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BUSINESS

network Keep up to date on latest developments at

www.emc-dnl.co.uk/news

OCTOBER 2026

PREPARING FOR WINDS OF CHANGE IN ENERGY SUPPLY BUSINESSES MUST MAKE PLANS FOR FUTURE NEEDS

INTERVIEW

DEVOLUTION

INVESTMENT IN ELECTRIC INFRASTRUCTURE WILL POWER OUR FUTURE

REGION HAS EARNED THE RIGHT TO MAKE ITS OWN BUDGETARY DECISIONS

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THE FIRST WORD

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2026 LEICESTERSHIRE DEVOLUTION 4

Business groups welcome petition for strategic mayor

MEMBER NEWS 6

Forest stadium expansion gets go ahead

APPOINTMENTS

ritain’s businesses have been facing one struggle after another for longer than most of us care to remember. One of the most recent has been the toe-curling rise in fuel prices following Donald Trump’s badly thought-out attacks on Iran. With no signs of any let-up in the conflict – at least as I write this – global oil supplies are being squeezed like never before, while attacks on Middle Eastern oil infrastructure mean it will be years before production gets back up to previous levels. Add to that the lack of foresight from countries which failed to stock up on fuel while the going was good, and it looks like things are going to be tight for some time to come. Which is why it’s all the more important that UK plc takes the lead in adopting new forms of energy – to keep the wheels of industry turning, to keep costs down, and to continue to play a part in cutting greenhouse gas emissions. National Grid, for instance, wants to put billions into its infrastructure to ensure green energy – from wind and solar – is available where and when we want it. Because you can’t just turn it on when you need it, like oil and gas powered power stations, we need the electricity network to be stronger and more reliable, and prepared for changing demands in the future. Rachel Tullis, portfolio director at National Grid, tells us exactly that in this month’s Big Interview. Octopus Energy founder and chief executive Greg Jackson takes the issue a step further, arguing it’s nuts that we’re spending hundreds of millions each year periodically turning off wind farms and switching on gas plants because of the way the current electricity market is set up. He says companies such as his should be allowed to sell that spare electricity at a discount in the region it is produced. You can read his thoughts in the Focus pages. You can also read how the people behind plans for a prototype STEP fusion power plant at West Burton, near Retford, are building links with potential suppliers to get those plans off the ground. They and other businesses in the UK’s burgeoning nuclear industry are being helped by Derby-based NucCol, established two years ago in response to a growing need for closer, more efficient collaboration in the sector’s supply chain – reducing duplication and enabling organisations to work together more effectively. If all goes to plan, maybe Octopus, STEP and NucCol can play a part in making us less dependent on expensive, dirty oil. In other news, the Chamber’s 2026 Enterprising Women Awards were taking place at Center Parcs in Nottinghamshire, as we went to press. The full story and pictures will be in next month’s Business Network. I hope you enjoy the read.

18 Specialist law firm adds experienced solicitor

Tom Pegden, Editor, Business Network

48 How to become an entrepreneur

THE BIG INTERVIEW 21 Business Network meets Rachel Tullis, portfolio director at National Grid

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS 26 NTU partnership reinforces engagement

CHAMBER NEWS 28 Print partner becomes Chamber patron

CHAMBER NETWORKS 34 Last call for tickets to Generation Next awards event

TRAINING & EVENTS 38 Gain an insight into the nuclear supply chain

SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS 40 Confetti business is a blooming great idea

INTERNATIONAL TRADE 42 Chamber helps businesses to go global

POLITICS 44 Council merger delays must not damage devolution opportunity

FEATURES 46 ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION The hidden cost of a delayed container

50 FOCUS An overview of the key issues surrounding energy provision in the region 56 FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES Establishing trust in AI

Editor Tom Pegden T: 07816 347 451 E: tom.pegden@emc-dnl.co.uk Contributor Tim Smith Chamber Membership E: membership@emc-dnl.co.uk Follow the Chamber W: www.emc-dnl.co.uk X: @EMChamberNews

COVER PHOTO The region’s energy supply will be a key focus of the East Midlands Energy Conference See page 50

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60 How to not make a mess with AI

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY 62 Find out more about Impress Video

BUSINESS SUPPORT 64 LEGAL Agency’s first delivery plan will have implications for employers 66 FINANCE Older generation ’appy to use online banking 69 SKILLS Leadership skills that are crucial to success 71 PROPERTY Hydro redevelopment plans get green light 72 MOTORING Nick Jones takes the new Lamborghini Huracan for a spin

THE LAST WORD 74 Chamber president Dr Cham S Kang on planning for an energy revolution October 2026 business network

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LEICESTERSHIRE DEVOLUTION Business Network rounds up the latest developments as Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland continue to campaign to become a devolved regional authority.

Business groups welcome petition for strategic mayor

en council leaders from across the region have written a joint letter to Government asking for a strategic mayor for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR). The move was immediately welcomed by business groups – including those who are part of the Devolution Leicestershire coalition.

GROWTH SUMMIT JOINS THE CAUSE Further support for a devolution deal in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland was offered as leaders from local universities, councils and businesses met to discuss the region’s economic future. Competing to Win, an Economic Growth Summit for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, was organised by the Universities Partnership. The invite-only conference was set against the backdrop of devolution and the powers it unlocks encouraged discussions on policy intelligence, future-focused thinking, senior connections and shared action. It focused on four themes: innovation, technology and productivity; investment, assets and wealth building; people and society, and sustainable growth. Chamber director of external affairs Richard Blackmore was part of the panel discussion on next steps. He said: “What was evident at the summit was a lot of unity in messaging around what we're wanting to achieve and what we're wanting to deliver for the region. The action that needs to come out of that is for us to now share and show that message publicly and the way to do that is through the devolution message we are currently pushing. “And to remember it’s not about being political, it's about showing the economic benefits and about supporting that drive across LLR both to leaders within the region, but also to those leaders outside the region that we need to also influence as well.”

business network October 2026

Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: "This is extremely welcome news and is the first step in securing greater investment into the city and counties – something for which the business community has been clamouring for the last couple of years. "I hope Government is completely receptive to this approach and responds with a pace of implementation that will create a landscape that inspires confidence for business and stimulates investment." Sue Tilley, chair of Leicestershire Business Voice, said: “This is a very welcome and important step towards securing a mayoral strategic authority for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. "Our area cannot afford to remain on the sidelines of devolution while neighbouring areas benefit from greater powers, investment and influence. "Business now needs clarity on the timetable, powers and investment that would follow – and a meaningful role in shaping what comes next.”

‘This is extremely welcome news and is the first step in securing greater investment into the city and counties’ Andy Reed OBE, who chairs the Leicester and Leicestershire Business and Skills Partnership, wrote on LinkedIn: "Another helpful step towards the goal of mayoral devolution in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. "There is still plenty to do as we move through LGR [local government reorganisation], but the fact that all leaders and councils now are on board is important.” Chamber chair Kevin Harris described the announcement as excellent news.

‘Government should fully recognise the need to make this happen and now deliver’

Sue Tilley, chair of Leicestershire Business Voice, has backed calls for a regional mayor

He said: “This is a significant leap forward as Leicester and Leicestershire would benefit enormously from devolution. "I’m delighted that councils across the city, the county and Rutland are giving their voice to this need – that’s essential in unlocking growth.

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COMMENT

We’ve earned right to dictate our future By Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL. As a longstanding Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) director – chairing its Investment Board for more than five years – I saw firsthand what happens when Government trusts local people to make decisions about their own area. Distribution of the £126m Local Growth Fund was one example. Some 20 projects funded, each allocated based on local business cases, none of the investment directed from London. The results were telling – 1,776 jobs created or safeguarded, 2,215 learners supported, 2,332 new homes. Numbers were projected to quadruple as longer-term benefits were realised. In terms of projects, the impact of the Local Growth Fund has outlived the LLEP itself. Think Space Park Leicester, or the dualling of the A512 heading from the M1 towards Loughborough, or the superfast broadband coverage now utilised by 5,500 additional small businesses.

Scott Knowles said businesses have been calling for greater local investment for years

‘Places like Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are more than capable of making sound decisions about how and where to invest public money in their own back yard’

“With this backing loud and clear from local leaders – and a longstanding ask from the Chamber – Government should fully recognise the need to make this happen and now deliver devolution with haste.” The leaders of the region’s 10 authorities Leicester City Council, Leicestershire County Council, Rutland County Council, Blaby District Council, Charnwood Borough Council, Harborough District Council, Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, Melton Borough Council, North West Leicestershire District Council, and Oadby and Wigston Borough Council – have all signed the letter. It has been sent to First Secretary of State Louise Haigh, and Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner. Local businesses and non-profit groups have been pressing for a regional mayor for LLR for some time. Earlier this summer Devolution Leicestershire launched with the support of local MPs, as well as voluntary, community and social enterprise leaders and business leaders. The campaign has two core aims – to accelerate a devolution deal for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, and to press for fair Government funding for LLR while the devo deal is done.

Think £1.28 added from local public and private partners for every pound of Government money spent. Lasting projects, meeting a demonstrable local need. Economic impact like this was achieved by bringing business leaders, local authorities, universities, colleges and community representatives collaborating around a shared purpose – use of public investment to unlock opportunity for the good of LLR. I see the same opportunity writ large in regional devolution. For years, I have advocated, both in the East Midlands and in Whitehall, for a greater transfer of power to the country’s regions. The agenda began in earnest under Boris Johnson and Levelling Up, was taken forward by Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer, and now – under Andy Burnham – is accelerating towards national rollout. All authorities in England have been told that every part of England must establish at least a Foundation Strategic Authority by the end of next year. But our aim should not simply to be getting Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland to that entry level. Swiftly achieving Strategic Mayoral Authority (SMA) status before progressing to

Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL says LLR has shown it can lead economic renewal

top-level Established Strategic Mayoral Authority (ESMA) status is what our region truly needs. This is where fuller devolution of power rests. It’s clear that having an elected ambassador for LLR – one with a direct line into Downing Street – is key. Mr Burnham’s own time as mayor of Greater Manchester shows the value of this, but so does the success of other influential mayoral leaders, such as Andy Street and Ben Houchen in the West Midlands and Teesside, respectively. We only have to look at the prime minister’s actions this summer – in calling mayors to Number 10 North within days of taking office – to see why having a mayor is essential. ESMA status was promptly handed to EMCCA – our neighbours to the north – while LLR was not in the room. This imbalance needs to be addressed immediately. Collaboration between local sectors seen under the LLEP proved that major regeneration, skills, business support and infrastructure schemes can be delivered locally in sub-regions. It showed that places like Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are more than capable of making sound decisions about how and where to invest public money in their own back yard. The challenge now is not to recreate the LLEP of the past. However, building on what works is how organisations grow and succeed. A swiftly agreed devolution deal – with an effective mayor able to bridge LLR with Whitehall – is what’s needed to redirect desperately-needed funding to our area. The alternative, as we have seen clearly in the Devolution Leicestershire data, is to fall even further behind. October 2026 business network

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MEMBER NEWS

MEMBER NEWS THE LATEST NEWS FROM OUR CHAMBER MEMBERS

Stadium expansion can kick off N ottingham Forest can press on with its £790m plans to start increasing the capacity of its stadium from 31,000 to 52,000 after winning planning permission. Subject to conditions, the club can start replacing the Peter Taylor Stand and redeveloping the Trent end – taking the number of seats to 45,000.

‘A major investment in Nottingham that will benefit the wider region’ Forest have also been granted outline planning to redesign the Brian Clough Stand, which would add a further 7,500 seats. Final approval is still needed for that. The plans also include a public area, restaurant, and improved conferencing, media, and staff facilities. Before demolition can start the club needs an agreed plan to manage matchday crowds, which could include a new footbridge across the River Trent.

Great Central Railway

NEW MEMBERS 17 new members joined East Midlands Chamber in August: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

BakerBaird Communications Care Without Burnout CIC DSL Group Elkem Dronfield Fabric Recruitment GNU Films Great Central Railway James Ross Risk Solutions Midland Fire Direct MJI Training Nexus Growth Academy Synergy In Trade The Bear Inn Derbyshire The Nsibidi Project Trade Sisters CIC Whaley Bridge Coworkers CIC Women On Boards CIC

business network October 2026

East Midlands mayor Claire Ward said: “I’m delighted that plans to redevelop Nottingham Forest’s City Ground have been approved. “This is a landmark moment for the club and its supporters, and a major investment in Nottingham that will benefit the wider region. “The East Midlands Combined County Authority is working with partners on plans for the Trent Sports District, which could bring together sport, leisure, homes, businesses and the waterfront to create a new destination for people to live, work and visit. “It has the potential to drive new investment, support jobs and strengthen Nottingham’s position as a major sporting destination. “This planning approval is an important step forward, and there is a real opportunity to build on this investment and make the most of what the wider Trent area has to offer. “Nottingham Forest is a huge part of our region’s identity, and the club’s continued growth can help attract more visitors, support local businesses and showcase the East Midlands to an even wider audience.”

Aerial view of the City Ground redevelopment plans

Charity in call for reading coaches A Derby charity which helps adults to read has launched a recruitment campaign for more volunteer reading coaches. Management at Read Easy Derby and District said that without additional volunteers, it will struggle to meet the needs of the thousands of adults in and around the city who find reading difficult. According to national figures, 7% of adults in England have difficulty reading and in Derby alone, more than 19,000 people are affected. The charity is entirely volunteer led, and offers free, confidential, one-to-one coaching. The volunteer coach roles are suitable for anyone who enjoys reading and has a few hours to spare each month to help others. Team leader Duncan Livsey said: “Every week, we see how learning to read transforms confidence, independence and job prospects. “Many of the people we work with had a poor experience in a

Ted Midgley (centre), who learned to read at the age of 58, with Duncan Livsey and volunteer reader Jane Stokes

school classroom or group setting, so our personal, confidential approach allows them to develop a supportive and trusting bond with their dedicated reading coach. “But we can only change people’s lives if we have the volunteers to make it happen.

“Every new volunteer means another adult in our community gets the chance to change their life.” Email derbyleader@readeasy.org.uk, call 07852 259112 or visit: www.readeasy.org.uk/groups/derby

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MEMBER NEWS

October 2026 business network

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MEMBER NEWS

Research centre is a space to discuss future of space

£10m research centre exploring humanity’s relationship with space has launched at the National Space Centre in Leicester, bringing social sciences, arts and humanities into the heart of debates about humanity’s future off-planet. The Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space is the first of its kind to explore how people will understand, experience and shape humanity’s future beyond Earth. It will consider things such as how space is governed, and who benefits as exploration and space-based technologies become increasingly important to life back home. The launch was attended by leading voices from the sector, including science broadcaster and centre associate fellow Dallas Campbell; award-winning space scientist, broadcaster and university chancellor Dame Dr Maggie Aderin; and Britain’s first astronaut, Helen Sharman. The centre has created 42 new research positions at the University of Leicester. Helen Sharman said: “We have

Businesses team up for Derby BID Businesses from across Derby have shared their views on proposals to bring the Cathedral Quarter Business Improvement District, the St Peters Quarter Business Improvement District and the Becketwell area together to form a new Derby BID. Business owners, BID directors and city stakeholders attended a consultation meeting to learn more about the plans and discuss what they could mean for the city. The proposed BID would represent nearly 1,000 businesses, with backers saying it would offer a more joined-up approach to supporting the city centre and give businesses a stronger collective voice. They said it would also provide a route for the services and investment currently delivered by the BIDs to continue when their existing terms end. Consultation feedback will help shape the final proposal ahead of the Derby BID ballot, which opens on 15 October.

business network October 2026

The Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space

invested in the technology of space flight. We understand how we can keep astronauts alive for more than a year in space. But what we haven’t done very well is look at the sustainability of that relationship with space from the human side of things and look at the legal, the ethical and

sometimes the moral implications. “For instance, is it right to be able to take material out of an asteroid? Who should own that material? To which country should the taxes be paid? That is just the tip of the iceberg, so the Leverhulme Centre for Humanity and Space is absolutely needed.”

Devolution on podcast agenda Business and community leaders make the case for a Mayoral Strategic Authority to unlock growth in Leicester and Leicestershire in the latest episode of the Chamber’s The One For Business, which is now available to listen, download and share on all podcast apps. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles, Leicestershire Business Voice chief executive Sue Tilley and Voluntary Action Leicestershire chief executive Kevin Allen-Khimani discuss why now is not the time to take the foot of the gas in delivering devolution. The prime minister speaks of ‘growth in every postcode’ and has made devolution a priority, while Devolution Leicestershire says Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland need more devolved power, delivered without delay. Following recent support for a strategic mayor, The One for Business finds out why business and the voluntary sector say it’s needed. https://tinyurl.com/4vmseyfr

Loughborough University

Uni gets clean energy facility An outdoor innovation centre, majority funded by East Midlands Freeport, has opened at Loughborough University to help turn low carbon research into practical technologies. The East Midlands Zero Carbon Innovation Centre (EMZCIC) will enable researchers and industry partners to test equipment and demonstrate clean energy technologies at a scale that is closer to real world use. The Loughborough centre is part of a wider low carbon innovation partnership with the University of Nottingham – with Loughborough providing an outdoor environment

for safe hydrogen demonstrations and hardware testing, and Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus providing indoor facilities for low carbon technologies and advanced manufacturing. The freeport is supporting the centre as part of its wider role in attracting investment, backing innovation and helping businesses grow in sectors where the region has strengths – including advanced manufacturing, green energy and low carbon technology. Freeport chief executive Tom Newman-Taylor said: “Our universities are one of the East Midlands’ greatest assets, and this

new centre showcases the innovation and expertise that exists right here in our region.” As well as supporting industry, the facility will give students practical experience of the technologies that are expected to shape future energy systems. It has reconfigurable solar panels, water and hydrogen equipment, which can be used in a controlled outdoor setting. One technology at the centre is Loughborough’s batteryelectrolyser, which combines two functions: storing renewable electricity and using electricity to produce hydrogen from water.

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MEMBER NEWS

Mercia Park is one of IM Properties’ most prominent sites

Developer enjoys positive year L

ogistics and housing developer IM Properties reported a turnover of £175.5m last year, up from £129.3m in 2024 – with pre-tax profits of £5.5m. At the end of the year, the business had net assets of £538m, up from £508m, with cash deposits of about £58m. Its sites include Mercia Park, off J11 of the M42 on the Leicestershire-Derbyshire border – home to Jaguar Land Rover’s Global Logistics Centre – as well as Blythe Valley Park, near Birmingham Airport, and Hinckley Park, off the M69 and A5 in west Leicestershire. Managing director Kevin Ashfield

said: “During 2025, significant capital continued to be deployed into projects expected to generate stronger returns over the medium and longer term, including major development opportunities in the UK alongside continued investment in our growing US portfolio. “Schemes of the scale we are delivering and currently have in planning require substantial investment over several years before value and profit are ultimately realised, which inevitably creates peaks and troughs in reported annual results. “This includes our proposed £343 million future-facing employment park in North Warwickshire, Thrive, which could

‘Significant capital continued to be deployed into projects expected to generate stronger returns’

support up to 6,000 jobs across advanced manufacturing, R&D and logistics which is currently awaiting determination by government. “We are able to manage these fluctuations through our strong balance sheet, and a core investment portfolio which generates the cash to allow us to continue investing through the cycle.”

In the US, the IM Kensington Developments joint venture is working on 10 projects across Illinois, Colorado and Arizona with a combined gross development value of more than $875m (£656m), as well as a big mixeduse development in Wisconsin. Back in the UK, the business pursued planning applications for more than four million sq ft of development. Planning was secured for phase 2 of Mercia Park, equal to around one million sq ft of industrial development. Its housebuilding division, Spitfire Homes, increased pre-tax profit to £6.6m, double that of 2024.

October 2026 business network

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MEMBER NEWS

Alstom’s new Adessia locomotive

Train deal is platform for success D

erby rail engineering giant Alstom has signed contracts worth 1.2bn euro (£1bn) to the supply and maintain a fleet of battery-electric trains to TransPennine Express (TPE). The British-designed and built trains will help transform rail travel across northern England and support the delivery of the Transpennine Route Upgrade. A 930m euro rolling stock contract will see it provide 29 fivecar battery-electric trains while the maintenance deal is valued at around 230m euro. The fleet will be delivered from 2032 and will support the ongoing decarbonisation of one of Britain’s main rail corridors. The order represents the first deployment of Alstom’s Adessia Stream platform in the UK and will deliver Britain’s first mainline battery-electric train fleet.

Rob Whyte, managing director UK at Alstom, said: “This agreement is a landmark moment for Britain’s railway, and we couldn’t be prouder that the country’s first mainline batteryelectric trains will be designed and built in Britain.

