Jemma Harvey honoured with top award for work with Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade team
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is proud to announce that Jemma Harvey, a key member of our International Trade Centre, has been awarded the prestigious Foundation Award in International Trade by Chamber Customs.
Jemma’s achievement comes during what has been the busiest year on record for the International Trade Centre (ITC) and is testament to her efforts during her first 18 months with the international trade team.
Allison Tomlinson, Staffordshire Chambers International Trade Centre manager, said: “Jemma’s accomplishment is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her role that has seen us expand our international trade support to more businesses than ever across the county.
“Her success reflects the thriving environment of our International Trade Centre, which continues to break records and set new standards for supporting local businesses in international trade.
“Jemma’s dedication to her role and commitment to professional development have been exemplary.
“She has embraced the opportunities for growth and learning within the team, continually enhancing her skillset and contributing to the ITC’s mission of supporting Staffordshire’s businesses on the global stage. Congratulations, Jemma!”
The ITC has played a pivotal role in aiding Staffordshire businesses of all sizes and sectors to explore and enter new international markets.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Foundation Award in International Trade is a nationally accredited certification that recognises comprehensive knowledge and expertise in international trade.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce remains dedicated to equipping its members with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in the global marketplace.
For more information about the International Trade Centre and the support available for local businesses, please visit the webpage by clicking here.
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Local charity gets accreditation and recognition for high-quality voluntary sector support
VAST, the voluntary sector’s local infrastructure organisation (LIO) for Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire, has been awarded the Local Infrastructure Quality Accreditation (LIQA) by LIO membership body NAVCA.
After submitting an extensive application, and an independent assessment which included interviews with local clients and partners, it was found that VAST had exceeded almost every requirement to receive the award, with assessors commenting that all those interviewed were “very positive about the leadership and representation provided by VAST.”
Within the application, VAST highlighted their numerous support services for local charities, CICs, social enterprises, voluntary organisations, and community groups, as well as demonstrating their work through strong relationships with public and health sector partners such as Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care System (ICS).
When looking at the supporting evidence submitted in VAST’s application and the interviews conducted, the independent assessor appointed by NAVCA said that VAST had clearly showed how the charity had “used their role as an independent and trusted organisation to facilitate change.”
“VAST has displayed the ability to challenge the status quo to bring about improvements,” they said in their report. “It has done this in a sustainable way (across the organisation) and has won respect from all sides.”
“VAST is also very mindful of the financial challenges facing many organisations and they have a very strong offering of practical support, advice and training in this area.”
Subsequently, it was thoroughly recommended that the LIQA should be awarded to VAST in recognition of the work associated with the ‘Four Functions of Local Infrastructure.’
Following the successful completion of LIQA, VAST Chief Executive Lisa Healings said: “We are beyond thrilled to have received this award. Not only does it show our commitment to supporting and developing the local voluntary sector, but it also demonstrates the hard work and incredible dedication of all members of staff and volunteers within VAST.”
“VAST has been supporting communities in Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire for over 100 years. We are very much looking forward to continuing our work with our members, clients, and partners, and continuing to work towards our mission of developing a thriving VCSE sector to improve the quality of life for local communities.”
To find out more about VAST and it’s work within the local voluntary sector, please click here.
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World Craft City status awarded to Stoke-on-Trent
Stoke-on-Trent has been awarded World Craft City status, catapulting the city onto the global stage.
World Craft City status is awarded by the World Crafts Council to areas where there are excellent social, cultural, and economic contributions from communities.
The city – famously known as the Potteries – joins an exclusive list of locations to receive the status across the UK and further afield including Farnham in Surrey; Outer Hebrides in Scotland; Kilkenny, Ireland; Bornholm, Denmark; and La Bisbal d’Empordà, Spain.
City Council Leader Jane Ashworth said: “We are absolutely thrilled at the news that Stoke-on-Trent has received World Craft City status. This is a tremendous achievement, and one that culminates years of hard work by our cultural community.
“This recognition by the World Crafts Council has the potential to open so many doors for our city, not least when it comes to working alongside other cities and towns across the world who also have World Craft City status.
“We are extremely excited by the possibilities and believe that this will have a significant impact when it comes to the social, cultural, and economic prestige of Stoke-on-Trent.
