’s team and pride ourselves on building long-term relationships which evolve and grow.

PROFILE

driver, J. Long & Sons and Army Reservist

Hot on the heels of Reserves Day during June’s Armed Forces Week, we met with Army Reservist Alexander Lenton. Alexander works full-time as an HGV driver for Leeds-based J. Long & Sons (Haulage) Limited.

When he’s not at his day job, Alexander serves as a transport mechanic for the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) with 146 Divisional Support Company. We sat down with Alexander and J.Long & Sons’ HR Director and Armed Forces Lead, Steph Boycott, to discuss their experiences.

J. Long & Sons holds a ‘Silver’ award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), which encourages employers to support Defence through HR policies and practices. The ERS includes Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards for organisations that pledge, demonstrate, or advocate support for Defence and the armed forces community while aligning with the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC). The AFC is the nation’s commitment to treating those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, fairly and respectfully, ensuring they have equal access to government and commercial services and products.

Alexander and Steph share how employer and employee collaborate to balance military commitments with full-time employment and highlight the benefits of employing a militarytrained worker who brings valuable transferable skills to the workplace.

What skills do you bring to the workplace that have been developed through your reservist duties?

I feel the attributes I bring to my employer whilst being a member of the Army Reserves is the ability to use the discipline and time management to efficiently reach the customer in the time frame provided. Self-discipline and decision making to overcome issues as they arise and offer alternative solutions to the management team in the transport office.

How do you balance your reservist duty with your civilian employment?

My unit gives me a yearly forecast of events which enables my employer to plan ahead for my time off for my Reserves duty. My employer is extremely flexible with allocating time for me to attend these commitments throughout the year, allowing for early finishes and late starts after long training weekends and Annual camps. Having an employer that is forces-friendly and recognises the value of my reservist work gives me peace of mind.

What does it mean to be a Reservist?

I enjoy the diversity of both worlds being able to run side-by-side together efficiently,

The camaraderie of my Reserve colleagues makes it an exciting and rewarding experience to be a part of making the bigger picture fit together seamlessly.

How has being a reservist impacted your life? How has it enhanced your confidence, communication skills, and overall self-development?

Being a member of the Army Reserves has helped me become more selfconfident, able to communicate effectively and professionally in most environments and has helped me become the person I am today.

What do you enjoy most about being a Reservist and serving in Yorkshire and the Humber? What new experiences and adventures has it offered you?

Being born and bred in Yorkshire makes me a very proud Yorkshireman. Working with a Yorkshire based company who fully support me makes me proud to be a part of the organisation.

I have had some fantastic experiences travelling over Europe; skiing, field exercises and training; that I would not have had without a supportive employer and a Reservist life balance.

How would you explain what the Reserve Forces are to someone unfamiliar with them?

It’s not about wearing the uniform, it’s the friendship and respect gained whilst wearing the uniform. The shared experiences, new skills taught and qualifications gained are all great things to have but for me it’s the new friendships and un-breakable bonds.

Alexander Lenton, HGV

What policies and practices have you developed as an employer to support employees who are in service?

As an employer we recognise the commitment those in service have given and give our full support to providing the time needed to fulfil any ongoing commitment.

We ensure that recruitment practices target those part of the armed forces family as we recognise the value they add to our business.

Why is it important to be a forces friendly employer?

It is important to be a forces friendly employer as it provides opportunities to military personnel who may be encouraged to work for a business who understands and supports them and any ongoing commitments. Therefore, it attracts skilled workers to our business and contributes to having a more positive and diverse environment.

How do you accommodate your employees’ military duties?

Our reservists know that any time they need to fulfil military duties will be approved, whether that be finishing early or starting late for weekend training and/or two weeks leave for their annual exercise. We welcome any request that is for military duties and endeavour to support our employees in this.

Are there any future plans or ambitions to further support the armed forces community?

We currently hold the Silver award with the Employer Recognition Scheme and and looking at ways we can expand and build on the commitment already shown so we can achieve the highest recognition, Gold award, in the future.

