Welcome from Cllr Martin Watson

Hello and welcome to the October edition of Warwickshire Means Business.

Firstly, this month, I extend the warmest congratulations to all our winners in the Coventry & Warwickshire Foodie Awards 2023. The excellence of Warwickshire’s food and drink offer is reflected by its economic value to the county - the sector generated over £300m for the local economy in 2022. It was great to see so many of our businesses receive the accolades at the Foodie Awards that their hard work and expertise so richly deserves.

That wonderful food and drink offer has played its full part as our county’s Visitor Economy continues to bounce back strongly from the pandemic with a total value to the Warwickshire economy of £1.27billion in 2022.

More to celebrate this month comes from the breaking news that Coventry and Warwickshire will receive up to £7.5million of new investment under the new Immersive and Creative Technologies Launchpad programme.

There is always plenty to celebrate in the excellent work of our team at Warwickshire Skills Hub. This month we feature Emma’s inspiring story in our Special Feature on Warwickshire Supported Employment Service and also report the launch of the Fair Chance Jobs Portal and the Skills Hub’s team-up with Lillington Community Pantry.

We also shine a spotlight on the north of our county where exciting things are happening in Coleshill which features in our Talk Up Our Towns section. Our guest columnist, Tom Mongan, reflects upon his time as chair of the North Warwickshire branch of the Chamber of Commerce and celebrates the deep bond of business and affection between the city of Coventry and the county of Warwickshire.

I hope you enjoy all this and much more, including our regular comprehensive round up of upcoming events, in the October edition of Warwickshire Means Business.

MARTIN

Multi-million pound investment will power innovation and business growth

"This Launchpad is an exciting opportunity to further help businesses to drive forward innovation and boost our economy.”

Coventry and Warwickshire has been selected to receive up to £7.5m of new investment to drive local innovation and business growth, building on the region’s existing strengths in video game development.

Under the Immersive and Creative Technologies Launchpad programme, businesses and researchers working to grow their impact in the region can apply for competitive grants. Other support is also available for innovation projects that focus on developing and adapting new technologies across various industries including healthcare, education, future mobility, manufacturing, retail and tourism.

The competition opened on October 23 and interested organisations are invited to sign up for a competition briefing event on Wednesday, November 1st to find out more. Grant funding available starts from £25,000, with up to £1 million for projects that provide exceptional impact to the cluster of SMEs.

The Launchpad programme is funded by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation. It is designed to build on innovation clusters around the UK that have significant growth potential and to deliver jobs, growth, and higher productivity, supporting the Government’s levelling-up agenda.

The Immersive & Creative Industries Launchpad in Coventry and Warwickshire has been developed jointly by Warwickshire County Council, Coventry City Council, and Innovate UK, and tailored to the region’s needs and circumstances. The projects must focus on immersive and creative industries leading to increased investment into research and innovation or contribute to growing business activities and economic impact in the cluster.

The projects will contribute to developing and applying technologies such as digital media, mixed media, augmented reality, virtual reality, virtual production, design processes, game engine and 3D environments, simulations and data visualisations as examples. This will build on the reputation of Leamington’s Silicon Spa which employs 15 per cent of the UK’s games development talent and is recognised by trade body UKIE as the largest cluster outside Greater London.

The Immersive and Creative Industries Launchpad will provide applicants with the opportunity to access grants, expertise, and research facilities as well as benefit from a programme of cluster development activities.

Cllr Martin Watson, Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Coventry and Warwickshire is renowned for being a world-leading cluster in video game development which has created highly-skilled jobs and opportunities as well as attracting inward investors from across the globe. This Launchpad is an exciting opportunity to further help businesses to drive forward innovation and boost our economy.”

Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, added: “Coventry has seen growth in the creative and media sectors in recent years, so this funding provides a fantastic opportunity to further grow and develop these sectors. This will be a boost for this sector which is important for our local economy now and which has great potential for growth which of course means good jobs for local people.

Innovate UK CEO Indro Mukerjee said: “Innovate UK is building strong regional partnerships across the UK to support local innovation and commercialisation. Our new Launchpads will help to attract further private sector R&D investment into innovation clusters, growing local economies and delivering societal and economic benefits to local communities.”

To find out more about the Immersive & Creative Industries Launchpad in Coventry and Warwickshire, or to sign up to a local stakeholder engagement session, please visit https://iuk.ktn-uk.org/programme/launchpads/

* To find out what other support is available to your business, please call CW Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747

£1.27billion bounce-back for Warwickshire's visitor economy

“It is great news that visitor levels have recovered so strongly since the pandemic, but not surprising at all as our county is blessed with such a wonderful range of attractions.”

Warwickshire’s visitor economy has bounced back strongly from the pandemic with 15 million trips undertaken by visitors to the county in 2022.

There were 13.6 million day trips and 1.4 million overnight visits to the county by visitors who spent 4.5 million nights in the area.

The visitor economy supported 23,919 jobs in Warwickshire, a return to pre-pandemic levels of employment, with a total value to the Warwickshire economy of £1.27billion. This represents a healthy 48% increase on 2021 levels and, though still 4% down on pre-pandemic levels, reflects the steady improvement in tourism locally, nationally and internationally since Covid.  

The balance of domestic versus overseas travel is becoming closer to pre-pandemic levels, but financial pressures on holiday-makers mean that domestic trips in many cases remain the favoured option, so an element of 'staycation' preference  still remains. Inbound visits to the UK continued to recover to pre-pandemic levels. 

Warwickshire’s huge appeal to visitors has been vividly illustrated by the nomination of a number of businesses from the county among the finalists for the 2024 West Midlands Tourism Awards.  

Businesses from across the region’s accommodation, arts, food & drink, visitor attraction and heritage sectors are competing in categories including Experience of the Year, New Tourism Business and Taste of the West Midlands. The awards are delivered by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) – the region’s destination marketing agency.

The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony in early 2024 and will automatically be entered in the annual VisitEngland Awards for Excellence for the chance to be recognised on a national level. 

The Warwickshire finalists are:

Shakespeare Distillery

Coombe Abbey Hotel

Warwick Castle

Warwick Conferences

The Coach House, Stratford-upon-Avon

Cotswolds Distillery

Shakespeare's Schoolroom & Guildhall

Libertine Burger

Warwickshire County Council Portfolio Holder for Environment, Climate and Culture, Cllr Heather Timms, said: “It is a fantastic to see so many Warwickshire businesses among the finalists for the awards and they are just the tip of the iceberg of the wonderful tourism sector in our county.

“It is great news that visitor levels have recovered so strongly since the pandemic, but not surprising at all as our county is blessed with such a wonderful range of attractions.”

