News

Figures released today by the British Chambers of Commerce show that most SME exporters are struggling to boost their sales overseas.

The Trade Confidence Outlook for Q1 2024 shows that more than half of all SME exporters, 53%, saw no change in overseas sales, and 23% reported a decrease.  

Unfortunately, the forecast looks fragile for 2024 due to ongoing geo-political uncertainty and growing concerns about the resilience of supply chains.

It’s not all bad news, though.

Around a quarter of exporting SME firms (24%) actually reported an increase in sales in Q1.

On a related note, I was delighted to read that Staffordshire Chamber members Bakers Fencing have been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category.

The award recognises their exceptional success in international trade, which saw sales grow by 82% during the three-year application period. You can find out more about their story and their huge successes in exports, here.

Bakers Fencing work closely with our International Trade team here at the Chamber who support with export documentation and declarations. If you are interested in learning more about how our International Trade team can support your business, please click here.

The domestic demand for SME exporters remains consistently more buoyant, with 35% reporting an increase in domestic sales Q1 2024, against just 24% for overseas sales.

The EU is still our biggest trading partner, but firms continue to express huge frustration with the complexity and costs involved in trade.

We must look to deconstruct trade barriers with the EU, as the UK’s regulatory divergence increases. 

The Government needs to work collaboratively with businesses to establish a framework that makes use of all the advantages the UK has, and to utilise incentives for our global exporters.

Confidence Live

Staffordshire’s biggest celebration of confidence and self-improvement returned to the King’s Hall last week.

I took to the stage to deliver an honest talk on my experiences with confidence and public speaking – something that I’ve always found difficult, but something that I am getting more comfortable with.

It was funny to hear people cheering and whopping as I spoke, so what I said clearly resonated with others and I’ve had some lovely comments since.  I think it’s important to show we’re not infallible!

I was followed on stage by a range of brilliant presentations, including presenter and comedian, Katherine Ryan.

The event attracted guests from up and down the country, many of whom would have stayed overnight and eaten locally. It was a welcome boost for our local economy and hospitality sector, and something that we are keen to build on here at the Chamber.

It was a fantastic event and it was great to be in the room with so many businesses and entrepreneurs who were all eager to connect with other industry professionals and gain valuable insights into all things confidence.

We’ve got some brilliant events coming up at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce. You can find a full list of them in our events calendar, here.

The Installation of Levison Wood

I thoroughly enjoyed attending the official installation of Staffordshire University’s new Chancellor, Levison Wood last week – and it was even more fitting for it to take place on Staffordshire Day.

Raised in Forsbrook, Levison is a true champion of the Moorlands with a remarkable story, penning eleven best-selling books, travelling and working in over 100 countries and producing a range of critically acclaimed documentaries.

It’s great to have such a high-profile person to inspire local students and show what can be achieved through hard work and determination.

There were some fantastic events taking place across the county to mark Staffordshire Day and I’m already looking forward to next year’s celebrations!

We’ve got so much to be proud of here in Staffordshire – and so much to be excited about in our future.

Barkers Fencing, the UK’s leading high-security fence and gate manufacturer, has been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category.  

The award recognises their exceptional success in international trade, which saw sales grow by 82% in the three-year application period.

Barkers now joins over 7,000 UK enterprises that have received this Royal recognition since the Awards were first created in 1965. 
 
Based in Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent, Barkers design and manufacture a range of steel fencing and gates, much of which is exported globally, to locations including the Falkland Isles, the USA, Japan and New Zealand.     

Andrew Rowe, Managing Director, said: “The following words, received from the King’s Award office are surely some of the most momentous and rewarding Barkers have received in our over 160-year history:  

“I am delighted to inform you that His Majesty the King has approved the Prime Minister’s recommendation that your company should receive a King’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category this year.”  

Whilst innovative products such as StronGuard RCS and SecureGuard RCS – patented fences that can stop a 7.5tonne vehicle at 30mph – offer vital perimeter security and protect people and other valuable assets, the experience, passion and work ethic of the employees at Barkers is the real key to their export success. 

The 185- strong team at their Fenton site have a winning combination of skills and aptitude, with friendliness, integrity and a ‘customer-first’ attitude. 

Andrew added: “Virtually every country in the world has their own fencing industry, but our customers recognise the added value in Barkers specialist products and the technical expertise, experience and friendly service we offer. It’s the whole package that gets exported globally, not just the product. 

“To commemorate and celebrate the occasion we will be holding a ‘Barkers Bank Holiday’ for all our team on Friday 24^th May. The Kings Award is a just reward for the efforts in manufacturing our incredible products and selling to the world to keep people and properties safe and secure.” 

