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C O N T E N T S
Birmingham Business Post Welcome to edition 30 of the BBP, the only magazine that showcases the best in business throughout the region. As ever we are talking with decision maker’s right across the business spectrum focusing on what sets their companies apart, allowing you the opportunity to really engage with their ethos, and helping you make the right choices for your supply chain.
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Birmingham Business Post 11 Canalside Office Complex, Lowesmoor Wharf, Worcester WR1 2RR Tel: 08000 807 809 Fax: 01905 726 467 E: hello@birminghambusinesspost.co.uk W: www.birminghambusinesspost.co.uk Publisher: PIL (Europe) Limited Print & Design: Heron Press UK ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Reproduction in whole or part prohibited without permission. Colour transparencies, prints or any pictorial media for this publication are sent at owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither PIL (Europe) Limited or its agents accept liability for loss or damage. No editorial submissions will be returned unless accompanied by a Self Addressed Envelope.
DISCLAIMER Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that adverts and articles appear correctly, PIL (Europe) Limited cannot accept responsibility for any loss or damage caused directly or indirectly by the contents of this publication. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of its publisher or editor.
The Bond Company Etc. Venues Pertemps Nicklin LLP Dyke Yaxley Kennet Equipment Leasing Sir Thomas White Loan Charity The Media Collective Ember Television Poppleston Allen Documotive Park Inn by Radisson Paragon Hotel Hoar Cross Hotel Spa Resort Champneys Harvey Nichols Blitzworld Top Barn Activity Centre Swat Force The Farmers Boy Inn ChaoBaby Yo! Sushi The Shakespeare Inn Deer Park Hall Astons Coaches Fiat Professional DPD UK Britannia Goodwins Mercedes-Benz Lichfield Accident Repair Centre Andy Gale MB Services Smart Care Repair Bullwell Trailer Solutions Reynolds of Rushock Knights of Stafford (BMW) DPE Automotive Forward Industrial Products Aston University Chiltern Railways Specialised Building Plastics Nick Gray Building Plastics Davroy Contracts Gould Singleton Architects Hanley Trade Frames Morris Property Crest Nicholson Catherdral Group Liberty Shop Fitters Lyntech Systems JMS Solar BNK Solar Contemporary Garden Rooms Progressive Apex Supply Chain Technologies JB Packaging Lawrence Recycling & Waste Management Cooper Group UK Malvern Instruments Beakbane Euro Towers CD Engineering Mako Precision Vinci Energies SSAB Swedish Steel Enterprise Electrical Services
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Now there is also the support of a core team of experts, friendly professionals lead by Operations Manager Jackie Marwaha, who works closely with the directors to achieve quality of service on all sites. “We all meet regularly to discuss our services, marketing strategies and team work and are always communicating to ensure we work together to produce a fantastic service for our clients,” Tony adds. “We are looking forward to the future knowing that we have already played a major role in Birmingham's renaissance.” BUSINESSES who rent office space from The Bond Company are not just tenants - they’re part of a thriving community. Charities, design and marketing companies, social enterprises and non-profit organisations have all taken up residence in The Bond Company’s city centre five sites, all situated in carefully and sympathetically restored historic buildings, next to the Grand Union canal. Within this urban oasis, all enjoy 24-hour security, tenant and visitor parking and the opportunity to relax and enjoy a drink or bite to eat at the friendly on-site Café. Those clients who are only renting one of the seven flexible conference rooms, suitable for all types of events and meetings and always in demand, also have access to the same range of services. It all adds up to a great range of facilities provided at competitive prices - 10% discounts are also available to charities - no wonder confidence in the future is high.
“We’re eager to make new friends, meet new clients from all walks of life and work to make an exciting, vibrant contribution to the region’s future.” “We aim to continue to create a community of diverse interests centered on this historic and attractive part of Birmingham, helping to make the city a great European centre for culture, creativity and enterprise.”
For further information about The Bond Company, its services and facilities, visit www.thebondco.net, telephone 0121 766 7400 or email info@thebondco.net.
“Based on our predicted figures we about to enter our best ever financial quarter,” reveals Professor Tony Collier, one of The Bond Company’s three directors. “We are currently recruiting more staff and upgrading our conference room facilities with the latest HD plasma screens and laptops. “We are about to begin a large set of bookings for OCR’s (Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations) autumn training courses and the rooms remain popular: Birmingham City Council and lots of well known charities book them, including Cancer Research UK, Accord Housing, MIND and Shelter.” It was in 1988 that Tony teamed up with Tim Davies and Peter Southgate to launch The Bond Company, with the aim of creating innovative and progressive regeneration within Birmingham. In the early days, they did everything from driving cranes to carpentry and glazing but the intervening decades have see the company grow to the current complex of professionally managed flexible office spaces for all types of business within beautifully renovated buildings and with an outside courtyard. “We began with just two sites and gradually acquired more which have been carefully renovated to maintain the original character features while providing suitable office accommodation,” explains Tony. “In the past six years we began and developed the conference facilities, with the latest technology available for presentations and meetings, and an on-site catering team.” Our newly expanded facilities provide a comprehensive service for all occasions from busy one day conferences seating 200 with 12 separate breakout spaces to small private meetings. Our major function suite Waterside overlooks the Grand Union Canal. s Board Meetings s Training Sessions s Interviews
s Networking Events s Lectures & Seminars s Exhibitions
s Fashion Shows s Annual General Meetings s Private Parties
PLUS: FLEXIBLE, COMPETITIVE OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE TO LET THE BOND COMPANY, 180 - 182 Fazeley Street, Birmingham, B5 5SE
The Waterside 4
Tel: 0121 766 7400 s Email: info@thebondco.net s www.thebondco.net
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etc.venues
ETC.venues puts the special in specialist when it comes to finding the perfect place in which to hold that important business gathering.
Every one of its 10 venues is created entirely for conferences, training and meetings - right from carefully designing the spaces to aid thought and focus and enhancing them with inspiring art, to providing top quality food aimed at not only satisfying busy delegates but feeding their brains too. It’s such focus on the more unseen aspects that make a corporate gathering really memorable along with the ample provision of the more usual: high spec AV equipment and free Wi Fi for example, that means its venues are sought after by some of the country’s most prestigious professional services companies. “Our venues offer a highly professional and very effective working environment,” says Guy Booth – the Venue Manager of their Birmingham venue, Maple House. “The overriding benefit is that there are no distractions or compromises that a delegate might find at a hotel that is juggling other business streams or types of event – we focus purely on business events and provide the best possible environment.”
Delegates can be sure of more than just a ‘pick me up’ thanks to etc.venues’ approach to food, designed to not only tingle the tastebuds but stimulate the ‘little grey cells’ as well. “Our in – house chefs ensure we go way beyond the ‘curly sandwich’ approach to venue ‘catering’. And it certainly works when it comes to bringing in the bread and butter with etc.venues expanding rapidly despite the difficult market conditions. “Our specialist offering is well liked by event bookers and the new venues we are opening receive a huge amount of interest, we are looking to open more regional venues in Birmingham and other major cities as well as looking to expand in London too.” For further information about the facilities at Maple House telephone 0121 212 8200 or email: gbooth@etcvenues.co.uk For details on Maple House or the London venues in the etc.venues portfolio go to www.etcvenues.co.uk, where you can also book on-line.
With most of the top banks, financial services firms, legal practices and public sector bodies, including the NHS departments, regularly meeting at an etc venue, it’s no wonder the company is booming. In four years, it has doubled its centres, from five to 10, including its first venture outside London – Maple House in Birmingham’s Corporation Street. Opened three years ago, the 22-room centre, (with the largest room holding 160), has collected IT Training Venue of the year, BDRC Gold Standard Award and Silver in The Heart of England Awards while its chefs were winners at the prestigious CCE/IACC Chef's Challenge Awards. Like every etc site, immense thought and consideration has gone into the surroundings and service to ensure they bring out the best in visiting delegates, with the overall interior design complemented by the company’s artistic leanings. “We’ve been collecting pieces since our first venue opened and we now have more than 600 pieces including sculpture, DVDs, installations and wall-mounted art,” reveals Guy “It helps our venues to be even more inspirational, creating an atmosphere that generates ideas and discussion. It also influences our outlook on interior design – we choose items that are not only functional and expertly designed but are also a bit of an eye opener. With natural daylight “a must”, colour and light are carefully considered, Guy says, adding: “Our training rooms are a neutral backdrop designed to aid focus, but complemented by vibrant coffee lounges and restaurants, giving a powerful ‘pick me up’ during your breaks.”
The best The best tthings hings are in life ar re FREE... FREE...
FREE
lunch at Maple l Hous e ...with 22 meeting and conference ference rooms and a service reputation for the best ser v in the industry vice industr y - Maple House is the leading venue in Bir mingham. Come and Birmingham. have ha ve a free lunch and see you for yourself yourself - just call the team on 0121 212 8200 and and quote quote ‘Business ‘Business Post’ Post’ to book.
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Pertemps People are leading the way It’s not only the awards that mark Pertemps out as an excellent company but also the fact that at this years company awards ceremony 4 people were presented with gifts for 25 years with the company and 16 people were recognised for 10 years service. Pertemps celebrating 50 golden years in recruitment As the saying goes from tiny acorns mighty oaks grow and that has certainly been the case for recruitment company Pertemps. 1961 saw Pertemps founded by Constance Watts. With the full support of her husband Walter (who took out a £500 loan to finance her dream) and thirteen-year-old son Tim she embarked on a business that was to become an epic success. Although Constance had no formal training and knew little about recruitment, she had something that proved to be even more valuable in business and that was a dogged determination to succeed.
The ceremony that was held at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena and marked the launch of the company’s Golden anniversary year saw the Midlands branches walking away with many awards the Temple Street branch received an award and Birmingham commercial (located on Bennetts Hill) manager Jacqueline Bullock was named as the company’s best newcomer. Another local award winner was Anna McGinty, area manager for the Birmingham and Worcester industrial arm of the business. Anna was awarded the Connie Watts award; this very special award was inspired by the legacy of the company founder. The winner is voted for by colleagues and peers within the business and is awarded to the person that people feel always goes the extra mile. Anna who has worked for Pertemps for 22 years was a very worthy and deserving winner. Speaking about the win at the time she said: “I certainly wasn’t expecting to win and it came as a complete shock, I was totally overwhelmed and Tim Watts said some very kind words. All in all it was emotional and very special.” In the past five decades the business, which specialises in industrial and commercial recruitment has gone from strength to strength and is now one of the largest independent recruitment consultancies in Britain boasting over 100 branches across 70 towns and cities in the UK.
Constance opened the first branch of Pertemps from a small office on Temple Street in Birmingham city centre and once up and running there was no stopping her. In the first year the company had a turnover of £50,000. By the summer of 1970 a second office had been opened in Wolverhampton, it was at this point that Constance’s son Tim Watts got onboard as he offered to run the office on a ‘temporary basis’. The rest as they say is history. The company attributes much of its success to its people and has grown by taking a positive and proactive stance on looking after all of its people whether employees, applicants or clients. The number of awards and accolades the company has received has proved the success of this method of working. In the past 12 months alone Pertemps have received the following tributes:
visit us online www.pertemps.co.uk
• Best Company to Work For in the £100 Million plus sector by Recruitment International • Best Company ‘Star’ Status • 38th in the Sunday Times top 100 companies • Named as one of Britain's Top Employers 2011 by the CRF Institute • Pertemps Scotland awarded Best Service at the GO Awards • 106th position in the Sunday Times Top Track 250
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BEST COMPANIES TO WORK FOR
2011
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Pertemps are celebrating 50 years in recruitment. That’s 50 years of matching the right people to the right jobs. In 1961 we started from a branch in Birmingham and have become one of the largest independent recruitment consultancies in the UK. We have achieved this by making sure we know our business inside out whether in the commercial & secretarial, industrial & technical or professional & skilled sectors. Our Birmingham, Redditch and Worcester branches work with a range of clients across the Midlands from major organisations to small businesses. Whether you are looking for temporary staff to help you through the busy Christmas and New Year period or somebody for a permanent role our experienced and knowledgeable teams will be able to help.
FOR INDUSTRIAL ROLES CONTACT: Birmingham 0121 233 2222, Redditch 01527 68585 or Worcester 01905 611555.
FOR COMMERCIAL ROLES CONTACT: The Bennetts Hill branch who will be happy to help on 0121 643 5000.
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Nicklin Business Advisers
Helping SMEs obtain valuable business finance For many smaller firms, it is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain funding from their bank as lending rules become stricter. However, while bank loans or overdraft facilities may be the first options that many people think of, there are other methods of obtaining the valuable funding needed to help take a business forward.
Minimal information is required and the whole process can take as little as five working days from start to finish, depending on circumstances. Harvey Owen, managing partner at Nicklins, said: “We know from speaking to our SME clients that it is getting harder and harder to access funding via more traditional methods such as banks. “However, what many business owners do not realise is that there are other methods available. At Nicklin Business Finance, we specialise in finding alternative sources of funding for our clients, whether this is through lenders or grants. “We offer our clients independent, impartial and confidential advice on their business finance requirements, dealing with lenders and funders on their behalf. “Valuable funding is out there waiting – our aim is to ensure it helps the businesses that need it the most.” Nicklin Business Finance is offering a free initial meeting with entrepreneurs and business owners to discuss new funding alternatives and any other financial requirements they may have.
Further information is available by telephoning Steve Harris on 0121 550 9916 or emailing steveh@nicklins.co.uk
Harvey Owens Managing Partner
Nicklin Business Advisers
Having served the West Midlands region for the last 80 years, Halesowen-based Nicklin LLP is taking positive action to help other companies enjoy similar longevity by assisting them in accessing valuable business finance. Nicklin Business Finance Ltd, a subsidiary company of Nicklins, specialises in finding new avenues of funding for business clients which may have been overlooked, or which the client may not even be aware of. While many banks are increasingly reluctant to lend to SMEs, Nicklin Business Finance has access to a number of new funders who are genuinely enthusiastic about lending to businesses.
Nicklin, giving you the whole-life service...
Recognising that business owners already have enough red tape to deal with on a day-to-day basis, Nicklin Business Finance is designed to make the whole process as simple and as straightforward as possible with the focus firmly on finding the best possible solution for SMEs in need of funding. For a start, businesses can retain their current banking facilities, avoiding the complications which can come with switching banks. Unsecured loans of between £10,000 and £100,000 are available with VERY competitive interest rates starting from just 6.4% AER and no early repayment charges. Crucially, loans can be used for any business purpose, such as working capital or asset purchase.
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SMALL ACCOUNTANCY FIRM OF THE YEAR AWARD 2010
Church Court, Stourbridge Road, Halesowen B63 3TT e-mail: info@nicklins.co.uk | t: 0121 550 9916 | f: 0121 550 9390
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A SHROPSHIRE accountancy firm is heading stateside in a bid to attract new business overseas. Dyke Yaxley Chartered Accountants, has launched a new office in Cleveland, Ohio, and Rob Whittall - one of the company's consultants - will split his time between the UK and the USA. The official launch follows five years of research and business networking during which Rob developed a portfolio of corporate and individual clients in need of both UK and/or USA tax or accounting advice. "Many of the corporate clients are UK companies who are looking to expand into the US, and during my time here I work with their team to help translate the way the US tax and accountancy systems are run,” he says. "This means companies don't have to give up their existing accountancy support here at home, as I can work with their representatives and help them manage the transition as they take their first steps overseas." Rob also works with UK residents who are moving to the USA as they often need to complete tax returns in both countries. "We also work with US residents who live here as they are always required to file a US tax return, no matter where they are living in the world,” he adds.
For more information about Dyke Yaxley, please visit www.dykeyaxley.co.uk. To make an enquiry, telephone 01743 241281 or email keith.winter@dykeyaxley.co.uk.
"As the UK and US have different tax year ends, we have to work with both systems to try to minimise the amount of tax people have to pay and maximise their ability to use foreign tax credits." The launch of the US office is the latest installment in the development of the award-winning Dyke Yaxley, based in Old Potts Way, Shrewsbury. With a team of more than 90 staff, including nine directors, the company is able to assist more than 3,500 clients, all of whom benefit from its wide range of services and expertise. The high quality of service is underlined by the range of accreditations and awards it holds: It is an accredited Investor in Excellence and was Midlands Excellence Medium Sized Firm of the Year for 2008/09. It has also won the Customer Service Award at the 2010 Shropshire Business Awards Managing director Helen Thomas says: “Our reputation is built on quality, integrity and trust for all the services we provide and the relationships we have with clients, stakeholders and suppliers are crucial to our success. “We ensure that our people know their role in delivering exceptional client service and are trained to the highest standards of technical expertise and client care. “We're delighted that our US office is now officially established, and very grateful for Rob's commitment and hard work in developing a firm footing for this new service. "It's a new business area for us and we're looking forward to building even stronger links with businesses in the UK and the USA who want effective and professional advice that will make all the difference."
We’ve got the Atlantic covered Our USA office is now open. Bridging the gap for companies and individuals trading transatlantic: w United States tax and accountancy advice
w Business advice for UK companies expanding into the United States w Tax returns for UK residents relocating to the United States Dyke Yaxley, Chartered Accountants, 1 Brassey Road, Old Potts Way, Shrewsbury SY3 7FA T: 01743 241281 F: 01743 235794 E: keith.winter@dykeyaxley.co.uk W: www.dykeyaxley.co.uk Dyke Yaxley LLC, Certified Public Accountants PO Box 1805, Mentor, OH 44061–1805 T: +1 216 470 5633 E: rob.whittall@dykeyaxley.com W: www.dykeyaxley.com
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AS the economic storms continue to batter business, one company is providing a safe and sound financial solution to help you ride the monetary turmoil.
Not only does this mean that the buying process is trouble-free, but the equipment supplier receives 100% of the invoice value only after satisfactory delivery and installation.
More and more SMEs are turning to Kennet Equipment Leasing Ltd, a finance broker based in Coleshill. Kennet are becoming so sought-after for their business finance that their already impressive results have seen a 44% increase over the last 6 months, as it arranges vital equipment leasing for more and more UK companies.
“We work with some of the UK’s largest funders, and have access to more than 20 companies through whom we can arrange leasing finance, depending on your needs and circumstances,” says Steve. “Finance can be arranged for a wide range of business equipment, and our customers range from large PLC’s to sole traders. “Even if a company does not have cash reserves to buy equipment and invest - or is reluctant to use this money in case it is needed for something else - leasing provides an affordable and manageable way of moving forward.” “All Kennet staff are highly competent, well trained, professional people who pride themselves on the service they provide and look forward to working with you to find the solution to your business finance requirements.”
