We reach the summer solstice this weekend, with the official start of astronomical summer. Our many hospitality businesses will be hoping for a boost in the coming weeks, with thirsty footie fans packing into our pubs and alfresco diners hoping to enjoy a summer meal in the great outdoors.
The hospitality sector is one of the most dynamic and competitive sectors in the UK economy but it’s also a sector which has been battered by headwinds of increased staffing costs, staffing issues, rising energy prices and food inflation
From fine dining to spa breaks, from cafes to craft beers, Staffordshire has a wealth of hospitality businesses. In such a fast-paced environment, staying informed and connected isn’t just an advantage, it’s essential. Giving a voice to support the hospitality sector may help to influence change in a positive way.
It’s why Staffordshire Chambers’ of Commerce has launching a dedicated Hospitality forum, open to Chamber members who operate in the hospitality sector or any businesses with an interest in supporting the sector. So why should you get involved?
1. To influence policy and regulation – Our hospitality sector is heavily impacted by government policies, from licensing laws to employment regulations. By joining our forum, your voice contributes to a collective that can influence decision-makers. Our Chamber forums bring members together to represent members’ interests, calling for policies that reflect the realities of running a hospitality business.
2. A platform for collaboration and networking – Our hospitality sector positively thrives on relationships and a forum is the perfect space to build these relationships. By joining, you will gain and grow your access to a network of like-minded professionals who understand the unique challenges of the sector. Whether you’re looking for partnerships, suppliers, or simply advice from peers, a forum creates opportunities to connect and collaborate. These relationships often lead to new business opportunities and innovative solutions that you might not discover on your own.
3. Stay ahead of industry trends – Consumer behaviour is shifting rapidly. Think about the impact of sustainability, digital booking systems and the growth in AI-driven customer experiences. Chamber forums are hubs for sharing insights and best practice, helping members stay ahead of these trends.
4. Access to practical support – Running a hospitality business often comes with operational challenges, including staffing, compliance and marketing. Our forums often provide practical resources and signposting to training sessions and workshops, tailored to these needs. The forum support you receive can save time and money, while improving your business performance.
5. Build your reputation – Being part of a respected hospitality forum helps to demonstrate your credibility. It shows that your business is committed to quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Joining our Hospitality forum is about developing a sector that that drives growth, innovation, and resilience. If you want your business to thrive in today’s competitive landscape, this is an opportunity you can’t afford to miss.
Our Hospitality forum is open to Chamber members only and on Friday 3rd July, forum members will have the chance to meet with Allison Gardner, MP for Stoke-on-Trent South. If you would like to join the meeting, please contact me:
declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
Finally, if you haven’t already done so, please take a moment to lend your support to an e-petition which has called for the rate of VAT on hospitality, to be cut to 10%. Please click here to open the petition:
