Over 250 Images of Staffordshire Chambers’ International Women’s Day Celebrations available to view in online gallery
A collection of images from Staffordshire Chambers’ International Women’s Day celebrations can now be viewed and downloaded for free in an online gallery.
Attendees can relive the captivating moments and the spirit of empowerment from the celebrations last Friday, that attracted a crowd of almost 400 people to the DoubleTree by Hilton, Festival Park.
The sold-out event featured three keynote speakers: Maxine Laceby, founder of the £30 million business, Absolute Collagen, Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat Director Penny Weston and Plinkfizz MD Fiona Hawkins.
Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers, said: “Our International Women’s Day celebrations reflect the strength, resilience and inspiration of women in our community.
“As Maxine Laceby, Penny Weston and Fiona Hawkins all demonstrated, everyone has a unique journey, and their experiences can serve as a beacon of motivation for all aspiring entrepreneurs.
“I would like to also thank Kirsty Hulse for joining us as our guest host and sharing her brilliant story with the audience.
“It was also great news that the event has gone on to become one of the biggest ever International Women’s Day celebrations in the history of Staffordshire. We’ve already started planning for next year!”
View 267 images of the event by clicking here and using the password, nAsDGqrrx1.
Don’t forget to share your favourite images with us on social media.
View more of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce’s upcoming events via their events calendar, here.
- Published in News
Declan’s policy blog: The inaugural Staffordshire and Stoke 2024 Conference of the Parties (COP)
It was very deflating to read that February 2024 will go down as the world’s warmest February in modern times.
The news links with data from the EU’s climate service, confirming that each each month since June 2023 has seen new temperature highs for the time of year.
The world’s sea surface is at its warmest on record. Antarctic sea-ice has again reached extreme lows.
Temperatures are still being boosted by the Pacific’s El Niño weather event. According to Prof Celeste Saulo, Secretary General of the World Meteorological Organiz,: “Heat-trapping greenhouse gases are unequivocally the main culprit”.
Any action to reverse the impact of climate change has to be collective and needs to start at a local level. Conference of the Parties (COP) brings parties (governments) together, to assess global efforts to advance the key Paris Agreement aim of limiting global warming to as close as possible to 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels. COP26 took place in Glasgow at the end of 2021.
At a local level, I’m really looking forward to attending the inaugural Staffordshire and Stoke 2024 Conference of the Parties (COP) or Celebration of the Possible, on Friday 15th March.
Staffordshire and Stoke COP is being co-ordinated by Kate Copeland-Rhodes of The Globe Group CIC, with the aim of creating an accountable and transparent process of a shared 10-Year Vision for Staffordshire & Stoke-on-trent, charting a sustainable and equitable future for all to live, work & thrive.
I recently joined Kate and a number of other stakeholders to carry out a Deep Dive with a ‘first look’ at the output gathered through a number of consultation sessions, to explore some of the solutions for the priority themes. The workshop was guided by Cara Santos of Keele University, discussing Doughnut Economics, which proposes a change of economic model as a response to humanity’s major challenge of eradicating global poverty within the means of the planet’s limited natural resources.
Through the use of Doughnut Economics, a shared roadmap will be developed, to improve the future for people, place & planet. Our discussions have looked at the definition of sustainable development being “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
The Staffordshire & Stoke 2024 COP is more than just an event. It is seen as a chance to be part of something bigger and a catalyst for change. Places at the Staffordshire & Stoke 2024 COP have now sold out but you can get yourself added to a waiting list which will fill any cancelled bookings. Click on the dedicated website where you will find a wealth of information about the COP and have the chance to share your ideas. Global change can start at a local level, so please get involved and make sure you and your Staffordshire business plays its part.
- Published in Influence & Network
Experts from IronMarket Wealth to unpack what Spring Budget means for businesses at exclusive Budget Breakdown evening
Experts from leading wealth management firm, IronMarket Wealth, will unpack what the 2024 Spring Budget means for Staffordshire businesses at an exclusive Budget Breakdown event.
Hosted in collaboration with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, the event has been launched to help local businesses to understand the implications of the Budget, widely expected to be the last fiscal event before the next general election. As such, this is the final opportunity for the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Jeremy Hunt, to set new tax policies.
IronMarket Wealth, renowned for its expertise in wealth management, has assembled a team of expert wealth mentors who will join guests at IronMarket HQ, based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, from 5:30pm – 7:00pm on Wednesday, 6 March.
Among the speakers are Wes Wilkes, CEO of NTWRK, and Rob Heath, Director of Wealth. Both speakers will share their first impressions of the budget, offering attendees a unique perspective on the financial landscape.
