Welcome from Monica Fogarty

Hello! and a warm welcome to the November edition of Warwickshire Means Business.

This month we are delighted to announce that the Warwickshire Skills Show will take place on March 3^rd, 2026, at the Coventry Building Society Arena. The show, organised by Warwickshire Skills Hub, promises to be a fantastic event, enabling vital connections between businesses and career-seekers. Many businesses from across the sectors will be represented and more are welcome to join the list of exhibitors. Please do get in touch if you would like your business to be part of this great opportunity to share knowledge, information and ideas.

In this edition of WMB we also welcome Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to the ever-increasing membership of the Fair Chance Employment Programme. The Chamber is one of our key partners in supporting businesses and the local economy and it is great they have pledged as a Fair Chance Employer. That almost 100 businesses have done so is a measure of our county's commitment to an inclusive approach to recruitment.

The High Street Roadshow, taking business support out and about around the county, is underway. We report on the success of the first two and look forward to more in the pipeline for after Christmas. We also look ahead to Small Business Saturday on December 6th, a great opportunity for us all to celebrate and support the wonderful small businesses around our county.

Underpinning much of the available local business support, and the strategy behind it, is the powerful and longstanding bond between the county of Warwickshire and the city of Coventry. That bond was front and centre at the recent Annual Business and Economic Conference, delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. It is integral to the economic stability and success of Warwickshire and it is one we will explore further in next month's WMB.

Plenty of positivity is coming out of Coventry City Football Club at the moment, of course. How wonderful it would be for the local economy if the Sky Blues make it into the Premier League with the commensurate lift in profile and visitor numbers that would bring. On the subject of football, Aston Villa are also flying high at the moment and in this edition of WMB, our Executive Director for Resources, Rob Powell, argues that business leaders could learn a lot from the strategic and people skills of Villa managers past and present.  

Warwickshire County Council and our partners across the county and region are fully committed to supporting businesses, education-providers and jobseekers in every way we can. There are many links within all our articles in WMB but please do visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/businesssupport, Warwickshire Skills Hub, and https://cwgrowthhub.co.uk/  for all the information you need.

MONICA

Small Business Saturday on December 6th

“With many vibrant towns and small business across Warwickshire, Small Business Saturday is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on their unique offer, especially in the run-up to Christmas when many residents are looking for special gifts and festive experiences.

Visitors and residents are invited into Warwickshire’s towns to shop local, supporting the small businesses that are the backbone of our communities, this Small Business Saturday on 6 December.  

From artisan makers and family run shops to innovative service providers, there’s something for everyone amongst Warwickshire’s small businesses.  

Warwickshire businesses are featured in the national Small Biz 100 campaign, part of Small Business Saturday UK. The initiative shines a spotlight on outstanding independent businesses across the country, giving them national recognition and encouraging communities to shop local. Warwickshire's vibrant small business scene will be well represented on Small Business Saturday showcasing the creativity and resilience that make the county special. Explore the full list and support these incredible businesses on Small Business Saturday and beyond, get to know them here  

Towns across the county will be marking the day with a range of events for all ages:  

• Rugby will feature pop-up shops within existing businesses, festive entertainment, and a visit from Father Christmas. https://www.rugbyfirst.org/events-calendar  

• Warwick will offer free parking, horse and carriage rides, photos with Santa, and a Christmas Fun Day showcasing 22 independent businesses alongside festive refreshments, games, and activities. https://www.visitwarwick.co.uk/event/small-business-saturday-and-craft-fair/  

• Smith Street, Warwick will host local traders, offering unique gifts, seasonal food, mulled wine and delights. The Smith Street Elf Hunt will offer prizes and adventure. 

Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “The festive period often generates a sizeable proportion of annual profit and sets businesses on a good footing for the year ahead. 

“With many vibrant towns and small business across Warwickshire, Small Business Saturday is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on their unique offer, especially in the run-up to Christmas when many residents are looking for special gifts and festive experiences. So, whether you’re visiting Warwickshire or you live here, we welcome you to our great towns across the county and to find out more about our local businesses.” 

The support for small businesses in North Warwickshire continues through the North Warwickshire Small Business Awards 2026, an opportunity to recognise the innovation, resilience, and community spirit that make local businesses thrive. Applications are open until 14 December for small businesses to nominate themselves or other small businesses. Full details are available on the North Warwickshire Small Business Awards website. 

Local traders across the county can also get involved with Small Business Saturday by using the campaign resources, including downloadable social media guides, logos, and banners available on the official website. Last year’s campaign in Warwickshire generated over 11,000 views across County Council social media channels, helping drive footfall into our towns and villages. 

Alongside this initiative, Warwickshire County Council’s #WarwickshireChristmas campaign is showcasing the county’s fantastic businesses and encouraging residents to shop locally for gifts this festive season. 

Follow the campaign on Instagram @VisitWarks on Facebook at @VisitWarwickshire or via the hashtag #WarwickshireChristmas. Warwickshire’s signature experience can be viewed at https://visit.warwickshire.gov.uk/ 

Chamber joins the Fair Chance fold

"The Fair Chance Employment Programme had proved a huge success and to have almost 100 members in its first three years shows the commitment across businesses in our county." 

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has joined the Warwickshire Fair Chance Employer programme, underlining its inclusive approach to recruitment.  

The Chamber joins an ever-growing number of businesses and organisations to pledge with the programme, which is managed by Warwickshire Skills Hub for Warwickshire County Council. 

