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BUSINESS
network Keep up to date on latest developments at
www.emc-dnl.co.uk/news
SEPTEMBER 2026
PROTECTING OUR LAND MUST BE SECOND NATURE WHY BUSINESS SHOULD BE CHAMPIONING OUR COUNTRYSIDE
INTERVIEW
DEVOLUTION
FINDING WILD SOLUTIONS TO HELP WILDLIFE AND RESTORE THE LANDSCAPE
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS AS WE PUSH FOR A SECOND REGIONAL AUTHORITY
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THE FIRST WORD
CONTENTS SEPTEMBER 2026 LEICESTERSHIRE DEVOLUTION 4
Chamber joins cross-sector campaign group
MEMBER NEWS 6
Investment boost for submarine specialist
APPOINTMENTS 20 College names new chair of governors
T
he emergency wildfire warning that dropped onto our phones mid-way through last month was a wake-up call that climate change is happening here and now. The summer will be remembered as one of weather extremes – smashing records for heat, sun and lack of rainfall. The countryside burned, reservoirs and rivers receded and most of us baked in homes not designed to deal with one heatwave after another. While some say changing weather patterns are just one of those things, and that we should adapt to, rather than try and stop, a heating world, the actual science argues that we need to cut carbon emissions right now. This month’s Business Network has a sustainability theme to tie in with the East Midlands CSR and Sustainability Conference – which takes place at the University of Derby on 10 September – and to shine a light on the investment and effort going into decarbonising businesses across the region. The conference will share latest thoughts on the efforts businesses are going to to cut carbon while managing energy costs, and the businesses helping them achieve that. It will also consider the academic work going into climate research including the 11th annual East Midlands Green Growth Trends report, published jointly by the Chamber and University of Derby, which looks at actions businesses are taking using data from the Chamber's Quarterly Economic Surveys. As part of the bigger sustainability picture, Business Network also considers how businesses can help preserve nature and support organisations such as Derbyshire Wildlife Trust in restoring natural habitats and helping the region’s wildlife. The trust has partnered with the University of Derby and Chamber to create a toolkit for businesses to do their bit to help nature thrive. You can read about it in our Big Interview. In the Focus pages you can read about why it’s important that businesses don’t press pause on their sustainability goals in a bid to save money, as well as arguments that sustainability is not just about protecting the planet, but about building stronger, more resilient businesses. It’s all food for thought. I hope you enjoy the read.
Tom Pegden, Editor, Business Network
THE BIG INTERVIEW 23 Hollie Fisher of Wild Solutions, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s ecological consultancy
STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS 28 Queen’s Nurse among university honorees
CHAMBER NEWS 30 Members enjoy summer celebration
CHAMBER NETWORKS 36 Generation Next Awards finalists unveiled
TRAINING & EVENTS 40 East Midlands Chamber Business Awards nominations now open
SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS 42 Blueprint unveiled for a greener Nottingham
INTERNATIONAL TRADE 44 Games firm reclaims huge chunk of tariffs
POLITICS 46 Mayor welcomes latest milestone on region’s road to devolution
FEATURES 48 CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre finds new ways to make a difference 52 Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility 54 FOCUS Rounding up the latest sustainability issues affecting the region
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 Derbyshire Wildlife Trust is helping businesses protect the countryside See page 23
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60 CORPORATE CHRISTMAS Sustainable gift giving 64 Rethinking the work Christmas party
DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY 66 Member Profile: RorTech Partners
Designer Lloyd Hollingworth
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68 LEGAL It’s easy to see implications of smart glasses
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70 FINANCE Don’t leave it too late to seek financial advice 73 SKILLS We need freeport to live up to its potential 75 PROPERTY Blueprint fashions UK base for clothing firm 76 MOTORING Nick Jones isn’t impressed by the Jaecoo 7
THE LAST WORD 78 Dr Cham S Kang discusses why East Midlands SMEs are stalling on sustainability September 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.
Chamber joins cross-sector group backing devolution
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ast Midlands Chamber has partnered in a new campaign calling for the acceleration of devolution in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR), writes Amy Orton. Devolution Leicestershire is a cross-sector group spanning regionally based industry, education and nonprofit stakeholders. Alongside the Chamber, partners include Leicestershire Business Voice, Make UK, FSB, Leicester Social Enterprise Network, VAL and other sector leaders. Devolution Leicestershire has also gained early public support from county and city MPs including Liz Kendall, Jeevun Sandher and Amanda Hack. The campaign’s website went live on the morning of 31 July, shortly before prime minister Andy Burnham announced plans to hand further decision-making and spending powers to devolved regions.
The purpose of Devolution Leicestershire is to support local authorities in accelerating a successful devolution settlement to the benefit of everyone in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Devolution is channelling billions of pounds into English mayoral authorities. “Government is now regularly routing skills budgets, transport capital, business support grants and housing investment through strategic mayoral authorities (SMAs). Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland does not have an SMA. We believe that needs to change quickly.” Leicestershire Business Voice chair Sue Tilley said: “The message from the business community is clear: Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland need a settlement that strengthens local decision-making, attracts greater investment and improves skills and infrastructure, enabling us to compete more effectively with areas that already benefit from devolved powers.”
‘Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland does not have an SMA. We believe that needs to change quickly’ Sue Tilley and Mattioli Woods former chief operating officer Iain McKenzie at the LBV & Chamber devolution event at HORIBA MIRA
Scott Knowles is leading calls for a strategic mayoral authority for Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
Leicester Social Enterprise Network chair Dave Brazier said: “The absence of growth funding allocation for our region risks undermining the vital support provided by the voluntary, community, social enterprise sector and places Leicester at further risk of decline. “While we await a devolution deal, we would urge the exploration of alternative mechanisms through which funding can be directed to the city and county – ensuring continued support for employment, enterprise and community-led initiatives.” The lack of investment – driven by the absence of a devolution deal in the sub-region – is evident across sectors and industries. Data compiled by Devolution Leicestershire paints a stark picture in comparing Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland with devolved areas. Its research shows: • Devolved funding for business support services in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland is currently zero • Tees Valley receives almost nine times more skills funding than LLR • For every £1 received for transport in LLR, other areas received up to £19. The need for an effective devolution deal picked up pace after local government reorganisation decisions were announced and Mr Burnham became prime minister. The former Greater Manchester mayor is a long-time advocate for devolution and announced a raft of new powers and measures for devolved areas in his first weeks in office. Devolution Leicestershire will work with local and national government to help deliver an effective solution for LLR while also pushing for a fair deal on interim funding from central government. Visit the website: devoleicestershire.org.uk and follow on LinkedIn.
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LEICESTERSHIRE DEVOLUTION
New model offers more defined route to reorganisation Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) now has a clearer route towards local government reorganisation. A letter from the Ministry for Housing and Local Government (MHCLG) to council leaders in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland set out the two-unitary-council model Government has opted for. Two new councils will be formed:
Leicester's Town Hall Square
• Leicester Council will bring together the city, Oadby and Wigston, and selected parishes from Blaby, Charnwood and Harborough. • All other areas of Leicestershire and Rutland will form the second authority. Existing councils will continue delivering services until the new authorities assume full responsibility on 1 April, 2028. This will follow shadow-council elections in 2027.
L-R: Local Labour MPs Liz Kendall, Jeevun Sandher and Amanda Hack
MPs call on councils to unite over bid proposal Labour MPs representing Leicester and Leicestershire have called on Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council to urgently bring forward a single proposal to secure a devolution deal. They warned that further delays to devolution risk the sub-region missing out on vital investment, economic opportunities and powers that could help transform local communities. Other regions across England continue to secure new devolved powers and investment packages not available to Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR). The MPs add that, with Government attention increasingly focused on empowering regions, there is a significant opportunity for LLR to position itself for future investment, powers and long-term economic support.
‘We need a clear, public timetable for securing devolution’ They state that residents and stakeholders need a clear commitment from the local authorities that they are working at pace to secure the powers and investment necessary to boost productivity, attract inward investment and support the growth of key sectors across the region. The MPs are now urging Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council to provide residents, businesses, colleges and universities with a clear roadmap for securing a devolution settlement, including key milestones and timescales.
Liz Kendall, MP for Leicester West, said: “The future of local jobs, business investment, skills and public services in this country will increasingly be shaped at a local level. Leicester and Leicestershire should be leading that conversation, not watching from the sidelines. “That is why we need a clear, public timetable for securing devolution and ensuring our region can benefit from the investment, powers and opportunities that will follow. The time has come for Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council to make a commitment to devolution.” Jeevun Sandher, MP for Loughborough, said: “Loughborough, Shepshed, and the villages are being held back because Leicestershire doesn’t have the powers it needs. Our area has one of the lowest investment rates in the country. “Our businesses, our world-beating universities, and our constituents are all paying the price in lower productivity and lower wages. “Devolution would put control where it belongs - here in Leicestershire, so that, together, we can build a more prosperous county.” Amanda Hack, MP for North West Leicestershire, said: “Leicestershire has so much to offer, but we do not have the strategic single voice or the powers that devolution brings. “What we have instead is a fragmented approach that is an active barrier to long-term productivity and growth. “I’ve been campaigning to reinstate passenger rail between Burton and Leicester, but we don’t benefit from financial settlements allocated to city regions, so we’re not getting our fair share of transport connectivity. “The only way to ensure that my constituents in North West Leicestershire thrive in the long term is give them a strong devolution package.”
‘Local leaders will need to consider what devolution will look like in the LLR sub-region’ Government has indicated that the LGR changes need to be in place, and the timetable followed, to ensure devolution can also progress. Once the two unitary councils are in place, local leaders will need to consider what devolution will look like in the LLR sub-region. Decisions will need to be made about whether to pursue a mayoral model – with a strategic authority led by a directly elected mayor and access opening up to a full suite of devolved powers – or opt for a non-mayoral foundation strategic authority (FSA) with a more limited set of powers. Cabinet’s recently-published Rewiring the State document confirms that every area in England is expected to have either created, or be in the process of creating, a strategic authority by the end of 2027, with full coverage across the country by 2028.
County Hall, headquarters of Leicestershire County Council
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MEMBER NEWS THE LATEST NEWS FROM OUR CHAMBER MEMBERS
Rolls-Royce will build and maintain reactors for Dreadnought submarines
Investment boost for sub maker E
ast Midlands Chamber has welcomed Government’s news of an £8.4bn investment in the next phase of Britain’s Dreadnought submarine programme – which will support jobs and apprenticeships in Derby. The four Dreadnought submarines will replace the Royal Navy’s existing Vanguard class, which carries Britain’s independent nuclear deterrent. HMS Dreadnought will complete sea trials and prepare to enter service in the early 2030s, followed by HMS Valiant and then two more submarines. Derby is directly linked to the programme, with Rolls-Royce designing, building and maintaining the systems that power the Royal Navy’s nuclear subs. Figures suggest the Defence Nuclear Enterprise – the partnership of government bodies, military branches and industry behind our continuous at-sea
nuclear deterrent – supports around 47,000 UK jobs, which could hit 65,000 by 2030. It is expected to deliver 22,000 apprenticeships by 2035. The government’s published breakdown identifies around 4,000 jobs in Derby connected to it.
‘Prioritising defence capability is important and for it to create jobs and apprenticeships in Derby is a win-win’ Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said the latest funding was a chance for regional firms to engage with a major public procurement programme that already touches the East Midlands supply base. He said: “Prioritising defence capability is important and for it to
create jobs and apprenticeships in Derby is a win-win, with supply chains across the wider region standing to benefit too, so this is an announcement I welcome. The Chamber is always ready to advise businesses on supplier routes, procurement readiness or accessing apprenticeship and skills support.” The Rolls-Royce Nuclear Skills Academy in Derby already trains up to 200 apprentices a year. Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson said: “Keeping Britain safe is the first responsibility of government, and Derby’s contribution to that mission is something our whole city can be proud of. This next phase will help ensure Dreadnought is ready to protect the country for decades to come. It gives long-term confidence to the British firms and skilled workers delivering it. Derby is a city of makers. The work at Raynesway shows that our industrial heritage is still shaping Britain’s future.”
The funding will see £5.9bn go to BAE Systems, with £2.5bn for the wider supply chain, and comes on the back of the eight-year, £9bn Unity contract awarded to RollsRoyce Submarines in January 2025. Meanwhile, Rolls-Royce Submarines has broken ground on its new manufacturing facility, under plans to double the size of its entire Raynesway site in Derby. It will see more than 1 million sq ft of new manufacturing and office space added, supporting 1,170 skilled roles in areas including manufacturing and engineering. Abi Clayton, president of RollsRoyce Submarines, said: “Together with our trusted delivery partners, our commitment is to deliver this programme safely, efficiently and to the highest standards. “This work will unlock muchneeded manufacturing capacity on site, allowing us to enhance our delivery drumbeat to support the boat build programmes.”
Licensing body extends office lease deal Music licensing and copyright specialist PPL PRS has reaffirmed its commitment to Leicester city centre by signing a five-year lease extension on its Mercury Place offices. Invest in Leicester worked with the business to evaluate its long-term property and growth requirements, and said the move reflects Leicester’s reputation as a destination for technology, talent and business investment. City mayor Sir Peter Soulsby said: “We have worked tremendously hard to support their continued presence in the city, and we are pleased that they will remain in their current premises while continuing to expand over the coming years.This is a significant milestone for Leicester city centre and for 6
business network September 2026
‘Extending our commitment to the city centre is a natural next step in the growth of PPL PRS’ Mercury Place
the people employed by PPL PRS. Credit must also go to our university partners for helping to develop the talent pipeline that will support the company’s future growth.”
PPL PRS managing director Greg Aiello (pictured) said: “Leicester is our home, and extending our commitment to the city centre is a natural next step in the growth of PPL PRS. By staying here, we are safeguarding local jobs.” PPL PRS was launched in 2018 as a single point of contact for collecting music royalty payments. It is the biggest licensing body of its kind in the world.
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MEMBER NEWS
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Prime minister Andy Burnham meets youngsters during a visit to the Alstom train factory in Derby
Skills plan will put education and industry on the same track
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anagement at East Midlands Chamber have welcomed plans outlined by the prime minister during a visit to Derby, which will see mayors, local leaders and businesses play a bigger part in shaping school education to align with the needs of industry. Andy Burnham launched the new technical education routes for 14to-16 year olds during a visit to the Alstom train factory. The changes, set to take effect from September 2028, mean that from Year 10, students will be able to combine traditional academic subjects such as English, maths and science, with technical education and work experience. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “We’ve been calling for the skills gap to be addressed in a number of ways for some time, as outlined in our publication The Framework for Growth, and this announcement is a clear step forward in tackling the problem and 8
business network September 2026
getting more candidates with skills that employers need into roles. “The extent of the skills gap and how challenging it is for employers in the East Midlands is clear – our Quarterly Economic Survey has shown six out of ten businesses in the region have struggled to find suitable applicants.
‘From today, Britain will value the hard hat every bit as much as the graduation cap’ “Apprenticeships and training are a brilliant route into work in many industries and the East Midlands is fortunate to have many great programmes, as well as outstanding higher and further education options. “Those avenues open doors to employment but the more business can engage with educators, and the more a region like the East Midlands can influence a curriculum to be relevant to its businesses and
Alstom’s new Adessia locomotive
their needs, the better. The detail of this plan will be important as it unfolds so we will be keen to see that as it emerges but at this early stage, I welcome the approach, which should be good for employers and good for growth.” It is hoped the changes will help more young people access highquality technical education by creating clearer routes into careers, apprenticeships and further study. The announcement came as the prime minister joined East Midlands mayor Claire Ward on a tour of the UK’s largest train factory, where apprenticeships and graduate programmes are already helping young people develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed for successful careers. Mayor Claire said: “If we are serious about economic growth, technical education needs to be a first choice, not a last resort – and it needs to be a path that young people can choose earlier in life. The prime minister understands this. It is right that he has come to Derby to
make this announcement. Derby is a true city of manufacturing, a place where you can see where technical education can take you. “Mayors will be how we ensure learning, training, and skills are grounded in the real economy, and I look forward to working with schools, colleges, and employers to create opportunities that reflect the needs of our local industries. Together, we will ensure that young talent can flourish, to the benefit of us all.” The prime minister said: “For too long in this country, students have been told that you must take the academic path to do well and to be respected. The whole school system has been built around it and that has let down young people seeking technical qualifications. “I want an education system based on parity between academic and technical which gives all young people a clear path in life. From today, Britain will value the hard hat every bit as much as the graduation cap.”
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MEMBER NEWS
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MEMBER NEWS
Helping groups to reach their Peak
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usinesses across Derbyshire’s High Peak should now find it easier to work with voluntary groups. A ‘Helping out the High Peak’ scheme has been established by High Peak Community and Voluntary Support (CVS) thanks to financial backing from the Severn Trent Community Fund which matches companies with good causes. It is being run by High Peak CVS business engagement officer Andy Hamill, who is initially contacting companies across Buxton, Whaley Bridge, Glossop and Chapel-en-leFrith to discuss potential ways to collaborate.
Buxton in the High Peak
Andy Hamill, business engagement officer at High Peak CVS
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He said: “It might be that businesses are able to provide free legal, accountancy or HR advice or they might simply be able to offer photocopying or printing services. “Alternatively, they might have a meeting room that’s unoccupied for a part of the day that they wouldn’t mind being used occasionally by a community group or a member of staff that could
spare an hour or two to carry out a much-needed repair. “In honesty, there are many different ways that businesses of all sizes can get involved with Helping out the High Peak that will be transformative for those groups – as well as our wider community.” Sue Heyes, community fund officer at Severn Trent, said: “High
Peak CVS does outstanding work at the heart of the community and this scheme builds on that by helping community groups access skills, time and resources that can be transformational for their day to day work.” Email Andrew@highpeakcvs.org.uk or visit: highpeakcvs.org.uk
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MEMBER NEWS
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Leading the way in global apparel solutions Since its inception over three decades ago, Q Collection has promised superior quality, believing that the future of fashion lies at the intersection of creative, technology and purpose. Now, their global capabilities are being strengthened from its Centre of Excellence, based in the heart of Leicestershire. THE CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE From its UK Centre of Excellence, Q Collection supports the design, development and innovation of apparel for consumers around the world – bringing together specialist talent, creativity and advanced technology with the strength of a global manufacturing platform. The Centre unites product development, technical expertise, digital creation, and materials innovation in one place, connecting consumer and market insight with the capabilities needed to carry an idea from first concept through to commercial readiness.
GLOBAL SCALE. DEEP APPAREL HERITAGE Behind the Centre of Excellence is more than three decades of apparel manufacturing experience. Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Singapore, Q Collection has grown into a major international apparel manufacturer, employing over 22,000 people across Singapore, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the UK. It manufactures for some of the world’s leading fashion and retail brands, including Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, George, H&M, Zara, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and Gap, across knitwear, lingerie, activewear and other apparel categories. That manufacturing scale is increasingly complemented by investment in talent, technology, digital capabilities and ESG-led responsible manufacturing – strengthening Q Collection's ability to create greater value for its customers.
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Manufacturing remains at the core of Q Collection. Its ambition is to build on that strength – extending further into insight, creativity, materials, product development, technology and innovation to become a more integrated global apparel solutions provider, and a true original design manufacturer (ODM). The Centre of Excellence in Leicestershire is central to this evolution. By connecting UKbased talent directly with the Group’s manufacturing capabilities, it allows Q Collection to engage earlier in the product journey – shaping ideas well before they reach the production floor.
Concieved and led by Q Collection UK director, Boutaina Faruq, Q Micro is developing a technology-led model for agile, high-value onshore manufacturing, focused on premium and ultra-premium products where precision, flexibility and speed create distinctive value. Building on the first UK operation, Q Micro is envisioned as a connected cluster of micromanufacturing units that can be established across strategic locations over time. Q Micro will rely extensively on advanced manufacturing technology and a seamless digital platform, connecting each unit with the Centre of Excellence and Q Collection’s global network.
Q COLLECTION Building the future of global apparel solutions.
TO FIND OUT MORE, PLEASE CONTACT/VISIT: info@qcollection.com www.qcollection.com
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MEMBER NEWS
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MEMBER NEWS
Sausage firm set for sizzling deal F
ood-to-go giant Samworth Brothers has struck a deal to sell the Walkers Deli & Sausage Company to Pilgrim’s Europe – subject to Competition and Markets Authority approval. Walkers Deli & Sausage is a longestablished producer of premium pork products, dating back to 1824. The Leicester business employs around 1,150 people. The acquisition represents an important strategic step for Pilgrim's Europe, strengthening its position within the UK food industry and expanding its presence in value-added premium pork categories. It also enhances Pilgrim’s footprint in the UK and builds on an existing longstanding relationship between the two businesses.
‘We are confident this move provides a strong platform for the business’s future success’ Walkers Deli & Sausage has a complementary portfolio of products spanning premium sausages, sliced cooked meats, bacon, snacks and pâté. The business supplies UK retailers and is a specialist in premium ownlabel food production. Samworth Brothers chief executive Simon Wookey said:
The sale of Walkers Deli & Sausage could go with a bang!
“Walkers Deli & Sausage is an outstanding business that has made a significant contribution to Samworth Brothers over many years. “As the protein sector has become increasingly specialised and integrated, we believe Walkers Deli & Sausage is well positioned for its next phase of growth as part of a business with protein at its core and expertise across the supply chain.
