Latest Chamber News 2013

3 Job Vacancies - Chamber Jobs to deliver the Regional Growth Fund Added: 16-05-2013
Interested in helping business to grow?North Staffordshire Chamber is recruiting three
new posts.We are looking for a methodical yet creative person to run the Jobs and Growth
Fund Programme. They will be responsible for delivering £4million of cash from the
Government's Regional Growth Fund, as grants to business in Staffordshire, to...
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Job Vacancy - Client Services Advisor Added: 16-05-2013
Client Services Advisor C£20,000 pa (based in the West Midlands)(Full time,
37 hours per week)This is an excellent opportunity to be part of a high performing team
providing a UKTI first response information and enquiry service, including light-touch
front-line support to clients and onward referral to International Trade Advisers...
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Why not enter this year's Chamber Awards Added: 17-04-2013
The Chamber Awards are one of the most coveted business awards that can be won in the
UK.  And, some of the categories are only winnable by members of regional chambers
up and down the country. Here in Staffordshire we believe that we have some of the
best businesses in the UK, and our past successes in the awards have proved this.
Last...
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(AMSCI) National Briefing Event for Rounds 3 and 4 Added: 03-04-2013
The Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative (AMSCI) National Briefing
Event for Rounds 3 and 4 takes place on Monday, 15 April for the Midlands
area.The details for the event are as follows:Date: Monday, 15 April 2013Venue:
MIRA, Watling Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV10 0TUTime: 09.00 –
12.30To register for the event or for further...
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Newcastle-under-Lyme: Lyme Light Festival, 4th-6th May Added: 02-04-2013
Musical MayNewcastle is to have a brand-new music and arts festival –
thanks to a group of the town’s businesses working together.The Newcastle
Town Centre Partnership is launching the Lyme Light Festival on May 4-6, in a
project worked on alongside the Hippy Hippy Shake Company, Lymestone Brewery,
Pop-up Emporium and Past and Presents...
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Inward Investment Film for Stoke-on-Trent City Council Added: 28-03-2013
Here is a film created for Inward Investment featuring Sarah Williams our Chief
Executive. 
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New Job at UKTI Added: 27-03-2013
PA to the Regional Director, UKTI West Midlands   Part Time 22.5 Hours
per week, 3 Days a week, Fixed term 31.03.15 £23,000 FTE [pro rata @
£13,800) Be part of a fast paced, team delivering services to some of the
most important (exporters) businesses in the West Midlands. UKTI is looking to
appoint a Personal Assistant to the...
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Restoke news Added: 22-03-2013
Hello all! March is a very exciting month for Restoke and we have lots to
share so we thought we’d cram it into one email friendly
newsflash!                  
                     
             ...
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Explore your Growth Potential - 26th & 27th March Added: 20-03-2013
Explore your Growth Potential - 26th & 27th MarchAre you ready to grow?Are
you looking for ways to grow and develop your business?‘Incubate for
Export’ is a new exploratory pilot programme designed to help you grow
your business (and explore your potential for doing business
overseas). This exciting half-day workshop is...
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Event will highlight how increased exports can boost jobs and growth in Staffordshire Added: 27-02-2013
Small and medium-sized businesses in Staffordshire can find out how increased
exports could help them expand and boost jobs and growth locally at an event
next month.  The New Markets, New Horizons breakfast event is being held at
Keele Hall near Newcastle on Thursday March 7. Organised by Staffordshire County
Council, UK Trade &...
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Job Vacancy - International Trade Adviser Added: 08-02-2013
(based at: Birmingham, Walsall, Coventry, Worcester, Telford and Stoke)
Delivering Economic transformation, supporting exports, growth, jobs and
innovation is an essential part of Government economic policy. In this exciting
role you'll be working with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) in achieving
these goals. As an ambassador for UK Exports...
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'The Deal' Executive Summary Added: 06-02-2013
Powerhouse Central: Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent's expression of
interest in a wave 2 City Deal.On Tuesday, 15 January 2013, the Stoke-on-Trent
and Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Staffordshire County Council and
Stoke-on-Trent City Council submitted a joint bid to secure a wave two City Deal
from Government. If successful, the...
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UK Trade Delegation Added: 28-01-2013
Have you ever wondered what it's like to take part in a UK Trade Delegation
or are you interested in learning more about exporting? If so why not join
UK Trade & Investment's ‘Explore Insight Visit' to Copenhagen
in March? Just £99 will get you flights, accommodation and the
opportunity to see how UK Embassies...
