Big Business

Nottinghams first Business Expo is a huge success

Derby Expo Confirmed

Nottingham Business Expo

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Contents Page 4-5 Yu energy

Page 18-19 Central College

Page 32 Bentley

Page 41 - 42 Air IT

Page 6 Glees construction anniversary

Page 20 - 21 D2N2

Page 33-34 Ferrari

Page 7 - 8 Magpie

Page 22 Hacker Young / MIpim 2015

Page 35 Nottingham City Council

Page 43 What young people want

Page 9 - 10 Air IT

Page 23 - 26 Bus Expo

Page 11 - 12 apple mac book

Page 27 Derby Expo

Page 36 Nick Leeson Interview

Page 13 Notts Uni bus hub

Page 28 “Bull Pit

Page 1 4- 15 Paragon

Page 29 EM Trains

Page 16 Instant View

Page 30 Lamborghini text

Page 17 Harper HR

Page 31 lamborgini advert

Page 37 CWCS Page 38 Distinction Page 39 EMPA

Page 44 Russell scan Page 45 Midland Hr Page 46 - 47 Waltons Page 48 - 49 Human scale Page 50 All About tourism advert

Page 40 Toshiba

Big Business is a publication of All About Tourism: www.allabouttourism.co.uk

Big Business

March 2015

Business Energy without the hassle?

Yü must be joking.

With energy prices constantly in the news at the moment, you can’t get away from the perpetual price changes, customer worries about complicated bills and empty promises from suppliers to offer the very best prices to their customers. But there is one company, right here in Nottingham, that has set its stall out to change the way we view energy suppliers.

Yu Energy are one of only a handful of gas and electricity suppliers in the UK and their fresh approach has got the ‘Big Six’ already sitting up and taking notice.

Originally set up as a TPI, (Third Party Intermediary) Yu Energy began life as Chesterfield based energy broker, Better Business Energy. BBE was the brainchild of successful entrepreneur and now MD of Yu Energy, Bobby Kalar. “I have always had an interest in the energy market - after all, it’s something we can’t live without. I knew after the deregulation of gas and electricity that the market would open up and the monopoly held by the Big Six suppliers would slowly start to fall apart.”

But it wasn’t until Mr Kalar’s frustration of how the energy suppliers treated brokers and ultimately their customers that, the decision was made to take Better Business Energy to the next level and become an Ofgem accredited supplier of Gas and Electricity. “It seemed like the suppliers could do what they wanted.” Bobby said “They had such a control on the energy market that they almost made the rules up as they went along. I was sick of hearing how customers felt they were just a number and when they asked questions about their bills they didn’t get straight answers or the service they wanted. I asked myself why should it be like this?”

It was another 2 years, a lot of hard work and lots of papework before Yu Energy was finally accredited by Ofgem as a gas and electricity supplier and the small team of just 9 people moved from the old BBE offices in Chesterfield to the brand new headquarters of Yu Energy at Nottingham Business Park. “The decision to move to Nottingham was an easy one. Nottingham is thriving! It has some great companies here already and we knew it would be the perfect for Yu Energy to grow. The people of Nottingham are hard-working and we have based our business model on hard work and great customer service. For me Nottingham was the obvious choice.”

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So what is it about Yu Energy that is different from the other energy suppliers? The corporate strap line “It’s all about Yu” reflects the company’s ethos of putting the customer’s interests first. But haven’t we heard this before? Many of the ‘big six’ claim that their customers are the most important part of their business yet continue to be fined for the way they treat their customers. Yu Energy understand that a happy customer is a loyal customer and do everything to ensure that all of our customers have a good experience when choosing them as their energy supplier. “The plan is for Yu Energy to become synonymous with great customer

March 2015

service. Our rates, although excellent, are somewhat dictated by the fluctuating prices but we are fully in control of the experience we give our customers and it’s our aim to make every customer feel that they are our number one priority.” said Mr Kalar.

With people becoming more educated when it comes to picking their gas and electricity supplier, it won’t be long before we see more independent energy suppliers in the market but for the time being, if you’re looking for a good honest company with customer service at heart, you don’t have to look further than our very own city.

Big Business

March 2015

Magpie Security.

Nottingham’s very first Business Expo has recently passed, Thursday 26th February, and we were delighted to have Magpie Security LTD as one of the events main sponsors.

“Magpie Security Ltd is proud to be a main sponsor for Nottingham’s very first Business Expo. Magpie Security Ltd has 13 years of experience working within the Nottingham conurbation and can see the City is crying out for an event like this. It is brilliant for all at Magpie Security Ltd to be involved. Magpie provides a security and training service available to local businesses, including individuals who feel the need to protect and secure their hard earned assets and premises. Magpie Security Ltd are keen to share the skills, knowledge and work experience that we have developed to ensure the best possible practice and total peace of mind when trusting a quality company such as ourselves to take care of the security arrangements. However, we are not just about security, we are a busy management team running a successful business and we want to be able to share this.”

Magpie Security Limited have been operating and providing both security and protective services for 13 years, building a strong client base and creating their brand.

They have also provide personal and static bodyguards for a range of clients over these years.

The Magpie Security Ltd logo has become instantly recognisable with being ‘safe and secure’. Local knowledge and reputation deters uninvited guests, giving client’s total piece of mind. Magpie Security Ltd aims to maintain a high level of Security by having an understanding of client’s needs and wishes.

The company have also secured contracts with some of the

largest companies in the Midlands, to the smallest. Magpie Security Ltd employ personnel from varied backgrounds, including military service, to ensure our clients get the very best service and advice.

No site is too small or too large, always providing a cost effective service tailored to the individual client’s needs.

For more on Magpie Security Ltd go to www.magpie-security.co.uk Twitter @ MagpieSecurity and Facebook Magpie Security

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Magpie Security’s Mobile Surveillance Unit is a revolutionary product that allows CCTV to be monitored, via a live stream, from mobile and computer devices.

March 2015

With a 360 degree all round visual, covering a 150 metre diameter, the Surveillance Unit is guaranteed to offer maximum security.

The CCTV Unit has day and night vision dome cameras that use the latest infrared technology and also contains solar panels on the roof to ensure no engine noise is detected in built up areas, when the vehicle is static.

Magpie Security’s Mobile Surveillance Unit is a revolutionary product that allows CCTV to be monitored, via a live stream, from mobile and computer devices. With a 360 degree all round visual, covering a 150 metre diameter, the Surveillance Unit is guaranteed to offer maximum security. The CCTV Unit has day and night vision dome cameras that use the latest infrared technology and also contains solar panels on the roof to ensure no engine noise is detected in built up areas, when the vehicle is static.

“Magpie Security Ltd believes CCTV has many functions within the private security industry. Not only is it a cost effective, private security solution that reduces the need for man power when the cameras are properly targeted, but they can also deter offenders, reduce the level of crime and increase the feeling of safety for those using our Mobile Surveillance Unit.

If crimes do occur, CCTV can often provide invaluable evidence that leads to the identification of offenders and in turn can save the police valuable time during the investigative process.”

With a DVR that records all footage on a weekly basis and a 72 hour backup battery, the Surveillance Unit can become a critical aid in police investigations. With CCTV operators being able to contact medical services, it doesn’t just help the Police, but will also mean that Ambulances can be sent out at the first possible opportunity, in case of any medical emergency.

The CCTV Surveillance Unit can also be used to gather intelligence and monitor the behaviour of known offenders by patrolling in public places, as well as giving complete assurance and peace of mind to any property or business owners who want to use the Unit.

Magpie Security LTD has continued to grow over the last 13 years, since being formed in 2002. With no company being too small, Magpie Security have provided security, personal body guards and static security guards for a range of large and small companies, with great success. Over the past few years with the advancement of Security Systems technology, Magpie Security have researched, identified and supplied the best technical solutions for our clients at the best possible price.

To find out more about Magpie Security, you can follow them on Twitter - @magpie_ security and go to www.magpie-security. co.uk. You can also like Magpie Security on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ pages/Magpie-Security/1400662966830205 ?fref=ts

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Big Business

March 2015

Gleeds: 130 years on Nottingham-based property and construction consultancy, Gleeds, is celebrating its 130 year anniversary having weathered a few boom and bust cycles. As the economy recovers from recession Gleeds Director, Anthony Cork, reflects on how the company has got where it is today and considers what the future has in store for the East Midlands.

“One of the questions we often find ourselves answering at Gleeds is: what makes us different? And as we celebrate 130 years in business, it seems more pertinent than ever”, reflects Mr Cork.

to be – especially for start-ups and SMEs. Areas such as Nottingham’s Creative Quarter present a fantastic opportunity for new businesses to get established and in attracting inward investment.”

The consultancy was founded in 1885 by Richard Gleed, who was an architect by profession and realised a gap in the market for a company set up solely to provide quantity surveying services.

Based in the East Midlands since 1932, Gleeds passionately supports the socioeconomic development of the region. The consultancy is an active supporter of the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Nottingham Means Business - a business-led organisation set up to promote collaboration and strengthen the regional economy.

Since then, Gleeds has grown from a family run business to an international provider of consultancy services, with 1500 staff working in 56 offices across 22 countries.

“The thing we believe sets us apart, and has helped create a sustainable business, is our independence.

“In an environment where large conglomerates are growing rapidly through acquisition of smaller companies, our independence and impartiality stands out.

“This continuity has also kept our senior management team accessible and client facing – it’s often when things aren’t going right, but are quickly and effectively resolved, that builds the best relationships”, says Cork.

As the UK’s political parties ramp-up their general election campaigns, the Midlands is being heralded as a centre for growth through investment in infrastructure, jobs creation and apprenticeships.

“Though nothing is set in stone until the ballots are in and the dust from the general election settles, the Midlands is undoubtedly on the map, which makes it an exciting place

Nottingham is a hotbed of business forums and networks. The combined effort of public and private sectors to drive investment into the city – whether through business, education or tourism – creates a unique energy.

