News
Revealed: All the winners from the 2024 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards
Staffordshire’s leading businesses enjoyed an evening of celebration last night at the ninth annual Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Business Awards.
Taking home the coveted Business of the Year Award was Stoke-on-Trent-based Waste Management experts, Brown Recycling.
Digital forensic experts Semantics 21 took home a hattrick of honours, winning the Small Business of the Year Award, Digital Award, as well as the Innovation, Science & Technology Award.
Also among the night’s winners was Karen Jennings, who was voted the We Are Staffordshire Ambassador of the Year for her work at Lichfield Cathedral.
The complete list of winners on the night was:
Category | Winner | Sponsor |
Small Business of the Year | Semantics 21 | Sempar Accountancy and Tax |
Entrepreneur of the Year | Wes Wilkes, IronMarket Wealth | Staffordshire University |
Medium/Large Business of the Year | Altecnic | Dains Accountants |
Employer of the Year | Ornua and Klarius | West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association |
The Learning & Development Award | Sharon Owusu of NSCG | Genr8 |
Professional Services of the Year | Mode Architects | NSCG |
Employee of the Year | Tom Ives of Lila Connect | Ornua |
Sustainability and Environment Award | Brown Recycling | GivEnergy |
Responsible Business of the Year | Stone Group | Rydale Roofing |
Digital Award | Semantics 21 | Synectics Solutions |
International Trade Award | Barkers Engineering | Staffordshire Chambers International Trade Centre |
Manufacturer of the Year | Alpha Manufacturing | Lexus Stoke |
Hospitality, Leisure and Tourism Award | Aston Marina | KPI Recruiting |
Start-Up and Step-Up | Pro-tech MOT and Automotive Academy | Staffordshire County Council |
Innovation, Science and Technology Award | Semantics 21 | IronMarket Wealth |
Rachel Laver, Staffordshire Chambers CEO, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible achievements of our local businesses at the 2024 Business Awards.
“Last night’s event was a testament to the innovation, resilience and excellence that define our brilliant business community.
“It was inspiring to see so many outstanding companies and industry leaders come together to recognise the hard work and dedication that drive our region forward.
“Congratulations to all the winners, who truly exemplify the best of Staffordshire. Your achievements are a source of pride for us all and set a benchmark for future success.”
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce would like to extend its thanks to all of the sponsors, partners, judges, and attendees whose invaluable support contributed to the resounding success of the 2024 Business Awards.
For more information about Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce and its initiatives, please visit StaffordshireChambers.co.uk/awards
- Published in News
Staffordshire Chambers joins new corporate patron scheme supporting Lichfield Cathedral
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has joined Lichfield Cathedral’s new Corporate Patrons programme, helping to safeguard the future of the building for generations to come.
The cathedral, a central figure in Staffordshire’s heritage for over 1,300 years, stands as a testament to the region’s rich history with its magnificent three spires, but faces maintenance and operational costs of around £5,000 per day.
Now, through the Corporate Patrons Scheme, local businesses have a unique opportunity to contribute to the Cathedral’s preservation and enhancement, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
Chris Plant, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Deputy CEO, said: “We are committed to supporting the Cathedral’s ongoing mission. The Corporate Patrons Scheme will aid in maintaining the Cathedral and helping to protect its long-term legacy.
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“The annual cost to run and maintain the Cathedral is approximately £5,000 per day, a significant portion of which is funded by the generosity of donors, supporters and volunteers.
“It’s an integral part of the local area and economy, and something that we must continue to safeguard.”
Dr Marie Janson, Director of Development at Lichfield Cathedral said: “Lichfield Cathedral has a special place in the hearts and minds of people in Lichfield and surrounding counties.
“By joining the Corporate Patrons Scheme, businesses will play an important role helping us keep Lichfield Cathedral as a place of welcome and solace to all, as well as being a magnificent national and international visitor attraction.”
Staffordshire Chambers joins the scheme alongside BHB Architects, Jayman Estate Agents, and Richard Winterton Auctioneers.
For those interested in becoming part of the Corporate Patrons Scheme, please contact Oliver Birch, the Cathedral’s Development Manager, at oliver.birch@lichfield-cathedral.org.
