News

Midlands Marketing and Public Relations consultant Tillymint Communications has made the finals of a prestigious industry award – for the third year running.

The company, run by Alison Gallagher-Hughes, has been shortlisted in the Independent Practitioner category of the CIPR Excellence Awards 2024. T

he awards represents global recognition from the world’s only chartered PR organisation – the Chartered Institute of Public Relations – and attract a huge number of entries.

Tillymint is one of six contenders – the winner is selected following a rigorous panel interview with judges  – and will be announced at a glitzy awards ceremony, at The Royal Lancaster Hotel, London, on 26 June. This year, the ceremony, is being hosted by comedian Axel Blake.

Alison founded Tillymint Communications in 2020. She was previously Head of PR for a full-service agency and has spent much of her career working ‘in-house’ primarily within the public sector: policing, social housing and further education. She moved into PR following a career in newspaper journalism.

She decided to set up her own business in the wake of the Covid crisis.

“The pandemic brought many businesses to their knees but as the threat lifted, there was a growing need for them to ‘get back in the game’ and actively promote their products and services, so it seemed like the ideal opportunity to start a new chapter by founding Tillymint.

“I look back over the past four years and marvel at how rapidly the business has grown. Our first project was a one-off piece of work for an organisation who soon after became a retained client and they remain with us today. That is incredibly rewarding because the more we work with a particular client the more that trusted relationship develops and we become an outsourced member of their team – always on hand to support and add value to their organisation.

Alison said that she was delighted to be “in the mix” for this year’s CIPR Excellence Awards.

“To be shortlisted in this category is a very great honour. As a Chartered Practitioner, I know how hard CIPR works to establish and maintain professional standards and I am very humbled to be a finalist for a third consecutive year alongside some very worthy contenders.”

Amid growing fuel poverty numbers and its impact on employee morale, energy experts Residential Energy Services (RES) has successfully launched the new Workplace Energy Advice programme.

Sponsored by The Department of Energy Security & Net Zero and Midlands Net Zero Hub, this programme is designed to provide flexible employee access to energy support, to help improve energy use both at work and at home.

This programme is a fully-funded initiative, providing free, flexible access to energy advice in the manufacturing, production and retail sectors, or anywhere a large workforce may struggle to gain access to community advice, due to unsociable shift patterns, or limited access to technology and resources.

The advice service is also tailored to individual businesses and employee work patterns, to eliminate the cost of removing employees from the shop floor. “Drop-in” workshops and consultations, or pop-up services in communal areas are designed to blend seamlessly with the working day.

The programme provides guidance on how to save energy and reduce waste, an overview of energy saving measures such as insulation and air source heat pumps, followed by one to one sessions to check funding eligibility, EPC’s and answer any queries the employee may have on how to make their home more energy efficient.

Sarah Parry, MD of Residential Energy Services, said: “This unique service from RES empowers employers to provide tangible guidance and support to employees to drive forward their commitment to sustainability”.

Since 2014, RES has provided energy subsidy awareness and advisory services to over 20,000 individual households in the UK. RES specialise in educating householders on energy saving measures, and manage the customer journey from initial advice through to installation.

You may have seen the news that I have taken on a new role as Lead Director for Business Community Support at the Stoke-on-Trent Business Improvement District.

Holding values that align seamlessly with our mission here at Staffordshire Chambers, the BID work tirelessly to help improve our city centre, making it a more attractive place to live, work and do business.

Having worked for the City Council and other local regeneration bodies in the past, I am really looking forward to utilising my experience to support the City Centre BID team, helping the city to unlock its potential and creating realistic, achievable and ambitious plans that we can set in motion.

I live in Staffordshire and am proud to do so. I believe that it is absolutely vital that we champion and celebrate these kinds of initiatives to help the area prosper, and for residents to feel proud of where they live.

Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) latest

Staffordshire Chambers’ Policy Adviser, Declan Riddell, penned a fantastic policy update on Monday that revealed the results of our latest QES.

The survey paints a picture of the business landscape across Staffordshire and beyond, acting as a vital barometer of business confidence and economic performance.

I was pleased to see that 42% of Staffordshire respondents had reported an increase in domestic sales during the last three months, which is up on the national average of 36%.

It’s mixed results on the investment front, with 11% of Staffordshire businesses reporting an increase in plant or equipment investment during the last three months and 82% reporting no change. The increase is slower than the national average of 24%, but there are less firms reporting a decrease in investment.

My ask to businesses is that when the next survey is out you spend a couple of minutes completing it. It’s really valuable to have the data so that we can compare trends over time as well as with other parts of the region. It helps us identify issues which  we can raise on behalf of businesses to senior politicians to help influence policy.

You can read the result in full in Declan’s policy update here.

Inflation

I was relieved to see the data confirming a positive trajectory in inflation which is steadily moving in the right direction. This is welcome news for both consumers and businesses.

Notwithstanding that, significant uncertainty persists among the companies we engage with.