‘This investment will support more than 350 highly skilled jobs in Derby’ “Beyond the benefits to passengers, this investment will support more than 350 highly skilled jobs in Derby and over 5,500 roles across our UK supply chain, helping create opportunities, develop skills and drive economic growth in communities across the country. “As momentum builds behind

strengthening UK industry and regional prosperity, this project is a powerful example of what can be achieved by investing in British design, British manufacturing and British talent.” The 300 seat trains will be 121 metres long and operate at speeds of up to 110 mph. They will be the first new-build trains to be operated by Derbyheadquartered Great British Railways. The trains’ battery technology provides emission-free operations on non-electrified sections of railway. They will be bult at Alstom’s historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works – the UK’s only end-to-end train factory. Alstom said the project will generate at least £360m in spending with British suppliers. Prime minister Andy Burnham

said: “These 29 new trains will bring faster, more reliable journeys to the north, and thousands of British jobs for the next generation. “It’s exactly what Great British Railways is all about – taking back control of the basics and getting Britain believing again.” The maintenance contract – which will support over 100 roles – will run for an initial eight-year period, with the potential for a further eight-year extension. Alstom will train at least 36 apprentices and 36 T Level students over the contract, which is also set to benefit more than 1,000 people a year through the company’s established local engagement framework. The fleet will operate on services connecting key destinations across northern, including Liverpool, Manchester, York, Hull and Scarborough.

Flyover needed to keep railway on track

A new Great Central Railway bridge over the main line in Loughborough

business network October 2026

Heritage line the Great Central Railway is tendering for a contractor to build the Factory Flyover phase of its reunification plans. The flyover will see two sections of track created – delivering an elevated viaduct over the “factory crossing” on the Eastern edge of Loughborough and a new bridge above the nearby Railway Terrace road. A spokesman said: “All being well, we can appoint someone before Christmas 2026, with work starting on site early in 2027. “At one end it connects with the new Midland Main Line bridge, at the other it will connect to the urban viaduct. “It’s another sixty metres of new railway infrastructure and the most complex section we have tackled so far. “The total cost is £3.5m, though with £300,000 of design work paid for and £2.9m (and climbing) already raised, the funding gap is small enough for us to go ahead.” Public contributions are still being sought. The plans are part of a reunification project to linking the track in Leicestershire – which has been running steam and diesel trains for more than 50 years – with a sister track in Nottinghamshire, running south from the Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre at Ruddington.

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MEMBER NEWS

October 2026 business network

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MEMBER NEWS

A night for us to celebrate Asian business

ntrepreneurs from across the UK were celebrated at the first Asian Founders Awards, recognising the ambition, innovation and contribution of Asian-owned businesses to the economy. The inaugural awards brought founders, investors, business leaders and supporters to Leicester to celebrate companies and individuals making an impact through entrepreneurship, technology and community leadership.

‘The awards were about stopping for a moment and recognising just how much these founders have achieved’ The Asian Founders network was launched by Barclays Eagle Labs and De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) three years ago, and has grown into a national community. Hosted by Eagle Labs Leicester manager Poonam Sharma and Barclays Leicester manager Nimesh Kanani, the awards were attended by 250 people at the Marriott Hotel in Leicester. Poonam Sharma said: “This has been such an emotional moment because Asian Founders really did begin as an idea about creating something our community needed. “What has happened since has

exceeded anything I could have imagined. “We now have more than 1,000 founders in 10 cities, but what matters most to me is seeing people supporting each other, making introductions, sharing opportunities and opening doors. “The awards were about stopping for a moment and recognising just how much these founders have achieved. There are incredible businesses being built across our communities and those stories deserve to be seen and celebrated.” DMU research has estimated that Asian-owned businesses contribute £25bn to the UK economy, creating jobs, developing new products and services and supporting communities across the country. The Excellence In Tech Award went to Ravi Agravat of online home and garden shop Berkfield Home – which also won the Innovation of the Year Award at the Chamber’s 2025/26 Leicestershire Business Awards. His business journey began with a £500 Prince’s Trust loan. He said: “This award is special. It is proof you don’t need to be in Silicon Valley to have a successful business. I’m one founder with one laptop and a strong will not to quit. “When you are in business, you are so immersed in it that you don’t often take the time to celebrate what you have achieved. Recognition like this is so important.”

Guests at the inaugural Asian Founders Awards. Below left: Professor Katie Normington addresses delegates. Below right: Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL

ASIAN FOUNDERS AWARDS WINNERS • Rising Star Award: Dr Kanishk Gaur, Athenian Tech • Community Impact Award: Fazan Tahir, Tahir Group • University Collaboration Award: Structural Adhesives Limited and University of Leicester • Disruptor Award: Gaurav Chawla, Lumirithmic • Excellence In Tech: Ravi Agravat, Berkfield Home • Asian Entrepreneur of the Year: Varun Bhanot, MAGIC AI • Scale Up Business of the Year: Kara Healthcare • Business of the Year: Tahir Group • Special Award: Midlands Care • Special Recognition Award: Karishma Vijay, Kishkin

Academies Trust seeks corporate partners

A spectacular lesson at one the Academy schools

business network October 2026

Discovery Schools Academies Trust has launched a corporate partnership programme, inviting businesses to help shape brighter futures across its network of 22 schools in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between education and industry by encouraging local and national organisations to play an active role in supporting inclusion and opportunity. The programme is designed to build meaningful connections within the diverse mix of mainstream and special

education schools it oversees. Through new corporate alliances, the trust intends to expand its reach – creating new opportunities, boosting pupil confidence, and unlocking potential for children regardless of their starting points. Businesses are being invited to join alongside existing partners such as the Diocese of Leicester and local universities. For more information contacts trust business development manager Wayne Allsopp at: wallsopp@discoverytrust.org

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MEMBER NEWS

October 2026 business network

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MEMBER NEWS

Analytics can unlock your data… and potential By Nick Gall (pictured), managing director of NetMonkeys, which provides managed IT services from offices in Nottingham, Manchester and London.

or most businesses across the East Midlands, the challenge was never a lack of data. Manufacturers in Derby and Leicester have production figures going back years. Logistics firms around East Midlands Airport track shipments, delays and delivery windows daily. Retailers and service businesses in Nottingham sit on customer records, sales histories and support tickets that most staff have never had time to properly open, let alone analyse. The problem has always been access. Spreadsheets sprawl across departments. Reports live in tools only one person knows how to run. Insight exists somewhere in the business, it’s just locked behind a query language, a dashboard nobody maintains, or a colleague who’s on annual leave. Conversational analytics changes that equation. Instead of building a report and hoping it answers the right question, a business owner or manager can simply ask their data a question in plain English and get an answer back, no SQL [programming language], no dashboard training, no waiting on a data analyst’s spare afternoon.

At its core, conversation analytics is the ability to query structured business data, sales figures, stock levels, customer interactions, support tickets, financial records – using natural language to get a clear, accurate answer in return.

‘At its core, conversation analytics is the ability to query structured business data’ Rather than a member of staff exporting a spreadsheet and manually cross-referencing figures, they type or speak a question such as “which product lines underperformed last quarter compared to the same period last year?” and receive a direct answer. It’s about giving everyone else in the business – operations managers, sales leads, customer service teams – the same access to insight, without needing to become data specialists themselves. Here’s where many businesses trip up: conversational tools are only as good as the data sitting behind them. A tool that can “talk” to messy, duplicated, or poorly

structured data will simply return messy, duplicated, or poorly structured answers, with more confidence than the data deserves. Before any business brings in a conversational analytics tool, it’s worth being honest about the state of the data underneath: • Where does it live? Data scattered across five different systems that don't talk to each other makes any AI tool's job significantly harder. • Is it consistent? Product names, customer records and categories that are entered differently across departments will confuse any query, human or AI. • Who owns it? Someone in the business needs to be responsible for data quality – not as a oneoff clean-up, but as an ongoing discipline. • Is it secure and permissioned? Not every question should be answerable by every member of staff. Sensitive financial or customer data needs the same access controls in a conversational tool as it would in any other system. Get this right, and a conversational analytics tool becomes genuinely transformative. Skip it, and the business ends up

with a fast, confident way of generating wrong answers. Done properly, conversation analytics doesn't just save time on reporting, it changes how decisions get made day to day. A warehouse manager can check stock discrepancies without waiting on IT. A sales director can compare regional performance mid-meeting rather than promising to “pull some numbers” afterwards. A finance lead can spot an anomaly in spend before it becomes a bigger problem. For manufacturing, logistics and distribution businesses in particular, sectors that make up a significant part of the East Midlands economy, this kind of immediate access to operational data can be the difference between reacting to a problem and catching it early. This is exactly the gap we've been working on closing at NetMonkeys, building a tool that lets businesses chat directly with their own data – asking plain-English questions and getting clear, accurate answers back, without needing to write a query or build a dashboard first. The aim is something that sits on top of the systems businesses already use, turning scattered spreadsheets and siloed reporting into something any team member can genuinely make sense of.

Outreach project forges Chamber connection The team at Connect Outreach said they are delighted to have become a Chamber community member. Based in Derby, the community interest company is committed to empowering young people and strengthening communities through education, mentoring, mental health

business network October 2026

awareness, community engagement and knife crime prevention initiatives. Its work has been supported through partnerships and funding from organisations including The National Lottery Community Fund and the Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner.

A spokeswoman said: “Joining East Midlands Chamber marks an exciting milestone in our journey. “We look forward to connecting with fellow members, developing new partnerships, sharing best practice, and contributing to the economic and social wellbeing of the region.”

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MEMBER NEWS

October 2026 business network

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MEMBER NEWS

MEMBER PROFILE: VOLUNTARY ACTION LEICESTERSHIRE (VAL) VAL – Voluntary Action LeicesterShire – has 78 staff and 53 volunteers and is one of Chamber president Dr Cham Kang’s chosen charities this year. Here, its chief executive Kevin Allen-Khimani explains what it does.

ince 1965, Voluntary Action LeicesterShire (VAL) has been at the heart of strengthening communities across Leicester and Leicestershire. As the county’s infrastructure organisation for the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector, VAL supports hundreds of charities, community groups and volunteers to make a lasting difference to people’s lives. At VAL, we believe stronger communities are built when people come together with purpose, our role is to provide the support, expertise and connections that enable charities and community organisations to thrive. VAL works with organisations of every size – from newly-established community groups to well-known local charities, public sector partners, NHS organisations, local authorities and businesses looking to create positive social impact. The organisation provides a wide

range of services, including governance and funding advice, volunteer recruitment and management, training, networking opportunities, safeguarding support, community engagement and consultancy.

‘My role is about ensuring communities have the support they need to flourish’ Its specialist knowledge of the VCSE sector enables organisations to become more sustainable, resilient and effective. Our customers value the fact that we understand the unique challenges facing voluntary organisations, our independence, local knowledge and collaborative approach mean we're able to offer tailored support that delivers real impact. That impact can be seen through

countless success stories, from helping community organisations secure vital funding and strengthening their governance, to connecting thousands of volunteers with meaningful opportunities that improve lives across Leicester and Leicestershire. VAL also leads major partnership programmes that bring together charities, statutory organisations and businesses to address local challenges collectively. As chief executive I oversee the strategic direction of the organisation while working closely with staff, trustees, partners and stakeholders. No two days are ever the same. Whether it’s developing new partnerships, supporting our team or championing the VCSE sector, my role is about ensuring communities have the support they need to flourish. Like many charities, VAL has faced increasing demand for services alongside financial

Kevin Allen-Khimani of VAL

pressures affecting the sector. The organisation has responded by strengthening partnerships, embracing innovation and continuing to diversify its services while remaining committed to supporting local communities. Looking ahead, VAL aims to expand its influence as a trusted partner, helping create stronger, healthier and more connected communities through collaboration and innovation. As a longstanding member of the Chamber, VAL has benefited from valuable networking opportunities, business support and regional partnerships.

Partnership will expand networking venues East Midlands business connections network Catena has launched a partnership with restaurant group House of Cherry, extending its popular Coffee and Cannoli events and launching a new Café au Lait et Croissants format across multiple venues. The partnership, developed in collaboration with Nick White, group chief executive of House of Cherry, will see Catena’s curated business events hosted at Gusto Italian and Bistrot Pierre restaurants across the group’s 17 locations. The first phase will see Coffee and Cannoli events hosted at Gusto Italian in Nottingham, with the introduction of a new Café au Lait et Croissants series at Bistrot Pierre in Derby, Leicester and Ilkley, Yorkshire. Catena plans to extend its presence across further venues within the group, including Birmingham. Catena’s “Captain’s Table” events will also continue as part of the partnership, offering curated private dining for senior professionals and business leaders looking to engage in highlevel conversation around investment, growth and the opportunities and challenges shaping today’s business landscape. Events will be hosted by Catena and, where 16

business network October 2026

Bistrot Pierre will be among the venues to host events following the partnership deal

Catena's network is still growing, by the local restaurant team under the Catena banner – as part of a strategy to build an engaged regional business community around each venue. Catena members and event guests will also be invited to join the Gusto and Bistrot Pierre Corporate VIP Scheme, receiving 25% off food, Monday to Friday, for six months from the date of sign-up, for parties of up to six guests. Catena founder Claire Bicknell said: “This partnership feels like a very natural fit for

Catena. We have always believed that the best connections happen in the right environment, and Gusto and Bistrot Pierre offer exactly that. “What excites me most is that this isn’t simply about hosting events in beautiful restaurants, it is about building something with real community at its heart. “Nick’s vision for what hospitality can do for a business community mirrors our own, and together I think we can offer our members and their guests something truly special.”

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MEMBER NEWS

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APPOINTMENTS

APPOINTMENTS THE LATEST CAREER UPDATES AS COLLEAGUES MOVE UP OR MOVE ON

SPECIALIST LAW FIRM ADDS EXPERIENCED SOLICITOR

pecialist law firm Michael Cummins Employment Solicitors has welcomed Amy Edwards as its newest partner. The experienced employment solicitor joins after four years as a partner at Tollers and will work on all aspects of employment law, advising employers and senior employees. Michael Cummins, who launched the law firm in 2022, said: “Amy will make a huge contribution to our work thanks to her wealth of in-depth experience and comprehensive insight into employment law. “Her career track record is impressive and she shares our firm’s ethos of a personalised service that comes from getting to know our clients and understanding their ambitions, so we can best support what they seek to achieve.” Amy qualified as a solicitor in 2008 at Turner Coulston (now Borneo Martell Turner Coulston) after studying law at Liverpool John Moores University and the College of Law in Chester.

She then worked at Brethertons Solicitors, progressing from employment solicitor to associate, then head of employment and ultimately partner. She joins the seven-strong Leicestershire firm as its third partner. She said: “I am very much looking forward to working with Michael and the team at a firm which specialises in employment law. “That focus means we can build relationships with clients and really get to know them, become part of what they do and understand what they need from us to succeed.”

Amy Edwards

CLAIRE WARD STEPS UP AS CHAIR OF UK MAYORS

L-R: Shorts managing partner Andy Irvine with audit and accounts partners Tom Dodd and Howard Freeman

NEW AUDIT PARTNER FOR CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS South Yorkshire and Derbyshirebased Shorts Chartered Accountants has appointed Tom Dodd as audit and accounts partner, joining the firm’s audit and accounts team. He joins Shorts from PwC, where he spent almost 13 years, progressing from senior associate to director. Prior to PwC, he gained experience with PKF, which later merged with BDO, providing him a foundation of expertise across 18

business network October 2026

audit, accounting and business advisory services. He has experience advising a range of businesses, from ownermanaged companies to bigger and more complex international organisations. Based at the Sheffield offices, he will work alongside the firm’s established audit team, supporting clients across a variety of sectors while contributing to the strategic development and leadership of the practice.

Claire Ward, mayor of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), has become the chair of UK Mayors. At the same time EMCCA chief executive Amy Harhoff has become chair of the UK Mayors chief executive group. The group brings mayors from all political parties and strategic authority CEOs together to share best practice and work together to improve the lives of the millions of people living in their areas. Mayor Claire, who replaces Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role as Chair of UK Mayors. Tracy has done a superb job in the role and I take it over at an exciting time with more devolution and more Mayors on their way to join us.” Tracy added: “Being the first chair of UK Mayors has been an honour. Since 2022, so much has changed. More mayors with more powers – we well and truly have a seat at the decision-making table.”

East Midlands Combined County Authority mayor Claire Ward (left) with chief executive Amy Harhoff

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APPOINTMENTS

BRM solicitor Isobel Price

ISOBEL JOINS BRM PROBATE TEAM IN CHESTERFIELD L-R: Dr Graham Hoare OBE, of MTC, Professor Kath Mitchell CBE DL, of the University of Derby, Professor Gary Jones, of INFINITY and Professor Nick Jennings CB, of Loughborough University (Credit Beth Walsh)

TECH PARK DIRECTORS WILL GO TO INFINITY… AND BEYOND The directors have been appointed to the company which will drive forward development of a £400m advanced technology park in Derby. INFINITY will support strategic programmes to “power, defend and mobilise the nation”. It is hoped its technologies will be of international significance, placing the UK at the forefront of advanced component manufacturing. A joint venture agreement has now been signed by Infinity Technology Group, the University of Derby, Manufacturing Technology Centre, and Loughborough University. It sees Professor Gary Jones, Gregg Smith, Professor Dan Parsons, and Susan Ambler each

appointed as directors of Infinity Technology Group, which will trade as INFINITY. James Fussell, university secretary at the University of Derby, has been appointed company secretary. INFINITY will support the research, development and manufacture of technical parts at a 200-acre site at Infinity Park Derby. Situated within the East Midlands Investment Zone, planned infrastructure links will service development of a host of buildings onsite, which will be close to the existing Nuclear Skills Academy. INFINITY will eventually support an estimated 2,500-plus skilled jobs, 15,000-plus indirect jobs, and see 1,500-plus trainees each year

go through its Infinity Skills Pillar. It is also strategically linked to wider development of more than 4,000 new homes, a new school and an improved A50 junction. INFINITY chief executive Professor Gary Jones said: “This agreement is a key step in a novel and transformational project bringing local impact, regional development, national significance and international renown. “The INFINITY programme supports UK Government strategies for growth in industrial capability, offering game-changing technologies, and I’m excited to be leading the business and working with directors to deliver amazing capabilities right here in the East Midlands.”

DUO HAVE GRAND DESIGNS AT BLUEPRINT Workplace consultancy Blueprint Interiors is celebrating its 25th year with two appointments. Tom Beeson has joined the Ashby-based office interior designer as associate project director and Gemma Wort has become accounts assistant apprentice. Tom's appointment marks the creation of a new senior role within the business. He has 25 years’ experience in the commercial interiors sector, and will work alongside the directors to help shape Blueprint’s strategic direction and support its future growth. He previously worked with Blueprint as a subcontractor and helped deliver one of Blueprint’s biggest projects to date. Gemma joins the growing finance team, supporting the accounts function while developing her skills through a structured apprenticeship programme. Her appointment reflects Blueprint’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people. Commercial director John Tansur said: “As we celebrate 25 years in business we are firmly looking to our future. Tom’s appointment is an important milestone for us – his experience, commercial insight and understanding of our sector make him the ideal

Gemma Wort and Tom Beeson of Blueprint Interiors

person to help us shape the next phase of our growth. “At the same time, we’re passionate about investing in emerging talent and recognise the importance of providing opportunities in our sector. Bringing Gemma into the business through an apprenticeship reflects our investment in the next generation.”

BRM has strengthened its contentious trusts and probate services with the appointment of experienced solicitor Isobel Price, giving the team a permanent presence in Chesterfield. The appointment extends the firm’s contentious probate department, which has traditionally operated from its Sheffield city centre office, handling disputes involving wills, estates and inheritances across South Yorkshire and Derbyshire. Isobel has several years of experience, including work on agricultural inheritance disputes, Court of Protection matters and complex claims involving trusts and property ownership. She said: “Joining BRM is an exciting opportunity for me to build on my experience, contribute to the firm’s impressive contentious probate team, and learn from experienced colleagues within a forward-thinking and supportive firm. “I chose to join BRM because of the firm’s strong reputation and its commitment to providing high-quality, client-focused legal advice. “I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to develop my experience in contentious probate, an area of law that combines complex legal issues with highly personal and often sensitive family disputes.” Isobel began her legal career at Irwin Mitchell, in Sheffield, as a legal adviser. She then joined Spencers Solicitors, in Chesterfield, as a paralegal, before starting a training contract at specialist agricultural firm Nigel Davis Solicitors, in Ashbourne, where she qualified as a solicitor in 2023.

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BUSINESS NETWORK

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THE

We’re investing to give you the power to grow

BIG INTERVIEW

MEETING THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE REGION’S TOP BUSINESSES

eliable infrastructure plays an important role in supporting investment and growth across the East Midlands. As demand for electricity continues to rise, National Grid is investing in projects that will strengthen the network serving the region. These include upgrades that make greater use of existing infrastructure and transmission routes, alongside new infrastructure where additional capacity is needed. The programme to help strengthen the network includes recently approved substations at Brinsworth, Chesterfield and High Marnham and projects currently being developed including the North Humber to High Marnham and Chesterfield to Willington high-voltage lines. The Chesterfield to Willington proposal would see a new 400 kV overhead line, running for more than 35 miles from north Derbyshire to an existing substation halfway between Derby and Burton. Business Network asked Rachel Tullis, portfolio director at National Grid, why investment was needed, what it might mean for businesses and suppliers, and how communities are helping shape these major projects. Q: Tell us about the investments you are making? A: The way we use electricity is changing rapidly. Across the country we’re seeing growing demand as more aspects of everyday life become powered by electricity, whether that’s homes installing heat pumps, businesses electrifying operations, the continued growth of data and technology industries, or the transition to electric vehicles. Much of the network serving the region was built at a time when electricity was generated and used very differently to today. As patterns of generation and electricity use continue to change, additional capacity is needed to support future demand. The need for projects like Chesterfield to Willington is identified through independent planning of the electricity

Rachel Tullis is portfolio director at National Grid

Continued on page 22... October 2026 business network

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

...from page 21 system, which considers how demand for electricity is expected to change and where new sources of power are likely to connect to the network. Once that need has been identified, our focus is on developing proposals that can meet future energy needs while balancing technical, engineering and environmental considerations. Engaging with local communities, landowners and stakeholders is an important part of that process and helps us better understand local circumstances as projects develop. Wherever possible, we look first at how existing infrastructure and transmission routes can be upgraded or used more effectively before considering where additional infrastructure may be needed. Q: Why should East Midlands businesses be interested? A: Reliable infrastructure is fundamental to economic growth. Businesses need confidence that the infrastructure supporting them is capable of meeting future needs, whether they are expanding facilities, investing in new technology or planning long-term growth. Investment in the electricity network helps ensure the infrastructure is in place to support future investment and development. A stronger electricity network enables the region to accommodate future growth and helps ensure businesses have access to the energy they need to operate and invest. Major infrastructure projects can also support the regional economy during development and construction creating demand for a wide range of skills, services and suppliers. That can include everything from engineering and construction through to environmental services, surveying, logistics, accommodation, catering and a variety of specialist professional services.

