The Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has unveiled the brand-new, fully revamped Business Direction magazine — alongside the launch of its first dedicated website, marking a new era for the region’s leading business publication.
The relaunch comes through an exciting partnership between the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Crosby Associates Media, who bring decades of experience producing publications for Chambers of Commerce across the UK. The new Business Direction offers an expanded editorial scope, refreshed design, and enhanced digital accessibility through its brand-new online platform — ensuring members and readers can now engage with the magazine anytime, anywhere.
Each quarterly edition will feature in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and expert commentary on the issues shaping the business landscape across the two counties — from innovation and growth to leadership, trade, and technology.
A fresh editorial focus
The first issue under the new partnership delivers an ambitious and wide-ranging lineup of features.
Leading the edition is a powerful Women in Business special to coincide with the Chamber’s Women in Business Conference. Across ten pages, it explores the challenges and opportunities women face in today’s economy, featuring in-depth interviews with four inspirational leaders: Joanne Hammick, Managing Director of West Midland Safari Park; Jess Fassnidge, Captain of Worcester City Women FC; Samantha Edwards, of NMITE, and Ruby Edwards, communications specialist and entrepreneur.
Another highlight is an exclusive interview with Stuart Jones, Managing Director of First Rail Open Access, revealing plans for a multi-million-pound bid to connect Hereford directly with London – a move that could unlock significant economic potential for the region.
The Going for Growth feature ties into the Chamber’s Growth Forum, exploring how businesses can overcome today’s toughest challenges, with contributions from innovators, academics, and tech leaders. Further features explore international trade, cybersecurity, and the AI boom, alongside Patron features spotlighting University of Worcester and Hewett Recruitment.
The new-look Business Direction has been editorially led by Karl Holbrook, former Executive Editor of the Daily Express and Group Editor of The Northern Echo, who has previously led newsrooms from New York and London to Edinburgh and the North East.
“It’s been a real privilege to help relaunch this great publication and to lean into the rich tapestry of business stories across Herefordshire and Worcestershire,” Karl said. “From the inspirational women leaders driving change across the region to the major infrastructure projects that could reshape its economic future, Business Direction is about championing the people and ideas that make this region thrive.”
Nick Fellows, Managing Director of Crosby Associates Media, said: “We’re thrilled to see the new Business Direction come to life in print and online. This partnership represents a real commitment to delivering quality journalism, dynamic design, and valuable insights for the region’s business community.”
Sharon Smith, Chief Executive of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce added: “We’re incredibly proud to re-launch Business Direction, our flagship magazine that champions the innovation, resilience and success of businesses across Herefordshire and Worcestershire. This refreshed edition marks an exciting new chapter, offering even more inspiration and opportunities for our vibrant business community and Members.”
With a readership of more than 10,500 per edition, Business Direction remains one of the most influential voices in the regional business landscape — now with a stronger digital presence and greater reach than ever before.
To read the latest edition visit: https://www.business-direction.co.uk/