Guests will be treated to a selection of drinks and nibbles, while enjoying an environment for open conversations and networking among business professionals and likeminded businesses.
Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers, said: “As we approach the last fiscal event before the general election, the Budget Breakdown event is a golden opportunity for local businesses to gain a comprehensive understanding of the potential financial landscape.
“We are expecting tickets for this event to sell our quickly, so book yours now to avoid disappointment.”
Spaces are free and can be booked here.
IronMarket are based at 10 Brindley Court, Lymedale Business Park, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 9QA.
- Published in News
Declan’s Policy Update: Willkommen in Stoke-on-Trent!
It’s been another busy week at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce. On Wednesday we had the chance to say “Willkommen in Stoke-on-Trent!” to a delegation of German visitors from Stoke-on-Trent’s twin city, Erlangen.
A twinning partnership was established in 1989, with the aim of enhancing technical exchanges at various levels, including university contacts, youth exchanges and joint cultural programmes.
We invited a group of member businesses to join us in a roundtable discussion with Erlangen’s Oberbürgermeister, Florian Janik and two of his colleagues, when we discussed the opportunities for Staffordshire businesses in Erlangen and the wider metropolitan region of Nuremberg.
Erlangen is a Middle Franconian city in Bavaria, Germany, approximately 100 miles to the north of Munich. Some world-recognised brands have made their home in the wider metropolitan area, including Adidas and Siemens.
During a whistle-stop tour of The Potteries, our German guests also visited KMF Group, joined a skills roundtable with key delegates from local universities, colleges and schools, and dropped in at Port Vale FC.
Earlier this month, Tom Nadin, Head of Projects and Business Services here at Staffordshire Chambers, travelled to Erlangen with a group of business leaders, so it was great to welcome our German friends to the UK. A couple of interesting facts from Tom’s visit to Erlangen:
- In Germany, all registered companies in industry, commerce or service are required by law to be a member of a Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- There is a street in Erlangen called ‘Stoke-on-Trent Street’ or ‘Stoke-on-Trent-Straße’
Here at Staffordshire Chambers, we’re determined to reignite this partnership and have started to work on a series of activities to help bring the cities closer together. Our discussions also focused on the need for further development of trade links and the important role that developing skills and language could play for both cities.
On the theme of developing trade links, we’re hosting an Exporting Networking event on Tuesday 9th April, with the chance for both novice and experienced exporters ro come together. You can share your experiences and ideas so we can together learn from each other and build stronger businesses. Watch this space for further details!
Our International Trade forum will look to raise issues impacting barriers to export with relevant strands of local and national government to ensure we give our businesses and organisations in our region every chance to succeed and prosper. If you would like to get involved, please contact:
declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
…and don’t forget that Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce offers a customs declarations, export documentation and translation service. Allison Tomlinson and her team are one of the top-performing teams in the country, despite Staffordshire’s lack of a port and airport! For further details, please contact:
Exportmailbox@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in Influence & Network
Declan’s Blog: The ‘R’ word and Money Matters
Well, it’s official! Last week saw the announcement that the UK economy slipped into recession at the end of 2023. The release of economic results confirmed that the UK economy shrank by 0.3% in the final quarter of 2023, after a contraction of 0.1% in Q3 of 2023.
By very definition, a recession is classed as ‘a period of temporary economic decline during which trade and industrial activity are reduced, generally identified by a fall in GDP in two successive quarters.
Our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) for Q1, 2024 was launched last week and although we won’t get the results until into March, this QES could provide a useful barometer of the economic outlook from a Staffordshire business perspective.
QES results during 2023 confirmed that many of our hard-pressed hospitality businesses have been locked into a recession for almost four years, when the pandemic unleashed such a devastating impact on the global economy.
The announcement sparked discussion during our Money Matters forum last week. Money Matters forum is tasked with exchanging information on taxation, corporate law and governance, finance, insurance and professional services sector issues. During the meeting, we watched an update from RSM’s Economist Tom Pugh, who suggested that key investment decisions for business relate to labour-enhancing investments and productivity-enhancing investments, with businesses seeking ways to be more productive but without having to hire extra staff.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Jeremy Hunt, MP), will announce the Spring Budget on Wednesday 6th March.
We know that a General Election has to take place in the next year and all eyes will be fixed on Mr Hunt, to see if there are any eye-catching announcements to entice voters when the country goes to the polls.
That got us talking about a letter we well be sending to Mr Hunt, with some key ‘asks’ for the business community. Once again, we’ll be calling for a reform of the business rates system. We’re also asking for the VAT registration review to be re-started, with a view to removing the existing ‘cliff-edge.
