North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Latest Chamber News 2012

An exclusive deal for Chamber members: Added: 02-02-2012
Get 10% cashback every year or 50% discount on Chamber membership for 3 years with AXA
PPP healthcare As a member of the Chamber of Commerce, you have access to exclusive
offers which could save you money on your premiums from AXA PPP healthcare. We are one
of the UK's leading health insurance providers and have a range of products from
plans...
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New helpline to support business is launched Added: 02-02-2012
The Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership has launched a new
helpline to give businesses the support and advice they need to develop and prosper in
the region. From 1 February  2012 the new number - 0300 111 8002 - will act as
single point of contact and make it easier for businesses, big or small, to get
the...
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Terms and Conditions of Business - The foundation of any good business. Added: 30-01-2012
1 March 2012Time: 12.00 - 2pm Location: Commerce House  Cost: FreeTerms
and Conditions of Business form the foundation of any good business.  They help to
ensure that your customers are clear on how your business operates and, ‘well
drafted' terms and conditions can prevent problems before they even arise. Not
having...
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Finance manager vacancy Added: 26-01-2012
FINANCE MANAGER vacancy   21hrs p/wk. Based in Hanley,
Stoke-on-Trent  Age UK are looking for an experienced and skilled
Finance Manager to join the Senior Management Team to lead the charity's
financial and management accounting functions with rigour and vision, to start
late March/April.  The closing date for...
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BCC: Disappointing GDP figures reinforce need for growth-enhancing policies Added: 25-01-2012
UK GDP in Q4 2011 down -0.2% in the quarter, up 0.8% in the year.Commenting on
the preliminary estimates for GDP in the fourth quarter of 2011, published today
by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce
(BCC), said:"The first estimates for growth in the fourth quarter of 2011
are disappointing, and worse than...
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Open Access to Finance Forum - 26 January Added: 23-01-2012
Open Access to Finance ForumThursday January 26th 2012As part of the Stoke on
Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership's programme to support
local companies in raising funding and borrow more effectively, BCRS, a lender
and manager of funds that provides finance to small businesses are running a
series of Open Access to Finance...
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Grindeys launch ‘more than’ a fixed fee debt recovery service Added: 20-01-2012
Grindeys launch ‘more than' a fixed fee debt recovery
service  Record numbers of firms are going out of business every day.
Their demise is often caused by their inability to recover money owed to them
but thankfully, there are many options available when it comes to dealing with
debtors. However, to fully optimize all the...
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Government must help businesses create more jobs, says BCC Added: 18-01-2012
Government must help businesses create more jobs, says BCCIn the three months to
November 2011, unemployment increased by 118,000 but employment also increased
by 18,000Unemployment at a level last seen in 1994Unemployed people aged 16-24
increased by 52,000 to 1.04m, the highest since records beganCommenting on the
labour market figures published...
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Staffs Innovation for Impact (Si2) Symposium at Staffordshire University Added: 13-01-2012
Staffs Innovation for Impact (Si2) Symposium at Staffordshire University
Beaconside campus, 28th March 2012 Staffordshire University's Faculty of
Computing Engineering and Technology (FCET) is launching a new innovation
initiative for the region at its Si2 event on 28th March 2012.FCET has many
years of experience in helping companies innovate....
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R&D Tax Relief increases to 225% - take advantage of this now. Added: 13-01-2012
R&D Tax Relief increases to 225% - take advantage of this now. Come along to
a FREE seminar at Staffordshire University at 12.00 midday - 3.00pm on Wednesday
8th February, Octagon Boardroom, Octagon Building, Stafford.
  Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credits were introduced in
2000 to provide tax incentives to companies to...
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Competition for Feasibility and Collaborative R&D Funding Added: 12-01-2012
Sustainable manufacturing for the Process Industry (TSB - technology strategy
board) - Competition for Feasibility and Collaborative R&D Funding
Innovation in sustainability is vital for the continued success and growth of
the UK process industry, including for the bulk and fine chemical,
pharmaceutical and biotech, agrochemical, coatings and...
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Boosting Innovation in Manufacturing Competencies – Competition for collaborative R&D Funding Added: 12-01-2012
Boosting Innovation in Manufacturing Competencies - Competition for
collaborative R&D Funding (TSB - technology strategy board) The aim of the
call is to support new technologies with strong potential to underpin new
production processors for a wide range of industrial applications and market
sectors. The focus is on recent technological...
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BCC: Stronger exports remain critical to Britain’s recovery Added: 11-01-2012
BCC: Stronger exports remain critical to Britain's recovery UK trade deficit
in goods and services widens to £2.6bn in November 2011, from a revised
£1.9bn in OctoberDavid Kern: "The pace of rebalancing the economy
towards exports is inadequate"Commenting on the trade figures for November
2011, published today by the ONS,...
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Newcastle Apprenticeship Event 14 February 2012 Added: 10-01-2012
Newcastle under Lyme Borough Council in partnership with Staffordshire County
Council, Staffordshire Providers Association, National Apprenticeship Service
and North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce invite you to a Newcastle
Apprenticeship event Newcastle under Lyme College, Tuesday 14 February 8.30am -
12.30pmThe event is for Newcastle employers...
