business direction 13
DESCRIPTION
Business Direction 13TRANSCRIPT
May/June 2013 Issue 13Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Bu
sin
ess
Dir
ec
tio
n
Big Interview: Kevin Savage - Director Ventutec
Ltd - page 24/25 £2.00 where sold
How technology is changing the business world
Online Revolution page 7
Take the risk out of exporting page 15
Are you leaving your business open to prosecution page 38
BD13.indd 1 3/5/13 11:07:12
WINNERBest Upper Medium Car
DEFY CONVENTION
(SOMETIMES THE HEADLINE WRITES ITSELF)
Th
e of
fi ci
al f
uel
co
nsu
mpt
ion
fi gu
res
in m
pg (
l/10
0km
) fo
r th
e al
l-new
Maz
da6
ran
ge: U
rban
36
.2 (
7.8
) –
55
.4 (
5.1)
. Ext
ra U
rban
57.
6 (
4.9
) –
78.5
(3.
6).
Co
mbi
ned
47.
9 (
5.9
) –
67.
3 (4
.2).
CO
2 e
mis
sio
ns
(g/k
m)
136
– 10
8.
*Off
er a
vaila
ble
to b
usi
nes
s u
sers
fo
r o
rder
s re
ceiv
ed b
etw
een
01.0
4.2
013
an
d 30
.06
.20
13. £
239
(exc
VA
T)
fi gu
re is
bas
ed o
n a
n a
ll-n
ew M
azda
6 2
.2 15
0ps
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oo
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l, w
ith
ou
t M
etal
lic p
aint
, on
a n
on
-mai
nten
ance
co
ntra
ct h
ire
pack
age
over
36
mo
nth
s, 10
,00
0 c
ont
ract
mile
s pe
r ye
ar. A
dvan
ce p
aym
ent
equ
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o 6
mo
nth
ly p
aym
ents
is p
ayab
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ollo
wed
by
35 m
ont
hly
pay
men
ts. E
xces
s m
ileag
e ch
arge
app
lies
if c
ont
ract
mile
age
is e
xcee
ded.
Fo
r fu
ll te
rms
and
con
diti
on
s an
d sp
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cati
on
ple
ase
refe
r to
th
e M
azda
Co
ntra
ct H
ire
Mas
ter
Agr
eem
ent
and
you
r lo
cal d
eale
r. A
ll qu
otat
ion
s ar
e su
bjec
t to
ava
ilabi
lity,
sta
tus
and
agre
emen
t. F
ree
Met
allic
pai
nt is
on
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vaila
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in c
on
jun
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Maz
da C
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and
appl
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to s
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s ar
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nav
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to e
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cust
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wit
h M
azda
Mot
ors
UK
Ltd
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co
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t at
tim
e of
pu
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atio
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may
var
y, e
.g. i
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ice
chan
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Maz
da C
ont
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imit
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oes
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off
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ax a
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indi
vidu
als:
co
mpa
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ar d
rive
rs s
ho
uld
co
nsu
lt t
hei
r ac
cou
ntan
t o
n t
hei
r ta
x po
siti
on
. Co
ntra
ct h
ire
by A
LD
A
uto
mot
ive
Ltd,
tra
din
g as
Maz
da C
ont
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Hir
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akw
oo
d P
ark,
Lo
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Cau
sew
ay, F
ish
pon
ds, B
rist
ol B
S16
3JA
. Mo
dels
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wit
h m
ont
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pay
men
t: a
ll-n
ew M
azda
6 2
.2 15
0ps
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oo
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E D
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l. O
TR
£2
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5. M
ode
l sh
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ul R
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etal
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aint
(£
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0).
^m
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IK v
alu
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re a
t 20
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ates
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car
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on
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valid
fro
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13. O
n t
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road
pri
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incl
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20
% V
AT,
nu
mbe
r pl
ates
an
d 3
year
s’ E
uro
pean
Roa
dsid
e A
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tan
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est
driv
es s
ubj
ect
to a
pplic
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stat
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and
avai
labi
lity.
Tab
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sou
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fro
m m
anu
fact
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Mar
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013
.
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BMW 3 Series 2.0 EfficientDynamics £28,355 109 16% £907/ £75 £2,948 (£688) 68.9 163
BD13.indd 2 3/5/13 11:07:23
CONtENtS
FIRStWORD
The Chamber has just completed its year end on the 31 March and for us, like any other SME business we had a fl urry of activity.
This activity has included a number of key events. Our biggest event, by far was the Expo at the Three Counties Showground. With 160 stand holders and a footfall of nearly 1000 people, much business was achieved. This was a joint Herefordshire and Worcestershire event and was very successful. Big thanks to all the sponsors especially Louise Hewett, Hewett Recruitment for their headline sponsorship. The event coincided with British Tourism week and we are all optimistic that the two counties and tourism companies can benefi t from a better summer than last year.
The Chamber has launched a Golf Society and the fi rst golf day was held at Wharton Park on Wednesday 10 April. 48 players enjoyed the day in another great opportunity to generate new business contacts. Details on the next three events can be found at www.hwchamber.co.uk./chambergolfsociety
This edition features Online Revolution and an interview with Kevin Savage. Businesses have had to grasp the many changes in technology over the past few years, those that haven’t will fall by the wayside. The two counties can show a wide range of successful businesses who are adapting to these new technologies.
I look forward to meeting you all at our events over the summer.
May/June 2013 03Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
HWCHAMBER.CO.UK Business Direction, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s full colour bi-monthly publication. Designed and produced by business people for business people. Distributed to 6,000 businesses including selected retail outlets across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
EDITOR Kelly Key 0845 641 1641 ext 213 [email protected]
Lauren Whiles 0845 641 1641 ext 279 [email protected]
EDITORIAL [email protected] 0845 641 1641 ext 213
PRODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk
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FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss [email protected]
SUBSCRIPTIONS www.hwchamber.co.uk/view-our-business-magazineTel: 0845 641 1641
May/June 2013 Issue 13
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce
Bu
sin
ess
Dir
ec
tio
n
Big Interview: Kevin Savage - Director Ventutec
Ltd - page 24/25
£2.00 where sold
All your Import and Export needs page 15
The Chamber Training Centre page 34
The Chambers biggest expo ever page 43
How technology is changing the business world
Our Patrons are:
3 First word
4 Chamber news
5 Business news
7 Business news
8 Business news
9 Business news
12 Business news
15 International trade
17 International trade
18 Policy
19 Business news
20 Business news
22 Conference Worcestershire
23 Destination Worcestershire
24 Big Interview: Kevin Savage
26 Cover story: Technology
38 Chamber training
39 Training planner
40 Chamber Events
42 Business news
43 New Members
44 Chamber news
47 Chamber Expo
48 Skills and Education
49 Movers and Shakers
50 Last word
24
26
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the publisher accepts no responsibility for omissions or errors within this publication. Editorial submissions are included at the discre-tion of the editor. The opinions expressed in articles and letters within this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber. All offers, promotions and competitions appearing in Business Direction are the sole responsibility of the advertiser/ promoting party and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Com-merce does not accept any responsibility for any representations made within them.
weLCOMe TO THe eaRLY SUMMeR eDITION OF BUSINeSS DIReCTION
Th
e of
fi ci
al f
uel
co
nsu
mpt
ion
fi gu
res
in m
pg (
l/10
0km
) fo
r th
e al
l-new
Maz
da6
ran
ge: U
rban
36
.2 (
7.8
) –
55
.4 (
5.1)
. Ext
ra U
rban
57.
6 (
4.9
) –
78.5
(3.
6).
Co
mbi
ned
47.
9 (
5.9
) –
67.
3 (4
.2).
CO
2 e
mis
sio
ns
(g/k
m)
136
– 10
8.
*Off
er a
vaila
ble
to b
usi
nes
s u
sers
fo
r o
rder
s re
ceiv
ed b
etw
een
01.0
4.2
013
an
d 30
.06
.20
13. £
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(exc
VA
T)
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re is
bas
ed o
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Co
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Mas
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Agr
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cou
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hei
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da C
ont
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akw
oo
d P
ark,
Lo
dge
Cau
sew
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ish
pon
ds, B
rist
ol B
S16
3JA
. Mo
dels
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own
wit
h m
ont
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men
t: a
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azda
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.2 15
0ps
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oo
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iese
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TR
£2
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ode
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ture
s o
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ul R
ed M
etal
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aint
(£
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gure
s sh
own
are
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mbi
ned
. ^^B
IK v
alu
es a
re a
t 20
% r
ates
bas
ed o
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car
wit
h n
on
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pai
nt a
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valid
fro
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Apr
il 20
13. O
n t
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road
pri
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incl
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% V
AT,
nu
mbe
r pl
ates
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d 3
year
s’ E
uro
pean
Roa
dsid
e A
ssis
tan
ce. T
est
driv
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ubj
ect
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stat
us
and
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labi
lity.
Tab
le
sou
rced
fro
m m
anu
fact
ure
r si
tes,
Mar
ch 2
013
.
BD13.indd 3 3/5/13 11:07:46
CHAMBERNEWS
04 May/June 2013
New DawNDawn Hardman, HR Services Manager at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, recently gave an enlightening talk to RGS Worcester Sixth Form students.
Dawn is responsible for the HR and all related services for the Chamber and passed on her wealth of knowledge.
With the number of applications per job being higher than ever, Dawn explained the importance of the CV. She gave the Sixth Form Students tips on how to ensure their CV stands out from the many others employers have to read, ensuring they have the best chance of progressing to the next stage of the application process.
Daniel Goodyear, Lower Sixth, says: “It was a very worthwhile and beneficial talk. I feel that career workshops like these are vital in helping us to prepare for the world of work that, as we are now in the Sixth Form, is getting ever closer.”
www.rgsw.org.uk [email protected]
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have recently taken over responsibility for delivering the Tourism contract and managing the Tourist Information Centre in Worcester City.
The Chamber already manages Visit Worcestershire which is responsible for attracting visitors to the county so this is an excellent opportunity to join up marketing to ensure that Worcester and Worcestershire is a destination of choice for residents, businesses, visitors and tourists.
Over the next few years, the Chamber will be developing the offering of the Tourist Information Centre based at the Guildhall, and ensuring that Worcester City is a vibrant tourism venue. There are already plans for a number of key events and marketing
campaigns which will increase footfall in the city, one of these will be the Christmas Victorian Fayre which will take place on Thursday 28 November to Sunday 1 December and has been very successful in previous years.
Mike Ashton, Chief Executive of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce commented: “Worcester City has seen a number of major developments recently with the Arena, The Hive and a new hotel and conference centre at the Cricket Club which are all opportunities for promoting the city. We are excited about working with these venues as well as with the long established venues to ensure we build on the good work that Visit Worcester have done in the past to bring visitors to the city.”
GRAB A GREEN GRANTWorcestershire businesses can now benefit from a new green support programme.
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce have teamed up with Worcestershire County Council through Worcestershire Business Central to offer grants and free assessments to help businesses reduce their costs of energy, waste, water and raw materials and improve profitability.
Resource Efficient Worcestershire have been awarded funding through European Regional Development Funding and can provide grants and free assessments to help businesses reduce their costs of energy, waste, water and raw materials, and improve profitability.
Companies receive a free resource efficiency assessment and recommendations report identifying ways in which they can reduce energy and water, waste and raw materials costs, increase business profitability, reduce CO2 emissions, help businesses become more environmentally aware and leverage private sector investment. Following the assessment businesses can apply for the supporting grant fund up to the total value of £15, 000 (including 55% match funding contribution by the SME) to help them implement the recommendations from the assessment (e.g. lighting, heating, air conditioning, insulation, boilers).
To be eligible for an assessment and grant, businesses must be located in and trading from Worcestershire, employ fewer than 250 people and have a turnover of under 50 million Euros (approximately £40 million). Businesses sectors that are not eligible for support include agriculture, retail, businesses that primarily serve the public, social welfare and education.
www.business-central.co.uk/resource-efficiency-grants
a New waY FORwaRD FOR TOURISM DeLIVeRY IN wORCeSTeR CITY
BD13.indd 4 3/5/13 11:07:53
BUSINESSNEWS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 05
Worcestershire’s most stylish event returns to New Road for the sixth year in succession.
This summer, Ladies Day will be held on Thursday 20 June when Worcestershire CCC face Glamorgan CCC in the LV= County Championship.
Ladies Day at New Road is an un-missable event where guests can enjoy the First Class hospitality synonymous with Worcestershire CCC whilst raising valuable funds for The Lady Taverners Charity.
2013 marks the 25th Anniversary of The Lady Taverners Charity. During this time the charity has raised over £12million to help give children with special needs and disabilities a ‘sporting chance’ in life.
Get together with your friends and colleagues for Ladies Day at New Road for just £49per person or a table of ten for £450 (inc VAT).
For further details about Ladies Day and other corporate events at New Road please contact Rachel Ivins on 01905 337933 or e-mail [email protected]
MP MEETS SANCTUARY APPRENTICESWorcester MP Robin Walker recently spent time with Top 100 Apprentice employer Sanctuary Group to hear young people’s views of apprenticeships as a career path.
Two of Sanctuary’s horticulture apprentices who are attending Pershore College of Horticulture, met Robin and took him to a Sanctuary owned property in the city to show him a new eco project taking place there.
Calum Ashton and Luke Ward, both aged 22, along with six other Sanctuary apprentices, have been asked to design and create an eco garden at one of the Group’s houses as part of their two-year course.
Robin Walker MP says: “Apprenticeships are such a wonderful opportunity for people to get valuable experience of working for an employer whilst also getting qualifi cations that can last a lifetime. As Sanctuary’s range of apprenticeships show, there are a wide variety of different opportunities available and it is good to see apprentices not just at entry level but also progressing on to greater things.”
www.sanctuary-group.co.uk
Worcester Warriors have introduced a new direct debit scheme for 2013/14 season which allows fans to pay on a monthly subscription.
Since launching the Season Tickets in March Worcester Warriors have already seen a host fans take advantage of the Direct Debit Scheme and Introduce a Friend Scheme.
The fi nal deadline to buy your Season Ticket through the Direct Debit Scheme is Thursday 13 June and the total amount payable will be spread over the number of months until December 2013.
This year Warriors are offering great savings on Season Tickets. Prices have been frozen for Season Ticket holders, an ‘introduce a friend’ scheme has been launched and once again they will be continuing with Under 10s for FREE campaign.
This means that a full season of Aviva Premiership, European and Anglo-Welsh Cup action starts with our Early Bird offer from just £130 for juniors and £215 for adults.
www.warriors.co.uk
2013 marks the 25th Anniversary of The Lady Taverners
number of months until December 2013.
WRAGGE & CO ADVISES SANCTUARY ON ITS ACQUISITION OF COSMOPOLITAN HOUSING GROUPWragge & Co’s corporate specialists have advised Sanctuary Housing Association on its acquisition of Cosmopolitan Housing Group (CHG). A team led by corporate partner Peter Smith advised on the deal, which brings an additional 13,500 homes under the group.
Peter Smith says: “As a long-standing client, we have seen Sanctuary go from strength-to-strength. Our corporate, banking, real estate, commercial, pensions and employment experts worked well with the client’s in-house team to achieve the best commercial outcome on this latest deal under tight timeframes.”
CHG comprises Cosmopolitan Housing Association, Cosmopolitan Student Homes, Cosmopolitan Enterprises and Chester and District Housing Trust. It owns and manages around 13,500 homes in North England.
Sanctuary manages more than 94,000 homes in England and Scotland, from its Worcester headquarters. The acquisition was supported by social housing regulator the Homes and Communities Agency.
Wragge & Co’s corporate practice provides a partner-led service and commercial legal advice to listed companies, private companies and institutional investors in the UK and internationally.
www.wragge.com
BUY YOUR SEASON TICKET THROUGH DIRECT DEBIT
LADIES DAY AT NEW ROAD
BD13.indd 5 3/5/13 11:08:00
06 May/June 2013
Worcester International Festival for Young Singerswith the European Choral Association–Europa Cantat
The UK’s �rst non-competitive international festival for young choirs – more than 400 singers from 10 di�erent nations will come together to celebrate their passion for singing
Gala concert with the world première of a specially commissioned work from UK composer Bob Chilcott – “Five Days That Changed the World” – to be performed in Worcester Cathedral on Friday 26 July
Diverse musical cultures shared in an internationally cooperative event under a banner of “Peace & Unity between Nations”
Concerts, street singing and accessible performances by the visiting choirs at venues in and around Worcester
Conducting Course led by ’abcd’ – the Association of British Choral Directors
It’s coming ...
2013
forWorcester InternationalFestival Young Singers
Worcester International
f
2013f
forWorcester InternationalFestival Young Singers
presents
19 – 27 July 2013www.singuk.org/wifys
business-direction-ad-250x88mm.indd 1 07/04/2013 16:52
wIFYS – THe HOT TICKeT THIS SUMMeR!This unique event will bring together young people from around the world to share their music-making in a sparkling array of concerts and performances for the public enjoyment.
There are numerous opportunities for the local community to contribute to the success of WIFYS: supporting the range of concerts throughout the week – most events are free! – volunteering in the week’s activities and special
opportunities for local young singers to take part. Local businesses and organisations will have the chance to support a major international event that will put Worcestershire at the forefront of innovation in the arts and education, as well as complimenting its attraction as a tourist destination.
Want to get involved? Contact [email protected]
BD13.indd 6 3/5/13 11:08:06
BUSINESSNEWS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 07
CHaMBeR HR weBSITe aND aDVICe LINe Trained HR Professionals are on hand 24 hours a day to offer advice on employment issues via the telephone or dedicated website.Contact your Chamber representative for a Username and Password.
BRAND YOUR EMAILSNothing says amateur like a company email address using Hotmail, Yahoo or other free email provider. Get your emails branded by using @yourcompanyname.com – if you’ve already got your own website then it’s just a few clicks to set them up, or ask your web team for more details.
USE GOOGLE PLACESIf your company isn’t listed on Google Places then you may be missing out on
a lot of web traffi c. Listings on Google Places often appear higher than the normal search results, so you’ll miss out if you’re not listed. – and it’s free!
WEBMASTER TOOLSIf you have a website, ask your web team about Google Webmaster Tools. It’s an invaluable utility that Google can use to let you know about errors or problems with your website, and a whole host more - it’s also free!
www.blueteslamarketing.com
Uniquely in the world of Social Media, LinkedIn offers an opportunity to reach qualifi ed sales leads, build a meaningful business relationship and have a balanced business conversation. Despite this an inordinate number of LinkedIn members still use it to collect scalps!
Unfortunately just connecting with someone is a worthless act and none more so than in LinkedIn.
If you treat each connection on LinkedIn as a person not a number, if you make your communication personal, fi nd out a little about them and seek a two-way conversation with each connection, if you make sure that the conversation
starts with you being really interested in their business and how you can help them, then often, eventually, you will get permission to introduce your business and possibly you will do business with each other, or they may introduce you to their connections.
