With multiple substantial US tariff changes this year – from the removal of the de minimis exemption to amended steel and aluminium duties – the tariff landscape is more uncertain than ever. This session will guide UK exporters through classification and origin essentials, explain the documentation required, and highlight recent developments affecting trade. Through real-world examples and expert insight, we’ll help you manage risk and simplify export operations to the US.
Speakers: Emmanuel, Head of Consultancy and Training, ChamberCustoms
Paul Wrighting, Documentation Trade Training & Compliance Manager, British Chambers of Commerce
Brian Staples, President, Trade Facilitation Services
William Bain, Head of Trade Policy, British Chambers of Commerce
This practical session goes beyond theory, drawing on ChamberCustom’s first-hand experience of supporting businesses through customs audits. We’ll share lessons learned from the field, explain what auditors focus on, and show how businesses can spot and fix compliance gaps before they become issues.
By the end of the session, you will have a clearer understanding of how to conduct effective internal reviews, how to avoid the common pitfalls we see during audits, and how to embed a culture of compliance across your organisation. The session is ideal for businesses that want to reduce risk, strengthen their customs processes, and feel fully prepared when the auditors arrive.
Speakers:
Marika Majewska, Customs Development Executive, ChamberCustoms
Mitch Perks, Deputy Director of Trade Services, British Chambers of Commerce
Emmanuel Gianquitto, Head of Consultancy and Training, ChamberCustoms
This practical session goes beyond theory, drawing on ChamberCustom’s first-hand experience of supporting businesses through customs audits. We’ll share lessons learned from the field, explain what auditors focus on, and show how businesses can spot and fix compliance gaps before they become issues.
By the end of the session, you will have a clearer understanding of how to conduct effective internal reviews, how to avoid the common pitfalls we see during audits, and how to embed a culture of compliance across your organisation. The session is ideal for businesses that want to reduce risk, strengthen their customs processes, and feel fully prepared when the auditors arrive.
Speakers: Marika Majewska, Customs Development Executive, ChamberCustoms
Mitch Perks, Deputy Director of Trade Services, British Chambers of Commerce
Emmanuel Gianquitto, Head of Consultancy and Training, ChamberCustoms
The High Points are a high-energy funk, soul, and pop band from Norwich, UK, known for their infectious grooves, powerful live performances, and feel-good vibes. Whether busking on the streets or selling out venues, they bring an irresistible energy that gets people moving.
Their journey has seen them sell out multiple shows, including a 700-capacity headline gig at The Waterfront in Norwich. Their music has also made waves across the Atlantic, with their song Taking My Time landing a major sync deal in a huge American ad campaign.
Now, The High Points are taking things to the next level, currently working on their highly anticipated album, set to showcase their signature blend of funk, soul, and modern pop. With a growing fanbase and a reputation for unforgettable live shows, they’re a band on the rise—bringing the party wherever they go.
Scrutton Bland, part of the Sumer Group, has further expanded its East Anglian footprint with the acquisition of Argents Chartered Accountants, a well-established accountancy firm based in Norwich.
The move marks another significant step in Scrutton Bland’s regional growth, following the acquisitions of Jacobs Allen in October 2024 and Tile & Co in February earlier this year. Together, these developments strengthen the firm’s presence across Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex, while enhancing its ability to support local businesses with specialist advice and personal service.
This latest acquisition not only extends Scrutton Bland’s geographical reach into Norfolk but also bolsters its expertise in the agricultural sector, an area where the firm continues to see strong growth and opportunity.
A team of 21 new colleagues join Scrutton Bland from Argents, led by Jon Spoor and Mark Johnstone, who both join as Partners, strengthening Scrutton Bland’s Senior Leadership Team. Jon brings extensive experience supporting clients in the agricultural sector, while Mark specialises in working with owner-managed and family-run SMEs, as well as charities and voluntary organisations.
Commenting on the acquisition, Jon Spoor said:
“We’re really excited to be joining Scrutton Bland. From the outset, it was clear that our values align, putting clients and people first, and providing forward-thinking advice with a personal touch. This move creates fantastic opportunities for our clients, who will now benefit from an even wider range of expertise and services, and for our team, who are joining a business that’s ambitious and growing across East Anglia.”
Jason Fayers, Managing Partner at Scrutton Bland, added:
“We’re delighted to welcome Jon, Mark and the whole Argents team to Scrutton Bland. Their reputation, expertise and local connections make them a great fit for our business, and together we’re in a strong position to continue growing our presence in East Anglia. This acquisition is another important milestone in our ongoing journey to build and grow, whilst delivering exceptional advice and support to clients across the region.”
