News
Timings confirmed for Let’s Do Business expo
Staffordshire Chambers is delighted to reveal the timings for our 2023 Let’s Do Business expo.
Four AI experts will be joining us at Uttoxeter Racecourse on 12 October to deliver the following talks:
Theocharis Kyriacou
10:00 – 10:45
Leveraging Big Data for AI Success: Real-Life Business Case Studies Revealed
Katie King
11:00 – 12:00
Keynote speech on AI, Digital Transformation & the Future of Marketing
Sandra Woolley
13:15 – 14:00
The Challenges and Opportunities of AI for Business Applications
Samir Dani
14:15 – 15:00
Ask the Experts: Your Business Challenges Answered
This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the power of AI, including how it can transform and support your business. Find out more about each individual speaker by clicking here.
To book your free delegate place please click here. To showcase your business to over 1,000 new clients and customers, click here.
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Have Your Say: Q3 2023 Quarterly Economic Survey welcomes business input
Business owners and leaders are being urged to complete the new Quarterly Economic Survey for Q3 2023 to help inform policymakers on the challenges facing businesses in our local area.
This is one of the most important times for businesses across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire to complete the QES following a period of price hikes that has heaped pressure on organisations of all sizes.
The information you provide will help to shape policy thinking as the data is shared with the British Chambers of Commerce, Government departments including HM Treasury and the Cabinet Office as well as the Bank of England.
We are keen to hear from firms of all shapes and sizes as it will help create an accurate picture of the current business landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned director or relatively new to your company, please spare just a few minutes to fill in the anonymous survey.
We understand your time is precious, even more so now, so thank you to all those who complete the survey. Click here.
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Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Local Skills Improvement Plan launched after receiving Secretary of State approval
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is thrilled to announce the launch of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire – a groundbreaking initiative aimed at elevating the region’s workforce skills and bolstering economic growth.
This comprehensive plan has received official approval from the Secretary of State and is set to pave the way for significant advancements in the local business landscape.
Created in collaboration with businesses, training providers and local authorities, the LSIP underscores a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a competitive edge for businesses in the region.
The LSIP is tailored to address the unique needs of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, with a primary focus on key sectors including engineering and manufacturing, construction, advanced logistics, health and social care, decarbonisation and energy distribution. It also explores cross-cutting themes such as green and digital skills, acknowledging the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
Building upon the foundation of this groundbreaking LSIP, a Roadmap for Change has been unveiled. This roadmap charts a strategic course of action designed to tackle the skills challenges head-on and stimulate skills development within the region. The key areas of focus within the Roadmap include:
- Strengthening coordination and collaboration between businesses and training providers.
- Creating a simplified and flexible skills system to enhance accessibility.
- Addressing recruitment challenges and enhancing educational offerings.
- Developing Skills Growth Maps that delve into cross-cutting themes.
- Unlocking additional opportunities in apprenticeships.
- Promoting and fostering best practices in the business community.
- Supporting career transitions.
- Advocating for changes at the national level to address structural barriers within the skills system.
The LSIP is a long-term commitment, with plans to extend its impact at least until early 2025. It will undergo annual reviews to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness in shaping the local skills landscape.
Sara Williams OBE, Staffordshire Chambers CEO, said: “We believe that investing in skills is an investment in our region’s future prosperity.
“The Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Skills Improvement Plan, in partnership with businesses and the community, is a testament to our commitment to unlocking the true potential of our workforce. Together, we’re building a brighter, more skilled tomorrow for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.”
For those interested in learning more about the Local Skills Improvement Plan for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and getting involved in the Roadmap for Change, detailed information can be found here.
This collaborative effort promises to be a game-changer for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, positioning the region as a hub of innovation and skill excellence.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce invites businesses, organisations, and individuals to join hands in this transformative journey towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
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Sara’s Blog: Digital businesses, inflation figures and Let’s Do Business
I was intrigued by an article in Daily Focus last week that discussed the growing number of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that now utilise social media as their main sales channel.
Recent research by BT found that 28% of businesses survey stated that their key sources of revenue are Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.
This news came as no shock, in fact I would have thought 28% was on the low side!
The adoption of digital technologies is as significant as the industrial revolution and we are only at the beginning with artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse already here and influencing business trends massively.
The BT research found a disparity between digital marketing and skills to implement them. It is a consequence of the speed of technological advancement that we have a situation where many business owners simply do not have the time or the skills to move with the times.
And I can say this; there are those of us of a certain age who just feel overwhelmed at times with the rate of advancement of digital technology.
