Mailbox hosts Peaky premiere EditFREE • JUNE/JULY 2016

Hundreds in city centre to see music legend unveil tram in his name Ozzy opens the trams PAGE 2 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016

Edit magazine is brought to you by FROM THE EDITOR It’s been a long time coming for city centre retailers and businesses affected Retail is the Business by Midland Metro extension works, but here’s hoping for a bright future now the Improvement District (BID) for service is up and running. Birmingham city centre’s retail area and has been supporting its And what better way of launching the new Metro extension from Snow Hill station members since 2007, promoting, to New Street and Grand Central, than one of our most famous sons – the rock enhancing and developing the legend that is Ozzy Osbourne – in the city to unveil a tram bearing his name. shopping and leisure experience Edit magazine was there at the official ceremony to speak to the great man, who in the city centre. appeared to be having a whale of a time meeting fans and chatting to reporters. While the retail environment is forever changing with the We’ve covered the Metro extension and Ozzy’s visit inside this edition, along with all the other challenge of shopping online, goings-on in the Retail BID area. the Retail BID firmly believes You can find out more about the BID’s vote renewal process and consultation, after member in supporting the shopping businesses fed back to the team what they would like to see take priority in the BID’s proposed third experience delivered by retailers term. It makes for interesting reading. in the city centre, maintaining Birmingham’s position as the We’re also doing our bit to highlight the brilliant independents who bring a touch of Brummie regional capital for shopping. uniqueness – and great tasting coffee – to visitors and commuters every day. I hope you enjoy the latest edition of Edit. Retail BID Manager Stacey Barnfield Steve Hewlett [email protected] Deputy BID Manager Assia Sohaib [email protected] FROM RETAIL BIRMINGHAM Business Support Officer Paul Barnett It has been a really busy couple of months for the Retail BID. We’ve been analysing [email protected] the results of the BID3 renewal consultation and what you, our members, have been telling us you would like to see happen in the next five years from 2017 to 2022. Office: Suite 103, Cheltenham House, Temple Street, Birmingham B2 5BG What is very clear is that you still want to see a clean, safe and promoted city centre, Call 0121 643 3896 with events and activities which will continue to drive footfall, bringing in customers Visit www.retailbirmingham.co.uk from further afield to be able to enjoy the ‘new Birmingham’. www.shoppinginbirmingham.com We now have such a great mix of world-class shopping centres, stores, bars and Twitter @ShoppinginBham Facebook ShoppingInBirmingham restaurants it gives us a great opportunity to really build a successful future together. Instagram ShoppinginBham The Midland Metro extension is now open and it has been great to see the trams regularly running up and down Corporation Street and people using the tram stops. To promote the city centre offer Edit magazine is published by through the summer we are also about to launch a region-wide marketing campaign, both on radio and online to attract customers during the school holidays. The city centre will be adorned with 25 floral features the BID commissioned from the city’s ‘Chelsea Gold medal-winning’ horticultural team, which will really brighten up the streets after our recent pavement deep cleansing programme. We’ll also soon be welcoming the amazing outdoor photographic exhibition ‘Britain From The Air’ following our request to the Royal Geographic Society to bring it to the city this Summer to help create a major visitor attraction throughout the retail area. www.edwinelliscreativemedia.com As always, the BID are here to help and assist you, so please do get in touch. For more information, or for article suggestions please email [email protected] Steve Hewlett, Retail BID manager

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publisher takes no responsibility for ‘Piccadilly Arcade is a great community of the accuracy of statements or content, and can accept no liability for errors, omissions or any inconvenience. Please independent stores and we all get on well’ check latest details with host venues if travelling to events. Piccadilly Arcade focus Pages 18-21 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 3 Number of BID area charity ‘chuggers’ reduced by 70% Retail BID members to be consulted on impact of new guidelines

Plans to reduce by 70 per cent the number of face-to-face fundraisers, known as ‘chuggers’, have been ap- proved. Birmingham City Council’s Licensing and Public Protection Committee unanimously agreed to sign a three-month agreement, drawn up by the Public Fundraising As- sociation (PFRA) to limit the numbers of chuggers in the city centre. The PFRA agreement will come into ef- fect in July for the three-month trial period during which Retail BID, working in part- nership with the city council, will consult with businesses to assess what impact the reduction of fundraisers has on visitor and shopper experience. As part of the agreement a maximum Mike Ferguson, Retail BID Birmingham Chuggers will only be able to operate on New Street, above, on of 12 fundraisers will be able to work Wednesdays and Saturdays across three zones on a given day (with board member and co-owner of Pic- a maximum of four per zone) – with no cadilly Arcade-based Smithsonia, said: fundraisers working on New Street on “Chuggers have become a major issue in Wednesdays and Saturdays. the city centre and the Retail BID has been THE PFRA PROPOSAL: It is hoped that by the autumn a further campaigning about it for some time, as it reduction can be agreed to limit activity had gone beyond the point of saturation. n Reducing the number of fundraisers to eight fundraisers (maximum of four per “Many customers have complained to per zone from six to four zone), across two zones over two days. us about how the city centre had be- n No fundraisers to work on New Street Fundraising teams of up to six people come a very unpleasant place because on Wednesdays and Saturdays of how many chuggers were operating, currently operate over seven city centre n No more than three zones to operate zones including Broad Street, Bull Street, and how aggressive they often were in on any given day getting people’s attention. Cherry Street/Union Street, Colmore Row, n “We’ve also learned about cases where Only two zones to operate on Corporation Street, High Street and New Wednesdays Street, which include two zones. In total, charities would not receive any money from the companies who employ chug- n No neighbouring zones to operate on up to 42 fundraisers could be asking the same day Implementing a shorter people to sign up to regular charity dona- gers to seek donations for as long as two years. zone in Corporation Street to avoid it tions on any given day. These proposals overlapping with New Street would see a maximum of 12 fundraisers “Hopefully, shoppers and visitors to the city centre will now feel much freer to n Broad Street and Victoria Square no operating in the city centre on permitted longer to operate as fundraising zones. days – a reduction of 71 per cent. roam around without hassle.” PAGE 4 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016

