Keele University hosts pre-loved and local makers market, offering a unique shopping experience
Keele University is set to host its highly anticipated Pre-Loved and Local Makers Market on Sunday, July 9th, 2023. The event will take place from 10 am to 4 pm and will be held indoors at the Students’ Union building, situated in the heart of the university campus.
With free entry for visitors, the market promises a delightful shopping experience with up to 60 stalls showcasing a wide range of pre-loved clothes, toys, household items, and hand-crafted, unique gifts. Spanning two floors and extending to the outside area as the weather permits, this vibrant marketplace offers something for everyone.
Food enthusiasts will also be pleased to discover a variety of street food vendors serving delectable hot dishes, including breakfast items, to satisfy any cravings. For added convenience, Keele University’s Students’ Union building houses a Co-operative supermarket and a cash point, ensuring all essential amenities are within easy reach. Visitors will also benefit from free parking during the evenings and weekends, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the market’s offerings and make the most of the longer summer days.
For those eager to showcase their own goods, the opportunity to have a stall is available. Stall hire is priced at £10 and includes a pitch, table, and complimentary all-day parking. To secure a stall, interested individuals can book a ticket or contact Sarah via email at s.a.giannakopoulos@keele.ac.uk or by calling 01782 733828 for further information.
Nestled in the heart of Staffordshire, Keele University offers easy accessibility through major transport routes. Boasting a stunning campus spanning 600 acres, the university is a haven for exploration. Visitors can revel in the beauty of a stately home, picturesque grounds with a serene lake, a charming chapel, and captivating woodland walks and nature trails. An arboretum and observatory also await discovery, providing an idyllic setting for families, dog walkers, and those seeking tranquility.
To learn more about the Shops and Services offered by Keele SU, please visit their website here.
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Sign up to a short course this summer with Staffordshire University
Staffordshire University is offering a series of free training courses and masterclasses to help aid continuous professional development in local businesses.
A range of free courses are available to Staffordshire businesses with a maximum of 250 employees that include:
- 14 June – Business Cyber Security
- 15 June – Social Media Marketing Strategy
- 16 June – Web Based Computing
- 20 June – Making The Most Of Your Data
- 21 June – Innovation, Marketing And You
- 29 June – The New Psychology Of Leadership And Team Dynamics
Register today by emailing employers@staffs.ac.uk.
*The courses are free to all businesses with a maximum of 250 employees (SMEs) based in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, as well as students and graduates living or working in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
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BCC launches Business Council as part of new national offer
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has announced a new Business Council, comprised of prominent UK business leaders, to design and drive the future of the British economy.
The founding partners will be uniquely placed to shape the BCC’s policy and influencing, with the Council forming part of the organisation’s new national offer to businesses.
Heathrow, Drax, IHG Hotels & Resorts and BP have joined the Council as the first founding partners.
BCC Director General Shevaun Haviland and BCC President Baroness Martha Lane Fox will join a wider group of business leaders at a roundtable meeting in central London this afternoon (Monday 5th June) to discuss the Council and the BCC’s new national offer.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General, BCC, said: “Over the past few months, working closely with the Chamber Network, we have been talking to the nation’s largest corporates and it has become clear to us that they are looking for a different kind of representation.
“These businesses want to be part of a framework that’s rooted in their local communities, but with the ability to shape the national and international debate.
“In response we have developed a new offer, the Business Council. I’m delighted to have Heathrow, Drax, IHG and BP join us as the first founding partners and look forward to speaking with potential members this afternoon at our roundtable event.
“The Council is a long-term project and will bring together leaders from across UK industry to consider the key policy issues faced by British businesses, and work on Future of the Economy initiative, convened by our President, Baroness Martha Lane Fox. This initiative will focus on five challenges: Digital Revolution, People and Work, Net Zero, Global Britain and the High Street.
“These challenges will form the backdrop to the next general election, which we know will come before the end of next year, and which everyone in Westminster is already gearing up for. The voice of business needs to be heard loud and clear, and now is the right time for us to speak up.”
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Staffordshire Chambers partner with Troo to launch suite of energy services
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is pleased to announce a new partnership with Troo to offer Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services to its members.
This energy service is designed to provide expert advice to Staffordshire-based business owners to help them reduce their electricity, gas and water expenditure, resulting in increased operational efficiency.
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.
Chris Plant, Deputy CEO of Staffordshire Chambers, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Troo Energy, who have a fantastic TrustScore, to offer Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services to our members.
“As energy prices continue to rise, we understand the challenges businesses face in managing their energy expenses. This new service provides our members with the expert advice they need to reduce their energy bills and increase operational efficiency.