For further information visit www.kennet-leasing.co.uk telephone 01675 469200 or email sales@kennet-leasing.co.uk
Now Kennet is busy recruiting more staff to cope with the increased demand. With a raft of exciting new contracts under its belt and some of the biggest names on their books for finance deals, they are fast becoming a major force in SME finance. And with awards on the shelf - the company was named Outstanding Introducer by ING from 2008 through to 2010 - there’s every good reason for businesses to benefit from its’ services. Explains Chairman Steve Swift: “Leasing through Kennet is the way forward for any business, whether they have cash in the bank or not.
The benefits of leasing 100% Tax Efficient All payments qualify for up to 100% tax relief, which can dramatically reduce costs, in most cases by around 21%.
“As a result of the recent banking crisis, a lot of financial lenders are required to keep more in “reserve”. This makes it increasingly difficult for SMEs to borrow money and purchase new or used equipment, as there is an increasing reluctance for banks to lend. “This has affected small and medium businesses the most. Despite the economic downturn, many businesses are looking to ride out the economic storm or may just need to invest in order to survive. “This is where Kennet Equipment Leasing is becoming vital to long-term sustainability. With equipment leasing, security is levied on the equipment itself, so business property is not at risk. Couple this with easy budgeting and regular payments that won’t alter throughout the term of the lease – even if interest rates change – and you have the perfect solution to business finance.” There are also tax advantages to leasing, and by using an independent finance broker such as Kennet to acquire equipment, you also protect any credit facilities you have with your current bank. This is how it works. You choose the best equipment for your business requirements and Kennet will help to arrange finance.
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Improved Cashflow Keep cash in your bank.
Unsecured Borrowing The equipment that is being leased is the only security that is generally necessary.
Spread VAT VAT is spread in equal chunks across the agreement (rather than payable up front) minimising cash-flow disruption.
KENNET EQUIPMENT LEASING 20th Anniversary
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FROM software developers to importers, from florists to film makers - the Sir Thomas White Loan Charity is changing lives and boosting the local economy by backing young entrepreneurs. In these recessionary times, when banks are more cautious than ever about offering loans to start-up business, the Leicester charity is providing a lifeline to those needing that vital injection of cash to send them on their way. It’s an Equal Opportunities organisation, providing loans of up to £12,000, interest free for nine years, to eligible candidates aged between 18 and 35 and also offers post graduate interest free education loans of up to £5,000. Yet its key focus is on helping young businesses, not just start-ups but those under three years old too - which can’t get funding elsewhere. Already it has helped thousands over the centuries - yes centuries. The charity was founded in 1542 by one of the City’s most generous benefactors. Last year it approved 27 loans but its 18 volunteer trustees are eager to help scores more and want to hear from as many enterprising locals as possible. Those for whom it has already provided a vital stepping stone include a hairdresser who now has four salons throughout the area and a recruitment agency with a current £500,000 turnover. One of its biggest successes is retailing giant Currys - it started life as a small Sir Thomas White bicycle shop, backed by a loan from the charity. One of the more unusual schemes was for a franchise to provide an office water system that draws the liquid from the air while another involved helping fund equipment for an applicant who wanted to offer a tree felling service and use the wood to make furniture. “There’s a great variety of schemes that come through, some of which are quite imaginative,” smiles Barbara Amos, Clerk to the trustees. “Another we had was from a woman who is providing made-tomeasure wedding dresses for the Indian community who like to have English-type wedding dresses for the English part of the ceremony. I’m always impressed and sometimes amazed with the ideas they come up with. Occasionally, a business plan isn’t everything it should be and I think the applicant will be refused, but they come and are so intelligent, so enthusiastic and really seem to have a feel for the type of business they want to go into, you can’t but help give them the chance.” What’s more, Barbara points out, the trustees are all very friendly - there’s no scary Dragon’s Den-type scenario here.
To be eligible to apply for a loan you must be within the age requirement and: > either resident in Leicestershire or Rutland and/or currently starting/ operating a business based in Leicestershire or Rutland; > have a net annual business income of less than £25,000 per annum, after tax and drawings; > have business assets of less than £25,000; > be able to personally demonstrate that the business has the potential to succeed; > be able to demonstrate that you have a real need for the loan and that the project would not proceed without assistance from the charity; meaning you can demonstrate insufficient personal funds or credit status to secure the funds required from elsewhere.
To apply for a loan or for further information, telephone Barbara on 0116 2046620 or visit www.stwcharity.co.uk.
THE SIR THOMAS WHITE LOAN CHARITY INTEREST FREE BUSINESS & EDUCATION LOANS (EST.1542)
telephone Barbara on 0116 2046620
www.stwcharity.co.uk 11
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SCHOOL’S never out for the forward thinkers at The Media Collective - they’re always happy to go back to the classroom and are warmly welcomed when they do. With its ability to offer a whole host of solutions under one roof, the West Midlands design agency and production workshop is used to coming top of the form with its numerous clients in the education sector who don’t want the hassle of going to lots of different suppliers. “Many of our schools projects may start with providing a solution in just one area such as updating signage, but once they discover all that we can do and all that we have done for many other schools then they see the benefit of keeping everything together,” explains managing director Matt Wattis. “They are realising that their image and values are important and need to be managed better and we have now built up a solid reputation as a great partner for many in the area.” Based at The Piggeries, on Southfields Farm in Packington Lane, Coleshill, and with another office in Northern Ireland, The Media Collective incorporates
designers and project managers, freelance designers, problem solvers, artists, producers, directors, printers and more. Offering relevant media design solutions across a variety of mediums including web and video, a large part is print based, ranging from stationery, leaflets and brochures, to signage and exhibition displays. Projects can start from the conceptualisation of a logo through to the whole presentation of the brand, its products and its values with customers varying from small start-ups to large corporations. The company is particularly proud of its digital print department which can produce high quality large format print, signage/displays, including outdoor and architectural signage, POS displays, exhibition displays, banners, vehicle livery etc. Alongside production, The Media Collective can make the design phase a reality through its installation service, provided by its dedicated production staff and use of professional fitters. “We are able to offer our customers many solutions under one roof,” emphasises Matt. “Design and print for the education sectors is a big part of what we do, helping schools manage all their promotional needs.
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“Our huge experience with many different schools is a real asset and we believe that we know what they need and how we can make their budgets go that bit further. “All of our staff are CRB checked to give schools piece of mind for when we have to work on site.” That high regard in which The Media Collective is held is demonstrated by a lengthly list of educational clients, which includes Coleshill School, Caludon Castle School, Coventry, Ash Green School, Bedworth and Grace Academy, which runs three schools across the Midlands.
Good relationships also abound in its private sector portfolio, with clients such as IM Group Ltd, Baxi Group Ltd and Premier Guns, enjoying the close personal contact with the team. “Encompassing everything is a desire to care for our client and help them find the best solutions in the most cost-effective way,” emphasises Matt.
Centreprint UK Limited are proud to be associated with
“We have seen, especially in the education sector, companies miss-sell and provide inappropriate solutions with no eye on building relationships. Some people don’t look beyond the job in hand. We try and offer our customers a service that is above and beyond.”
celebrating 20 years of innovative, creative print
For further information on the company and its products, visit www.mediacollective.co.uk, www.theprintingroom.co.uk, www.printhandbook.co.uk, telephone 01675 463918 or email info@mediacollective.co.uk
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• All Heidelberg presses with CIP3 colour control
• HP Indigo press achieving great colour range
• Working 24 hours Monday - Friday
• High quality, similar to litho
• Producing corporate brochures, folders, leaflets & flyers, newsletters, magazines, manuals, marketing material and business stationery
• Ideal for short runs anything from 10 to 500
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• Producing business cards, letterheads, leaflets, posters and newsletters
3 Princes Drive Industrial Estate, Kenilworth, Warwickshire CV8 2FD 01926 515010 sales@centre-print.co.uk www.centre-print.co.uk
PEFC/16-33-439
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AS the importance of online video grows as a formidable marketing tool, Birmingham’s Ember Television is well placed to harness that power. One of the main video production companies in Britain’s Second City, the last year has seen demand for its expertise soar, with more than half of its output devoted to creating footage for online rather than TV broadcast. Managing director Catherine Allen attributes the increase to changing attitudes to the internet and online marketing plus the blanket availability of fast download speeds. “A website used to be something extra, now it’s a necessity,” she says. “It’s the same with online video because it’s all part of the digital media landscape which is becoming an essential marketing tool. A Yahoo! study in May showed that advertiser recall and remembrance of the brand correlated with how professional a video appeared. Viewers also considered professional-look films to be more personal to them. Further research has shown that play rates, time spent watching and number of videos viewed actually double when recommended from Twitter or Facebook.
“Videos can get buried and be hard to find,” she says. “We use them as a way of pulling people into a website from other parts of the internet and really target the audience.” Now it’s preparing for the October launch of The Ember Formula, a way of calculating a clear return on investment that an online video gains a client, by assessing which part of the buying cycle the video is best placed, and combining it with a focused distribution strategy, to ensure it is watched by and engages with the target market. It’s that detailed, focused approach that has already gained Ember some prestigious customers, including Siemens,Trinity Mirror, Toyota, The Independent, The Church of England, Birmingham City Council, Warwick University, the London School of Economics, the University of Nottingham, Staffordshire Police and Investment Week Magazine. But not everyone is as used to appearing on camera as Robin is - for many the prospect is quite daunting - but Ember is dedicated to ensuring the process is easy and fun.
“That’s why Ember uses social media to distribute the video, as well as producing the video itself,” Catherine says.
“We use the people in the company who are the most comfortable,” says Catherine.
Based in Digbeth, the company produces high-quality video for television and online platforms, backed by a combination of 20 years of Sky and ITV broadcasting experience.
“It may seem like a big step but we media train them so that they feel at ease and Robin brings across his Sky News expertise. Nothing goes on camera that they’re not relaxed about.”
Its executive director is Robin Powell, the business reporter for Sky News who has previously reported for ITV News and Sport and who brings his skills and experience to presenting many of Ember’s productions.
To find out more about Ember Television and its services, visit www.embertelevision.co.uk. To make an enquiry, email hello@embertelevision.co.uk or telephone 0121 771 3382.
“We have a fresh and cutting-edge approach to the online environment and video in general, believing in fundamentally showing rather than telling. We aim to make our videos as engaging as possible while offering a fun, friendly and professional service.” says Catherine. The skill is not just in the creation, however. The Ember team brings its expertise to bear on distribution too, something Catherine acknowledges, is quite an art.
Launch of Ember Television (L-R) executive director Robin Powell, managing director Catherine Allen and creative director Pesala Bandara. 14
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Poppleston Allen has received a prestigious accolade from their peers. Poppleston Allen is the leading licensing practice in the UK, serving the niche market of licensing and gaming, a boutique firm concentrating purely on their specialist area.
(BBPA), The British Institute of Innkeeping (BII), BEDA representing the late night-time economy, and the Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA)
The company was founded by Jeremy Allen and Susanna Poppleston in 1994.
Their client list demonstrates the breadth of their involvement within the licensed sector and includes major plcs as well as smaller operators and independents. Just a few of the other well known names they advise include Gordon Ramsay, Ask, Carluccio's, Jamie's Italian, Yo! Sushi, Zizzi's, House of Fraser, Jarvis Hotels, Stonegate, Butlins, Northern Racing, Showcase Cinemas, Vue Cinemas, and Warner Leisure. The company’s future lies within the gaming and licensing sector; they may, perhaps, open other branches, but would always stay within their core specialism.
Sadly the firm lost their senior partner, Jeremy Allen, earlier this year, however, the news that Poppleston Allen are top rated in the latest Legal 500 shows that the firm is moving forward in a manner which is in keeping with his legacy; described as being 'head and shoulders above other firms for licensing work,’ they were delighted when the latest issue of The Legal 500 reached their London and Nottingham offices. All six partners in the firm were recommended within The Legal 500 United Kingdom 2011 edition, more than any other licensing firm in the country.
Poppleston Allen Nottingham Office 37 Stoney Street, The Lace Market Nottingham NG1 1LS
The entry read, “Within Licensing, Poppleston Allen is a first tier firm, head and shoulders above other firms for licensing work. Clients include Mitchells & Butlers, Pizza Express, and industry associations such as the British Beer & Pub Association, which the firm advises on licence applications, transfers and judicial reviews. Graham Cushion is ‘an expert in his field’ of prosecutions and regulatory crime; ‘excellent’ managing partner Jonathan Smith has ‘enormous expertise in handling licensing and hearings’; and Lisa Sharkey and James Anderson are noted for licensing and gaming. Nick Arron is ‘always helpful and proactive on gaming matters’.
Tel: (0115) 953 8500 Fax: (0115) 953 8501
UP TO YOUR NECK IN IT?
Jonathan Smith Managing Partner Jonathan Smith commented “It's been a tough year for us all here at Poppleston Allen, with Jeremy passing away in June. The quotes within this prestigious guide are ones that Jeremy would have been proud of, and testimony to him and the other founding Partner, Susanna Poppleston, who built such a strong team to carry the name on, a team that remains at the forefront of licensing law in the UK”. The firm retains its position as leading licensing lawyers through their close involvement in licensing policy and advising the following industry bodies: The British Beer and Pub Association
email: t.robottom@popall.co.uk Nottingham Office 37 Stoney Street • The Lace Market • Nottingham • NG1 1LS • Tel: 0115 953 8500 London Office 88 Kingsway • London • WC2B 6AA • Tel: 020 7936 5869
www.popall.co.uk
The leading licensing solicitors in the UK
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Social Housing FA C I N G T H E C H A L L E N G E S How are Social Housing organisations meeting the challenges of new government initiatives to work smarter and reduce costs whilst improving customer service? SAM Dhadwar, Director of Finance for Accord Group, one of the Midlands largest Housing Associations illustrates just one of the challenges facing his organisation with an eye-opening statistic. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Before we implemented an EDRM & Workflow solution a piece of paper could have the carbon footprint the equivalent of an oak tree, a form could need signatures from two or three different people who are based on two or three different sites so a piece of paper would go out for signing, come back to main office then get sent out to another building, then get sent back again. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not only did it take an awfully long time, the amount of paper we were moving around was horrendous.â&#x20AC;? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the only social housing organisation in the region thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reaping the rewards. The Orbit Group, operating across the Midlands, East Anglia and the South East who provide over 35,000 homes and Black Country Housing Group (BCHG) have also invested in new IT systems to boost effectiveness.
orbit group
All three are typical of the changes taking place nationally within the social housing sector as it tackles new Government policies, causing landlords to review operations, where efficiencies and savings can be achieved and how to increase customer satisfaction. IT systems play a critical role in all this - being instrumental in saving time, space and resources through the setting up of document and records management systems.
Maralyn Barnes says: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We can only say how good the invoice management system is and what a fantastic improvement it has made within the Finance department, we know exactly where an invoice is, who itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s with and how long theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had it, which makes things much faster and more efficient.â&#x20AC;? Hemant Patel, the BCHGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IT manager confirms that being less reliant on paper brings a host of benefits. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Any documents that relate to a tenancy or property can be linked and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot easier to search for things rather than trawl through filing cabinets to find bits of paper, not to mention the huge space saving and increased efficiency in accessing informationâ&#x20AC;? he says. The Accord Group, an organisation with 11,000 homes that provide a range of services across the region, has adopted a Enterprise Document Management System (EDRM) which has proved critical in allowing instant accessibility from various sites and saving on paper and printing costs. Sam Dhadwar says the organisation is working towards a leaner environment and improved use of storage space, revealing that the new systems have enabled the conversion of storage space into customer IT access points. To find out more about the solutions being employed by Accord, Orbit and BCHA please see www.documotive.co.uk or telephone 0845 241 0220.
Orbit, Accord and the BCHG have all been working with Documotive who are based in Sutton Coldfield. Documotive is the leading supplier of Document and Process management solutions to the Social Housing sector and provides systems and services to over 50 organisations across the UK. Orbit, which owns and manages more than 35,000 homes and one.stop.shop
fully integrated document management
BLACK COUNTRY HOUSING GROUP
Fully Integrated Document Management Document Scanning Services Mailroom scanning
housing management VIVO Voids Management Complaints Management Document Management
finance management
Black Country Housing Association (BCHG), the landlord of nearly 1,800 homes and provider of other services such as energy efficiency and careers advice has implemented a smart invoice management solution to streamline invoice processing and manages all customer and property records electronically thus significantly reducing the need to produce and store paper whilst providing more effective management. The result is extra office space, reduced paperwork and greater efficiency and satisfaction - not least from its finance team and from suppliers who are being paid more quickly.
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David Leach ICT Director explains â&#x20AC;&#x153;We face a wide range of challenges whilst streamlining processes and driving efficiencies, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges and we hope we will be able to provide an even better service to our internal and external customers.â&#x20AC;?
Purchase to Pay Process Expenses Process Sundry Payments Process Document Management
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employs more than 1,800 people, is transforming its IT systems and services to make them more effective for staff and customers.
Starters/Leavers Process Staff Appraisal Process e.recruitment Process Holiday Request Process Document Management
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4838 1pg advertorial:Layout 1 01/12/2011 13:52 Page 17
Park Inn Birmingham West provides a host of festive fun Whether it’s a work Christmas dinner, a big family lunch, a party night, or even a NYE knees up, Park Inn Birmingham West has it covered.
The staff at Park Inn Birmingham West looks forward to helping you have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
For further information please contact Peter Sivy, General Manager Park Inn by Radisson Birmingham West Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands B70 6RS T: +44 (0)121 609 9988, F: +44 (0)121 609 9937 info.birminghamwest@rezidorparkinn.com parkinn.co.uk/hotel-birminghamwest
With a range of packages to choose from, local residents and businesses can find the perfect celebration for them this Winter. Our modern and stylish RBG restaurant will be offering a range of dining packages all with high quality waiting staff and excellent prices. Guests can choose from a variety of menus, from three-course blow-outs to buffet style.
Hotels you can rely on:
For those who are keen to dance the night away after dinner, Park Inn Birmingham West is hosting a range of Party Nights, where guests will be able to take advantage of our bar, and party to the sounds of our resident DJ until the early hours of the morning. Accommodation is also available for party-goers who would prefer not to have to worry about getting home after their celebrations.