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Summary of the Autumn Statement Added: 11-12-2012
The Chancellor's Autumn Statement took place on Wednesday 5th December
2012,Ann Diggins, Director at Stoke based Dains, a Chamber Patron member, said
"The Autumn Statement provided some further assistance for SME's
through the short-term increase in Capital Allowance thresholds, the reduction
in Corporation Tax rates and the abolition...
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The Sentinel Business Awards Added: 11-12-2012
Launched 17 years ago, The Sentinel Business Awards is highly regarded in the
region and continues to go from strength to strength.The awards, which are free
to enter, are jointly sponsored by Staffordshire County Council and
Stoke-on-Trent City Council. North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce is a proud
supporter of the awards.Bringing together a...
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Staffordshire University's Internship of the Year Awards 2012 Added: 05-12-2012
During the Future Pro networking event on 26 November for Staffordshire
University students and graduates, the university's Careers Centre held an
awards ceremony for Intern of the Year 2012. The awards celebrate the successful
completion of a part HEIF-funded six week internship placement and winners were
chosen from 39 graduates. First prize...
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North Staffs pay and benefits near regional average but recruitment difficulties persist Added: 04-12-2012
Average pay in North Staffordshire now matches the regional average for many
roles, but some businesses are finding it difficult to recruit the right people,
according to a survey published this week by North Staffordshire Chamber and
Hays. Over a thousand businesses were surveyed over the summer period in a
local benchmarking exercise to show...
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Business Opportunities Added: 04-12-2012
As a successful applicant to the RGF Round 3 bidding process, NSCCI now is
seeking Tenders for the following:    Scheme Delivery
Plan   Delivery of Confirmatory Due DiligenceInterested Tenderers
should read the RGF Confirmatory Due Diligence Guide and return completed
Tenders no later than 12 noon on 14 December.Tender...
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Staffordshire Procurement Added: 30-11-2012
Staffordshire Procurement for People have recently adopted the use of an
electronic -tendering system provided by Proactis. The system is internet based,
providing suppliers access to tenders advertised by the Local Authority
electronically, to express an interest, access tender documentation and submit
documentation online.Staffordshire...
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Job Vacancy at North Staffordshire Chamber Added: 21-11-2012
A job-sharing opportunity has arisen at North Staffordshire Chamber of
Commerce.We are looking for an enthusiastic, friendly and confident Receptionist
for our Hanley office, to provide part-time cover on a fixed-term contract.
 With at least two year’s experience of working a busy switchboard in
a similar role, you will be a team...
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Keele University Internships Added: 07-11-2012
Keele University’s Internship Scheme is on hand to help you recruit fresh
talent into your business. We have an excellent pool of high calibre graduates
readily available and are continuously receiving applications from new graduates
looking for an internship.If you:    
 •    Need a graduate to...
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Police and Crime Commissioner Added: 05-11-2012
In advance of the elections for the Staffordshire Police and Crime Commissioner,
businesses in North Staffordshire are calling on candidates to  acknowledge
the devastating impact crime against business can have on the local economy and
business  investment,  as well as staff recruitment, retention
and  morale.  A recent...
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Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey Added: 05-11-2012
The results of the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey for the  3
month period ending 30 September reveal that manufacturing performance in North
Staffordshire has seen a slight improvement.  UK market sales grew and
forward orders point to buoyant domestic market.  Export sales however,
have stalled and the forecast points to...
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European Parliament Visit Added: 05-11-2012
Our 2 day visit to the European Parliament was a great success.  We took 41
delegates including manufacturing, services and professional firms from across
the West Midlands, including 10 firms from North Staffordshire The aims
were to: •         Brief MEPs
and policy makers on the key...
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The buzz on the bus is enterprise Added: 30-10-2012
A national campaign to boost the number of people getting involved with
enterprise and increase business start-ups will be stopping off at Staffordshire
University as part of a day of activity to promote entrepreneurialism. The
StartUp Britain Bus Tour will be arriving at Staffordshire University’s
Leek Road campus on Wednesday 31st October...
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Sustainability, The Euro & The UK Added: 22-10-2012
Based on the popular BBC Question Time TV programme this panel led discussion
will highlight some of the issues of sustainability and the impact of the Euro
on the UK economy. Ask your own question*Who should attend?Anyone who wants to
know more about how the problems with the Euro will impact on companies pursuing
sustainable business...
