Happy Staffordshire Day to everyone! Staffordshire Day is a celebration of the county of Staffordshire, taking place on 1st May each year. The date was chosen to coincide with the date on which Josiah Wedgwood opened his factory in Burslem, on 1st May 1759.
Staffordshire Day itself came into being back in 2016 and so this year marks a decade, with a number of events planned, including the launch of the Staffy Trail , a new visitor initiative celebrating the area’s culture, heritage and communities.
Earlier this week, Gareth Snell (MP, Stoke-on-Trent Central) and Leigh Ingham (MP, Stafford, Eccleshall and the villages), sponsored a visit to the Houses of Parliament by a cohort of Staffordshire businesses, including JCB, Newcastle & Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG), Titanic Brewery and Woolcool. The event was co-ordinated by We Are Staffordshire and included a marketplace-style showcase.
The visit to Westminster was a great success and has again, helped to shine a light on some of the inspiring business stories from across the county.
At its widest points, Staffordshire stretches almost 70 miles north to south and more than 40 miles from east to west and is home to more than 1.1 million residents.
We know that Staffordshire is a great place to do business. Four international airports within an hour’s drive of the county. 90 minutes from London Euston. The West Midlands and North West conurbations within easy reach. A county with world renowned brands, a rich mix of enterprises and outstanding learning institutions.
In our recent Chamber Council meeting, we asked our members to share their views on why Staffordshire is regarded as a great place to do business. Not surprisingly, location was seen as a major factor. Availability of staff was also suggested.
Our members also spoke of a close-knit and supportive business environment and a welcoming culture for new businesses and their employees.
They also referred to a real quality of life, with the ability to enjoy life beyond the workplace. Think of some of the green space across the county, from Cannock Chase to The Roaches. The opportunity to enjoy a quieter pace of life in market towns such as Leek, Stone and Cheadle. A network of canals which provide a green corridor.
Our members also added that if you’re feeling hungry or need refreshment, check out some of the brilliant hospitality venues across the area, from craft beers to cocktails and from fine dining to spa breaks.
Feedback also picked up positive collaboration between education providers and businesses and a focus on wanting to improve the work-readiness of our students.
We know that more work is needed to further enhance Staffordshire and make it an even better place to do business but for now, let’s celebrate the very best of Staffordshire. Happy Staffordshire Day!