Christmas
Highlights of activity at Park Inn Birmingham West include:
2011
• Delicious Festive Lunches served in our stylish RBG restaurant - £15.95 per person • Fabulous Disco Party Nights and Tribute Nights with festive buffet or three course meal starting from £17.95 per person • New Year’s Eve Champagne reception, gala buffet and danc ing till 1am - £29.95 per person All Park Inn hotels are accepting bookings for Christmas events now. Call 0121 609 9988 for more details or pop in and pick up a brochure. Don’t forget to book early to avoid disappointment!
Let’s celebrate Q Enjoy Christmas and New Years Eve at the Park Inn Birmingham West, the perfect venue! Q A wide range of great themed events and tribute nights. To make an enquiry or place a booking call us now on 0121 609 9988.
Park Inn by Radisson Birmingham West Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, West Midlands, B70 6RS T: +44 (0)121 609 9988, F: +44 (0)121 609 9937 info.birminghamwest@rezidorparkinn.com parkinn.co.uk/hotel-birminghamwest
44157 Christmas Poster.indd 1
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PARAGON HOTEL BIRMINGHAM
Exciting news from The Paragon Hotel! Major changes are happening at The Paragon Hotel brought about by the appointment of a new General Manager, Martyn Smith.
All 12 event rooms have been updated and offer every modern business facility including complimentary wifi, conference facilities, plasma screens and projections. All have natural daylight and can accommodate intimate meetings from six delegates up to events for 550 guests. Few other venues offer this capacity so close to the city centre and with the hotel’s own car park offering over 150 complimentary parking spaces for delegates The Paragon offers one of the best conference venues in Birmingham. A major programme of redecoration and refurbishment is being undertaken, some of the bedrooms on the first floor have been redecorated; corridors have been freshened up and there is much more planned for 2012. Needless to say, all of the refurbishment is being done ensuring the original character of the beautiful Victorian Gothic Grade 2 Listed building is retained. So, the future for the Paragon is very exciting and to celebrate they have planned a really outstanding programme of events for the Christmas Holiday, from a traditional Christmas lunch on Christmas day itself, with a present for each child, to festive lunches, Glam Party nights and Comedy Party nights, they are certain to have something to offer everyone
PARAGON HOTEL BIRMINGHAM
Martyn brings a wealth of hospitality experience to the Paragon with many years of hotel management in prestigious properties. Martyn is taking the opportunity to refocus the hotel with the overriding emphasis being to ensure a guest experience that not only satisfies but exceeds expectations. Martyn firmly believes that a happy staff ensures a happy hotel and he is equipping all of the departments with the necessary tools to allow the team members to comfortably do their jobs. A number of other new faces have joined too, and a happy, professional and very enthusiastic team is now in place. It is very clear to me that the whole team is driven to take The Paragon in a very different direction than before!
The Paragon Hotel 145, Alcester Street Birmingham Of course, Rome wasn’t built in a day and the physical changes will be ongoing but some of the changes already made include: Naylor’s Bar is being refurbished and is now open all day from 8.45am every day serving coffee and morning pastries followed by traditional, hot and cold dishes from 12 noon through to 9.30 pm.
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B12 0JP 0121 627 0627 www.theparagonhotel.co.uk
4722 Hoar Cross Hall 1pg Advertorial:Layout 1 01/12/2011 14:02 Page 19
Hoar Hoa ar CCross ross Hall Haalllll SSpa pa RResort essort
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A stay at Hoar Cross Hotel Spa Resort is like finding your own little piece of paradise. This superb English stately home, set in 100 acres of stunning grounds, combines the opulence and elegance of a bygone age with all the modern comforts required by 21st century guests.
just the place to give men and women the opportunity to take time out and refresh and recharge their inner batteries. You can all indulge in a full range of holistic beauty treatments and therapies and spend as long as you like in either the slumber or meditation rooms. There’s also the opportunity to take a leisurely dip in one of two pools, one of which is salt water, or revitalise your mind and body in the hydrotherapy pool, the whirlpool spas, steam rooms, saunas, saunarium or the unique Water Grotto areas. You could even try out the outdoor hot tub on the sun terrace. The only stately home in England to incorporate a spa resort, Hoar Cross Hall is an exceptionally special place, where every guest is exceptionally special. Why not visit - your own personal Eden is not as far away as you might think.
The jewel in its already gem-encrusted crown is the superb luxury spa resort - a sanctuary of peace and tranquillity where the cares and stresses of modern life just melt away. The smiles begin the minute you arrive at Hoar Cross Hall - and that’s just from the friendly and welcoming staff. By the end of your stay you, too, will be smiling having experienced all the Spa Resort has to offer - superb service, luxurious surroundings and a wealth of special touches that demonstrate why Hoar Cross Hall Spa Resort has been named England’s Leading Resort at the World Travel Awards for the last six years running. Situated in Staffordshire, the hotel is a favourite choice of many household names, including Katie Price, Catherine Zeta Jones, Amanda Holden, Danni Minogue, JLS and Clive Owen. It’s also a popular venue with the corporate sector, its drawing room perfect for meetings for up to 150 people, gala or themed dinner, while those requiring smaller galleries can choose from the Halifax or Meynell Suites, overlooking the four seasons garden. No matter what your reason for visiting Hoar Cross Hall, you will always find a friendly welcome and fine dining in the style of your choice: from the Champagne Bar, Grand Ballroom dining room, the Plantation Restaurant or the Oasis Garden Room Coffee Bar. If you enjoy outdoor activities you can hone your golfing skills at the resort’s Golf Academy with PGA Professional nine-hole course, driving range and practice areas or try your hand at tennis, croquet, boules or archery. Alternatively simply strolling or job through the lakes and grounds which have wildlife in abundance, taking in the formal gardens, the Italian Roof Terrace gardens, water features and beautiful flora. Those who like to keep in trim will find a superb range of facilities in the resort’s gym where the specialised team of fitness and health professionals provide advice and help, working with you to help achieve your goals. Yours for a real get-away-from-it-all experience, there is also the Eden Day Spa,
For further information, visit www.hoarcross.co.uk. For reservations, gift vouchers and enquiries, telephone 01283 575 671, email info@hoarcross.co.uk. Contact the Spa reception on 01283 575 747 or email treatments@hoarcross.co.uk Special People And Their Friends Relax And Have Fun Stays At Hoar Cross Hall Spa Resort. The Perfect Escape For Birthdays, Anniversary Celebrations And Pre-Wedding Parties With Their Favourite Friends Telephone Reservations on 01283 575671 For Your Special Rates
Welcome to Paradise AT HOAR CROSS HALL SPA RESORT
Voted England’s Leading Resort at the World Travel Awards for Six Consecutive Years Elegant resort offering the last word in relaxation, health & happiness Enjoy the sumptuous pleasures of staying in an elegant English Stately Home with all the facilities of a superb modern Spa Resort. Wonderful surroundings. Traditional elegance and first class friendly service. Salt Water & Hydrotherapy swimming pools, Aerobic & Yoga suites, 4000sqft Gymnasium, Slumber Lounge, Toning Tables, 9 hole golf course and driving range & Relaxed Happiness. Superb Surroundings, fine dining, floatation tank, toning tables, hydrotherapy baths, aerobic, step and fitness classes. Massage or facials and many exercise classes, Indian head massage, pedicures, spa treatments, unique water grottos, water massage areas, a full range of Clarins, Thalgo, ESPA, Elemis, Maria Galland treatments.
Buy Your Favourite People The Perfect Present A Gift Voucher To Paradise Gift Vouchers from £25.00, For reservation enquiries and current special offers please Telephone: 01283 575671 or email: info@hoarcross.co.uk
Enjoy a two day one night stay including breakfast, lunch, à la carte dinner from only £139 per person
www.hoarcross.co.uk Hoar Cross • Near Yoxall • Staffordshire • DE13 8QS
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Inner calm, outer beauty – Champneys is the place to soothe away the stresses of modern day living, the place to hide yourself away and reap the benefits of taking time out, all in complete comfort, with the finest spa treatments around.
continually developed and updated to ensure that Champneys keeps one step ahead of consumer demands and trends and stays ahead of the competition.
With a heritage of 80 years experience in health, beauty and wellbeing, Champneys therapists provide the highest standards in Champneys health resorts and on the high street, too. The Town and City Spas introduce the brand to people who are not aware of Champneys and also potential guests who feel it is unattainable. Champneys philosophy is affordable luxury.
Champneys is the place to be … For more information visit www.champneys.com
What started as a slimming club in 1970 has today become the nation’s favourite spa brand, one that also successfully launched its spa collection into Boots, the UK’s leading chemist thanks to an exclusive partnership – with a range of spa products with prices from as little as £5 they are accessible to all women. Flying the flag for British beauty, Champneys was recently recognised as one of the UK’s best skincare, bodycare, and spa brands by the Professional Beauty Awards. A family-run business and a luxury spa brand, Champneys has changed the way women buy into health and beauty by making its spa products and spas accessible and affordable. With four fabulous resorts Champneys offer the very latest in health and leisure facilities, deliciously healthy cuisine and an extensive menu of traditional and alternative treatments. Choose from Champneys Springs in Leicestershire, the UK’s first purpose built health resort, Champneys Henlow in Bedfordshire, a Georgian mansion with a traditional health spa atmosphere, Champneys Forest Mere in Hampshire set in an area of outstanding natural beauty or the original Champneys Tring in Hertfordshire established in 1925 by the naturopath Sir Stanley Leif. In times where uncertainty has bought trust in a brand to the fore like never before, Champneys has remained consistent to its brand values to ensure trust with its loyal customers. Spa packages are
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Gift Vouchers from
£25 The Perfect Flexible Christmas Gift What a treat! Just imagine...a cosy, relaxed atmosphere, a dip in the pool or an invigorating workout, or quite simply indulging in deeply soothing spa rituals. What better way to while away the day and enjoy the benefits of a spa break. For an utterly indulgent and flexible gift buy a Champneys voucher from just £25 and let your loved one choose how they spend it. From pampering days and stays and over 100 treatments, to our luxury Spa Collection products and Day Spas, there is plenty to tempt!
To buy call 0843 316 22 22 or visit www.champneys.com/sparkle
4829 1 pg advertorial:CD Engineering 01/12/2011 16:31 Page 21
HARVEY NICHOLS C E L E B R AT I N G
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Harvey Nichols Birmingham celebrates ten years of success in the city this October with a sleek new look and a host of exciting launches. A decade ago saw one of the most luxurious names in retail open its first boutique store on the site of the former Royal Mail sorting office. The area was redeveloped in to The Mailbox, a chic landmark that has since been credited as one of the UK’s finest shopping destinations.
O F
S U C C E S S
Shoes and accessories have also re-located to a larger space, with an extensive range from the hottest names – including Christian Louboutin, Jimmy Choo and Uggs' new premium line of footwear – whilst stellar accessories brand, Mulberry, has more than doubled in size. In Beyond Beauty, the store welcomes exclusive launches from Stila and Sue Devitt cosmetics and skincare, as well as cult make-up brand Benefit. Italian heritage brand, Marco Bicego, will also open an in-store boutique of exquisite jewellery. A stylish new Espresso Café and Perrier-Jouët Champagne Bar has also been unveiled, twice the size of the original cafe and located at the centre of the store. With commanding views across the city, it is the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, or simply relax with a glass of Champagne. The impressive menu focuses on locally produced and sourced ingredients. From day one, Harvey Nichols has led from the front when it comes to style in the city; where we set the trends, others follow,” says Kevin Breese, General Manager, Harvey Nichols Birmingham. “As we reach our ten-year milestone, we continue to bring exciting, new labels to Birmingham, many of them exclusively.
Sass & Bide Pride of Honour dress £780
“We have fabulously loyal customers, who have each made Harvey Nichols the success story it is today. We will continue to build upon our reputation and deliver the very best shopping experience imaginable, exceeding all expectations.”
Heralding a retail revolution in the region, Harvey Nichols Birmingham has, since day one, showcased a cherry-picked edit of fashion’s most coveted names, from internationally-renowned labels such as Alexander McQueen and Marc Jacobs to a niche selection of brands including Acne and Lucy in Disguise.
HARVEY NICHOLS C E L E B R AT I N G A D E C A D E O F S U C C E S S
Today the award-winning store is an emphatic success, continuing to offer the very latest brands and services in womenswear, menswear, beauty, accessories and food.
THE MAILBOX - BIRMINGHAM
An impressive re-design for the store’s tenth anniversary ensures it remains the most iconic fashion and lifestyle destination in the city.
Lucy in Disguise Dip dye dress £285
For the very first time, the menswear department will offer a dedicated Private Shopping Suite for its male clientele, alongside the introduction of international super-brand, Calvin Klein. There will be a larger shopping area, offering an increased selection of the leading designer collections.
MODEL WEARS Lucy in Disguise maxi dress £285
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POP star Gary Numan may sing about cars - but he knows the crew at Blitzworld are the people to see when he wants to buy a buggy. So do ‘petrol head’ Jay Kay, of Jamiroquai fame, and Sheffield United star Gary Speed. They may be celebrities, but they’re also motoring enthusiasts or car collectors who know about engines so it’s no surprise that when they want a buggy, they turn to the UK’s biggest kit-car manufacturer. With an HQ in Stoke on Trent, sites in Bishop Aukland and Birmingham and a Polish agent, the team of seven, led by managing director Steve Malpass, really are racing ahead in the kit car world. The company designs and manufactures buggies and 4x4s, either for self build or, as factory-built, ready to drive - and all customised to suit individual requirements. Its latest exciting project involves developing an electric powered buggy and follows hot on the heels of its success in building a buggy for the MOD and the eco Car 2009 for Shell. You may have even seen some of its adrenaline-boosting machines on TV its Joyrider Sport and Hammerhead 150cc buggys were part of an offroad gadget vehicles challenge in Channel 5’s Gadget Show earlier this year and Steve was the focus of a Central News Be Your Own Boss slot. Whether you want a road legal machine or one that’s off-road, whether it’s for a youngster or an ever-young buggy enthusiast, Blitzworld will have just the right kind of machine. It also sells
World Of Wiring is proud to be a supplier to Blitzworld. Mobile Vehicle Electrical and Electronic Specialists. •Vehicle Wiring Looms (Kit, classic, modern or motorsport), •Vehicle Key Programming, •Classic Car Keys, •Reversing Cameras, •Digital Instrument Panels.
T: 01461 337281 M: 07850 742 416
E: worldofwiring@btinternet.com W: Worldofwiring.co.uk
imported buggies - but only after every single one has been modified by Blitzworld and rigorously tested. “If they are not up to the job, we don’t sell them,“ insists says kit car-mad Steve who gave up a nine-to-five job to turn his hobby into a millionpound turnover business. “And our new vehicles all receive our own one-year parts and labour warranty.” Many customers like to use the buggies on their own land but those without large acres are regular visitors at Blitzworld’s popular track days which it holds around the Staffordshire area. And even those without their own wheels are welcome Blitzworld ensures there are plenty of its vehicles available for hire. Cementing its status as a one-stop-shop for the serious buggy owner, Blitzworld also carries out all kinds of repairs, happy to work on other makes, and if that involves making a new part from scratch, has the design and manufacturing capabilities to do so. Parts are not often a problem, however, as it stocks everything for its current range of buggies and has a secondhand section too, can make those no longer available and, with its own fabrication and welding shop, can cater for any modifications, from moving seat positions to building a complete vehicle. Always innovative, its newest venture is to offer complete IVA / SVA kit car testing and under take any modifications to pass the tests. For further information about these and Blitzworld’s range of buggies, to buy from the new online parts and accessories shop or to see more about its track days and shows involvement, go to www.blitzworld.co.uk.
To make an enquiry, call 01782 208050 or email sales@blitzworld.co.uk
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enterprises, which include a harvest shop, farm produce, a rally site and angling centre. TOP Barn - top activity centre. Adventurers love to test their mettle at this hotspot for excitement. Whether they’re adrenaline junkies or novices, activity seekers come from miles around for the thrills and spills to be found within the 90acre site at Holt Heath, near Worcester.
With a full-time team of six and a large freelance back-up, the activity centre is is an approved BCU (British Canoe Union) training centre offering canoe and kayak qualifications, an approved RYA (Royal Yachting Association) training centre offering sailing, windsurfing and powerboating qualifications and fully accredited by AALA (Adventure Activities Licensing Authority). The excitement is not just confined to the activities taking place here - there’s eager anticipation about what the future holds as the centre plans develop even more activities including an abseiling tower and indoor caving. With expansion plans incorporating the developments of further sites in not just Worcester but the South of France and South Africa, there’s plenty to keep the adrenline flowing for not just visitors but the staff and owners too.
For further details and to book an activity or course at the centre, visit www.topbarnactivity.com. Alternatively, telephone 01905 622 223 Be it a small group of friends, a large corporate team building experience, an educational group, a stag, hen or birthday party, Top Barn can devise something to suit; happy to provide a package tailor-made to specific needs of the group.
TOP BARN ACTIVITY CENTRE
Archery, rifle shooting, treeless ropes course, climbing, zip wire, low ropes course and team challenges are just some of the options available, while the 10-acre lake opens up a world of water fun, including canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, raft building, wobblyboarding and power boat driving. Or you can release your inner child on the inflatables: Bouncy castle, Battle Zone and 40ft Human table football - take your air-filled pick. If you can’t pack everything in in one day it’s not a problem - Top Barn has its own camping facilities, including brand new sleeping ‘pods’ showers, toilets and changing facilities for youth and education services while its on-site catering can provide all groups with breakfast, lunch and dinner. “Your outdoor challenge is our area of expertise” says owner David Harper. “With a large lake and the River Severn close by there are plenty of water-based activities for you to try, and with acres of open space and woodland, we have loads of fun things - something for everyone.” David and his wife Di are part of the Harper family, which has been associated with Holt since 1939, and have lived and farmed at Top Barn since 1967. Then a traditional family farm, it already reflected the family’s deep desire to share the beautiful Worcestershire countryside with visitors and was open to people with pick your own fruit, a Caravan Club CL site, and fishing pools. In the last 20 years, diversification has seen a business centre developed from farm buildings and the lake into the activity centre. With David and Di managing the business centre, while their three sons and their families each successfully run their own Top Barn
THE PERFECT CHOICE IN WORCESTER FOR:
WET ‘N’ WILD School Holiday Activity Days
Corporate Team Building Social Events & Conferencing Schools Activity Programmes & Outdoor Learning Solutions Wet & Wild Holiday Clubs & Youth Camps Fund Raising & Sporting Events Birthday Parties & Equipment Hire Venue Hire
8-16 Years
LAND BASED ACTIVITIES
Summer Holiday 22 July ‘11 - 5 Sept ‘11
Climbing s Zip Wire s Treeless Rope Course Low Ropes s Team Challenges s Inflatables Archery s Rifle Shooting s BMX & Mountain Biking Orienteering s Scavenger Hunts Abseiling (Coming Soon) s Caving (Coming Soon)
Autumn Mid-Term 21 Oct ‘11 - 31 Oct ‘11 Spring Mid-Term 10 Feb ‘12 - 20 Feb ‘12 Easter Holiday 30 Mar ‘12 -16 April ‘12 Bank Holiday 7 May ‘12 Summer Mid-Term 1 June ‘12 - 11 June ‘12
WATER BASED ACTIVITIES Sailing s Windsurfing s Kayaking s Canoeing River Trips s Raft Building s Board Games Power Boating
ONLY 5 MILES FROM WORCES R CITY CENTRETE !