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North Staffordshire retailer claims West Midlands ‘Business of the Year’ prize at the Chamber Awards Added: 01-10-2012
A North Staffordshire specialist retailer has secured a prestigious achievement
for the county after it was announced as the Chamber Awards 2012’s
Business of the Year (sponsored by Westfield Health) for the West Midlands.Smith
and Morris Retail, which runs the hugely successful www.barbourbymail.co.uk,
made it a memorable double when it also...
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Chamber stays focused in testing times Added: 26-09-2012
The North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce is expecting record numbers at its
Annual Lunch at the Best Western Moat House Hotel in Festival Park.  Around
270 local business leaders will attend the lunch which is being sponsored by
Stone based business improvement specialists, Winning Moves.  The guest
speaker will be Elizabeth Gooch MBE,...
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Mo has designs on pastoral support Added: 19-09-2012
Mo Trudel has recently been appointed as the Bishop of Stafford’s Chaplain
to the Business Community of  Staffordshire. Well known as a Design
Management consultant in the region she has always championed the creative
talents of businesses through the various projects and programmes she has led
over the years.It was during her time at...
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5 Job Vacancies at North Staffs Chamber Added: 19-09-2012
North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NSCCI) is the leading
business-led, business focussed organisation working on behalf of Companies to
support their growth and development and to ensure that the voice of business is
heard loud and clear. We have five exciting new roles to help develop this
mission. BUSINESS ADVOCATE (Sustainable...
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Calling Business Volunteers Added: 11-09-2012
The North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and Staffordshire Partnership are
working with schools to improve communication skills with year 10 pupils.
 Do you have some spare time over the next 12 months to assist?  If so
please look at the following information which gives full details of the
programme and what commitment would be...
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Significant financial incentive for companies wishing to commission bespoke Market Research Added: 15-08-2012
UKTI Offers a significant financial incentive for companies wishing to
commission bespoke Market Research for a country of their choice*.  UKTI
Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS) incentive(i)    
All eligible companies using OMIS for the first time will receive a 50% discount
up to maximum of £750 for one...
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Funding for Specialist Intensive Assistance Added: 10-08-2012
Does your business fall within any of the following sectors? Information,
Communication & Technology, Creative Digital, Medical Technology, Building
Technology, Business & Professional Services If you are also a small or
medium sized business in Staffordshire, you may be eligible for some financial
assistance from the BIC to help you...
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Newcastle's first Jobs Fair Added: 09-08-2012
The Aspire Group and Newcastle Job Centre Plus are putting on Newcastle's
first Jobs Fair on Tuesday 11th September 2012. As suppliers and partners
of the Aspire Group we would like to offer you the opportunity to have a stand
at the Jobs Fair, free of charge. The purpose of the event is to advertise job
and training opportunities to local...
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Young professionals volunteer to help charity boat house Added: 03-08-2012
Young professionals in North Staffordshire will ‘Give a day' of their
time to help local charity Rudyard Sailability to complete their new boat
house.futurefinest, a vibrant network for young and aspiring professionals,
decided that their charity efforts for this year would be better put to use with
hands on help.After a voting process...
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Job vacancy - International Trade Advisor Added: 20-07-2012
North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce Has a vacancy for an International Trade
AdvisorBased in our Stoke-on-Trent office, we are looking for a bright
enthusiastic person to join our International Trade Team which provides a
comprehensive range of initiatives to support international trade for companies
across Staffordshire via a contract with UK...
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Funding to set up a Ceramic Skills Academy in Stoke-on-Trent, to fill skills gaps in the pottery ind Added: 18-07-2012
Funding to set up a Ceramic Skills Academy in Stoke-on-Trent, to fill skills
gaps in the pottery industry, is moving closer. Outline funding of around
£20,000 has been granted to allow a comprehensive bid for
£1.5million to be submitted to the UK Commission for Employment and Skills
(UKCES).North Staffs Chamber of Commerce and the...
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Job Vacancies with Turner EPS Added: 18-07-2012
Chamber Member Turner Engine Powered Services have four vacancies at their
Trentham facility: Special Projects Administrator Document Controller
Administrator Technical Sales Engineer Sales & Tendering Engineer Job
Advertisement Document Controller Administrator July 2012 (doc) Job
Advertisement Sales & Tendering Engineer July 2012 (doc)...