“We are confident that this partnership will benefit our members and contribute to the economic growth of Staffordshire.”
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
Moreover, Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services’ advisers can 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.
Take advantage of the free initial assessment offered by our advisers by getting in touch
today.
Tel: 0800 058 1950
Email: energyservices@sces.co.uk
Visit: www.staffschambersenergyservices.co.uk
Notice
The products offered within the Staffordshire Chambers Member Services programme are provided by the suppliers mentioned above and
not by Staffordshire Chambers itself. Staffordshire Chambers merely acts as an introducer. Staffordshire Chambers has exercised reasonable care in selecting the suppliers, taking account of a range of matters, which might include product range, pricing and/or service levels, depending on the service in question. However, Staffordshire Chambers cannot and does not give any guarantee or accept any responsibility to members as to the value for money or suitability of any particular product. It is the member’s decision whether to select the product, after having taken professional advice if necessary. Members should note that Staffordshire Chambers may receive commission or other payments from suppliers in respect of their status as “preferred suppliers” and/or in respect of products sold to members. By using Staffordshire Chambers Energy Services, members agree that Staffordshire Chambers may retain all such payments. Details of such payments will be provided in respect of particular products, or on request.
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Sara’s Blog: BCC Global Annual Conference 2023
I am really looking forward to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Global Annual Conference which is now less than three weeks away.
It takes place on 17th May at the QEII Centre, London and this year’s theme is ‘Building British Business’ and there are still some tickets available if any business people would like to attend: Global Annual Conference 2023 (britishchambers.org.uk)
Keynote speakers at this year’s conference include leader of the opposition, Sir Kier Starmer, Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, a senior Treasury Minister (yet to be confirmed) and President of the BCC, Baroness Martha Lane-Fox. Not a bad line up in the same room in one day!
Chambers of Commerce can rightfully claim to be the true voice of business, representing all sectors and all sizes of business and the Global Annual Conference is one of the few events that bring all 53 accredited UK Chambers of Commerce, as well as visitors from Chambers from overseas, together under one roof – with many of their members and patrons as well.
Although Chambers of Commerce may differ slightly in the way they operate, dependent on the economic bias of their areas, they do all share the same goal: to protect and represent our businesses and to build a thriving community where every person has opportunities to prosper.
Perhaps the theme should be ‘Re-building British Business’ after the battering we have all taken over the past few years. A key element of work that all Chambers share is holding the Government to account – needed now more than ever – and to drive them to give business the support needed, rather than give us hollow rhetoric. This is especially true as the next General Election appears on the horizon.
The conference will be centred around four key breakout sessions for thought-provoking discussion amongst peers across the Chambers’ network. The four sessions are:
- Skills – seeking opportunities to increase access to skills and people.
- Green Innovation – promoting green innovation and decarbonisation.
- Growth – removing barriers to start and grow a business; and
- Trade – increasing the number of businesses trading internationally.
Certainly, all themes that have occupied much of my in-tray of late.
Our lobbying and representation is based on hard evidence, gleaned from our quarterly economic survey and, uniquely at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, through the workings of our sector forums who meet regularly to discuss key issues and come up with strategies to maximise our advantage and ultimately benefit our communities.
Just to recap, the forums are: Digital; Energy, Environment & Sustainability; Employment & Skills; Manufacturing; Money Matters; Planning & Infrastructure; Rural Business; Social Value and Procurement; Transport; HS2; and sector groups for manufacturers, professional firms and charities.
Forums are open to any member, and you can attend as many different ones as you like according to your specific interests.
I will be visiting the conference with several of our patrons and some members of the Chamber team. If you would like to join us on the day contact Lily-May Hamilton at the Chamber lily-may.hamilton@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
More details on the BCC Global Annual Conference here: Global Annual Conference 2023 (britishchambers.org.uk)
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
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Sempar to reveal ‘The Power of 3’ cash flow formula at exclusive webinar
Staffordshire businesses are invited to join Sempar Accountancy and Tax for their upcoming ‘Making Cash Flow’ session – hosted in collaboration with Staffordshire Chambers.
Set to take place at Commerce House, Festival Park from 08:00 – 10:00 on Friday, 31 March, the session will offer businesses an insight into ‘The Power of 3’; Sempar’s secret formula to help make your cash flow.
Guests will hear from three guest speakers, including Iain Bould, Head of Litigation at Beeston Shenton, Roy Johnson, MD at Sandler as well as Aludia Binos, Head of Tech at Sempar.
Tea, coffee and pastries will be provided.
Businesses can book their free spaces, here.