Launched in 2022, the programme now has 88 members, each committed to adopting a fully inclusive approach to their recruitment and HR practises. 

The Chamber, an integral component of the wide array of business support available across Coventry and Warwickshire, is a very welcome addition to the Fair Chance membership. The Chamber immediately added three new vacancies to the Fair Chance Job Portal which carries inclusive opportunities available at all the member businesses. 

The programme is open to any Warwickshire business and offers employers support in creating a diverse application, interview and onboarding process and ongoing in-work support should the individual and business require it.  

Warwickshire Skills Hub Business Advisors provide a free skills and training review throughout the business to see where a Fair Chance Employee opportunity may be considered. This may include 'job carving' which looks at a job description and carves responsibilities or tasks to make it inclusive to a person's specific needs. 

Individuals supported are: 

• Foreign nationals who are part of our Resettlement Programme in Warwickshire  

• People with learning disabilities and/or Autism 

• Ex-armed forces personnel 

• Active armed forces spouses & partners 

• Young people aged 16-18 that are not in education, employment, or training (NEETS)  

• People over the age of 50 who are looking to get back into work or retrain 

• Care leavers  

• Young carers  

• Parents returning to work 

• People who have been made redundant 

The Fair Chance Jobs Portal is a tool developed as a part of the Programme to help bridge the gap between the Fair Chance candidates looking for paid employment and the Fair Chance employers looking for staff. 

Fair Chance employers are supported with a 'wraparound' support package to ensure the smooth transition of employing new staff. 

The support includes: 

• A full business skills review 

• In-work job coach for people with Autism and/or learning disabilities and anyone with physical or mental health concerns 

• Employer workshops to raise awareness of all supportive needs in the workplace 

• Mental health support and prevention tools and resources 

• Tailored recruitment support  

• Job carving for new opportunities 

Matthew Hammersley, HR manager for the Chamber, said: “We are delighted to join the Warwickshire Fair Chance Employer Programme and we’ve already added jobs to the portal. 

“As a Chamber, we are committed to a fully inclusive approach to recruitment and HR and joining the programme is a further demonstration of that and we’d encourage other businesses and organisations across the region to do the same.” 

https://fairchancejobs.warwickshire.gov.uk/ 

Come and exhibit at the Warwickshire Skills Show

Career opportunities across all sectors of business will be showcased at the Warwickshire Skills Show 2026 on March 3rd.

• Public Access Slot: From 4:00pm to 6:00pm, the event will be open to the public, allowing parent and carer to attend.
• Exhibitor Recommendation: We suggest having a minimum of two representatives from your business to allow for breaks throughout the day.
• Student Engagement: We ask exhibitors to bring something interactive to engage students—this could be equipment or tools used in your day-to-day operations.
• School Attendance: Schools will attend in staggered time slots to ensure a smooth and engaging experience for all.

• Opportunities for students to meet local employers
• Insights from industry experts
• Interactive experiences to spark curiosity and interest

• Free parking is available
• Refreshments will be provided
• Please bring your own lunch

Rural businesses benefit from Prosperity Fund

“We’re delighted that 13 businesses have been successful in their application for REPF grant funding, this is a great opportunity for them to achieve alternative income sources and continue to support the local rural economy.” 

Rural businesses across North Warwickshire and Stratford District are benefiting from the recent round of Rural England Prosperity Fund business grants.

Warwickshire developments recognised in major awards

“Through Develop Warwickshire, we are delivering on our long-term vision to create sustainable, high-quality, and affordable new homes that really enhance our county."

A range of development excellence across Coventry & Warwickshire was  recognised recently by Insider Media, in its 'West Midlands Property Awards 2025.' 

Among the winners the Residential Developer of the Year went to Develop Warwickshire, the joint venture between Warwickshire County Council, Warwickshire Property and Development Group and Vistry Group, in recognition of the partnership’s transformative work in delivering sustainable, community-focused developments across the county. 

Develop Warwickshire was awarded the accolade at Insider’s West Midlands Property Awards 2025, which was held at Hilton Birmingham Metropole to recognise the outstanding achievements of the people, businesses and organisations in the sector working throughout the region. 

The landmark public-private joint venture has committed to creating £2.5 billion of residential developments, driving forward more than 2,000 new homes while unlocking further investment and delivering lasting benefits for Warwickshire’s communities and economy. 

Stuart Buckley, Managing Director of WPDG, said: “We are delighted that Develop Warwickshire has been named Residential Developer of the Year at Insider’s West Midlands Property Awards. 

“The joint venture is combining delivery at scale with genuine community investment through vital infrastructure and community grants. It is also providing mixed-tenure homes for local people while being a catalyst to investment. This award is a true testament to the strength of our partnership and our shared ambition to create sustainable, thriving communities in Warwickshire.” 

Councillor Stephen Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property at Warwickshire County Council, said: “We are extremely proud of Develop Warwickshire and I’m delighted the judges have recognised the hard work of the joint venture and what it has achieved over the last two years. 

“Through Develop Warwickshire, we are delivering on our long-term vision to create sustainable, high-quality, and affordable new homes that really enhance our county, making it an attractive place to live and do business, and I look forward to seeing the partnership continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.” 

Other local developments were recognised in the awards. 

The Property Deal of the Year went to Eastern Green, Coventry developed and brought forward by a long list of partners including Royal London Asset Management, Graftongate and Vistry Group (again), on the sale of 185 acres just of the A45 at the entrance to the city. The scheme includes a 645,000sqft of industrial space in various small and mid-box sizes, available leasehold and freehold. This was also shortlisted for the 'Industrial Deal of the Year' as well. 