Autumn Budget needs to prioritise economic growth The Chamber wants the new Chancellor to ensure business growth is ‘front and centre’ in the Autumn Budget – after economic growth slowed to 0.4% in the three months to June, down from 0.6% in the previous three months. The latest estimated GDP figure is from the Office for National Statistics and covers April to June 2026. Chamber director of resources Lucy Robinson said: “While some reassurance can be taken that GDP held up better than was widely anticipated against the effects of the Middle East conflict, the fact we’re seeing a slight slowdown in growth, alongside the high costs of doing business, means the upcoming Autumn Budget must place business front and centre to ensure growth. “Business must be incentivised to invest, in order to grow but our Quarterly Economic Survey for the second quarter of this year shows investment has stalled for many firms. “Fewer than half of East Midlands firms attempted to recruit and a quarter revised their machinery investment downwards, for example. “To incentivise business to invest, you need supportive policies that reduce costs and remove barriers to growth, so firms are going to be
“This transaction enables Samworth Brothers to focus investment on the significant growth opportunities we see across food-to-go, savoury pastry, meals and our portfolio of brands. “We are incredibly proud of what our Walkers Deli & Sausage colleagues have built and grateful for their contribution. We are confident this move provides a strong platform for the business’s future success."
Ivan Siqueira, president of Pilgrim’s Europe, said: “Walkers Deli & Sausage is a fantastic business with a proud heritage, a highly skilled team and a strong reputation for quality and innovation. “This acquisition is a natural strategic fit for Pilgrim’s Europe. We already have a well-established supply relationship with Walkers Deli & Sausage and see significant opportunities to build on the strengths of both businesses.”
The Chamber’s Lucy Robinson (below) is calling for a business focus in the upcoming Autumn Budget
looking to 28 October to see what measures are revealed in the Budget. “The Chamber’s landmark publication – The Framework for Growth – calls for a set of actions from policymakers to alleviate pressure on business, such as wider energy cost support and a full root and branch review of business rates. “The Autumn Budget on 28 October must fully support business and it’s essential the Chancellor seizes the opportunity to unlock growth.” The Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey for Q3 of 2026 is now open: www.surveymonkey.com/r/qes-q3-2026-sm September 2026 business network
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MEMBER NEWS
IN BRIEF TECH SPECIALISTS CELEBRATE 30 YEARS Document Network Services (DNS) is celebrating 30 years in business, marking three decades of growth, innovation and evolution in the technology sector. Founded in 1996 in Macklin Street, Derby, it began as a photocopier sales business and has evolved into a busy managed services provider, delivering IT services, cyber security, unified communications and print services to customers across the UK and internationally. At the heart of its operations are the core values of “trust, reliability and long term partnerships”. The business was established in 1996 by managing director Darren Marsh, supplying photocopier equipment to businesses across Derby and Burton on Trent. Four years later it relocated to Pride Park. Darren said: “I started in the industry at 18 years old, and I was 25 when DNS was established. What began with ambition, hard work and a belief in doing things the right way has grown into 30 years of trusted partnerships and continuous evolution.” In 2020, DNS launched DNS Corporate, its dedicated arm for managing corporate partnerships and community engagement. Through sponsorships, community programmes and long term partnerships, it has become a central part of the company’s commitment to supporting local organisations.
PR AGENCY TO OFFER ON-DEMAND SERVICE A communications agency based in Leicestershire has launched an on-demand service to support SME businesses and in-house PR teams. Liberty PR, which is based at The Point business park in Market Harborough, is offering tailor-made packages with no long-term contracts to make it easier for smaller business and corporate teams to access PR services on an ad-hoc basis. Liberty PR On Demand includes media relations, awards entries, crisis management, copywriting, email campaigns, social media strategy and consultancy on AI visibility. Lisa Jolly, co-founder and director at Liberty PR, said: “Liberty PR On Demand has been designed to give smaller businesses and busy in-house teams an affordable way to access this expertise without having to make long-term commitments.”
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LikeMind Media director Paul Ince
Report shows business buyers do more research
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eicestershire content marketing consultancy LikeMind Media has published the second edition of its annual B2B Buying Decisions Report – looking at how more than 730 business buyers select the companies they work with. The 2026 edition tracks year-on-year changes and introduces new questions on artificial intelligence, decision timelines and what now disqualifies a supplier before a conversation has even begun.
‘Buyers are doing more of the work themselves before any conversation with a supplier’ LikeMind Media director Paul Ince said: “Twelve months ago, we were simply interested in gathering our own data on how buyers behave. “What we found this year is that the trends we identified have accelerated. Buyers are doing more of the work themselves before any conversation with a supplier. They trust independent voices over supplierproduced content. And, because we directly asked the question, the majority now involve AI in the process, often gathering information about you before they even visit your website.
AMONG THE HEADLINE FINDINGS: • 89% of B2B buyers trust personal recommendations most when evaluating a supplier • 57% have made a major purchase based on content alone, without ever speaking to a salesperson • 54% now use AI tools to research suppliers • 82% say pushy sales tactics are an immediate dealbreaker • 49% complete a major purchasing decision within one to four weeks
“The encouraging finding is that this doesn’t make B2B marketing harder. The suppliers who will succeed in today’s landscape are the ones who make it easy for buyers, and the AI tools they use, to tell the right story for them.” See the report at: www.likemindmedia.co.uk/b2breport
Charity says make a habit of helping The National Kidney Federation is challenging businesses to kick a bad habit, or kick-start a positive new one, to help fund a national helpline for kidney patients and their families. The federation’s autumn fundraising appeal, Kick a Habit for Kidney Disease, officially begins on 1 October, and invites supporters to take on a 31-day challenge to raise money for its helpline and information service. Whether it’s giving up vending machine snacks, ditching lunchtime doomscrolling, starting a workplace walking club, learning a new skill or organising a book or
coffee club, every challenge will help ensure people affected by kidney disease have somewhere to turn when they need support the most. The federation, based at The Point in Shireoaks, Worksop, is the UK's biggest kidney patient charity, and provides information, support and campaigns on behalf of people affected by kidney disease. The helpline and information service cost £100,000 a year to run. Register at www.kidney.org.uk/ kick-a-habit or call fundraiser Suzanne Rutter on 01909 544999.
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MEMBER PROFILE Hasina Reshamwalla (pictured), is chief executive and co-founder of Veda Women’s Club, which has four staff and is based in Leicester. Tell us what your community interest company does? Veda Women’s Club provides a safe community for women from all walks of life to gather and celebrate each other. Our events are open and provide a chance for women to take off their metaphorical hats and detach from the identities put on them by the outside world, to focus inward on filling their own cup. All events focus on an aspect of wellness, from physical to mental and financial. The proceeds from these events go toward community programs where we focus on providing confidence-building, financial literacy and mindset shifting classes to women that are rebuilding after trauma. In addition, we create programs for students aged eight and above, in envisioning their future dreams and aspirations. We have mentorship programs, workshops and drop-in programs that are geared to empowering the youth, especially young girls and young carers, so they may attain their dreams and be role models for their community. We launched in August 2025 when I found a gap in services for young girls in care homes, that then gave room for a talk on hidden illnesses, something I have struggled with most of her life. The passion grew rapidly with more charities supporting our work in the community. As we expanded, we realised there were many high achieving women who were forgotten and had no place to just recharge and feel less lonely. Yet, the higher you move up a ladder and the more responsibilities you have, the lonelier life can be, and that is
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where Veda Women’s Club bridges the gap, creating a place where women feel seen, heard and valued. As a woman who has spent the greater part of my life battling illnesses, but looking well, I had to break barriers, challenge stigmas and be the voice for those who felt too shy, too different and too scared to speak of their illnesses and the need to belong and be accepted. My background in patient advocacy globally, helped me see a need for women to find their voice and to be seen, heard and championed. We are also a multi-award winning organisation.
‘Our main customers are young girls and women, from all walks of life – from the newcomer to the chief executive of a company’ Who are your main customers and what is your USP to them? Our main customers are young girls and women, from all walks of life – from the newcomer to the chief executive of a company because we recognise that every woman needs a safe place to fill her cup and empower herself, so she can empower her community. Our USP is that we do not segregate – we are inclusive. We also come from a background of lived experience being ill and running a business, while still being a mother and a student. Our team is comprised of a mental health first aider, life and wellness coach, a law school graduate, a legal representative and a business owner and coach. We also offer free legal services for women with identified needs. What does your day-to-day role involve? I am the chief executive and co-founder. I do a lot of business development with local and national partners. I am a motivational speaker. I also run the website, community programs and crisis support for the mental health programs and supports we offer.
What challenges have you faced? The biggest challenges we have faced have been awareness of what we do and the funding, since we do not segregate and target specific groups of women. We run events and do awareness campaigns to speak of the work we do. Getting involved in community groups and networking have played a positive role in our ability to grow. What are the plans for the future? We are looking to expand nationally as we have been recognised in London, Nottingham, Leicester, Birmingham and Bolton in the last 10 months since we launched. We hope to build on our platforms to help as many women and girls as we can. Eventually looking at longer accredited programs. How long have you been a member of East Midlands Chamber? We have been with the Chamber since March 2026 and have attended an event. Our director was included in the May edition of Business Network magazine about her appointment and we are looking to feature in more articles to continue to build awareness and hope that the membership benefits will continue to support our growth. Is there anything else you would like to add? Our co-founder Aliyana Reshamwalla is aged 20 and a recent graduate of the law with psychology programme at NTU. She was a young carer and her passion has been intergenerational work and career training for youth. She has been a multi-award recipient for her outstanding work as a rising star, with her work focusing on bridging the gap between those entering the workforce and those in senior, longstanding positions, through her mentorship work. Our non-executive directors Lucy Payne and Prity Chauhan bring a unique dynamic to the team. Lucy, a young single mother, raised her own bar by educating herself and establishing her career as a conveyancer at BP Legal. Prity is a multibusiness CEO who coaches people on entrepreneurship and mindset shifting.
NEW MEMBERS In June and July 50 new members joined the Chamber: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Lucy Truman Illustration JigiWeb Blunetic Ripley Hypnotherapy Cuttle Em Claire Creative Standout Leadership Consultancy Elev8 IT PTDS Consulting BEKUNST Ground Effect Coffee Roasters Freight Arranger Peak Arts Therapies Capture Intelligent Systems Maven Capital Partners UK The Gentleman’s Challenge Triple Skillz Charity Drain Doctor Derby Connect Outreach Mansfield Community & Voluntary Service Digiovations S80 Partnership AF Electrical & Mechanical Contractors Ambutrust National Kidney Federation Cenit College Dampcure Transform Training The Will Garvey Trust Foundation
Ground Effect Coffee • Belton Woods Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort • Burton and South Derbyshire College • Let's Face It Foundation • Derbyshire Institute of Sport • Smile Serenity Dental Care • Juice Creative Design • Lilian Prime MS Centre • Womentum • Primo XR • AASP • Empyrean Fire Consultancy • Quodox Training • Molly’s Gift • Alderman Newton's Educational Foundation • Next Verse • Syston & District Volunteer Centre • Ezra’s Confetti • Trent Rivers Trust • Thurnby Fields Care Home • Pavale Property Investments • Huber UK Temperature Control
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Cancer gave me a new perspective on everything COMMENT Simon Smith (pictured), runs JAKT Photography. “You have cancer.” Three words that instantly change your perspective. I was working at an event for a client when I received that phone call. I was capturing the opening of a new building they had created for Nottingham College, and the speaker was about to begin when my phone rang. It was a withheld number, and from experience, I knew those calls were usually from hospitals, so I answered. The news was that my colonoscopy had found a large polyp. Because of its size, there was concern it could be cancerous. That was the moment my journey began. Ironically, I was still doing the job I love. I was capturing the event, focusing on my client and making sure everything was delivered as planned. Looking back, I think that distraction helped me process what was happening. A few weeks later, just before Christmas 2024, a biopsy confirmed I had stage 3 bowel cancer. People often ask what went through my mind at that moment. The honest answer is, not what you might expect. I didn't spend my time asking "Why me?", or thinking about the worst possible outcome. Instead, I found myself asking a much simpler question: “What’s the next step?” That question became my mindset for everything that followed. There was already a lot happening in life. I had recently bought a house, I didn't have critical illness insurance, and in the same week, we found out my daughter was expecting our first grandchild. Life was continuing to move quickly, even though everything had suddenly changed. 18
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As someone who is selfemployed, stopping work was never really an option. My clients still had stories to tell, projects to complete and businesses to support. My work in commercial photography and video is very hands on. It involves long days on location, carrying equipment, being physically present and delivering for clients who trust me with important moments. Continuing to work through treatment was challenging, but I focused on one thing at a time. During chemotherapy, I would often sit connected to an IV with my laptop open, editing photographs, producing videos or reaching out to new clients.
‘People often use the phrase “cancer survivor”, but I have never really connected with it. To me, it doesn’t feel like a journey with a clear beginning, middle and end. It feels like lots of small steps’ Not because I was trying to prove anything, but because it gave me purpose. It reminded me that cancer was something I was experiencing, not something that defined me. Looking back, I realise cancer taught me something business never could. Resilience isn't about being fearless. It isn't about pretending everything is fine. It's about accepting the reality in front of you, adapting to it and taking the next step anyway. That lesson didn’t just shape how I approached treatment, it changed how I approached my business. People often come to me because they think they need new photographs or a promotional video. But I’ve learned that the camera is rarely the answer. The real challenge is understanding the problem they are trying to solve.
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MEMBER NEWS
Are they struggling to build trust with customers? Explain a complex product or service? Stand out in a crowded market? The photography and video are simply the tools that help communicate the solution. Cancer reminded me to stop looking only at the obvious challenge and ask a better question: “What’s the real problem, and what’s the next step?” That is the mindset I now bring to every project. Before I pick up a camera, I want to understand the people behind the business, the customers they are trying to reach and the challenges they are trying to overcome. One of the biggest lessons this experience has taught me is that even in life’s darkest moments, something positive can still grow. I would never choose to go through cancer, but I can choose what I take from it. My journey inspired my wife to run the London Marathon for Bowel Cancer UK, raising more than £5,600 for research, awareness and support. Together, we have had conversations with friends, family and businesses been on the radio talking about things that we would never have had otherwise. If even one person recognises a symptom sooner or feels encouraged to get checked because of our story, then something positive has come from something incredibly difficult. People often use the phrase “cancer survivor”, but I have never really connected with it. To me, it doesn’t feel like a journey with a clear beginning, middle and end. It feels like lots of small steps. One hospital appointment, one treatment, one client meeting, one edit, one conversation, one more step forward. I also want people to be aware that bowel cancer doesn’t always shout. In my case, the only symptom I experienced was blood in my stool, something that for five years had previously been attributed to piles. Trusting my instincts and continuing to push for further checks eventually led to my diagnosis. If sharing my story encourages even one person to seek advice sooner, then sharing it has been worthwhile. Cancer changed my life, but it also changed my perspective. Success is no longer just about awards, turnover or growth. It is about purpose, the people around you and having the resilience to keep moving forward. Because sometimes life doesn’t ask you to see the whole path ahead. Sometimes, it only asks you to take the next step.
MEMBER PROFILE Jessica Roj (pictured), is the founder and creative director of BEKUNST, in Leicester.
Tell us what your company does? BEKUNST is a contemporary homeware brand creating sculptural storage objects that combine natural stone and borosilicate glass. The collection is designed around the idea that everyday objects should be beautiful enough to remain on display, transforming storage into part of the interior rather than something to hide away. The business was founded in 2024 following my studies in business and management and interior design. Since then, I have developed the collection from concept through to manufacturing, branding and international launch. Who are your main customers? Our customers are design-conscious homeowners, interior designers, boutique retailers and hospitality businesses looking for timeless pieces with architectural character. Our unique proposition is the combination of sculptural design, premium natural materials and everyday functionality. ‘Our unique Rather than following seasonal trends, proposition is the BEKUNST creates collectible objects combination of designed to become lasting features within contemporary interiors. sculptural design,
premium natural Tell me about yourself? As founder and creative director, I oversee materials and every aspect of the business, from product everyday development and supplier relationships to functionality’ branding, marketing, business development and strategic partnerships. No two days are the same. One day may involve developing new products with manufacturers, while the next focuses on retailer meetings, preparing exhibitions or building relationships with collaborators and media. What challenges have you faced? Like many young product businesses, one of our biggest challenges has been balancing growth with investment. Developing premium products requires significant upfront commitment to manufacturing, logistics and international exhibitions. What are the plans for the future? Our immediate focus is London Design Festival this September, where BEKUNST will present an installation celebrating design, craftsmanship and everyday rituals. Alongside this, we are continuing discussions with retailers, expanding our wholesale network and developing new collections that build on the brand’s sculptural design language.
Macmillan is just the ticket for bus firm’s charity pick Drivers and co-workers at bus company trentbarton have chosen Macmillan Cancer Support as their charity of the next two years. Macmillan was chosen for its vital work with people diagnosed with cancer, coming top in a staff vote from a choice of charities nominated by the team and customers. Marketing and communications manager Scarlet McCourt said: “Everyone knows how challenging a cancer diagnosis can be, whether for themselves or for a loved one. “Knowing that Macmillan Cancer Support is there to help and guide is a tremendous comfort. “Our teams and their charity champions will be working hard to generate as much money as possible and we know our customers will be keen to support our fundraising.” Olly Larkin, relationship fundraising manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Together we can make a meaningful difference, ensuring every person with cancer gets the support they need, whoever and wherever they are. “We’re incredibly grateful for trentbarton’s support and are excited to see what we can achieve together through fundraising and awareness raising, as well as colleague and passenger engagement over the course of the partnership.” Meanwhile, the bus company presented £12,000 to its previous charity of the year, Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) after a two-year fundraising campaign. Since 1994 the LNAA has been by the side of patients across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire at their greatest moment of need. Their doctor and paramedic teams bring the equivalent of an emergency department to the scene of an incident.
How long have you been a Chamber member? I joined East Midlands Chamber to become part of the region’s wider business community and to access opportunities that support business growth. Being part of the Chamber has helped broaden my professional network while supporting the next stage of the company’s development. September 2026 business network
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APPOINTMENTS
APPOINTMENTS THE LATEST CAREER UPDATES AS COLLEAGUES MOVE UP OR MOVE ON
COLLEGE APPOINTS ALEX AS CHAIR OF GOVERNORS
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ottingham College has appointed Alex Peace-Gadsby OBE DL as its new chair of governors, bringing her wealth of leadership, governance and education experience to one of the UK’s biggest colleges. She will help shape the strategic direction of the college, working with the senior leadership team to support the delivery of high-quality education and training to more than 20,000 young people and adults each year. An accomplished entrepreneur, investor and non-executive leader, Alex has had a career driving growth and strategic change across UK and international organisations. She has also made a significant contribution to public life, chairing and serving as a trustee on national charities and foundations,
Nottingham College chair of governors Alex Peace-Gadsby OBE DL
NEW CHIEF TO PUT YMCA AT HEART OF CIVIC LIFE The incoming chief executive of YMCA Derbyshire has promised to continue to put the charity at the heart of civic life and represent the needs of local young people. Matt Jones, who is the group chief executive of YMCA Thames Gateway Group, will take over the reins in November, when current CEO Gillian Sewell steps down. Matt is bringing more than 30 years of senior leadership experience to Derbyshire from across the charity sector, housing, health and social care. He has led YMCA Thames Gateway Group for the past two
including her current role as chair of both Parentkind and the Inspire and Achieve Foundation. She has also chaired the Youth United Foundation and was chief commissioner of The Scout Association in England. She was awarded an OBE in 2019 and appointed deputy lieutenant for Nottinghamshire in 2021. Alex said: “Nottinghamshire is very much at my heart, and Nottingham College makes a real difference to so many people. There are wonderful staff and wonderful students here, and I am excited to play my part in supporting the college as it continues its impressive upward journey and creates opportunities for people across our city and wider region.”
University of Leicester vice-chancellor Professor Sir Nishan Canagarajah at Windsor Castle
years, overseeing its operations across a number of London boroughs, including Barking and Dagenham, Havering and Greenwich, as well as Essex and Kent, where it delivers housing, community, health and children’s services. Matt is joining YMCA Derbyshire with the charity on a high, having just opened its flagship housing scheme, Foundry Point, which is a collection of 60 furnished, selfcontained one-bed apartments in Cotton Lane, Derby, for young people aged 18 to 30 in work or training.
PROFESSOR CELEBRATES ‘REMARKABLE’ KNIGHTHOOD
YMCA Derbyshire chair Julian Smith, incoming chief executive Matt Jones and outgoing CEO Gillian Sewell
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King Charles has knighted University of Leicester vice-chancellor Professor Sir Nishan Canagarajah in an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle. Professor Canagarajah was recognised in the 2026 King’s New Year Honours for his contribution to higher education, particularly in championing inclusion. Prof Canagarajah, who travelled to Windsor with his wife Thabi, said: “As a boy from the once war-torn land of Sri Lanka, to being recognised by royalty is quite a remarkable journey. It is because of the transformative power of education and the opportunities it presents that this has been possible. That is why I remain committed to removing barriers for others so that they too can fulfil their true potential.”
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APPOINTMENTS
UNIVERSITY NAMES DR NIK AS ITS PRO-CHANCELLOR Entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL has been appointed pro-chancellor (enterprise) by the University of Leicester.
Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL
Dr Kotecha – who is chairman of Chamber strategic partner RandalSun Capital – will help strengthen the university’s engagement with business, innovation and entrepreneurship at a time when universities are playing an increasingly important role in driving growth and supporting regional prosperity. After arriving in Leicester as a refugee, Dr Kotecha founded Morningside Pharmaceuticals from his garage in 1991, growing it into a global supplier of medicines serving more than 120 countries. He was awarded an OBE for services to entrepreneurship, innovation and philanthropy, and holds a number of influential national and regional business, innovation and civic roles. He became an honorary doctor of science at the University of Leicester in 2023 and has
supported initiatives including the establishment of Leicester Medical School and the IntoUniversity Centre in Beaumont Leys through his charity the Randal Foundation, which he co-founded with his wife, Moni. Dr Kotecha said: “Having grown up in Leicester, the University has always been a prominent part of the city’s identity. I have seen firsthand the extraordinary contribution it makes – not only as a nationally recognised centre of academic excellence, but also as a driving force in the civic, economic and innovation landscape of our city and country. “I look forward to supporting the continued growth of the university’s ambitious enterprise and innovation agenda, strengthening its connections with business, industry and the wider community.”