So now is the time to take LinkedIn seriously, and to make it really work for you. If you want to fi nd out more Life’s a Peach run courses in Hereford offering a practical step by step guide to using LinkedIn as part of your sales strategy. Book your place today.
www.lifes-a-peach.co.uk
LOCAL COMPANY BREAKS INTERNATIONAL BARRIERSOver the past year digital marketing agency McTip IT Ltd has been working with the webCRM (UK),one of the leading Cloud CRM providers, managing their internet marketing. During this time they have managed to build a strong alliance with the company and have now begun working with the international branches of the business. WebCRM are originally a Danish company who now have 14 offi ces throughout the world, ranging from Brazil to Germany.
James from webCRM says “It has been a pleasure working with McTip IT Ltd, we are pleased that the relationship has evolved to the point that our other countries are now undertaking the skills that McTip IT have to offer”.
McTip IT hope that they can continue with this success and continued growth over the next year.
www.mctipit.com
Worcester-based insurance broker Sutcliffe and Co has joined forces with cyber assurance accreditation body IASME to launch a combined cyber security assurance and insurance package which it believes is a fi rst in the UK.
In many industries and professions, businesses are now required to show evidence of approved standards or qualifi cations and appropriate insurance before business will be transacted. While it is impossible to enter a construction site, supply a supermarket or give fi nancial advice without meeting
a range of pre-conditions, cyber threat however, is generally overlooked.
Duncan Sutcliffe, Director, Sutcliffe & Co comments: “The cyber threat is not around the corner, it is already here. I think the combination of assurance with insurance will go a long way to improving the safety and resilience of SMEs in this country.”
www.sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk
BLUe TeLSa MaRKeTING’S THRee TOP TIPS FOR a weB 2.0 wORLD
SUTCLIFFE AND CO GET SET TO LAUNCH NEW CYBER LIABILITY INSURANCE SCHEME
IS LINKEDIN PART OF YOUR SALES STRATEGY?
BD13.indd 7 3/5/13 11:08:13
BUSINESSNEWS
08
FUNDING FINDeR A funding search which provides details of a range of funding opportunities and grants available to businesses, including European, public sector, lottery, Venture Capital and loan funds. Chamber members have the additional benefi t of email alerts when new relevant funding opportunities are available.Tel: 0845 614 1641 or email www.hwchamber.co.uk/funding-fi nder
Borwell have partnered with Storm Geomatics, experienced surveyors, to create a brand new software solution for the river surveying and hydraulic modelling industry.
May/June 2013
This expert partnership provides a dual approach to a software package that offers surveying companies and consulting engineers value for money and improves output immediately.
The software appeals to two groups of user:
River surveyors who capture vast amounts of position and height data within the river channel and fl ood plain.
Hydraulic engineers who use this data to create a river model in order to simulate its behaviour.
Available now and easily accessible it is great value if you have river models to prepare. Flexible licensing allows this specialist software to be used from £100 for a 30 day cloud licence or even less per month if you take the annual subscription.
www.storm-georiver.com www.borwell.com
Vital work to an important under bridge in the centre of Worcester has been completed by contractors J. Murphy & Sons Limited on behalf of Network Rail, the owners and maintainers of Britain’s rail infrastructure, and has returned the grade two listed structure back to its former glory.
First built in 1860 and last replaced in 1906, the bridge which crosses over the A38, has deteriorated over the years and its overall condition meant it was placed on the Council’s Heritage ‘at Risk’ Register. The work undertaken by civil engineering and rail specialist J.
Murphy & Sons Limited for Network Rail has achieved extensive repairs to the old heavy steels which make up the bridge, along with repairs to the fractured cast iron fascia and the replacement of the bridge’s drainage system.
The project has been followed with great interest by the local media since its beginning. The project team’s hard work, previously under cover for the past 10 months, is now revealed. Sympathetically and sensitively restored, Worcester Foregate Street Rail Bridge, was offi cially reopened on Friday 22 February.
It is vital for any businesses to undertake a legal review of their terms and conditions of sale, supply or purchase at least every three years to ensure they are enforceable.
In the UK, the landscape of the market place is changing – changes which are a move away from ‘standard’ terms and conditions to more bespoke drafted terms and clauses for use by a business for specifi c customers or market sectors.
Why? Well, the circumstances of most recession-conscious businesses have changed and they’ve quickly found they must improve processes and work far closer with suppliers, customers and other stakeholders.
Recent court cases have hit home the message to some high-profi le businesses that it’s important to have specifi cally drafted terms and conditions of contract relevant to the industry sector– and why it’s equally essential to ensure they work. In a recent Court of Appeal case involving Manchester Central Convention Complex and its contracting caterers, the court refused to allow the Convention Complex to rely on its exclusion of liability for loss of profi t clause when it terminated the catering contract early.
www.mfgsolicitors.com
GET READY FOR BUSINESS SEMINARS Have you got a business idea that you’d like to turn into a reality? Do you need help creating or strengthening your business plan? Would a fi nal check of your plans give you greater confi dence to start your business?
If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of the above, then Get Ready for Business seminars are for you.
Get Ready For business seminars are free and interactive. You’ll enjoy support and advice on the essential steps for starting-up so you can get your business off to the right start.
Seminars cover a range of areas including:
n Writing a good business plan
n Sourcing fi nance
n Managing cash fl ow
n Meeting your legal obligations
n Taxation and VAT
n Marketing
n Finding the right banking solutions
What’s more, you will have the opportunity to network with other budding entrepreneurs.
CASE STUDY: “I fi rst heard about Business Initiative from a friend and colleague who had attended the business start up day. Business Initiative has been a vast wealth of knowledge for me whilst undergoing the procedure of starting up my own business. The information, support and advice that I have received has been extremely infl uential. The mentors are patient, understanding and, at times, entertaining. The ‘New’ Masterclass that I attended on 25 February 2013 gave me new insight towards marketing, web design and accountancy. I now feel that I am ready to enter the whole new world of self-employment.” Beverley Woodward
For more information call Linda or Charlie today on 01782 202222.
procedure of starting up my own business. The
STORM GEORIVER IS HIGH END RIVER MODEL DATA PREPARATION SOFTWARE THAT CREATES RIVER MODELS FAST
TERMS AND CONDITIONS – ONE SIZE DOESN’T FIT ALL
NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR 150-YEAR OLD STATION BRIDGE
BD13.indd 8 3/5/13 11:08:17
BUSINESSNEWS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 09
Kind-hearted renewable energy specialist Eco2Solar is on track to exceed its original charity pledge to Acorns Children’s Hospice Trust, having successfully raised more than £4,500 towards its £5,000 annual target.
The Kidderminster firm has been raising vital funds to support all three hospices – Birmingham, Black Country and Three Counties - since last autumn after adopting Acorns as its chosen charity of the year.
As well as donating £10 for each solar PV installation completed over the year, Eco2Solar has pledged Christmas card money and donated funds from its ‘Making Sense of Green Energy Day’.
Team members also took part in Acorns’ Santa run and are planning on completing the ‘Free Radio Worcestershire Walk for Kids’ this year.
www.eco2solar.co.uk www.acorns.org.uk
Malvern Instruments and Community First forge pioneering strategic Partnership in Herefordshire and worcestershire to support local voluntary organisations and community groups
As part of a continuing commitment to support local communities at its sites around the world, Malvern Instruments in the UK has entered into a five-year strategic partnership with Community First.
Community First is a local charity whose expert staff work to help frontline voluntary organisations,
social enterprises and communities to achieve their aims and ambitions by providing, for example, specialist advice, information, business coaching and training.
The strategic partnership with Malvern Instruments is a pioneering venture for Community First in Herefordshire and Worcestershire. While Malvern will make a regular financial contribution to Community First, the real potential of the longer-term partnership will be to enable joint working in a number of areas.
www.comfirst.org.uk/home www.malvern.com
Business leaders from across the county attended the launch of the St Michael’s Hospice Employee Fundraiser of the Year Awards at the Hospice on Monday 18 March.
These newly created awards recognise and reward employee fundraisers who have gone to the greatest efforts in raising funds and awareness for St Michael’s Hospice, whether organising events or through individual efforts such as sponsorship. The Hospice is delighted to be working in partnership with another local charity, The Vivat Trust, which has provided the prizes - three self-catering weekend breaks in one of three historic properties.
Partnership Development Manager Elizabeth Morawiecka says: “We are
very grateful to the local businesses that are supporting the Hospice by adopting it as their Charity of the Year or by becoming a Corporate Partner and hope these new awards will be mutually beneficial. We work hard to create long-term partnerships that deliver clear value to our business partners as well as raising significant funds for our work”.
The evening was also an opportunity for businesses to discuss the Hospice redevelopment plans and its Once-in-a-Lifetime Appeal to support its mission to double the number of local people who can access its care and support in the years ahead.
www.st-michaels-hospice.org.uk
eCO2SOLaR SeT TO SMaSH aCORNS CHaRITY PLeDGe
PIONeeRING PaRTNeRSHIP
eMPLOYee FUNDRaISeR OF THe YeaR awaRDS LaUNCH
Elizabeth Morawiecka and Roger Oliver
Paul Walker (left), Managing Director of Malvern Instruments, with Richard Quallington (right), Chief Executive of Community
BD13.indd 9 3/5/13 11:08:22
010 May/June 2013
The current economy is forcing more and more small business owners, entrepreneurs and professionals alike, to tighten their belts and with it their overhead costs; and one key expense can be your workspace.
A dedicated workspace, be it on a permanent or intermittent basis, can be crucial in broadening your business profi le and increasing your productivity. Of course, not all businesses require full-time offi ce occupancy and with the availability of high-speed internet and a variety of ‘cloud’ based servers, sometimes the answer is to base your business from home.
That’s all great, but what do you do when you need to host a potential client meeting or source a motorway accessible base for a regional team catch-up – one that isn’t the lobby of a well-known celebrity endorsed hotel?
Penyard House in Weston-under-Penyard, Herefordshire, has been home to The Leadership Trust, a provider of renowned and respected leadership and management development. Working closely with the Trust for the past three decades, has enabled Penyard House to develop and establish its fi rst-class corporate facilities.
Their emphasis is on the importance of a dedicated off-site venue, providing corporate services designed to enhance and facilitate their client’s delivery of business and training excellence. Surrounded by 30 acres of parkland and gardens in the beautiful Wye Valley, Penyard House is located off the A40, within 2 miles of the M50 which connects with the M5, giving excellent access for travel North or South.
Accommodating both day and residential occupancy with over 80 double en-suite bedrooms, a purpose-built Business and Training Centre, numerous period and modern meeting rooms and presentation suites and a 130-seat Lecture Theatre, their capacity confi dently supports delegate groups of all sizes.
Complimentary audio and visual equipment, IT support, concierge and administration resource are inclusive with each booking and their business support team work closely with you to ensure your meeting or event runs smoothly and without complication.
So, if you are looking for a dedicated venue to deliver your training, host a conference, seminar or product launch, or perhaps you are seeking somewhere discrete and professional to meet your clients, Penyard House can offer you the ideal location for all the above; it’s the perfect workspace solution.
Enquiries: [email protected] | Tel: 01989 760716
aRe YOU LOOKING TO SIGNIFICaNTLY ReDUCe YOUR wORKSPaCe COSTS?
Simplify your business needs reduce your overhead costs and invest in your business, not your workspace • First-class Business Services • Day and Residential Occupancy • Conference and Seminar Facilities • Purpose built Business and Training Centre
CALL US NOW 01989 760716 Weston-under-Penyard Herefordshire HR9 7YH Email [email protected] Website www.penyardhouse.co.uk
Simplify your business needs reduce your overhead costs and invest in your business, not your workspace • First-class Business Services • Day and Residential Occupancy • Conference and Seminar Facilities • Purpose built Business and Training Centre
CALL US NOW 01989 760716 Weston-under-Penyard Herefordshire HR9 7YH Email [email protected] Website www.penyardhouse.co.uk
Simplify your business needs reduce your overhead costs and invest in your business, not your workspace • First-class Business Services • Day and Residential Occupancy • Conference and Seminar Facilities • Purpose built Business and Training Centre
CALL US NOW 01989 760716 Weston-under-Penyard Herefordshire HR9 7YH Email [email protected] Website www.penyardhouse.co.uk
www.247-business.co.ukwww.247-business.co.uk
Because NEWS never stops
BD13.indd 10 3/5/13 11:08:30
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 011
FOCUSONlEgAl
In this the first of a two part guide, David Bayliss, commercial solicitor at QualitySolicitors Parkinson Wright, explains some important steps to take when a commercial lease is coming to an end.
A business tenancy may end in a number of ways. One such situation is when time passes and the end date stated in the lease eventually arrives. However, a tenant may have legal rights (unless specifically excluded under the lease – also known as “contracting out”) to remain in the premises and renew the tenancy. Contracting-out is possible if the lease is for a fixed term and the landlord and the tenant follow a statutory notice procedure.
Landlord’s “section 25” notice.
If a landlord wishes to end a protected tenancy it must serve notice on the tenant, between 6 and 12 months before the landlord’s proposed termination date in a prescribed form. The proposed termination date cannot be sooner than the end date specified in the lease.
Tenant’s “section 26” request.
The tenant may consider that the existing rent on the lease is too high. Rather than waiting for the landlord to serve a notice, they may wish to take the initiative, and within 6 and 12 months before the proposed termination date, serve notice on the landlord requesting a new tenancy at a lower rent
after the current one ends. As above, the proposed termination date cannot be sooner than the end date specified in the lease.
If a tenant serves a counter-notice in response to the landlord’s section 25 notice, stating that they are unwilling to give up possession, it must be served within two months failing which the tenant’s rights to a new tenancy are normally lost.
If the landlord gives a counter-notice to a tenant’s section 26 request the notice must state their grounds for opposition and be served within two months, failing which the landlord loses their right to oppose the grant of a new tenancy. (Further detail in the second part of this article).
Unless lease terms are agreed in the meantime, a tenant must apply to Court before the termination date specified in the section 25 or section 26 notice - even if the landlord does not object to a new tenancy. If a tenant does not apply to Court by this date (or agree with the landlord to extend the time limit), its right to a new tenancy is lost.
The time limits are strictly applied and professional advice should be followed from the outset of the procedure described above.
If you are a tenant or a landlord, contact David Bayliss in good time before your lease is set to end so that you obtain the best advice on your options.
For a free initial discussion, contact David Bayliss:
End of time : Tenancy renewal and terminationPart 1of 2
T: 01905 726 789E: [email protected]
W: qualitysolicitors.com/parkinsonwright
BD13.indd 11 3/5/13 11:08:31
BUSINESSNEWS
CHaMBeR LeGaL aDVICe LINe This service offers members unlimited access to free help and advice on commercial and employment law, environmental health, taxation and VAT issues.
012 May/June 2013
Alan, a director of Britannia Bennetts in Malvern, is currently in training to cycle 750 miles across France in April. Pedalling to raise money for prostate cancer, Alan will cycle from Caen in Northern France, all through the country down to Monaco, to the Britannia annual conference of all international member businesses.
Commenting on his challenge, Alan, aged 47, says: “The removal industry is male dominated, and prostate cancer is one of the most common male cancers, so I wanted to support the cause in a way which could raise awareness amongst the Britannia group and help fundraise too. I’m training hard cycling over the Malverns and around Worcestershire in readiness.”
Those wishing to donate to Alan’s bike ride, please visit his Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/Alan-Bennett-Prostrate-Cancer-2013 or contact Alan at Britannia Bennetts on 01684 892236.
www.prostatecanceruk.org
Bury Associates have recently completed a highly detailed Revit model of a Heritage building in Belgravia, perhaps the fi rst of its kind. The model picks up on all the beautiful late Georgian features, for example the scrolls seen at the top of each column in the picture. The project has taken place over three months, with surveyors scanning the whole building in minute detail with top-of-the-range 3D laser scanners. Bury Associates’ modeling experts then produced an accurate 3D model of the facades and internal layout of the building.
The project follows on after a number of high profi le Building Information Modelling (BIM) projects, including the Blackpool tower and Manchester
library. BIM is the latest technology used in construction projects to demonstrate changes to clients and reduce costly mistakes, and Bury Associates are market leaders in producing accurate as-built models for architects.
www.buryassociates.co.uk
The two awards relate to two projects, a multi-million pound private school redevelopment at Bromsgrove School and the Master’s House restoration project – a Grade II* listed building set in the heart of Ledbury.
The Considerate Constructors Scheme’s annual National Site Awards recognise sites’ exceptional standards of consideration towards local neighbours and the general public, the workforce and the environment and are recognised as the top 10% building sites across the UK.
Speller Metcalfe also work hard across all their sites to employ sub-contractors within 30 miles of the project to help boost the local economy and reduce carbon emissions.
www.spellermetcalfe.com
CONSIDeRaTe CONSTRUCTORS IN THe LOCaL COMMUNITYMalvern building contractor Speller Metcalfe has been recognised for its positive efforts in the local community, receiving two Considerate Constructors Scheme awards this week.
They may not be as speedy as the four wheels on his removal vans, but the two wheels on alan Bennett’s bike, from Britannia Bennetts, will be clocking up the miles for charity.
SMOOTH MOVING wITH PeDaL POweR
SCANNING STUNNING HERITAGE BUILDINGS
BD13.indd 12 3/5/13 11:08:39
The merger completed on Friday 1 March and will see Crowther Beard, which also has an offi ce in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, changing its name to Nicklin LLP, although it will continue to operate from its two existing offi ces.
All Crowther Beard staff are transferring to the new practice, with partners Sarah Costello-Byrne and Chris Hobbs taking on consultancy roles.
Harvey Owen, managing partner at Nicklin, said: “This merger will enable both fi rms to share ideas and continue building on their existing strengths in order to enhance the services we offer to our clients which, in turn, will help to grow the practice.”
John Painter, who was managing partner at Crowther Beard and will remain as a partner within the new practice, said: “We have known Nicklin for some time and have found the fi rm to be very similar to ours in terms of its values, goals and approach to client service.”
www.nicklins.com
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 013
Nicklin LLP is continuing its expansion across the west Midlands and beyond by merging with worcester-based Crowther Beard LLP, the second merger for Nicklin in the space of eight months.
NICKLIN CONTINUeS eXPaNSION wITH FURTHeR MeRGeR
DREAMBIGGER
For free business support and advice go to:
www.business-central.co.uk 0300 123 14 40
Six01
All your business needs. All in one place.
BD1
61009 WBC Business Direction F.indd 1 08/04/2013 11:23
BD13.indd 13 3/5/13 11:08:41
014 May/June 2013
From 1 January 2013, the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) was increased for two years to £250,000 per annum.
The AIA allows businesses to write off capital expenditure in full, up to the annual limit, against their taxable profi ts in the year of the purchase. Without the AIA, qualifying capital expenditure attracts capital allowances at either 8% or 18% on the balance of unclaimed cost.
The AIA can be used against expenditure on plant and machinery such as tractors and feeding systems, through to bottling lines and food processing/packing equipment. It can also be used for qualifying ‘integral features’ in buildings including heating, water and electrical systems.