Ozzy and Cllr Clancy LEADER’S DELIGHT AS ‘FAMOUS SON’ BACK Joining Ozzy for the tram-nam- ing were Cllr John Clancy, leader of Birmingham City Council, and Cllr Roger Lawrence, chairman of the Integrated Transport Authority (ITA). Cllr Clancy said: “Birmingham is the birthplace of many great people but Ozzy really is one of our most famous sons and I am delighted he has joined us. “The opening of the Midland Metro extension will be fantastic news for the city and the region and having Ozzy here to unveil a tram bearing his name just adds star quality to it.” Cllr Lawrence said he was delighted that the Metro would be expanding further across Bir- mingham and the Black Country over the next few years. “These are really exciting times. The expansion of the Metro means future jobs and economic growth worth millions of pounds for this region,” he said. “We’ve already started work on extending the route on from New Street Station to Centenary Square to open in 2019 while another extension through Wolverhampton city centre to the bus and railway stations is also expected to be completed around the same time. “Funding has also been ear- marked to take trams to Edgbas- ton, while the route of another extension through Digbeth has also been finalised including to the planned HS2 station.” Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 5 Fans flock to see Ozzy unveil his Metro tram

Music legend Ozzy Osbourne they stopped them and I hope this rocked his native Birmingham as is a success.” he unveiled a Midland Metro tram Commenting on his forthcoming bearing his name. farewell tour with Black Sabbath, he The Aston-born frontman of Black added: “We never thought back in Sabbath received a hero’s welcome 1968 that we’d still be here, it’s been from hundreds of fans who de- an incredible journey.” scended on Corporation Street. The Metro extension will deliver The tram was parked at a new more than three million people a stop forming part of the city centre year directly into the heart of Bir- extension that opened to passen- mingham’s main shopping district. gers on Bank Holiday Monday. The Retail BID asked and arranged Ozzy said: “It’s great to be here for Ozzy to be at the ceremony to and it’s a great honour. Once a help drive the PR and awareness of Brummie, always a Brummie. the tram. “Every time I come to Birmingham Retail BID manager Steve Hewlett there’s something new,” he added. said: “Having the Metro running is a “It takes me a few minutes to guess great boost for city centre retailers, where I am. The city changes all the we are really looking forward to the time. It’s great. future. We welcome the customers “I remember trams from when I it is going to bring and it was great Ozzy on Corporation Street and the Metro tram with his name was a kid. I always wondered why to see Ozzy here too.” PAGE 6 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016

The Metro leaflet Trams back on city METRO LEAFLET EXPLAINS NEW DELIVERY PLANS centre streets for Retail BID businesses are being alerted to changes to city centre delivery access as part of the Midland Metro extension. Corporation Street, Stephen- son Street and Upper Bull Street first time since 1953 are now access only with trams operating in both directions on Midland Metro Tram services are now running to New This extension is expected to create more Corporation Street and Stephen- Street station as the city centre exten- than 1,300 sustainable new jobs and boost son Street. extension opens sion opened for business. the regional economy by more than £50 All deliveries to city centre loca- for business The Midland Metro extension from Bull million a year.” tions along the tram route must Street to the station and Grand Central The Midland Metro runs between be carried out at permitted times shopping centre began operating at 8am Birmingham and Wolverhampton, serving only and all delivery vehicles must park in designated loading on Bank Holiday Monday. locations such as the Jewellery Quarter, bays. Any vehicle that obstructs Trams are now running through the West Bromwich, Wednesbury and Bilston. trams could be towed away. heart of the city centre for the first time The extension to New Street is part of a A special leaflet has been since they were withdrawn in 1953. £128 million project that has also seen the produced to advise businesses Cllr Richard Worrall, Metro lead member purchase of a brand new 21-strong fleet and delivery services about the for the ITA’s transport delivery committee, of Urbos 3 trams, a refurbished depot at changes with a map highlighting which oversees Centro, which is respon- Wednesbury and a new stop at Snow Hill new traffic directions and loading sible for the project, said: “It’s wonderful station. It will deliver more than three mil- bay locations. to see the Metro running all the way lion people a year directly into the heart between Wolverhampton Birmingham of Birmingham’s main shopping district The leaflet can be downloaded New Street. and is expected to boost the West Mid- by following the link at http:// centro.org.uk/transport/metro/ “It’s obviously great news for Birmingham lands economy by more than £50 million - but also for the wider West Midlands. a year and create 1,300 new jobs. Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 7 Tram will go from New St station to Centenary Square

The Metro extension will see trams on Pinfold Street in the city centre

The next stage of the Midland Metro continue until it reaches the route termi- extension through Birmingham city nus at Centenary Square. centre will see trams travelling from Running between Wolverhampton Stephenson Street to Centenary Square and Birmingham Centenary Square, the in 2019. extension will offer a fast and frequent Work has already begun extending the Top: Joe Micallef, left, and The plans for the Birmingham Cen- service with a tram operating every six route from New Street Station to Cente- Adrian Berg of Balfour tenary Square Extension have been minutes. Beatty, James Aspinall of nary Square, with services expected to developed in close co-operation with A new stop located in Victoria Square Centro and Peter Coates Birmingham City Council and Retail BID. outside the Town Hall will provide start running in 2019. of National Express West The £31 million scheme supports and access to the Town Hall, Birmingham Funding has also been earmarked to Midlands break the banner complements city and regional plans Museum and Art Galleries, the Council extend the route further along Broad on services to New Street for development and forms part of the House, the Paradise Circus develop- Street, past Five Ways and on to Edgbas- with Cllr Stewart Stacey of Centro strategy for the region ‘Towards ment and other existing commercial ton by 2021. Birmingham City Council, and Cllrs Richard Worrall a World Class Integrated Transport and residential properties in the vicinity. The route of the extension through Dig- and Kath Hartley of the Network’. The Metro extension will help create beth has also been chosen, running from West Midlands ITA transport The Birmingham Centenary Square Ex- a better connected city by helping to Bull Street via Albert Street and on to the delivery committee tension will run from the new terminus establish world class public transport forthcoming HS2 high speed rail station at stop on Stephenson Street outside New linking Centenary Square and Broad Curzon Street. Above: Commuters using the Street Station, travelling along Pinfold Street with central Birmingham and service at Bull Street Street and turning west onto Victoria New Street Station, Snow Hill and the From there it would go along New Square, with a new stop to serve this Jewellery Quarter. Canal Street and Meriden Street into area and the Town Hall. The scheme is also forecasted to High Street Deritend, stopping at Digbeth From here, the extension travels along stimulate economic growth and help to Coach Station and the Custard Factory. It Paradise Street to Paradise Circus then create jobs within the Birmingham City is anticipated the line could be open by turns onto Broad Street, where it will Centre Enterprise Zone. 2023. PAGE 8 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 BID members have their say on future of city centre BID team analyses third-term consultation feedback FOUND GUIDE OUT IN JULY More than 90% of Retail BID members who visitors and customers online, in print and on responded recommended street clean- street and continuing promotional and event ing, public realm improvements, business work, to attract more visitors and shoppers. The ‘Found’ guide to Birming- crime support and a safer city centre were Retail BID’s vision for its third term is to ham’s independent businesses the priorities for the Business Improvement ‘promote and support businesses in the city is due to be released in July. District’s proposed third term. centre’ by committing to: The A5 guide is a joint project More visitor maps and marketing were also n Develop the Birmingham City Centre between Retail BID Birmingham highlighted as areas the BID should focus on Experience to support our world-class retail and leading city centre brand- between 2017-2022. offer, creating new opportunities for leisure, ing agency ORB. Throughout March and evening economy and cultural businesses to More than 20 illustrators, art- April this year, Retail BID thrive. ists and photographers were gave every member the n We will make it easier for people to commissioned to take part in opportunity to have their discover opportunities through strong the Found project; each captur- say on how its next five-year promotion of businesses and experiences in ing the city’s independent re- term can improve the city Birmingham city centre, online, in print and tailers in their own unique way. centre. on street The guide will be supported Every business received n We will support and encourage creative, with a digital and online cam- a survey through Edit engaging events, and continue to promote paign. magazine, via SMS service, the BID area. ORB Creative Manager by email, and the Retail BID n We will work in partnership with Birming- Naeem Alvi said: “Working on team visited as many members as possible ham City Council and other service providers the Found 2016 directory with throughout April. on the maintenance and management of the Retail Birmingham and so many Respondents held a good perception of the city centre, and monitor the delivery of sup- talented creatives around Bir- city centre with 76% saying they considered port and enforcement services. mingham has been an amazing the area a good place to shop, 69% saying n We will continue to give members a experience.” the same as Birmingham as a place to relax voice on the management and maintenance Assia Sohaib, Deputy BID and socialise, as well as run a business. of the City Centre, and provide one-to-one Manager, said: “Found will be There is a relatively lower perception of the personal support to Retail BID Members. the ‘must-have’ guide for shop- city centre as a place to use in the evening n We will lead the reimagination of New pers and visitors, The Found however, with only 58% saying the experi- Street and further public realm improvements highlighting all of guide front ence was at least good. across the Retail BID area the independents in cover The BID business plan for the next five years Jonathan Cheetham, Chair of the Retail BID, the retail area. follows three themes. said: “Retail BID has been a strong voice for “The fresh new- The first is delivering the ‘The Birmingham its members since 2007, and will continue to look guide will be Welcome’ with a safe, attractive and acces- support, network and represent businesses in a boost to a sector sible city centre. The second is to continue Birmingham city centre throughout our third that is a really ‘Business Support and Growth’, representing term. important part of and networking members for their benefit. “Through this ‘voice’, Retail BID leveraged the Retail BID and The third is to develop the ‘Birmingham Ex- over £1,200,000 in business support funds dur- we plan to roll out perience’, taking in projects such as reimagin- ing our second term; by continuing to work a strong marketing ing New Street as a place to enjoy and trade, as a single community, successes like this can campaign to sup- creating a digital city centre that engages with be achieved again. As Retail BID ask you, its port its release.” Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 9

RETAIL BID ACHIEVEMENTS Latest wave of Business Support £989,000 in leveraged financial support for members street-cleaning 83,000,000 average annual footfall in BID area £600,000+ additional gets under way income 60 retail crime radios 38,000 texts to members

Events & promotion £4,600,000 in PR value 40 Events & One of the Retail BID floral displays for last promotional year’s Style Birmingham Live campaigns members, to follow us into a third term 320,000 Shopping and vote yes between 19th September Maps distributed to 27th October 2016, we can continue 14,000 Twitter to be optimistic about the future. followers “Birmingham city centre is a powerful 9350 Tweets national anchor and regional capital 12,000 unique hits per for shopping, with a broad range of month on ShoppingIn services and opportunities on offer,” Birmingham.com added Mr Cheetham. 1 BCSC Purple Apple “There is continued investment in the Award city from both public and private mon- 3 Style Birmingham A Ramora cleaner at work on New Street near Piccadilly Arcade ey, and the city centre retains a healthy Live Events balance of large-scale retailing (Bullring, 30,000 Celebration of Retail BID is continuing to invest in a city New Street Grand Central, Mailbox) and unique Independents Guides centre street deep-cleansing programme Bennetts Hill small and independent businesses that distributed to create a more welcoming, attractive High Street create personality and points of differ- environment for visitors. Ethel Street ence to the City Centre Experience. The work is being carried out by Ramora Union Street “However we must not become The city centre 1 new wayfinding Ltd, a specialist industrial cleaning com- Lower Temple Street complacent, Birmingham City Council pany with a proven track record in the Lower Bull Street still has to find nearly £250 million of system for Birmingham Pinfold Street 1 City Centre Retail removal of chewing gum and grime using savings from services already reduced steam clean techniques and no chemical Cherry Street or removed. Strategy Hill Street 7 RHS & Chelsea agents. “The Retail BID will ensure statutory Ramora were contracted to carry out Temple Row John Bright Street baselines are maintained to an accept- Flower Show Gold widespread street cleansing in the autumn Cannon Street able standard through close partner- Medals of 2015 with street-cleansing a key part of Navigation Street ship working and we will continue 71% reduction in the BID’s proposed third term. to provide additional benefits for chuggers Needless Alley Over the coming months the following Carrs Lane members. 100,549+ m2 cleaned areas will be cleaned with the busiest areas “The need for the Retail BID as a Temple Street 960,000 pieces being cleaned twice. The cleaning will More Street Queensway strong voice to protect and influence of chewing gum be during the evenings to minimise any the management of the city centre is Waterloo Street removed disruption: Severn Street clearer than ever.” 25 Floral features PAGE 10 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016