‘National Grid and the Chamber plan to bring together local businesses, contractors and delivery partners through a series of Meet the Buyer events’

MAIN PICTURE: Maintaining infrastructure and investing in the network are crucial to accommodate future growth INSET LEFT: Workers at one of National Grid’s 400kV substations

Q: What could this mean for local suppliers and skills provision? A: Projects of this scale need a wide range of expertise. That can include engineering, construction, logistics, environmental consultancy, professional services, accommodation and catering. National Grid is keen to help local businesses understand the opportunities that may become available as projects progress and ensure East Midlands companies are well placed to participate. 22 business network October 2026

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As part of that commitment, National Grid and the Chamber plan to bring together local businesses, contractors and delivery partners through a series of Meet the Buyer events linked to upcoming projects in the region – including the recently approved Brinsworth, Chesterfield and High Marnham substations. These events will give local firms the chance to learn more about future work, understand procurement requirements and meet potential delivery partners. As other projects across the region progress,

including Chesterfield to Willington, National Grid would expect to create similar ways for local businesses to engage with contractors and understand future supply chain requirements. We know that for many businesses, understanding how to engage with major infrastructure projects can be challenging. By working with East Midlands Chamber, contractors and delivery partners, we want to make it easier for local companies to understand what may be coming forward, how procurement processes work and how they can get involved.

As projects progress, National Grid also expects to work with regional partners, education providers and industry organisations to help raise awareness of future skills and employment pathways linked to major infrastructure delivery. Alongside direct project activity, investment of this scale can generate wider economic benefits through local spending, supply chain activity and skills development. Major infrastructure projects can also create lasting benefits for local October 2026 business network

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

communities through dedicated funding programmes, developed in line with government guidance and shaped by local priorities. Q: How do these projects fit into the wider picture? A: Together, these projects form part of National Grid's wider investment programme and The Great Grid Upgrade. Collectively, these investments are about ensuring the electricity network can keep pace with rising demand and changing patterns of generation. More electricity is now being generated in different parts of the country, particularly from offshore wind, and the network needs the capacity to move that power to homes, businesses and public services. By strengthening existing parts of the network and developing new infrastructure where it is needed, these projects will help ensure the region has the capacity required to support future growth and rising demand for electricity. Q: How are communities helping shape these projects? A: We recognise that proposals for new electricity infrastructure can generate a great deal of interest and that communities want to understand how projects might affect them. That is why consultation forms an important part of the development process.

Across our projects, engagement with local residents, businesses, landowners and other stakeholders helps us better understand local circumstances, identify issues and, where appropriate, refine proposals. Consultation is not simply a box-ticking exercise. Feedback is considered alongside technical, engineering and environmental assessments as projects develop, helping inform decisions about infrastructure design, siting and delivery.

‘We are committed to protecting landscapes, habitats and wildlife’ For example, on Chesterfield to Willington, more than 3,500 pieces of feedback have been received across two stages of consultation. That feedback, together with ongoing environmental and technical assessments, is helping shape the next stage of project development. Feedback can make a tangible difference to proposals. Following the first stage of consultation on Chesterfield to Willington, further environmental and technical work resulted in an alternative route option being proposed between Astwith and Alfreton, avoiding a number of sensitive locations, including the River Amber valley, Ogston Reservoir and areas of historic importance.

National Grid’s Chesterfield substation is a significant node in the UK’s high-voltage electricity transmission

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National Grid says business and customer feedback informs its project development

National Grid has also continued to assess alternative options as the project has developed. For example, although the former HS2 corridor was not available when early route options were first identified, we later assessed whether it could be used. However, environmental, engineering and technical constraints meant it was not considered suitable for the project. A similar approach is being taken on other projects across the wider region.

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THE BIG INTERVIEW

WHY GRID UPGRADE IS CRITICAL For example, proposals for North Humber to High Marnham (12 miles north of Newark) have been developed through multiple stages of consultation and ongoing technical and environmental assessment as National Grid works towards finalising its proposals and preparing an application for development consent. National Grid also continues to engage with communities on projects including Brinsworth to Chesterfield and Chesterfield to High Marnham, where consultation helped inform proposals for

The way we generate and use electricity is changing. As demand for electricity continues to grow across homes, industry, transport and essential services, the network requires greater capacity to meet future needs. At the same time, more electricity is being generated from home-grown sources, particularly offshore wind, meaning the network needs greater capacity to move power from where it is generated to the homes, businesses and public services that rely on it. The Great Grid Upgrade is the largest upgrade of the electricity transmission

network in England and Wales in generations. It brings together a series of major infrastructure projects designed to reinforce the network, improve resilience and increase capacity, helping ensure a reliable supply of electricity for the future. By strengthening the network, The Great Grid Upgrade will help connect more secure, home-grown electricity to homes, businesses and public services, supporting economic growth and helping meet rising demand. Projects across the East Midlands and neighbouring areas form part of that wider programme of investment.

substations at Brinsworth (which is near Sheffield), Chesterfield and High Marnham before planning applications were submitted and subsequently approved. Alongside helping shape projects themselves, communities are also being invited to share views on how dedicated community funding could support local priorities. Depending on the project, this could include support for skills and training, community facilities, green spaces, health and wellbeing initiatives, and partnerships with local organisations.

activities can continue around infrastructure, with only the land directly beneath pylons permanently affected during operation. We will continue working closely with landowners and the farming community as plans progress to better understand local circumstances and help minimise disruption wherever possible.

Q: How are environmental considerations taken into account? A: We work closely with a range of organisations, specialists and stakeholders when assessing potential impacts and developing proposals. We are committed to protecting landscapes, habitats and wildlife and to delivering at least a 10% biodiversity net gain across major projects. This means leaving nature in a measurably better state than before work began through improvements to habitats and ecosystems. Extensive environmental surveys and assessments continue to inform the project’s development, helping identify opportunities to avoid, reduce or mitigate potential impacts wherever possible. National Grid is also engaging with organisations including local authorities, Natural England and other statutory consultees as proposals evolve. Q: What about farming and rural businesses? A: Agriculture is an important part of the East Midlands economy, and many landowners understandably want to understand what projects could mean for their operations. We have been engaging directly with landowners, farmers and their representatives throughout project development. For overhead electricity lines, most farming

Q: What happens next? A: Recent planning approvals for substations at Brinsworth, Chesterfield and High Marnham represent an important milestone for the Brinsworth to Chesterfield and Chesterfield to High Marnham projects. Alongside this, further work continues to progress the wider projects and secure the permissions required for their delivery. At the same time, projects including North Humber to High Marnham and Chesterfield to Willington continue to move through development and planning processes, with consultation feedback, engineering design, environmental assessments and technical studies helping shape detailed proposals. For projects requiring development consent, proposals will be independently examined through the nationally significant infrastructure planning process before recommendations are made to the Secretary of State, who will make the final decision. Alongside delivering the infrastructure needed to meet growing demand for electricity and connect more home-grown power to homes, businesses and public services, we want to create a positive legacy through skills, jobs and supply chain opportunities across the East Midlands. For businesses, suppliers and communities across the East Midlands, these investments represent more than upgrades to the electricity network. They are part of a long-term programme to provide the infrastructure needed to support economic growth, attract investment and help meet the region’s future energy needs. October 2026 business network

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STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS NEWS AND UPDATES FROM EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER’S LEADING SUPPORTERS

Mattioli Woods livery at Leicester Tigers Stadium (credit Rob Atherton)

Mattioli Woods roars Tigers on Wealth management and employee benefits firm Mattioli Woods has renewed its long-standing partnership with Leicester Tigers for the 2026/27 season. The deal extends one of the most recognisable commercial relationships in English rugby. The Leicester business will keep the naming rights to Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium and the Mattioli Woods Stand, and maintains official club partner status and an extensive package of commercial, hospitality and content rights. It also places greater emphasis on year-round engagement through original digital content, supporter experiences, educational initiatives and business events. It will include player-led content, financial wellbeing campaigns, supporter competitions, educational webinars, business networking events and planning sessions for academy players and their families. Mattioli Woods chief executive Peter Mann said: “Our partnership with Leicester Tigers has always represented far more than brand visibility. It reflects shared values of ambition, teamwork, performance and long-term success. “As Mattioli Woods continues to grow as a national business, this renewal gives us the opportunity to evolve the partnership beyond traditional sponsorship.”

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Partnership reinforces educator engagement E

ast Midlands Chamber has extended its strategic partnership with Nottingham Trent University (NTU). The extended collaboration for 2026/2027 will allow NTU management to influence the shaping of policy when the Chamber engages with policymakers and the region’s business community. It also includes partnership with Generation Next – the East Midlands Chamber network for professionals aged 18-40. NTU has been named university of the year five times in six years in various UK listings.

Recent other accolades include: • Sports University of the Year (Daily Mail University Guide 2026) • First in the UK for course quality (Uni Compare 2027) • Top five in the UK for employability (Uni Compare 2027) • Third Best University in the UK (Uni Compare 2027) Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “A key ingredient in driving growth across the East

Nottingham Trent University Students Union

Midlands is business engagement with educators. Valuable insight can be shared around skills provision, with leading research informing future-ready thinking. “Nottingham Trent University’s longstanding strategic partnership with the Chamber – and its network for young professionals Generation Next – contributes significantly to building and developing the innovative workforce of tomorrow, with its vast array of support for the business community.”

Nottingham Trent University deputy vice-chancellor and provost Professor Sarah Speight said: “We are delighted to renew our strategic partnership with East Midlands Chamber and to continue building on a relationship that has delivered real value to businesses, students and the wider region. “Through this partnership, our students have gained invaluable experience, while our research and expertise have helped organisations address challenges and benefit from new opportunities.”

Agency wins key rebrand project Derbyshire marketing agency Purpose Media has been appointed by debt advice provider PayPlan to support its brand strategy, digital presence and content. Grantham-based PayPlan has helped more than a million people through challenging financial circumstances over the past three decades. Purpose Media will help evolve its brand and rethink how it communicates with people looking for debt advice, from their first interaction through to accessing support. The strategy is designed to reinforce PayPlan’s position as a trusted, non-judgemental source of support, and create a foundation for growth. On the digital side of things, as well as a website redesign, the changes will make information and support clearer and easier to access for people needing help. There is also film and video production. Tim Lenton, director of digital innovation and

Purpose Media director of digital innovation and strategy Tim Lenton

strategy at Purpose Media, said: "PayPlan has been doing important work for more than three decades. “Our job was to understand what makes the organisation distinctive and make sure that comes through clearly in its brand and every part of the customer experience. Debt is an incredibly personal and often emotional subject, so this couldn’t simply be approached as a visual rebrand or website redesign.”

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STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS Knights acquires key service lines

Dame Maggie Aderin (left) and Dr Patricia Rodriguez-Macia have been recognised by the Royal Society

Duo earn Royal accolades The Royal Society has recognised two members of staff at the University of Leicester for their outstanding contributions to science. Chancellor and science educator Dame Dr Maggie Aderin DBE has been honoured with the society’s David Attenborough Award, while Dr Patricia Rodriguez-Macia, from the School of Chemistry, has received the Rosalind Franklin Award. They join 25 other Royal Society medal and award winners chosen for their outstanding contributions to scientific discovery, public engagement and research culture. Dame Maggie was recognised for her commitment to widening participation, reshaping public understanding of space science and scientific discovery, and innovative outreach that has impacted millions.

The award-winning space scientist, author, broadcaster and The Sky at Night presenter, said: “I am truly honoured to receive the David Attenborough Award, which is particularly poignant for me, given Sir David’s links to the University and Leicester, where he spent his formative years. My mission has always been to make science as simple and engaging as possible for the public, so I am delighted to see this work recognised by the Royal Society.” Dr Patricia Rodriguez-Macia’s research brings together chemistry and biology to develop artificial enzymes that can help convert small molecules such as hydrogen and carbon dioxide into sustainable fuels. She was honoured for that work and for her outreach and mentorship work that engages secondary school girls from underrepresented communities.

University launches networking initiative The University of Derby has launched a nationwide initiative to transform communities by bringing together public, academic and civic organisations Based at St George’s House, Windsor Castle, the National Civic Alchemy Network (NCAN) will create a space for people and organisations to work together through collective action, shared values and practical approaches to local challenges.

The network combines expertise from the university’s civic team, with the University of East London, social impact company Impera Analytics, and Socitm – a UK membership charity for people working in public services that supports innovation, technology and modernisation across the public sector. Network members will have access to training, toolkits,

mentoring, publications, webinars, collaborative bids and a shared learning space. Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the University of Derby said: “As a civic university, we are proud to play a leading role in bringing together education, industry and our communities to create opportunities that deliver lasting social and economic impact.”

Knights has agreed to acquire the commercial and private wealth service lines of regional law firm Moore Barlow, which operates across the South East and South Central regions. Moore Barlow’s other service lines – personal injury, clinical negligence and Court of Protection – are being sold separately. The acquisition continues Knights’ focus on building scale in the south, following its recent expansion in the Thames Valley, Essex, Kent and Sussex, where it has agreed to acquire THP Solicitors. Moore Barlow has roots dating back 220 years and is one of the South East’s biggest regional firms. It was formed in 2020 through the merger of Moore Blatch and Barlow Robbins, extending its reach across Hampshire, Surrey and the wider South East. Its service offering is a close fit with Knights’, particularly in real estate, private wealth and landed estates, whilst it will also bring a strong schools and charities team, one of the leading teams in the UK in the private school advisory market. The acquisition will add around 160 fee earners, significantly expanding Knights’ service capability for businesses and private clients in the affluent south. For the year ended 30 April 2025 Moore Barlow delivered revenue of £42m and profits distributable to members (prepartner drawings) of £12m. Knights chief executive David Beech (pictured) said Moore Barlow was a strong “cultural and operational” fit.

THE CHAMBER IS HONOURED BY THE SUPPORT OF ITS STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS

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CHAMBER NEWS

CHAMBER NEWS CONNECTING, CHAMPIONING AND SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

From print partner to patron E

ast Midlands Chamber has announced Derby-based DNS is to be a patron. Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, the business provides managed print, IT support, cyber security and communications services. It was founded in 1996, and has been a print partner of East Midlands Chamber for half a decade. Customers include Derby County Community Trust and Derby County Football Club, Trent Bridge, Nottingham Forest Football Club, Innes England and Hannells.

MAIN PICTURE: The DNS offices in Derby INSET: The company’s co-founder Martin Lenton

‘Becoming a patron of East Midlands Chamber is a natural next step for us’ Becoming a Chamber patron will enable DNS to engage with the Chamber’s 4,000 member businesses across the East Midlands and influence the shaping of policy when the Chamber meets with political leaders. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “DNS is well established both in its home city of Derby and the wider East Midlands, with an impressive client portfolio. “As a longstanding member of the Chamber and a proven, reliable print partner that has delivered consistently excellent service for the Chamber across five years, I’m delighted DNS is now to be a

patron. As DNS celebrates its 30th year, I look forward to closer collaboration which I’m confident will benefit the DNS growth story into the future and the Chamber’s membership.” DNS Corporate co-founder and director Martin Lenton said: “As we enter our 30th year, DNS is proud to have built strong relationships with businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and the wider East Midlands. “Becoming a patron of East Midlands Chamber is a natural next

step for us and reflects our shared commitment to supporting businesses across the region. “A key focus of our patronage will be giving Chamber members the opportunity to review their existing technology contracts across IT, managed print, cybersecurity and communications. “We want to help businesses understand exactly what they are paying for, whether their contracts remain competitive and fit for purpose and where there may be unnecessary cost, risk or restrictive

terms. Our role is to provide an informed second opinion. If the current contract is right, we’ll say so. If there is a better option, we’ll explain where and why. “The DNS team and I look forward to working closely with Chamber members across the East Midlands.”

Regional unemployment falls but still too high Unemployment in the East Midlands has fallen to 4.9% but is still too high, according to Chamber management, as they renewed calls for reduced cost pressure on business and skills investment to be prioritised in the Autumn Budget. The estimated figure from the Office for National Statistics for over-16s in the East Midlands covers May to July 2026. The last time unemployment was below 4.9% was in June to August of 2025 at 4.5%. Chamber director of external affairs Richard Blackmore said: “It’s encouraging to see unemployment fall slightly in the region but 4.9% is still too high and demonstrates the tough conditions employers have been facing. “The mountain of challenges for employers 28 business network October 2026

East Midlands unemployment is now at 4.9%

range from high costs, some of which stretch back to decisions announced in 2024’s Budget, to regulatory pressures and the skills gap, which our research has shown to be an ongoing problem. “Our Quarterly Economic Survey has continually shown 6 out of 10 employers have struggled to find suitable candidates for roles. “An opportunity exists to alleviate the immense pressure on employers and that’s this year’s Autumn Budget on 28 October. “Our Framework for Growth calls for skills investment, and includes a set of innovative proposals to help businesses find training and apprenticeships, for example, so candidates have skills that match the needs of a role and can hit the ground running.”

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CHAMBER NEWS

CASE STUDY: REGENCY SOURCE Sarah Budgie, business development manager of Mansfield-based training provider Regency Source, highlights the Chamber support it has had. In today’s business landscape, success is rarely achieved in isolation. The strongest organisations are those that actively engage with their local business community, build meaningful partnerships, and invest in the development of people. At Regency Source, we firmly believe that collaboration is one of the most powerful tools for growth. By networking, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, businesses across the East Midlands can create opportunities that benefit employers, employees, and local communities alike. Over recent years, we have been proud to work alongside East Midlands Chamber, supporting individuals and businesses through the delivery of high-quality training programmes designed to improve employability, develop workforce skills, and help organisations access the talent they need to grow.

Through our partnership activities, we have delivered training across a range of sectors and disciplines, helping candidates gain recognised qualifications and practical skills in areas including: warehousing and logistics training; forklift truck training; CSCS card preparation and testing; first aid training; mental health first aid; health and safety qualifications; employability and workplace skills; bespoke business training solutions.

‘We were particularly pleased to support the Chamber through the delivery of mental health first aid training’ These programmes do more than simply provide qualifications. They help individuals build confidence, increase employment prospects,

and create a stronger talent pool for businesses throughout the region. One area that has become increasingly important for employers is workplace wellbeing. We were particularly pleased to support the Chamber through the delivery of mental health first aid training, helping organisations equip their teams with the knowledge and confidence to recognise, understand, and support mental health challenges in the workplace. As businesses continue to navigate economic challenges and changing workforce demands, developing skilled, resilient, and motivated teams has never been more important. That is why Regency Source is keen to strengthen relationships with more like-minded organisations across the East Midlands. We are passionate about working with businesses that value

More employers are recognising the importance of mental health training

their people, support their communities, and recognise the importance of continuous learning and development. We look forward to connecting with more organisations across the region and exploring how we can work together to make a positive impact. www.emc-dnl.co.uk

Students recognised as future leaders delivered in partnership with the Chamber, helping them build networks, develop employability skills and connect with regional employers. This year’s East Midlands Chamber Future Leader Award recipients are: • Jack Minett • Rebecca Millington • Josh Adams • Surya Selvam • Hassan Kanji • Orevaoghene Diamond Ovrewae • Mohammad Yamin • Libby Barnett

Award winner Mohammad Yamin

Eight University of Derby students have been recognised with the East Midlands Chamber Future Leader Award, celebrating their academic achievement, leadership potential and commitment to broadening their experience beyond their studies. Nominated by programme teams across the university, the award recognises second-year students who have demonstrated initiative, ambition and a strong contribution to their academic and wider University community. Through the award, students gain access to a range of professional development opportunities

All of the recipients demonstrated a combination of academic excellence, leadership qualities, ambassadorial activity, student representation and commitment to personal and professional development.