NEW IN 2011
INDOOR RIFLE SHOOTING CLIMBING WALL £35 per day or £150 per week
BOOK NOW TO RESERVE A PLACE
Call Rob on 07525 071 155 or 01905 622223
Top Barn Activity Centre, Worcester Road Holt Health, Worcester WR6 6NH
We’re on
Telephone: 01905 622223 Email: rob@topbarnactivity.com www.topbarnactivity.com
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Coventry's own Call Of Duty Black Ops Arena: It all started 12 years ago when a local man from Coventry set out to take the experience industry by storm, and today this man is proud to be the owner of Coventry and Birmingham's largest activity provider which is known as Splatforce Entertainments Ltd. The man we refer to is none other than the business guru himself Ty Gulliver, born and bred in Coventry, Mr Gulliver isn't your everyday Joe Bloggs. After a turbulent time within his education Mr Gulliver set off at the early age of 15 on his journey to become the business man he is today. It’s not everyday that you hear about positive success stories or of a person who just like to help others succeed, but with Ty and his team success comes naturally as his company is run more like an entrepreneurial business school for people with great ideas who want to succeed. Introducing the 1st of it's kind in the UK: SWATFORCE Coventry’s answer to the Call Of Duty Black Ops computer game, the global games industry is big business this year, helped in part by online play which has seen audiences expand to record levels, and Mr Gulliver is cashing in on an industry which contributes £1billion a year to the UK's GDP. Mr Gulliver has opened the doors to the UK's first Indoor simulated Combat Centre in Coventry based on the legendary computer game giving gamers the chance to recreate the game at the newly transformed Rialto Plaza building in Coundon. Mr Gulliver said '' When you consider how many people play this game online it made perfect sense to open a facility for people to actually play the game for real, so we did just that!!!” With an 86K refurbishment, 20 tradesman, 2,400 meters of 3x2 wood, 350 litres of paint, 1,200 sheets of 8x4 ply, 600 meters of carpet ,150 paint spray cans, 12,000 screws and 1128 hours of labour, 10,000 tea bags, 401b of sugar, 1,200 pints of milk, the venue was built over a 12 week period and includes real life gothic gods, sand pyramids, three level fort, 13ft tower, alley ways and corridors and is complete with a bar and seating area. HOW SWATFORCE IS PLAYED: Upon arrival players will sign in and change into their Swat gear which includes: Tac vest, Body vest, Head and eye protection, they will then have a full safety briefing before entering the game zone where they will be handed their semiautomatic hand pistols and ammunition (rubber rounds) they will then be given their mission statement which could see them completing gruelling challenges and hostage situations. The age limit for Swatforce is 10 years and above and is perfect for Birthday parties, stag and hen parties, corporate team building events or just some fun with friends and family. Mr Gulliver finished the interview with '' This is an exiting time, but this venture is not just about building the business but also to provide activities for Coventry's young generation, this venture is important because there is not a lot for youngsters to get involved with and these activities help get them off the street, that is one of the driving forces behind Splatforce Entertainments''
Swat-force The Indoor Simulated Combat Centre 85 Moseley Avenue, Coundon, Coventry CV6 1HR visit: www.coventrypaintballcentre.co.uk tel: 0844 381 4080 24
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restaurant & accomodation, award winning country pub, restaurant & accomodation, GloucestershireGloucestershire
THE pies the limit for a Ross-on-Wye pub, famed for its home-cooked pies and British food, thanks to a £350,000 boost from Lloyds TSB Commercial. The award-winning Farmers Boy Inn, has expanded its bed and breakfast business and scored a significant try with Worcester Warriors Rugby Club in the form of a major catering contract to supply more than 30,000 pies. Husband and wife team Phil and Manda Kiernan are over the moon at their success - but say it couldn’t have been possible without the help and support from the bank. They have owned the 17th century Farmers Boy Inn, on the Herefordshire and Gloucestershire border, since 2000 and now have an annual turnover of £500,000 and employ 12 people. Affiliated to the pub is a pie and deli shop which sells high quality and locally sourced produce, as well as a nationwide pie delivery service, MadaboutPies.co.uk. Now, having approached Lloyds TSB Commercial the couple have been able to invest the resulting £350,000 loan on expanding the business - increasing the inn’s four bed and breakfast rooms from four to eight. And Phil successfully clinched the catering contract with Worcester Warriors after Mark Corfield, relationship manager at Lloyds TSB Commercial, suggested the business merits of supplying leading local sporting venues with the famous Mad About Pies products.
understands what we are looking to achieve and has provided the financial support needed to drive our plans." For Mark, the exciting developments at the Farmers Boy Inn only help to demonstrate Lloyds TSB Commercial’s commitment to encouraging businesses. "The Farmers Boy Inn is a well-established and highly respected business with a loyal, and yet diverse customer base that includes regular locals as well as a growing number of visitors from outside of the area,” he says. "Our investment and on-going support is a result of the clear strategic objectives that Phil and his team have outlined in order to maximise future growth in the company. “Their recent success in securing a significant new supply contract with Worcester Warriors Rugby Club embodies the passion, energy and drive for future growth that is testament to the business's success. "At Lloyds TSB Commercial, we work hard to establish solid working relationships with all of our customers. We want to provide businesses such as this with the knowledge, support and guidance to encourage growth, whatever the economic climate."
"Since taking over the Farmers Boy Inn we have worked hard to enhance the its public profile, as well as successfully expanding the business model to incorporate a wider range of services, including the pie and deli shop, Mad about Pies and the B&B accommodation,” says Phil. "Lloyds TSB Commercial has been incredibly supportive of our efforts to progress and we have certainly appreciated its backing over the past few years. In particular, the initial introduction and strategic input that has led to our contract win with Worcester Warriors Rugby Club demonstrates the wider help and support that the bank provides on a local level. It is incredibly pleasing to have received lending support from Lloyds TSB Commercial, in order to help drive our growth plans. The proficient service and effective ideas that we continue to receive from Mark have been dedicated and efficient - he fully
PETER R JEFFERIES & son
award a ward winnin winning g country countr ry pub, pub, rest restaurant resta aurant r & accomodation, accomoda ation, G Gloucestershire loucestershire e
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We are proud to support
We are proud to support Mad About Pies
The Farmers Boy Inn / Madabout Pies High class butcher to the Catering Trade Trade Tel T el / Fax 001242 515666
Ross Road - Longhope Longho ope - Glos - GL17 0LP Tel Tel - 01452 831300 Emaill - info@farmersboyinn.co.uk uk 25
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ANCIENT East meets the most modern West when the true taste of the Orient comes to Birmingham’s Bullring Shopping Centre.
While ChaoBaby’s banquet concept replicates the feel of a Bangkok street market, the Chaophraya brand represents more of a fine dining concept, Yee Rah fuses Thai and European dishes together in a slightly more casual dining environment and Palm Sugar is the group’s high-end cocktail bar concept. With Chaobaby in the Trafford Centre, Manchester, having just won a Best Newcomer of the Year, Louise is confident that the Chaophraya Group’s approach to Thai fine dining is one that will soon prove to be a hit with Birmingham food connoisseurs. “We are perfect for any occasion,” she promises. “From a quick lunch to an evening meal with friends, our restaurants provide an experience you’ll want to enjoy again and again. “We are immensely proud to be joining the new Spiceal Street development at the Bullring and are very much looking forward to coming to Birmingham.” For further information about ChaoBaby Bullring and to book online, visit www.chaophraya.co.uk
Flavours and cultures fuse seamlessly together to provide an exciting combination for all the senses with the opening of ChaoBaby in the heart of the UK’s landmark shoppers’ paradise. This is no ordinary Thai restaurant; this is a Thai banquet-style experience representing the country’s vibrant street market culture with all of its rich and theatrical sights and sounds. Part of the Chaophraya Group, ChaoBaby is one of three new restaurants being built at the Bullring’s social hub Spiceal Street, an entire dining street which is part indoor and part outdoor and opens on Thursday November 24.
You can also keep up to date on all the latest events and offers at the restaurant and elsewhere by following the Chaophraya Group on Twitter @ChaophrayaThai
Chaobaby opening o on Spiceal SStreet Birmingham... in Bullring, Bir B mingham....
“Chaobaby has a theatre kitchen where diners can see our Thai chefs preparing dishes from only the freshest, finest ingredients,” promises group marketing and sales manager Louise Hitch. “There’s a wonderful array of authentic dishes featuring classic’s from different regions of Thailand. Destined to appeal to shoppers and business people alike, the restaurant’s laid-back concept makes guests feel at ease, in comfortable and convenient surroundings.” The restaurant is third ChaoBaby in a group which has been slowly growing across the north of England since 2004 and is now leading the way in Thai fine dining in the UK. The Bullring establishment is the company’s eighth overall and its arrival marks the latest stage in an active plan to expand and roll out even more around the country. Chaophraya Group, pronounced Chao-pi-ya, takes its name from Thailand’s main waterway which, in ancient times breathed life into the families who lived along its banks. Today the river is still regarded as part of the essence of Thailand, an essence which is summed up into this family of brands which all focus on Thai fine dining while celebrating the unique core values of freshness, focus, flare, fun and family.
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ANCIEENT East meets the most modern ANCIENT West W est when w the true taste of the Orient comess to Birmingham’ come Birmingham’s ’ss Bullring Shopping Shopp ping Centre. ChaoBaby‘s Baby‘s authentic Thai TTuk-T Tuk-Tuk uk-TTuk will be off offering fering free rides and they will be samp pling throughout the day giving sampling shoppers shopp pers a chance to experience their delicious delicio ous menu.
www.chaophraya.co.uk www w.chaophraya.co.uk uk
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that YO! Sushi is not all just raw fish, seaweed and cold rice. YO! Sushi offers a great range of soups, rice and noodle based dishes, tempura, hand rolls, and katsu curry, as well as sushi, sashimi, salads and desserts. Whatever tingles your taste buds, you will find plenty to choose from among their selection of over 80 Japanese inspired dishes. YO! Sushi is the way to go, call in and be seated with a menu and then help yourself to dishes from the conveyor belt, or place your order with a team member. The dishes are all colour/price coded and range between £1.70 and £5 per plate, so you will always know what to expect when your empties are totted up at the end of the evening.
The excitement is building at YO! Sushi Brindleyplace, as the winter chills develop YO! Sushi launches its winter warming specials. From the 18th October right through until the end of March 2012 everyone will be asking the question ‘Do you Katsu?’ The winter specials focus around their, hot and tasty, Katsu dishes. Katsu means to ‘win’ or ‘be victorious’, and these dishes are certainly all winners. You can choose between, or order several, of five new specials. Tilapia Katsu – Crispy fried tilapia covered in Japanese bread crumbs with a coriander mayonnaise, Tofu Katsu – Fresh tofu seasoned with shichimi chilli powder in Japanese bread crumbs with a soy and vinegar sauce, Beef and Ginger Katsu – Minced British beef with hot beni shoga (Japanese pickle), sweet pickled ginger and fresh ginger in Japanese bread crumbs with a fruity sauce, Soft shell Crab Katsu – Crispy fried soft shell blue crab in Japanese bread crumbs with a hot and spicy chilli sauce, and of course YO! Sushi’s famous Chicken Katsu Curry – Chicken Katsu with rice, a mild curry sauce and Japanese pickle. If you have never visited one of YO! Sushi’s restaurants you might be surprised to find
Plus, this Christmas you can “Make YO! your own for the night” by arranging for YO! Sushi to be your private venue over the Christmas period, it’s perfect for corporate or private Christmas parties. All you need to do to make this yours is contact the General Manager Iain King at yo.brindleyplace@yosushi.com or call 0121 222 0875. You can create your own packages starting from just £15 per head which can include food, bubbly, music, even a Karaoke machine if required so make sure you contact YO! Sushi Brindleyplace soon so you don’t miss out! Alternatively YO! Sushi can even come to you. If you need that WOW factor for a special event and want to impress your guests you can bring the YO! Sushi experience directly to your own home, office or venue of your choice. YO! Events offers custom entertainment packages with a portable conveyor belt at the centre stage of your event so you can have a real YO! Sushi restaurant in your own space. Expertly trained Sushi chefs will prepare dishes in front of your very eyes and for the true Japanese experience, why not add some geisha waitresses? This year let YO! Sushi make your celebration stand out from the crowd, you won’t be disappointed and neither will your guests.
For more information about YO! Sushi visit the web site at www.yosushi.com (V) Vegetarian (N) Contains nuts £1.70 £2.30 £2.90 £3.40 £3.90 £4.30 £5.00
Chicken Katsu Curry (N) Chicken katsu with rice, a mild curry sauce and Japanese pickle.
Tofu Katsu (V)
Tilapia Katsu
Fresh tofu seasoned with shichimi chilli powder in Japanese bread crumbs with a soy and vinegar sauce.
Crispy fried tilapia in Japanese bread crumbs with coriander mayonnaise.
Beef & Ginger Katsu
Softshell Crab Katsu
Minced British beef with hot beni shoga (Japanese pickle), sweet pickled ginger and fresh ginger in Japanese bread crumbs with a fruity sauce.
Crispy fried soft shell blue crab in Japanese bread crumbs with a hot and spicy chilli sauce.
yosushi.com
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THE SHAKESPEARE INN THE Shakespeare Inn has been quenching the thirsts of those in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter since its heyday - now a massive refurbishment has seen the glorious Victorian hostelry revived as a polished and sparkling gem.
Brass fittings abound once more - not least with traditional brass taps - and the walls are a funky black. What’s more, the old ‘value’ menu has been replaced - with qualified chefs responsible for an exciting range of freshly prepared dishes. Include its large heated beer garden and you have a bustling pub in Summer Row that is now part of the Nicholson’s group the Mitchells & Butlers brand of hostelries specifically picked for their hearty ales, delicious foods, historic heritages and friendly welcome. “The Shakespeare is a really homely atmospheric pub which has been restored to its traditional Victorian glory,” says assistant manager Matthew Barry. “We have six cask ales, three of which are rotating guests, a wide variety of draughts beers, an extensive wine range, a selection of bottled continental beers and a premium range of spirits.” The team, which includes manager Chris Hall, a kitchen manager, three team leaders and a handful of experienced staff are all particularly excited about the new menu. “It’s a traditional pub menu but with a few twists,” reveals Matthew. “We do handmade pies, sausage and mash and fish and chips but we also do fillets of sea bass, cod loin in smoked salmon, pork confit and half roast duck with a cherry jam - plus a lot more.” With a full table service available and a warm welcome from the friendly, courteous and professional team, it’s no surprise that people are flocking to enjoy the pub’s food and drink, both at lunchtimes and during the evening.
A three-week closure saw the red-brick building with its grand arched windows gutted and fitted out to resemble the kind of building that would have been familiar to the goldsmiths and silversmiths who used it in the mid 19th century - but with a definite 21st century twist. The original old bar remains but gone are the red plasticky booths, which have been replaced with smart new leather Chesterfield-style seating.
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And they include the students and lecturing gourmet experts from next door’s Birmingham College of Food and Mitchells and Butlers’ own CEO and MD, no less, who often pop in from the company’s national headquarters just a few hundred yards away for a bite and a refreshing ale.
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Now pulsing with a whole new vibe, the Shakespeare makes a fantastic venue for a party, meeting or group event and offers tailored personalised packages from its food and drink menus that will suit any occasion boosted by the experienced and professional team who are always on hand to help plan events and ensure everything runs smoothly. His namesake pub may have come a long time after the Bard wrote in Henry V “I would give all my fame for a pot of ale” but add to that “from the Shakespeare Inn” and say “cheers”. The Shakespeare Inn is open Monday-Sunday from 10am to 11pm and on Fridays and Saturdays until midnight.
For further information, details of special offers and booking enquiries, visit www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/ theshakespearesummerrowbirmingham/ or telephone 0121 2368702
Diamond Di iamond d
Home Hom me Care
“Quality Ca Care re at Home”
Care in one’s own home, in familiar surroundings, is the ideal for many elderly, disabled or otherwise vulnerable people. Diamond Home Care is a family run domiciliary care business that sets the standard for home care. Diamond Home Care’s cheerful, friendly and highly professional staff visit elderly and vulnerable people in their own homes delivering a range of services from personal care, domestic support, meal preparation, shopping, medication assistance, sitting service (day or night) and community support (escort to appointments, shopping etc) Their visits are often the high points of their clients’ days. When Sue Baines started her business in her converted home garage in 2007 it was with the determination to deliver the highest quality services to vulnerable adults in the community. She has communicated this passion to her staff with the result that the business has grown from a small family run concern to be the employer of 50 staff. Due to this expansion they needed larger premises and have just taken over a new office building off Birmingham New Road in Wolverhampton Sue and the family’s ambitious plans don’t stop at just acquiring larger office and storage premises; they plan to develop the extra
space provided by a warehouse attached to the main building into a day centre for socialisation and reablement purposes. The company have also made major investments into the latest ICT infrastructure and multi-site communication systems. Wolverhampton is fortunate to have the assistance of such a caring and professional company. Diamond Home Care are at the forefront of domiciliary social care for adults, and are planning for the future to be able to accommodate the increasing need for their services.