....AND HONOURS HOLOCAUST SURVIVOR One of few remaining people with personal memories of the Holocaust has been given an honorary doctorate of laws by the University of Leicester. Dr Martin Stern MBE, who had a 42-year career as an NHS consultant with University Hospitals of Leicester, has devoted much of his life to educating people about what he saw and experienced between 1939 and 1945. Born in Hilversum in the Netherlands in 1938 to German refugees, Dr Stern lived just a few streets away from Anne Frank until 1943, when he was sent, with his one-year-old sister, to the Theresienstadt ghetto near Prague, a transit camp from which thousands of Jews were transported to death camps. After the liberation, he returned to the Netherlands before moving to the UK in 1950, becoming a British citizen four years later. He worked for many years at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust as a consultant clinical immunologist, retiring in 2002. He was closely involved with the Midlands Asthma and Allergy Research Association and set up the Leicester Children’s Allergy Service, at Leicester Royal Infirmary, in 1987. Since retirement Dr Stern has been active in preserving and sharing the story of the Holocaust,
IN BRIEF
STUDENT MOHIT EARNS APPRENTICESHIP ROLE East Midlands electrical motor and drive specialist Alpha Electrics has welcomed a new apprentice to its growing team. Mohit Patel (pictured) has joined the Leicester-based family business, bringing the company’s total headcount to 14. The firm works with clients across the UK and specialises in the aerospace, automotive, precision engineering and food sectors, servicing approximately 3,000 motors each year. Sales director Rajesh Patel said: “After spotting Mohit’s potential during a period of work experience, we were delighted to offer him the opportunity to begin a career in the electrical industry.”
FIVE NEW HIRES JOIN ACCOUNTANCY FIRM
Dr Martin Stern MBE
speaking at the National Holocaust Centre and Museum in Nottinghamshire. He is an honorary associate member of the University of Leicester’s Stanley Burton Centre for Holocaust and Genocide Studies.
Chesterfield accountancy firm SMH Mitchells has welcomed five new team members as it continues to invest in its people to support long-term growth. The new recruits – Arbaaz Yaseen, Dawn Thomson, Azizur Rahman, Finlay Zartarian and Ella Gascoigne – include experienced professionals, graduates and university placement students. Senior manager David Waining said: “Although they’re all joining us at different stages of their careers, they each recognised the same thing, that SMH Mitchells is a place where people are supported, encouraged to develop and given opportunities to progress.”
ISSY EARNS SENIOR ROLE AT EDEN
Issy Turner, senior PR and digital account manager at Eden PR
Midlands PR agency Eden Public Relations is continuing to invest in its senior team by appointing a specialist in stakeholder engagement. Issy Turner has more than a decade of experience across in-house communications and agency work, having started her career in local news, attaining her degree and preliminary journalistic NCTJ qualifications before moving into PR and communications. She has worked on national campaigns and communications strategies and is a huge advocate for closing the gender health gap and promoting inclusive communications.
Issy led the media relations and strategy at national children’s sports charity the Youth Sport Trust for seven years before becoming a senior account manager at Eden after having her son. Issy said: “I am looking forward to supporting clients to get their messages heard while continuing to uphold the brilliant media relations and reputation Eden is known for, both regionally and nationally, with journalists.” She will lead accounts at Eden across HR, recruitment and the funeral sector. Eden PR is based in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market. September 2026 business network
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BUSINESS NETWORK
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Putting our Trust in the natural world
BIG INTERVIEW
MEETING THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE REGION’S TOP BUSINESSES
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erbyshire Wildlife Trust is an independent conservation charity, which was established in 1962. Today it is one of 46 independent wildlife trusts working together to recover nature across the UK. For more than 60 years, it has been working to restore nature across Derbyshire by creating bigger, better and more connected habitats, helping wildlife recover and supporting people to take action for nature. Based at Middleton, near Matlock, it works across the whole of Derbyshire with around 65 staff and more than 400 volunteers. Together with its members, supporters and partners, the team restores and reconnects habitats including woodlands, grasslands, moorlands, wetlands and rivers. They care for nature reserves, recover threatened species, and work with farmers, landowners, schools, businesses and communities to create more space for wildlife. The ambitious Wilder Derbyshire 2030 Strategy is driving nature’s recovery through landscape restoration, species recovery, community action and partnerships that create lasting benefits for wildlife, people and the economy. Hollie Fisher heads up Wild Solutions, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s ecological consultancy. As one of 24 Wildlife Trust consultancies across the UK, it provides expert ecological advice, surveys and naturebased solutions for businesses, developers, landowners and the public sector. Its evidence-led approach helps clients deliver positive outcomes for nature while meeting environmental requirements, with every pound of profit reinvested into the trust's work to restore nature across the county. Tom Pegden asked Hollie about the work they do and about how businesses are playing a part in regreening the region.
Hollie Fisher leads Wild Solutions, Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s ecological consultancy
How is its work split and how do you work with councils, landowners and homeowners? We have a very clear mission at the trust, to inspire and enable bold, transformative action, where everyone plays their part to make it happen. Continued on page 24... September 2026 business network
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THE BIG INTERVIEW
...from page 23 To achieve this, we work with as many influential and like-minded businesses and organisations as possible. For example, our biodiversity planning team provides planning and ecological advice to most of the planning authorities in Derbyshire. Our biodiversity net gain team provides biodiversity net gain units [quantifying ecological value, habitat distinctiveness, size and condition] to the construction industry across the Midlands from our own high-integrity habitat banks. Our community leads work with groups to help shape and lead initiatives that give communities more access to nature, and within Wild Solutions we work with businesses, councils, landowners and organisations within Derbyshire and further afield. Do you own your own land? Yes. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust owns and manages a network of nature reserves across the county, but our focus is not simply on owning land, it’s about restoring nature at a landscape scale by working with others. Through our Making Space for Nature programme, we work alongside farmers, landowners, businesses, local authorities and communities to create bigger, better and more connected habitats where wildlife can recover and thrive. Together, we have helped secure 42,408 acres for nature across Derbyshire through land we own, manage, influence or support. Tell me about your role? I was part of the team that set up the ecological consultancy back in 2022 and have successfully grown the business year on year. We have diversified our product offering and technical expertise to match the changing needs of the industry, allowing us to work with clients ranging from councils to universities, SMEs and global corporations like Toyota and Rolls-Royce. We collaborate at any stage, from first ideas and project development to delivery and implementation. After five years we are now a team of 13 specialising in ecological restoration, natural capital and ecosystem services. I am most proud of the impact we make for our clients. We often start off with something small like working with Northern Rail to help them turn some of their platforms into more
Lubrizol EU regional security advisor Dave Adams
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nature-positive spaces, and then before we know it the project has gained such notoriety that we are being asked to design an industry-wide approach for wildlife friendly stations in rail. The team and I also take a lot of pride in helping businesses with the tiniest green or grey space learn how they can make a huge difference for their business sustainability, their clients, their employees and nature. If you have any outdoor space, no matter how small or tricky, we can make a difference. How would you describe the current state of the natural environment in Derbyshire? Every few years we publish a State of Nature Report for Derbyshire, with support from the Derbyshire Biological Records Centre and hundreds of passionate volunteers. The report offers the most comprehensive picture yet of wildlife and habitats across the county and delivers a clear message: time is running out – but hope is far from lost.
‘The county’s unique geographical position, where lowland and upland Britain meet, makes it critical for species migration’ Derbyshire’s natural environment faces a critical juncture. While the county’s 650,000 acres encompass extraordinary landscapes from upland moors to lowland wetlands, closer examination reveals a complex and concerning picture. Wildlife continues to decline at an alarming rate, with many habitats under increasing pressure despite superficial appearances of environmental health. Despite these challenges, significant opportunities exist. More than 200 local wildlife sites have received support through agrienvironment schemes and there’s an evergrowing recognition among businesses, councils, farmers and other landowners of their role in nature’s recovery. The county’s unique geographical position, where lowland and upland Britain meet, makes it critical for species migration as climate change shifts habitat suitability northwards.
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Recovery requires a people-centred, collaborative and landscape-scale approach rooted in the Lawton Review principles – more, bigger, better and joined-up natural areas. Key strategies include reintroducing herbivory and lost species; rewetting peatlands; creating corridors and stepping-stones between fragmented habitats; and collaboration between farmers, landowners, communities and developers and consultancies like Wild Solutions to ensure we all play our part before it is too late.
Cosy constantly comes up with new ways to reuse materials for its outdoor play installations
Cosy Foundation’s beehives enable it to produce and sell its own honey
What impact has the current drought had (and the wet winter we just had)? Climate change is no longer a future challenge for Derbyshire, it is already reshaping our landscapes and ecosystems. Rather than simply becoming warmer, we are experiencing more extremes: hotter, drier summers alongside wetter winters and more intense rainfall events. These rapid swings place significant stress on habitats, wildlife and the people who manage them. This year provides a good example. Following one of the wettest winters in recent years, much of Derbyshire has experienced a prolonged spring and summer drought. While winter rainfall replenished reservoirs and groundwater, much of that water ran off quickly because of saturated soils and increasingly intense downpours. The subsequent dry spell has left rivers at exceptionally low levels, dried wetlands, reduced water availability for wildlife and agriculture, and increased the risk of wildfires on moorland. Wildlife is feeling these impacts too. Species are having to adapt to changing seasons, with some plants flowering earlier and migratory birds arriving at different times. Drought reduces food availability and breeding success for many species, while warmer winters can favour pests and diseases that native plants and animals are not adapted to withstand. For businesses, these changes have real economic implications. Climate resilience is becoming as important as climate mitigation. How would you describe the geography that you cover? The Peak District is undoubtedly Derbyshire’s most iconic landscape, but it represents only part of the county that Derbyshire Wildlife Trust works across. Derbyshire is remarkably diverse, stretching from the upland moorlands, blanket bogs and limestone dales of the Peak District to the rolling farmland, ancient woodlands, rivers, wetlands and former industrial landscapes of the south and east of the county. Each of these landscapes supports different wildlife and faces different challenges. The uplands are nationally important for peatlands, birds of prey and carbon storage. The river valleys provide vital corridors for wildlife while helping to manage flood risk. Lowland meadows and hedgerows support pollinators and farmland birds, and post-industrial sites, quarries and former mining areas have become valuable habitats for rare plants and invertebrates. This diversity means our work is equally varied. We restore peatlands that lock up carbon, create and connect woodlands, improve rivers, recover species-rich grasslands, advise farmers on nature-friendly land management, and work with businesses and developers to deliver biodiversity net gain and wider nature recovery. September 2026 business network
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THE BIG INTERVIEW
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust has worked with Dale Grange Farm partner and landowner Richard Wheeldon
Perhaps the defining feature of Derbyshire is that it sits at the crossroads of urban, rural and industrial England. That gives us a unique opportunity to demonstrate that nature recovery isn't confined to national parks or nature reserves. It can happen on farms, in towns, alongside new developments and across working landscapes, creating a more resilient environment that benefits both wildlife and people. Tell me about the new Better Business for Nature toolkit? The toolkit is simply about giving businesses the tools they need to be part of the solution, not making them part of the problem. We want to see more businesses across The East Midlands
Lubrizol has transformed its site into a haven for wildlife
doing what they can to support biodiversity and the application of nature-based solutions from a real understanding that it is the best thing for their business security, the welfare of their teams, communities and customers. When the research conducted by Dr Polina Baranova, associate director of strategy and sustainability at the University of Derby showed us that 46% of businesses in the East Midlands said they never engaged with nature-based solutions – and that this was going up year-on-year – we knew we had to do something to inform, engage and guide our amazing local businesses. How did you partner with the university and Chamber? The Better Business For Nature project is quite distinct in that it works with a huge variety of local businesses and draws on expertise from Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, Wild Solutions Consultancy, the University of Derby and East Midlands Chamber, which is the largest Chamber in the UK. Once we had our mission clear we were able to secure funding. This project was funded by the Government’s Species Survival Fund. The fund was developed by Defra and its arm’slength bodies. It was delivered by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with Natural England and the Environment Agency.
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This partnership allowed us as a collective, to finance multiple workshops and discovery sessions over many months to involve as many SMEs, large corporations, land-owners and farmers as possible to build the toolkit. We really wanted to ensure that it provided what they said they were looking for.
‘All these free things that the natural world brings to us are called ecosystem services and we need to find ways together to use them sustainably’ We wanted to ensure that this project drew its insights first hand from the business world and that the output was applied and useful. Not just an academic project. Our collaboration with the Chamber ensured this was the case. Jargon like biodiversity and ecosystem services can be off-putting and confusing for businesses, when what we are really talking about is everything that the natural world
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THE BIG INTERVIEW
‘Over the past decade, we have steadily grown our income by developing a diverse range of funding streams, helping ensure the long-term sustainability of our work’ now reaching out to businesses across the East Midlands to be see how they create their own innovative solutions. The project has already highlighted some fantastic case studies from organisations such as Lubrizol which has transformed its site into a haven for wildlife and nature connection, and Cosy which is constantly coming up with new ways to reuse materials for its outdoor play installations. The evidence shows that those businesses investing in nature-based solutions become more resilient and future proofed, whether that be with their energy consumption, employee turnover and wellbeing or brand reputation.
provides for us to eat, drink, survive, access wellness and joy, and of course create our businesses. All these free things that the natural world brings to us are called ecosystem services and we need to find ways together to use them sustainably and make sure they are available for future generations and businesses to come. The toolkit simplifies Better Business for Nature by explaining key terms, sharing key facts and providing tried and tested applications, whether you are newcomer, supporter or champion. It is designed to be flexible for all forms of business so that you can start anywhere, work on the elements that are most impactful or possible to your organisation and come back to the others over time. How important is it for businesses to think about the natural environment around their premises? National and regional policy on economic growth declares commitment to clean and inclusive growth. Businesses need to balance delivering economic growth, environmental impact and social responsibility for them to fully support sustainability transition. This means improved understanding the relationship between our businesses and nature and active engagement with nature-based solutions. Not only this, but recent analysis shows that more than half of global GDP is either moderately or significantly dependent on nature – meaning that nature is not just a nice to have for businesses, it is essential for long term resilience. The toolkit simplifies this process and businesses bring the innovation. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust with the University of Derby and Chamber can only take the story so far. We are
What should businesses do that haven’t considered their place in the environment? At Wild Solutions, we pride ourselves in having the skills to support any businesses, no matter if they are a total newcomer to considering their natural environment or if they are looking for guidance in taking their NbS and biodiversity goals to the next level. There are always options, whether a company owns a huge estate or a small built-up plot, it’s just about knowing how to prioritise actions to ensure that the work delivered is genuinely impactful and not tokenistic. There has never been more support for businesses that want to have a positive impact on nature. Through initiatives such as the Better Business for Nature programme, businesses can connect to local ‘champions’, access practical tools, guidance and expertise to understand how nature-based solutions can strengthen their operations, reduce climate risks and contribute to local nature recovery. They can then take these findings to a consultancy like Wild Solutions to access expert ecological advice. What local wildlife has been lost – what has returned? Species reintroduction is a key part of
Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Derbyshire 2030 Strategy. In 2021, we reintroduced two pairs of Eurasian beavers to our Willington Wetlands Nature Reserve, where they had been absent for around 800 years. The project has been a great success, with the beavers producing eight kits and transforming the wetland through their natural engineering. By creating ponds, channels and wetter habitats, they have increased habitat diversity and provided benefits for a wide range of other wildlife, from amphibians and dragonflies to birds, fish and mammals. Most recently, we released three juvenile white storks at Willington Wetlands, marking the return of the species to this part of Derbyshire for the first time in more than 600 years. Not all wildlife needs to be reintroduced. Species such as otters have naturally returned to Derbyshire’s rivers after decades of decline, demonstrating that restoring habitats and improving water quality can enable wildlife to recover under its own steam. Where does your funding come from? Derbyshire Wildlife Trust is an independent conservation charity with an annual turnover of £6.8m. Over the past decade, we have steadily grown our income by developing a diverse range of funding streams, helping ensure the long-term sustainability of our work. Our income comes from a blend of memberships, donations, legacies, charitable grants, fundraising appeals, corporate partnerships and commissioned conservation projects. We also generate commercial income through our ecological consultancy, Wild Solutions By combining charitable funding with commercial expertise and strong partnerships, we are creating a more resilient model for delivering nature's recovery at scale. Access the Better Business For Nature Toolkit here: https://tinyurl.com/4hx633fu
Dale Grange Farm has transitioned toward nature-based solutions, restoring species-rich grasslands
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STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS
STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS NEWS AND UPDATES FROM EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER’S LEADING SUPPORTERS
University of Derby honorary degree recipients, from left: Jackie Brocklehurst, Huw Davies, June Hughes and Mark Gregory
Nurse among university honorees
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Queen’s Nurse was among those receiving honorary degrees from the University of Derby over the summer. Former NHS assistant director of clinical leadership and education (nursing and midwifery) Jackie Brocklehurst received an honorary master of science. A registered nurse for 43 years, Jackie was awarded the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse in 2017 in recognition of excellence in patient care, leadership and learning. Alongside her healthcare career, Jackie volunteered with Girlguiding for almost four
decades, supporting and empowering girls and young women across the Midlands. Also receiving honorary degrees this summer were: • Gillian Sewell, who has spent more than 30 years transforming opportunities for young people through her leadership of YMCA Derbyshire. • Emeritus Professor Huw Davies – internationally recognised artistic researcher, filmmaker, photographer and curator whose
films have featured at festivals in more than 40 countries. He founded the Berwick Film & Media Arts Festival and led the University of Derby’s partnership with FORMAT International Photography Festival. • June Hughes – who spent 37 years at the university, becoming its secretary and registrar and playing a key role in it gaining university status in 1992. • Mark Gregory – former general counsel of Rolls-Royce Holdings.
SME learning platform offers ‘one-stop-shop’
West Nottinghamshire College principal Andrew Cropley with Jane Mackenzie
College celebrates ex-leader Former colleagues, friends and family gathered at West Nottinghamshire College to celebrate the life and legacy of former principal Don Mackenzie, as the college’s theatre was renamed in his honour. The Create Theatre on the Derby Road campus was retitled the Don Mackenzie Theatre at a ceremony attended by Don’s wife Jane Mackenzie, alongside current and former members of staff, many of whom had not returned to the college for more than 30 years. Don was principal from 1974 to 1994, leading it through two decades of significant development and earning a reputation as a committed leader who cared deeply about both staff and students. 28 business network September 2026
A learning platform trusted by the Chamber for more than seven years has returned to its original leadership team, bringing with it renewed investment and what management say is an enhanced proposition for SMEs across the region. IMPROVE, the learning management system (LMS) first adopted by the Chamber in 2019, has officially returned under the leadership of its founder Steve Walker, a learning technology entrepreneur with more than 30 years’ experience developing workforce learning solutions. He said it marked the beginning of a new phase of development, with a focus on helping SMEs simplify employee onboarding, compliance and workforce development.
As part of its next chapter, IMPROVE has also introduced Leadership Plus – a new management development solution designed for SMEs. The programme provides organisations with unlimited access to structured leadership and management learning aligned to nationally recognised ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) standards. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “IMPROVE adds significant value to the Chamber’s operations, from a workforce development and compliance perspective. “The interactive training provides a one-stop-shop tool for businesses to address regulatory, legislative and skills development needs.”
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STRATEGIC PARTNERS AND PATRONS
Airport is flying the flag for the region’s economy COMMENT By Steve Griffiths (pictured), East Midlands Airport managing director.
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ould you be surprised to hear that East Midlands Airport’s total impact to the UK economy was £6.2bn last year? The huge contribution the airport makes to the economy is something I am incredibly proud of, because it means we’re a vital part of the region we serve – a catalyst for local jobs and the growth of local industries, as well as being the gateway to four million people’s holidays every year and the UK’s largest pure freight operation. If you think that £6.2bn is impressive, that’s a figure that’s grown by £2bn in the space of 12 months, as our role powering trade for the region and UK as a whole has got even bigger. That’s because the largest contributor to our economic impact is the cargo we handle every night. Freight-related productivity makes up around half of the airport’s total economic impact, alongside operational activity including passenger and cargo operations and supply chain expenditure.
‘An average tonne of freight at East Midlands is 34 times the value of that handled at other UK ports’ Major freight operators based here like DHL, UPS and FedEx, along with other cargo activity, accounted for around half of all of the airport’s economic impact. This has been driven by a 12.5% increase in cargo volumes – topping 400,000 tonnes for the first time since the pandemic when international air cargo was at an all-time high. That sharp rise – accounting for a third of all UK air cargo growth last year – is partly down to us attracting seven new airlines to start operations last year, including Etihad Cargo and China’s largest cargo airline SF Express, both of which have chosen East Midlands as their only UK gateway. A measure of our importance for high-value, timesensitive and supply-chain-critical goods is that an average tonne of freight at East Midlands is 34 times the value of that handled at other UK ports – with export goods totalling £13bn last year.