‘I am extremely grateful for the opportunities the award has provided me’ As part of the award, students can access a range of opportunities through the Chamber, including mentoring, networking, work shadowing and attendance at Chamber events and conferences – providing valuable industry insight and support them as they prepare for future careers. International business management student Mohammad Yamin said: “Receiving the East Midlands Chamber Future Leader Award means

a great deal to me, as it recognises the hard work, dedication and commitment I have shown towards my academic journey and future career. “I am extremely grateful for the opportunities the award has provided me and for the recognition it gives me as I continue to develop my skills and experience. I believe this achievement will be a valuable addition to my CV and will demonstrate to future employers my ambition, commitment and willingness to work towards my goals.” Matt Snowden, associate provost (industry engagement) at the University of Derby said they recognised students who had shown exceptional commitment, ambition and leadership potential. He said: “Through our partnership with East Midlands Chamber, we are able to provide opportunities that help students build valuable professional networks, gain industry insight and develop the skills and confidence needed for future career success. Congratulations to each of this year’s recipients on their well-deserved achievement.” Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: "These students have already demonstrated many of the qualities employers look for in future leaders. We are delighted to support them through opportunities to build connections, gain workplace insight and develop the skills that will help them progress in their careers. We look forward to seeing what they achieve in the future." To find out more about working with University of Derby students, providing mentoring opportunities, or connecting with future talent, contact the Business Gateway team at: businessgateway@derby.ac.uk October 2026 business network

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CHAMBER NEWS

Learning lessons about the importance of skills

ast Midlands Chamber wants businesses to join the Local Skills Improvement Plan for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland – as a national report calls for a UK-side rethink on lifelong learning. With Alan Milburn’s final report into the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) due this autumn, the national British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said “investment in youth opportunity and adult skills is not an either or”. And the AI revolution makes that even more critical.

‘Tackling the worrying youth jobs crisis must be part of a wider rethink on lifelong learning’ The BCC report – From Classroom to Career: Delivering Growth Through Lifelong Learning – urges policymakers to create a more joined-up skills system in England to support career-wide learning. Of the 850 businesses surveyed, 58% said they were facing skills shortages and two-thirds said better access to skilled employees would support growth. The recent introduction of the Youth Guarantee, newly published Local Skills Improvement Plans, and plans to broaden the scope of 30 business network October 2026

Ofsted to better recognise how well schools are preparing young people for work, will all help close the skills gap. East Midlands Chamber is overseeing the Local Skills Improvement Plan for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland which will provide detailed insight and analysis into priority economic sectors and jobs requirements for different parts of the UK. It’s easy for businesses in the city and two counties to contribute to the plan and there’s no cost and signing up is easy. The website also offers a breakdown of the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland employment scene, the types of jobs available and the skills needed to fill them. There are contact details for the key skills providers – our colleges, universities and private training suppliers. It also has projected figures for jobs growth, the skills that are most in demand now – and those expected to be needed in the coming years – and figures for the types of businesses keeping the local economy going. A simple survey to help shape the next step is available on the site once people have signed up. The BCC report calls for further action, including: • A UK wide employer national insurance contribution cut for all under-25s to reduce the cost of hiring young people.

• Skills England to co-design the future of the Growth and Skills Levy in partnership with business by next year. • A clearer co-investment model for the Lifelong Learning Entitlement in England before its roll-out in January 2027. • A single framework for flexible work experience to make it easier for firms to engage. • Every school and college to be connected to a local employerled mentoring network by September 2027. The report argues that “a stronger lifelong learning system” will help people develop skills throughout their careers and helps businesses invest confidently in their workforce. And it says that will become more crucial as technology transforms jobs, and working lives become longer and less linear. The report challenges policymakers “not to create more programmes, products or initiatives”. It says what is needed is “a clearer, simpler and more coherent system” that connects “careers guidance, skills development and employment support throughout a person’s life”. Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said: “Tackling the worrying youth jobs crisis must be part of a wider rethink on lifelong learning.

“BCC data shows a deepening skills crisis embedded in our economy. Growth depends on having people with the right skills in the right jobs, and that means throughout somebody’s career. “Too often policymakers have treated careers advice, skills development and employment support as separate issues. The reality is that they are all part of the same journey. “The Government has made some positives steps, including the Youth Guarantee and plans to broaden the scope of Ofsted to assess how schools are preparing students for the world of work. “Firms are eagerly awaiting the publication of Alan Milburn’s final report. But the businesses we represent also want to see government action on helping adults retrain, upskill and adapt throughout their working lives. The AI revolution makes this even more critical.” Visit: https://tinyurl.com/2ant6yay

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CHAMBER NEWS

October 2026 business network

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CHAMBER NEWS

CSR event offers timely insights R epresentatives from the region’s firms joined academics and other experts to address carbon footprint reduction and corporate and social responsibility approaches at the East Midlands Sustainability and CSR Conference 2026. The Chamber conference was held in partnership with and hosted by the University of Derby, and sponsored by Auditel and Geo Green Power. It saw business leaders and academics share best practice and analysis of the latest research in a series of talks and panel discussions. Findings from the Chamber’s 2026 joint report into Green Growth Trends, produced in conjunction with the University of Derby were shared with delegates ahead of publication. The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey data into CSR activity was examined by

researchers from Loughborough University Business School and the University of Derby.

‘Businesses are becoming more aware about supporting nature and engaging more with nature-based solutions’ Findings from the recently published Better Business for Nature report, produced by the Chamber with Derbyshire Wildlife Trust and the University of Derby, were also discussed. University of Derby associate professor of strategy and sustainability Dr Polina Baranova shared findings from the Green Growth Trends report for 2026. She said: “There are two major

Susan Ambler, chief financial and infrastructure officer, University of Derby (credit Fearn Percy)

L-R Richard Smith - PS: Planet, Kat Auckland - Geo Green Power, Sally-Ann Hurn - Duncan & Toplis, Julie Adams - Auditel

parameters within Green Growth – first, trading on green market niches, which we know is down, so businesses are selling fewer green goods. Secondly, businesses are reducing their involvement in decarbonisation, so they do not invest as much as they would like to. “The positive is that businesses are becoming more aware about supporting nature and engaging more with nature-based solutions. “In terms of green skills, we know the top five – energy efficiency, resource efficiency, business strategy, digital and waste management – have been consistent over the last three years, which should inspire providers of green skills in the region to hone into the area and provide something for businesses to take off the shelf. “The Green Growth Trends report is fantastic because you see the picture over time. It’s not isolated and you look at businesses and understand where they’re at. It’s insightful for policymakers to see what the business community is telling us and hopefully informs evidence-based decision-making.” Chamber director of external affairs Richard Blackmore introduced speakers and chaired panel discussions. He said: “Business so often traverses a tightrope, balancing the need to be sustainable and adopt corporate and social responsibility principles with the need to be profitable and financially viable. “Reducing carbon emissions cannot be a “nice to have” – it has to be in the plan – but with the immense cost pressure on business, it’s essential the approach taken works. “Getting business leaders together in a room with academic experts, where we can look at detailed research that’s specific to the East Midlands, and discuss best practice, is invaluable and with the level of challenge on business right now, is needed more than ever.”

Jobs Guarantee scheme welcomed but greater skills support needed East Midlands Chamber has welcomed progress from the government’s Jobs Guarantee scheme, with the first young people beginning paid placements. But it has renewed its call for greater skills support as outlined in Framework for Growth publication. The Jobs Guarantee scheme offers a direct route into work for 18 to 24-year-olds who have been claiming Universal Credit and looking for work for 18 months. It sees the government fund up to 25 hours paid work a week for six months. 32 business network October 2026

The aim is to support more than 90,000 young people into employment over the next three years, forming part of a wider £2.5bn youth employment package. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The Chamber’s Framework for Growth outlines a series of actions that, if implemented by policymakers, would further address the skills gap in the East Midlands and get more candidates into roles that can hit the ground running with the required skillset.”

East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles

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CHAMBER NEWS

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CHAMBER NETWORKS

CHAMBER NETWORKS BUILDING CONNECTIONS WITH YOUR PEERS AND BUSINESS LEADERS

Last call for tickets to our awards night T

he deadline is fast approaching to get tickets to be part of the 2026 Generation Next Awards and Conference. The joint celebration for young leaders takes place at the Casa Hotel, Chesterfield, on 15 October, with the annual Awards honouring the region’s outstanding businesspeople in the 18-40 age range. The deadline for getting hold of tickets – and ensuring that you are part of the action on the day – is Thursday, 8 October. The joint event promises to be one of the biggest and brightest celebrations in the

Generation Next calendar, honouring the bold thinkers, go-getters and changemakers who are helping shape the East Midlands. Whether you are there to cheer on a finalist, support a colleague, or just soak up the good vibes, everyone who attends is in for a fantastic afternoon filled with inspiring stories, welldeserved recognition and a party atmosphere. There are Awards for pprentice of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Future Leader and Emerging Talent among others, and over the years the event has built a reputation for lively and unconventional ‘festival-like’ ceremonies. The Chamber’s Alison Griffiths at last year’s Generation Next Awards

Preethi Kang (left) at the summer 2025 event

The winner of last year’s Future Leader Award was Sarah Deaves, associate director of global programme manager Turner & Townsend. At the time, she said: “The Generation Next Awards are exceptionally important and winning raises the profile of both the industry in which I work, but also the Awards show that everyone's entitled to grow and develop themselves.” This year’s ceremony incorporates the 2026 Generation Next Conference, which has been designed to inspire, equip and connect young professionals with the tools and insights they need to become the leaders of tomorrow. There will be engaging speakers, meaningful conversations, and feel good celebration as we continue into the evening. Membership of Generation Next is provided as standard to anyone aged 18-to-40 who works for any Chamber member organisations – though people in the Generation Next age bracket can also join independently. Network chair Preethi Kang said: “The Generation Next Awards are a celebration of that community. They showcase the incredible young people who are making a real difference across the East Midlands, recognising achievement at every stage of your journey.” https://tinyurl.com/4wfnm3w5

GENERATION NEXT EVENTS PRESENT WITH IMPACT: BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND POWERFUL PRESENTATION SKILLS Date: 6 October Time: 9.30am-12.30pm, Venue: Online Cost: Free to members

MAXIMISING YOUR PRODUCTIVITY Date: 17 November Time: 9.30-11am Venue: Online Cost: Free to members

Command the room and communicate with confidence by learning how to articulate your value when presenting, pitching or networking for business. Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to public speaking, this webinar will equip you with valuable tools to increase your confidence.

The most successful leaders are masters of their time. Putting in place an effective personal time management system will accelerate any businesses success. This webinar will share the core elements of being productive – specifically mindset, focus and prioritisation with game changing strategies that will drive a leader and their team’s productivity.

https://tinyurl.com/59rm44ps

https://tinyurl.com/2xczy3c9

34 business network October 2026

MEMBERS FORUM – INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT & CONNECTIVITY Date: 18 November Time: 4-5pm Venue: Online Cost: Free to members The newly formatted members forum enables broader participation and stronger discussion, and provides feedback from members, enabling more robust evidence-based insight into key sectors. It supports the Chamber’s Framework for Growth campaign. https://tinyurl.com/3eryfe7d/

NEGOTIATING WITH YOUR CUSTOMER – HINTS & TIPS Date: 2 December Time: 9.30-11am Venue: Online Cost: Free to members Negotiation with your customer presents the dual challenge of achieving the results you want and at the same time maintaining and building upon your relationships with them. This webinar covers ways to avoid strained relationships, and focuses on the positive behaviours needed to help both parties get what they want. https://tinyurl.com/3tyrk6kp

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CHAMBER NETWORKS

We were made up at joint event T

he Chamber’s Generation Next and Enterprising Women networks came together for a get-together with a twist, as they hosted a joint Charlotte Tilbury makeup masterclass in collaboration with The Alchemist, in Nottingham. Members were treated to an afternoon of cocktails, a delicious meal and the chance to learn first-hand about how to achieve the

signature Charlotte Tilbury look before being treated to a £15 voucher to spend with the beauty company. The biggest take away from this unique event was the chance for two networks to come together in a relaxed atmosphere and connect with each other and other businesses. The room was filled with vibrant conversation, lots of laughs and a chance for people to get to know each other outside of a typical networking setting. Enterprising Women co-chair Eileen Perry MBE DL said: “It was great to have a joint event and it was interesting to hear about the Charlotte Tilbury story – from how she started out to how she evolved her products. because it was so informal, everyone who attended felt

relaxed so that really helped everyone build relationships.” Generation Next president Preethi Kang said: “Seeing women from different generations, industries and stages of their careers come together was a real highlight for me. It showed the power of creating spaces where people can connect without barriers, share experiences and support one another. “We need more opportunities for people to step outside their usual circles, bring different networks together and create meaningful connections, because collaboration is where new ideas, opportunities and growth can happen.” For more on Enterprising Women visit: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/services/enterprising-women

Attendees enjoy the Charlotte Tilbury masterclass at The Alchemist in Nottingham (credit Fearn Percy) October 2026 business network

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CHAMBER NETWORKS The Chamber launched the East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN) in March 2022. There are six networks – in Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire – and each network meets about every eight weeks. Membership is free and open to manufacturers of any size. It also entitles members to complimentary membership of Make UK. For details visit: emmn.co.uk

UPCOMING EMMN MEETINGS DERBYSHIRE NETWORK

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE NETWORK

7.30-10.30am, 23 October Penny Engineering, Station Road Industrial Estate, Clowne, Chesterfield

7.30-10.30am, 10 November NTU University Centre, Vision West Nottinghamshire College, Mansfield

Agenda: • Opening address from EMMN chair Mark Goldby • Chamber update from director of external affairs Richard Blackmore • Update from Chris Corkan, regional director MAKE UK • Roundtable discussion • Support update • Opportunity to tour Penny Engineering https://tinyurl.com/2vyab9vz

Agenda • Opening address from EMMN chair Mark Goldby • Chamber update from director of external affairs Richard Blackmore • Roundtable discussion • Support update https://tinyurl.com/ckh6byjh

EMMN CASE STUDY: CODEL INTERNATIONAL

ODEL International, in Bakewell, Derbyshire, is a designer and manufacturer of emission monitoring instrumentation. Its advanced systems monitor emissions and check air quality in road and rail tunnels, and support plant and rail safety worldwide. Established in 1982, the business started out designing gas monitors for process control applications. As environmental awareness and global emissions legislation evolved, it expanded its range to meet demand for precise, reliable and sustainable monitoring technologies. Today, CODEL manufactures a range of products, from dust monitors to automated continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS).

Codel managing director Richard Hallam. Above: The firm’s factory in Bakewell

‘It’s reassuring to know that the challenges you’re facing are often the same challenges others are tackling – and that we can learn from each other’ The company is recognised as a market leader in road and rail tunnel air quality and flow monitoring, with more than 10,000 tunnel instruments and 12,000 CEMS systems installed globally. With a workforce of 44, the business designs and manufactures all products at its Bakewell site. Since 2016, it has been part of the Forbes Marshall Group, a global engineering business specialising in energy efficiency and process automation. This partnership has strengthened CODEL’s international reach while maintaining its 36 business network October 2026

commitment to innovation, quality, and local expertise. Before joining the EMMN, managing director Richard Hallam had not been involved in any regional business groups. While the majority of CODEL’s products are exported, he recognised the importance of strengthening UK connections by engaging with other local manufacturers.

That allowed CODEL to build relationships and stay informed about developments across the UK manufacturing and infrastructure sectors. In 2022, Richard joined the Derbyshire EMMN group and said he had found the regular meetings to be a valuable opportunity to meet and engage with business leaders and manufacturers across the region.

While the members represent a wide range of sectors, the issues they face, such as managing costs, accessing skills and navigating global supply chain pressures are often shared. The meetings provide a space for reflection and peer learning, where members can share experiences, compare approaches, and identify potential solutions together. Richard said: “It’s reassuring to know that the challenges you’re facing are often the same challenges others are tackling – and that we can learn from each other.” Through the network’s collaboration with Make UK, Richard has also been able to benchmark CODEL’s performance against other manufacturers nationally and gain valuable insight into sector trends, economic shifts, and market opportunities. Being part of EMMN has also made it easier to find and access business support, something that busy business leaders rarely have time to research independently. Membership of EMMN has also provided a direct link into the wider range of support available through East Midlands Chamber. CODEL has made use of the Accelerator-funded training and workshops, helping to upskill team members across several departments. The company also uses the Chamber’s Director Development Programme as the foundation for leadership training for its directors and managers. Richard said: “The Director Development course provides a great opportunity to reflect on all areas of the business. It helps us identify where additional training or mentoring could support our ongoing skills development. “The Chamber has also delivered bespoke follow-on training tailored specifically to our needs.”

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BUSINESS NETWORK

October 2026 business network

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TRAINING & EVENTS

TRAINING & EVENTS BOOST YOUR WORKFORCE AND DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS

Defence-friendly employers recognised East Midlands employers from strategically important sectors have been recognised for their commitments to Armed Forces personnel. Blaby District Council, Chesterfield Royal Hospital, defence contractor Maiar and North Kesteven District Council achieved the gold award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for 2026 – the Ministry of Defence’s highest honour for employers. Together, this year’s regional winners employ more than 1,000 staff, roles that are now certified as Defence-friendly because of policies in support of reservists, cadet volunteers, service-leavers, military spouses and the wider armed forces community. Overall, tens of thousands of job roles in the East Midlands are certified as defence-friendly as a result of the commitments made through the scheme. Nationally, 162 employers across the UK have been recognised with the Gold Award this year. Calvin Bailey MBE MP, minister for veterans and people, said: “For a veteran starting a new chapter, or a reservist balancing two demanding roles, having an employer in your corner makes an enormous difference. “These 162 organisations have gone out of their way to make veterans, reservists and military families feel genuinely welcome and supported. I’m incredibly proud to recognise them today, and I hope their example inspires many more.” The gold award is reserved for the most extraordinary armed forces supporters who demonstrate strong support for military colleagues – such as 10 additional days paid leave for reservists to fulfil their training and flexible leave for military spouses – and encourage others to adopt these approaches too.

An insight into the nuclear supply chain

Wylfa nuclear power station on Anglesey is being redeveloped to host three SMRs

An organisation set up to support the UK’s multi-billion pound nuclear sector will host the 2026 Nuclear Supply Chain Summit on Wednesday 7 October in Derby. The NucCol event will bring together organisations from across the nuclear supply chain to provide insights into the opportunities emerging from the UK’s expanding nuclear sector. Delegates will hear the latest updates on new nuclear power projects, decommissioning programmes, defence initiatives, fusion energy developments and space-related activities. As investment continues to grow across large-scale nuclear builds, small modular reactors, defence programmes, AUKUS, fusion, and space technologies, the summit will help businesses understand where future opportunities lie and how to position themselves to secure work within these major programmes. Attendees will benefit from expert market intelligence, industry-led presentations, and networking opportunities with key stakeholders from across the sector. The event will provide practical guidance on engaging with upcoming projects and strengthening supply chain capability in a rapidly evolving market. The Nuclear Supply Chain Summit offers a unique opportunity to build connections, gain strategic insight, and explore the projects that will shape the future of the UK’s nuclear industry. www.nuclearsupplychainsummit.com (See page 52 for more on the work of NucCol in the East Midlands).

Successful cyber event to return next year The 2026 East Midlands Cyber Security Summit was a sell out

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The East Midlands Cyber Summit will return in 2027 after the sold-out success of its inaugural event earlier this year. February’s summit brought together businesses, cyber professionals, educators and government stakeholders from around the UK. Delivered by East Midlands Cyber Security Cluster (EMCSC), the second summit will take place on Tuesday, 23 February, 2027 at The Venue @ DMU in Western Boulevard, Leicester. Designed for business leaders, SME decision-makers, technology and cyber professionals, education providers and public-sector stakeholders, the summit will build on the first event’s focus on useful insight, real-world experience and meaningful connections. Its purpose is to help organisations make more informed decisions about cyber risk, business continuity, workforce skills and digital security. Dr Ismini Vasileiou, founder of the East Midlands Cyber Summit and EMCSC, said: “The response to our first East Midlands Cyber Summit showed the level of interest across the region in practical, relevant cyber-resilience support. Businesses do not need more complexity. They need the confidence, knowledge and connections to take proportionate action. “The summit created valuable conversations between businesses, cyber specialists, educators and public-sector partners. “Bringing it back in 2027 allows us to build on that momentum, strengthen regional collaboration and support more organisations to make cyber resilience part of their everyday decision-making.”