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Chamber members invited to ‘The New York Staff Band’ concert at Stafford Grammar School
Chamber members have been invited to enjoy a free concert with ‘The New York Staff Band’ from Stafford Grammar School on Thursday 23 March.
Their Director of Music, Mr Lamplough, and the music department have arranged an opportunity for pupils and visitors to enjoy a visit from The New York Staff Band.
The New York Staff Band, under the leadership of Bandmaster Derek W. Lance, open its first tour in England since 2015 with a concert in Manchester before heading south to perform in Birmingham on Thursday 23rd March 2023.
Stafford Grammar School has secured a visit from the band en route from Manchester to Birmingham for an afternoon workshop with our pupils before the band gives a short concert in our Sports Hall at SGS.
The New York Staff Band is one of the premier brass bands in the USA and was founded in 1887. The term “staff band” relates to the original band comprising entirely of staff members of the Salvation Army, in a similar way to many leading British Brass Bands in the early 20th century consisting of mill, factory or pit workers.
The band’s UK tour will include their innovative set “The Creation”, which seeks to tell the biblical Creation story through a blend of music ranging from pop songs to Disney film soundtracks.
They are then providing a performance to a selection of guests as well as our pupils in the Prep School as well as years 7-9. We would be delighted to welcome any interested visitors to this incredible musical opportunity for free.
The school ask anyone interested in attending to complete this short form in order to allocate seating.
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Impact of industrial action on goods movements on 15 March
You may have seen reports that more than 100,000 civil service members of the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) union will be going on strike on Wednesday 15 March 2023. Following a nationwide ballot in February, HMRC members of PCS agreed to industrial action and therefore some HMRC staff will be taking part. The action will also include UK-based Home Office members, including Border Force staff.
The industrial action is likely to impact the movement of goods through UK ports, airports and Inland Border Facilities on 15 March 2023, as well as those travelling to the UK from UK Border controls in Calais, Dunkirk and Coquelles in Northern France.
Customers may experience delays when contacting the National Clearance Hub (NCH) and Customs & International Trade (CIT) Helpline. There may also be some disruption on the morning of 16 March 2023 as business returns to normal.
What you can do
If you are able to move goods outside of this period, then we would advise that you do so.
If you cannot delay your movements then please be aware that the industrial action could lead to disruption and delays at ports and Inland Border Facilities (IBF). You should be prepared for these delays and check with your operator before starting your movement.
You can also check IBF site availability online.
If you are planning to carry merchandise in baggage or more than £10,000 in cash and need to make a declaration
For merchandise in baggage under £1,500/1,000kg which does not contain licensed items, the simplest way to declare your goods is through the simplified online declaration form.
The simplest way to declare large amounts of cash is also online, following this guidance. If you cannot use the online service, the red point service at the port or airport will be operational during this period but it is possible you will experience some delays.
If you need support with your international operations, click here, or email our International Trade Centre Manager, Allison Tomlinson.
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Legionella & Fire Safe Services launch new Energy Saving/Net Zero Division
Staffordshire-based Legionella and Fire Safe Services has launched its Energy Saving/Net Zero Division and, through an aligned partnership with Water Tank manufacturers, Mixergy, is now working with Birmingham City Council installing energy-saving water tanks.
Local authorities across the UK are facing the critical challenge of tackling the fuel poverty crisis while reducing their carbon emissions. Funded retrofit programmes are offering a unique opportunity for councils to upgrade their housing stock to help their tenants to live better now while getting ready for the energy transition ahead.
Following their declaration of a climate emergency in 2019, Birmingham City Council set an ambitious target to reach net zero by 2030, 20 years ahead of the UK government’s 2050 target. To support this programme, they recently announced plans to retrofit a large number of properties in the Birmingham region to test thermal efficiency approaches, reduce carbon emissions, and provide energy savings for their tenants.
Legionella and Fire Safe Services are currently working in conjunction with Equans UK & Ireland and Fortem Solutions. Providing a minimal disruption installation, including all carpentry and essential fire-stopping works and also knowing installing these tanks reduces the risk of Legionella with monitored correct temperatures and built-in bacteria cleansing cycles.
Legionella and Fire Safe Services delivers service excellence to all clients from the experienced engineers and field-based supervisors. This ensures all aspects of the installations are to the highest standard.
Employment numbers for the already 60 strong team is likely to increase by another 35, from specialist trades through to administrating team members, for this division alone in 2023.
