Chamber News

Norfolk County Council and partners, Norfolk Chambers and the Growth Hub, are working with the Swedish energy group, Vattenfall to encourage local Norfolk businesses to engage with and bid for contracts associated with big infrastructure and other complex projects. 

Vattenfall’s Norfolk Vanguard and Norfolk Boreas offshore wind farm projects aim to supply 10% of the UK’s domestic electricity needs and represent potentially multibillion pound investments into the East of England over their thirty year operational lifespan. The range of goods and services required to build and operate the projects successfully is huge, from onshore surveying and preconstruction preparation, to cable joining to hospitality services, to fabrication, to marine logistics.   

The onshore work for Norfolk Vanguard is likely to be out for tender in early 2021 and Norfolk Council and its partners are developing a programme of assistance to encourage a wider range of local companies to understand, prepare, engage and ultimately successfully bid for elements of the work planned. 

Rob Lilly, Procurement & Supply Chain Manager for Vattenfall said:  

“Over 70% of companies wanting to supply to the renewable energy sector, listed the ability to engage with the developer, as an area they needed support with.  This is a great opportunity to meet the people behind the project, who can give you a great insight into what Vattenfall are looking for from our suppliers. Sustainability is something we consider and local companies, being part of a local supply chain make perfect sense.” 

This programme will create a model, which will assist in the development of small to medium size companies (SMEs) in our region, to enable them to take advantage of major contracts as they appear, not just the current windfarm projects.  Vattenfall, as a key partner of this project, are committed to helping with this development process as much as they can. 

Vattenfall have already held two major supply chain events in Norfolk to start the conversation with Norfolk SME’s.  Over the next 6 months, the partners are planning a series of smaller events/workshops in co-operation with Vattenfall, to raise awareness, increase business readiness and address supply chain and business development. 

Norfolk County Council and partners are inviting Norfolk SME’s to grasp this opportunity by making themselves aware of the opportunities available, reviewing their capabilities and capacity and planning their development to be able to bid for and win major contract work such as this. 

Commenting on the upcoming workshops, Tom Humphries, Skills Policy Manager for Norfolk County Council said:

“Many SMEs don’t recognise that they have the skills or capabilities to enter the supply chains of larger projects or infrastructure developments. In partnership with Vattenfall and the Norfolk Chambers, Norfolk County Council look forward to working with interested small businesses to identify and support these skills and to take advantage of future contract opportunities.” 

Asked why local businesses should consider attending the free supply chain workshops, Nova Fairbank, Head of Policy for Norfolk Chambers of Commerce said:

“Many local SMEs do not realise that they have the capability to be part of a large scale supply chain. Our workshops are designed to highlight what they do need to be involved and will also help identify any areas that the SME may need to adapt/upgrade to be able to compete.  We will also be looking to see how we can support those businesses to gear up to be ready.  Whether that is help with upskilling, access to finance for new equipment or support for their management teams.” 

The first events are planned for Dereham on 02 July and North Walsham on 03 July and will focus on business awareness in relation to the opportunities presented by the Vattenfall windfarms.  

To find out more and book your place, please click on the below links: 

Dereham – 02 July 2019

North Walsham – 03 Jul 2019   

Following the workshops will be an opportunity to talk directly to the UK Supply Chain Manager – please register your interest to be allocated a slot by emailing: [email protected]

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and the Council of British Chambers of Commerce in Europe (COBCOE) announce that they have reached an agreement that will see 24 additional British Chambers across Europe become part of the BCC’s Global Business Network – significantly expanding the leading business organisation’s reach and practical, real-world support for trade between the UK and the Continent.

The agreement means that the BCC Global Business Network now includes 49 British Chambers around the world – doubling the strength of the network in markets worldwide.

The move creates new connections and support for both UK and European businesses, at precisely the time they need them most. 

With the nature of the UK’s future relationship with the EU still uncertain, the British Chambers of Commerce and COBCOE have taken a strategic decision to bring their networks together – ensuring that firms have a front door not just in every region and nation of the UK, but in major capitals and commercial centres across the European continent as well.

Thanks to the move – led by BCC President Francis Martin and the COBCOE Board – both UK firms and European firms will be able to harness opportunities for trade and access practical advice, support and connections to keep trading across borders, regardless of political change.

Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said:

“We are delighted to welcome so many new members from across Europe into BCC’s global business network.