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The Aspire Group – Invitation to a Key Supplier Event, 7 September 2012 Added: 17-07-2012
The Aspire Group - Invitation to a Key Supplier Event, 7th September 2012 The
Aspire Group, based in North Staffordshire, comprises Aspire Housing, the
Realise Foundation (our Group charity) and Enterprising Futures, our Social
Enterprise Arm. Enterprising Futures comprises PM Training, which provides 1500
training and employment opportunities...
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Vacancy for Marketing & Events Manager Added: 02-07-2012
Salary from £29,000 per annum plus pension and casual car user
allowance.North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, one of the most successful
and  changing Chambers in the country is looking for a new Marketing &
Events Manager who is highly analytical and commercially aware.With at least
five years' experience in a busy B2B or...
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Exporting is Good for Britain Conference - 24 October Added: 29-06-2012
The British Chambers of Commerce International Trade Conference - Exporting is
Good for Britain is an exclusive event to bring together high growth exporters
from within the UK. The event will take place on 24th October 2012 and will
provide advice and insight into today's export challenges and opportunities.
Attendees will be able to meet high...
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Super-fast fibre broadband coming to more homes & businesses Added: 28-06-2012
SUPER-FAST FIBRE BROADBAND COMING TO NEARLY 40,000 MORE STAFFORDSHIRE HOMES AND
BUSINESSES Burslem, Stoke, Stone and Uttoxeter are next communities
included in latest phase of BT's £2.5 billion fibre broadband
roll-out; Investment hailed by North Staffordshire ChamberBT today announced a
major investment in Staffordshire which could...
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Ministry of Defence redundancies Added: 12-06-2012
Ministry of Defence redundancies MoD is today due to tell 4,100 Armed Forces
personnel that they are redundant. Of that number approximately one third will
be compulsory. It is expected that 2900 will be from the Army, 900 from RAF and
300 from the Royal Navy. Loss of employment is never easy but it is even
 more difficult to accept compulsory...
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‘iPad in Business’ an event to transform the way you work. Added: 06-06-2012
‘iPad in Business' an event to transform the way you
work.  Apple Solution Experts, MCC Ltd, are collaborating with Apple
UK to host a free event at the Genesis Centre in North Staffs Business Park on
June 14th. This event will showcase the the revolutionary benefits of using iPad
to perform day to day tasks that will transform...
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Green Deal Supply Chain Roadshow Added: 06-06-2012
Green Deal Supply Chain Roadshow17 July 2012 at National Motorcycle Museum,
Birmingham The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) and the
Energy Efficiency Partnership for Buildings (EEPB) are hosting a series of
breakfast briefings for the supply chain to find out more about the
opportunities offered to you by the Green Deal. These...
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Jobs available at the Chamber Added: 22-05-2012
North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce  The leading business
organisation in Staffordshire has two full time
opportunities   Events AdministratorWe put on over 80 events each
year including awards ceremonies to parliamentary visits and speed
networking.  We have a dynamic new team and need some help. If you have...
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SET TO BE A KNOCK OUT! Added: 21-05-2012
Semi-Pros pull on the gloves for Special Needs Charity  The European
Boxing Federation is getting ready to present ‘DANGEROUS' which
see's over 22 semi-pro boxers battle against the ropes for the title, with
proceeds going to The Peter Pan Nursery for Children with Special Needs. The
event is being held at The Kings Hall,...
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Quarterly Economic Survey Q2 2012 Added: 21-05-2012
Please take a few minutes to complete this quarter's Economic Survey. 
Your participation in the past has ensured that the influence of North
Staffordshire businesses is felt across Government.  We are now the Chamber
with the 10th highest response rate and hope we can rise even higher and so
increase your influence.  The Survey...
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Dougie Mac Trustee Appointment Added: 18-05-2012
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice has been providing palliative care to the people
of North Staffordshire for almost 40 years.It costs approximately
£9million per year to keep the hospice running. The hospice employs around
260 staff and has the support of over 800 volunteers who work in all areas of
the hospice.Board of Trustees AppointmentsThe...
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UK businesses even more confident about business in China Added: 18-05-2012
China Business Climate Survey 2012 Results The China-Britain Business Council
(CBBC) and British Chamber of Commerce in Beijing are pleased to announce the
results of our 2012 China Business Climate Survey, designed to gauge the
challenges and opportunities UK companies currently face in the Chinese
market.The survey results show that 80% of UK...