- Published in News
Staffordshire businesses set to shine at Awards ceremony this Thursday
The county’s biggest business awards ceremony is set to return to the Doubletree by Hilton, Festival Park, this Thursday, 4 July.
Widely regarded as the region’s biggest business awards celebration, the Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of local businesses, highlighting their hard work, innovation and contributions to the economy during the past year and beyond.
This year’s ceremony promises to be an unforgettable evening with 15 award categories, including the introduction of two new accolades: Responsible Business of the Year and the Learning and Development Award.
Rachel Laver, CEO of Staffordshire Chambers, said: “The prestigious Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards honours the fantastic accomplishments of local businesses that have showcased remarkable growth, innovation, and impact on the Staffordshire economy during the past year.
“The event will feature a stellar line-up of companies and organisations who will come together to celebrate Staffordshire’s vibrant business community.
“I’m really looking forward to what promises to be a fantastic evening!”
The event has garnered support from notable sponsors, including the West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, Ornua, Staffordshire County Council, Sempar Accountancy and Tax, Rydale Roofing, GivEnergy, Ironmarket Wealth, Staffordshire University, NSCG, Dains, Lexus and Toyota Stoke, Synectics Solutions, KPI Recruiting, Stoke-on-Trent College, and the Staffordshire International Trade Centre. HSBC returns as the headline sponsor, with We Are Staffordshire as the Awards Partner.
A list of award winners will be shared in Daily Focus following the ceremony.
- Published in News
Businesses urged to back National Literacy Trust’s family literacy events in Stoke-on-Trent
The National Literacy Trust, in collaboration with Stoke-on-Trent Libraries, has announced the upcoming Tales in the Park series, a collection of six free storytelling festivals set to take place in parks across the six towns of Stoke-on-Trent.
These festivals aim to inspire families to enjoy stories together, develop a love of reading, and engage in fun family activities that promote health and wellbeing.
And the Trust is now reaching out to local businesses and community members to seek financial support for these festivals. Contributions will help enhance the range of engaging and fun literacy opportunities available for families during these events. With rising costs and a limited budget, support from the community is crucial to ensure the success of Tales in the Park.
Event Dates and Locations:
- Tuesday, 30 July – Tunstall Park
- Friday, 2 August – Longton Park
- Tuesday, 6 August – Yeaman Street Park
- Friday, 9 August – Burslem Park
- Tuesday, 13 August – Fenton Park
- Friday, 16 August – Hanley Park
Event Highlights:
- Storytelling Sessions and Drawalongs: Bringing stories to life with interactive storytelling.
- Free Books: Generously donated by HarperCollins* to encourage reading at home.
- Facepainting and Balloon Modelling: Fun activities for kids to enjoy.
- Pop-Up Sports, Crafts, and More: Encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
These festivals are perfect for families with children up to the age of 11, and offer a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the joy of reading in a fun and active environment.
Local businesses interested in supporting Tales in the Park are asked to email lois.bateman@literacytrust.org.uk or find out more about the festival by clicking here.
- Published in News
Lunar Awarded Two AA Rosettes
Lunar, the relaxed modern dining experience located at the World of Wedgwood, has been awarded two prestigious AA Rosettes.
The AA Rosette award, first awarded in 1956, was the first nationwide scheme for assessing the quality of food served by restaurants and hotels.
Lunar have been awarded the Rosettes for their work dedicated to creating a modern dining experience that celebrates Stoke-on-Trent’s rich heritage while embracing contemporary culinary techniques and craftsmanship that offers guests a truly unique experience that everyone can be proud of.
Guests at Lunar can enjoy their meals on exquisite Wedgwood china and drinks served in stunning Waterford crystal, adding an extra touch of elegance to their visit.
Since opening in November 2021, Lunar has continuously evolved. With this exciting news, the team believe it’s the perfect time to further evolve their offerings and introduce some brand-new menus.
These menus are designed to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences while maintaining the high standards that have earned recognition.
Lunar À La Carte Menu: Featuring new additions like the locally sourced beef fillet steak from
Staffordshire’s Dunwood Farm, served with triple-cooked chips, or Market catch of the day with
pappardelle and shrimp cream sauce. This menu offers guests a sophisticated dining experience
showcasing the best local ingredients.
