Chamber Business Bytes - News from the Chamber
Chamber News
Update from Helen Hart - Head of Member Services
Wow! What a tremendous response to our Crunchy Breakfast this morning. With over 130 members and guests in attendance we were able to showcase some of the incredible cutting-edge technology that is developed here on our own doorstep in Devon and Plymouth. Thank you to everyone who contributed and to all who have posted some very complimentary comments and feedback on social media. Our members never fail to surprise us with their generosity and commitment to the wider business community and we are especially grateful to the team at Home Park Plymouth Argyle for stepping in and offering their stunning new Mayflower Stand as the venue for this breakfast at short notice. Registration is now open for our next business lunch at the Theatre Royal on 18 th February – if you haven’t experienced the fabulous food at their Apron restaurant yet this is the chance to do so. You won’t be disappointed. We love to share the good news stories from all our members in our quarterly Profile magazine. Claire is currently gathering articles for the next edition to be published in March, so if you have anything you would like to shout about and have some good imagery please contact her by the 12 th February and she will do her best to include it. Finally, a reminder that it is National Apprenticeship Week and an opportunity for the Chamber to encourage all employers to think seriously about the benefits of engaging with colleges and training providers to offer someone the chance to learn and develop new skills whilst working in the business. For more information please click here or contact the Devon & Cornwall Training Provider Network. Thank you as always for your continued support and we look forward to seeing you at another event very soon. 
Would your business like to submit and article for Profile magazine?
Yes
No
Email marketing@devonchamber.co.uk with your submission.
Feedback From Last Week
"Do you feel prepared to leave the EU this Friday?"
Yes
53%
No
47%
Visit the Brexit pages on our website for further guidance.
Business Readiness Bulletin - Issue 42
Welcome to the latest in a series of business readiness bulletins, aimed at keeping trade associations, business representative bodies and business intermediaries up to date on the latest guidance for business whilst the UK is in an 11-month transition period. This Bulletin aims to provide you and your networks with important information from Government, to help your members and networks prepare for when we exit the transition period. 
Your business voice: How will climate change and carbon reduction impact your business? 
Over the next decade, many UK businesses may be impacted by climate change and policies relating to climate change. In 2019, the UK Government passed a law requiring the UK to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050. This may lead to significant changes in the way businesses operate.

As a business leader, your views on these issues are absolutely essential to shaping future solutions.

In this short poll, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) seeks to understand:
  • Your business's exposure to severe weather
  • What measures your business may be taking to reduce carbon consumption, and the barriers you may be facing
  • Your level of awareness of climate change policies and initiatives and their potential impact on your business

Five minutes of your time will give your local Chamber and the BCC the real-world business input we need to stand up for your interests.Thank you for getting involved.
Interactive Crunchy Breakfast - The World is Digital
Thank you to everyone who attended our highly successful Crunchy Breakfast this morning hosted by Home Park Plymouth Argyle. I'm sure you'll agree this was a very interesting and highly informative event. Thank you to the hosts, exhibitors and the speakers who also contributed to the success. Take a look at the video below and don't forget to book on to our upcoming events.
Testimonial: Just to say what a great set of presentations this morning – very informative – great location as well. Well done to the team.
Up and Coming Chamber Events!
Business Lunch at the Apron Restaurant, Theatre Royal
Tuesday 18th February (11.30am - 2pm)
Join us for the chance to see what goes on behind the scenes at Theatre Royal Plymouth with a backstage tour. If you've ever wanted to stand on the main stage in the sp otlights, now's your chance! This will all be followed by a delicious two-course lunch in the Theatre's restaurant, The Apron.
Access to Finance Fair
Wednesday 25th March (8am - 3pm)
This event aims to unravel some of the complex routes to commercial investment through a series of educational and impartial seminars throughout the day, as well as information and advice from a wide range of exhibitors from across the finance and investment sectors.

If you would like to come as an exhibitor please  click here  and register online or contact us directly at   events@devonchamber.co.uk.
If you are interested in being a sponsor please  click here  and register online or contact us directly at   events@devonchamber.co.uk.

Please note this event is free to attend. Registration is now open.
Talking Business
@City College Plymouth
Enjoy an evening of questions and good food at the March Talking Business event. Don't forget Chamber members get a 10% discount. To take advantage of this discount, please call Kirsty on 01752 305026 or e-mail kdingley@cityplym.ac.uk.
Swing into Spring with the Devon & Plymouth Chamber Awards Dinner
 Friday 24th April (6pm - 12am)
Dartington Hall, Totnes
This spectacular black-tie event will take you back in time by welcoming in the Spring with an evening full of style and elegance, and a celebration of our members' success stories. Hosted by the BBC's David Fitzgerald we will be recognising and promoting the best of what businesses in Devon have to offer. Carry on celebrating in to the night by dancing to our amazing live swing band and join in the fun draw supporting both the Chestnut Appeal and Brain Tumour Research, supported by Santander Plymouth.