“It is this collaboration and will to succeed that needs to be harnessed after events such as the Nottingham Business Expo and the international property event MIPIM, to drive activity forward. As with all things, the challenge is maintaining momentum.”

As a founding member of ‘Team Nottingham’, Gleeds plays an active role in putting the city on the global stage. Each year it attends the international property event, MIPIM, with city councillors, city leaders and private sector organisations to showcase the region’s investment and development potential. This year is the largest delegation yet with over 20 local business in attendance, flying the flag for Nottinghamshire.

Also key to East Midlands growth is investment and retention of skills. It’s one

point the politicians are all agreed on and has been a topic of great discussion within the East Midlands recently. A report by the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce indicated that businesses were increasingly facing difficulties in recruiting staff with the required skill set.

In order to adapt to change, Gleeds is always on the lookout for new faces and fresh ideas.

The recession had a huge impact on the construction industry. Many companies lost staff and little in the way of recruitment took place. In particular there has been a shortage of skilled graduates, who typically would have graduated between 2009 and 2013 symptomatic of the lack of work experience and graduate programmes available during the period.

One of the ways Gleeds is responding is through the recruitment of school leavers, supporting them through day release university courses to gain both experience and training. It’s also drawing on established relationships with universities, like Nottingham Trent, to help boost the number of graduate work experience opportunities available.

Mr Cork concludes: “If there’s one thing we’ve learnt over the years, it’s that our people are our greatest asset. Our success is ultimately down to them, and we find that empowering people to grow with the business often produces the best results.”

Gleeds specialise in providing expert advice and management services across the asset lifecycle. For more information visit www. gleeds.com or follow @GleedsTV on Twitter.

Big Business

March 2015

National award for East Midlands Trains • Winner in National Institute of Customer Service Awards • Industry-leading 24/7 customer contact centre praised by judges • Customer centre launched as commitment to customers to ‘be there when you need us’ • Only train company nominated as a finalist in the awards

East Midlands Trains has continued its run of award winning success after picking up one of the winner’s awards in the National Institute of Customer Service Awards held this week.

“This is a clear demonstration of our commitment to providing the best possible service to our customers and we are delighted that our efforts have been marked by such an important and worthy organisation.

The rail operator was awarded for its 24/7 customer contact centre, which was launched as a rail industry first in March 2014. The contact centre, based within the operational control centre in Derby, offers support for customers 24-hours a day, 7 days a week, to book assistance, answer help-point calls, help to track lost property and deal with any customer queries. The team also respond to questions coming in via social media 24-hours a day.

“Whilst it’s always great to be rated against other train operators, our real objective is to be ranked as one of the best customer service organisations in the country and this award win is a great step towards that goal.”

Since the launch of the new contact centre, customer satisfaction has increased, the number of twitter followers has grown by 74% and the number of overall customer contacts has increased by over 20%, with judges praising East Midlands Trains as delivering on its promise to customers of ‘being there when you need us’.

As well as picking up the winner’s award in the category of ‘Leadership Factor Best Return on Customer Investment’ amongst other shortlisted large companies such as British Sky Broadcasting and Northern Gas Networks, East Midlands Trains was also a finalist in the ‘Best Customer Satisfaction Strategy’ award. This is the second year that East Midlands Trains has been shortlisted at these awards and was again the only train operator to be nominated as a finalist.

Jayne Moyses, Head of Sales & Customer Service Centre for East Midlands Trains, said: “This is a fantastic tribute and recognition to all the team who work so hard day in day out to deliver a great service to our customers, no matter what time of the day or night!

Jo Causon, CEO of the Institute of Customer service said:“The popularity of this year’s awards show the how customer service is a key business focus for organisations of all kinds. It’s also pleasing to see an increasing number of organisations across a wide range of different sectors taking part in these awards. It is clear that some of the most successful and effective organisations in the UK are those making a real investment into delivering the highest standards of customer experience.

“We have to celebrate not only the high standards and professionalism of the award winners, but also the increasing numbers of organisations that are focusing on customer service as a strategy to drive sustainable business performance.”

For more information about the Institute of Customer Service, visit instituteofcustomerservice.com.

For information about East Midlands Trains visit eastmidlandstrains.co.uk.

Big Business

March 2015

Celebrating 10 Years at BioCity

Nottingham-based trademark and patent attorney firm, AdamsonJones celebrated its tenth anniversary at BioCity Nottingham with a drinks reception for clients, fellow tenants and friends last Friday [16 January].

Established in 2000, AdamsonJones moved into BioCity ten years ago to work alongside fellow companies that are committed to the life sciences sector. Since then, AdamsonJones has quadrupled in size, transforming into a mid-sized IP boutique with over 20 employees. Furthermore, AdamsonJones has invested heavily in the industries it serves and has offices at both BioCity and MediCity – centres at the heart of the life sciences sector in the East Midlands.

Dr Steve Jones, Chairman and Founder of AdamsonJones said, “Being part of the BioCity community has allowed us to collaborate and share knowledge with many progressive organisations. It has provided a strong base from which we have established relationships with most companies in BioCity and also with other innovative businesses in the healthcare and life sciences sector locally, nationally and internationally, something we intend to continue to build upon.”

He continued, “Furthermore, being in BioCity has also helped us to provide an attractive and engaging environment in which to work, which has contributed to our excellent employee retention. Indeed, the six employees that relocated to BioCity in 2004 are still with us, and our success owes a great deal to that continuity.”

The informal event to mark the occasion included a presentation from Glenn Crocker, CEO of BioCity, and the cutting of a cake by Chairman Steve Jones.

Big Business

March 2015

“Nottinghamshire is buzzing” - we should

shout this loud and proud Paragon Interiors Group Plc is currently on site completing the city’s largest ever fit-out of the former BT offices on Castle Wharf, completing works on behalf of the Landlord across the building which will eventually house 600 people..

Once completed, Paragon will turn its attention to the design and fit-out for the new occupier, Parexel, an American-owned business with a strong Nottingham history.

Parexel arrived in Nottingham six years ago when it bought ClinPhone, a business which developed technology to automatically gather data from drug trials. With that acquisition it inherited several different sites but now the decision has been made to consolidate its activities in Nottingham city centre. Parexel will occupy 62,000 sq ft of offices at the Castle Wharf complex.

Parexel had considered moving out of the city, but was persuaded to stay by Nottingham City Council’s inward investment team. That Parexel decided to remain in Nottingham is testimony to the pull the city still retains and the work of all parties to showcase the city, according to Paragon’s CEO Alan Hardy: “As a city and county, we all need to pull together and shout about the city’s potential from the rooftops. This is a major coup for Nottingham but we can’t afford to rest on our laurels. As a design and fit-out contractor,

we are often brought in by developers, agents and inward investment bodies across the UK to help to market space from a suitability standpoint. Nottingham has a huge amount to offer, it isn’t always about shiny new buildings (although they undoubtedly help) it is about making the best use of space through strategic reviews of occupiers’ requirements and then making it possible through good design.

“We are a proud Nottinghamshire firm, employing a lot of local people, so winning this contract is fantastic. Our team is now working with Parexel in terms of design development as we begin to create a fantastic new working environment for this innovative company.”

Paragon’s passionate support of the city, is epitomised by its attendance at the inaugural Nottingham Business Expo.

True to the nature of the event, Paragon will be taking a “hub” from which it will present its business offering, reflecting the ambitions of the organisers to showcase the city and county in the best possible light to investors from both here and abroad.

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Alan Hardy continues; “This is a fantastic initiative and as a local employer we welcome it with open arms.

Nottingham as a city and Nottinghamshire as a county have a lot of positives to share, this gives us a vehicle to really shout about it with a renewed vigour and confidence. We work right across the UK from our central base here in Nottinghamshire but continue to work on major local projects with blue chip occupiers including Specsavers and Experian.

March 2015

“It is crucial for us to showcase the depth of skills we have here both locally and regionally so that we don’t lose the top talent in terms of the workforce, or the potential opportunities to do business with each other when major projects and contracts are up for grabs. That goes for everyone, from contractors like us to accountants, lawyers, creative agencies, manufacturers and the life sciences.”

“Nottinghamshire is an ideal base for so many businesses as it is so central and the investment in infrastructure will only improve this. In 2014, we completed an iconic project with PKF Cooper Parry, creating a ‘super office’ for them out at the airport. The location chimes with their international ambitions and clientele and again goes to show that a base in Nottinghamshire opens up a world of opportunities. We should all be proud of this and can all do our bit to champion the cause of the city and county.”

Big Business

March 2015

Instantview showcases new app, ExpoFlyer, at the first Nottingham Business Expo A main challenge for visitors at events is navigating their way around the halls, scheduling who they want to see and getting the right information from the exhibitors. At large events, there is often numerous halls, exhibitors, and speakers and being able to find specific speakers in specific halls, at a specific time, can be challenging. Changes to event schedules can also be problematic for visitors, exhibitors, and importantly event organisers. Providing relevant information to visitors at a suitable time is now critical in this digital era. Without real-time communications between all parties involved it can be difficult to know exactly what’s happening at the event, therefore it is increasingly important to have a service which facilitates constant engagement.

ExpoFlyer, a new Instantview product can solve these issues, with pioneering mobile application to digitalise a visitor’s exhibition experience, and provide them with relevant event content, based on their location at the event. The app was showcased for the first time to exhibitors and attendee’s at the first Nottingham Business Expo on the 26th of February. The iOS app enabled visitors to not only find their way around the hall, but also find which stand certain companies were exhibiting on and find out further information about the companies.

A further development of the app, which will be both Android and iOS compatible, will allow visitors to check-in automatically with a QR code and eliminate the need for queuing.

With hundreds of forward thinking businesses at the event, this was a perfect opportunity for the company to demonstrate its new technology. The demonstration was successfully tested with a number of different exhibitors and attendees on the day and the value of wayfinding peaked interest with exhibitors who also organise events.

