< Previous40 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk CORPORATE HOSPITALITY adapting their layouts and services to accommodate corporate gatherings. This blending of personal and professional functions highlights the fluidity of modern hospitality and the willingness of operators to rethink their identities. The importance of setting in corporate hospitality has also grown as companies reassess the role of in-person gatherings in the wake of hybrid working. If travel and time are to be justified, the venue must offer more than a table and projector. Scenic locations, immersive activities and exclusive access are now part of the equation. Operators that can blend practicality with distinctiveness are finding they have a stronger proposition for clients keen to maximise every pound of their event budget. This shift reflects a wider change in corporate expectations. Businesses are increasingly seeking venues that not only facilitate meetings but also provide a broader experience. Wellness sessions, creative workshops and live entertainment are being incorporated into corporate events, creating opportunities for attendees to connect in less formal, more engaging ways. By positioning themselves as facilitators of both professional outcomes and personal enrichment, venues are aligning more closely with what modern companies want. Economic headwinds, however, remain a defining challenge. The withdrawal of generous tax discounts has made trading conditions more difficult. For operators reliant on casual consumer trade, this can be damaging. For those targeting corporate clients, the picture is more nuanced. Corporate contracts often bring stability, with repeat bookings and consistent demand www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 41 CORPORATE HOSPITALITY smoothing revenue streams. This reliability can make significant investment in venue upgrades or new offerings more viable, even when the broader environment is uncertain. What emerges is a picture of a sector balancing tradition with innovation. The grandeur of a well-appointed dining room still carries weight, but it is being complemented by flexible spaces, wellness-orientated programmes and imaginative entertainment. A venue is no longer just a backdrop; it is part of the story a company wants to tell its clients or employees. By investing in these narratives, operators are making themselves indispensable to businesses seeking to forge stronger connections. The trajectory of venue-based corporate hospitality will continue to be shaped by external forces as well as the creativity of those within the industry. Economic pressures, shifts in policy and fluctuations in discretionary spending all matter. Yet there is a resilience that should not be underestimated. Hospitality has repeatedly adapted to new circumstances, drawing on its ability to reinvent the experiences it offers. The latest trends suggest that the sector remains committed to the enduring value of face-to-face connection. At its core, corporate hospitality thrives on trust. Companies trust venues to reflect their brand, to deliver experiences that align with their goals, and to provide an environment where relationships can flourish. Venues, in turn, trust that the demand will justify the resources they commit. This interdependence is what makes the sector both vulnerable and robust— sensitive to shocks but quick to innovate. ธีรเชษฐ ชิณวงศ42 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk AUTOLINK A trio of exceptional estate cars We take a look at three new premium brand estate cars available, each offering a unique blend of performance, luxury, and innovative features.www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 43 AUTOLINK BMW 3 Series Touring The BMW 3 Series is a premium executive car renowned for its handling. For those requiring extra practicality, the estate version, the 3 Series Touring, is a great option. Launched in 1987, it is now in its seventh generation, with both saloon and estate versions recently undergoing a facelift. The Touring is available in Sport and M Sport trim levels, featuring two 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engines: the 320i with 184PS and the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) 330e, which produces 292PS. The PHEV boasts an improved 22.3kWh battery, allowing an all-electric range of 61 miles. Performance-wise, the 320i accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 7.6 seconds, while the 330e, driven here, achieves this in just 6.0 seconds. Handling is exceptional, delivering a planted ride with minimal body lean, particularly in M Sport trim, which enhances cornering stability. Interior-wise, the 3 Series Touring offers a classy feel, with a top-notch infotainment system. The 330e’s boot provides 410 litres of space, expanding to 1,420 litres. While SUVs may offer more cargo capacity, the 3 Series Touring remains a cool choice in the compact estate segment, combining practicality with impressive performance. 