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TRAINING & EVENTS

CHAMBER COURSES PROBLEM SOLVING IN THE WORKPLACE Leicestershire Business Awards winners 2024

Awards will celebrate the region’s very best N ominations are open for the 2027 East Midlands Chamber Business Awards, with supporters highlighting the benefits of getting involved. For the first time the Chamber’s traditional three county Awards will be brought together for a bigger, better, regionwide ceremony which will recognise the top businesses from across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire. The closing date for applications is 31 October, at: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/businessawards Any business in the three counties can enter, but non-Chamber members must become members before the shortlisting process takes place. Among the sponsors is Vertas Group, a Chamber patron which operates around the UK providing facilities management, property design and specialist recruitment to public and private sector clients. It has expanded its East Midlands footprint through a joint venture with Nottinghamshire County Council, and last year was presented with a King’s Award for Enterprise in sustainable development, in recognition of its environmentally responsible and sustainable services. The business is sponsoring the Nottinghamshire Outstanding Achievement Award for 2027. In a statement backing the Awards, the business said: “With our new joint venture now embedded in Nottinghamshire, sponsoring the Business Awards is a meaningful way for us to engage with the wider business community. “The Awards champion the values we believe in. Collaboration, excellence and investment in people. We are proud to support an event that

recognises the organisations and individuals driving growth across the county.” The number one entrant from each of the three counties will receive one of each region's 2027 Outstanding Achievement Awards. There will also be an overall East Midlands Business of the Year, picked by the judges. The winners will be announced at a black tie ceremony on 11 March, 2027, at Vaillant Live, in Derby. A Vaillant Live spokeswoman said partnering with the Awards was a natural fit, and not just about raising the profile of the venue but about “celebrating the excellence and resilience of our local economy”. There are countless proven benefits to entering the Awards – from the boost that winning and being nominated gives to your business and team, to the huge marketing potential that goes with it. The status of being named as a winner is a powerful sales tool that can help win contracts and attract fresh talent to your team. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Through each and every challenge, the resilience of local enterprises in the three cities and counties has shone brightly and seen them grow, thrive, create jobs, embrace innovation and forge powerful collaborations. “These Awards honour those achievements, made possible by the incredible generosity of our sponsors.” Nominations are open at: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/ businessawards

2027 EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS CATEGORIES:

5 October, 9.30am-4.30pm, Nottingham This course will provide delegates with the skills and knowledge to be able to quickly identify and evaluate a range of options towards solving problems within their work place. The course is for any manager or staff member who is required, within the course of their work to think creatively to bring about improvements and overcome obstacles within their job role. https://tinyurl.com/mvd6sbsb

PRESENT WITH IMPACT: BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND POWERFUL PRESENTATION SKILLS 6 October, 9.30am-12.30pm, Online, Free Command the room and communicate with confidence, by learning how to articulate your value when presenting, pitching or networking for business. interactive three-hour session. https://tinyurl.com/59rm44ps

AI ADOPTION IN PRACTICE: MAKING IT WORK IN YOUR TEAM 6 October, 11am-noon, Online Identify common barriers to AI adoption and the steps needed to embed AI successfully across a team. Apply a practical framework to select AI use cases, engage stakeholders and establish clear ownership and governance. Develop an action plan to drive AI adoption, build user confidence and create measurable business value. https://tinyurl.com/57e7yj39

BEING INTENTIONALLY INTER-CULTURAL AT WORK 6 October, 5.30-7pm, Avanti Fields School, Leicester, Free This workshop will help participants develop confidence in engaging respectfully with colleagues across different cultures, beliefs and worldviews. https://tinyurl.com/5u8rt4zu

CHAMBER CONNECT NETWORKING BREAKFAST WITH VIGENCE AND UNIP

• Derbyshire Outstanding Achievement Award – sponsorship available

• Green Business of the Year – sponsorship available

• Leicestershire Outstanding Achievement Award – sponsored by RandalSun

• Excellence in Customer Service – sponsorship available

• Nottinghamshire Outstanding Achievement Award – sponsored by Vertas Group

• Micro Business of the Year (one-to-10 people) – sponsorship available

• Innovation of the Year – sponsored by Rolls-Royce

• Small Business of the Year (11-to-50 people) – sponsored by Your IT

7 October, 9-11am, The Ingenuity Centre, University of Nottingham Innovation Park, Nottingham, Free The Ingenuity Centre is a collaborative hub to help spin-outs, start-ups and student entrepreneurs to grow and innovate. This event brings the region’s business community together to build valuable relationships, explore new opportunities and create enterprising connections https://tinyurl.com/yewdbf2m

• Collaboration of the Year – sponsorship available

MARKETING YOUR ONLINE BUSINESS

• Education and Business Partnership Award – sponsorship available • Commitment to People Development – sponsorship available

• Apprentice of the Year – sponsorship available

• Exporter of the Year – sponsored by DHL

• Digital Transformation Award – sponsored by Digital Planning

The 2027 drinks are sponsored by Howes Percival, media partner is Purpose Media and VIP drinks area is sponsored by The Charleston in Bakewell, part of Longbow Venues.

• CSR Leadership Award – sponsorship available

For further sponsorship opportunities email: sponsorship@emc-dnl.co.uk

7 October, 10-11am, Online, Free Marketing online sales effectively requires more than simply driving traffic to your website. It involves having a clear strategy, choosing the right channels and making the best use of the tools available to reach, convert and retain customers. https://tinyurl.com/ya5wb8nn

October 2026 business network

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SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS

www.emc-dnl.co.uk/sustainability

HELPING BUSINESSES TRANSITION TO A SUSTAINABLE AND LOW-CARBON ECONOMY

Confetti business is blooming great idea! Ezra’s Confetti supplies biodegradable wedding confetti made from flower petals that is “venue-approved, fully biodegradable and personalised” to match individual wedding colours. The business was founded two years ago by Ezra, then aged 6, after he made natural petal confetti over the school summer holidays, ready for his dad and step-mum’s wedding. He sold the left-overs, earning his first pocket money, and became obsessed with the environment and with a desire to be a young entrepreneur. The first £10 sale was re-invested to buy more flowers. Things continued to grow over the following months and in February last year, Ezra’s Confetti opened its first production unit. This February, it opened what is thought to be the world’s first biodegradable petal confetti shop. Ezra’s dad Nathan is a director of the company:

ll too often, sustainability and environmentally friendly business practices mean higher costs. Whether it is sourcing more sustainable products, changing manufacturing processes or looking for ways to reduce waste, if these changes aren’t costing more in terms of stock or resources, they are almost certainly costing more in terms of time. But does sustainability always have to cost more? At Ezra’s Confetti, a small family business based on Heanor High Street, we have found the opposite can actually be true – turning waste into a product. Ezra’s Confetti was founded two years ago to provide sustainable, natural petal confetti for weddings. With almost a quarter of a million weddings taking place in the UK each year, it is a sizeable market – and one which has become increasingly environmentally conscious.

Ezra’s Confetti

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Our business model is quite an interesting one because we have sought to reduce costs through developing an almost circular process. Flowers are expensive. However, unlike fruit and vegetables, you don’t tend to see “wonky flowers” appearing in shops. When somebody buys a bunch of flowers, aesthetics matter. Inevitably, this means that a significant number of flowers aren't suitable for sale because of their appearance or the quality of the bloom. They might not be good enough for a bouquet, but they are perfect for confetti. We work with florists, wholesalers, flower farms and others to take flowers that might otherwise become waste. This also provides exactly the raw material we need at a sustainable price, helping us to keep our own prices low. What about our own waste? Of course, repurposing someone else’s waste doesn’t mean

Ezra’s Confetti director Nathan Burns and son Ezra

that we don’t generate any ourselves. Thousands of flowers coming through our doors means plenty of stems, leaves and packaging. We are therefore developing relationships with local composters and recycling organisations to find better uses for these materials too. Initially, this might simply reduce our disposal costs. Longer-term, however, could our stems and other green waste become compost? Could something we currently pay to dispose of eventually become another product? We don’t know yet – but these are the questions we should be asking.

‘What could you do with the things your business currently throws away?’ Stepping away from the very specific example of confetti, it makes you wonder how many businesses are paying to dispose of something that another local business would happily take off their hands – or even pay them for. Consider the waste your business generates. Who might be able to do something with it? Could it become somebody else’s raw material? Could you do something with it yourself? Reducing waste is important, but perhaps we also need to change how we think about waste in the first place. If something can become sellable, lead to the creation of a partnership or reduce another business’s costs, it starts to look much more like an opportunity than a problem. If we can create a multiple award-winning product largely from flowers that other businesses couldn't use, what could you do with the things your business currently throws away? And, perhaps more importantly, who should you be talking to?

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BUSINESS NETWORK

October 2026 business network

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

INTERNATIONAL TRADE SUPPORT, STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES FOR EXPORTERS AND IMPORTERS

Chamber is helping businesses to go global

he international trade team at East Midlands Chamber helped the region’s businesses complete 10,874 export documents in the 2025/26 financial year, supporting trade valued at £910m. Its work in that year saw the team help complete 1,477 customs declarations and 464 ATA Carnets. ATA Carnets are the documents needed to temporarily move expensive bits of kit and equipment – such as hospitality equipment, catering gear, multimedia gear – out of the UK and back again for things such as trade shows and corporate events.

‘The international trade team supports businesses of all sizes to confidently import and export’ In total the team helped 734 businesses with international trading through the year. On top of all that it delivered 54 international courses, which attracted 324 attendees. The international trade team supports businesses of all sizes to confidently import and export, build capability and grow successfully in global markets. Between them the team has more than 100 years of combined experience, and provides practical, hands-on support to help navigate the complexities of international trade and achieve global ambitions. It offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support every 42 business network October 2026

Border controls have changed since the UK left the EU

stage of the international journey, ranging from the above to trade webinars; international trade training, including ITOPS (International Trade Operations and Procedures); consultancy support for things such as commodity codes, customs processes, rules of origin, and mock customs audits; trade updates and regulatory briefings; one-to-one business support workshops; an international trade forum; international membership; and a new international business growth service. It supports businesses at every stage of the documentation process, helping to reduce errors, avoid delays at the border, and ensure compliance with UK and international requirements. As part of the continued evolution of trade processes, it is also supporting businesses through the transition to eCarnets (digital ATA Carnets). This new system modernises the

One Air runs flights between East Midlands Airport and Hong Kong

traditional paper carnet, making the process more efficient, secure, and easier to manage when moving goods temporarily across borders. Alongside carnet services, the Chamber's customs declaration service provides a reliable, compliant solution for import and export declarations – managed by trained specialists that understand the complexities of customs procedures. The international trade training team is there to build capability and confidence within businesses, ensuring staff have the knowledge and skills needed to trade effectively on a global stage. It helps businesses carry out a skills analysis, identifying any gaps and recommending the most appropriate training – whether the business is new to exporting or looking to enhance existing expertise. www.emc-dnl.co.uk/services/international

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER INTERNATIONAL TRADE COURSES Customs Compliance Challenge

Changes to tax rules for low-value goods COMMENT

Date: 8 October Time: 9.30am-12.30pm Venue: Online As a company involved in imports, exports, or both how prepared is your business for a customs audit? HMRC’s latest plans include the recruitment of 5,500 compliance staff – meaning scrutiny and audits can only be set to increase. Do you have adequate records and procedures for your international trade activity to demonstrate you satisfy the current regulatory requirements? How well do your staff and departments understand the importance of these and the impact of their activity (or non-activity) – whether directly or indirectly – on the supply chain? This interactive, half-day session will highlight some of the key customs legislation and the type of records you should be keeping, offering practical examples and reliable reference sources to help you with your quest. To gain maximum benefit, you should consider involving members of the following departments: finance, purchasing, export sales, logistics, and quality – though all are welcome. Company directors might also find it useful. Visit: https://tinyurl.com/53htdykd

EU Battery Passport 2027

Insurance specialist and Chamber strategic partner Howden provides an update on changes for low-value imports and exports.

ritish retailers have long struggled to stay competitive against online rivals such as Temu and Shein. The problem isn’t just the fact that these businesses have lower costs – especially labour costs – but that they have also been benefiting from a tax advantage. Under current rules, international vendors can ship parcels worth less than £135 directly to shoppers without having to pay import tax, in what’s called the ‘de minimis’ exemption. However, the Government promised to eliminate the loophole in the 2025 autumn budget, bringing policy in line with the US and Europe.

‘Businesses selling into the EU will need to make sure each product is correctly classified so charges can be calculated properly’ The US dropped exemptions for low-value imports last year, scrapping the previous system where parcels worth less than $800 were exempt from tariffs. The EU is now switching to a system where parcels worth less than €150 will face a €3 charge per item. The UK change was supposed to come into effect in 2029. However, earlier this year, retailers including Marks and Spencer, Argos, Next, Currys and Primark, wrote to the Treasury asking for the change to be made more quickly and suggesting a flat £2.60 charge on each small parcel sent to the UK. The current system, the letter said, represented “a structural advantage for overseas retailers without a footprint in the UK, who undermine retailers that employ millions of people across the country, pay local taxes and pay import duties”.

The Government has pulled the planned changes to October 2028 and promised to do more to level the playing field for high street businesses. As part of a broader overhaul, minsters are also planning to extend the rules to how VAT is collected for businesses trading through online marketplaces, saying the revenue raised by doing this will go towards improvements to the business rates for local businesses. But while many UK retailers may be set to benefit from the changes to the import tax, those that import goods themselves will have to take the hit – and will need to review their existing processes and pricing models. And meanwhile, those businesses that export into the EU are seeing their costs rise. The new €3 customs duty charge per item will apply to parcels imported from outside the EU – including, of course, the UK. Importantly, the charge applies per tariff code, rather than simply per order, so that if a shipment contains products from different categories, each with a different tariff code, the charge could increase for each additional code. So, for example, if a European buys five Tshirts, they’ll pay €3 in customs duty, as all Tshirts fall under the same tariff classification; while buying three T-shirts and a watch brings the cost to €6, as the T-shirts and the watch fall under two different tariff classifications. This means that businesses selling into the EU will need to make sure each product is correctly classified so charges can be calculated properly. You might want to show duties and taxes before payment so that customers understand exactly what they’re paying upfront. You could also consider whether it makes more sense to hold stock in the EU, rather than sending packages from the UK, especially if you’re looking at high volumes of goods.

Date: 8 October Time: 10-11am Venue: Online From 18 February 2027, battery passport requirements will apply to specified categories of batteries placed on the EU market or put into service within the EU. For UK businesses, this is already raising some important questions: Does it apply to the batteries you manufacture, buy, supply or use? What if batteries are contained within equipment or products? Are UK businesses supplying the EU or Northern Ireland affected? Is the manufacturer responsible – or could the obligation sit with you? What information should you be asking suppliers for now? This practical one-hour webinar is designed to help businesses start answering those questions and understand what the forthcoming requirements could mean for them. Visit: https://tinyurl.com/99hf8wem

Intermediate Rules of Origin Date: 8 October Time: 1.15-4.45pm Venue: Online The understanding and application of rules of origin remains a challenge for many businesses, and yet the consequences of noncompliance can be high. Even if you have mastered the basics, the finer detail of a trade agreement is often missed. This intermediate level course builds on a basic understanding of rules of origin (delegates should ideally have completed the full day training on this topic), and explores regional value content and cumulation in greater detail. We also look at the challenges of origin in the light of increased trade measures and how to avoid circumvention by considering strategic business solutions. This is an interactive, half-day session, with examples and worked exercises to illustrate the principles (bring a calculator to join in). Visit: https://tinyurl.com/2t26snpe For details of all our international courses, visit: https://tinyurl.com/2wsr32yr

October 2026 business network

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POLITICS

POLITICS ROUNDING UP LOCAL AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS

Council merger delays must not hit devolution

he chief executive of East Midlands Chamber said gaining devolution for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland should not fall by the wayside after the Government decided to postpone plans to merge local councils. The Government has suspended local council reorganisation following concerns about the legality of the plans. Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire would have all been affected by the changes which would have seen borough, district, county and city councils merged into new, bigger unitary authorities. Derby and Derbyshire would have seen its 10 councils reorganised into two unitaries. The same would have happened in Leicester and Leicestershire, while Nottingham and Nottinghamshire would have seen nine councils reorganised into two unitaries. The plans were developed during Keir Starmer’s time in office to streamline local government – under the argument that fewer council offices would mean less bureaucracy and less expense. The bigger councils would have overseen services such as schools, bin collections, social care, planning, parks and recreation and council tax collection. They were expected to begin delivering services from April 2028.

Local Government Reorganisation is not the same as devolution, which saw the creation of East Midlands Combined County Authority in 2024, which looks after some of the powers previously overseen by Whitehall. The Chamber will continue to lead the newly launched Devolution Leicestershire campaign to create a new unitary authority that can help bring a fairer share of central government funding to Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.

‘Local government reorganisation must not be allowed to delay devolution’ Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner announced the review of the Local Government Reorganisation in the Commons, telling MPs it came in light of new legal advice. A cheer erupted in the chamber as she announced that Leicestershire was among the areas to be reviewed. Tory MPs have been vocal in their opposition to LGR plans in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Mid Leicestershire MP Peter Bedford, Hinckley & Bosworth MP Dr Luke Evans, Harborough, Oadby & Wigston MP Neil O’Brien, South

Leicestershire MP Alberto Costa, were in the House to hear the statement. Reacting to the announcement, Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “The pausing of Local Government Reorganisation should not prevent devolution moving forward at pace in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. “While LGR is important, the priority in LLR must be securing a devolution deal that allows the region to elect a mayor tasked with securing investment, driving growth and putting it back on an equal footing with devolved areas. “Council leaders across LLR back devolution. I hope the Government remains receptive to this approach and that LGR does not distract from devolution.” Sue Tilley, who chairs Leicestershire Business Voice, said: “Local government reorganisation must not be allowed to delay devolution or the investment our region urgently needs. “Leicester and Leicestershire is a £23bn economy with the assets, ambition and business capability to contribute far more to UK growth. “Governance structures matter, but they must not become a barrier to progress. We need clarity, pace and a firm commitment that our region will not be left behind.” Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire are among 14 areas where LGR has been paused.

Nottingham to ban face coverings in public Nottingham has become one of the first cities to introduce powers aimed at tackling the intimidating use of face coverings in public. The restriction, which has been approved as an addition to the city centre Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), will allow authorised officers to make people remove face coverings being used to conceal their identity while committing, or being involved in, crime or anti-social behaviour. The powers can also be used when a covering is worn in a way that causes “intimidation, harassment, alarm or distress”. The council said the changes were prompted by concerns from residents, businesses and visitors about people wearing balaclavas, skeleton masks and other 44 business network October 2026

face coverings without a legitimate reason in the city centre. The council said it was not a blanket ban on face coverings and will only be used in defined circumstances when it is determined a covering is being used to conceal someone’s identity in connection with “crime, anti-social behaviour or intimidating conduct”. People who cover their faces for legitimate reasons – including religious observance, health or medical needs, work, personal safety or other reasonable circumstances – won’t be affected. Nottingham City Council leader Councillor Neghat Khan said: “Our residents should be able to live, work and spend time in Nottingham without feeling frightened or unsafe. That is why

we are taking decisive action and becoming one of the first cities in the country to introduce a restriction of this kind. “This is not about telling people what they can wear or targeting those who have a genuine reason for covering their face. It is about giving authorised officers the power to act where a face covering is being used to help conceal a person’s identity in connection with crime or anti-social behaviour, or where it is worn in a manner that intimidates, harasses, alarms or distresses others. “More than 2,200 people took part in our consultation and over 90% supported this action. We have listened, and we are delivering a firm but proportionate response.”

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POLITICS

Budget must back business

Leicestershire is keen for more devolved powers

The announcement means that changes including the expansion of Leicester’s boundary will be postponed. Charnwood Borough Council leader Councillor Jewel Miah, said: “I welcome the Government's decision to review its decision for local government reorganisation in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. “This is the biggest change to local government in a generation and it is important that any final decisions are taken with full consideration of the evidence and views of local councils and communities. “Charnwood Borough Council has engaged constructively throughout this process and will continue to do so. We remain committed to working together with neighbouring councils and partners to help shape the best possible future for our residents and local services. “I will be meeting with fellow council leaders to discuss the implications of this announcement and possible ways forward for our area. “I also welcome the opportunity to provide any further input into the review.” Leicestershire County Council leader Councillor Dan Harrison said: “This is welcome news. The Government’s flawed plan to expand Leicester risks swallowing up dozens of towns and villages and we are clear that residents do not want it.”

Nottingham is one of the first cities in the UK to restrict the use of face coverings

East Midlands Chamber has welcomed Chancellor John Healey’s commitment to rebuilding the economy – but said help for businesses must be central to the Autumn Budget. On a visit to Chamber strategic partner the Manufacturing Technology Institute, in Coventry, the Chancellor (pictured) said the Government was determined to grow the economy and maintain the country’s place as a global leader in innovation. The Chamber said decentralising more power to combined authorities – including a greater share of business rates – was welcome news. Chamber director of external affairs Richard Blackmore said: “The UK national debt is at a record high, so it was heartening to hear the Chancellor promising to rebuild belief in Britain and in strengthening the UK’s fiscal sustainability. It is a huge ask, but getting Government finances back on track is key to recharging the economy. “One way to support that is by giving greater financial independence to strategic mayoral authorities to back industry at grass roots level. The Chancellor’s backing of a £150m British Business Bank fund for the most innovative scale-ups in the north is positive – but let’s hope it is not an indication that the Government is forgetting about our own region and the challenges new companies face in the East Midlands.