Classic Set Menu: This set menu offers exceptional value at just £20 for two courses without
compromising on quality. Served lunchtimes Thursday to Saturday.
Lunar Experience Menu: Their multi-course dining experience allows guests to explore local, sustainable
ingredients and try dishes they wouldn’t normally encounter. This menu is designed to take diners on a
culinary journey, celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship of their chefs.
“We are incredibly proud to receive two AA Rosettes,” said Craig Wilkinson, Director of Lunar. “I am so
proud of our team to receive this accolade. The whole team fully deserves every bit of recognition for
regularly going above and beyond to serve our guests to the highest of standards.
“Our team have been working tirelessly to develop these new menus, striving to create something for everyone. Their creativity and standard of quality is truly commendable, and to have been awarded two AA Rosettes, it really shows the journey we are on at Lunar in providing high quality dining experiences for our guests, always willing to listen, learn and evolve.
“Lunar remains committed to supporting local suppliers, artists, and the community while providing a
memorable dining experience. We invite everyone to join us and experience our new menus, celebrate our recent accolades, and enjoy the unique ambience that makes Lunar a standout destination in Stoke.”
For more information and to book a table, please visit our website at www.lunarwedgwood.com
- Published in News
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce launches new Business Manifesto ahead of General Election
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has launched our 2024 Business Manifesto to help address the region’s most pressing economic challenges.
Structured around five pivotal themes, the Manifesto outlines the targeted policy and lobbying work that we will follow to help enable economic growth across Staffordshire.
Under each theme, we have outlined the commitments that we will follow, while identifying key actions that we will seek from partners and stakeholders.
A copy of the Manifesto has been distributed to all local Parliamentary candidates and national political leaders ahead of the general election on 4 July.
Connected Staffordshire emphasises the county’s exceptional connectivity, with four major airports within an hour’s drive and 40% of the UK population within a two-hour drive.
The Manifesto calls for improved transport infrastructure, reduced congestion, and enhanced public transport to facilitate smoother movement of people and goods.
Digital Staffordshire addresses the critical role of digital technology in modern business operations. The Manifesto highlights the ongoing struggle with digital poverty and the significant threat posed by cyber-attacks. It stresses the importance of educating businesses on cybersecurity and maximising the benefits of new technologies.
Global Staffordshire encourages local businesses to engage in global trade despite the current volatility caused by post-pandemic, post-Brexit conditions, and supply chain disruptions.
Green Staffordshire focuses on sustainability and the importance of achieving net-zero aspirations. The Manifesto emphasises the need for businesses to adopt sustainable practices to combat climate change.
And finally, Skilled Staffordshire highlights the critical need for a skilled workforce. The Manifesto points out challenges in recruitment and retention, particularly in sectors like manufacturing and hospitality. It calls for more flexible workplaces, ongoing training, and upskilling to attract and retain a diverse talent pool, thereby preventing unnecessary workforce attrition.
Declan Riddell, Policy Adviser at Staffordshire Chambers, said: “Our Manifesto is a call to action for our local businesses and political leaders.
“By addressing these key themes, we can build a thriving, resilient economy in Staffordshire.”
Also timed in line with the General Election, Staffordshire Chamber will host the Parliamentary candidates for the Stoke-on-Trent Central constituency at their Commerce House offices next Friday, 28 June, for a business-focussed hustings event. Spaces for the event are free and can be booked here.
The full Manifesto is available online for public viewing.
- Published in News
Staffordshire Chambers receives record response rate for Quarterly Economic Survey
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is delighted to announce that we have received our highest-ever response rate for a Quarterly Economic Survey (QES).
The record level of participation reflects the strong engagement of businesses in Staffordshire – with over 330 firms having their say on the current challenges that they are facing.
While responses indicate a slight decline in sales, customer or booking numbers, and advance bookings, as well as a decrease in workforce growth over the past and upcoming three months, they also highlight critical areas of concern and opportunity.
Key findings from the survey include:
- Price Expectations: An increase in respondents expecting to raise prices in the future, coupled with a slight drop in those anticipating turnover growth.