“From Manchester to Madrid, Aberdeen to Amsterdam, and Belfast to Bucharest, the British Chamber network will be best-placed to help firms trading across borders in Europe and beyond.

“Our Global Business Network supports two-way international trade and provides practical solutions to trading challenges. Expanding BCC’s membership to include overseas British Chambers across Europe means that we will now be able to assist businesses practical support, advice and connections in almost 50 countries all around the world.

“As we face the challenges and opportunities of Brexit, we can think of no better business response than delivering practical, real-world connections between countries all across Europe and the regions and nations of the UK.”

Garry Parker, Chair of COBCOE, said:

“The fusion of COBCOE members into the BCC’s Global Business Network creates an unrivalled business network with a truly global reach.

“British Chambers of Commerce across Europe have a long and important history, supporting businesses trading across boundaries for many decades, and representing the interests of both British and European businesses. 

“This agreement – which was unanimously approved by COBCOE’s membership – will enhance and grow those connections, boosting connectivity between UK and European businesses and creating new opportunities at a time of great political uncertainty.”

Our flagship technology conference makes its return to The Space Norwich this September, but time is running out to get your hands on early bird tickets! Ending on Friday 21 June, the ticket discount applies to tickets for both Norfolk Chambers members and non-members. The conference is open to all businesses who are looking to improve and advance on the ways they use technology in the workplace, as well as learn about upcoming trends and tools. 2019’s conference will bring together over 20 industry experts through panel discussions, keynote speakers and workshops to enhance your knowledge on specialist subjects, following our theme of ‘myth busting’. Every business is adopting new technology, every business is becoming a technology business, but what are the myths and barriers that hinder those transitions? That’s what our guests on stage will be joining us to answer.  New speakers are being added to the line-up every week, meaning a wide range of topics will be covered, and your questions will be answered by those with the knowledge. Panel discussions will be brought back this year following their popularity at 2018’s conference, meaning you can ask your questions live to our panels.  There will also be a technology themed exhibition at the conference and a networking lunch to follow the main talks.  Talking Tech 2019 is sponsored by Breakwater IT and Naked Element. To find out more about the event, see the speaker line-up or book tickets, please click here.

We are back at Norfolk’s largest two-day county show, which takes place on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th June at the Norfolk Showground.  Organised by Chamber members the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA), The Royal Norfolk Show offers visitors an unmatched range of activities, displays and experiences. Following a successful return to the show in 2018, we are back and we want you to come and get involved.  We’ll be on stand 82 on Third Drive, same location is in 2018 so you can find us easily! We’ll also be bringing back our colourful deckchairs (if the weather is nice!) and some new, pink flags to welcome you to our marquee – you won’t miss us! We have a jam-packed schedule of activities throughout the two days, all of which we encourage visitors to the show to come and take part in. We’re bringing back our networking breakfasts both mornings of the show, as well as extending our popular gin hour to both days at 2pm. We’ve also added some networking games, a Netwalking route around the show to visit our Members and an evening celebration event on the Wednesday night.  On top of all of this, we’ll also be working on something really exciting in our marquee that we want you to get involved in – Norfolk’s Voice! Our new digital platform is coming soon and we want you to come create exciting content with us at the show ready for its launch. Tickets for the show must be purchased to attend the show, but once inside you can visit us anytime! If you’re a Chamber member, you can also get 10% off two day and one day adult tickets! Just email us or give us a call on 01603 625977 to get the code. To see our full schedule of activities and what we’ll be up to on stand 82, click here.

Our Women in Golf networking event got off to a fantastic start on Tuesday!

Set in the middle of the beautiful South Norfolk countryside, Barnham Broom Hotel was the perfect place to be to celebrate Women in Golf Day.

Sarah Jones and Karen Woodrow welcomed us with coffee and pastries, in the newly refurbished Barford Suite, which looked out over the large golf course. Karen Woodrow, Head of Golf at Barnham Broom shared her golfing story, and it was interesting to hear the statistics on how many women are taking up the sport.  It was great to hear that this is changing, and that more women are taking up the sport, and that it does not have to be expensive.  We headed out onto the course with Allan Helmsley, a lovely chap and very experienced  Golf Pro. Allan went through some of the basics, correct stance, swing and Irons. We paired up and putted our way through some fun exercises. Our group was a mix of those who regularly played Golf  and those who had dabbled (I was grateful for my own extensive Pitch and Putt experience), so there was additional support on hand.   The smaller networking group was a definite positive, and it was an opportunity to have more one to one chats. So, an enormous thank you to all the women (and Matt) who came along, it was fantastic to spend the morning with you! Thanks also to Sarah Jones and Karen Woodrow for looking after us.    If you are interested in Golfing lessons, or hitting the course at Barnham Broom you can find out more details here. Karen and Allan will be more than happy to chat with you.