Fair Chance Jobs Portal is up and running

"Warwickshire County Council is committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth which offers good quality jobs and future skills for all of our residents. Where there are barriers to residents gaining skills and employment, we want to address them."

A new jobs website has been created to help Warwickshire-based employers fill roles created to appeal to people facing barriers into employment.

The Fair Chance Jobs Portal has been launched by Warwickshire County Council’s Warwickshire Skills Hub as part of their Fair Chance Employment Programme.

The programme was initially launched in November 2021 to help firms to become more inclusive when recruiting and creating job roles, while offering individuals training support to become more employable.

More than 50 businesses have committed to the programme so far, with more than 25 of those employers already listing jobs on the portal, which currently has around 30 job vacancies listed.

The jobs are targeted at a range of individuals such as foreign nationals who are part of a resettlement programme, individuals with a special educational need or disability, ex-armed forces personnel and their families, young people not in education, employment or training; those leaving care, young carers, and over 50s currently seeking employment.

Advertised vacancies range from cleaning through to project co-ordination and customer service, and can be viewed at fairchancejobs.warwickshire.gov.uk

Fay Winterburn, Lead Commissioner for Employability and Skills at Warwickshire Skills Hub, said: “Helping businesses to address skills shortages while breaking down long-term employability barriers for individuals are two key issues that the Fair Chance Employment Programme is trying to address, and the new jobs portal is a crucial next step in helping us to make this a reality.

“Individuals who face barriers to traditional recruitment methods are an untapped talent pool, and we have been working closely with businesses to explore ways that they can make both their recruitment processes – and the jobs themselves – more accessible, and with room for progression.

“This includes softening the traditional interview approach by incorporating work trials as part of the interview process, so that candidates are being asked questions as they work, whilst also being offered flexible working hours.

“When a candidate is appointed to a role at a Fair Chance Employment Programme employer, they will also have a dedicated mentor within the business to help them settle into their role.”

Cllr Martin Watson, Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place at Warwickshire County Council, added: "Warwickshire County Council is committed to promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth which offers good quality jobs and future skills for all of our residents. Where there are barriers to residents gaining skills and employment, we want to address them.

 "This programme is showing excellent signs of making progress towards that goal already with good engagement from both employers and jobseekers."

For more information about the Fair Chance Jobs Portal, and to view the latest vacancies, please visit fairchancejobs.warwickshire.gov.uk

Farm Shop continues its journey after Green Recovery Grant

"It was fantastic support all round and just the sort of backing that small businesses need from their local council. It means we can hopefully go from strength to strength and continue to serve our community.”

A farm shop which has grown from a farmer’s field with an honesty box to a thriving small business at the heart of its community is looking forward to a cosier and more cost-effective future thanks to a Green Recovery Grant from Warwickshire County Council.

Rough Hill Farm Shop, near Studley, enjoys plenty of support from its loyal customers. Those that, 15 years ago, popped a few coins into the honesty box to pay for eggs, now return regularly to take advantage of the shop’s much broader offer. And those longstanding customers have much more company now after the farm shop became established as a focal point of the community during the COVID lockdowns, when it was a vital source of fresh food for local people.

The family business remains keen to keep growing, however, and a Green Recovery Grant from the County Council has played a big part in that objective. The funding went towards insulation of the roof over the shop, one of three hitherto draughty barns on the site off The Slough in the south-western corner of Warwickshire.

“The grant has been fantastic for us,” said shop manager Ryan Durr. “We have already noticed the different in terms of heating and the weather hasn’t really got cold yet. The shop will be so much more comfortable and welcoming for our customers this winter. It wasn’t great when they used to come in and saw us behind the counter, shivering in our jumpers and coats!

“The savings we make on energy costs will be a huge help. We have got further plans for growth, which we are looking into at the moment and will hopefully include taking on more staff. The Green Grant means that we can start moving forward with those plans sooner.

“Simeon Lee and Gaynor Valente from the County Council were brilliant. Sim talked us through the options and made us aware of the grant and Gaynor took us through the process and made it all really quick and simple. It was fantastic support all round and just the sort of backing that small businesses need from their local council. It means we can hopefully go from strength to strength and continue to serve our community.”

Rough Hill Farm has come a long way since Ryan’s in-laws Ann Furber and her partner Jack McKelvie bought a field in 2006 and cleared it to provide a home for free range pigs.

“The business has evolved a long way and has also been shaped by what our customers want,” said Ryan. “We don’t want to be huge, we just want to tick over and keep satisfying our lovely customers. We are now thinking carefully about our next plans for growth, whether that might be a coffee shop or growing more produce or doing more with the animals we have here.”

Cllr Martin Watson, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, said: “It is great to hear that Rough Hill Farm Shop has enjoyed immediate benefits from the Green Recovery Grant.

“The Green Recovery Grants, created to fill a specific need among small businesses, were immensely popular and have played a significant part of securing the future for numerous businesses across Warwickshire.”

* To find out what other support is available to your business, please call CW Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747

Skills Hub adds to Lillington Pantry offer

"As we build up a full picture of what kind of support people are looking for, we will work with our partners to offer skills and training through group sessions, workshops and events."

The Lillington Community Pantry has teamed up with Warwickshire Skills Hub to offer a broad range of skills, training and recruitment opportunities to its customers. 

Community Pantries aim to provide medium to long-term solutions to help individuals and families who are face food insecurity. They also assist people to engage with services that resolve the underlying causes of their individual situations. 

The Lillington Community Pantry, a collaborative project between Feed The Hungry UK and Warwickshire County Council, has now expanded and strengthened its offer to its customers by adding input from Warwickshire Skills Hub. 

Starting with initial information sessions, customers have been invited to chat to specialist advisors from the Skills Hub who offer advice on everything from short training courses, apprenticeships, and distance learning courses through to finding a job, interview support & CV writing. 

Heather Docksey, Business Support Skills Advisor at Warwickshire Skills Hub, said: "As part of our Fair Chance Employment Programme we wanted to look at how we could actively support those people who may be struggling to access skills and training, so we started with a casual information drop-in where customers could stop for a chat after they'd done their shopping to find out what was available.  

“We will hold these sessions every couple of months and, as we build up a full picture of what kind of support people are looking for, we will work with our partners to offer skills and training through group sessions, workshops and events." 

Pantry Supervisor, Chloe Scanlan is keen to build on the relationship with the Skills Hub as she believes the support on offer could positively improve the lives of their customers.  

"Many people who shop with us have lots of additional life challenges which can severely impact their confidence when looking for a job,” said Chloe. “We hope that by supporting people to train and reskill they can actively help themselves out of food poverty and have a better quality of life. 