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New manufacturing advisory service launched Added: 03-01-2012
A new national programme which will focus on helping small and medium
manufacturing businesses to grow has officially launched, Business Minister Mark
Prisk and the Manufacturing Advisory Consortium (MAC) announced today. The new
Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) is now available to all manufacturing
businesses across England. It will be...
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Quarterly Economic Survey Report - Q4 2011 Added: 21-12-2011
Following the Chamber's recent survey of members, the Quarterly Economic
Survey report for Q4 is now available to view.
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Freelance Curating and Fundraising Brief - Spode China Hall Added: 20-12-2011
Freelance Curating and Fundraising Brief - Spode China HallStoke-on-Trent
City Council has recently invested in bringing The former Spode China Halls to a
condition and specification that is suitable for exhibitions. The Spode China
Hall hosted the British Ceramics Biennial from September to November 2011 and
this major exhibition demonstrated...
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Larger firms are hampered by regulation and lack of skills, says BCC Added: 13-12-2011
In a survey of 1,200 businesses with more than 50 employees, over half want to
take on more staff by 2015But businesses are frustrated by a lack of skilled
labour in the UK and burdensome employment regulation A report published by the
British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), reveals that firms with more than 50
employees have ambitions to grow, but are...
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Acas Winter warners for employers Added: 07-12-2011
  We may have had the mildest November for over 300 years but now that
December's here Acas, the workplace experts, are reminding employers that
now is the time to make sure they're prepared for those workplace issues
that crop up over the winter months.Adrian Wakeling, Acas Guidance Editor, says:
"Winter often brings dilemmas for...
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TAKING THE FEAR OUT OF EMPLOYMENT: Added: 30-11-2011
Help for Sole Traders and Small Businesses to Recruit New
Employees Recruiting new staff when you are a sole trader or a small
business can appear to be daunting. However, the City Council, in partnership
with North Staffordshire Chamber Business Initiative, is putting together a
package of support to help small business overcome the barriers...
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NORTH STAFFS CHAMBER WINS TOP AWARD FOR SERVICES TO BUSINESS Added: 25-11-2011
Outstanding work overseas, which has helped secure valuable export contracts for
local firms, has won the North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce a top UK award
for services to business.The Chamber picked up the British Chambers of
Commerce's UK award for Excellence in International Trade Services,
sponsored by RBS and NatWest at its...
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BCC: New sickness assessment service will get more people back into work Added: 23-11-2011
-  70% of businesses believe that the rules on how to handle sickness
absence are burdensome*Commenting on the sickness absence review, John
Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:
"Sickness absence and the rules that surround it are a big problem for UK
firms. 70% of businesses believe that the rules...
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Office Space For Rent - Wolstanton Added: 21-11-2011
From Chamber member AMB InsuranceIn Wolstanton - housed in attractive period
building with many original features.All offices have included in the
price:entry phone system to each individual office (With phone facility in each
room)broadbandbuildings insurance cleaning of communal areasinternal door
securityburglar alarmfire...
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BCC: Reforms to the energy market will benefit business Added: 21-11-2011
Today, the energy regulator Ofgem has announced a number of proposals designed
to reform the non-domestic energy market to help businesses. They
include:Expansion of protections to small businesses (those with less than 50
employees)Enforcement action against suppliers who are ‘not playing it
straight' with businesses when trying to...
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Quarterly Economic Survey - Quarter 4 2011 Added: 17-11-2011
Once again the Chamber would like to invite you to participate in its latest
Quarterly Economic Survey.   The survey is extremely valuable,
both locally and nationally in influencing government and raising the profile of
business issues in the media.   It will be particularly interesting
this time, to assess confidence in...
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Growth remains weak despite improved retail sales, says BCC Added: 17-11-2011
Growth remains weak despite improved retail sales, says BCC October retail sales
volumes up 0.6% on the month, up 0.9% on the yearCommenting on the retail sales
figures for October, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of
Commerce (BCC), said:"The retail sales figures were better than expected,
although longer term comparisons...
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Michelin joins forces with NSCCI Added: 17-11-2011
 The business development loan arm of Michelin Tyres has signed a renewed
12-month contract with North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce Through the deal,
the chamber is to identify suitable businesses and start-ups to receive loans
from the Michelin Development fund.For the last six months, the company has been
working with NSCCI on an...
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Energy cost reduction service launched to help Chamber members Added: 03-11-2011
Chamber UtilitiesTM has launched a new Energy Cost Reduction Service in response
to members' concerns over their rising energy costs and increasing pressure
to control and reduce consumption.With a stagnant economy and high cost of raw
materials, organisations need to keep costs down in order to remain
competitive.  At the same time,...
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Quarterly Economic Survey - Qtr 3 Summary Report Added: 02-11-2011
Energy costs and access to finance are major concerns to businesses in North
Staffordshire, according to the Chamber's Quarterly Economic Survey for the
period ending September 2011.   Firms in the manufacturing and
services sectors report an improvement in cashflow and increased investment in
training.  However, there is...
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Closure of Business Link West Midlands Added: 31-10-2011
From Monday 31 October 2011, all telephone calls to the BLWM telephone number
will be automatically transferred to the new national Business Link Helpline.The
Department for Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) is keen to get across the
message that Business Link is changing and not closing.  Small and medium
sized businesses should now go to...
