Boss of historic manufacturer to discuss innovation at Chamber report launch

The boss of the UK’s oldest privately owned manufacturing company has been confirmed as a guest speaker for Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s quarterly business report launch next week.

Giles Knox from Firmin & Sons Ltd will be speaking at the Q1 report launch at Birmingham City University on Tuesday 23 April (9am to 11am).

Giles is managing director at Firmin & Sons Ltd, the oldest privately owned manufacturing company in the UK, having operated since 1655.

The company manufactures and supplies military ceremonial buttons, badges, and uniforms.

From ceremonial and parade dress to modern operational gear Firmin equips the British military and those of 34 other countries for every aspect of their roles. 

The upcoming event will launch the report for Q1 of 2024, with data gathered by quarterly surveys completed by businesses from across the Greater Birmingham area, making the QBR the most comprehensive regular report of its kind in the city-region.

The event will also explore the theme of innovation in Greater Birmingham.

Joining Giles on the panel will be Catherine Hadfield, principal place development lead at Connected Places Catapult, an innovation, economic development and public policy professional.

GBCC director of external affairs, Raj Kandola said: “We are looking forward to hear from Giles as he joins us as a keynote speaker for our upcoming Quarterly Business Report launch event.

“With a rich history and status in the business and manufacturing communities, Firmin & Sons demonstrate innovation whilst maintaining tradition and heritage; we’re excited to hear from Giles on his experience working with the UK’s oldest privately owned manufacturing company”.

To find out more about the event and to book your place, please click here.