- Cost Pressures: Labour costs and other overheads are the top pressures driving potential price increases, with energy prices and supply costs being major concerns compared to three months ago.
- Positive Developments: Growth in overseas sales, customers, and bookings, alongside increased investments in plant, machinery, capital, and training over the past three months. Additionally, more respondents expect profitability to rise over the next 12 months.
Read the findings in full via Daily Focus, here.
Declan Riddell, Policy Adviser at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “We would like to thank all of the businesses that took the time to complete the latest QES survey and for helping us to set a new record for number of responses.
“The QES is a vital tool for us to understand the economic landscape, feeding into our lobbying work, as well as being reported back to organisations including the Bank of England and The HM Treasury.
“Responses from the survey suggest that our businesses are still battling economic headwinds.
“The competition for skills remains strong, and the high-cost pressures of wages and interest rates are ongoing challenges. The actual cost of doing business continues to be a significant issue.”
He added: “Achieving our highest-ever response rate for the QES is a milestone, and we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated. Your input is invaluable in shaping our understanding and advocacy efforts.”
All 52 UK Chambers of Commerce conduct the QES in their respective regions.
The findings, widely recognised as a valuable source of information about economic performance, are shared with the British Chambers of Commerce, government departments including HM Treasury and the Cabinet Office, as well as the Bank of England.
- Published in News
Excellence programme is seeking Staffordshire businesses who want to be the best
Performance improvement specialists, Investors in Excellence Group are joining forces with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce to launch a brand-new venture, Excellence in Staffordshire.
The Excellence in Staffordshire initiative is designed specifically to progress business to a place of excellence that puts them ahead of the competition and second to none.
Businesses will be able to find out all about Excellence in Staffordshire at a special launch event on 11th July at Chambers HQ on Festival Park.
Judy Hart, Chief Executive, Investors in Excellence Group said: “The Excellence in Staffordshire programme is not another administration-heavy burden that will turn off your employees and confuse your customers. It is a series of uncomplicated tools and modules to guide you at every stage of your journey.
“We have been delivering the Investors in Excellence Standard across the world for over 28 years, enabling organisations to excel in the areas that matter most to them, their customers, people, and stakeholders.
“We have close associations with Staffordshire, and I have been particularly impressed with the way businesses cooperate and collaborate for the good of the local community and Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is truly at the heart of this activity.
Covering all performance areas, Excellence in Staffordshire will guide improving achievements through effective and efficient leadership, resourcing, and delivery identifying what matters most to drive continuous improvement.
“Excellence in Staffordshire will focus on achieving excellence in the county and driving business success. Primarily, it’s a 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.”
One Staffordshire organisation to already benefit from the Investors in Excellence Standard is Douglas Macmillan Hospice. In 2022, they became the first hospice in the UK to achieve the globally recognised Investor in Excellence Standard.
David Webster, Chief Executive of Douglas MacMillan Hospice said: “We want to be admired as a centre of excellence for palliative and end of life care – that is our fundamental goal. We have worked with Investors in Excellence to secure excellence at the core of our hospice, and this partnership has been invaluable in our quest to evidence all that we do as demonstrably excellent.
“I am delighted that Excellence in Staffordshire has launched so that businesses and organisations in the county can gain the recognition they deserve for delivering exceptional service.”
Chris Plant, deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce added: “Excellence in Staffordshire is a natural fit for The Chambers, so I was delighted when Judy Hart first approached me about the launch of the programme. We deal with world class businesses on a day-to-day basis and want to do all we can do to enable continual improvement and being the best.”
Book your free place on the Excellence in Staffordshire launch: https://bit.ly/3VmJSdw
- Published in News
Stoke City launch new ‘Business Club’ partnership opportunities
Stoke City has launched a new Business Club, providing new opportunities for businesses of all sizes to partner with and demonstrate support for the Potters at accessible price points.
The Business Club becomes a brand-new tier of official partnership aimed at connecting businesses to City’s vast audience from the 24/25 season and beyond.
As well as receiving exposure for their brand, companies will enjoy additional benefits from entering an official partnership with the Potters, as well as gaining access to the Stoke City Business Club and associated exclusive events.