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Stoke-on-Trent’s new force of Community Energy Champions to help those most in need Added: 19-10-2011
To help the 30,000 Stoke-on-Trent residents living in fuel poverty get
‘energy fit', energy company E.ON and charity National Energy Action
(NEA) are working with Stoke on Trent City Council to train a team of Community
Energy Champions, as part of their ‘Community Energy Fit' scheme, to
help their friends and neighbours save...
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How's Your Business Feeling? Added: 17-10-2011
How's Your Business Feeling?   All organisations have a
responsibility to consider mental health under the Disability Discrimination Act
and Health and Safety at Work legislation. In addition, a mentally healthy
workplace will benefit from: improved productivity reduced staff turnover and
recruitment costs reduced sickness absence,...
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Economic Forum 28 October Added: 17-10-2011
We are pleased to invite you to the next West Midlands Ecomomic Forum Business
Seminar to be held at the University of Staffordshire on Friday 28 October,
starting at 12.00 and concluding by 14.00, (see attached agenda)
http://www.nscci.co.uk/files/pages/1213.pdfThis is the first in a new series
focussing on the Funding Innovation, and is being...
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New Markets, New Products Network Added: 12-10-2011
New Markets, New Products NetworkWhat is it?The Interiors & Lifestyle
Futures (ILF) project has been helping to establish a sustainable community of
creative, design-rich, market-led and technically competent companies across the
West Midlands.  Many of the companies engaged so far feature products that
relate directly to high value life...
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BCC: Government must support private sector job creation Added: 12-10-2011
In the three months to August 2011, unemployment increased by 114,000, and
employment fell by 178,000"The figures are concerning, and reinforce the
need for the government to boost the private sector's ability to create
jobs, and employ those people likely to lose their jobs in the public sector
over the coming year." Commenting on...
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Investment Development Brochure and 2012 Directory. Added: 12-10-2011
Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Staffordshire University and Keele University - are
heading up the Chamber's forthcoming Investment Development brochure
incorporating a members directory. The glossy 64-page A4 brochure's
editorial content will focus on initiatives to attract new business to the area
and support existing employers to create...
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Chamber Sentinel feature - 17 October Added: 11-10-2011
Chamber members are being offered a discounted rate to appear within a
"Chamber Spotlight" in the Business Pages on Monday 17th October. The
Monday Sentinel is a must read for local business people as well as a great
value advertising opportunity.  The rates for advertising in the feature
are discounted by over 50%5 x 2 colour...
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Stafford to London for less with Virgin Trains Added: 07-10-2011
Make a saving when travelling to London this autumn. Virgin Trains has teamed up
with the Chamber to give members a buy one get one half price offer on all
advance fares in all classes at all times. That's 50% off a second Advance
fare when you buy two tickets together. At least there's one saving to be
had on a trip to the capital.If...
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Staffordshire University Innovation Vouchers Added: 03-10-2011
Does your business have high growth potential?Would access to innovation
vouchers worth £3000 to purchase academic and innovative support from
Staffordshire University enable you to take your business to the next
level?Innovation Vouchers are a unique voucher scheme from Staffordshire
University in partnership with the North Staffordshire...
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Looking for office workspace? – Look no further Added: 29-09-2011
Business Initiative, an arm of the North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, has
managed office workspace available for rent at its training centre, Initiative
House on Campbell Road, Stoke-on-Trent.The offices range in size from 100 to 300
sq ft and are ideal for both start up and growing small businesses.Said BI
director Jill Levens "we know...
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Newcastle under Lyme School Charity Reunion Added: 28-09-2011
A warm invitation is extended to all former members of the School and their
guests to attend a Newcastle-under-Lyme School Charity Reunion Dinner on 15
October 2011 at Keele Hall. The evening will include fine dining, a speaker and
a live band with dancing. We hope that as many former pupils and staff will be
able to attend and are inviting groups...
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BCC: Clarity on Agency Workers Directive is a must for business Added: 27-09-2011
BCC: Clarity on Agency Workers Directive is a must for businessReacting to
reports that the Prime Minister is re-considering the implementation of the
Agency Workers Directive set for 1st October 2011, Dr Adam Marshall, Director of
Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: "The BCC first
wrote to Coalition ministers in June 2010...
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BCC: Government must look towards Plan A+ Added: 26-09-2011
BCC: Government must look towards Plan A+ "We do not believe that there is
a need for a Plan B. The deficit reduction programme is vital to stabilising
public finances, and so boosting business confidence. But the government must
introduce more growth-enhancing policies in the Autumn Statement." The
British Chambers of Commerce (BCC)...
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Chambers win more E.U. money for West Midland exporters Added: 21-09-2011
Chambers win more E.U. money for West Midland exportersThe West Midlands
Chambers of Commerce have been successful in bidding for more European Regional
Development Fund money to help companies in this region to export. The money
needs to be spent before March next year. To obtain assistance all a company has
to do is agree an action plan for...
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UKTI West Midlands Market Visit to Sweden Added: 20-09-2011
UKTI West Midlands Market Visit to Sweden 10 - 13 November
2011  Closing date for applications - 29 October 2011 or 16 September
2011 (if market intelligence required) The visit is being organised by UK Trade
& Investment West Midlands and Staffordshire International Trade Team, to
coincide with a number of high profile trade fairs....