Diamond Home Care Ltd Diamond Social Care Centre, 297 All Saints Road, Wolverhampton WV2 1EG 01902 871 075 www.diamondhomecare.co.uk 5/6 Long Lane, Rowley Regi Regis, is, West West Midlands, B65 OJA Tel: Te el: 0121 559 2005 Email: enquiries@sidaways.com e enquiries@sida enquiries@sidaways ways.com com
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SSidaways d
Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors
Proud to support Diamond Home Care Ltd
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Deer Park Hall COUPLES and businesses seeking that special venue for an important event are finding it in Deer Park Hall. Located on the Worcestershire/Gloucestershire border, this stunning wedding venue plays a key role in helping to create beautiful wedding day memories.
designed with quality locally sourced ingredients in mind. The venue also offers a generous free corkage allowance.
Its idyllic rural setting, voted as having one of the 'Top Ten Views' in the country, and exclusive facilities also make it one of the most impressive conference venues in the Midlands and a first choice for those organising events, conferencing, product launches and team building activities. Most recently the entire nation has been given a glimpse of the delights that await through recent appearances on national television. More than a million viewers watched managing director Caron Steele and her family featured on BBC’s Songs of Praise edition from Pershore while the Countryfile cameras focused on Deer Park’s farming enterprises for a feature in its latest series. Beautiful views and the total privacy afforded by the surrounding 1,400 acre country estate are just the first things noticed by visitors to the beautifully restored Grade II-listed historic building.
With a ‘set up day” 24 hours before the main event and a wedding hostess and experienced team of staff on hand to offer a friendly and supportive service, all happy couples need to do is relax and enjoy their special day. Enjoyment is all part of the package for the team-building days and leadership challenges that Deer Park Hall provides to enhance any conference or training course. The choice of activities is wide and includes laser shot, quad biking, archery, clay pigeon shooting falconry and team building games alongside circuits for off-road driving events. The hall itself, with its oak-panelled function rooms discreetly housing state-of-the-art presentation equipment, provides a historic setting for any conference and can cater for up to 100 delegates.
Once inside look out for the spectacular 'wall of glass' in the Bredon Room, with panoramic views of the deer park and Malvern hills.
Always flexible, Deer Park Hall can easily adapt to host smaller business functions, such as training venues, thanks to its Minstrels' Gallery, Lounge and Boardroom which are available as syndicate rooms and can be hired on an hourly basis.
Outside, the terraced gardens surrounded by deer, sheep and cattle offer a wonderful area for wedding photography, reception drinks and corporate lunches.
Whether you’re planning your dream wedding or a spectacular business event, you’ll find a warm welcome and the perfect setting at Deer Park Hall in Eckington, near Pershore.
Licensed for civil wedding ceremonies of up to 150 guests, Deer Park Hall can comfortably cater for up to 150 diners, who can feast on a mouth-watering menu designed by the venue’s own recommended caterers to suite all tastes and budgets, Menus are
K.B.
For further information, go to www.deerparkhall.co.uk or www.deerparkweddings.co.uk, telephone 01386 750267 or email office@deerparkhall.co.uk
ECKING TON MANOR L U X U R Y A C C O M M O D AT I O N & C O O K E R Y S C H O O L
CATERING ATE ATERING ERING
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“Are proud to be associated with Deer Park Hall”
Eckington Manor congratulate Deer Park Hall's success in this year's Worcestershire Welcome Awards
t: 01886 812251 m: 0780 1699597 e: kit.bamford@virgin.net
Catering Luxury Accommodation Cookery School www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk tel: 01386 751600
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THERE’S no doubt, one of the delights of a group outing is the shared experience of traveling together - and that can only be boosted by the knowledge that you’re relaxing in a coach from one of the finest fleets in Worcestershire. By hiring a coach, you can enjoy all the benefits of travel without any of the hassle and inconvenience often associated with transportation today. By hiring an Astons Coach, you can make the most of those benefits, secure in the knowledge that you’re hiring a service you can trust. Whether it’s for a day excursion, for a corporate event, or a wedding party, the Worcester coaching firm has the perfect vehicle. There’s something special about traveling in a coach. The fun of a group excursion starts the minute people climb aboard, knowing they can, mix with their fellow travelers or sit quietly. Taking the opportunity to enjoy the passing scenery rather than focus on what’s happening on the road in front of them. Traffic flows, route finding and parking worries are all in the hands of the coach driver and Astons prides itself on the expertise and experience of all its friendly drivers who take such matters in their stride.
But Aston’s services, as one might expect, go further than the neighbouring counties. It arranges continental coach travel and, in line with its aim for “no hidden costs”, can quote an all-inclusive package with driver(s), fuel, tolls, parking and ferry crossings (if applicable). Whatever the destination, customers can sit back and relax, secure in the knowledge that with Astons they’re going places.
The company is certainly a world away from its origins in 1929, when it had just one vehicle - and that was used to distribute coal. Whether it’s a small party or a major gathering of travellers, Astons can accommodate all. It has15 and 16-seat mini buses, 35, 49, 51, 57 and 70-seat standard vehicles, 78-seat double deckers and 49, 51, 53, 57 and 59-seat executive vehicles that are fitted with a toilet, TVs, DVD player and PA system. To really travel in style, there’s the 22, 36, 38, 39-seat luxury coaches which feature tables and a kitchenette as well as all the facilities found in the executive coaches. It is these luxury models that prove popular with many of the region’s sporting clubs, who take annual contracts with Astons for their team transport, with regular clients including Worcester Warriors Rugby Club, Worcester County Cricket Club and Hereford United Football Club. No matter the size of coach hired, every one is part of a rigorous programme of upkeep and repair, carried out by Astons’ in-house skilled mechanics who work round the clock to ensure all meet the strictest of standards. And even when life on the open road can throw up a few surprises, Astons not only has a 24-hour emergency line, there is also a duty manager on call during out-of-office hours. As one of the leading school contract service providers in the Midlands, via Worcestershire County Council, Astons is proud of its reputation within the region’s education sector. It also serves the county council by providing public service transport and likewise for Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.
Relax in a coach from one of the
finest fleets in Worcestershire... t: 01905 820 201 f: 01905 829 249 email info@astons-coaches.co.uk 31
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technology, corporate responsibility and fleet van operation. This year alone it has scooped two: the Motor Transport Customer Care Award - one of the industry ‘Oscars’ - and, hot on its heels in July, the B2B category of the UK Customer Experience Awards. Director of Sales and CRM, Elaine Kerr, said: "This was an incredible double vote of confidence in all that we do. Customer care is our life blood and we're delighted when the outstanding achievements of our people are recognised."
HOURS lost while waiting for an important delivery at an unspecified time are a thing of the past for DPD customers, thanks to its ground-breaking, award-winning Predict service. It’s been so successful that it has resulted in record numbers of new customers for the West Midlands national express parcel delivery company, contributed to a slew of customer service awards and left industry experts scratching their heads as to why other carriers have not offered something similar in the wake of its launch in 2010.
CEO Dwain McDonald said: "Winning one prestigious award was fantastic. Winning two in the same week was amazing! It was wonderful news for all our employees and demonstrated that real customer care pays dividends in the current economic climate."
For full information about DPD UK and the range of services it offers, or to make an enquiry, go to www.dpd.co.uk
With DPD expanding its Oldbury ‘Superhub’, bringing the latest video coding technology and a dedicated International Hall, added to the already powerfully popular service, it’s no wonder staff are proud to call themselves the Heroes of Home Delivery. DPD was established in 1970 as Courier Express, changing its name to Parceline in 1984. It was bought by La Poste in 2000 and took on its current name in 2008. DPD is a leading operator in the UK express parcels sector, employing 4,200 people and operating more than 1,700 vehicles from over 40 locations, while its UK sister company is Interlink Express, a franchised network that focuses on express parcel services for SMEs. The shining light of its specialist delivery solutions is the trailblazing home delivery Predict service which gives shoppers a one-hour window, notifying them by text or email which they can then use to change the delivery date if it is not convenient. Not only does it mean less time wasted while waiting for a vital parcel to arrive, it brings dramatic results for DPD’s first-time delivery success rate, currently standing at an impressive 99%. The resulting customer satisfaction is also generating plenty of repeat business - but DPD is not only a company of choice for clients - it’s widely recognised as an employer of choice, delivering more than 2,000 days of training per year and encouraging a 'promotion from within' culture. The Predict service is a manifestation of DPD’s obsession with customer care, which runs from the boardroom, down to the loading bay and on to the doorstep. It’s also borne out by a bulging trophy cabinet, many of them linked to the success of Predict but a healthy handful for its use of
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RETAIL
At home or on the high street, DPD is the UK’s best carrier by an hour. We’ve all got something better to do than wait for a delivery. That’s why there’s nothing better than DPD’s unique one hour delivery window, Predict. Whether your parcels are going to home addresses or high street businesses, we’re able to ensure the best possible first time delivery success, and greater customer satisfaction. No wonder other carriers can’t keep up.
Call 0845 9 505 505 or visit www.dpd.co.uk and quote BBP0911
technology delivering
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AS the recession eases its grip. Britannia Goodwins is playing a major part in getting the country moving again - literally.
Britannia Movers International
The Goodwin family has been moving homes and businesses for 70 years and is still helping them relocate, not just door to door in the UK but worldwide.
That’s despite one of the toughest economic climates for decades - managing director Robert Goodwin notes that while he’s looking forward to the future, even his company has been affected. “Times have been difficult due to the recession but we have come through that and are looking to maintain our improvement,” he says. Based on the Aston Fields Industrial Estate at Stafford, the business was started in 1935 by Alan Goodwin, whose expertise and professionalism quickly ensured that the small company earned a big reputation for excellent work. Now run by his son Robert, Goodwins Removals is a major force in the industry and is part of Britannia Movers International Consortium, with its own vehicles and staff travelling the globe as required. No matter what the move involves - Goodwins have worked for Staffordshire Police, the county and borough councils plus domestic households of all sizes - every one is handled by staff, experienced in every aspect of the preparation, packing and transport of effects, in a manner expected from a member of the British Association of Removers. “Membership of this organisation is not attained lightly and we are proud to uphold its standards of professional expertise,” Robert says. “We will do everything we can to make your move a pleasure.” When relocation day is imminent, one of Goodwins trained premove surveyors will visit to create a detailed tailor-made plan, itemising what needs moving and whether special equipment is required for large or unusual items. Experts in handling unusual, bulky, fragile and valuable items, the team will pack and transport special belongings using purpose-made materials and equipment.
“We will ensure the smoothest possible move through close co-operation with experts in the destination country,” promises Robert. Of course, not every move is door to door, some find they have to store their effects for a while - but Goodwins Removals can help with its 11,000 ft heated, dust free and secure, storage facility, ideal for long or short term. “We were the first in the Staffordshire area to offer container storage - part of our determination to remain at the forefront of developments in our profession and provide the best possible service for our customers,” says Robert. “The superb equipment and facilities of a large company back up the friendly specialist service on which our success is based.”
For further information about Britannia Goodwins Removals, visit www.goodwinsremovals.co.uk and www.britannia-movers.co.uk or telephone 0800 783 3028
Britannia Movers International
Moving homes and businesses for
70 years..
“We look after everything, from glass and chinaware to a grandfather clock or a grand piano,” assures Robert. At the new home, Goodwins will set out all the furniture exactly where specified, unpacking any cartons they have previously packed and removing any used packing materials. For those who want to pack, the company has a large selection of packing materials available to purchase. If the move is international, Goodwins Removals can advise on necessary documentation and offers detailed preparations for the safe and secure transportation of effects, cars or pets. Once everything is packed it is carefully transported in deep sea containers, with Goodwins’ stringently selected agents overseeing customs clearance, delivery and unpacking at the new home.
visit www.goodwinsremovals.co.uk & www.britannia-movers.co.uk telephone: 0800 783 3028
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4793 Mercedes DPS:Layout 1 01/12/2011 16:23 Page 36
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4793 Mercedes DPS:Layout 1 01/12/2011 16:24 Page 37
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4493.qxd:Lichfield ARC 01/12/2011 16:28 Page 38
LICHFIELD ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTRE LTD.
MOTORISTS who care about their vehicles know where to take them if some TLC is required. By bringing them to insurance-approved Lichfield Accident Repair Centre (LARC), drivers know their engines will be in the hands of skilled professionals who value them as much as they do. For the last 15 years the centre has been a byword for quality and service for all kinds of vehicles, and not just the family or business saloon. Motorcycles, horse boxes and even classic cars are all welcomed by the 28-strong team at the 32,000 sq ft premises on the Crossfield Industrial Estate, which boasts the very latest equipment available to the industry to handle the most specialist of repairs.
They know that the repair of a car requires an immense amount of knowledge, which LARC is more than equipped to provide no wonder the centre is trusted and used by some of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading companies, including Enterprise, Swift cover, Axa and West Midlands Ambulance Service. With its own fleet of courtesy vehicles and drivers and 24-hour recovery service, LARC, also Renault approved, covers the Midlands, carrying out all sizes and types of jobs; from light bumps to major damage, modifications and repaints. Skilled bodyshop engineers and efficient support staff to ensure top-quality repairs are carried out as quickly as possible while its specialist paint approved status from the House of kolor means drivers can be assured their vehicleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new coat will be of the highest standard of paint material available. When it comes to holding specialist supplier status, LARC excels as it has been awarded that prestigious position by many big names in the industry, including Vibe, Delphi, Glasurit, Morelli and De beer.
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BIRMINGHAM CENTRAL
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Telephone: 0121 7662450 30 High Street, Deritend, Birmingham B12 0LW
4493.qxd:Lichfield ARC 01/12/2011 16:28 Page 39
The experts at LARC really understand how even the smallest scuff or stone chip can make a vehicle look tatty and thus devalue it. Using colour matched paint and an artist’s brush, practiced staff can do a smart repair to mask to chips and fill in small scratches little wider than a hair, thus making a dramatic difference to the car’s overall appearance for as little as from £10 +VAT.
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Of course it’s one thing to see your pride and joy restored to its former showroom glory but, for some, the thrill of driving a classic car for the first time after months of loving repair can’t be beaten. LARC is proud of helping owners reach that moment thanks to its skilled team who can restore anything using panel replacement, body shell paintwork, mig welding alluminium welding, Tig welding and Jig chassis work. And if customising the vehicle hat you already own, is what you are looking to do then LARC can also step in, ready to carry out modifications to your requirements From general customising to full show car finishes or fitting full fibre glass body kits - you name it, the LARC team can do it. What ever the job, an owner can rest assured that their vehicle will be in safe hands at LARC, whose high standards and expertise will ensure that its is fully repaired and safe to drive again.
For detailed information about LARC’s services, or to get an online quote, visit www.larcuk.com To make an enquiry, telephone 01543 263377 or email info@larcuk.com
The professional choice for vehicle cleaning products
MARK ALLEN TRADING AS AUTOSMART
Telephone 07831 269500 mail@markallenautosmart.co.uk Mark Allen independent Autosmart franchisee is proud to support and supply Lichfield Accident Repair Centre. Autosmart: suppliers of vehicle cleaning and janitorial products to the trade; no matter what you clean, we will have the right mix of products, equipment and accessories to meet your needs. Demonstrated and delivered direct to your door with no additional or hidden costs; from truck wash to specialist wax, floor scrub to toilet rolls we do it all... Mark Allen is an independent Autosmart franchisee delivering within a designated geographical area for more details of Autosmart distributors delivering in other areas please telephone 01543 481616
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4824 1 pg advertorial:CD Engineering 01/12/2011 16:35 Page 40
or manual, axle repair, air conditioning, tyre replacement. In fact "the answer is yes, whatever the question” (conditions apply) as long as it is about Mercedes-Benz! On coming to Andy Gayle you will find that the 3 year Manufacturer’s Warranty is not affected when serviced by Andy Gayle MB (conditions apply). They are up to 50% less expensive than the Mercedes-Benz Main Dealer. They only use Mercedes-Benz Germany supplied diagnostic equipment. Your service book will be stamped and the service indicator re-set. Vast on-site stock holding of service parts meaning less off road time for their customers, and enables them to offer a fixed price for servicing. They also offer a while you wait service and MOT, or a free collection and delivery service. When asked what were the special features that set his company apart Andy replied quite simply “We know what we’re doing!” What more could anyone ask.
“Service before breakfast for my Mercedes Benz?”
Andrew Gayle MB Services Ltd 1 Tramway
Yes that’s right, Andy Gayle MB Mercedes Benz specialists, are offering a fast fit service; tyres, break pads, air con top up, etc, with a six am start! Phone to pre book; drop your car off, sit and have a coffee, and still arrive at work on time, or home in time to take the children to school. Such is the commitment of his technicians to providing the "Breakfast Start Servicing" and indeed to all aspects of customer satisfaction.
Smethwick West Midlands B66 1NR Phone: 0121 558 48 48
Remember last winter when you got stuck in the snow? Andy can now offer winter tyres that will guarantee to transform your vehicle in wintery conditions. No more getting stuck or cursing your luck because somebody doesn’t know how to drive in the snow. Winter tyres supplied by Andy Gayle will keep you out of trouble! Mercedes Benz owners from all over the Midlands travel to Andy Gayle for all their servicing and repair needs. If it hasn’t got a star on it they aren’t interested, such is the commitment of Andy Gayle and his team to Mercedes Benz that they are true specialists and only deal with Mercedes Benz.
Email: info@andygayle.co.uk Web: www.mercedesservicing.com
Don’t Pay Dealer Service Prices When You Can Have The Same High Quality Service Here We have fully qualified, factory trained technicians who are specialists in the service & mechanical repair of Mercedes Benz vehicles • Very reasonable rates, using only genuine factory parts, unless otherwise requested. • Over 14 years experience with Birmingham’s only Mercedes Benz Dealership. • Fully equipped workshop.
Services Available Full Servicing & repair with menu pricing 4 wheel alignment facilities, supply and fit tyres Air-conditioning repairs Automatic transmission repairs All computer diagnostics carried out using the latest Mercedes Benz Star machine
• Loan Cars also available.
0121 558 4848 07973 253724 www.mercedesservicing.com info@andygayle.co.uk 1 Tramway, off Oldbury Road, Smethwick, West Midlands, B66 1NR
Andy Gayle MB is probably the largest independent company in the West Midlands specialising in the service and repair of the Mercedes Benz brand, they provide an all round service whether it be routine servicing, or minor & major repairs. They cover engine repair and diagnostics, gearbox repairs automatic
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Free Collection & Delivery Anywhere in the West Midlands (Conditions Apply)
4867 1pg advertorial:Liberty 01/12/2011 16:39 Page 41
smartcare
Refurbishment from as little as £35.00 When your car or alloys need care, get smart and go to Smart Care Repair. Smart Care Repair Limited provides a powerhouse of services right in heart of the Midlands, from the latest ‘Paintless Dent Removal’, ‘Be-spoke Alloy Wheel Refurbishment’, to ‘Factory Finish Bodywork Repairs.