Among the runners up were Harworth Group plc and Frasers Group and the £53.5m acquisition of 278 acres south of the village of Ansty, Warwickshire, and close to Ansty Tech Park at  J2 of the M6. 

In the office market,  Cambridge University Press & Assessment and their partners, were winners of 'Workplace Fit-out of the Year' for their new central Coventry offices within the reimagined Bourne Building, the redevelopment of the former Sherborne House by IM Properties, in the city's Friargate office quarter.  

The Coventry & Warwick Investment Zone, which includes Greenpower Park, and the SEGRO plc sites Segro Park Coventry and Segro Park Whitley South, was nominated in the ‘Future Ambition Award’ category. 

And MIRA Tech Park near Nuneaton, on the border with North Warwickshire, missed out on 'Commercial Development of the Year'. Partners GMI Construction Group PLC, SWANVALE DEVELOPMENTS LIMITED and Evans Randall Investors have been making great progress in recent months with spec build units going to tenants like audio innovator Warwick Acoustics, global manufacturer 3M and Forseven, now a part of McLaren, the supercar and luxury car maker. Elsewhere GMI Construction for picking up the 'Construction Business of the Year Award'. 

Read more here.

Roadshows take business support around the county

"The first two have proved to be really popular and we’ll be coming back with more in 2026 in Stratford and North Warwickshire."

High street businesses in Warwickshire have been given tips on how to adapt, evolve and thrive in an ever-changing world at workshops in the county. 

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s business support team has been delivering High Street Roadshows in Warwick and Nuneaton on behalf of Warwickshire County Council. 

Two more events will follow in 2026 – in the north and south of the county – with a view to helping individual businesses themselves but also as well as providing a collective boost Warwickshire’s high streets. 

The roadshow is part of the Project Warwickshire Business Support Programme, which the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce deliver on behalf of Warwickshire County Council and forms part of the Business Growth Warwickshire programme. It is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council 

The Warwick High Street Roadshow took place at the Court House in Warwick and included information on support available, how to use marketing and social media to drive footfall as well as updates on the latest initiatives.  

Speakers included Sarah Humphreys, Business Support Manager at Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce; Joanne Randall, Strategic Economic Development Officer at Warwick District Council; Kelly Scott, Warwick Town Centre Manager; Kim Hulse, Social Media Manager for Visit Warwickshire and Katie Wilbur, of Cotswold Connected, who delivered the workshop. 

The Nuneaton & Bedworth event, held at Saints Nuneaton, also heard from Sarah, Kim and Katie and included presentations from Carol Ingleston, Economic Development & Engagement Support Officer at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council; and Bogdan Fironda, Community Safety Project Manager at Warwickshire County Council. 

Sarah said: “We are delighted to be supporting our amazing Warwickshire high streets and the businesses on them with this series of roadshows. The first two have proved to be really popular and we’ll be coming back with more in 2026 in Stratford and North Warwickshire. 

“We’ve had great speakers providing information and inspiration to businesses and the events have been delivered by Katie Wilbur with a theme around the power of marketing. 

“It has included marketing strategies tailored for high street businesses, tips to maximise kerb appeal and attract passing trade, guidance on how to get discovered online, proven ways to generate and increase footfall as well as opportunities to network with other local business owners. 

“They’ve proved to be very successful and we’d urge high street businesses to get in touch with the team if they need support – and also to find our more about next year’s events.” 

For more information on the roadshows, go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/business-support-events/high-street-roadshow/  

For information on support for high street growth more generally, go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/project-warwickshire/ 

Rural Enterprise Hub expands

Warwickshire’s Rural Enterprise Hub is now fully up and running, providing tailored support to help rural businesses across the county start, grow, and thrive. 

Based at Minerva Mill in Alcester, the Hub is working alongside key partners including the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, the Warwickshire Skills Hub, the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, and the Warwickshire Rural Hub. 

By bringing partners together, the Rural Enterprise Hub is making it easier than ever for rural businesses to tap into the full range of local and regional support, from growth and funding advice to skills, training, and mentoring opportunities. 

Building on the success of its pilot phase, which connected over 50 businesses and start-ups to more than 100 programmes, the Hub is now extending its reach further into South Warwickshire. This expansion will help more businesses in areas such as Henley-in-Arden, Alcester, Shipston-on-Stour, Wellesbourne, Southam, and the surrounding towns and villages to benefit from expert advice, workshops, and collaboration opportunities designed to strengthen the rural business economy. 

Whether you’re launching a new venture, diversifying your offer, or looking to strengthen your existing business, the Rural Enterprise Hub can help you access the right expertise and opportunities. 

💠 Free, tailored business support 
💠 Training, mentoring, and funding advice 
💠 Networking and collaboration opportunities across Rural Warwickshire 
💠 Access to expert support from the Growth Hub, Skills Hub, Chamber of Commerce. 

To find out more or to get involved, contact the Rural Enterprise Hub team at Minerva Mill, Alcester by contacting Vicky on 01789 761334 or email vicky@minervamill.co.uk. 

Sustainable homes in Weddington

"The opening of the show homes on the Milby Meadows development is a significant milestone for Develop Warwickshire and demonstrates how the partnership is creating a lasting and positive social impact for the benefit of local people and communities."