"With a team of over 30 volunteers, we ensure that all our customers are supported as they shop to encourage healthy food choices, but the pantry is always looking for more support. Christmas is a challenging time for many of the families we support. For many of our members, family breakdown, social isolation, bereavement and, of course, financial pressures  often take over at this time of year; removing the joy and excitement many feel. Here at the pantry, we want to try and alleviate some of the pressure this year and we are hoping that local businesses will want to get involved. 

“This year, we want to provide 150 Christmas hampers for families in Leamington and Warwick facing food poverty, however to do this, we need your support. On average, we support between 120 and 130 families a week with food. We know that with the rising cost of living and the colder months, this is likely to increase. 

“We would be so grateful if you can consider supporting us this Christmas. We are in need of donations of Christmas food, financial donations or any other creative way to support families this festive period. We would also love to invite you to be part of the process, if you would like; we need help packing and distributing them, so if you would like to be involved please contact lillington@thecommunitypantry.org.uk. 

“We also welcome corporate volunteer days with opportunities for team building activities. Lillington Community Pantry is a lifeline for many in Leamington and Warwick and with your help, we want to make life that little bit easier for families this Christmas.” 

Grade II-listed home provides new centre for creative industries in Leamington

"CDP’s development team has been able to retain the wonderful interiors of this historical building. maintaining its history and making it applicable to the modern world.”

A vibrant inspirational new home for creative industries in Leamington has opened as part of a major transformation of the town centre. 

The Fold, situated in the refurbished, Grade II listed United Reformed Church on Spencer Street, contains a green screen studio, Foley suite and sound suite with attached VO room, multiple meeting rooms, networking and co-working spaces. There is also a members’ club along with office space for leading independent marketing group Cogent.  

The state-of-the-art sound and visual production facilities are nestled in the coves and tunnels of the church crypts while stunning open-plan workspaces, thoughtfully designed meeting rooms and relaxation areas encourage collaboration on the ground floor. 

The Fold will also be the first Midlands base for the SAE Institute, who are working in partnership with Cogent to provide two-year degree courses in creative media. 

The Fold is one of three formerly derelict buildings in Spencer Yard that have being restored and brought back to creative industry use by regeneration specialists Complex Development Projects (CDP). 

CDP acquired the buildings from Warwick District Council as part of their ten-year Creative Quarter partnership which plans to transform the Old Town into a destination for creative businesses. The scheme has received a grant from the Future High Streets Fund as part of the Government’s plan to renew and reshape town centres – making them a more attractive place to live, work and visit. The financial package also includes a loan from West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) arranged by Frontier Development Capital. 

Ian Gathard, CEO of the Cogent Group, said The Fold would be accessible to everyone that wants to work in a creative, collaborative environment, whatever their background. 

He said: “We wanted to create a properly accessible creative community for people regardless of their background or education who might have struggled to get a foothold in the industry in the past. I love the fact that CDP’s development team has been able to retain the wonderful interiors of this historical building. maintaining its history and making it applicable to the modern world.”  

Steffan Davies, Managing Director at SAE Europe, said this would be its fourth campus in the UK following on from London, Liverpool and Glasgow. 

“The USP of SAE has always been to provide students with practical experience and we were attracted to Leamington because of its reputation for being the home of so many leading gaming businesses,” he said. “We also provide our students with an education that is aligned with the industry, so being co-located with Cogent at The Fold is perfect for our students to engage with this. 

“We have our first cohort of students already enrolled in Leamington and this will be a fantastic opportunity to make the most of this wonderful new hub to gain first-hand experience in this incredibly diverse sector.” 

Ian Harrabin, of CDP, said that the scheme was an exemplar of best practice in how a historic building can not only be brought back into use, but also by introducing modern additions, can be brought up to date as an inspiring place to work.   

“We are very pleased to be working with Cogent, whose innovative use will really bring the building back to life,” he said. “The official opening of The Fold will be a wonderful chance to bring our talented design team and contractor together with the creative end users to celebrate what we have achieved together. None of this would have been possible without the close partnership with the Council, Future High Streets funding from the Government, and the loan from WMCA. This is partnership working at its best. 

“This is only the first chapter of our major transformation of the Old Town and we hope it will be the catalyst for attracting even more creative businesses and freelancers to the Midlands.” 

* To find out what other support is available to your business, please call CW Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747

Warwickshire winners abound at Foodie Awards

"Our county's wonderful food and drink sector, with its remarkable quality, depth and diversity, is not only a powerhouse of the economy but provides an immeasurable amount of joy and social value to both residents and visitors to the county."

Eight finalists from Warwickshire were among the winners as the county's food and drink sector shone at the Coventry & Warwickshire Foodie Awards 2023.

The food and drink sector is a huge contributor to the strength of Warwickshire's economy. The latest Tourism Economic Impact study (2022) revealed that 35% of all visitor expenditure in Warwickshire is on Food and Drink, generating over £300m for the local economy.

Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, Cllr Martin Watson, said: "Warmest congratulations go to all the Warwickshire winners on their richly-deserved success in the 2023 Foodie Awards. Our county's wonderful food and drink sector, with its remarkable quality, depth and diversity, is not only a powerhouse of the economy but provides an immeasurable amount of joy and social value to both residents and visitors to the county.

More funding available for adult numeracy projects in Warwickshire

“We are very pleased to work with our partners across the county to really address local numeracy needs and make sure that, if adults have barriers to getting on and prospering in the workplace, we can help to overcome them."

Organisations with ideas for adult numeracy projects are being encouraged to apply for funding before the deadline at 1 pm on Monday 6 November 2023...

Nursery future secure thanks to WPM lease

“The most important thing for us is the experience for children, and having a new 10-year lease allows us to focus on that and plan for the future.”

Vital nursery places in Leamington have been secured for generations to come after a popular nursery secured a new long-term lease.

The Purple Playhouse Nursery, which is on the site of Sydenham Primary School, has signed a 10-year deal to remain at its current site with Warwickshire County Council, through its managing agent Warwickshire Property Management Ltd (WPM).

The nursery currently has places for 65 children, from age two to school age, and was graded Outstanding by Ofsted in 2019.

The Purple Playhouse Nursery was originally with in the Sydenham Primary School building but moved to its current location, the former Sydenham Children’s centre, in 2019.

It operates independently of the school as a limited company, is always fully-subscribed and is run by a team of nine staff.

The nursery features a large playroom, canopy-covered garden, creative space and a smaller room to enable staff to organise specific activities for smaller group. Children also benefit from access to the school playground.

Linda Crump, manager at Purple Playhouse Nursery, says that the new lease gives the nursery and its staff stability for the future.