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4YourBusiness Achieving Best Behaviour - FREE event from RSM Tenon Added: 19-09-2011
13 October 2011 Time:  7:30 AM Venue: Best Western Moat House Hotel,
Etruria Hall, Stoke on Trent ST1 5BQ For directions the venue, please click here
Description:As an entrepreneur or a leader of a corporate organisation, you are
used to making things happen. At RSM Tenon we recognise that there are no limits
to your success. The...
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Invitation to LEP Engagement Event - 7 October Added: 13-09-2011
7 October 2011 JCB World Headquarters, RocesterWe are pleased to invite you to
the second Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership
Business Engagement Event.   The event is to be held on
7 October 2011 commencing at 8.00 a.m. with a breakfast and
opportunity for networking and concluding at 11.00...
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Stafford Chamber of Commerce - Speed Networking Added: 12-09-2011
Make up to 40 new business contacts in just one hour!Stafford Chamber of
Commerce Speed Networking will be on Thursday 29 September 2011 commencing at
11.30a.m. through until 1.30p.m.This event has been kindly sponsored by
Staffordshire University.The price per delegate is £20.00 for Chamber
Members including vat and £30.00 Non Members...
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Chamber Meets Stafford MP Added: 12-09-2011
Stafford Chamber will be meeting with Jeremy Lefroy MP on 18 November to discuss
local and national issues that impact on the performance of our member
firms.  If you have any issues to raise, contact Stafford Chamber.
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Stafford Firms Meet Business Minister Added: 12-09-2011
Job creation will be top of the agenda when Stafford Chamber businesses meet
with Business Minister Mark Prisk MP on 19 October at the House of
Commons.  The event, hosted by Stafford MP Jeremy Lefroy, will allow
Chamber members to raise issues of concern and highlight government policy and
regulation that is holding back their...
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Stafford Chamber AGM and Afternoon Tea Added: 12-09-2011
Stafford Chamber of Commerce AGM and Afternnoon Tea, takes place on Thursday 06
October 2011 at Sandon Hall, Sandon, Staffordshire.  ST18 0BZThe event is
FREE of CHARGE to Chamber Members, and £10.00 per person including vat to
Non-Members and Guests.The event will start at 4.00p.m. and will close at
6.30p.m.Stephen Burgin, Alstom UK...
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Stafford Businesses Highlight Congestion Hot Spots Added: 12-09-2011
The Stafford Chamber Quick Wins Campaign was well supported by members. 
Around 40 congestion hotspots were identified.  The Chamber has discussed
these in detail with the County Council transportation officers and we have been
promised a detailed report from them on how these problems will be
resolved.   In the meantime, their...
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BCC: Reforms to banking system must not hinder businesses Added: 12-09-2011
Commenting ahead of the publication of the final report by the Independent
Commission on Banking, John Longworth, Director General of the British Chambers
of Commerce (BCC), said"Any reforms to the UK banking system must be
considered in the wider context of economic growth. The government must
prioritise enterprise, wealth creation, growth...
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Business groups urge government to increase competition in banking sector Added: 09-09-2011
In a letter published today (Friday) by the EEF, BCC, FSB and IOD, the four
leading business groups called on the government to increase competition in the
banking sector. This comes ahead of the publication of the final report of the
Independent Commission on Banking on Monday.The full text of the letter follows:
The recovery of the UK economy has...
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Contract opportunity - installation of solar panels on 4,000 homes. Added: 05-09-2011
Kier and E.ON have won the contract awarded from Stoke-on-Trent City Council to
install PV panels on 4,000 Council house roofs. This is an ambitious project and
there is the opportunity for labour only subcontracting with guaranteed high
volumes. We need you to have good quality skills across part or all roof
installation tasks. For instance, you...
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Opportunity to tender for Business Initiative website Added: 26-08-2011
 Business Initiative requires a replacement website that is able to support
on-line sales, a membership facility for its customers, purchasable on-line
training courses, with free tasters to view, and links to sponsors/paid-for
advertising on the site. The essential requirements are detailed on a tender
document avaible from Business...
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Bio-energy supply chain workshop 2011-12 Added: 25-08-2011
Bio-energy supply chain workshop 2011-12 RESCO and the Bio-energy team are
pleased to confirm details of the first of this year's business development
workshops for RESCO clients and guests. The workshop is the first of a series
for 2011 - 12.Date: Tuesday 20 September 2011 1.45 - 4.00pmHost: Wardell
Armstrong, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1...
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Fixed term jobs in Enterprise and Commercial Development at Staffordhire University Added: 25-08-2011
Staffordhire University Enterprise and Commercial Development Department has two
fixed term posts on offer for a Business Development Officer (IPR &
Commercialisation) and a Commercial Funding Manager.Details of these and other
jobs can be found here: http://jobs.staffs.ac.uk/Vacancies.aspx
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Stoke launches Accelerated Development Zone Added: 25-08-2011
A CASH-BOOSTING telephone number has been set up as part of a raft of
measures to create thousands of jobs. Stoke-on-Trent City Council's Mandate
For Change, which was launched last month, has been further developed in
response to comments from business leaders.The council has put together five
measures as part of its 'red carpet'...
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Free commuter training gets businesses on their bikes Added: 23-08-2011
An opportunity for Stoke-on-Trent companies to benefit from free Bikeability
Cycle Training is now available from Peak Pursuits. Bikeability is Cycling
Proficiency for the 21st Century, teaching the skills to ride confidently and
safely on today's roads. Businesses whose workforce gets on their bikes will
reap rewards. Angela Barratt, Peak...
