"From Trump’s tariff talk to UK economic growth figures being revised down, it hasn’t been the stable start to the year that we all wanted. The latest GDP figures did show 0.1 per cent growth in the economy – it's not much but it is better than going backwards!
"Also, to stick to a theme of more positive news, I am delighted to see that Coventry City’s form has recovered and that Frank Lampard seems to have helped the team turn the corner – surely there couldn’t be another trip to Wembley?!
"And, on top of that, I am so pleased to see just how popular the Chamber’s inaugural Coventry and Warwickshire Business & Community Awards have proved to be.
"It was a real leap of faith from the Chamber to take the decision to stage its own awards and to vow to do things differently by making it an event that won’t just be about those who pick up the prizes but something that celebrates everything that is great about Coventry and Warwickshire.
"I wish every individual and every business that has been shortlisted all the very best on the night and, of course, everyone who enters wants to win because of the added profile it will bring and the recognition of what they have achieved so far.
"But, collectively, every single business that has entered feeds into the positive narrative that there are a lot of good things happening here in Coventry and Warwickshire and that business has a hugely significant role to play in the communities we are part of.
"It’s easy when times are tough to forget that and for everyone to get their heads down and focus on the day-to-day activities involved in running a business, but in coming out and celebrating our individual and collective achievements we can show that there is still a huge amount to be cheerful about and some incredible businesses and individuals to be proud of.
"It promises to be a fantastic night so I’d urge everyone to book their place and to enjoy some much-needed positivity for Coventry and Warwickshire.
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/awards/
Tim Squires
Chair, Coventry Local Business Forum