Lichfield-based charity Staffordshire Network for Mental Health (SNfMH) celebrated a milestone birthday in style by hosting a charity ball and raising almost £3,000 to help support their vital mental health work in the community.

The event, which took place at the Geroge Hotel in Lichfield, celebrated SNfMH’s 21 years of dedication to improving mental health in Staffordshire.

Ian Scott, Chairman of SNfMH said: “The evening was a huge success.

“After months of planning the SNfMH team delivered an amazing event. Many, many thanks to everybody who supported us on the night.”

Local radio personality and podcaster Ed Nell kept the night rolling with his comedic talent as the compare, ensuring a night filled with laughter and good company.

Executive Operations Manager, Gemma Giles, took to the stage during the evening to shed light on the invaluable work SNfMH does in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges. She also discussed the charity’s impactful work within businesses, promoting strategies for creating healthier and more supportive workplaces.

Attendees raised an impressive £2,976. This fantastic sum will be channelled directly into supporting the delivery of SNfMH’s flagship Toolbox program throughout the Staffordshire community.

Ian added: “Staffordshire Network for Mental Health extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the Big Bash Ball.

“Special thanks go to headline sponsors, Logistics World and Staffordshire Web Design, whose support was instrumental in making the event possible.”

“It’s night like this that continuee to empower individuals in Staffordshire to navigate life’s challenges and achieve better mental well-being.

“Here’s to next year!”

Find out more about the charity, here.

Chamber member and IT specialist EPX Technical Services is to host a webinar for companies to learn more about growing their businesses safely and successfully.

The webinar, which will take place on June 6th at 2pm, will cover how to recognise the problems of a struggling IT infrastructure, the challenges faced in aligning IT systems with growth trajectory, and provide actionable insights and solutions to growth.

Places at the webinar, How To Update Your IT Infrastructure as You Scale Your Business to Ensure Success, can be booked here. Anyone who can’t make the webinar can sign up via the link and receive a recording they can view at their convenience.

Dan Ellis, CEO at EPX, said: “As a company expands, there is a danger that IT systems and processes are not fit for where the business is heading and can become significant barriers to furthering business growth – stifling innovation and hampering productivity.

“Growth is the goal of many businesses but there are problems that can arise with rapid growth which need to be managed correctly. Our Webinar on June 6th will look at how to scale a business successfully using appropriate operating systems.

“We will explore the challenges posed by inefficient systems and scalability constraints by providing an understanding of the root causes and identifying the solutions to overcome them. We will explain how businesses should be managing SOPs and how to protect assets during growth effectively.

“The session is designed to help companies revolutionise their approach to IT scalability – putting them in the best possible position to enjoy sustainable business success.”

Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has launched a new Ambassadors Network that will acknowledge and reward the businesses that have referred the greatest number of new members to the Chamber.

To celebrate the launch, a group of our best-referrers were invited to an exclusive lunch celebration at the prestigious Potters Club, Stoke.

Joining the initial network are Lila Connect, the Business Lodge, MB Associates, Training & Business Solutions, M&M Group and AMB Insurance – with more businesses set to be announced in the coming months.

The network forms part of the wider Chamber referral offer, which gives members a hospitality voucher of up to £100 for every business they successfully refer.

Steve Rushton, of Training and Business Solutions, said: “I’ve been involved with the Chamber for a number of years through a previous company, but decided to set up my own business around 18 months ago.

“I had a fantastic introduction with my account manager, Sandra, and since then, I’ve got so much out of the Chamber – whether it’s business support, networking or general guidance to help my business get moving in the right direction.

“I’ve had a lot of new business through the Chamber, who actively send business my way, and I’d like to think I’ve sent a good amount the other way too!

“It’s unlocked so many new opportunities for me and I am delighted to join the Ambassador Network.”

Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers, said: “The Ambassadors Network embodies our dedication to nurturing meaningful connections within our business community.

“I’d like to personally thank all of the businesses who have formed part of the initial network. They are true Chamber champions and it’s great to see them enjoying so much value from our network.

“By recognising and rewarding those who actively contribute to our membership’s expansion, we aim to create a thriving environment where businesses can flourish.”

Find out more about the Chambers’ referral offer, here.

Keep your eyes out for more Ambassador spotlights in the coming weeks.

Fast-growing energy storage firm, GivEnergy, has officially opened its first UK manufacturing facility.

Situated on Chemical Lane, Stoke, this cutting-edge facility signifies a pivotal moment for both the UK clean energy sector and for the Staffordshire economy.