Peaky Blinders fans at the Mailbox red-carpet premiere of the third series of the drama, with stars of the show and creator Steven Knight (above, centre) Stars at Mailbox for city’s Peaky premiere Red-carpet Peaky Blinders fans had the chance to (), Paul Anderson (Arthur see the stars of the TV show and attend Shelby) and Packy Lee (Johnny Dogs), event at an exclusive Birmingham screening of as well as the show’s producers and Everyman the first episode of the third series at the writer/creator and Birmingham-born Ste- Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight Cinema Everyman Cinema at Mailbox. ven Knight, who arrived at the The new series of the BBC screening in spectacular Peaky Two cult drama Peaky Blinders Blinders fashion. sees the famous Birmingham Steven Knight said: “I’m thrilled gangsters going international, that the new series of Peaky but not before the cast made a Blinders will be screened in its special trip home to the city. heartland, Birmingham, and I On Wednesday, May 4th, BBC hope the people of the city will Birmingham welcomed the cast enjoy the event. The third series of Peaky Blinders at an exclusive is stronger than ever.” screening of the first episode of Local actors Jordan Airing on Netflix in the US, series three. Bolger and Harry Peaky Blinders has garnered At the red-carpet evening, the Kirton, who also critical acclaim, including five starred on the catwalk Retail BID board member and Mailbox head of marketing, David Pardoe, attending cast included Peaky at last year’s Style BAFTA craft awards and an RTS left, City Leader Cllr John Clancy, centre, and BID manager Steve Hewlett Blinders actors Birmingham Live award for best drama series. Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 11 Hats off to the return of BBC’s Peaky Blinders Great Western Arcade boutique flourishes as buyers seek flatcaps worn by the infamous Shelby brothers

A Great Western Arcade shop owner the store fitting seamlessly into GWA’s has been relishing the return of Birming- array of independent stores, including ham-based drama Peaky Blinders to fashion retailers. BBC2. The shop features hand-selected That’s because Daisy Nyamie, founder headpieces from high-end designers like of Peter Forson hats and scarves, knew Borsalino, Vivienne Westwood, Nerida demand for her Stetson flat caps, as Fraiman, Maddox and Lara Bohinc. styled by the infamous Daisy also stocks Shelby family, would go Whiteley hats, the through the roof. brand of choice for Spring and summer Duchess of Cam- are busy periods for bridge, Kate Middle- Daisy, who built on her ton. successful online busi- “We’ve built up a ness, www.peterforson. strong online presence com, by opening the over the last three store last October. years and I couldn’t With the horse racing have asked for any- and wedding season more since opening getting underway, sales our first shop,” added Daisy Nyamie with a Stetson cap, above, and outside her store, below of her designer hats and Daisy, who named the lavish accessories are store after her mum’s also set to flourish. great uncle. “I usually sell around three or four Peaky “Attention now starts turning towards the Blinders-style caps every day but with the summer, with women considering what third series starting in May, they’re even to wear at Ascot, other race meetings and more popular,” said Daisy. weddings. “They sell well because I’m the only re- “This is where our one-off pieces, from tailer in the city that stocks the high-qual- UK and international designers, come into ity Stetson range, which David Beckham their own. wears. “Women take the fact their hat is unique, “I was running low and had to order that the milliner has only made that one, more in time for the show. I must stress very seriously. that mine come without the razor blades!” “The last thing they want is to go to As- Business has been brisk during Peter cot and bump into someone else wearing Forson’s first seven months of trade, with the same design.” PAGE 12 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016

Award-winning coffee shop launches new service to take drinks to any Midlands location

A multi award-winning Birmingham coffee shop has developed a unique way to expand its business – without need- ing new premises. Temple Row’s Six Eight Kafé, recently named the city’s best café in the Birmingham Mail’s Brummies’ Choices Awards for the second time, has gone mobile with its new ‘Business Class’ venture. Businesses can hire the full Six Eight barista experience for trade events, exhibitions and networking functions after owner Devinder Dhallu invested in a modified espresso machine. “We can bring our award- winning coffee to any temporary location in the Midlands,” said Devinder, who describes how Six Eight has grown from humble beginnings into a nationally-recognised cof- fee shop inside five years as a ‘David v Goliath’ triumph. “We supply the barista, Has Bean coffee beans, milk and all the necessary equipment. All we need is a 13 amp plug socket. “The Business Class idea developed after a company rep, from Hexagon Manu- facturing Intelligence, visited us and said his company wanted the best coffee in Birmingham at their stand at the MACH 2016 exhibition at the NEC. “Hexagon wanted to stand out and give their clients something extra so that they would think ‘if the coffee’s Owner Devinder Dhallu, top, this good, the service must be too’. and a Six Eight barista at “Word got round and for five days work, above straight there were queues at the stand, Espresso delivery not just from visitors but fellow exhibitors.” Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 13

