UK first: AA launches trio of full-electric recovery vehicles
Fully electric recovery trucks will be hitting the UK’s roads thanks to a pioneering launch from The AA.
The move will see The AA become the first UK-based roadside assistance firm to add full electric recovery vehicles to its fleet.
Due to the complex vehicle requirements, The AA is taking a “test and scale” approach to fleet decarbonisation with structured tests of alternative fuel vehicles in real-life settings.
The UK’s largest motoring organisation hosted a Fleet Decarbonisation event at its Oldbury Operations Centre today (Friday), unveiling the most recent additions to its 3000-vehicle-strong roadside assistance and recovery fleet.
Edmund King OBE, AA president, and Duncan Webb, AA’s head of fleet, welcomed guests from across the motoring world to present an overview of The AA’s Motoring Manifesto, The AA’s latest Environment Social and Governance (ESG) report and its plans to extend its range of low emissions concept vehicles. The pair discussed how The AA will navigate its way towards a net zero future before unveiling The AA’s latest electric concept vehicles to the gathered motoring press and fleet suppliers.
Amongst an impressive selection of low-emission vehicles from across The AA business sat the day’s main attractions: a fully electric Volvo FE Slidebed; an Iveco eDaily Powerload; an Iveco eDaily crew van equipped with a heavy-duty Compact Recovery Trailer (CRT). These vehicles will become the first operational EV recovery trucks in the UK, accelerating the company’s efforts to meet its 2035 net zero target.
Edmund King OBE said: “Introducing these exciting new concept vehicles to our fleet is an important step towards our goal of becoming a net zero company by 2035.
“As a market-leading organisation, we are committed to showing the way as the country transitions to a zero emissions future.”
This electric version of the Volvo FE 19T is equipped with a Boniface VLA (very low angle) slidebed. It is the latest addition to a growing partnership between The AA and the Swedish vehicle maker. The vehicle can carry 6000kg on its recovery bed and up to 2000kg on its 2nd car lift. The vehicle has an impressive range of 170 miles and a recharge rate of 2.25 hours when using a 150kWh rapid charger. The spacious cab can carry two passengers in comfort and is likely to be used to recover vehicles in and around low-emissions zones such as London and Birmingham.
Duncan Webb added: “We’re excited to introduce these groundbreaking vehicles to our ‘test and scale’ approach to fleet decarbonisation.
“All the vehicles on show today are subject to structured tests in real-life settings and include both hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO), electric in the highest emission intensity HGVs and across our wide range of Van applications. These vehicles form the foundation of learning for scale deployment in the near and long-term future for our customers.”
- Published in News
Declan’s Policy Update: Tackling the Digital Divide
Our Digital Forum aims to drive the growing digital sector in Staffordshire, enabling businesses to freely exchange information, share best practice and discuss digital innovation, information communication technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
Like all of our Chamber policy forums, we invite member businesses to come together and receive informative updates from guest speakers, before discussing the key issues which then feed into our policy work.
In this last year, the Digital forum has set up two working groups to focus on the topic of Digital Divide. A Digital Skills Working Group (DSWG) is connecting businesses and training providers to create a local view of a digital skills pathway to provide learners (and where appropriate their families), with sign posting to technology specific learning opportunities and how the available courses can support a professional career development within the digital sector and beyond.
By highlighting the digital technology ‘stacks’ that are being taught on open courses, businesses can feedback on what is currently available and highlight where gaps may exist. This should enable local businesses to better engage with work placement opportunities.
A Digital Divide Working Group (DDWG) has also been established and the area of Digital Divide has been summarised by a four-pillar model, developed by our forum Chair, Charlie Houston-Brown:
1.1 Hardware
1.2 Coms/Internet
1.3 Base Skills (so linking with DSWG)
1.4 Tech Support
I joined the latest DDWG meeting last week, kindly hosted by Staffordshire University. We received an update from the ‘100% Digital Leeds’ initiative, which supports signposting as part of a citywide digital inclusion programme.