“The most important thing for us is the experience for children, and having a new 10-year lease allows us to focus on that and plan for the future,” she said. “We are always full and we are again this year. We have been based at our current site for more than four years and are very proud of what we have created here.

“We have an incredible team here who really do go above and beyond every day and those efforts are reflected in our reputation and our nursery places being filled year after year. The comments we receive from parents is what makes it all worthwhile. Recent feedback has included parents saying ‘Thank you for taking my child under your wing and getting her to believe in herself’ and praised the warmth, kind nature and dedication of our team. This new lease will allow us to continue delivering this high level of service for children in Sydenham for many years to come.”

WPM is part of Warwickshire Property & Development Group (WPDG), which manages the lettings on hundreds of Warwickshire County Council-owned properties.

Paul Blennerhassett, Senior Asset Manager at WPM, said: “The Purple Playhouse Nursery is an important asset to the community in Sydenham and we were delighted to work with Linda to agree terms for a new 10-year lease. There is high demand for nursery places in Leamington and this deal secures the more than 60 places offered at Purple Playhouse for the next decade.”

Councillor Peter Butlin, Deputy Leader of Warwickshire County Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, said: “Securing this long-term lease supports The Purple Playhouse Nursery to continue their brilliant work in their existing location, providing children with a vibrant and safe environment to learn and play for years to come.

“In turn this supports the County Council’s ambition to create a child-friendly county where we support our children and young people to get the best outcomes in life.”

To find out more about The Purple Playhouse Nursery, please visit www.thepurple-playhouse.co.uk/

Supported Internships Fair at Compton Verney on November 30th

The Warwickshire County Council Supported Internship Project warmly welcomes businesses to attend a Supported Internships Fair on Thursday 30th November (4-7pm) at Compton Verney Art Gallery and Park, CV35 9HZ. 

The event will provide an opportunity to find out more about Supported Internships, what their benefits are to a business, and how to become a host. Refreshments will be provided.  

The purpose of the fair is to:  

• launch new supported internship guidance for: 
  • businesses and colleges  
  • young people, 
  • parents and carers  
• promote the newly revised Warwickshire, SEND Local Offer Supported Internship pages with video testimonials.  
• increase Supported Internship awareness within Warwickshire for all stakeholders.  
• provide host businesses and interns an opportunity to showcase their achievements and benefits gained, to support an increase of provision and opportunities in Warwickshire. 
• offer an opportunity for Warwickshire residents to gain information and/or support from partner agencies e.g., colleges, DWP, prospects, Equip etc. 
   

Warwickshire Skills Hub, Child Friendly Warwickshire, Warwickshire colleges and current host businesses have been invited to share their experiences and showcase the excellent provision they provide, as well as other partner agencies to help support networking opportunities. 

To secure your place at the fare, please complete an Eventbrite application using the link available here:  Supported Internship Booking  

If you would like further information about the event, please email SENDchange@warwickshire.gov.uk 

Warwickshire Christmas campaign encourages customers to shop locally

“Buying local not only supports local businesses – it often means getting that extra level of customer service and satisfaction that is difficult to replicate with large multinationals."

A Christmas campaign encouraging Warwickshire’s independent town businesses to shout about why shoppers should buy from them this year is making a comeback.

The Warwickshire Christmas campaign, organised by Warwickshire County Council, is returning this year to highlight the quality businesses in the county’s towns and villages and to encourage customers to shop locally for their gifts this year.

The drive is being supported by a social media campaign by Warwickshire Towns Network, where a festive mix of Warwickshire’s independent shops are being showcased in the run up to the big day.

Throughout November and December, the campaign will show off businesses and their gift ideas all over the county, and showcase individual towns and villages where residents and visitors can shop.

And Warwickshire’s independent businesses, along with other organisations, are being encouraged to get involved by using the hashtag #WarwickshireChristmas and sharing their own Christmas content online.

The new campaign follows similar support drives over the last couple of years to help businesses bounce back from both Covid and the subsequent cost of living crisis.

Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, Cllr Martin Watson, said: “Showcasing the incredible businesses we have in Warwickshire is vitally important in the run-up to Christmas, so we’re delighted to be relaunching this campaign once again.

“Christmas is such a key time for our high street retailers, and we have so many in our county that can provide the perfect gifts for loved ones this year.

“Buying local not only supports local businesses – it often means getting that extra level of customer service and satisfaction that is difficult to replicate with large multinationals.

“We are looking forward to seeing our residents getting involved with the campaign by using the hashtag #WarwickshireChristmas, and seeing customers praising their favourite shops too.”

To follow the campaign, please visit @WarksTN on Instagram or like Warwickshire Towns Network on Facebook.

Council chief executives to address conference on November 10th

The Chief Executives of Warwickshire County Council and Coventry City Council will outline economic plans for the county and the city at the biggest business conference in the region. 

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is holding its Annual Business & Economic Conference at the Coventry Building Society Arena on Friday, November 10 and has already announced multi-award-winning broadcaster Clive Myrie as its keynote speaker. 

The conference, which is being delivered in partnership with PET-Xi Training and Prime Accountants Group, will also hear from Monica Fogarty, chief executive of Warwickshire County Council, and Julie Nugent, chief executive of Coventry City Council. 

They will cover the main themes of this year’s conference of ‘Doing Business with Purpose’, looking at topics such as net zero, inclusivity and digitisation, while outlining future plans for the region.  

In an ‘interview with’ session with Chamber chief executive Corin Crane, the pair will also discuss how Coventry and Warwickshire continues to work in partnership for the good of the region’s economy and how they support firms of all sizes – from start-ups to bigger businesses. 

Hundreds of businesspeople – as well as politicians and decision-makers – are expected to attend the event, which is regarded as one of the best networking opportunities in the business calendar. 

Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The feedback we got last year was that businesses really like the balance of being able to meet with other companies from across the region and, also, hear from some amazing speakers too. 

“They like to learn more about what’s happening in their area and, also, to be inspired by those on the stage who take part in our panels or deliver addresses. 

“To have the chief executives of both Warwickshire County Council and Coventry City Council coming to talk to us is incredibly important and shows the linkage that the Chamber can bring between our members and local decision-makers. 

“Julie and Monica are both very open and it should make for a fascinating session as part of a wider line-up of panels and speakers who will, once again, make it a conference to remember.” 

For more information or to book a place at the Chamber’s Annual Economic Conference go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/events/annual-business-economic-conference-2023/  

Big improvement in region's economic outlook

"This is a very positive QES for the third quarter of 2023 and I hope we can build on this sentiment and start to see some serious growth in our economy in the coming years...”