Vero Software has also delivered a glowing verdict after booking Business Class for a recent exhibition. Devinder says growing the mobile service makes better business sense than exploring the opening of a third shop, An artist’s impression of the new having launched an outlet at Millennium Primark Pavilions Point last year. “Around every two months, someone PAVILIONS CLOSES pops in and invites us to open an- FOR REDEVELOPMENT other coffee shop, but we would only consider it if the proposal mirrored our Pavilions Shopping Centre has strict ‘shared risk, shared reward’ model,” now closed to enable work to added Devinder. start on a multi-million pound redevelopment, which will see “We have developed a big reputation one of the largest Primark stores for the quality of our coffee, but we are in the UK, open in late 2018. one of the little men. There’s no big inves- Primark will completely re- tor behind us. develop the existing centre to “We opened during the recession, create a 150,000 sq feet store. when we literally couldn’t give coffee The company will create four away. floors of trading space as well as “But through the hard work of our a pedestrian walk through from baristas, we’ve earned local and national High Street to the forthcoming recognition as an artisan coffee shop. I HS2 rail station at Millennium was proud and embarrassed when GQ Point. BID manager Steve Hewlett called us ‘legendary’ in a recent coffee said: “The Retail BID fully sup- feature.” ports the move and look forward Six Eight counts two victories at the to working with Primark and UK national barista championship finals other retailers in High Street dur- among its many accolades, and was also ing the redevelopment.” named in The Independent’s top 50 cof- Primark plans to remain trading fee shops in the country. Six Eight further at its existing New Street store enhanced its reputation nationally when until 2018. the BBC broadcast live six times from the The scheme has been designed Temple Row branch in 2013. by Birmingham architecture practice 3D Reid. Head barista Connor Fox added: “We Existing tenants such as H&M, care passionately about the environment Marks & Spencer, Three and and everything we produce comes from Thorntons are expected to stay sustainable sources. at Primark Pavilions once the “From the farmer to the roaster to the redevelopment is complete barista, so much effort has gone into while Primark’s New Street store every coffee bean we’re obliged to do will close. each one justice.” Members of Birmingham City Six Eight also runs coffee tasting and Council’s planning committee brewing courses and hires out its speak- voted unanimously to approve easy-style basement, also the venue for the redevelopment and were particularly enthusiastic about its new alternative/acoustic music nights. the views which will greet visitors arriving at Moor Street Station For more information about the Busi- and the new HS2 Curzon Street Espresso delivery ness Class service visit sixeightkafe. station. co.uk/business-class/ PAGE 14 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016

SpecialSpecial BIDBID teamteam lookslooks atat bankingbanking

A special working party has been cre- ated to discuss the issues faced by banks Working party will be led by Bank Manager Beth Freeman and building societies in the Retail BID area. “It’s something I’m keen to do as Back in the 1970s Williams & Glyn’s Recognising the importance of banking part of Williams & Glyn’s ambition to Bank was seen as a bank that people and finance in the city centre, the Retail bring back the Bank Manager, and to liked and respected and the new BID group is aiming to share best practice be part of the community and get Williams & Glyn is aiming to build on when tackling subjects such as fraud and involved in local projects. this heritage when it returns to the UK to discuss public realm matters in areas “BID manager Steve Hewlett said he high street. like New Street. had an idea about having a separate RBS New Street is the first branch Plans for New Street are at the heart of ‘It’s something working party for the main banks in in the area to adopt the colours, Retail BID’s proposed third term and the the city, for us to get together to talk branding, decor and staff uniforms BID is working with the city council on I’m keen to do as about common issues such as fraud, for Williams & Glyn. a wide-ranging strategy for the historic part of Williams when we can share best practice. A new feature in the branch is an thoroughfare. & Glyn’s ambition “It will be good for us to get to- exposed brick ‘Heritage Wall’ featur- Leading the BID banking group is Beth gether and get to know each other, ing nostalgic images of Williams & Freeman, Bank Manager Future Williams & to bring back the as opposed to against each other. Glyn’s branches from the 1980s. Glyn team at RBS New Street. Bank Manager, and “We are competitors but we do “The idea was to bring along the Beth recently joined the Retail BID board to be part of the have common issues and we’re all in heritage and great reputation Wil- to become its first member who works in the city centre,” added Beth. liams & Glyn’s carried,” said Beth. banking. community and get RBS England and Wales is launch- “It was known as a bank at the heart “The working party is a great idea and involved in local ing the new bank, Williams & Glyn, of the community.” I’m delighted to head the group,” said in 2017. Born in , Beth has Beth. projects’ Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 15 Three new aerial images of city centre for show

