B4 Magazine - Issue 56 by B4 Magazine

E D A

’s s re es hi in K ds us e E 24 or B in LIN xf g az OFF O din ag N & a M HIP O Le RS

B4 MAGAZINE ISSUE 56 FEBRUARY 2019

A LONG WAY TO GO Many still not GDPR compliant Page 50

Workplace wellbeing

Trading Internationally

Tips for staff happiness and productivity Page 76

How to maximise your opportunities

GROWTH ...

Page 32

THE WAY FORWARD

DITCH THE FUNNEL This sales strategy is losing you clients Page 91

Oxfordshire County Council’s partnership approach is reaping rewards for the county as a whole

B U I L D I N G

B R I D G E S

B E T W E E N

O X F O R D S H I R E

B U S I N E S S E S

BIO

2019

WWW.B4-BUSINESS.COM

JOIN OUR GROWING B4 COMMUNITY TODAY Connect your business with over 600 members and raise your profile through our established B4 promotional platforms.

Magazine One word sums up B4 Magazine: Quality. Not only is B4 Magazine designed to the highest possible standards, the print finish is excellent and the magazine oozes style and sophistication. In terms of content, B4 covers a wide range of businesses from mainstream as well as niche sectors, providing our readers with excellent insight, opinion and advice. B4 is published bi-monthly and distributed to 3,000 business decision makers in Oxfordshire and beyond with a growing number of multi copy outlets.

Social Media

20,000+

Not only do we use Twitter and LinkedIn to promote everything B4, the real news we push out to the world is YOUR news. So if you post a press release on the B4 website, we’ll post it out to a network approaching 20,000 connections. Why not use us for specific campaigns where we can schedule your messages to go out to our growing networks? An increasingly effective platform for B4.

SOCIAL MEDIA CONNECTIONS AND RISING

Website Connect on line with the growing network of B4 members through our excellent new website and post unlimited press releases, events, offers and job vacancies. You can also recommend and review other members, introduce members to each other, not to mention we will post any articles you have in B4 Magazine on the website. Get recognised as a business or an individual, build your following and establish yourself in the B4 community.

NO 903 5

B4 Classic Events: High quality sums up B4 events. Superb venues, excellent hospitality, access to some of Oxfordshire’s more exclusive locations and great networking. B4 Classic Events are not to be missed opportunities to relax and develop your networks. B4 Dinners: Connect with senior representatives from some of Oxfordshire’s leading businesses in some of our most spectacular locations. A great way to build and cement invaluable business relationships. Business In Oxford: Oxfordshire’s leading business to business networking and showcase event. Approaching in excess of 700 delegates with over 80 exhibitors and 50 presenters at BIO2018, make sure BIO2019 is on your radar. www.businessinoxford.com

45067

Events B4 EV ENTS ADMIT

Video Video is proven as one of the most effective means of absorbing information and that’s why we use B4TV to capture the latest news and interviews with our members. Get to know our members and find out more about what makes them a success with B4TV. To get your message and personality across to our growing network and beyond, contact B4 and we’ll do the rest. All you’ve got to do is make sure you don’t fluff your lines...

CONNECTIVITY CONFERENCE 15TH FEB ‘19 For more information please see www.oxvoice.co.uk

ONE A

PRICE:

DULT

FREE

Welcome to a new year and an exciting year for the B4 community. Colin Rosser Chairman

Keith Simpson Senior Designer

Lorna Waterfield Production Manager & Assistant Editor

Rob Scotcher Design & Photography

We formally launched Oxfordshire Voice at the impressive Blavatnik School of Government on 17th January and have already welcomed over 50 partners who are committed to long term collaboration and finding effective solutions to the growing challenges we all face in business. This was followed by our first official forum at Blenheim Palace on 31st January where public and private sector representatives enjoyed an excellent evening of discussions and debate. It’s highly appropriate that one of our Oxfordshire Voice partners is represented on the cover of this edition of B4 with Leader Councillor Ian Hudspeth telling B4 why partnerships and collaboration are key to growth for the county. On the subject of growth, James Pitt, Partner at James Cowper Kreston talks about how his leading accountancy firm can help you make the jump into international markets, Seymour Taylor tell us about the importance od developing the client experience and Freeths ask if you are the best owner of your business assets. Talking about business assets, Hedges explain the importance of a back up plan and Lewis Silkin focus on the hugely important area of mental health. There’s more news about BIO2019 on 6th June at MINI PLANT OXFORD with our latest speakers announced. If you haven’t yet got your ticket don’t forget the EARLY BIRD rates end on 15th March. Catch up with the latest news about Oxfordshire Voice also in this issue and book future forum dates in your diary. Congratulations to CRM and Spencer Insurance for celebrating anniversaries and welcome to B4 to Optimum Body Sports Massage, JT Interiors, Libreea, XIST2, Forty3 Consulting, Ellard Outloud, Admin Support and Solutions, CMC Partners and many more. In addition to our highly popular Masterclasses at the B4 offices – now mud free those of you who have been before will be pleased to know – we are launching a series of full day courses with some excellent B4 members in April. We hope to be running two of these a week. You can find out more on the B4 website and if you’d like to run a course of your own, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Official E-mail Marketing Partner

Official HR Partner

Official Cloud Partner

ON THE

Richard Rosser Chief Executive & Editor

welcome to 56

PARTNERS

HILL

Visual Design Partner

Enjoy Issue 56

Emma Davis Marketing Executive

Richard Rosser Editor

More about B4 Ed Rosser NXT

p6. B4 Platinum, Gold, New & Renewing Members p8. B4 Recent Events p10. B4 Events Calendar p12. B4 Masterclasses p13. B4 Classics & Dinners

p14. B4 Explore p15. B4 Membership p18. B4 Connectors p20. B4 Advisory Board p21. NXT Board p26. B4 Good News

Official Stationery Partner

imagery Design | Print | Finish Tel: 0121 486 1616

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B4 are proud to support Sobell House, our chosen charity for 2018.

O X F O R D S H I R E

Contents 36 The Finance Lunch: Read our recap of the second Finance Lunch with Wenn Townsend and Metro Bank.

fitness

41 Same But Different: Spencer Insurance recently celebrated their 35th anniversary Read on to learn more about this unique insurance broker.

61 Optimum Body: Adele Fowler talks about how we often accept pain as just part of life and growing older, but that needn’t be the case.

43 Expertise, Support, Understanding: Seymour Taylor talk about how understanding and developing the client experience is the key to success.

lead 22 Growth for Oxfordshire: Oxfordshire County Council Leader Ian Hudspeth explains how a partnership approach is reaping rewards for the county as a whole.

legal 44 Your Business Assets: Freeths discuss why you should consider gifting when asset values are low. 46 Hope for the Best: …Plan for the worst. Hedges Law discuss why you should always have a backup plan for your business. 49 #THISPLACEMINDS: Lewis Silkin has launched its new campaign for 2019 focusing on building workplace cultures that enhance mental wellbeing. 50 GDPR: Freeths’ data privacy specialist Will Richmond-Coggan talks about the recent fine levied by the CNIL against Google.

property 62 VSL & Partners: Check out the latest commercial properties from VSL & Partners. 64 Designed to Meet: Meet Jill Treloggen and Frank Webster, the dynamic duo of JT Interiors who could be the best property decision you’ll ever make.

news

69 Buy. Sell. Now.: Read about Lambert Smith Hampton’s new online only platform that appeals to both buyers and sellers.

26 News from the B4 Community 29 News from Blenheim

71 Blenheim Aquires Pye Homes: Blenheim Estate announces it has acquired its long-standing development partner Pye Homes along with its management team.

finance 32 Taking Oxford International: Let James Cowper Kreston guide you through the challenges and risks of trading internationally and maximising your opportunities. 35 Celebrating 35 Years: Join us in marking the anniversary of Chapman Robinson & Moore accountants and business advisers.

venues events 53 BIO2019: Check out the latest information about this year’s must-attend B2B conference - Business In Oxford 2019.

72 Milton Hill House: Read all about this stylish conference and event venue in Oxfordshire. 75 Jurys Inn Oxford: Read about Jurys Inn Oxford and their recent £13m refurbishment.

B4 advice

spotlight

Workplace Wellbeing: You HR discuss the need to make sure your workplace is wellbeing-centric and focused on supporting your employees.

79 Exit Planning: CMC Partners talk about how you can realise your full business value through exit planning.

96 Small Is Big: Rod Macrae has been finding out how OxLEP Business is helping Oxfordshire’s small businesses to punch above their weight.

80 Do Your Managers Deliver?: Think Inspire & Create tell us about how you can ensure your managers are set up to deliver growth for your business. 83 Libreea: Find out about this enlightening consultancy who will help you to understand and assess the core activities of your business.

Oxfordshire Voice: Find out how you can have your business voice heard by local government with the Oxfordshire Voice initiative.

marketing 89 Make Your Business Digital: Jon Ellard of Ellard Outloud talks about why digital strategy is essential to your business. 91

Ditch The Funnel: Forty3 Consulting explains why you should ditch the “funnel” sales strategy and move to a “flywheel” approach instead.

99 Take The Leap: Local start-up Neve’s Bees owner Julie Macken talks about how in order to win in business and in life, you first need to take the leap. 101 PoppyRed Cakes: Read about Julie and Liz’s new business with an eye for finesse and passion for cakes, biscuits and all sorts of deliciousness.

services 102 Top Tips for Wellbeing: Aston & James Office Supplies provides some easily attainable tricks and tips to increase employee happiness and wellbeing. 104 Admin Support And Solutions: Find out about this all-encompassing support solution for all your admin needs, from the ceiling to the floor and all in between.

tech

105 Socially Good Services: Oxford Direct Services talk about how they help residents and businesses reach local goals.

84 Top 10 Technology Trends: Unipart Group talk about how technology continues to transform traditional logistics processes.

corp.life

86 Freedom Can Be Yours: Meet XIST2, an Oxfordshire website design and build agency leading the way in customer centric service.

csr 93 Support For Staff: Reciprocate is encouraging local companies to seek advice and support to understand how to help staff members who have cancer. 95 The Road to Sustainability: Join the Better Business movement and apply for a free energy audit worth £1,600. Read on to find out more.

106 Mollie’s Motel & Diner: Read all about this newly opened American style Motel & Diner in Buckland, Oxfordshire.. 107 The Big Apple: B4’s Richard Rosser re caps an eventful trans- Atlantic trip made possible by Sian Pages of Not Just Travel

Member Directory 109

Platinum & Gold Members PLATINUM

Everything for the Workplace

2019 BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Become a part of the B4 Community today. Call 01865 742211, or visit www.b4-business.com

ST CATHERINE’S COLLEGE FORUM 21ST FEB ‘19 For more information please see www.oxvoice.co.uk

B4 New & Renewing Members

GOLD

Bodleian Libraries U N I V E R S I T Y O F OX F O R D

O X F O R D S H I R E

Oxfordshire Voice Launch Event Blavatnik School of Government 17th January

“

We’re really excited to be part of such a collaborative and welcoming platform for our county! Fantastic event tonight well done

”

Aspire Oxford

B4 Masterclass with Tony Hobbs 7th December

B4 EVENTS

B4 “

A great evening again from the B4 Team

”

B4 Dinner at Saïd Business School 19th March

John Kennedy

you to the “B4Thank team and Town

“

What a lovely evening! Thanks to Ashmolean for their wonderful hospitality and fascinating exhibition

Hall for an excellent evening. Great location, great company and interesting discussions as ever

”

Tim Wraith, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Sobell House

Ruth Hawkins, BH&O

B4 Business In Oxford 2019 6th June

B4 Classic Event Bombay Sapphire Distillery 11th July

www.b4-business.com

NXT Event Ashmolean Museum 26th April B4 Masterclass with James White 22nd January

NXT Event Metro Bank 15th March

“

Really enjoyed my first B4 event, what a superb exhibition and great to see everyone too. Thank you!!

”

Regina Lally, Databasix UK Ltd

B4 Masterclass with David Greenaway 18th January

Thanks for a “great evening. Oxfordshire Voice Forum Blenheim Palace 31st Janaury

Fantastic food and wonderful company

”

Tim Wraith, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Sobell House

B4 Annual Event Weston Library 17th June

“

B4 Classic Event Rhodes House 26th September

Thank you for a lovely evening, some very interesting people to chat to.

”

Helen Fallon, Owner/Director at Global CTS Ltd

Another great “event from B4 -

the tour was really interesting and as always the catering totally hit the spot. Great to meet faces old and new www.b4-business.com

”

Tim Wraith, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Sobell House

B4 Events Calendar MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

09:30 – 11:00 OV Think Tank OV Partners Only B4 HQ

16:00 – 19:00 OV Forum OV Partners Only St Catherine’s College

12:00 – 13:30 B4 Masterclass with Emma Browning B4 HQ

18:00 – 20:00 B4 Classic Event Whately Hall Hotel

12:00 – 13:00 B4 Masterclass with Ian Roberts B4 HQ

February 2019 18

March 2019 4

18:00 – 20:00 B4 Masterclass with Alison Haill Unipart House

18:30 – 20:00 NXT Event Metro Bank

19:00 – 22:30 B4 Dinner Ticketed event Saïd Business School

11:00 – 12:30 B4 Welcome Brunch New B4 Members Only B4 HQ

16:00 – 19:00 OV Forum OV Partners Only Weston Library

12:00 – 13:30 B4 Masterclass with Jo Spencer B4 HQ

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with Jon Ellard B4 HQ

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with James White B4 HQ

11:00 – 12:30 Explore B4 Non embers Only B4 HQ

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with Jackie Jarvis B4 HQ

12:00 – 13:30 B4 Masterclass with Alison Haill B4 HQ

April 2019 1

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with Emma Browning B4 HQ

23 09:30 – 11:00 OV Think Tank OV Partners Only B4 HQ

12:00 – 13:30 B4 Masterclass with Kellie Peters B4 HQ

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with David Greenaway B4 HQ

16:00 – 19:00 OV Forum OV Partners Only

18:30 – 19:45 NXT Event Ashmolean

Oxford Brookes University

30 12:00 – 13:30 B4 Masterclass with Charlie Cox Unipart House

www.b4-business.com

B4 MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

May 2019 08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with Simon Howson-Green B4 HQ

09:30 – 11:00 OV Board Meeting OV Partners Only B4 HQ

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with Kate Stinchcombe - Gillies B4 HQ

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with Cathy Dunbabin B4 HQ

11:00 – 12:30 B4 Welcome Brunch New B4 Members Only B4 HQ

08:30 – 17:30 B4 Workshop with Grant Hayward B4 HQ

18:00 - 20:00 B4 Masterclass with STL Comms Unipart

16:00 – 19:00 OV Forum OV Partners Only Pembroke College

18:00 – 20:00 B4 Classic Event Hilton Garden Inn Abingdon

June 2019 17

18:00 – 20:00 B4 Classic Event Weston Library

18:00 - 20:00 B4 Masterclass with Placi Espejo Unipart

16:00 – 19:00 OV Forum OV Partners Only Freeths

July 2019 8

18:00 – 20:00 B4 Classic Event Bombay Sapphire Distillery

Oxfordshire Voice Events

NXT Events

B4 Masterclasses

B4 Classic Events

B4 Welcome / Explore Events

B4 Dinners

B4 Workshop

For further events and to register online, see: www.b4-business.com/events www.b4-business.com

B4 Forthcoming Events

B4 Masterclasses are a great opportunity to learn and share expertise with B4 Members. There is a hidden wealth of knowledge within our community which deserves to be promoted. Hosted by B4 at our offices, Masterclasses run for 90 minutes and include networking, refreshments, presentation and Q&A.

B4 Masterclass with John Skinner Date: Tuesday 19th February, 12pm – 1.30pm. Venue: B4 Offices, The Moat, Northampton Road, Weston-on-the-Green, Oxfordshire OX25 3QL Masterclass with John Skinner: Making Tax Digital for VAT – What’s it all about? The tax reporting landscape is changing in the most significant shake-up to the tax system in over 20 years. As part of this transformation, from April 2019, VAT reporting routines are changing, affecting the majority of VAT-registered organisations in the UK (3 days after Brexit). It is only the manner in which VAT is reported that is changing, not what information is reported. HMRC have created a new platform that allows the two-way exchange of information.

B4 Masterclass with Emma Browning Date: Friday 22nd February, 12pm – 1.30pm. Venue: B4 Offices, The Moat, Northampton Road, Weston-on-the-Green, Oxfordshire OX25 3QL Masterclass with Emma Browning: How to Improve Employee Engagement In the current market, it’s hard to find the right people isn’t it? So it’s really important that once you have great people in your business, you keep them motivated and engaged! Its proven that highly engaged employees will be more productive, will deliver exceptional customer service to your clients, have less accidents/failures at work, increase your profits and reduce staff turnover.

B4 Masterclass with Alison Haill Date: Tuesday 12th March, 6pm – 8pm. Venue: Unipart House, Garsington Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX4 2PG Masterclass with Alison Haill: How to Coach Your Team Into Superstars This Masterclass will focus on How to Coach Your Team Into Superstars, looking at these key topics: • How to structure your 1:1 meetings and make them super-productive • How to stretch your top performers • How to motivate under-performers • How to build accountability into action plans so tasks get done

B4 Masterclass with Jo Spencer Date: Friday 22nd March, 12pm – 1.30pm. Venue: B4 Offices, The Moat, Northampton Road, Weston-on-the-Green, Oxfordshire OX25 3QL Masterclass with Jo Spencer: Getting the right cover One of the top 5 threats identified in a recent insurer survey of 500 SMEs was a ‘significant interruption’ to the business. What would cause a significant interruption to your business? Join us for this masterclass where we will identify the risks you face and look at how these have changed over time as new risks emerge.

Please note • Masterclasses are free of charge for B4 Members, but please note there is a £30+VAT fee for non-attendance if you do not let us know at least 72 hours in advance. • Non-member tickets are £30+VAT with no cancellation fee. • Places are strictly limited to 12 guests. • Some Masterclasses take place at the B4 HQ and others at Unipart House, please check the venues and timings for each Masterclass.

WESTON LIBRARY FORUM 21ST MAR ‘19 For more information please see WWW.OXVOICE.CO.UK

O X F O R D S H I R E

B4 Classics & Dinners Upcoming B4 Classic Events B4 Classic Event at Whately Hall Hotel Date: 7th March 2019 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm Venue: Whately Hall Hotel, 17-19 Horse Fair, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX16 0AN

B4 Classic Event at Hilton Garden Inn Abingdon Date: 30th May 2019 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm Venue: Marcham Rd, Abingdon OX14 1TZ

B4 Classic Event at Weston Library Date: 17th June 2019 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm Venue: Weston Library, Broad Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3BG

B4 Classic Event at Bombay Sapphire Distillery Date: 11th July 2019 @ 6:00pm to 8:00pm Venue: Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Laverstoke Mill, London Rd, Whitchurch RG28 7NR

B4 Classic Event at Rhodes House Date: 26th September 2019 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm Venue: Rhodes House, S Parks Rd, Oxford OX1 3QY

B4 Classic Event at Divinity School Date: 28th October 2019 @ 6:00pm - 8:00pm Venue: Divinity School, Bodleian Library, Broad Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 3BG

Please note • Classic Events are free of charge but please note there is a £30+VAT fee for non-attendance if you do not let us know at least 72 hours in advance. • It is not appropriate to leave flyers, business cards on tables, or banners at the venue. Any found will be disposed of. • Flash photography and/or video will be taken at these events.

More events being confirmed soon! Register for all of the above at www.b4-business.com

Upcoming B4 Dinner Events B4 Dinner at Thatcher Business Education Centre Date: 19th March 2019 @ 7:00pm - 10:30pm Venue: Thatcher Business Education Centre at Saïd Business School, Park End St, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX1 1HP Join B4 Members and Guests for a wonderful evening of fine dining in the impressive Thatcher Business Education Centre (TBEC), Saïd Business School. Conference@OxfordSaïd is one of the UK’s leading conference, meeting and event providers. Located in Oxford we have high quality function and event spaces along with superb bar and entertainment facilities. Enjoy award winning catering and private dining with panoramic views over Oxford’s dreaming spires. Dinner will be prepared on a live cooking table – a 5 course tasting menu with each dish cooked in front of guests and explained throughout. Menu: Handmade sourdough bread and butter / Seared scallop with parsnip, apple and hazelnut / Crispy confit duck with roasted beetroot, fennel and orange gel / Pan fried seabass fillet with roasted cauliflower, cauliflower puree, pak choi and ponzu dressing / Slow cooked beef cheeks with roasted shallot risotto, salsify and watercress pesto / Roasted rhubarb & buttermilk jelly with white chocolate & pistachio Tea, coffee & petit fours

Please note • The dress code for this event is “smart”. • Platinum members are entitled to a number of free tickets – Please get in touch with us to check your allocation. • Non-Platinum member and guest tickets are £150+VAT per head. • Places are limited to 40 guests so please book early to avoid disappointment.

More dinners being confirmed soon! Register for the above at www.b4-business.com

BROOKES UNIVERSITY FORUM 25TH APR ‘19 For more information please see WWW.OXVOICE.CO.UK

O X F O R D S H I R E

B4 Explore

If you’re thinking about joining the B4 community and want to find out more about how you can get the most out of your membership, come and say hello at our brand new offices in Weston-on-the-Green.

At our Explore B4 days you will get the opportunity to: 99 Meet the B4 team and find out what we all do to help you get the most out of B4

Richard Rosser Chief Executive

Lorna Waterfield Production Manager

Keith Simpson Senior Designer

Rob Scotcher Photographer & Videographer

Emma Davis Marketing Executive

99 H ear how you could get the most out of a B4 membership with a short presentation which will also outline future developments and initiatives 99 Meet other potential members and some of our B4 Connectors who can tell you how they have benefited from B4 99 Get a headshot in our photo studio – with our compliments to use for your own promotional purposes 99 Enjoy light refreshments with our compliments

Timetable Explore B4 meetings take place once a month between 11am - 12.30pm. Visit www.b4-business.com/events for upcoming dates. 11:00 - 11:10

Networking and drinks with other guests

11:10 - 11:20

Tour of B4 HQ and meet the team

11:20 - 11:45

Have headshots taken in the B4 Studio

11:45 - 12:30

Chat about B4 over tea, coffee and refreshments

Location B4 HQ, The Stables at The Moat, Northampton Rd, Weston-on-the-Green, OX25 3QL

Who can attend? Non-members who are interested in finding out about the B4 community. We will be running the Explore B4 days on a regular basis so if you would like to bring your colleagues (up to 3) then please do so and you can get headshots for everyone.

Interested? Visit www.b4-business.com/events for upcoming ‘Explore B4’ dates.