Instantview is using beacon/Bluetooth low energy technology, a technology used to provide location-based information to other Bluetooth devices in range, to engage customers as they walk by an exhibition stand. Although still in trial phases, beacon technology has generated buzz in major national and international chains from John Lewis to Macy’s. Beacons in the events and exhibitions industry has also generated buzz lately, not only beneficial to visitors, but to event organisers and exhibitors. ExpoFlyer provides event organisers with real-time attendee analytics and helps exhibitors drive footfall to stands, with targeted information pushed to visitors walking by. Organisation’s need to be more reactive and agile to meet high expectations of customers, and beacon technology provides event organiser’s with the tools needed to achieve this.

Next on the agenda for Instantview is to connect with UK exhibition centres and demonstrate the app to a larger audience.

After receiving positive feedback from the Nottingham Business Expo event, the

company is now more than hopeful that those attending expo’s will benefit from using ExpoFlyer.

Gary Allen, event organiser at All About Tourism, said,

The Business Expo was an ideal place for Instantview to demonstrate their new expo app to like minded businesses.

It was great to see a local company developing cutting edge technology in Nottingham.

Big Business

March 2015

Harper HR With over 27 years history of supplying Nottingham businesses and companies across the wider East Midlands with professional recruitment services, Harper Resourcing “Harpers” is a name people instantly recognise when they’re thinking about hiring professional support staff or looking for their next job.

Harpers, establish in 1987 by Jane Harper, was born out of an idea that there was a gap in the market for a professionally focused consultancy offering a balanced combination of professional corporate service levels combined with the intimate market knowledge/understanding and “human element” offered by a local supplier.

Holding firm to these beliefs Harpers went on to be the consultancy of choice for a large degree of the East Midlands businesses from PLC’s (sole commercial supplier to Boots group for many years) to trusted recruitment partners for OMB/SME’s across the region.

The candidate relationships developed throughout this time has seen placement support for some of the regions industry leaders and key figures along with multiple generations coming to Harpers for guidance and advice with their career development.

the team have been with the business for over 10 years. Whilst staff retention and market history are important, Harpers also believe in being ahead of the curve with regards to technology and up to the minute recruitment practices. Boasting a cloud based, up to the minute back office system integrated with a mobile responsive website and job-board integration, Harpers are fully prepared to face all the challenges todays staffing industry provides for both their clients and candidates.

Out of their Nottingham offices based on Talbot Street, Jane and her team continue to provide this market leading service.

One truly unique aspect to Harpers is the longevity of their staff. 0ver 60% of

Jane Hadfield, Managing Director commented with regards to this years’ Nottingham Business Expo, “We are extremely pleased and excited about taking part at Nottingham’s’ First Business Expo.

After being part of the business community

Harpers prides itself on offering a personalised, professional, tailored service and solution, no matter what guise people engage with its business. The last 27 years plus has stood testament to the founding beliefs which still, today, form the core of Harpers business mantra.

www.harperhr.co.uk

for the past 27 years we have seen some considerable changes, both in-terms of sectors and culture. The last few years have been a challenge for all of us, however, there is a real sense of confidence and enthusiasm across Nottinghamshire and the wider East Midlands and we’ve seen positive shift in hiring activity in a broad cross section of our clients, both in terms of permanent and temporary recruitment.

With unemployment at its lowest for several years, quality candidates and becoming highly sought after and business has move forwards faster than we’ve seen for quite some time. So being part of the Expo is enabling us to reacquaint so old relationships and just as importantly enable us to introduce ourselves to our next generation of clients and candidates. We look forward to seeing everybody there” For further information go to www. harperhr.co.uk or contact one of the team on 0115 8507575.

NOTTINGHAM OFFICE nottingham@harperhr.co.uk

LEICESTER OFFICE leicester@harperhr.co.uk

DERBY OFFICE derby@harperhr.co.uk

0115 850 7575

0116 355 2235

01332 207 575

Big Business

March 2015

A NEW APPRENTICESHIP VISION FOR CENTRAL COLLEGE An innovative approach to recruitment has helped Central College Nottingham increase the number of new apprenticeship starts by 30% compared to this time last year.

The national picture (based on the latest available statistics) shows that the number of people starting an apprenticeship has declined by 14%, which illustrates the college’s success in what is proving to be a challenge in many other parts of the country. This is a very positive and timely position for the college as all political parties are committing to apprenticeships in the run up to the general election in May. Areas with the most growth at Central College include Science, Automotive, Construction and Engineering. Each year the College helps more than 1,200 job seekers find employment and training opportunities.

The College’s Business Engagement function was relaunched at the Nottingham Business Expo event held in Nottingham on 26 February. The new service has seen significant investment in doubling the number of staff and improving the infrastructure to help the College work more closely with over 4000 local, regional and national employers.

The success of Central’s approach has been put down in part to the quality of service its Business Engagement team offers. This includes a full recruitment service for businesses, matching potential students to employers, a rigorous assessment process and an in-depth understanding of employers which helps to ensure that the right student

is placed in the right apprenticeship vacancy.

College staff offer additional advice such as preparing for interview, CV writing, how to present and conduct themselves and, if necessary, maths and English qualifications.

Head of Employer Engagement at Central College, Matt Pinches said: “Our goal is to develop a long term partnership approach with every company that we work with.

Each employer is allocated an Account Manager and each apprenticeship applicant works closely with a specialist at the College to ensure we get the right candidate on the right programme. We work with individual employers to find out exactly what they want and we present candidates to them

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who work ready. We give a real added value service to employers and we get a lot of repeat business because of the quality we can provide.”

The College has worked in partnership with Kia Motors UK Ltd for over 3-years.

The relationship began with Kia renting workshop space at the College’s Ruddington centre to deliver ‘technical training’ to their Dealer Network.

The partnership is a ten year agreement to provide a commercial training facility

March 2015

alongside a national apprenticeship programme for Kia Motors UK. Simon Hetherington, Kia Development Director, said:

Dealer

“Our partnership provides apprentices with the chance to learn the trade, earn good money and become qualified for their future career with the brand at the end of their studies. Through the Kia Academy Training Centre, we now have in excess of 150 apprentices and aim to increase this to 190 by the end of the year.”

The College currently has around 100 apprenticeship vacancies. For more details look online at www.centralnottingham. ac.uk or call 0115 914 6414.

Big Business

March 2015

The D2N2 Growth hub working to ‘power up your business’ We are looking for ambitious businesses that are planing to grow and need some support to accelerate this growth. You may be looking to grow in size, develop new products or are planning to start trading overseas. The D2N2 Growth Hub has access to the type of support that can really make the difference to your business.

The D2N2 Growth Hub covers Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. It helps local businesses by supporting them to access the most appropriate service that will allow them to grow and reach their true potential.

Across the D2N2 area there are eight areas of economic focus, if your business falls within one of these priority sectors there is benefit in getting in touch with the D2N2 Growth Hub to find out more about the sector plans.

A main challenge for businesses that are ambitious to grow is that they are unaware of all the support available to them. This includes access to local business advisors, service providers, loan and grant funding, as well as up to date information on networking opportunities.

The eight priority sectors for the D2N2 area are:

The D2N2 Growth Hub aims to bring public, private and third sector providers together and ensure that any business seeking advice will be directed to the most appropriate service quickly and efficiently.

Some of the providers that focus on accelerating business growth are: Business Growth Service which includes GrowthAccelerator and Manufacturing Advisory Service. For business trading internationally the links can be made with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI). We also encourage businesses to work closely with regional Universities.

• Transport Equipment and Manufacturing • Life sciences • Food and Drink Manufacturing • Construction • Visitor Economy • Low Carbon - Goods/Services • Transport and Logistics • Creative Industries We can advise you in a number of ways including finding property, employing staff, advice on exporting, accessing finance, innovation and protecting your business For more information about our support have a look at our website www. d2n2growthhub.co.uk or give one of our advisors a ring on 0333 006 9178.

Big Business

March 2015

INVESTORS & GROWTH BUSINESSES IN NOTTS to receive taxation boost

STAMP duty was the star of the show in this year’s Autumn Statement announced earlier this month by George Osborne, but a Nottingham tax partner has highlighted good news for start-up businesses in the region.

The Chancellor announced changes to the rules governing peer-to-peer (P2P) lending that will allow individuals to offset losses from bad debts against other P2P gains – something that Simon Browning at UHY Hacker Young believes will benefit the city’s creative businesses.

He said: “Buried away within the detail of the Autumn Statement was a piece of good news for start-up and high growth businesses as well as their investors, of which we have a huge amount within Nottinghamshire with the likes of the Creative Quarter, BioCity, Antenna and MediCity.

“The government has championed P2P lending and the latest tweaks will make it more attractive as it allows those lending money through P2P platforms to offset any losses they make on loans against again gains and income they receive from others – providing valuable tax relief for the investor.

“Precise details haven’t yet been announced, but it is anticipated that individuals will be able to obtain the tax relief in relation to loans made after April 2015, making it a much fairer system for investors and subsequently a positive impact on the P2P lending industry.”

P2P lending is the regulated practice of lending money to unrelated individuals, companies or ‘peers’ without going through a traditional financial intermediary such as a bank.

“Nottingham really is a creative hub – particularly within the science, technology and innovation sectors – so there are an awful lot of people who look to take advantage of P2P lending that could benefit from these changes,” added Simon.

“Estimates suggest that investors could be around 25 per cent better off as a result of the proposals, which can only be good news for those looking to invest their money and those seeking financial backing as the savings and benefits work their way through the system.”

Big Business

March 2015

The Nottingham Business Expo becomes an instant success.