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LearnMore Awards 2011 – 6 days left to nominate!!!! Added: 18-08-2011
The LearnMore Awards are designed to celebrate the achievements of North
Staffordshire residents.So far, we have received some great nominations
highlighting people who have often overcome adversity to succeed - see case
studies below. The deadline for nominations has been extended to Tuesday, 23
August and we would urge you to put forward one or...
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Quarterly Economic Survey Results for Q2 2011 Added: 16-08-2011
The report on our QES for Q2 can now be viewed. See 'Publications' on
the left of our home page.
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Let’s Do Business – ready for take off! Added: 15-08-2011
Let's Do Business - ready for take off! North Staffordshire's largest
business inter-trading fair Let's Do Business delivered by North
Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce has appointed Midlands Air Ambulance as this
year's exhibition charity.    Marina Hilton, Project Events
Co-ordinator said ‘We are delighted to...
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Pay and benefits report now available Added: 15-08-2011
The Chamber's Annual Pay and Benefits Report is now available.  This
year's report is the result of collaborate work across six chambers of
commerce in the West Midlands.  The aim is to provide members with timely
information on basic salaries and hourly rates of pay, for non-managerial staff,
across all sectors in the region....
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Your chance to shine on TV - and pass on your experiences Added: 02-08-2011
Charismatic business leaders looking to pass on the benefits of their experience
and knowledge are being sought to take part in a new TV series about business.
The producers are looking for what it calls those with a philanthropic side -
what we'd call doing a mentoring role - to share what it takes to become
successful in business. ...
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E.ON signs up as patron of North Staffordshire Chamber Added: 01-08-2011
E.ON, one of the UK's leading energy companies and a partner in
Stoke-on-Trent's vision for a greener future, has become the latest
organisation to sign up as a patron of the North Staffordshire Chamber of
Commerce.The firm, which has a base in Victoria Road, Fenton, is already part of
a pioneering low carbon task force with the City...
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Electricity Market Reform – how to reduce added burden Added: 26-07-2011
Since the publication of the Government's Electricity Market Reform White
Paper, Chamber UtilitiesTM, a free energy service for chamber members, has
received many calls from worried customers wanting to know what the
repercussions will be on energy costs.  Gary Collins, National Procurement
Manager for Chamber UtilitiesTM said:...
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Sara excited about new Chamber role Added: 25-07-2011
THE next chief executive of the North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce has been
talking about her new role. Sara Williams, currently director of enterprise
development at St Helens Chamber, will take over in January after a few weeks
shadowing retiring head Bryan Carnes.Sara said: "North Staffordshire
Chamber of Commerce's reputation is...
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John Longworth appointed Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce Added: 25-07-2011
Following an extensive national search, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC)
has announced the appointment of John Longworth as its new Director General. Mr
Longworth will replace David Frost CBE, who has run the leading business
organisation since January 2003, in September. Mr Longworth has held a number of
high-profile roles in business and...
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New Business Support Service Launched Added: 21-07-2011
Two leading business advisory organisations have joined forces to launch a new
business support service to help SMEs based in the North Staffordshire
area.Leading accountants and advisors to entrepreneurs, RSM Tenon, and the North
Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, both based at Festival Park, Stoke-on-Trent
have teamed up to provide an advisory...
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Managing and growing your business – Is support at hand? Added: 18-07-2011
In the current economic environment, small businesses are facing a range of
challenges and opportunities in managing and growing the business.  This
may be accessing finance, getting the right people, managing succession in the
business, developing new markets, or dealing with red tape.  Numerous
surveys show it can be sometimes difficult...
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Will you be at the Business Summit ? Added: 14-07-2011
Would you like to dramatically improve your business and be part of the
next Business Summit in Stoke on Trent on Friday 22 July? The Business Summit is
a brand new Free Business Improvement Event taking place inStoke On
Trent with
an Exhibition, Seminars, Networking, Business Coaching
and bags of...
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The big 6 are enjoying a £multi-million boost from rollover energy contracts. Added: 14-07-2011
The major Suppliers are benefiting from businesses failing to sort out their
energy contracts in time. The Utility Intermediaries Association (UIA) is
calling on OFGEM and the Goverment to plug this loophole urgently.The problem
is, if a company does not terminate their contract by the notice period stated
on their contract terms and conditions,...
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The Agency Workers Regulations – be ready! Added: 14-07-2011
On the 1 October 2011, the new Agency Workers Regulations will come into force
causing significant impacts upon businesses throughout the UK. The change in
legislation will mean that after 12 weeks of employment, all temporary workers
will be entitled to the same rights as permanent employees with regards to pay,
holidays and working conditions. An...
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Free House Insulation for all families living in Stoke and Newcastle! Added: 07-07-2011
For a limited period, and on a first come first served basis, Chamber Member
Heatex Group is working with the North Staffordshire Warm Zone
(http://www.nswz.co.uk/) to provide FREE Loft & Cavity Wall Insulation for
the residents of Stoke-On-Trent & Newcastle Borough, on a "Free for all
basis"*.*Certain size limits do apply for...
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The Today programme is looking for 'changing businesses' Added: 06-07-2011
The Today programme is looking for businesses who have had to make changes to
hours and work patterns to keep staff on. Evan Davis would interview the CEO and
their staff and would look to do this in the second week of August. If you have
any members who would suit this, please can you send me their contact details
and a little background on why...