Smart Care is celebrating a rise in business growth and have partnered up with the UK leaders in refinishing Diamond Cut Wheels. These unique wheels need specialist care and attention, need an assessment this is provided at no extra charge. You can entrust your vehicle to them with complete confidence, not only have they been trading since 1993, they are approved by local main dealers and insurance companies and continue to provide excellent customer relationships with BMW, Audi, Aston Martin, Jaguar and Land Rover. Mandy Smart and Greg Worthington are very proud of their team and what they have achieved, and continue to achieve today. Mandy says “Our aim is to provide a first class service in transforming our customers and clients vehicles to showroom standards.”
Vehicle owners have invariably made a substantial investment and are anxious to maintain their purchases in pristine condition to protect residual values. All processes use state of the art techniques and products ensuring the highest level of repair in the Body Shop Industry. Do you have a Lease Hire agreement that is due to end? Smart Care can help you avoid expensive penalties by using their services instead of paying premium prices charged by the leasing companies. Concerned you’ll be without a vehicle? They provide a free courtesy car while your repairs are being attended to, so there is no need to disrupt your busy day.
Looking at refurbishing your alloy wheels? Smart Care are experts in Mobile Alloy Wheel Repairs. If you don’t have the time to visit them, they’ll visit you either at home or at work the same day, offering speed and convenience.
For more information on the services they provide and the latest offers call now on 0121 520 7000 or visit www.smartcarerepair.co.uk
smartcare t call for details
0121 520 7000
smartcare smartcare alloy wheel & bodywork rrepairs epairs 41
4897 1 pg advertorial:CD Engineering 01/12/2011 16:43 Page 42
Bullwell Trailer Solutions celebrates one year at Lichfield HQ Trailer repairs and maintenance specialist, Bullwell Trailer Solutions, celebrates its one year anniversary at its Lichfield headquarters on Thursday (29th September). To mark the occasion, the independently owned company is launching a recruitment drive in the Midlands for ten mobile engineers; an amount which will mean a 20 per cent increase in the workforce since the company's move to Burton Road, Streethay, Lichfield. Bullwell, which currently employs 75 people, has reported a sustained period of growth in both operations and service capability, increasing turnover by 20 per cent from £5.6 million in 2010 to a projected £7 million by its November 2011 year end; an increase the company attributes to being located in the hub of the UK's motorway network. Gary Bulley, managing director at Bullwell Trailer Solutions says: "This has been an extremely rewarding year for Bullwell Trailer Solutions and it cannot go unrecognised that this increase in turnover coincides with our move to Lichfield. Being located within the central hub of the UK's transport system, with excellent links to the M42, M5 and M6, is essential to a business like ours, especially since our mobile maintenance and repair service is experiencing a period of sustained growth and high demand. "With the company growing as it is, we are now launching a recruitment programme for ten mobile engineers and ideally, we would like to recruit from the local area. Looking forward, it is imperative that we invest in the company's future, both with highly trained staff and capital investments into new installations on site and improved equipment for our mobile engineers." Following a recent investment of £173,000 for an on-site authorised testing facility (ATF), Bullwell is continuing to move forward by investing a further £980,000 into new vans and equipment. This latest investment represents a total of 28 vans, each of which will be kitted out with £15,000 worth of apparatus including scrutineers, generators, compressors, welders and cutting tools. Gary continues: "Our predicted end of year results look like we will be increasing turnover by a further £1.4 million, which is a substantial move forward and above our expectations for this year. It is an exciting time for Bullwell and I know that we all have high hopes for future expansion in our second and third years based in Lichfield."
Pictured: Kevin Tomlinson, financial director and Gary Bulley, managing director at Bullwell Trailer Solutions
Bullwell offers a range of services extending from pay as you go and contract repair and maintenance to a complete take-over of existing workshop facilities and staff.
100 Burton Road Streethay Lichfield Staffordshire WS13 8LN 01543 416 665 www.bullwellts.co.uk
Delivering quality in trailers
The Midlands’ Premier Commercial HGV/PSV MOT Station Bullwell Trailer Solutions’ state-of-the-art, purpose-built VOSA HGV/PSV MOT testing station is now open. The fully certified facility is operated by VOSA staff to carry out MOT inspections on HGV tractor units, trailers and PSVs. To support our MOT test lane, we have over 50 mobile HGV trailer engineers nationwide and a purpose-built commercial workshop in Lichfield. Managing Director Gary Bulley said: “This is yet another investment in top-class facilities that will enable us to further improve the service we offer to our customers”.
For more information or to book an MOT test, please contact us Tel: 0845 602 4130 Email: MOT@Bullwellts.co.uk www.bullwellts.co.uk
With a number of new contracts in the pipeline, the company is looking to expand its bluechip client base which currently includes DHL, Royal Mail, TK Maxx and UK Mail. Previously located in Tamworth, in addition to the new headquarters operation, Bullwell has workshop facilities in Kidderminster and Swindon. However, the company provides a mobile repair service to all major locations across the UK.
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Bullwell Trailer Solutions Limited. 100 Burton Road, Streethay, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 8LN
4787 1pg advertorial.qxd:Reynolds 01/12/2011 16:46 Page 43
OF RUSHOCK MOTORISTS from across the Midlands come to Reynolds of Rushock, knowing that only the most skilled personnel will be handling vehicles that are, for many, their pride and joy.
Be it a Bentley, Volkswagen, Porsche or Mini, this year’s model or an example of yesteryear’s motoring, Reynolds of Rushock will look after them all.
It could be a precious Porsche, the restoration of a loved Lamborghini or work required on anything else, this respected motor body engineer takes them all in its stride. A very thorough approach to vehicle repairs, combined with the highest of standards, has earned Reynolds’ factory-approved status from prestigious marques such as Bentley, Land Rover, Audi, Volkswagen Group including Seat and Skoda, Jaguar and Porsche. Reynolds is also one of only a handful of repairers in the UK that have invested in the specialist equipment required to successfully repair aluminium vehicles. Such approvals provide further peace of mind for owners of all vehicle makes as all staff at Reynolds of Rushock undergo continuous and rigorous training, ensuring that they are not only highly skilled, but are also up to date with all of the latest technical information available. Whilst proud to attain such prestigious approvals, Reynolds is equally proud that it remains totally independent, repairing all makes of vehicle at its 15,000sq ft premises on the Rushock Trading Estate, near Droitwich. Regardless of the type of vehicle being worked on, the commitment to doing the job correctly remains. It’s this commitment that lies behind Chris’s advice to owners whose cars have been involved in an accident.
To find out more: Telephone 01299 250800 E-mail: Reynolds@PCABR.co.uk Website: www.reynoldsofrushock.com
t: 01299 250800 e: Reynolds@PCABR.co.uk
“Many motorists believe that they must follow their insurer’s instructions. This is not the case. They can and should exercise their right to insist on using a repairer of their choice, rather than just accepting an insurer’s recommendation,” he says. “When a repairer becomes insurer approved, this always involves discounting of the repair invoice”. “It goes without saying that a repairer that discounts their work will have to make compromises somewhere in the repair process. I wouldn’t accept compromises in the repair of my vehicle and I wouldn’t expect my customers to accept it either”. The company motto says it all – “Perfection is no accident”. Setting it apart from other repairers, Reynolds’ also undertakes specialist refinishing of prototype and concept vehicles for major motor manufacturers and takes great pride in the fact that work has been displayed at international motor shows throughout Europe and America and has also been seen on the BBC’s Top Gear.
www.reynoldsofrushock.com www .reynoldsofrushock.com sofrushock.com m
Restoration work on older vehicles is also a large part of Reynolds, with many of the 19 staff being classic vehicle owners themselves, including Chris who has an old Riley undergoing restoration. Customers can, therefore, be happy that their cars are in the hands of highly skilled technicians and also people who are attuned to the particular sensitivities of these precious pieces of motoring history.
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Knights South Staffordshire
01785 246 999
The Ultimate Driving Machine
Knights of Stafford the Authorized BMW Dealer in Stafford, has just completed a fantastic program of redevelopment at their Lichfield Road site, under the leadership of the new Dealer Principle, Anthony Masterson. Over the last 10 months they have undergone a massive £1.3 million redevelopment of the whole site. The refurbishment has provided Knights’ customers with an up to the minute environment that truly reflects the Knights brand, in which to buy and service their BMWs and MINIs.
The redevelopment has defined the two sides of the business with both MINI and BMW having separate showrooms and dedicated service receptions. Customers can enjoy coffee in Knights’ own Starbucks in a comfortable customer lounge with plasma TVs and WIFI access. An indoor handover area allows customers to drive their new and used cars straight out of the showroom and car parking facilities have been significantly improved with dedicated diagnostic bays.
The dealership has remained open throughout and customers have been extremely accommodating during the building work and are very impressed with the outcome. Anthony Masterson paid tribute to his team saying that they have been brilliant, remaining upbeat and happy throughout all the upheaval caused during the work. Knights BMW are a substantial employer with approximately 60 staff, all trained to the exacting standards demanded by BMW and MINI.
Knights BMW strives to exceed their customers’ expectations and provide all customers with the best possible experience. As part of BMW’s support for the Olympic Games in London in 2012, and following the appointment last year of BMW Group as the Official Automotive Partner of the Games, dealers will be
t: 08458 336 515 f: 08458 336 516 e: sales@showcase-interiors.co.uk www.showcase-interiors.co.uk
PROUD TO PROVIDE KNIGHTS BMW WITH THEIR SHOWROOM FURNITURE
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4626 2pgs:HorseWorld 01/12/2011 16:50 Page 45
working with local athletes, supporting their endeavours to qualify for Team GB or Paralympics GB. Knights BMW are delighted to announce that they are supporting local archer, Alison Williamson, as she prepares for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Alison lives in Stafford and does most of her training in Lilleshall. Alison’s success has gone from strength to strength, and she has already competed in five Olympic Games - London 2012 will be her sixth! What a fantastic achievement. Everyone at Knights is delighted to be sponsoring Alison. Anthony Masterson, Dealer Principal said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to get really involved with the 2012 Games. Our staff and customers are keen to support London 2012 so we’re really happy to be backing Alison”.
Knights South Staffordshire Radford Bank Lichfield Road Stafford Staffordshire ST17 4PQ Tel: 01785 246 999 www.knightssouthstaffsbmw.co.uk
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4754 2pg :HorseWorld 01/12/2011 16:55 Page 46
DPE-AUTOMOTIVE LIMITED DPE Automotive, based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham has extensive facilities at its disposal from simple advice, prototype production, cost analysis or full factory line production, they can do it all. DPE-Automotive enjoys preferred supplier status with a varied group of suppliers/manufactures on a 1st tier basis. With their wealth of experience they can deal directly with OEM's and their suppliers.
DPE Automotive has also strengthened links with its main supplier United Steels based in Kingswinford, which has taken a shareholding. Directors from DPE are also in the process of agreeing a joint venture with a third party which will further strengthen links between the Tysley site and Jaguar Land Rover.
DPE took over a Birmingham based company Sonas, a pressings company in Tysley, from the administrators in 2008 in order to expand their facilities and be closer to their Birmingham customer base. The take over saved more than 100 Birmingham based jobs.
Vehicle Front Seat News
Birmingham Facility Under the name DPE Automotive, the company has since been rebuilding its order book and re-establishing its accreditations which lapsed when Sonas went into administration. The new management has seen turnover increase from £2.5 to £18.5 million in just two years.
Due to the improvements at the Tysley plant and the already strong links with Jaguar Land Rover, the decision was taken to further strengthen the connection and the plant has now been sold to the Sertec Group from Coleshill in the West Midlands. DPE now trades from its facilities in the North East of England. DPE Automotive also recently acquired A&L Pressings Limited from administration in Lichfield and has since relocated that business to the North East also. The product range now boasts Grade A Interior Trim products for the likes of Aston Martin and Bentley Motors.
The company’s customers include Nissan and Ford Europe and has benefited from rising demand as sales have soared at Gaydon giant Jaguar Land Rover in the past year. The road to recovery has taken another important step when Jaguar Land Rover presented its JLRQ Award which is given to suppliers who demonstrate world-class quality and delivery performance across every area of the business. Peter Coates, managing director of DPE Automotive, said the company was well-placed to create more jobs. Mr Coates said: “It’s been a long road since we took over Sonas in early 2009 as we’ve basically had to rebuild the company”. He added “Over the two sites in Birmingham and County Durham we rose to 198 employees and since 2009 we have increased turnover from £2.5 million to £18.5 million. We are a tier one supplier to Nissan, Ford Europe, Volvo and Jaguar Land Rover, and the new JLRQ accreditation will put us in a fantastic position to win new business from JLR and therefore create new jobs. It is important to remember this award would not have been possible without the efforts of our workforce.”
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Pressing Lines Gurney Way Newton Aycliffe County Durham DL5 6UL Telephone: 0132 530 0777 Fax: 0132 530 1951 E-mail: newtonaycliffe@dpe-automotive.co.uk
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EXCITEMENT is building as the completion date for a massive multi-million pound refurbishment and the start of a new chapter in Birmingham’s sporting history draws near. Closed for 12 months, the new-look Woodcock Sports Centre, the home of one of the UK’s oldest working swimming pools, is due to be unveiled in September. The project on the Aston University campus has seen the historic centre transformed into a modern, vibrant sports facility that retains and celebrates its unique original features and its character. Once operational it will boost the venues operated by the university’s Sport Aston, which incorporate the Gem Sports Hall and an Outdoor Recreation Centre, used by the England women’s football team for training, at Great Barr. In just a matter of weeks, sports enthusiasts will find: • A new two-storey martial arts and dance studio, doubling the previous capacity and allowing for a wider range of activities and more dance-based classes. • An improved and extended gym, now with 120 brand new stations and able to host women-only sessions. • A new Sauna and Steam Room. • A new, reconfigured interior layout with more space, a viewing area for the sports hall and a Studio Cycling suite. • New male and female changing for the swimming pool - with the cubicles retained as a historical feature. • New male and female changing facilities for sports hall and gym users. • An overhaul of Woodcock Sports Centre’s structure and decor combining the best of modern functions with unique and beautiful original features.
swimming pool in Birmingham city centre. Whilst staff and students form an important customer base all of our facilities are open to everyone. The enlarged gym is also expected to prove a big draw. It will be members only, but Mike points out that the subscription represents value for money. “A 12-month membership is the equivalent of less than £25 per month,” he says. “This includes access to the gym, swimming pool, sauna room, steam room and all aerobics classes. Memberships are available not only to students but to all. However, you don’t have to be a member of the gym to take part in Aerobics classes, Yoga courses, to play a sport or enjoy a swim. No matter which centre you visit, you can always expect a friendly welcome from the staff who are extremely versatile. Not only do they fulfil their normal leisure assistant duties but they are fitness instructor trained, take aerobics classes and conduct swimming lessons. Some staff are also based at the Outdoor Recreation Centre in Great Barr, itself available not just for the hire of a sports pitch but to host wedding receptions, corporate hospitality or private celebrations. “We are known for great customer service with our professional team keen to help customers, and try to work with every one we can to help them achieve their fitness goals”, says Mike.
For further information, visit www.aston.ac.uk/sport, email sportsenquiries@aston.ac.uk or telephone 0121 204 4623
Woodcock Sports Centre Opening September 2011
The rejuvenation only adds to the regular sporting activities: Badminton, Squash, Table Tennis, four five-a-side Football pitches and one eight-a-side Football pitch - all with 3G astro turf - Yoga courses and a full aerobics class schedule, including Zumba, Studio Cycling, Total Tone, Aqua Aerobics and Thighs, Tums and Bums. What’s really going to make a splash, however, is the pool’s return. While work was under way, temporary gym facilities were provided at nearby Priestley Wharf and all other sports and activities, including aerobics and yoga, were transferred into the Gem Sport Hall. But the swimming, literally, dried up. Director of Campus Services, Mike Kirkman, is looking forward to welcoming back the swimmers. “Woodcock, first built in the 1860s, houses the city’s oldest working swimming pool and, with a large stained glass window at one end, swimming here feels completely different to being in a modern pool. We are also looking forward to starting children’s swimming lessons on Saturday mornings and can’t wait to give children the chance to learn to swim in such a beautiful and historic building,” he says. “It is a Grade II-listed building which makes it stand out from other sports centres, but the refurbishment has allowed us to improve the inside and make areas more modern while keeping its character. Following the closure of the public swimming pool and public laundry, Woodcock Sports centre was handed over to Aston University from Birmingham City Council in 1980 for the nominal fee of £1. We are aware that we have a proud tradition to follow. Woodcock public baths was Birmingham’s first public swimming pool and we are pleased that today it remains the main public
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12-month membership (equivalent of less than £25 per includes use of: gym swimming pool sauna room steam room all aerobics classes
month)
Memberships are available not only to students but to all. You don’t have to be a member of the gym to take part in Aerobics classes, Yoga courses, to play a sport or enjoy a swim.
e: sportsenquiries@aston.ac.uk t: 0121 204 4623
www.aston.ac.uk/sport
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CHILTERN Railways’ recently launched Mainline service is helping to keep the region’s businesses moving at a cracking pace - and, thanks to its new Business Zone, in comfort too.
Nice&fast “Leg room is 520mm and 530mm wide - both higher figures than any first class train service between Birmingham and London.” The fastest mainline service sees peak-time trains eating up the tracks from Birmingham Moor Street, via Solihull and Warwick Parkway only, before whizzing non-stop to London Marylebone. Every hour, a fast Mainline train will call at Moor Street, Solihull, Warwick Parkway, Leamington Spa, Banbury and London Marylebone while an additional Mainline train will leave Birmingham Snow Hill and stop at Moor Street, Solihull, Dorridge, Warwick Parkway, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Banbury, Bicester North, High Wycombe and London Marylebone. To make life easier for passengers, just three simple walk-up fares are available for all stations between Birmingham and Warwick Parkway for travel to/from London:
Peak times see busy working folk whizzed from Birmingham’s Moor Street to Marylebone, London, from a mile-gobbling 90 minutes, 28 minutes faster than the previous speediest service. By opting for the Business Zone carriage, passengers can enjoy their super-quick journey in wider seats, seated at larger tables, luxuriate in ample leg room and complimentary tea, coffee and water. Plus there’s also ‘always-on’ Wi-Fi connection and plug sockets at every seat. The launch of the Mainline service follows 18 months of extensive engineering work on upgrading the line and the Business Zone - a private carriage of just 30 seats - is in direct response to consultations with members of the business community. Inspired by similar airline services, Chiltern Railways says it fills a much-needed niche, providing all the valued business benefits of first class, but excluding non-essentials at a fraction of the cost of first class. Marketing director Thomas Ableman says: “Businesses told us that space to work and a decent internet connection were absolutely essential.