Chamber research shows that many SME businesses are struggling because of business rates and are limiting their expansion plans because of the VAT threshold. The Chancellor should use his statement next month to announce plans to make business rates fairer and restart the VAT registration review.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has been appointed as the designated employer representative body for the Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP). We would like to see the Government commit to the funding of business-led Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIP) beyond the current 2025 cut off point, to at least 2028.
Linked to the topic of skills, we will also ask for the Government to show greater flexibility around the use of the Apprenticeship Levy, to allow for expanded training and upskilling of workers.
What else should we be calling for in our letter to Mr Hunt? I would be interested to get your thoughts on the most pressing issues for our business community. Feel free to get in touch:
declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
I’ve already mentioned the importance of our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) and once again, your views count. QES is the country’s longest-running independent business survey and is recognised by the Bank of England as being of real value in measuring economic performance and business outlook. It takes just 60 seconds to complete a QES, so we would be really grateful if you could click here to complete: https://forms.office.com/e/YyPzHWjeRG
- Published in Influence & Network
Jonathan Gullis MP visits Stoke on Trent College’s Burslem Campus to highlight the significance of Apprenticeships in driving the economy
MP for Stoke-on-Trent North, Jonathan Gullis visited Stoke on Trent College’s Burslem Campus to highlight the significance of Apprenticeships in driving the economy forward.
The visit was designed to raise awareness of the benefits of Apprenticeships and coincided with the culmination of a series of events which took place at the College as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2024.
During the visit, Jonathan had the opportunity to meet with several apprentices from a range of construction sector businesses. He also engaged in some immersive drone training and challenges in the Advanced Construction Centre and participated in a roundtable discussion where he provided an update on his role in Apprenticeship provision and valuable insights into recent developments.
Jonathan Gullis, MP said “It was fantastic to visit Stoke on Trent College’s Burslem Campus on National Apprenticeship Week, meeting with a number of their excellent apprentices and hearing how their courses and hands-on experience are upskilling them for a successful career.
“As co-chair of the APPG for Apprenticeships, I know it is vital we continue to invest in Apprenticeships and encourage more employers to take on an apprentice.
“Lisa and the team at the college are great ambassadors for Apprenticeships and I’m proud to have worked with them to hire two apprentices of my own – Jess and Mya – who work hard day in, day out serving the constituents of Stoke-on-Trent North, Kidsgrove and Talke.”
The event was also attended by local employers Unitas and Carson Powell, who shared insights into their experiences and the positive impact Apprenticeships have had from the perspective of both the apprentice and the employer.
Helen Woolley from Carson Powell said: “Our apprentices are very important to our Company’s succession planning and ensure that we will have the trades’ skills needed for the future. Over the past 15 years we have trained over 50 apprentices. We have enjoyed participating in National Apprenticeship Week with the college as well as having our own Company celebrations.”
Lisa Capper MBE, Principal and CEO of Stoke on Trent College said: “At Stoke on Trent College, our mission is to ensure that all our learners are equipped with skills for the future. We offer Apprenticeships in key sectors such as Health, Construction, and Engineering as well as service industries.
Apprenticeships offer an ideal pathway to develop practical experience alongside formal training and nationally recognised qualifications. We are proud to collaborate with a diverse range of employers to provide Apprenticeships across priority sectors, contributing to the growth of the local and regional economy. We are also keen to work with government so that we can get the best possible chances for apprentices and help make it easier for employers to participate”
To find out more about Apprenticeships at Stoke on Trent College, visit: www.stokecoll.ac.uk/apprenticeships
- Published in News
Longton Community Carnival and Pig Walk Parade Returns to Stoke-on-Trent
The Longton Community Carnival and Pig Walk Parade returns to Stoke-on-Trent on Sunday, April 21st, 2024. This family-friendly event, organised by Urban Wilderness CIC, promises a day filled with festivities, entertainment, and community spirit.
The Pig Walk Parade, a historical celebration deeply rooted in Longton’s heritage, commemorates the journey of Aynsley, Mayor of Longton and owner of Aynsley China, that saw him drive a pig from Trentham to Longton Market, to secure land for Queen’s Park and funds for Longton Hospital.
This year’s parade will once again bring this tale to life, blending world-class artistry with local community engagement.
Laurel Gallagher, Co-Director of Urban Wilderness CIC, stated, “We are delighted to be able to bring back the Carnival and Pig Walk Parade again in 2024. The first year brought nearly 9,000 people into Longton on a Sunday, which was a total joy to see.”