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VAT cheats targeted in crackdown Added: 05-07-2011
VAT rule-breakers will be sent letters by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
inviting them to register to pay what they owe. A new campaign launched today
focuses on individuals and businesses trading above the VAT threshold of
£73,000 turnover but who have not registered for VAT.The letters will be
sent out over the next few weeks. Under the...
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Chamber launches new online health & safety training platform Added: 01-07-2011
Train yourself or your staff with our online health and
safety resource , which include a range of basic Health & Safety
principles at employee level, such as Workstation DSE, manual handling, fire
safety, health & safety induction, or continue your professional development
using our Health & Safety Management courses which...
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The Employment of People with Criminal Convictions Added: 29-06-2011
The Employment of People with Criminal Convictions ‘Challenges and
Opportunities'Local company, Wider Impact Consultancy has recently completed
‘eye opening' research into the challenges people with criminal
convictions face when seeking to remain in, and enter to local job market.
Commissioned by Stoke on Trent College (City...
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VAT: Cost Sharing Exemption consultation launched Added: 29-06-2011
A consultation to examine how the European VAT cost sharing exemption might be
used by UK businesses and organisations was published today by HM Revenue &
Customs (HMRC). It will also explore a framework for its possible
implementation. This follows from the statement in the March 2011 Budget that
consultation would continue. If implemented the...
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NEW CHAMBER SERVICE PUTS STOP TO ‘ENERGY ROLL-OVERS’ Added: 23-06-2011
Don't get ‘rolled over' by your energy company and trapped by a
premium out-of-contract tariff, warns Chamber UtilitiesTM, which has launched a
free Renewal Reminder Service to solve the problem. "Thousands of Chamber
members across the UK fail to meet the deadline for serving notice on their
energy contract", explained Mark...
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Offer of the month - CTC Physiotherapy Added: 17-06-2011
Offer of the MonthCTC PhysiotherapyFREE assessment - normally costing
£42CTC Physiotherapy has been established for over 15 years with clinics
in Stoke, Crewe, Nantwich, Congleton and Malpas. As well as providing a rapid
access professional physiotherapy service to local community and business, CTC
offers a bespoke Health and Wellbeing...
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RSM Tenon Welcomes New Business Advice Service Added: 15-06-2011
RSM Tenon Welcomes New Business Advice Service  The Institute of
Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) has announced that it is to
launch a new nationwide business advice service. The service will be rolled out
across the UK later this year, and will provide small and medium sized
enterprises with a free initial consultation...
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Funding & Support for Business Start Ups Added: 15-06-2011
‘Funding & Support for Business Start UpsThursday 16 June'The
event will take place in room LT001, Ashley Building, Leek Road, Stoke on Trent,
ST4 2DF.  The format of the evening will be as follows: Our speakers
represent business mentors, business angels and Business
Link.17:00-18:00   Registration...
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Embedding Sustainability in Business - With Staffordshire University Added: 14-06-2011
 Workshop 1: Weds 13th July - More with less: using a lean systems
approachPresenters:  Frank Lawton, Business School Room: LT111/113 Ashley
Building, Leek Road, Stoke Campus Managing resources to produce increased
effectiveness and efficiency can be achieved by applying Lean systems thinking
to an organisation.  This, sometimes,...
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Event focuses on how apprentices can boost business Added: 07-06-2011
Key issues for firms considering employing an apprentice will be spotlighted at
a special event planned for July. Let's Do Apprenticeships, taking place at
Britannia Stadium on Tuesday July 12, will give local employers guidance on why
a helping hand can be good for business and how the apprenticeship scheme
works.With significant financial...
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Qualitel to host voice, data & applications expo Added: 06-06-2011
North Staffordshire chamber member Qualitel is to host a voice, data and
applications expo at The Britannia Stadium, Stoke-on-Trent in June. The event
will showcase the latest in business mobile technology, fixed line and mobile
applications alongside mobile vehicle tracking and lone worker solutions.The
expo is to be fully interactive, to allow...
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BCC predicts lower 2011 and 2012 growth, but medium-term prospects set to improve Added: 31-05-2011
UK GDP 2011 growth at 1.3% (from 1.4%)UK GDP 2012 growth at 2.2% (from 2.3%)UK
unemployment will peak at 2.6m in mid 2012 (from 2.65m)Interest rates to rise in
August 2011, and to reach 2.75% by the end of 2012In its latest Quarterly
Economic Forecast, published today (Monday), the British Chambers of Commerce
(BCC) has downgraded its growth...
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Latest Quarterly Economic Survey Added: 23-05-2011
Our Quarterly Economic Survey questionaire is now online
http://www.nsccisurveys.co.uk/qes/It is vitally important that the Chamber
understands the state of business so that we can influence policy relevant to
economic conditions. If you can spare a few minutes to fill in the online form
it would be of great help.If you would prefer to download a...
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Staffordshire Cares Purple Pages - Are you in it? Added: 11-05-2011
 The Social Care market is changing.In June 2011, Staffordshire Cares
Purple Pages will be launched to users, carers, professionals and the general
public to help them to live a happier, healthier and more independent life. It
will be an easier way to find information, in one place, which helps maintain an
individual's independence and...
