News

A leading video production company based in Staffordshire has won multiple accolades at the prestigious EVCOM Clarion Awards 2024.  

Reels in Motion, attended the award evening at the LSEG in London and took home three trophies. These include one Gold for Brand Communication, and two Bronze for the Environmental and the Education & Training categories.  

They were awarded for their video collaboration with Slicker Recycling. The award-winning video was created to educate and inspire audiences to become sustainability champions by recycling waste oil, thereby contributing to the circular economy and helping to protect the planet. 

Read more via Daily Focus.

The latest national Quarterly Economic Survey results released by the British Chambers of Commerce show a slight improvement in business confidence and conditions.

38% of firms, an increase of 2% from Q1, have experienced an increase in domestic sales over the previous three months, while 43% reported no change, and 20% a decrease.

After a static picture in Q1, business confidence has increased slightly in Q2. 58% of firms say they are expecting an increase in turnover over the next year compared with 56% in Q1. 29% expect no change and only 13% expect a decrease.

The localised QES results for Staffordshire businesses were exclusively revealed in Daily Focus last week. Click here to read the results.

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “It’s really encouraging to see positive shoots of recovery from businesses across the UK. 

“Confidence has been improving among companies in recent months. Our data show the tangible impact of that positivity, as businesses report improved sales and cashflow. But investment levels remain an area of concern.

“Our message to the new Government is clear. We need a long-term economic plan that has the green transition at its heart, with a workforce fit for the future, living in thriving local places and powered by businesses that are globally facing and digitally enabled. 

“Business stands ready to work in partnership with Government to capitalise on the positive signs our data is showing.”

More detail on the QES results can be found here.

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:

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

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.