What transferable skills do reservists bring to the workplace and how do these contribute to workplace operations, relations, and productivity?

Reservists are highly skilled with the training that has been provided to them. They are reliable, organised, resilient and hardworking. The list could go on! They are professionals who are great ambassadors for the company and perfect candidates to buddy up with new staff to pass on their knowledge and skills which we

How can you get involved

Visit: rfca-yorkshire.org.uk/employers

Contact: Pauline King, Defence Relationship Management

Email: yh-reed2@rfca.mod.uk

Steph Boycott, HR Director, J. Long & Sons (Haulage) Limited

KING’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE

The King’s Award for Enterprise

Congratulates to executive member, Turner & Townsend.

Leeds-based Turner & Townsend, a global professional services firm, received a King’s Award for International Trade.

The firm, located in the Horsforth area, has previously been a recipient of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade, having won the award in 2003, 2009, 2014, and 2020.

James Mason, chief executive of West & North Yorkshire Chamber, said: “Turner & Townsend’s record for international trade is well-documented.

“This latest award is yet another accolade to acknowledge the global reach and achievements this much-valued business brings to our region.”

Vincent Clancy, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Turner & Townsend, said:

“It’s an honour to receive the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade. This achievement is the result of the outstanding contribution from everyone across the business, our continued commitment to excellence and our long-standing relationships with our clients around the world.

“Our breadth of experience in delivering the world’s most ambitious and innovative capital programmes ensures our teams can support our clients’ ambitions.

“Looking to the future, we are building on this momentum – investing in our people, our digital tools and capabilities, to support our longterm growth.”

The Chamber also issues its warmest congratulations to Turner & Townsend’s fellow Yorkshire winners:

White Rose Education

Integra Buildings

Think OTB

SolderKing Assembly Materials

International Energy Products

Vuba Chemical Innovations

Technical Services (UK)

The Group Company (UK)

Abbey Forged Products

AES Engineering

James Mason meets HRH King Charles

James Mason met HRH King Charles during his visit to the Impact Hub in Bradford in his capacity as Chair of the Little Germany Heritage Action group and as Chief Executive of West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.

King Charles is the Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce and he explained how such organisations can play a key convening role in pulling various stakeholders together towards a common goal.

James said: “Thank you to Kamran Rashid and team at Impact Hub Bradford and Yaseen Mohammed for involving me.

It was also great to meet up with local hero and former Yorkshire cricketer Moin Ashraf and many other people that are quite rightly proud of their city.”

Manufacturing weeks returns

Bradford Manufacturing Weeks is set to return this autumn with its most action-packed programme of events yet.

The event, administered by West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, brings manufacturers together with schools and young people to showcase all that the sector has to offer.

It does this through tours, work experience, seminars, exhibitions and learning events held at manufacturer premises and key locations across the district.

Now in its seventh year, Bradford Manufacturing Weeks has connected 16,000 students in the region with manufacturers, helping to launch many a career in the sector. The programme is administered by West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and SkillsHouse at Bradford Council.

Mark Cowgill, president of Bradford Chamber of Commerce, said: “Bradford has one of the finest manufacturing sectors in the country and Bradford Manufacturing Weeks has done so much good work in giving it new blood.

“Manufacturing can give you a well-paid, secure and incredibly interesting career that can take your work across the planet.”

Confirmed sponsors for the 2025 initiative include NatWest, Appris, University of Bradford, Azets, Ethica Recruitment, Schofield Sweeney, Produmax, Solenis and Make UK.

Sponsorship opportunities are now available for the 2025 programme, please contact bmw@wnychamber.co.uk for further information.

Darley Street Market opens

The Chamber welcomes the exciting news that Bradford’s Darley Street Market is now officially open.

Featuring a state-of-the-art multi-level shopping experience, members of the public can now enjoy a mixture of local, regional and national foods, clothing, cosmetics and scenery with an outdoor seating area and large screen which has been purpose built for showcasing live events.