The economic outlook in Coventry and Warwickshire has improved dramatically, according to a survey of businesses in the region.

The latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce shows a jump in confidence in both the manufacturing and services sector, leading to a stronger outlook for the economy.

The survey, which is delivered in partnership with Prime Accountants Group, is analysed by the Economy & Skills Group at Warwickshire County Council. From the responses of businesses across the services and manufacturing sector, it gives scores out of 100 where anything above 50 is positive and below is negative.

The economic outlook now sits at 62.3 following the third quarter survey – up from 50.6 in the second quarter of year, which is a considerable rise. The manufacturing sector saw the biggest leap, from 52.7 up to 71.5.

Both domestically and internationally, manufacturers in Coventry and Warwickshire have seen a strong improvement in sales, moving from 55.9 to 72.9 on the home front and from 57.7 to 70.5 in the overseas market.

The service sector has also seen a rise, if less dramatic, from 48.5 to 54.5 domestically and from 45.2 to 55.7 internationally.

The survey suggests more jobs are set to be created in the region, with both sectors reporting a need to recruit while investment and cashflow have also seen an uptick in the past three months.

It all adds up to much more confidence being shown by the businesses who took part in the survey, which is both a barometer for the regional economy and is also fed into the British Chambers of Commerce’s national survey.

In the service sector, the confidence levels have moved from 58.0 to 61.3 and, in manufacturing, the score has reached 72.5 having previously been at 60.3 in the last quarter.

Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants and vice president of the Chamber – who will be a panellist at the Chamber’s Annual Economic Conference on November 10, said: “It is great to see such a bounce back in confidence among Chamber members – this is, more than likely, due to the fact that inflation is coming down from its peak and firms feel that they can start to plan for the future.

“Coventry and Warwickshire businesses have proved to be extremely resilient over the past three or four years, in the face of unprecedented events which have led to growing uncertainty. That is why our economy in the region has remained pretty stable but, what we’d like to see now, is a real drive for growth and this latest survey suggests that could be a possibility in the not-too-distant future.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, added: “I don’t think anyone is suggesting that we are out of the woods when it comes to the number of issues facing companies across our patch.

“Inflation is starting to fall – but it’s still way above target – and interest rates are still much higher than the record lows we’ve seen in recent years.

“It’s still incredibly difficult for firms to attract the skilled staff they need to be able to grow and that is something we are working with partners to look to address in the short, medium and long term.

“All that said, this is a very positive QES for the third quarter of 2023 and I hope we can build on this sentiment and start to see some serious growth in our economy in the coming years and, crucially, that it has a meaningful impact on communities across the whole of Coventry and Warwickshire.”

New funding scheme to address the rising cost of living

A new funding scheme has been launched to help social enterprises continue to support their communities.

Coventry & Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT) has launched the Access Programme, funded by ‘Access - The Foundation for Social Investment.’

This groundbreaking funding scheme will be delivered by CWRT with the support of Coventry & Warwickshire CDA, aimed at addressing the pressing issue of the rising cost of living.

The Access Programme’s primary focus is to help local charities and social enterprises support their enterprise activities and enable them to sustain the support they are providing to those most affected by the cost-of-living crisis. These organisations will be able to receive grants as well as debt finance and, if possible, scale up their enterprise models to meet the growing demand for essential services such as food, warm spaces, financial advice, essential transport, and safe housing.

The programme is eligible to social enterprises and charities based within Warwickshire and Coventry as well as other parts of the wider West Midlands.

Funding range: Grants range from £5,000 to £7,500.

Blended finance: A unique opportunity for organisations to receive a grant that can be combined with a loan at low interest rates, resulting in a total maximum investment of £60,000. A minimum grant of £10,000 to a maximum of £20,000 can be combined with loans ranging from £20,000 to £40,000.

Additional support: In addition to the grants organisations will receive one-hour online support session delivered by the Coventry and Warwickshire CDA as well as access to peer-to-peer network.

Eligible organisations are invited to visit the Access Programme webpage for more details and are encouraged to start the application process early, as the competition is expected to be high.

The programme is committed to driving positive change and ensuring the long-term resilience of social enterprises and charities across the West Midlands with the support of Access and Coventry & Warwickshire CDA.

* Warwickshire County Council is committed to supporting and helping to deliver a diverse and sustainable social enterprise sector. For more information about other support available, including WCC-funded support, please visit https://cwcda.co.uk/contact-us/

Information will be shared during Business Support Week, November 6-10

Warwickshire County Council will showcase its broad offer of support to the business community in a series of articles during Business Finance Week next month.

From November 6-10, national campaign Business Finance Week 2023 will be hosted by the British Business Bank along with several partners from across the UK.

A host of free nationwide and regional in-person events and webinars will be held to help smaller businesses learn about the different finance options available to them to support their individual needs.

Each day will have a different theme and Warwickshire County Council will be illustrating each topic by publishing a daily case study of how they offer support in the respective area.

The themes are:

Monday 6^th: Taking your first step: Starting your business with finance

Tuesday 7^th: Growing your business: Exploring finance options for growth

Wednesday 8^th: Thriving with finance: Unlocking your working capital

Thursday 9^th: Unlocking innovation: Building the business of tomorrow

Friday 10^th: What next? Business finance is just the start.

Warwickshire County Council’s Business Support and Growth Programme Manager, Jon Stead, said: “We are delighted to once again join in with Business Finance Week in its objective of making Warwickshire businesses fully aware of all the support that is available to them.

“We will be exploring each topic with a daily article published throughout the week, though full information on the broad scope of business support that we and our partners provide can be found any time at https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/businesssupport "

Investment must match ambition in Stratford, meeting is told

Stratford-upon-Avon is in a prime position for strong economic growth – but the opportunity must be matched by investment in infrastructure and skills, a business meeting has heard.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s South Warwickshire Branch met at Billesley Manor Hotel & Spa and heard from Cllr George Cowcher, who holds the Planning and Economic Development Portfolio at Stratford District Council.

Cllr Cowcher said: “We are very keen to hear the views of businesses and to make sure we are in regular dialogue with organisations such as the Chamber. There is great potential for growth in this region but it’s important to ensure that everything is joined up.

“We need to build more homes in order for people to be able to live in the area and fulfil the roles that businesses need to grow, but the infrastructure has to keep up. For example, we’ve built one new primary school in the district over the past 20 years and the transport system hasn’t kept pace with growth.

“When I speak to businesses, they talk about skills and labour shortages as a barrier to growth. So, when we draw up a new iteration of the Local Plan and create a new economic strategy for South Warwickshire, it will be with all of this in mind and it will be ensuring that new development happens in the right place.”