Following on from the success of last year’s celebrations, Norfolk Day is back! This year Norfolk Day will be held on Saturday 27th July. With this in mind, and supporting our great county, it is a great opportunity to showcase our brilliant businesses. Several organisations will be celebrating with events being held on Friday, which is an ideal chance to involve your staff, and fit around the working week too.

Last year over sixty of you; our members shared your #15SecBiz, these films were a fantastic insight, and inspiration into the great work being achieved in our county, on a daily basis. So, this year, whatever you are planning, we want to hear about how you and your staff members will be celebrating Norfolk Day this year. Maybe you are planning something big or small to mark this day. Keep us posted so we can support you with the promotion of this and potentially link up other members with you too.

Do get in touch with us at the Chambers [email protected] and the EDP are really keen to hear about what you have got planned too [email protected] so we can all spread the word!

Remember you can always use #NorfolkDay share your stories and spread the word too.

Help us give a warm welcome to the newest members of Norfolk Chamber of Commerce for the month of May.

Visit their business to explore what they have to offer. Click on a business name below to view the full listing in our Member Directory.

Birdie Fortescue The Birdie Fortescue brand is based on a rich heritage of global inspiration interpreted into a range of textiles and interior accessories designed to suit classic contemporary living.

Clapham & Collinge LLP Clapham & Collinge is a local, leading firm of expert solicitors based in Norfolk. With offices in Norwich, North Walsham and Sheringham we provide a full range of legal services for businesses and individuals.

Motiv8 At Motiv8 Exercise and Fitness our philosophy is to give you a core set of disciplines and values to integrate into your lifestyle so that you can enjoy living stronger and living longer.

Parker Planning Services We are specialist Planning Consultants and Multi-Disciplinary Specialists providing a wide range of planning and specialist services required for planning applications and developments. 

REAGIT The Revamped East Anglian Group for Industrial Training

Soul Church “We’re passionate about our city and we want to make a real difference to the people of Norwich. One of our aims is to build a warm, welcoming community where anyone can feel right at home and can access the support they need, whatever it may be.”

Tombland Bookshop Our shop is a fine, 15th century building opposite the Cathedral in the centre of Norwich. We are the largest bookshop of its type in East Anglia with a constantly changing stock of secondhand and antiquarian books on most subjects displayed on two floors, whose price ranges from £1 to over £10,000. We also carry a significant stock of specialist and academic books.

The Norfolk Farmhouse The Norfolk Farmhouse is a large detached Georgian Farmhouse which dates back to the 1800’s and was originally part of The Gunton Estate.

The Tree Academy The Tree Academy are dedicated to the learning, growth and development of people. As a team of specialists with broad industry backgrounds we are catalysts for excellence. 

Congratulations to the Norfolk based companies that have been revealed in the Co-operative of the Year Awards 2019 shortlist; Norwich Mustard, AF Group and Norwich City Council. 

Now it is over to the members of the public to decide the Co-operative of the Year Awards winners across each of the six categories.

Norwich Mustard is shortlisted for Breakthrough Co-operative of the Year. This award is for co‑ops with a turnover of up to £1 million who are breaking new ground and already achieving great things.

The AF Group has been shortisted for Leading Co-operative of the Year. The AF Group is one of the largest agricultural co-operatives in the UK, with a turnover of over £270 million and a growing 3,500 membership. 

Norwich City Council has been shortlisted for the Co-operative Council of the Year. Sponsored by the Co-operative Councils’ Innnovation Network (CCIN) this award recognises best practice as demonstrated by co-operative local authorities, celebrating great work delivered at a local level. 

The window for voting is open NOW. The winners will be crowned on Friday 21 June at the Co-op Congress in Manchester.

To read more about the awards, entries and to place your vote click here: https://www.uk.coop/COTY_Shortlist

The Virgin Money Norwich Lounge is delighted to open its doors for the day to offer you somewhere different to work. Thursday 6 June is National Coworking Day – a day designed to encourage like-minded entrepreneurs and SMEs to get together.