There are still opportunities to sponsor other award categories. If you would like to find out more information on sponsorship, please click here . We will also be running a series of good news stories over the next few week's where the charities we are supporting have helped individuals. Read Adrian's story here .
Conference Plymouth Showcase Event
Wednesday 12th February (4pm - 7pm)
New and Improved International Trade Training Courses for 2020
To further support those trading or wanting to trade internationally, Devon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce run a series of special skills and international trade training courses, accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) that cover the critical steps for any new or existing international trade. 
Incoterms 2020 booklets are available. Contact the International Trade team at international-trade@devonchamber.co.uk to get yours.
Member News in Brief
Dozen Strong Team is the Business
Multi-sector law firm GA Solicitors has taken the number of lawyers in its dedicated business team to twelve with two new appointments. Serena Willis joins the firm as a company commercial advisor, specialising in partnerships, sole traders, shareholders and directors. She provides company commercial advice across a wide spectrum of areas including terms of business, agreements, corporate formations and reconstructions, mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, shareholder and joint venture agreements.
ITEC Upgrades ISO 27001, 14001 & 9001 Accreditations
ITEC  has attained Level 2 ISO/IEC 27001, ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 security certifications for Information Security, Environmental Assurance and Quality Assurance, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to observing best practices for our customers.
Babcock Launches New Book for National Storytelling Week 
Babcock International, the aerospace and defence company, is proud to launch a new children’s book to coincide with National Storytelling Week, which is running across the UK from 1 to 8 February. Click here for more info.  
Graduate Recruitment Service with the University of Plymouth
Delivered by the University of Plymouth, STEM Graduates into Business is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and supports Devon-based SMEs to recruit recent graduates with fresh, innovative ideas and the drive to develop professionally. Employed as a paid-intern for either six or 12 months, the scheme can offer flexibility to small and medium businesses looking to meet current market demands, along with incentive grant payments of up to £3,600.
The NSPCC Bear Diaries 2020
Get Teddy for a new and unique fundraising event in association with Build-A-Bear®, in aid of the NSPCC. Only 100 lucky businesses have the chance to take part. For a donation of just £50, you will receive a fluffy intern to spend two weeks of work experience with you from Monday 17 to Friday 28 February 2020.
Our Members' Events
Alternative fuels for business event
Wednesday 19th February (4pm - 7.15pm)
In partnership with PKF Francis Clark & Plymouth City Council, Vospers presents an opportunity to:
  • Discover the benefits of introducing Electric Vehicles in to your fleet
  • Find out which Electric Vehicles are available now
  • Hear how Electric Vehicles can affect your business finances, your employees' Company Car Tax, and assist your Corporate Social Responsibility goals
  • See, feel, and drive Electric Vehicles
  • Learn what our Plymouth City Council are doing to encourage greener mobility
  • Uncover Tax Reliefs for your business.
Face Your Fears - Top Tips on Public Speaking, Media Training and Presentations
By Alexis Bowater
Tuesday 25th February (9am - 4pm)
If you feel a bit wobbly at the thought of public speaking this is the one-day course for you. We'll stop those knees knocking and get you rocking. Join Alexis Bowater for a day of tips from 20 years of public speaking and media experience both in front of and behind the camera. In the fast-paced media world of 2020 every business needs to be camera ready and on point, fully prepared to speak at any time, to anyone. Learn the secrets of success and tricks of the trade to overcome the barriers to your success. Joining us for two exclusive sessions will be award-winning journalist and modern psychotherapy practitioner Duncan Little on understanding why your brain is a pain and understanding the trickery of the collywobbles ... plus the voice whisperer Sandra Smith on how breathing is the key to confidence: she's fixed pop stars, so she can fix you. 
Bring your organisation to life to 3,000 visitors and promote your industry, organisation and services, along with your career and training opportunities. Bring your brand to life through interactive features, hands-on demonstrations and challenging activities and watch as young people embrace the world of work as they learn more about you. 
Brighter Business Expo
Wednesday 18th March (7.30am - 4pm)
The Brighter Business Expo provides a whole day dedicated to meeting new or existing clients and suppliers, a chance to network, and a chance to learn something new or refresh your skills at our seminars . D evon & Plymouth Chamber of Commerce will be attending and delivering a workshop at this event. If you would like to exhibit, there are still spaces available.
Building Brands Conference
Wednesday 25th March (12pm - 5pm)
Nash & Co is running a marketing conference in March at the Sherwell Centre in Plymouth. The principle aim for Building Brands is to help create more of a marketing “community” for the area. As part of this, they also want to see interesting and innovative conferences take place roughly every 6 months or so. Click here to read more.
GHQ Training: Grow your business with an apprentice!
It’s National Apprenticeship Week! This week is a great opportunity for employers to discover the benefits of apprenticeships. Apprenticeships can reduce recruitment costs and staff turnover, increase employee satisfaction and allow you to develop a skilled and qualified workforce.
 
GHQ works alongside businesses to deliver training that enables individuals to develop their skills whilst supporting the commercial objectives of their employers. This can be through apprenticeships or through bespoke courses designed to meet your business’s needs in a range of sectors including; Business Skills, Customer Service and Team Leading/ Management.
 
Contact GHQ’s Team on 01752 218086 for more information.
To register your interest visit www.thedevonbusinessshow.co.uk
For sponsorship opportunities email bizshowdevon@devonchamber.co.uk
Are you a chamber member and would you like
 to sponsor this newsletter?
Please e-mail marketing@devonchamber.co.uk if this is of interest to you and you wish to find out more.