The Longton Community Carnival is not just about celebration; it’s about community empowerment and regeneration. Supported by Arts Council, National Lottery, SOT City Council, and Levelling Up funds, the event serves as a catalyst for cultural and social revitalisation in Longton Town Centre. It provides a platform for local performers, community groups, and volunteers to showcase their talents, join the parade, and contribute to the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
Click here to find out more.
- Published in News
Chris’ Blog: Exciting EV partnership helping businesses to transition to an electric vehicle fleet
Great news announced this week that leading OZEV-registered EV installers, EVC solutions have joined forces with fleet management specialists Adept Vehicle Management to help businesses make the transition to an EV vehicle fleet.
This collaboration is set to transform the landscape for businesses making the crucial transition to electric vehicles and marks a significant step towards sustainable business practices in Staffordshire and beyond.
Staffordshire Chambers helped to facilitate a meeting between Nigel Ryan and Adrian Cooper from EVC with Francis Jones from Adept back in the autumn of last year.
Facilitating meaningful connections and propelling innovative partnerships is at the core of Staffordshire Chambers’ mission.
It’s great to see that the partnership has gathered real momentum – it demonstrates the power of the Chamber network in action.
This partnership is not only significant for Staffordshire but also extends its impact beyond, contributing to a broader movement towards sustainable business practices. It not only supports the adaptation of electric vehicles but also underlines the commitment to creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious business ecosystem.
We look forward to witnessing the tangible impact it will have on businesses embracing electric vehicles in Staffordshire and the surrounding areas.
- Published in Uncategorized
Staffordshire Chambers helps facilitate exciting new EV partnership between two local businesses
A new partnership sparked by Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is helping local businesses to transition to electric vehicles.
EVC Solutions, a leading provider of OZEV-registered EV charging systems, is joining forces with Adept Vehicle Management, a distinguished player in the fleet management industry with over 21 years of experience, to ensure that businesses opting for EV fleets receive comprehensive support in the instillation of charging infrastructures.
It’s hoped that the partnership will help businesses to transition to an EV fleet as conveniently as possible.
Adrian Cooper, business partnering manager at EVC, said: “EVC’s collaboration with Adept Vehicle Management is the perfect partnership for companies with electric fleets or customers with EVs.
“Businesses with electric vehicle fleets need access to charging points, whether for their own vehicles, their staff, or their customers.
“The partnership between EVC Solutions and Adept Vehicle Management is a huge benefit to companies switching to, or growing their electric vehicle fleets.”
Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers, added: “Facilitating meaningful connections and propelling innovative partnerships is at the core of Staffordshire Chambers’ mission.
“We are immensely proud to have helped bring together EVC Solutions and Adept Vehicle Management for this transformative collaboration. The strength of this partnership lies not only in their shared commitment to sustainable business practices but also in their ability to simplify the transition to electric fleets for businesses.
“This collaboration will have a significant impact on businesses embracing electric vehicles, and it underscores our dedication to fostering growth and sustainability within our business community.”
- Published in News
Guest Article: Chris Street – Why businesses should join the International Trade Forum
Chris Street, chair of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce’s newest forum – the International Trade Forum – shares an update on the forum, and his feelings on why businesses should get involved.
“I’m frequently asked, why should I bother to Export?…. and it’s a good question.
It initially can be seen as expensive, difficult and complicated for those that have never done it before.
In reality, many organisations start exporting by accident. A customer asks you to supply to an overseas location instead of locally, you are approached by an overseas company who has seen your product or service online or you just put your toe in the water and go to an international trade fair. However it happens, it is often the starting point to an exciting, new adventure for your organisation which in turn can often be very lucrative.
If you or your organisation is exporting for the first time or is a seasoned exporter please join us to share your experiences and ideas at the International Trade Forum so we can together learn from each other and build stronger businesses.
The Forum consists of a diverse range of businesses and organisations who are looking to grow their business overseas and want to share their experiences whilst learning from those that have done it.
The aim of the Forum is to help support local businesses to export more by providing specific advice and ideas. This can involve supporting businesses with issues such as recruitment, language support, visas and legal advice. We also promote Trade Missions and can provide assistance in finding funding support.
In addition the ITF will look to raise issues impacting barriers to export with relevant strands of local and national government to ensure we give our businesses and organisations in our region every chance to succeed and prosper.
If you are interested in Exporting or just want to know more then please join us at the next International Trade Forum Meeting to be held at Commerce House, Stoke on Monday 26th Feb 2024 at 9am.
Please contact Maxine Darrock at maxine.darrock@staffordshirechambers.co.uk to book a place. It’s free and it may be the best investment you can make this year.
- Published in News
