A new initiative to support businesses in the county was launched at an event held in the House of Commons marking the tenth anniversary of Staffordshire Day.

The event, on Tuesday (28 April), saw the launch of the new Made in Staffordshire initiative, a countywide accreditation scheme designed to champion Staffordshire's businesses, makers and manufacturers that help to define Staffordshire's identity.

County businesses of all sizes came together to celebrate the county's identity, heritage and industry as Staffordshire's producers and "world leading businesses" were showcased to MPs ministers and national decision makers.

The event was part of wider Staffordshire Day celebrations, which takes place annually on 1 May to mark the date Josiah Wedgwood opened his factory in Burslem in 1759.

Hannah Ault, Chair of We Are Staffordshire said: "As Chair of We Are Staffordshire, I was incredibly proud to see Staffordshire showcased at the heart of Parliament as we celebrate ten years of Staffordshire Day.

"I was especially proud for my own business to be there representing our world-renowned ceramics industry, giving MPs the opportunity to have a go with clay – a material that sits at the very roots of Staffordshire's identity, heritage and global reputation. 

"Events like this are so important in raising awareness of everything Staffordshire has to offer – from advanced manufacturing and innovation to creativity, skills and investment opportunities. The launch of Made in Staffordshire is a powerful way to champion our businesses, strengthen pride of place and showcase our county on the national stage."

The scheme will bring together manufacturing, the creative sector and food and drink producers under one quality mark.

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A spokesperson for Staffordshire County Council said: "The scheme will support businesses with increased visibility, shared promotion and a stronger collective voice, while giving customers confidence in quality, authenticity and provenance.

"It promotes Staffordshire's role at the heart of British manufacturing and creativity, helping to create more jobs, attract investment and boost sustainable economic growth."

Aspro Studios, a Staffordshire gifting business was one of the first businesses to join the Made in Staffordshire initiative. 

Founder Kay Vassiliou said: "The Made in Staffordshire initiative connects me more deeply with a vibrant, supportive community of creatives and makers – opening up events and opportunities through collective branding, and helping elevate our voice and visibility beyond what we could achieve alone."

A Staffordshire marketplace was held during the event to highlight the range and quality of businesses and organisations in the county.

Businesses taking part included GE Vernova, JCB, Keele University, Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group, The New Vic Theatre, Lucideon, St George's Park, Titanic Brewery and Woolcool.

Martin Murray, leader of Staffordshire County Council, said: "We are proud to showcase Staffordshire as the beating heart of the country. Our county is the nation's playground and a prime location for major business investment, with its mix of heritage, creativity, skills and innovation.

"Bringing our businesses and partners to Parliament has enabled us to celebrate everything that makes Staffordshire special, whilst demonstrating where we are heading and the opportunities the county offers."

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There were also three roundtable discussions which brought Staffordshire businesses and partners together.

They focused on how to strengthen pride of place and economic growth; the value of skills and learning to business and productivity; and the launch of an 'interview promise' for care experienced young people which aims to remove barriers into employment and ensure fair access to opportunities.