Beth Freeman, Bank Manager Future Williams & Glyn team at RBS New TSB to open Street, left, and the branch’s Heritage Wall, above flagship worked for RBS for 25 years in a variety of roles, which have taken New Street her to different branches such as Edgbaston and Colmore Row. branch She has been at New Street, the TSB has revealed plans to open a new flagship branch area’s flagship branch, since June in Birmingham city centre. 2015. This is the first time TSB “My new role as Bank Manager, will launch a new purpose instead of Branch Manager, is more built site since it launched of a public face to talk to custom- back on to the high street in September 2013, with the ers about their needs, whether it new branch opening its doors be business banking, personal or to customers before the end mortgages. of this year. “We will also have the digital plat- With 58 per cent of Images on display at Royal Geographic Society, Kensington, London forms people use, such as mobile TSB customers saying it is and our app, so people can choose important to have branches near to where they regularly Retail BID is working with organisers of shots of Birmingham – while telling the how they want to bank.” travel to, the new centrally this summer’s Britain From The Air street story of the UK’s geography and history. Beth believes this is a great time to located branch at 131-132 New photography exhibition to commission Britain From The Air is a joint-project be based in Birmingham, with Grand Street is ideally placed for three new aerial images of Birmingham between street gallery pioneers We- Central transforming the city centre people living, working and city centre. communic8 and the Royal Geographical and people’s perceptions of it. shopping in the city. The Retail BID has pulled off a coup by Society, and is supported by Craghop- “I think it’s fantastic right now. I love The new branch concept earning the right to host the prestigious pers outdoor clothing. has been designed in exhibition in the city centre. The images are supported by text, data Grand Central and what they’ve response to customer research done with the station. and feedback. With TSB The street gallery, featuring around and maps from the Royal Geographical “I get the train to work and re- customers saying they want 100 giant aerial photographs, will swoop Society archives. member it being barricaded off for a mixture of face-to-face and into the city centre in mid-July for a two- Steve Hewlett, Retail BID manager, month stay to give the BID area added said: “We’re delighted to have secured months and months and then on digital services from their bank appeal for shoppers and visitors. sponsorship and been chosen as a the Monday morning it was opened branch, this is what the new branch is aiming to deliver. The exhibition, free to the public host city for Britain From The Air, which up... it was like stepping into a new “With nine in 10 (87%) and accessible 24 hours a day, will be we feel will add value to the shopping country! people requesting more displayed at the heart of the Retail BID experience and bring people into the “It’s brilliant for the city and seems TSB Partners on hand to area, along New Street, Corporation city in its own right. to be bringing in more people. help them, the human Street and High Street. “The images of Birmingham will un- “All this has meant lots of work in touch and personal service Britain From The Air showcases doubtedly show how dramatically the remains right at the heart of the city but it all seems to be com- breathtaking and thought-provoking city has changed in recent years – for these branches,” added a landscapes – including the new aerial the better.” ing together right now.” spokesperson. PAGE 16 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 Town Hall boss backs city ‘visitor experience’ plan New chief executive Nick Reed believes a diverse mix of attractions along with new Metro route can attract more visitors to city centre

The new chief executive of two of Birmingham’s most important cultural venues has welcomed a strategy to create a stronger visitor experience by connecting retail, dining and arts attrac- tions. Nick Reed took office at the world-fa- mous Town Hall and Symphony Hall in January and his appointment comes after a year of unprecedented launches in the city’s retail sector. An enhanced visitor experience, which means tourists spend longer in the city new terminus stop on Stephenson Street centre by using a diverse mix of retail, outside New Street Station, travel along dining or cultural attractions, is one of the Pinfold Street and turn west onto Victoria key ambitions of Retail BID’s proposed Square, with a new stop to serve this area third term. and the Town Hall. The BID’s strategy emphasises the From here, the extension travels along need for diversification to create a more Paradise Street to Paradise Circus then rounded destination with leisure, family turns onto Broad Street, where it will con- entertainment, food and beverage and tinue until it reaches the route terminus at enhanced retail markets alongside out- Centenary Square. standing public realm. Mr Reed believes Metro will help bring Built in 1834 the Grade I Listed Town Hall in more visitors who have had to rely on holds a special place in the hearts of Bir- car travel to the halls. mingham residents, while Symphony Hall, “We see it (Metro) as a positive thing for which celebrates its 25th anniversary this Town Hall and Symphony Hall,” said Mr year, is recognised as one of the world’s Reed. “Anything that is going to improve great concert halls. connections for us is a good thing. We Both will soon benefit from improved rely on a catchment area within an hour’s public transport services as the Metro drive time, but that’s just driving. tram service extends across the city “If we’ve got more joined up communi- centre. cations in the city it can only be good. Town Hall and Symphony Hall Chief Executive Nick Reed The Metro extension will run from the “The bulk of our audience catchment Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 17

INSTA CITY what our members have been snapping

Bullring @hmvbirmingham have a HUGE vinyl selection as well as a range of turntables.

comes from the Midlands region,” he share the same objectives. We work well Birmingham’s celebrated added. with trusts and foundations when we ask Town Hall is one of the city’s most popular venues greatwesternarcade We’re not “But if you look at what that means in ‘we do great things, please support us’. eggs-aggerating the scotch terms of having a consistent and compre- “The other ‘ask’ is regarding our great eggs at Anderson & Hill might hensive leisure offer in Birmingham, that performances where clients can entertain be the best we’ve ever had. makes us attractive as a viable destination and we can get them behind the ‘velvet for much further afield.” rope’. This is an important part of our With huge reductions in public sector commercial mix.” grants, Mr Reed is aware of the need to Just three months into his new role, how find new commercial models in the arts is Mr Reed finding the new-look Birming- and culture sector. ham? “There is a spirit of co-operation and “It’s been fantastic,” he said. “I’ve been reality in the culture sector and awareness in Manchester for the past ten years but that things do need to change,” he said. went to school in Birmingham. To come “In terms of the culture sector, the back is absolutely brilliant, to see the city changing financial climate is demanding at a time of profound change for the more resilience and economic indepen- better. ‘There was a dence. “There’s no doubt that Grand Central and feeling of ‘here “These are two important buildings and New Street was a huge totemic hurrah for we are’ with a tilt_brum Love Fridays :) we have to be culturally sensitive, aestheti- the city and it felt to me, observing that Especially that it’s a bank cally sensitive and we have to work with from afar, there was a feeling of ‘here we renewed self holiday and it’s an @Omnipollo harmonious commercial partners who are’ with a renewed self-confidence.” confidence’ takeover tomorrow! PAGE 18 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 Voice for independent stores has been ‘pivotal’ during street works Piccadilly Arcade retailer welcomes community approach during New Street and Metro projects