Larry Coltman, the chair of the South Branch of the Chamber, said: “We are always listening to the views of our members who are businesses of all sizes and sectors and we are able to feed that back into decision-makers. It was great to hear from Cllr Cowcher and we look forward to having ongoing engagement with the new administration.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, updated the meeting on two key strands of work being undertaken by the Chamber on skills and employment land. The Chamber’s Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) was recently given the green light by Government and puts business at the heart of improving skills in the region.

The Chamber has also recently published a report on employment land in the region to highlight how a shortage of space is holding back business growth.

Corin said: “These are two of the key factors that our members cite when they talk about being unable to grow at the pace they would like and that is why the Chamber is leading in these areas.”

WSES support is about much more than helping people find work

‘Just get a job,’ people say – but there is often so much more to it than that. Warwickshire Supported Employment Service is busy busting the myths around what success looks like in helping people towards and into the world of work, explains WSES interim delivery lead Charlotte Smith..

Since its creation earlier this year, Warwickshire Supported Employment Service has been supporting customers that are in paid work and also those that are on their pathway towards finding work.

It would be easy to assume that success is measured simply in getting more people with a learning disability and/or autism into employment full stop. However, the WSES team has been thinking about the achievements of our customers and how the smaller steps that lead them towards their end goal of employment should also be celebrated.

One of our Supported Employment Journey Guides, Jo Prosser, who is based in Nuneaton. recently attended a fantastic celebration event at the ‘Get Into’ NHS Programme with the George Eliot Hospital and the Princes Trust.

This collaboration was made possible by Heather Docksey from the Fair Chance Employer programme putting WSES in touch with Clare Barlow from the hospital. It has resulted in the hospital adapting their previous offer of volunteering by developing and designing a new route into the programme, alongside WSES staff, for customers with additional support needs, so they too can have access to completing work placements at George Eliot hospital.

Jo explains how incredible it was to see how much her customers had achieved and how proud they were of their achievements. She describes how one of her customers, Emma Taylor, has blown her away with the changes that she has seen.

When Emma first joined the service, she needed support to access public transport and her self-esteem and confidence were low. Emma has since gone on to complete the volunteering programme at George Eliot Hospital and she has even had the confidence to apply for a job there.

Emma has not only started to recognise her skills and qualities and apply these to jobs but has developed confidence in socialising with her peers. She recently joined friends at a pub and has helped plan a cinema trip with her supported volunteering group, something she said she hasn’t done in three years.  

Emma’s dad said that seeing her at the Prince’s Trust presentation reminded him of what he once saw in Emma on stage as a girl, where she was most happy, and that it was so nice to see her smile like that again. 

Emma said: “Picking up the phone was the first step I took on this journey, being honest about the fact I wasn’t quite sure who I was after getting a late diagnosis of autism.

“Leaving the house and catching the bus was my next achievement, and I have not stopped growing since. I am now the real me and this is who I want to be, in a world where I don’t have to hide any more. I am no longer scared of judgement and, even though I have only just started my journey, I can’t wait to carry on growing and developing more confidence.

“I am now no longer trying to change myself to find the right job, I know I can now work without changing myself.”

Emma has shown confidence and resilience on her journey into work, and at WSES we celebrate every step along the way, however small that might seem for each of our customers on their own personal journey. Those moments that might seem small to some, such as attending a group session in the job club for the first time or attending a 1:1 independently, are sometimes the moments we celebrate just as loudly as getting the phone call that they have got a job.

Our customers are breaking down barriers daily and, at WSES, we fully appreciate and admire, and never take for granted. the effort that goes into that growth. 

Celebrating the brilliant bond between Coventry and Warwickshire

In an exclusive guest column for Warwickshire Means Business, Tom Mongan, president of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, reflects upon five remarkable years as chair of the Chamber’s North Warwickshire branch and celebrates the mighty bond between the city of Coventry and the county of Warwickshire.

It is an honour to be a guest columnist for this edition of Warwickshire Means Business.

Coventry and Warwickshire is a region I have lived and worked in for most of my life – and what a region!

In my opinion there is none better, for we have a rich industrial heritage, a unique history and a beautiful and varied landscape few can match.

Coventry and Warwickshire, whichever way you look at it, go together like Motor and Car, like Warwick and Castle, like Stratford and Shakespeare and like Coal and Mine.

They are entwined and I am beyond proud to have been elected as President of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce for the past three years and Chair of its North Warwickshire branch for the past five years.

What a journey it has been. One could never have imagined what was about to unfold when I took over the President’s role in December 2020.

I think we can all agree that the last few years have been, putting it politely, challenging!

However, starting out on this journey some 50 odd years ago as a Technical Apprentice at Alvis Ltd, I never dreamed I would one day become President of one of the UK’s leading Chambers of Commerce. Back then CNC machines weren’t even in existence, it was copy lathes, capstans and whole sections given over to grinding, milling and turning.

I witnessed first-hand how manufacturing developed from manually operated systems and conventional machining, to computer-controlled processes, robotics and lasers. Lasers were the stuff of Star Wars and James Bond movies, certainly that used to be most people’s perception. Nowadays, of course, they are used in everyday life, from surgery to cutting metal.

It was an industry I worked in for nearly three decades as I was instrumental in making Subcon Laser in Nuneaton one of the UK’s most successful organisations that used laser technology, winning many regional and international awards along the way.

It certainly has been quite a journey and, as I stated earlier, I could never have imagined what was about to unfold when I took over the role as President.

The journey has had everything. Brexit, Covid, Lockdowns, Furlough, Four Prime Ministers, Six Chancellors of the Exchequer, Energy Crises, Fuel Costs, Interest Rates, Cost of Living and not forgetting the Toilet Roll Shortage!

I could go on forever and it has been an incredible journey with a lot of stories to tell. I’ve met some inspirational people, visited some world class companies and travelled extensively.

Some say I’m lucky! I say I’ve worked hard for it! There have been highs and lows, all of which make up a lifetime of tales and stories.

I am lucky, however, that I can call this region my home. I am lucky that wherever I go I can come home to this wonderful county of Warwickshire.

A county rich in heritage, steeped in history, with a future as bright as LASERS!

Events

Coleshill's long history of connectivity enters another chapter

“There is a real buzz about the town now...everybody’s talking and everybody’s involved.

Connectivity runs in a deep thread through the history of Coleshill.

Whether it is the town’s position as Warwickshire’s northern gateway or the coaching inns which have welcomed travellers for centuries or the mysterious tunnels circulating beneath the town, it’s all about making connections.

And that connectivity now has a new dimension which is embracing the town’s important past but also connecting it right up to the exciting present and future.