Ahead of the recent opening, Graham Sweeney of Bradford and West Yorkshire-based business Schofield Sweeney said: “It is a fantastic space and will inject yet more vibrancy into the City Centre.

“The additional food offers on the top floor especially will add to the city’s leisure offer, a big plus in attracting people to come work in Bradford during the day, as well as enjoy leisure time in the evenings and weekends.”

The news follows a recent surge in visitors to the city centre, with Bradford BID recently reporting footfall having increased by 25 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.

Bradford Chamber President Mark Cowgill said: “It is fantastic news. I personally can’t wait to explore the new market and enjoy a lunch or three there with friends.”

Mass Transit

Bradford

Roundtable

Along with other businesses, this morning provided us with the time to discuss the project and communicate what our members are saying in relation to this monumental scheme.

• Highlighting the importance of improved connectivity for Bradford and local people.

• Exploring the regeneration and placemaking opportunities of Mass Transit.

• Identifying how Bradford’s’ business and civic community can come together to ensure the city’s voice heard and that government support for Mass Transit is secured.

Overall, support is high and members are happy with the 'New Year/2025' engagement, with businesses understanding how this will help with the ability to attract people to work in the region and the next generation.

Momentum will be important throughout and we look forward to continuing to champion this project for the people and businesses of West Yorkshire.”

Review into rail

The multi-billion-pound plan to fix Yorkshire's ‘creaking Victorian-era’ railways has been put forward by the former home secretary Lord Blunkett.

Yorkshire's Plan for Rail sets out a £14bn investment package calling for increased capacity at Leeds, Sheffield and York stations, a new through-station for Bradford and a mainline station at Rotherham.

Chamber welcomes national president

The Chamber welcomed British Chamber of Commerce president and serial entrepreneur Martha Lane-Fox to Bradford.

Her first visit to the city, the lastminute.com founder said she was very impressed with the optimism and progress being seen across the city.

Martha met with members of our Leadership group in Bradford and was given a whistle-stop tour of the city centre’s latest regeneration projects.

Martha was so impressed she mentioned the trip in her blog alongside a recent trip to Los Angeles.

Continuous business adventure

The Chamber congratulated Sarah Czarnecki and Laurence Beardmore on being named as Merchant Adventurers.

Sarah, our current York & North Yorkshire Chamber president and Laurence, her predecessor in the role, were both awarded the prestigious accolade at the historic Merchant Adventurers’ Hall.

The Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York was founded as a guild in 1357 and incorporated under a Royal Charter granted by Queen Elizabeth I in 1581.

During the entirety of this time the institution has promoted enterprise and commercial ‘venturing’, with a Merchant Adventurer an individual who risked his or her own capital in pursuit of trade.

Today the company maintains and improves its hall for the education and enjoyment of the public and as an important place for business. It active in the economic development of the City of York and aims to identify, encourage and inspire young entrepreneurs as well as fulfilling its charitable objectives through its two charitable trusts.

Sarah said: “It is a great honour to be named as a Merchant Adventurer.

“I am very proud of York and of the city’s business community so be honoured among so many centuries of the city’s finest entrepreneurs is a humbling experience.

“I must also pay tribute to my predecessor as Chamber president Laurence Beardmore who can reflect on a remarkable career in the city.”

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42

YORK & NORTH YORKSHIRE CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER

The great and the good of North Yorkshire were out in earnest at the York & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce annual dinner.

Staged at the iconic York Racecourse venue, this year’s black-tie dinner was themed around the Business of Heritage, making the most of the region’s incredible history.

York & North Yorkshire president Sarah Czarnecki used her remarks to reflect on the chamber’s successes over the past 12 months and to champion the region’s business community.

Ms Czarnecki said: “We are all, in our own way, custodians of York’s incredible history and tonight we intend to celebrate it in full.

“I am very proud to be president of this chamber of commerce, and I am grateful for the opportunities it brings.

“This city has a world-class business community, and it is my honour to represent it.”