44 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk AUTOLINK Skoda Superb Estate The Skoda Superb Estate has long been celebrated for its practicality, spaciousness, and premium edge. The SE L 2.0 TSi 190PS DSG model elevates these qualities by introducing a level of luxury and refinement that’s hard to overlook. With its elegant design, the Superb Estate commands attention. The prominent front grille and striking LED headlights contribute to its sophisticated appearance, while the 18- inch alloy wheels not only enhance its looks but also ensure a smooth driving experience. The estate body style is particularly appealing for families or business folk requiring generous boot space for larger items. The car on test here boasts 690 litres of cargo capacity – and almost three times that with the seats folded. Inside, the cabin is a haven of comfort and luxury. The seats provide excellent support, enveloped in high-quality leather upholstery that adds a touch of class. The well- organised dashboard and easily accessible controls make for a user-friendly experience. The advanced infotainment system includes a touchscreen display, satellite navigation, and an impressive multi-speaker sound system. Performance-wise, the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine driven here has 190 horses under its bonnet, paired with a responsive seven-speed DSG transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes just 7.8 seconds, reflecting its sporty edge. Coupled with an array of advanced driving aids, the Skoda Superb Estate SE L 2.0 TSi 190PS DSG is undoubtedly a top choice for those seeking a luxurious, practical estate car. www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 45 AUTOLINK Audi RS 6 The Audi RS 6 is a remarkable estate car that combines mad power with practicality, making it both terrifying and exhilarating. With its high price tag (over £110,000), purchasing such an expensive car feels like madness, especially with the automotive world shifting towards electrification. However, the RS 6 may one day become a sought-after classic, appreciated as a rare V8 treasure in an increasingly electric landscape. While the RS 6 can certainly be driven aggressively, it caters well to family and business needs. It accommodates five passengers comfortably and boasts a generous boot capacity of 565 litres, allowing ample space for luggage or golf clubs. The growling sound from under the bonnet signals that something extraordinary lies beneath the surface. Despite its performance mindset, the RS 6 doesn’t focus on fuel efficiency; you can’t expect more than early 20smpg. Nevertheless, the thrill of owning a powerful V8 may be part of its allure. The fourth-generation RS 6 Avant showcases advanced technology, including a 4.0 TFSI engine that produces 630PS and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The RS 6’s suspension is expertly designed to balance comfort and performance. It sits 20 millimetres lower than the standard A6 Avant, enhancing handling, especially at higher speeds. With its legacy, the RS 6 Avant is an icon among premium car connoisseurs. In uncertain times, this estate offers the chance to fulfil automotive dreams, reminding us to seize opportunities when they arise. Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre An all-electric marvel 46 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk AUTOLINKFast Facts Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre: • Max speed: 155 mph • 0-60 mph: 4.1 secs • Range: 306-329 miles • Engine layout: Dual electric motors, all-wheel drive • Power (PS): 659 • CO2: 0 g/km • Price from: £350,000 to £500,000+ In the realm of ultra-luxury vehicles, few brands captivate the imagination quite like Rolls-Royce. The introduction of the Black Badge Spectre elevates this legacy to unprecedented heights, marking it as the most powerful Roller ever built. The Black Badge Spectre is an all-electric marvel, and we recently had the privilege of taking the two-door coupe for a test drive, beginning at the picturesque Grantley Hall in Ripon – a perfect setting for an experience defined by elegance and refinement. From the outset, the Spectre's design exudes sophistication. Its prominent grille commands attention, accentuated by streamlined headlights that enhance its road presence. The iconic Spirit of Ecstasy perched on the bonnet epitomises luxury. Upon entering, we found ourselves enveloped in an atmosphere of sumptuousness. The heavy doors closed with a reassuring thud, a testament to Rolls-Royce's meticulous engineering. Inside, the attention to detail is astounding; the aroma of luxurious leather mingles with the striking Black Badge Technical Fibre, which seems almost alive under ambient lighting. As we departed the idyllic grounds of Grantley Hall, we drove through North Yorkshire, soaking in the lush countryside from the comfort of the Rolls-Royce. The first remarkable aspect was the serene atmosphere that surrounds us in this magnificent vehicle. Exhilarating acceleration follows, with an impressive 0- 60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds. The Spectre challenges preconceptions about luxury vehicle performance. The driving experience is both remarkable and versatile, whether navigating winding country roads or merging onto fast-paced stretches. Handling the Spectre is surprisingly intuitive; its size belies its agility. Steering feedback inspires confidence, allowing this luxurious giant to negotiate tight corners with grace. Technologically, the