We’ll also give you a 6 day pass to come back another time so you can experience our Lounges again.

Coworking is proven to facilitate connection, collaboration, and innovation. National Coworking Day is a collaborative doors open day of coworking spaces across the UK, allowing companies and individuals to experience this for free across the country.

You can find out more and book your space in our Norwich Lounge by popping in or calling us on 01603-610538 – we look forward to seeing you then!

Norwich: National Coworking Day 2019 6 June @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Free

The North Norfolk Skills & Careers Festival is an interactive exhibition for 13-18 year olds in North Norfolk aimed at inspiring young people for their future careers and increasing awareness of their options. It is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of organisations based in North Norfolk and the diverse careers available.

Last year’s event was a huge success with over 50 different organisations exhibiting and over 600 young people attending. This year’s festival will again include interactive STEM events.  

Previously known as the North East Norfolk Futures event, the Festival builds upon the success of the Norfolk Skills and Careers Festival and promises to be bigger and better than ever in its fifth year.

Help inspire young people and be involved in North Norfolk’s skills and careers festival.  Click here to find out more and to book your business’ exhibition place. 

We are delighted to have partnered with Norfolk Enterprise Festival to offer Chamber Members a 20% discount on tickets!

Taking place on Saturday 13th July, 11am – 10pm at Hoveton Hall, The Norfolk Enterprise Festival’s (NEF) mission is to create an exciting, fresh way to nurture the best enterprise in, and of, Norfolk by bringing together the business community to build a stronger, more connected enterprise ecosystem.   

This grassroots festival is for local businesses, students, investors and entrepreneurs (and their families, including dogs!!!) to showcase Norfolk as a powerhouse of entrepreneurial activity through a fun engaging, family-friendly interactive programme. The programme is made up of interactive workshops, debates, panel sessions, networking, one-on-one business surgeries, creative activities and so much more, with local food and drink stalls to keep you going throughout the event. The festival now has over 50 speakers confirmed, including a live podcast from Rebecca Lewis Smith and Emily Groves, Louis Blake from Erpingham House and global broadcaster Neil Standby.  Speaking on the event this year, NEF Co-Founder, George Freeman MP said “This year’s Festival will bring 1000 innovators to showcase how Norfolk is pioneering in Green Innovation: in energy, food and the digital economy.  We’re also growing the “Norfolk Angels” Den: offering the best start-up £10,000 worth of business support! It’s an inspiring fun packed day for all the family – don’t miss it.” The theme for 2019’s event will look to address sustainability by showcasing Norfolk’s stunning leadership in the growth field of ‘green growth and the green economy’.  You can book your tickets today and don’t forget to use the code ‘norfolkchamber’ for 20% off all tickets!  Book your tickets   Norfolk Enterprise Festival Saturday 13 July 2019 11am – 10pm Hoveton Hall Gardens, Norwich, NR12 8RJ

We don’t know about you but we at the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce are certainly big fans of the chocolate that Gnaw creates, so were absolutely delighted to have Matt Legon, Managing Director, with us for the morning.

Matt gave a very relaxed and engaging presentation (used in the loosest sense of the word) to eighty delegates at our Norwich Business Breakfast last Thursday. He and his wife started the business in Norwich in 2011 after realising there was a very real gap in the market for lovingly crafted chocolate with a fun side! The room certainly enjoyed hearing all about the ups and downs, one of the ups being winning the British Chambers of Commerce Small Business of the Year in 2018. Matt attributes much of their success to having a great product and facing the fear that many small business shy away from… exporting.

An anticipated 80% of Gnaw’s turnover for this year will come from export markets, which really highlighted to the room that doing the scary and sometimes more difficult thing is absolutely worth it. Plus, it means that Matt gets to travel around, something he loves to do! It was genuinely lovely to hear how Matt speaks about his team and the fact that he appreciates the company would be a very different place without them.

We certainly left feeling as though we were ready to tackle the world and take those scary steps others are too afraid to take. We’re sure you’ll agree that Gnaw has struck the right balance of keeping its Gnaw-folk identity while not being afraid to take on big markets, something to really be proud of.

Our featured charity for the morning was Nansa, an absolutely fantastic local charity that focuses on providing “there for life” support to people with a range of disabilities across Norfolk. The charity has been going for over 60 years and their new Chief Executive, Tom Garrod, really welcomes all types of support so if you’d like to know more definitely get in touch at [email protected].