That’s because we support the success of key industries like advanced manufacturing, one of the key industries in our region. They rely on the airport to import specialist parts to turn them into high value products that are then sent around the world. Nurturing sectors like this is vital to the UK’s economic success, with advanced manufacturing recognised in the Government’s industrial strategy as a key sector to support high value jobs. This provides opportunities for people to reach their full potential and enables businesses from all over the country to trade on the global stage. Our cargo operation is a major part of the jobs the airport supports around the UK – which now stands at 52,000, with 7,500 of them on site. Our region particularly benefits from our freight expertise, helping it to become a magnet for firms operating in sectors like aerospace, the automotive sector, pharmaceuticals and life sciences. Of course, our passenger operation continues to be a crucial and successful part of our operation. We are building on our success with ongoing talks with airlines to expand our passenger network, alongside the continuing development of plans to grow our cargo operation to maximise its potential.
IN BRIEF PRESTIGIOUS GLOBAL AWARD FOR AIR IT Managed service provider Air IT Group won the award for best use of automation and AI at the global Rewst Automation & AI Excellence Awards 2026. The award was presented at FLOW 2026 MSP conference and recognises businesses in the sector that are successfully using automation and AI to deliver measurable business impact. The win builds on Air IT Group’s growing partnership with Rewst, having also been named Rewst partner of the year in 2025. With more than 1,500 MSPs worldwide using the Rewst platform, the award places Air IT Group among the industry’s leading innovators helping shape the future of AI-powered service delivery. The recognition centres on Neuron, Air IT Group's bespoke AI and automation platform which, which brings advanced insights directly into engineers’ day-to-day workflows, creating a faster, smarter and more seamless experience for customers.
CONCERTUS TO ADD PROJECT PLATFORM Concertus has launched a new construction and building services framework called Link14, designed to support the delivery of public sector projects across England. Valued at up to £1bn over four years, Link14 will run from June 2027, building on the success of an existing Suffolk framework which has supported projects ranging from £10,000 to £40m across a range of sectors. As the current framework approaches its expiry in May 2027, Concertus has taken the opportunity to evolve its structure, ownership, and geographic reach to better align with the changing needs of clients and the wider public sector landscape.
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
President’s event a chance to celebrate… and look to the future Photos by Simon Smith at JAKT Photography
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he Chamber President’s Summer Celebration took place in the relaxed setting of the Treetops Hospice headquarters in Risley, Derby, with guests enjoying drinks, music, burgers and games. Dr Cham Kang hosted members of the region’s business community, using the opportunity to highlight some of the Chamber’s achievements over the last year and to look to the future. The networking event brought together Chamber members and charity partners, and reflected on the President’s themes across his time in office – United Communities; Stronger Together; Enabling Action. Treetops Hospice is one of Dr Kang’s three chosen charities to benefit from the Chamber’s Charitable Fund for 2026, along with Headway Nottingham and Voluntary Action Leicester (VAL). Dr Kang said: “The East Midlands is such a special place – known across the world for making,
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creating and being a centre of trading excellence. “Whether it’s our manufacturing and its centuries of history, or our innovation with AI and digital, our brilliant further and higher education and training, our transport links, East Midlands Airport or our investment zones – we’re here as a business community and we’re driving growth. “The themes I’ve chosen to underpin my time as Chamber President are around united communities; being stronger together and enabling ambition.
2 These are things we are achieving right now and will continue to do going forward as the business community. “As President, it’s important to me that we get the business community together as often as possible to share our experiences and reflect on challenges and how we’ve overcome them, on one hand, but we should always celebrate our wins too. “Every business knows things haven’t been easy in recent times and there’s no shying away from that. “Let’s face it – it’s been tough for business. High energy costs, driven
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up by the Middle East conflict, inflation which is above target and likely to rise and the overall high cost of doing business. “Shared insight among the business community and celebrating success is powerful, though and we have much to raise our glass to. That’s why my summer celebration event has been so important – there are growth opportunities ahead, we have a strong and brilliant business community here and we should embrace that as we go forward. “Community is important and in the East Midlands we have so many causes that deserve support.
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CHAMBER NEWS
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“The summer celebration was fantastic event and I extend my thanks to Treetops Hospice for hosting us, as well as the Chamber and its membership across the East Midlands. “I’m confident that the positive vibe from the business community will contribute to growth in the times ahead.” Kuku Connect co-founder Philip Brooks-Stephenson, who joined the guests, said: “We have hosted one of our Connect receptions here at Treetops and what they do is vital for so many families, so it’s been good that the President’s celebration has brought businesses here to see that it’s an open, vibrant place that does so much for the community. “Also, it’s great to see so many people supporting the Chamber President with his charities.” De Montfort University senior lecturer Jennifer Hing said: “Being here has been a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the
amazing work that’s being done by the team at Treetops to support people at such a difficult time. “I’ve heard so much about how the work they do has touched so many families in such a positive way.”
CAPTIONS 1. Chamber chair Kevin Harris 2. Guests enjoyed barbecued food at the summer networking event 3. Dr Cham Kang 4. Jennifer Hing 5. Philip Brooks-Stephenson of KuKu Connect 6. Guests network in the grounds of Treetops Hospice 7. The Chamber's Lucy Robinson (left) and Charlene Sharp
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CHAMBER NEWS
De Montfort University
Leicester College Abbey Park Campus
Businesses urged to help shape skills priorities for the region
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eicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) businesses are being given the opportunity to shape the region’s skills priorities – and play a key role in making sure the next generation of workers has the right skills for the ever-evolving job market. Insight from employers will help colleges, universities and skills providers draw up the right industry-relevant training to support the rapidly changing jobs market. The more businesses that take part, the more impact they can have. All further and higher education providers in the region are contributing to the delivery of the plan: including Leicester College, Loughborough College Group, De Montfort University, the University of Leicester, Loughborough University, North Warwickshire College and South Leicestershire College, and Wyggeston, Queen Elizabeth I sixth form college, and Melton Vale college. Shabir Ismail, principal and chief executive of Leicester College, said: “The Local Skills Improvement Plan
PLAN TO FOCUS ON FIVE KEY AREAS The LLR Local Skills Improvement Plan has been developed through research, insight and engagement with businesses, education and regional stakeholders, and has identified FIVE key priorities: 1. Working together to determine what skills the region needs 2. Getting trainees and graduates ready for the world of work 3. Strengthening digital and AI training 4. Developing green skills for net zero 5. Making sure skills provision is flexible and inclusive
is central to helping to shape our education and training so that it reflects the skills that local employers need most. “The plan will help further education and training providers such as the college to deliver the most effective support for current and future students as they move into the workplace.” Jill Cowley is pro vice-chancellor, extended education at De Montfort University. She said: “Working closely with employers is helping De Montfort University reshape its education and training offer.
‘The new skills plan is the best way to give businesses a louder voice in shaping post-16 technical education and skills provision’
Loughborough University
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Richard Blackmore
“We’re developing new apprenticeships, professional courses and flexible learning opportunities that respond to the changing needs of businesses, supporting both the next generation entering the workforce and those already in employment who need to develop new skills. “The Local Skills Improvement Plan is an important opportunity to strengthen those partnerships and ensure higher education continues to meet the needs of our region and we look forward to continuing to work with the Chamber to support the local workforce.” Richard Blackmore is director of policy and insight at East Midlands Chamber which has the contract to deliver the Local Skills
Improvement Plan. He said: “Helping shape a level of training and education that is fit for purpose is much more than teaching young people the basics. “It is becoming more and more important to teach them the skills to be able to communicate, to problem solve and use technology in ways that have never been considered before. “AI, for instance, is going to play a part in more and more jobs in the coming years, in industries ranging from design and finance to construction, logistics, defence, health and social care. And having the skills to use that technology in those sectors will be vital to economic success. “Some of the best people to determine what our teenagers and young adults should be taught are the businesses that will one day employ them. The process must be employer-led. “The new skills plan is the best way to give businesses a louder voice in shaping post-16 technical education and skills provision.” The Local Skills Improvement Plan will bridge the gap between the skills employers need and the training available to the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland workforce. It will reflect changes in the skills landscape, including the creation of Skills England and the strategic direction outlined in the Post-16 Education and Skills White Paper. It will also play a part in simplifying access to skills, and boosting economic growth. It is easy for businesses to get involved by signing up at: https://tinyurl.com/2738zu8f It includes a survey the Chamber will use to guide the skills being offered locally.
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CHAMBER NEWS
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CHAMBER NEWS
The Accelerator project is funded by UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Sign up for free AI pilot project C hamber members can test the water on a £5,000 AI project at no cost – through a new fund launched by Chamber strategic partner Digital Planning. The Loughborough-based AI and automation specialist has committed £50,000 to its Agentic AI Pilot Fund, offering up to £5,000 of fullyfunded support to 10 Chamber members. It is open to any member business which has: a £1m-plus turnover; at least 25 staff; a repetitive manual processes that could save £50,000 a year or more through automation. The project builds on Digital Planning’s role as a Chamber strategic partner to support
members with digital transformation and AI adoption. The fund will be used to build a working AI system inside each of the 10 businesses, using its own data and workflows, to solve one defined operational problem. Digital Planning is launching the fund after its research – presented at the Chamber’s People and Skills Conference in June – showed many businesses are held back by uncertainty over where to start with AI, or fear of investing in something they don’t understand. By removing the cost and risk from a first pilot, it wants to give East Midlands firms proof of what AI can do before committing further budget.
Co-founder and director Mark Underwood said: “We’re backing this with our own money because we’re confident in the return businesses will see. Once leaders have a working automation solving a real problem, without a leap of faith on cost or risk, they can see the value for themselves.” The fund targets professional and financial services, legal, accountancy or manufacturers, with the potential to tackle costly pain points such as onboarding delays, reporting bottlenecks or enquiry handling. Members will see their pilot running in practice and can judge, based on evidence, whether to invest further. The only condition is that they share their project as a case study – anonymised if needed. Applications for the first round close on 25 September 2026, with places awarded on potential business impact. Apply via: www.digitalplanning.tech/ agentic-ai-fund
CHAMBER PODCAST
Mark Underwood and James Ferraby at the 2026 Leicestershire Business Awards
Hear the Chamber’s Tim Smith and Richard Blackmore talking to Digital Planning founders Mark Underwood and James Ferraby on the latest Chamber podcast, The One for Business at: https://tinyurl.com/475m2ex5
Our programmes can break down barriers to employment Entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr Nik Kotecha (pictured) explains why he is backing the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to making the region a great place to train and work. East Midlands Chamber has more than 30 years’ experience delivering employment and skills programmes that support young people facing significant barriers to work. Its expertise aligns closely with the National Jobs Guarantee cohort, particularly young people aged 1824 who are long-term unemployed, claiming Universal Credit and need intensive, personalised support to secure and sustain employment. Through programmes including Kickstart, Connect to Work (IPSPC Working Well East Midlands), Working Well Nottinghamshire and the Work and Health Pioneer Programme, it has supported thousands of participants into work using evidence-based, personcentred approaches. As an approved Gateway Organisation for the DWP Kickstart Scheme, it engaged more than 900 employers, generated 2,591 34 business network September 2026
vacancies and secured 2,093 placements for young people aged 16-24 – including 1,465 aged 18-21. More than 70% progressed into sustained employment beyond the funded placement through continued employer engagement and in-work support.
‘The Chamber has extensive experience supporting young people with complex barriers to employment’ Its Connect to Work and Working Well services support unemployed people, many claiming Universal Credit who have been out of work for extended periods due to health conditions or other reasons. Over the past 18 months, Connect to Work has helped more than 2,100 participants
– including over 400 young people aged 18-21 – into employment through Individual Placement and Support (IPS) methodologies. The Chamber has extensive experience supporting young people with complex barriers to employment, including poor mental health, anxiety, low confidence, neurodiversity, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, care experience, homelessness or insecure housing, financial hardship, caring responsibilities and limited work experience. Its IPS and Supported Employment Quality Frameworktrained Employment Specialists deliver trauma-informed, strengthsbased coaching tailored to each individual’s circumstances. Support includes confidence-building, employability coaching, CV and interview preparation, travel planning, workplace adjustments, mentoring and progression planning.
Where specialist intervention is required, it works closely with NHS Integrated Care Boards, councils, housing providers, colleges, training providers and voluntary sector organisations to provide coordinated wraparound support that removes barriers and enables sustained participation. Its employer engagement model is equally important and its employment specialists identify suitable vacancies, prepare employers to support young people with additional needs, agree reasonable adjustments and provide ongoing support. To find out about new opportunities visit: www.emc-dnl.co.uk
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The Accelerator project is funded by UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
CHAMBER NEWS
ACCELERATOR CASE STUDY: BLOC DIGITAL
Business rates are being cut
Businesses drink to pub rates cut
Bloc Digital’s Keith Cox and Chris Hotham at the NASA Glenn Research Centre
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loc Digital is a Derby-based business employing around 70 people, and supports the aerospace, space and defence sectors with marketing and events, training and support, and digital transformation. The business helps clients work smarter and become more connected through things such as immersive training, data visualisation and the industrial internet of things. Clients include Airbus, Eurofighter Typhoon, Leonardo, Rolls-Royce, BAE, Boeing and Textron. Innovate UK support enabled the business to visit the US and gain knowledge, market information and business leads. That led to two offices in Ohio and Kansas, with plans to open a Singapore office in 2027 – opening up the Asian market. However, barriers to growth included: • It had grown organically year on year (excluding Covid) by word-of-mouth and client recommendation. Recently it had started reaching out to new companies for the first time with the team having to learn how to – and how not to – make that work. • The business is about to launch three SaaS (software as a service) products to complement its existing service offerings, but needed help with product selling, creating a potential barrier to growth.
Bloc Digital animation services
Prior to the Chamber’s support, the business worked with Innovate UK Business Growth and received innovation funding and internationalisation support from Paul Humphreys and Neil McCluskey. It has since been supported by Chamber business adviser Lisa Baggot and the East Midlands Combined County Authority Export Accelerator project, with Lisa conducting a business diagnostic, which highlighted its growth ambitions. That included a desire to explore the US space technology sector and with guidance from Lisa on the grant application, Bloc Digital secured funding to attend the Space Tech Expo USA 2026 in Anaheim, California. It was able to meet potential customers, partners, supplies and sector contacts and test its proposition directly with US organisations.
‘As a result of the support we expect to be able to grow our client base, both here in the UK and internationally’ In January, it shared a presentation on its growth journey with the Chamber’s East Midlands Manufacturing Network, giving members the opportunity to go behind the scenes and see how it helps manufacturers and helps industry with digitalisation. Director and founder Keith Cox said: “As a result of the support, we expect to be able to grow our client base, both here in the UK and internationally. “This will enable us to grow the business and achieve the next round of investment into Bloc which will see us have accelerated growth and employ new staff. “This has been an amazing opportunity for Bloc Digital. We are already seeing benefits from this support.” The project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by East Midlands Chamber. To find out about help available visit: https://tinyurl.com/42eactv2 https://tinyurl.com/2nwfbs6d
A 20% cut in business rates for pubs and clubs is a ‘significant step forward’, according to Chamber management, but it has renewed a call for support for the wider hospitality sector as well as manufacturing and smaller businesses, as part of a full review. The cut, announced by prime minister Andy Burnham, will be applied to business rates from April, and follows a 15% cut announced by the former Chancellor earlier in 2026. Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “A cut to business rates and widescale reform is something we’ve been calling for, for years. It’s one of the policy asks in our publication The Framework for Growth, as part of a wider review of business rates – so I’m pleased the prime minister has taken this action, which we, alongside pubs and clubs have been lobbying for. “This move is a significant step forward in helping pubs and clubs, which, like the whole hospitality sector, manufacturing and small businesses, have been disproportionately impacted by business rates, on top of having other high costs to navigate. “My hope is that this support will be extended to reach all parts of hospitality – cafes, coffee shops, restaurants and hotels are an equally important part of the East Midlands economy – supporting them, manufacturers and small businesses is essential to growth. The detail matters in the planned business rates cut too and we will need to look at that closely on behalf of our members – what is covered exactly, what isn’t, what businesses are eligible and how long does this 20% cut last for. “Ultimately what’s needed is a full root-and-branch review of business rates – not a quick sticking plaster or an approach that helps some firms but not others.”
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CHAMBER NETWORKS
CHAMBER NETWORKS BUILDING CONNECTIONS WITH YOUR PEERS AND BUSINESS LEADERS
FINALISTS FOR THE 2026 GENERATION NEXT AWARDS Apprentice of the Year Award – sponsored by Derby College Group • Megan White – Eversheds Sutherland • Eve Hunt – LJM Solutions • Lucia Burns – Howes Percival Excellence in Customer Service Award – sponsored by trentbarton • Eve Hunt – LJM Solutions • Becca Prior – Blue Stamp Travel • Isabelle Torrance – Derby College Entrepreneur of the Year Award – sponsored by Nottingham Trent University • Jessica Roj – BEKUNST • Josh Lindley – LJM Solutions • Ravi Agravat – Berkfield • Tania Gerard – Tania Gerard Digital Former chair Scarlett Canavan (right) at the 2025 awards
2026 Generation Next Awards finalists unveiled
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utstanding businesspeople aged 18-40 have been named as finalists for the 2026 Generation Next Awards. The Generation Next Awards are a landmark event in the East Midlands, with a reputation for lively and unconventional ‘festival-
The 2025 Generation Next Summer Festival & Awards (credit: Pete Martin Photography)
like’ ceremonies and becoming one of the biggest events in the network’s calendar. The Chamber network was set up to mentor and upskill young professionals and future leaders through skills workshops, learning resources and events. This year’s ceremony coincides with the 2026 Generation Next Conference on 15 October, and takes place at the Case Hotel, Chesterfield. Membership of Generation Next is provided as standard to anyone aged 18-to-40 who works for any Chamber member organisations. Network chair Preethi Kang said: “Generation Next empowers young businesspeople across the East Midlands to succeed. It does that by boosting confidence, building meaningful connections that give a valuable step up, creating a community where likeminded
Future Leader Award – sponsored by University of Derby • Charlotte Summers – Midland Lead • Kyle Hazeldine – Midland Lead • Jess Payne – Lake Energy • William Broad – Rail Forum • Josh Lindley – LJM Solutions • Kikelomo Solomon-Ayeni – Red 19 Creatives CIC Talent Development Award – sponsored by Chesterfield College • Ionut Andrei – Lake Energy • Amber Cavan – Lake Energy • Kikelomo Solomon-Ayeni – Red 19 Creatives CIC Community Impact Champion Award – sponsored by Leicester College • Rosie Craven – RU Counselling • Mandy Salmon – Bloc Digital • Jessica Johnson – Our Dementia Choir • Pheobe Lake – Lake Energy • Gurjeet Kaur – Eversheds Sutherland • Laxshmi Lynn – LJM Solutions Emerging Talent Award – sponsored by West Nottinghamshire College • Harriet Sheikh – Bodie Hodges Foundation • Emily Chennels – Lake Energy • Georgina Turner – Eversheds Sutherland • Tegan Harris – Structural Adhesives • James Spencer – LJM Solutions • Reilly Spencer – LJM Solutions
‘These awards shine a spotlight on the passion, talent and ambition that exists across our region’ people can share ideas, support one another and learn together. “It is a collaborative space where the next generation of talent can grow, thrive and inspire each other.
“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. I would like to thank everyone who entered the 2026 Generation Next Awards and congratulate all the finalists.” For tickets visit: https://tinyurl.com/4wfnm3w5
A network to share experiences and insights Young executives and entrepreneurs can take advantage of the opportunities available from joining the Chamber’s Generation Next network. The network is seen as a great way to accelerate career growth, blending professional development with social get-togethers, all tailored to the challenges faced by rising leaders. Membership can help you expand your visibility 36 business network September 2026
and influence, giving access to the so-called “hidden” jobs market – job opportunities that are not openly advertised, but shared through wordof-mouth, personal networks and referrals. As a peer support system, it can help provide space to bounce ideas around, discuss shared problems and troubleshoot strategic challenges with people in the same boat. Its events also
provide a chance for members to refine their soft skills, giving them more confidence and the encouragement to pursue their ambitions. The network is free to join for anyone who is part of an organisation or business that has East Midlands Chamber membership. Visit: generationnextemc.co.uk
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Celebrating the achievements of the region’s top businesswomen
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he shortlist for the 2026 Enterprising Women Awards has been announced, recognising outstanding achievement from women in the East Midlands business community. Finalists were revealed at Enterprising Women’s Summer Networking Event at Casa Hotel in Chesterfield, and include business areas ranging from innovation to social commitment. Tickets are on sale for the awards night which takes place on 25 September at Center Parcs Sherwood Forest, in Nottinghamshire, where the recipient of the flagship Lifetime Achievement Award will also be revealed. The 2025 lifetime recipient was Sandra Wiggins, founder of the Women on Boards, a social enterprise which supports female leaders. Enterprising Women co-chair Eileen Perry MBE DL said: “You would expect 2026 to be many miles ahead in championing women in business from how things stood a year, or even 20 years ago, but that’s not the case. “If I said there was a time women made up just 43% of company boards, you might imagine that refers to the 1980s. No – that’s FTSE data published in 2026. That level is far from good enough by any stretch and shows we must go much further. The Enterprising Women Awards can help change that. By bringing women in business together and showcasing outstanding skill, whether a one-to-watch apprentice or accomplished leader, we are putting right the imbalance.” Network co-chair Jean Mountain said: “If we are to get the economy where it needs to be, getting more women into leading roles is the way to go. From manufacturing to AI and digital, we have women in the East Midlands whose ideas, whose leadership, whose skill is driving growth. “The sheer quality of Enterprising Women Awards entries this year fills me with confidence that we have, right on our doorstep, an exceptional talent pool of businesswomen in the East Midlands. Let’s recognise that.” NOCN Group sponsors the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award, which is not selected by the judges. Group business development manager Beverley Scarfe said: “Events like this are a great reminder of the power of bringing people together to share experiences, celebrate success and champion one another. The Enterprising Women Awards are fantastic at showcasing the achievements of women and working together with men.” For ticket details and to attend the 2026 Enterprising Women Awards or find out more, visit: https://tinyurl.com/ypyn7tcm Listen to Enterprising Women chairs Eileen Perry MBE DL and Jean Mountain in The One for Business podcast here: https://tinyurl.com/2zn8b82b
Enterprising Women Summer Celebration, from left: Eileen Perry MBE DL, Sandra Wiggins and Jean Mountain
AND THE FINALISTS ARE: Apprentice of the Year – sponsored by Datalink Electronics • Clare Buckley – MJE Projects • Eve Hunt – LJM Solutions • Lucia Burns – Howes Percival • Andrea Shuttleworth – Global Brands • Lauren Sadler – Cambridge & Counties Bank Businesswoman of the Year – sponsored by Michael Smith Switchgear • Emily Bonsall – Certora Training • Selma Delic – PKF Smith Cooper • Paula Bailey – Howes Percival • Lisa Craven – Stormsaver • Debbie Hodgetts – Base Materials Developing Leader – sponsored by Sarah Higgins Corporate Coaching • Zehra Gezer – Global Brands • Ros Fomin – MSE Hiller • Preethi Kang – Qinesis Female Employee of the Year – sponsored by Cambridge and Counties Bank • Laura Barber – EMA Training • Nichol Thompson – West Special Fasteners • Zara Ford – Your IT Dept Female Entrepreneur of the Year – sponsored by Freeths • Jane Nitka – Barclays • Tania Gerard – Tania Gerard Digital • Nikki Jeffery – The Staging Experts • Katrice Rodrigues – Unity Swimming • Emma Knight-Strong – Green Arch Consulting The Innovation Award – sponsored by Pick Everard • Louise Adams – Love4Life • Meena Kumari – H.O.P.E. Training & Consultancy • Natalia Dovlatova – Platelet Services • Sarah Moore – Juggling Octopus • Lynn Johnson – FSG Returnables Small Business of the Year – sponsored by Knights • Certora Training • Creative Triangle • Datalink Electronics • Edwards Employment Solutions Social Commitment – sponsored by Mackworth Vehicle Conversions • Katrice Rodrigues – Unity Swimming • Natasha Chadwick – Impact People & Change • Shelley Smith – Sunrise Wellbeing Team of the Year – sponsored by Azets • Nelsons Solicitors • Structural Adhesives • Stormsaver • Trans-Sport.tv • Rothera Bray Solicitors
Enterprising Women Awards 2025: Social Commitment winner Sarah Thomson
Lifetime Achievement Award – sponsored by NOCN Group • Finalists are not announced for this flagship award. The recipient will be revealed at the ceremony on 25 September.