PEMBROKE COLLEGE FORUM 23RD MAY ‘19 For more information please see www.oxvoice.co.uk

B4 Membership B4 has created a trusted community of businesses who have helped, and continue to help, each other grow. At its core, B4 provides the following to its community of members: Connections: Making trusted, long-lasting, mutually beneficial connections within the business community. These connections might be for business transactions, to overcome business challenges or create solutions to perpetuate growth; Profile: Increasing your business profile and gaining wider exposure for the services you offer; Knowledge: Sharing your expertise with the community and gaining knowledge from the community in return; Benefits: Perks

B4 and offers to brighten your day and for B4 to make your time as a member even more enjoyable; Progress: By bringing together the local business community and local government in a connected and collaborative environment (Oxfordshire Voice), we aim to be the catalyst for solutions to the challenges facing Oxfordshire businesses: transport, skills shortages, social & environmental issues and housing. There are a variety of ways to get involved with B4 and experience all of the great benefits on offer. Take a look at the membership options below to find a package which best suits your needs.

Membership Options & Perks Silver Membership

Gold Membership

Platinum Membership

Raise your profile via...

PPDirectory listing in each issue of B4 Magazine PP5% discount on any further advertising within the

PPDirectory listing in each issue of B4 Magazine PP1 x double page in the magazine PPLogo in the front of the magazine PP10% discount on any further advertising within the

PPDirectory listing in each issue of B4 Magazine PP6 x pages in the magazine PPLogo in the front of the magazine PP15% discount on any further advertising within the

magazine

PPPersonal and company profile pages on www. b4-business.com

PPUnlimited uploads to the B4 website for press releases and more

PPRetweets on Twitter when mentioning @ b4magazine

PPLikes on LinkedIn when mentioning B4 Magazine PP5 professional headshots in the B4 Studio for 1 employee

Make connections via... PPAccess to B4 Classic Events PPAccess to B4 Dinners on application (subject to separate charge)

PPAccess to NXT events for employees under 30 years old

PPAccess to a Welcome Brunch at B4 HQ PPIntroductions to other attendees before B4 Classic Events

Share your knowledge via... PPParticipation in Oxfordshire Voice surveys forming a report on business opinion for local government

Benefit from... PPSelected content posted on the B4 website will be shared via social media to an audience of over 20,000 PPUse of B4 logo (subject to terms and conditions) PPSubscription to weekly B4 e-newsletters PPSubscription to bi-monthly B4 Magazine PPAccess to all Knowledge Bank videos and articles when live PPAccess to free high res. photos from B4 events available on Flickr PPAccess to up to 50 Masterclasses

magazine

PPPersonal and company profile pages on www.b4-

PPPersonal and company profile pages on www.b4-business.

business.com

com

PPUnlimited uploads to the B4 website for press releases

and more

PPRetweets on Twitter when mentioning @b4magazine PPLikes on LinkedIn when mentioning B4 Magazine PP5 professional headshots in the B4 Studio for 2

PPRetweets on Twitter when mentioning @b4magazine PPLikes on LinkedIn when mentioning B4 Magazine PP5 professional headshots in the B4 Studio for 4

employees Make

employees

connections via...

Make

PPAccess to B4 Classic Events PPAccess for 1 guest to 1 B4 Dinner on application PPAccess to NXT events for employees under 30 years old PPAccess to a Welcome Brunch at B4 HQ PPIntroductions to other attendees before B4 Classic Events

PPNominate 1 x charity, social enterprise, school, or sports club to receive a free “+1” B4 Membership Share

connections via...

PPAccess to B4 Classic Events PPAccess for 1 guest to 4 B4 Dinners on application PPAccess to NXT events for employees under 30 years old PPAccess to a Welcome Brunch at B4 HQ PPIntroductions to other attendees before B4 Classic Events PPPersonal introductions from B4’s Editor PPNominate 1 x charity, social enterprise, school, or sports club to receive a free “+1” B4 Membership

your knowledge via...

PP1 x Masterclass for up to 12 guests PPParticipation in Oxfordshire Voice surveys forming a

your knowledge via...

PP1 x How To videos filmed in the B4 Studio PP1 x Masterclass for up to 12 guests PPParticipation in Oxfordshire Voice surveys forming a

report on business opinion for local government

Benefit

from...

PPSelected content posted on the B4 website will be shared via social media to an audience of over 20,000

PPUse of B4 logo (subject to terms and conditions) PPSubscription to weekly B4 e-newsletters PPSubscription to bi-monthly B4 Magazine PPAccess to all Knowledge Bank videos and articles when live

PPAccess to free high res. photos from B4 events available on Flickr

PPAccess to up to 50 Masterclasses

£750 + VAT

£2,000 + VAT

£5,000 + VAT

B4 Membership is Application Only Visit www.b4-business.com/apply today to start connecting your business with over 600 members and raising your profile through our established B4 promotional platforms. Terms & Conditions apply

O X F O R D S H I R E

SCAN TO VIEW MORE PHOTOS

MEETING ROOM / STUDIO / GYM & FULL DAY TRAINING COURSES

visited The Stables for an away day with the team who meet from all parts of the UK. “WeWe couldn’t have asked for more. Whatever we needed was provided…and some. It’s such a relaxing environment but we were still incredibly productive and I would say it was easily one of our most positive team away days. We will certainly be coming back. Jo Stevens Managing Director - Oxford Innovation & Innovation Centres

Facilities include

PEACE & QUIET TO THINK, TO LEARN AND CONNECT

• Meeting Room with seating for up to 12 • WI-FI • Wall mounted flat screen TV for presentations – connect to your laptop • Full equipped studio with photography, videography and editing services on hand should you require them • Parking for up to 30

Catering as required

here’s nothing quite like a change of scenery to stimulate the brain and our new offices at Weston-on-the-Green offer you and your team the perfect opportunity to get away from familiar surroundings and breathe in some country air. Our brand news offices have welcomed over 300 B4 members to our regular masterclasses and various board meetings, and you can take advantage of the meeting room or studio for your next meeting or photo shoot. Whether it’s a 30 minute interview somewhere private or a full day photo shoot, we will be pleased to tailor a package to suit your requirements. We also provide hot or cold food as you require and, of course, the tea and coffee will be piping hot all day.

WANT TO FIND OUT MORE? Please call us on 01865 742211 to find out more about our facilities, or why not book an appointment to see for yourself

Packages Available • One hour to full day bookings for meeting room and studio • Rates calculated on per head per hour basis • Monthly retainer packages so you can drop in when you need to* • Preferential rates for B4 members *subject to availability

The Manor House Hotel

WESTON-ONTHE-GREEN

THE STABLES AT THE MOAT

The Milk Shed

Last left before the Manor if coming from Oxford A34 Knowle Ln.

B430

Subject to availability, you can hire the meeting room or studio for that all important all day meeting or shoot and we’ll be on hand with whatever support you need. We also run full day courses and will be pleased to talk to you about how you can run a course of your own whilst we do all of the organising, even promoting your course! Please do get in touch to discuss your requirements, or why not arrange to pop in and see our facilities for yourself? We look forward to hearing from you. The Stables Team

• Tea and Coffee • Water • Soft drinks • Hot or cold buffet lunches • Snacks

d or xf O

From Oxford City Centre 15 minutes From M40 junction 9 5 minutes

The Stables at The Moat, Northampton Rd, Weston-on-the-Green, Oxfordshire, OX25 3QL

connector

proud to connect the B 4 community

connector

proud to connect the B 4 community

Sally Addis

Michelle Arnold

Darren Aston

Tim Ault

Mandy Biddle

Daren Bowyer

Director Addis Law

Individual Banking Manager Handelsbanken

Managing Director Aston & James

Managing Director Alberon

Business Development Manager ads creative solutions

CEO Cumberland Lodge

Anne Clarke

Peter Collins

Cath Convery

David Croydon

Kate Del Nevo

Stephanie Duncan

Director of HR Horticulture House

Group Chairman Vistage International (UK) Ltd

Learning Lead Explosive Learning Solutions

Owner Hilltop Consultancy

Facilities and Events Officer Bodleian Libraries

Head of Marketing Blenheim Palace

Sue Edridge

Andrew Elder

Stewart Elliston

Daren Elsley

Brianna Elsley

Customer Relations & Marketing Manager, The Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre

Mark Emery

Marketing Director Bongo IT

Principal BD Manager Freeths

Accounts & Business Development Mayfield Press

Owner Buzz Digital Marketing

Partner Freeths

Orhan Ertughrul

Helen Fallon

Howard Feather

Sarah Foster

Cheryl-Lee Foulsham

Emma Gascoigne

European Vice President G-SMATT Europe

Director Global CTS

Business Growth Enabler NatWest

Managing Partner Freeths

Business Manager Oxford Duplication Centre

Communications Consultant Big Foot Communications

Marie Giraud

Alison Haill

Andrew Hancock

Maria Hardman

Grant Hayward

Alan Hine

Commercial Events Manager Ashmolean Museum

Founder & Owner Oxford Professional Consulting

Creative Director BrandAsylum

Principal Dentist Clinic 95

Founder & Director Collaborent

Owner AR Hine Associates

Tony Hobbs

Ed Hollingshead

Rebecca Howlett

James Hunt

Jackie Jarvis

Freddie Jewson

Managing Director Chapman, Robinson & Moore

Co-Founder WebBoutiques

Commercial & IP Partner Freeths LLP

Owner Everyman Legal

Owner Jackie Jarvis

Owner Oxford House Ltd

Helen Joy

Zena Kennedy

John Kennedy

Joy Le Fevre

Consultant

Olivia Lane-Nott

Graeme Laws

Owner Two One Services

Partnership Manager Bicester Vision

Director Haiku Consulting

Director ANPR Consulting

Director Spacecraft Consulting

www.b4-business.com

You are Guaranteed a Warm Welcome

Julie Macken

Victoria Marcham

Jamie Miller

Helen Money

David Mulholland

Jonna Mundy

Deputy Queen Bee Neve’s Bees

Business Development Manager Knights

CEO Headway Oxfordshire

Owner Helen Money Nutrition

Director Mulholland Landscape Consultants

CEO You HR Consultancy

Marie O’Connor

Alice Ogilvie

Sian Pages

Head Conference Oxford

Head of Venue Services Bodleian Libraries

Franchisee Not Just Travel

Michael Pawley

Bob Price

Ian Roberts

Director Proficio Solutions

Ex-Leader Oxford City Council

Owner Cashflow Creators

Co-Founder & Regional Lead Business Buzz

Sue Staunton

Chaz Snell

Jo Spencer

Phil Strachan

Commercial Photographer The Plastic Goldfish Company

Owner Spencer Insurance

Owner Strangebrew

William Thomson

Kate Parrinder

David Parry

Communications Manager Oxfordshire LEP

Marketing and Communications Reciprocate

Owner David Parry Employment Law

Katrina Sargent

Grant Shergold

Gavin Smith

Local Business Manager Metro Bank

Operations Director Pizza Pilgrims

Claire Thompson

Anneli Thomson

Rob Panting

Partner James Cowper Kreston

Head Concierge Macdonald Randolph Hotel

Lucy Tulloch

Richard Venables

Lucy Walker

Owner Lucy Tulloch Coaching

Director VSL & Partners

Community Fundraising Manager Helen & Douglas House

James White

Diane Wilkinson

Owner James White Sales Success

Paul Wood

Executive Team Coach Connecting to Excellence

Managing Director Indulge Media

Managing Director Papa Romeo

Frank Webster Owner F C Webster

York Woodford-Smith

Tim Wraith

Director Five on a Bike

Corporate Partnerships Manager Sobell House

Managing Director Sandler Training

Michael Wellborn Manager of Sales and Marketing CIS

Connectors are individuals in the B4 community who have shown their support and loyalty for B4 in one of a number of ways. They may have introduced another company to the B4 community or they might just be great at introducing guests to the community at B4 events. After all, there’s nothing worse than standing on your own at an event to convince you the community you’re thinking about joining is just one big clique. Or they might do both! So thanks to all of our Connectors for their support for B4 and our growing community of members. If you would like to find out more about becoming a Connector, call the B4 team today. www.b4-business.com

B4 Advisory Board Nicola Poole Managing Director - Hedges Law | www.hedgeslaw.co.uk

I am the Managing Director and major shareholder of Hedges Law. I have been a specialist family lawyer for over 25 years. I started at Hedges nearly fifteen years ago and in that time Hedges has seen huge change and exciting development to become the forward thinking, fabulous company that it now is. We have moved from high street to high-end, and are holding our own against the county’s best and biggest law firms. I feel so lucky to love what I do, as well as do what I love: both my legal work and running the business. My favourite place in the world is New York. I adore its vitality and liberalism: people are who they want to be, and anything goes. I’ve run the marathon there twice! I love to be out in the open air, walking, running, at the beach, up a mountain, and a sunny day at a great festival really makes me happy. I’m always up for a new challenge or adventure.

Katherine Bertram

John Kennedy

Founder The Career Boutique

Orhan Ertughrul EVP Europe G-Smatt Europe Media

Richard Venables

Wendy Ball

Darren Aston

Colin Rosser

Director VSL & Partners

Head of Events Ashmolean Museum

Managing Director Aston and James

Chairman B4

Richard Marsh

Richard Rosser

Jonna Mundy

Lorna Waterfield

Grant Hayward

CEO B4

CEO You HR

Production Manager B4

Founder & Director Collaborent

Neill Lawson-Smith

Helen Fallon

Phil Southall

Greg Barnes

Director Global CTS

Managing Director The Oxford Bus Company

Director Breckon & Breckon

Managing Director CIS Ltd

Tony Hobbs

Stewart Elliston

Managing Director CRM

Principal Manager, Business Development Freeths

James White

Andy Cowie

Jarl Severn

Owner James White Sales Success

Marketing & Business Development Director James Cowper Kreston

Managing Director Owen Mumford

Gavin Jones

Edward Rosser

Dominic Hare

Jo Stevens

Bob Price

Cheryl-Lee Foulsham

Jayne Woodley

Group Finance Director Owen Mumford

Founder B4 NXT

Chief Executive Blenheim

Managing Director Oxford Centre for Innovation

Honarary Alderman of Oxford City

Business Manager Oxford Duplication Centre

CEO Oxfordshire Community Foundation

Sebastian Johnson

Claire Thompson

Tim Wraith

Phil Strachan

Frank Webster

Ian Roberts

Managing Director Papa Romeo Public Relations Ltd

Corporate Partnerships Manager Sobell House

Owner Strangebrew

Director FC Webster Consulting

Frank Nigriello

Head of Innovation & Inward Investment Oxfordshire LEP

Owner Cashflow Creators

Director of Corporate Affairs Unipart

FREETHS FORUM 27TH JUN ‘19 For more information please see WWW.OXVOICE.CO.UK

O X F O R D S H I R E

NXT Board Brianna Elsley

Edward Rosser

Emma Davis

Owner / Founder Buzz Digital Marketing buzzdigitalmarketing.co.uk

Founder NXT b4-nxt.com

Marketing Executive B4 / NXT b4-business.com

I’m Brianna and my business is called Buzz Digital Marketing. I’ve always had an interest in marketing, and I decided to start my business with a real focus on delivering strong social media activity, with campaigns that deliver a solid ROI. Alongside this, I offer website development and SEO, to really help businesses tackle digital marketing from all angles. I focus a lot of my attention on your audience, what are they wanting to see, what will engage them, and this helps me to build a digital strategy that is right for your business. I put together bespoke, tailored packages, taking into consideration your monthly budget and what your business needs.

Edward founded NXT which aims to engage the next generation of 30 year old’s and under. Edward strives to create value for each individual in attendance at NXT events by providing expert knowledge from valuable presentations to take away with them and implement into their own career, as well as broadening their networks with like minded youngsters.

James White Sales Mentor and Trainer James White Sales Success jameswhite.business

Emma Roby Business Development and Marketing Coordinator Freeths freeths.co.uk

I’m a marketing and business development professional assisting the head of business development and lawyers within the firm on strategic business development initiatives. My responsibilities include, but are not limited to, event management, maintaining the firm’s CRM database, direct mail and email campaigns, development of our online presence, and designing marketing collateral.

My name is James White. I have had 20+ years working in senior marketing and sales roles including 14 in running my own software and sales training companies. I have generated over £7.5m in new sales and revenue in the last 10 years and I have sold at all levels across a range of different industries.

Emma has gained expertise in design, marketing and social media in her role as Marketing Executive for B4. Emma is responsible for B4’s many social media accounts, developing the overall layout and production design for printed materials, assisting in event co-ordination as well as carrying out a variety of administration tasks.

Alice May Manager Whitley Stimpson Ltd whitleystimpson.co.uk

I have worked in private practice since 2013 and fully qualified with ICAEW at the end of 2016. I predominantly work with small to medium sized businesses, taking care of their accounts and taxation needs and offering business support and advice. I love meeting and building relationships with new people. My network of trusted contacts have proved invaluable to date – offering support, guidance and keeping me up to date on their areas of expertise.

Richard Rosser CEO B4 b4-business.com

Marie Giraud Events Sales and Communications Manager Ashmolean Museum ashmolean.org

Marie joined the Ashmolean’s events team a year ago. She promotes and sells the Museum’s iconic space and backdrops to corporate clients, and is keen to build her network by meeting other young professionals in the City.

Richard has been Chief Executive Officer of B4 since 2006. While dealing with customers at all levels, Richard’s role is to co-ordinate the overall strategy of B4 and develop new products. A publisher, event creator and coordinator, his experience and contacts are valued by an ever increasing and impressive portfolio of clients.

Isabel Protheroe Frederick Jewson DOP Frederick Jewson frederickjewson.co.uk

Frederick live and breathes film, constantly striving to push the boundaries of what is possible within the camera. aiming to create the content possible. With extensive ambitions and an unequivocal passion for his art Frederick is well on the way with his journey.

Legal Assistant Freeths LLP freeths.co.uk

I work in the Court of Protection team at Freeths Solicitors. I am passionate about the work that I do and improving the opportunities for the clients. I am really excited for the future of NXT as I believe it will provide a great platform for under 30’s to network in Oxford and the future generations of local business leaders.

For more information please see: WWW.B4-NXT.COM

Rob Panting Communications Manager OxLEP oxfordshirelep.com

Oxfordshire-based public relations and communications professional with over 15 years’ experience, working within the media and as a part of teams for several national organisations.

Join us for a special event after BIO2019 at MINI PLANT OXFORD on Thursday 6th June, 2019

Ian Hudspeth - Councillor, Oxfordshire County Council

It just shows how â&#x20AC;&#x153;working together

and partnership working can deliver better outcomes for everybody

â&#x20AC;?

Ian Hudspeth - Councillor, Oxfordshire County Council

www.b4-business.com

B4 lead

Growth..... the way forward Oxfordshire County Council is updating its transport plan “Connecting Oxfordshire” with our vision to make travel easier, tapping into innovation to improve connectivity in the county. And that connectivity also covers superfast broadband: 96% of residents and businesses now have access to superfast broadband, thanks the work of our partnership with BT and BDUK (Department for Digital, Media, Culture and Sport). Oxfordshire County Council Leader, Ian Hudspeth, met with B4’s Richard Rosser to explain how Oxfordshire’s partnership approach is reaping rewards for the county as a whole and why it’s important to grow. Written by: B4 Photography by: Rob Scotcher

B4 Good morning Ian – thank you for joining B4. We’re sat in the Bicester (Oxfordshire County Council) Library and what a fantastic space it is. The staff here have been saying how popular it’s becoming with increasing footfall from all generations, which is good to hear. Before we met today, I was looking at the Thriving Communities for Everyone Corporate Plan in which you set out how you are listening to the residents of Oxfordshire. Obviously as a County Council you have increasing challenges, but do you feel that the enormity of what you have to do is appreciated by the local residents and that they are listening to what challenges you have to face and that, in turn, you are listening to what they want?

Ian As you say, sitting here in Bicester Library, the

better job prospects and, of course, one of the key things about this whole journey is to give everyone the best opportunities that we can. This is all very well to say but how does this sit against the backdrop of the funding reductions we have had over the past few years? People understand that we have had funding difficulties and challenges and it’s certainly not been easy. However, it has enabled us to underline the challenges we have around social care and children’s social care as well. We will be doubling the amount spent over the past ten years despite the difficult decisions we have had to make and our residents understand that we have to increase Council Tax to implement such spend. We’ve also created a new infrastructure fund which is all about putting money back in to highways. We’ve heard the problems people have been experiencing with the roads and we’re putting more in to roads than ever before and that’s just for Oxfordshire in repairs.

