Why it’s time to talk up Britain’s second city

Let’s set the record straight. If you’ve heard anything about Birmingham this week, you might have the impression the city’s facing some serious challenges. It’s true that a temporary bin strike has impacted a few areas - including quite a few from the Leopard pack!

But the reality is very different: the vast majority of Birmingham – from the lively city centre to its leafy suburbs – remains clean, vibrant, and very much open for business. The bigger picture? Birmingham is buzzing right now.

That's why we’re proud to launch #BirminghamIsNotRubbish – a campaign from Leopard Co to call out the lazy clichés and shine a light on all the incredible things happening in our city. We’ve had enough of Birmingham-bashing. It’s practically a national sport. But those of us who live, work and thrive here know it’s one of the UK’s most exciting places to be.

Here’s just a snapshot of what’s really going on in Birmingham:

Music

This summer, the iconic Mostly Jazz Funk & Soul Festival and Moseley Folk Festival will bring world-class talent to our parks. Meanwhile, Villa Park is hosting an epic lineup of global artists, from Guns N' Roses to Kendrick Lamar – not to mention local legends Black Sabbath.

Sport

Aston Villa are flying high and heading to Wembley for the semi-finals later this month. Birmingham City Football are top of League One by a country mile. And the city has just been announced as the host of the Invictus Games 2027, building on the legacy of the unforgettable Commonwealth Games 2022.

Arts

From the creative pulse of Digbeth’s art scene to the dynamic Birmingham Design Festival, the city is bursting with cultural energy. Steven Knight’s Digbeth Loc. Studios are turning Birmingham into a major player in the UK film industry.

Culture

Birmingham Pride returns in May, bringing colour, energy and joy to the city. And beer lovers, take note: the Great British Beer Festival is coming to the NEC (cheers to that!).

Food

From Michelin stars to the Balti Triangle, and new restaurants opening weekly – check out Regina’s for a regal taste of the Mediterranean. Birmingham’s food scene is an culinary adventure, whether you’re into fine dining or street food, you’ll find it here.

Business

This week, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce launched their new Brumbassadors campaign with local hero and celeb chef Glynn Purnell – celebrating Birmingham’s best and brightest in business.

Hospitality & Retail

New shops, restaurants, bars and events are opening all the time. Our independent scene is thriving, and big brands like Mitchels & Butlers are investing. Birmingham is a city that knows how to welcome people.

Let’s change the narrative

Leopard Co's CMO appeared on the BBC national news this week, making it clear: the negative coverage isn’t the full picture. The truth is, Birmingham is a brilliant place – for culture, creativity, commerce and community.

So join us. Share the real Birmingham stories. Celebrate what makes this city great. And help us drown out the noise with a message that matters: #BirminghamIsNotRubbish – it’s absolutely brilliant.