Black Country Chamber of Commerce

Earlier this month we celebrated the success of our Exporting Starts Here programme ✈️ We heard first-hand from businesses at all stages of their export journey—from fresh start-ups venturing into global markets to experienced exporters sharing hard-earned lessons. The room was filled with inspiring, emotional stories of resilience, determination, and the sheer belief in success despite the hurdles. Thank you to Mercure Birmingham West Hotel for hosting and to our exporters who shared their journeys with us: ⭐ Russell E. – Breakwells Coatings & Paints Ltd ⭐ Peter Sully – Spur Shelving ® Great shelving systems made here in the UK ⭐ Nayden Yurukov & Scott Shearan – Co-Founders & CEOs, PortalZero The programme offers FREE expert guidance to help you navigate international trade with confidence and we are pleased to announce it will continue for a further 12 months until 31st March 2026! Whether you're just beginning, building on early successes, or seeking to expand into new markets please get in touch to see how we can help; ✉️ exportingstartshere@blackcountrychamber.co.uk 🌐 https://loom.ly/L9silL0 *The project is funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and delivered by the Black Country Chamber, C&W Chamber of Commerce and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. Lorna Taylor Mandy Perry Steve Parker David Hooper MBA Jenny Hooper

Join us for the QES Q1 data reveal event this week, where we will explore the challenges businesses are facing across the Black Country region. Hosted by Beacon Vision , the panel will discuss current trends in the adoption of digital technology and will highlight the main barriers that business may face in futureproofing their workforces. Our specialist panel includes: ✨ James Cash, Managing Director of Superfast IT ✨ Thomas Gee, Customer Experience Manager at Concero Technology Services ✨ Laura Tatton, Director of ConsuLT PR & Marketing ✨ Chris Carter, Managing Director from VOiD Applications Don't miss the chance to learn how technology and digital skills can help your business thrive! Secure your place and book here ▶️ https://loom.ly/WB1gYKE

Happy Mother’s Day from everyone at the Black Country Chamber! 💕 Thank you to all the incredible moms, mother figures and to the women who have shaped our lives, and continue to inspire us 💐

March has quickly come and gone - catch up on March's top stories in our latest round-up!     In this month's round-up:  ✨ Our CEO, Sarah Moorhouse responds to the Spring Statement delivered by the Chancellor.  ✨ The launch of this years Black Country Chamber Business Awards. ✨ Waste specialist Robert Hopkins Environmental & Superfast IT join The Platinum Group.    Plus upcoming events and training...    Make sure to subscribe for the latest news from us 👇 

Our recent edition of Prosper features an article on the use of AI in business following our Quarterly Economic Survey event in January. As AI continues to grow, businesses across the Black Country are unsure on how to use AI to its full potential. Chris Dowen, Director at MoRServ Ltd offers valuable insights into the importance of business leaders understanding AI and how it can help them. Following this, Chris has created a new special interest group to offer advice to Chamber members looking to improve their use of technology. Read the full article here ▶️ https://loom.ly/XxXhbGM

🎙️Listen to WCR FM's Wolverhampton Business Show with Chris Allen FRSA this evening. Featuring Rainer Derry from Walsh Funerals & Memorials, Beverly Johnson from JLB Shipping International, and more! In tonight's episode, we hear Beverly share how her business started, her motivations and the business award closest to her heart. Rainer then shares how they support people during the most painful times of their lives, and how they are breaking the mould by introducing more women into the funeral business. Together, their stories highlight a shared mission to drive change and make a meaningful difference in their businesses. Tune in at 6 - 7PM 🎧 loom.ly/oRCL1dY

We are thrilled to announce that Halesowen College are our partners for the Sustainability, Technology & Innovation award this year! 🎉 This award recognises a business that has demonstrated exceptional advancements in sustainability, technology, and innovation and contribute to positive societal impact. To win, you must be able to demonstrate a new approach to solving a problem, with potential for scalability and future impact, as well as evidence of market adoption and customer satisfaction. Find out more about our partnership opportunities here ▶️ https://loom.ly/i5GjaSM Jacquie Carman Hayley Edwards Gary Johnson Steve Salt

Managing a start-up business can be overwhelming! At the Start-Up Business Club, our support circle is here to guide you during your setbacks and reduce your feelings of isolation. Whether it's marketing, strategy or needing a boost of encouragement, this strong community can empathise with you and help you stay focused on your goal! Book your place ▶️ https://loom.ly/3MFSXf8 Alison Trinder Lynne Thomas (The Business Builder)

In today’s Spring Statement the Chancellor Rt Hon Rachel Reeves reiterated her priority for economic growth but recognises there are no quick fixes. 📣 Our CEO, Sarah Moorhouse responds: "There are no shortcuts to economic growth but we do want to feel hope and optimism. Chamber members want and need a government that is on the side of business. Instead businesses are feeling battered and bruised by the increased cost pressures looming within days. "We welcome planning reform and the jobs that will come with increased building of houses and infrastructure projects and we are optimistic that the increased spending on defence will benefit local businesses – not just in manufacturing but also in technology. "For the economy to grow, businesses need to thrive. Ahead of the Comprehensive Spending Review we’ll be making representation to our MP’s, ministers and decision makers to make sure they understand the challenges our members are facing. "As ever, we have their backs."  

We are thrilled to announce that Superfast IT has upgraded their membership to join The Platinum Group! ✨ James Cash, Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to upgrade to become part of The Platinum Group, building on the strong relationships we have established through our Chamber of Commerce membership to date." Gail Arnold, Head of Premium Membership at the Black Country Chamber, said: “All businesses want to utilise IT and introduce effective cybersecurity measures so we look forward to helping them grow their network as they make the most of their new membership while working with their peers to make a positive impact in the Black Country economy.” Read the full article here ▶️ https://loom.ly/JPitSfI