Business leaders from across the borough met at Solihull Moors Football Club this week for a breakfast forum hosted by Saqib Bhatti, the Member of Parliament for Meriden and Solihull East, to examine the opportunities and pressures shaping the local economy.
Focus on skills and pathways into employment
Participants emphasised the need to expand practical work experience and strengthen the links between employers, education providers and government so young people can access sustainable careers within the borough. The discussion drew on the host MP’s background with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and the role that local firms play in generating employment and investment.
Speakers highlighted several recurring themes that influence business decisions and long‑term prosperity in Solihull:
- Workforce development — better routes into employment and more on‑the‑job experience for young people;
- Collaboration — closer working between schools, colleges and employers to align skills to local demand;
- Investment climate — ensuring the borough remains attractive for business growth and job creation.
Local accountability and next steps
Organisers described the event as part of an ongoing dialogue between elected representatives and the private sector rather than a one‑off meeting. That continuity matters to ensure that concerns raised by businesses translate into practical measures that can be taken by education providers, council officers and national policymakers.
“Local businesses are vital, they create jobs, support families and invest in our communities, so it is essential that their voices are heard.”
Also taking part was Samantha Frampton, chief executive of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce, who underlined the value of bringing firms together with decision‑makers. The chamber’s role in representing business priorities was highlighted as central to ensuring conversations at events such as this lead to tangible changes on the ground.
What residents and employers should watch for
For residents, particularly young people and parents, the forum signals a renewed focus on expanding work experience opportunities in the borough. Employers should expect continued engagement from the MP’s office and the chamber as they press for better coordination with schools and colleges. For local government, the meeting increases pressure to translate business feedback into actionable local skills strategies and to monitor whether commitments made at forums are implemented.
| Participants | Role |
|---|---|
| Saqib Bhatti MP | Host; Meriden and Solihull East representative |
| Local employers | Provided experience and raised concerns |
| Solihull Chamber of Commerce | Represented business interests; engagement lead |
The forum adds to a stream of local initiatives aimed at ensuring Solihull remains a favourable environment for firms while addressing the borough’s skills needs. The effectiveness of such meetings will be judged on whether they produce measurable increases in work placements, apprenticeships and local recruitment that benefit both businesses and residents.