“Mr Healey is absolutely right that inward investment is making Britain the place to do business. But he must remember that, despite the demands on public finances, he has the power to supercharge business growth in the 28 October Budget – by providing East Midlands companies with the resources and added security to thrive. “The Government recently cancelled two major East Midlands road schemes – the A38 junction upgrades in Derbyshire and the A46 Newark Bypass in Nottinghamshire – valued at roughly £900m. “Cutting vital infrastructure plans is not the way to help with growth. This change must be reconsidered. Government must also continue to reopen trade links with Europe, the US and other economic partners to make cross-border business as seamless as possible. “And ongoing work to re-evaluate business rates must continue so that traders, manufactures and small businesses aren’t forced out of premises because of the high costs. “The Government must create the conditions that give industry the confidence to start investing and creating jobs. That includes bringing in more energy support packages, reviewing the slow planning process and investing in skills.” Visit: www.devoleicestershire.org.uk

Mayor welcomes visitor levy

Buxton is among the top tourist destinations in the Peak district

The Mayor of the East Midlands has welcomed Government plans to give English regional mayors powers to introduce a levy on overnight stays. The proposed Overnight Visitor Levy would be reinvested to help attract more visitors and encourage them to stay longer. It would be paid by visitors staying in accommodation such as hotels, guest houses, holiday lets, B&Bs and campsites. A figure of 5% of the cost of accommodation has been suggested for some parts of England. Mayor Claire Ward said: “The East Midlands is an incredible place to visit, and people travel from miles away to enjoy the world-class sport and culture, beautiful countryside, thriving cities, market towns and historic places. But none of these things – whether it is the natural beauty of the Peak District, our heritage buildings, or world

class hospitality – will continue to attract visitors and improve their offer if we do not invest into them. The overnight visitor levy is a way that we can sustain investment – year after year – in the places and experiences that people will return to. “Having seen this work in other places around the world, I am confident that we can make it work here. But to ensure that happens, we will work with partners, businesses and stakeholders to understand what is right for our region, how a levy could be designed to match that, and how any money raised could have the greatest impact.” She said the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) had already committed to growing the region’s visitor economy by £1bnplus by 2035. A visitor levy could help support that by funding things such as events, culture and heritage, public spaces, destination marketing and support for tourism businesses. October 2026 business network

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FEATURE CHAMBER NEWS

ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

FEATURES TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ON ISSUES AND SECTORS THAT MATTER TO BUSINESS

The hidden cost of a delayed container Ian Lees, director, IN Freight Solutions looks at why freight forwarding has become a critical business function in an era of disruption, rising costs and global uncertainty.

hen businesses review their supply chain costs, they often focus on the obvious figures: freight rates, customs charges and transport costs. However, the true cost of disruption is rarely found on an invoice. In today’s interconnected global economy, a delayed shipment can create a chain reaction that affects production schedules, customer relationships, cash flow and business growth. As a result, freight forwarding is no longer simply an operational service. It has become a strategic business function that helps organisations manage risk, improve resilience and maintain competitiveness.

LOOKING BEYOND THE FREIGHT COST Traditionally, freight has often been viewed as a commodity, with businesses seeking the lowest transport rate to move goods from one location to another. While cost remains important, recent years have demonstrated that focusing solely on price can be a false economy. Supply chains have become increasingly vulnerable to geopolitical tensions, changing trade regulations, labour shortages, port congestion and extreme weather events. Even a well-planned shipment can encounter challenges beyond anyone’s control. The businesses that navigate these challenges most successfully are those that look beyond the cost of transportation and consider the wider risks within their supply chain. For many SMEs, a delayed shipment is more than an inconvenience. It can affect customer commitments, cash flow forecasts and growth plans. In a challenging economic climate, supply chain resilience is becoming a competitive advantage.

WHAT DOES ONE DELAYED CONTAINER REALLY COST? Recent events provide a useful example. Earlier this year, a container was loaded and despatched for Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates. At the time of departure, the movement appeared routine, with no indication of the disruption that would follow. However, as tensions escalated across the Middle East, regional supply chains came under increasing pressure. The container arrived at Jebel Ali but became caught in a combination of congestion, operational delays and challenges 46 business network October 2026

associated with the wider geopolitical situation. Months later, the cargo remained stationary, with uncertainty surrounding its onward release and movement. At first glance, many might assume the impact was limited to a delayed delivery. The reality was very different. The customer had significant capital tied up in stock that could not be accessed. Planning became increasingly difficult due to uncertainty around delivery timescales. Valuable management time was diverted into chasing updates and managing stakeholder expectations, while potential sales opportunities remained on hold. The lesson is clear: the cost of supply chain disruption is often measured not in freight charges, but in lost time, delayed revenue, reduced productivity and operational uncertainty.

COMMUNICATION MATTERS One of the greatest frustrations businesses face during disruption is a lack of timely and accurate information. When shipments are delayed, organisations need visibility to make informed decisions. Whether that involves managing customer expectations, adjusting inventory levels or identifying alternative solutions, access to reliable information is crucial. Effective freight forwarding is no longer simply about arranging transportation. It involves monitoring developments, maintaining communication between multiple parties and helping businesses understand their options when circumstances change. In an environment where events unfolding thousands of miles away can impact UK businesses overnight, timely information and proactive planning have become just as important as the physical movement of goods. Forward-thinking businesses are increasingly using technology to improve supply chain visibility. Real-time tracking, predictive analytics and integrated reporting tools can provide earlier warning of delays, helping organisations make faster and more informed decisions before disruption impacts operations.

THREE WAYS BUSINESSES CAN IMPROVE SUPPLY CHAIN RESILIENCE 1. Diversify suppliers and transport routes. 2. Improve visibility and reporting. 3. Develop contingency plans before disruption occurs.

While disruption can never be eliminated entirely, organisations can significantly reduce their exposure to risk. This starts with avoiding over-reliance on a single supplier, carrier or route. Businesses should understand their alternatives before disruption occurs, not after. Greater visibility across the supply chain is equally important. Knowing where goods are, understanding potential risks and having access to reliable updates enables faster and more informed decision-making. Strong partnerships also matter. Businesses that engage logistics expertise early often identify risks sooner and develop more effective contingency plans. Resilience is rarely built during a crisis; it is created through preparation, flexibility and informed decision-making. Businesses that build resilience into their supply chains are often better positioned to take advantage of new opportunities. Greater visibility and flexibility can help organisations respond more quickly to customer demand, enter new markets with confidence and adapt to changing trading conditions without significant disruption.

FREIGHT FORWARDING AS A STRATEGIC ASSET Innovation is often associated with technology, automation and artificial intelligence. Yet some of the most valuable innovation comes from adopting a more strategic approach to supply chain management. Freight forwarding has evolved well beyond the traditional task of moving cargo from A to B. Today, it is about helping businesses manage complexity, minimise risk and maintain continuity in an increasingly uncertain world. As global trade continues to evolve, organisations that treat freight forwarding as a strategic partnership rather than a transactional purchase will be better positioned to protect their supply chains, support growth and maintain customer confidence. In an increasingly uncertain trading environment, the most resilient businesses will be those that view their supply chain as a strategic asset rather than an operational necessity. When disruption occurs, the real question is not what a shipment costs to move, but what a delay could ultimately cost the business.

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ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

FEATURE

October 2026 business network

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CHAMBER FEATURE NEWS

ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

How to become an entrepreneur

You have a fantastic business idea that the world needs to hear – but how can you make it a viable business? Business Network offers its top tips on how to become a successful entrepreneur.

1. MAKE A SOLID BUSINESS PLAN A business plan concretises your business ideas on paper. It not only helps you envision how your business will work, but it will outline your operational and financial roadmap. A good business plan will provide financial viability and market awareness to outside investors or banks, helping you secure the funding you need.

2. KNOW YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE To successfully sell a product or service, you need to know your customers well. You should understand who your customers are, what they like, when and where to engage with them, where they are located and how they obtain information. Do thorough research to make sure your message gets to your intended audience.

3. FIND A MENTOR AND BUILD A NETWORK If you want to hone your entrepreneurial skills and meet likeminded people who can propel your career forward, consider finding mentors and building a professional network. Networking events, such as those run by the Chamber, conferences, trade shows and training courses offer great opportunities to meet other business owners that you can learn from. Established entrepreneurs were once in your position – they know the pitfalls facing new businesses and can offer invaluable advice for those starting out.

4. PROMOTE YOURSELF As a new business, it is important to shout about yourself to make sure that you’re heard and that your customers can find you. Social media is an important tool for customer engagement: keep up with trends, such as short form video, to make sure that you’re standing out from the crowd. A good website need not be expensive, but it’s a vital tool for signposting customers to your business. But social media isn’t the only way to get your message out there. Pitch events are a great way of securing outside investment – just make sure you have practiced and perfected your elevator pitch!

5. COME UP WITH NEW IDEAS Your first idea might be a winner, but a successful entrepreneur should always be thinking of new and creative ideas in order to stay ahead in a competitive market. Hiring a diverse team is a great way of ensuring your company always stays fresh and innovative – people from different backgrounds can offer different points of view and new ways of thinking.

6. GET FEEDBACK For a new business, getting feedback is a vital step for ensuring success. Everyone wants positive reviews – great testimonials can lead to more sales, after all – but less than positive reviews can be helpful too, especially if they help you improve your product or service. These direct, real-world insights can help you refine products, fix early mistakes and build customer loyalty. By incorporating customer feedback into product updates, you can fine-tune your offerings to better align with customer needs. 48 business network October 2026

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ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

FEATURE

October 2026 business network

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FOCUS

PROFILE

As this year’s East Midlands Energy Conference approaches, Business Network looks at the key issues surrounding energy supply in the region.

The conference is organised by the Chamber and the University of Nottingham Energy Institute

OUR REGION CAN BE PIONEER IN THIS FIELD

his month’s Focus pages coincide with the build-up to the 2026 East Midlands Energy Conference, which takes place at the Rolls-Royce Learning & Development Centre on 3 November. The next few pages will consider some of the key issues surrounding energy supply – from its costs and production, to the ways in which industry is trying to make it clean, renewable and more efficient. Next month’s conference which will showcase what the region is doing to pioneer future energy provision, storage and distribution. Organised by the Chamber in partnership with the University of Nottingham Energy Institute, the free-to-attend event runs from 9am-1.30pm and focuses on clean energy innovation and its impact on business costs and decarbonisation.

It comes at a time that businesses face the dual challenges of rising costs and becoming more sustainable – and speakers will address how regional advancements in fission, fusion and hydrogen technologies will be able to reshape the economy. Speakers include Stephen Knight-Gregson – head of external affairs, SI North at National Grid – who will talk about “The Great Grid Upgrade”, highlighting plans to update the network to boost power capacity, and opening up supply chain opportunities for small and medium enterprises. (See our Big Interview on page 21 for more on that). Jenny Allen from the National Energy Systems Operator (NESO) will introduce the Regional Energy Strategic Plan, aimed at aligning grid capacity with growing business demands across the East Midlands. There will also be input from the University of Nottingham Energy Institute on the real-world research solutions spanning power generation, storage and smarter transmission. The conference features panel discussions and structured networking lunches, offering attendees a platform to discuss regional challenges. Additional content will be added in the coming weeks.

Dan Molloy (pictured) is the founder, managing director and “energy wizard” at energy broker Chesterfieldbased Choice Utility, which employs four people. Q. Tell us about the business? A. Choice Utility was born at the worst possible time (or the best, depending on your outlook), in July 2022. Just one month later Russia entered the Ukraine and so began the greatest energy crisis in modern history. Energy costs spiralled for businesses looking for new contracts. Retail gas prices surged from 4p/kwh to more than 20p/kwh, and electricity spiked from 20p/kwh to more than £1/kwh, with Government support only confirmed until April 2023. We had a decision to make, get companies signed up to huge rates in the hope of more

Registration is open to all businesses, though members must log in to secure tickets. Book at: https://tinyurl.com/2ph5ysa2 Stephen Knight-Gregson of the SI North at National Grid will speak at the conference

50 business network October 2026

For information on content and sponsorship opportunities, contact the Chamber’s policy team at: policy@emc-dnl.co.uk

Dan and the team at Choice Utility

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ENERGY STRATEGY WILL POWER YOUR BUSINESS help, or lose thousands in costs. We took the latter. Out of contract rates were better than contracted rates so we did what was best for businesses and for the clients we didn’t even have yet. We wanted to make things easier for businesses, we wanted to really help them with costs and ensure they got the best advice, whatever the cost to us. It cost us a lot. Taking into account costs of running the business and business we turned away it cost us more than £50,000, but it was a cost we needed to swallow for the sake of gaining trust with any future clients. Happily, it worked out as the turn of the new year (2023) saw a huge drop and so many of the customers and businesses we told to hang on were rewarded with far better contract offers for the future. With this year marking our fourth birthday we have a loyal client base that has allowed us to invest any profits we’ve made into our new system VOLT [a platform designed to give

clients a clearer overview of their sites, meters, contracts, renewals and supplier issues all in one place] to make everything as visual as possible for our clients. Our ability to manage clients is not only clearer for single businesses but we now specialise in businesses that work over multiple sites.

‘Our USP is that Choice Utility operates as an energy consultancy rather than simply arranging contracts’ Q. Who are your main customers? A. Our main customers are UK businesses ranging from SMEs to larger, multi-site organisations across sectors such as hospitality, manufacturing, leisure, retail, charities and the public-sector. Our USP is that Choice Utility operates as an energy consultancy rather than simply arranging contracts – we combine market insight, competitive procurement, account management and ongoing support to give clients clearer control over their energy position. The problems clients raise most often are rising and unpredictable costs, confusion around renewal timing and contract terms, difficulty comparing supplier offers, complex multi-site portfolios, incorrect bills or meter reads, and the frustration of dealing with suppliers when something goes wrong. Our role is to simplify that process, secure the right solution for the business and remain involved throughout the contract – not disappear once it is signed. Q. What does your day-to-day role involve? A. My role has changed a lot through the four short years we have been going. What keeps me so motivated is how different my day to day can be. As managing director, I oversee the direction of the business, our client relationships and the quality of service we provide across energy procurement, account management and wider consultancy support. Day-to-day, my role involves working closely with clients on their energy strategy and

renewals, reviewing market conditions, supporting larger or more complex tenders, managing supplier relationships and helping resolve issues such as billing disputes, contract queries and meter-related problems. I also lead the development of the business, including our systems, processes, partnerships and team, ensuring that Choice Utility continues to provide practical, transparent and long-term support rather than simply arranging energy contracts. Q. What challenges have you faced in recent times? A. Where to start? The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the fallout into the energy markets; world leaders have changed in almost every major player in the energy market; strikes in Australia; delays and more delays in Hinckley point C; regulation changes; increasing scale of carbon-focused businesses; ESG reporting – and that’s only a small snippet of challenges in our industry. Add on to that the challenges of any new business – cash flow, marketing, financing, competition, never mind the unfortunate reputation our industry has and the challenge of changing that opinion. Then add the personal challenges, having two beautiful daughters during this period made the sleepless nights a little more sleepless but ultimately gave me the drive to show them how to do the right thing and overcome adversities. Q. What are the company’s plans for the future? A. Truthfully, we have no ambitions to have hundreds of staff or chase growth over principal and integrity. Steady, organic growth to establish ourselves in a highly competitive industry and especially as the industry leaders in multi-site management. Q. How has the Chamber helped? A. We’ve been members for around three years and truthfully never really made the membership work for us. Now we have a stronger foundation to build off, we can commit ourselves to meeting more Chamber members and understand the challenges they face in our market and where we can help. October 2026 business network

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ENERGY

Rolls-Royce will build and maintain reactors for Dreadnought submarines

NUCLEAR AND CLEANER ENERGY ARE A STEP NEARER

he East Midlands is at the heart of the country’s nuclear ambitions. The government is investing heavily in nuclear fusion, with the country’s first Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) reactor being developed for the former West Burton power station site in north Nottinghamshire. If all goes to plan, that will see a way of using the same principle that powers the sun and the stars to smash (or fuse) hydrogen atoms together and create vast amounts of energy – while avoiding the hazardous waste of traditional fission nuclear reactions. Just down the road, the derelict site of the former Cottam power station is becoming the UK's first nuclear-powered data centre campus, which could create thousands of construction jobs and long-term skilled roles. The nuclear development is being led by EDF and Holtec International, using Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to provide clean power for energy-hungry data centres at the site.

Artist’s impression of a Rolls-Royce small modular reactor

52 business network October 2026

SMRs are smaller and quicker to build than traditional nuclear power stations but, between them, can still provide significant power. In Derby, meanwhile, Rolls-Royce SMR has a deal with Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBEN) to develop SMRs. That could support thousands of jobs at its peak, and thousands more across the supply chain – while helping strengthen national energy security and economic growth. The mini-reactors will be built at Wylfa, on the north coast of Anglesey, with modular, factory-made parts. Another division of that business, Rolls-Royce Submarines, is creating hundreds of jobs supporting its work within the AUKUS nuclear submarine programme. A trilateral security and defence partnership between Australia, the UK and the US will see the nations work together on a range of capabilities, including a conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarine capability for Australia. The Government has just announced a major investment in the next phase of Britain's own Dreadnought submarine programme – with Rolls-Royce designing, building and maintaining the power systems. Supporting the supply chain in this multibillion pound sector is Derby-based NucCol, established two years ago as a spin-out from the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (NAMRC). It was created in response to a growing need for closer, more efficient collaboration in the UK’s nuclear and clean energy manufacturing capabilities – reducing duplication and enabling organisations to work together more effectively. In the facing article, its founder and chief executive Professor Andrew Storer FNuc sets out the next steps in ensuring the country’s nuclear supply chain is fit for purpose in a competitive global market:

Andrew Storer, founder and chief executive of NucCol

The UK’s nuclear renaissance will not be constrained by ambition; it will be constrained by supply chain capacity. For decades, the nuclear sector has operated in a siloed manner, with companies focused on their own programmes and supply chain needs, assuming their supply chain plans are resilient to broader market programmes and demands. With this thinking and this lack of alignment, supply chain conflicts are inevitable, as it ramps up to meet impending nuclear growth. We have recently seen civil and military coming together to address skills challenges and ensure certainty of programme delivery – the same collaborative approach now needs to extend beyond skills to supply chain planning. Manufacturers, developers, government and investors all need a shared understanding of future demand if the UK is to deliver multiple nuclear programmes simultaneously. For many years, the NucCol team has gathered information through their individual and collective engagements in the sector – through the Catapult network, sector initiatives such as Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) and through industry experiences. Without a clear picture of aggregated demand across current and future nuclear programmes, it

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A Rolls-Royce SMR engineer at work

is difficult to assess whether sufficient UK manufacturing capacity exists, where future constraints may emerge, and where investment should be targeted. NucCol fills this gap between suppliers and demand. Our Supply Chain Readiness Level (SCRL) assessments, powered by our company database, let us target companies by capability, accreditation or region to find and expose gaps in the supply chain. Coupled with the knowledge we’ve built through experience and the F4N (Fit 4 Nuclear) programme, that’s how we aim to support the supply chain at its core. We’re also working to extend that reach beyond the UK, building relationships with partners internationally so that companies on our programme aren't limited to domestic opportunities alone.

‘Understanding future nuclear demand is critical to shaping investment decisions, capability development and long-term growth strategies’ One of the most common questions we encounter is, “What is the scale of the opportunity, and when will demand occur?” For many UK businesses, understanding future nuclear demand is critical to shaping investment decisions, capability development and long-term growth strategies. Our Demand Model will provide those companies on the NucCol F4N programme with the market intelligence needed to support their investment planning, target diversification opportunities, and address emerging UK supply chain pinch points. While significant effort has been devoted to understanding the capabilities and gaps within the UK nuclear supply chain, far less attention has been given to understanding whether the sector has the capacity to meet future demand. The Demand Model helps address this challenge by providing insight into: • Future demand across UK nuclear programmes. • Potential manufacturing capacity constraints. • Priority areas for supply chain investment and development. • Opportunities to strengthen domestic capability. This insight helps determine whether demand peaks can be managed through programme sequencing to reduce pressure on the supply chain or whether sustained demand justifies investment in additional UK manufacturing

capability and capacity. Providing this level of foresight enables industry, developers and government to make informed decisions early, giving the supply chain the time needed to invest, grow and respond before constraints impact programme delivery. Developing new manufacturing capability and capacity takes time, making early visibility essential. By providing forward-looking intelligence, the Demand Model enables the sector to move from reacting to supply chain constraints to proactively planning the investments and interventions needed. The nuclear sector has spent years asking whether the UK supply chain has the skills and capability to deliver. The more pressing question now is whether it has the capacity to deliver everything currently being planned, and that challenge is growing by the month. On the defence side alone, the demand is formidable. The Dreadnought-class programme continues at pace, alongside the UK’s commitment to build a new fleet of SSN-AUKUS attack submarines. Both classes share RollsRoyce reactor technology. The Government has backed this with a significant funding commitment over the Spending Review period to move toward continuous submarine production. Alongside the UK’s gigawatt-scale reactor programme, the pipeline of SMR and AMR (compact advanced modular reactors) ambition is now substantial. Rolls-Royce SMR is progressing with its first fleet of reactors. Synthos Green Energy has proposed a fleet of GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRs.