The first show homes at a major 1,700 home scheme on the outskirts of Nuneaton have been opened following a launch event.  

The show homes provide the first opportunity for potential homeowners to see inside the new homes at this development which will be known as Milby Meadows at Top Farm in Weddington. 

The construction of the first phase is a significant milestone for Develop Warwickshire, the long-term joint venture between Warwickshire Property & Development Group (WPDG), Warwickshire County Council and Vistry, the UK’s leading provider of affordable mixed-tenure homes, in creating a thriving new community. 

The sustainable homes will be built using modern methods of construction, with features including air source heat pumps and electric vehicle charging points which will provide lower running costs for homeowners.  

Phase 1 of the infrastructure works are now complete to create a northern link road bringing together the surrounding developments with access to the new Higham Lane North Academy, which opened in September for students aged 11-16.  

Outline planning permission for Top Farm was granted in 2022 and include a primary and secondary school, a local centre with retail and community facilities, extensive public open spaces and multi-functional green infrastructure, and new roads and highway improvements including on the A444. 

A planning application has also now been approved for the next stage of the scheme to create a further 479 homes, a community park, play areas, public open space, a habitat pond, four balancing ponds and footpaths linking to other developments. 

When completed, Milby Meadows will feature a mix of two, three and four-bedroom properties for private sale, private rent and affordable – with 25 per cent of homes being affordable housing. Platform Housing Group is the affordable housing partner for the development.  

Develop Warwickshire has committed £2.5 billion to create new homes and job opportunities across the county with Milby Meadows being its biggest scheme. 

Stuart Buckley, Managing Director for WPDG, said: “We’re delighted to celebrate another major milestone at Top Farm with the opening of our show homes, which gives local people the chance to see first-hand the quality and variety of homes being delivered here. This is an exciting step forward and a great opportunity for future residents to get a real sense of the community that’s taking shape in Weddington as well as highlighting the strength of our partnership and our shared ambition to create sustainable, thriving communities in the county.” 

Phil McHugh, Divisional Operations Director for Vistry Yorkshire, North Midlands and West, said: “It’s fantastic to see Milby Meadows at Top Farm coming to life. These new show homes set the bar for quality across every tenure, and we’re proud to showcase the progress we’re making to meet Warwickshire’s housing needs. Today is a real milestone for everyone involved.” 

Councillor Stephen Shaw, Deputy Leader of Warwickshire County Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, added: “The opening of the show homes on the Milby Meadows development is a significant milestone for Develop Warwickshire and demonstrates how the partnership is creating a lasting and positive social impact for the benefit of local people and local communities with the creation of sustainable, high quality and affordable new homes.” 

Securing the supply chain: A cyber webinar for manufacturers

Warwickshire manufacturers are invited to a webinar on Thursday 4^th December (9.30–11am) for a briefing on the real risks affecting factories and supply chains.

The Speaker will be John MacDonald, EBC Group, who has more than 27 years experience of supporting manufacturers.

What attendees will learn:

• People are the first line of defence
• How attackers exploit habits (urgent requests, spoofed suppliers, fake invoices) and what simple behaviours stop most breaches.

• Social engineering, explained
• Real phishing/spear-phishing examples, voice/SMS scams, and quick tests you can run to raise awareness.

• Supply chain attacks
• Where third-party risk creeps in (shared portals, remote access, file shares) and a simple vendor checklist that’s realistic for SMEs.

• OT/IT crossover
• Why production networks (machines, PLCs, HMIs) create different risks, and how to separate, segment and monitor without major disruption.

• Cyber Essentials: what it covers (and what it doesn’t)
• A quick map of basic controls—MFA, patching, backups, access—and where manufacturers typically stumble.

👉 To register your spot, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/securing-the-supply-chain-a-cyber-webinar-for-manufacturers-wmgp-tickets-1934881946989?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&_gl=1*wj7tmg*_up*MQ..*_ga*MjAxNDI2ODE5My4xNzYyNTE5NjIx*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NjI1MTk2MjEkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjI1MTk2MjEkajYwJGwwJGgw

Chamber acquires PTP Training

“This is a real milestone for us as a Chamber and our training offer. It brings together two trusted and established providers across Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands."

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has acquired a West Midlands training company for an undisclosed fee – underlining its ambitions for growth. 

It has bought Performance Through People (PTP), which has its head office in Walsall and employs around 70 staff supporting around 1,000 learners across the region in apprenticeships and Government-funded programmes. 

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has its own training division already – Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training – led by Sally Lucas and the acquisition will mean the group has a footprint across the whole of the West Midlands. 

It will be business-as-usual for the team at PTP Training, which is run by CEO Rob Colbourne OBE, as they continue to work with hundreds of firms, offering accredited apprenticeships in everything from dentistry to welding and from accountancy to engineering. 

It is also a return to its Chamber roots as PTP was originally part of Walsall Chamber of Commerce when it was originally established in the 1960s. 

Corin Crane, Chief Executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is a real milestone for us as a Chamber and our training offer. It brings together two trusted and established providers across Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands. 

“We have been looking at PTP for some time as a potential partner and I am absolutely thrilled to get this acquisition over the line.” 

Rob, who has been with PTP since 2004, said the two organisations’ values are aligned. 

He said: “We’ve got many staff who have been with us for more than five years, some over 20 and 30 years so, when this kind of deal goes through, they want to know that we are all working towards one goal. That is why this deal with Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce was so appealing and will bring benefits to all parties. 