Where buildings are being built, modifi ed or extended there is an opportunity for tax savings on ‘integral features’ which otherwise obtain no tax relief. With the AIA allowing immediate tax relief on up to £250,000 the cash fl ow benefi ts can be substantial.
Where a trading period straddles 1 January 2013, the AIA is time apportioned. So a business with a 31 March 2013 year end would be entitled to a maximum AIA of £81,250 (although straddling periods are split to limit the amount that qualifi es for the AIA before and after the change), and the full £250,000 for year ending 31 March 2014. With planning, the timing of capital purchases can be managed to maximise the AIAs available.
We do see many food and drink sector clients looking at heating and energy options. Photovoltaic generation has been popular recently, as is biomass. Both include Government support schemes providing income streams based on energy production to encourage investment on top of reduced energy bills. They also have specifi c tax treatments.
Along with reductions in feed in tariffs, tax rule changes mean that expenditure on PV panels from April 2012 attracts capital allowances at only 8%, but such expenditure can be set against the AIA. With the new £250,000 AIA, there is an opportunity to get full tax relief at time of purchase.
Biomass presents another opportunity as part of the installation may qualify under the enhanced capital allowances (ECA) regime. This is an additional relief allowing a 100% tax write off in the year of purchase if the equipment has been certifi ed under ECA rules, and the electricity generated does not attract payments
under the Feed in Tariff or Renewable Heat Incentive. If the biomass boiler qualifi es under the ECA scheme, the cost can be written off without using the £250,000 AIA, which then remains available for other costs such as pipe work and pellet handling equipment, or other plant/machinery purchases.
Those contemplating capital projects should ensure the tax consequences and connected timing issues are properly considered.
Author: Tom Morgan
Tom Morgan is a Partner for Baker Tilly, covering Herefordshire and Worcestershire. He is a qualifi ed Chartered Accountant with 15 years’ experience providing accounting, audit and business advisory services. He specialises in dealing with larger owner managed businesses and is also Baker Tilly’s Regional Sector Head for Food and Drink.
Tel: 01432 352222
Email: [email protected]
TaX SaVING OPPORTUNITIeS FOR eQUIPMeNT INVeSTMeNT
The autumn Statement gave a welcome tax incentive for investment in plant and machinery over the next two years. This presents food and drink producers, processors and retailers with a tax saving opportunity.
ADvERtORIAl
To speak to your local Baker Tilly specialist please contact Jackie Hall or Ian Hodgson on 01482 607200 or
email [email protected] or [email protected]
www.bakertilly.co.uk
Baker Tilly UK Audit LLP, Baker Tilly Tax And Advisory Services LLP, Baker Tilly Corporate Finance LLP and Baker Tilly RestructuringAnd Recovery LLP are not authorised under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 but we are able in certain circumstances tooffer a limited range of investment services because we are members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.We can provide these investment services if they are an incidental part of the professional services we have been engaged to provide.Baker Tilly & Co Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority to conduct a range of investment business activities.
Tax risk and investigation management services Baker Tilly’s team of tax investigation ("TRIM") specialists understand how disruptive an investigation by HM Revenue & Customs (“HMRC”) can be. That's why we strive to resolve matters quickly and secure the best results for individuals and businesses.
HMRC’s “dash for cash” and the business records checks will undoubtedly lead to more investigation cases as HMRC attempt to bridge the tax gap.
We successfully resolve disputes day in and day out because
we know how the taxman thinks
BD13.indd 14 3/5/13 11:08:43
INTERNATIONALTRADE
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 015015
ONLINE CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN APPLICATIONSThe Chamber International Trade Centre provides access to an online, electronic documentation system called e-z Cert, which saves Herefordshire and Worcestershire businesses thousands of man hours and cost savings. e-z Cert allows you to submit your export documentation online, it simplifi es and speeds your ability to exploit international trade and gives signifi cant fi nancial savings on each document. Use our ‘Express’ service for an even faster delivery.
Print documents at your own premises avoiding postage delays or travelling time. You’ll also have absolute security in the processing of your documents and because you’re cutting out processing time you save on costs!
BENEFITS OF USING E-Z CERT AND E-Z CERT EXPRESS:Speed - Forward your export documentation electronically and reduce processing time.
Service - Use e-z Cert Express for an extremely fast service with documents returned without delay.
Support - Trained members of staff at the end of the phone to guide you every step of the way.
Simplicity - Forward and receive documents electronically, and with e-z Cert Express print at your own premises.
Security - By using e-z Cert Express you have absolute security in the processing of the documents.
“Using e-z Cert is simple and so effi cient. We are now able to achieve same day dispatch even where shipments require EUR1s or Certifi cates of Origin to go forward with the goods.”
Nikki Preece - Micron Sprayers
Take advantage of our electronic export documentation and certifi cation service at no extra cost.
Visit www.e-zcert.com to register as a user and start benefi tting from the service immediately.
Did you know that 75% of Letters of Credit are rejected on fi rst presentation, and over 50% on second presentation. Save time with a 95% fi rst time approval rate on Letters of Credit.
The Chamber International Trade Centre provides a comprehensive and cost effective Letters of Credit service. This service ensures preparation of all your documentation and presentation to the bank for payment allowing you to concentrate on your core business.
This service provides a number of safeguards and several benefi ts to you:
■ Save time and money
■ Secure payments for goods exported
■ Avoid bad debts
■ Enhance your reputation for effi ciency and reliability
■ Increase your profi tability
■ Reduce the risk of your Letters of Credit being rejected
What are Letters of Credit? A Letter of Credit guarantees payment for goods exported, provided you meet all of its conditions. When you export your product or service, your buyer’s bank opens a Letter of Credit. This contains details of the strict terms and conditions you need to adhere to for the bank to make payment. If your company meets all of the stated conditions payment is guaranteed.
Through our Letters of Credit service we can:
■ Check your Letter of Credit conditions to make sure you can meet them
■ Inform you of any amendments within two working days
■ Prepare all the relevant documents
■ Liaise with freight forwarders, shipping companies, inspection agents etc.
■ Check all transport and third party documents
■ Present all documentation to the bank on your company’s behalf
www.hwchamber.co.uk/lettersofcredit
TRANSLATION AND INTERPRETATION 75% of the worlds population don’t speak English, translators and interpretors on behalf of the Chamber are highly skilled in more than 150 languages to help trading overseas easier.
LETTERS OF CREDIT SERVICETAKE THE RISK OUT OF EXPORTING
BD13.indd 15 3/5/13 11:31:56
INtERNAtIONAltRADE
016
eXPORT DOCUMeNTaTION The E-cert online provides you with a fast, easy and secure way of submitting your export documentation. Chamber Members receive a 50% discount.
UKTI Herefordshire & WorcestershireMay/June 2013
CANADA POST LAUNCHES EASY-TO-USE ONLINE ADDRESS VALIDATION PLATFORMCanada Post today launched AddressComplete, a web service that allows for cost-effective and effi cient address data capture and validation using Canada’s most current and accurate address database.
The new product was developed through a strategic relationship with the leading provider of address validation web services. Worcester based Postcode Anywhere helps reduce costs related to incorrect addresses and improves the end-user address capture experience.
“Delays in payment receipt, parcel delivery failures and poor customer experiences can often be the result of inaccurate address data,” says Kerry Munro, President of the Digital Delivery Network at Canada Post.
“The highly intuitive user interface of AddressComplete enables businesses to close those gaps and enhance their customer experience and reduce costs in their web and customer contact environments.”
“We believe that there is a signifi cant requirement for a service like AddressComplete in the Canadian market,” says Guy Mucklow, CEO Postcode Anywhere.
“We are delighted to be working with Canada Post who has had exceptional vision and determination to make this happen.”
AddressComplete is built on a pay-per-use subscription model making it affordable to businesses of all sizes and it can be added to a business’ website in minutes. It offers an intuitive address validation and completion experience, benefi ting from the most accurate source of address data in the country. The services will be of particular interest to major mailers, retailers and e-retailers as well as government organizations and can be integrated into any application with a network connection including: point of sale systems, call centre programs, and proprietary systems.
www.postcodeanywhere.co.uk
UK companies are set to enjoy a boost in exporting opportunities thanks to the growth of new, emerging markets.
This is according to a recent HSBC Global Connections Report, which names Vietnam, Indonesia, Egypt, Turkey, Mexico and Poland as rapid growth markets, expected to play a signifi cant role in an increase in the volume of worldwide trade.
Other points in the report include:
n World trade growth is forecast to rise to approximately 5% in 2013 and continue to pick up to about 6-7% in 2014-16.
n The UK’s export growth to China from 2013-2015 is forecast at 9.9%.
n The UK will feel the benefi t of emerging market development and experience a boost in trade activity, in particular with China.
If the predictions prove to be true, now could be an ideal time for UK businesses to look to new markets.
But what should companies do next if they intend to make the most of these apparent opportunities? Obviously there is a lot to think about when it comes to exporting, particularly when considering emerging markets in which there are bound to be language barriers to overcome.
So to get you started we’ve developed fi ve top tips of language-related issues that you might want to think about before you decide on a potential new market.
1.LANGUAGE DIFFERENCESIt may sound obvious but if people speak a different language then it is highly likely that your company will need to speak a different language too! You are likely to need the assistance of translators and are advised to translate all of your marketing and communication materials, including your website. You should also bear in mind that the name of your product or company might not have the same appeal in another language – or could even, in some cases, cause offence!
2.THE CULTUREAs well as being aware of language differences you should also study the culture of any potential new market. Cultural issues can play a huge role in whether your product will be a success or not. You might fi nd that you need to adapt your product or service to suit your new target customers.
3. DIFFERENCES IN TASTEEven once you have got the language right and overcome any cultural issues, you might want to consider things such as the way your product looks or how it is delivered. Customers in some countries may have different preferences to those in others. This might mean adapting your packaging, labelling, pack sizes, measures, colours, logos and images to appeal to your new potential customers.
4. WEBSITE AND MARKETING LOCALISATIONBefore starting to sell in another market it is important that you are fully set up to deal with incoming orders from new overseas customers. This includes internationalising your website accordingly. This does not just mean website translation, but the inclusion of a currency converter, shipping information and anything else that will make the ordering process clear for overseas clients. Don’t forget that some customers might wish to contact you for further information – and might expect to receive feedback in their own language – so it is important to have translation and interpretation plans in place, tailored to suit the market you choose.
5. THE LAWS AND REQUIREMENTSDifferent countries have differing rules when it comes to customs requirements and legal issues. It is therefore vital to do your research properly before attempting to sell to customers in another country. Issues to consider include health and safety standards, labelling laws, pricing issues, insurance, customs and many others. Unless you are able to obtain these documents in English it might be well worth using a translator to ensure you fully understand all of the country’s requirements. The last thing you want is for your company to get in trouble as soon as it attempts trading!
Of course these are only a few of the many issues you will need to consider. There is much more to exporting than this, and you are advised to seek the help of experts before you decide on a new target market. UK Trade & Investment offers a great deal of advice for fi rst-time exporters or those looking to export to new markets.
www.ukti.gov.uk
LANGUAGE-RELATED ISSUES FOR ExPORTERS & “THOSE” EMERGING ECONOMIES
BD13.indd 16 3/5/13 11:08:50
INtERNAtIONAltRADE
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 017
[email protected] 641 1613
PaSSPORT TO eXPORT – HeLPING YOU TO eXPORT Passport to Export is a 12 month programme of support that will help you identify, understand and make the most of your international business opportunities. The programme puts together in one simple responsive process all the tools that exporting companies need to grow their business.
A dedicated International Trade Adviser (ITA) will work closely with you to develop an action plan based on your objectives and resources, helping you to understand more clearly the different stages of exporting specifi c to your business.
Passport to Export is a skills-based and assessment programme. To start, UKTI will provide a one day export development seminar, up to £3000 (match funding) towards international activity, access to 3 free Export Master classes and links to UKTI services, funding and external signposting. The next Passport to Export seminar will be held on Tuesday 18 June in Malvern and Wednesday 31 July in Hereford.
For more information about Passport to Export plus any of the other services UK Trade and Investment Herefordshire and Worcestershire provide, please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/doing-business-overseas, email [email protected] or call 0845 641 1613 to speak to an International Trade Advisor.
The conference was held at Yamazaki Mazak’s head offi ce in Worcester and Robin Southwell, Chief Executive of EADS UK and UK Trade and Investment Ambassador, was the key note speaker.
Robin stated that it was vital to increase the number of exporting companies as fi gures are currently below the national target.
To achieve this, the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and UKTI working in association with the Worcester Local Enterprise Partnership and the private sector, are developing a focus plan of international engagement for trade links and promoting the county to the world.
Through the high calibre programme of guest speakers, attendees were guided through the impact of exporting and presented with the current opportunities in emerging markets to generate jobs and economic growth for Worcestershire.
If you would like more information or to fi nd out how your company can participate, contact [email protected] or call 0845 641 1613 to speak to a trade advisor.
www.hwchamber.co.uk/doing-business-overseas.
wORCeSTeRSHIRe HaS eYeS ON THe wORLD – MeeTING THe eXPORT SUPPORT NeTwORK
Herefordshire and worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, in association with worcestershire LeP and UK Trade and Investment, recently welcomed business leaders from across the region to a one day conference about how they can grow their business through exporting.
BD13.indd 17 3/5/13 11:08:53
POlICY
018 May/June 2013
HOw MUCH INVeSTMeNT RISK aRe YOU TaKING RIGHT NOw?The answer is that it doesn’t matter. Well, that is if your money is invested into a portfolio which is suited to your chosen time frame and of course tailored to how comfortable you are at taking investment risk.
The problem is that all too often we make decisions about money, particularly when it’s for the long-term, and then walk away and forget about it.
What many people forget to do, is keep talking to their fi nancial adviser and this is where an investment portfolio that was once tailored to your needs, stops working.
Speak to your fi nancial adviser and ask what percentage of your money is currently invested into risky assets. Have a conversation about how and where the money is placed and make sure you still feel confi dent and comfortable with the answers given.
Ask when your portfolio was last rebalanced. This means when it was last reviewed to make sure that the funds that were originally chosen are still performing and that the portfolio continues to provide the right balance of risk versus reward.
English Mutual review and (where appropriate) rebalance the investment portfolios of clients every quarter, to make sure the holdings have not drifted. They have a strict investment process which controls the exposure to risk of their investment portfolios and ensure they remain tailored to meet the needs and objectives of each client.
To fi nd out more about investing, or to talk to an English Mutual Financial Planner about reviewing your portfolio call 0845 603 3679 or visit www.englishmutual.com
TELL DECISION MARKERS ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AND FEED INTO NATIONAL AND REGIONAL POLICY
Att ached is the copy for page 18 - the policy page. Is it possible that you can make the fi gures in the QES arti cle into graphs, inforgrams, pictures (The .pdf is what another Chamber does that I actually likes and thought we could steal but with our fi gures!).
Kelly Key
Q1 2013 SUMMaRY
163 Respondents
1-19 employees 2%
20-199 employees 19%
200-499 employees 38%
500+ employees 41%
61% 1%believe turnover will improve
lower than the last quarter
58% higher than last quarter58% higher than last quarterlast quarterlast quarter6%
think profi tability will improve
73%27%
are working below full capacity
are operating at full capacity
37%reported an increase
in UK sales
36%reported an increase
in UK orders
49%believe The major concern for businesses is ‘competition’
31%believe exchange rates are a concern
27%believe infl ation is a major concern
30%
27%
23%
50%
48%
£ £ £ £
Export sales balance has increased
12%Export orders balance has increasedExport orders balance has increased
4%
(both higher than last quarter)
expect their prices to rise over April, May and June 2013
believe cashfl ow has improved over the last quarter
having problems recruiting skilled manual/technical staff
expect an increase in workforce over the next 3 months
had experienced recruitment problems
APR MAY JUN
23%23% over the next 3 monthsover the next 3 monthsAPR MAY JUN
The survey takes just 3-4 minutes and all you need to do is answer some questions on how your business is performing and what barriers are preventing you from achieving more.
The Quarterly Economic Survey feeds into the British Chambers of Commerce national survey which is the
largest and most representative independent business survey of its kind in the UK, and is closely watched by policy makers such as the Treasury and the Bank of England, as well as the national media.
Each quarter, over 5,000 businesses across the country participate in the QES and the results are closely watched by policymakers such as the Treasury, Bank of England and the Offi ce of Budget Responsibility.
Our ability to improve our local QES performance is totally dependent on the feedback. The more businesses who give us their feedback, the stronger the data and response.
Below is a sample of results from Quarter 1:
Quarter 2 of the Quarterly economic Survey (QeS) opens on Monday 21 May and Herefordshire and worcestershire businesses are being urged to get involved!
To complete the Quarter 2 survey visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/qesq22013
BD13.indd 18 3/5/13 11:09:04
BUSINESSNEWS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 019
GOUGH BAILEY WRIGHT LAUNCHES NEW E-COMMERCE SITE FOR LESLEY ASHWORTH Gough Bailey Wright has successfully launched a new e-commerce website this month for client, Lesley Ashworth Accessories, www.lesleyashworth.co.uk
The new transactional website is part of the agency’s expanding digital marketing portfolio further into the area of e-commerce.
Michelle Wright, Client Services Director at Gough Bailey Wright, said: “Since the new Lesley Ashworth website has gone live we’ve had a great response from the public. The whole GBW team and our digital department especially have worked extremely hard to create this first class e-commerce site.
www.gough.co.uk
Last year, Griffiths and Charles were looking to find an energetic and presentable person to assist their ever busy Rental Department.
A suggestion to contact Worcester College of Technology and enquire about their Apprenticeship Scheme resulted in Olivia Hill joining the Agents to undertake reception and general administration duties.
Now she is almost halfway through her initial 12 month appointment and Olivia has proved to be a most able, dedicated and adaptable member of the team. With funding from Worcester City Council and Central Government available for a two year placement, Olivia has been offered an extension to her original posting. This will allow her to learn more about the business, take on added responsibilities and plan a career for the future.
“I would recommend any employer to embrace this Scheme which is carefully monitored through the College; it has certainly proved a winner for us!” concludes Charles.
www.griffiths-charles.co.uk www.wortech.ac.uk
Re-BRaND FOR GROwING COUNTY PR aGeNCY
The Bewdley-based firm, who manage PR and media relations accounts on behalf of many Worcestershire and Herefordshire businesses, is now known as Henry Pepper PR.
Managing Director, Lorraine Henry says: “The rebrand is a move that will prepare us for the future. The agency has gone from strength to strength over recent years and has expanded with new client wins and more businesses looking to use our services and advice.”
Two of the new services being offered by Henry Pepper PR include a media consultancy for small businesses and a talent management division.
www.henrypepperpr.co.uk
a MINI aDVeNTURe FOR OaK LeaF GaTeSOak Leaf Gates’ Managing Director Richard Eccleston unveiled his company’s brand new corporate identity to the public for the very first time when he collected the keys to his company’s new sales vehicle – a 2013 Mini Clubvan.
