Reflections from the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Expo 2024

What We’ve Learned from Local Businesses

This year’s Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Expo at Edgbaston Cricket Ground has been an insightful and rewarding experience for Best 4 Business Communications (B4BC). The event not only provided us with the opportunity to showcase our comprehensive telecoms solutions but also allowed us to engage in meaningful conversations with local businesses, understand their challenges, and better appreciate the evolving demands of the Birmingham business landscape.

Key Takeaways from the Expo:

1. A Growing Appetite for Superfast Connectivity

It was clear from our conversations that businesses across Birmingham are increasingly reliant on robust, high-speed internet to remain competitive. The demand for superfast broadband has never been higher, as more organisations move their operations online, embrace cloud-based services, and rely on real-time data exchanges to support their day-to-day activities.

Local business owners consistently highlighted the need for reliable, fast, and scalable broadband solutions to ensure smooth operations. From retail businesses needing seamless connectivity for e-commerce platforms, to manufacturing firms using IoT technology, the message was clear: a business is only as strong as its internet connection.

At Best 4 Business Communications, we were excited to demonstrate how Fibreoptic broadband, such as Boost Fibre, our very own broadband provider, can deliver the speed and reliability businesses need. Boost Fibre utilises alternative networks to provide high-speed business broadband, ensuring that businesses—big or small—get the connectivity they need, regardless of where they’re situated. Even if you’ve been told that fibre isn’t available in your area, Boost Fibre can leverage alternative networks to deliver fast, reliable broadband, keeping your business competitive and connected.

2. Flexibility and Agility in Telecommunications

Another common theme was the growing importance of flexibility in business telecommunications. Birmingham businesses, particularly SMEs, are looking for systems that can adapt to their changing needs without the hassle of complicated, long-term contracts. Many we spoke to expressed frustrations with rigid contracts and telecom providers that are slow to respond when their needs evolve.

We were able to demonstrate how our VOIP telephony solutions offer the flexibility to scale up or down as businesses grow or shift their focus. The ability to add lines, adjust features, and make changes in real-time is a key driver for many companies looking to future-proof their communication systems.

3. Simplicity and Consolidation are Key

One of the most significant pain points shared by the businesses we engaged with was the complexity of managing multiple service providers for telecoms, broadband, and business utilities. From dealing with various bills to chasing different providers for support, business owners expressed a desire for simplification.

At B4BC, we’ve long understood the value of offering a one-stop solution, and it was reassuring to see just how relevant this remains. Our ability to combine business utilities, broadband, telephony, and mobile services into one cohesive, fully managed solution resonated with so many of the businesses we spoke with. Simplifying service management and delivering proactive customer support was a message that really hit home.

4. Local Support Matters

While there’s no denying that the telecommunications industry is filled with national and even global giants, there was a strong sentiment among Birmingham businesses that local expertise and personalised service make all the difference.

Many attendees expressed frustrations with large, faceless providers that treat them as just another number. The idea of having a local telecom partner who understands the challenges and dynamics of Birmingham business, and who is always on hand to provide responsive support, was a huge draw.

At B4BC, we pride ourselves on being that local provider. With 24/7 support and dedicated account management, we’re able to offer the personalised service that so many businesses told us they were missing.

Looking Forward: How B4BC Is Supporting Birmingham Businesses

The GBBExpo24 has reinforced just how essential tailored, agile, and reliable communications solutions are to the success of local businesses. Having the opportunity to connect with so many inspiring and ambitious businesses at the event has only strengthened our commitment to serving Birmingham’s business community.

We’re excited to continue helping local organisations enhance their connectivity and grow their operations with solutions like:

• Business broadband, ensuring high speed connectivity no matter where you are. Including Boost Fibre, our own self-managed broadband service.
• VOIP telephony to keep teams connected with ultimate flexibility.
• Business mobile solutions that empower employees wherever they are.
• Utilities management that simplifies operations and saves costs.

The expo may be over, but our work with Birmingham’s businesses is only beginning. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your broadband, optimise your telecommunications, conduct business on the move with our flexible business mobile plans or consolidate your utilities, Best 4 Business Communications is here to help.

If you missed us at the expo, don’t worry – our team is always on hand to discuss how we can make your business better connected and more efficient.

Get in touch with us today and let’s start a conversation about how we can help your business thrive.