“My message to the team, to the organisations we work with, and to our apprentices and learners is that it is very much business as usual. The PTP brand will remain in place and there will be no change to the way we work with our partners. 

“Ultimately, however, this means we can work together across the wider region on future projects which is really exciting because our values and purpose are exactly the same.” 

PTP has learning centres in Walsall, Millennium Point in Birmingham and in Cannock. Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training is based in Radford in Coventry and offers a range of apprenticeships and commercial business training courses. 

Free-to-attend FSB Bootcamp on March 2nd

The FSB Business Bootcamp and Networking Event will return to Coombe Abbey in March 2026, offering a valuable opportunity for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and the self-employed to grow their business and expand their networks.

This free-to-attend interactive event, hosted by Sandra Garlick MBE and Gus Bhandal, on March 2nd will be a chance to hear from expert speakers as they provide top tips and advice that you can implement in your business straight away.

With more than 250 delegates expected to attend, the event will also provide plenty of opportunities to network with local businesses. In addition, a number of exhibition stands will be available, showcasing a range of services relevant to small businesses. 

The event is designed to benefit entrepreneurs, the self-employed and small businesses and will feature

⭐️Amazing speakers
⭐️Top Tips
⭐️ Exhibition Stands
⭐️Networking opportunities
⭐️Facilitated speed networking

For more information and to register please see here

Iain McCallister webinar on December 1st

"If you're looking to scale, secure investment, or strengthen your financial strategy, this is the perfect opportunity to gain practical knowledge."

Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub will host an inspiring talk about the entrepreneurial journey of Iain McCallister, CEO of security specialists MAN Commercial Protection.

The journey that began with Iain working as a doorman while pursuing a professional boxing career has grown into one of the UK’s leading security organisations. Founded in 1993, MAN Commercial now employs more than 1,500 people nationwide and operates across an impressive range of sectors, delivering security guarding, CCTV, concierge, event security and systems solutions.

With over 32 years’ industry experience, Iain has built MAN Commercial into a Top-20 UK security provider, driven by a commitment to outstanding customer service and a passion for developing talent within his team. This event will unpack the pivotal moments, challenges and decisions that shaped the company’s evolution, offering valuable insights for founders and ambitious business leaders alike.

The Zoom Webinar will take place on 1^st December, between 5.30 and 7pm. To book, please visit https://bit.ly/foundersunpackedmancommercial

This session is delivered as part of the Coventry Investment Readiness Programme, which is currently recruiting for its next cohort. The programme supports Coventry-based SMEs to understand access to finance, become investor ready, and navigate the grants and funding opportunities available exclusively to Coventry businesses.

If you're looking to scale, secure investment, or strengthen your financial strategy, this is the perfect opportunity to gain practical knowledge while hearing first-hand from a founder who has successfully grown a high-performing UK business.

British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme

The British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS) is a new intervention as part of the UK Industrial Strategy. 

This scheme directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing many businesses today. Namely, how to remain globally competitive while navigating some of the highest industrial electricity costs in Europe. 

By providing eligible manufacturing businesses with exemptions from the indirect cost of the Renewables Obligation, Feed-In Tariffs and Capacity Market schemes, BICS seeks to reduce cost pressures and support the long-term viability of our most strategically important industries. 

This consultation seeks views on how to determine which businesses that are heavy users of energy, and businesses in their supply chains, should be eligible for the support scheme. 

UK electricity prices are high due structural and policy factors. British wholesale electricity costs are relatively high because of a reliance on natural gas for electricity power generation, periods of higher carbon prices on electricity generation due to the Carbon Price Support and lower levels of interconnection than within mainland Europe. 

The government launched this consultation on November 24th and seeks views from all stakeholders with an interest in the proposed scheme, including from manufacturing businesses (irrespective of whether they are likely eligible for BICS), other electricity consumers (including households and non-manufacturing businesses), trade bodies, consumer associations, energy suppliers and other interested parties.  

The scheme as proposed would launch in 2027, but there have been calls from within industry such as from MAKE UK for an earlier start and a broader remit. 

The consultation closes on January 19th 2026. A summary of responses and government response to this consultation will be published within 12 weeks of the end of the consultation period. 

To read the consultation full guidance: please visit here.

To access the consultation online form: please visit here.

Digital infrastructure the key to economic growth

Child Friendly Warwickshire’s Christmas gift appeal is open

Warwickshire residents and businesses who want to help children and young people have a happy Christmas are invited to donate presents via a countywide gift appeal. 

Connection between County and City in focus at conference

"What is absolutely clear is that Coventry and Warwickshire are interconnected and, no matter what political and structural changes take place, we work brilliantly together as an economy that represents the best of UK business.” 

The crucial connection between Coventry and Warwickshire was highlighted at a major economic event in the region. 

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce brought together more than 200 businesspeople and civic leaders from across the city and the county at its Annual Business and Economic Conference at the IXL Events Centre in Southam. 

The conference, which was headline sponsored by Prime Accountants Group and People Arches, saw the Chamber announce its new president as Sandra Godley OBE – taking over the role from Steve Harcourt, of Prime Accountants Group. 

But the conference also heard from a range of speakers and panellists, and there was strong sense of how interconnected the city and county are as an economy running throughout. 

The event was kicked off by Chamber Chief Executive Corin Crane and also heard from Steve Harcourt, who described how he, as president, has travelled the length and breadth of the region meeting firms and seeing some of its success stories. 

