New analysis from the CBI has shown that making the most of 27 green growth ‘prizes’ could deliver a £37-57 billion boost to GDP by 2030, equivalent to between 1.6% and 2.4% of GDP.But, as other countries make serious pitches for green investment, businesses fear that the UK faces a ticking clock and serious competition to realise these opportunities.With policy direction and ambitious goals now locked-in, the CBI is proposing a series of measures to help the UK move urgently into delivery mode to secure investment, boost supply chains and create green jobs:(1) Deliver a clear and stable policy environment...

17 July, 2023

When it comes to Northamptonshire, there's more than meets the eye. This September, embark on a journey off the beaten path and uncover the county's hidden artistic treasures. Nestled amidst breath-taking landscapes and idyllic countryside, Northamptonshire invites you to indulge in its vibrant art scene through the highly anticipated Northants Open Studios (NOS) – the region's largest visual arts festival.Prepare to be captivated as over 220 talented artists across the county swing open the doors to their studios, homes, and gardens, offering an intimate glimpse into their creative process. With a diverse range of mediums on display, including painting, textiles,...

16 July, 2023

In a new series, we look at adventures away from the business network meetings that we are known for in a new weekly updated called #MoreThanJustNetworking. Yes our networking events have been popular, but we are #MoreThanJustNetworking.MONDAYOur week started with a visit to our new members, Vulcan Works, based in Guildhall Road, Northampton as we met with Centre Manager Garrick Hurter to tour the Co-Working Space and spend some time working from the fantastic new addition to Northampton for creatives. The text on the Vulcan Works website is spot on "Steeped in heritage and filled with inspiration, Vulcan Works offers...

14 July, 2023

In today’s competitive business landscape, small businesses more than ever need every advantage they can get to thrive and succeed. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software has emerged as a powerful tool that can help small businesses streamline their operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. In this article, we discuss the benefits of CRM for small businesses and how it can revolutionise their operations. Improved Customer Relationship Management One of the primary benefits of CRM for small businesses is the ability to centralise customer data. CRM software allows businesses to store and manage customer information in one place, including contact details, purchase...

14 July, 2023

Croyland Car Megastore have won Car Supermarket of the Year at the Motor Trader Independent Dealer Awards, beating out some stiff competition to take home the prize.The lavish awards ceremony, in its fifth year, was hosted by entertainer Richard Blackwood and took place Thursday July 6 at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. The event provided an excellent opportunity to celebrate independent dealers and provide a space for them to network and celebrate each other’s achievements.Croyland Car Megastore was nominated in four categories and took home top prize for Car Supermarket of the Year, sponsored by Road Angel.General Manager of Croyland...

14 July, 2023

Crises, disasters, and disruptions are unpredictable yet unavoidable. Whether it's a global pandemic, a fire, a flood, or a cyber-attack; the effects can be devastating for businesses that are unprepared. To ensure survival and prompt recovery, every business should consider having a well-designed business continuity plan. A business continuity plan is designed to help you document vital actions that you or your staff must take after a disruptive event, large or small.This article details the key components a good business continuity plan should contain to help in building a resilient business. Aim and Objectives of the PlanThe primary aim of a...

14 July, 2023

If businesses are to remain competitive and have the advantage in a modern marketplace, they must embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to an award-winning HR consultancy.This monumental change in technology, using computer science for problem solving, is being cited as the fourth industrial revolution.So, Kettering-based people experts HR Solutions have responded to the changing climate and questions being posed by clients by hosting an informative webinar next week on the 10 Key Considerations When Using AI in the Workplace.The online event will run on Wednesday, 19th July, from 2pm to 3pm and looks at both the advantages and the risks...

13 July, 2023

A new report published by the British Library has recognised how the Northamptonshire Business & IP Centre (BIPC) has continued to support entrepreneurship and economic recovery and growth at a local level over the last three years.Between April 2020 and March 2023, BIPC Northamptonshire has contributed to a payback of over £6 for every £1 of public money spent across the BIPC Network, as well as helping to create over 335 new businesses and 91 additional jobs.Overall, the service has generated £3.6million Gross Value Added (GVA) and has supported a range of entrepreneurs, of which 68% were women, 23% identified...

13 July, 2023

Local businesses, organisations, HR personnel, workplace health, wellbeing, safety, and mental health practitioners are invited to attend an international workplace health summit to be held at the University of Northampton on 30th August – 1st September 2023.The global summit with the theme Good Health is Good Business is hosted by the Global Centre for Healthy Workplaces (GCHW) and builds on the huge international success of previous Awards and Summits hosted around the globe. During the summit we will examine how the very best employers are addressing the future of employee wellbeing. Discover the strategic models they are putting in place and learn how they build...

13 July, 2023

Get ready to step back in time and discover hidden treasures at the much-anticipated antiques market taking place at Commercial Street in Northampton this Sunday.From 10am to 3pm, antique enthusiasts, collectors, and curious shoppers alike can explore a unique array of vintage delights, showcased by ten dedicated antique and vintage traders alongside some of the market's regular vendors.The antiques market promises a diverse range of items, from diecast cars and toys to vinyl records, chinaware, books, and a delightful mix of retro, vintage, and costume jewellery.And regular traders will be present selling goods including fruit and veg, books, clothes, toys,...

13 July, 2023

As we approach one year since Investment Zones were first announced by then-chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng in the Autumn ‘mini-budget’, mid-market business leaders in the East of England fear they are missing out by not having one within their region.  In Grant Thornton’s latest Business Outlook Tracker* survey, almost all business leaders in the East of England (96%) said that the introduction of Investment Zones will help towards the government’s Levelling Up agenda, significantly higher than the 68% national average. Most respondents (91%) also believe that being located within an Investment Zone would encourage businesses to stay within the local area and, almost all (94%) believe being located within one would help support the local region through resulting...

13 July, 2023