The initiative has been developed as a means of tackling digital exclusion, which can lead to social inclusion. We live in a world where technology is king and there is a need to ensure that residents have a good understanding of the personal relevance of digital to their lives and how using digital tools, technology and services can be of benefit.
Our residents also need to feel confident in their ability to engage with digital tools in a safe way. They need to have the equipment to get connected and then the skills to build confidence and fully embrace technology to improve their lives.
100% Digital Leeds has established a community digital support directory, with effective signposting to local organisations who can offer support to local residents, taking a community-based approach to tackle digital exclusion.
We took a good deal away from the update and we’re now looking at how we can replicate something similar in Staffordshire. It’s one of a number of strands we are developing, including a means of repurposing unwanted items of hardware (laptops, tablets etc.) and getting these securely wiped and offered to those members of our community who need the tools in order to engage with a digital world.
Both the DDWG and DSWG are open to all businesses across our area and if you would like to get involved, please contact:
- Published in Influence & Network
NUL BID makes forward-thinking appointment to support businesses and help deliver key projects
A new Projects and Marketing Executive has been appointed by the Newcastle-under-Lyme BID bringing with her a wealth of positivity and passion for a town close to her heart.
Charlie Machin joins with extensive experience of creating engaging campaigns that will support BID levy-payers and contribute to the delivery of key projects.
Her efforts will key into the organisation’s business objective of building on Newcastle-under-Lyme’s vision of creating a safe, welcoming and forward thinking town for the whole community.
North Staffordshire-born Charlie said: “After living and working in London for several years, I’ve always been passionate about being positive and championing my hometown.
“Moving back to the area, I’ve loved seeing the progression of the town and how it is becoming more vibrant and thriving. So, this role is a great fit for me.
“Coming from a design and retail background, I believe I can help our businesses to really flourish, and I can’t wait to get involved and make a difference.”
Charlie will support the BID Manager, Charl Pearce, and work alongside Business Engagement Officer David Breese.
Charl Pearce said: “Charlie brings a fantastic skill set to our small but mighty team. She is deeply invested in the town and its community, and we are looking forward to welcoming her to the team.
“Her background in design and marketing will be a valuable asset as we continue to support our BID levy-payers and enhance the vibrancy of Newcastle-under-Lyme.”
- Published in News
Rachel’s Blog: A new economic forecast, upcoming general election and your chance to get your voice heard
A promising start to the year has prompted the British Chambers of Commerce to revise their economic projections in the Q2 Economic Forecast.
Businesses will be pleased to see that growth expectations for 2024 and 2025 have been increased to 0.8% and 1% respectively.
This comes as the economy continues its recovery following a short period of recession at the end of last year.
It’s thought that growth in the long-term is unlikely to be strong, however. The overall profile remains flat, with a headwind of a poor export outlook and high interest rates limiting investment across the board.
As this recovery remains largely fragile, and any additional changes, that be big or small, could significantly disrupt it.
Key Points from the report include:
GDP Growth: Upgraded to 0.8% for 2024 and 1.0% for 2025; steady at 1.0% for 2026.
Interest Rates: Expected to decrease gradually from 4.75% in Q4 2024 to 3.95% in Q4 2026.
Inflation: Slightly above the Bank of England’s 2% target, peaking at 2.3% in Q4 2024.
Trade: Imports and exports to contract in 2024 before modest growth in 2025 and 2026.
Business Investment: Predicted to rise steadily over the next three years.
Average Earnings: Expected to grow faster than inflation through 2026.
Unemployment: Expected to rise to 4.5% in 2024 and 4.6% in 2025, then drop to 4.4% in 2026.
During the crunch weeks of the general election campaign, businesses will be scrutinising politicians for sustainable and long-term economic plans.
You may have seen that we’re bringing eminent economist Vicky Pryce to Staffordshire just one week before the general election to offer an economic insight to local businesses.
Our first Big Business Breakfast event was a sell-out, and we had some incredible feedback from local businesses. We expect this event to be no different, especially with it being hosted at such an apt time. Book your tickets and unlock invaluable insights and networking opportunities for your business, here.