In the forthcoming edition of ‘Big Business’ magazine we focus on what was a historic day for business and business growth in Nottingham. February 26th saw Nottingham play host to its first ever Business Expo at Nottingham Trent University’s Conference Centre; attracting national and international attention, it was an opportunity to promote Nottingham as an investible city for business and encourage investment for the future (showcase what it already offers businesses and encourage business in the future). Over 100 stalls

and hubs were occupied by businesses and organisations from up and down the country providing opportunities and proposals to the hundreds of people attending.

As well as the constant stream of workshops on offer throughout the day, presented by the likes of AIR-IT, Potter Clarkson and D2N2, the expo also provided an opportunity for budding entrepreneurs to present their business models to a panel of industry experts, in a dragons den style exercise, The Bull Pit. The winner being offered a 12 month membership to

Nottingham Means Business, a feature in The Nottingham Post and a string advertising and media marketing campaigns created in association with the All About Tourism group. After lengthy deliberation from the panel the winning candidate was Nicky Gray, founder of Food-Freedom, a company providing food intolerance and allergy training for restaurants and schools. Simon Gray, Chief Executive of Nottingham Means Business and panellist for The Bull Pit said of the decision, “After much deliberation we chose Nicky Gray, Founder of Food Freedom. Her passion and drive was infectious and she has a proven business proposition, which is now ready to be taken to the next level.

I’m delighted to welcome her as an honorary member of Nottingham Means Business for 12 months and look forward to working with her.”

A contributing factor to the success of the Expo was its inclusion of high profile Guest Speakers, who provided seminars throughout the day. Nick Leeson, the man who single handily brought down one of the UK’s oldest merchant banks, Barings Bank, spoke of his time working for one of the world’s biggest financial organisations and where he now stands on decision making and risk assessment in business; Susan Hallam, owner of Hallam Internet, discussed Digital Marketing development; Founder of fashion label Red or Dead, Wayne Hemingway, gave his advice on expansion within business and Gareth Davis CEO to some of the UK’s biggest organisations spoke of his experience at the top and fundamentals of maintaining a successful and healthy business.

To top off the event, an extra opportunity to network was held at Nottingham’s Crowne Plaza hotel where ticket holders of the expo were invited to relax and discuss the events of the day over some free drinks provided (by the hotel).

The feedback received so far has been extremely positive and we are now looking forward to an even bigger and better Expo in 2016.

Big Business

March 2015

The Business Expo is now coming to Derby in 2015!

After the staggering success of the very first Nottingham Business Expo in February 2015, we are delighted to announce that Derby will now have their very own expo to celebrate and grow all things business within the city.

The Derby Business Expo will take place on Friday 30th October 2015, at the Derby Roundhouse. Located in the Railway Quarter of Derby, Roundhouse is an extremely accessible place to reach from anywhere in the UK, with Derby being the country’s most central city. It’s a beautiful and magnificent series of truly iconic buildings that have a world-renowned status in railway history. As an event venue, The Roundhouse is ideal offering spectacular backdrops and the flexibility to accommodate a variety of functions on a truly large scale.

The Roundhouse itself was built back in 1839. Following £48 million renovation, it has been returned to its former glory with original features restored and complemented by dazzling new artworks. This stunning Grade II* listed building opened its doors in late 2009 and has already played host to a wide range of prestigious corporate events.

With guest speakers, workshops and a whole host of fantastic local companies set to attend the expo, it is sure to follow Nottingham’s historic event and live up to and possibly even strengthen on its predecessor’s success.

But don’t worry Nottingham, we haven’t left you. After the success of the very first Nottingham Business Expo, we are already planning our second event which will take place Thursday 3rd March 2016. With plenty of companies signing up already, it is set to be bigger and better than our previous

expo. There is some fantastic news set to be announced any day soon, so keep your eyes peeled on Twitter, @Business_Expos, so you don’t miss out.

If you wish to exhibit at either of our events, stands, hubs and sponsorships will go on general sale on Monday 6th April 2015. For more information go to our website www.

BusinessExhibition.co.uk

Big Business

March 2015

Food Freedom wins The Nottingham Business Expo ‘Bull Pit’.

Three finalists took the opportunity to pitch their innovative ideas to a strong business panel of four, Simon Gray (Nottingham Means Business), Manny Agalamanyi (D2N2), Aamir Butt (Accelerate) and Simon Curtis (Potter Clarkson). The three pitches were done by Nicky Gray of Food Freedom, Assim Ishaque of Simbrix and Usman Ghaffar of Offers Cloud, but of course there could only be one winner.

Nicky Gray managed to fight her way to the top spot after her strong and passionate pitch about her product. A single mother with 2 children, who both have multiple food intolerances and allergies, she has spent many years researching and retraining herself through life experiences and qualifications to develop her business. Food Freedom “draw on personal experience and expertise to provide specially-tailored education and training about food intolerance and allergies.”

Nicky Gray said “The feedback and advice I received from the panel was invaluable, giving me so much to think about and potential ways to improve my business. I feel extremely grateful and privileged to have had this opportunity. Winning was a real added bonus!”

Simon Gray, Chief Executive of Nottingham Means Business commented, “It was a pleasure to be asked to take part in the Bull Pit at the Nottingham Business Expo. It was fantastic to see such a wealth of talent in the three businesses who presented and a very tough decision to pick one winner.

“After much deliberation we chose Nicky Gray, Founder of Food Freedom. Her passion and drive was infectious and she has a proven business proposition, which is now ready to be taken to the next level.

I’m delighted to welcome her as an honorary member of Nottingham Means Business for 12 months and look forward to working with her.

“The Business Expo was a great success and something we should definitely repeat again next year - congratulations to all involved”.

Nicky fought off the challenge of two very strong finalists in Assim Ishaque and Usman Ghaffar. The former is the founder of Simbrix fusion beads, a creative craft and construction toy. Playing and creating with it is simple, yet rewarding. You can fuse together your designs for more permanent celebrations of your art or leave them in their sturdy original forms, ready for the next big project.

Usman Ghaffer, the co-founder of Offers Cloud, is an experienced pitcher at the tender age of 18. After doing many pitches around the country and being the youngest ever finalist at The Pitch UK he fancied his chances in front of our ‘Bulls’. Offers Cloud, where you can “find all the latest offers, sales and clearance from all of the high-street retailers and brands in one place” is set for a strong future along with Simbrix.

Join the largest network of entrepreneurs, investors and innovators at Venturefest East Midlands 2015.

Dedicated to help your business achieve its growth potential, Venturefest East Midlands offers an impressive line-up of 120 insight sessions with invaluable content for all businesses from Start Ups, SMEs to larger businesses.

The show to be held on 14th April 2015 at East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham hosts an unrivalled array of business growth exhibitors and live hubs along with live crowdfunding competitions, pitching for investment programmes and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs.

HOW YOUR BUSINESS CAN BENEFIT: SECTOR TRENDS Presented in the Insights Theatre and five active hubs at the event.

FUND YOUR BUSINESS GROWTH A unique chance to test a range of funding options for your ideas or growing your business from grant bodies, investors, other businesses and even crowdfunding.

MEET WITH GLOBAL BUSINESSES Find out about Open Innovation opportunities with global companies and meet with them to discuss ideas.

LATEST BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Meet specialists from Innovate UK, regional partners from LEPs to leading Universities, UKTI East Midlands, the Knowledge Transfer Partnership, the Knowledge Transfer Network, the Intellectual Property Office plus more to take your business to the next level.

CAPITALISE ON THE FUTURE Gain valuable insights from renowned design and innovation consultant Adam Bird, working with blue-chip companies including Philips, Electrolux, Unilever and Tesco.

The Insight Theatre will feature interactive conference sessions delivered by expert speakers and presenters offering both practical advice and signposting to further support for both budding start-ups and later business life-cycle entrepreneurs. See the whole at agendahttp://www.venturefestem. com/event-agenda/ Simon Woodroffe OBE will share invaluable insight on his path to founding the Yo! Sushi empire in his session, and other highlights

include speakers from MediCity, UKTI, Innovate UK, Rolls Royce and Siemens.

More than 50 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services to help grow your business and maximise its profitability. Meet supply chain managers for global businesses in the Open Innovation and Business Growth Hub. For more information on sessions and times and how to request a workshop ticket visit www.venturefestem. com.

Throughout the day, you will be able to take part in various business growth workshops and listen to guest speakers on how they have already succeeded through innovation. You can also find out what local opportunities for business growth are available to you direct from leading regional partners.

Register for free now at www.venturefestem. com and engage with the conversation on twitter @VfEastMids.

Big Business

March 2015

Welcome to Lamborghini Leicester Owned by Sytner Group Ltd, this is the third UK franchise outlet for the car dealer group.The UK is the third largest market for Lamborghini worldwide, after the USA and China. Automobili Lamborghini is headquartered in Sant’ Agata Bolognese in North East Italy, and today has 130 dealerships in 46 countries. Over 300 guests attended the official opening event for the Leicester dealership back in March 2014, which included a presentation of the new Lamborghini Huracán 610-4 that made its world premiere at Geneva Motor Show at the beginning of March.

The replacement for the Gallardo, the V10 Lamborghini Huracán has met acclaim worldwide: more than 1000 orders had been collected for the new car even before its official unveil in Geneva. Christian Mastro, Head of Europe, Middle East

and Africa for Automobili Lamborghini, presented the new Lamborghini Huracán 610-4 to guests and said, “The success of this important new car, even before it was officially shown to the world, demonstrates the continuing strength and appeal of the Lamborghini brand. We are delighted to further expand our dealer network in the UK, where there is very significant appeal and demand for the pure, absolute, design and performance of the Lamborghini marque.”

The Lamborghini Huracán 610-4 is designed as a new benchmark for luxury super sports cars, with innovative technologies ensuring absolute performance with easy roaddriving. Its 5.2 litre engine provides 610 hp with permanent four-wheel drive, and acceleration from 0-100 km/h of just 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h.

Lamborghini Leicester is located at the Watermead Business Park, Syston, with easy access from the M1/A46. The showroom and full aftersales facilities are built to Lamborghini’s exacting corporate standards.