Being an independent trader, Mike countless other desirable objects, keep it clean and looking as good as Ferguson, who became a Retail has suffered from the Midlands Metro possible during all the works, includ- BID board member nine years ago, works diverting footfall away from Pic- ing dressing the streets with flower knows all about the challenges shop cadilly Arcade. displays,” he added. owners have faced in recent years. “The city will soon be in a better “We’ve also tackled issues regarding But he says having a voice has been place, but we’ve gone through so safety, beggars, rough sleepers, chug- pivotal in easing issues created by much upheaval to get there, which gers and noise. projects like the New Street Station has affected lots of people,” he “Not everything we want gets done and Midland Metro developments. added. but if we couldn’t put our case across “I was initially cautious about the “The Retail BID has worked on issues through the BID we’d be just talking Retail BID, thinking it would just be like pedestrian navigation and keep- amongst ourselves.” something else to pay for,” said Mike, ing the city looking half decent to Smithsonia, based in Piccadilly who runs Smithsonia in Piccadilly Ar- encourage people to visit.” Arcade for 34 years, has established cade, one of Birmingham’s oldest gift But Mike claims the board will soon a loyal customer base but Mike can and gallery shops, with wife Verity. be able to focus more on making never rest on his laurels. “But trying to establish a body to be improvements, rather than constantly “We source most of our gifts from the voice of independent retailers reacting to new problems. small UK-based designer makers,” he added up. “Things should get easier now the added. “There was no community among workmen have moved on and the “Our gifts are unique, cover a range the city’s numerous little businesses tram is running,” he said. of prices and are ideal for Christmas, and the Retail BID would be a forum “We’ll then be able to concentrate birthdays anniversaries, special occa- for building that. on the needs of the retail community, sions and whenever someone feels “After asking most of the questions rather than always problem solving, like treating themselves. at the initial meeting, I was invited and establish the next BID period, “Being established for so long, and onto the board – and they haven’t got which is up for renewal.” people knowing where to find us, has rid of me since! Mike highlights the introduction been crucial during recent times, es- “I really believe in its role. We discuss of way finder signs, city maps and pecially as we’ve also got new com- issues with decision-making public shopping guides among the BID’s petition from Grand Central shops. bodies on behalf of retailers.” successes. “We’re hoping footfall will increase Smithsonia, which sells silver jewel- “A lot of money has been spent on with the tram operating on our lery, handmade glass, bronzes and marketing the retail offer, battling to doorstep.”

OVER THE PAGE: FOCUS ON EXPANDING PICCADILLY CAFE FACULTY Edit JUNE/JULYNOV/DEC 20152016 PAGE 1915

Smithsonia co-owner Mike Ferguson became a Retail BID board member nine years ago

Be At One has opened in a former snooker hall in Stephenson Street New cocktail bar for a ‘bonkers, unique space’ Cocktail-lovers will be outside of London, has cre- nine weeks of training – cost- ‘cueing up’ to try the 150 con- ated 18 jobs for homegrown ing £5,000 each. Customers coctions available at a new bartender talent, who will will be acknowledged within Piccadilly Arcade bar. show off their skills behind an five seconds of reaching the Be At One made its Birming- eight-station bullnose bar. bar. ham debut when it opened its The 4,000-square-foot “To my knowledge no-one Stephenson Street doors on sub-basement is designed to else invests so much in May 12, after transforming the remain ‘intimate, warm and training bartenders and it’s ex-snooker hall beneath the pretentious-free’. important we employ local popular precinct. “It’s a bonkers, unique talent,” added Steve. Blended specialties like space and we feel it’s perfect “They understand the Popster, topped with sweet for Birmingham,” said Steve market’s nuances. We’ve got and salty popcorn, and Locke, who co-founded Be At a great team. They’re crazy, reimagined classics such as One with fellow bartenders but in a good way!” Gin Re-Fashioned feature on Rhys Oldfield and Leigh Miller Customers can utilise Be one of the industry’s largest 18 years ago. At One’s award-winning cocktail lists. “Birmingham is one of our smartphone app, with a There are even healthy biggest units and a major step personalised ‘Appi Hour’ and options in the virtuous range, for us. The city has a thriving a random daily £5 cocktail which contain less alcohol cocktail scene and we are available through the ‘Be Ap- and sugar. Beetroot juice, ma- very excited about joining it. pventurous’ feature. nuka honey and carrot juice “We’re consistently refining Private cocktail masterclass- are among the ingredients our menu, and testing the es, where guests can learn used to create Beetroot Re- drinks, to keep improving how to mix Be At One cock- tox, Bee’s Knees and Flame- them.” tails through games, races Haired Vixen respectfully. The focus on customer ser- and shake-offs, are available Be At One’s 31st site, and 12th vice sees bartenders undergo all year round. PAGE 20 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 Bright future for historic city arcade Faculty feels at home Small remains beautiful for a coffee and tea shop nestled among Piccadilly among Piccadilly Arcade’s array of independent stores. Arcade’s mix of The growing reputation of Faculty belies its intimate home for just over two years independent stores in the historic precinct, which runs be- and boutiques tween Stephenson Street and New Street. Piccadilly Arcade was built in 1910 as a picture house before being converted into an indoor shopping strip 16 years later. The original shop fronts have survived and Faculty and sister business Sixteen Bakery/Kitchen are ac- companied by jewellers, a beauty salon, cobbler, tailor and flower, gift and outdoor clothing/equip- ment shops. The arcade boasts spectacular ceiling art, with ‘A Life in the Year of the Chinchillas’, painted by Faculty’s Geoff Paul Maxfield in 1989, depicting the four Lam and Craig seasons as a metaphor for the life cycle. Bush inside the Word of Faculty’s brews and cakes cafe has spread far beyond the picturesque arcade, yet owner Geoff Lam and busi- ness partner Craig Bush have resisted the temptation to expand. Their only development work has seen the wall between Faculty and Sixteen de- molished to provide extra seating options for both sets of customers. Geoff’s wife Lucy ran and produced the baked goods for Sixteen, which sells Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 21

