New committee members welcomed at Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber AGM

Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce has welcomed five new members to its executive committee.

The new appointments were confirmed at the Chamber’s annual general meeting at Walmley Golf Club on Thursday.

Joining the committee are Avesh Sokhal (owner, Cheeky Maharaja), Anita Ellis (copywriter and director, Lexicomm), Vanessa Henderson (florist, Floral Jazz), Dan Sinton (head of events and marketing, BPG Gracechurch) and Karl Rowntree (director, RotoSpa Ltd).

During the AGM, Chamber president Naeem Arif, who is entering the second year of his presidency, spoke of the opportunities ahead for Sutton Coldfield over the next 12 months.

Mr Arif, a director of United Carpets, said: “Having seen a sustained period of difficulty, I personally feel a considerable amount of positivity in the short-term economy and look forward to the opportunities that will present themselves over the rest of this year.

“Being an entrepreneur, it is important to be positive and ensure you look for opportunities. As we start coming out of this current dip, it is important to also to take calculated risks in order to ensure that whilst you don't overstretch yourself, you are still looking to grow.

“I will always promote all the local businesses in our region, giving them support wherever we can and we will push this narrative as much as possible.

“When we buy local, we aren't just investing in products and services; we are investing in our neighbours, friends, and families. We are investing in the future of everyone in Sutton Coldfield.”

Mr Arif said the Chamber would support several initiatives over the next year including promoting local tourism, the ongoing Sutton Coldfield regeneration project and showcasing opportunities in parts of the Royal Town such as Boldmere and Mere Green.

Find out more about becoming a member of Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce.

Pictured: The new Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber committee