Story launches free advice series to support region’s businesses as two thirds say they are confident of growth in 2021

News
28/01/2021

More than two thirds of Midlands business leaders are ‘confident’ of growth this year, according to new research from PR agency, Story Comms. 

The findings, drawn from the agency’s Midlands: Graft & Grow report, show that while three quarters (78%) of businesses aren’t ‘bouncing back’ yet, the region’s leaders are optimistic. 

Despite a difficult year they are looking ahead and planning a clear route to growth, with two thirds (66%) believing they will see pre-pandemic growth levels from July 2021, and 15% expecting it sooner.

Amanda Lowe, Managing Director, Story Comms said:

“The last year has tested and stretched every business. But, our research has found that as 2021 gets underway, many are drawing on the lessons learnt to devise a plan for recovery and growth.”


Today, Story launches a free ‘Graft & Grow’ advice series for businesses going for growth this year. The series, which includes interviews, insights and blogs, gives leaders a clear guide for their comms and brand planning in 2021.

Lowe added:

“The rules have changed. To stand out, businesses must connect on a much deeper emotional level than ever before. Honest, real storytelling about your business, its people, its challenges and achievements is how customers, clients, stakeholders and more will relate - and buy into you over the long term.

“Our new series takes everything we learnt in our research and packages it into clear insight and guidance. From Black Lives Matter and inclusion, to conjuring up innovation; government support and how to make money in a post-Brexit world. There are a myriad of previously unknown issues to be navigated. 

“Telling your business’ story well to your staff, customers and beyond is the starting point. We aim to help the region’s businesses do just that.”


Story’s Midlands: Graft & Grow report saw the agency interview 18 regional leaders from businesses including EY, NatWest, Anthony Collins Solicitors, Avison Young, Berkeley Group, Midlands Connect, the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce. These interviews were backed by a survey of 50 regional decision makers.