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CHAMBER NETWORKS
The East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN) has six groups in Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, each meeting every couple of months. There are more than 400 members. Joining is free, open to manufacturers of any size, and includes complimentary membership of Make UK.
DIARY DATES • 8 September, 7.30-10.30am, Derby Manufacturing Network, Mackworth Vehicle Conversions Specialists, Derby, DE22 4NB Book at: https://tinyurl.com/77wkfazm • 23 September, 7.30-10.30am, Nottingham Manufacturing Network, NTU Engineering, Nottingham, NG11 8NS Book at: https://tinyurl.com/44v9vjvr • 23 October, 7.30-10.30am, Derbyshire Manufacturing Network, Penny Engineering Limited, Clowne, Chesterfield, S43 4AB Book at: https://tinyurl.com/2vyab9vz For more visit: https://www.emc-dnl.co.uk/events/
emmn.co.uk Chamber podcast is really making waves The Chamber’s new podcast is gaining traction, addressing the challenges and growth opportunities East Midlands firms face and bringing together the region’s businesses to share insight. Launched in June, The One for Business is the podcast of East Midlands Chamber and available now to play or download on all major apps like Spotify, Apple or Amazon Audible. The most recent episode – ‘Beam me up, Boss – Empowering the next generation of business talent’ – takes on the issue of how more than a million under 24s are not in education, employment or training (NEET) across the UK, all while East Midlands employers are reporting difficulty finding suitable candidates to fill roles jobs. Generation Next chair Preethi Kang, champion Blu Hardy and network lead Lucy Robinson address the barriers young people face when advancing their career and how workplaces benefit from the insight of people in the 18-40 age range. Upcoming episodes of The One for Business for the remainder of 2026 are in pre-production and expected to cover topics including growth opportunities for business start-ups; approaches to sustainability amid cost pressures and the case for giving more devolved powers to Leicester and Leicestershire. Finding episodes is easy – go to any podcast app and search ‘The One for Business’.
Podcast guests L-R: Generation Next lead Lucy Robinson, Generation Next champion Blu Hardy and Generation Next chair Preethi Kang
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Delegates at the EMMN summer meeting at Nottingham Trent University’s Brackenhurst Campus
Events enable members to forge real connections
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he East Midlands Manufacturing Network (EMMN) enjoyed a successful month of summer networking, bringing together manufacturers, industry leaders and support organisations from across the region for two engaging and well-attended events. Hosted at the National Tramway Museum and Nottingham Trent University’s Brackenhurst Campus, the meetings adopted a relaxed summer format, beginning later in the morning and offering members additional time to connect, collaborate and share experiences. The change of pace was warmly received, creating an environment that encouraged open discussion around current business challenges, emerging opportunities and the issues keeping manufacturing leaders awake at night. Attendees benefited from industry updates, expert insights, roundtable discussions and guided tours of both venues, with contributions from the Chamber, Make UK and other key partners. Strong attendance, positive feedback and enthusiastic participation demonstrated the value of the EMMN community. EMMN is an integral part of the East Midlands Chamber, designed to support and connect manufacturers across the region. The collaboration strengthens the manufacturing sector by fostering innovation, driving growth, and
The stunning campus venue
promoting collaboration among businesses within the East Midlands. The network supports manufacturers to help them overcome business challenges in a trusted environment. This is a long term supportive network for manufacturing businesses of all sizes. It provides fully funded membership to connect local manufacturing companies; guidance and support to members to enable them to make the best decisions for their businesses; a chance to generate long-term, sustainable, mutually beneficial business opportunities. Meetings are open to business owners, directors and senior leaders who take a strategic overall responsibility to grow their business. For details, visit: emmn.co.uk
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TRAINING & EVENTS
TRAINING & EVENTS BOOST YOUR WORKFORCE AND DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS
Award nominations now open!
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he very best the East Midlands business community has to offer will be celebrated at the 2027 East Midlands Chamber Business Awards. For the first time the Chamber’s traditional three county awards will be brought together for a bigger, better, region-wide ceremony that will recognise the top businesses from across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire. Nominations from Chamber members are now open at: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/businessawards Businesses, charities and individuals from each county will be recognised in 15 categories, ranging from Green Business of the Year to Excellence in Customer Service, Innovation of the Year and Digital Transformation.
‘Creating a single awards ceremony for the three counties means an even bigger showcase for the finalists’ The number one entrant from each of the three counties will receive the 2027 Outstanding Achievement Award. 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. 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. At the same time, existing clients feel reassured that they are working with the best in the industry, boosting retention rates. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Having successfully navigated tough global and economic shifts over the recent years, our
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THE EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2027 CATEGORIES: • Derbyshire Outstanding Achievement Award – on hold
• Green Business of the Year – on hold • Excellence in Customer Service – on hold
• Leicestershire Outstanding Achievement Award – sponsored by RandalSun • Nottinghamshire Outstanding Achievement Award – sponsored by Vertas Group • Innovation of the Year – sponsored by Rolls-Royce
• Apprentice of the Year – on hold • Micro Business of the Year (One-to-10 people) – on hold • Small Business of the Year (11-to-50 people) – sponsored by Your IT • Collaboration of the Year – on hold
• Education and Business Partnership Award – on hold • Commitment to People Development – on hold • Digital Transformation Award – sponsored by Digital Planning • CSR Leadership Award – on hold
strength and adaptability to continue to deliver world class products and services across the globe. “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. “Creating a single awards ceremony for the three counties means an even bigger showcase for the finalists – shining a powerful light on everything our finalists and winners have done.” Nominations are open at: www.emc-dnl.co.uk/businessawards
• Exporter of the Year – sponsored by DHL The 2027 welcome drinks are sponsored by Howes Percival, the media partner is Purpose Media and the VIP area is sponsored by The Charleston in Bakewell, part of Longbow Venues. For further sponsorship opportunities email: sponsorship@emc-dnl.co.uk.
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TRAINING & EVENTS
IN BRIEF A WALK IN THE MOONLIGHT
KuKu Connect reception with East Midlands Chamber at the White Peak Distillery
Partnership with KuKu helps businesses connect The Chamber partnered with networking group KuKu Connect to co-host three of its Network Connect meetings over the summer. The meetings took place in each of the three counties: at SIRM College in Leicester, the White Peak Distillery in Derbyshire and the City Ground in Nottingham. Together they brought together more than 300 people to socialise, share business insight and strike up potential new business relationships. The collaboration between the two organisations was designed to combine KuKu Connect’s local business hosting network with the Chamber’s corporate reach, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting businesses across the region.
KuKu Connect reception with East Midlands Chamber at White Peak Distillery, from left: Stephen Goddard FRSA, Dr Cham Kang and Philip Brooks-Stephenson, KCL, KStJA, FRSA
While both have a strong focus on businesses opportunities, their memberships offer different benefits and experiences, making the partnership complementary from both sides. As part of the collaboration, an affiliate discount scheme has been introduced with Chamber members getting 20% off KuKu Connect membership – and KuKu Connect members receiving 20% off Chamber membership. Chamber membership account manager Rachel Greenacre, who helps organise Network Connect meetings, said: "It was a real joy to see both the Chamber and KuKu Connect members come together under one roof across the three fantastic collaborative networking events.
‘KuKu Connect and the Chamber offer different things, but they complement each other extremely well’ “The energy, connections and conversations helped make each event a success, and the positive feedback gained from all attending has been fantastic. A huge thank-you also to our brilliant venue hosts for welcoming us and helping make each event such a success, your hospitality made a real difference.” KuKu Connect co-founder Stephen Goddard said: “Collaboration has always been at the heart of what we do at KuKu Connect. We firmly believe that together we are stronger, and working alongside organisations such as East Midlands Chamber gives us an opportunity to create even more value for businesses across our region. “We were delighted when the Chamber approached us earlier this year and the events have demonstrated just how much can be achieved when organisations come together. Fellow co-founder Philip Brooks-Stephenson said: “KuKu Connect and the Chamber offer different things, but they complement each other extremely well.”
Treetops Hospice is inviting people to sign up to its annual sponsored Moonlight Walk through Derby on Friday, 18 September. The event features 6km or 11km routes and will have a country and western theme, with live entertainment adding to the atmosphere. Everyone taking part can light a candle in memory of loved ones at Derby Cathedral, and all the money raised will support the charity's Hospice at Home nursing care. A hospice spokeswoman said: “We suggest you raise a minimum of £50 per person in sponsorship. “This could help a patient receive four hours of end-of-life nursing care, in the comfort of their own home. With your help, we want to raise £53,000 in sponsorship from this event which could provide over 490 local people living with a life-limiting illness, who have chosen to die in their own home, receive a night of Hospice at Home nursing care. “Whether you’re walking to support Treetops Hospice or in memory of someone special, every step you take will help make a difference. “Doors open at 5pm and we’ll kick the night off in style with accessory stalls and plenty of entertainment, before the official warm-up ahead of the walks starting at 6.30pm.” The event runs from 5-10pm, and you can find out about signing up and ticket prices on the Treetops Hospice website.
FREE GARMENT WORKSHOPS Mansfield-based YES Group is inviting businesses, start-ups and anyone interested in garment decoration to attend three days of free innovation workshops this September. Taking place at YES Group’s headquarters in Mansfield from 8–10 September, the Print, Embroidery & Apparel Innovation Workshops will showcase the latest developments in commercial embroidery, direct-to-film printing and UV printing through live demonstrations, practical workshops and expert advice. Each day focuses on a different area of the industry, giving visitors the opportunity to see new technology in action, learn techniques to improve productivity and profitability, and speak directly with engineers, manufacturers and industry specialists. Register free at: https://tinyurl.com/y4kzjwhy
GROWTH EVENT IN OLLERTON Newark and Sherwood District Council has announced its flagship business event, the 2026 Economic Growth Conference, will take place on Thursday 8 October at The Pumping House, Ollerton. The free to attend conference runs from 9am to 3pm, and will bring together businesses, partners and industry experts for a day of insight, inspiration and practical support focused on overcoming challenges and unlocking growth. The keynote speaker is award-winning motivational speaker and entrepreneur Kirsty Hulse, who founded her first company at the age of 26. The conference will be hosted by Rachel Haith, coach and speaker at Inspired Life Group and co-host of the Renny Show podcast. To reserve a place or find out more, contact: will.parkinson@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk
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SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS
SUSTAINABLE EAST MIDLANDS
www.emc-dnl.co.uk/sustainability
HELPING BUSINESSES TRANSITION TO A SUSTAINABLE AND LOW-CARBON ECONOMY
Recycling IT has to be the way forward Sangeeta Patel (pictured) is joint chief executive at Reaching People. The environmental toll of our technology consumption has reached a critical point as the UK is now one of the world’s largest contributors of electronic equipment waste per capita. We generate approximately 1.6 million tonnes of electronic waste each year, with just over half estimated to be formally collected for recycling. To address these environmental and resource challenges on a local level, Leicestershire-based charity Reaching People delivers a Refurb IT programme to encourage individuals, organisations and businesses to donate their unwanted laptops, tablets and smartphones to be refurbished, at no cost. The devices are then delivered into the hands of those who need them most through local charities and partners that support digitally excluded individuals and communities.
‘Since launching, Refurb IT has refurbished 182 devices’ This provides local people who would otherwise struggle to access online services with refurbished devices, free internet data and support to build essential digital skills. Since launching, Refurb IT has refurbished 182 devices, supported more than 300 people with access to employment, education and essential services, and diverted approximately 400kg of electronic waste from landfill. To support the programme, Reaching People was recently awarded a National Lottery Awards for All England environment grant for helping to highlight the environmental impact of technological waste, encourage reuse, and prevent devices from going to landfill. Reaching People has also secured funding from the Leicestershire & Rutland Community Foundation to support Refurb IT over the next 12 months. Please contact Reaching People on 0116 255 2071 or email: admin@reachingpeople.co.uk
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The blueprint has been created by the people of Nottingham
Blueprint unveiled for a greener Nottingham
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blueprint for a green, healthy city has been created by the people of Nottingham, with recommendations around buildings and energy, food and health, nature, skills and engagement, transport, waste and water. Ideas included in the Nottingham Environment & Climate Assembly manifesto cover things such as retrofitting buildings; community gardens; local food production; a more pedestrian-friendly transport system; wildlife corridors: repair and recycle schemes; incentives for green businesses and managing flood risks through rain gardens. The newly published manifesto also calls for more green space in the city accessible within a 15 minute walk for every resident, and a network of green neighbourhood hubs with local food markets, skills workshops and youth activities. The roadmap to a “greener, fairer city” is the product of more than two years of citizen-led work including mini-assemblies and a youth assembly, intended to put local voices at the heart of city climate decisions.
Nottingham has one of the most ambitious climate targets in the UK, and the manifesto sets out a vision of a “forest city” with clean air and waterways, placing nature and residents at the heart of decision-making, with community led initiatives to create thriving neighbourhoods and more safe ways to get around the city by foot, bike and public transport. Nottingham South MP Lilian Greenwood said: "Our environment shapes who we are – when our environment thrives, we thrive too.
‘By listening to local people and turning good ideas into action, we can tackle the climate challenge’ “I believe that it is essential that we work together as a city to protect and restore our environment and safeguard our natural resources.” Nottingham North and Kimberley MP Alex Norris said: "The work of the Nottingham Environment and Climate Assembly, organised entirely by volunteers, is hugely important. “I look forward to discussing the proposals with delegates from my constituency in the coming weeks to discuss how we can put their ideas into action." Organised by the Nottingham Climate Assembly and sponsored by the Nottingham Green Partnership, the city’s first climate assembly was funded by East Midlands Combined County Authority and environmentally-conscious local organisations and individuals through a Crowdfunder.
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INTERNATIONAL TRADE
INTERNATIONAL TRADE SUPPORT, STRATEGIES AND RESOURCES FOR EXPORTERS AND IMPORTERS
Games firm reclaims huge chunk of tariffs N
ottingham’s Games Workshop has had £7.8m reimbursed from the US after the Supreme Court ruled that many of the tariffs imposed by President Trump in 2025 were unlawful. The business – which has just celebrated record sales – had to fork out around £12m in tariffs in the year to the end of May, but was able to reclaim almost two-thirds following the ruling. It expects to pay tariffs of around £13m in its current trading year, with chief executive Kevin Rountree and finance director Liz Harrison writing in the annual report that tariffs were, “part of the uncertainty of operating globally”.
‘After a record year, we remain customer focused and look forward to building on the progress we have made’ The company, which is behind the Warhammar battle games, said global revenues were up from £617.5m to almost £660m in the 52 weeks to May 31, with pre-tax profits up from £262.8m to £275.7m. The CEO and FD said they were “absolutely focused” on making their miniature models the best in the world. They said: “In order to continue to do that forever and to deliver a decent return to our owners, we sell our miniatures for a price that we believe represents the investment in their quality.” They said they were always looking at ways to grow the company’s licensing income in other
markets, and take advantage of the “endless, imaginary worlds” of its mini figures. Also key to the ongoing success was ensuring they remained “customerfocused”. Other key elements to the successful business model included its global nature, supported by online sales and stockists around the world, and in ensuring the business delivered a good cash return each year so that it could “continue to innovate, surprise and delight our loyal existing customers and new customers with great products”. Kevin Rountree said: ‘Games Workshop and the Warhammer hobby are in great shape. “We delivered group revenue and profit before tax at record levels thanks to another good performance from the core business. “After a record year, we remain customer-focused and look forward to building on the progress we have made. “I thank all of our customers together with our staff, trade accounts, our licensing partners and broader stakeholders for their ongoing support. Exciting times.”
Games Workshop, Warhammer Adeptus Titanicus artwork
Iran war is having severe impact on business Some 80% of Midlands businesses have experienced higher costs as a result of the Iran war, according to a survey from four regional chambers of commerce. It suggested that manufacturers have been particularly exposed to rising energy, transport, insurance and raw material costs. East Midlands Chamber, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Black Country Chamber of Commerce surveyed 698 businesses. The four are calling on Government to recognise the regional impact of continuing geopolitical disruption and provide businesses with greater certainty over energy, trade and supply chain policy. 44 business network September 2026
THE SURVEY SUGGESTED: • Eight in 10 respondents saw an increase in costs due to Trump’s war with Iran and the associated disruption to international trade routes • 95% of manufacturers reported higher costs, compared to 75% of service-sector businesses • 12% of exporters said they had paused activity or withdrawn from some overseas markets • A quarter of respondents said the war had influenced investment or capital spending • Half said energy cost support or improved stability was the leading priority • Clearer government contingency planning was the second most common request.
East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “High costs and uncertainty are two things that challenge business growth, affect confidence and ultimately investment, yet both jump out of the page as red flags in these survey findings – that should concern policymakers. “The results of this research lay bare the extent of damage this long-running conflict, and others, has had on firms – holding back investment, holding back growth. For eight out of 10 firms surveyed to have reported higher costs as a result of the Middle East conflict – at a time when we know the cost of doing business was already sky high – should concern policymakers. “The case for support is clear – respondents in this survey are calling for greater help with energy costs and better contingency planning.”
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INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Airport is reason we can reach for the sky COMMENT East Midlands mayor Claire Ward (pictured), on why East Midlands Airport is so important to the regional economy. East Midlands Airport is one of the region’s greatest economic assets. As the UK’s largest dedicated freight airport and the primary gateway to the East Midlands Freeport, it connects our businesses to global markets and supports thousands of jobs – all at the heart of the country. As an island nation in our modern globalised world, it’s essential that we can trade effectively on the international stage. Having an airport gives us a significant competitive edge and makes the East Midlands a region that is in a strong position to support and grow existing businesses as well as attracting new ones.
‘East Midlands Airport has a golden opportunity to help us deliver a nationally significant growth corridor’ Within the UK, its cargo operation is the largest of its kind, providing trade routes to the world’s economic powerhouses. It provides the main UK base for major logistics firms trading around the globe and has recently had great success in attracting new cargo airlines as its reputation as the UK’s number one freight-only airport spreads worldwide. This matters to our region, because many of our thriving industrial sectors rely on international trade, from the automotive and aerospace industries to advanced manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and life sciences. The firms that are importing and exporting goods in turn rely on a supply chain, and together it’s estimated the airport supported a remarkable 52,000 jobs last year.
Expert tool to help your export efforts Navigator Global is a digital platform launched by Santander UK to help businesses expand internationally:
The airport sits at the heart of a wider opportunity in my Vision for Growth for the East Midlands – the Trent Arc. This urban regeneration corridor linking Derby and Nottingham brings together our greatest concentration of economic assets, regeneration opportunities and investment potential. The Trent Arc covers two city centres, three universities, three train stations, the East Midlands Freeport and Infinity Park Investment Zone site, green and blue spaces, alongside emerging proposals for a new town. Collectively, the pipeline of projects in the Arc has the potential to deliver 30,000 homes, 40,000 high-quality jobs, and £2.4bn in GVA. Through the Trent Arc, East Midlands Airport has a golden opportunity to help us deliver a nationally significant growth corridor that provides jobs, homes, innovation and sustainable prosperity for generations to come. Last year, our regional airport’s cargo growth was a third of all air cargo growth in the whole of the UK – a typically East Midlands feat of punching above our weight. And it’s not stopping there, with plans to develop sites – some of them freeport tax sites – on and near the airfield for the extra cargo-related activity that’s anticipated in the coming years. As mayor of the East Midlands, I fully support the airport’s bold vision and will work closely with the airport and partners to ensure it continues to bring lasting benefits to our region.