Growth Board announcements through the Growth Deal (£215m of Government investment for new homes and infrastructure across Oxfordshire) means we are providing that infrastructure so people can see the connectivity between the housing and the infrastructure that we are putting in place. And it’s not just physical connectivity between work and home, it’s about digital connectivity also….more of us are working from home with remote office locations, so it’s vital to have the digital connectivity so people can make that choice between working from home or going in to work slightly later to avoid the peak congestion times, which is a ‘win win’ with less cars on the road. Underlying all of this we are very aware that Oxfordshire is a great place with its natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, so we have got to make sure that there is a balance between having expansion, having growth but still providing that great community spirit and the key locations which everyone loves in Oxfordshire.

great thing about this is it shows a partnership working with Cherwell District Council whose offices are downstairs. We have even built some extra care housing in the old library, B4 You referenced partnerships earlier, particularly how you work in partnership with Cherwell District so it’s about creating different aspects for B4 We obviously live in a relatively buoyant part of the country and with the recent Growth Board Council here in the library. There’s obviously an Bicester and regenerating it for Cherwell. So announcements, can you let us know more about increasing spirit of collaboration between all of we are working in partnership and this is a what that means for the region and for the residents us. Do you see that spirit continuing to grow for great example of an excellent partnership of Oxfordshire? you as a council? agreement. The Thriving Communities Plan is really Ian It means that we’re getting in funding for parts of Ian It’s one of the key reasons Oxfordshire got the the road network and schools. People have said Growth Deal. We worked with all of the District important to us and we have to make sure that to us in the past that we’re getting in money for Councils, including Cherwell, and because we residents feel part of the thriving community housing but not the supporting infrastructure. The were working together and because Government so they have better housing opportunities, www.b4-business.com

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B4 lead

“

We have got to make sure that there is a balance between having expansion, having growth but still providing that great community spirit and the key locations which everyone loves in Oxfordshire. Ian Hudspeth - Councillor, Oxfordshire County Council

”

could see that we were sitting down to plan B4 No amount of effective partnerships and a partnership where we can all work together to where the housing should be and we were collaborations can deny the fact that there’s a lot solve some of these problems so perhaps you can making sure we had the right infrastructure, of hard work to do going forward, but, do you elaborate more on your role as a business not just be that roads, schools, doctor’s surgeries etc… ultimately see Oxfordshire continuing to be an as an entity that people look at and say ‘you’re Government saw that and said ‘right, we’ll give attractive place to live and work in in the future there to solve all of the problems because that’s you £215 million over the next five years so with the plans you have in place and no doubt what you’re here for’. that you can provide that infrastructure’. It just more plans you have for the future? shows how working together and partnership Ian It’s interesting you say that because people tend working can deliver better outcomes for Ian Absolutely, because one of the key things our to forget that we are a business because we have everybody. residents need is good quality homes, so we’ve such a wide variety of different businesses within got to build good quality homes, but we also have our overall structure. The main one everyone to ensure there are good job prospects as well. looks at is highways and transportation, but we B4 Oxfordshire is one of three areas which is the focus of the Local industrial Strategy (LIS), It’s really important that people have good quality also have adult social care, children’s social care, alongside Birmingham and Manchester. Could jobs and education for children at all levels so that trading standards, planning, environment…there you elaborate on the LIS and what it means once they have received a good education, they is a multitude of operations that we run across for Oxfordshire. have decent career prospects which enables them the county and we suffer the same problems that to stay in Oxfordshire. The growth in the economy everyone else does. We understand those stresses is absolutely key because if we grow the economy and strains and what it means for the workforce, Ian It’s part of the National Industrial Strategy from Government which focuses on key areas for then businesses are paying more tax which then the fact that we do need good quality houses in the future business development. We’re doing the helps the vulnerable residents that we in the County right locations for people to have a good work / life same on a local scale in Oxfordshire, picking Council need to look after. balance which ultimately makes better employees out the key locations and key sectors that we because they are happy in their home and work want to see grow and seeing how we can grow So, whilst on the one hand we have some people environment. them. We look at what infrastructure we need, questioning why we want to go for growth, we what training we need for the skills sector and can respond by saying that if we have to look after We are delighted to be a part of Oxfordshire Voice the support sector around these areas. We are vulnerable people of all ages, we need to have the and look forward to working with the private sector working with the Local Enterprise Partnership taxes from somewhere to afford the care, so that to face Oxfordshire’s challenges together. (OxLEP), Government and business to identify growing economy is vital so that we can provide what is required in Oxfordshire and we can for them. then go to Government and say ‘this is what we require’ and, if they want Oxfordshire to B4 One of our recent initiatives at B4 is Oxfordshire grow (and don’t forget we are only one of Voice, a unique public and private sector collaboration three net contributors to the Exchequer across involving some of Oxfordshire’s leading employers the country) then it means that Government (Blenheim Palace, Unipart, Oxford Bus Company,  info@oxfordshire.gov.uk will be able to provide the funding so that we Owen Mumford). But, obviously, you are one of  01865 249 811 can deliver that extra infrastructure for growth. the larger, if not the largest employer in Oxfordshire  www.oxfordshire.gov.uk and you face the same stresses and strains as all businesses in Oxfordshire. Oxfordshire Voice is www.b4-business.com

B4 Community News Oxford Innovation appoints Centre Director for the new Wood Centre for Innovation Launching in April, the Wood Centre for Innovation (WCFI) will offer contemporary office space for growing science and tech companies at Stansfeld Park in Headington. Owned by the Oxford Trust and managed by Oxford Innovation, WCFI will partner OCFI, in central Oxford, enabling the sharing of resources and a venue for city centre meetings.

“I want to develop a strong community of start-up and grow-on businesses running more events and supporting companies to make sure they get the help they are looking for”.

Both buildings will be managed by Centre Director, Mike Foster, who voluntarily runs the Oxford Business Network and was recently appointed as the Executive Chair for Venturefest. Mike said;

Looking for a new home for your business? Call 01865 261400 or email wcfi@oxin.co.uk to arrange a tour.

Interest in WCFI is high, with local innovative companies Triteq, Ultromics and Scout Health already signed up to move in.

Looking for an opportunity to help a local charity in 2019? Team building - Skydive The Helen & Douglas tandem Skydive on Sunday 31st March, will provide your team with an opportunity of a lifetime. Get your pulse racing and pluck up courage to jump at 13,000 feet. Sporting challenges – Places on half marathons Join #TeamHDH team by taking one of our half marathon places for either The Vitality Big Half in London on 10th March or The Reading Half Marathon (discounted places) on 17th March.

Local sponsorship opportunities Become a sponsor of one the Helen & Douglas House 2019 events to build awareness of your brand locally and engage staff and customers. There are opportunities to sponsor a Bubble Rush 5K fun run in Reading and Oxford in June and Santas on the Run in Oxford in December. If you are interested in any of these great opportunities contact Lucy Walker: lwalker@helenanddouglas.org.uk or call 01865 799150.

Ali Griffiths joins ads creative solutions Ali brings 25 years of experience, planning and implementing B2B and consumer marketing campaigns for a diverse range of businesses.

Ali Griffiths joins Woodstock based marketing agency, ads creative solutions as Marketing & Communications Manager. Formally Marketing Director for a luxury interior brand

The King’s Centre, Oxford, install new booking system to improve service

‘I am passionate about the importance of branding and customer communications. With so many new digital marketing platforms to consider it is very exciting to be joining an agency with the inhouse creative, marketing and digital expertise to support our clients. I’m really looking forward to getting to know clients and working with them to identify the most effective traditional and new

The King’s Centre, (TKC) Oxford, has invested in a new market leading booking system to improve service and efficiency. Artifax, the Venue and Event Management System, was installed last week for TKC, Oxford team to use for all aspects of venue bookings.

marketing channels to engage customers and grow their businesses.’ Outside the office Ali is a qualified swimming teacher. ‘I love swimming particularly in open water, however I quickly came to realise teaching young children to swim is most definitely more challenging than developing marketing strategies and implementing campaigns!’ Contact details; ali@adsoxford.co.uk. www.adsoxford.co.uk. Tel: 01993 885122.

Maria Waskiel-Smit, Operations Manager, at TKC, Oxford, said: “The investment in Artifax reflects our continued commitment to excellence in customer service. All staff have undergone training with the new system, and we believe it will enable us to further improve our internal systems and efficiency, which will result in a stronger performance overall

www.b4-business.com

B4 New starters at Gardner Leader Gardner Leader have seen a flurry of new starters to mark the New Year. Michael Axe joins the Dispute Resolution team as a Senior Associate based in Maidenhead, bringing with him over 15 years’ experience of resolving Commercial Disputes for his clients. Lucy Butcher, Senior Associate, has returned to the Firm and re-joined the Inheritance Protection team in. Lucy advises clients on all aspects of their inheritance planning including inheritance tax considerations and lifetime gifts.

The Contested Probate team has also been bolstered with the arrival of Laura Buchanan in Newbury. Laura specialises in disputes involving claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 and disputes arising during the administration of trusts and estates. The Maidenhead office is continuing to grow in to 2019 with a new recruit soon to join the Corporate Commercial team as a Solicitor in Maidenhead. www.gardner-leader.co.uk

2019 Oxfordshire Business Awards launch celebrates 25 years of the county’s best businesses Dozens of Oxfordshire businesses attended the event on 10 January at Oxford Science Park

A full list of award categories can be seen at www. oxfordshirebusinessawards.co.uk/awards.

Many of the county’s businesses gathered to attend the official launch of the Oxfordshire Business Awards (OXBA) on Thursday, as the event – which pays tribute to the county’s business community – reaches its 25th year.

The OXBA is being supported by other Oxfordshire organisations, including the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP), who will sponsor the New Business Award category.

The 2019 Awards launch – sponsored by the 2018 ‘Business of the Year’ winner Oxford Space Systems – took place at the Sadler Building at Oxford Science Park, itself home to over 90 companies and employing more than 2,500 people. Following the launch, businesses from across Oxfordshire can now enter the 2019 Awards, with a total of 14 categories open for entry.

Its chief executive, Nigel Tipple, says the OXBA reflects the county’s thriving business community – in particular small businesses, or ‘SMEs’. Mr Tipple said: “Small businesses are the backbone of any economy and that’s particularly the case in Oxfordshire. “Across the county, we have seen around 43,000 new jobs created between 2012 and 2016, with small businesses responsible for a considerable

number of these – nationally, over 99 per cent of the UK’s 5.7million businesses are classified as ‘small’ employing a total of 16.1 million people. “With this mind, the OXBA is an opportunity to celebrate ‘business’ and the impact it makes, not only to our economy, but also the professional opportunities companies create for thousands of people on a daily basis.” The Oxfordshire Business Awards takes place on Friday 14 June at the John Henry Brookes Building at Oxford Brookes University.

B4’s Support for Oxford City FC – Live on BT! B4 were delighted to support Oxford City in their historic FA Cup First Round reply versus League Two Tranmere Rovers as matchball sponsors. Following a well deserved 3-3 draw at Prenton Park, City were put to the sword by two first half goals, missing out on a Second Round tie with Southport and, ultimately, a Third Round home tie with Tottenham Hotspur! B4’s Colin Rosser, pictured being presented with the matchball by City’s Commercial Manager, Laura Hextall, said “Oxford City is a club I have supported for most of my life and over the past two seasons we have enjoyed some fantastic Cup games. It was an absolute pleasure to sponsor the club on such a big night and to see so many familiar faces in the club house.” We look forward to visiting Oxford City for a B4 event later this year.

and more satisfied clients.” TKC, Oxford, is the largest event and conference space in the city and the south Midlands with more than 30,000 square feet of space. It has two large convention halls and 10 support rooms. TKC is based in Osney Mead a ten-minute walk from

www.b4-business.com

the Oxford train station. All the centre’s annual profits are re-invested into maintaining the building, Oxfordshire Community Churches and the wider community. www.kingscentre.co.uk

B4 Community News Modern meeting rooms a stone’s throw from the A34 Looking to hold a meeting away from your office? Book Horticulture House to enjoy modern, spacious facilities with free on-site parking. All meeting rooms are situated on the ground floor of the manor building, that many locals remember belonging to the old cement company. The property has since been refurbished and now offers a selection of meeting rooms which can seat up to 80 delegates. We have a range of catering options available and can cater for any dietary requirements.

Sally, an existing customer from Milton Park said: “A meeting venue with great facilities, attentive staff, amazing lunches and all in a perfect to reach location.” Receive 20% off your first room hire using code ‘B4first’. If you would like a tour of the facilities or to book a room, please contact us on bookings@hta.org.uk | 0333 003 3550 | horticulturehouse.co.uk

International Women’s Day event OXFORD – #BalanceforBetter Celebrated annually on March 8th, the theme for International Women’s Day 2019 is #BalanceforBetter which focuses on driving gender equality across the globe. We are hosting the event to network with like-minded people and meet women leading, building and growing their businesses within Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley. Organised by a small group of Oxfordshire female business leaders, sponsored by Freeths Solicitors and hosted at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford (the first Oxford college to educate women), this event is definitely not one to miss! There is an excellent agenda with engaging speakers providing stories, insight and learning opportunities as well as some time to network and connect with people too. There will be 100 standard tickets available and the option for 30 people to buy a ticket for lunch in Lady Margaret Hall’s dining hall. The tickets are available now on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/international-womens-day-oxford-tickets-54712442388

Anastasia Psarra promoted to Account Director at Cerub PR demonstrated passion and enthusiasm and her tenacious and dedicated approach has helped clients achieve their aims and raise their profile among their key stakeholders.

Anastasia joined the agency as an Account Executive in 2013 and has worked on integrated campaigns across Cerub PR’s portfolio of corporate and consumer clients. She has

Cerub PR’s MD Ceri-Jane Hackling said: ‘Over the past five years Anastasia has proved herself to be an invaluable member of the Cerub PR team and her promotion is very well deserved. ‘We have been delighted to see her hone her skills and develop into a talented PR professional

and we look forward to her continued growth and development in the years to come.’ Cerub PR is an award winning public relations company specialising in working with CEOs and business leaders. Cerub’s dynamic approach combined with its indepth knowledge of the media landscape, ensures its clients are recognised as industry experts. www.cerubpr.co.uk

Exclusive private viewings of Jeff Koons’ Art It is a pleasure for us to announce that a major exhibition of the work of Jeff Koons (b. 1955) will be held at the Ashmolean Museum in Spring 2019! Curated by Koons himself together with guest curator Norman Rosenthal, the show set in the John Sainsbury Exhibition Galleries will feature seventeen important works - fourteen of which have never been exhibited in the UK before. They span the artist’s entire career and his most well-known series including Equilibrium, Statuary, Banality, Antiquity and his recent Gazing Ball sculptures and paintings. The show presents a fantastic opportunity for you to entertain your guests, as the Ashmolean Events Team are offering exclusive private viewings! You can also impress clients further by accompanying their private viewing with a drinks reception or dinner as bespoke packages are available between 7 February–9 June 2019. Contact Paul Jeffery for more information about planning this stand-out event for next year on paul.jeffery@ashmus.ox.ac.uk or 01865 288 273.

www.b4-business.com

B4 Paying it forward…. or giving back to clients and our community. need clothes & equipment, and toys and books. We want to keep a regular stock of essentials for clients, so that when they need something, we can help. It is a small way of making a big difference.

photo: Jacqueline Cross

We’ve now been open for a busy four months. Unsurprisingly, setting up a new solicitors’ firm is hard work, and brings all sorts of surprises, and challenges! But we have not forgotten that when we planned Boardman Hawkins & Osborne (BH&O), we wanted to do things a little differently, and not lose sight of what we all believe in, namely that we would support Charities, and raise funds and help in other practical ways those we know are in need. So in the short space of time we have been open so far, what have we done? We have decided to use one of our best resources, space. We have a loft and a cellar and not much in either. And we also know a number of clients who have no money and yet whose children

At Christmas we collected some toys and books for Abingdon Community Events, who asked for presents for over 140 children from vulnerable and low income families in the Abingdon area. They also wanted to ensure all of those children had a chocolate selection box. Well, that is speaking our language! We do love chocolate….so 144 selection boxes were ordered from Cadbury’s, as well as a selection of toys and books from our generous team! We are also supporting Abingdon Carousel. Abingdon Carousel also started in September like we did! For the past few years, Abingdon has not had a children’s centre, having lost its two centres in the wave of county council cuts a few years ago. But Abingdon Carousel has now opened at the old South Abingdon Children Centre site. It has got off to a brilliant start and is open 5 days a week and is planning on opening on Saturdays soon too. We also continue to support PACT a charity that means a lot to us. Emily has become a Trustee of Adoption UK. Irena

has continued to be a Trustee for Flag DV, and I have become a Trustee of Abingdon Carousel, as well as continuing to be a Safeguarding Governor for a local primary school. Helen Bishop, is also a School Governor for her local primary school. And what for 2019? We have sponsored a cog in an interactive art installation – or Loomstallation – at Oxford’s Children’s Hospital for Blue Skye Thinking, a charity raising money for research into childhood brain tumours. We will also fundraise for local legal advice charities throughout 2019. Finally, I am thinking about organising an event to raise money for Helen & Douglas House. That idea is definitely in its infancy though….so more of that in 2019! Ruth Hawkins, Boardman Hawkins & Osborne LLP www.abingdoncarousel.org.uk www.pactcharity.org https://loomstallation.com www.blueskyethinking.org www.atjf.org.uk/great-legal-bake.html www.helenanddouglas.org.uk

Experience Oxfordshire is delighted to announce that Birmingham Airport has joined our growing Ambassador Partnership.

Birmingham Airport is an award-winning international airport that provides quality

services to all travellers. In 2018, it was awarded the Best UK Airport for airports above 10 million passengers a year by the Airport Operators Association. The airport is situated on the borders of Oxfordshire, making it a convenient location for people to travel to the county. Visitors to Oxfordshire can travel from Birmingham Airport to the County via road and rail.

Birmingham Airport handles around 13 million passengers a year, making it an important domestic and international gateway for bringing visitors to the region, with flights from major cities including New York, Delhi and Dubai. We look forward to the valuable insight, support and strategic input Birmingham Airport can offer the work Experience Oxfordshire does as the Destination Management Organisation for the County. www.experienceoxfordshire.org

Exciting Times for Thompson & Terry Recruitment 2018 has been a year of great change and development for Thompson & Terry Recruitment. Last June, our MD Ben Thompson bought out business partner Mike Terry and became our sole director. Since then we have continued to grow and develop, hiring new employees, Shannon Dalton and Ella Toovey, and moving into our bigger office, still located in central Abingdon.

www.b4-business.com

Now a close-knit team of 4, we are entering 2019 with a strong focus on maintaining success, building our client base, and developing our employees. Whilst a lot has changed over the past year, our absolute priority is still to adhere to our original business mantra, to match our candidates to our vacancies as accurately as is possible and only submit candidates to our clients that we would personally employ ourselves.

www.thompsonandterry.co.uk

Your one-stop shop Everything you need from a local trusted partner

www.oxforddirectservices.co.uk 01865 335400

路

news Residents enjoy first christmas in long Hanborough’s affordable homes

As soon as I saw “ the new homes were being built in Long Hanborough I put my name forward and was offered a house. I was so happy when I received the phone call and I couldn’t wait to move

”

Janie Drinkwater

Janie Drinkwater, 10-year-old daughter Cora and 21-month-old son Logan

A young family was among the first residents to spend Christmas in their new home at Long Hanborough, as part of Blenheim’s affordable housing scheme in partnership with West Oxfordshire District Council. Janie Drinkwater, who has been on the housing waiting list since the summer of 2016, moved into her three-bedroom property along with her 10-yearold daughter Cora and 21-month-old son Logan. Her property is among nearly 60 on the new development which Blenheim Estate, in partnership with West Oxfordshire District Council, is making available for either social-rent or shared ownership as part of its commitment to house at least 300 families in high quality affordable homes. As part of the initiative, rental levels are being set at 60 per cent of the current market rate, enabling many more people to be able to afford to live locally.

Contact 

01993 223 320

www.b4-business.com

“As soon as I saw the new homes were being built in Long Hanborough I put my name forward and was offered a house. I was so happy when I received the phone call and I couldn’t wait to move,” said Janie. “I am now living much nearer to my family and my boyfriend Christian and his family too. It’s really nice to be so close to them and have all the help I need with my children as it’s just a nice little five-minute walk there and back. “I love my new house as it fits in so well with my children. They both now have their own rooms and a bigger and better garden to play in. “We had an excellent Christmas with all our family nearby and did not have to drive everywhere like I did before when I lived in Witney,” she added. Seven homes are now occupied, with more homes available to move into over the coming weeks. A further 48 affordable homes will follow at the site later this year.

Priority is being given to local residents with urgent accommodation needs as well as key workers in areas such as the NHS, Police, Education, Local Authority and the Ministry of Defence as well as those working for Blenheim. The initiative is part of Blenheim’s 10-year development programme that includes tripling the Estate’s contribution to the local economy and completing a £40m restoration programme of the World Heritage Site.

Additional Information All applicants must have been assessed to be in need of affordable housing and be registered on the Homeseeker Plus website – www.homeseekerplus.co.uk – for more details, including how to apply, visit www.westoxon.gov.uk/blenheim.

 www.blenheimestate.com/property

JAMES COWPER KRESTON Taking Oxford International Despite Brexit, we live in an increasingly global economy and many businesses need to consider international markets. Exploring and operating in markets outside the UK can be a daunting prospect as companies can experience unfamiliar commercial, regulatory and legal environments. Whether you are exploring international markets for the first time, or have established operations, James Cowper Kreston can help guide you through the challenges and risks of trading internationally and maximise your opportunities. Written by: James Pitt

Photography by: Phil Tull

We have many years of experience providing advisory and compliance services to international businesses underpinned by our experts and award winning teams. Our skills and experience combined with the firm’s membership of Kreston, an international network of over 200 firms in 114 countries, provides us with access to more than 25,000 professionals who are experts in the law and legislation of their respective countries, enabling us to provide a highly professional, personal and value for money service for international businesses.

Global Strategy and Structuring

We develop a close working relationship with our clients to help them achieve success, whatever their business or personal objectives. Opposite are examples of some of services we can provide and how we help our clients.

Our experience can help you find the answers that are right for your business and assist you in setting up operations in over 114 counties.

Exploring a new market for the first time? We can help you get the initial planning right to minimise the pitfalls and maximise opportunities. Frequently asked questions include: • Should I form a company? • Is there a need to hire overseas employees? • What about supply chain management? • Do I need to open a bank account?

Global acquisitions If you are looking to make UK acquisitions, our dedicated Corporate Finance team, who have recently completed acquisitions for clients in countries around the world, including America, Argentina and Europe, can provide lead advisory and due diligence services. They work closely with our International Tax experts to ensure the acquisition is structured tax efficiently.

International Tax As your business grows, your global tax bill can be affected substantially by how your operations are structured. Our tax team not only has an in-depth understanding of the UK tax rules, they are also

Our tax team not only has an in-depth understanding of the UK tax rules, they “ are also experts on how these rules interact with overseas legislation to minimise tax payments and avoid double taxation. ” James Pitt - James Cowper Kreston

www.b4-business.com

B4 finance

James Pitt

Nominated for Mid-Tier “Firm of the Year at the 2017 British Accountancy Awards, we have substantial experience providing national and international audits for groups of all sizes in a range of sectors.

”

James Pitt - James Cowper Kreston

experts on how these rules interact with overseas legislation to minimise tax payments and avoid double taxation. They have carried out transfer pricing studies for many of our clients and helped them to implement our recommendations. Our team was also crowned ‘Best International Tax Team’ in the prestigious Tolley’s Taxation Awards 2017.

International Audit & Assurance Nominated for Mid-Tier Firm of the Year at the 2017 British Accountancy Awards, we have substantial experience providing national and international audits for groups of all sizes in a range of sectors. We act as auditors for over 500 companies, including groups with turnover in excess of £1billion and over 200 audits of UK based subsidiaries of overseas parents, including subsidiaries for many listed groups. We have extensive knowledge of both UK and International Financial Reporting Standards and therefore can provide the advice and practical support you need.

www.b4-business.com

Employer Assistance/Payroll If you are hiring employees in a new territory, or transferring existing employees abroad, let us assist you in implementing tax efficient remuneration and incentive packages for your staff. We offer a full payroll service for UK employees, including numerous expatriates, and can introduce you to payroll providers overseas.

Expatriate Advisory Service James Cowper Kreston’s expatriate advisory service forms part of our specialist International Services, enabling us to advise companies and individuals on all expatriate related matters. You may not have the in-house skills to deal with the multi-jurisdiction issues which arise with assignees, or simply not have the time to manage all aspects of the assignee population. We can take the hassle away from you and become your extended HR function in managing the expatriates.

Outsourced Accounting Services Not yet large enough to warrant an in-house finance team? We can help you outsource your essential functions to keep initial overheads low and ensure you have high quality management information from the start. James Cowper Kreston can guide you through your international expansion, so that you have time to focus on what really matters - your business. Having a local Oxford based firm with global reach working alongside your goals will give you everything you need to achieve success. For more information on any of these services please contact James Pitt at James Cowper Kreston.

 jpitt@jamescowper.co.uk  01865 861 166  www.jamescowperkreston.co.uk

Think Rhodes for Business... For full information on exclusive use, meetings, seminars, team building and conferences please call 01865 282599 or email events@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk

Rhodes House, Oxford, OX1 3RG

Telephone 01865 282 599 events@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk www.rhodeshouseoxford.com

B4 finance

“

Thirty five years seems to have passed so very quickly, perhaps indicative of the breadth and pace of change both within CRM itself and the wider world.