Almost half of firms expect their prices to increase over the next three months. Labour costs are cited as the main driver but increasing political and global uncertainty is becoming a key factor. 

Businesses are waiting to see how this data translates into changes on interest rate policy.

Manifesto

We are now putting the finishing touches on our Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce manifesto. The previous one was published in early 2022, but as we all know, there have been huge changes to our economy in the last two years.

Energy prices soared in late 2022. Inflationary pressures have rocketed and only recently started to subside. Most businesses as well as individuals have felt the impact of Interest rates rises. Wars in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to create so much uncertainty.

Once completed, this manifesto will help to inform Government of the needs and asks of Staffordshire businesses as we work toward a better economy for local businesses.

There is help available to Chambers Members with Energy costs.  As Chamber members, you get a free energy audit from our partners, Troo. There has been some brilliant success stories, including Leek Golf Club who saved an incredible £14,544 on their energy costs, and Abbey House Dental Practice who have saved almost £12,000 per year – a 60% reduction on their original costs. Find out more, here.

If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222 or call the Stoke and Staffs Growth Hub Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk

No fewer than 12 Staffordshire businesses have benefitted from grant funding ranging from £1,000 – £5,000 during the first three months of the Promoting Innovation Pathways programme (PIPP) – and more funds remain up for grabs.

PIPP, overseen by Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, is helping to foster innovation across Stoke-on-Trent by providing grant funding to support new products, processes and services.

The grants, which are fully-funded, are available to businesses under the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Sam Thorne, Innovation Project Manager at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “We have had a fantastic reaction to the programme since it launched earlier in the year.

“So far we have worked with SMEs of all sizes, from businesses with a couple of staff members, up to firms with hundreds of employees.

“Primarily focusing on digital and manufacturing innovation, the grants disbursed thus far have underwritten an array of groundbreaking projects. These initiatives range from the development of cutting-edge software, including AI-centric applications, to pioneering advancements in manufacturing techniques, such as enhancements to 3D printing methodologies.

“With grants ranging from £1,000 to £5,000, PIPP is helping to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of innovation.”

Tom Nadin, Head of Projects and Business Services, has urged businesses with an interest in innovation to get in touch.

He said: “Grant funding is still available for businesses looking to drive new innovative processes.

“The application process is fast and free, and could help your business drive forward with a new project of service.”

If your business is interested in innovation funding through PIPP, please email PIPP@StaffordshireChambers.co.uk

Two business owners who met through Staffordshire Chambers’ speed networking sessions have come together to launch a new business workshop.

“Brand Doctor”, launched by Andrew Hope of Hope Creative and experienced facilitator Mike Grocott of Intercog, will help business to understand the fundamentals of branding through a ‘fun and effective’ workshop.

It’s hoped that the sessions will help businesses to demystify branding and empower them to uncover their true DNA, by looking at their why, who, how and what – described by Andrew as the cornerstones of effective business strategy.

Andrew said: “This workshop isn’t about lectures and theory; it’s about rolling up your sleeves and gaining deep insights into your business’s DNA.

“We’re here to help businesses decode what truly makes them unique.”

Mike Grocott adds: “By gamifying the process, we make it accessible and enjoyable for everyone involved.

“Whether you’re just starting out or an established business, ‘Brand Doctor’ will equip you with the tools to strengthen your brand.”

To secure your spot or find out more about the sessions, please email andrew@hopecreative.co.uk

The Stoke-on-Trent Business Improvement District (BID) has confirmed the appointment of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce CEO Rachel Laver to its Board of Directors.

Rachel joins the BID as their new Lead Director for Business Community Support, where she will utilise her wealth of experience in driving economic growth and fostering vibrant business communities to help provide valued and effective support for city centre businesses.

Jonathan Bellamy, Chairman of Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID, said: “I couldn’t be more pleased to see Rachel join our BID Board.

“When looking at who could lead our Business Community Support objectives we could think of no one better than the Chief Exec of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce.

“Rachel has serious experience that will significantly inform and shape the BID’s role in helping to take our city centre forward in the coming years.”

One of around 330 BIDs currently operating across the country, The Stoke-on-Trent BID is an independent, business-led, business-funded organisation formed to improve the City Centre.

Rachel said: “I live in Staffordshire and am proud to do so.”

“Having worked for the City Council and other local regeneration bodies in the past, I am really looking forward to bringing my experience to support the City Centre BID and team and helping the City achieve its potential, creating realistic, achievable and ambitious plans for the City.”

Find out more about the BID, here.

Are you an innovative business or start-up looking to tap into the Japanese market?

There is limited availability for businesses to get involved with the next Global Innovation Forum, or GIF, which could act as your gateway to Osaka’s thriving business ecosystem.

This programme has been hosted by the Osaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OCCI) and Osaka Business & Investment Centre (O-BIC) since 2019 – with a number of huge successes during the last five years.

Osaka is a large Japanese port city and commercial centre which hosts a network of over 30,000 OCCI members as well as over 700 GIF community members, who are all actively seeking collaboration or investment opportunities.