Steve Morris, Managing Director of Legionella and Fire Safe Services, said: “We are very proud to have recently launched the Legionella & Fire Safe Energy Saving / Net Zero Division. A major part of this division is our MIXERGY cylinder range. Since coming to market, MIXERGY are rapidly making huge inroads into the hot water cylinder market with technology on the forefront. We have installed these to over 260 council properties in 2022 with a further 600 planned for 2023. Birmingham City Council, the largest local authority within the UK have committed to strategic vision of the future to install these at appropriate properties over the coming years. Legionella & Fire Safe are proud to be an integral part of this journey.
From our early installations the energy saving numbers are simply quite incredible. On average each small flat is saving around £550 per year through smart technology.
We are in an aligned partnership with Mixergy & Birmingham City Council, where Legionella & Fire Safe are known as the social housing experts. Our turnkey solution for retrofit installs including all fire stopping compliance work and legionella compliance.”
Legionella and Fire Safe Services has come a long way since it was set up in 2017 .It has secured major contracts in several industries since then, including local authority, retail, education, manufacturing and hospitality, and is leading the way in innovative new products and processes.
The Company which has a Legionella Compliance Division, a Fire Division and a Construction Division, has also been recognised for its employees wellbeing, “We are nothing without our People” taking exceptional care of their employees and also offer some great perks and benefits, has a Legionella Compliance Division, a Fire Division and a Construction Division.
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Sara’s Blog: ONS labour market figures and free water-efficiency audits
The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) labour market figures are showing no easing up of the number of vacancies, creating a headache for employers and a real barrier to economic growth.
Businesses are crying out for people to fill job vacancies at all skill levels, and this must be the number one focus for government if it’s serious about economic growth.
There are still a huge number of vacancies, currently sitting at 1.134 million, and this is stopping firms in their tracks.
And it was announced by Staffordshire County Council this week that the number of job vacancies in the county has increased to more than 30,000 – up nearly a third in just a month.
Latest figures show that in Stoke-on-Trent the number of unfilled positions had leapt by 34 per cent to 8,700. This is just above the number of work-related benefit claimants (8,510).
In the rest of Staffordshire, the number of vacancies jumped up 26 per cent to 21,900 between December and January compared to the previous month. This is far higher than the number of work-related benefit claimants (14,700).
It means firms are struggling to meet the orders on their books, and it puts any plans for growth far out of reach.
I have heard this message from many businesses in our area who are also seeing the effect this pressure is having on wages, currently at the highest rates seen in the private sector outside of the pandemic. However, a sharp rise in rates of pay is still being outstripped by inflation. This has been identified by the Bank of England as a factor in its decisions to raise interest rates to tame inflation.
Government plans to get the UK’s untapped labour force into employment are a step in the right direction, but we need to see more action to address the barriers that are holding people back.
The Spring Budget represents a golden opportunity for the Chancellor to ease the pressure on family members who have been squeezed out of the labour market by punishing childcare costs.
Older workers need carefully tailored careers advice, job seeker support and rapid re-training opportunities to help bring their skills and experience back to the workforce.
Businesses can help by adopting flexible working policies wherever possible and supporting staff training needs.
And crucially, something I mentioned only last week, Government should reform the Shortage Occupation List to help firms fill urgent job vacancies from outside the UK when they cannot recruit locally. The List should include jobs at all skill levels where there is clear evidence of a national shortage.
The full ONS labour market statistics can be viewed here: Labour market overview, UK – Office for National Statistics (ons.gov.uk)
If you would like to raise any issues around employment difficulties contact our policy advisor Declan Riddell: declan.ridell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
Better news now – Severn Trent are offering free water-efficiency audits for businesses to help make sure their water facilities are up to date and not leaking.
The initiative is part of Severn Trent’s Green Recovery Programme , offering businesses the chance to check their facilities are working efficiently and, where any upgrades or repairs are needed, the company will fix internal leaks free of charge.
Severn Trent, which serves thousands of firms and homes across Staffordshire and beyond, says a typical leaky toilet or dripping tap could cost a business up to £300 a year.
They understand many businesses are facing uncertainty and upgrading their water facilities may not be on the top of a business’s list of priorities. It is pleasing therefore that they are offering to do all of this at no charge.
Severn Trent will undertake a full ‘health’ check of the water facilities, and make sure money is not being wasted, and that your business is running as efficiently and watertight as possible.
Businesses often lose money through urinals, which often flush regardless of use. By installing sensors, savings of up to £3,000 could be made depending on business size. Also fixing something like a leaky toilet could save up to 400 litres of water a year, which would be money businesses would pay for, but not be using.
For more information, and to sign up click here: Supporting Local Businesses | Green recovery | Wonderful on Tap | Severn Trent Water (stwater.co.uk)
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
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