”

Celebrating 35 years of making the numbers work Marking the anniversary of Chapman Robinson & Moore accountants and business advisers In 1983, the; • Prime Minister was Baroness Margaret Thatcher • First £1 coin went into circulation • Base rate was 9.06, the US dollar rate was 1.51 and no Euros • Wearing of seatbelts became compulsory in the front of passenger cars • First mobile phone was introduced. (Motorola 8000x costing $3,995) • First CD went on sale in the UK • PC was a little box in a corner of the room with a green screen, no network and lucky if connected to the printer. The Printer sat in acoustic hood, the size of a small house! • Public internet did not exist and we actually read books and newspapers! • TV show Blockbusters was launched • Rugby Union had yet to turn professional • Best selling albums were Thriller (Michael Jackson) & Business as usual (Men at Work) • UK population was 56m (now 66m) Also, a new firm of accountants in Kidlington was born, Chapman Robinson & Moore (CRM). www.b4-business.com

The anniversary marked 35 years of CRM supporting business owners to start, develop, grow and sell their own business, whilst keeping as much money as possible in their own back pocket. The firm has seen much change over the three and a half decades, including the move of offices, the expanding team, client growth and more recently the impact of technology and software. Tony Hobbs, Managing Director, said; “Thirty five years seems to have passed so very quickly, perhaps indicative of the breadth and pace of change both within CRM itself and the wider world. I am very proud of the fact that after thirty five years we are stronger than we have ever been, with the best team we have ever had. I am so very grateful for the support of the whole team here, who have contributed so much towards our success to date. And fear not, there is plenty more to come from CRM yet!” As part of the anniversary celebrations, CRM hosted an event with a twist for their clients and contacts at John Lewis & Partners in the Westgate, Oxford. The

celebration event included an 80’s themed catwalk show, refreshments and gifts, coordinated by the talented team at John Lewis. Tony added; “It has been a busy few years of development and growth for the firm. We wanted to celebrate, this latest landmark in our journey, with those that have helped us to get here. We considered various event options, but were delighted to take the event to John Lewis for a memorable event that was something a little different.” CRM are accountants and business advisers working with their clients to build their business.

 crm@crmoxford.co.uk  01865 379 272  www.crmoxford.co.uk

WENN TOWNSEND FINANCE LUNCH WITH METRO BANK

Grant Shergold

Ashley Keen

In the second of a series of debates with leading Oxfordshire accountancy firm, Wenn Townsend, representatives from Oxfordshire’s business community met at Wenn Townsend’s central Oxford offices to find out more about Metro Bank’s approach to lending, access and security

The discussion started with Nina Robinson of ucisa explaining some of the challenges she faced when trying to complete relatively simple procedures with the company’s bank.

In attendance were the following:

Tony Haines Partner, Wenn Townsend Wenn Townsend (WT) prides itself on a proactive and efficient approach to assisting clients with their accounting and taxation queries. With over 140 years’ experience as a firm WT combine traditional methods with up-to-date technological expertise, meaning that they are are able to offer services of the highest quality. Ashley Keen Local Director and Grant Shergold Local Business Manager, Metro Bank Metro Bank are Britain’s first new High Street Bank in over 100 years, offering unparalleled levels of service and convenience, delivering the best of every channel.

Nina Robinson Finance & Commercial Director, ucisa ucisa, a Charity, is a membership organisation for IT Directors and staff from universities and colleges internationally.

Nina

We don’t have borrowings yet we have had a difficult relationship with our bank. The banks are conscious of good governance but our experience is that they are ill equipped to implement it – they are driven by forms and their client-facing staff relevant to the process lack an understanding of the purpose of the information they are seeking. We are governed by a board of trustees and we can go up to 11 trustees but had 5 to start with. We wanted to add 2 more – it wasn’t an issue with Companies House or the Charities Commission, yet it was with the bank. The bank demanded the information that had already been lodged at Companies House, insisted that this was inserted into their paper form and would only accept the form signed by several trustees, located in different parts of the UK, with a short deadline to submission of the completed form.

Frank has more than 35 years experience in the Real Estate industry. Formerly part of the original multi-award winning team at Finders Keepers Ltd one of the leading property companies in the UK (acquired by Countrywide PLC).

As we didn’t comply within the deadline, the bank froze the corporate bank account which, in our opinion, is holding a business to ransom. The bank wouldn’t allow us access to operate our account holding OUR money. The relationship manager was ultimately helpful and lifted the ban on the trading company so we could pay our suppliers.

Joseph Garbett Director, Garbott Garbott are high end, technical web developers who deliver complex web solutions through to apps, widgets, tools and website platforms.

Subsequently, the Relationship Manager (RM) visited us with his Line Manager and apologised and refunded the bank charges for the past 18 months by way of apology.

Peter Fry Partner, leads Oxford Commercial Valuation Team, Carter Jonas RICS Registered Valuer providing valuation, lease advisory and strategic property advice throughout the Thames Valley and South East of England.

Joseph Our bankers were recommended to us by Wenn Townsend (WT). Everything was fine until we wanted to buy another business. Initially, the comment was ‘this is no problem’ and we were under the impression that we would sort this out in less than two months – it took a lot longer.

Frank Webster Director, FC Webster Consultancy

Richard Rosser CEO, B4 As Oxfordshire’s leading networking organisation, B4 has a growing network representing businesses of all sizes and from all sectors. B4 also manages Oxfordshire Voice, Business in Oxford and NXT. 36

We would get through one hoop and then another one would appear. It was very wearing but we eventually got there.

www.b4-business.com

B4 finance Tony

Would you expect those questions to have been asked in the first place?

Joseph If I had known the path we were taking from the outset then we could have prepared our solicitors, myself and the vendor much better. It did feel that there was an inner business of the bank which treats the RM’s that customers deal with as a completely separate business. We almost missed our deadline which was a key reason for acquiring the company – Black Friday. I like their banking service, but the loan process was protracted to say the least and unnecessarily so. Communication was poor. Tony

He had to go to the country he was setting up the reserve in for which he had funding to do a site visit. He was there for two weeks and had to pay for his two week hotel stay on the company credit card, which had the funds. It was declined because it was a black listed country. Not only that but the bank said they were no longer doing business with him which killed his business. Ashley

That is a treating customers fairly issue and that certainly doesn’t sound fair to me. The list of sanctioned countries changes so regularly.

Tony

Would you expect the bank to say we don’t want you as a client anymore?

Grant

We do have sections of our account opening forms which ask if overseas trade will take place and at what level to ensure there are no surprises.

Ashley

I am Director of Metro Bank (MB) here in Oxford and Grant is the Local Business Manager. I have been at Lloyds and Santander and Grant has been at Nat West. We can certainly tell you how MB are trying to buck the trend and do things differently.

Grant

We are very customer facing – a strong High Street presence. We are a very new bank – established in the summer of 2010 – and our founder, Vernon Hill, spotted that all of the established banks were moving away from the High Street and felt this was not the right move to make.

Tony

When you get new businesses joining you, do you ask why they are joining you?

Ashley

Yes there is a lot of discontent with the established banks and a decline in the quality of service so we are benefiting massively from this.

Tony

You aren’t here to answer why the banks have changed how they operate but there is a growing discontent with how banks treat their clients. Lloyds RM’s are in Glasgow now!

Ashley

There used to be a Lloyds team in Oxford which I was part of and I moved because I wanted to be working with customers, not at arms length. I wanted to be part of community banking, not in a call centre. We will take any business from a start up to large established businesses and we will assist them with all of their requirements.

A bad reflection on us for recommending the bank to you?

Joseph WT can do no wrong in my eyes – it’s not a bad reflection on WT. Tony

But it’s a reputational risk against us and could jeopardise our relationship with you.

Joseph Potentially, but as I say, it’s like we were dealing with two banks – our RM and then the inner sanctum which we couldn’t directly deal with and which was ringfenced by a wall of steel. Nina

Tony

Our troubles with our bank started when my name had to added to the list of signatories on the bank account – this took over 8 months to get through. We had to ask for the RM to change and that process took an excessively long time. Had we known that WT recommended the bank to us, we would have complained to WT as it reflects badly on you. Now we have a good relationship with the bank as we don’t need them to do anything. I have a client that has dealt with the same bank for a number of years. He spoke to me yesterday and said the bank wants the last three years of accounts – they have the last two. His RM had moved on and he now deals with someone in Glasgow which he is not happy about. Essentially, he was being asked to supply information they had and couldn’t, it seemed, be bothered to seek out. He was also very unhappy that he no longer had a face to face RM and I told him that this centralisation was part and parcel of how the banks are going.

We would get through “ one hoop and then another one would appear. It was very wearing but we eventually got there. Joseph Garbett, Director, Garbott

The stores are set up to service the customers – open until 8pm, Bank Holidays, weekends. It’s a very modern look at Metro but it’s an old fashioned banking approach and it works. We do everything you would expect a traditional High Street bank would do – or would have done. We don’t get involved in insurance and the peripheral services, it’s core banking services which the mainstream customers want. We have 63 stores now with local decision makers. We have gone from being a London bank to being a southern region bank and have plans to have nationwide coverage by 2022.

”

Nina

Perhaps we could offer confidence to the RMs through B4 Magazine to enter into discussions that we are now having.

Tony

Providing the RM’s aren’t all based in Glasgow!

Tony

Where does the decision for lending stop?

Nina

The banks need someone locally to provide a seamless service to their clients. A call centre is fine for some tasks but sometimes a business may need personal attention.

Ashley

We have credit decision makers in Reading and they will look at facilities up to £4 million – it’s a more joined up process than any other bank I have worked with. It’s significantly more timely decision making. If we can’t do the deal we won’t string out the response.

Tony

Another client of mine had a lot of EU funded projects and he went around the world setting up game reserves in Africa, South America, Asia etc…. He had one grant which proved particularly problematic. He got paid an advance to start the work, went to the bank to take out the money which the bank put straight on deposit and told him if he wanted it he would have to borrow it! So he had to do that at considerable expense.

Grant

We had someone walk in to the branch this morning and I got Ashley involved and we will send out a proposal this afternoon when we get back to the office and Reading will then get involved and the process will already be some way down the line.

Ashley

It’s a very difficult backdrop for everyone in the world at the moment and the bank has to consider all factors when loans are made

www.b4-business.com

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B4 finance

Since we opened in September we have opened over 1200 personal “accounts and 124 business accounts. Put that in context against the 12 business accounts that I was tasked with opening when I was at RBS. ” Grant Shergold, Local Business Manager, Metro Bank

which is normal in all banks. My experience is that in the 3 ½ years I have been at Metro, once we have credit on board and we have committed to doing something, it’s very rare this doesn’t go through. We do a lot of fact finding from the outset and it’s a generally more refreshing approach. Frank

Grant

We like to think we adopt a common sense approach to banking rather than put up barriers for the sake of it.

I bumped into Grant recently – I knew him when I was at Finders Keepers. I have moved to Metro and I am introducing a lot of people to Metro. I think there is a lot of synergy between banks and estate agents…our cycles are @5 years behind banks. So I want to work with organisations that are forward thinking and ahead of the curve and I feel that Metro, with their refreshing approach, are just that.

Richard This leads us nicely into fraud.

Many my clients are right for Metro and I am keen to see how you could help them.

Tony

I had lunch with a chap who is a lecturer in computer ethics and he doesn’t do anything on line as he doesn’t believe it’s safe. He uses cheque books and cash. He said that internet banking has never, nor will ever be safe.

Ashley

I’m not an IT expert but Metro have very robust systems. If a customer has been hacked, we as a bank will always make sure the client isn’t penalised. When it comes to social engineering where a customer is duped, then that isn’t the bank’s fault because there is no trail and we can’t expose ourselves to recompensing any clients this happens to. It is the client’s actions, not a bank system deficiency or hack, which has given rise to the payment.

Since we opened in September we have opened over 1200 personal accounts and 124 business accounts. Put that in context against the 12 business accounts that I was tasked with opening when I was at RBS.

Tony

Moving banks is such a pain and I think most of us would move tomorrow if we could.

Nina

We certainly would.

Frank

These guys make it very easy.

Ashley

We can make that switch very easy – we have an automatic 7 day switch account which is a lot simpler than a lot of people think it is.

Tony

The mainstream banks won’t advertise it’s this easy because they will have a net outflow.

Grant

I was at a business in Bicester yesterday that turns over £2 million and they will have an account with us in the next 7 days.

Ashley

We are reliant on customer deposits to fund what we lend so these deposits are key to our model and we pay reasonably well for customer deposits so I am confident we can offer all of you an excellent option. We do not borrow wholesale to fund our lending.

Tony

Store in Queen Street this afternoon and walk out with an account and a bank card today.

During the recession, banks were saying they could lend but didn’t. So why were they saying that when property is so strong here, even post recession the values bounced back relatively quickly?

Grant

Banks would only lend for larger property companies and despite the fact that Oxford’s property values are more robust than most places in the country, bank policy was across the board and Oxford was treated the same policy wise as the rest of the country.

Ashley

We are not over exposed in any particular sector – we are only 8 years old. We will attach a lot more significance to the person or people behind the business, irrespective of the sector. For example, we have lent to pubs, a sector which most banks will shy away from. We are happy to lend providing there is a good, strong character behind the business. We are a challenger bank, we are challenging the current system to make it easier for our customers to bank. We can get you set up with a bank account and a card within hours – you can walk into our

www.b4-business.com

Joseph If you look at Money Saving Expert and Halifax Vulnerability – we could open accounts in friend’s names to demonstrate the bank’s vulnerability. I am very good at breaking websites and can show how archaic the current rules and regulations are.

You can’t be vigilant enough when it comes to transferring funds these days. Nina

I am sceptical about e-mails. One of my colleagues was travelling in the USA and we exchanged e-mails about a payment that might have had to be made whilst he was away or when I was going to be away on his return. No amounts were mentioned Ten minutes after our e-mail exchange about this possible payment, there was a spoof e-mail mimicking my colleagues email address, requesting a payment for a significant amount of money. The speed of its arrival and the detail behind the email address proved it was fake.

Joseph E-mails are not secure by design. WhatsApp is 100% secure – there is no way to decode these messages. The way encryption works with these apps is, however, getting better. If you are a bank or provider of finance and you would like to meet members of the B4 community to explain how you operate or provide more information on a particular aspect of finance, please do contact B4.

 information@wenntownsend.co.uk  01865 559 900  www.wenntownsend.co.uk

B4 finance

To really understand what “risks a client faces, I have to see its processes and how it operates.

”

Same same but different

No two businesses are the same has become a bit of a strapline for Spencer Insurance Brokers over the past few years. It sits at the heart of all client relationships. There will be many common risks that appear in a trade, however, as an insurance broker, my role is to dig deep and look beyond these risks Written by: Jo Spencer Photography by: Chaz Snell, The Plastic Goldfish Company

Last November marked the 35th anniversary of the start of Spencer Insurance Brokers. Quite an achievement for a small independent broker. The business was set up in 1983 by my parents. A downstairs room in our home known as ‘the den’ became the office. I can remember during school holidays having to keep the volume on ABBA and Blondie down and not to fight too loudly with my brother when insurance inspectors called, or my Dad was on the phone. Fortunately, a few years later, they built an external office which meant I could enjoy Blondie at full volume back in the house. I now rent that office from them as it is a great base for the business. It also has quite good acoustics!! The office is just a base though, as I regularly visit most of my SME clients. It stands to reason that I am not going to find out about them whilst sat at my desk. To really understand what risks a client faces, I have to see its processes and how it operates. Talk to them about their key customers and suppliers and find out what makes them different to others in their industry. After all, no two businesses are the same and so they will have unique insurance needs which should be reflected in their insurance cover. I regularly find deficiencies in covers when reviewing policies for businesses. The biggest gaps in cover

www.b4-business.com

tend to be in key suppliers and customers or gross profit calculation where often there has been no discussion. The unique needs of the business have been ignored which results in inadequate cover. When it really matters – when a claim is made and the policy is called into play – greatly reduced claim payments, and in the event of a major disaster, the failure of the business can be the result. Insurance is there to protect your business but it is vital that the cover is right.

The unique needs of “ the business have been

business, I am looking forward to further developing my specialism of advising manufacturing and engineering businesses. They are sectors which fascinate me and which continue to need a face to face service in a technological world. While I plan to grow the business further, I won’t compromise on that service. Most of my clients are local businesses. This allows me to spend time with them and really get to know and understand how they operate. Crucially, it also means that I am on hand in the event of a claim. From their perspective, they have continuity – they always get me - and my superpowers! (Check out my website blog to find out what they are.)

ignored which results in inadequate cover.

”

In March, I am running a Masterclass for B4 on ways to make sure you have the correct insurance cover and future proof your business. I will be helped by Bill and Ben who as we know are identical. I will use them to demonstrate that it is not until you look much closer that you may find differences. Don’t worry, I won’t be dissecting them!

SPENCER INSURANCE BROKERS  jo@spencerinsurance.co.uk  01235 868 535  www.spencerinsurance.co.uk

As I enter my 4th year of ‘flying solo’ with the

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DEVELOPING THE CLIENT EXPERIENCE – IS KEY TO SUCCESS Award winning B4 member accountancy firm Seymour Taylor have just completed their most successful business year ever. B4 asked them the secret to their success Written by: Richard Rosser, B4 Magazine

OUR VALUES: EXPERTISE SUPPORT UNDERSTANDING Simon Turner, Managing Director of Seymour Taylor told B4 “Seymour Taylor has always invested heavily in our people and since the beginning this has been a key part of our overall success but more recently we have developed other key areas of the business which are really helping to drive us forward”.

Developing our Values At the end of 2017 Seymour Taylor started a major project looking at their company values. A key part of this was surveying a cross section of clients, alongside their own team at Seymour Taylor to look at what Values would be right for the business. Following all the client feedback, and some internal workshops with their team, they agreed on the Values of Expertise, Support and Understanding, which were felt to be at the core of their business and everything they do for their clients, business contacts and own internal team. As Seymour Taylor continue to grow as a company it has become increasingly important to define their values.

Why are Values important? Company values help a business to shape their vision for the future; - they will be at the root of a company’s identity; and give a business like Seymour Taylor an internal and external advantage in the marketplace. They help a business in many ways by determining the priorities, decision making, clarifying what Seymour Taylor are about as a business, recruiting new team members and in the work they develop and do for their clients. The development of the Values for the firm has really given them a clear structure for all their working practices. www.b4-business.com

Delivering an Excellent Client Experience Another key focus for the firm is the ongoing development of their Client Experience. Seymour Taylor pride themselves on their long term relationships with clients and work hard to ensure they provide added value to the work they do. In 2018 the firm ran a number of seminars for their clients, on areas such as ‘Making Tax Digital’,

Seymour Taylor have “always believed in the

“As a team in meetings we always talk first about our client experiences and share feedback to build on the excellent client experience we hope to provide”. Communicating the development of our client experience and values to our team has given us so much insight to our business as a whole. We believe passionately that an ‘excellent client experience’ is more than just meeting our clients’ needs and expectations; it’s delivering that unexpected extra part of the service that delights clients and that is what we strive to deliver at Seymour Taylor”. Seymour Taylor offer a wide range of services .To find out how they could help you personally or your business visit www.stca.co.uk

importance of delivering a great client service and our new initiatives are helping us to develop the client experience to the next level

”

Simon Turner, Managing Director of Seymour Taylor

‘Protecting your Family’s wealth’ and Brexit. The firm always asks clients for feedback on the service they are providing so they can continually build on the touchpoints for clients. Simon told us “Seymour Taylor have always believed in the importance of delivering a great client service and our new initiatives are helping us to develop the client experience to the next level”. “Our focus is that our clients should be ‘at the heart of everything we do’”.

 info@stca.co.uk  01494 552 100  www.stca.co.uk

ARE YOU STILL THE BEST OWNER OF YOUR BUSINESS ASSETS? At the time of writing Brexit looms large on the horizon, with businesses working to protect themselves from the potential negative effects should there be a “no deal” exit. As a (slight) silver lining, it occurred to us that should the worse-case scenario prevail and asset values fall, this may be an opportunity for gifting business assets at a time when values are low (with attendant lower inheritance tax and capital gains tax implications). Given the pace of recent developments, by the time you read this, “no deal” may no longer be an issue, but death and taxes remain life’s two certainties, so consideration of gifting will always be in point. Written by: Grace Quinn & Lisa Mark-Bell Portrait photography by: Getty Images

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For those that have built up successful businesses over the course of their working lives, there comes a stage where they are forced to confront what will happen when they are no longer around to manage the business. Ideally, there will be some long term succession planning in place to protect the business and mitigate any tax charges associated with passing on the business. This succession planning may include gifting during the lifetime of the business owner or could include planning under the terms of the business owner’s Will. The starting point for gifting is that as long as the donor retains no benefit in the asset gifted, after 7 years the value of the assets concerned will not be taxed on the donor’s death (a potential saving of 40%) - for business owners however, there

in certain circumstances, and therefore inheritance tax should always be a factor in mind when deciding business structures. When it comes to lifetime gifts, it must be borne in mind that the relief can be clawed back in certain circumstances – particularly if the recipient no longer owns qualifying business assets upon the death of the original owner (amongst other criteria). In relation to the identity of the recipient of any gift, the business owner may wish to consider how a change in ownership of the business asset may impact upon the control of the business and future decision making. By putting assets in the name of another family member, this can risk the assets being lost as a result of divorce, bankruptcy or an unexpected early death. There are also issues surrounding loss of control if the business owner is the sole or controlling shareholder.

generations can be benefited economically without those managing the business losing control. When considering gifting, the other main tax which must be considered is capital gains tax (‘CGT’). As well as the usual CGT considerations which apply when making a gift (being that a gift will be a disposal of the asset concerned, and that the “free uplift” wiping out lifetime gifts on death will be lost), business owners also need to consider the impact of the gift on any entrepreneur’s relief which may otherwise be available on a future sale. Lifetime planning takes time and considerable thought to implement and it can greatly benefit families who hold business assets. Gifting is not however always possible nor is it always advisable. Whatever a business owner may decide to do in his lifetime, making a Will should be the first

Lifetime planning takes time “and considerable thought to

implement and it can greatly benefit families who hold business assets. Gifting is not however always possible nor is it always advisable Grace Quinn - Freeths Solicitors

are more considerations to take into account in deciding when and whether to gift than would usually be the case. One important tax break for business owners is ‘business property relief’ (‘BPR’) – an inheritance tax (‘IHT’) relief. This can apply to gifts made during lifetime and gifts made under the terms of an individual’s Will on death. The relief is available at a rate of either 100% or 50% and specific criteria apply depending on the nature of the asset, the length of ownership of the asset, and how the asset is owned and used within business. The latter can be a particular problem if a property used by business is owned separately to the business itself, as this can limit relief to 50%

www.b4-business.com

”

One option to consider for gifts both during lifetime and on death is the use of a trust structure to protect the business assets from the claims of third parties and allow the trustees to retain ultimate control of the assets. During lifetime, the maximum chargeable value an individual can place in trust without incurring an immediate lifetime inheritance tax charge is £325,000, so if lifetime trusts are to be used as part of a long term wealth management strategy, assets of significant value need to be transferred while they qualify for relief (not after sale). A different option to help with control is to diversify share classes (with different classes of shares having different rights etc) in order that younger

priority, allowing a tax efficient structure to be set up for the future and ensuring that business assets end up in the ‘right’ hands.

 welcome@freeths.co.uk  01865 781 000  www.freeths.co.uk

Hope for the best, plan for the worst No self-respecting theatre producer would put on a West End show without an understudy, and we’re pretty sure you wouldn’t board a 747 without a co-pilot in the cockpit… so why would you even consider leaving your business exposed to risk with no ‘backup plan’? Written by: Nicola Poole

Photography by: Jacqueline Cross

The fact is that successful businesses plan for the future: both the expected and the unexpected. A crucial part of that planning is to safeguard your business, both during your lifetime and on your death. Hedges Law Director Carl Selby is well known in our business community for his down to earth, hands-on expertise in all matters business. Our clients will know how closely he works with our property, employment and dispute resolution teams to provide holistic advice to businesses across a broad range of business challenges. His team has now been strengthened by the exciting arrival of senior private client lawyer Tom McInerney whose particular interest and expertise is helping businesses, and those who own and run them, to protect and futureproof themselves by way of business wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs).

