Businesses in Greater Birmingham are demonstrating resilience against a host of economic challenges – with many predicting an upturn in profits during 2023, according to a new report released. Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Business report for Q4 reveals “cautious optimism” across the region – despite the impact of the war in Ukraine, unprecedented cost pressures and ongoing recruitment challenges.

For more than a century the scramble for oil unleashed wars, forced unusual alliances and sparked diplomatic rows. Now the world's two biggest economies are battling over another precious resource: semiconductors, the chips that literally power our daily life.

These tiny fragments of silicon are at the heart of a $500bn industry that is expected to double by 2030.

New homes provider Bromford is encouraging West Midlands homebuyers to get financially fit in 2023, by sharing its top tops on how to get mortgage ready. Bromford has teamed up with independent financial advisors Mortgage Advice Bureau to offer new property seekers helpful advice on how to get mortgage ready before buying a home, helping first-time buyers to take their first steps onto the property ladder. 

New data from leading flatshare site SpareRoom reveals that the current chaos in the UK rental market shows no sign of resolving itself, with rents in Q4 2022 reaching an all-time high yet again as housing supply continues to dwindle, with little sign of things changing anytime soon*.

In a year dominated by the cost-of-living crisis, data reveals UK rents increased by 13%, comparing Q4 2022 with Q4 2021. As of December 2022, the average UK room rent was £731**. 

A judging panel featuring some of the region’s most respected leaders and entrepreneurs will select the winners of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s 2023 awards.

Ahead of the Chamber’s annual dinner and awards, which take place at the ICC on 16 March, a panel of experts from business and the public sector has been announced to select the shortlist and winners in 12 categories. One of the sector category winners will go on to be crowned the Greater Birmingham Business of the Year.

Leading developer David Wilson Homes is answering the needs of homebuyers seeking properties with character at its New Lubbesthorpe development on the outskirts of the city of Leicester. The housebuilder is currently building new homes at the development, which are being developed in accordance with a range of unique designs.