And the winner is! Frances Darling is head of business and consumer protection, Homes & Communities, Place Directorate, with Shropshire Council, and its representative on the CEnTSA management board Welcome to the Summer 2022 edition of TSBN. Were well into awards season, and on that note we bring you the final results of the Federation of Small Businesses West Midlands Celebrating Small Business Awards 2022. It is always a pleasure to hear about the ambitions and achievements of the regions small businesses, particularly given the unprecedented challenges over the previous two years. I am sure you will join me in congratulating all those who were motivated to enter, who were finalists, and those who ultimately won in each of the 12 categories. We have provided start-up business advice to support those who are considering, or have already taken, the first steps towards setting up their own business, including signposting to free useful tools and guidance covering a range of regulatory topics and fire safety. I am sure you will join me in congratulating all who were motivated to enter the FSB Awards, the finalists, and those who won in each of the 12 categories There is also information on the Good Business Charter and how it can provide credibility when submitting procurement and supply chain bids, plus an update on the governments Spring Statement, highlighting business support initiatives. We cannot ignore the tragic situation that has been unfolding in Ukraine, and that this is having a global impact. It is anticipated that it will affect the supply of certain food ingredients, including grain and sunflower oil, which may lead to issues with the labelling of foodstuffs and the potential for increased risks, particularly in relation to allergens. There is advice to help food manufacturers and retailers address these issues. On the theme of the food chain, there is also a brief reminder to poultry businesses about how to protect their flocks from avian influenza. The rapid rise in energy costs is affecting all businesses and particularly those who rely on heating and refrigeration. We take a look at steps to reduce the costs, including regular maintenance of equipment to improve efficiency and reduce fire safety risks. From a product safety perspective, we cover responsibilities on importers, including product recalls, together with helpful information about the consequences and impact of becoming an importer now that the UK is no longer in the EU. This links to articles on age-restricted sales focusing on vaping (nicotineinhaling) products and corrosive substances; there is advice for retailers to help reduce the risk of selling these products to children and steps to take to reduce the prevalence of illegal products in the supply chain. This edition also includes a focus on hosting summer events, with a timely reminder for licensed premises to make sure their outdoor spaces are licensed correctly and controlled properly, to ensure public safety and minimise nuisance to neighbours. Finally, we remind businesses to report concerns about fakes and counterfeit goods as we get closer to the start of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham on 28 July. This will help maintain a fair trading environment and allow legitimate businesses to benefit from the Games. I am sure you will agree that there is a wealth of information in this edition of TSBN. So please do read on for the detail, and feel free to circulate this and future editions to other organisations and your colleagues. Until next time, For further information, please contact your local Trading Standards Service