Tom’s advice to business-owners is clear “It is critical to think about protecting not only you and your family by having an up-to-date will and LPA, but to focus on how your business can best be safeguarded. Can you say, right here and now, that in the event of your death or, just as signficantly, your losing mental capacity, you have in place the right documents to: • preserve the value of your business • ensure its assets (both tangible and digital) are passed on in a way that works for the business • guarantee that your business continues to operate efficiently • have appropriate insurance in place • be confident its goodwill will be maintained; and • know that you’ve made good decisions for inheritance planning purposes.

Whilst business owners are often aware of the need for dealing with their business assets in their will, what many will not have on their radar at all is the need for a ‘business LPA’. So whilst their business assets may be well protected in the event of their death, the same is not the case if they became unable to manage their business due to incapacity. An immediate reaction might well be: “Well, that’s not going to happen to me, I’m young, fit and healthy!”

It’s critical to think about protecting “not only yourself and your family by

having an up-to-date will and LPA, but to focus on how your business can best be safeguarded.

”

Tom McInerney - Hedges Law

And all being well, it won’t. But let’s look at the following rather terrifying figures from Headway the UK Brain injury charity 1. The number of people admitted to the hospital in the UK with an acquired brain injury (ABI) related diagnosis has increased by 10% since 2005 2. There were almost 350,000 UK admissions to hospital with ABI in 2016-7 3. That is 531 admissions per 100,000 of the population... one every 90 seconds 4. Men are 1.5 times more likely than women to be admitted for head injury The latest Stroke Association figures, recently published, don’t make for pretty reading either.

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B4 legal

Hedges Law Director Carl Selby

1. There are more than 100,000 strokes in the UK each year: one stroke every five minutes 2. Around 1 in 6 men and 1 in 5 women will have a stroke in their life 3. The rate of first time strokes in people aged 45 and over is expected to increase by 59% in the next 20 years (between now and 2035) 4. Around one in four strokes happen to people of working age 5. In 1990 only a quarter of all strokes occurred in people aged 20-64 but by 2010, a third of all strokes happened to people in that age group If incapacity strikes, having a Business LPA in place means that your attorney can step into your shoes and carry out your pre-planned wishes. Without one, the only option is for an application to be made to the Court of Protection which would appoint a Deputy on your behalf. This process can take more than six months, leaving your business “on hold” or even unable to function. Its an expensive process, and it means that the Court would retain an ongoing role in your business affairs. A typical set up for a modern successful business may be one individual, or a very small group, with different skills – say, one in finance, one technical, another is business development or sales - who have created a flourishing business that relies on the skills of each and all of them. The death of one

www.b4-business.com

Hedges Law Private Client Lawyer Tom McInerney

of those individuals, or a loss of mental capacity, is likely to impact hugely on the business as well as create conflicts of interest and stresses. The needs of the business as a whole may not be the same

“

Of course it’s natural for everyone to want to protect their own position, but when the interests of the parties are pretty much aligned, their care for the future of the business creates reciprocity. Carl Selby - Hedges Law

”

Carl says “The clearer and well understood these things are by all, the better. One unexpected bonus for the business may be that having these hard but healthy conversations to agree the way forward before problems have arisen can really help to promote better relationships within the business. Of course its natural for everyone to want to protect their own position, but when the interests of the parties are pretty much aligned, their care for the future of the business creates reciprocity.“ For a chat about how to take steps to safeguard your business, do get in touch with Carl or Tom on hello@ hedgeslaw.co.uk or call 01865 594265.

as the interests of the people who will benefit from the shareholding on a death, or who may be taking care of the incapable person. These strains could be hugely damaging or even precipitate a crisis. Carl and Tom agree that the important thing is to look at the needs of the business from all angles. An LPA whilst essential, may also need to be accompanied by a review of the corporate structure, perhaps by way of some carefully drafted Articles of Association that provide additional safeguards. Now is a great time for a business continuity health-check too.

   

hello@hedgeslaw.co.uk 01865 594 265 www.hedgeslaw.co.uk @hedgeslaw

grow your business At Alberon we’re all about helping you do what you do even better. We work with you to design and deliver a website or bespoke software that makes your organisation more effective. Our technology is designed to work for you, and we’ll be on hand to ensure you continue to get the best results. For more than 10 years, we’ve been making businesses, schools and charities in Oxfordshire more efficient and profitable. We can do the same for you. Call 01865 794009 or email grow@alberon.co.uk

the software and web solution specialists

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B4 legal

A place where “people can share

their mental health concerns and be met with support and understanding

”

#THISPLACEMINDS Lewis Silkin has launched its new campaign for 2019 - #ThisPlaceMinds, focusing on building workplace cultures that enhance mental wellbeing. Mental health has become a prominent issue to tackle within the workplace. In many lines of work, the employment landscape and ways of working has evolved from the more traditional, office based, fixed hours work life to a more flexible approach. While there are many positives to this, we are now more available and accessible than ever before with the ability to access emails or work remotely. The result is that there can be an adverse impact on workers’ wellbeing. There are many possible causes of mental health problems, from work place stress to those beyond an employer’s control; however with mental healthrelated costs of up to £42 billion each year caused by lost production, absence and recruitment costs, there are good reasons for employers to take the practical steps available to promote good mental health and support employees in the workplace. Positive mental health can also help workers to adapt to changes in the workplace, as well as strengthening relationships between colleagues and with customers. There is also evidence that employees with mental health issues who are supported by their employer are more likely to be able both to stay in work and return to work after a period of absence - and this in turn reduces longterm absence. Indeed, in one survey undertaken by Unum, 86% of the participants believed that their

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job, and being at work, was important to protecting and maintaining their mental health.

We are recognised by clients and industry alike as being distinct:

Promoting an open and positive workplace environment with regard to mental health can help employees to feel supported and, in turn, value their employer.

• for our deep understanding, insight and advice to creative, innovative and brand-focused businesses • for our market-leading international and specialist practice in employment, immigration and reward • and for delivering pragmatic, commercial advice in a refreshingly human way

At Lewis Silkin, we hope to engage with businesses to help foster workplaces that enhance mental wellbeing and build a culture where people can talk openly about their mental wellbeing, safe in the knowledge that they will be met with support and understanding. As well as sharing a repository of resources and guides, we will be hosting a series of focussed roundtable events to share ideas and best practice, and explore the issues that are specific to particular sectors to take the knowledge gained back to their own organisations.

Our lawyers have expertise across six core sectors: Advertising & Marketing, Media & Entertainment, Retail, Fashion Hospitality & Leisure, Technology, Sports Business, and Professional Services. From trademarks to tax, disputes to data protection, and contracts to corporate deals, property to employment, our extensive range of legal practice areas and array of non-legal business service offerings, we deliver practical advice and real commercial insight in a refreshing and straight forward manner.

Whether you would like ideas, resources, a discussion, support implementing a mental health & wellbeing programme or are interested in our upcoming roundtable events, get in touch with the team at Lewis Silkin in Oxford.

About Lewis Silkin Lewis Silkin is a commercial law firm with offices in London, Oxford, Cardiff, Dublin and Hong Kong.

 info@lewissilkin.com  +44 (0) 20 7074 8000  www.lewissilkin.com

The long and winding road If the GDPR was supposed to clarify companies’ data privacy compliance obligations, the recent fine levied by the CNIL against Google underscores how far we still have to go – writes Will Richmond-Coggan, director specialising in data privacy issues at Freeths LLP Written by: William Richmond-Coggan, Director, Dispute Resolution, Freeths LLP

As everyone is (surely) now aware, new data protection legislation came into force across Europe on 25 May 2018. Attracting somewhat less attention on the same date (amidst, no doubt, the spontaneous street parties and celebrations) complaints were filed by two well-known privacy rights campaign groups, NOYB (an Austrian group whose director Max Schrems is well known in data protection litigation circles) and the French group LQDN. They sought to challenge Google’s compliance with the new legislation, specifically in connection with their methodology for obtaining user consents around advertising. Under GDPR (and the associated domestic legislation) data controllers will breach the legislation if they process personal data without a valid lawful basis for doing so. There are a range of these, but perhaps the most well-known is processing with the consent of the data subject. Such consent, post-GDPR, must be informed (i.e. the data subjects must know what they are agreeing to) and it must be clear, specific and unequivocal. The French data protection authority (CNIL) concluded that Google’s procedures for obtaining consent to share personal data with advertisers were deficient. The consent that was obtained was held not to be sufficiently clear and unequivocal, and Google was held not to have adequately informed data subjects about what they were being asked to consent to. Now, Google will have taken plenty of advice in formulating their privacy notices and I would not be surprised if they will have more to say about these conclusions. But I want to focus on the latter point, which has troubling implications for other businesses that do not have the resources and appetite for litigation that Google has. Article 12(1) of the GDPR spells out that the information which data controllers must provide to data subjects has to be provided in a form which is “concise, transparent, intelligible and easily accessible”. Guidance from the UK’s data authority (the ICO) helpfully suggests that there are a range of techniques by which this may be achieved.

These include a “layered approach” where short privacy notices containing significant privacy information link to progressively more and more in depth explanations of the privacy position. They also suggest the use of dashboards, where privacy options and implications are graphically represented, or “just-in-time” notices informing data subjects of relevant data protection information, at the point at which their data is being collected.

“

The French data protection authority (CNIL) concluded that Google’s procedures for obtaining consent to share personal data with advertisers were deficient. The consent that was obtained was held not to be sufficiently clear and unequivocal, and Google was held not to have adequately informed data subjects about what they were being asked to consent to.

”

What makes the CNIL’s conclusion on this complaint so troubling, is that it involves criticism of precisely the approach recommended by the ICO. Thus, the CNIL concluded that clear and informed consent could not have been given because “essential information” had been “disseminated across several documents… The relevant information is accessible after several steps only, implying sometimes up to five or six actions”. The result of this, said the French authority, was that data subjects were “not able to fully understand the extent of the processing operations carried out by Google.”

www.b4-business.com

B4 legal

Where does that “ leave other businesses, looking to achieve a functional balance between adequately informing their customers on the one hand, and not making their interactions with those customers so unwieldy that they lose their custom?

”

Where does that leave other businesses, looking to achieve a functional balance between adequately informing their customers on the one hand, and not making their interactions with those customers so unwieldy that they lose their custom? The layered approach to provision of relevant information to data subjects has a number of benefits. It ensures that detail is there for those who want it, but it also keeps the primary interaction with customers streamlined and manageable. But for as long as this CNIL decision stands, businesses will have to proceed with increased caution before adopting this straightforward and common-sense solution. This is one of the very first decisions on an aspect of data protection legislation that has been updated by the GDPR and there is the prospect of many more such decisions in the weeks and months ahead. For anyone who thought that last May marked the end of the journey towards GDPR compliance, it is clear that we still have a long road ahead of us.

 william.richmond-coggan@freeths.co.uk  01865 781 004  www.freeths.co.uk

www.b4-business.com

PUTTING YOUR BUSINESS ON THE MAP Blake Morgan has a formidable Real Estate team who advise on a wide range of real estate projects including commercial and residential development, property investment and asset management, corporate occupier work and rural and agriculture. Our team has extensive experience of advising on the acquisition, management, leasing and sale of high value commercial properties, from single properties to large portfolios. We work closely with our Finance and Corporate teams who advise on the property aspects of corporate, property finance and insolvency transactions to provide high quality legal advice on all real estate matters.

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O X F O R D S H I R E

Become part of Oxfordshireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Future Success A unique collaboration between the public and private sectors to provide solutions to the key challenges facing Oxfordshire businesses Oxfordshire Voice has the potential to speak for more than 30,000 Oxfordshire businesses

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OV News It’s been a busy start to the year for Oxfordshire Voice as our new public / private collaboration gathers momentum. Following two trial forums in late 2018, the partnership was officially recognised in January (see below) with the first forum of 2019 following shortly after. In total there will be twelve forums in 2019 with the outcomes of each presented in a Blue Paper which will be published for public consumption. With now over 50 confirmed partners of Oxfordshire Voice, our target of 100 partners by June is in sight. Contact OV to find out more about joining.

Oxfordshire business gets a new voice …and lots to shout about Blavatnik School of Government Launch, 17th January, 2019 The Oxfordshire Voice organisation was officially launched at a special event hosted by the Blavatnik School of Government, in front of representatives from more than 100 local businesses. Karthik Ramanna, Professor of Business and Public Policy & Director of the MPP at the Blavatnik welcomed partners and their guests and gave a fascinating insight into the work of the school, proving it was a fitting host for the launch of this unique partnership. Read more at www.oxvoice.co.uk/ov-news

Business Leaders and Town Planners Launch Initiative to Tell More Home Truths about Housing Blenheim Palace, 31st January, 2019 Crisis? What Crisis? When it comes to housing Oxfordshire’s workforce that’s the new message from a cross-section of the county’s planning and business community. They say there are many serious issues facing the region and the shortfall in the number of affordable homes for its workforce is the most pressing. But, they also say a negative perception of the housing situation is discouraging thousands of much-needed employees from coming to live and work in Oxfordshire. Read more at www.oxvoice.co.uk/ov-news

A post-brexit economy: Oxfordshire businesses remain ‘unclear’ on what eu withdrawal will bring A joint-OxLEP and ‘Oxfordshire Voice’ survey reveals Brexit uncertainty across many of the county’s businesses. Just weeks ahead of the UK’s scheduled European Union withdrawal, members of one of Oxfordshire’s best-known business networking groups appear to be unclear as to what Brexit might mean to them – that’s according to a new survey. The survey – jointly-led by the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (OxLEP) and B4’s ‘Oxfordshire Voice’ – saw members of B4 respond to a series of Brexitrelated statements. Read more at www.oxvoice.co.uk/ov-news

SCAN TO VIEW THE DOCUMENTARY

The Housing Crisis in Oxfordshire a documentary by Rob Scotcher Oxfordshire’s housing situation is the single biggest issue that the county faces. Housing is interwoven in the county, a thread that once pulled unravels other issues like infrastructure, the environment, community, funding and more. In despair of being able to buy or rent my own place, to escape my parent’s house, I decided to search for answers. Years of PMQ’s, Question Time and countless articles lead me to believe lots was promised, little was delivered…. especially in Oxfordshire. I took it upon myself to create a documentary, giving me purpose and reason to access those with power. Asking them directly why affordable housing has been stagnant in the county for years. Obviously, no one wants a random guy with a camera to interrogate them, so turning to Richard to support the project gave me the time, resources and clout of B4 and Oxfordshire Voice to move this project on at a much faster pace. I am delighted with the results…our videos rarely attract more than two to three hundred views. My documentary has so far attracted well over one thousand views in just five days, way beyond my expectations and has justified the hours that I have invested in it. I’m now planning for the second documentary and already have some great ideas. Follow B4 and Oxfordshire Voice to see more.

OV Forum Dates St Catherine’s College

Saïd Business School

21 February 2019 - 4pm - 7pm

25 July 2019 - 4pm - 7pm

Weston Library

Jurys Inn

21 March 2019 - 4pm - 7pm

22 August - 4pm - 7pm

Oxford Brookes University

Howbery Park

25 April 2019 - 4pm - 7pm

17 September - 4pm - 7pm

Pembroke College

Venue TBC

23 May 2019 - 4pm - 7pm

24 October - 4pm - 7pm

Freeths Solicitors Offices

Ashmolean Museum

27 June 2019 - 4pm - 7pm

21 November - 4pm - 7pm

See www.oxvoice.co.uk for more OV News 59

Â Thank you to our Founding Partners

xLEP

driving economic growth

Bob Price

Honorary Alderman of Oxford City Council

connecting

excellence

TEAM FACILITATION & EXECUTIVE COACHING

O X F O R D S H I R E

for more information see www.oxvoice.co.uk

B4 fitness

“ My body feels

amazing today. No soreness anywhere. You’re a genius!

”

OPTIMUM BODY Are you accepting pain as a normal part of your life? Is your physical and mental health being neglected for the sake of your business? Do you struggle to work efficiently or having to take time off due to pain? When you take time out, are you finding you can’t do physical things that you were once able to do easily? You are not alone! Written by: Adele Fowler, MSMA Photography by: Tom Killick

With tech heavy busy lives and our sedentary lifestyles, we unfortunately take our health for granted. Pain is often accepted as growing old and seeking treatment is never even considered! We spend large parts of our days sat a desk hunched over a screen, in meetings or driving and then wonder why we are stressed, suffering with headaches or have aches and pains. The truth is your body just is not designed for sitting, it was designed to MOVE! At Optimum Body, I am a Soft Tissue Specialist providing effective sports and deep tissue massage to help my clients take time out to reconnect and get a better understanding of their body. I help them to stop accepting pain as normal part of their daily life, enabling their body to move freely whilst giving them clarity to be able to perform at work (or on the golf course!) without taking time off sick or depending on painkillers. In my five star clinic I treat a mix of clients from Premiership footballers to opera singers, dancers to accountants, musicians to doctors. You do not have to be sporty to benefit from sports or deep tissue massage. It is medically proven (University of Roehampton study was recently shown on BBC www.b4-business.com

Trust me I’m a Doctor) that massage helps a wide range people with many different conditions. Meet my client John. He’s in his early 40s, a successful solicitor who also likes taking walks in the countryside, playing tennis and spending quality time with his young family. We originally met when he wasn’t in a great place. He was struggling with severe shoulder pain which was stopping him from being able to function at work, he was not sleeping and desperate to get some relief he sought advice from his GP. John’s GP told him to rest his shoulder and prescribed him a course of codeine. The truth about codeine that it is not going to get to the root of the problem, but it was going to take John away from the pain instead! He contacted me and told me he was still struggling to sleep, his shoulder was still painful but he felt he couldn’t think clearly whilst on these painkillers and his wife was keen for him to seek some massage therapy. After a short course of deep tissue massage, kinesiology taping and some prescribed stretches, John’s shoulder pain was significantly reduced and he stopped taking the painkillers. He had no more shoulder pain and he was able to fully emerse himself back to work, on the tennis court and spend quality time with his family. Now John see’s me

every few weeks for a maintenance massage as he just can’t go back to struggling with pain and being wiped out with codeine! “My body feels amazing today, you’re a genius!” My message to you is to listen to your body. If you struggle with pain or to do activities that you once did, or if your business is wasting money on staff sick days, I welcome you to get in touch to see how I can help you. Sports and deep tissue massage professionally applied is not a brutal treatment leaving you covered in bruises – that is the sign of a bad massage!

optimum body  hello@obsportsmassage.com  0770 348 4063  www.obsportsmassage.com

FOXCOMBE Abingdon Business Park, OX14 1DY TO LET 11,798 sq ft to 25,735 sq ft Brand new high quality hi-tech industrial units providing flexible space with an A rated EPC located adjacent to the A34.

C TAURUS BUSINESS PARK Horspath Trading Estate, Oxford, OX4 2TZ TO LET 8,092 sq ft A prominent industrial/trade counter unit with storage, offices, separate loading area for goods vehicles and customer car parking. On popular trading estate.

18 THAME PARK BUSINESS CENTRE Wenman Road, Thame, OX9 3XA TO LET 19,490 sq ft An industrial/warehouse unit providing good open plan accommodation with two storey offices and 41 car parking spaces. To be refurbished.

WINDRUSH COURT Abingdon Business Park, OX14 1SY TO LET 2,310 to 16,625 sq ft Self contained office suites arranged around a central courtyard providing high quality offices with existing fit out with raised access floors and suspended ceilings.

unrivalled local and regional expertise Richard Venables rvenables@vslandp.com Tom Barton tbarton@vslandp.com Duncan May dmay@vslandp.com

news Science & technology sector continues to dominate Oxfordshire commercial property market A34 Corridor Industrial Supply Take Up

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The VSL & Partners Oxfordshire commercial property report 2018 shows that once again, market activity has been dominated by the ‘science and technology’ sector.

of this sector but also how science can adapt to all types of property. Industrial units often provide a more flexible and cost-effective solution allowing for an easier fit out.

There is universal agreement amongst the property profession that 2018 was a quieter year and this is born out of lower take up figures, however the previous year had been the strongest year in a decade and rents are still climbing.

“Many of the technology spin out company’s desire to stay in the centre of Oxford for access to University departments and employees. We are now finding that they are prepared to look further afield to the ring road and beyond. Ultimately this is dictated by the fact that there simply isn’t the stock available in the centre of Oxford and any new schemes are still some years away.”