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Job vacancy - Chief Executive Added: 04-05-2011
CHIEF EXECUTIVE Circa £55,000 + car & benefits  Due to
the planned retirement of the current Chief Executive, the North Staffordshire
Chamber of Commerce is looking for someone with a proven track record of
leadership and achievement.  This role is essentially for someone who will
make a considerable contribution to...
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You Can’t Take it with you! Added: 03-05-2011
You Can't Take it with you!  You may well have been watching the
recent BBC programme about the importance of writing a Will and have decided
that it's time you made one, or updated yours!!Many of us have heard horror
stories about someone passing away without making a Will and the confusion and
upset which can result.  ...
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Business Group Plan to Shout Out Loud for Stoke-on-Trent Added: 28-04-2011
A fresh approach to improving the image and economy of Stoke-on-Trent is being
pioneered by a group of business professionals. Attempts to regenerate
Stoke-on-Trent through Government and European programmes have met with limited
success.Now businesswoman Caroline Law says it's time to create a two
pronged attack and support the City's...
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Would you like to join a Voluntary Sector organisation? Added: 21-04-2011
Do you have a desire to give your time and skills to help others?Relate are in
need of Trustees We're looking for people who: Have a background in
business or running a charity and can bring a professional and business-like
approachAre committed to giving their time and skills to the voluntary sectorAre
people able to input in governance...
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New Funding for Leadership & Management Added: 14-04-2011
SME's can take advantage of funding that will support leadership and
management training to help them grow their business. Around 13,000 small and
medium sized businesses and social enterprises that demonstrate a potential for
growth and will benefit from the Leadership and Management Development grant.
This will help stimulate innovation and...
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BCC: Disappointing economic survey results highlight challenges ahead Added: 07-04-2011
Largest economic survey of UK business suggests economy returns to growth, but
overall picture is worryingCashflow and price pressures constraining businesses:
80% of manufacturing firms state that the cost of raw materials is intensifying
pressures to raise prices• Manufacturers' confidence in improving
turnover and profits over the...
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Buy a Dudson mug to sponsor local theatrical talent Added: 01-04-2011
This year, The Regent Theatre are offering a unique 2 week intensive programme
to young people in Staffordshire and Cheshire - Stage
Experience. Culminating in live performances of Fame at The Regent Theatre
in August. This unique programme will call on trained actors, dancers and
technical staff to teach talented young people to deliver...
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The 2011 Chamber Awards are now open for entry Added: 18-03-2011
GIVE YOUR BUSINESS A BOOST £50,000 worth of cash prizes to be won courtesy
of RBS/NatWestIncrease awareness of your company and your brand regionally and
nationallyGain a competitive edgeGive staff the recognition they deserveRaise
your business profile with free publicityThe categories for the Chamber Awards
2011 are: Business of the...
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Westfield Health celebrates tenth anniversary of Chamber Plan Added: 14-03-2011
Launched in 2001, the plan is provided by Westfield Health as the official cash
plan supplier to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and is available
exclusively to BCC accredited and affiliated Chambers. The plan has recently
been enhanced to ensure that it continues to meet the changing needs of
businesses and their employees. Jill Davies,...
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Staffordshire University - Placement & Careers Fair Added: 10-03-2011
Staffordshire University is running a joint placement and careers fair
within their Business School this semester. It is open to any companies,
large or small, regional or national who may have vacancies for graduate and
undergraduates during their industrial year out. It is also a chance for
students to come along and ask companies any...
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Jane Gratton returned to Stafford Chamber. Added: 09-03-2011
Jane Gratton returned to Stafford Chamber in January 2011 to strengthen the
Chamber's lobbying and representation activities.  Already,
Members' views have been voiced on: Land planning and development Road
traffic congestionRail service timetabling and High Speed RailThe
Chancellor's BudgetEmployment RegulationMake sure your views...
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Welding World Exhibition Added: 07-03-2011
Date: Friday 8 AprilTime: 10.30-16.30Venue: Crewe Hall, Weston Road, Crewe,
Cheshire, CW1 6UZCost: Free of chargeVisit the only Welding World Exhibition in
the UK to update you on the lastest products and services available to the
welding industry.Click here for the event flyer and details of how to register.
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Cross-Cultural Issues pose fresh challenges in today’s Business World Added: 01-03-2011
Your opportunity to learn how your organisation can succeed in a dynamic
multi-culture society Culture is increasingly becoming a challenge in
today's business environment.  Being aware of how to build trust in the
global environment is essential. The North Staffordshire Chartered Institute of
Marketing Branch is providing you with...
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Words for Work seeks motivated volunteers to support pilot National Literacy Trust project Added: 21-02-2011
Words for Work seeks motivated volunteers to support pilot National Literacy
Trust project Would you like to be involved in an exciting new initiative
working with local school pupils?  This is a good opportunity to improve
your coaching skills, share your knowledge and experience and influence the
workforce of the future.  The National...
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Chance for SMEs to win £500 worth of vouchers! Added: 17-02-2011
Staffordshire University is evaluating the effectiveness of innovation support
programmes for small and medium size enterprises (SMEs). We are inviting small
and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the West Midlands to complete a survey. This
collects information on the impact of public innovation support measures during
the five-year period 2005 to 2009...