The firm held an inaugural launch event held on Friday with a range of guests including Amanda Solloway – Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and Aaron Bell MP. Also present were prominent figures from the likes of Octopus Energy, E.ON, Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Keele and Staffordshire Universities, Beat the Cold charity, multiple renewables wholesale leaders, and more.

GivEnergy’s newly-opened facility will primarily manufacture commercial energy storage systems. It also leaves space to bring in the future manufacturing of the company’s smaller products, such as its EV charger. Meanwhile, the factory will simultaneously repair, recycle, and reuse damaged or old GivEnergy battery systems via a custom-built R&D lab.

With both the production of new products and the restoration of old, the facility is a true testament to GivEnergy’s commitment to a greener future. Plus, the site is a physical, working testament to sustainability. With the addition of solar panels and the use of its own commercial energy storage system, the building is not just net zero – it is net positive to the grid.

Jason Howlett, GivEnergy Group CEO, said: “We’re absolutely passionate about turning North Staffordshire into a centre of excellence for the renewables industry”.

“This new manufacturing site is just one part of that mission. We’ve already invested substantially in the region over the past 18 months with a new HQ, additional property acquisitions, and heavy recruitment drives.  

“Now, we’re thrilled to be able to continue fostering economic growth and creating highly-skilled job opportunities via a British manufacturing facility.”

GivEnergy’s new manufacturing site will create multiple jobs spanning engineering, warehousing, and R&D. Plus, having this additional (and substantial) site will allow the company to stimulate electrical jobs via an expanded training facility for its approved installer programme.

This will double GivEnergy’s existing training capacity to help meet demand – allowing ever-more qualified electricians become certified to fit battery storage systems.  

With operations now underway, GivEnergy plans to leverage these nearshored manufacturing capabilities. The company now looks forward to driving technological advancements in battery storage systems —  contributing to the UK’s ambitious climate goals while delivering tangible benefits to customers and society at large.

Imagine the scene. You’re a super fan of creative, independent and local business. You love locally brewed beer too and love to share the very best about your local area. Then you notice that local artists, makers and creatives need support, a network and somewhere beautiful to sell their wares so you set up pop up shops, markets and a flagship store to do just that!

This is the story of Andy and his wife Laura, the heart and genius behind Keep It Local, an award winning business showcasing the very best of local talent. I visited their pop up store in The Potteries Centre and was immediately struck by the sheer quality and range of gifts, clothes and more on sale. Beautifully merchandised, with help from team at JAGG Design, the store stands tall compared to any trendy city centre store you might more easily associate with a visit to Manchester, Sheffield or London.

With a cool, understated vibe, the store is cleverly curated to take you on a journey from tiny hand made earrings to denim clothes and hand poured candles. Better still, Andy is on hand to tell you the story of any of the makers on show, with his obvious passion and dedication to each of his members. This local knowledge and understanding, really adds depth to the shopping experience, as you discover the ideas, stories and journeys of those who have displayed their makes.

How did I feel? Inspired that there are quite so many talented creatives right here in Stoke on Trent. Excited to see something new and uplifting in the Potteries Centre and finally, so much clearer about why a visit to Hanley is a refreshed and positive experience. Keep It Local’s Potteries Centre Pop Up is open until the end of April but they have also announced that they will be back from October to Christmas 2024. The perfect opportunity to shop local, handmade and artisan.

Here’s a little back story… It started in 2021 when Andy started to take and post pics from his love of a local beer when he became aware just how much support and spotlight local businesses needed. He was talking to local makers and creatives about the challenges involved in making their businesses full time or find places to sell their products in an affordable, sustainable and attractive way. 1 Andy says that the biggest challenge for many a talented maker is to do enough business to make a living full time. Although online selling is clearly an easy option from a tech point of view, it’s not an easy pathway to a full time income. Andy also says that it’s a real challenge to work alone to make, package & sell your designs without help and support, both from fellow makers who might share your journey and customers who want to easily find you and buy from you.

Keep It Local has now worked with 150 makers from across the city and county through network events and selling their wares in their flagship store in Longton, and now their pop up shop in The Potteries Centre in Hanley. Recognised in the 2023 Potteries Centre Awards, their mission is to change the shopping habits of those visiting their stores by diverting some of their spending power to local creative makers. In fact, Andy goes one step further and says that 2024 will see more pop up opportunities and create a ‘hub of hope’ for local artists, makers and designers. Alongside his son Harry and father in law, Andy and Laura are developing a winning team to see their vision and passion for Stoke on Trent continue t go from strength to strength.

How can you get involved and feel the positive vibes of Keep It Local, while offering your support?