This year OCCI, and UK coordinator Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, are seeking five or six UK startup/innovative businesses in the following sectors:

• Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality,
• Robotics
• Agri Tech / Food Tech
• Health Tech
• Green Technology, Carbon Neutrality, New Energy
• Digital Transformation
• New Materials

This opportunity in the UK is only open to businesses via the UK Chamber Network and provides an opportunity to again demonstrate UK Chambers involvement in promotion of global trade and investment across the world.

Interested businesses should submit an application no later than 17 May 2024, with successful applicants notified no alter than 24 May 2024. Businesses will then be introduced to a virtual network of Osaka companies before making an online live pitch on 10 July 2024.

Interested businesses should email exportmailbox@staffordshirechambers.co.uk

The Global Trade Team Leader at Stafford-based parts specialist EU Automation has been awarded the Foundation Award in International Trade after completing six training courses with Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre.

The award acknowledges Laura Radu’s dedication to advancing her knowledge and skills in the field of global trade, a vital aspect of EU Automation’s operations that will help the business continue to grow across the globe.

Laura completed a range of courses including ‘Understanding Exporting’ and ‘Import Procedures’ to build a ‘valuable framework’ of knowledge which will be utilised in her new role as Global Trade Team Leader.

Laura said: “The course has been a valuable framework for my daily tasks and responsibilities, and I found the content of the modules well structured, consistent and transferable to any trade.

“The trainers know what the field of industry for all participants in the sessions are, and use a tailored approach to deliver the course – but there are also plenty of opportunities to ask relevant questions during the modules and excellent brainstorming exercises.

“The courses undertaken helped me gather a deeper understanding of the compliance around imports and exports at an international level and become more resourceful as to where to search for information.”

Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre hosts regular training courses throughout the year to help Staffordshire businesses update or refresh their knowledge on all things trade.

Laura added: “I highly recommend the courses especially with all the changes post Brexit and the impact on UK imports and exports. I hope that more of my peers will have the opportunity to take part soon.

“In addition, it was great networking with other peers from various industries and sharing experiences but also developing my working relationships with our local chamber who are always very helpful, friendly and supportive.”

All at Staffordshire Chambers’ International Trade Centre would like to congratulate Laura on her remarkable achievement.

For further information about the International Trade training courses offered by the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, please click here.

A Staffordshire-based organisation is looking for local people with social housing experience to join their board of management.

Honeycomb Group is a collection of socially minded brands, providing affordable housing, alongside domestic abuse, homelessness and home support services, across Staffordshire, Cheshire and Derbyshire.

The Group currently has two board member opportunities for local people with experience of living or working in social housing. This includes those with a background in customer engagement, commercial activity, investment management or social and affordable housing development.

Alongside members, Honeycomb Group is also looking for someone to lead the board, with current Chair Andy Spencer stepping down in September 2024 after a successful eight-year term.

Honeycomb Group Chief Executive, Julie Guildford Smith, explained more: “Our board of management is a key part of our success. Members have diverse and exciting roles, taking responsibility for developing and shaping our strategies, monitoring performance and of course making sure that services are influenced by our customers.

“Our current board recruitment comes at an exciting time. We’re about to launch our new corporate plan, an ambitious five-year strategy which will see us thrive as a business. We are looking for people that can bring a diversity of thinking to support our future plans, those who care about our purpose and can fully support our values and promises to our customers.

“We also want to hear from people who care as much about the region as we do and can help us make a real difference locally. Our customers – those who have used our services – know our work best, so we’re also keen to receive applications from them, if they have the relevant experience, to help us get that unique insight of what works and what doesn’t.”

To find out more and apply for Honeycomb Group’s board opportunities please visit https://webmicrosites.hays.co.uk/web/honeycomb

One major topic continued to dominate conversations in our regular dialogue with businesses throughout Q1 – skills.

I took my first steps in the world of work as an apprentice at the Southern Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, so fully appreciate the role that education and training in young people can play in mapping out their careers and equipping them with the skills they need for the future.

You may have read in Daily Focus this week that we have called on Staffordshire businesses to join a scheme that offers teenage pupils the chance to experience the world of work.

We have two schools in Staffordshire who are appealing to firms to fill placements for their 13 and 13-year-old pupils:

• Thistley Hough are looking to place pupils for week commencing 3 June
• Ormiston Horizon are looking to place pupils for week commencing 1 July 

This is with a long term view of providing placement for pupils to enjoy some invaluable work experience while bridging the gap between schools and employers in the interests of a thriving Staffordshire economy.

What does it mean for you as a business? You could be supporting an enthusiastic young person to perform a job, or multiple jobs, in-house for a week.

We’re calling on all sectors and roles to help give students a thorough understanding of what is available in the world of work.

Your support could encourage a young person to explore different avenues, light a spark or contribute to society – and you never know, you could even find a future employee!

Employers wishing to offer placements should contact Georgia Parkins at georgia.parkins@staffordshirechambers.co.uk