Both office and industrial take up declined by 35% which is just below the five-year average. Supply of available buildings in Oxfordshire has dropped marginally with a reasonable level of new build stock entering the market to balance the figures. Richard Venables, director at VSL explains: “The most striking change is the amount of space taken up by the science and technology sector in the industrial sector which has increased from 23% in 2017 (266,000 sq ft) to 65% in 2018 (486,000 sq ft). In the office sector this has remained steady at around 65%. “These figures continue to show the importance

The co-working revolution has gathered momentum in many cities but Oxford has not picked up on this trend yet. There are examples such as The Foundry, but this is reserved for University students. WeWork or similar has yet to find suitable premises in Oxford although there is still a good supply of traditional serviced offices. Once again it is lack of central Oxford stock that limits growth in the co-working sector. Looking forward to 2019, we think that the hi tech momentum will keep going. A number of deals

Take Up (sq ft)

were put in solicitors hands in December indicating a positive start to the year and we predict take up will exceed 2018 with rents continuing to rise. The VSL annual report provides an analysis of the office and industrial market focusing on central Oxford and the A34 ‘Innovation Knowledge Corridor’ for offices from 3,000 sq ft and above and industrial from 5,000 sq ft and above. VSL has continued its dominance of the Oxford commercial transaction market, transacting 12 office deals equating to 38% of total take up and 19 industrial deals equating to 42% of the total market take up. In 2018 VSL was named for the ninth year running as Oxfordshire’s most active agent and dealmaker of the year by Estates Gazette Interactive (EGi) and this year VSL won the inaugural CoStar Oxfordshire top performer award. For further information or to speak to one of the VSL experts, please call 01865 848488 or visit www.vslandp.com

Deals...

5 Chancerygate Langford Locks Kidlington, 2,140 sq ft LETTING

www.b4-business.com

Second Floor Midland House, Oxford, 2,646 sq ft LETTING

Ferry Hinksey Road Osney Mead, Oxford, 10,318 sq ft SALE

Designed to Meet It’s been five years since we last met Jill Treloggen of JT Interiors and in that time the company has tripled in size, they have developed a strong portfolio of commercial clients and are now working with some of Oxfordshire’s leading institutions. Last year Jill made, arguably, her shrewdest move by appointing property guru Frank Webster as her non exec director. Both Jill and Frank met with B4’s Richard Rosser to explain how this rapport was built on mutual respect and admiration and why engaging JT Interiors could be YOUR shrewdest property move ever. Written by: Richard Rosser Photography by: Rob Scotcher

JT Interiors has certainly made great strides in the past ten years and Jill is keen to showcase the diversity and expertise which now exists within her experienced team, aside from the undoubted benefits of the wealth of experience brought by Frank. Jill explains, “We’ve evolved considerably in the past decade, but it has been a quiet revolution as we have been working hard behind the scenes to build the company we have today. We have developed from a small team of 3 working on residential focussed projects, to 8 of us working on projects across many business sectors and on a much larger scale. In fact our business is now 50:50 residential and commercial work. We completed a 52 bedroom refurbishment for an Oxford College last summer. We designed and managed the whole project to include refurbishing all the en-suites, refitting kitchens, decoration and of course all the soft furnishings. It is easy to hear the word ‘Interior designer’ and assume we just stick to the carpets and curtains! With our trusted team of contractors we have the capability to take a project through from design to completion, which is so important to our clients as it gives them a one stop shop, and ensures the integrity of the design is upheld, as we are managing the whole process.”

Jill adds that, amongst other projects, JT Interiors have designed and managed the transformation of many college bars, common rooms, offices and hospitality venues. This is of course in addition to their extensive work in the residential market. Working with key local developers in providing show homes, letting agencies in refurbishing and

We add the most “value for clients,

if we are involved early in a project, so we can ensure they start with the end in mind

”

Jill Treloggen

furnishing properties to let, and of course working with private clients on their home projects. Jill adds “with the breadth and depth of projects and sectors we are now working in, it seemed right to enhance our understanding of the local market and add another layer of professional advice to our clients. With Frank joining as Non Executive director, the

company will have more of a voice in the property sector locally and significantly more gravitas, given the experience and respect Frank has amassed over a career of more than 40 years.” Jill certainly sees her latest appointment as the catalyst for further change in the company. “The local property industry now knows we’re not just about fabric books and cushions. We have a very commercially focused job to do for our customers – we need to understand the market, understand our clients needs, and understand that our work needs to deliver a return on their investment (ROI). Having Frank is a statement of intent that we are enhancing our offering to be more relevant and all encompassing.” Jill describes some of their residential work and the benefits that bringing in a team of designers can bring. “We are currently working with a client who’s building a complex of apartment in Oxfordshire. We have been retained to help specify the interiors, so that the finished result will be highly marketable, in what is a very competitive market at the moment. Our interest doesn’t just start with the interiors though, we are helping select front doors and external lighting that will be in keeping with the architectural design. We then look at the internal fittings – not just what they look like but also how they are used and the costs. For example, removing coving as it is not in keeping with the design, reducing the tiled area in www.b4-business.com

B4 property

Key benefits of using JT Interiors • Over 70 years of combined experience in the property market • Designs delivered with a commercial focus. • Experienced in designing across many business sectors • Specialist services including lighting design, 3D visualisations and project management • Friendly and approachable team of designers

Testimonials

bathrooms, changing the metal sockets to more appropriate alternatives will deliver a saving of over £50,000 to our client. That can go straight on the bottom line or be used in part to upgrade other ‘marketable features’ such as worktops and taps.” This all sounds hugely beneficial to their clients, but Jill goes on to add how they can further add value. “We are always interested in our clients overall strategy for a property, so adding some local property expertise is always on offer, in this case Frank can advise the developer on the type of tenant they are likely to attract and help them to tailor their development so it’s relevant and marketable to the right people. Again this helps ensure they get the best result from the beginning – starting with the end in mind!”

to suit young millenials with everything provided including up market games and laundry rooms. It’s important to know what trends are developing and to be ahead of the curve.”

Jill also explains how Frank helps JT Interiors keep its finger on the pulse of developments in the property sector. “Frank has certainly opened our eyes to what new developments are coming in the way we live, and understanding more about what is happening here in Oxfordshire – we are often so busy working on our projects that we aren’t as aware as we should be of what is happening in our sector. One of the first things Frank did was present to us on what is happening in the Build to Rent’market where there are former commercial buildings now converted in to shared living space

Although prospective clients can feel engaging the services of an interior designer is something of a luxury, Jill emphasises the value she and her team can add and, working with state of the art 3D visualisation software, clients are reassured from the outset that what is being proposed will be delivered within budget and carefully managed to avoid overruns and deliver the result that was first envisaged, adds Jill.

www.b4-business.com

Frank explains how impressed he was with the team at JT Interiors and the client base they had developed. “The team are very experienced with merging what the client wants with their experience as to what works best and it’s clear that the clients are very happy with the results. JT Interiors’ reputation has soared, and this is attracting an even wider range of high quality clients who want great service and quality, elements which are developed over a period of time and which the JT interiors team have in abundance.”

“A lot of interior designers get so involved in what a project is going to look like, that the costs spiral

“We used JT interiors to refurbish two very different areas - an Edwardian style drawing room and a modern bar. In both cases Sophie and Jill gave us lots of advice and despite our rather vague brief in both cases came up with exactly the sort of look and feel that we had in mind. They were generous with their time and unfailingly patient with our decision making process. Their attention to detail is superb and they have the back up of some excellent furnishing providers. Overall I would not hesitate to use them again.” Somerville College “JTI’s planning and delivery were consistently and rightly mindful of both the collegiate environment and the associated challenges of building availability; from the outset JTI worked closely with my team to ensure they achieved delivery of the project brief within both time and cost. Throughout the project I had clear and evidenced confidence in JTI to plan and deliver, which was underpinned by excellent communications and regular customer engagement. In sum, JTI planned and delivered to time and cost, achieved high standards and clearly have justified confidence and ability in equal measure to plan and deliver works in a challenging collegiate environment” Bursar, Worcester College “All the flats look stunning, you have done a great job in creating a clean and contemporary look. I am also very impressed with the design and quality of the furniture. The installation has gone as promised, and the team worked together very smoothly. I feel sure our Board will be thrilled with the end result” Private landlord 65

B4 property

out of control. We think ‘aesthetics’ with a ‘business head’. Time was when educational establishments wouldn’t have considered using an interior designer for student bedrooms, but as commercial realities grow, they now have to think about longevity, durable materials and also appealing to the lucrative conference market.” Frank adds that Jill’s well earned reputation for delivering a great service is also winning her clients who have strict deadlines to meet. “With commercial projects, launch dates are critical. Clients need to be confident they have appointed a team whose support network can deliver on time, on brief and on budget – if a show home is advertised to open on a certain date, that deadline must be met. Jill and her team have developed a trusted network of suppliers so that when they promise, they deliver.” Frank emphasises that JT Interiors are aiming to develop the consultancy side of their business and working with developers before they build. “With landlords becoming increasingly over-burdened with legislation, we can step in to manage getting the property ready, so they don’t have to worry about design and management of projects. With developers, they continue to see the merit in having a show home to help them sell their developments as quickly as possible. We are continuously designing and redesigning show homes, as we move from development to development with many of our clients. The days of houses selling quickly has gone. Properties need to be presented for sale and first impressions are clearly massive when it comes to enticing buyers – a happy agent told us ‘as soon www.b4-business.com

as you stage the show home, we sell them’. This is the kind of feedback we love to hear.” It’s clear the business is not in the habit of standing still. An interesting new area of development is the growing number of holiday homes coming onto the market with the explosion of Airbnb, adds Jill. “We are adapting properties to be user friendly for two or three days rather than long term lets. We think

A lot of interior “designers get so

involved in what a project is going to look like, that the costs spiral out of control. We think ‘aesthetics’ with a ‘business head Jill Treloggen

”

about the floor coverings, the sofas etc… to make sure they are easy to maintain and will present well to each new guest. Whether they are long term tenants or short stay guests, the demands for higher and higher standards are the new reality. We also live in the world of reviews, ratings and feedback – we have to ensure each home looks as good in several years’ time, as it does on day one” Given that Jill and Frank have only recently met, it’s clear to see the genuine and mutual respect that

they share for each other. It’s a partnership built out of reputation, and although at their first meeting they weren’t clear what role Frank would play, they both instantly knew their partnership would bear fruit, adds Jill. “The team were delighted that Frank agreed to join us, it’s a real boost for the team and the business for him to come on board. We know Frank’s appointment will enhance our expertise and help us develop the business into the future. As a business owner, you can get set in your ways of thinking. So, to have a fresh pair of eyes looking at what we do gives us a fresh perspective, which I feel is vital to our continued success. Frank is helping us work on our internal processes. His expertise, enthusiasm and ideas are a real shot in the arm and can certainly help us to continue our upward trajectory of growth.” Frank concludes ‘It’s a great move for me and has opened my mind I am raring to go and I’m looking forward to working with Jill and her excellent team as the company builds on offering an exceptional service for its clients’.” It looks like they were clearly ‘Designed to Meet’.

 info@jtiuk.com  01993 700 515  www.jtiuk.com 67

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS At Penningtons Manches, we’re consistently recognised for our innovative thinking and top quality advice. The latest independent legal sector analysis has described us as ‘leading the way’ and ‘the strongest’ in terms of growth, surpassing every other law firm in our peer group. In the Thames Valley, our award-winning lawyers continue to support clients of all sizes – from multi-national corporations to start-ups and private individuals. We’re also delighted to be a founding partner of B4’s new Oxfordshire Voice initiative, providing solutions to the key challenges facing Oxfordshire businesses. As we help you achieve exceptional results, we’re delivering a standout performance of our own. To find out more, call us on 01865 722106, email info@penningtons.co.uk or visit us online.

PENNINGTONS MANCHES LLP – KEEPING YOU A STEP AHEAD OXFORD +44 (0)1865 722106

BASINGSTOKE +44 (0)1256 407100

CAMBRIDGE +44 (0)1223 465465

LONDON +44 (0)20 7457 3000

READING +44 (0)118 982 2640

SAN FRANCISCO +1 415 712 2869

www.penningtons.co.uk

GUILDFORD +44 (0)1483 791800

B4 property Ezra Nahome ,CEO, Lambert Smith Hampton

LAMBERT SMITH HAMPTON:

BUY. SELL. NOW.

Innovation is critical for any business, in any sector. The facts are compelling. Rewind to the 1950’s and no top 10 Fortune 500 company from that time still exists today. They’ve either been gobbled up, folded or sold on as a new incarnation. Property is no different, adapt or die is the underlying ethos. Written by: Ezra Nahome, CEO, Lambert Smith Hampton

This is why we’ve just launched a new online only platform that appeals to both buyers and sellers, branded 574. It’s clear technology continues to change the way in which we all interact and buy services. It must be embraced to achieve better outcomes. No industry can afford to stand still, so we’re taking the ‘bull by the horns’ to focus exclusively online. The benefits of this approach are multi-faceted. Why sell in a room of 500 people when you can open up property lots to the world. Clients crave and demand complete transparency – 574 delivers this in spades. The benefits don’t stop there. It also delivers the best price, is better value than the ballroom and once the ‘place bid’ button is clicked, the auction closes and contracts are exchanged. This certainty is highly appealing to both sellers and buyers. No more delays and no more deals collapsing. The absolute cherry on the top is speed to market - we can list and transact in days, not hang about for the next ballroom fixed date and time. Our 574 platform takes the form of eBay-style selling. Bidders are vetted thoroughly online and, once approved, are free to bid on any property on the day of sale. It’s a very simple, instant and clear way to transact. We’ve been piloting our online auctions and one thing is certain – it delivers. On average we’ve sold www.b4-business.com

properties at 18% above expectation, on behalf of our clients. These clients span private and public companies, large and small, and the public sector of which we are the largest player in the UK. To date we’ve sold more than 60 properties, varying in lot size from £20,000 to £11m. Our network of national offices is key too. It means, unlike a start-up, we continue to provide in-depth advice with the benefit of the localised property knowledge that clients seek.

574 platform takes the form “ofOur eBay-style selling. Bidders are vetted thoroughly online and, once approved, are free to bid on any property on the day of sale. It’s a very simple, instant and clear way to transact.

are utilising new and diverse channels of advertising including a go-to-market strategy for our clients that enables everyone who might be interested in a particular property to be reached. After all, we want everyone, everywhere to be able to access the market. No barriers to entry should exist anymore. The dynamic of giving quality professional advice won’t change – it will still be given by people. So, if you want to sell your property in a way that has the fewest barriers to entry, the greatest transparency and the best outcome possible, online is the way. It is a new age way for both seller and buyer to be assured that they are fundamentally getting the best value. The commercial property sector has been one of the slowest sectors to embrace technology, but change is finally here with 574

”

Our early success means a host of our clients are already moving exclusively with this strategy including the Ministry of Defence (now known as the Defence Infrastructure Organisation). The transparency of our online platform is a key feature for the public sector. To drive our 574 proposition further forward, we are placing an even bigger emphasis on all of our marketing platforms including social media. We continue to build our database of global investors, which already totals more than 100,000, and we

 01865 200 244  www.lsh.co.uk www.575.co.uk

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B4 property

BLENHEIM ESTATE ACQUIRES PYE HOMES Blenheim Estate is very proud to announce it has acquired its long-standing development partner Pye Homes along with its management team. Established in 1927, the Kidlington-based firm has a recognised tradition of building high quality new homes locally in Oxfordshire and further afield. The company is currently working with the Blenheim Estate on building 169 homes at Hanborough Gate and has just started work on 300 homes at Park View, east of Woodstock. This includes Blenheim’s first Affordable Housing, with the affordable rental properties available at a 40% discount to the market rent. “Pye Homes has been an integral part of the local community for more than 90 years, they share many of our values and have an unparalleled understanding of this area,” said Roger File, Chief Operating Officer and Property Director for Blenheim Estate. “Our ambition is to build outstanding communities of which we are proud and in which local people truly want to live, grow and prosper. We will own many of the properties for the foreseeable future and will be looking after these communities for hundreds of years to come. “When you build tomorrow’s heritage today, you need the very closest of working partnerships between landowner and builder – and there is

www.b4-business.com

no closer and more trusting partnership than that between Blenheim and Pye. “It will also provide a secure long-term future for Pye Homes,” he added.

They have a clear and “exciting vision to create developments which benefit and add value to the surrounding communities

”

Property is an integral part of Blenheim’s 10-year development programme that includes tripling the Estate’s contribution to the local economy, creating more than 300 truly affordable homes and creating a £45m endowment fund to ensure the long-term future of the World Heritage Site. “We are delighted to be joining forces with Blenheim Estate,” said Graham Flint, Managing Director of Pye Homes. “They have a clear and exciting vision to create developments which benefit and add value to the surrounding communities. Their long-term commitment and deeply rooted links to this area

make them an ideal partner,” he added. Blenheim Estate’s new development at Park View, east of Woodstock will be the first to incorporate the principle of Landowner Legacy which recognises local landowners have a social, economic and moral responsibility to deliver developments that its local community can be proud of. “As an organisation we are in the unique position of having both the experience and the expertise to develop and build high quality homes and communities with access to the land to build them on,” said Roger. “Unlike many commercial property developers, we are inextricably linked to the communities we are working with and we have an overriding sense of responsibility for the socio-economic and aesthetic wellbeing of the area,” he added.

 +44 (0)1993 223 320  www.blenheimestate.com/property

MILTON HILL HOUSE OXFORD

A stylish conference and event venue in Oxfordshire Written by: Richard Rosser

Surrounded by 22 acres of tranquil parkland just 13 miles from Oxford, Milton Hill House effortlessly blends a graceful Georgian manor house with modern facilities. You’ll feel the history the moment you arrive at the house previous residents include King William III, Peter the Great, and Sir Mortimer Singer of the Singer sewing machine family. Our conference venue offers 20 flexible and contemporary event spaces and an experienced and professional events team. The venue is ideal for meetings, training and conferences for up to 170 guests, whilst the sweeping drive, landscaped Italian gardens and beautiful vistas make a beautiful setting for weddings and special occasions up to 144 guests for a civil ceremony & 200 guests in an evening reception.

Our restaurant and bar serves seasonal food in relaxed surroundings and we offer a range of leisure facilities indoor and out, along with 120 comfortable guest bedrooms upstairs.

Location

Distance from Oxford City Centre: 13.3 miles Distance from M4 Motorway: 12 miles Complimentary Parking: 150 spaces Nearest Train Station: Didcot Parkway

Eat & Drink

Seasonal fare & comforting classics served daily.

whilst delicious seasonally inspired dished can be found on our lunch & dinner menus. The Manor House Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of the day and offers a selection of wines, beers and cocktail, alongside a menu of comforting pub classics. Our Afternoon Tea menu is perfect for that special someone. Whether it’s a birthday treat, a surprise baby shower or a catch up with friends this is the perfect way to spend your afternoon from only £19.50 per person. Available between 14:00 -17:00 daily.

Our Garden Restaurant serves a delicious great British breakfast with both hot & cold buffet on offer,

Our restaurant and bar serves seasonal food in relaxed surroundings and we “ offer a range of leisure facilities indoor and out, along with 120 comfortable guest bedrooms upstairs. ”

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B4 venues

The Manor House “ Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of the day and offers a selection of wines, beers and cocktail, alongside a menu of comforting pub classics

”

Whether it’s a “birthday treat, a

surprise baby shower or a catch up with friends this is the perfect way to spend your afternoon.

”

Special Offers & Promotional Codes Let us host your 2019 school prom from £28.00 per person – MHH356 Get married on a Sunday – Thursday and receive 10% off your wedding! Book your Christmas Party before 28th February and get 10% off the package price!

 milton.enquiries@thevenuescollection.co.uk  01235 825 717  www.miltonoxfordshire.co.uk

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Global CTS Specialising in Customised Recruitment!

We find the people that make your business successful!

Recruitment is not a race, it’s about taking the time to meet and select each candidate at a personal level. Understanding your business, culture, values and aspirations is the start of the process. Why not call us for an informal chat on 01235 606078.

Our Mission Our mission is to help our client sustain and grow by attracting and matching the right talent to their business. Ensuring we deliver a first class customer service via a thorough and consultative approach to clients and candidates.

Our Vision Honest values, sound recruitment practises as well as excellent customer service makes us an industry leader for commercial recruitment across Oxfordshire.

Headed up by Helen, her team echo the same core values and if these values resonate with you, and you’d like to learn more about working with Helen and her team, we’d love to hear from you.

Our Values Consistent - We ensure we recruit fairly by accurately

following our clients requirements

Honest - We provide a trustworthy service

Determined - We are task focused and never give up

Ambitious - For our clients to help them grow with the

right talent and for our candidates to help them achieve their career goals Inspirational - We consistently provide a consultative approach that “thinks outside the box” Enthusiastic - We are genuinely excited about

recruitment and love to make a positive difference to people lives

B4 venues

Welcome to Jurys Inn Step inside Jurys Inn Oxford Hotel and Conference Venue, located on Godstow Road, our four-star Oxford hotel is just a short drive from the city centre. Following a £13m refurbishment Jurys Inn Oxford Hotel and Conference Venue is the perfect base for adventures in and around Oxford’s fascinating historic city, whether you’re staying for one night or an entire week.

Our 240 Stylish bedrooms feature the Exclusive Jurys Inn DREAM Bed and • Complimentary Wi-Fi • En-suite bathroom • Flat screen TV with Freeview (Sky TV in Executive rooms) • Air conditioning • Trouser press, iron and ironing board • 24-hour room service • Work station • Hair dryer We understand the importance of business and with our very own purpose-built conference centre, with 20 fully flexible meeting and event spaces our hotel is committed to being the perfect venue for your meetings, conferences, training, awards dinners and other social banqueting events. This picturesque city offers a romantic setting for your wedding, and our Oxford hotel understands the importance of finding the perfect venue for the special day. The team works to tailor every detail to your wedding plan, so whether it’s elegant and understated or classic and extravagant, our team will ensure everything is done exactly the way you want it. Juvenate Health and Leisure Oxford is our featured Health and Leisure Club, with our extensive fitness www.b4-business.com

suite, indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room, as well as studio classes, our fitness amenities will help you to be as fit as you feel.

“

We understand the importance of business and with our very own purposebuilt conference centre, with 20 fully flexible meeting and event spaces our hotel is committed to being the perfect venue

”

Providing a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere whatever you fitness level, our team of fitness experts will be on hand to provide you support and guidance during your stay. If you are looking for a health club that provides excellent facilities at affordable prices, take a look at our membership options and join online today. Get your day off to a great start with our signature breakfast. Choose from a traditional cooked or light Continental selection. Enjoy a selection of fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, juicy burgers, wholesome pasta dishes and more from our Coopers bar menu.