For many businesses, international growth starts with a simple question: where next? Identifying the right markets, understanding overseas demand, navigating unfamiliar regulations and building trusted connections can be complex and timeconsuming. Knowing where to begin is often one of the biggest challenges. To help address this, the British Chambers of Commerce has partnered with Navigator Global by Santander, a digital platform designed to simplify international trade and support businesses at every stage of their export journey. As part of this partnership, East Midlands Chamber members can access Navigator Global’s Standard membership free of charge, providing practical tools, market intelligence and expert support. Members can also access a 10% discount on premium membership using the code BCCWELCOME10. Navigator Global is built around three practical steps to help businesses move forward with confidence: • Using global data and insight from experts on the ground. The platform provides a clear view of demand, buyer behaviour and sector opportunities – helping businesses prioritise the markets with the greatest potential. • Prepare effectively for market entry. Tailored action plans guide businesses through key considerations such as regulation, costs, logistics and timing, so they can make informed decisions and reduce uncertainty. • Build trusted relationships that support growth. Access a network of buyers, distributors, advisers and financial solutions. With more than 300 verified global providers, businesses can connect with confidence while reducing the risk and cost of international expansion. Navigator Global also showcases live opportunities from international buyers seeking products, services and suppliers from across the UK. These opportunities provide businesses with a practical route to explore new markets, generate leads and build relationships with potential customers. Visit: https://tinyurl.com/mhdk9t5u
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POLITICS
POLITICS ROUNDING UP LOCAL AND NATIONAL AFFAIRS
Mayor welcomes latest milestone on region’s road to devolution
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he mayor of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) has welcomed news that it is being made an Established Mayoral Strategic Authority (EMSA) by the Government. EMCCA now has the right to request new powers and responsibilities, and can apply for a more flexible, integrated funding settlement – giving greater local control over funding and decisions, rather than managing multiple separate funding streams. This status reflects Government confidence that EMCCA is being well run, and can manage major projects and funding – including taking on adult skills, becoming the region’s local transport authority and managing a long-term investment fund. EMCCA covers Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
‘With more powers and an integrated funding settlement to follow, we will be able to plan for the long-term’ Mayor Claire Ward said: “This is a major milestone in our mission to make the East Midlands the best place to live, to work, and to learn. It demonstrates that we are already delivering across the region, and it will enable us to deliver more. "Established Status is also an important step towards our 2028 ambition. By then, EMCCA will have a broader and more influential role across the region. This includes taking on Police and Crime Commissioner, and Fire and Rescue Authority functions and governance and working even closer with our local councils and partners. “With more powers and an integrated funding settlement to follow, we will be able to plan for the long-term, drive growth, and ensure opportunities are spread fairly across the region.” The new powers include greater control over transport ticketing, a stronger role in shaping affordable housing programmes, and increased 46 business network September 2026
Mayor Claire Ward believes the region is on route to devolution
...BUT IT NEEDS TO HAPPEN SOON Chamber chair Kevin Harris (pictured) used a wide-ranging panel discussion to stress the economic necessity of a devolution deal for Leicester and Leicestershire. Speaking on a panel for the Leicestershire Leadership Forum, he described current blockages to growth and what can be done about them. Host Dev Raikundalia, managing partner at business restructuring and insolvency practitioner Hall Chadwick, chaired the session and spoke about growth opportunities in Leicester and Leicestershire. Alongside Kevin on the panel were Paul Faulkner DL, vice chair of the Midlands for Barclays, and Andy Reed OBE, director of Sage Impact and chair of the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership. Kevin used the discussion to consider the issue of devolution in Leicester and Leicestershire. The city and county currently have no mayoral combined authority – unlike
responsibility for funding and support to help businesses start, grow and succeed. EMCCA can also ask Government for additional powers and responsibilities in the future. The move to a single funding settlement means having greater flexibility in how funding is used – so the authority can move funding between different priorities and use it in ways that better meet local needs when it comes to things such as transport, jobs, skills and investment. New Government rules under prime minister Andy Burnham also mean elected regional mayors can keep a share of income tax and business rates revenues so communities directly benefit when their economy grows. Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles said: “Funding and local investment decisions are best
neighbouring areas such as EMMCA and the West Midlands. Kevin said the Chamber had been pressing for regional devolution for years, as it would mean real money for businesses – as seen by funding already flowing into devolved areas such as the West Midlands and Greater Manchester. He warned that the funding gap between Leicester and Leicestershire and devolved regions runs to hundreds of pounds per employee in terms of skills and infrastructure funding. Areas without a seat at the table, he said, risked falling further behind. Rather than asking the audience to engage through the lens of party politics, Kevin urged businesses to raise the issue directly with local MPs and councillors. The Chamber is working with partners on ways to help accelerate the creation of a Mayoral authority for Leicester and Leicestershire (see pages 4 and 5).
Nottingham, the number 58 bus stop on Upper Parliament Street
controlled locally – when you know the region first-hand, you know its growth needs, you know where spending is going to be best placed to have the greatest benefit.”
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POLITICS
Manufacturing skills gap must be addressed COMMENT County Hall in Nottingham
Charles Burrell (pictured), head of manufacturing at accountants Duncan & Toplis, on why Derby could provide a blueprint for tackling manufacturing’s skills crisis.
Council plans must not be disruptive
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he manufacturing skills shortage is no longer a future concern. It is a problem businesses are dealing with today and it was great to see prime minister Andy Burnham begin to address this during his recent visit. Across the UK, manufacturers are struggling to recruit and retain people with the skills they need. An ageing workforce is approaching retirement, fewer young people are entering the sector, and technology is changing the capabilities employers require. The result is a growing gap between the skills manufacturers need and those available in the labour market.
‘The skills shortage cannot be solved by attracting new entrants alone. Manufacturers must also focus on retaining experienced employees’ Against this backdrop, Burnham's recent visit to Derby offered some encouraging signs. His announcement of new technical education routes, including greater exposure to manufacturing and AI-related subjects for younger students, reflects a growing recognition that the UK's skills challenge cannot be solved through recruitment alone. The choice of Derby is significant. As one of the UK's foremost manufacturing centres, home to businesses including Alstom, Rolls-Royce and Toyota, the city demonstrates what can be achieved when industry, education providers and local stakeholders work together to develop talent.
I work with many employers in Derby who are tackling the same issues facing manufacturers across the country. Businesses are investing in apprenticeships, engaging with schools and colleges, and creating clearer pathways into technical careers. Facilities such as Alstom's National Training Academy are helping to give young people direct exposure to modern manufacturing and the opportunities it offers. However, the skills shortage cannot be solved by attracting new entrants alone. Manufacturers must also focus on retaining experienced employees, transferring knowledge before retirement, and helping existing workforces adapt as automation, data and AI change the nature of many roles. The businesses making the greatest progress are those taking a long-term view. They are building talent pipelines, strengthening links with education providers and treating workforce planning as a strategic priority. Burnham's proposals and spotlight on this issue are a welcome step. But Derby's example shows that lasting progress will come only when government initiatives are matched by employers determined to build the workforce manufacturing needs for the future.
Scheme to boost local economy A Newark College initiative is demonstrating how organisations can modernise reward and recognition schemes while supporting the local economy. The Newark and Sherwood Gift Card is being accepted at more than 100 shops, cafés, restaurants, pubs and service providers, offering employers a flexible alternative to traditional reward schemes. Available as both physical and digital cards, with values starting from £10, it can be used for employee recognition, incentives, volunteer rewards and wellbeing initiatives. It may also qualify under the Government’s Trivial Benefits Scheme, allowing employers to provide non-cash
rewards of up to £50 without incurring tax or National Insurance contributions. Beyond rewarding recipients, the scheme helps organisations support local businesses and demonstrate their commitment to community wellbeing, while aligning with corporate social responsibility and ESG objectives. Newark College recently adopted the gift card scheme as part of a move to modernise its student rewards programme and encourage spending within the local economy. The college distributed around 60 gift cards, each worth £30, to recognise student achievement across competitions, events and end-of-term awards.
The Chamber has cautiously welcomed the Government’s decision to proceed with new unitary councils in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire – subject to final Parliamentary approval – but called for the process to bring minimal disruption to business. Changes will transfer functions, responsibilities, assets, liabilities and rights from existing borough, district, county and city councils to new, bigger unitary authorities. The plans are separate to devolution. Chamber director of policy and insight Richard Blackmore said: “The clarity on the next steps and funding to support the transition is helpful to have. The Chamber will support businesses and communities across the region as the reorganisation process progresses, working with partners and local networks to help minimise disruption and protect local services that businesses rely on.”
‘Businesses need certainty on how planning, procurement and business support will operate during and after reorganisation’ Decisions on local government reorganisation were reached after consultations in each of the region’s three cities and counties. New unitary councils are expected to begin delivering services from April 2028.
UNDER THE PLANNED CHANGES: Derby and Derbyshire would see its 10 councils reorganised into two unitaries. North Derbyshire would cover High Peak, Derbyshire Dales, Chesterfield, Bolsover, North East Derbyshire, northern Amber Valley; while South Derbyshire would cover Derby City, Erewash, South Derbyshire, southern Amber Valley. Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland would also see 10 councils reorganised into two unitaries. One would include Leicester, Oadby and Wigston and parts of Blaby, Charnwood and Harborough; and the other would include the remaining areas of Leicestershire and Rutland. Nottingham and Nottinghamshire would see nine councils reorganised into two unitaries. One would cover Nottingham City and parts of Broxtowe, Gedling and Rushcliffe; the other would cover Ashfield, Bassetlaw, Mansfield, Newark and Sherwood, parts of Broxtowe, Gedling and Rushcliffe.
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FEATURE CHAMBER NEWS
CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP
FEATURES TURNING THE SPOTLIGHT ON ISSUES AND SECTORS THAT MATTER TO BUSINESS
Finding new ways to make a difference Why the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre has a bright future after 135 years – and how you can help - by Janine Holmes, chief executive of the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre.
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n 1891, when Victorian benefactors Harry Sykes and Arnold Bemrose started up what was shortly to become the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre, their aim was simple. Harry had noticed two boys playing with a sailboat on a puddle in the West End of Derby. Not one to wait around, he promptly took the boys and 12 others for a trip to the seaside in Skegness. Soon afterwards land was purchased on the newly developing Scarborough Avenue and a property was built from scratch, establishing a base for the charity – and so was born the Derbyshire Children’s Holiday Centre. Affectionately known by generations of former guests as “Skeggy home”, from that day to this, the aim remains the same: to provide seaside breaks for Derbyshire primary-aged children who might otherwise not get a holiday at all. The reasons for that are many and varied. Some children might come from families where financial challenges are simply too great to allow for a holiday. Others might be caring for relatives – young people shouldering big responsibilities early in life who benefit greatly from the opportunity just to be a child for a week. Others might be bereaved. They might be going through struggles with mental health. How does a child come to enjoy a holiday with us? Many people might not realise that we work with schools across the whole of Derbyshire as well as the city of Derby. Yes, we know it’s a big county! We’re regularly in touch with schools from north to south and east to west – from Buxton to Chesterfield to Alfreton, Ilkeston, the city of Derby and all the way down to Swadlincote. Children are referred to our services if it is felt that they might benefit from a break at our centre.
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A NEW VISION: A NEW STRATEGY But running a charity like ours is not without its challenges. In 2026 we are very proud indeed to be relaunching our service after a pause in 2025. During that time – thanks to the tireless efforts of many fundraisers – we not only raised well over £100,000 so we could carry on our great work, we also steered our charity in a new direction for a more sustainable future. Janine Holmes (right) with volunteers helping at the DCHC on Skegness beach
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FEATURE
‘It’s a great opportunity for schools and children’s groups to offer all the adventures that a residential trip offers young people – but without the soaring price tag’ HOW HAVE THINGS CHANGED? We are now much more volunteer-run than we were previously. We’ve spent time recruiting teams of wonderful humans who spend a week travelling to Skegness to give these children what they deserve: a brilliant seaside break. From building sandcastles to cooking up delicious meals, it’s a packed week which we think may give as much joy to our volunteers as it does to the children. Our centre wasn’t idle during 2025 either. We provided ‘Grand Days Out’ for families and their children to enjoy a day there (complete with fish and chips for tea – obviously!) – and that’s something we’re continuing this year and beyond. We also doubled up the capacity by installing new bunk beds in our dormitories. And mindful of school term times, we’ve now focused our charity’s holidays during half terms and summer breaks. And our centre has become so much more than it was, too. When the home is not being used for our own holidays, we’ve created lots of brilliant new opportunities for schools and other children’s organisations like Scout and Guides groups to enjoy it – with its catering kitchen, craft and games rooms. At a fraction of the cost of many other centres out there, we think it’s a great opportunity for schools and children’s groups to offer all the adventures that a residential trip offers young people – but without the soaring price tag. All of those trips will help keep our charity running sustainably into the future.
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CHAMBER FEATURE NEWS
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CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP
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FEATURE
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CHAMBER FEATURE NEWS
CHARITABLE CAUSES, PROMOTION & PARTNERSHIP
Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a term that is growing in popularity within the business world. But what does it mean, how can it benefit your business and how can you get involved? WHAT IS CSR? Adopting a CSR policy is a business’s way of showing that its operations are ethical; that they take into account its social, economic and environmental impact and that it is working to give back to the community. CSR can involve a range of activities, but usually most businesses form a partnership with local community groups and charities.
WHY IS CSR SO IMPORTANT? In recent years, there have been increased demands from government bodies, customers and employees for businesses to be more open about their activities and to maintain high standards in their business practice. In the age of social media and instant news, a business can very quickly lose its reputation and customers if not seen to be taking the steps to act more ethically.
BENEFITS CSR has many benefits that can be applied to any business, whether a large corporation or a smaller enterprise: • Improve your public image: Many consumers will assess your public image before they decide whether to buy from you or not. If you can show proof that your brand is committed to helping others, it can help boost your popularity and increase your brand recognition. • Gain an advantage: If you establish yourself as a company willing to go a step further in promoting social and environmental charities or partnerships, it will help you stand out from your competitors. It can also help you stand out to your investors, who are more likely to invest in businesses that engage with important social issues. • Employee benefits: Giving back to your local community will help you develop a more engaged and motivated workforce. Your workplace will be a more positive place to work, and by promoting such activities as volunteering, you will encourage your staff to work on personal growth and professional development. • Attract top candidates: People want to work for organisations that take CSR seriously. Demonstrating your commitment to CSR will help you attract and retain the best candidates. 52 business network September 2026
• Giving back: Your chosen charity or organisation will also get a lot out of your partnership. You may be able to provide volunteers, funding, awareness and exposure.
ADOPT A CSR STRATEGY It might seem like a daunting task, but adopting a CSR programme can be easy once you break it into manageable steps. You should aim to build CSR into the fabric of your business, as this will make it easier in the long-term to maintain high standards: • Choose a relevant issue: The cause you champion should be relevant to your business. If, for example, you own a logistics and transportation firm, look to work with an organisation that can help you reduce your carbon footprint and raise awareness about sustainability. To get your staff on board and engaged with the project, ask your employees to suggest their own ways for the business to get involved with CSR or what they would like to change about the organisation. Also, consider your customer’s needs, because you need them to be on board with your efforts. • Find the right partners: Finding a local charitable organisation to work with is a great way to go, as it will demonstrate your interest in the local community, but it is also important to find a group with whom you can establish a personal connection with. Strong relationships will inspire more engagement with your staff and customers. • Build credibility: It is not enough to simply announce your intentions to do good – you must back those words with actions. Put together a committee of staff to spearhead your CSR campaign and make an action plan that details the aims of your charitable relationship, your budget (for instance, for donations or events) and volunteering opportunities for staff. It is also of vital importance that your business is not seen as exploiting CSR opportunities for the sake of your reputation. Don’t bounce from one social cause to another – any sign of hypocrisy or insincerity can seriously damage any effort you make to do a bit of good.
‘CSR has many benefits that can be applied to any business, whether a large corporation or a smaller enterprise’
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BUSINESS NETWORK
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FOCUS With the Chamber’s annual CSR conference on the horizon, Business Network considers some of the latest Sustainability issues affecting the region
Wildfires were a common sight this summer
CLIMATE ON THE AGENDA AFTER SUMMER HEATWAVES SPEAKERS INCLUDE: • Dr Polina Baranova, associate professor of strategy and sustainability at the University of Derby, presenting the findings of the 11th annual East Midlands Green Growth Trends report.
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he long hot summer coincided wildfires up and down the country, not to mention huge fires that caused emergency evacuations across Europe including in France, Spain and Greece. The weather is changing, with science telling us that global warming is driven by global greenhouse gas emissions.
‘Investing in a sustainable future is central to the competitiveness, resilience and international positioning of our region’ Despite cynicism from some quarters, and governments and industry struggling to find the cash to do something about it, plenty of businesses are still doing the right thing, going above and beyond to cut their energy use and clean up their emissions. This month’s Business Network Focus pages look at what’s being done to help the East Midlands go green. 54 business network September 2026
• Torben Starkey, carbon and procurement specialist, and Julie Adams, client relationship manager at Auditel – which helps companies cut their carbon emissions – on why “Net zero doesn't have to cost the earth”. • James Cunningham, managing director of Geo Green Power, who will lift the lid on power purchase agreements (PPAs) as he explains how to drive decarbonisation while managing energy costs. • Richard Smith, director of PS: Planet, an organisation co-founded by the people behind BAFTA Albert. It has brought together rivals across the UK TV industry and beyond to work together and take action on climate change and the environment. Richard will give a presentation entitled “Pay now or pay more later: The real economics of sustainability”. • Dr Barbara Tomasella, of the University of Derby and Dr Elaine Conway, from Loughborough University, who will consider how we should all be going “Beyond CSR: Building shared value”.
It ties in with the 2026 East Midlands Chamber Sustainability and CSR conference which takes place at the University of Derby on 10 September. Taking a page from the Chamber’s Framework for Growth – highlighting big policy demands for Government – and the annual Green Growth Trends report produced in partnership with the University of Derby, the day will highlight how investing in a sustainable future is central to the competitiveness, resilience and international positioning of our region. Keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops and exhibitors will help share that message, while there will also be opportunities to network with like-minded businesspeople. The free conference is delivered in partnership with the University of Derby, supported by Auditel, PS: Planet and Derbyshire Wildlife Trust. For exhibition and sponsorship opportunities email policy@emc-dnl.co.uk and for tickets, visit: https://tinyurl.com/j2jvmpwy
Derby University will host the conference
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PROVIDING THE POWER TO BEAT UNCERTAINTY Geo Green Power operates nationwide from its head office in Bradmore, just outside Nottingham, designing and installing solar PV, heat pumps, battery storage systems, electric vehicle charging points and other renewable energy systems to commercial and domestic customers. Ahead of his keynote presentation at the Sustainability and CSR Conference, managing director James Cunningham (pictured) explains why you don’t have to press pause on your sustainability goals to protect capex in these uncertain times.
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ight now, the UK market is defined by hesitation. Organisations across sectors are reacting defensively to relentless change and volatility driven by an uncertain political landscape, heightened global tensions and price uncertainty. Business leaders are choosing caution, cash reserves are being protected, investments delayed and long-term strategies paused. It’s a rational response, but it’s also one that risks slowing progress in areas where momentum is desperately needed, particularly decarbonisation. Despite the political noise, one thing is clear: as we come out of a record-breaking hot summer the need for and the direction of travel on decarbonisation isn’t changing. The UK’s commitment to reducing emissions, modernising infrastructure, and transitioning to cleaner energy remains firmly embedded in industry and public expectation. What is uncertain, however, is the speed at which we’ll get there as policy signals fluctuate and priorities are reordered with each new administration. The lack of clarity doesn’t help businesses plan long-term sustainability strategies, even when considering solutions that would solve the problems they’re experiencing now. Solar panels can deliver anything from 40-70% of an organisation’s annual electricity requirement, delivering a full payback in around five years and locking in energy price security for the lifetime of the system, over 25 years. The transition from grid energy to solar power also significantly reduces carbon emissions, with a metric that’s easy to quantify and report on, often becoming the jewel in the crown of corporate ESG
Geo Green Power managing director James Cunningham (left) visits an installation
Geo Green Power solar panels in situ
plans. Three undeniably positive outcomes, yet many are still wavering over when to go ahead because of the initial investment. We should not be seeing virtually risk-free investments for the future being stalled in the boardroom. Even in the most turbulent times, some things remain constant: the sun still rises in the east, the need to decarbonise remains urgent, and businesses, regardless of who occupies Number 10, still require reliable, cost-effective energy and to achieve their sustainability goals. This is why we believe the power purchase agreement (PPA) could become the ideal solution for solar investment in these turbulent times. PPAs offer a compelling route for companies wanting to
preserve funds, cut costs, achieve energy price certainty and fulfil climate pledges. Put simply, a PPA provider funds your installation and sells you the energy that it produces at a rate that is considerably less than your grid energy supplier. You get long-term, fixed-price renewable energy and all of the carbon benefits with no upfront cost. It’s a win win, yet we know PPAs still come with questions.
‘I’m certain that PPAs will become one of the most effective tools for businesses to navigate uncertainty’ Whether the figures are just too good to be true or business owners refuse to believe in the free lunch, there are still companies choosing to pause their solar project until they can fund it with capex. But is this caution justified? PPAs are a relatively new funding model and organisations are naturally cautious. Finance directors have questions about contractual structure, long-term commitments, and how a PPA might interact with existing energy strategies. That’s why our upcoming session at the East Midlands Sustainability and CSR Conference is designed to cut through the confusion. We’ll be breaking down how PPAs work, the pros and cons, and what to look out for when presented with your contract. I’m certain that PPAs will become one of the most effective tools for businesses to navigate uncertainty, and I would urge you to attend the conference if you want to find out more. September 2026 business network
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SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABILITY NOT AN OPTIONAL EXTRA COMMENT
By Sue Tilley (pictured), chair of Leicestershire Business Voice.