For further information please contact a member of the team on 0116 319 3969 Sean Cook- Dealer Principal Tim Reed- General Sales Manager Paul Quickfall- Lamborghini Sales Manager Nitisha Joshi- Marketing Manager Chris Padgett- Aftersales Manager

Lamborghini Lamborghini City Leicester

More instinctive technology Extraordinary

LAMBORGHNI HURACĂ N LP 610-4

Lamborghini LamborghiniCity Leicester Authorised AuthorisedDealer Dealer 120 BracklynBusiness Count Park Watermead London Rayns Way Phone Syston06 78-91 01 112 Fax LE706 1PF 78-91 01 115 www.lamborghini.com Phone: 0116 319 3969 www.lamborghinileicester.co.uk

ITALY’S FINEST MOTOR HERITAGE IN THE HEART OF THE EAST MIDLANDS Graypaul Nottingham is your local dealership to two of Italy’s most famous motoring brands, Ferrari and Maserati. Stepping inside our impressive Lenton Lane showroom is to experience a wealth of knowledge and expertise as though born out of Modena itself. As well as offering our clients exclusivity to newly released models, we also house Ferrari and Maserati approved pre-owned marques. Some of which include classic and historical links to Ferrari’s racing heritage.

GRAYPAUL NOTTINGHAM’S HERITAGE Graypaul Nottingham are synonymous with founder David Clarke’s love and passion for the ‘red cars of Modena’. By the early 1970’s David’s own personal Ferrari collection included some of the most iconic and sought after models in the world. The 1967 Daytona winning P4 to name but one. Having to service and maintain his own fleet of Ferraris was no mean feat and soon his reputation and skills grew, to the extent Ferrari recognised him as an authorised service centre. Ferrari further awarded David Clarke with a Sales Franchise and Graypaul was born.

Frank Sytner 1988 Touring Car Champion, established the Sytner Group with his brother in 1968, then went on to purchase Graypaul. 2002 provided a landmark in Sytner history, when Penske Auto Group; one of the largest automotive retail groups in the US acquired the company. Graypaul Nottingham’s future promises to be an exciting time for our clients with our progressing refurbishment. We offer the availability of a fantastic range of current models, in both Ferrari and Maserati, not to mention a brand new Classic Car Division.

THE MASERATI GHIBLI DIESEL

THE MASERATI QUATTROPORTE DIESEL

INTRODUCING THE FERRARI 488GTB

The joys of driving a high performance, prestige saloon are no longer just for special occasions.

Graypaul Nottingham are delighted to announce the arrival of the stunning new Maserati Ghibli, consisting of three model variants. Our Maserati Ghibli prices start from just £49,160.

Passion is never commonplace and in spite of its engine type, the Quattroporte Diesel’s personality is still unmistakable sporty. This is obvious at first glance, with the large bonnet leading back from the traditional Maserati oval radiator grille with vertical fillets, inspired by the GranTurismo and other key cars in the marque’s history, dominated by the large chromed Trident badge. Our Maserati Quattroporte prices start from just £69,235.

Forty years on from the unveiling of its first ever midrear-engined V8 model, the 308 GTB, the Prancing Horse begins a new chapter in its 8-cylinder history.

The Ghibli Diesel is the first diesel-powered car in Maserati’s history. All of which are powered by a 3 litre V6 unit incorporating all the benefits of the very latest diesel engine technology.

Performance is in no way compromised, with 0-62 mph taking just 6.3 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The advanced efficiency of the Ghibli Diesel is reflected even more clearly by its fuel consumption and emissions data: 47.9 mpg and 158 g/km of CO2 in the combined cycle.

With many cutting edge solutions the Quattroporte Diesel’s six-cylinder engine delivers thrilling sporty performance and impressive responsive acceleration 0-62 mph in 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. Outstanding efficiency is also demonstrated by exceptional consumption and emissions data: 45.6 mpg and 163 g/km of CO2 in the combined cycle.

The Ferrari 488 GTB provides track-level performance that can be enjoyed to the full even by nonprofessional drivers in everyday use. Its response times, nimbleness and on-the-limit driving guarantee a unique sense of exhilaration and unparalleled driving pleasure.

As is always the case, Ferrari’s engineers have dedicated great attention to perfecting the 488 GTB’s sound, creating a new soundtrack that is full, clear and totally distinctive, as expected from any Prancing Horse engine.

To discover more about our latest vehicles please contact our Maserati and Ferrari Sales Specialists on 0115 833555.

GRAYPAUL FERRARI AND MASERATI NOTTINGHAM LENTON LANE, NOTTINGHAM, NG7 2NR | Phone: 0115 833555 | Email: graypaul.nottingham@sytner.co.uk Further information can also be found at: www.dealer.ferrari.com/graypaul/nottingham • www.maseratidealers.com/graypaul/nottingham • www.graypaulclassiccars.com

Big Business

March 2015

Nottingham’s Message to Business: Let’s Get Growing Nottingham’s growing business scene can access tailored support through the Growing Nottingham prospectus and website from Nottingham City Council.

The campaign aims to connect businesses with a host of support, from financing to training and even help with recruitment and business development.

With the number of start-ups in the city booming, and the East Midlands named the fastest growing regional economy outside of London, Nottingham has a real focus on the growth of its businesses.

The prospectus at www.growingnottingham. com is designed to help support the journey of small businesses, from first start-up to expansion. It allows easy access to: • • • • •

•

Accessing finance Recruiting and training staff Developing your business Breaking into new markets Accessing services from the city and county councils Working with the universities

The programmes inside are run by various partners both locally and nationally. They cover a diverse range of topics from taking on an Apprentice to accessing location and sector specific funding, development programmes that help business owners to form a solid business plan or pitch correctly to investors, to advice on planning and licensing.

Councillor Nick McDonald is Portfolio Holder for Jobs and Growth at Nottingham City Council: “When you’re starting a business it can be difficult to understand how many different forms of support are out there. From loans and grants to help with recruiting and training staff to business development support, there’s a lot on offer.”

“Often for time-pressed small businesses finding out about what’s available and knowing who to contact can be difficult - by producing this directory, we hope to cut out some of the legwork and make it easier.”

“There really has never been a better time to start up a company than now, and we want to help aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses to make that journey.”

To find out more about the support available, please visit www.growingnottingham.com or download a copy of the Business Support Directory here.

Big Business

March 2015

What’s the right digital strategy for your business?

As a genuinely integrated digital agency, our teams have diverse but complementary skills that together produce the highest quality outcomes to your digital challenges. For over 15 years, we have been helping our clients improve sales, realise cost savings and grow their business – with a fun working experience.

A good place to start is to consider your ultimately aspirations as a business. What are your shorter term goals? What are your values as a business and a brand?

We were delighted to exhibit at the inaugural Nottingham Business Expo last month. As well as our exhibition stand at the event, we also held workshops on helping businesses with their digital strategy – focussing on the strategic, business-centric aspects, rather than the technology, trends and hype of online marketing.

Your assets are what make you unique or special as a business. This could be the experience of your staff, a unique selling point of your products or your experience in a particular sector or marketplace.

We structured the workshop around the concept of ‘Why? What? How?’…

WHY? It’s crucial that you really understand why you’re using (or planning to use) digital marketing. All too often, companies will jump in with both feet into digital campaigns, technologies or platforms just because that’s what everyone else is doing, essentially ‘following the herd’.

It’s surprising how many businesses have never undertaken this kind of analysis, and it can make or break your online strategy.

WHAT? We split this aspect into two sections: What are your assets? What is your audience?

Your audience is the people you’re talking to (or trying to talk to!) and will probably include your existing customer base and your prospects, but also other groups like potential employees, suppliers and the media. All of these groups will have different needs and desires and sometimes the best way to think about them is to use personas – give each type of audience member a name, typical age, and think about what motivates them, what are their values and where do they ‘hang out’ online?

Also within this section we consider outreach and engagement. Outreach is what you do to grow your audience; engagement

is what you do to make them do what you want them to do! So, an example outreach activity to grow your prospects could be a Google AdWords campaign targeting keywords they’re like to be searching for; engagement could be using Google Remarketing to offer them a free trial or a discount to get them to convert.

HOW? By this point in the strategy we know who we’re talking to and who we want to be talking to (our audience), what we want to make them aware of (our assets) and what our aspirations, goals and values are as a business; and we’ve started thinking about what we can talk about to grow our audience and get them engaged.

The ‘how’ focuses on how we’re going to achieve this and consists of considering three things: what content we can generate to talk about our assets, what platforms you should be using based on where your audience hangs out (Facebook, Twitter, Google, etc.) and what activities you should be carrying out on these platforms.

We’re planning a series of further workshops and events over the coming months. If you would be interested in attending or if you’d like to discuss your digital strategy with one of our experts, please contact our Digital Strategist, James Bird – james.bird@ distinction.co.uk

Big Business

March 2015

Building firm scoops £133 million scape contract A LEADING building contractor has been awarded a £133 million contract by Nottingham-based public sector construction procurement, design and consultation specialists Scape to carry out work in the East Midlands.

Wates Construction has been awarded the contract, which runs for a total of four years from January 2014, following a rigorous OJEU procurement process.

This is a regional framework for empa (the East Midlands Property Alliance) which is managed by Scape.

The aim of empa is to improve the procurement and delivery of construction projects and property maintenance for local authorities saving time and money for them and their council taxpayers.

Wates has been successful in securing the Provincial framework which covers construction work valued between £500K and £7.5M. Phil Harrison, managing director, Wates Construction Midlands and North, commented: “I am delighted with the announcement that Wates has been named as the contracting partner for the empa Provincial framework, a procurement route that has and will continue to provide cost and time efficiencies in the delivery of public sector construction works.