She also announced The Press’s business reporter Darren Greenwood as the winner of this year’s Andrew Digwood Award, handed out every year to honour a business or individual who had made a contribution to the region’s business community.

Two panel sessions followed, chaired by Chamber CEO James Mason.

The first featured Christopher Ridgway, the head curator at Castle Howard, Brigadier James Richardson, chief executive at Merchant Adventurers of the City of York and Delma Tomlin, chair of the York Civic Trust.

The next session that followed featured Alex McCallion, director of works and precinct at York Minster,

James Brennan, head of marketing and sponsorship at York Racecourse, Andrew Tunstall, division manager at the Grand Hotel in Scarborough and Guy Bower from York Conservation Trust.

The event also raised funds for the chamber’s chosen charity for the year, York Against Cancer and was presented by Andrew Edwards.

44 Summer BRADFORD CHAMBER ANNUAL DINNER

Nearly 200 people representing all walks of life attended the Bradford Chamber of Commerce annual dinner.

Staged at the Cedar Court Hotel and themed around the Business of Culture, the event sought to champion and celebrate the city’s commercial and cultural prowess.

Hosted by Irene Kaali, one of the official voices of Bradford, the evening brought attendees everything, from poetry, to brass bands to the haka.

The evening got off to dramatic start with a haka, performed by Suaia Matagi and Quentin Laulu-Togagae, two members of the Talk Your Walk foundation.

The event enjoyed poetry from Bradford artist Noor Jahangir to keep up the cultural theme, as well as Dan Bates, executive director for BD25. West Yorkshire’s mayor Tracy Brabin also gave some remarks.

Panellists included Bolu Fagborun - CEO of Fagborun Limited, Lisa Mallaghan - Executive Director of Bradford

Producing Hub, Jenny Harris - Programme Director –BD25, Simon Hinchcliffe - Head of Bradford Grammar School and Becky Fitgerald, who is Director of Data and AI at the Yorkshire Building Society and vice president and our next president of Bradford Chamber of Commerce.

The event also raised an amazing £1,395 for the chamber’s chosen charity, One in a Million, bringing the total raised to £3,161 during the last two years.

Mark Cowgill, president of Bradford Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am sure we will all agree that Bradford has so far more than lived up to the title of being UK City of Culture and that we have very much succeeded in showing the country and indeed the world just how much our city has to offer.”

The event was very kindly sponsored by Chamber members, TL Dallas.

What you missed online

The Chamber has seen great activity across all social media platforms in the past several months. The selected posts below are examples of some of the valuable information and discussions shared by the Chamber and our members on a daily basis.

We would love to know your thoughts on this quarter’s magazine and your local Chamber. What would you like to know more about or see more of in the future? Did any articles stand out to you?

Get involved with the regional business discussion on X (Formerly Twitter) by tagging us @WNYChamber and mentioning #YorkshireBusiness

Our profiles

X ( Formerly Twitter)

@WNYChamber

LinkedIn

West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

Facebook

West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

Instagram @WNYChamber

MEMBERSHIP

Your Chamber. Your Choice. Our brand-new membership offering.

New Membership

In response to customer feedback, the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce has taken a bold step towards revolutionising the way that business support is delivered. We are proud to announce the launch of our brand-new Choice Based Membership offering, which will be introduced from 1st August 2025.

For years, Chambers of Commerce have been essential to helping local enterprises grow and thrive. However, the traditional one-size-fits-all membership model can struggle to keep pace with today’s rapidly changing business environment. Whether you’re a tech start-up seeking global opportunities, a retail brand looking for greater visibility, or an SME in need of strategic advice, businesses today demand services that align with their individual goals. The Choice Based Membership offering directly addresses that need.

What is Choice Based Membership?

An innovative, tailored approach to membership which has been carefully designed to fit with the evolving needs of modern businesses. We want to provide further flexibility and better value for our members.

Access the specific support that you need, when you need it. Choice Based Membership allows your company to create a personalised package, choosing which benefits, tools and services are important to you.

