Stoke-on-Trent businesses set out their growth ambitions — and the barriers holding them back — during a roundtable with the Government’s Minister for Small Business and Economic Transformation, Blair McDougall MP, earlier this month.
Hosted by Gareth Snell MP at Stoke Minster, the session brought together leaders from manufacturing, hospitality, retail, creative industries and professional services. Firms spoke openly about the investment they are making in new technology, talent and markets — and where national policy could help unlock further potential.
A central theme was the need for long-term strategic support for the ceramics industry, which businesses described as both culturally defining and economically critical, supplying specialist materials to defence, construction, healthcare and advanced manufacturing. Companies also highlighted the importance of simplified support schemes, better access to finance and sustained investment in skills to boost productivity.
Gareth said the purpose of the roundtable was to ensure decision-makers hear directly from the businesses driving the city’s economy.
“Our businesses have real ambition and an appetite for growth,” he said. “What they need from Government is clarity, continuity and the confidence that Stoke-on-Trent is firmly on the national agenda. Today’s conversation showed just how much potential we have — and how much more we can achieve with the right backing.”
The Minister told attendees that the Government’s modern Industrial Strategy aims to stimulate growth across key sectors, with a particular focus on manufacturing and clean energy. He welcomed the opportunity to hear first-hand from local firms and stressed the role small businesses play in innovation and job creation.
Representatives from Valentine Clays, Woolcool, Titanic Brewery, DMG Services, Vellichor Books, Wilshaw’s Stoke, Quick Bite Takeaway and FA Express took part in the discussion.