A trio of packages at varying price points have been created to cater for businesses of virtually any size, with a full overview available by contacting the Club’s friendly team.
Each package includes a minimum of the following:
- Exclusive access to a calendar of Business Club events throughout the
24/25 season - Official Partnership designation along with bespoke logo
- In-play LED advertising
- Digital branding across concourse TVs situated within the bet365 Stadium
- Business Club recognition showcased on the club website, matchday
programme and in-stadium big screen - Matchday hospitality
Steven Forrest, Head of Partnerships at Stoke City, said: “Following dialogue and feedback from members of our local business community, we are thrilled to announce the formation of the Stoke City Business Club.
“This brand-new partnership proposition has been created solely to offer regional businesses opportunities to demonstrate their proud support for Stoke City whilst showcasing their brand to a vast audience at a range of highly competitive price points.
“In addition to an array of key commercial inventory that will display a company’s branding on matchdays and beyond, the Business Club itself will create a ‘club within a club’ and connect like-minded businesses at a calendar of exclusive events throughout the 24/25 season.
“Ahead of what promises to be an exciting period of growth both on and off the pitch, any business is welcome to get in touch and discuss joining the club.”
To receive a copy of the partnerships brochure and to find out more about the Stoke City Business Club, please contact the Club’s Head of Partnerships, Steven Forrest, on Steven.Forrest@stokecityfc.com or 01782 592216.
- Published in News
Declan’s Policy Update: Hustings – Meet your Parliamentary Candidates for Stoke-on-Trent Central
Chances are that when you read this, there will be just over a fortnight until the 2024 General Election.
The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, announced that there would be a General Election, some four weeks ago, on Wednesday 23rd May. During these past four weeks, there has been continuous coverage in the news, with all of the political parties and candidates vying for our cross on the ballot box.
This will be the UK’s fourth General Election in just over nine years, with a potential outcome of the country having its sixth Prime Minister since 2016. As the voice of business in Staffordshire, we’re here to connect the business community with our political representatives and that’s why we’re delighted to host a hustings event with the chance to meet the Parliamentary candidates standing in the Stoke-on-Trent Central Constituency.
Stoke-on-Trent Central is one of the country’s most marginal seats, with a winning score of less than 700 votes at the 2019 General Election. The constituency stretches from Etruria Valley to Park Hall and from Trent Vale to Stockton Brook, taking in key employment sites including Hanley, Stoke Town, Royal Stoke University Hospital and of course, Festival Park, where we’re based!
What are the main issues for businesses in Stoke-on-Trent Central? What are the key business priorities for whichever party triumphs on the morning of Friday 5th July? It’s a constituency with a significant number of retailers and we’ll certainly continue our call for a reform of the business rates system. Both Hanley and Stoke Town would welcome support to bring in more footfall and visitors, helping our hard-pressed retailers.
Stoke-on-Trent Central constituency is book-ended by areas experiencing poor air quality due to vehicle pollution. To the west at Basford Bank and to the east in Hanley/Joiners Square/Fenton. How can we improve air quality for our residents without imposing a solution which will have a negative impact on local businesses?
This is your chance to quiz the Parliamentary candidates on their policies and how they will support the local business community. Our hustings event takes place on Friday 28th June from 9AM, at our Commerce House office. Advanced bookings are essential with no walk-in delegates on the day. Please click below to book your place but don’t delay, as places are filling fast!:
Hustings – Meet your Parliamentary Candidates – Stoke-on-Trent Central – Staffordshire Chambers
The event will be hosted by Nigel Pye of I-Creation and he’ll do his very best to encourage our audience to raise a variety of questions. If you would like to raise a question anonymously, please send your question to:
declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
We have also launched our own Business Manifesto, focusing on the themes of:
– Connected Staffordshire
– Digital Staffordshire
– Global Staffordshire
– Green Staffordshire
– Skilled Staffordshire
We’ll be sharing our manifesto with all political parties. More of this in next week’s blog! Watch this space!
2024 is turning out to be a truly global election year, with the citizens of more than 80 countries going to the polls in the course of this calendar year. Voting is a precious democratic right, so whatever your political persuasion, please remember to cast your vote on Thursday 4th July.
- Published in Influence & Network, News