News
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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Sara’s Blog: Taking time out to make efficiency savings, review funding and finances and two great employee travel benefits
I always find the summer holidays are a good time to do a bit of housekeeping at work.
For example, reviewing what your business pays for gas, electricity and water is one task we all need to do but it gets pushed to the back of the list as day-to-day tasks take priority.
Earlier this year the Chambers entered a new partnership with leading utilities cost consultancy Troo to offer Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services to members.
The service is designed to provide expert advice to Staffordshire-based business owners to help you reduce electricity, gas and water expenditure, resulting in increased operational efficiency.
The team at Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services know the market and know the suppliers and they do all the hard work saving you time and probably a headache due to the confusing array of tariffs and suppliers out there.
As part of this new partnership, Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services offers a free energy health check to members. This service enables business owners to potentially save thousands of pounds per year on their energy bills.
I am confident that this partnership will benefit Staffordshire businesses and organisations and contribute to the economic growth of the county
Registered business members of Staffordshire Chambers can take advantage of the following services provided by Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services:
- A free assessment of current energy contracts
- Assistance in negotiating competitive market rates
- Ongoing account management and advice
Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services’ advisers can also analyse electricity and gas bills to identify if members are being overcharged. For larger operations, on-site audits of energy and water usage can be arranged, and if necessary, they can manage on-site works for meter upgrades.
You can find out more by taking advantage of the free initial assessment offered by the Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services advisers by calling: 0800 058 1950 or emailing: energyservices@sces.co.uk www.staffschambersenergyservices.co.uk
Another great service worth checking out is our partnership with Swoop to bring you access to funding across grants, loans, equity and commercial mortgages with our Finance Finder platform.
Finance Finder has a dedicated business hotline open during working hours, templates and tools to speed through applications, finance updates, news and alerts to keep you updated with funding and grant opportunities.
You can also access a free and impartial financial health assessment to help you find cost savings and efficiencies.
It is a really easy platform to use and you can get started by registering here: Get Started – Swoop Group (swoopfunding.com)
And whilst we are on the subject of saving money…..
Did you know that as a member of Staffordshire Chambers you automatically benefit from a massive discount on AA Roadside Assistance and a discount on car parks at most major UK airports?
Whether you have a small or large fleet of cars or a single commercial vehicle, we can help you to keep your vehicles on the move with Chamber Roadside Assistance.
In partnership with the AA, we will ensure you keep motoring at an exclusive competitive price – you can receive up to 67% discount on the cost of business breakdown cover. Several of our staff take advantage of the discount so I know it is a genuine money saver.
We also have a deal with APH airport car parking which slices a further 15% from their already competitive rates. APH offer valet parking and free transport to and from your terminal to get your holiday off to the right start.
And both discounts can be passed on to your employees, making great benefits to add to their package.
Contact info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk for details of both the AA and APH discounts
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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Asia-Pacific Trade Bloc Deal a boost for export prospects
Reacting to the signing of the Accession Protocol, paving the way for the UK’s accession to the CPTPP in 2024, Staffordshire Chambers International Trade Centre Manager, Allison Tomlinson said:
“The upcoming inclusion of the United Kingdom into this trade bloc brings the total to twelve nations, constituting 15% of the world’s economic output.
“This move will create fresh opportunities for our enterprises in both internal and external investment alongside the other eleven nations, commencing from the latter half of the upcoming year.
“Out of the current eleven members, the UK has secured individual trading arrangements with nine, leaving Malaysia and Brunei outstanding. Hence, these new terms will be of particular significance for traders operating within these markets.
“Such multinational trade pacts are rare, and they introduce novel prospects within a swiftly growing sector of the global economy.
“We observe a specific advantage for small and medium-sized businesses, as they can benefit from reduced expenses when importing components from fellow member countries for integration into products intended for export.
“Additionally, the provisions for data flows, which are increasingly vital for international trade, are quite favorable.
“We will closely examine the Accession Protocol upon its release in the upcoming days. Nonetheless, the accession presents positive prospects for UK businesses seeking to venture into or expand within these markets, offering heightened confidence and more advantageous trading conditions.
“We eagerly anticipate collaborating with the UK Government and other stakeholders to ensure that firms enjoy the most favorable access to this thriving market within the framework of global trade.”
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Full line-up of speakers revealed for Let’s Do Business expo
Staffordshire Chambers is delighted to reveal our full line-up of speakers for the 2023 Let’s Do Business expo.
Joining us at Uttoxeter Racecourse on 12 October, the four speakers will all explore the ways that AI developments can transform your business. This year’s speakers include:
Katie King
Katie King is a published Author, Keynote Speaker and Consultant on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in marketing and CX, as well as, STEM, leadership and business transformation.
Delegates will enjoy an exclusive insight into AI, digital transformation, and the future of marketing from Katie, who was recently voted a ‘Top 10 AI influencer’.
Katie will share her insights on how businesses of all sizes and across all sectors can harness AI ethically for competitive advantage. She will outline how they can take exploit new tools and processes across their marketing, sales, CX and HR, and provide insights into how they can get started, cost-effectively, using her Scorecard for Success.
Sandra Woolley
Sandra Woolley is the visionary Computer Science Research Director at Keele University.
With a background as Deputy Director at Keele University’s prestigious Digital Society Institute, Sandra is leading the charge in shaping the future of AI and technology with a conscience. This exclusive talk, delivered collaboratively by Sandra and Samir Dani, will explore new developments within the field of AI as well as the challenges with their applications. Businesses will be given an insight into the opportunities to harness these technologies for new business models, streamlining operations, and bringing transparency and traceability to organisational processes.
Samir Dani
Samir Dani is the Deputy Director of Keele Business School and Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management. His expertise span across areas including risk, resilience, sustainability, technology and business models within operations and supply chains.
Samir’s talk will unravel the secrets of transforming challenges into opportunities, crafting business models that thrive amidst the ever-evolving landscape of modern commerce. Whether you’re a business owner, an aspiring AI wizard or are simply curious about the ethical implications of AI, prepare to be inspired as Samir and Sandra the stage to share their insights, experiences and discoveries.
Theocharis Kyriacou
Theocharis will share real-world examples of how AI and Big Data can revolutionise business processes across a range of sectors and business sizes. They will also share compelling case studies on how they worked with local businesses to implement AI and Big Data strategies to streamline their operations, increase productivity, and achieve measurable results. Attendees can learn how these cutting-edge technologies can help improve efficiencies, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge in today’s digital landscape.
This year’s AI-themed event, sponsored by Business Lodge, Michelin, The HEX Group and Lexus Stoke, will also feature an interactive gaming lounge where people will be able to connect with fellow attendees, network and have some fun with a suite of VR and games provided by industry-leading businesses based in Staffordshire.
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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