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Retail Price Index Added: 03-02-2011
MonthRPI
(1987)Base  Inflation2009December218.02.4%2010January217.93.7%February
219.23.7%March220.74.4%April222.85.3%May223.65.1%June224.15.0%July223.64.8%Augus
t224.54.7%September225.34.6%October225.84.5%November226.84.7%December228.44.8%
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Corporation Tax alert for agents and businesses Added: 03-02-2011
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has issued an urgent alert about important
changes to Corporation Tax (CT) coming in this April.The changes will require
all company tax returns sent in from April 2011 to be filed online, for
accounting periods ending after 31 March 2010, in a specified data format (known
as Inline XBRL or iXBRL). CT payments must...
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Subsidised Employment of Graduates - Paid Internships Added: 21-01-2011
Would you like to receive a wage subsidy to employ a graduate on an internship
for four weeks?Staffordshire University have received further funding to
continue this highly successful programme to 30 June 2011, however these
internships are going fast.This scheme gives West Midlands Employers the
opportunity to enlist the knowledge and expertise of...
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BCC: Shared parental leave proposals ignore needs of business Added: 18-01-2011
Commenting on today's announcement on shared parental leave, David Frost,
Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: "While
Nick Clegg's announcement on shared parental leave may prove politically
popular, it fundamentally ignores the needs of business. Last week, David
Cameron claimed a pro-growth, pro-business,...
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Quarterly Economic Survey Results December 2010 Added: 06-01-2011
Trading conditions seem to have improved for the Manufacturing Sector both in
home and in export markets.  Investment in plant has increased and
confidence levels in turnover and profitability have risen significantly. 
Although there have been some job losses over the quarter, the balances remain
positive and workforce levels are...
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STAFFORDSHIRE COMPUTING EXPERT LIZ HELPS CHAMPION UK INTERNET SAFETY Added: 18-11-2010
A Staffordshire computing expert is helping to spearhead a UK wide campaign
aimed at keeping people safe on line.Liz Thursfield, former Associate Dean of
Computing, Engineering and Technology at Staffordshire University, is heading
the social media campaign for Get Safe Online.Liz, of Stafford, runs social
media consultancy Ariadne's Thread...
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Staffordshire Means Business Added: 21-10-2010
Staffordshire County Council has launched its ‘Staffordshire Means
Business' Campaign, which focuses on the County Council's administrative
areas.  They're on the search for Staffordshire business success
stories to showcase in the campaign that will run until the end of the
year.  They hope to further promote the...
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A brand new member benefit - Chamber Merchant Services Added: 08-10-2010
Chamber Merchant Services in association with First DataSignificant savings on
your credit and debit payment processingYour Chamber is working with First Data,
Bank of Scotland Merchant Services to bring members a quality service for
processing debit and credit cards at extremely competitive rates, with
discounted terminal hire and NO service...
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Chamber Accounts and Directors Report 2010 Added: 16-08-2010
Click here to view the Chamber's Accounts and Directors Report for the year
end 31 March 2010
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Government action must improve relationship banking with business Added: 27-07-2010
The Business Secretary has today released a joint consultation paper with the
Treasury which sets out options to help boost lending to businesses. Commenting,
David Frost, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC),
said:"Access to finance is a crucial issue for British business and the
government is absolutely right to focus...
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Sentinel to publish Chamber’s Focus Magazine Added: 12-05-2010
We are pleased to announce that The Sentinel have been appointed as the new
publisher of North Staffordshire Chamber's Focus magazine.  The first
issue of the re-launched magazine will be out at the end of June and every two
months subsequently.This coincides with a move back to a North Staffordshire
only publication following a nine year...
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Health at Hand – your free service for being a Chamber member Added: 14-04-2010
Health at Hand is a free service provided by AXA PPP healthcare as part of your
Chamber membership. It is a 24/7 service available to you, your employees, and
their families and is specially designed to provide expert information and
peace of mind. The Health at Hand team are healthcare professionals, including
nurses, midwives, pharmacists...
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Chamber Primary Health Plan - Employee healthcare covered from as little as £1.10 per week Added: 21-10-2009
Designed exclusively for Chamber members, Westfield Health's Chamber Primary
Health Plan could help you to:- Reduce long term absenteeism and related costs-
Improve recruitment and retention of staff- Provide a valuable employee benefit
package- Reduce your risk of stress and musculoskeletal litigation- Complement
existing PMI coverUp to 100%...
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Tenders Electronic Daily - Public sector opportunities direct to your desktop Added: 21-10-2009
Access 200,000 UK and European public sector and utilities opportunities worth
£500 billion a year! A massive range of UK and European-wide compulsory
tendered contracts are available from the public sector, including gas, water,
electricity and power.The serviceDoes your company want to know about UK and
European business and sub-contracting...
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Can you help us to grow our network? Added: 21-10-2009
If so, we'll give you money off your membership renewal or other Chamber
Services.For every lead supplie that we convert ot membership we'll give you
a voucher entitling you to £40.00 off your membership renewal, training
courses, room hire or translation. You can also trade in the voucher in for two
free places at either Spotlight,...
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Eight Year Vision of Business Leaders Helps to Chart Future Growth for Stafford Borough Added: 08-04-2008
A long-tem plan to stimulate business growth and help shape the future economic
development of Stafford Borough has been unveiled by Stafford Chamber of
Commerce & Industry.Their Business Manifesto 2008-2016 sets out clearly and
concisely what needs to be done over the next eight years if businesses in the
area are to prosper and grow - and the...
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