‘We’re based in a very interesting area, with lots of interesting shops. Now the tram’s working, the pendulum will hopefully swing the other way and we’ll see a further benefit to the area’

is as open as possible so customers aren’t afraid to ask questions about how we’re making their drink.” Taste is king at Faculty, which also sells retail beans and brewing equipment, like V60 kits. Customers can even sup at an old school desk, donated by a former home- schooling teacher. “Since opening, our main focus has been getting Faculty running smoothly and be- ing the very best it can be,” added Craig who, like Geoff, is a fully-trained barista. “We aim to extract the best flavours out of our coffees. Our baristas are constantly exploring the best ways to serve drinks to give us that extra edge. “We also offer tips on how customers can get the best out of their home brewing experience.” sandwiches, toasties, quiches, cakes, With new gates and improved lighting soups and salads, until the recent birth of planned, the future looks bright for Pic- their second child. cadilly Arcade – after a challenging recent “Piccadilly Arcade is a great community past. of independent stores and we all get on “With the tram works on Stephenson well,” said Geoff, who ran Saint Caffe in St Street, which had started well before we Paul’s Square for eight years. opened, it’s been tough at times,” added “We all offer something different but it’s Geoff. important we keep spreading the word. “But we’re hoping the worst is behind us. A lot of people still don’t know the arcade Things have been great since the redevel- exists. oped New Street Station opened, which “We opted for a small unit because we has been a real boost for the arcade. wanted an intimate and friendly atmo- “We’re based in a very interesting area, sphere, where customers can relate to with lots of interesting shops. Now the our staff. tram’s working, the pendulum will hopefully “We’re quality focused and put care and swing the other way and we’ll see a further time into making every drink. The layout benefit to the area.” PAGE 22 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016

The most recent Shopping Birmingham map featured new destinations such as Grand Central NEW SHOPPING MAP DUE FOR AUTUMN RELEASE City centre businesses will benefit from a new Shopping Birmingham map, which is due for release in the autumn. The folded pocket-sized map will be the fourth version of the Retail Birmingham-commissioned guide and will feature new retail- ers and other venues that have opened in recent months. All the major retail and leisure destinations, attractions and services will be shown on the Shopping Birmingham map with grid references and index to help visitors find their favourite shop, café, bar, restaurant or hotel. Independents and arcades will also be highlighted to show visi- tors where they can find unique and specialist stores, bars and coffee shops. The map links with the pedestri- an way-finding panels through- out the city centre and will have a print-run of over 200,000 He’sHe’s aa dedicateddedicated copies. It will be distributed to all major hotels, transport hubs and visitor centres across the region as well as being made available to members to distribute to customers. followerfollower ofof fashionfashion Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 PAGE 23

Moss Bros manager Dave Singh tells Edit about his store’s refit and how the brand is appealing to younger buyers

A city centre store looks tailor-made for further success as it capitalises on the increased footfall travelling past its front doors. Moss Bros, on the corner of New Street and Temple Street, will look as sharp as its ever-evolving menswear when it under- goes a mini refit later this year. Around £300,000 was spent on the first phase of the store’s revamp three years ago and general manager Dave Singh hopes the second stage will further increase its customer base. Moss Bros has overcome a challenging few years caused by the New Street Sta- tion revamp and Midland Metro expan- sion. But the redevelopment works have ended up playing into the store’s hands. “Business is very good – our sales figures are improving year upon year,” said Dave, who has been with the company for seven years. Pictures: Dave Singh, – a unique outfitting service that pro- “We’ve had to work hard. Like many city general manager of duces personalised suits for individuals or centre retailers, all the redevelopment Moss Bros on the groups. has made life difficult. It has impacted on corner of Temple Street “Tailor Me is for the more discerning and New Street footfall. shopper – no-one else on the high street “When the Midland Metro work is fin- offers this,” added Dave, who is organising ished, it will help bring in more shoppers a Tailor Me networking event in June. – it’ll be a novelty for anyone who has “We have 80 different cloths that can never been to a city with a tram. be made into suits in skinny, tailored or “But we’ve had months with a big hole regular fits and personalised with different outside our front door. Although we ap- coloured stitching, lining, monograms etc. preciated what was coming at the end of “It’s proving very popular with couples it, it’s been a testing time. “On the back of that major refit, we wanting to make their wedding day more “We’re now benefiting from having the again improved our stock package to ap- unique. We turn group orders around in doors to New Street Station in front of us. peal to our three main markets – fashion 30 days and each member can order Instead of going down the old Pallasades contemporary, fashionable and the guy their desired fit. ramp, many of the guys who work in the who comes in and buys the same black “It’s vital we offer this service as our city’s offices, our key customers, now walk or blue suit. ‘Fashion younger clientele are used to having past our doors.” “We’ve done well not to alienate any of is always more choice.” Dave says the impending mini-refit will our older customers while moving with Dave is a big advocate of the ongoing help Moss Bros keep pace with new the times. evolving. If Birmingham transformation. trends while retaining its appeal to long- “Fashion is always evolving. If you don’t you don’t “I love Brum,” he added. term customers. move with it, you get left behind. BHS is a move with it “We’re known historically as the Second “Before 2013, business was improving good example of that.” City and there’s loads happening here, but we still looked like a more traditional Another key factor in Moss Bros’ success you get left and lots and lots to do. We need to keep outfitter,” he said. has been the introduction of ‘Tailor Me’ behind’ shouting about it.” PAGE 24 Edit JUNE/JULY 2016 £300,000 Moss Bros investment in 150Different cocktail concoctions its New Street/ available at the new Be At One Temple Street Bar next to Piccadilly Arcade! store STORY: STORY: PAGE 19 PAGES 22&23 MILLION 960,000 Pieces of chewing gum removed from the streets by Retail BID STORY: PAGES 8&9 £Funding secured31 for next phase of Edit Midland Metro to Centenary Square IN NUMBERS STORY: PAGES 6&7 1834 The year Birmingham’s 70%Reduction in the number of beloved Town city centre ‘chuggers’ after new Hall was built guidelines were introduced INTERVIEW: STORY: PAGE 3 PAGES 16&17