Liz Martins, Senior UK Economist at HSBC, described the national and international economic picture – from interest rates through to GDP and from inflation to the Chancellor’s budget. 

Sarah Windrum, the Head of Cluster Development at HORIBA MIRA, chaired a panel on driving growth in Coventry and Warwickshire, which included contributions from Liz Martin; Steve Harcourt; Dawood Ibtehsam, Director of People Arches Ltd (McDonalds); Mitchell Barnes, CEO & Founder of RYSE 3D; and Carol Thomas, Principal & CEO, Coventry College. 

MPs John Slinger and Jeremy Wright KC joined Corin on stage for a session on the future of the region and the changes through Local Government Reform. 

That was followed by exciting plans for Nuneaton, Coventry and Leamington delivered by Catherine Marks, of Warwickshire County Council; and Adam Hunt, of Coventry City Council. 

The conference – which also welcomed a range of exhibitors including Ezoo, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, Destination Coventry, Azets, Graphic Arts Group, Stratford-upon-Avon College, Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind, HSBC and NHS SWFT Charity – was concluded by an inspirational story from Kieran Joseph, the Founder & Chief Executive of Guardian Ballers CIC. Keiran described his journey to creating the organisation which empowers young people through the power of sport to better mental health. 

Corin Crane said: “This year’s conference was an incredible show of faith in Coventry and Warwickshire as a region. We know it has been an uncertain period economically and that times have been tough for many businesses, but what came shining through from businesses and politicians is that the city and county can look forward with confidence because we always innovate and grow as a region. 

“We heard from some amazing businesses and also some of the future plans for Coventry city centre and Nuneaton and Leamington town centres. 

“And, what is absolutely clear is that Coventry and Warwickshire are interconnected and, no matter what political and structural changes take place, we work brilliantly together as an economy that represents the best of UK business.” 

It's time to sweep away the misconceptions about women in engineering

Business leaders can learn so much from Villa bosses

The job of manager at a big football club essentially equates to running a big business. Warwickshire County Council's Executive Director for Resources, Rob Powell, a passionate supporter of Aston Villa, believes business people can learn plenty from the skills of current boss Unai Emery and others to have preceded him in the Villa hotseat.

This article expands on a recent article for the Municipal Journal written in August in my capacity as President of the Society of County Treasurers. My article set out lessons from the brilliance of Unai Emery, manager of my beloved Aston Villa, for finance managers in local government, all linked to SCT’s new development programme, Future County Finance Leaders.  

Written before the Premier League season started, I feared my article had cursed Unai during Villa’s awful start to the season, but the mighty Villa have roared back to life and so I am now broadening my learnings to my three favourite Villa managers.   

Unai Emery: As a season ticket holder, I have watched Unai’s work closely since he took over at Villa nearly three years ago. His coaching has improved every player. With exacting standards and huge demands that players must consistently achieve, Unai has got more out of the group of players than I think any other coach could have. 

Lessons: Leaders need to engage, motivate and develop their people, spot talent and give people opportunities to be their best. Be demanding, so that our people achieve their full potential, within a culture of support and challenge in which people develop and thrive, and hit the required standards. Clarity, focus and immense attention to detail have turned middle of the road clubs into great ones under this remarkable leader who improves all members of his team, and made them deliver more than the sum of their parts. 

Graham Taylor: My happiest year watching Villa was 1989-90 when Graham Taylor took over a badly struggling sleeping giant and completely transformed the club. With incredibly high standards, a brilliant eye for a player, and, it was a quite a year and Villa were so close to winning the league just a year after a narrow escape from relegation. Graham went on to manage England, less successfully, but a lot more successfully than people remember. 

Lessons: 1) Know how to manage different players, for example Graham Taylor’s customised (and unique) management of the incredible Paul McGrath gave Villa fans the best player many of my age have ever seen play for the club, bought at a time when his knee problems and struggles with alcohol meant it was a hugely risky signing. 2) Be brilliant at upward management. 'Deadly' Doug Ellis, the chairman, was unceremoniously kicked out of the dressing room on occasions when he encroached, and proper standards and clarity of roles were maintained at all times. 3) Have the right values and insist on the right behaviours and humility from your team. 4) When things aren’t working, sort them out. Graham had an uncanny knack for sorting out poor first half performances at half-time, and getting results. 

Dean Smith: my best day watching Villa was the day lifelong Villa fan Dean Smith won the play-off final at Wembley, his team captained by Villa fanatic Jack Grealish. Dean had delivered ten consecutive wins to sneak into the play-offs, beaten West Brom (very sweet) and then won the ‘richest match in football’. From the day he walked through the door, the quality of his coaching and player leadership, and the synergy with the club’s heritage and values was clear to all of us.  

A very tricky first season in the Premier League was just about safely navigated, but what really impressed was how Dean, when the Covid lockdown struck with his job under threat and the team in deep trouble, used the lockdown to explore in detail why the season had not gone to plan, holding multiple zoom calls with players, and essentially sorting out Villa’s defensive problems. When the season restarted, the team was steelier, harder to beat and had renewed belief they could survive, something achieved against all odds with an amazing finish to the season. Dean then improved the team dramatically, buying a number of players who remain the spine of Unai Emery’s team. Harshly sacked after another season following four consecutive defeats, Dean left the club with immense dignity and will forever be one of the club’s most important and loved managers. 