The grand unveiling of the new Oak Leaf Gates brand, which was revealed for the first time on the fully sign written vehicle, also coincided with the opening of the dealership’s new showroom on Legion Way recently.
Oak Leaf Gates’ recent growth has also led to the recruitment of a new 3D CAD designer who will support the expanding sales and design departments. The sales team will utilise the new Mini Clubvan to visit clients with a full range of samples and scale models of the gates.
www.oakleafgates.co.uk
Richard Eccleston (left) receives the keys to his brand new Mini Clubvan from Steve Liddle at the opening of the new Cotswold Mini Showroom.
Henry Pepper PR’s Team
worcestershire public relations agency and Chamber member Red Pepper Marketing & Communications has rebranded as part of their ambitious growth plans.
aPPReNTICeSHIP SCHeMe a wINNeR FOR aGeNTS, GRIFFITHS & CHaRLeS
Olivia at work Griffiths and Charles’s offices
BD13.indd 19 3/5/13 11:09:12
BUSINESSNEWS
020
The worcestershire-based company Simply Business energy has started on its mission to help UK businesses reduce their costs on gas and electricity.
May/June 2013
The Kingspan Insulation Community Trust is fl ying high in 2013, announcing the appointment of two new Trustees along with the award of over £25,000 in funding to a wide range of deserving local projects.
The new Trustees, Naomi Andersson and Caroline Palethorpe, will represent the catchment areas of Earl Mortimer College and Tenbury High School respectively. Their appointments follow the expansion of the Trust area last year which also includes the catchments of Wigmore High School and Lady Hawkins’ School.
The expansion has been a great success, with the Trustees awarding grants to 16 projects which met at least one of the Trust’s four objectives: encouraging conservation, biodiversity, health and fi tness of young people and road safety.
Application forms and details of other local projects that have already been helped by the Trust can be viewed on the website
www.KingspanInsulationCommunityTrust.org
The company that recently launched its price comparison website www.simplybusinessenergy.co.uk says that SMEs could save up to £230 million by smarter procurement of energy.
With no need to sign up with email addresses or the inevitable stream of phone calls that come hand in hand with the typical price comparison website, Simply Business Energy is quick and easy to use. Analysing a data base of 15,000 tariff combinations from leading energy suppliers, Simply Business Energy provides an independent comparison of prices.
Led by former npower director Steve Fletcher and Pershore businessman Paul Fox, their main focus is ensuring that SMEs receive the best possible deals by providing a simple online display of contract offers from 1 to 4 years and competitive prices that refl ect individual businesses needs.
www.simplybusinessenergy.co.uk
ACCOUNTANCY FIRM ON THE MOVEAfter more than 30 years at its Bridge Street offi ce, leading Herefordshire accountants Thorne Widgery has moved to new offi ces at Wyevale Business Park.
Managing Director, Stephen Smallwood, says: “The move is due to our continued expansion. We’ve been growing steadily in recent years and our faithful Bridge Street offi ces simply became too small for us. Our new home at Wyevale Business Park gives us ample space and parking, and room to expand even more which is vital as we expect to be employing more people over the coming months.”
www.thornewidgery.co.uk
wHC ReDeVeLOP THeIR wORCeSTeR DePOT
Founded in its current form around sixteen years ago, the company has grown substantially during that time and now offers a huge range of new plant and tools for hire at its high-tech depot in Tewkesbury. Its latest step forward is the complete refurbishment of its Bath Road depot in Worcester city.
WHC has always supplied hire tools to the DIY market, but is expanding this service through the development in Worcester. “The complete redevelopment at the Bath Road depot is designed to offer an excellent customer experience, for both contractors and DIY customers. It will be a light, clean and welcoming environment,” says James Clutterbuck, company owner. “Our new media partner, Nexus Creative Limited, will be helping us to organise the depot launch day and helping us to continue developing our business, both locally and nationally, through a new website.”
WHC expect the redevelopment to be complete in June and will be inviting the public to a launch day.
www.nexuscl.com www.whchireservices.com
Thorne Widgery staff outside their new offi ces
SPRING INTO aCTION
Shobdon Primary School pupils have been enjoying learning about nature in their wildlife pond, one of many local projects to have received funding from the Kingspan Insulation Community Trust in its previous rounds of grants.
ENERGY PRICE COMPARISON WEBSITE PIONEERS POTENTIAL £230 MILLION COST REDUCTION FOR SMES
Steve Fletcher and Paul Fox
Growing plant and tool hire company wHC is boosting its presence with the redevelopment of its worcester depot.
01905 [email protected]
moduscreative.co.ukmodusprint.co.uk
ROARF o r e n s i c s
OPEN house
ALLANMORRIS
W O R C E ST E R S HI RE
babble
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BD13.indd 20 3/5/13 11:09:29
It’s all aboutour custostomerserser
Local, nationaationaa l, get the toutouch01905 731529
modusprint.co.uk
ROARF o r e n s i c s
OPEN house
ALLANMORRIS
W O R C E ST E R S HI RE
babble
THE
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WORTH WORCESTERSHIRE TR UST
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BD13.indd 21 3/5/13 11:09:41
CONFERENCEWORCEStERSHIRE
022
www.conference-worcestershire.org
ROOM HIRe The opportunity to hire spacious and well-equipped rooms at the Chamber’s head office in Blackpole, Worcester.
May/June 2013
ENGLAND’S LOVELIEST SPORTING GROUND UNDERGOES £10 MILLION WORTH OF DEVELOPMENT
Excitement is mounting by the week at New Road as the £10million development project gathers pace and the 2013 season approaches. The main features of Worcestershire County Cricket Club’s £10million development of New Road include:
n Eye-catching glassed entrance with raised walkway into the ground
n Four-storey, 120-bedroom Premier Inn hotel
n New reception area, offices and meeting rooms
n Hospitality facilities, including 170 executive pitch-view balcony seats
n A new bar and over 500 new seats for spectators
www.wccc.co.uk
HILTON BIRMINGHAM BROMSGROVEThe Hilton Birmingham Bromsgrove Hotel is the ideal location for your meeting or conference. Boasting 9 meetings and function rooms, this Midlands hotel houses the Elgar Suite which can hold up to 220 delegates, has its own lobby and bar and can be divided into 3 separate rooms.
The hotel feature can cater for every event from a simple meeting to a product launch or gala ball. The hotel can provide a range of Food & Beverage
options and WiFi access is available in all areas. Flexible room layouts are available as well as dedicated Event Coordinators. The hotel is perfectly located, with nearby motorway links.
MALVERN THEATRESWith its modern open-plan feel, flexible spaces and town-centre location, Malvern Theatres is an excellent location for conferences and meetings.
The Forum Theatre is the largest conference space with room for up to 800 delegates. It’s a flexible venue that can also accommodate exhibition-style events with space for up to 40 exhibitor stands. Room hire fee is £1500 plus VAT.
The Malvern Cinema, which includes a stage area measuring, is a smaller conference space suitable for up to 225 delegates. Room hire fee is £500 plus VAT
The Circle Bar area can seat up to 100 delegates and can also be used for open-plan breakout sessions (4 groups of 10 each might be typical). Hire fee is £200 plus VAT.
The Hospitality Suite is ideal for small meetings. It can seat up to 50 people and is also a good venue for intimate dinners or family celebrations. Room hire fee is £100.00 plus VAT
The Main Foyer is an open-plan area measuring 18m by 9m and can be used as a central catering point or as exhibition space for up to 10 exhibition stands. Hire fee is £300 plus VAT.
Catering is extremely flexible in terms of the numbers for and range of menus on offer.
Malvern Theatres is a working theatre with excellent access to the latest technical equipment and access to broadband.
[email protected] www.malvern-theatres.co.uk
UNIVERSITY OF WORCESTER ARENA The University of Worcester has opened the new 2,000-seat Arena on Hylton Road, Worcester. The Arena is incomparable to any other facility in the county and enables the University to provide unique, fully accessible services to local sports clubs as well as elite athletes.
As the biggest indoor venue between Birmingham and Bristol, the Arena will become a local, national and international attraction, contributing to the local economy, and adding to the reputation of Worcester as a national sporting City.
With spacious, high-tech facilities the Arena can further develop the University’s innovative sporting programmes, whilst also providing
a venue that will attract a variety of spectator events to the City, both sporting and non-sporting.
Getting involved: As well as catering for large events, the Arena has a prestigious conference suite available for hire by external clients with outstanding views of the Worcester Racecourse and River Severn.
The Arena’s prominent location coupled with its high footfall provides excellent brand exposure to regional, national and international audiences. All marketing opportunities offer significant value for money and will enhance connections with the University of Worcester and its audiences.
www.worc.ac.uk
April White is the Arena Project Coordinator, 01905 855525
BD13.indd 22 3/5/13 11:09:50
DEStINAtIONWORCEStERSHIRE
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 023
BROCKENCOTE HALL HOTEL FINALIST IN THE SMALL HOTEL OF THE YEARBrockencote Hall Hotel has been named as a fi nalist in The Small Hotel of the Year category of the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2013.
Last October, Brockencote Hall won Hotel of the Year in the Worcestershire Welcome awards, organised by the VisitWorcestershire team at the Chamber of Commerce. This then enabled them to enter the VisitEngland Awards, in which they have competed against 390 other hotels nationally to be in the top 5. Brockencote Hall are one of Worcestershire’s Hidden Gems and are proud to be representing the County at these prestigious, National Awards.
As a fi nalist Brockencote Hall Hotel now goes forward to the glittering Awards Ceremony which is being
held on Monday 20 May 2013 at The Point, Lancashire County Cricket Club, Old Trafford, Manchester.
Commenting on the fi nalists James Berresford, VisitEngland’s Chief Executive said “I would like to congratulate all those nominated as VisitEngland Awards for Excellence fi nalists this year. We received 320 applications and the quality of submissions was higher than ever. It is therefore no small achievement for Brockencote Hall Hotel to become a fi nalist and justifi ably take credit and pride in earning a coveted place in the top fi ve in their category in England. I wish everyone all the best for the fi nal in May”.
www.brockencotehall.com
Farm Stay UK is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2013 and the Worcestershire group of Bed & Breakfasts and Self Catering businesses are proud to be part of that organisation.
The member properties provide a unique and high quality experience for visitors because everybody is quality assessed by one of the two nationally recognised schemes run by Visit England or the AA using the easily recognisable star rating symbols, ensuring that standards are consistently high.
In particular business guests receive a friendly and personal service – bookings are taken directly with the owner and not through an agency, comfortable accommodation, secure parking for vehicles large and small, and the peace and quiet of truly rural surroundings. Also, the proximity of Worcestershire to the Midlands motorway systems means that whilst you may be deep in the countryside you are never far from your destination.
Providing high quality food is an integral part of the Farm Stay UK offering and members pride themselves on using produce from their own farms
or locally sourced ingredients. Many of the B&Bs have Breakfast Awards and our Self Catering properties are equally welcoming to business people who may need something longer term. In keeping with current needs, workspace and Free Wi Fi is available at the majority of properties, together with the availability of online booking at some.
www.farmstayworcestershire.co.uk
The Worcestershire Wildlife Trust operates a Carbon Offset Scheme whereby businesses can give directly back to help the survival of the local ecosystem and the wonderful habitats that exist in Worcestershire.
The scheme started a few years ago when the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust were approached by an award winning self catering holiday provider and B&B with green tourism credentials. Hidelow House Cottages located on the borders of Herefordshire and Worcestershire came up with the idea of helping to put something back in the local environment in order to balance the carbon emissions of people holidaying with them.
The owners, Stuart and Pauline Diplock, encourage their visitors to donate £5 to Worcestershire Wildlife Trust to ‘offset’ some of the carbon footprint of their holiday. The money goes directly into the local area by investing in conservation work taking place, across the whole county. Stuart and Pauline match the £5 donation, so each and
every donation from a visitor is worth £10 to help habitat restoration and creation in Worcestershire. In the last couple of years, more than £300 has been donated through this scheme by this one business.
Worcestershire Wildlife Trust would like to encourage more visitors to Worcestershire and businesses in the tourism industry to donate via this innovative idea that aims to get people thinking about minimising the impact their holiday can have on Worcestershire’s wonderful countryside. It fi ts in well with the Green Tourism Scheme and the Trust would encourage any tourism business who’d like to improve their environmental sustainability to consider running a similar donation scheme.
If you are a non tourism business you too can donate to the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust.
www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk
GIVING SOMETHING BACK TO THE ENVIRONMENT VIA THE WORCESTERSHIRE CARBON OFFSET SCHEME
Bluebells at the Knapp & Papermill, Paul Lane
Would you like to have a supply of the latest Visit Worcestershire magazines for your visitors? This is a great way to encourage business visitors to return to the county as leisure tourists and help to boost the visitor economy in Worcestershire.
Please contact Victoria Carman on 0845 641 1542 or email [email protected]
VISIT WORCESTERSHIRE MAGAzINE
ALLOW YOUR VISITORS A ‘HOME AWAY FROM HOME’ BUSINESS TRIP EXPERIENCE
BD13.indd 23 3/5/13 11:10:03
BIgINtERvIEW
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce024
It was a belief that took him into the rapidly changing world of the Internet and a remarkably varied career.
Now leading several highly successful companies in the digital sector, he recalls those early days when he realised that the world appeared slow to realise that a revolution was under way.
He says: “I come from a creative background so went to Art College. This was in 1993 and I felt that the tutors were not really teaching me what I needed to know.
“I was teaching them more about the way computers were changing the world of graphic design.
“I dropped out and went to work for a company in Kidderminster doing design on paste-up boards. I call it ‘the cow gum experience’ but by the time I left three years later, they were completely computerised.
“I could see that big changes were under way and that the Internet was going to bring about a revolution.
“One opportunity was in the field of domain registering. In those days, it was a complicated and very manual process. There was clearly an opportunity for someone who could automate it and make it easier. That‘s what we did.“
His first venture with business partner Jason Smith was with Se7en Internet Limited, of Worcester, of which he was founder and worked as Managing Director between June 1996 –December 1999. Se7en Internet changed its trading name in December 2000 to Phase8 Limited, which was bought by Names.co Internet Plc in December 2000.
In January 2004, Kevin and Jason took over Namesco Internet PLC via a management buyout. In 2007, Namesco Ltd was, in turn, bought by Register.IT S.p.A which owned by Dada S.p.A in Italy.
Their next venture was Ventutec Ltd; the Worcester-based venture operates in the Information Technology sector and specialises in Web Development and Smartphone solutions.
Its biggest success has been Celebalike, which uses facial recognition software to match your image to a celebrity and has been a huge seller worldwide.
Kevin said: “In business you always have to look for the next new thing and it was clear to us that the idea of mobile Applications was going to change the world.
“We developed a series of IPhone and Android apps, each one of which was successful but the most successful of which was Celebalike.
“It was a simple idea but one that has proved popular and very marketable. The idea for Celebalike was already around but we improved on it.
“It’s always important to be thinking about the next thing, either a new idea or one that exists but which you can do better. That’s the challenge. I read a lot and watch and learn so I can spot the next opportunity.
“For me, the key to success is how you market your product. There are some brilliant Apps out there that are not great successes because they have not been marketed.
For Kevin, the next challenge has included the music business and he has been collaborating with Dragon’s Den entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne on their new record label Bannatyne Music Limited.
The company is working to establish new artistes and its bands include Reconnected, the Britain’s Got Talent Finalists who broke into the charts at Number 32 with the label’s debut single.
Kevin said: “It’s a different world. With Apps, although you are always looking for the next big thing, a successful App like Celebalike will rank highly in the charts and stay there over a long period of time.
“That’s not the way with the music industry, which is the toughest one in which I have worked. Reconnected’s debut single entered the chart at 32 then dropped out of the chart the next week.
“One of the challenges is getting people to buy your single. Music is so accessible and if a song is successful, people hear it all the time on radio or YouTube so they know about it, and like it, but they do not necessarily buy it.
“It is a tough market place but one that comes with rewards if you are successful. However, although it is different from the Web sector, there are similarities. It is all about numbers, about selling units, and that appeals to me. It’s where I started out my career.
“I welcomed the chance to work with Duncan Bannatyne. I like surrounding myself with successful people so that I can learn from them.”
For Kevin Savage, the road to his career as a successful entrepreneur began when he dropped out of art College because he felt he was not learning enough about the technological changes engulfing the world of design.
I dropped out and went to work for a company in Kidderminster doing design on paste-up boards. I call it ‘the cow gum experience’ but by the time I left three years later, they were completely computerised. I could see that big changes were under way and that the Internet was going to bring about a revolution.
LOOKING TO THe FUTURe IN a RaPIDLY CHaNGING wORLD
May/June 2013
BD13.indd 24 3/5/13 11:10:05
BIgINtERvIEW
025
KEVIN SAVAGE Director Ventutec Ltd
BD13.indd 25 3/5/13 11:10:06
From the inventor of the wheel to the great Victorian bridge-builders, from the developers of the jet engine to the creators of the Internet, they have all harnessed the power of technology.
Now, the Government has identifi ed what it calls the ‘eight great technologies’ which it says will propel the UK to future growth.
David Willetts, the Minister for Universities and Science, recently said that the £600 million announced for science in the Autumn Statement will support big data, space, robotics and autonomous systems,
synthetic biology, regenerative medicine, agri-science, advanced materials and energy.
Money already allocated includes:
n £189 million for big data and energy-effi cient computing
n £25 million of additional funding for the National Space Technology Programme
n £35 million for centres of excellence in robotics
n £45 million for new facilities and equipment for advanced materials research in advanced composites, high-performance alloys, low-energy electronics and telecommunications
n £30 million to create R&D facilities to develop and test new grid scale storage technologies, helping the UK capitalise on its excess energy production, save money and reduce the national carbon footprint
n £350 million from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) in Centres for Doctoral Training.
Mr Willetts says: “Strong science and fl exible markets is a good combination of policies but it is not enough.
“It misses out crucial stuff in the middle – real decisions on backing key technologies on their journey from the lab to the marketplace. It is the missing third pillar to any successful high tech strategy.
“It is R&D and technology and engineering as distinct from pure science. It is our historic failure to back this which lies behind the familiar problems of the so-called ‘valley of death‘ between scientifi c discoveries and commercial applications.”
COvERFEAtURE
026
Technology holds the key to business success, always has, always will, and one of the biggest areas in which it is so important is the development of new products and processes.
May/June 2013
HOw TeCHNOLOGY IS
CHaNGING THe BUSINeSS wORLD
BD13.indd 26 3/5/13 11:10:23
COvERFEAtURE
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 027
KEEPING UP WITH RAPID CHANGE IN THE WORKPLACEThe challenges as technology redefi nes the workplace were illustrated in a recent report issued by communications company Jabra.
Its study of 1,000 workers found that 83% of today’s offi ce population regularly work from home or from another location in sectors including sales, marketing, fi nance, customer service and administration.
The research found that 46% of offi ce workers use a mobile or smartphone for work, 35% use a laptop and 72% regularly take calls and respond to emails outside offi ce hours.