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f sustainability still sits in a separate section of your business plan, perhaps we’ve misunderstood what it really means. Too often, sustainability is presented as an environmental obligation, a compliance exercise or another report to produce. Important though those things are, they are only part of the picture. The businesses that will thrive over the next decade will not simply be those with the best sustainability strategy. They will be the businesses that make sustainability instinctive. Businesses that continually improve, eliminate waste, embrace innovation, invest in their people and adapt to change. In other words, sustainability is not just about protecting the planet. It is about building stronger, more resilient businesses. That is not a new idea. Many years ago, my own business designed and manufactured corporate clothing for a remarkably diverse range of clients, from
manufacturing companies, hotels and the catering industry to transport operators, cleanroom environments and the offshore oil industry. Every sector had different operational challenges and every customer expected more than a well-made garment. They wanted solutions that improved efficiency, solved problems and added value. One of those customers was Toyota. Before Toyota had established manufacturing in the UK, we travelled to Japan because we believed we first had to understand the company’s culture before we could hope to work with it successfully. That visit transformed the way I thought about business. We returned determined to introduce many of the principles of the Toyota Production System into our own company. Looking back, I realise we were learning about sustainable business long before sustainability became part of everyday business language. Toyota’s philosophy was built on continuous improvement, eliminating waste, building quality into every process and understanding problems at first hand. Those principles were not developed as environmental policies. They were developed because they created better businesses. Yet today they sit at the heart of what we recognise as sustainability. • Continually improve • Reduce waste • Use resources wisely • Solve problems before they become expensive • Learn every day. That philosophy has stayed with me throughout my career and one example has always fascinated me. In accounting terms, stock appears on the balance sheet as an asset. In reality, businesses know that not all stock is an asset. Dead stock can remain hidden on a balance sheet for years, disguising poor forecasting, changing customer demand or inefficient buying decisions. In sectors such as fashion, where seasonal trends, colours and sizing profiles change rapidly, unsold stock represents far more than tied-up cash. It represents wasted materials, wasted energy, wasted transport, wasted warehouse space and wasted opportunity.
Retailers such as Next and M&S continue to evolve to meet their customers’ needs
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MIRA Technology Park in Nuneaton
More businesses are using renewable energy
Reducing that waste is not simply good environmental practice. It is good business. That same thinking applies across every sector.
‘Sustainability is not a cost. It is not an optional extra. It is not something separate from commercial success. It is one of the foundations of resilience’ The organisations that consistently outperform are usually those that never stop questioning how they can improve. They review their processes, embrace new technology, respond quickly to customer needs and constantly evolve. It is one reason I admire businesses such as Next and M&S. Retail has faced enormous challenges over recent years, yet these organisations have continued to adapt. They use data intelligently, improve forecasting, strengthen supply chains, refresh their offer and continually evolve their business models. Sustainability is not something they bolt on. It is embedded in the way they think, make decisions and respond to change. That continual evolution is one of the reasons they remain resilient while others struggle.
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IGNORE SHORT-TERM AND FOCUS ON FUTURE COMMENT By Natalie Dunbar (pictured), head of net zero services at Consultus Sustainability.
C Artificial Intelligence now presents another opportunity. Much of the public debate focuses on whether AI will replace jobs. I believe a more important question is how AI can help businesses become better. Used responsibly, AI can forecast demand more accurately, optimise supply chains, reduce waste, improve maintenance, increase productivity and support better decisionmaking. It enables businesses to use fewer resources while delivering greater value. Like any technology, AI is simply a tool. Its value depends on how intelligently we choose to use it. And what about demonstrating sustainability? I was reminded of this recently during a visit for LBV directors and members to MIRA Technology Park. What impressed me most was that nobody felt the need to talk constantly about sustainability. They simply demonstrated it. Whether through advanced simulation, battery technologies, hydrogen research, renewable energy, autonomous systems or helping innovative businesses commercialise new ideas, the emphasis was always the same: solve problems, improve performance, reduce waste and create long-term value. That, to me, is what sustainability looks like. Not a slogan. Not a marketing campaign. Not another corporate buzzword. Just better business. Across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, we are fortunate to have businesses quietly demonstrating these principles every day. They may not always describe what they do as sustainability, but they are improving productivity, investing in innovation, developing their people and making better use of resources. They understand something important: Sustainability is not a cost. It is not an optional extra. It is not something separate from commercial success. It is one of the foundations of resilience. At Leicestershire Business Voice, we believe our role is to champion businesses that are prepared to innovate, collaborate and continually improve. Because the businesses that will succeed in the future will not necessarily be the biggest or the oldest. They will be the ones that never stop learning, never stop adapting and never stop finding better ways of doing things. That is sustainability. And that is simply good business.
onsultus Sustainability is part of the Consultus Group and works with businesses and their supply chains to plan, prioritise and achieve their carbon neutral goals – and help them to use less energy, reduce costs, better manage risk and increase their energy security. Clients include Weetabix, Radisson Hotel Group, English National Opera, The National Lottery and Maersk. Its team appreciates that not all businesses are the same and their net zero journeys will be different. Following Andy Burnham’s appointment as prime minister and the confirmation of his cabinet, businesses across the UK will be analysing what the political shift will mean for their organisation – from energy and sustainability to the impact of new policy announcements on costs.
‘It has never been more important to think further ahead about what the climate reality will be for your business in 10-50 years’ time’ With businesses facing rising employment costs, weak consumer demand and uncertainty over taxation, businesses must avoid falling into a pattern of ‘wait and see’ reactivity. For the fifth time in just four years, the UK has a new prime minister. Andy Burnham officially took to 10 Downing Street this summer with a message that he would bring the “biggest changes” to politics in 40 years. Among his cabinet was the appointment of John Healey as chancellor and Jonathan Reynolds as secretary for business, innovation, science and trade. However, to a certain extent, it doesn’t matter who is leading the charge. Businesses must build resilience in the face of political transitions, and that starts with limiting
Falling water levels at Ladybower Reservoir
the volume on political noise and looking at what’s inside your circle of control. A major controllable factor is energy. War in the Middle East and its impact on energy costs was the prime example of how exposed UK businesses really are. But any firm can take back control: by monitoring usage levels, reducing consumption as much as possible, offsetting the rest, and investing in on-site renewable generation. By becoming truly self-sufficient and mitigating against grid over-reliance, businesses can not only save money but, most importantly, future-proof themselves against any market shocks caused by political uncertainty. Energy is just one example of this – but by understanding all the risks specific to your business and actively mitigating against them, it will remove the possibility that you’ll be left to play catch-up during a time of crisis. Considering the current climate and the summer of never-ending heatwaves, it has never been more important to think further ahead about what the climate reality will be for your business in 10-50 years’ time. Yet, during periods of political transition, there is often a regrettable instinct for companies to freeze spending on ‘non-essential’ initiatives or bring into question their ESG and net zero strategies. This is a fundamental misunderstanding of what sustainability actually does for a business. It isn’t a regulatory burden or a separate add-on. It needs to be viewed as a core mechanism for financial resilience. Whether you are looking to protect your business against volatile energy costs, avoid increasingly strict regulatory penalties or secure better investment terms, sustainability is a proven revenue and efficiency driver. Political landscapes will always shift, but the commercial necessity of building a resilient, resource-efficient and future-proof business remains absolute. Leaders shouldn’t be waiting for policy to force their hand – they need to be the driving force behind change. September 2026 business network
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SUSTAINABILITY
STAYING COMPETITIVE IN A NEW LANDSCAPE Anthony Harford is head of SME engagement at Chamber strategic partner the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC). It helps hundreds of SMEs every year embed innovation and new ways of working, increase their competitiveness, accelerate their growth, and design and develop new or next gen products. It has state-of-the-art facilities and employs scientists, engineers and experts as well as providing access to funding and partners which it works alongside – the MTC SME Eco-system.
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he East Midlands has long been one of the UK’s manufacturing heartlands. Today, however, manufacturers face a new challenge: how to remain competitive while reducing environmental impact, improving resource efficiency and meeting increasingly demanding customer expectations. Sustainability is no longer simply an environmental responsibility. For many businesses it is becoming a prerequisite for winning contracts, accessing supply chains, attracting investment and securing long-term growth. This is particularly important in the East Midlands, where the region’s growth ambitions are centred on clean energy, sustainable advanced manufacturing, low-carbon technologies, green construction and innovation-led growth. Major employers including Rolls-Royce, Toyota and Boots are helping to drive demand for more sustainable products, processes and supply chains across the region.
‘One of the biggest misconceptions about sustainability is that it is purely a cost’ Across manufacturing sectors, four common themes are emerging: 1. Energy costs and carbon reduction remain high on the agenda. Many manufacturers are looking for practical ways to reduce consumption, improve efficiency and strengthen resilience against volatile energy prices. 2. Supply chain sustainability requirements are increasing. Larger customers are asking suppliers to demonstrate environmental credentials, measure carbon emissions and evidence progress towards net-zero objectives. 3. Resource efficiency and waste reduction have become critical business issues. Improving productivity while reducing material usage, scrap and waste can deliver both financial and environmental benefits. 4. Skills and technology adoption continue to present challenges, particularly for SMEs seeking to implement new digital technologies, automation and data-driven manufacturing processes. The challenge for many businesses is knowing where to start and how to prioritise investment. One of the biggest misconceptions about sustainability is that it is purely a cost. In reality, many of the most effective sustainability initiatives 58 business network September 2026
also improve profitability. Reducing energy consumption lowers operating costs. Digital technologies improve productivity and minimise waste. Smarter manufacturing processes increase output while reducing environmental impact. This is where organisations such as the Manufacturing Technology Centre can help. MTC supports manufacturers in adopting practical solutions that improve both sustainability and competitiveness. This includes support in energy efficiency, digital transformation, process optimisation, automation, supply-chain resilience and sustainable manufacturing practices. MTC’s wider mission is to help businesses understand emerging technologies, improve manufacturing performance and accelerate progress towards net-zero objectives. Through programmes such as Made Smarter, MTC specialists have worked alongside East Midlands manufacturers to identify opportunities for digital transformation and operational improvement. Digital technologies often deliver some of the quickest sustainability gains. Better use of manufacturing data can reduce waste, improve resource utilisation and optimise energy-intensive processes. Automation and process control technologies can help businesses maintain quality while reducing material consumption and rework. MTC has provided Industrial digital technology advice to East Midlands businesses including Label Apeel, Heat Seal Trade Windows and Harboro Rubber, helping them explore opportunities to improve business performance through technology adoption and innovation. The organisation has also supported manufacturers through the East Midlands Made Smarter programme, helping SMEs develop digital roadmaps, access specialist expertise and build the confidence needed to adopt new technologies. To discuss how MTC can support your manufacturing business to become more sustainable, email: anthony.harford@themtc.org or visit: https://tinyurl.com/bdze9cx9
Becky Valentine (pictured) is a resilient and healthy buildings consultant and co-owner of award-winning Nottingham sustainable building consultancy Spenbeck.
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o, what have we learnt this summer? Well, when it comes to performance, not only might Messi not be the GOAT after all, but most of the UK’s buildings are woefully unprepared for our changing climate. You don’t have to agree with man-made climate change to acknowledge that Mother Nature has changed things up quite a bit in recent years. From multi-heat domes, biblical storms and more intense rainfall, we’re now experiencing weather not forecast to reach our shores for at least another decade. Wherever you work in an office, warehouse, school or from home, one universal truth exists: climate change is significantly increasing how buildings impact financial
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Climate change is having an impact on the efficiency of UK buildings
PREPARING OUR BUILDINGS FOR THE CHANGING CLIMATE performance, health, safety and business continuity. If these aren’t sufficient risks, alongside this, electricity grid upgrades, the rise of energyhungry data centres and sabotage mean building owners are facing energy security, affordability and supply risks too. Far too few companies currently include climate and energy risks in their risk register, yet this summer has made clear that this mindset is no longer viable. Working with building owners, occupiers and investors to identify and minimise these risks affordably and sustainably, these are the three initial questions clients always ask me, to help get you thinking about how to you need to manage these risks. How do I stop my building overheating? It might be hard to believe that parts of the UK are on the same latitude as Alaska. Traditionally our buildings have been constructed to retain heat, so we now need to take direction from our Mediterranean cousins in how we can retrofit solutions that keep out the sun. Also, buildings don’t exist in isolation. How your office layout has been designed and furnished is as important as the area around you.
Trees, or the lack of, paving type and proximity of other buildings all affect how much direct sun you get and how much heat radiates into your building.
‘How reliant are you on mechanical means of heating, cooling and ventilation?’ Careful and affordable implementation of what you can control, both internally and externally, significantly reduces solar gain. Training your staff on basic building physics is also essential to deliver behaviour changes needed to secure a good ROI on your energy efficiency and capital investments. How much do I really need to worry about storm resilience? Storms are increasingly damaging buildings causing debris hazards to occupants and pedestrians, as well as increasing repair and maintenance costs. You also need to consider how vulnerable your buildings are to the impacts on your local infrastructure. Your
workplace might be fine, but how easily can staff get to work when roads and railways are increasingly impacted by flooding and storm damage? Air-con is good if it’s powered through renewables, right? Ish! Thinking about the three energy risks I identified earlier, I ask clients to step back from a net zero focus to a broader viability one. Can you afford to run your air con when energy costs are set to increase substantially in the short term? And how reliant are you on mechanical means of heating, cooling and ventilation? Where is your Plan B for keeping your building operational when the UK suffers rolling black-outs, as the Government recently admitted it is planning for while the grid upgrades between now and 2035? A great deal of my time is spent ensuring clients have a strong passive (non-mechanical) base to de-risk their buildings and keep them fully operational and affordable, in terms of running costs and insurance premiums. Home and business owners are facing challenges on several fronts. Happily, mitigating climate and energy risks help you minimise costs, improve health, productivity and support business viability. Can you afford to ignore them? September 2026 business network
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FEATURE
CORPORATE CHRISTMAS
Sustainable gift giving Giving gifts to your clients and employees at Christmas is an easy way to affirm important relationships. Gifts can be used to thank staff for another year of hard work and make clients and key stakeholders feel valued. But in today’s eco-conscious world, it’s important to consider the impact that gift-giving can have on the environment. Business Network takes a look at sustainable gift options. HOW GREEN DO YOUR GIFTS NEED TO BE?
WHAT TO BUY
When you think of a corporate gift, you might think of plastic pens and tote bags, emblazoned with your logo or produced in your brand colours. But few of these such gifts are designed from sustainable materials or made to last. A generic plastic trinket that ends up in a drawer – or worse or a landfill – doesn’t do your brand any favours. A well-made, thoughtfully sourced product does the opposite. So, before you go Christmas shopping, ask yourself a few questions – is my gift useful? Is it destined for landfill, or can it be recycled? Can it be re-used? And would my clients truly welcome receiving another piece of plastic? Sustainable gifts can serve two purposes. Firstly, they can help the recipients reduce waste and embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle. Secondly, they can help make a statement about your values. ‘Green washing’, or the act of pretending your company is more eco-conscious than it actually is, is a serious issue. By choosing to gift sustainably, you will be demonstrating that you put real thought into it, that you are committed to helping the planet and that you stand apart from your competitors.
When evaluating sustainable corporate gifts, it’s vital that you know what actually separates a genuine, eco-friendly product from one that might just look the part.
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Keep an eye out for: • Gifts made from eco-friendly, recycled or repurposed materials • Items that include locally sourced or organic materials • Items with alternative materials or those made from certified sustainable processes (such as free from harmful dyes or bleaching) • Items that can help eliminate single-use plastics • Items that have been sourced ethically and made by fair labour • Products that have achieved certification for sustainable industry standards. Sustainable gift ideas: • Reusable drinkware, such as water bottles, coffee tumblers and travel mugs • Tote bags made from recycled or organic materials
• Eco-friendly accessories made with ethical production standards • Reusable stationary, such as refillable pens • Reusable homeware items, such as beeswax wraps • Sustainable office supplies, such as stone paper notebooks • Experience-based gift options • Wellness and lifestyle gifts.
POINTS TO CONSIDER When gifting sustainably this Christmas, keep in mind the following: Packaging: You’ve gone to the effort of sourcing sustainable gifts, so don’t forget to source ecofriendly packaging too. Look for recyclable or compostable materials. Branding: While branding gifts and merchandise is a great tool for marketing, you might want to think again about sending out branded gifts at Christmas. They can feel impersonal and therefore less likely to be used and reused. Gifts aren’t just for the holidays: Consider gifting something that can be enjoyed or reused throughout the year, not just at Christmas.
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Rethinking the work Christmas party - A more meaningful way to celebrate By Hannah Bowdler (pictured below), development manager, Junction Arts
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hristmas is on its way, and if you’re anything like most workplaces, you’re probably starting to plan the team celebration. For many, that means the usual routine: a meal out, a few drinks, maybe a Secret Santa. It’s familiar, it’s easy… but it doesn’t always hit the mark for everyone. So, here’s a gentle nudge to try something a little different this year. Instead of the typical night out (and the inevitable nextday hangover), why not bring your team together in a more creative way? Swapping the traditional party for a creative workshop, and even rethinking gift-giving, can make your Christmas celebration feel more inclusive, more meaningful, and a lot more memorable. At Junction Arts, we’ve seen how powerful creativity can be in bringing people together. It’s not about being “good” at art; it’s about taking a moment to pause, try something new, and enjoy the process. Here are five reasons why a creative Christmas workshop might be just what your team needs. 64 business network September 2026
1. A CHANCE TO SLOW DOWN Let’s be honest, December is hectic. Work deadlines, endof-year targets, and personal commitments all seem to pile up at once. Giving your team permission to step away from their desks, put their phones down, and make something can be a real gift. It’s a chance to breathe and recharge, even if just for an hour or two.
2. TIME TO CONNECT (PROPERLY) Creative activities have a lovely way of breaking down barriers. Without the structure of meetings or the noise of a busy bar, people can relax and chat more naturally. You might find colleagues connecting in ways they haven’t before, sharing ideas, laughing together, and building relationships that carry back into everyday work life.
3. NO PRESSURE, JUST PLAY One of the best things about creative workshops is that there’s no expectation to be perfect. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. It’s about experimenting, having a go, and enjoying the moment. For many people, that freedom can feel refreshing, especially in a work environment where results and performance are usually front and centre.
‘Without the structure of meetings or the noise of a busy bar, people can relax and chat more naturally’
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4. A MORE INCLUSIVE CELEBRATION Not everyone enjoys a traditional Christmas party. Whether it’s the focus on alcohol, late nights, or busy environments, these events don’t always feel accessible to all. A creative session offers something different. A calmer, more welcoming space where everyone can join in, in their own way.
5. SOMETHING TO TAKE AWAY There’s something special about leaving with a physical reminder of a shared experience. Whether it’s a handmade decoration, a piece of artwork, or simply a memory of time well spent, it lasts longer than a meal or a night out. Those small moments can have a big impact on team morale and sense of belonging. And while you’re rethinking your celebration, it might also be worth reconsidering Secret Santa. While it can be fun, it can also feel like added pressure: finding the right gift, sticking to a budget, and hoping it lands well. Instead, why not come together as a team and donate to a local charity? I believe Christmas at work doesn’t need to be about doing more; sometimes, it’s about doing something a little differently. Swapping the usual rush for a chance to get creative, have a laugh, and make something together might just be the most festive feeling of all. September 2026 business network
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DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY
DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY THE CUTTING-EDGE SECTOR THAT IMPACTS THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS
MEMBER PROFILE: RORTECH PARTNERS RorTech Partners is based in Mansfield and run by husband and wife team Adam and Cassie Blackwell. Tell us about your company? RorTech Partners is a specialist IT and AI consultancy focused on helping SMEs adopt Microsoft 365 Copilot and other AI tools in a structured, commercially meaningful way. We work with organisations that want to move beyond experimentation and turn AI into measurable productivity, efficiency, and growth. The business was founded in 2026 by Adam and Cassie, who have a combined 20-plus years in IT consulting, delivery and leadership. It was established to address a growing gap in the market where businesses were investing in AI tools but not achieving consistent value due to poor governance, unclear use cases, or lack of internal capability.
Cassie Blackwell
What services do you provide? RorTech provides a structured suite of services designed to help SMEs turn AI and technology ambition into measurable business outcomes. Rather than offering isolated products, our services are built to work together across the full adoption journey – from initial strategy through to hands-on delivery and ongoing optimisation. This includes fractional IT and AI leadership, where we embed senior, board-level expertise into a business without the cost of a full-time hire. We also deliver AI and automation projects, building practical solutions using Microsoft technologies tailored to a client’s processes, as well as workshops and advisory sessions. Who are your main customers? Our primary customers are SME leaders across any sector. Many are already exploring AI but are struggling to translate that into consistent value. Common challenges include unclear use cases, limited governance and a lack of internal expertise. Our USP is a structured, outcome-led approach to AI adoption. What challenges have you faced? One of the main challenges has been navigating the rapid pace of change in AI while helping clients cut through the noise. There is a significant amount of hype in the market, which can lead to unrealistic expectations or unfocused investment. RorTech has prioritised a structured and grounded approach – focusing on governance, use case definition, and measurable outcomes.