Coleshill has a proud history which includes giving the world two legendary brands. In the musty rooms of County Chemical Company, a small business which opened in High Street in 1895, lie the roots of Brylcreem while seven years later Typhoo Tea was founded by John Sumner, scion of the Sumner family which ran businesses in Coleshill for centuries.

They are two significant global brands to come out of a small town - but it’s not all about the past. Through the Coleshill Partnership, the business community of today in this historic location is rising to meet the fast-evolving challenges of the 21st century.

Coleshill has always enjoyed a vibrant community spirit. It beats as strong as ever, as shown last year by the crowdfunding campaign which was set up by volunteers to raise £30,000 for vital repairs to their building and to save “Books Revisited” (the Mary Ann Evans Hospice bookshop) on High Street from closure. Now, that sense of community is being harnessed in a new way.

There are few places that can offer such tranquil green spaces whilst boasting such short journeys to internationally recognised rail, road and air connections: Coleshill itself is on a constant journey, adapting to a rapidly changing landscape whilst still retaining its true strength of hospitality and welcome. This is a town with enviable infrastructure and connectivity.

In recent years, high streets and shopping habits have changed radically, a process accelerated by Covid which brought transformations to consumer behaviour, many of which have stuck. Once-heavy footfall has been replaced by wholesale mouse-clicking as people shop from home. It all means that in 2023 and going forward the onus is on businesses, and towns, to reach out more. The businesses of Coleshill are very much on the case.

“There is a real buzz about the town now,” said Donna Billson, deputy chair of the Coleshill Partnership. “Everybody’s talking and everybody’s involved. Different types of business are interacting with each other and it’s brilliant to see.

“It’s all about highlighting all the brilliant things we have in this town. Sometimes you can get caught up in the big picture which means that you overlook all the great things which are happening locally.

“Everybody knows that Covid has changed the way people shop forever. The challenges facing businesses are very different now, the footfall in high streets has diminished and that’s not going to change, so we must react to that and look at things differently. There are ways to do that, and we are much more proactive digitally now. It’s an exciting time for Coleshill and everyone is benefiting from a real collective effort from the businesses of the town.”

That collective effort showed itself one recent Sunday morning when more than 25 traders and volunteers gathered for a litter-pick around the town centre. Innovation is shining through. Books Revisited has created “Traveling Tales.” This is an online, weekly bedtime story read by local businesses from the town, which children and their parents can tune into – a great and unique initiative. November 30 will see the town come alive for Coleshill Late Night and the Christmas lights switch-on.

The town’s football and cricket clubs are deeply embedded in community activity while the Coleshill Hub, powered by Helen Whittaker, and hosted at Coleshill Town Council, is integral to the new impetus around town. Established in 2012 as part of an initiative to support communities, the Coleshill Hub is central to the lives of many in the town and also provides volunteering opportunities to those keen to support others. The additional resource this brings is greatly valued by the hub organisers and further illustrates the strong community commitment and genuine kindness that people show to each other. The Hub’s objectives – “to improve the lives of the people in and around the Coleshill area…to promote health and wellbeing, tackle disadvantage and encourage the development of a sustainable, cohesive and supportive community” - dovetail perfectly with those of The Coleshill Partnership.

Coleshill was recently host to a workshop held by The High Streets Task Force and the project lead, Ben Stephenson enjoyed his trip to the town.

"In truth, very little separates Coleshill from more successful towns," he said. ‘"The future of the town does not lie solely in the past. Coleshill Partnership is working tirelessly with the local councils, businesses and residents to build a sustainable, vibrant and visitor-friendly high street. The era of working from home means more of the resident population will spend time in the town, the smaller retail units with the right conditions will appeal to independent, characterful businesses. The town offers space for pleasant rest breaks for those passing by and looking for somewhere to break their journey."

Warwickshire County Council and North Warwickshire Borough Council are working together to support the work of the Coleshill Partnership through Warwickshire Towns Network and UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation respectively: it really is all about connections.

The vast array of business support delivered by the County Council and its partners is available to business of all sizes and sectors in Coleshill, and will soon be showcased in the town...watch this space. For the time being, please visit https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/business-support to see how they can help you. Warwickshire’s northern gateway is very much open – more open than ever before – for business.

A round-up of latest news in brief from around the county...

New JLR facility dedicated to developing electric car drive units

The new Future Energy Lab at Whitley – one of JLR’s engineering centres – features test rigs for electrical systems, including cold-weather chambers, and capacity for drive-unit production. JLR says the battery-electric Range Rover is among the new cars currently undergoing testing at the facility, ahead of its launch next year. Some 200 engineers are already employed at the Future Energy Lab, and JLR said it will create a further 150 roles going forward.

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/business-manufacturing/jaguar-land-rover-opens-%C2%A3250-million-ev-development-hub?

University of Warwick secures collaborative Games and Innovation funding

Research England through its Connecting Capabilities Fund will establish the Games and Innovation Nexus (GAIN) project, which aims to explore the strengths and opportunities between two of the UK’s largest games clusters, Warwickshire’s Silicon Spa and Guildford in Surrey.  

https://warwickinnovationdistrict.com/2023/10/24/university-of-warwick-secures-collaborative-games-and-innovation-funding/

Major new initiative launches to help align electric skills and industry standards to drive £12bn opportunity 

A landmark initiative that aims to unlock the universal language of electrification was launched recently at the Museum of London to take a first look at The Power Electronics, Machines and Drives Body of Knowledge (PEMDBoK). This valuable new resource which has been developed through a collaboration of industry and academic experts led by Coventry University, is set to redefine industry standards and align understanding of the essential skills and capabilities required by the sector. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/recruitment-careers-hr/major-new-initiative-launches-in-coventry-to-help-align-electric-skills-and-industry-standards-to-drive-12bn-opportunity/ 

600 UK auto jobs at risk as Volta Trucks plans for bankruptcy

About 600 UK automotive jobs are at risk after electric lorry start-up Volta Trucks filed for bankruptcy, becoming the latest new electric vehicle entrant to falter. The private Swedish company built its first 20 prototypes in Coventry and employed staff in significant numbers in Nuneaton at MIRA and Gaydon at American Barns.

https://www.ft.com/content/97b2d3d6-cac4-4f72-a9cd-ba8aaaf4b249

Leamington company wins award for helping ex-Forces personnel into work

Risk Evolves has been recognised by the Armed Forces Covenant, a government scheme in which businesses sign up to a commitment to support veterans and help them gain employment in civilian life.

https://www.warwickshireworld.com/news/people/leamington-cyber-security-specialists-awarded-for-helping-former-armed-forces-personnel-to-find-new-jobs-4365816