The research also showed that 25-34 year olds are much more likely than their older colleagues to use their personal devices at work, almost one in 10 use a tablet to communicate with colleagues, one in fi ve work mostly from a laptop and 14% use a softphone at work.
19% of 25-34 year olds said being able to use their personal devices at work would enable them to be more productive.
IT IS THe KeY TO wORKING SMaRTAnother key facet of technology is its ability to make companies more effi cient and provide the best service to their customers.
Forward-thinking companies realise that computer technologies allow them to ensure that their staff are directed to the best effect and that tasks that once took many hours can now be done quickly.
One of the biggest opportunities offered by IT is in the way companies can use technology to improve their Client Relationship Management.
Companies have realised that new technologies give them ways of directly getting in touch with large numbers of customers through databases.
Such databases allow them to send out mass emails which, rather than simply being advertising tools more likely to suffer the delete button than to be read, exhibit more thought, a sense of value for money.
Such messages update people on projects and products, answer the questions clients have been asking and seek their views on improvements that can be made. The ones which exhibit thought tend to be rewarded with higher customer satisfaction.
One of the other big IT changes has been the emergence of Cloud Computing. The idea is that the user can access services such as storage and word processing from the Internet, the Cloud in question, rather than on their own in-house servers. It means that companies can use the Cloud without having to worry about the systems behind it.
According to industry experts, Cloud technology leads to increased effi ciencies, competitiveness and reduced IT costs.
The Cloud Industry Forum, an umbrella organisation for companies involved in the technology, recently carried out research that showed that more than 50% already use Cloud computing for email, storage, data back-up/disaster recovery, collaboration solutions and web services.
KEEPING ON TOP OF THE MESSAGE IN A CHANGING WORLDMarketing and communication technology is changing rapidly and the key reason is Social Media.
Marketing professionals, while concerned that it is more diffi cult to control the message on Social Media, can nevertheless see great opportunities in the new ways of contacting customers directly through the likes of Facebook and Twitter, not least because they can measure precisely how many people are reading their releases.
However, Social Media also allows a message to be questioned within seconds and keeping track of comment has become a major part of the marketing professional’s working day.
Marketing experts are showing increasing levels of imagination as they respond to the new technological world, experimenting with the likes of podcasts, audio fi les, fl ash banner advertising and fi lm on U-Tube. They are also taking advantage of the revolution in hand-held technology and the opportunities it offers for downloads by people who live on the move.
BD13.indd 27 3/5/13 11:10:34
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the BUSINESS unit
GET AHEAD:We can help you to ensure your employees have the right skills to do the best job - boosting your productivity and keeping you ahead of the competition.
Kidderminster College have been an Apprenticeship training provider for over 20 years, successfully placing hundreds of new apprentices within businesses throughout Worcestershire. Some of the benefits we can offer your business:
READ WHAT BUSINESSES SAY ABOUT THEIR APPRENTICES...
“I am absolutely delighted with the progress the apprentices have made. They are mature, confident and responsible. And since the apprentices have started working with us, we have attracted younger
- Lynne Jones, Retail Manager for KEMP Hospice
“We utilised a grant to cover the cost of training. Once the training is complete we envisage that our apprentice will be generating more than enough income to allow us to offer her a permanent job
- Alan Price, Algar Accounting
“Kemp Hospice is benefitting greatly because these apprentices are our future as they are - Malcolm Plant, Director at KEMP Hospice
“It has been hugely rewarding to see a young person take an opportunity we have offered and seize it
- Alison Hinton, Forces Support
FIND OUT ABOUT HOW YOU CAN BENEFIT FROM AN APPRENTICE, CALL 01562 826501 TODAY. [email protected]
EMPLOY AN APPRENTICE
BD13.indd 28 3/5/13 11:10:36
the BUSINESS unit
GET AHEAD:We can help you to ensure your employees have the right skills to do the best job - boosting your productivity and keeping you ahead of the competition.
Kidderminster College have been an Apprenticeship training provider for over 20 years, successfully placing hundreds of new apprentices within businesses throughout Worcestershire. Some of the benefits we can offer your business:
READ WHAT BUSINESSES SAY ABOUT THEIR APPRENTICES...
“I am absolutely delighted with the progress the apprentices have made. They are mature, confident and responsible. And since the apprentices have started working with us, we have attracted younger
- Lynne Jones, Retail Manager for KEMP Hospice
“We utilised a grant to cover the cost of training. Once the training is complete we envisage that our apprentice will be generating more than enough income to allow us to offer her a permanent job
- Alan Price, Algar Accounting
“Kemp Hospice is benefitting greatly because these apprentices are our future as they are - Malcolm Plant, Director at KEMP Hospice
“It has been hugely rewarding to see a young person take an opportunity we have offered and seize it
- Alison Hinton, Forces Support
FIND OUT ABOUT HOW YOU CAN BENEFIT FROM AN APPRENTICE, CALL 01562 826501 TODAY. [email protected]
EMPLOY AN APPRENTICE
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 029
ADvERtORIAl
Cheques have been awarded to 25 companies so far, who have employed their fi rst apprentice and there are a further fi ve companies in the pipeline. Each business can receive up to £1,500 per apprentice, and even better, the AGE scheme is in addition to training fees met in full for 16-18 year old apprentices (or co-funded for those aged 19 and over).
Those who have seen the benefi ts are from a variety of industry sectors, with apprentices working towards vocationally relevant qualifi cations, all delivered by Kidderminster College. Employers have been really encouraged by the scheme and the grant has proved effective in growing businesses and investing in young people’s futures.
“We utilised the grant to cover the cost of training. Once the training is complete we envisage that our apprentice will be generating more than enough income to allow us to offer her a permanent job following the completion of her accountancy qualifi cation.” - Alan Price, Algar Accounting
To take advantage of this fantastic opportunity, call The Business Unit at Kidderminster College on 01562 826501 or email [email protected]
KIDDeRMINSTeR COLLeGe CO-ORDINaTeS OVeR £40,000 FOR BUSINeSSeS!Businesses recruiting apprenticeships via Kidderminster College have received a total of £40,000 from the apprenticeship Grant for employers (aGe) scheme. The scheme was introduced by the National apprenticeship Service as an incentive for small businesses to take on apprentices and reap the benefits of a skilled, increased workforce.
“We utilised the grant to cover the cost of training. Once the training is complete we envisage that our apprentice will be generating more than enough income to allow us to offer her a permanent job following the completion of her accountancy qualification.” ALAN PRICEAlgar Accounting
WYRE FOREST DISTRICT COUNCIL AND KIDDERMINSTER COLLEGE JOIN FORCES TO ENHANCE LOCAL ECONOMYA grant scheme to support businesses in the Wyre Forest to take on apprentices has been launched by Wyre Forest District Council. The authority has joined forces with Kidderminster College to help Wyre Forest businesses employ local residents. The Council is making £50,000 available and businesses will be able to apply for up to £7,500 to help fund a two year apprenticeship.
Wyre Forest Business student Helen Tovey (21) now works in the offi ce at Vacuum and Crane Ltd in Stourport-on-Severn. Helen was one of the fi rst candidates on the Wyre Forest Apprenticeship Grant Scheme. She attends Kidderminster College every Wednesday so she can work towards her Level 2 Business & Administration Apprenticeship. Annabel Young, Sales and Marketing Director for Vacuum and Crane commented, “The Apprentice Scheme has been the ideal solution for us as we are a growing company and really value the support the scheme provides.”
The grant is available to small and medium sized enterprises located within the Wyre Forest District with up to 250 employees (there is a limit of two apprenticeships per business). Financial support is based on a one or two year apprenticeship with 50% of the wages in year 1 being met (up to £5,000 max) and 25% of the wages in year 2 being met (up to £2,500 max).
Jennie Short, Head of Employer Engagement dept at Kidderminster College, said:
“We’re delighted to be involved in this partnership with Wyre Forest District Council. I know how effective Apprenticeships are to businesses and how they enhance business productivity. The feedback I regularly receive from employers who have taken on an apprentice is so positive and simply serves to reinforce this. We want to make it easier for our local businesses to see this for themselves, our partnership will allow us to do exactly that”.
IS YOUR BUSINESS BASED IN THE WYRE FOREST? Contact The Business Unit at Kidderminster College on 01562 826501 or email [email protected] to fi nd out more about how we can help you benefi t from the Apprenticeship Grant for Employers (AGE) scheme and the Wyre Forest Grant Scheme.
IS YOUR BUSINESS BASED IN ANOTHER DISTRICT?Contact us to discuss how we can help you make the most of the Apprenticeship Grant for Employers (AGE) scheme, call The Business Unit at Kidderminster College on 01562 826501 or email [email protected]
Three young volunteers secure apprenticeships with KEMP Hospice
BD13.indd 29 3/5/13 11:10:41
030 May/June 2013
FaST-TRaCK IN TO MaNaGeMeNT
ADvERtORIAl
With NEW College, it is now possible for your employees to achieve the HND in Business Management on a part-time basis in only two years. The attendance requirements are 12.45 – 9.30pm one day per week over two years.
This degree-level course covers all the essential business and management subjects, including; accounting, human resource management, marketing,
economics, operations and business planning. Not only will your employees learn about these vital areas, and how they all integrate and function together, but they will see and learn how they can be applied in your organisation right now!
And it’s not all theory; your employees will develop their leadership abilities and the important skills needed to help take your organisation forward and thrive in today’s challenging economic climate.
The course provides excellent value for money. At a cost of only £6,000; it is considerably cheaper than similar courses at other local Colleges and Universities. Furthermore, many of your employees will be eligible to apply for non-means tested government-funded student loans to cover their course fees via Student Finance England.
If you want to develop your future leaders in half the time and at half the cost, kick-start the process today, by contacting Bridgette Bennett the course leader on: 01527 405826 or [email protected] Bridgette is currently recruiting for the next course due to start on Tuesday 10th September 2013.
Develop your organisation’s next generation of leaders in double quick time and at a sensible cost via New College’s unique ‘fast-track’ HND Business Management course.
BD13.indd 30 3/5/13 11:10:46
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 031
Swainston Training is a City & Guilds approved centre based in South Herefordshire, offering an extensive range of NPTC Certifi cates of Competence and City & Guilds vocational qualifi cations.Our training courses are delivered by highly experienced industry professionals either at our large commercial training site situated in the peaceful picturesque countryside close to Ross on Wye, or at customers premises.
Swainston Training offers an extension selection of specialist short courses which are designed to strengthen your business and meet the stringent requirements required by quality assurance schemes and insurance companies.
We can offer training in the following areas:
• Forklift• Pesticides• Forestry• Mowers• Plant Machinery• Manual Handling
Swainston Training and Phocle Farm Cookery School can offer City & Guilds qualifi cations or Corporate Team Building Days at the same venue.
To learn more about our courses and for further information please go to: www.swainstontraining.co.uk or www.phoclefarmcookery.co.uk
Babcock is the UK ’s leading training provider. We offer a range of Government-funded apprenticeships, tailor-made to suit individual business needs. In today’s markets, where customer loyalty is constantly shifting, staff training is increasingly recognised as a vital tool for those organisations that want to be competitive and remain profi table.
Babcock’s Apprenticeship Vacancies Online (AVOL) service will help you fi nd the right apprentice for your business. To register your vacancy, simply complete the online form at www.babcockinternational.com/avol. Once recruited, Babcock will guide your new Apprentice through their programme with regular workplace visits, arranged at a time convenient for your business.
To fi nd out more about our programmes and our free Apprentice recruitment service, contact Recruitment and Sales Manager - Charlie Goodings on:
Telephone: 07764 502 107 | Email: [email protected] | Web: www.babcockinternational.com/training
www.facebook.com/babcocktraining www.twitter.com/babcocktraining
Skilled People, Better Business
www.facebook.com/babcocktraining www.twitter.com/babcocktraining
BD13.indd 31 3/5/13 11:10:53
Our growth has been more rapid than I ever imagined it would be and I can see us expanding further if things go as anticipated” said RCA’s Managing Director, Rob Csondor. “We have established relationships with several “blue chip” clients and believe that our performance for these has helped to secure repeat business as well as attracting new clients”.
The past 12 months has also been an interesting and turbulent time in the planning and development industry,where RCA’s expertise lies, with the emergence of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the continuing uncertainty created by the lack of adopted development plans at a more local level. The following is a run through of current issues and legislative changes that are taking place in planning.
NATIONAL PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORKThe NPPF celebrated its 1st birthday last month but has it really made a difference?
The NPPF sought to speed up the plan making process and provided local authorities with a 12 month period in which to bring forward their Local Plans. However, many local authorities are still without an adopted Core Strategy/Local Plan (including Herefordshire, South Worcestershire, Redditch and Bromsgrove as detailed below) and a fi ve year supply of housing land and from 27th March 2013 the NPPF’s “golden thread” of a presumption in favour of sustainable development takes primacy.
With planning consents 5% lower than in the same quarter in 2011 but planning permissions granted at appeal for large-scale residential schemes having increased by 11% since March 2012, this shows that there is an opportunity for landowners to realise the value of some of the land that they own. This is something that RCA has particular expertise in and can work with a landowner to achieve, from identifi cation of sites to the grant of planning consent.
REGIONAL SPATIAL STRATEGIESSince the formation of the Coalition Government the planning and development industry has been subject to tweaks, alterations and overhauls. Nothing has typifi ed the change to the industry more than the revocation of Regional Spatial Strategies. After almost 3 years, and numerous legal challenges, the Secretary of State is close to ‘rapidly’ revoking the regional tier of the development plan.
However, a recent Planning Inspector stated that “The RSS fi gure…provides the only fi gure that has been scrutinised through the independent examination process”. This would seem to dent the Right Honourable Mr Pickles’ ambition of a quick abolition of the RSS’s as their evidence base is still very much a determining factor for planning applications.
DEVELOPMENT PLANS For those authorities seeking an alternative growth target than that proposed in the RSS, then ‘time (or more accurately ‘speed’) is of the essence’. Within Herefordshire and Worcestershire, local planning authorities are at varying stages of advancing their new growth plans. Herefordshire Council recently consulted on their emerging plan which proposed a new approach to growth in the rural areas; providing increased opportunities for landowners and developers alike.
The South Worcestershire Development Plan (Malvern, Worcester and Wychavon) is scheduled to be submitted to the Government later this year for public examination. However, concerns exist in the industry that too little growth is being planned for and ultimately this may affect the soundness of the document. In north Worcestershire both Bromsgrove and Redditch are also advancing their plans and recently started a housing growth consultation in which they have sought landowners to bring forward sites for potential development.
DEVELOPMENT VIABILITYWhile emerging plans and RSS’s have been grabbing the headlines, there are numerous bills moving through parliament of similar signifi cance to the industry.
Tom Cruise once famously said “show me the money” and this phrase may be heard resonating around many Council buildings across the land. While good practice has seen many local planning authorities enter into negotiations with developers over fi nancial obligations, the Growth and Infrastructure Bill introduces a statutory basis for renegotiating affordable housing provision on viability grounds. With a background in planning and economic viability, RCA Regeneration is able to combine both disciplines to deliver a comprehensive package to ensure the deliverability of development proposals.
The issue about viability doesn’t just stop there; with Community Infrastructure Levy work being undertaken by many local authorities over the next 12 months, the
challenges to development viability will keep increasing.
It’s been just over a year since their last article in BD and in that time there have been significant changes for RCa Regeneration Limited, a worcestershire-based planning and development consultancy. at the time RCa were just embarking upon a plan for growth which has now seen the Company expand from its two Directors to five full-time, permanent employees and a sixth who is working as part of an internship.
May/June 2013032
RCa ReGeNeRaTION ReaLISING OPPORTUNITY FROM UNCeRTaINTY
CALLING ALL LANDOWNERS AND DEVELOPERS IN HEREFORDSHIRE AND WORCESTERSHIRE!
If you have land in or adjacent to any established settlement in Herefordshire or Worcestershire and want to realise its potential, have a development project upon which you need planning advice or require assistance in any one of the following areas, please contact us:-
n planning applications and appealsn development plan representationsn viability assessments and negotiation of section 106
agreementsn development and options appraisalsn market assessmentsn land and commercial property valuationsn capital grant funding applications
FREE INITIAL, CONFIDENTIAL AND NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION FOR THOSE QUOTING THE CODE: RCAPLAN
www.rcaregeneration.co.ukEmail: [email protected] Telephone: 01905 887686
Unit 6, De Salis Court, Hampton Lovett, Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire, WR9 0QE
ADvERtORIAl
BD13.indd 32 3/5/13 11:10:54
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 033
Back row from left to right:
VICTORIA LANEVictoria was RCA’s first full-time employee, apart from its Directors, having joined RCA in April 2012. Victoria’s previous positions included working for local authorities in development control and in private practice. Victoria is in the process of completing a Masters in Environmental and Spatial Planning and will, thereafter, obtain Chartered status. Victoria specialises in the submission of planning applications and appeals and, as part of her qualification, is studying the inter-relationship between the Community Infrastructure Levy and the provision of affordable housing.
SIAN GRIFFITHSSian is one of RCA’s Co-Directors and has a career that includes positions in planning policy, development control, economic development, the housebuilding industry and private practice for the likes of Redrow Homes and Crosby Lend Lease. Prior to joining RCA, Sian was the Project Manager for the South Worcestershire Development Plan which gives her an unrivalled insight into the evolution of planning policy locally. Sian is also both a Chartered Town Planner and a Chartered Surveyor and specialises in development plan representations and the preparation of planning applications and appeals for a range of private sector clients.
Front row left to right:
DANIELLE BRILLDani is RCA’s Office Manager and is in the process of completing an apprenticeship in Business Administration. Dani joined RCA in May 2012 and is often RCA’s first point of contact with prospective clients – so please be nice to her!. As would be expected in a Company of RCA’s size, Dani’s role is wide ranging from answering calls to finalising reports.
ROB CSONDORRob is RCA’s founder and Managing Director and has a career that includes positions in planning policy, economic development, regional government and private practice for the likes of Advantage West Midlands and GVA Grimley amongst many. Rob is both a Chartered Town Planner and a Chartered Surveyor and apart from his management role, Rob specialises in development viability and negotiation of section 106 agreements, working for both local authorities and developers on an onging basis.
PHIL DEELEYPhil joined RCA towards the end of 2012 and has previously worked in private practice and at a local authority in both planning and housing roles. Phil’s most recent role was working for Herefordshire Council in its Strategic Planning Team working on strategic developments to be contained within the emerging development plan which gives Phil unparalleled insight into planning issues in Herefordshire. Phil is a Chartered Town Planner and specialises in the identification of potential development sites and all things legislative.