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Digital Staffordshire - a new opportunity for business and collaboration Added: 11-05-2012
Invitation to "Digital Staffordshire - a new opportunity for business
and collaboration" 31st May 2012 from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at
Staffordshire Place One, Tipping Street, Stafford, ST16 2LPAre you are an ICT
company or business involved in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire's digital
economy or looking to exploit the...
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Region’s finest to celebrate in style Added: 08-05-2012
The leading lights of North Staffordshire's professional services sector
will take centre stage this week at the third annual ‘Recognising our
finest' awards. The glittering awards ceremony at premiership venue
Britannia Stadium on Friday May 11th will showcase the outstanding achievements
of the region's business and professional...
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Stoke-on-Trent Mentoring And Investor Network - “linking local business with local finance”. Added: 08-05-2012
Stoke-on-Trent City Council warmly invites you to a small working lunch to
discuss the potential for a Stoke-on-Trent Mentoring And Investor Network.The
City Council is committed, through our mandate for change, to make
Stoke-on-Trent a great working city.  Private investment in jobs and growth
will be key to achieving this goal.  The...
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Rudyard Sailability hosts annual Dragon Boat Race Added: 03-05-2012
On Saturday 7 July teams of energetic fundraisers are invited to take part in
this annual event on Rudyard Lake.For more information and to register a team
contact Steve Hilton 07818 013118 or volcoordinator@rudyardsailability.org.uk or
visit www.rudyardsailability.org.uk
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North Staffordshire Quarterly Economic Survey Report Q1 2012 Added: 30-04-2012
North Staffordshire Quarterly Economic Survey Report Q1 2012
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EU Regulation Seminar 15 May Added: 26-04-2012
The British Chambers of Commerce is organising a seminar on 15 May from
11.30 to 14.00 in London that will provide businesses with an opportunity
to discuss EU regulation and how to make it less burdensome.  We will be
joined by Marianne Klingbeil from the European Commission, the person in
charge of vetting EU rules for their...
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Burma Ministry of Power Visit 8-12 May Added: 24-04-2012
We have just been advised that the Burma Ministry of Electric Power is visiting
Europe next month and is planning to visit the UK 8 - 12 May.  The
delegates include the Minister of Power accompanied by two officials and
Caterpillar (Burma) Chief Executive. U Khin Maung Soe - MinisterU Aung Khaing -
Chairman of the Yangon Electricity Supply...
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Stoke on Trent City Council is looking to review the way it deals with parking. Added: 23-04-2012
They need to know what people think of  current service and how it can
improve. They are also looking at how car parking affects local business.Two
surveys are currently running: one for car park users that can be found at
 http://www.stoke.gov.uk/ccm/content/transport-and-streets/parking/customer
-parking-survey.en and one for...
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Discover why London 2012 is the time to be in Stoke Added: 23-04-2012
Time:       9.30am - 1.30pmDate:
      Tuesday 1 May 2012Location: Ashley Lecture
Theatre, Staffordshire University,
             &n
bsp;  Leek Road, Stoke-on-TrentReserve your places today (no
charge)Hear how you -...
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“A Reforming Budget, that unashamedly backs business” or “A Budget for millionaires”? Added: 17-04-2012
"A Reforming Budget, that unashamedly backs business" or "A
Budget for millionaires"?There were mixed views in the Houses of Parliament
today on the 2012 Budget.  The Chancellor, George Osborne, set his stall
out from the start saying that this would be a reforming budget, supporting
business and working families, and that...
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Invitation to a Key Supplier Event, 25 May 2012 Added: 17-04-2012
Invitation to a Key Supplier Event, 25 May 2012    Staffordshire
Moorlands District Council & Moorlands Housing has a long and successful
history of working with private sector companies to deliver our aims. Through
our procurement arrangements we work with both large and small companies to
deliver services to our residents. We...
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Ceram Workshop - ‘ISO 50001 - Implementing an Energy Management System - Why and How?’ Added: 17-04-2012
Ceram to Hold Breakfast Workshop - ‘ISO 50001 - Implementing an Energy
Management System - Why and How?' - 18 May 2012Ceram, the international
materials technology company, has extended its Sustainability Services range,
and now provides assistance with the implementation and maintenance of the ISO
50001 Energy Management System...
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Free Seminar: R&D Tax Relief Added: 16-04-2012
Free Seminar: R&D Tax Relief  Research and Development
(R&D) Tax Credits were introduced in 2000 to provide tax
incentives to companies to invest in innovation.  Tax relief has been
increased to 225% and is available to any company that carries
out research and development activities to...