“As the global centre for ceramics production and ceramics works, and particularly for The Potteries, Stoke-on-Trent is suitably placed to continue thriving for many, many years to come.”
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive Rachel Laver said: “It’s fantastic news for the city and really helps to raise the profile of the exceptional businesses and talent we have in the area.
“Despite the pottery industry declining here, creative industries are not only alive and kicking, but thriving.”
Continue reading via Daily Focus.
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Declan’s Policy Update: Manufacturing – making sense of the key issues and challenges
Manufacturing…the heartbeat of our economy and the largest sector of employment in our region.
It’s a sector which has its own dedicated Staffordshire Chambers’ policy forum, with the aim of growing the manufacturing base in Staffordshire.
Take a look around the county. JCB, Klarius, KMF, Michelin, Ornua, Perkins Engines and Bostik, to name just a few of our larger manufacturers, not to mention scores of other manufacturing businesses, from sole trader upwards.
Thousands of local residents are employed in the manufacturing sector but what are the main issues and challenges facing manufacturing? It’s something we discussed in last week’s Manufacturers’ forum.
In recent years, manufacturers have found themselves battling against rising costs, particularly the cost of raw materials. Businesses have reported challenges with skills. The manufacturing sector employs a relatively high proportion of apprentices, compared to other sectors.
We are one of a number of Chambers of Commerce across the UK, who are delivering Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIP) for their respective areas and we are committed to building on the work of the LSIP in bridging the gap between the skills needed by manufacturers and the training and support offered through our training providers.
During our forum, we heard that the environment/sustainability have grown in importance to manufacturers, with more companies looking to attain recognised accreditation such as ISO14001 and B-Corp accreditation.
Such recognition can enhance a company’s reputation but can also support applications to procure future business.
We’ve had anecdotal feedback of manufacturers unable to source sufficient energy to allow business expansion, or where surplus energy being generated through renewable sources, can’t be offloaded due to Grid limitations. Our Business Manifesto has called on the Government to deliver on the investment needed for Grid upgrades and it’s something we’ll continue to lobby for, in the coming years.
I’ve already mentioned that the manufacturing sector is home to a relatively high proportion of apprentices but during last week’s meeting, we questioned whether more needed to be done to promote apprenticeship pathways, to students and their parents, as well as to our local schools and colleges. Many apprentices entering the manufacturing sector will go on to forge a successful career pathway but perhaps that engagement needs to take place at an earlier age, long before students are preparing for GCSE and A-Level exams.
We’re trying to play our part in championing the value of apprenticeships and you can see more information on this, through our ‘Look at Me Now’ website, which showcases local apprenticeship success, as well as highlighting support for both learners and employers:
Look at me now – Look at me now (lookatmenowstaffordshire.co.uk)
More and more of us are becoming aware of the role being played by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and this is already being adopted by some manufacturers but how will AI play out in future? How can manufacturers’ adopt and effectively implement AI in their day-to-day processes?
If you are a manufacturer, we’d love to get your thoughts on the key issues affecting your business. An overall list of key issues will feed into the future policy and lobbying work being delivered by our Manufacturers’ forum, with guest speakers lined up for future updates, linked to our Business Manifesto. Feel free to get in touch:
- Published in Influence & Network
St Modwen Logistics combines with sector specialist to create ‘truly’ national platform for industrial and logistics property
St Modwen Logistics has combined with another sector specialist to create a new industrial and logistics warehousing company serving thousands of customers UK-wide.
Indurent has been formed after St Modwen Logistics joined with Industrials REIT in a bid to complement strengths and tap an undersupply of industrial and logistics space in key locations across the nation.
The new operation has a portfolio comprising more than 27 million sq ft of industrial and logistics space, ranging from urban light industrial units to developments utilised for national distribution, production or manufacturing.
This includes a number of sites across Stoke-on-Trent and the rest of Staffordshire.
The new company will serve a diverse customer base of more than 2,000 businesses.
It combines St. Modwen Logistics’ expertise in large-scale, strategically located logistics properties with Industrials REIT’s experience in managing multi-let industrial estates.
The newly integrated business, which is owned by investment funds managed by Blackstone is led by Chief Executive Julian Carey.