Thankfully, we have much younger and tech-savvy people in the Chamber team who ensure we keep up and embrace the technology, not just for ourselves but for the benefit of every business in Staffordshire.
There is a great opportunity to get up to speed with the digital world if you visit our annual business expo, Let’s do Business at Uttoxeter Racecourse on 12th October.
The keynote speaker is AI expert Katie King who will be offering an exclusive insight into AI, digital transformation, and the future of marketing.
Katie, who was recently voted a ‘Top 10 AI influencer’ will explain how businesses of all sizes and across all sectors can harness AI ethically for competitive advantage by exploiting new tools and processes across their marketing, sales, the customer experience and HR, and provide insights into how they can get started, cost-effectively, using her ‘Scorecard for Success’.
Plus there will be lots of companies exhibiting or attending as delegates who are experts in all things digital.
You can book your free delegate here: Let’s Do Business – Staffordshire Chambers
You might also want to attend a meeting of our Digital Forum which meets quarterly.
It exists 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 AI.
You can book on the next meeting here: Digital Forum – Staffordshire Chambers
Latest inflation figures
Inflation in the UK dropped to 6.8% in the year to July from 7.9% in June, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Helping the fall in inflation was a fall in the energy price cap on 1st July and a slowing of the rate at which food prices were rising – although those are still almost 15% higher than a year ago.
While some ingredients have got cheaper, retailers still faced higher bills for the likes of wages and transport – it’s often customers who pay the prices.
However, the underlying trends are still causing concern because if you take out food and energy so-called ‘core inflation’ remains close to a 30-year high.
That category includes many non-essentials, suggesting some households still had the means to treat themselves to these – and it’s that discretionary spending that the Bank of England is aiming at when it raises interest rates.
With inflation still way higher than its 2% target, most analysts expect a further rate rise come September. And it remains uncertain whether the government can fulfil its pledge to see inflation halve over this year.
The news that consumer price inflation continued to ease in July is encouraging. However, this comes off the back of months of high prices which have hit business hard. Many firms have yet to see the cost of raw materials fall.
Businesses tell us that confidence is improving slightly as inflationary pressures ease. However, our latest quarterly economic survey showed most companies reported no improvement to sales, cash flow, or investment.
High interest rates are now of real concern to firms. Investment across all sectors is suffering because of the cost-of-borrowing. Businesses need to be confident that interest rates have reached their peak – we shall soon find out!
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
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Insight into new Biodiversity Net Gain legislation to be shared at next Energy, Environment & Sustainability Forum
Staffordshire Chambers is pleased to announce that our upcoming Energy, Environment, and Sustainability Forum will feature an insightful presentation from Gigi Hennessy of the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.
Set to take place on Tuesday, September 12, via Zoom, the forum will focus on new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) legislation that is intended to ensure that nature does not lose out when land is developed.
Commencing in November 2023, developers will be mandated to leave the environment in a superior condition compared to its pre-development state.
Members of Staffordshire Chambers can learn more about this legislation while connecting with like-minded professionals by booking a free space on the forum, here.
This forum serves as a crucial platform for local businesses operating within the energy and sustainability sectors. It provides a unique networking opportunity, fostering discussions on industry advancements and the exchange of best practices.
Tom Hammersley, Staffordshire Chambers’ EES Forum Administrator, said: “This forum represents an exceptional occasion for Chamber members to gain a deeper insight into Biodiversity Net Gain and its implications for our region’s sustainable development.
“We are honoured to have Gigi join us to share her expertise and shed light on the critical importance of preserving our natural heritage as we progress.”
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Grow your business globally with free International Trade consultation sessions
Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre is excited to unveil our new Trade Surgeries – giving businesses one-to-one support to help unlock new overseas markets, completely free of charge!
Led by trade expert Chris Street, the exclusive 45-minute sessions will help SMEs to find new overseas markets – perfect for businesses who have never traded internationally or those who have just started to break into new markets.
The one-to-one format ensures that you will receive bespoke advice tailored to your business, helping you to make more sales and grow your business.
Sessions will take place at Commerce House, with four currently available to book on the morning of Tuesday, 5 September, and a further four on Tuesday, 10 October.
It’s important to note that due to limited availability, we encourage you to secure your slot early. These 45-minute appointments are free and carry no obligation. To reserve your spot and make the most of this opportunity, kindly use the following link provided.
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Unlock Talent at the Staffordshire University Careers Fair
Staffordshire Chambers, in partnership with Staffordshire University, is hosting a “Local Jobs, Local Employers” jobs fair at the Catalyst Building.