Lessons: 1) Always be prepared to innovate and do things differently. During the worst of times, don’t wallow in self-pity, and take any opportunity to find another way to improve things. 2) Recognise and harness the culture and heritage of your organisation. 3) Leave with dignity to preserve your legacy, recognising sometimes the organisation moves on but your impact will remain. 

Upcoming events

Bedworth Indoor Market revamp underway

A major refurbishment of Bedworth Indoor Market began this week.

Latest news-in-brief...

9.9 million day trips made to South Warks, new research reveals 

Fresh tourism figures have revealed that more than 9.9 million day trips were made to south Warwickshire in 2024 – marking a 12 per cent rise compared to 2023. That’s despite the overall volume of day visits across Great Britain decreasing by 12 per cent versus 2023. The total monetary value that tourism brought to south Warwickshire in 2024 also exceeded £860 million - a 9.6 per cent increase on 2023 and a 6.8 per cent increase on 2019 before the pandemic. 

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/cotswolds-tour-company-looks-for-larger-premises-amid-record-activity 

Metals recycling company files for liquidation  

Recycling company Unimetals, formerly Sims UK and headquartered in Stratford-upon-Avon, has filed for liquidation. The company employs 600 across the UK, and can trace its roots back to local company Bird Group. 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cr4dx41k3vxo 

Wright Hassall LLP acquired in rescue deal - secures future of firm dating back to 1846  

Wright Hassal LLP, the Leamington law firm with roots dating back to 1846, has been acquired following a pre-packaged administration process. The deal has protected more than 100 jobs.  The firm is headquartered in Leamington Spa and specialises in corporate, commercial, employment, dispute resolution and litigation, commercial property, planning, and construction.  

It has joined HCR Law creating a combined business with 12 offices, 1,060 staff and a turnover of approximately £112m.   

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/law-firm-with-roots-back-to-the-mid-19th-century-files-notice-of-intention-to-appoint-administrators 

JLR reports £485m losses for Q2 in wake of devastating cyber attack - but CEO hails the “speed of recovery”  

JLR has reported pre-tax losses of £485m for the second quarter of its financial year following the impact of its recent cyber attack and US tariffs. However, the automotive giant said it has "made strong progress in recovering its operations safely and at pace". The car maker has reported pre-tax losses of £485m for the three months to 30 September 2025 and £134m for the first half, down from a profit of £398m and £1.1bn respectively a year ago.  

JLR said this was impacted by the production stoppages it initiated in September following the cyber incident and the planned wind down of legacy Jaguar models.  

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/jlr-reports-485m-losses-for-q2-in-wake-of-devastating-cyber-attack-but-ceo-hails-the-speed-of-recovery 

50-year-old precision engineer eyes growth with Lloyds funding  

A Warwickshire-based precision engineering company is investing in its growth after securing the backing of Lloyds Bank. For almost five decades, Rugby-based Technoset has manufactured a range of ultra-high precision parts, such as landing gear, and engine and turbine components predominantly for the aerospace sector. The business is now expanding to tap into increasing demand from adjacent high-growth sectors such as telecommunications, medical, automotive, defence and renewable energy. 

It has also expanded its apprenticeship programme, with four of its 32-strong team having now been trained at MTC (Manufacturing Technology Centre) in Ansty, near Coventry.  

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/50-year-old-precision-engineer-eyes-growth-with-lloyds-funding 

Turnover nears £480m at 800-strong construction materials group but profits decline amid “significant macroeconomic uncertainty”  

Turnover reached almost £480m at one of the largest construction materials suppliers in the UK during its latest financial year but profits declined amid "significant macroeconomic uncertainty and weak market conditions". Nuneaton-headquartered GRS Group is an independent supplier of essential construction materials, from low-carbon recycled aggregates and decorative landscaping products to high-volume bulk aggregates for major construction projects. 

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/turnover-nears-480m-at-800-strong-construction-materials-group-but-profits-decline-amid-significant-macroeconomic-uncertainty 

Lloyds and MTC mark 5,000 apprentices, graduates and engineers milestone in £15m partnership 

Lloyds and the Manufacturing Technology Centre have marked a significant milestone in their £15m strategic partnership established to support the development of skills and innovation. The partnership, which celebrates its ten-year anniversary in 2025, has now trained more than 5,000 apprentices, graduates and engineers through MTC's training centres in Ansty, near Coventry, Oxfordshire and Liverpool with the support of Lloyds sponsorship. It is set to surpass its target of training 6,000 of such learners within its current funding cycle, which runs until the end of 2029. 

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/lloyds-and-mtc-mark-5000-apprentices-graduates-and-engineers-milestone-in-15m-partnership 

Sale of 500-strong aerospace and defence engineering firm to Indian group completes  

Major aerospace and defence engineering business Nasmyth Group, which works with primes like Rolls-Royce and Boeing, has been acquired by an Indian group. Rcapital has completed the sale of Nasmyth Group to strategic trade buyer Sigma Advanced Systems UK, a subsidiary of Megasoft. 

Headquartered in Exhall, Bedworth, Nasmyth Group employs about 500 skilled workers. Rcapital initially invested in Nasmyth Group in February 2022 when the company was facing  severe cashflow pressures as a result of losses following the Covid restrictions. Since acquisition, Rcapital has invested significant funds to rescue and stabilise the business through its turnaround, and it is now profitable, and provides an opportunity for its new Indian owners to access the aerospace and defence sectors.  