“Since our appointment to the empa Intermediate framework in 2009, we have delivered a range of works across the region and we have worked in partnership with Scape to ensure this work has brought with it a boost to the regional economy through local subcontractor engagement. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Scape to provide public sector clients with true value for money.”

Head of empa Alan Coole said: “Our tender processes are always extremely thorough and I would like to congratulate Wates on successfully securing this particular framework.

“The work of empa, and managing agent Scape, gives our public sector clients peace of mind. By having our contractors already in place our clients do not need to undertake procurement exercises themselves – saving them time and money.

“We are also committed to using a high percentage of local contractors and suppliers in the vicinity of each project, maximising local spend and reinvesting in the local economy.

“The work of the empa academy will also continue to provide opportunities for employment and skills training, including apprenticeships to local people. empa has recently celebrated providing its 50th Apprentice opportunity to young people in the region.”

Scape has numerous frameworks operating nationally including Major Works; Minor Works; Asset Management, Surveying and Design Services and Project Management and Quantity Surveying.

It operates regional frameworks across the wider East Midlands on behalf of empa and its members. The total value of Scape’s frameworks comes to more than £2.5bn.

Big Business

March 2015

Big Business Director Gary Allen talks to Malcom Hall about Hall Fast and the rise of the business.

Malcom please tell me a little bit about your business history, how you went about setting up Hall-Fast and how you started out...

Hall-Fast commenced trading from a home office in August 2006, and with £5,000 start-up capital, the business still remains selffinanced from profits to this day.

The initial focus was to supply specialist fasteners to the UK automotive sector, with parts being specified onto Bentley, Aston Martin, Lotus, Jaguar, Caterpillar and JCB vehicles. The achievement of ISO9001 quality accreditation has enabled Hall-Fast to supply many other sectors, which has resulted in rapid growth and an opportunity to diversify the product range.

Hall-Fast now provides over 200,000 standard products, including work wear, tools, personal protection equipment, and access and handling equipment into many other general industrial sectors which include manufacturing, engineering, healthcare and public sector.

Growth has been based on the successful, early implementation of new products, and a carefully executed International market diversification strategy. The benefits of investing in the development of employees and improved technology to attract internet sales and drive further growth are now also being realised.

growth figures etc? (i.e some nice headline stats to work into the piece).

• The split between off line and online orders is circa 60/40 – with Online Sales accounting for 40% • Within 2015 we expect the business to grow by 50% How many staff do you employ and how important are they to the business?

I have set the business up to be systems driven..

Meaning that we do not need to employ a lot of people, we currently employ eight, but do have two vacancies.. Myself and my wife – the sole directors work within the business along with 4 apprentices and two other staff who have been with us since 2008; our employees have been key to the growth of the business and have enabled us to implement my strategies quickly How important has it been to build up a strong relationship with well-known brands such as Helly Hansen, Black and Decker, DeWalt, Bosch, Duracell etc?

In 2009 at the height of the recession, we needed to diversify, taking on well-known and established brands, attracted many others to us, which made this job a lot quicker and easier!

Hall-Fast now exports to 82 countries, which represents circa 30% of overall sales.

You must be very proud of the rapid expansion of the company and the awards it has brought you... What’s been the secret to your growth?

Can you give us some figures in terms of the rough split of online to offline business as a percentage, your last set of turnover and

Hard work has been the key, when I left a six figure salary to start the business, I went

into this new ‘venture’ fully committed with the burning desire to prove to myself that I could make it a success!! The first thing that I thought about in the mornings was Hall-Fast and the last thing I thought about at night was Hall-Fast, 12 hour days, seven days a week for the first two years, were hard, but looking back they were the most exciting and enjoyable times in the Hall-Fast story, I now have two young children so I very rarely work weekends!

I am very proud of what we have achieved, I don’t think many people could have done what we have done, when we did it, under the circumstances that we had to work within (recession, no money, no resources, no finance available..)

How important has the export market been to the rise of the business at a time when a number of other companies have found that a difficult market to tap into?

Hall-Fast’s online strategy for success, is not the conventional route to exporting, however due to its success, it has received extensive coverage in the Guardian and Times newspapers; UKTI and the DNCC also use Hall-Fast as an example to help promote exporting to other businesses, and we offer our time freely to help with this.

In June 2013, the UK government published its Strategy for the Information Economy sector.

This strategy forms part of the Government’s work on wider Industrial Strategy, and HallFast were used as an example of how a business can grow using the power of the web!

Initially exporting was important to the survival of the business, now it is vital to our future growth strategy!

Big Business

What have been your biggest and proudest achievements to date?

We have won 25 major awards to date, and it is pleasing for our success to be recognised on a local, regional and national level, however I personally believe that our greatest achievement has been the ability to grow our business rapidly, whilst also being able to give something back to the local community, I am an ambassador for Ashfield and Mansfield, a Governor of Vision West Notts College, Vision Studio School and I am always very willing to speak with other SMEs and youngsters to help or inspire them with my own or the Hall-Fast story; our fundraising over the last few years has raised over £43,000 for the Fountaindale SEN School in Mansfield, this has been achieved via charity bike rides and via our annual Hall-Fast Charity Ball. In 2015 we have pledged to raise £30,000 split 50/50 between the Fountaindale SEN School and also Headway UK You seem very focused on helping put something back into the community with your charity balls, involvement with Mansfield Town FC and other things... what’s your motivation for this?

I think that it’s important to give back, I left school with very few qualifications, this was in part due to ‘my situation’ at the time but fundamentally looking back I believe that I was failed by the UK education system which

March 2015

in my view was not fit for purpose, a youngsters ability to learn develops at different times, and there was too much focus on academic ability, I was (am) a creative ‘hands’ on person, but was viewed as a failure as I was not academic.

I am passionate about helping youngsters and that’s why I give circa 30 hours a month to helping them.

We have North Notts Community Partnerships with Nottingham Rugby, Mansfield Town and the Sheffield Steelers, and together we undertake numerous initiatives to help raise awareness of the Fountaindale SEN School, raise money and raise aspirations, confidence and an understanding of healthy eating to youngsters in mainstream schools.

I am in no doubt at all that I could grow the Hall-Fast business a lot quicker if I did less to help others, but I believe that life is for living and helping others….

The 3rd Hall-Fast Charity Ball takes place in north Notts on the 29th May 2015, and with 150 tickets already sold it is highly likely to be a sell-out, there is a lot of hard work that Rachel (my wife) and I do to sell tickets and organise it, with the help this year of the DNLCC; it is a great way of raising awareness and also raising significant amounts of money for great causes, it is hard work and can at times ‘get in the way’ of work, but it gives us both great pleasure to do this… (For further information

on the Hall-Fast Charity Ball please email Rachel@hall-fast.com) What are your plans to develop the company further in the future and what is the key to continued success?

We have numerous plans to develop the business significantly going forward, as we refine our already successful approach, and the key to this will be hard work

Big Business

March 2015

Award winning phone system receives wide acclaim at Nottingham Expo Award winning Nottingham-based IT and communications provider, Air-IT, were delighted to be a main sponsor at the recent Nottingham Business Expo on Thursday 26th February.

As one of the first companies to sign up to the event, Air-IT occupied a key location in the business hub zone. And together with its communications division, MBC, showcased its range of managed IT services, connectivity and telephony solutions.

Paul Judge, marketing director at Air-IT, said: “We’re proud of our Nottingham heritage and were extremely pleased to support Nottingham’s first ever Business Expo. The event provided a fantastic platform to demonstrate and celebrate the success of our thriving business community.”

Air-IT used the Expo as a forum to raise awareness about their feature rich 3CX phone system and the immense benefits it can offer businesses. As well as demonstrating the system, Air-IT held a workshop exploring the importance of business grade connectivity and how 3CX can enhance operational efficiency, productivity and make substantial cost reductions.

Air-IT is the only company in the Midlands to have been awarded exclusive Premium Partner status by 3CX, and one of just ten nationwide.

This status recognises Air-IT as high-level experts in the supply, installation and support of 3CX phone system.

Managing director Todd McQuilkin said: “With 3CX businesses can save up to 70 per cent on their telecommunications costs against traditional phone systems.

“As an elite Premium Partner we have extensive knowledge and expertise in the system enabling us to deliver clients a comprehensive end-to-end service to support their successful transition to the 3CX platform.”

3CX enables calls to be made over all available connection types including analogue, digital and VoIP (calls over the internet) giving the client complete flexibility and the option for resilience and failover built into the configuration.

It includes enterprise features as standard, straight out the box, and businesses do not need to pay for expensive modules or add-ons.

Paul adds: “We were pleased to promote the wealth of benefits that 3CX can deliver. The system received a fantastic reception from the delegates that attended our workshop and stand, many of whom are keen to take things further.”

Features include digital receptionist, paging/ intercom, central phone book, advanced call routing, conference calling, call reporting, voicemail to email, call recording, a soft phone for your PC, and free apps for iPhone and Android that can be used in and out of the office.

More than 35,000 companies around the world have already replaced their traditional PBX hardware with the award winning softwarebased 3CX phone system.

Extra call recording modules alone can cost in excess of £5,000 from traditional phone systems but are provided as standard with 3CX.

Boeing, Mitsubishi Motors, Harley Davidson, Pepsi, Toshiba, American Express and Hugo Boss, among others, all use 3CX and have seen huge drops in their telecommunications costs as well as an increase in staff mobility and productivity.

Paul Judge, Air-IT marketing director, adds: “3CX phone system offers a feature-rich, reliable, all in one telephone solution which is affordable and suitable for any size or type of business.”

“We have seen a rapid uptake of 3CX amongst

clients who are looking to upgrade systems, move offices or those with multiple sites seeking a complete business communications solution that offers value for money and the advanced features they need without having to pay for extra modules and add-ons.”

As a software-based system, 3CX completely eliminates the need for traditional PBX hardware and is cost-effective to buy, upgrade and maintain.

It offers superior features, flexibility and mobility, and unified communications at a much lower cost than standard phone systems.