RCAREgENERAtION
PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT RIGHTSThe Coalition Government sought views on expanding permitted development rights between a variety of uses. It is interesting to note that, under the proposed changes, agricultural buildings could be converted to the following uses without planning permission;
A1 (Shops), A2 (financial institutions), A3 (restaurants and cafes) B1 (Business) B8 (Storage and Distribution) C1 (Hotels) D2 (Assembly and Leisure)
It is interesting to note that C3 (dwellinghouses) did not feature in the list. However, thedocument also proposed permitted development rights to allow changes from hotel accommodation to housing. Therefore, based on the above, an agricultural barn could become a hotel and then this hotel could become a house…could this be a way of gaining planning permission by the ‘back door’? With large aspects of the counties comprising rural agricultural land, RCA Regeneration has delivered many rural development schemes, including recently winning an appeal for the conversion of a series of barns within the Green Belt.
During 2012, the Government proposed plans to allow offices to be changed to new homes. During consultation over 60% of respondents did not support this plan and accordingly they were shelved. However these proposals are back! The impacts of these proposals could be far-reaching, particularly in calculating housing delivery and 5 year land supply. Will local planning authorities know how many new units have been delivered in a monitoring year? Will empty offices be able to count towards 5 year land supply? And that’s before long-term impacts of loss of employment land is felt and potentially significant increases in employment land rents!
MOVING FORWARDWhile the above highlights the ever changing legislative background in which planning operates, significant opportunities exist to bring forward new developments. While RCA Regeneration has successfully obtained planning permissions nationwide for a variety of developments, our knowledge and experience in the West Midlands has allowed us to maximise development opportunities in both urban and rural locations. RCA Regeneration is actively bringing forward new developments and would welcome the opportunity to talk through potential schemes with landowners within Herefordshire, Worcestershire and the wider West Midlands.
MeeT THe RCa TeaM!
BD13.indd 33 3/5/13 11:10:56
034 May/June 2013
To Let
Wilden Industrial EstatesWilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 [email protected]
www.wildenestates.co.uk 01299 822731Wilden Industrial EstatesWilden lane, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 [email protected]
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For enquiries please call the Estate Offi ce:
To Letl New & Refurbished Industrial Unitsl Pleasant and Convenient Location
01299 822731
Specialising in Commercial Agency matters, in and around Hereford and the county.
[email protected] 343777
l Sales
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Bromsgrove Offi ce:01527 872525
BD13.indd 34 3/5/13 11:11:06
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The MAG accounts service is suitable for ALL businesses from sole traders to partnerships to limited companies. We utilise modern technology to make the provisions of our services as painless as possible and offer a modern approach to your accountancy needs.
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We hold regular Growth Business Seminar’s throughout the year providing you with the tools to success. If you would like more information please register on our website www.magaccounts.co.uk.
We are accessible and affordable and will help you with your vision, goals for your business and support you to achieve a soaring business. We can help you find the key to your success.
Contact us for more information:15 New Street, Stourport on Severn, Worcestershire, DY13 8UWT: 01299 828614E:[email protected] www.magaccounts.co.uk
BD13.indd 35 3/5/13 11:11:08
Changes to Capital Write Down Allowances effective from April 1* play to the benefi t of fl eet operators and business drivers of the economic (emissions as low as 108g/km) all-new Mazda6 in Herefordshire. The changes impact business costs and cash fl ow, irrespective of whether organisations buy or lease their company cars.
On sale now at Bengry Motors of Leominster, all 24 diesel and selected petrol vehicles in the line-up of Mazda6 Saloon and Tourer models fall below the stated 130g/km threshold, limiting the impact of the tax changes.
“Low CO2 emissions, which are critical to keeping company car-related taxes and operating costs in check, are among the many attributes of Mazda’s unique SKYACTIV technology,” explains Vivian Melia, Dealer Principal at Bengry Motors.
“160g/km was previously the key CO2 emission threshold for businesses, but the recent tax changes have introduced a reduction in the benchmark fi gure. Irrespective of whether businesses buy
or lease their company cars, they are likely to see an impact on both costs and corporate cash fl ow. However, the impact can be limited by ensuring that vehicles operated are 130g/km or below to maximise tax relief as much as possible.”
“The all-new Mazda6 makes tax sense for businesses and company car drivers. With emissions as low as 108g/km and with combined fuel economy as high as 67.3mpg - without any sacrifi ce in driving performance - the Mazda6 is the new class leader for CO2,” adds Vivian Melia.
The all-new Mazda6 – the third generation of the upper medium sector fl eet favourite – is available at the Southern Avanue based showroom including two petrol and two diesels units mated to six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
On-the-road prices for diesel variants start at £21,795 for the 2.2-litre 150ps Saloon SE through to £28,045 for the 2.2-litre 175ps Tourer Sport Nav Auto.
Prices for petrol models start at £19,595 OTR for the 2.0-litre 145ps Saloon SE, rising to £24,865 for the 2.0-litre 165ps Tourer Sport Nav.
For more information about the all-new Mazda, or to arrange a test drive, call Simon Hughes or Kevin Heapey on 01568 612337 or visit the Southern Avenue showroom.
036 May/June 2013
BENGRY MOTORS HELPS FLEETS LIMIT APRIL TAx RISE IMPACT WITH ALL-NEW MAZDA6
www.belvoirlettings.com
Let. us do all the work!
MAXIMISINGAre you looking for independent expert advice on the potential of the Evesham Buy To Let market?Belvoir are holding a free seminar for all landlords and investors covering issues on the local housing market, optimising rental income, minimising tax liabilities and the current BTL mortgage market.
Belvoir is extremely fortunate to have secured the following acclaimed guest speakers:Kate Faulkner of Propertychecklists.co.uk and author of the Which? property books. She is regarded as one of the UK’s leading UK property experts and is frequently featured on TV, Radio and in the national press, including The Times, The Independent and Telegraph.Justin Heap of Franklyn Financial Management, representing St. James’s Place Wealth Management speaking on optimising rental portfolio income, exit planning from property investments and general wealth management. Belvoir introduces to St. James’s Place Wealth Management Plc, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority.
THE SEMINAR WILL BE HELD6:30PM - 9PM AT DUMBLETON HALL HOTELDumbleton, Nr Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 7TSRefreshments will be available
Spaces are limited so please reserve your place by contacting us...TO RESERVE YOUR PLACE CALL: 01386 388065OR EMAIL: [email protected] High Street, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4DA
your Buy To Let returns
ADvERtORIAl
BD13.indd 36 3/5/13 11:11:13
Insurance isn’t the most exciting subject, but not insuring your business properly could be the costliest mistake you’ll ever make.
evolving with the requirements of the security industry, CJ Protect has come a long way.
THE PROBLEMCompetitive premiums and the convenience of being able to arrange cover with the minimum of fuss are obviously important but how can we be sure that our insurance broker or company is truly looking after our best interests. It’s a fact that as many UK businesses have evolved, their insurance cover hasn‘t. This can be disastrous, often resulting in dire consequences in the event of a claim. Sometimes, cover that was once useful has become obsolete and we end up paying for insurance that is no longer relevant…no questions asked - happy broker, happy client…until there is a claim.
THE SOLUTIONHaving the right insurance broker is essential - a broker who understands your business, a broker that listens, a broker who has local knowledge and a broker who cares about providing competitive premiums without compromising cover.
C J INSURANCEEstablished in 1993, C J Insurance is Herefordshire’s largest family owned independent insurance broker, and many of our clients have been with us since the very beginning. From our offi ces in Hereford we look after a large number of clients within the Three Counties. Our independent status and experience enables us to provide insurance cover for all business sectors and organisations. With old fashioned values we put the client at the centre of everything we do.
Think insurance – Think CJ Insurancewww.cj-insurance.co.uk
WHAT WE DOAs the world has developed so has our business. We arrange specialist cover in the security, hostile and challenging environment sectors. We are the chosen insurance advisors to assist in all manner of varied contracts, including those providing security for Britain’s Got Talent “live” Finals and X- Factor Finals, in addition to International Development Projects, Armed Close Protection Teams, and Maritime Anti-Piracy Security Teams.
THE SECURITY INDUSTRYThe private security ‘industry’ is not some clearly defi ned homogeneous group, but rather a multitude of industries, large and small, all related to the provision of security services, investigation, crime prevention, order maintenance, systems planning, technical consulting and security design. Often these industries are quite different from each other in structure, authority, purpose and method.
CJ PROTECTSince its creation CJ Protect has focused and developed business in the Security Sector, with the creation of its own exclusive insurance products underwritten in house. The creation of this niche product has allowed CJ Protect to become acknowledged across the world as professional advisors, whilst delivering a personable and dedicated service. CJ Protect prides itself on delivering tailor made products for each of its clients, with the focus on robust and responsive insurance policies.
With an ever growing client base built predominantly from referrals from existing customers, we are committed to providing insurance solutions for those involved in the security sector and much more.
CJ Protect, Protecting the Protectors. www.cpsis.co.uk
BUSINeSS INSURaNCe – THe IMPORTaNCe OF GeTTING IT RIGHT!
BROKeR’S GOT TaLeNT
CJ Insurance & CJ Protect are trading styles of Clarke Jeffreys Insurance Brokers LtdJava House, 8 St Nicholas Street, Hereford, HR4 0BG
Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct AuthorityTel: +44 (0) 01432 268007 | Fax: +44 (0) 01432 343131 | [email protected]
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 037
ADvERtORIAl
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CHAMBERtRAININg
May/June 2013
Internal Quality Auditor Training ISO 9001 StandardDate: Friday 10 MayCost: £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non MembersThis one day course is designed to give those reasonably familiar or new to ISO 9001:2008 a general introduction and overview to the fundamentals of one of the most important tools associated with good and effective quality management.
IOSH Managing Safely (4 day course)Date Tuesday 21 May - Friday 24 May Cost: 495+VAT Members / £595+VAT Non MembersThis course is for managers and supervisors in any sector, and any organisation. It’s designed to get managers up to speed on the practical actions they need to take to handle health and safety in their teams.
Emergency First Aid at WorkDate: Wednesday 5 June Cost: £80+VAT Members / 100+VAT Non MembersThis introductory level course is suitable for most low-risk employers in meeting their legal obligations for minimum fi rst aid provision in the workplace. It is also suitable for employers with a higher risk who wish to provide appointed persons to support their First Aiders.
IOSH Working SafelyDate: Thursday 6 JuneCost: £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non MembersWorking safely is for people at any level, in any sector, needing a grounding in the essentials of health and safety. Working safely meets the government’s guidelines for introductory health and safety training and is a 100 per cent match to the Health and Safety Executive’s ‘passport’ syllabus
Managing ChangeDate: Wednesday 12 JuneCost: £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non MembersThe ability to welcome both change and development is a key asset for today’s effective managers, and this half day workshop will cover both organisational change and individual change.
With 18 fatal injuries to workers last year in the West Midlands alone, it is essential that all business owners take responsibility for ensuring their companies remain compliant.
Being a business owner or manager comes with many legal and employment obligations. This accompanied by rules and
laws from Westminster and Brussels changing all the time makes running a business very challenging.
To support businesses in this minefi eld, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce offer a range of courses and services to keep you one step ahead of the game.
As a member of the Chamber all businesses are given access to a free HR website www.chamberhr.co.uk and legal advice line which they can access as many times as they wish to download documents or for advice and support.
In addition to this the Chamber provides a range of public and bespoke courses focused on HR, legislation and Health and Safety.
MeeT THe TRaINeRDawn is a HR and Health and Safety Manager with extensive experience working within a range of industry sectors providing bespoke HR and health and safety consultancy and training. Specifi c achievements include:
n Management and co-ordination of national and local recruitment campaigns
n Writing, implementation and execution of HR and Health and Safety policies and procedures
n Management and execution of job evaluation projects
n Provision of on-going HR consultancy to a number of external clients
n Management and achievement of Investors in People Bronze Award
n Consultation process for re-structuring and redundancy programs
n Delivery of psychometric assessments both in-house and on behalf of external clients to assist with recruitment and career development.
n Execution and delivery of Training Needs Analysis for both internal and external clients.
Dawn’s role at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce includes being responsible for the provision of HR and all related services to company across 3 locations. Ensuring compliance with legislation, HR strategy and development. Drafting, implementing and monitoring HR policies and procedures. Provision of in-house training to employees and managers. Delivery of company’s HR and health and safety public courses. Provision of HR and health and safety consultancy to Chamber members.
aRe YOU LeaVING YOUR BUSINeSS OPeN TO PROSeCUTION?
UPCOMING COURSES:
Our managers all enjoyed and benefitted from the
IOSH ‘Managing Safely’ course held on our premises. It was pitched at exactly the right level and we were delighted with a 100% pass rate
KATH TAYLOR Taylor Lane Timber Frame
74 businesses from across the west Midlands were prosecuted last year by the Health & Safety executive (HSe) or their Local authority for failure to comply with legislation.
BD13.indd 38 3/5/13 11:11:25
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 039
Colour & Grey
Colour & White
White
CHAMBERBUSINESStRAININg
MAY COURSES
JUNE COURSES
JULY COURSES
Colour & Grey
Colour & White
White
Bespoke Training Courses
Letters of Credit Tuesday 2 July 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Managing People in the Team Tuesday 2 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Incoterms (2010) Wednesday 3 July 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Generating your first export Thursday 4 July 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Micosoft Word - Essential Skills for office staff Friday 5 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Assertiveness and Confidence in the workplace Monday 8 July £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Selecting and Managing Agents & Distributors Tuesday 9 July 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Advanced Import Procedures Wednesday 10 July 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Managing Absence (1/2 day) Wednesday 10 July £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non Members
Customs Compliance (Surviving a customs audit) Thursday 11 July 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Fire Marshal Training Monday 15 July 2013 £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members
If your business requires any type of training, coaching or consultancy then the Chamber Training Centre can help you. Please find below a list of courses for May, June and July
Bullying / Harassment in the Workplace Wednesday 8 May 2013 £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non Members
Internal Quality Auditor – ISO 9001 Standard Friday 10 May 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Tariff Classification Tuesday 14 May 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Intermediate Microsoft Excel 2007 Friday 17 May 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
IOSH Managing Safely Tuesday 21- Friday 24 May 2013 £495+VAT Members / £595+VAT Non Members
Professional Telephone Techniques Wednesday 22 May 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Creating a Customer Care Culture Monday 3 June 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Effective Time Management Tuesday 4 June 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Finance Skills for Managers Tuesday 4 June 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Emergency First Aid at Work Wednesday 5 June 2013 £80+VAT Members / £100+VAT Non Members
IOSH Working Safely Thursday 6 June 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Direct Shipping Tuesday 11 June 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
Managing Change Wednesday 12 June 2013 £90+VAT Members / £110+VAT Non Members
The Role of the Team Leader Thursday 20 June 2013 £150+VAT Members / £188+VAT Non Members
Basics of Export Documentation Thursday 20 June 2013 £225+VAT Members / £250+VAT Non Members
If there is a course that you are interested in that isn’t listed please contact the Training Team on 0845 641 1641
To book for any of these courses visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/businesstraining or call the Training Team on 0845 641 1641 or email [email protected]
BD13.indd 39 3/5/13 11:11:27
Run in association with Hewett Recruitment, the HR Forum is aimed at HR Professionals with responsibility for more than 15-20 people. The regular events provide a confi dential, supportive environment in which attendees can learn new skills, be updated with changes in employment law and share best practice.
All events run from 11.30am until 2.00pm and cost £22.50+ VAT Members, £30.00+ VAT Non-Members
FUTURE DATES HEREFORD HR FORUM AT BURGHILL VALLEY GOLF CLUBn Thursday 4 July 2013
n Thursday 24 October 2013
n Thursday 9 January 2014
REDDITCH HR FORUM AT THE SOUTHCREST MANOR HOTELn Tuesday 21 May 2013
n Tuesday 10 September 2013
n Tuesday 26 November 2013
n Tuesday 4 February 2014
WORCESTER HR FORUM AT WORCESTERSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUBn Tuesday 17 September 2013
n Thursday 5 December 2013
n Thursday 13 March 2014
Details of the next event are as follows:
REDDITCH HR FORUM n Tuesday 21 May
n 11.30am-2.00pm
n The Southcrest Manor Hotel, Pool Bank, Southcrest, Redditch, B97 4JS
n £22.50+ VAT Members, £30.00+ VAT Non-Members
We will welcome two speakers to this event:
David Hoey, HR Director, Oakland InternationalHow Oakland International has succeeded with Employee Engagement
Oakland International have an excellent record with implementing environmental policies and this is due in no small part to the engagement and commitment of their employees. David will talk us through some of the lessons the company has learned in this journey and share ideas that attendees can use in their own business.
Michelle Chamberlain, Partner at Thursfields SolicitorsEmployment Law Update
All you need to know over lunch about changes to employment law. Michelle will take a look at the law in practice and guide attendees on what matters:-
Is someone your “employee” or your “worker”? Does the label matter and what difference does it make?
Recent case law on handling disciplinary matters – getting it right really can save you money
Forthcoming Changes to Tribunal Rules – what difference will the plans to charge individuals fees to bring claims make? How will the new ACAS pre-claim conciliation service work in practice?
To book email [email protected] or visit www.hwchamber.co.uk
CHAMBEREvENtS
040
We can now provide confi rmation of attendance of the HR Forum, which you can use towards your CIPD CPD portfolio. If you would like more details or wish to book your place contact the Events team on [email protected] or call 0845 641 1641
HR FORUMS FOR HR PROFeSSIONaLS
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
May/June 2013
Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce and Hewett Recruitment HR ConferenceWednesday 5 June – 7.30am – 1.30pmWorcester Arena, Hylton Road, Worcester
£35.00+ VAT Members, £45.00+ VAT Non-membersThis event will include breakfast and lunch
In a change to the normal programme of events, June sees a special HR Conference come to Worcester for the fi rst time and all HR Professionals are invited regardless of company size.
We are privileged to welcome Kevin Green, Chief Executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, as Key Note speaker.
Before starting at the REC, Kevin worked for the Royal Mail from 2003 to 2008. His last role was HR Director for Royal Mail Letters; where he was responsible for all people-related issues for the business with 165,000 employees.
We have a full programme of interesting and informative speakers for this event:
Nick Humphrey, Special Agent CTSASally Morris, MFG SolicitorsSimon Williams, Arrivista Business CoachingSteve Borwell-Fox, borwell LtdLouise Hewett, Hewett Recruitment
This event is open to all HR Professionals.
To book onto any of these events, please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/eventscal, email [email protected] or call 0845 641 1641 to speak to a member of the Chamber team.
HR FORUM AND NEW HR CONFERENCE
BD13.indd 40 3/5/13 11:11:30
Save the date for the Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre which takes place this year from Thursday 28 November to Sunday 1 December 2013 in Worcester city centre.
Worcester’s Victorian Christmas Fayre is the leading Victorian-themed street market in the West Midlands and is the perfect way to begin your seasonal preparations and celebrations
The atmospheric streets of historic Worcester will be filled with more than a hundred stalls with many stallholders
expected to dress in traditional dress as 19th century ladies, gents, urchins and chimney sweeps.
This is the first year that Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce has managed the event and the team has a few Victorian themed surprises up their sleeves! Helen King, head of events at the Chamber, said, “Everybody at the Chamber is excited to be looking after such a great event and really keen to get lots of local businesses involved. We are planning a special local food and drink market as well
as making the whole Fayre feel really Christmassy and special for visitors and local residents alike.”