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Douglas MacMillan Hospice seeking Trustees Added: 05-04-2012
The Douglas Macmillan Hospice has been providing palliative care to the people
of North Staffordshire for almost 40 years.It costs approximately
£9million per year to keep the hospice running. The hospice employs around
260 staff and has the support of over 900 volunteers who work in all areas of
the hospice.Board of Trustees AppointmentsThe...
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Your views on the Chamber Added: 05-04-2012
Thank you to all businesses who took the time to complete the short
questionnaire on what the Chamber can offer local companies and how we can help
them address their current needs.There was a real mix of concern but the
overriding top three were about finance; the damage austerity cuts were
inflicting; and the need to find new customers.The areas...
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Invitation to join the LEP Board Added: 05-04-2012
Invitation to join the LEP Board    The Stoke-on-Trent and
Staffordshire Local Enterprise Partnership are looking for new Board Members.The
LEP has made enormous progress over the last year leading initiatives such as
the Growing Places Fund, promoting the development of a Business Helpline and
undertaking a wide range of...
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Crisis management and business continuity planning - are you ready? Added: 04-04-2012
Fuel shortages, pandemic flu, IT failure, fire.....Your business continuity
planFirst you need to draw up a plan. Once your plan is in place, you'll
need to test how well it's likely to perform in the event of an emergency.
Although by their nature crises are hard to simulate in a rehearsal, you
can assess your plan against a number of...
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BCC: Fuel strike and panic buying could damage business growth Added: 30-03-2012
Commenting on the threat of a strike by fuel tanker drivers, John Longworth,
Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:"Employers
are working flat out to keep their businesses afloat and deliver growth during
challenging economic times. The last thing they need to contend with is a fuel
strike, which could have a...
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Could you be the Social Entrepreneur of the Year? Added: 26-03-2012
The Community Channel has launched in partnership with The Sunday Times to find
The Social Entrepreneur of the Year. We are now in our final week of entries as
the competition closes on 28th March so anything you could do to publicize this
either through your website, an enewsletter, email, twitter or facebook would be
greatly appreciated....
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Chamber Awards will show that ‘Business is Good for Britain’ Added: 22-03-2012
Companies are being urged to show that ‘Business is Good for Britain'
by taking part in one of the nation's leading Awards.The British Chambers of
Commerce (BCC) officially launched the Chamber Awards 2012 today by inviting
firms to showcase their talents and achievements to be in with a chance of
winning a £25,000 cash...
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Can you help inspire 16 - 19 year olds? Added: 20-03-2012
STEM and H&SC Career Academy at Newcastle-under-Lyme CollegeThe Careers
Academy movement aims to improve social mobility and raise the aspirations of
the 16 to 19 year-olds by providing real life experience to students studying
for at least three 'A' levels or equivalent. Their employability skills
and ability to select the right career...
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City Council offers CRB service Added: 20-03-2012
Stoke on Trent City Council offers an Umbrella Body Service which
is a reliable and professional approach to completing Criminal Records
Bureau (CRB) checks for other organisations/third parties. The 
Council  deals with thousands of CRB disclosures each year, giving
us significant experience and understanding of...
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Staffordshire University becomes an Easy Access Innovation University Added: 20-03-2012
Staffordshire University has recently become an Easy Access Innovation
University, an initiative co-founded by Kings College London and the
Universities of Glasgow and Bristol. Easy Access Innovation Universities promote
new ways of sharing Intellectual Property (IP) to make it easier for
Universities and industry to work together. As part of its...
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Press Release - North Staffs Chamber Restructure Added: 14-03-2012
Press Release - North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce Restructure
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Staffordshire University launches a new innovation initiative Added: 14-03-2012
Staffordshire University's Faculty of Computing Engineering and Technology
is launching a new innovation initiative for the region at its Staffs Innovating
for Impact Si2 event on 28th March 2012 on its Beaconside Campus, Stafford. Si2
will provide an update for local companies in the strategic application of
innovation.The event will open with...
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Stronger exports are key to revival of UK economy, says BCC Added: 13-03-2012
UK trade deficit in goods and services was £1.8bn In January 2012, up from
£1.2bn in December 2011"These figures support our belief that the
economy returned to positive growth in the first quarter of the year, and a new
recession will be avoided."Commenting on the trade figures for January 2012
published today by the ONS,...