Holtec and EDF have submitted proposals for SMR-300 reactors at Cottam. Westinghouse is looking at a fleet of AP300 SMRs. And Centrica and X-energy are advancing plans for Xe-100 high-temperature gas reactors at Hartlepool. Then there’s fusion. STEP’s prototype plant at West Burton has moved from research into delivery, with a construction partner now appointed and early enabling works under way. It is a programme that, alongside the wider Trent Supercluster, will draw further on the same regional supply chain, skills base and construction capacity as the reactor fleet around it. Behind all of this sits the UK’s ongoing decommissioning mission. The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority group already spends significant sums annually with its supply chain, a figure only set to grow as the AGR (Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor) fleet transfers to it over the coming decades. Individually, each of these is a credible, wellbacked programme. Collectively, defence, civil new build, fusion and decommissioning together have the potential to transform the scale of demand placed on the UK supply chain, all drawing on the same limited pool. Without a shared understanding of that future demand, which the Demand Model could provide, we risk creating avoidable bottlenecks, delaying projects, and missing a once-in-ageneration opportunity for UK industry. Better data, greater collaboration, and earlier investment decisions won't just improve delivery. They will determine whether the UK’s nuclear ambitions become reality. October 2026 business network

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FOCUS

ENERGY

Roadgas supplies liquefied and compressed natural gas

STATION GROWTH WILL FUEL BIO-LNG USE FOR HAULIERS A Nottingham-based supplier of liquefied and compressed natural gas and biomethane refuelling station infrastructure is rolling out a national network of biomethane (Bio-LNG) refuelling stations for the UK haulage sector. This Roadgas network will enable heavy goods vehicles to fuel with renewable Bio-LNG at motorway forecourts and depot sites – giving them access to a fuel that management said can cut fleet CO2 emissions by more than 80% compared to diesel. Roadgas is installing 12 new Bio-LNG stations across key freight routes throughout 2026 on behalf of Pretoria Energy, the UK’s biggest bioLNG supplier.

‘By expanding beyond isolated sites, we’re making low-carbon gas an accessible, mainstream fuel for freight’ Roadgas managing director David Rix said the business was committed to “fuelling greener fleets”. He said: “By combining biomethane with expanded refuelling sites, we are delivering a transparent solution for UK haulage. “Operators can track the fuel’s journey from organic feedstock all the way to the truck’s tank. “This network puts Bio-LNG stations on the map for UK hauliers. By expanding beyond isolated sites, we’re making low-carbon gas an accessible, mainstream fuel for freight. “Now fleets can earn their ESG stripes with real, measurable emission cuts.” The Bio-LNG network will include both publicaccess stations – open 24/7 to any HGV – and private depot sites. Each will be equipped with high-flow cryogenic dispensers and large-capacity LNG tanks, enabling refuelling times of only a few minutes per truck. Key freight routes from the South East, Midlands and North will be served, with more stations coming online in 2027.

Roadgas is installing new Bio-LNG stations across key freight routes

54 business network October 2026

GET PLUGGED IN TO ROOFTOP SOLAR PANELS Leicester electrical contractor Fusion 360 supplies, installs and maintains electrical and energy-saving systems including solar panels on large structures. Here commercial director Joanne Skinner outlines how rooftop solar panels are becoming an increasingly important part of the energy strategies for organisations in more and more sectors. She considers one that is of particular significance to the region: factories, chilled warehouses and distribution centres of food and drink.

COMMENT

Joanne Skinner of Fusion 360

bird’s-eye view of any commercial estate across the UK will increasingly reveal hundreds of solar panels on the roofs of factories and warehouses, helping to produce the energy they need. And, with the addition of conflict in the Middle East and global uncertainty over energy costs and supplies, even more food and drink companies are looking to invest in solar energy. One of the strongest benefits of installing solar panels is the reduced reliance on mains energy. Add to that the increased sustainability and lower costs, particularly when powering energy-hungry refrigeration and chillers, and it’s perhaps clear why we’re seeing growing interest from businesses helping to feed Britain. Due to the widespread use of refrigeration and chillers within processing and storage facilities, as well as the energy consumed by

refrigerated trailers, the food and drink sector can be highly energy-dependent. International instability caused by the pandemic and wars in Europe and Asia has encouraged many UK food and drink companies to strengthen their supply chains and take measures to reduce risks from fluctuating energy costs. Fusion 360 specialises in electrical design and installation, including new-building electrics, communications networking and installing solar PV panels on both new and existing buildings. The firm recently completed a major project for Aldi’s regional distribution centre in Bathgate, Scotland, where it replaced over 4,000 solar panels with the latest technology to provide selfgenerated and lower-cost electricity. From food factories to packing plants and distribution warehouses, many food and drink related companies have expansive roofs which lend themselves well to solar energy. With continuous advances in PV technology, every new generation of solar panels is delivering greater power, longer life and a faster return-on-investment. Depending on the customer’s requirements and grid connection, surplus power can either be restricted from entering the grid or exported where suitable arrangements are in place. Since the beginning of 2026, and the impact of the US-Iran conflict in particular, Fusion 360 has reported a notable increase in enquiries, particularly from companies related to food and drink. Businesses tell us they’re looking to gain greater control over their energy use and make costs both lower and more predictable. With continuing inflationary pressure across the food sector, investing in onsite solar is one practical way businesses can reduce their exposure to volatile electricity prices.

Warehouses are increasingly investing in solar panels

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WE’RE BLOWING THE BENEFITS OF WIND

Octopus Energy CEO Greg Jackson

he UK has spent around £1.2bn so far this year turning off wind farms and switching on gas plants instead. Data by Octopus Energy’s Wasted Wind tracker suggests Britain’s wasted wind bill is rising fast under the current electricity market design, which system operator NESO recommended replacing years ago. Octopus said the costs of wasted had more than doubled in just two years. It said the problem was due to the fact that all too often the grid can’t move all the electricity from where it is being generated to where it is needed – meaning wind farms in Scotland are regularly paid to turn off while expensive gas plants close to demand centres in the south are fired up instead. The system operator predicts so-called constraint costs could rise to £3.2bn over the next 12 months, while Octopus said the government has warned costs could reach up to £10bn by 2030. Octopus founder and chief executive Greg Jackson said one way to reduce the cost of wasted power would be to move to a devolved electricity market that better reflects where power is being generated and where it is

needed. He cited analysis by FTI showing that that would dramatically reduce system inefficiency and lower bills for every home and business in the country, with an estimated typical household saving up to £114 a year.

‘The way Britain’s electricity system is run is bonkers’ He said: “The way Britain’s electricity system is run is bonkers – you wouldn’t grow tomatoes in your garden, only to bin them and buy expensive, imported ones from the shop. “So why are we doing the same thing with electricity? We should use this wind to give people cheap power locally, instead of paying billions to throw it away. “That’d be a welcome relief for families and businesses – it’s low hanging fruit that should absolutely appeal to a government which is focused on cost of living and devolution.” The Government has previously said The Government said it was not planning to split the country into different zones.

STEPPING UP FOR SUPPLY CHAIN OPPORTUNITIES The organisation delivering the STEP programme to build the UK’s first prototype fusion power plant welcomed hundreds of businesses from across the UK to Nottinghamshire to discuss supply chain opportunities for the massive project. STEP Fusion is the £1.3bn Government-backed programme to build a prototype fusion power plant at West Burton, near Retford. Work to redevelop the 800-acre site and establish the supply chain needed to deliver the programme is already underway. A two-day “meet the buyer” event at The Bridge Skills Hub in Worksop brought together

How a STEP prototype fusion energy plant would look

delivery partners and businesses from across the UK to discuss future opportunities. Dan Bishop, chief commercial officer at UK Fusion Energy, which is delivering the STEP programme, said: “We have had hundreds of potential suppliers talking to us and what that shows is both the sheer scale of the opportunities in this programme and the appetite among businesses across the UK to get involved.

‘Building a successful fusion energy programme will require collaboration across a wide range of industries and disciplines’ “While we have clear routes for firms to engage with us – including our online supplier portal – these face-to-face conversations have been immensely valuable in helping us to identify companies with the capacity to support a project of global significance. “Building a successful fusion energy programme will require collaboration across a wide range of industries and disciplines. Events like this help us identify capability, build relationships and ensure that businesses understand how they can engage with future opportunities as the programme develops.” The West Burton site is being redeveloped by the ILIOS Consortium, led by Kier and Nuvia.

A STEP tokamak machine

Simon Matthews, programme director for ILIOS, said: “Our teams are on site at West Burton and already working at pace to develop the work packages needed for its redevelopment into a national and international energy technology destination. “We have been talking to businesses who can provide everything from construction materials to civil engineering services and what this event has shown us is that there are clear opportunities to support local and regional businesses in the East Midlands, Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire – STEP is already creating jobs and putting money back into the economy.” The Worksop event was organised to help businesses understand the scale of the opportunities emerging through STEP Fusion and the redevelopment of the West Burton site, while providing direct access to the teams responsible for delivering the programme. Representatives from UK Fusion Energy, ILIOS, Tokamak Energy, Dassault Systèmes and UKAEA met suppliers from engineering, manufacturing, construction, logistics and professional services. October 2026 business network

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FEATURE

FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES

Establishing trust in AI By Robert Brown (pictured), consultant at ISOConsultants.co.uk

rtificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t some experimental sandbox or tech fad. It’s a modern driving force essential in business. From predictive analytics in finance to workflow streamlining or even just help writing emails. AI implementation is expanding at unprecedented speeds. Some decry this use of AI and with arguably good reason; unfortunately we cannot easily unring that bell and our rapid velocity at introducing AI presents a critical paradox: How can we trust AI output at both executive levels and communicate this to our customers and the wider general public? We’ve already seen cases of algorithmic bias, model ‘hallucination’ and data privacy vulnerabilities; these can open potential routes of liability for businesses and if you weren’t aware, there are already regulations in place like the EU’s AI Act. This all adds up to one glaringly evident thought: deploying AI without any structured oversight is an unacceptably high risk, if not just blatant operational suicide. If you’re familiar with the management of risk in business operations then you’ve probably heard of the International Organisation for Standardisation (also known by ISO) they’ve provided guidelines for business best practices for over 80 years; their greatest hits include ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety), ISO 27001 (Information Security) and more. In order to help companies move beyond reactive damage control for the use of AI, ISO have developed a new standard; ISO 42001, the international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management. This standard is structured to help businesses manage and utilise AI systems whilst ensuring responsible and ethical development, ultimately to help establish systems of trust, traceability, transparency and reliability across your businesses AI operations.

STRATEGIC OVERSIGHT IN AN UNPREDICTABLE LANDSCAPE It’s tempting to oversimplify and view ISO standards in general as just checkbox systems at times, especially some more than others, because they have predictable outcomes and static inputs/outputs. However, AI systems are more dynamic and non-deterministic. They learn, adapt, process vast amounts of data and make autonomous decisions in real time. ISO 42001 addresses this gap by shifting governance from reactive damage control to proactive management across various core considerations: 56 business network October 2026

• Governance and accountability: Establish clear lines of process ownership, ethical boundaries and ensure leadership take active ownership of AI outcomes. • Impact and risk management: Be able to evaluate and assess for algorithmic bias, potential AI model drift, prove your own data provenance and identify/compare potential societal impacts before and after deployment. • Operational controls: Build reproducible processes for AI model documentation, identify and define your AI lifecycle, make sure you have oversight covering thirdparty vendors.

TURN TRUST AND GOVERNANCE INTO A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE The value of ISO 42001 lies in transforming governance from a defensive barrier into a market differentiator. It is a misconception to view governance as a brake on innovation. The reality is, as AI integration expands, being fast won’t be a dominant buying criteria for long. Clients and consumers alike already want verifiable proof that AI tools they rely on are safe, transparent and compliant. ISO 42001 establishes that proof, adopting its principles and getting certified by a UKAS accredited certification body signals to your market and your customers, that your business treats AI governance with the same rigor as financial control and data security.

THE FIRST STEP TOWARD ADOPTION The sooner you establish a framework the easier it will be to mitigate any technical debt or operational disruption that could be created by scrambling to retrofit compliance into legacy systems down the line. But getting started doesn't require a total overhaul immediately, you can begin with these steps: 1. Inventory your AI ecosystem: Catalogue all active algorithms, automated decision systems and vendorsupplied AI tools being used across your business. 2. Get leadership buy-in: Frame AI governance as a strategic catalyst to improve risk management and benefit to business reputation. 3. Do a Gap Analysis: Review your existing controls and policies and compare them to the requirements of ISO 42001. 4. Ask for help if you need it: There are many consultants like us operating nationwide, you can either approach them direct or speak to a certification body and they’ll likely refer you to some good options.

‘Deploying AI without any structured oversight is an unacceptably high risk, if not just blatant operational suicide’

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FEATURE

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Turning waste into a reliable energy source

cross the UK and beyond, waste is no longer viewed purely as something to manage. It is increasingly seen as a resource that can deliver value. Energy from Waste (EfW) plants are a clear example of that shift, converting everyday refuse into electricity and heat. For many organisations, this is where sustainability targets, operational performance, and energy resilience meet. However, turning mixed, unpredictable waste into a stable energy source is anything but simple.

GENERATING CONSISTENT ENERGY FROM INCONSISTENT FUEL At a glance, the principle is straightforward. Waste is burned, heat is generated, and that heat is used to produce electricity. Behind that is a far more complex process. Municipal waste is constantly changing in composition. Moisture levels, material types, and calorific value all vary, sometimes within the same day. Maintaining a steady combustion process requires careful control. Operators are working within strict environmental requirements, where combustion must be complete and conditions tightly maintained to ensure harmful compounds are destroyed. That balance is not easy to hold. If combustion drifts, efficiency drops and emissions can rise. Burn too conservatively and valuable energy is left behind.

‘Continuous thermal monitoring helps identify unusual build‑up early, allowing action before escalation’ SEEING INSIDE THE PROCESS WITH THERMAL IMAGING Inside the furnace, temperatures can exceed 850 °C, with flames, ash, and particulates limiting visibility. Historically, operators have relied on indirect burner readings or intermittent checks, leaving gaps between what is happening and what can be confirmed. This is where LAND’s fixed thermal imaging is starting to make a measurable difference. By providing continuous, non‑contact temperature measurement across the furnace and boiler, operators gain a real-time view of the process. Instead of reacting after the fact, operational

Furnace conditions visualised using LAND thermal imaging

teams can adjust airflows, manage combustion zones, and respond to changing waste conditions as they happen.

MANAGING RISK BEFORE IT BECOMES DISRUPTIVE Within the boiler itself, early signs of failure are often subtle. A small drop in temperature may point to a developing tube leak. Without early detection, this can progress into a larger fault and unplanned downtime. A build-up of carbon on the furnace walls and grate can also cause suboptimal burning. By identifying these changes earlier, operators can plan maintenance rather than respond to failure. It is a controlled way of running what is inherently a demanding process. Outside the furnace and boiler, waste storage areas can develop hot spots due to self-heating and prolonged storage. Left unchecked, these can lead to fires and operational disruption. Continuous thermal monitoring helps identify unusual build‑up early, allowing action before escalation.

BALANCING PERFORMANCE WITH COMPLIANCE Meeting emissions standards is a constant requirement for EfW plants. Maintaining the right combustion conditions is central to that. Accurate, continuous temperature measurement helps ensure those conditions remain within required limits, supporting compliance without compromising efficiency. At the same time, improved control allows more energy to be recovered from each load of waste.

A stable process does not just reduce risk; it makes better use of the fuel that is already there.

OPERATING WITH GREATER INSIGHT AND CONTROL EfW as a concept has been around for decades. What is changing is how precisely it can be controlled. Better visibility, more reliable data, and closer integration with plant systems allow operators to run with greater confidence and consistency. The process becomes less about reacting to issues and more about maintaining steady, optimised performance. For businesses across the East Midlands and beyond, the wider relevance is clear. Whether directly involved in energy, manufacturing, or supply chains that depend on stable utilities, the same principle applies. Better insight leads to better decisions. EfW shows how that plays out in practice. It shows that even in environments where conditions are variable and demanding, a clearer view of what is happening can make a measurable difference. To learn more about how LAND supports Energy from Waste applications, visit: www.ametek-land.com

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FEATURE

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FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES

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FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES

FEATURE

October 2026 business network

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FEATURE

FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES

How to not make a mess with AI By Alistair Wilson, (pictured), CEO, flowmondo

ots of companies want AI. Nine times out of ten, what they need is automation. Everyone knows there is a lot of hype around AI, but it’s still easy to feel you’re being left behind. We help dozens of service companies improve their businesses with AI and automation every month. My chief warning to those getting started is this: AI is the fastest way to scale a mess. Ever notice how ChatGPT or Claude does the same task slightly differently every time you ask? Those discrepancies might be acceptable in a single chat with a human to catch and correct them. But deploy AI systematically across your business, and those small deviations scale into a real mess. Here are three practical insights to help you get started: 1. Most inefficiency hides in the mundane and doesn’t need AI Many businesses come to us with grand visions of agents doing their most complex work. I’m sorry to say this is the worst place to start. Begin instead where your people copy information from one system to another without any deep logic. The good news: this does not need AI. Tools like Zapier or Make get those systems talking without code. This is called “deterministic automation”, and I describe it as “if this, then that”. 2. Get your data and software in order Heard the phrase “Garbage in, garbage out”? This must be central to your thinking when you bring AI into your processes. Generative AI is brilliant at producing precisely the wrong thing, and few things are more embarrassing than clients pointing out errors in your work. You cannot scale an AI-enabled system until you can reliably constrain it with facts, figures and strict output formats governed centrally within your systems. If you are serious about scaling with automation and AI, choose software that lets your data flow in and out. An API (Application Programming Interface) is essential, so ask your vendor if your app has one. The tools you select should ultimately house the information currently stored in the handful of spreadsheets your business currently can’t operate without. 3. Automate your processes as they are, optimise them later This may sound backwards. We all know how many of our processes could be improved. But when automating a process, it is not the moment to also redesign it. My team has delivered over 3,000 AI and automation solutions, and the most effective ones start by replicating what a person can demonstrate in granular detail from first-hand knowledge. People know more than they can say. They can show you what they do far more effectively than anyone can draw it in a workflow diagram. We call it a workflow demonstration. Automating a process “as is” means three things: the process is visible and known, the exact end product is defined (a proposal or an invoice, for example), and you can check the automation’s accuracy against that “done perfectly” template. Once the automation works, optimising usually means a couple of tweaks inside your automation platform. That is also the right time to ask where AI can add value. Sometimes it does, sometimes it doesn’t. The companies that get lasting value from the latest technology are rarely the ones chasing the cleverest model or the showiest use cases. They fixed the boring copy-andpaste tasks, cleaned their data, and only then asked where AI belonged. Start there, and you will not scale a mess. 60 business network October 2026

‘The companies that get lasting value from the latest technology are rarely the ones chasing the cleverest model’

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FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES

FEATURE

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

150+ businesses. One lesson.

Adoption beats ambition Every business we've worked with had Microsoft Copilot. Most weren't using it properly

cross more than 150 workshops and adoption programmes delivered throughout the UK, we've seen the same story play out. Businesses invest in Microsoft 365 Copilot expecting instant transformation, then wonder why usage stalls, ROI is unclear and licences sit unused months later.

The problem is rarely the technology. It's the absence of a plan. RorTech Partners helps business leaders across the UK turn Copilot licences into measurable

business value. Based in Nottinghamshire, we combine hands-on training, practical use cases, clear governance and effective technology leadership, so your teams actually adopt AI, not just access it. One client cut tender preparation time from eight days to three within weeks of our adoption programme. That was a targeted effort to find a ‘problem’ process, identify a solution, and prove an ROI. Another reduced finance reporting from a full day each week to a 20-minute Monday morning task.

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That's the difference a structured approach makes – rather than buying licenses and hoping for a positive outcome.

Adam Blackwell (pictured) Managing director of RorTech Partners E: info@rortech.co.uk T: 01623 386 876

Ambition gets you the licence. Adoption gets you the results.

What we do: • AI and Microsoft Copilot readiness assessments, so you invest with confidence • Hands-on adoption workshops that build real, everyday capability • Fractional AI and IT leadership, without the full-time cost • Ongoing support and governance to sustain momentum. October 2026 business network

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DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY

DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY THE CUTTING-EDGE SECTOR THAT IMPACTS THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS

MEMBER PROFILE: IMPRESS VIDEO Derby-based Impress Video employs five people plus a “trusted network of specialist freelancers”. Creative director Gurmit Samra sums up the business.

e are an award-winning video production company, helping businesses communicate more effectively through high-quality video content. Since launching in 2014, we’ve grown from a small production company into a trusted creative partner for organisations across the UK. We’ve experienced steady year-on-year growth and continue to invest in our team, technology and creative capabilities as demand for strategic video content increases. We provide end-to-end video production services, including creative strategy, concept development, scripting, filming, editing, animation and motion graphics. Our work includes TV adverts, corporate films, product videos, recruitment campaigns, customer case studies, training and e-learning content, photography and drone filming. Our clients range from local SMEs to national and international organisations across sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, engineering, professional services and technology. We’ve worked with organisations including EY, OCU Group, Nestle and Sky AdSmart advertisers.

AI tool to manage travel bookings A travel management company has become one of the first in the UK to allow clients to book and manage business travel through AI assistants including ChatGPT, Claude and Microsoft Copilot. Identity Travel has launched a new business travel technology powered by Vibe Systems so that clients can book business travel by simply saying phrases such as “I want to be in Manchester by 9, home the following night, and I’d prefer to stay in a hotel within a 10-minute walk of my last meeting”. The system works as a bridge between the AI assistant a traveller is already using and Identity Travel’s Vibe-powered booking platform. Bookings still run through the client’s approved suppliers, payment workflows and reporting criteria.

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Gurmit Samra (right) during a video shoot

Our USP is combining cinematic production quality with commercial thinking. We don’t simply create attractive videos, we help businesses generate leads, recruit talent, improve internal communications and strengthen their brands through strategic storytelling.