Argents will be rebranded as Scrutton Bland over the coming weeks and months, as the team integrates into the wider business.
Looking for a different night out that mixes creativity with fun?
Redwell Tap Room paint-and-sip events are perfect for date nights, birthdays, girls’ nights or even just unwinding solo.
Paint and Sip is all about following along with easy step-by-step instructions. Copying each step in a ‘Follow the leader’ style instruction will enable even the most inexperienced participant to see their blank canvas turn into something frame-worthy. Great for groups and first-timers alike. Of course you can be creative and add your own style, as it is all about enjoying your evening out.
Food and drink is available to purchase. Enjoy freshly prepared hot food from the in-house pizza kitchen and a selection of refreshments and delicious craft beers produced at the brewery. During the week Redwell is a working brewery and at the weekend it becomes a popular tap room.
We provide all materials required, acrylic paints, canvases, paintbrushes and
aprons.
We clear up and tidy away at the end, so all you need to to is enjoy the friendly fun
atmosphere at the brewery.
Please check in with the artist10 minutes prior to the start of the activity to get settled.
(We do our best to accomodate late-comers to ensure that everyone is painting at the same pace).
Established in 2008, The Norwich Choir is known for its heartfelt singing and spirited performances. Free from sheet music, they connect with each other and their audience through focus, energy, and joy. One moment you’ll be moved by their beautiful harmonies, and the next, the whole family will be joining in with an old favourite. Expect touching songs, infectious enthusiasm, and a performance that will leave you smiling and uplifted.
Come and join Zoe, from Wallflower Florist for a cosy, festive evening to learn how to create your very own beautiful wreath to adorn your door. Zoe will guide and help you throughout the session.All materials will be provided including an array of foliage, natural decor and gorgeous ribbons.A glass of mulled wine and some Christmas snacks from Redwell Brewery are included to help fuel your creativity
Come join us after the little ones have been trick or treating and soak up a pint or two, while we have the brilliant Magic House perform for you in the taproom.Magic house – dreamy indie with a touch of shoe gaze haze. Think Fleetwood Mac got lost in a lucid dream.Check them out on Instagram – magichouse.magichouse
Enjoy a day of fun Christmas activities for every one!Sunday 7th December, 1-5pm at our Taproom.Each ticket is per child, ADULTS FREE and includes:Meet & Greet with the Grinch
Santa’s Grotto
Christmas decoration crafts
Elf on the shelf hunt
Christmas cookie decorating
plus, the Broadbeat Choir will be singing all the classics!Ticket does not include a booked table.We recommend to book a table.
Discover how UK businesses can maximise the benefits of Free Trade Agreements, with a spotlight on the CPTPP and the principles of cumulation. Using real-world examples, we’ll explain how rules of origin apply and what traders must do to qualify for preferential tariffs. This session is ideal for exporters seeking to unlock new opportunities in global markets.
Speakers: Emmanuel Gianquitto, Head of Consultancy and Training, ChamberCustoms
Paul Wrighting, Documentation Trade Training & Compliance Manager, British Chambers of Commerce
Olivia Herford, CPTPP Utilisation Lead, Department for Business and Trade
William Bain, Head of Trade Policy, British Chambers of Commerce
We’re buzzing to welcome Alex Rushto the Beacon IT family! ?
Alex joins us as a 1st Line IT Support Engineer, which means he’s now officially one of the friendly humans on the other end of the line when your tech throws a tantrum.
He’s already jumped into the deep end (no floaties needed), helping customers with fast fixes, remote magic, and classic IT conundrums like “Why won’t it print…again?”
To help you get to know Alex a little better, we asked him a few “essential” questions:
? What’s your go-to tech tip for everyday users?
? “There’s no such thing as a silly IT question. But there is such a thing as wasting an hour on Reddit.”
? If you could swap places with any fictional character for a day, who would it be and why?
? “Aragorn from Lord of the Rings, who wouldn’t want to be the king of Gondor for a day?”
? What’s one piece of tech you couldn’t live without?
? “A solid keyboard, when typing all day for a living, you want a keyboard that is comfortable to type on, without giving you any discomfort.”
? What’s the weirdest IT issue you’ve ever come across?
? “A user swore their PC was possessed because it kept typing on its own. Turned out they’d left a wireless keyboard in their bag…still connected.”
? If you were a biscuit, what would you be and why?
? “A chocolate digestive, simple and not very flashy, just like me.”
We’re excited to have Alex on board and let’s just say, the helpdesk tea rota has already improved dramatically ☕