We’re also approaching the home stretch for our latest Quarterly Economic Survey. We’ve had a fantastic response and I would like to thank businesses who have taken the time to complete the survey.
If you’ve not yet completed the survey then please spare just five minutes to make your voice heard by local and national decision makers. Complete the survey, here.
- Published in News
Declan’s policy update: Driving the green agenda
I’m kicking off the week by meeting with Stafford Borough Council’s Climate Change Commission.
I’ve been asked to deliver an update on how Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is promoting the sustainability agenda to the business community.
This is very much an ongoing journey which started in-house and has so far included the Chambers’ gaining and successfully re-accrediting for ISO14001, a universally recognised standard for environmental management. ISO14001 clarifies best practise for organisations that wish to reduce their environmental footprint, by adopting an effective environmental management system (EMS).
Gaining ISO14001 accreditation was a significant staging point in the journey and gives us the opportunity to embrace best practise in areas such as how we dispose of our waste. We have solar panels on the roof of our Commerce House office and at this time of year, with more hours of daylight, the panels make a significant contribution towards our energy consumption.
Our staff are encouraged to contribute ideas on how we can improve our sustainability journey. The QEST (Quality, Environment & Sustainability Team), has representation from each of our internal teams and meets on a regular basis, developing suggestions and feeding back to our teams. Over the years, suggestions have included the fitting of automatic light sensors and more efficient use of how we print items, as well as encouraging moves away from paper-based materials. Getting staff engaged with QEST, is critical in getting that internal “buy-in”.
Our Commerce House office also has two electric vehicle charging spaces. It’s a perfect way for staff and visitors to charge their vehicles during the working day. With many motorists not having the benefits of off-road parking at home, the ability to charge a vehicle during the working day, is another incentive to make the switch to an electric vehicle.
As a Chamber, we host a number of policy forums, one of which is our Energy, Environment & Sustainability forum. This particular forum is tasked with exchanging information on energy, environmental concerns and sustainability within the private sector. The forum also helps to drive our policy understanding on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability and promoting the development of a sustainable economy in Staffordshire.
Like all of our policy forums, the Energy, Environment & Sustainability forum is made up of Chamber member businesses and in addition to inviting guest speakers to provide informative updates, the forum members help us to debate the key issues which then help to shape and underpin our policy and lobbying work. This could be in the form of a specific campaign, or writing to the government on a specific issue.
The sustainability agenda is very much at the heart of our new Business Manifesto, which is being launched in the next week. Our Manifesto will focus on five key themes, one of which is ‘Green Staffordshire’. We recognise the impact of climate change being seen at both a global and local level. Businesses are increasingly acknowledging the significance of taking action at a local level, aligning with the global objective of mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.
We will be committing to a number of pledges to drive forward the sustainability agenda and to encourage local businesses to both embrace and achieve net zero aspirations. Watch this space for the launch of our Manifesto!
If you would like to join our Energy, Environment, Sustainability forum, please get in touch:
- Published in Influence & Network
New content marketing agency launches with focus on social impact and emerging technologies
A new Staffordshire-based content marketing agency is launching with a mission to blend emerging technologies with social impact.
Purpose Comms, founded by Sam Wilcox, will provide a variety of content including podcasts, video production and copywriting to SMEs.
And its the businesses’ focus on authentic narratives that will set it apart from the rest, according to Sam, who’s using her twenty years of experience in the media to help support clients.
Sam, who received support from Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce when launching her business, said: “We’re a collective of award winning content creators and our mission is simple: to make content better for businesses, audiences, and communities.
“Lots of businesses want to create content but aren’t sure where to start. We believe an authentic brand story, a cohesive content strategy with a purpose-led narrative will give content the cut through in a world that’s inundated with digital noise.”
‘I’m also really grateful for all the support I’ve had from the chamber. From networking events to signposting to support, it’s been invaluable, it’s also a great workspace for meetings too.”
The business will utilise a ‘blended’ approach, combining creativity with AI technology to offer affordable and sustainable content solutions.