Black Badge Spectre impresses with a sophisticated infotainment system that seamlessly merges navigation and connectivity. A notable feature is the tailor-made audio system, which delivers an exceptional acoustic experience. Every function can be personalised, ensuring each journey feels uniquely yours. The Black Badge Spectre is a triumph of engineering and design. For those with £350,000 to £500,000 to spare and seeking an extraordinary luxury driving experience, this Rolls-Royce will undoubtedly satisfy. www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 47 AUTOLINK48 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk person event designed to equip businesses across Nottinghamshire, Nottingham, Derbyshire, and Derby with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to thrive in global trade. Whether you’re new to importing/exporting or scaling up international operations, this forum offers practical insights, expert guidance, and peer-to-peer learning to help your business trade smarter and more confidently. Webinar – Making US Trade Work for You: Tariffs, Talks & Tips Tuesday 23 September Online The UK–US trade landscape is shifting. With the reintroduction of targeted US tariffs and ongoing uncertainty around the future of the UK–US trade agreement, British exporters must navigate a new wave of compliance, cost implications, and strategic trade decisions. This fast-paced 1- hour webinar will break down the latest updates to US trade tariffs, explore current UK–US negotiations, and provide practical guidance to help your business respond effectively. Whether you are already trading across the Atlantic or planning to enter the Utilising ChatGPT for your Business Tuesday 16 September Holiday Inn Nottingham, Nottingham Are you intrigued by the potential of artificial intelligence for your business? Have you heard of ChatGPT and want to know how it can help streamline your operations and improve your marketing? This one-day action planning workshop is designed to introduce you to the powerful world of ChatGPT. This workshop is a fantastic opportunity for business owners and marketing managers at SMEs to understand and adopt AI in their business strategy. East Midlands International Trade Network - Forum Meeting Thursday 18 September Eastwood Hall, Nottingham The East Midlands International Trade Network - Forum Meeting is an in- events US market, this session is designed to arm you with the insights and actions needed to stay competitive. Carbon Footprinting, the Next Steps Tuesday 30 September Online So, you’ve produced your first carbon footprint, now what? This webinar will help organisations use the available information to prioritise the areas of © stock.adobe.com/Murrstock Manufacturing and Engineering Roundtable Tuesday 30 September Dynex Semi-conductors, Lincoln This interactive forum will bring together senior industry professionals, innovators, and leaders from across the manufacturing and engineering sectors. It’s an opportunity to take part in meaningful discussions, build valuable connections, and share industry insights. © stock.adobe.com/Chaosamran_Studiowww.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link 49 focus for reducing their carbon emissions and the associated financial benefits. Events & Marketing Roundtable Tuesday 30 September The Drill, Lincoln This roundtable is designed for field professionals to come together in an open discussion format, sharing challenges, exploring opportunities, and exchanging ideas to drive the events and marketing community forward. Crossing Frontiers: Connecting Industries with the Space Economy Wednesday 1 October Space Park Leicester, Leicester Are you ready to launch your technology into a new orbit? Join TWI and Space Park Leicester for a unique event designed to connect space and non-space sector innovators, and explore how cross-sector technologies can thrive in the fast-evolving global space economy. Whether you’re from automotive, aerospace, motorsport, nuclear, materials science, electronics or advanced manufacturing, this is your opportunity to discover how your innovations could be adapted and commercialised for space. East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 Thursday 2 October Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Returning for 2025, this year’s East Midlands Bricks Awards marks 10 years of the prestigious event! Shining a light on the region’s property and construction industry, and offering an opportunity to network and celebrate with respected business leaders, this year’s eagerly anticipated ceremony will take place on Thursday 2nd October at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground in Nottingham, welcoming Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands, as keynote speaker. Visit www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk/mag/bricks-2025-nominations/ to find out more. Cyber Confidence: How to Safeguard Your Business Thursday 25 September Online Cyber threats are rising, and small to medium-sized businesses are increasingly in the crosshairs. Join The Cyber Resilience Centre for East Midlands and Custodia Continuity for this essential webinar and gain the knowledge to better protect your business from digital threats. Next >