• Make a plan to visit Hanley by the 28th of April to visit Keep It Local.
• Enjoy a happy mooch around the store, learn more about creative Stoke and maybe even make a purchase.
• You can follow this up with a delicious coffee at one of the many indie coffee shops in town
• Follow Keep It Local on social media to make sure you don’t miss out on their next adventure or new maker launch
• Share your positive experiences with everyone you know so that together we can change the narrative about the city centre from one of gloom, to one of an exciting future.
  
  For more information about Andy, Laura and Keep It Local, please visit their website www.keepitlocalshop.co.uk

Staffordshire’s biggest party is returning this Wednesday, 1 May.

Staffordshire Day is an annual celebration that showcases the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines this charming county through a series of events and initatives.

Marking the anniversary of Josiah Wedgwood’s historic pottery company establishment in 1759, Staffordshire Day has become a beloved tradition, honouring the county’s heritage and accomplishments.

This year’s festivities promise to be bigger and better than ever, with a diverse lineup of events catering to all interests. From film festivals spotlighting local talent to exhilarating walking tours through picturesque landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For those eager to show their support on social media, a free Staffordshire Day toolkit is available for download, featuring graphics and various iterations of the Staffordshire Day logo. The toolkit can be downloaded here.

Whether it’s exploring the breathtaking countryside, experiencing the thrills of renowned theme parks, or delving into the rich history and heritage, Staffordshire Day offers an opportunity for all to revel in the unique charm of this beloved region.

Find a full line-up of themed events via the Staffordshire Day website, here.

Stafford-based technical PR agency Stone Junction has been shortlisted for no fewer than six categories in the PRCA DARE Midlands awards.

Categories include the B2B Award, Event/Launch of the Year, Integrated Campaign of the Year Award, Purpose Award, Rising Star of the Year and Large Consultancy of the Year, and follow an impressive twelve months for Stone Junction, which saw it win new twelve new clients, generate over 7,000 pieces of media coverage and reward staff with a combined £75,714 in pay rises.

“Stone Junction has been a valuable partner for the last few years in our Lab Innovations and Advanced Engineering campaign,” explained Charlie Taylor, marketing manager at Easyfairs. “Its integrated approach blending traditional PR with digital strategies has driven remarkable results.”

In the agency’s shortlisted B2B campaign, Driving sustainability and efficiency, Stone Junction helped Brazilian engineering company WEG communicate a significant EU regulatory change for electric motor efficiency, securing an impressive 480 pieces of coverage in global trade press. Furthermore, the team’s efforts resulted in a substantial growth of 4,774 new followers on WEG’s LinkedIn page.

Stone Junction was also shortlisted for the Purpose Award, for its client Katrick Technologies. Here, the team’s strategic campaign successfully positioned Katrick as a Greentech disruptor, achieving 211 pieces of trade media coverage, including a five minute segment on BBC Click in December, 2023. This helped Katrick win the Energy Innovation Award at the National Sustainability Awards, 2023, and be invited for a meeting at 10 Downing Street.

“A key objective for us is to change the ways business market themselves,” explained Richard Stone, managing director of Stone Junction. “The results the team achieved last year, especially on the shortlisted campaigns, shows our joined-up PR campaigns are delivering meaningful results for our clients in terms of media coverage, social media engagement and web traffic.”

Leah Elston-Thompson Chart.PR, account director at Stone Junction and a member of the agency’s management team, is shortlisted for Rising Star of the Year. Elston-Thompson became the agency’s fourth CIPR chartered practitioner in 2023 and leads a team of five PR consultants that manages a significant amount of annual business.

Finally, Stone Junction is nominated for Large Consultancy of the Year following a year that included moving into a new, larger Stafford-based headquarters and establishing its presence overseas.

Celebrations are in order for Staffordshire-based Internet Service Provider, Internet Central, who have relocated their business to a larger premises.

Amy Byrne, the companies Sales Director, said: “At Internet Central, our customers are our primary focus. They are the driving force behind everything we do, and their support is the bedrock of our expansion.

“In recent years, our customer base has flourished, enabling us to enrich our service offerings with dedicated leased line connectivity solutions and comprehensive network solutions.

“This relocation is a tribute to our customers’ loyalty and our steadfast resolve to meet the escalating demand for dependable and innovative internet services.”

Since its inception, Internet Central has fostered relationships to facilitate business connections through cutting-edge technology. Today, they stand as a trusted partner for businesses, both local and national, alike.

Amy added: “We believe that business continuity hinges on uninterrupted connectivity. This journey is brimming with exciting milestones, and our new premises will accommodate the future growth of the Internet Central family.

“It positions us to consistently deliver unparalleled connectivity and support to our clients. As we embark on this next chapter, we eagerly anticipate continued growth alongside our valued customers.”