The Fayre will be open on Thursday between 4pm and 9pm, Friday between 11am and 9pm, Saturday 10am until
8pm, and Sunday 11am until 5pm.
To register your interest in becoming a stallholder or attending the Fayre, please email [email protected] or call 0845 641 1641.
CHAMBEREvENtS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 041
NeTwORKING eVeNTS Ross-on-wye Networking Breakfast In association with The Leadership Trust Wednesday 8 May - 7.30-9.30am The Leadership Trust Foundation, Weston under Penyard, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 7YH Free attendance for members (places are limited) £15.00+ VAT Non-members
Redditch Networking Breakfast Thursday 9 May - 7.30-9.30am The Southcrest Manor Hotel, Pool Bank, Southcrest, Redditch, B97 4JS £15.00+ VAT Members, £30.00+ VAT Non-members
Malvern Networking Breakfast Thursday 16 May - 7.30-9.30am Abbey Hotel, Abbey Road, Malvern, WR14 3ET £15.00+ VAT Members, £30.00+ VAT Non-members
women’s Business Forum Tuesday 21 May – 9.30am-12 noon Coomber Electronic Equipment, Brindley Road, Worcester WR4 9FB £17.50+ VAT Members, £35.00+ VAT Non-members Our speakers at this event will be Jane Brook from House of Colour and Anna Madden and Julia Whelan from Curo Chartered Accountants
Pershore Networking Breakfast In association with Wychavon District Council Thursday 23 May - 7.30am-9.30am Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore WR10 1PT Free attendance for members (places are limited) £15.00+ VAT Non-members
Hereford Networking Breakfast Thursday 30 May – 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, HR4 7RW
Start to Grow Forum Thursday 30 May – 4.00pm – 6.00pm St Andrews Town Hotel, St Andrews Drive, Droitwich WR9 8AL Free for members Simon Williams, Arrivista Business Coaching will give attendees advice on How to Save a Day in 30 minutes. Non-members first place free
Resource efficiency Forum Tuesday 18 June – 8.00am – 10.00am Bosch Thermotechnology, Cotswold Way, Warndon, Worcester WR4 9SW FRee to attend. Part of a series of free events aimed at encouraging SMEs to look at resource efficiencies they can make.
Bromsgrove Networking Lunch Friday 21 June – 12 noon -2.00pm Holiday Inn Birmingham Bromsgrove A welcome opportunity to relax over a delicious two course lunch whilst making new business contacts from your local area, returning to the office refreshed and revitalised! £17.50+ VAT Members, £30.00+ VAT Non-members
Herefordshire Breakfast Wednesday 26 June - 7.30-9.30am Burghill Valley Golf Club, Tillington Road, Burghill, HR4 7RW
£15.00+ VAT Members, £30.00+ VAT Non-members
evening Networking – Social Media Tips for your Business Wednesday 26 June – 5.00 – 7.00pm The Leadership Trust Foundation, Weston under Penyard, Ross-on-Wye, HR9 7YH Join fellow businesses for an after-work networking event in Ross on Wye. John Chacksfield from Sharpmonkeys Ltd is a marketing expert with years of experience of getting more business for his clients. He will give businesses some useful tips about using social media effectively. £15.00+ VAT Members, £30.00+ VAT Non-members
worcester Breakfast In association with SME Solicitors Thursday 27 June - 7.30-9.30am Worcestershire County Cricket Club, New Road, Worcester Stacey Redman, SME Solicitors will present to attendees on Top Legal Tips for SMEs – a brief overview of the most common legal pitfalls for SMEs and how to avoid them Free attendance for members (places are limited) £15.00+ VAT Non-members
CHaMBeR’S FIRST GOLF DaY waS a HUGe SUCCeSS!Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce held the very first golf day for their newly launched business Golf Society on Wednesday 10 April at Wharton Park, sponsored by Hewett Recruitment. 48 members of the Chamber Golf Society played the course and the day turned out to be a huge success.
All proceeds raised on the day have been donated to Hewett Recruitment’s chosen charity, Worcestershire Community Foundation.
The next Chamber golf day will take place on Friday 10 May at Blackwell Golf Club, Bromsgrove. The Club has hosted the Open Championship Regional Qualifying Event and was home to the Midland Boys Championship for many years.
The day will consist of refreshments on arrival, 18 holes of golf followed by a presentation dinner to end the day.
Team entry cost (team of four): £340.00+ VAT
Individual entry cost: £85.00+ VAT
For a booking form, please email [email protected]
If you would like more information about the Chamber Business Golf Society or any of the scheduled Golf days throughout 2013, please visit www.hwchamber.co.uk/chambergolfsociety, email [email protected] or call 0845 641 1641 and speak to a member of the Chamber team.
21ST wORCeSTeR VICTORIaN CHRISTMaS FaYRe
BD13.indd 41 3/5/13 11:11:36
BUSINESSNEWS
042
3w Developments Ltd from Shrawley in worcestershire beat the cream of the country’s builders to become the UK’s Master Builder of the Year at the 11th Master Builder of the Year awards, which took place on wednesday 20 March 2013.
May/June 2013
3W Developments Ltd also triumphed to win the national award in the Large Renovation category, which is supported by Santander.
George Clarke, architect and host of Channel 4’s Restoration Man, presented the highly coveted award to 3W Developments Ltd for a complex project that transformed a two-bedroom dormer bungalow into a spacious family home for clients Carol and Grahame Taylor.
www.3wdevelopments.co.uk Phil M Jones, a young Stoke Prior-based entrepreneur, with a “mission to teach the world to sell” has picked up a prestigious national accolade at the BESMA (British Excellence in Sales and Marketing Awards).Phil was awarded the Sales Trainer of the Year award
Phil’s training programmes are now taught the world over, his books have reached best-seller status and he is fast becoming one of the most in demand conference speakers at business events across the globe.
www.philjones.com
Julie Goodman, Head of Residential Property, has already beaten off competitors from across the region to make it to the final five of the hotly-contested Chartered Legal Executive of the Year category.
The biggest in the regional industry calendar, the awards line-up international industry giants alongside smaller sector players.
Thursfields Managing Partner, Nick O’ Hara says: “The last twelve months have been truly outstanding for the residential property team at Thursfields. Julie is a superb Chartered Legal Executive and her short-listing is testament to her skill, commitment and professionalism.”
www.thursfields.co.uk
Delighted staff at Webbs, in Wychbold, are celebrating success after their Houseplant Department has come out as top in the UK for the fourth year running.
The family-owned firm was the highest scoring in the UK once again after rigorous inspection by The Garden Centre Association (GCA), the organisation representing the best garden retailers in Britain.
Webbs was also named the GCA Best Garden Centre in the Midlands, retained its Garden Centre of Excellence status and was crowned with the title Best Entrance, Grounds and Car Park in the UK.
These awards come hot on the heels of Webbs, Wychbold being named as the winner of the Midlands Ruxley Rose competition. The competition focuses specifically on outdoor plant areas with judges looking at the quality, range and presentation of plants and the ‘wow’ factor. They also consider the layout including overall impression, access and use of demonstration areas.
www.webbsdirect.co.uk
weBBS aRe wINNeRS aGaIN FOR BeST PLaNTS TITLe
JULIE GOODMAN Head of Residential Property at Thursfields
wORCeSTeRSHIRe FIRM CROwNeD MaSTeR BUILDeR OF THe YeaR
Master Builder of the of the Year Winners
WORCESTER-BASED ENTREPRENEUR WINS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
Stourport-based, Julie Goodman, Head of Residential Property at Thursfields, will go head-to-head with major regional players at this year’s Birmingham Law Society awards.
THURSFIeLDS IN THe RUNNING FOR MaJOR LeGaL awaRD
BD13.indd 42 3/5/13 11:11:40
NEWMEMBERS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 043
BROCKHAMPTONJFC Metris Ltd01432 367181Brockhamptonwww.metrisleadership.com
BROMYARDThe Total Event Company Ltd0845 481 0881Bromyardwww.totalevent.co.uk
DROITWICHDroitwich Print01905 795644www.droitwichprint.co.uk
Chateau Impney Hotel & Exhibition Centre01905 774411www.chateau-impney.com
Swimming Pool Fitness01299 251010www.swimmingpoolfitness.co.uk
EVESHAMEverlube Products 01386 425758www.everlube.co.uk/index.php
Active Learning & Development Ltd0800 988 2155www.aldltd.co.uk
HEREFORDBibus Metals Ltd01432 842904www.bibusmetals.co.uk
Black & Red Accounting Ltd07791 180568
Brand Refinery01432 376976www.brandrefinery.co.uk
Eye Witness Protection Ltd01432 373610www.eyewitnessprotection.co.uk
Fine Furniture Ltd01432 850455www.finefurniture.co.uk
Herefordshire Voluntary Organisations Support Service01432 343932www.hvoss.org.uk
Minx Media Ltd07713 243869www.minxmedia.co.uk
Mungo & Maisie Ltd01432 275826www.mungoandmaisie.com
Oaker Wood Leisure01568 780 111www.oakerwoodleisure.co.uk
Serendipity Online Marketing Ltd0845 170 1800www.serendipity-online-marketing.co.uk
Upper Newton Farmhouse01544 327727www.hereforshireholidays.co.uk
KIDDERMINSTERReally Marketing01562 825397www.really-marketing.co.uk
Amada UK Ltd01562 749500www.amada.co.uk
Bookkeeping4u07792 080789www.bookkeeping4u.biz
CJP Safety07817822408www.cjpsafety.co.uk
New Channel Developments Ltd01562 824799www.newcd.co.uk
Ultimate Chauffeur Services Ltd T/A Prestige Chauffeur Services0870 486 6823www.prestige-chauffeurs.com/
LEDBURYGood Intents01531 636505www.goodintents.co.uk
Teazle Consulting07770 822795www.teazleconsulting.com
MALVERN1st Drainage T/A DIY Malvern08000 051596www.1stdrainage.co.uk
Assure Technical Ltd01684 252770www.assuretechnical.com
Cargyll01886 833888www.cargyll.co.uk
Wellness Counts Ltd07917 897215www.wellness-counts.co.uk
MONMOUTHBob Tabor01600 713925www.highsheriffherefordshire.org
PERSHOREAllValves Online Ltd01386 553190www.allvalves.co.uk
Kiss HR07946 525569www.kisshrukltd.co.uk
Williams Water World Ltd T\A Water Cooler World01386 800888www.watercoolerworld.com
REDDITCHColins Couriers07865 334283
Expense Reduction Analysts01527 894561www.expense-reduction.co.uk/
Maid Marions Limited01527 759171www.maidmarions.co.uk
Perfect Personnel Ltd01527 910100www.perfect-personnel.com
ROSS-ON-WYELegacy In Stone07920 291117www.legacyinstone.co.uk
Penyard House01989 760716www.penyardhouse.co.uk
WORCESTERAbbey Spares & Supplies01905 621 666www.abbeyspares.co.uk
Annik Associates Ltd01905 769521www.annikassociates.co.uk
Benedicto’s Restaurant01905 21444www.benedictos.com/
Bolero Enterprises Limited01905 22220www.bolerovenues.com
Boughton Consulting01905 426 402
British Red Cross01905 454383www.redcross.org.uk
Bury Associates Ltd01905 622495www.buryassociates.co.uk/
Celtic Marches Beverages Ltd01684 569142www.celticmarches.com
Endeavour Images07765 202 817www.endeavourimages.com
First Finance Group Partners07702 727403
HD Fleets0800 1120093www.hdfleets.com
House of Colour Worcester07970 293341www.houseofcolour.co.uk/janebrook
Iviva Consulting Ltd01299 896152www.ivivaconsulting.co.uk
Masons Olive and Bean01905 330101www.masonsoliveandbean.co.uk
Midland Automobile Club01886 812211www.shelsleywalsh.co.uk
More is More Ltd01905 909079www.moreismore.co.uk
Naturally Exuberant07748 987573www.naturallyexuberant.co.uk
Noema Solutions Ltd077915 88228www.noemaltd.co.uk
Now Print01905 616944www.now-print.co.uk
Ocean Blue Graphics01905 821318www.oceanbluegraphics.co.uk
Pro Tech Marketing01905 451601www.pro-tech-marketing.co.uk
Project Viva Ltd01905 330177www.mogmag.co.uk
Redditch Golf Club01527 543079www.redditchgolfclub.com
Rednet Systems01905 612637www.midland-data.com
SB Print01886 812160www.sbprint.co.uk
Simply Business Energy Ltd0800 313 4231www.simplybusinessenergy.co.uk
Spire Business Communications Limited0800 0210100www.spirecom.com
Stock N Lock01905 749 496www.stocknlock.co.uk
Tipple Tourism & Economic Solutions07447 497444www.tippletourism.com
Treads of Malvern01905 427711www.treadsofmalvern.co.uk
WinesULike01905 745437www.winesulike.co.uk
Wood Group Steam Turbines01905 459 570www.woodgroup.com
OUT OF AREAArco Ltd0121 500 6060www.arco.co.uk
Day To Pitch Events Ltd0121 439 59 58www.daytopitchevents.co.uk
DHL International01684 851500www.dhl.co.uk
Hassle Free HR Limited02476 664092www.hasslefreehr.co.uk
Sarah G Media07973 750198www.sarahgmedia.co.uk
SMMT Industry Forum0121 717 6600www.industryforum.co.uk
St Basils0121 772 2483www.stbasils.org.uk
The Duke Of Edinburgh’s Award0121 308 9470www.dofe.org
BD13.indd 43 3/5/13 11:11:41
BUSINESSNEWS
044 May/June 2013
Applied Principles is excited to announce signifi cant annual growth of 107%, after JJ Kotze, Managing Director, and his family took full ownership of the business on the 31 March 2012.
Over the last year the company has invested a signifi cant amount of resources into delivering a national retail auditing system to one of the big 4 UK retailers.
The company has seen growth tied to strong demand for an innovative paperless data management solution, in order to allow customers to deal with exponential data growth and increasing complexity in meeting compliance regulations.
This has resulted in Applied Principles being able to strengthen its position in the markets in which it has an existing presence as well as being able to target new markets and industries such as general manufacturing. The substantial growth combined with ongoing projects in the UK, France, Portugal, Ghana and South Africa, has resulted in another signifi cant forecast of growth for 2013/2014.
www.appliedprinciples.eu
SOMETHING FOR THE WHOLE TEAMDays out for the whole team include problem solving, climbing trees, building rafts and conquering fears. This is all great, but having worked in the activity industry for many years, Marco Walker says he often hears participants moan and groan about how much they dread these days out.
Companies often spend money on team building days, that have the complete adverse effect before the team has even embarked on the adventure.
Marco suggests that managers and business owners should speak to the employees fi rst and fi nd out what they would like to do. To build moral and a love for your company, the team building day must be about the team, whether that’s racing Rage Buggies or learning how to make cocktails.
Marco Walker works for DesignaVenture specializing in activity breaks and events, hen party packages and stag do ideas.
THRIVING PeOPLe BUSINeSS CeLeBRaTeS FIRST BIRTHDaYA Worcestershire fi rm which supports the area’s small businesses by giving human resource and employment advice is celebrating a ‘whirlwind’ fi rst year.
The HR Dept was set up last March by employment expert Gill Wooldridge.
The fi rm, which provides a full range of tailored human resource advice and support to businesses across the Wyre Forest and Stourbridge, was established after Gill was made redundant from her previous employer as part of recession cut backs.
“Starting my own business has always been something I’ve wanted to do but sometimes it’s all about timing. So following my redundancy it was a case of now or never and I found the drive to make the idea a reality.”
wHaT DO YOU NeeD TO aUTOMaTe?White Orca is a local ‘information management’ company which helps other businesses to simplify their business processes, and improve the way they organise and present their business management information.
Since starting the business, directors Adam Winter and Adam Bird had wanted to become consulting partners for Orbis TaskCentre; a business process management (BPM) software package that automates repetitive, employee administration tasks and integrates multiple business systems.
White Orca’s business is growing steadily with a range of their own online applications including a service Help Desk (Orca Helpdesk) and a staff leave and absence management application (Orca Team Manager). It has provided online training evaluation for the Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, created an iPad based coaching application for The Development Training Company, an administration system for the ChildCare Bureau, and developed a number of websites for local clients.
www.whiteorca.co.uk
aPPLIeD PRINCIPaLS aNOUNCeS SIGNIFICaNT GROwTH
GILL WOOLDRIDGE
Hewett Recruitment are delighted to announce the appointment of Ben Mannion to Strategic Development Director. Ben has moved swiftly through the ranks since he joined in September 2009 in order to establish Hewett’s IT and Engineering divisions, being promoted to Branch Manager in January 2011, and fi nally to his current Directorship from April 2013.
Louise Hewett, Managing Director, commented: “Ben has been in recruitment ever since he left Cambridge as an Economics graduate. His talents have earnt him the admiration and respect of his peers and he has proved to be a natural leader. Ben brings a fresh approach and perspective that is ideal in our current mode of expansion and for the future development of the business.”
HEWETT RECRUITMENT
BEN MANNION
JJ KOTZE
BD13.indd 44 3/5/13 11:11:46
Creating the Engineering Leaders of Tomorrow ...Rotec Academy is a not for Profi t training provider that sets out to be different. Developed not just to teach the academic skills of ENGINEERING, but to do so much more, creating WORK READY Apprentices and Engineers who really understand how businesses work and how they add value.
Is your business struggling to fi nd people with the right skills, or are you worried about future proofi ng your workforce? Then the Rotec Academy in association with Hewett Recruitment would like to introduce its PARTNERSHIP scheme.
Designed to get young people out into industry while they are still training. The Academy is looking for companies who are interested in taking on apprentices in the future, but are nervous about who they might employ, or would like to increase their rate of success with apprenticeships.
HOW IT WORKS:
In return the Academy asks for a small contribution of £75/month to support its ability to deliver its training. For more information contact Hewett Recruitment on 01905 613 413 Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
PARTNER
n Have a learner working within your organisation for 1 day per week.
n Identify the right person to offer an apprenticeship to as they fi nish their fi rst year in full time education.
n Be able to infl uence the training your staff receive.
n Be recognised and promoted as a company that is supporting the development of young engineers.
n 50% off Vocational Training courses including: Fork Lift Truck, First Aid, CAD, Lean Tool Kits, Internal Auditors etc, provided by the Academy.
LEARNER
n Gains valuable awareness of how companies work.
n Develops their knowledge of career paths available in industry and the variety of industry sectors engineers work within.
n Understand and see the application and relevance of what they are learning in industry.
n Have an opportunity to develop a relationship with a future employer.