Adam Blackwell
What are the company’s plans for the future? RorTech’s focus is on scaling sustainably while maintaining a high-quality, outcome-led service. Longer term, the aim is to establish RorTech as a recognised specialist in practical AI adoption, known for delivering real business value rather than theoretical advice. How long have you been a member of East Midlands Chamber? RorTech joined the Chamber shortly after launching in 2026 as part of our commitment to building a strong regional presence. I’ve worked with the Chamber before in a previous role, and have seen the impact the Chamber can have on local businesses and the local economy. We’ve actively engaged with Chamber events and networking opportunities to connect with local business leaders, understand the challenges they are facing and build meaningful relationships.
Firm leads the way on school phone security Derby tech company L.E.A.D. IT Services has sold thousands of lockable phone pouches to schools ahead of the Government smartphone ban which came in this summer. The pouches from American brand Yondr are magnetic and lockable so pupils can’t access their phones during the day. The firm supports more than 270 schools and academy trusts in the UK and has seen growing demand for the pouches from head teachers. New Department for Education rules mean schools must now be smartphone free – with many opting 66 business network September 2026
for the pouches after listening to parents who want children to keep their phones during the day in case of emergencies. Pupils can open the pouches at the end of each day using a magnetic fob. Chris Edwards, partnerships development manager, said: “We are seeing a lot of demand for solutions like these pouches as head teachers seek to respond to the smartphone ban. “We find this to be a realistic solution but also one that means that pupils can keep their phones with them.”
Chris Edwards and Katie Hindmarch of L.E.A.D IT Services with a Yondr phone pouch
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LEGAL
BUSINESS SUPPORT THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES FROM OUR KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS
It’s easy to see implications of smart glasses B
usinesses are waking up to the potential risks posed by smart glasses, after Monopoly Events banned them at its UK Comic-Con shows following concerns about covert filming. Courts in England and Wales have also banned smart glasses – which have cameras inbuilt – along with a growing number of restaurants, theatres and pubs amid fears they can be used as spyware. Claire Scanlan, head of employment at Buckles Law, said it could be a wake-up call for employers about their use in the workplace, particularly those handling financial data, trade secrets or sensitive personal and client information. She said: "If event organisers feel the need to ban this technology, employers should be asking themselves serious questions. “These events can control the room for a few hours, but businesses need policies that hold up every day, indefinitely, in far higher-stakes environments.
Banner Jones on move to Mansfield Regional law firm Banner Jones is relocating its Nottinghamshire office to new premises in Mansfield. It is planning to move to offices under the Travelodge hotel on the corner of St Peter’s Way and Albert Street, in November. The new office offers better meeting facilities, improved accessibility and a contemporary working environment. The firm has operated in Mansfield since its merger with Bilton Hammond in 2013, expanding its regional presence while continuing to support individuals, families and businesses.
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Smart glasses with camera lenses in the frames
“The instinct to ban is understandable, but for most employers it isn't that simple. Staff may have genuine reasons to wear smart glasses, and outright bans are hard to police. What matters is having a clear, enforceable policy before the problem arrives, not after.” She said decisions should consider the legal reality for employers including covert recording and UK GDPR’s transparency principle and why employees who secretly record colleagues become data controllers in their own right.
Firm advises on Sprog premises Rothera Bray has advised KYMM, trading as Sprog, on its first commercial property transaction, securing premises for a new children’s indoor play area, shop and café in the Wellington Place Local Centre, Market Harborough. Acting on behalf of the tenant, Rothera Bray advised on the lease, licence for alterations and rent deposit deed relating to the Harvest Road property. Sprog has taken the final available retail unit on a six-year lease, joining Sainsbury’s and Esquires Coffee. The 1,667 sq ft premises will provide indoor soft play and other children’s activities, refreshments, clothing, toys and gifts. The transaction marks an important milestone for KYMM and founder Adam Newberry,
Sprog’s Adam Newberry with Marneya Chauhan of Rothera Bray
representing both the company's first location and first commercial lease. The letting was led by Marneya Chauhan, senior associate
solicitor in Rothera Bray’s commercial property team, who advised the client throughout, negotiating the lease documentation with the landlord’s solicitors and guiding the business from initial instruction through to completion. Marneya said: “I’m delighted to have advised Sprog on securing their new premises at Wellington Place. This marks an exciting milestone for the business, and I’m pleased to have supported them in bringing this transaction to a successful completion. “Sprog’s innovative concept will be a fantastic addition to the development, complementing the existing occupiers while providing a valuable new facility for local families.”
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FINANCE
Don’t leave it too late to seek financial advice T
he boss of a business advisory firm says many directors are waiting too long to seek support as the number experiencing critical financial distress rises. Situl Raithatha, who founded Springfields Advisory 25 years ago, said UK businesses are facing mounting economic pressure, with rising costs, tighter cashflow and ongoing uncertainty.
‘In many situations, our role is not to create panic it’s to help bring clarity, perspective and calm decision-making’ According to the Chamber’s second Quarterly Economic Survey of 2026, businesses have seen a sharp drops in sales and orders, and have
lowered expectations of any rise in profits or turnover in the year ahead. Situl said: “Most directors try to carry the pressure on their own for far too long. By the time many business owners speak to us, they’ve often spent months trying to protect staff, suppliers, clients and the business itself while dealing with enormous pressure behind the scenes. “From the outside, businesses can often appear stable while significant financial or operational strain is building internally. Accountants are often the first people to spot when something isn’t right. “They know their clients well and many spend months trying to support struggling businesses before specialist advice is ever sought. In many situations, our role is not to create panic it’s to help bring clarity, perspective and calm
Situl Raithatha says many directors only consider asking for advice as a last resort
decision-making to situations that can feel overwhelming for directors. Many business owners assume asking for advice means they’ve failed or run out of options.
“In reality, earlier conversations often provide more flexibility, more control and better opportunities to stabilise situations before pressure escalates further.”
Over-55s reluctant to discuss inheritance New research by YouGov for wealth management and employee benefits firm Mattioli Woods has highlighted a reluctance among over-55s to discuss inheritance, alongside gaps in understanding of Inheritance Tax (IHT) rules and estate planning.
Mattioli Woods head office in Leicester
The study suggested a quarter of over-55s had never openly discussed inheritance with their family with “emotional discomfort, privacy concerns and perceptions that it is too early or unnecessary” to talk about it. Amit Joshi, managing director of wealth at Mattioli Woods, said: “These findings show a clear disconnect between the expectation of passing on wealth and the understanding required to do so effectively. “While most people recognise the importance of a will, far fewer understand the tax rules and allowances that can significantly impact what is ultimately passed on. “The reluctance to talk about inheritance is understandable, but it can leave families unprepared at a time when clarity matters most. “When these conversations are delayed, important financial and emotional decisions are often left until moments of stress or urgency, when it is harder to reflect clearly or act in a coordinated way. That can create uncertainty around intentions, increase the risk of disputes, and lead to avoidable delays in administering estates.” Mattioli Woods recently integrated Kingswood Group under a unified brand, following its October 2025 merger.
Michael’s top cat at TC Group TC Group Derby has promoted Michael Dolman (pictured) to director. Michael joined the business in 2017, becoming ACCA qualified, taking on a management role and establishing himself as a key member of the Derby leadership team. He will continue to work closely with clients across the region while contributing to the development of the firm and supporting the next generation of talent within the business. 70 business network September 2026
TC Group is a Top 20 firm of business advisors and accountants, with more than 70 offices and more than 2,000 professionals across the UK. TC Group Derby and Nottingham partner Martin Bowles said: "Michael’s progression to Director is thoroughly deserved. “His commitment to delivering excellent service, combined with his collaborative approach and genuine passion for helping businesses succeed, makes him a natural fit for the business.”
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SKILLS
We need freeport to live up to its potential
IN BRIEF
Professor Will Rossiter and Dr Marie Stack, of Nottingham Business School, and Home Office economist Sophie Laycock ask: What does the East Midlands Freeport really mean for regional jobs?
COMMENT UNIVERSITY LAUNCHES MEDICAL DIPLOMA
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he East Midlands Freeport has been billed as a major economic initiative for the region – designed to attract investment, boost trade, and create jobs through tax breaks, simplified customs rules and business-friendly regulations. While such zones have been widely used globally, evidence on their effectiveness – particularly in job creation – is mixed. Our recent research at Nottingham Business School, at Nottingham Trent University, evaluates the potential employment impacts of the freeport in the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) region. In the core scenario, the freeport is projected to generate around 32,000 additional jobs by 2040 – significant in the context of the regional labour market and expected to reduce unemployment and increase economic output.
‘The freeport has strong potential to increase employment and improve job quality, but these outcomes are not guaranteed’ Importantly, the jobs are distributed across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, professional and technical services, utilities, logistics and construction. About two-fifths of new roles fall into high-skilled occupations, particularly in professional, scientific, and technical services. The freeport is also expected to boost gross value added (GVA) and productivity. However, the results are highly sensitive to underlying assumptions. When the occupancy rate (the extent to which businesses take up space in the freeport) is reduced, job
East Midlands Freeport is the UK’s busiest ‘pure’ cargo airport
creation falls substantially to around 23,100 jobs, demonstrating that attracting firms is critical to success. Similarly, higher levels of job displacement, where firms relocate rather than create genuinely new activity, reduce net employment gains, highlighting concerns about whether benefits are truly additional or simply redistributed. A more logistics focused scenario produces similar total job numbers but significantly reduces high-skilled employment, as logistics tends to require fewer advanced skills. Adopting a broader inclusive growth strategy, which aligns more with existing regional industries, shifts employment towards manufacturing and reduces the proportion of high-skilled jobs. While this approach may better match local skills and reduce labour “leakage” (jobs filled by people from outside the region), it comes at the cost of fewer high-value roles. The freeport has strong potential to increase employment and improve job quality, but these outcomes are not guaranteed. Success depends on implementation choices, particularly regarding sector focus, business attraction, and (local) workforce alignment.
Creative youngsters club together Members of the University of Derby’s National Saturday Club (NSC) programme travelled to the Embankment Galleries, London where their artwork was displayed with pieces by more than 2,000 youngster from across the UK. The exhibition formed part of the NSC’s annual Summer Show, celebrating the achievements of young people and marking the end of this year’s club programme. The NSC is part of a nationwide network offering free weekly sessions for 13 to 16-year-olds with an interest in creativity and the arts. The young people have worked alongside professional artists and creative organisations, and experienced the region’s vibrant cultural sector.
A new route into medicine is being introduced in Derbyshire. The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Medicine) has been developed by the University of Derby as part of its ambitions to establish a regional hub for healthcare excellence, creating new pathways for local people to pursue careers in medicine and healthcare. Due to launch in January, the new programme aims to widen access to medical careers and help build a pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals to meet growing NHS demand. Research tracking more than 31,000 UK doctors suggests 78% of graduates took their first career post in the region where they trained. The diploma builds on the university’s healthcare provision, which already educates thousands of nurses, midwives and healthcare professionals each year.
DEFENCE SECTOR OFFERS JOB POTENTIAL Strategic investment in the Midlands’ defence sector could create up to 38,000 high-value jobs and add almost £3bn to the UK economy over the next decade, according to a new prospectus. The Midlands: Powering UK Defence Growth prospectus was unveiled at a Midlands All-Party Parliamentary Group event in Westminster, hosted by Midlands mayors Claire Ward and Richard Parker. It sets out the case for a Midlands Defence Growth Deal to help translate rising national defence investment into jobs, innovation and industrial growth. The prospectus argues that the Midlands is uniquely placed to support the UK’s defence ambitions thanks to its concentration of advanced manufacturing, engineering and technology businesses. It estimates that strategic investment could generate up to £2.9bn in additional value to the region by 2035, with Ministry of Defence spending with Midlands SMEs projected to reach £250m a year within five years.
Young people from the University of Derby’s National Saturday Club September 2026 business network
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BUSINESS NETWORK
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PROPERTY
Monument Business Park, near Oxford
IMA to redesign top business park
Global fashion manufacturer Q Collection completes UK HQ in Ashby
Blueprint fashions UK base for clothing firm S
ingapore-based clothing manufacturer Q Collection has completed its new UK HQ in Ashby. The business makes clothes and textiles for international fashion brands and shops, and needed a UK base to grow its team over here, expand its operations and install new technology. The business used Ashby workplace consultancy Blueprint Interiors for the eight-week internal design and fit-out of the new 7,000sq ft Excelsior House HQ. The office, design and manufacturing facility includes a lingerie lab, with 14 sewing machines, cutting tables, cup moulders and a dark room, and a knitting lab, with four full-size knitting machines, steam press and yarn library. Other features include a fit room, where
garments can be modelled and photographed, connected to a presentation area with tiered seating, next to a runway. It will allow designers and customers to work together on collections. There is also a client lounge, which can be set up as a showroom or mock shop. Working with workplace technology specialist TecInteractive, Blueprint and Q Collection have also added a ‘virtual quality lab’ with high resolution cameras linking to the manufacturer’s Singapore, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh sites. This is the third project Blueprint has delivered for Q Collection, having also worked on the design of its head office in Singapore, and a 50-person office in Sri Lanka.
IMA Architects has been instructed by Wulff Capital to lead the redesign of Monument Business Park in Chalgrove, Oxfordshire. The 21-acre business park is eight miles south east of Oxford, and home to around 80 businesses and more than 600 workers. Wulff Capital, which acquired the park in late 2024, appointed IMA to modernise the site with up to 137,000 sq ft of new floorspace. Pending planning, the first phase would see former agricultural buildings knocked down and replaced with four new units, each with room for 58 cars. IMA is based in Blaby, Leicestershire and works with a range of FTSE 100 companies, such as Marks and Spencer, and global brands including Lidl.
Alpha reveals plans to overhaul headquarters Derbyshire building contractor Alpha Construction is planning to redevelop its Alpha House base in Uttoxeter Road, Hilton. Matthew Montague Architects has designed two buildings, each with two storeys, to replace the existing headquarters and establish a “strong architectural presence” at a prominent gateway into the village. Pending planning, it would use high-quality materials and generous glazing to create light
workspaces and present a “confident and professional identity” for the business. The firm has been based in Hilton for more than 30 years, and the new environmentallyfriendly offices – with solar panels, high-efficiency insulation and natural ventilation – will support its long-term plans, with space for new jobs. There would be better access and parking, cycle storage and vehicle charging points.
Alpha Construction wants to redevelop its Alpha House HQ in Hilton
Constructing Excellence Midlands East Awards – residential winner Scope Construction, Leicester City Council, A+G Architects and BSP Consulting
Scope scoops award for children’s home Loughborough contractor Scope Construction won the residential project of the year award for Hillview Children’s Home at the Constructing Excellence Midlands East Awards, in partnership with Leicester City Council, A+G Architects and BSP Consulting. The two storey children’s home is Leicester City Council’s first purposebuilt specialist accommodation for more than 40 years. It provides new living accommodation, communal facilities and ancillary accommodation including five en-suite bedrooms, as well as two selfcontained flats, a staff office andsomewhere for staff to sleep. The £1.8m residential facility included a contribution of £800,000 from the Department for Education and opened in November 2025. It has a games room with ‘street art’ wall and a spacious and secure garden to the rear. September 2026 business network
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MOTORING
Jaecoo offers a lot for a little… all except comfort FACTFILE MODEL Jaecoo 7
Journalist Nick Jones takes a look at the Jaecoo 7 – part of the emerging Chinese brand that’s setting the automotive industry alight.
PRICE OTR From £35,100
PERFORMANCE Top speed: 110 miles per hour 0-60 mph: 8.5 seconds
POWER 204 BHP
RANGE up to 60 miles on a single electric charge – above 350mpg combined
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ust over a year ago Jaecoo was introduced in the UK and – to everyone’s astonishment – became the ‘best-selling’ new vehicle over here selling almost 30,000 units in 2025. Without any provenance this was some feat for sure. And to further this, they appear to be everywhere on today’s roads, which is no bad thing. First thing’s first, it’s meant to look as intimidating as a Range Rover and is. The ‘waterfall’-like front grille doesn’t shout ‘vague’ at you, plus I’d imagine the showroom and kerb appeal is why it sells so well.
On the inside, things look decent. Coming from China, there are massive touch-screens and all the latest tech – but the reality of the things that you actually touch and feel and use every day is that it appears to be a little sub-standard. Materials aren’t the best and they convey not-so-nice tactility. Interior space is fine, more so in the rear with half-decent boot space to boot. The engine is a rather coarse 1.5-litre petrol unit with a turbocharger, alongside an 18.2kWh battery pack. Changing between hybrid and electric isn’t as
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MOTORING
‘On the road, the Jaecoo provides a bouncy, somewhat unrefined ride that is not what you’d expect’
MAIN PICTURE: A distinctive grille ABOVE: The interior is “fine” RIGHT: It looks as intimidating as a Range Rover
seamless as it should be and I would question the ‘claimed’ mileage figure before having to visit pump or public charging point. On the road, the Jaecoo provides a bouncy, somewhat unrefined ride that is not what you’d expect. It gets a bit noticeable after a while and competitors shouldn’t be alarmed – quite the opposite, in fact. To sum up, it is quite a lot of metal for your money, with lots of goodies, good looks and it’s reasonably priced.
But it is flawed in so many ways. The engine, the handling, the ride and the nastiness of cheap materials internally come to the fore. Other manufacturers shouldn’t be worried in this sector for sure, and I for one would spend a bit more dosh on the stalwarts one is accustomed to. For now, the Jaecoo may look a bargain, but when you are going to spend all that time driving the damn thing it might be bite your bottom lip time and buy something more creditable that we have grown accustomed to. September 2026 business network
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COMMENT
THE LAST WORD Chamber president Dr Cham S Kang on ‘The Green Squeeze’ and why East Midlands SMEs are stalling on sustainability.
T
he East Midlands functions as a vital engine room for the UK economy with SMEs making up 99% of the business ecosystem. Historically anchored by energy-intensive manufacturing, engineering, logistics, medical, food and drink, textiles and retail hubs, the region carries a uniquely high carbon footprint. Because SMEs generate 70% of industrial emissions, their path to net zero is critical for the UK's climate ambitions. However, a harsh economic climate has forced SMEs into a difficult position. While business leaders show high green intentions, the daily realities of high-cost operating conditions have compelled many to put their environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals on hold.
Historically, smaller firms have been excluded from major national regulatory frameworks, cutting them off from structured energy-saving incentives. Regionally, the business support landscape remains fragmented and hard to navigate. The region faces a noticeable funding gap. While the East Midlands Chamber works hard to track green growth trends, the wider information gap is growing.
‘SMEs view net zero policies as a bureaucratic hurdle rather than a green economy opportunity’
THE CRUSHING COST OF REGIONAL PRODUCTION The primary barrier preventing SMEs from investing in decarbonisation is the soaring cost of doing business. Additionally, energy costs remain a critical threat with many SMEs spending up to a fifth of their total overheads on utility consumption. This leaves little capital for sustainability initiatives. This volatile energy landscape is further compounded by the domestic tax framework. Regional businesses are facing the long-term impact of increases in employer NI contributions, alongside a rigid business rates system that penalises manufacturers and the like for their large premises footprints. Simultaneously, wage inflation driven by updates to the National Living Wage has increased payroll expenses. Forced to pay higher salaries to retain skilled talent, margins have dropped to the absolute limit. When immediate financial survival is threatened, forward-looking climate actions are invariably delayed.
THE POLICY VACUUM: ZERO SUPPORT FOR NET-ZERO Intensifying these financial stresses is a lack of cohesive, accessible government support tailored for SME decarbonisation. 78 business network September 2026
Most SMEs do not employ dedicated sustainability officers, leaving busy management teams to struggle with complex compliance language like Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. Without clear fiscal incentives, simplified green tax relief or direct capital grants from government, SMEs view net zero policies as a bureaucratic hurdle rather than a green economy opportunity.
NAVIGATING THE LIFELINE: REGIONAL EAST MIDLANDS CHAMBER SUPPORT AND GRANTS To combat this squeeze, the Chamber acts as a crucial link delivering direct funding, structured campaigns and diagnostic tools across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire. Rather than SMEs navigating complex pathways alone, the Chamber provides localised support to convert green policies into lowering operating costs. Support includes: The Accelerator Project, Green Entrepreneurs Fund, District Specific Capital Grants and High Growth Accelerator Schemes. Also, the Chamber hosts the Midlands Energy Conference and the East Midlands Sustainability and CSR Conference.
CAUTION: DANGER AHEAD – THE HIDDEN RESOURCE FOOTPRINT OF THE AI REVOLUTION To manage high salary pressures and optimise lean workforces, companies have turned to AI. Tools for automated scheduling, automated customer service and predictive supply chain management promise to lower costs. However, this digital shift has introduced an accidental environmental paradox: the hidden intensive carbon and water footprint of AI infrastructure. While traditional digital tools use minimal energy, an AI prompt requires 10 times more electricity to process. Data centres powering these continuous queries consume tens of gigawatts of electricity, quietly driving up commercial Scope 3 supply chain emissions for SMEs. The environmental toll runs far beyond electricity consumption to an invisible water crisis. Data centres rely on massive volumes of fresh water for cooling systems. AI uses billions of cubic metres of water. As 80% of this cooling water evaporates rather than being recycled, it means the widespread adoption of AI by millions of SMEs is quietly working against ESG targets.
BREAKING THE CYCLE SMEs are caught in a difficult economic loop. To survive high operating costs and wage inflation, they adopt AI tools that worsen their indirect environmental footprint. Meanwhile, a lack of targeted government funding prevents SMEs from adopting the structural changes needed for true sustainability. If our region is to successfully shape its clean energy economy and achieve its net zero goals, future government economic policy must directly bridge this gap. Providing SMEs with simplified green tax credits, accessible funding and transparent energy metrics will ensure that sustainability opportunities remain achievable, even in a challenging economic landscape.
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