Hosted as part of ‘Welcome Week’ on 28th September, this event will give businesses the opportunity to showcase any jobs available for students currently studying at Staffordshire University or to previous graduates and alumni.
Stands are free to book on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tom Nadin, Head of Projects and Business Services at Staffordshire Chambers said: “We have teamed up with Staffordshire University to host this event that looks to bridge the gap between employers and graduates.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to showcase their vacancies and establish connections that could potentially shape the trajectory of a young professional’s journey.
“It’s completely free to book a stand, too, so I would urge all businesses to get involved to help fill their vacancies.”
The event will take place between 12:00 pm – 14:00 pm.
If you would like to register your interest in attending, please complete this form.
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Staffordshire’s rich pottery heritage unlocked with Teapot Boat Tour
Staffordshire businesses took a tour of the Trent and Mersey Canal as part of an immersive ‘Teapot Boat Tour’ that unlocked the area’s rich pottery heritage.
organised collaboratively by Protectapet and Staffordshire Chambers, the tour embarked on a journey that delved deep into the history of the region’s renowned ceramics industry. Participants were treated to an educational voyage aboard a narrowboat, traversing the picturesque waterways that played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and industrial landscape of Staffordshire.
The journey included passage through the Harecastle Tunnel, a 1.6-mile-long marvel that minimised breakages of finished ceramics en route to markets in the 19th century. Following the canal journey, participants took a leisurely two-mile stroll through Bathpool Park, concluding their day at the Blue Bell Inn in Kidsgrove for drinks and informal networking.
Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “The group really enjoyed the Teapot Boat Tour, organised by Simon Davies of Protecapet, learning more about the factories that produced world-renowned teapots and ceramics.
“The event really helped to shine a light on Staffordshire’s heritage, weaving together the threads of history, industry and art in an engaging and educational manner.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us on the day.”
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Share your apprenticeship experiences with Staffordshire Chambers
Did you or someone within your organisation complete an apprenticeship?
Staffordshire Chambers is currently researching long-term apprenticeship success stories from both a personal and professional career perspective.
Whether you completed your apprenticeship five or 25 years ago, if you feel that it has positively impacted your life then we would like to hear from you via this short online form. We’re keen to hear from individuals across all sectors and job role levels.
Did your apprenticeship act as a catalyst for a new career path? Or did you remain in the same sector in which you first started? We’re keen to hear from individuals across all sectors and job role levels. We are not looking solely for senior leaders, but to showcase the full range of potential outcomes from Apprenticeships.
Please complete the short form outlining your name, company name and a brief description of your apprenticeship experiences, here.
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Staffordshire Chambers and Swoop join forces to launch Chamber Finance Finder platform
In response to the growing challenges faced by businesses navigating the financial landscape, Staffordshire Chambers is excited to announce a new partnership with Swoop, a leading platform specialising in financial matchmaking.
The collaboration gives birth to the ‘Chamber Finance Finder‘ platform, designed to simplify and expedite the process of securing funding for member businesses.
Businesses across various sectors are grappling with the complex task of finding the right funding solutions. The Chamber Finance Finder platform has been crafted to address this issue, providing member businesses with a user-friendly tool to access tailored funding opportunities including loans, equity options and grants.
Registering for a free account on the Chamber Finance Finder platform opens the door to a world of funding possibilities. In just a matter of minutes, businesses can be matched with funding opportunities that align with their specific needs.
The platform’s capabilities encompass a wide spectrum of financial options, from traditional loans and asset finance to cutting-edge products such as VAT loans and invoice finance. Moreover, businesses can explore grants designed to encourage innovation and support progress towards a Net Zero future.
Through Swoop’s intuitive portal, businesses can easily assess their eligibility and track their progress throughout the funding application process. This collaboration also ensures that Staffordshire Chambers’ members gain access to an array of exclusive benefits, further enhancing the value proposition:
- 5-Day Chamber Hotline: Member businesses can enjoy dedicated support five days a week from 9am to 5pm through a Chamber hotline, offering expert assistance to address their queries and concerns.
- Free Financial Health Assessment: Businesses can schedule consultations with funding managers to evaluate potential savings and identify the most suitable funding solutions.
- Application Support: Dedicated funding advisors will provide invaluable guidance, increasing the likelihood of successful funding applications.
- Finance Updates: Stay informed with monthly updates on the evolving funding landscape, ensuring members are equipped with the latest insights.
- Marketing Support: Continuously refreshed marketing initiatives and resources to cater to the evolving needs of Chamber members.
For more information and to explore the Chamber Finance Finder platform, please visit the Chamber Finance Finder.
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