Sam added: “We’re also experts at blending human creativity with AI tools to empower businesses to keep the costs of their content production down. But at the same time we don’t sacrifice quality for ease. We take a heart centered approach to content ensuring it’s high quality content to give businesses that cut through.”
“We’re really excited to bring our expertise to businesses who’re committed to creating a positive impact in the communities they serve.”
For more information, visit www.purposecomms.co.uk. For inquiries or to book a consultation, contact: hello@purposecomms.co.uk.
- Published in News
Perfect score for Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre in customs compliance audit
Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre has achieved a 100% score in its recent customs compliance audit.
Conducted by Chamber Customs on behalf of HM Revenue & Customs, the comprehensive audit evaluated the Centre’s adherence to stringent customs regulations and procedures.
A 100% score confirms that all aspects of their operations met or exceeded the high standards set by HMRC.
Allison Tomlinson, Staffordshire Chambers International Trade Centre manager, said: “This result is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our International Trade Centre team who are committed to maintaining the highest standards.
“The Chamber Customs audit is known for its rigorous standards, making the perfect score a huge achievement. It demonstrates our ability to uphold best practices consistently, thus contributing positively to the broader business community’s success in Staffordshire.
“Beyond that, we are proud to continue to offer a personal service to all of our clients and would like to thank them for continuing to use our services.”
The Staffordshire Chambers International Trade Centre also offer bespoke training packages to businesses who are interested in strengthening their international operations – or those businesses looking to go global for the first time.
Allison added: “We work with businesses of all sizes and experiences to help make the sometimes complex nature of international trade more accessible for everyone.
“The audit’s results reflects our proficiency in adapting to evolving trade regulations and its proactive approach to compliance, which is increasingly vital in today’s dynamic trade environment.”
From offering expert advice on export and import regulations to providing essential services like customs declarations and trade documentation, the Centre ensures that businesses can navigate the complexities of international trade smoothly and efficiently.
For more information on the services offered by the International Trade Centre and to take your business global, please click here
- Published in News
Declan’s Policy Update: General Election – Do the right thing!
After months of speculation, it’s finally been confirmed that the country will go to the polls on Thursday, 4 July.
Rishi Sunak fired the starting gun on what promises to be a very competitive and bruising election campaign over the next five – and a bit – weeks.
With many of us expecting an autumn election, last week’s announcement came on the back of the release of the latest inflation figures, with CPI inflation down to 2.3%.
It will be the fourth UK General Election in just over nine years and if there is a change of Prime Minister, the new incumbent will become the country’s sixth PM in less than a decade.
The political parties will be publishing their manifestos and so will we! Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce’s Business Manifesto will outline how we will deliver structured and targeted policy campaigning and lobbying work to address each of these themes:
– Connected Staffordshire
– Digital Staffordshire.
– Global Staffordshire.
– Green Staffordshire.
– Skilled Staffordshire.
We’re proud to serve the local business community in Staffordshire and we hope that politicians of all stripes will listen to us and the businesses in our area.
Watch this space for a formal launch of our manifesto! We’re also hoping to give businesses the chance to meet with parliamentary candidates at a hustings event. Again – watch this space!
A General Election will also see geographical changes to some of our local constituencies. These include the Stone constituency extending to cover Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge. Stafford constituency will now extend northwards to include Eccleshall. The latter constituency is seen as something of a bellwether, being always held by the incumbent government, ever since it was reinstated in 1983.
It all makes for an intriguing few weeks but whatever your political persuasion, we ask that you do the right thing on Thursday 4th July…….by making sure that you cast your vote! If you haven’t registered, here’s a useful link: Register to vote.
2024 is turning out to be a truly global election year, with the citizens of more than 80 countries, including India and the USA, going to the polls in the course of this calendar year.
Voting is a precious democratic right, so please remember to cast your vote on Thursday 4th July.
Whoever ends up with the keys of 10 Downing Street on the morning of Friday 5 July, will do well to check out the results of our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES), which are now being compiled.
This is where we need your feedback.
