From high streets to heatwaves: Mary Portas joins Midlands Climate Expo

Retail pioneer and broadcaster Mary Portas will headline this year’s Midlands Climate Expo, taking place on Friday 19 September at the Alton Towers Conference Centre.

Best known for transforming the UK high street, Portas has become one of the country’s most outspoken advocates for values-driven business. Her keynote interview, The Business of Change, will explore why the future of business must be built on purpose and how that shift is key to tackling the climate crisis.

Her appearance marks the headline announcement for Staffordshire’s flagship climate and sustainability event bringing together over 500 professionals from business, local government, academia, and industry to explore how the region can lead on climate action.

“The world is on a knife-edge – socially, culturally, environmentally. People are not just asking more from business, they are demanding it,” Portas told supporters of the Better Business Act, which she co-chairs. “But we’re still shackled to outdated rules built for a world that no longer exists. This is not just an economic crisis – it’s a systemic one. Businesses need to decide: be part of the solution, or be left behind.”

Organised by The Globe Group CIC, this year’s Midlands Climate Expo focuses on leadership, innovation, and impact, challenging sectors to move beyond pledges and rethink their role and opportunities in a changing world.

“Mary stands for the kind of leadership we need right now, clear-headed, values-led, and focused on what really matters,” said Kate Copeland-Rhodes, Managing Director of The Globe Group. “She’s shown that business and sustainability can go hand in hand and that doing so isn’t just responsible, it’s smart and future-facing.”

Alongside Portas, the Expo will feature speakers from organisations including The National Trust, Alton Towers, and the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals (ISEP) as well as a performance from well-known Climate Comedian Stuart Goldsmith. Panel discussions will explore the realities of sustainable tourism, the role of AI in tackling the climate crisis, and how to measure impact where it matters most. The day also includes practical workshops and cross-sector networking, designed to turn ambition into action and build lasting momentum for change.

Tickets are free, and attendees travelling by train can even take advantage of a free electric shuttle bus from Uttoxeter station to the venue, provided by Roberts Travel Group. To book your tickets visit climateexpo.org.uk