Jurys Inn Oxford Hotel and Conference Venue is home to one of the most celebrated restaurants, Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse, Bar and Grill. The restaurant combines British and French influences to serve up perfectly-cooked dishes and hand-crafted cocktails, all in the stylish surroundings of our Oxford hotel. With an extensive yet carefully-designed menu, you’ll be spoiled for choice as you opt for classic dishes and modern fusion cuisine in our featured restaurant. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic meal for two or a celebration with friends, the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, Bar and Grill looks forward to welcoming you. We have 250 complimentary parking spaces on-site to make it convenient for all hotel guests to park whether staying overnight or just for a few hours.

 jurysinnoxford@jurysinns.com  01865 489 988  www.jurysinns.com/hotels/oxford

W o W rkp St ell la ra ne ce te ss gi es

agi n You g & In r Pe volv ing o pl e

Eng

How Wellbeing Centric Are You?

e ositiv g a P ence in t o Prom lace Pres p Work

E A m Pr ssi plo og st ye ra anc e m e m e

With the main reasons given for workplace stress including workload pressures, lack of support from managers and work related violence and bullying, the beginning of the year seems a perfect time to review employee wellbeing. Written by: Alison English Photography by: Caroline Allington

Un-healthiness in the workplace costs us significantly… 131 million working days are lost on average each year, costing around £60 billion, 1 in 4 of us do less than 30 minutes exercise per week, with the average person spending around 9 hours sitting each day. More than half the time lost for long term absence is proportioned to stress, with employers spending £2.4 billion on staffing leaving work due to mental ill health. January traditionally brings a combination of post-Christmas bills, the abandonment of New Year resolutions, low sunlight levels and cold weather. These significantly contribute to employee mental health and, if working conditions are difficult, can lead to an increase of people handing in their notice. Ensuring that workplace wellness is at the forefront of everyone’s mind You HR Consultancy deliver workshops that offer an insight into best practice workplace wellbeing.

We Explore • The current challenges we all face in day-to-day working lives • What drives our workplace wellbeing • How we can create our own personalised takeaway to make an immediate positive difference.

From this we can help you to achieve: • After 3 months: 73% increase in inactive employees taking part in sport • After 6 months: 84% of inactive employees reaching 150 minutes of exercise each week • After 6 months: Sickness absence reduced by 0.6 days • 19% increase in employees cycling to work • 16% increase in employees walking to work

Quick HR 7 point checklist to assist you with your workplace wellbeing practices 1.

How Wellbeing centric is your Sickness Policy? Mindfulness is a hot topic right now and includes the workplace. Policies should be about the people. They’re about changing our culture, opening up and showing empathy.

2. Is your Wellbeing Strategy really imbedded? It’s all very well putting a strategy in place but employees lose confidence over something that is ignored and rarely referred to.

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B4 advice

3. How clear are Expectations of staff? Lack of communication, unclear deadlines and poorly constructed management lines can increase stress, leaving employees demoralised and unsupported.

4. What

prevention are you putting in place to reduce absence? Addressing the causes of workplace stress will significantly reduce absence and in turn engender loyalty and an increase of productivity.

5. What

Employee Support do you offer? The workplace can significantly impact on employees. Feedback and regular 1:1s can help gauge general satisfaction but having a fun, team friendly atmosphere can also help colleagues to share.

6. How flexible are your working hours? Reports increasingly show that flexible options increase productivity and boost employee empowerment. However the inability to ‘switch off’ due to the availability of emails

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in particular outside of the office can cause increase in stress.

7. Do

Get in touch at alice@youhr.co.uk or call us on 01491 820764 to find out how we can help You!

you understand the application process for EU nationals to gain settled or pre-settled status? With so much political uncertainty do your employees feel supported?

“ Our strapline is

“It’s all about the people”

”

Our strapline is “It’s all about the people”. The passion for people doesn’t stop there… You HR Consultancy Limited only works with Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the Not for Profit (NfP) sector, with an ethos of achieving a purpose, not just making a profit. With our newly launched You HR Academy that can house clients bespoke learning and development online, our success rate of achieving efficiencies for clients is second to none.

 www.youhracadmey.com

 www.youhrconsultancy.co.uk

THE AWARD WINNING HOME OF MODERN BUSINESS IN SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE Boston House provides inspiring, ready-to-use work spaces within easy reach of Oxford, Didcot, Newbury, Swindon and Reading. With our contemporary serviced offices, flexible meeting rooms, ample free parking and state-of-the-art communal areas, your business will feel right at home from day one. Prices start from just Â£250 per desk per month and includes: telephone, superfast broadband, modern furniture, utilities and more.

VISIT WWW.BOSTONHOUSE.CO.UK OR CALL 01235 772992 TO ARRANGE A VIEWING

B4 advice

see Rupert as a big part “of We our business. We wouldn’t have got to where we are now without him. He’s very important to us

”

Chris Barnett, Director, 1973 Limited

REALISE YOUR FULL BUSINESS VALUE WITH EXIT PLANNING As a business owner you’ll reach a point when you wish (or need) to exit your business whether through a sale, a buy-out, or a planned succession. When this time comes the revenue from the transaction needs to match the financial requirements you need for your next venture be it retirement, a sabbatical or another business. Research1 shows that ‘48% of owner managers who plan to sell their business in the next 5 years had no formal exit strategy’ If you don’t have a plan for maximising your business’ potential sale value, now’s the time to put one in place. It will take time to prepare for a smooth process and rewarding outcome.

Don’t leave it until the last minute A recent survey2 reports SMEs typically need 3 years to prepare for a sale. From that survey of 610,000 directors, 12% of small business owners are over 70 years old; and 21% are over 65 years old, indicating that many directors may be late in planning their exit. As previous business owners ourselves we at CMC Partners appreciate that it’s difficult to find the time to think about your exit plan when busy with everyday operations. However, developing an achievable exit strategy is an essential task to which too few owners give proper consideration.

• What is your preferred exit route? • What is your business worth today? • Have you identified the best ways to increase your business value? • Do you have a continuity plan to protect your business should you become seriously ill?

Key factors to increasing value in your business A key element in exit planning is identifying factors that will increase the value of your business. Creating a timeline that plots value improvement strategies allows you to position yourself to exit your business at a time that suits you. This helps you easily recognise how much your business needs to grow in value to meet your financial target within your timeframe.

A good plan will set out steps to increase the value of your business, helping to attract prospective purchasers, and get the best possible price. Key questions: • What are your retirement goals, and how much do you need to achieve them? • When would you like to exit from your business?

The strength of the above factors will provide a focus on the areas to grow in your business and improve your chances of a successful sale, as well as facilitate planning and preparation for that sale.

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CMC Partners specialise in growth & exit strategy development as well as selling businesses. We help owners realise the full potential of their business whilst maximising its sale value. Over the last 30 years, CMC has worked with hundreds of business owners in planning their exit and been involved in many successful sales, totalling £156 million in value to date. If you would like to arrange a free meeting to discuss your business and your options going forward, contact your local CMC Partner Rupert Beazley based in Wallingford, South Oxfordshire on rupert. beazley@cmc-partners.co.uk or call 07880 221818. 1

UBS Wealth Management Report 2018

Moore Stephens 2017 Survey of 610,000 UK SME Directors

Value improvements to consider 1. Good and improving cash flow 2. Potential scalability 3. Dependency on certain customers, employees, or suppliers 4. Recurring and sustainable revenue 5. The size of market share 6. Customer satisfaction 7. The dependency on the business owner

What’s makes a good exit plan?

CMC Partners – 30 Years’ Experience

cmc  rupert.beazley@cmc-partners.co.uk  07880 221818 or 01844 319286  www.cmc-partners.co.uk

How can you ensure your managers are set up to deliver growth for your business? Management is hard – and it’s very rare that new managers hit the ground running - after all they’ve often had little or no preparation for this critical role. But good management can make or break your business – your leaders are the people you rely on to build and grow your company. The much talked about concept of ‘The Peter Principle’ outlines the premise that people are often promoted to the level of their expertise, and then once again – beyond their level of capability - and we’ve all seen examples of people to whom this has happened. Great technical people are promoted into leadership positions, often without any support or training, and then expected to make great managers! Written by: Hayley Monks Photography by: Rob Scotcher

However, training managers is notoriously difficult. Not everyone will become a manager so it makes little sense to build training in for everyone, and people will reach this stage at different parts of their careers. Management programmes are often expensive or require lots of time out of the office – and they often don’t provide a full rounded or holistic approach to management. So how do you build a training programme that delivers managers who can really help to grow your business?

Take into consideration the age of your trainees

learning goals. Can you use AI to better predict and deliver the training needs of your cohort?

Covering the whole range of management skills Management today is not just about basic leadership skills. Of course, any training should look at developing those basic skills – understanding leadership styles, and people management. But it’s also about developing and refining skills in managing change, commercial awareness, operational complexities, and business processes as well as people. Any course that focuses just on the ‘managing people’ element of training will fail to deliver the well-rounded managers that you need. In today’s world, managers need to be experts in:

It’s a truth that most new managers will be from the so called ‘millennial generation’ which means that programmes should be tailored to their specific learning styles. This digital generation learns best through ‘bite size’ chunks of learning – rather than concentrated blocks. Traditionally, management training schemes have focused on intensive periods of learning – from two days upwards. These type of immersion schemes are unlikely to appeal (or be the best form of learning) for this new management generation – so think about how you can break up the learning into easy to access ‘chunks’.

Communication skills - listening is a foundation skill. It is as much a part of communicating as speaking and presenting. Training should cover developing skills in active listening, as well as presentation and general communication skills.

There is also an expectation that learning will be supported by digital assets. How much of the course can be completed online? What kind of supporting activity can be delivered via digital channels? In a ‘social first’ era delegates will expect some kind of digital interaction – and this will likely support their

Managing conflict – Even the best teams will have moments of conflict. Training new managers on how to best manage in challenging situations and through difficult times will set them up for success – and mean that they don’t loose their cool when the inevitable happens.

Management today is not just “about basic leadership skills ”

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B4 advice

“

Even the best teams will have moments of conflict

”

Managing change – One thing is certain in today’s world – change is a constant. And being able to manage your team through the change curve is an essential part of being a manager. But again, these skills aren’t necessarily developed during an early career – so how can you best prepare your new managers for change? Operational processes management/ Reporting and measuring – You need your managers to be constantly improving the performance of the best of the business they look after. Do they have the necessary skills to be monitoring, reporting and refining the function?

Understanding what it takes to embed training All of these skill areas should be delivered in a holistic way. Classroom learning works for some, but www.b4-business.com

is not always convenient, so is there the option for web based ‘catch-up’s’ or training sessions. There is also a great deal of research that suggests that learning is not embedded by one teaching method alone. Learners need multiple and varied ‘touch points’ with key points so that they can take-in and truly get to grips with the content. Courses should provide recommended reading so that people can read around the subject – and also ensure they stay up to date with the latest management techniques and business news. And critically, new managers need peer support – a network of people at the same stage of their career who they can share difficulties, work through problems and build their support mechanisms. Whilst online networks are a great tool – there should also be an option to develop these relationships face to face. All these elements will help to set up your new managers for success.

One thing is certain in “today’s world – change is a constant ”

To find out more about how you can develop a 360 Degree manager – visit www.360degreemanager.co.uk or email info@thinkinspireandcreate.com

 info@thinkinspireandcreate.com  0844 414 6056  www.thinkinspireandcreate.co.uk

Business Accountancy and Tax

Personal Financial Services and Tax

Choose The MGroup for efficient and friendly advice Accounts Systems Implementation

Preparation to Buy or Sell

Oxford office 01865 552 925 Witney office 01993 776 476 team@themgroup.co.uk www.themgroup.co.uk

B4 advice

LIBREEA Libreea Limited was founded by Victoria Hormigo in 2017. Victoria is joined in Libreea by Paul Elson-Vining – Principal Consultant, Jessica Homan – Junior Consultant and Jenna Hill Administrative Assistant for the company. Libreea is a professional services consultancy that specialises in the capture of business processes to understand and assess the core activities of a business. We give our clients clarity on what is being done across their businesses. Improving their awareness of process and why it is important to understand the processes which are key to a business. Having an accurate understanding of business processes enables you to know how efficient your business is running and provides the opportunity to make improvements and optimise these processes there by increasing your business efficiency. As process is business unspecific and every business has processes, Libreea work with a variety of different businesses. From large corporates with 100’s or 1000’s of employees to small businesses with less than 10 employees. Libreea are often introduced to businesses when they are looking to grow quickly, are in a period of growth, have recently restructured or are planning to restructure. These significant changes within these businesses all have an enormous impact on their existing processes. Libreea will help the client understand their existing processes and help to adapt or change these processes so that they become the most effective and efficient ways of working. Being aware of your processes as a business has several benefits. Here are just a few of those:

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• Documented information detailing each key activity in your business • Ownership of processes – who is responsible for doing what? • Identification of where systems are used • Highlights bottlenecks • Highlights single points of failure (SPOF’s) is there one person doing a significant task that if they weren’t there to do it no-one else knows how?! In September Libreea launched their Practical Process Mapping workshops which provides an insight in to process, what it is and why it’s important for your business as well as showcasing some tools which compliment the capture of processes. The workshops include a facilitation session where delegates get to participate in a fictitious business environment and work through some common processes such as raising an invoice, organising delivery of a product or service and recharging expenses. These workshops are a great way to learn more about what Libreea do and how they could provide support to your businesses or indeed your customers. There are many systems which support the capture of processes and Libreea is specifically software agnostic and where is can be identified that using software to capture and present process information would be beneficial for a customer will always recommend the best solution for the customer. In order to offer this diversity of solution to present processes in Libreea partners with a variety of software providers and is always keen to develop new partnerships to increase the options to its customers.

One partnership is with Triaster Limited. Libreea are the exclusive professional delivery partner for Triaster Limited. We are responsible for supplying all of the onboarding services for the Triaster Software platform, helping customers with their initial implementation and utilisation of the software package, as well as the continued training and support services to ensure all Triaster customers are achieving the greatest value from the application. Libreea would be interested in meeting more software providers who prefer to outsource their professional services delivery.

Where did the name Libreea come from? Interesting fact. I founded Libreea when I was returning to work following maternity leave and a good work life balance was an extremely strong value for the company I was going to create. I liked the idea of calling the business Equilibria, however this was already registered but a variant of this which I found quite quirky and different was Libreea. And that’s how Libreea was born. As an aside the spelling can also elude to ‘Library’ – a font of knowledge – and that’s what Libreea strives to be for our customers in terms of understanding their processes and helping to know them better.

 info@libreea.co.uk  01183 800856  www.libreea.co.uk

Top 10 Technology Trends Transforming Logistics Technology continues to transform traditional logistics processes, driving supply chain leaders to adapt. What do these technologies look like and how could you be impacted? Written by: Katy Farrington, Marketing Manager, Unipart Logistics

Technology is enabling stronger customer engagement in large and small companies, and logistics is a key focus area for implementing these technologies. Connectivity and the widespread uptake of social media are increasing customer expectations, placing ever greater focus on the strength of a company’s logistics operations to meet, if not exceed, consumer demands. From self-driving delivery vehicles and warehouse robots to time – and cost – saving data insights, here are the 10 technology trends that are transforming logistics and its management.

1. Cloud logistics With half of logistics providers already using cloudbased services and another fifth about to, the future lies in remote-hosted data and process. According to a study by Logistik Heute, 70% of companies say they will use cloud computing in the near future Offering flexibility and real-time access to critical intelligence and operations software, cloud services are enabling the scaling of highly responsive on demand and pay-per-use business models that are becoming the norm in logistics.

The constant flow of data between devices and logistics providers means supply chains can be self-monitoring and self-maintaining. In warehouse environments, smart sensors will alert robots to replenishment needs or pick and pack orders, while onboard telematics will optimise delivery routes in autonomous vehicles, transforming the way we staff and run our logistics operations now and in the near future.

3. Blockchain Decentralised ledger technology has the potential to revolutionise the logistics industry. By removing multiple layers of complexity through secure, transparent transactional links, blockchains can take the paperwork out of bills, reduce delays, cut fraud, and slash costs across supply chains.

“

The future will be characterized by smart devices delivering increasingly insightful digital services everywhere

”

David Cearley, Gartner Distinguished Vice President Analyst

Data migration and security may pose setup headaches and heavy data traffic can slow processing times, but the savings in costs and time achieved are making cloud logistics an increasingly attractive proposition.

For now, blockchain technology must surmount the hurdles of association with questionable cryptocurrencies and prove its scalability. But look to the future, and the safe interconnectivity offered by blockchain could drastically increase payment speeds and bring a greater degree of transparency to an industry that can be frustrating in its bureaucratic complexity.

2. Internet of Things

4. Artificial intelligence

The connectivity of the Internet of Things (IoT) is more than just a cost cutter: it can boost operational efficiency, optimise usage, and strengthen operational security.

“The future will be characterized by smart devices delivering increasingly insightful digital services everywhere,” David Cearley, Gartner Distinguished Vice President Analyst, reports. ‘We call this the intelligent digital mesh.’

Deloitte reports the global smart sensor market is growing at a 19% annual rate and is expected to reach $60 billion by 2022

From augmenting human skills (for instance, in the warehouse) and handling back-office tasks (such as accounting and human resources), can streamline

logistics processes to incredible degrees of efficiency. Fed with data culled from IoT systems, AI-led automation can be used as a predictive tool in such processes as warehousing, where it can identify upcoming fluctuations in demand to prevent shortages or overstocking. It can drive mechanical processes through robotic systems and computer vision, and can even smooth customer experiences through assistive bots. Demand analysis by AI can also weaponise marketing and retail strategies.

5. Virtual reality and digital twins According to MNM, the digital twin market is set to be worth $15.66 billion by 2023. In the logistics space, the simulation and digital twinning of physical assets are becoming more commonplace as companies virtually test, monitor, and control machinery and processes. According to MNM, the digital twin market is set to be worth $15.66 billion by 2023 Virtual reality (VR) is recreating realistic digital settings that enable immersive e-learning and the training of hazardous processes through safe replication of potentially dangerous environments. It is allowing planned operational procedures and proposed construction layouts to be tested through digital visualisation, providing opportunities to streamline blueprints and reduce flaws and costs. Managers also have the means through VR to test, operate and maintain physical assets through their digital twinning from data gathered by IoT systems.

6. Self-driving vehicles According to Business Insider, last-mile delivery currently accounts for 53% of all transportation costs. From long-haul journeys to last-mile deliveries, driverless lorries and vans will almost certainly begin making an impact in the next few years as more than 40 companies continue extensive testing of the technology.

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B4 tech

Long journeys require a high turnover of drivers and leave a huge carbon footprint. Autonomous tech can be utilised to part drive vehicles and guide them, supporting drivers practically and physiologically on demanding long runs. And it isn’t just for trucks: forklifts, pallet stackers, and other warehouse and worksite machinery will also become at least semiautonomous. According to Business Insider, last-mile delivery currently accounts for 53% of all transportation cost The logistics industry will need to adapt to the new processes of constructing the vehicles too, adjusting auto parts supply chains and linking into the data feeds that will shape them.

7. Robotics and automation Inbound Logistics reports that four-fifths of the world’s warehouses are run manually, offering huge potential for automation in logistics processes. Robots have begun working collaboratively with humans, reducing repetitive work and providing vital labour at times of worker shortages. Future robotics will only get more sophisticated, with picking, packing, and sorting becoming more commonplace and last-mile deliveries either being carried out autonomously or assistively. Approximately four-fifths of the world’s warehouses are run manually Trailer-loading bots will relieve humans of this physically demanding task and utilise AI to load vehicles in the most optimal way.

8. Big data analytics The flood of data generated by supply chains is providing the raw material that can be used to make structural changes and improvements across networks. Analysis of this stream of intelligence can provide

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insights that will not only optimise processes such as capacity usage but also help forecast and reduce the costs of risks and point to new ways of monetising individual parts of a supply chain. These insights can also be predictive, enabling anticipatory inventory adjustments to prevent incurring warehousing costs and also to bring goods closer to the markets that need them, when they need them.

9. Augmented reality According to ABI Research, ‘the shipments of smart glasses for logistics are expected to generate revenue of $52.9 million in 2017, and will grow to $4.4 billion in 2022.’ Through heads-up visors or other digital devices such as smart glasses, warehousing tools can be augmented with barcode readers and other aids to hands-free operations. When linked into management systems, AR can help streamline operations and boost productivity.

2025. In the growing aftermarket sector, logistics operators will be crucial to fulfilling spare parts and warehousing needs, and can even set up global 3D printing plants for on demand orders. They can also offer postponement services through local distribution centres. The same technology that is driving up customer expectations is creating new opportunities for businesses to optimise their logistics operations in innovative and profitable ways. As more and more players switch on to the benefits of new and emerging technology for their logistics operations, it is the supply chain leaders unwilling to update their processes who will find themselves outcompeted and outdated. How could technology augment your logistics? Unipart Logistics is currently working with a wide range of companies in the UK and abroad to provide support in many of these areas. For more information on how Unipart Logistics can assist your organisation, contact Katy Farrington.

The shipments of smart glasses for logistics are expected to generate revenue of $52.9 million in 2017, and will grow to $4.4 billion in 2022 Driving would become safer with navigation and assistive devices, last-mile deliveries will benefit from the deployment of object recognition software for completeness checks, and vehicle loading can be made more efficient through space optimisation prompts.

10. 3D printing Local and regional supply chains could be redrawn and become more complex, or even eliminated, as 3D printing reduces the need for long-distance physical transportation of goods and parts. But it is likely that logistics operators will be central to the development of the sector, which the McKinsey Global Institute expects to be worth $550 billion by

 katy.farrington@unipart.com  07920 586592  www.unipartlogistics.com

FREEDOM IS YOURS FOR THE TAKING An Oxfordshire website design and build agency leading the way in customer centric service Written by: Alex Sayers, Sales Director Photography by: XIST2

Working with an agency to develop your website is a no-brainer. Many organisations won’t have the resource in-house to produce a high-quality lead generating website, so collaboration is key. That said, you don’t necessarily want to find yourselves tied to one agency. I am Alex Sayers and I work for XIST2. We’re a digital marketing agency specialising in website design and development and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system integration. I’ve been with XIST2 for seven years and in that time have seen our agency grow from a couple of us in a home office to a varied and experienced team of nine (plus some trusted associates) in our rural office retreat. Our office is just outside Faringdon and yes we are indeed based in the stereotypical barn conversion but we love it and the views on the drive in are a stunning way to start the day. XIST2 has worked on a variety of projects over the years and we’re proud to say that we’ve worked with many great local institutions such as Heythrop Park, the University of Oxford and Arkell’s Brewery, as well as well-known global organisations (all under NDA). Working with an agency on a new website is no small undertaking. The end result will underpin a large proportion of your sales and marketing activity, so getting it right is key. Once upon a time, making a commitment to one agency was a daunting one. Today this is an outdated notion and the idea of agency independence is a positive step. With that in mind, below I have shared some key things to consider when selecting an agency to ensure your independent future:

CMS – CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM Choosing the right CMS for your organisation will most probably be something that you think about before approaching any agency. There is a lot to consider when selecting a CMS but for us one of the most important is to make sure you’re not tied long-term to one agency. A custom-built system can be appealing, however there is a downside; it ties you to the developers that built it – leaving you tied to that agency for the life of your website.