He said: “This is an incredibly exciting milestone which brings together a market-leading customer focused operating platform and proven development capability to create Indurent, a fully integrated industrial and logistics company that can support our customers at all stages of their lifecycle.
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The Potteries Centre continues to support local independents with pop up store
Stoke-on-Trent’s small business owners are still being given the opportunity to secure a unit at The Potteries Centre for as little as £250* a week.
The initiative follows the city centre based shopping centre’s continuous drive to support local independents and allows smaller businesses the chance to showcase their offerings in a central spot in the city.
There will also be dedicated social media channels for the store so that each business has an additional platform to promote its offers.
Rates:
Week (Monday to Sunday) £250
Weekend (Friday/Saturday/Sunday) – £150
Sat AND Sunday (set up Friday night and close down on Sunday evening) – £90
Single Day rate – £70
The unit, Potteries Pop Up, is set up for immediate trade, with a range of standard facilities including utilities, furnishings, and storage. Here’s some of the local independents the initiative supported so far:
The Retro Shack
Great Outdoors
Eco Boutique
Spoitland
Longton Snooker & Pool
Cheshire Paints
KIHT Collective
Keep it Local
Books for Less
Timeless Photography
Aloud clothing
Those looking to take advantage of the new opportunity are invited to apply to retail property specialists, Barker Proudlove who look after retail space at The Potteries Centre.
The initiative is open to all independent businesses across Staffordshire and Cheshire.
Successful applicants will be able to make use of the unit from anything from one to six weeks at a time. Commenting on the initiative, Amy Whittaker, centre manager for The Potteries Centre, said: “Stoke-on-Trent has a wide range of really fantastic independents, we made a commitment to doing what we can to oƯer them support and showcase the very best the area has to offer.
“The unit presents an exciting opportunity for any local independent to take their business to the next level and we urge all independents from across Staffordshire and Cheshire to get in touch.”
“We’ve had some great local independents in the pop up shop already this year, but we’re
always looking for more”.
To find out more or to apply for use of the unit, you can email Cheryl Butters on
cheryl.butters@potteriescentre.co.uk Jess Swain at jessica@barkerproudlove.co.uk Phil
Coombes at phil@barkerproudlove.co.uk or Kiera McLaughlin at kiera@barkerproudlove.co.uk.
*Prices are subject to change due to seasonal variations and occupier demand.
To find out more about The Potteries Centre, visit www.potteriescentre.co.uk
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Applications open: Businesses urged to complete free East Staffordshire & South Derbyshire Business Awards entry
Applications are now open for the 2024 East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire Business Awards.
This hugely-popular annual celebration, which is now in its 14th year, spotlights the achievements of businesses in East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire – recognising their hard work, innovation and success during the last 12 months and beyond.
There are a total of 10 award categories that businesses and organisations can enter. Find a full list of award categories and sponsors, here. Entries into multiple categories is also encouraged.
Dave Bryon, who will return to host the 2024 awards ceremony, said: “This event has become a cornerstone of our local business community, recognising the incredible achievements of businesses in East Staffordshire and South Derbyshire.
“It’s our way of celebrating the hard work, innovation, and success of our local businesses over the past year and beyond.
“This year, we have 10 award categories, and we’re encouraging businesses to enter as many as they see fit. Whether it’s for innovation, customer service, or community impact, there’s a category to highlight every business’s strengths.”
An award win can help your business to attract new clients, unlock new PR & marketing opportunities and improve your business credibility.
The Steering Committee and judging panels will visit the shortlisted Finalists during October, with the Gala Awards Evening confirmed for Thursday 14 November, once again at the Pirelli Stadium, home of Burton Albion FC.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce will play a greater role this year in the running and administration of the Awards.
Start your free application, here.
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Record figures for Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre as exports smash £30 million mark
Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre is celebrating a record 12 months after facilitating the export of goods valued at over £30 million.
It’s the busiest year on record for the International Trade Centre (ITC) that has helped Staffordshire businesses of all sectors and sizes to enter new international markets.
And now ITC manager Allison Tomlinson is calling on local businesses to consider exporting to boost their sales with the support of the Chamber.
Allison said: “This milestone is testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and hard work of our local businesses who continue to expand into oversees markets with the support of the Chamber.