• Anytime return £75 – travel on any train, anytime. • Off Peak £50 – travel on any train, except on weekday morning* trains towards London. • Super Off Peak £25 – travel on any train, except on weekday morning trains towards London and evening peak* time trains travelling from London.
For full details about the service and for ticket prices and booking go to www.chilternrailways.co.uk/mainline
Getting you there
Faster
Experience Mainline
“They also told us that additional privacy at key times for increased productivity was valuable.” In response to concerns over payment for non-essentials, food and alcoholic drink is not included in the Business Zone but a dedicated train host will attend to passengers and take at-seat orders, serving refreshments from the onboard Espresso Bar. “What passengers didn’t value was paying more than £100 extra for a sandwich, pretzels and a single glass of wine,” Thomas points out. “We believe the premium economy style service in the Business Zone creates a new class of travel that could signal the end of first class business travel across the industry.” Passengers wishing to get in the zone can reserve seating at point of purchase but, unlike first class where an entirely separate ticket is required, they simply pay a £20 supplement on top of their standard class ticket.
Nice&fast
The pricing structure allows complete flexibility, with the option to upgrade for both legs of the journey or just one way. “The Business Zone also beats first class from other providers when it comes to seating,” adds Thomas.
www.chilternrailways.co.uk/mainline
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SPECIALISED BUILDING PLASTICS “We are approved contractors to Age UK and Birmingham City University and, in addition to numerous domestic installations, recent projects have included the refurbishment of bath and shower rooms within student accommodation at the university, Corus Hotels, several residential care homes and washrooms/cloakrooms at local primary schools, social clubs and commercial premises.” A specialist in wall and ceiling cladding, Unique Interiors’ professional complete bathroom design service includes a free quotation, plumbing, electrics, flooring, tiling, and the installation of kitchens, sanitary ware and downlighting. Proud of its membership of the Federation of Master Builders, Unique Interiors is also proud to guarantee all the work undertaken by its team of expert professionals and that it meets current building and electrical regulations. BEAUTIFUL bathrooms are making a splash in the West Midlands, thanks to Unique Interiors. The Birmingham company has been providing a complete bathroom fitting service for the last five years, with many domestic and trade clients keen to ‘tap’ into its expert services. With a showroom in Stirchley, Unique Interiors is a division of Specialised Building Plastics (SBP), which has been serving the plastics industry for more than 30 years. A stockist of roofline materials, rainwater systems, underground and above ground drainage, polycarbonate sheet and a wide range of plastic building products, it also supplies and fits decorative pvc internal cladding, the hygienic alternative to conventional tiles for bathrooms and kitchens. Unique Interiors was initially set up to enable SBP to provide a service for fitting wet rooms or plastic panels into bathrooms but has quickly grown to offer a much wider range of products. “We have our own team of highly-skilled tradesmen who are proficient installers of mobility bathrooms, showers and internal wall cladding, providing ‘the complete bathing solution’,” says business development manager Patrick Rabbitt.
BUILDING PRODUCTS
Supplying high quality fascia & soffit systems to…
Specialised Building Plastics
www.swishbp.co.uk 50
Further peace of mind for clients comes in the form of the company’s full liability insurance indemnity limit of £5 million. Anyone wanting to view a selection of Unique Interiors’ installations will be warmly welcomed by the friendly staff at 1516 - 1518 Pershore Road, where the impressive showroom displays a collection of first-class, competitively priced sanitary ware together with samples of wall and ceiling cladding and ‘Aquastep’ flooring.
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Class1 fire rated cladding, which is available in 38 colours and designs, is quick and easy to install, helps to insulate the room and reduce condensation, has a wipe-clean surface and unlike tiles does not need grouting,â&#x20AC;? says Patrick. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We would be happy to arrange for you to view some of our completed installations or discuss any future projects where we may be of assistance.â&#x20AC;?
For further information - and a virtual tour visit www.sbpuk.com or visit the showroom, which is open from 8am-5pm six days a week. Alternatively telephone 07754 885996 or 0121 458 5082.
JUST 4 ONE is the first single person â&#x20AC;&#x153;Micro Taxiâ&#x20AC;? to operate in and around the Nottingham area. The service has been introduced by Where 2 UK Ltd, a popular, well established, family run, Corporate Chauffeur Company which has serviced a host of Nottingham companies and National and International organisations for over 16 years. Paul Donaldson left the RAF in 2001, to join his father in the family business. In 2005 with his uncle John they realised that the market was over subscribed with large vehicles and that there was great demand for economical, single person provision. It took 2 years, but finally the local authority, influenced by environmental concerns, licenced the eco friendly SMART car for Private Hire use. Two SMART cars, known in the company as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Twinsâ&#x20AC;?, were commissioned as a subsidiary of the main company to be known as JUST 4 ONE. These cheerful and very noticeable little cars are rapidly becoming a familiar feature of the Nottingham streets, as their popularity spreads particularly among the over 50â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and those with mobility concerns. Registered with Age UK, the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wide doors and high seat position make for ease of access.
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If travelling alone why not take advantage of their comfort and convenience and save money on your next trip in the Nottingham area? Give Paul at JUST 4 ONE a call on 0115 9404111 to be collected in one of their distinctive â&#x20AC;&#x153;black and whiteâ&#x20AC;? SMART vehicles, you will be very impressed by the quality and reliability of their service. Please note they operate between 6am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7pm, Mon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fri.
Where 2 UK Ltd (Incorporating Just 4 One) 11a Bexon Court, Foxhill Road, Carlton, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire NG4 1SQ info@just4onetaxis.com www.just4onetaxis.com
NOTTINGHAM
Centre
TUNING & REPAIR We are proud to support Where2UK (Just4One) Telephone: 0115 961 9837 www.nottinghamtuning.co.uk 51
4124 1 pg advertorial:CD Engineering 05/12/2011 10:57 Page 52
"Polycarbonate Sheet - it's what we do" If you are looking for Polycarbonate Sheet, head to Nick Gray the Midlands specialist supplier. Nick Gray Building Plastics have been supplying Polycarbonate Sheet for more than 20 years to the general public and the trade. They are the leading UK stockist of structured polycarbonate manufactured by Brett Martin in Northern Ireland. You can rely on receiving the best advice based on their many years of experience. They specialise in supplying high quality products with a personable and friendly service - they go the extra mile. Polycarbonate sheeting has multiple uses and comes in a variety of thicknesses depending on your requirements. Among its properties it is UV stable, safe and easily worked. The chambered construction makes it strong but also lightweight with excellent thermal insulation properties, ideal for roof glazing applications. Coming in a range of thicknesses, tints and colours, clear, opal, blue and bronze, with the option of dual colours in the thicker sheets, it can be coupled with solar inserts to maximise its insulation potential.
strength and is most usually used in conservatories due to its heat insulation properties, but the “Rolls Royce” of polycarbonate sheeting is the 35mm thick sheet, which Nick describes as having “phenomenal rigidity”, strength and outstanding thermal insulation. The thicker the polycarbonate the better the rigidity and insulation. Nick Gray are also proud to be the only stockist of Blupal®. This is a 25mm sheet made from recycled polycarbonate and developed especially for the koi keeping market. The product is ideal to help maintain warmth during the cold winters and being from recycled material it makes it cost effective. Nick Gray offers a cut to size service and supplies all the glazing accessories needed to fit the sheet. Their website is full of useful information including short video's with Nick himself showing the different sheets and accessories with suggestions and tips on their use. However, if you have any questions or would like further suggestions the staff at Nick Gray are more than happy to discuss your requirements.
Place an order with the office and receive a 5% discount for mentioning this article. Nick Gray Unit 8, Britannia Enterprise Park Lichfield, Staffs S14 9UY Call: 01543 543007 Visit: www.nick-gray.co.uk Email: sales@nick-gray.co.uk
When Nick Gray discusses the uses and properties for the different thicknesses, he describes 4mm as “a fantastic product”, lightweight and durable, made with a fluted construction giving it a great weight to rigidity ratio. It is most suitable for greenhouses and sheds, but sizes need to be limited as its light weight makes it floppy over a large area. 10mm, two and a half times as thick is more rigid, has a twin wall construction, and is ideal for carports and pergolas. In this category Nick Gray are proud to stock Borg®, a recycled product made exclusively for them. It is slightly
heavier with a 4 wall construction and heat insulation which is comparable to 16mm polycarbonate. It is an excellent value product and the colouring goes really well with wood. 16mm, a mid-weight product “bridges the gap” to the thicker products. 25mm is a 5 wall construction with exceptional rigidity and
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Supplying Polycarbonate Sheeting to the Trade and Public for more than 20 Years Tel:
01543 543007 Email: sales@nick-gray.co.uk www.nick-gray.co.uk
4528:Davroy 05/12/2011 11:00 Page 53
Davroy Contracts Ltd WHEN it comes to resolving your ceiling requirements, Davroy Contracts Ltd has got it covered. Suspended ceilings are just one of the specialist areas of this established Great Barr business, which also provides partitioning, glazed partitions and plastering for offices and industrial units the length and breadth of the UK.
“We can provide and install ceilings supplied by all the major manufacturers including Armstrong, OWAcoustics, Ecophon, Danogips and many more,” he adds. “We can also provide suspended plasterboard ceilings either flat, sloping, curved or in other designs.” For customers looking to install partitions, Davroy Contracts can handle both categories, permanent or demountable, in the full range of qualities to suit all budgets and, mindful of safety requirements is also able to provide and fix fire protection products and cavity barriers.
With more than 20 years experience and a team of 15 skilled staff, Davroy Contracts, in Queslett Road, works with contractors and end users to bring its expertise to a wealth of offices and industrial units in the commercial and industrial markets, from single units to large complexes.
Over the years it has gained considerable experience in incorporating sound insulation into projects for numerous schemes which require complete privacy, such as hospitals, company meeting rooms and court rooms, and it can also boost the sound insulation of an existing ceiling or building.
“We offer a friendly, reliable and competitively-priced service and our workmanship is of the highest quality,” says Paul Durber, who heads up the business with co-director Neil Reynolds.
Once the ceiling, partitions, fire lining and sound insulation work have been completed, Davroy Contracts can utilise its expertise still further by taking care of the carpets, lighting, furniture and decorating. “Whichever internal aspect of the project we focus on, we always use the highest quality materials and latest technologies to ensure the surroundings are comfortable and productive,” says Paul.
Paul’s belief in his staff’s work is born out by the recognised badges of craftsmanship Davroy Contracts bears, such as its membership of the Association of Interior Specialists, its approved contractor status with both the Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS) and the Building Register and its position as an Armstrong-recognized installer. An impressive client list also bears testament to the company’s reputation - its work can be seen in David Lloyd sports centres, at Central TV, in national retail chains such as Lloyds Chemists, at Euston Station in London and at convention and exhibition centres, not least Birmingham’s own NEC. Suspended ceilings, says Paul, are not only decorative and functional but can provide acoustic and thermal insulation as well as improving sound quality in critical areas.
“Whether a client is looking for a modern or classical touch, with our extensive access to reputable suppliers throughout the UK we can complete a scheme to their tastes and budget.” And really going from top to bottom, Davroy Contracts can supply and build mezzanine floors, custom-designed for specific buildings. “Increased floor space will enable most companies who have wasted head room to expand their business in a cost-effective way,” reveals Paul. “We can provide a fast, precise and detailed quotation using on-site measurement surveys by qualified engineers, leading to fast track construction with minimum disruption to your business.”
For full information about Davory Contracts Ltd or to make an enquiry, visit www.davroy.co.uk, email paul@davroy.co.uk or telephone 0121 325 0899.
Proud To Be Associated With Davroy Contracts Limited. We Wish You All Continued Success For The Future www.nevilllong.co.uk Tel 0121 506 1710 Fax 0121 506 1716 birmingham@nevilllong.co.uk
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Co-operative House
Gould Singleton Architects Midlands architect practice Gould Singleton Partnership was established in 1977, and subsequently became a limited company in 1995 known as Gould Singleton Architects. Under the current directors, Stephen Bullock, Stephen Cox, and Peter Icke, the practice has continued to flourish and expand developing a broad client base and a very wide spectrum of projects. Gould Singleton Architects enjoys Chartered Practice status awarded by the RIBA and is also registered under ISO 9001 & ISO 14001. Gould Singleton Architects’ vision, expertise and professionalism ensure that they offer innovative solutions, whilst responding to all technical and commercial considerations in a way that has developed a position of trust with clients. The enduring relationships thus developed have resulted in frequent repeat commissions. Gould Singleton Architects can offer their clients a complete package of services, as project managers and architects working very closely with Structural Engineers, Quantity Surveyors and M&E Engineers. They offer Site assessment and feasibility, including Building and Land Surveys, covering Planning and Building Regulations, Urban Design, construction drawings and design services, Party Wall surveying, and expert witness and contract adjudication services. They also have substantial expertise in Listed Buildings, Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Conservation area submissions and consents, and carry out Quinquennial Ecclesiastical Inspections.
A major enhancement to the building was the refenestration of the existing façade, this would have far reaching benefits for the existing internal office environment, with lighter working space, significant improvements to the thermal & acoustic performance together with a more modern appearance externally. The completed offices are approximately 40,000 sq ft. and accommodate in excess of 250 employees. The scheme also incorporates new structure for a possible further extension of 12,000sqft again at first floor level. The project was completed in a little over 12 months and had a total contract value of £3.7m Harborne High St Regeneration Gould Singleton has already been part of the successful team on the recently completed Harborne Central scheme on the former All Electric Car garage, and with this in mind together with the success of obtaining Planning permission for a similar at Brassington Avenue, Sutton Coldfield, Guildford based property owners, Leadenhall Group Ltd commissioned Gould Singleton to carry redevelopment appraisals of the site.
Proposed New Development – High Street View
Over 30 years experience has resulted in a wide portfolio of residential, healthcare, educational, commercial and industrial projects, including industrial business parks, individual bespoke office and warehouse developments, schools, hospitals and retail developments, procured through both Traditional and Design and Build contracts. Some recent examples give some idea of the diversity of their practice
Rear Views of the redevelopment
Co-operative House, Warwick For almost 20 years, Gould Singleton Architects have been working with Midcounties Co-operative, designing and managing building contracts totalling in excess of £75 million. In 2009, Midcounties acquired an existing single storey office of approximately 25,000 sq ft in area, on the prestigious Warwick Technology Park. The existing building design and form did not lend itself easily to extension on the ground floor, as the building was surrounded by car parking and mature landscaping, in addition, the building’s external fabric was in need of modernisation. It was decided that the best place to create additional floorspace would be at first floor level, above the existing roof line. As the building was already of lightweight design, the only solution for supporting the new building was to thread new support columns down through the existing structure, ensuring the new floor level was independent to that of the lower level.
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After successful pre-application consultation with the Planning department, local retailers and residents, a detailed planning application was submitted. Detailed planning consent was granted by Birmingham City Council, at the first presentation to the Planning committee. Birmingham City Council leader, Cllr Mike Whitby felt that the development would be a successful contribution to the Town centre The approved scheme, with a build total construction value of circa £12m will provide 30,000 sq ft. retail space and servicing, above the retail area will be 91 residential apartments with 5% to be for affordable housing, most of which will be 2 bedroom units
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benefitting from private roof garden areas and private residents gym. To accompany the scheme, a new sub-terrain car park will be formed, providing almost 100 car parking spaces. RSPCA Birmingham Animal Centre, Newbrook Farm, Frankley Gould Singleton Architects have been working with the RSPCA since 2007 when they were invited to review proposals for redevelopment at Newbrook Farm, Frankley, just outside Birmingham. Gould Singleton undertook to prepare Feasibility Studies and held negotiations with many statutory bodies, Planning Permission was secured in the summer of 2008 for a scheme to redevelop the existing farm for an Animal Re-homing Centre and Veterinary Hospital. The main Contract works which commenced on site in May 2011 consist of a £7.2 million rebuilding programme alongside which the RSPCA have launched their ‘Leaps and Bounds’ Fundraising Appeal. The project consists of the refurbishment of the existing barns and conversion for the new Animal Re-homing Centre for dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets and small animals and a new Veterinary Hospital to provide treatment for sick and injured animals referred to the RSPCA.
Solihull 6th Form Art & Design Workshop The Sixth Form College, Solihull is a centre of excellence for 1619 education, helping young people to stretch their potential. Gould Singleton were involved in the latest expansions to the campus, this work was carried out over separate phases to suit the academic diary times of the college. The initial phase saw studios refurbished for Drama and Performing Arts, as well as outstanding Music facilities, including a recording studio. In addition to this a new Dance studio was formed. Within the second Phase a new Art & Design School has also been opened replacing redundant Temporary ‘Portacabin’ Classrooms, this building has been carefully designed to make best use of natural light within the art studios. Also within this Phase, the existing Science laboratories were completely refurbished and in some case enlarged. The works were valued at: £4.8m.
Solihull 6th Form College
Gould Singleton is especially proud of the extent of their practice within the health care sector. They have over 33 years experience working within Primary Health Care. They have built over 500 schemes throughout the UK. In co-operation with GP Practices, PCT’s, LIFT Companies and Third Party Developers they have developed small surgeries, medical centres, health & community centres, LIFT and One-Stop Centres. They are experienced in the
RSPCA Birmingham Animal Centre under construction Gould Singleton have also completed the new build of a replacement Small Animals building for the RSPCA in North Wales, Bryn-y-Maen, at a cost of approximately £300,000 completed in November 2010 and have also undertaken the project management and architect role for new developments at RSPCA Aylesbury for a Small Animals building and Veterinary Clinic due to start on site late 2011, with a Contract Sum of approximately £550,000.