3CX provides real time company-wide presence information, allowing staff to instantly see the status of their colleagues at all times, over multiple sites and even worldwide.

The system also facilitates mobile working by allowing employees to hot desk anywhere in the office and enables remote workers to take their extension with them wherever they go.

Expansion and upgrade costs are much lower than traditional systems because 3CX can quickly scale to support more users by simply upgrading licences and is therefore ideal for fast growing businesses.

Businesses can also use VoIP providers to make calls over the internet and save on international call costs. Further savings can be made for companies with multiple sites because calls between offices are classed as internal and therefore free.

Paul Clarke, 3CX Account Manager, UK & Ireland, said: “Air-IT have really proven themselves as a 3CX Premium Partner and are definitely equipped with the skills and expertise required to implement even the most difficult installation.

If you’d like to find out more about 3CX or to arrange a demonstration, contact Air-IT on 0115 880 0044 or visit www.air-it.co.uk

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Big Business

March 2015

SMS Electronics Enter the Retro Gaming Scene The recently announced Sinclair Spectrum Vega games computer is to be manufactured by SMS Electronics Ltd at their factory in Beeston, Nottinghamshire.

The manufacturer was chosen by the Vega’s developers, Retro Computers Ltd, from more than 20 factories which were invited to tender for the contract.

The decision to begin manufacture in the UK continues the policy of Sir Clive Sinclair, who launched the original ZX Spectrum computer in 1982 and sold more than 5 million of them. Sir Clive, who is a shareholder in Retro Computers Ltd, said: “I have always sought to manufacture my products in the UK whenever possible and I am proud that I have usually been able to do so. In this country we have some top quality factories that can give us the comfort of knowing that the Vega will be very reliably made. When our management team visited the SMS Electronics facility all of them were impressed with the thoroughness and attention for detail at every stage of the manufacturing process. And SMS will provide us with exactly what we need ‒ a ‘one stop’ service capable of delivering finished, tested, packaged product direct to our customers.”

Bob Pitchford, Sales & Marketing Director of SMS Electronics Ltd, said: We are absolutely delighted with the news. The original Sinclair ZX spectrum is a gaming product that we all remember so it is very exciting to be working with such an iconic brand. The contract win is not only an acknowledgement of our expertise in this industry, but an affirmation of our continued hard work as a UK CEM. This partnership provides a boost for UK manufacturing in particular that of the East Midlands

The whole re-launch has created a feeling of nostalgia among many.

Social media buzz about the project is extraordinary and it doesn’t seem to be slowing. With jut over a month to go until manufacture begins, the countdown is definitely on. SMS Electronics will be hosting numerous media contacts and retro gaming bloggers on the first day of production.

Social Media links for the on-line publication: Facebook – SMSElectronics Twitter - @SMSElectronics YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/smselectronicsltd

Big Business

March 2015

Russell Scanlan and the Business of Risk Russell Scanlan is Nottingham’s largest independent Insurance Broker and Risk Managers, based in Nottingham since 1881. The business has built a reputation on serving the small business and corporate community in the East Midlands and for developing specialist insurance products for niche industry sectors.

Russell Scanlan is one of those rare heritage brands that has used innovation and nimble tactics to secure uninterrupted business growth even during the past few years of poor economic trading. Over the last decade, Directors of the firm have been quick to spot recession proof sectors and developed insurance products bespoke to those industries. It was smart business tactics that fitted the ethos of a firm entrenched in the camp of quality customer service rather than quantity of business. A proven track record has seen one of Nottingham’s very few supercentenarian businesses thrive in a difficult market.

Mike Dickinson is Sales & Marketing Director at Russell Scanlan. He believes that understanding the extent of the insurance risk facing small and growing enterprises can be a daunting hurdle to many but finding the right independent insurance broker can be a vital step in securing the future of any venture.

“Informed advice is essential – a good broker will take you through the cover that you need and be able to review a range of insurers to look for the best policy. Don’t be shy about asking questions of your broker – they are experts in their field so you don’t have to be. They should look first at statutory legal covers such as Employers Liability and Motor, however Property and Contents, Business Interruption, Public and Product Liability are as important. Depending on your specific business, you may need to consider additional cover options to fully protect your business. These options could include Cyber Liability and Crime to Loss of Money and Goods in Transit.

“The growing number of off-the-shelf packages and online deals can appear tempting (usually on the basis of cost) but be aware – these options will not be tailored to an individual business and can include exclusions that are difficult to spot. Take time to discuss anticipated growth, maybe in terms of buying machinery, increasing stock levels or profit. In short, trust an independent insurance professional to craft a sturdy bespoke policy that offers reliable and comprehensive protection.”

Independent status also allows Russell Scanlan to explore new sector territory rather than fall in with the usual crowd. The business has built a national reputation for serving very specialist sectors and is thriving as a result.

Masterbrew is just an example of how responsive a business it is. This tailored insurance product has been created solely for the burgeoning micro brewery and craft beer sector and has proved to be a winning formula with both brewers and pub operators. The product was researched and launched to the market in 2006, long before the swing to real ale was seen as significant and on the rise.

CAMRA’s The Good Beer Guide 2015 now reports that there are close to 1300 breweries now operating in Britain, the largest number since the 1930s and 1940s, and growing by over 10% a year. But for these small businesses focussing on producing cask-conditioned real ales there was a need for business insurance that was bespoke and cost efficient.

Russell Scanlan created an insurance product for the sector complete with unique and specific industry extensions and far from the ‘off-the-shelf’ quick fix insurance model. The product extends to provide a number of brewery specific extensions and the business is now an associate member of The Society of Independent Brewers to make sure that they stay close to the issues facing these small and innovative ventures.

Russell Scanlan has offices in Nottingham and Leicester, and has a wide-reaching and loyal customer base across the country.

The firm specialises in corporate, small business, private clients and specialist insurance. For further information, visit www.russellscanlan.com.

100 new jobs created at local HR technology and service provider Investing in your workforce means investing in your business.

In an economy where employees are dazzled with generous benefits packages and the promise of a few extra days’ holiday can be the difference between retaining and losing staff, employers need to make their company one from which people can gain real value.

With 44% of employees currently considering a job move in the near future (Roffey Park), it is time for employers to take note from those who are getting it right.

Local leading talent management, HR and payroll solutions provider, MidlandHR, has doubled in size in the last three years and was nominated as a finalist for Employer of the Year at the Pay and Benefits Awards earlier this month.

The Nottinghamshire software specialist was highly commended at the awards, held in London on March 5th, for being an exceptional employer that not only meets the needs of its workforce but exceeds employees’ basic requirements.

MidlandHR provides HR software and services to over 600 organisations across the UK and states that investing in their employees is key to the growth of the business. Based in Ruddington, the

company has around 500 employees across two offices. MidlandHR was thrilled to have been short listed for the award and to be recognised as a valued employer in the Nottinghamshire area.

Managing Director at MidlandHR, Matthew Jenkins, was delighted that the company went on to be highly commended by the judges. He explains: “Being selected as a finalist for this award recognises that we are making real progress in our own employee engagement and talent management. It reinforces that the hard work our managers have been putting into developing their teams and individuals is beginning to pay off.”

Mr Jenkins believes that this latest achievement reflects on the strength of its industry leading product, iTrent, and services, which the company uses to pay its own employees and implement its people strategies. The company’s HR, talent management and payroll software and outsourcing services currently support over 10% of the UK workforce.

The managing director, who began his career at MidlandHR nine years ago, explains how the company has been committed to using and developing its own product to manage its talent and produce more opportunities for career progression: “We asked all employees to input their business skills into iTrent along with any other skills that may

or may not be required for their existing roles. Now when we recruit for a position, it means that we have a clear vision of our own talent pool from which we can source. In 2014, 39% of our employees were promoted or expanded their role.”

The Employer of the Year nomination comes shortly after an award-winning year for MidlandHR, taking Software Product of the Year at the Payroll World Awards; Outsourcing Service Provider of the Year at the NOA Awards; Service Provider of the Year at the CIPP Awards; and HR Supplier of the Year finalist at the CIPD People Management Awards.

MidlandHR employs people in a whole variety of roles, from graduates to highly technical software developers, payroll and HR professionals and administrators – generating 300 jobs in the local area over the last five years, with many employees living within a 10 mile radius of Ruddington.

Mr Jenkins adds: “We aim to develop and invest in our employees’ careers, no matter what level they join us at.”

MidlandHR has links with numerous professional bodies and universities which they use to recruit people but also to further educate their workforce.

He comments: “Within our HR Outsourcing centre, we look to put all of our employees on CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) and CIPP (Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals) training courses with the

aim of developing long term careers for our people. The opportunity to grow here is immense. One of our former graduates is now a director within the company and our HRO director started as an administrator.”

“The company is truly passionate about nurturing talent from within – I have experienced this personally as MidlandHR funded my Master’s degree.

The company is proud of its Nottinghamshire heritage and its impressive customer list includes a huge variety of local organisations such as Nottingham City Transport, University of Nottingham, Loughborough University and Games Workshop Ltd. Mr Jenkins explains that MidlandHR recognises the significance of recruiting from within the Nottinghamshire area: “Often our employees have a personal link with a customer organisation. For example, they might have family members who work there, which means an added personal touch to our customer service.”

Celebrating its 30th year since its establishment in 1984, MidlandHR has given back to the community by supporting a variety of local charities over the years.

Mr Jenkins adds: “We like to support as many employees as we can through personal charity fundraising, which could be anything from running a marathon to completing the tough guy challenge.

Much of the time, this money goes to local charities that our employees have chosen and are close to their hearts – such as the QMC Appeal.”

MidlandHR aims to double in size over the next five years and is looking to recruit 100 – 150 people over the next 12 months alone. Due to continued growth, the company currently has 70 new vacancies for junior to senior roles; from software developers, to consultants to help customers implement its solutions, payroll managers and administrators to run the service and support customers as well as various other roles.