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Chancellor must ‘pull out all the stops’ and deliver a Budget for business, says BCC Added: 09-03-2012
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is today (Monday) urging George Osborne
to deliver a Budget for business, which allows firms to drive growth, invest and
create jobs. Just days ahead of its Annual Conference, the BCC believes the
Chancellor should stick to Plan A, but use the wiggle room he has within the
current spending envelope to bring...
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Fabric First and Refurbishment Excellence: Up-skilling to Deliver The Green Deal and Beyond. Added: 07-03-2012
DATE:Thursday, 17th May, 2012TIME:9am-4.30pmRegistration and refreshments
9am-9.30amLOCATION:CoRE Technology Building, Chelson Street, Longton, Stoke-On
Trent, ST3 1PTCOST:£125.00CoRE, the Centre of Reburbishment Excellence, is
a national independent centre of learning and skills development for the
construction industry working for a low...
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NSCCI 2012 Budget Submission Added: 29-02-2012
North Staffordshire Chamber's 2012 Budget Submission is available to
read.  Click below to see the letter which has been sent to the Chancellor
of the Exchequer.
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Designing your profit Added: 27-02-2012
North Staffordshire Chamber and local design development consultancy, Haughton
Design, will be encouraging local manufactures to be more innovative, at the
upcoming North Staffordshire Manufacturing Group (NSMG) networking event. On the
21 March at the North Staffordshire Chamber David Mills, Haughton Design's
Managing Director, will be...
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Revised GDP figures confirm need for government to boost growth, says BCC Added: 24-02-2012
UK GDP in Q4 2011 down 0.2% on the quarter; up 0.7% on the yearIn 2011 as a
whole, GDP rose 0.8%Commenting on the revised GDP figures for the fourth quarter
of 2011 published today by the ONS, David Kern, Chief Economist at the British
Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:"These figures confirm that GDP fell 0.2%
in the final quarter of last year,...
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Quarterly Economic Survey Qtr 1 2012 Added: 17-02-2012
Once again we would like to invite you to participate in our latest Quarterly
Economic Survey.  This survey has tremendous value, 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 the wake of...
Continue Reading >>

Heating the UK under the spotlight at two day event Added: 16-02-2012
Heating the UK under the spotlight at two day eventDelegates will learn about
the benefits of District Heating schemes during a two day course at the national
Centre of Refurbishment Excellence (CoRE).BRE is hosting the UP-RES, the Heat
Networks in Planning Course at CoRE, in Stoke-on-Trent, on February 24 and
February 27.District heating networks...
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BCC: Private sector job creation must be government’s top priority Added: 15-02-2012
In the three months to December 2011, unemployment rose by 48,000, but
employment increased by 60,000The number of unemployed people aged 16-24 rose by
22,000 over the quarter and remains above 1mThe number of people working
part-time because they couldn't find a full time job rose 83,000 on the
quarter, to the highest level since records began...
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BCC: Falling inflation will reduce the squeeze on businesses and consumers Added: 14-02-2012
Annual CPI inflation down from 4.2% in December 2011, to 3.6% in January
2012Annual RPI inflation down from 4.8% in December 2011 to 3.9% in January
2012Commenting on the inflation figure for January published today by the ONS,
David Kern, Chief Economist at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC),
said:"The further drop in inflation seen in...
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Open Access to Finance Event Added: 13-02-2012
Monday 27 February 2012As part of the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local
Enterprise Partnership's programme to support local companies in raising
funds and to 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 events. This event will be the...
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Come and meet the TA and visit 'Midland Soldier' Added: 10-02-2012
  D Company, 4 MERCIAN would like to invite you to an employers'
evening hosted at D Company's TA Centre in Hanley, Stoke on Trent, on
Thursday  23  February 2012. The event is intended to give
employers a chance to see what members of the TA offer you as employers as well
as the local community. After an initial...
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Would you like to receive a wage subsidy from the Government to employ a graduate for six weeks? Added: 07-02-2012
Following the success of the previous two paid graduate internship schemes,
Staffordshire University has now launched this latest new scheme for West
Midlands employers to continue to help tackle the effect of the economic
downturn on the region's employers and graduates.  The scheme gives
you, as an employer, the opportunity to enlist the...
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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...
Continue Reading >>

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.
Continue Reading >>

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...
Continue Reading >>

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....
Continue Reading >>

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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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
Continue Reading >>

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.
Continue Reading >>

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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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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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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