West Midlands Gigafactory in advanced talks with leading Asian battery manufacturers 

The West Midlands Gigafactory joint venture has confirmed that it is in advanced discussions with several leading Asian battery manufacturers about future investment at the Coventry site. 

 https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/manufacturing-engineering/west-midlands-gigafactory-in-advanced-talks-with-leading-asian-battery-manufacturers/ 

Film and TV production firm Codex renews lease at Royal Leamington Spa 

Royal Leamington Spa's credentials as a digital production hotspot have been further burnished as TV, film and video production firm Codex has renewed its lease at Regent Square House in the centre of the town. Codex offers digital production workflow tools for independent films, Hollywood motion pictures, commercial and TV productions all around the world. It has now extended its original five-year lease at the building for a further six years. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/property/film-and-tv-production-firm-codex-renews-lease-at-royal-leamington-spa-building/ 

L&Q Estates green light for new commercial space in Bedworth 

Warwick-based property developer L&Q Estates has been given the go-ahead to build 73 new homes and employment space on its Wilsons Lane development on the outskirts of Coventry. The scheme will comprise a mix of both market and affordable properties and up to 55,750 sq metres of employment space, together with the creation of a play area, footpaths, cycle routes and landscaping. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/property/lq-estates-greenlit-for-73-new-coventry-homes/ 

High Value Manufacturing Catapult appoints new chairman 

The High Value Manufacturing Catapult – whose centres include the Manufacturing Technology Centre near Coventry and WMG at the University of Warwick – has appointed Steve Bagshaw CBE as its new chairman. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/manufacturing-engineering/high-value-manufacturing-catapult-appoints-new-chairman/ 

Trial proves potential to deliver crucial medical supplies by drone 

A major trial has proved the potential to deliver crucial medical supplies to hospitals via drone – saving time, money and carbon emissions. Coventry-based Skyfarer Ltd, its partner Medical Logistics UK and drone manufacturer Phoenix Wings conducted the feasibility pilot with University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust’s hospitals in Coventry and Rugby. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/technology-innovation/trial-proves-potential-to-deliver-crucial-medical-supplies-by-drone/ 

Eco-friendly plane battery business continues to expand 

Flux Aviation develops and manufactures ultra-high performance electric motors and batteries to build zero emission electric powertrains for aircraft, offering sustainable and cost effective power alternative to aircraft manufacturers. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/manufacturing-engineering/warwick-engineers-flying-high-as-their-eco-friendly-plane-battery-business-continues-to-expand/ 

Visteon Corporation Opens new Warwick Office 

Automotive infotainment and connectivity company Visteon of the US has opened a new centre at Warwick Innovation Centre to locate closer to key clients in the area. 

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/visteon_we-are-excited-to-share-a-few-moments-from-activity-7121133407362826241-ZSBj?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop 

Rugby businesswoman becomes chair of Build UK 

One of UK construction’s leading female voices has become the chair of a major organisation which represents and supports the industry. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/property/midlands-businesswoman-becomes-chair-of-build-uk/ 

Frasers Group lodges plans for global headquarters 

Retail giant Frasers Group, the company behind Sports Direct and House of Fraser, has submitted its plans for a global headquarters campus in the West Midlands in a move forecast to create 7,500 jobs. Designed by architect Grimshaw – the firm behind the Eden Project, London's Excel Phase II, and the Lloyds Banking Group Headquarters - the campus would include logistics, offices, R&D retail, a hotel, and leisure facilities.  

https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/frasers-group-lodges-plans-for-global-headquarters 

Glimmer of Golden Triangle lures investors 

Logistics Heartland Took a Record Share of Investment With Foreign Buyers Behind Over 70% of Volumes. Investment into warehouses in the so-called golden triangle hit £600 million in the third quarter of 2023 as international investors bet on the continuing strength of the UK’s logistics heartland. Last quarter’s figure, of which 72% came from overseas, was on a par with the previous two quarters combined and represented a record 27% share of total industrial sales volumes between July and September. 

https://product.costar.com/home/news/697900991 

Economic outlook improving - Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce 

The economic outlook in Coventry and Warwickshire has improved dramatically, according to a survey of businesses in the region. The latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce shows a jump in confidence in both the manufacturing and services sector, leading to a stronger outlook for the economy. 

https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/companies/economic-outlook-improving-coventry-and-warwickshire-chamber-of-commerce/ 

Isobel is keen to build on work of brilliant team

“There is so much great stuff going on around the team...what I am keen to do is thread it all together and create a real identity for Warwickshire."

Ask any football manager, when you take on a new job, it helps if you have inherited a strong team. Then, rather than plugging gaps, it’s all about harnessing that strength and maximising its value.   

That is the happy position in which Isobel Woods find herself as the new Head of Economy & Skills at Warwickshire County Council. 

Isobel has arrived at Shire Hall with 35 years’ experience of working in local government, regeneration and economic development in the West Midlands, most recently as Head of Enterprise as Wolverhampton Council. 

With that depth of experience and expertise, Isobel is very well-acquainted with the issues and challenges which face businesses and communities. She also knows talent when she sees it, so was delighted with her first meeting with her team in Warwickshire. 

“I was immediately struck by how talented everybody is and how much experience they have,” Isobel said. “They are doing a brilliant job and I’m going to build on this through this role.  

“There is so much great stuff going on around the team - Business & Economy, Skills, Town Centres, Invest Warwickshire. What I am keen to do is thread it all together and create a real identity for Warwickshire. I have got absolute confidence in what the team does. It’s my objective to take all their fantastic work, shine a spotlight on it and bring it together to make the sum of it is as great as all the parts. My role is to help maximise their impact and spot opportunities that we can grow significantly. 

“I’m really excited by that opportunity and so pleased to be in Warwickshire. It feels a successful area. I can see that Warwickshire is already strongly placed for economic growth and there are opportunities to strengthen and maximise economic opportunities on a human scale so it really makes a difference to people’s lives. Within the large-scale economic strategy, the focus is about the outcomes this will bring to influence people’s lives?” 

It is that challenge, to translate strategy into delivery, to turn words into action, that drives Isobel.  

“I do enjoy this work,” she says. “As a public servant, there is a responsibility to make the most of the money the council supports us with to make a difference for the people of the county. We are shaping the Strategic Economic Plan. What I want to do is to make this real and have a deliverable clear action plan, supported by local partners and key stakeholders.

“I see it as a county plan, not a council plan, so I want to share with partners - the districts and boroughs and the Chamber – its important they are part of the plan and its delivery. We already do some great things as partners and I want to galvanise that partnership further."