Mr Jenkins concludes: “We are always looking for people with ambition, drive and determination – people who will add value to our business and appreciate where we have come from.”

MidlandHR are holding a Recruitment Open Day on Tuesday 31st March for anyone who would to like to find out more about the company and be considered for a position. For more information including location and timings please email recruitment@midlandhr.co.uk and please visit www.midlandhr.co.uk/careers to see our current vacancies.

It’s been just over a year since new owner Alice Shelton took over the reins at The Walton Hotel on the edge of the historic Park Estate in Nottingham.

‘Big Business’ magazine catch up with Alice to check on progress and hear about the future plans as she breathes life back into this prestigious Nottinghamshire venue.

Big Business

How have you found the past year at the hotel?

The past year has been a real voyage of discovery to learn about the business and how it operates. It has allowed me to discover what works and doesn’t work and invest in improvements both to the building and the services we offer.

We have met so many people who have fond memories of the hotel and bar in its heyday when it was a popular meeting place for drinks and relaxing on the sun terrace. I’m determined to restore the hotel to its former glory and already we are seeing guests return who haven’t visited the hotel or bar for years.

How is the renovation/restoration of the progressing?

We are working through the whole hotel in stages to minimize disruption to our guests and ensure we can continue to operate. The main part of the building is a Grade II listed former hunting lodge with many original features still intact or yet to be uncovered & repaired by previous unsympathetic works here.

I gained a lot of knowledge restoring an old Priory in Leicestershire that was a great learning experience not least understanding all the do’s and don’ts when restoring listed buildings. You have to source the right products and much of the work requires expert tradesmen who specialize in each particular field.

What improvements have you made so far?

Most of the work so far has been largely behind the scenes, upgrading the back office areas and IT infrastructure so we can operate more efficiently and offer guests

March 2015

a superior level of service and facilities.

We have started our room renovation program, which is uniquely tailored for each room furnishing and decorating them in the original style of the 19th century hunting lodge. All rooms will have Smart TVs along with business grade broadband/Wifi and telephone facilities.

What other facilities do you offer?

We have recently introduced several dedicated Serviced Apartments alongside the hotel that allows us to offer short and long stay packages with a variety of room options such as dedicated or shared kitchen/ dining facilities. In addition, we also now have a self-contained annex called The Walton Lodge adjacent to the hotel, which is ideal for company away days or conferences. We can offer a range of catered packages such as cold/hot buffets, canapés or full business lunches with our private dining facilities.

What plans do you have for the main public areas such as the bar and restaurant?

We have spent a long time evaluating the best strategy for both the bar and restaurant.

We decided to see how it operated first, finding out what customers wanted and researching the local market. It is clear that the demand has fallen away from formal dining towards simpler ways of serving good food at any time of the day. With this in mind we reduced the complexity of menus on offer at set times and instead offer a more informal all-day dining experience throughout the bar and restaurant.

Our day starts with popular dishes such as Eggs Benedict, Porridge or Pancakes

and snacks like Freshly baked pastries and muffins through to lunchtime.

We then serve our full menu from midday through till 9pm with popular choices such as The Walton Burger with Olgeshield cheese and Fish with Triple Cooked Chips and Minted Crushed Peas. Our specials board showcases our fresh local produce arriving each day and allows our chefs to show off their creative flare with the everchanging ingredients on offer.

For those with bigger appetites, our list of desserts includes classics such as Sticky Toffee Pudding and our Head Chef’s speciality Elderflower Posset that featured recently in the Nottingham Cook Book.

Our Sunday Lunches are also extremely popular, serving from midday until 6pm.

Bookings are advised at the weekend and on special occasions. Call 0115 947 5215 or visit the website www.thewaltonhotel.com

Big Business

March 2015

What Young People Want From Work.

Friends and purpose. That’s what young people want from their jobs.

For the majority of millennial workers (those born after 1979), the boundaries that used to exist between home, office, passionprojects, co-workers and friends aren’t relevant anymore. And in workplaces where those formal barriers do exist, many younger employees will be turned off and discouraged.

For the majority of millennial workers (those born after 1979), the boundaries that used to exist between home, office, passionprojects, co-workers and friends aren’t relevant anymore. And in workplaces where those formal barriers do exist, many younger employees will be turned off and discouraged.

These findings come from the fifth annual Millennial Impact Report, released today by the Case Foundation in partnership with market-research agency Achieve.

Of the more than 1,500 millennials surveyed, about 9 out of 10 said they were contributing to a company that is making a positive impact on the world. “The millennials have a worklife blend -- blending of work, blending of life-interest, blending of value, blending of passion and interest,” says Derrick Feldmann, president and lead researcher of Achieve and the Millennial Impact Project.

Related: What These Influential Leaders Want to Tell Today’s 22-Year-Olds When asked to describe the qualities they seek in an employer, millennials look first and foremost at what a company does, makes or sells. Second on the list was work culture, and third was a company’s participation in supporting particular causes. What that means is that millennials look for meaning in the core function of what a company does, not in subsidiary charity chapters, says Feldmann.

Having a company’s social benefit embedded in its main mission allows a millennial employee to give of his or her talents, skills and assets on a daily basis, beyond donating money. Millennials consider their time, talent and skills assets which they can give to a cause they believe in. “They are looking at these service opportunities and ways to

volunteer and ways to get socially involved sort of synonymous with various personal skills and professional skills,” said Emily Yu, vice president of partnerships at the Case Foundation.

To attract and retain millennials, business owners should be looking for ways to give employees aged 20 to 33 opportunities to put their skills and talents towards cause work, or those projects and initiatives that help people and communities, the findings suggests.

For companies whose business model is directly benefitting a meaningful cause, like educating underprivileged youth, for example, then employees will feel their skills are going directly toward a meaningful cause. If, however, a company’s business model doesn’t clearly benefit a cause, then employers will impress millennials by organizing companywide cause-work, through volunteer days or giving campaigns. If a millennial employee feels that his or her skills and talents are being fully utilized, then he or she is more likely to stay working for the same company.

“We continue to discover, over the years, that millennials view all of their assets of equal: The asset of time, the asset of skill, the asset of talent and the asset of money,” said Feldmann.

Entrepreneurial business owners looking to keep young workers motivated and happy should look to give employees the opportunity to exercise and experiment with each one of those assets, says Feldmann.

Related: The 7 Keys to Inspiring Millennials at Work As millennials desire to blur the boundaries between their personal passions and professional work, they also want to blur the lines between friends and co-workers. Young workers are looking to feel “at home” within their work groups and departments. When given the option to work on volunteer projects with either individuals in their office they don’t see on a regular basis or people in their department that they work with on a daily basis, more than 6 in 10 survey respondents said they would rather work on a project with the colleagues in their department. And they

also like group work in general: nearly 8 in 10 reported they prefer working in groups to working independently.

Because team dynamics are so important, the findings suggest employers should bring new potential hires to meet the department they could be working with, the survey finds.

Those co-workers and friends are also guiding forces in pulling each other towards caring about causes.

“The biggest leverage or influencer for millennials to get involved with causes was a peer, a person -- a peer, an equal -- within a small group, 4 to 6 people overall, that introduced them to or enabled them to participate in some sort of cause issue or cause organization. And what we are seeing this year, in the research, there is a correlation. And there is a peer group, and it is at work, and it is your department,” said Feldmann.

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Introducing Introducing

Turn any desk into an active workspace Turn any desk into an active workspace

Big Business

March 2015

Humanscale is the premier designer and manufacturer of ergonomic products for a more quality of work. Humanscale’s designs contribute to an active workspace, in which users are encouraged to move more freely and regularly change postures. Achieving more with less, Humanscale’s product designs have been honoured with more than 150 prestigious awards since 2007 and featured in various museums such as the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum. Founded in 1983, Humanscale has experienced exponential growth since THE SIT-STAND REVOLUTION Height-adjustable tables are becoming increasingly popular. Research indicates a balance between standing and sitting throughout the day is ideal to maintain wellness while working. A 2014 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that the at increasing not only standing time, but also light movement during work-hours.

SIT/STAND SOLUTIONS: Ideal for the active workspace, Humanscale’s Sit/Stand solutions Float and Quickstand allow users to alternate between sitting and standing postures throughout the day.

FLOAT Float features an unprecedented combination of adjustability for a vast range of heights (51 cm of height adjustability) and weights (up to 59 kg of desktop weight, including the table top), along with streamlined good looks. With a unique counterbalance mechanism, Float enables simple, one-hand weight adjustment, and constant counter-weighting force height adjustment for ergonomic sit-stand usage.

QUICKSTAND

ERGONOMIC SEATING the task seating market, Humanscale has become one of the world’s top three manufacturers of high-performance task chairs. We became a market leader the only better product.

In partnership with Humanscale, industrial chairs for Humanscale including the should adjust to the user, not the other way around, and this was evident in all of his designs.

TREA CHAIR Created by renowned industrial designer Todd Bracher, the Trea chair is a multispace sitting solution appropriate for many settings. Unlike other chairs in its class, it features a unique and innovative solid is extra supportive and encourages users to move and change postures as needed.

Available with various base (four-leg, fouroptions, the Trea chair can be customised to complement any environment.

For more information on Humanscale and our products, visit www.humanscale.com.

DIFFRIENT WORLD CHAIR parts and weighs only 30 pounds. It uses a revolutionary mechanism-free recline, which eliminates the need for manual Form-Sensing Mesh Technology that ensures perfect lumbar support for every user without the bulky and often uncomfortable external lumbar devices found on all other mesh chairs.

ability for users to integrate Sit/Stand into their environments without purchasing new furniture. It features a sophisticated cable harness that includes a power cord, a DVI cable and two USB cables, allowing the user to simply plug in a computer (laptop or desktop) and go.

Trea Chair, designed by Todd Bracher.