Is your business confidence on the rise or in the dumps? Are you investing in training and capital equipment? What are your biggest concerns? Please take 60 seconds to complete the QES and you’ll be helping us to measure economic performance at a local and national level. Click here to open the survey.
- Published in Influence & Network
Declan’s Blog: The future of our High Streets
Last week saw the Government announcement of new powers for communities to regenerate high streets and fill empty shops, due to come into force by the summer.
The powers will help councils to effectively “level up” high streets and tackle wide-ranging issues linked to long term closure of commercial premises.
Empty premises can often become something of a magnet for crime and anti-social behaviour. If residents don’t feel safe in our high streets, footfalll continues to stay low and our hard pressed retailers will continue to struggle. A new local authority power (High Street Rental Auctions), will be used to tackle the eyesore of empty commercial premises, renting them out to local businesses who want to use them.
Under the new powers, if a high street shop has been empty for over a year, High Street Rental Auctions will allow local leaders to step in and auction off a rental lease for up to five years. The auction will open up with no reserve price, giving interested local businesses and community groups the opportunity to fill the empty space on the high street but at a competitive market rate.
In a bid to get High Street Rental Auctions up and running as soon as possible, the Government is planning to launch a new ‘trailblazer’ programme, which will allow it to work with a number of communities who are keen to lead the way. A £2 million support fund will help to get things started during the summer.
Our high streets have changed forever but town centres will continue to play an important role. At a local level, Stafford Borough Council is pressing ahead with ambitious plans to regenerate our County Town, with the acquisition of Guildhall Shopping Centre and the empty Co-op site on Gaolgate Street. Independent traders in Stafford town centre had previously issued a “use us or lose us” warning to visitors, amid concerns about footfall.
The future form of high streets will see more residential premises and a growth in town centre populations. More people living in towns will help to support town centre retailers and help to generate a thriving night time economy. If you would like to join the discussion on regeneration, feel free to get in touch:
declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
On a completely separate note, can you please take 60 seconds to fill out our latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES). QES is the UK’s longest independent business survey and is widely recognised by the likes of The Bank of England as a valuable check on how the economy is performing. We need to get a good representation of business sectors and sizes. Click here to open the QES and thanks for your time:
- Published in Influence & Network
STEM PR agency appoints new Head of Digital
Stafford-based digital marketing agency, Stone Junction has appointed Stephanie Wood as its new Head of Digital in an expansion of its digital marketing services.
The agency created the new position as the demand for dedicated digital marketing campaigns has increased rapidly in recent years, and to ensure the production of high-quality content for clients across the STEM industry.
Wood started at Stone Junction five years ago as an account executive and, during her time with the agency, has helped develop its digital marketing services. This included overseeing the agency’s own digital rebranding in the first quarter of 2024.
Digital marketing has become a popular choice for businesses in recent years. In 2023, digital marketing spending in the UK reached £29.6 billion, an increase of 11 per cent compared with 2022.
“There’s so much potential to grow this side of the business, which is great for us but also for many of our clients and prospective clients,” explained Wood. “Companies can access digital marketing and PR services coming from a single STEM specialist agency, meaning they can take advantage of holistic campaigns covering all aspects of their marketing from content creation to optimisation.”
As digital marketing remains favourable with businesses, features like AI have a large presence in creating digital media, with 94 per cent of digital marketers already using AI in their campaigns, according to Statista. While convenient, AI-developed media impacts quality, an issue now being tackled by Google’s March update that includes prioritising human-generated content over AI-generated content in search.
Wood also explained, “Digital upskilling is an important part of this new role. This will help staff agency-wide deliver outstanding SEO projects and ensure they are up to date with trends – like AI and Google core updates more recently. Training will be crucial for people at all levels in the business so that we can be consultative with our clients and optimise opportunities for new business.”
For more information about Stone Junction’s digital marketing services, visit www.wechangeminds.com/services/digital-marketing/. Or, to set up a meeting with Stephie, email stephanie@stonejunction.co.uk.
- Published in News