All members will need to acquire standard Chamber Membership. Additional “bundles” can then be bolted onto your package to access further tools, services and support. Select up to three specialist “bundles” which focus on Promotion, Support and International trade.

Growth at Every Stage

Choice Based Membership is part of the Chamber’s broader commitment to supporting businesses through every stage of their growth journey. From start-ups and scale-ups to well established enterprises, the new membership structure ensures that each member gets the right support at the right time.

Whilst Executive and Patron packages will remain largely the same with bespoke benefits, the new flexible offering reflects our understanding that no two businesses are alike. Rather than offering a rigid set of services, the Chamber now empowers members to shape their own experience and unlock new opportunities on their own terms.

Ready to Choose? Shape your membership

From 1st August, the Choice Based Membership offering will be available to new members. Existing members will continue to receive the same benefits as set out in their 12-month contract until the point of renewal, whereby they will have the option to select which package suits their needs. We encourage businesses to explore the new structure and select the bundles which align with their ambitions.

For more information about Choice Based Membership and how it can help your business grow, please visit wnychamber.co.uk/membership-choice

Alternatively, you can speak with our team by calling 0113 247 0000 or contacting info@wnychamber.co.uk.

Representation

• Engage with local, regional and national business lobbying

• Sector specific committees, steering groups and forums

• Influence economic policy through the How’s Business? survey Advice

• Specialist Innovation advice

• Grants and funding advice

• Ask the Chamber Helpline

• Import/Export Helpline

Chamber Membership

What’s included?

The mandatory Chamber Membership package offers access to our fundamental services, including networking opportunities, policy and advocacy updates, grants and funding advice, business news, and more. This essential package ensures all members stay connected to the broader business community and benefit from the foundational support the Chamber provides.

Events

• 12 places at networking events

• Exclusive member rate on full calendar of events

Savings

• Savings on health care providers

• Member prices for Chamber services

• Discounted offering from British Chambers partners

• Access member offers

Profile

• Chamber member directory

• Subscription to the Yorkshire Business magazine

• Proud to be Member logo

Social Impact

• Raising the Bar Award Entry

• Publish your Member Opportunities

• Publish your social impact stories

Your membership

• Chamber Update Email

Customise your experience by selecting from three optional bundles, each designed to address specific areas of business growth.

Support Bundle

Additional benefits to support the day-to-day running of your business, this bundle focuses on key operational guidance for those in need of tailored assistance.

Gain access to one-to-one business advice including HR, Legal, Health & Safety, TAX and VAT helplines, a Debt Recovery & Credit Management service, Finance Finder tool, discounted AA Breakdown Cover and more!

Promotion Bundle

Ideal for businesses looking to boost their visibility, this bundle offers tools and services to help members raise their profile both locally and regionally.

It includes the ability to publish Member News and Member Offers on our website, promote your company through a half page advert in the quarterly magazine, and take advantage of discounted rates on any paid advertising or sponsorship.

International Bundle

With global trade becoming increasingly complex and essential to businesses, this bundle is perfect for those who are looking to grow beyond borders.

It includes access to export and import documentation services, international trade training, specialist support from our Chamber International team and discounted services on Customs Consultancy, Compliance Health Checks, ATA Carnets and more. Open the gateway to global markets.

What’s included in the Support bundle

ACCESS TO ADVICE

Quality, professional, HR, health and safety, legal, tax and VAT advice.

ACCESS TO DOCUMENTS

Comprehensive online documentation libraries that include a wide range of HR, health and safety, legal and business documents.

SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS

By comparison to the cost of obtaining advice from consultants or solicitors, or the cost of access to online documentation services.

Chamber HR

Chamber HR is a valuable resource for businesses of all sizes that employ people. For small businesses without in-house specialists, it provides access to expertise that is essential for managing the employment of their staff. For larger SMEs with in-house resources, it serves as valuable support for their HR department. Even large companies may use Chamber HR to assist with complex cases.