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/sale-of-500-strong-aerospace-and-defence-engineering-firm-to-indian-group-completes 

Autins Group cuts losses despite lower revenues and JLR cyber attack impact 

Autins Group, a Warwickshire-based supplier to the automotive industry, cut pre-tax losses during the first half of its financial year despite reduced revenues and the impact of the cyber attack on JLR - its largest customer. The listed manufacturer has reported pre-tax losses of £590,000 for the six months 30 September 2025, cut from £824,000 in the same period of 2024.  

Revenues went from £9.7m to £8.5m, with the company's largest customer - JLR - implementing a complete suspension of vehicle production for the month of September. https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/autins-group-cuts-losses-despite-lower-revenues-and-jlr-cyber-attack-impact 

Triton Showers makes key appointment as longstanding MD retires  

Triton Showers, a King's Award-winning manufacturer based in Nuneaton, has appointed a new managing director as Dave Tutton retires after 12 years. Having joined the Nuneaton-based manufacturer as business development director in 2013, Tutton ascended to the role of MD 15 months after his arrival. His successor is Phil Viner, currently Triton's  commercial director, who brings more than 25 years of experience in the bathroom and plumbing sector, spanning both UK manufacturing and merchant distribution.  

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/triton-showers-makes-key-appointment-as-longstanding-md-retires 

Historic Warwickshire hotel to sell off contents as it prepares for major refurbishment  

A four-star hotel and spa which dates back to 1862 and is located in the heart of Warwickshire has revealed plans for a multimillion-pound investment to transform its facilities and features, which will be preceded by a significant auction. Dating back to 1862, The Ardencote Hotel is a Victorian manor house nestled within 83 acres of landscaped gardens. The venue offers 110 en-suite bedrooms, three dining and bar areas, extensive conference facilities and a spa and leisure facility. 

To facilitate the investment, the hotel will host a major public auction to clear existing operational assets and prepare the property for the project.  

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/historic-warwickshire-hotel-to-sell-off-contents-as-it-prepares-for-multimillion-pound-refurbishment 

Plans in for a further 1.4 million sq ft at Symmetry Park Rugby  

Tritax Big Box Developments has submitted plans for a further 1.4 million sq ft of space in the next phase of its Symmetry Park Rugby scheme. The hybrid application includes a detailed proposal for a 300,000 sq ft logistics unit and the creation of Cawston Landscape Park (CLP), a 20-acre green space featuring new footpaths linked to existing public rights of way, communal orchards with edible planting, and levelled areas for informal sports and play. Symmetry Park is already home to Iron Mountain, which occupies one million sq ft. This initial commitment in 2022 marked the launch of its first UK campus to offer a range of services.   In July this year, TBBD completed the letting of Unit 5, a speculatively built 391,000 sq ft facility to a data management company on a 15-year lease.  Two further speculatively developed facilities remain available comprising 338,064 sq ft (Unit 6) and 170,473 sq ft (Unit 7) on a leasehold basis. The buildings have been built to net zero carbon in construction standards and have a BREEAM “Excellent” and EPC A+ rating. 

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/plans-in-for-a-further-1.4-million-sq-ft-at-symmetry-park-rugby 

Severn Trent boss Liv Garfield to step down after more than a decade 

Liv Garfield, CEO of Severn Trent, is set to step down after an 11-year tenure that saw her become the FTSE 100's longest-serving female leader. 

The utilities group, which delivers water and sewage services to over 4.7 million homes and businesses across the Midlands and Wales, announced that Ms Garfield will depart at the end of December. 

https://www.business-live.co.uk/retail-consumer/severn-trent-boss-liv-garfield-32904813 

Chamber announces Sandra Godley OBE as new president  

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce has appointed its second ever female president. 

Sandra Godley OBE takes over from Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants Group, and will hold the post for two years after being elected by the Chamber board. 

https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/news/cwcc-141125/ 

Midlands M&A market resilient against “global macroeconomic pressures” - Experian MarketIQ  

The Midlands M&A market showed resilience against "global macroeconomic pressures", according to the latest Experian MarketIQ report, but values declined amid a lack of large-scale transactions.  

In the year to date, 783 transactions have been confirmed - a modest 9 per cent decline from 865 in the same period of 2024 - which the report said mirrors "broader national and international trends toward more strategic, long-term investment".  

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/midlands-ma-market-resilient-against-global-macroeconomic-pressures-experian-marketiq 

Over £800,000 in grants boosts energy efficiency

"The programme is open until March 2026, so I urge any businesses looking for advice and support to bring efficiencies to their organisations to get in touch.” 

Warwickshire businesses have benefitted from over £800,000 worth of Business Energy Advice Service grants to help bring in energy efficiencies.

Make better business decisions for nature and society

Free Courses and Tools to Help You Make Better Decisions for Nature and Society

Coventry University has developed a set of free online courses and practical tools designed to support better decision-making for people, nature, and local communities. These can help your business:

• Develop skills to make better decisions for biodiversity and people
• Access practical tools to guide decisions, start conversations and inspire change
• Enhance your social and environmental impact

These resources are part of the PLANET4B project, focused on improving how we value biodiversity and people in everyday decisions. Visit https://www.care-full-courses.com/ to find out more.

WBEAS helps Nuneaton business achieve its energy efficiency goal

“We have a target to reduce our CO2e by 50% by 2030 and these new building improvements are expected to help us reach this target.

Local business Nuneaton Signs is closer to reaching their energy efficiency goal following an audit and grant from the Warwickshire Business Energy Advice Service (WBEAS).