‘We’re investing in our people, studio facilities and production capabilities’ Our background in broadcast-quality production and feature filmmaking enables us to deliver premium results while remaining accessible to growing businesses. As creative director, I oversee the creative and strategic direction of the business. My role involves meeting clients to understand their objectives, developing creative concepts, managing productions, directing shoots, supporting our sales and marketing activity, and ensuring every project delivers measurable value. No two days are the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about the role.

We’re investing in our people, studio facilities and production capabilities, growing our TV advertising services, and expanding our work with larger organisations. Some 90% of our productions come from outside the East Midlands. We’ve recently become a member of the Chamber to bring a level of production quality back to the region. We hope to partner with reputable organisations through networking opportunities and events.

Rebranding exercise creates a new flavour for Ketchup Ketchup Marketing has unveiled a new brand identity after scrutinising all the ways in which it presented itself. Rather than beginning with logos, colours and creative concepts, Ketchup adopted the same brand development process it delivers for clients, taking a deep dive into its purpose, personality and positioning before a single visual element was considered. The result is a refreshed identity that reflects the agency Ketchup has become, while remaining true to the values and reputation it has built since its launch. Managing director Michelle Jones, said: “It’s easy to think a rebrand is all about the finished design, but that’s only the visible part of the process. The real work happens beforehand, when you challenge assumptions, ask difficult questions and really define what your business stands for.

New identity is key in reflecting what Ketchup Merketing has become

“We deliberately put ourselves through the same process we recommend to our clients. It wasn’t always straightforward, but it gave

us complete confidence that our new brand genuinely reflects who we are today and where we’re going.”

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BUSINESS NETWORK

October 2026 business network

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LEGAL

BUSINESS SUPPORT THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES FROM OUR KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS

Agency’s first delivery plan will have implications for employers

ublication of the Fair Work Agency’s first delivery plan for 2026 to 2027 will help give clarity to employers, according to Chamber management. The newly published plan explains how the agency will support workers and employers, tackle labour exploitation and prepare for the transfer of National Minimum Wage enforcement. It also outlines the development of digital tools to make complying with employment rights easier. The agency is a government enforcement body formed under the Employment Rights Act to enforce workers’ rights, such as ensuring statutory sick pay, holiday pay and the National Minimum Wage.

‘Firms should review the delivery plan and consider how upcoming changes may affect their employment practices’ The plan sets a clear programme of activity and performance measures for the agency’s first year, focusing on support for workers and businesses and on preventing and addressing labour exploitation. It includes preparations for the transfer of National Minimum Wage enforcement to the agency,

Employers and employees will gain from the Fair Work plan

signalling a change employers will need to understand and prepare for. The agency also intends to develop digital products designed to simplify compliance with employment rights and make guidance more accessible to bosses and workers. Chamber director of external affairs Richard Blackmore said: “It’s good to see publication of the agency’s first-year priorities and focus on protecting workers while supporting compliant businesses. “As the new arrangements are implemented, we will support employers in understanding their responsibilities and any new compliance processes to adopt, signposting guidance and training where needed. “Firms should review the delivery plan and consider how upcoming changes may affect their employment practices. We’ll continue monitoring developments and share updates as we get them.”

Freeths aids sale of document business The Freeths East Midlands team has advised on the sale of Documation Software and DS Professional Services UK – founded by John and Theresa Wallace – to Whitevision, an international provider of intelligent document processing software. The transaction marks a significant milestone for Documation, a long-established provider of document management and process automation solutions. It strengthens Whitevision’s presence in the UK market and supports its wider international growth ambitions. Founded in the Netherlands in 2005, Whitevision provides AIpowered solutions to help organisations automate invoice processing, procurement, spend management and document management processes. 64 business network October 2026

Ania Gabrielczyk and John Jones

The acquisition of Documation adds further scale to its UK operations and enhances its ability to serve customers across Europe and beyond. For Documation, joining the Whitevision group creates new opportunities for investment, innovation and growth, while

ensuring continued support for its customers and employees. The Freeths team was led by corporate partner Ania Gabrielczyk and included corporate director Kerry Jimenez, senior associate Ryan Belcher and legal assistant Hugh Tweddle. Ania Gabrielczyk said:

“Whitevision’s ambitions and expertise make it a natural strategic fit, providing a strong platform for future growth and continued innovation. “We’re pleased to support the shareholders through the transaction and help deliver a successful outcome. We wish everyone involved the very best for the future.” Meanwhile, Freeths has appointed John Jones as its new chief technology officer, strengthening its senior leadership team as it continues to invest in technology, innovation and client service. John will work across the 12 UK offices and will be responsible for shaping and delivering the firm’s technology strategy. He will focus on ensuring Freeths has secure, resilient and future ready technology platforms to support colleagues and clients.

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BUSINESS NETWORK

October 2026 business network

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FINANCE

The NatWest report shows UK entrepreneurship is strong

More and more UK entrepreneurs The UK’s active business population has reached a record 5.66 million companies, demonstrating the strength of British entrepreneurship despite a moderation in new company incorporations. According to the latest New Startup Index from NatWest Group, 402,000 new businesses were registered with Companies House in the first half of 2026, down 5.7% on a year earlier. However, entrepreneurial activity remained widespread across every region of the UK, with the continued growth in the active company base suggesting a resilient UK business landscape. Technology businesses were a standout performer during the first half of the year, with app software the UK’s most active startup category, seeing 28,100 new businesses incorporated. The wider digital and technology sector also recorded strong growth, with innovation and investment in areas such as AI and emerging technologies.

‘The latest data shows UK entrepreneurship remains in good health’ Regional entrepreneurship also remained vibrant. The East Midlands recorded the second strongest growth in startup activity, with incorporations rising 3.30% year one year. Darren Pirie, head of accelerator and strategic partnerships at NatWest, said: “The latest data shows UK entrepreneurship remains in good health. While startup formation has moderated, more businesses are operating across the UK than ever before.”

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Older people are confident to manage their money online

Older generation ’appy to use online banking A

nalysis by Lloyds Banking Group suggests older people are more confident when it comes to managing money online – challenging a common assumption that younger people have the advantage when it comes to managing money online. While younger adults have grown up with technology, older generations appear to combine digital tools with years of financial experience.

‘Younger people bring digital confidence and curiosity, while older generations bring experience and financial know-how’ Many are also embracing AI more readily than agerelated stereotypes suggest, with 47% of 55 to 64-yearolds and 35% of 65 to 74-year-olds having used AI for personal finance – compared to just over three-quarters of 18 to 24-year-olds.

Lloyds suggests older generations tend to be more selective in how they use technology, favouring trusted sources such as banks and in-person advice alongside digital tools. Jas Singh, chief executive of consumer relationships at Lloyds, said: “Younger people have grown up with technology, which is a great start for making the most of digital tools to manage money, but confidence with money is something that’s built over time – and it’s the combination of the right tools and knowledge that is the real sweet spot for financial empowerment. “What's encouraging is that many younger adults are already using tools like AI to help manage their finances, while older generations are proving they're just as willing to embrace digital tools when they see value in them. “Younger people bring digital confidence and curiosity, while older generations bring experience and financial know-how. There is a real opportunity for generations to learn from each other, while technology can play a positive role in helping more people feel in control of their finances.”

Consumer spending bounces back Card spending grew by 2.1% in the year to August, but remained below the inflation rate of 3.1%. according to figures put together by Barclays Bank.

Card spending is on the up as consumer confidence returns

Both essential and non-essential spending increased, helped by what the bank said was improving consumer confidence and a strong performance from hospitality and leisure. The bank said consumer confidence in household finances reached its highest level in six months, with spenders also reported feeling more confident in their ability to live within their means and spend on nonessentials. However, confidence in the UK economy fell four percentage points to 26%, down from July’s 21-month high of 30%, but remained above the 2026 average of 24%. Similarly, confidence in the European and global economies returned to June’s levels of 29% and 26% respectively, after spiking to 35% and 27% in July.

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FINANCE

BAD DEBT HOLDING YOU BACK? FREE UP YOUR CASHFLOW. We recover what you’re owed, so you can focus on what really matters - growing your business.

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We handle the chasing, you run the business.

www.tauruscollections.com October 2026 business network

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BUSINESS NETWORK

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SKILLS

Leadership skills that are crucial to success The decisions made by company directors across the East Midlands will play a vital role in determining how successfully the UK delivers economic growth. Kirsty McManus (pictured), director of professional services development at the Institute of Directors, highlights the leadership priorities that can strengthen decision-making, improve productivity and help businesses across the region thrive.

irectors today face a challenging operating environment. Economic uncertainty, rapid technological advances, political and regulatory change and evolving customer and workforce expectations are creating new pressures for businesses of every size. As a result, the ability to adapt, manage change and execute strategy effectively has become more important than ever. While the government has placed growth at the centre of its agenda, achieving that ambition will depend on the investment, innovation and workforce decisions being made in boardrooms across the country. The East Midlands has a particularly significant role to play. Contributing around £157bn to the UK economy and generating more than 5% of national GDP, the region is a major economic force. Its manufacturing sector accounts for around 15% of regional output – double the national average – making it one of the UK's most important centres of industrial strength and innovation. To capitalise on these opportunities, East Midlands

Involving your team in decision making can pay dividends

‘Leaders who understand and support their people create workplaces where employees feel respected, engaged and motivated to contribute’ directors must continue to develop their skills and leadership capabilities. Adaptability is critical. Effective leaders recognise that different situations require different approaches. Those who embrace flexibility are better placed to

foster collaboration, respond to challenges and build resilient organisations capable of sustaining growth. Emotional intelligence is equally valuable. Leaders who understand and support their people create workplaces where employees feel

respected, engaged and motivated to contribute. Strong workplace cultures not only improve productivity but also strengthen relationships with customers, suppliers and stakeholders. Inclusive decision-making is another important driver of performance. Bringing together perspectives from different generations and backgrounds helps challenge assumptions, encourage innovation and improve the quality of strategic decisions. Finally, directors must commit to continuous learning. In a business environment shaped by digital transformation and changing workforce dynamics, experience alone is no longer enough. Institute of Directors research shows that strategy development, cybersecurity, corporate governance, leadership and digital capability remain among the top priorities for professional development. For East Midlands businesses looking to grow, investing in leadership capability may be one of the most important decisions they make. Strong directors create stronger businesses, and stronger businesses create a stronger regional economy.

Teaming up to aid healthcare provision Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Derby have signed a deal aimed at tackling workforce shortages in healthcare and improving patient outcomes. The strategic partnership agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between the two to help identify training and skills gaps, create new educational pathways and support innovation in clinical and non-clinical roles. Students and graduates will benefit from more placements, projects and employer-led learning, while existing NHS staff will have access to apprenticeships, short courses and professional development. The partnership will also support the NHS’s growing use of digital technology and builds on the university’s investment in healthcare education, including its simulation facilities at its St Helena Campus. It also complements the university’s

Strategic parners (L-R): Andy Dowling, Caroline Wade, David Robertshaw, Stephen Wordsworth (back) and seated, Denise Baker and Jackie Smith

‘Recognising Potential’ programme, led by Dr Runa Saha, founding dean of Medicine, which helps young people aged 8-18 in Derbyshire to consider careers in healthcare. Matt Snowden, the University of Derby's associate provost – industry engagement, said: “As an industry-engaged university, we are committed to working alongside partners such as Chesterfield Royal Hospital to deliver positive outcomes for our students and communities across Derbyshire and beyond.” Alongside workforce development, the two organisations will collaborate on designing a curriculum that ensures students hear about current healthcare practice. Stephen Wordsworth, deputy dean of the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care at the University of Derby, said: "Healthcare is evolving rapidly, and it is crucial that education evolves alongside it.” October 2026 business network

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PROPERTY

Law firm returns to its city roots Browne Jacobson is moving its Nottingham office to Canal Street. The law firm will occupy three floors of Archers Wharf, providing 46,352 sq ft of workspace with 350 desks – representing what management said was a longterm commitment to the city and region. A fit-out will create a workspace that is “consistent in look, feel and quality” with the firm’s other offices. The team will relocate in early 2028. How homes at Smedley’s Hydro might look (credit: HLM Architects)

Green light for Hydro redevelopment plans P lans to redevelop the County Hall building in Matlock have been approved. The Grade II listed building, also known as Smedley’s Hydro, is the Derbyshire County Council headquarters and remains one of the council’s “most recognisable and important assets”. Planning permission has now been given by Derbyshire Dales District Council to turn it into a “modern council workplace” with commercial space, along with new homes, a hotel and community spaces. The planning approval offers what the county council calls a “once in a generation opportunity to invest in Matlock and deliver

long-lasting benefits for Derbyshire’s community, businesses and visitors”. It said the project will create new jobs, attract private investment, open up opportunities for local businesses and suppliers and help address a shortage of housing land in Matlock. The council said it could add £66m to Matlock’s economy and £145m across Derbyshire, and create 100 jobs on top of more than 800 construction jobs and apprenticeships in hospitality, construction and heritage skills. Council leader Councillor Alan Graves said: “This is an important milestone in our work to secure a sustainable and positive future for

this historic building. Smedley’s Hydro has been part of Derbyshire County Council’s story for decades, and we’re committed to ensuring it continues to play a meaningful role in the life of Matlock and the county. “This decision allows us to move forward with confidence. We want to see Smedley’s Hydro preserved and reused in a way that benefits local people, supports the economy and honours its heritage.” In a statement, the council said: “The approved proposals will see the building sensitively restored, safeguarding its historic and architectural features while enabling it to be brought back into active use.”

‘Nottingham is where Browne Jacobson began, and our roots in this city and the wider Midlands run deep’ Browne Jacobson reported record revenue of £148.8m for the 2025/26 financial year, up 9% on the previous 12 months, driven by growth across all its core sectors. The Nottingham relocation forms part of a broader programme of investment across its offices. Managing partner Richard Medd said: “Nottingham is where Browne Jacobson began, and our roots in this city and the wider Midlands run deep. “That heritage is something we are genuinely proud of. It has shaped who we are, how we think and the values we bring to our work every day.”

Assembly Rooms can be disassembled Demolition can finally get under way on the former Assembly Rooms in Derby after the city council agreed that a series of planning conditions had been met. The conditions meant the council needed to have struck a deal with a developer before work could start replacing the building and that planning permission had to be in place.

The proposed Derby MADE cultural and commercial hub is intended to replace the fire-damaged Assembly Rooms in Derby's Market Place

Councillors agreed those conditions had been met after signing a deal with ION Property Developments, and following the approval of outline planning permission in July. It means demolition can start early next year, after work making the site safe and disconnecting all the utilities is complete. Demolition is expected to take around 12 months. A masterplan for the site includes Derby MADE – featuring a music venue, cultural and exhibition space, a library and flexible working and meeting areas. There are also proposals for a four-star hotel called Derby HOTEL and grade A offices called Derby WORKS. ION Developments is developing the business plan for Derby MADE. Derby City Council leader Councillor Nadine Peatfield said: “Finally, this was the milestone that needed to be in place to pave the way for us to begin transforming the Market Place and breathe new life into this vital area of the city centre. “Now the planning conditions have been satisfied, we will continue to work with our development partners to take these plans forward, with residents being able to see tangible progress on site in early 2027.” October 2026 business network

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MOTORING

Substance as well as style from a real supercar FACTFILE MODEL Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica

PRICE OTR From £210,000 + VAT

PERFORMANCE Top speed: 202 miles per hour 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds

POWER 640 BHP

ECONOMY Around 18-20mpg

EMISSIONS 326g/km

Journalist Nick Jones has the enviable task of driving the Lamborghini Huracan edition Tecnica.

ew journeys fill you with the anticipation that what is about to happen will be remembered for a very long time. A drive in the Lamborghini Huracan from the local dealer is one such trip. Lamborghini has a reputation for the spectacular, creating cars adorned with wings, fins and a low-slung stance. The Huracan here is one such car and in Tecnica spec promises to be quite breathtaking. And whether the Tecnica is the best Huracan or not, it’s certainly the best looking – particularly if you choose a nice colour – but the style is not just for show. So, like every Huracan it is powered by a 5.2-litre, normally aspirated V10 petrol engine and unlike other Huracans, it does away with the standard all-wheeldrive system and sends all of that power solely to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox. The sound is unbelievable, alerting every other road user of your presence. 72

business network October 2026

Let’s be honest, no Huracan is especially practical although you’ve got a luggage compartment that will take a couple of shopping bags but that’s about it. But that said, there’s plenty of space for two occupants both of whom get ample head room and seat adjustment making it surprisingly comfortable on a long journey. Without doubt, this Tecnica is the driver’s choice in the Huracan range and make no mistake the tail will step out of line if you provoke it without the security of all-wheel drive. Handling is sublime and while the ride is certainly stiff, that just means there’s plenty of body control in corners. The Tecnica is brilliant, but that brilliance comes at a price. And a hefty one, at that. The balance, the performance, the looks and the engine are all pretty much perfect, and that makes this one of the most super supercars of them all.

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MOTORING

‘The sound is unbelievable, alerting every other road user of your presence’ MAIN PICTURE: The Huracan Tecnica is a sight to behold CENTRE RIGHT: There's plenty of space for two BOTTOM RIGHT: Balance, performance and looks are near perfect

October 2026 business network

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COMMENT

THE LAST WORD East Midlands businesses need to formulate long-term plans to make the most of the energy revolution, says Chamber president Dr Cham S Kang.

he East Midlands manufacturing sector stands at a critical crossroads. The cost of energy has acted as a structural anchor on growth, forcing leaders to choose between absorbing soaring overheads or deferring vital capital investments. However, a regional energy transformation is underway, driven by nuclear and technological projects, and the East Midlands is positioning itself to shift from an area plagued by high utility expenses to a hyper-competitive, global clean energy. British businesses currently navigate one of the most punitive energy landscapes in the world, where the UK has among the highest industrial electricity prices. The disparity is stark. UK manufacturers pay 50% more for electricity than their direct EU rivals in France and Germany. Compared against major global economic competitors, the gap widens and UK businesses face energy costs that are four times more expensive than the United States and triple the rates found in India and China. This stems from a historic dependency on volatile wholesale natural gas markets to set marginal electricity pricing, compounded by decades of loading environmental and social levies directly onto industrial energy bills. To undo this disadvantage, the UK is executing a structural overhaul and the East Midlands is the focal point of this renaissance, transforming its historic Megawatt Valley into the Trent Clean Energy Supercluster. The future relies on a localised, dual-nuclear framework: • STEP Fusion West Burton: The site will host the world’s first prototype commercial fusion energy plant • Cottam SMR Project: Redevelopment of the former Cottam Coal Plant into a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) facility.

THE COMPETITIVENESS TIMELINE While fusion energy at West Burton will not integrate with the grid until 2040, a global level playing field will realistically be achieved between 2035 and 2038. 74

business network October 2026

Some grants are available to fund efficiency transitions: • The British Industry Supercharger (BIS): Provides eligible, energy-intensive firms with a 100% exemption from green policy levies. Applications are handled via the GOV.UK BIS Portal • British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS): Launching in April 2027, this scheme cuts electricity costs by up to £40/MWh. Access it via the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) The fusion site at West Burton

By 2035, the initial wave of factory-assembled SMR units will go live. By 2038, the fully operational Cottam SMR cluster will allow co-located advanced manufacturing and data hubs to bypass traditional grid fees entirely, matching the cheap, secure energy models of the US and China. Manufacturers across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire cannot simply wait out a decade-long construction timeline. To insulate operations from market volatility between now and 2035, companies must consider: • Behind-the-meter generation: Maximising rooftop space via commercial solar PV paired with containerised battery storage systems. This lets factories harvest free daytime generation and avoid peak grid tariffs • The £8M EMCCA Business Investment Fund: Grants to invest in technology and energysaving measures • Corporate Energy Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Entering direct, long-term contracts with regional wind and solar asset developers to lock in predictable, fixed electricity rates for 10 years • Demand Side Response (DSR): Utilising smart energy management to shift heavy production schedules away from high-tariff periods, monetising flexible demand back to the grid.

• Made Smarter East Midlands: Offers 50% matched grants up to £50,000 for automated machinery upgrades, energy submetering and renewable retrofits. Apply via the Made Smarter East Midlands Portal. To successfully lead a manufacturing business through this transitional decade, many leaders are visioning for the long-term and formalising 10-year energy strategies using a structured action plan: 1 Phase 1: Asset Decentralisation (Years one–five): Utilise matched funding from Made Smarter to deploy on-site solar arrays, voltage optimisers, and submetering infrastructure. Enter into local Power Purchase Agreement agreements to reduce exposure to the standard national grid infrastructure 2 Phase 2: Supercluster Alignment (Years five–10): Engage directly with the East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN https://emmn.co.uk/) and EMCCA to align long-term facilities planning with the SMR rollout. Position your operational footprint to connect directly to the decentralised, zerocarbon smart grids coming online across the Trent Valley by the mid-2030s. Our region’s business leaders have a long history of overcoming massive business challenges and I am convinced they will do it again by balancing annual plans with long term strategic visioning focused on energy to compete globally.

2. Biz Network OCT 2026 41-76.qxp_Chamberlink 29/09/2026 08:21 Page 75

2. Biz Network OCT 2026 41-76.qxp_Chamberlink 29/09/2026 08:21 Page 76