“From manufacturing to technology, and from artisanal products to innovative services, these businesses have successfully unlocked new international markets, reinforcing Staffordshire’s reputation as a hub of international excellence.”
It’s the busiest year on record for the Chambers’ International Trade Centre that has added a number of new recruits to their team following a period of sustained growth.
Allison added: “We offer the necessary support, advice, and resources to help these companies navigate the complexities of international trade.
“We are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together, and continue to assist businesses in exporting their products, including market research, export documentation, trade missions, and networking opportunities.”
Their expert team works closely with companies to understand their unique needs and challenges, providing tailored solutions that drive success in the global marketplace.
For more information about the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce International Trade Centre and its services, please email exportmailbox@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
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Programme launch puts Staffordshire business excellence at the top of the agenda
Over 40 senior business leaders attended the launch of a new initiative designed to progress Staffordshire firms to a place of excellence and put them ahead of the competition.
Excellence in Staffordshire is a collaboration between performance improvement specialists, Investors in Excellence Group and Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce.
Covering all performance areas, the programme will guide improving achievements through effective and efficient leadership, resourcing, and identifying what matters most to drive continuous improvement.
The programme was officially launched at Commerce House, Festival Park last Thursday by Staffordshire Chambers Deputy CEO Chris Plant and Investors in Excellence Chief Executive Judy Hart, who unveiled a series of uncomplicated tools and modules to guide an organisation to achieve excellence.
Investors in Excellence Chief Executive Judy Hart said: “I’m delighted that so many people turned up today to find out more about what Excellence in Staffordshire can do for their business.
“I’m also very excited about the partnership with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce. As the lead organisation for business support in Staffordshire they set a very high bar in terms of leadership, collaboration and vision and are committed to making sure everyone in their community benefits from a strong and prosperous local economy.
“Today’s launch was just the start of a journey to excellence, and we are already working on a series of Excellence in Staffordshire events and workshops to build a collaborative network and share best practice.”
The event’s keynote speaker, David Webster, Chief Executive of Douglas MacMillan Hospice, endorsed the Investors in Excellence standard which they began working towards in 2017. In 2022, they became the first hospice in the UK to achieve the globally recognised Investor in Excellence Standard.
He told the audience how the hospice strived to be admired as a centre of excellence for palliative and end of life care and how he and his team have worked with Investors in Excellence to manage change, innovate, and deliver care and services that really make a difference to people’s lives.
Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce added: “We were really pleased to host Excellence in Staffordshire at the Chamber. We will be hosting future meetings here so that we can help any business or organisation work towards excellence via this programme.”
Kevin Hart, Group MD and Programme Director at Investors in Excellence outlined how Excellence in Staffordshire will focus on driving business success through its unique collaboratory where people collab (share), oratory (listen and speak), to harness and enhance the full potential of human capability, unlocking potential, and improving performance through strategic development, continuous improvement, and sustainable growth.
The first Excellence in Staffordshire workshop will take place in September, date to be announced. If anyone is interested in finding out more and registering for updates, they can contact Mark Brammar mba@markbrammar.co.uk
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Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards image gallery ready to view online
A collection of images from the 2024 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards are now ready to view for free in an online gallery.
Finalists and sponsors can now relive the captivating moments from the ceremony last Thursday, as captured by the Chambers’ team of professional photographers.
Use the following link to see all of the images from the night. Click here for the gallery.
Don’t forget to share your favourite images with us on social media using #StaffsBizAwards and the tag, @StaffsChambers.
Copies of the Awards brochure are available to collect from Commerce House.
Speaking about the evening, Staffordshire Chambers CEO, Rachel Laver, said: “Our Chamber Awards night is a true highlight in our event calendar, and the 2024 celebration exceeded expectations with an outstanding assembly of the region’s top businesses and industry leaders.
“The significant number of entries for this year’s awards showcases the relentless entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence in our region, underscoring Staffordshire’s vibrant business ecosystem and its prestigious reputation as a centre for innovation and success.
“As always, our diligent judges faced the formidable challenge of narrowing down the high-quality entries to three nominees for each of the 15 categories.
“We’re already looking forward to next year!”
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