Chamber H&S

Chamber H&S is the essential tool for ensuring that your business is fully compliant with Health and Safety regulations. This is a requirement for all businesses, regardless of size. Our H&S offers an easy and convenient solution for those without in-house expertise in this area. Additionally, Chamber H&S can provide valuable support for SME businesses in staying compliant with Health and Safety standards.

Chamber Tax

Chamber Tax is a resource for businesses of all sizes that are seeking professional guidance on tax-related matters. Whether you are a small startup looking for advice on how to manage your finances, or a large corporation seeking guidance on tax planning, Chamber Tax can provide the expert support you need.

Chamber Legal

Chamber Legal is an essential tool for businesses of all sizes, but it is particularly beneficial for small businesses and sole traders who may not have access to in-house legal expertise. Whether you are just starting out in business or are an established company looking to address

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who are these services for?

Everyone! Individuals operating as sole traders may use legal services, while small businesses with employees may utilize HR services. For larger companies, HR services are there to give support.

Who are Quest?

Quest is a national provider of comprehensive HR and Health & Safety services, training solutions, and consultancy. With over 30 years of expertise, we are the preferred supplier for over 80,000 members, as recommended by the BCC and TAF.

How can unlimited access be free?

The service is subsidised by the Chamber as they pay us a fee. It's a national scheme for all British Chambers.

I have internal resources - do I need them?

Yes - these services should be used as a resource by your HR Manager, both for documents and advice. Book a One2One Discover meeting to show them the service value.

We outsource our HR / HS - why do I need these services?

Because they could save you a lot of money. If you are outsourcing HR or H&S services you may not need to. A One2One Compare meeting will show you how much you could save.

We never have any issues to manage - why do we need these services?

Our services go beyond crisis management or problem-solving. They are designed to address any questions or concerns you may have, as staying informed in a constantly evolving world can be challenging.

How can I access it?

Call the membership team on 08455 240 240 or visit www.chamberhr.co.uk and select West & North Yorkshire Chamber

Chamber HR

An employer focused service

Chamber HR is a valuable resource for businesses of all sizes that employ people. For small businesses without in-house specialists, it provides access to expertise that is essential for managing the employment of their staff. For larger SMEs with in-house resources, it serves as valuable support for their HR department. Even large companies may use HR to assist with complex cases.

How can you benefit?

• Resolve any employment-related issue

• Understand your HR responsibilities as an employer Reduce costs from in-house or external HR support Immediate answers to any questions/concerns

• Stay compliant by ensuring you're up to date with all legislation

• Operate with full peace of mind What's included in the service?

Advice line access - Talk to an experienced HR/Employment Law specialist for any queries or guidance on finding documents Website - Use over 450+ HR template documents which cover the lifecycle of an employee. In addition to reading our latest articles in the Newsroom, you can also take advantage of a HR Health Check One2One

Common Call Enquiries

• Disciplinary Issues

• Persistent Absence

• Workplace Disputes

• Disability and Capability issues

• Redundancy

• Equal Pay Grievances

Popular Documents

• Redundancy

• Maternity & Paternity

• Employee Contracts & Handbooks

• Disciplinary

• Recruitment

Your business, our priority Book your

Professional Guidance

Don’t let uncertainty hold your enterprise back. Connect with a dedicated BSM through one of our complimentary One2One Meetings, and let us guide you through the intricacies of Health & Safety, Legal and HR Compliance.

Personalised Approach

Expect a candid and personalised approach as we dive head-first into the challenges your business is currently facing, and emerge with a bespoke roadmap to guide you on the best ways of safeguarding your business.

Discover

Learn how to maximise the services available to you. Support your business’ growth with our Advice Lines, Document Libraries, and more.

Review

Analyse how your business is evolving, discuss potential HR, H&S and legal implications, and utilise gap analysis to ensure you are protected.

Compare

Evaluate your existing outsourced services to see if they meet your current needs, or whether you might benefit from partnering with Quest. Call the Chamber membership team