BD13.indd 45 3/5/13 11:11:59
046046 May/June 2013
Paul Barton
FEAtURE
RESIDENTIAL AND RETAIL DEVELOPMENT UNDERPIN MALCOLM SCOTT’S WORKLOADMalcolm Scott Consultants have had an excellent start to the new year. Despite the poor spring weather which has impacted on some horticultural clients, we have seen a continued increase in instructions in other sectors. An increase in assigned residential work is perhaps no surprise, but retail work has also increased. We see clients who are now looking to take advantage of the Government’s presumption in favour of sustainable development, whereby the National Planning Policy Framework is in place where local planning authorities do not have an up to date Development Plan.
Perhaps predictably, residential applications continue to grow steadily but we are also seeing growth in retail, especially convenience goods and deep discounter sectors, and expect these trends to continue for the foreseeable future. Malcolm Scott Consultants have developed a successful methodology to examine available evidence and present it in a manner which supports both residential and retail applications and such work is likely to account for a considerable percentage of the practice’s ongoing workload.
Paul Barton is a Director at Malcolm Scott Consultants.
For further information, please contact Paul Barton at:Malcolm Scott Consultants Ltd, Grove House, 1 Loves Grove, Worcester, WR1 3BU
T: 01905 726353 F: 01905 611221 E: [email protected]
FT Images was formed 12 years ago in Worcester, initially specialising only in wedding photography.
Things have progressed in leaps and bounds over the last few years, and a wide range of services are now on offer, including commercial, product, portraiture/head & shoulder shots, party & special occasion and corporate event photography.
Despite the economic downturn, one area of the business that has seen noticeable growth over the last 3 years, is from the commercial sector. Whether its product photography, images for web sites or staff portraits, it seems that local businesses are looking to return to professional photographers for their imaging requirements, rather than relying on the offi ce digital compact!
In light of this, FT Images would like to offer a special rate of 25% off, for Chamber Members, for bookings made up to the end of June 2013. So whether you’re looking to refresh your staff portraits, or looking to add images to your web site, please contact Simon on 01905 456083 quoting FTCH01 Offer, alternatively you can get in touch through the web site at www.ftimages.co.uk
T: 01905 456083 | M: 07771 868488
Things have progressed in leaps Things have progressed in leaps
25%off
for Chamber Members
F T I M A G E SP r o f e s s i o n a l P h o t o g r a p h e r
BD13.indd 46 3/5/13 11:12:10
EXPO
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 047
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Business Expo 2013 in association with Hewett Recruitment took place on Thursday 14 March 2013 at The Three Counties Showground Malvern. The first of its kind, this ‘A Focus On The Future’ expo combined the two separate Expos that had traditionally taken place annually within the two counties.
Set as 6 zones, the 150+ stands generated an estimated 1000-1250 person footfall with attendees visiting both the talks in the zones and private seminars in force. The introduction this year of a shell scheme layout for exhibition stands, as provided by Bromyard member, The Total Event Company, gave the event a professional feel with one exhibitor commenting that the “very smart stands looked better than the NEC!”
The zones aT The evenT:Business Exhibition
The Innovation Zone sponsored by the University of Wolverhampton, focused on developments in manufacturing and business.
The Tourism Zone, created to focus on the future of tourism in the two counties, attracting visitors and encouraging economic growth.
The Resource Efficiency Zone sponsored by Resource Efficient Worcestershire, concentrated on the future of the planet and how businesses can save resources and money.
The Export Zone sponsored by UK Trade and Investment, focused on the future of the country and getting more business overseas.
The Networking Zone sponsored by Universal Display Limited, offered attendees the opportunity to make relevant contacts and secure future business.
The Chamber of Commerce asked for feedback from all exhibitors and was pleased to receive an overall 94% positive rating for the event. The areas for improvement identified have been noted for future events and the team wishes to thank everybody who took the time to respond.
Comments included:
“Of the 4 Chamber Expo’s that I have exhibited at, to date this was the most professional and felt how a trade exhibition should.”
“I liked the fact that it was a business expo and networking event rather than just an exhibition and also that we all had something in common - we were all local!”
“Great to see the Chamber trying different things for the Expo. The change of venue was refreshing and seemed to pull in different businesses.”
The Expo took the cooperation, enthusiasm and teamwork of all the Chamber staff both in the run up to and at the event and it would not have been possible without the support from Hewett Recruitment (headline sponsor) and the other sponsors, as listed below.
Watch this space for details of future Expos or email [email protected] to receive updates about all Chamber events as they are confirmed.
New CoNtaCts Made at the herefordshire aNd worCestershire BusiNess expo!
EXPO WINNERSA number of the stands on the Expo day had prize draws on them. Below is a list of the winners. If you haven’t claimed your prize please contact the company that offered the prize.
Whilst online video is becoming the “must have” promotional medium it’s now competing with its own success, viewer attention and memory retention. Producer, Video Interactive (promotions), has never believed it’s enough just to have pretty moving pictures set over snazzy music. It needs a structured composition as well as a creative and memorable style.
When Video Interactive produced the Expo feature they decided upon a style that replicated a short, pacey, news feature with a reporter on the hoof. However, in practice, it was anything but “on the hoof”.
They obtained all the required filming permissions from those such as Dean Attwell and Louise Hewitt, as they
had planned to film whilst they were speaking in the backgrounds, the event organiser, venue owner and the Chamber published a public filming notice. Radio frequencies were also checked with PSG.
A precise script was written for Michelle Scott, the reporter, to learn. This was rehearsed on location including delivery timings, the trackings and distances to travel.
The final video was uploaded within 24 hours and can be seen on both www.videointeractive.co.uk and hwchambercommerce YouTube Channel.
www.video-interactive.co.uk
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Balloon Ride for two David Allision, Octaga Security Solutions
ISO Quality Services Ltd Champagne and USB Stick Lisa Kemp, SME Solicitors
RBS Champagne Anthony Andrews, Hewett Recruitment
Stanford Marsh Canon Power Shot, A1300 Digital Camera Rebecca Usher, ISO Quality Services Ltd
Wharton Park Golf & Country Club Either 6 month gold membership Bed and Breakfast for 2 or Conference for 12 Helen Cherington, Cherington HR Ltd Helen Buckingham, Auditel Linda Smith, UKTI
Xitex Limited Spring Hamper Terence McBurney, Scientific Ltd
Project in Mind Ltd A fully expensed workshop at Stanbrook Abbey inclusive of an Insights Discovery Profile – value £225+vat Martin Richards, Director – Xitek, Malvern
All & Sundry CIC A pair of tickets to the performance of ‘Calendar Girls’ at Palace Theatre, Redditch Dana Young, Wharton Park Golf & Country Club
WHCA A full years membership to the Orchard Healthcare Red Plan Kathryn Bennett, Environmental Solutions Kathy Scott, Hands on at Work
JPM Group Champagne Winner Champagne Truffle Winners Rich Allen - the Marmalade Soup Elaine Beaumont - Basepoint Bromsgrove John Turrell - The Robert Owen Vocational School Jay Newman - JN Trading DJ Hire Tony Cant –PSG Events Ltd
ABC Print Champagne for choosing ‘HAZEL’ as the Squirrel Helen Keegan, Greendawn Accounting at Ledbury
Video iNteraCtiVe expo feature
BD13.indd 47 3/5/13 11:39:03
EDUCAtION
048 May/June 2013
KING’S PUPILS CROWNED CHAMPIONS IN NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY COMPETITIONA team of four King’s pupils have been crowned national champions after winning the final round of the National 4x4 In Schools Technology Challenge..
Four year 10 pupils from The King’s School; Daniel Austin, James Green, Nathan Moss and James Simpson formed the team ‘Xcel 4’ back in 2012 and took on the challenge to design and build a radio controlled 4-wheel-drive vehicle so they could compete in the National competition.
After winning their category in the Central Area Heat at JCB World Headquarters, Stafford in February, Xcel 4 secured their place in the National Final at the Big Bang Fair which was held at the ExCel Centre, London on 14 March.
www.ksw.org.uk
Xcel 4: a winning combination
The promotional film produced by NEW College Foundation Degree Media Students introduced customers to ‘3 Wheel Drive’, a new initiative run in partnership with the Morgan Motor Company. Students worked with Morgan on location and in the
film studios at the recently built £3.5 million NEW College Centre of Excellence for Arts and Technology in Bromsgrove.
Members of the public will have the opportunity to tour the new facilities and even have a go recording their own TV programme at the NEW College Family Fun Day on Saturday 20 April from 10am to 2pm. Taking place at both Redditch and Bromsgrove campuses, the event will feature a host of activities reflecting the wide range of vocational courses taught at Worcestershire’s outstanding local college.
www.3wheeldrive.co.uk
RaISING STaNDaRDS aND PROVIDING CHOICe FOR YOUNG PeOPLeThe Robert Owen Vocational School is a new School for pupils aged 14-19 based in Herefordshire and the surrounding region that will provide a flexible, balanced programme of general and vocational education for young people. Our curriculum will stimulate their intellectual, personal and cultural development as well as providing opportunities for effective preparation for work (including self-employment) and/or further work based training.
Being established as part of the Government’s Free School programme, The Robert Owen Vocational School is a revolutionary educational opportunity for families in the area. It provides the chance to be part of a brand new and innovative Academy School, with high aspirations for all its students and strong engagement with the local community and employers.
www.robertowenschool.co.uk
eYe T CHaMPIONSClarkeWood Consulting have offered their support and skills in support of local Worcester charity Sight Concern to develop a new IT Program. The program aims to decrease the large waiting lists from around the county made up of people with varying degrees of visual impairments who desperately want to have the opportunity to learn how to use a computer either again or indeed for the first time.
By recruiting a group of volunteers which comprise of either job seekers looking to improve or boost their skills and students from the Worcester College of Technology who wish to build on their CV’s for future employment; ClarkeWood has placed the recruits through a “Train a Trainer” course with Dolphin Computer Access who develop specific software for users called GUIDE.
This is the first year that the program has been run and we hope to make it an annual occurrence to ensure waiting lists are kept to a minimum whilst helping current and future job seekers continue to build on their personal skills and abilities.
www.sightconcern.co.uk
New COLLeGe STUDeNTS OFF TO a RaCING STaRT
NEW College Students with TV Actor Tony Hirst with the Morgan 3 Wheeler outside the new Arts & Technology facilities at NEW College in Bromsgrove.
TV actor Tony Hirst was on hand to help media production students from North east worcestershire College to make a film for customers of the new Morgan Three wheeler.
BD13.indd 48 3/5/13 11:12:27
MOvERSANDSHAkERS
Business Direction published by Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce 049
STEVE MORRIS, MORGAN GROUP The board of Morgan Directors and Shareholders are pleased to announce that Steve Morris, presently the Operations Director has now been appointed as Managing Director with immediate effect, responsible for the day to day running of the companies within the Morgan group. Charles Morgan will concentrate on his vital role as the face of Morgan internationally, promoting the brand and selling the Companies products worldwide.
ANDREW HAWKES, XITEKMalvern electronics’ company, Xitek, have expanded their software design capability by welcoming Andrew Hawkes. With a scientific background and over 27 years’ experience in embedded software development, Andrew is ideally equipped to complement Xitek’s engineering team.
Andrew says “I get a kick out of solving control problems and seeing the finished product work.”
www.xitek.co.uk
TOM KING, BORWELLTom King has recently joined the MoD award winning borwell Defence Systems Team. Tom is a Computer Science graduate from The University of Plymouth. Under the guidance of Steve and the team, Tom is consolidating his C++ and Java Programming skills before commencing work on the Moonlight project, used by the RAF and Royal Navy in support of UK defence operations.
borwell’s Managing Director, Steve Borwell-Fox said: “I am delighted to welcome Tom to the team. He has settled in quickly and is really polite and keen to learn and prove himself.”
www.borwell.com
SHAKIB KHAN AND JOHNNY MARIE, FIRST SOLUTIONFirst Solution has appointed two new members to its team as a result of a doubling its revenue over the last 2 years.
Shakib Khan has been appointed as Operations Manager whilst Johnny Marie has joined as an Apprentice IT Technician.
www.firstsolution.co.uk
STEVE BINNERSLEY, MTCSS MTCSS, suppliers and installers of cold storage solutions and industrial doors, has announced the appointment of Steve Binnersley to its sales team.
Mr Binnersley joins as Sales Executive selling MTH industrial doors with nation-wide remit. The Italian manufacturer MTH is working in partnership with MTCSS in the UK and Steve is tasked with selling their modular cold rooms into the catering and hospitality sectors, and their expansive range of refrigerated doors into the retail and industrial markets.
www.mtcss.co.uk
VIVIEN DEAN, THE ROBERT OWEN VOCATIONAL SCHOOLThe Robert Owen Vocational School, a brand new co-operative 14-19 school opening this September, has appointed Vivien Dean as its Principal Designate.
Ms Dean will become Principal once the School opens in September 2013, subject to a public consultation planned for the first half of 2013. More details about the consultation will be available on the School’s website soon. The Robert Owen Vocational School continues to welcome applications from students entering Year 10 in September 2013
www.robertowenschool.co.uk
SIMON EGERTON, SUTCLIFFE & COFormer Managing Director of Clarke Roxburgh Insurance Brokers, Simon will join Worcester-based Sutcliffe & Co Insurance Consultants in a client facing role from early April 2013.
www.sutcliffeinsurance.co.uk
TONY SMITH, TACKLESPORT Tacklesport are delighted to announce the appointment of Tony Smith as National Sales Manager. He brings with him a wealth of knowledge, experience and contacts in the professional sport arena and will be spearheading Tacklesport’s revised product catalogue for 2013.
www.tacklesport.com
NEIL MAHJU, LAURA WHITE, AND MARK HUNABAN, POSTCODE ANYWHEREPostcode Anywhere are adding strength to their sales team with the appointment of Neil Mahju and Mark Hunaban. Mr Mahju joins the company as a Senior Account Manager and Mark Hunaban joins the company as an Account Executive.
Adding support to the busy marketing department is Laura White. Laura’s diverse role includes event planning and co-ordinating Postcode Anywhere’s busy international exhibition calendar.
www.postcodeanywhere.co.uk
NEIL EVANS, GREENEARTH ENERGYGreenearth Energy is delighted to announce the appointment of Neil Evans as a surveyor and installer of photovoltaic’s and solar hot water systems.
A passionate believer in renewable energy, Neil is also a director of www.mysolarport.co.uk, who build oak-framed car ports incorporating solar panels to generate electricity. He is also a director of Archenfield Solar Co-operative.
www.greenearthenergy.co.uk
DARREN TOPLEY, CMCA(UK)CMCA(UK) are proud to introduce their newest team member, Darren Topley, who joins the company as an Obsolescence Strategy Advisor within the Obsolescence Management Team. Darren’s appointment is a significant milestone in the expansion of CMCA(UK)’s portfolio of Proactive Obsolescence Management Services.
www.cmcauk.co.uk
BD13.indd 49 3/5/13 11:12:40
lAStWORD
050
The theme for the next edition of Business Direction is ‘Investing in Herefordshire and worcestershire’. For the Last word we spoke to Gary woodman, executive Director at worcestershire Local enterprise Partnership about inward investment in worcestershire and the developments that will encourage this.
TO INCLUDE A NEWS STORY IN THE ONLINE REVOLUTION EDITION OF BD PLEASE SEND YOUR STORIES TO [email protected]
WHO ARE THE WORCESTERSHIRE LOCAL ENTERPRISE PARTNERSHIP?The Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership is a strategic body which is a catalyst that listens to the needs of Worcestershire businesses. Our objective is to create the right environment within Worcestershire where all the partners collaborate to create new jobs, support business and grow the existing businesses.
We have a small board of 9 people of which Peter Pawsey is the Chairman and we have produced a business plan which outlines where the LEP can add value to its partners to deliver projects, initiatives, and developments to achieve these aims.
WHAT DO THEY DO IN WORCESTERSHIRE?The role of the LEP is to provide strategic leadership related to Worcestershire’s economy and an insight into the challenges and opportunities facing the county. We portray the bigger picture of asset and attractions that Worcestershire has to the world; coordinate, share knowledge, best practice and intelligence across the partners and represent the business voice into Government.
HOW DO YOU ENCOURAGE INWARD INVESTMENT IN WORCESTERSHIRE? The LEP has a memorandum of understanding with UK Trade and Investment. We work with our regional partnership manager at UKTI to link to the national offer of inward investment. UKTI are nationally responsible for promoting inward investment overseas to the UK first, therefore Worcestershire’s strategy has to coordinate with this national approach.
ARE THERE ANY PLANS FOR DEVELOPMENTS
THAT MIGHT ENCOURAGE INWARD INVESTMENT IN WORCESTERSHIRE? Locally we have started the process of developing our offer which includes defining what types of businesses would compliment our current strengths and developing four key sites; Malvern Hills Science Park, South Kidderminster Enterprise Park, Worcester Technology Park and Redditch Eastern Gateway.
Local authority partners are focussed on delivering
new strategic employment sites which are attractive to the market and importantly are where businesses want to locate.
Redditch East Gateway is in its early phases of planning permission across 3 District Councils, 2 County Councils and 3 LEP’s. However, this is being driven by all the partners to come forward over the next two years and Worcestershire LEP has supported this site through the ‘Growing Places’ fund.
South Kidderminster was Worcestershire LEP’s chosen Enterprise Zone site. This bid was unsuccessful but working with Wyre Forest District Council and the developer we have supported this site in partnership with Greater Birmingham LEP through the ‘Growing Places’ fund.
Malvern Hills Science Park has recently had planning consent for phase four and growth of the site.
Finally, we await the decision on monies from regional growth fund on the Worcester Technology Park.
These sites are not exclusive but provide an opportunity for our indigenous businesses to grow and attract inward investment.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT THAT COMPANIES INVEST IN WORCESTERSHIRE?Worcestershire has punched below its weight considering its central location, motorway infrastructure and connectivity. The Worcestershire LEP and its partners see the opportunity for the Worcestershire economy to grow and expand. Inward investment is an important part of this.
NeXT ISSUe OF BUSINeSS DIReCTION... INVeSTING IN HeReFORDSHIRe aND wORCeSTeRSHIRe
May/June 2013
Gary Woodman
Legal Services
NEW HEREFORD OFFICE
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CONTACT US...to learn about our pricing options, which include Fixed Fees and Service Level Guarantees, or call into our
Street for an initial chat.
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LB Legal Services 210x270.indd 1 24/02/2013 11:34BD13.indd 50 3/5/13 11:12:47
Legal Services
NEW HEREFORD OFFICE
for yourself & your business
CONTACT US...to learn about our pricing options, which include Fixed Fees and Service Level Guarantees, or call into our
Street for an initial chat.
[email protected] www.lblaw.co.uk
We can advise on a wide range of personal legal issues including...
Residential Property Family Law Will Disputes Wills & Trusts Legal Advice for Employees Disputes Debt
Criminal Law Personal Injury
And business related legal issues including...
Corporate Law Employment Law Agriculture
Dispute Resolution
Commercial Property Debt Recovery
We don’t just sell time; we sell experience, expertise, know-how and results.
NEW
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LB Legal Services 210x270.indd 1 24/02/2013 11:34BD13.indd 51 3/5/13 11:12:48
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BD13.indd 52 3/5/13 11:12:50