A custom-built system can be “ appealing, however there is a downside; it ties you to the developers that built it – leaving you tied to that agency for the life of your website.

”

Using an open source CMS such as WordPress gives you flexibility and access to thousands of developers worldwide. We use WordPress for a number of reasons, including its ease of use, but also so we know that our clients have flexibility in the future.

TRAINING Training your team will not only allow you to be more cost and time efficient, it will also give you total control of your website from day one. Before we go

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B4 tech

live with any website, we take our clients through CMS training. This ranges from a marketing assistant who needs to edit copy and images to an in-house web master who will be taking on the administration.

PHOTOGRAPHY An often-overlooked aspect of a website project is photography. There are two strands to this; stock photography and photography taken specifically for your project. Make sure that you own the rights to use and display the stock images and, if possible, also get copies of the images so you have them on file for future use. With regard to shoot photography, make sure you own the images, not the agency. All IP (intellectual property) should be yours on final payment.

ACCOUNT ACCESS This is something we can’t stress enough; making sure there is a master log-in to both your website and other platforms, such as Google Analytics, makes business sense. Imagine this scenario – Joe Bloggs worked for you in 2016 and led on your website project. Joe set up the log-ins and was the only person with access to

www.b4-business.com

the website and the Google Analytics account was linked to his personal Google account. Skip forward two years and Joe leaves on less than favourable terms. Suddenly you don’t have access to your website and analytics data.

This is something we “can’t stress enough; making sure there is a master log-in to both your website and other platforms, such as Google Analytics, makes business sense.

about it we make sure it’s at the core of what we do. We want to educate both the wider industry and the next generation of digital marketers, web designers and developers about the importance of agency independence. We want the work that agencies do to be about you, the customer, and nothing else. Giving our clients the ability to be agencyindependent makes us work harder and smarter. We build partnerships and become an extension of your in-house team. We know that the work we produce and the relationships we build mean that clients will want to work with us in the future, rather than have to work with us.

”

We make sure there are a number of people across the organisation with admin rights, ranging from Super-Admins to Contributors.

FREEDOM IS YOURS FOR THE TAKING! We see these behaviours as best practice in web design and development. In fact, we’re so passionate

   

info@xist2.com 01993 835 117 https://xist2.com @XIST2online

Oxford University Event Venues Choose from our portfolio of Oxford venues ranging from the historical to the contemporary in a variety of great locations.

Examination Schools St. Lukes Chapel

Sheldonian Theatre Osler House

Our award winning venues and hospitality offer the perfect backdrop for a range of events from conferences and concerts, to meetings and dinners and everything in between. Our dedicated team of event venue professionals will work with you each step of the way to ensure every last detail is taken care of. 01865 276905 |Â venueenquiries@admin.ox.ac.uk | www.venues.ox.ac.uk @OxUniVenues

B4 marketing

Are you one of those leaders that are crap with digital? Written by: Jon Ellard

Not a single person who has stepped outside their home in the past five years can deny that we are living in the digital age. I think most of us can get on board with that statement. It’s uncommon to find a person today that doesn’t own a smartphone and has not become prolific with platforms like Google maps and the myriad social platforms now in favour.

Perhaps you boast great Customer Intimacy, Operational Excellence and or Product / Service Leadership? But the reality is your website, e-commerce platform and social media are pretty pathetic. You may feel like you’re doing well, but do you really just want to do well when you could position yourself as the number one brand in your field?

Considering this, I am baffled daily to witness and meet tech-savvy individuals running or leading a digitally dead business. How is it is possible that businesses and their leaders can still have an attitude that they don’t understand digital and therefore they don’t want to?

It’s frustrating to see businesses make the same mistakes again and again when it comes to digital. I believe everyone should be getting a real, tangible return on investment on their digital marketing.

If you like running your business, and you would like it to succeed another five years, I suggest you read carefully:

Working with an independent digital marketing consultant can transform your business. Looking at your business from an outsiders perspective, I can quickly review how your business’ digital presence is working in conjunction with your overall business plan. After making an analysis and devising a plan, I work with your business to help you through the necessary steps to fully integrate your digital efforts with your business goals. Here’s what clients have had to say about bringing me into their business to straighten up their digital capabilities: “Jon’s review and plan were easy to understand and presented in a professional but invigorating way. Jon just got us very quickly and turned our business objectives into a realistic but exciting plan.”

Digital strategy is essential to your business. Not just a nice to have. It. Is. Essential!

Dr Chris Wood Chris Wood Dental Implant Solutions

Let’s bring in some stats to back up this claim. According to a study conducted by BIA/Kelsey, 97 per cent of customers browse online before making a purchase. Whether your business sells products or services online is irrelevant. Your customers search for your services online. If you aren’t there to tell them you exist, you may as well not exist.

“We have recently started working with Jon and, having known Jon for a number of years, I’m kicking myself that we didn’t use him before now... We have never had a Digital Strategy, and Jon is outstanding in helping us to create our own Digital Strategy as well as helping us to implement it. Jon’s straight talking and direct approach is just what we need... I

www.b4-business.com

urge you to contact Jon now if your Digital Marketing needs professional direction and results.” Richard Rosser Chief Executive at B4

Think about the digital capability within your business. If you don’t get it, don’t invest in it, don’t have a culture for it, and don’t have a have a strategy for it, it’s time to get in touch with me to quickly bring your business into the digital age to increase visibility, engagement and sales.

Lucky for you, I will be at B4 hosting a digital strategy masterclass in April. Drop by to learn how you can achieve serious results on your digital investment. Or give me a call on 07812 587 224 to arrange a free consultation.

 jon@ellardoutloud.co.uk  07812 587 224  www.ellardoutloud.co.uk

Would you like to own a brewery? Chadlington Brewery is becoming known as The Oxford Beer with great tasting beers that everyone can enjoy. Customer demand is exceeding our current production capacity and we are launching a crowdfunding campaign on Crowdcube at the end of February. We are offering the opportunity to own shares in Oxfordshire’s fastest growing brewery with additional rewards including free beer for life! We plan to raise £350,000 of funds to create the extra production capacity and to build a new Tap Room at the brewery that promises to have one of the best views of the Oxfordshire countryside...

• Be part of The Oxford Beer • Join a team with over 60 years brewing industry experience • Enjoy beer made from pure Oxfordshire Spring Water • Be part of a brewery that utilises solar and biomass energy • Get a potential rapid return on investment

THE OXFORD BEER

Find out more at chadlingtonbrewery.com/news Follow the campaign and share our crowdfunding posts on social media… @chadbrewery #theoxfordbeer

B4 marketing

Forty3 Consulting

2018 was a very bittersweet year to say the least with exiting my previous company not on great terms to starting up Forty3 Consulting and now beginning this new and exciting adventure. Written by: David Greenaway Photography by: Rob Scotcher

Forty3 Consulting was born May 2018 when I realised that after 20 years of building businesses I am really good at sales and growing relationships strengthened with my business growth experiences and knowledge. After 9 years growing my last business I was seeing that traditional sales and marketing methods were returning diminishing results. I was fed up of doing the same thing over and over and definitely not getting different results. Frankly I knew that there had to be another way, a better way to generate prospects and create clients that didn’t involve being salesy and pushy anymore.

you? Simple—give them more than they ask for, and delight them. Let me introduce you to the Flywheel and say goodbye to the funnel at long last.

Funnel = Customers as an afterthought

Whereas funnels lose their momentum at the bottom, flywheels leverage their momentum to keep spinning. Also, because they preserve momentum so well, all of the additional energy you add to spin it faster adds to the capacity of the whole.

Flywheel = Customers at the centre

Sharing is caring and inbound is about creating and sharing content with the world. By creating content specifically designed to appeal to your dream customers, inbound attracts qualified prospects to your business and keeps them coming back for more. HubSpot is centered around inbound marketing and the modern buyer. Sure, you want visitors on your site learning more about your services or products, but what makes you different from your competition? How do you really speak to your customers in a way that makes them respond and remember www.b4-business.com

This isn’t just inefficient, it’s a major problem. Ignoring how customers can help you grow is perilous in today’s world. Word of mouth has always been fundamental to great marketing, but look at the world we living in today. Trust is at an all time low, it’s harder to get distribution on Google and Facebook, and prospects are doing far more independent research than they ever have. With word of mouth being so crucial, losing the momentum you generate in creating a new customer is a real drag on your growth.

Then 1 afternoon I attended a seminar in Oxford on Inbound and listened to several speakers. As they spoke my heart began to race, what I had been searching for for so long was unfolding in front of me. By the end of it I was convinced, yep that quick! It just made sense to me and answered all my questions. Hello Inbound and HubSpot. Inbound Marketing & Sales is customer-centric, friendly marketing that people love, while “outbound” is spammy, interruptive marketing that everybody hates. It might be hard to hear for some but the the way we buy and react to marketing is changing rapidly. The power has shifted to the buyer and with that being the case it makes sense to embrace it right!

Funnels produce customers, but don’t consider how those customers can help you grow. And all the momentum you built acquiring that customer? Gone. Each day, each month, and each quarter, we have to start new.

I have only scratched the surface of the power of Inbound and HubSpot and if your interest has peaked then you will be pleased to know HubSpot offer a FREE CRM for life, no catch. You will be doubly pleased to know that if you want to uncover more of the Inbound revolution all you have to do is ask me. I love talking Inbound!!

2019 - Grow Better

Funnels lose the energy you put into them once you reach the bottom, but flywheels are remarkable at storing and releasing energy.

 david@forty3consulting.co.uk  07980 898 834  www.forty3consulting.co.uk 91

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B4 csr

Reciprocate teams up with Maggie’s to provide cancer advice for businesses There are currently over 560,000 people with cancer who are working across the UK. This figure is expected to double by 2030 as more people survive a diagnosis of cancer, and in turn require support returning to work. Maggie’s Oxford is providing free advice to Reciprocate businesses wanting to support employees. Written by: Pip Dingle, Fundraising Manager at Maggie’s Oxford

The Maggie’s Centre building in the grounds of the Churchill Hospital

Oxfordshire responsible business group Reciprocate is encouraging local companies to seek advice and support to understand how to help staff members who have cancer. A workshop in January 2019 was the first of several practical sessions for employers. On 16th January, a small group found their way to Maggie’s, a cancer support charity based in the grounds of the Churchill Hospital. It’s an unexpected surprise walking into the centre: a modern, light, uplifting space that feels so different to what you’d expect at a hospital. Maggie’s provides free practical, emotional and social support for people with cancer and their family and friends. This ranges from drop-in help and advice to more specific groups, workshops and courses. One of the things they offer is support for local businesses that might be managing staff who are going through cancer treatment.

Attendees at the Maggie’s workshop on 16th January 2019

communication, at all stages along people’s cancer journey. Mary stressed that small changes can make a real difference for people, and have a huge impact on whether they return to work and feel valued in the long-term by their employer. The group discussed the need to tailor support for the individual, as everyone responds to cancer in their own way – and what might work for someone

“ I have a friend and colleague going through cancer, so wanted to make sure as an employer we are supporting her

”

Reciprocate member company Scott Fraser

The workshop was run by one of the professional team at Maggie’s, Cancer Support Specialist Mary Mountford-Lister. Mary talked through what cancer is, the treatments available – followed by the side effects of treatments and the emotional impact these can have. Attendees were then able to talk about their own experiences of cancer in the workplace.

one day may not be the right thing the next. By 2020, half of the UK population will have cancer at some point in their lifetimes, so it’s crucial that we’re able to make these changes now.

Julie from Reciprocate member company Scott Fraser said: “I have a friend and colleague going through cancer, so wanted to make sure as an employer we are supporting her.”

All the attendees felt that they now understood the needs of employees with cancer. They also felt they could create the right framework to manage people better.

Mary then talked through some different ways of working, mainly looking at flexible working and open

Maggie’s offers courses and activities to which employees can be signposted at no cost to your

www.b4-business.com

The welcoming environment inside the Maggie’s Centre in Oxford

business. For example, ‘Where Now?’ is a six-week course for people who have finished treatment, and includes advice on returning to work, and the importance of exercise, nutrition and relationships following such a difficult time. Help is available from a psychologist and a benefits advisor. All the services available at Maggie’s are completely free, and are accessible to anyone affected by cancer. You can find out more about what they have on offer through their website. Following the session, Emma from Ella’s Kitchen said “It was a really informal yet very informative session that has given me the confidence to be able to support those around me now and in the future.” The next Maggie’s Cancer in the Workplace session will take place on Friday 22nd March 2019, 8.30–10.00am. To book a space for you or anyone on your team, please contact Pip Dingle on: pip.dingle@maggiescentres.org.

 reciprocate@oxfordshire.org  01865 798 666  www.reciprocateox.org Reciprocate is hosted by Oxfordshire Community Foundation

Tripp Hearing is a leading healthcare practice which has earned an excellent reputation in Oxford and the surrounding areas for providing a wide range of digital hearing aids as well as for their microsuction ear wax removal clinic.

Ears feeling blocked?

Tripp Hearing understand that hearing loss and tinnitus can interfere with your quality of life and they recognize that it is essential that you receive the care, attention and expertise to find the best solution to solve or manage your hearing impairment.

Tripp Hearing offer the very latest in hearing technology. From completely invisible, to rechargeable or titanium. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you find the right solution for you.

The Microsuction Ear Wax Removal Clinic has specialised nurse practitioners who can remove wax in a safe and gentle way. Even the most problematical ears can be helped and the procedure is essential if traditional syringing is not appropriate.

Looking for a digital hearing solution?

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Tripp Hearing 39 Corn Street, Witney, Oxfordshire OX28 6BT 01993 222 888 Tripp Hearing Sandford Gate, Clarendon Business Centre Sandy Lane West Oxford OX4 6LB 01865 910202 www.tripphearing.co.uk | enquiries@tripphearing.co.uk

B4 csr

Get on the road to sustainability and save money with a free energy audit Join the Better Business movement and apply for a free energy audit worth £1,600. Claim yours today. Written by: Gareth Dinnage, MD, Seacourt Ltd

Do you want your firm to be more environmentally sustainable, whilst saving you money? Knowing where to start is often one of the greatest hurdles. That’s why Better Business recommends applying for a free energy audit worth £1,600.

University, Cherwell District Council and Bioregional. It is funded by the European Regional Development Fund. Better Business has been developed by Seacourt Ltd – The UK’s Environmental printing company based in Oxford.

Delivered by OxFutures, the energy audit will give you the knowledge you need about your energy use and where you can make efficiency gains to save both money and Carbon. Taking the audit may also qualify you for grant funding to help you install energy saving improvements to your operation.

With 20 years of sustainability leadership Seacourt MD Gareth Dinnage wanted to help other SME’s to better understand easy ways in which they could improve the environmental performance of their business whilst having positive business impacts. To learn more visit www.seacourt.net or email Garethdinnage@seacourt.net

So sign up for your free energy audit today and get on the road to environmental sustainability. To apply visit oxfutures.org.

Better Business is a funded project of OxFutures, a partnership between Low Carbon Hub, Oxford City Council, the University of Oxford, Oxford Brookes

www.b4-business.com

 GarethDinnage@seacourt.net  01865 788 371  www.seacourt.net

SMALL REALLY IS BIG IN THE WORLD OF BUSINESS Rod Macrae has been finding out how OxLEP Business is helping Oxfordshire’s small businesses to punch above their weight Written by: Rod Macrae Photography by: OxLEP Business

When gin-maker Rachel Hicks is distilling the latest batches of her Sky Wave gin in Bucknell, near Bicester, she doesn’t consider herself to be part of the largest sector of the county’s economy. Like most other small businesses, she is too busy getting on with the job of producing a great product and delivering a good service to her customers. “We only launched our craft gin business last year” said Rachel. “Our focus is on meeting demand and on getting the unique flavours of the botanicals we forage for our gin exactly right. There isn’t really time to think about your role in the county’s economy. We just take it for granted that we’re a micro business, but we’re growing.” Yet, Sky Wave Gin is typical of most businesses in Oxfordshire. It has two employees and both are founding directors. Small businesses are, by some distance, the biggest part of not just Oxfordshire’s but the country’s economy. According to the Business population estimates by the Department 96

for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, at the start of 2018, 99.3% of all private sector businesses were small businesses, 16.3 million people were

“ These small businesses really are vital. What we do is

help them to grow by offering business skills and innovation workshops, one-to-one advice and support, mentoring and coaching, access to equipment and resources as well as grants

”

Helen Brind - Growth Hub

employed by an SME and SMEs’ combined annual turnover was £2.0 trillion*. SMEs are the economy’s bedrock and they need to be encouraged and supported.

OxLEP Business is the county’s Growth Hub and has a mission to nurture enterprise and provide services which can help new, growing and innovative SMEs to thrive. Helen Brind, who manages the Growth Hub comments: “These small businesses really are vital. What we do is help them to grow by offering business skills and innovation workshops, one-toone advice and support, mentoring and coaching, access to equipment and resources as well as grants. Everything we do is aimed at nurturing their entrepreneurial spirit. We understand how difficult it can be to establish a business. For a start, nobody ever comes into business as the ‘finished article’. We all have areas which need developing or improving. “Of course, if you are a larger company you’d buy in the expertise you need, but that is unrealistic for most SMEs. That’s why at OxLEP Business we offer support to help people develop their businesses and stay competitive.”

www.b4-business.com

B4 spotlight

MORE ABOUT OxLEP Business If you’re looking to start or grow your business or if you have a new idea that you want to bring to market and would appreciate some prompt, friendly, impartial advice - please get in touch with us to discuss your options. www.oxfordshirelep.com/business Twitter @OxLEPBusiness

Sky Wave Gin www.skywavegin.com Twitter @SkyWaveGin

We would not have been “able to expand like this

without OxLEP Business, It has made it possible for us to really market what we are doing confidently, knowing they believe in our business enough to help finance the equipment we needed to transform it.

”

Rachel Hicks - Sky Wave Gin

Through programmes funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), OxLEP Business have engaged with over 1,300 businesses, 81 workshops have boosted entrepreneur’s skills, nearly 400k has been awarded to SMEs via grants and more than 125 businesses have benefitted from 1:1 support from Network Navigators and Innovation advisors. Helen explains: “We have a team of experienced business people working with us whose job is to encourage businesses, pointing them towards the resources, networks or partners they might need to move to the next level.” Sky Wave Gin has just installed a new still which will increase their distilling capacity ten-fold. They have been able to plan their growth thanks to a grant from an OxLEP Business-run ERDF programme; ‘Elevate’. “We would not have been able to expand like this without OxLEP Business” Rachel explains. “It has made it possible for us to really market what we are doing confidently, knowing they believe in our business enough to help finance the equipment www.b4-business.com

we needed to transform it.” OxLEP Business is also assisting Oxfordshire’s small businesses to innovate and develop and commercialise innovative ideas through an ERDF programme launched last year; ‘Innovation Support for Business’. Helen Brind said, “There is so much innovation coming from SMEs. But it is often difficult for them to access the labs, research and partners they need to make progress. We work with businesses to do just that, linking them with facilities that are normally available only to substantially larger organisations. “Whatever the issue, OxLEP Business is tasked with nurturing enterprise”, Helen says. Oxfordshire is ranked amongst the best places to start a business in the UK, and we have plenty of support available to help SMEs to succeed.” *Data Sources: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ business-population-estimates

 innovation@oxfordshirelep.com  www.oxfordshirelep.com 97

B4 spotlight

NEVE’S BEES “Oh, it was nothing”, “Yes, I suppose we were quite pleased with the results”, “Mmm, I guess it went OK really” – ever heard yourself utter such modesties? Why is it that we, as a national character trait, have a tendency to put ourselves down or belittle our successes? Have you ever thought about entering an award or a competition but talked yourself out if it, convincing yourself that you wouldn’t have a chance, that everyone else will be better… We have a rule in our home called ‘Maz’s Rule’ (named after our friend Maz). The essence of Maz’s rule is: when in a car park, even if you think the car park is completely full, go to the spot where you ideally want to park – nearest your intended destination, nearest to the parking meter etc. – and there will be a space waiting for you there. Trust me, it works! The obvious mindset here is that everyone else assumed there wouldn’t be a good space left so they parked miles away. It was with this mentality that we at Neve’s Bees approached 2018. We started the business, just ‘playing’ really, in 2017. From sales in 2017 of just £300 we decided that we were going to make something of the brand and set ourselves a goal of selling £12,000 of our lip balms and hand salves in 2018. It might sound a little ‘pie in the sky’ but we had a very clear idea of what the brand stood for (‘Bee who you want to Bee’), who it was aimed at (‘People who like Bee-ing outside) and an overall vision to share our passion of nature and wildlife and using products as close to mother nature’s recipe as possible. Our ‘catchphrase’ in 2018 was JFDI (Just Do It – you can work out the rest) In late Spring, I noticed a competition advertised for Start-up Businesses – the prize being to win a year’s www.b4-business.com

listing in the Blenheim Palace shop. At this point, our turnover was around £250 a month – this really did seem unlikely. However, with Maz’s rule in mind and chanting our 2018 catchphrase – JFDI - we duly wrote our application and gave ourselves a little pat on the back. A few weeks later, we were told we’d been shortlisted and were invited to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style evening for the judging. We were delighted to win The consequences have been amazing: the listing in the shop clearly helped our ‘bottom line’, the chalet in the Christmas market also helped to raise our profile and the connections

“

Our predicted growth may have seemed pie in the sky but we had a very clear idea of what the brand stood for ‘Bee who you want to Bee’

”

and introductions have been fab. But, over and above all this, our gain in confidence from the knowledge that someone believed in our embryonic business has been invaluable. Indeed, we have subsequently entered the WOBAs and recently found out that we’ve been shortlisted – still a couple of rounds to go but the profile growth from this would be amazing… and if we get no further, then at least we had a go – hey, that perfect parking space is not always there! So where are we now? We ended 2018 with sales of £13,000 - we did it - and whilst this is modest

turnover for a business, it’s proven the business model and is a clear indication that this brand has value. With a year’s worth of knowledge about which routes to markets worked (and which did not!) and which initiatives made us money (and which did not!), and pairing this up with the lifestyle we want to maintain around this business, we’ve been able to forecast sales of £30,000 in 2019. What I’m personally really happy about this predicted revenue is that we’ve committed to plough back a good sum of money into BBOWT (Bucks, Berks, Oxon Wildlife Trust) and are delighted to have been chosen as one of their Partner Companies. If you’ve ever considered entering an award or competition but have never quite gotten round to it, why not make 2019 the year you JFDI!

About Neve’s Bees Neve and I are beekeepers making 100% natural beeswax lip balms and hand salves using local Oxfordshire Beeswax. All our products are designed to look, smell and feel great. Check out our website: www.nevesbees.co.uk or follow us on Social (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) - where we post daily about what the bees are doing - @nevesbees

 hello@nevesbees.co.uk  nevesbees.co.uk  twitter.com/nevesbees