Formed in 1959 – some 52 years ago - IB Construction has established itself as a leading force in the building industry and has an enviable reputation for innovation and excellence throughout the Midlands and beyond.
t: 01902 364455 f: 01902 364456 e: info@ibconstruction.co.uk w: www.ibconstruction.co.uk
Higgs & Sons – building the perfect partnership with Gould Singleton Architects. To find out how Higgs & Sons can support you, call us on 0845 111 5050 or visit www.higgsandsons.co.uk
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meeting and exceeding requirements of BREEAM Healthcare, AEDET Assessments, and complying with current HTM/HBN guidance, which requires close liaison with PCT, Infection Control, and the Design Teams, all part of working closely with end-users, occupiers to develop the brief. Gould Singleton Architects are firmly committed to meeting long term sustainability objectives and have expertise in the field of energy efficient buildings.
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Telephone : 0121 550 0359 www.gould-singleton.co.uk Email : info@gould-singleton.co.uk
SpellerMetcalfe is a privately owned Limited building contractor with offices in the Midlands, Southwest and London from where we provide a construction, refurbishment and design build service on a National scale to meet individual client needs. Tel: 01684 571 200 Web: www.spellermetcalfe.com
Email: mail@spellermetcalfe.com
We are pleased to be working with Gould Singleton Architects in delivering successful construction developments.
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Tel: 0121 212 4542
www.mcbainscooper.com
Quantum Construction Limited is a vibrant and innovative Chartered Building Company that undertakes a variety of commercial, industrial, residential and leisure projects around the greater Midlands and UK.
TOMLINSON Est. 1892
EXPERIENCE HOLDS THE FUTURE
We provide a professional and proactive service to ensure all projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget. Quantum was proud to work with Gould Singleton Architects to successfully achieve major restructure and refurbishment of Alpha House for Midcounties Co-operative Society. For more information or to discuss a project, please contact us to see how we can help.
QUANTUM CONSTRUCTION LTD Tel: 01827 65544 info@quantumconstruction.co.uk
www.quantumconstruction.co.uk 56
Delivering the complete construction services for clients across the Midlands Commercial | Education | Environmental | Healthcare | Housing Industrial | Leisure | Restoration | Retail
Our Business
Your Success
G F Tomlinson Birmingham Limited, 329 Tyburn Road, Erdington, Birmingham, B24 8HJ T: 0121 327 2660 F: 0121 327 3110 www.gftomlinson.co.uk
4271 1 pg:CD Engineering 05/12/2011 11:20 Page 57
does not carry out installations so they are not in competition with their trade customers. Security is always one of the top priority when home owners purchase their new windows, which is why Hanley Trade Frames Ltd fit the TSL High Security System as standard. With its reverse action moving the multiple sets of mushroom cams it gives a smooth secure action. This locking system carries the Secure by Design certification and out performs shootbolt locks.
Hanley Trade Frames Ltd is the home of quality UPVc windows, doors and conservatories. A family run business with 30 years experience in UPVc window, door and conservatory manufacturing, their reputation is built on reliable friendly customer service, quality products and competitive prices. All their UPVc products are manufactured at their Stoke-onTrent factory. During 13 years of manufacturing they have continued to invest by installing the latest hi tech machinery. Hanley Trade Frames Ltd is proud to be fabricating windows from Elite 70 Profile from the Spectus Window Systems. Elite 70 is a "state of the art" system, designed and manufactured in the UK, specifically for the UK market. The quality of Elite 70 is second to none, it is manufactured in Macclesfield under a quality management system conforming to BS EN ISO 9001. The highly skilled Stoke-on-Trent manufacturing team have all been trained in-house and have been with the company an average of 8 years. Hanley Trade Frames Ltd offer top quality products to the trade at very competitive prices, and the extensive range of products is available on a very short lead time. Hanley Trade Frames
With a huge range of products including Eco Spec Energy Rated windows, Vertical Sash Windows, PVC Residential Doors, Composite Doors, Stable Doors, French Doors, Bi-Fold Doors, Patio Doors and Conservatories Hanley Trade Frames is your one stop shop for all things UPVc.
Far Green Industrial Estate Chell Street, Stoke On Trent ST1 6AZ Tel: 01782 201150
Congratulations to...
Hanley Trade Frames ...for 14 years in business, from all at
Spectus
Tel: 01625 420 400
Your perfect PVC-U Partner
Web: www.spectus.co.uk
Fax: 01625 413 869
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4981 1pg advertorial:Liberty 05/12/2011 11:23 Page 58
Investment Opportunities at Vanguard Park, Shrewsbury Morris & Company is an intrinsic part of the Shropshire business landscape, well-known for construction, with its Morris Property division developing a substantial commercial portfolio.
New tenants at Plot 15, both with an agreed headline rent of £7.00 per sq ft on a ten year lease, are Autoglass, taking Unit A (3,700 sq ft) and Toolstation Ltd, taking Units B and C (5,000 sq ft). Also, GSF Car Parts have purchased Unit F (3,700 sq ft) on a 999 year lease. Liz Lowe, Head of Estates for Morris Property, commented: “We have a prudent yet confident approach to market opportunities. Since 2007 Vanguard Park has steadily developed momentum and grown into a leading destination for both local and national trade counter operators.” Morris Property is currently looking to dispose of their investments at Units A, B and C, Plot 15 Vanguard Park. Other investment opportunities at Vanguard Park include Units 18-20 (5,441 sq ft), let to Total Angling Ltd, guaranteed by the Wynnstay Group PLC, on a lease expiring in March 2016, at an annual rent of £34,000 per annum exclusive.
Morris Property remains an active developer, specialising in urban regeneration, from car showrooms to prestigious office parks and out-of-town retail and trade parks. With over 140 years of development experience, Morris Property has grown to be synonymous with innovation and quality within the commercial market.
Interested parties should contact Morris Property’s retained agent Craig Henn at Towler Shaw Roberts on 01952 210222 or Liz Lowe at Morris Property on 01743 234234 To learn more about Morris Property visit www.morrisproperty.co.uk
140 years of investment
call for details
01743 234234 One of the most successful Morris Property commercial developments is the 20 acre Vanguard Trade Park, located on the north side of Shrewsbury, within the town’s principal commercial area. The trade park offers a variety of commercial properties, from trade counters, split between 30% show room and 70% warehouse consent, nine metre eaves warehousing, a purpose built VW dealership – the largest in Shropshire – and owner occupied premises, constructed to the highest standard for a number of companies including Capital Appliances, Paperway and Cotteswold Dairies. The most recent Vanguard phase is Plot 15, which comprises six new trade counter units totalling 18,500 sq ft. Each unit is built to a high specification, with Kingspan insulated wall panels, full height glazing to the front elevation and forecourt customer parking. The units also benefit from an electric loading door and secure compound to the rear.
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Morris Property, enhancing the face of Shropshire
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Central which, in turn, has helped to shape this hugely successful new city centre community." The development, which has recently saw the sale of the 1,000th home combines a range of apartments, duplexes, penthouses and freehold townhouses, creating a vibrant new community in Birmingham city centre. Two-bedroom apartments with extended balconies are currently available at Lower Parkside, the latest phase of the development, priced from £145,000. All of the properties enjoy elevated views across the eight acres of landscaped public parkland that lies at the heart of Park Central. Each property also boasts a master bedroom with en-suite, double guest bedroom, bathroom, open plan living room with kitchen area including leading appliances, plus French door access to spacious balconies.
A DOUBLE honour has bought further recognition to the award-winning Park Central development in Birmingham. Two members of the team each scooped bronze at the recent Crest Nicholson Regeneration’s national employee awards. Senior Site Manager Jamie Cooper and Sales Advisor Judith Plant gained the accolades in the Site Manager of the Year and Sales Advisor of the Year categories respectively, bringing Park Central a double victory in the fiercely contended awards which saw competition from colleagues across the UK. Jamie, 32, has worked for the company for six and a half years, helping to drive forward construction on the award-winning mixed use development in the city centre. Alongside being employed full-time on the development, he is studying for his Masters degree in Construction Management at Wolverhampton University. Judith joined Crest Nicholson in 2003, selling homes at Birmingham schemes including Park Central, B Central, Manor Park and Bournville Park (where she even sold an apartment to herself!) before returning to Park Central in 2006.
Crest Nicholson has been building new homes for more than 40 years and is firmly established as a leading developer with a passion for not just building homes, but creating vibrant sustainable communities. Its portfolio ranges from contemporary city centre apartments and town houses to traditional detached family homes and complex regeneration schemes. The success of long term partnership developments such as Park Central, as well as innovative low carbon developments including One Brighton, ICON and Avante, underline the Group's determination to lead the industry in its quest to create innovative development solutions which positively contribute towards achieving a sustainable future and its efforts in this field have led to recognition in the form of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development.
For more information on Park Central, please call the sales team on 0121 666 4666. Alternatively visit the marketing suite, which is open daily from 10am until 5pm (until 7pm on Thursdays in the summer), at Park Central, Mason Way, West Midlands, B15 2EY.
Her previous role as a tracer draughtswoman has provided her with technical construction expertise which, combined with outstanding selling skills makes her a key member of the Park Central sales team. Ruth Williams, sales manager for Park Central commented: 'We are delighted to have two members of the team received recognition at the annual national awards. “Judith and Jamie's contributions to the company ensure the successful delivery of new homes and happy purchasers to Park
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59
4458 3pgs:Carford Group 08/12/2011 08:32 Page 60
THE reasons Cathedral Goup is so successful are two-fold but simple. “We’re good at what we do and we deliver what we say we’re going to deliver,” is managing director Roger Cockrell’s emphatic statement. “We stand by the work we undertake and enjoy repeat business through existing clients, with whom we’ve worked for many years, and continually deliver the goods.” It’s a robust but proven approach. The group, comprising Cathedral Interiors and Cathedral Joinery Manufacturing Ltd, has not only stood firm through the recession, it’s continued to grow and is confidently expecting to keep on expanding. At the heart of it all are the committed, long-serving 55 staff, all sharing Roger’s passion for quality work, high standards, and the core principles of honesty, integrity and pride. His confidence in every single one of that team is, he steadfastly maintains, 100%. “Most of them have been with us a long time,” he adds. “We put a lot of emphasis on looking after our people, training them properly and making the company an employer of choice. “They have a clear understanding of each other’s individual roles and responsibilities, but also have the ability and empowerment to work as individuals within a close knit team to achieve both the aims of the company and the needs of the client.
suites and national retail outlets, it has successfully completed projects ranging from £30K up to £1million in value. “Our aim for the Group is to consistently achieve an annual turnover of around £15m in line with our Five Year Plan, which we are on target to reach,” says Roger. In March 2009, Cathedral Joinery Manufacturing Ltd, with its established, modern, purpose-built factory in Washingborough, near Lincoln and Brighouse, North Yorkshire, became part of the portfolio, enabling the Group to offer a more complete service. “The company is active in the retail, financial and commercial sectors, handling the manufacture and, if required, installation of bespoke furniture for banking, refits, private and commercial food sectors,” explains Roger. “It also provides office fit-out works from staff areas to newly designed reception areas and, enhancing our core operation, provides modern CNC machinery, additional volume capacity, full supply and fixing service, design and prototyping and efficient bulk manufacturing. “Overall the Lincoln and Brighouse in-house joinery manufacturing facilities, which also work with other materials such as stainless
Within the group, Cathedral Interiors is a commercial refurbishment business, carrying out the role of principal contractor for well-known clients on a national basis. With its experience and history mainly focused on the interior refurbishment and new fit-out of restaurants, office space, hotel
M 'N' M TILING Ltd Flooring Services | Domestic & Commercial Wood & Laminate Flooring | Ceramic, Porcelain & Stone Under-Floor Heating | Wet Rooms Vinyl & Terrazzo Flooring | Amtico & Karndean 30, Woodhall Drive, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN2 2AB
Telephone: 01522 803861 Mobile: 07980 444654 60
One of the UK’s leading manufacturers of bespoke and innovative laminate fabricated products Cubicle & Washroom Manufacturing Shop-fitting & Construction Marine Industry Office & Contract Furniture Manufacturing Laboratory Furniture Educational Furniture Manufacturing Healthcare & Pharmaceutical Furniture Locker Manufacturing Fire Door Manufacturing Automotive/Mass Transit Industry Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Industries
whatever you want whatever your budget we can make it happen
01403 785270 www.duncanreeds.com
4458 3pgs:Carford Group 08/12/2011 08:32 Page 61
hea ting a n d cooling solutions
Air Conditioning Refridgeration Ventilation Heating Plumbing Heat Pumps Call us for information regarding our services on
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steel, glass and corian and incorporate a fully equipped spray shop to achieve high quality and specialist finishes, greatly enhance our customer service.â&#x20AC;? With a wealth of blue chip corporate clients in retail and food chain restaurants and further plans to achieve that ÂŁ15million turnover, involving the creation of more jobs and departments, there is much to look forward to - and back upon. Roger, created the company in 2003 following 16 years of experience working for two major construction companies specialising in retail and leisure developments. It was the good working relationships with customers he had established in his previous career that proved crucial when he started up on his own - with the fledgling business based in his garage - a key client continued to work with him and their successful association carried on with more projects being received.
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In 2006 the purchase of a new building saw the establishment of the company HQ, where it remains today, in Washingborough, near Lincoln and, as its profile continued to rise, more staff were taken on the following year. As employee numbers and orders increased, that same year also saw Cathedral, already committed to training and developing its workforce, achieve Investors in People recognition and, by December 2008, it had achieved £4m turnover, which went on to nearly double by 2009 to just under £8m.
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In March 2009 Cathedral Joinery Manufacturing launched its newpurpose built factory and, because of the success of Cathedral Interiors and the Lincoln factory, the company expanded further by buying a manufacturing company at Brighouse. “The key to our success to date is that we take full ownership of a project,” says Roger. “In other words we take care of all aspects of the work, seeing it through to completion and beyond. This ensures that the client has full confidence that their whole investment is in good hands. Quality control processes are key and are continually monitored and managed via contracts, site meetings and good communications between company personnel and contractors. They also involve the completion of KPIs once a job has been finished. Quality is also enhanced by the attention given to staff training and opportunities and is borne out the numerous professional accreditations and recognitions awarded to the group. These include being reaccredited with both Safe Contractor and Investor in People status and holding the CSCS Gold Standard Certificate of Commitment, confirming Cathedral as a company committed to the pursuit of competence and health and safety in the workplace. “We acknowledge that our staff have contributed to the company’s success. All have ‘can do’ attitudes, work as a team and support the Five Year Plan. As an employer, I am committed to their development,” says Roger. “The manufacturing facility is also keen to train and develop within the industry and employs an apprentice who started with us last year. I’m sure that through work experience and college training he will become an asset to the business.”
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Proud to support Cathedral Interiors T: 01623 441140 | F: 01623 441458 E: info@symphonyeastmidlands.co.uk Already on course to achieve its target turnover, the Cathedral Group continues to work to its Five Year Plan and embrace all the opportunities the future holds, such as achieving further market share with existing clients and gaining two new key clients. “Cathedral has a declared aim to continually deliver high quality service providing quality finish, on time and on budget,” adds Roger. “We deliver this through our core principles of honesty, integrity and pride. “With our in-house manufacturing facilities we are now more than ever able to deliver the high standards and levels of workload that are demanded by our key clients.”
For further information about Cathedral Interiors Ltd and Cathedral Joinery Manufacturing Ltd, please visit www.cathedralinteriors.co.uk. To make an enquiry, telephone 01522 790 900. Cathedral Interiors Would like to thank all of their Suppliers for their continued support
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741:Liberty 05/12/2011 11:40 Page 63
Liberty Shopfitters provide a complete shopfitting service from their units in Garretts Green, Birmingham. At Liberty Shop Fitters they pride themselves on creating solutions that actually work for their clients and their stated aim is to exceed their customer's expectations.
They have a fully equipped 2,500 square foot factory where they can design and build every component needed to turn your business into a state-of-the art retail outlet.
Their overriding motto is to keep the customer happy to ensure that the customer keeps returning for more. Great personal service is one of their fortes and they strive to put the customer first. Where possible they will provide a consultative role in helping you decide what type of look your outlet requires or take a back seat and work to your design specifications. They are more than happy to liaise with the client at every stage and to match their expertise with the clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirements. Whatever the choice, you will find them an attentive, reliable, conscientious and very accommodating business partner. Remember, it's their aim to keep you happy and encourage a business relationship that continues to grow as your business expands.
Visit their web site to view their exciting portfolio, from which you will see that they have worked on a number of extremely diverse projects, and are able to accommodate most jobs from the straightforward replacement shop front to the more complex complete refurbishment.
Units 9-10, Gransby Business Park, Gransby Avenue, Birmingham B33 0TJ Telephone: 0121 786 1201 www.liberty-shopfitters.co.uk
Whether it's a full shop fit, a new shop front, a specialist hair and beauty salon, or merely simple interior work including the supply and installation of counters and serveries; Liberty are sure to come up with interesting and innovative solutions appropriate to your personal business style and budget.
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COMMERCIAL INTERIORS
Telephone: 01305 268 944 Email: vciltd@btconnect.com Vivid Commercial Interiors Ltd, 3 Willow View, Charlton Down, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 9FQ
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lyntech systems
Creating a better working environment
THERE’S a new ambitious partnership at the helm of successful commercial and industrial fitout specialist Lyntech Systems - but while there’s changes at the top, the committment to quality, service and maintinaing longstanding relationships with customers remains the same. An exciting future beckons as Paul Ellis and Martin Ward take the company forward with plans to make its service portfolio even more comprehensive. Aided by their experienced Operations Director Fred Grace, and supplemented by a loyal workforce, Paul says it’s all systems go. Based on the Maguire Industrial Estate, in Coventry, the business caters for office and industrial environments, offering fit-outs such as partitioning, ceilings and interior refurbishment combined with warehouse storage systems like mezzanine floors, pallet racking and shelving.
education, carrying out contracts from hundreds of pounds in value to those which can be in excess of £1million.” Lyntech Systems was established more than 25 years ago by Mike and Jackie Lynch and the company initially specialised in the installation of storage handling systems such as pallet racking, shelving, mezzanine floors and small parts storage containers. Fred, whose role Paul acknowledges, has been critical in the company’s achievements, joined over 20 years ago as it expanded, adding commercial interiors encompassing office partitioning, suspended ceilings, wall storage, computer raised access floors and general refurbishment to its service portfolio.
The client base is a wide range of commercial property owners and tenants, including schools, universities, offices, warehouses and factories from small companies to major “blue chip” PLCs. “In short, anyone who is refurbishing premises or undertaking a new build,” explains Paul. “We have many prestigious clients from the automotive industry through to industry and
“These days, more projects are completed on a turnkey approach, with the possible inclusion of all facets, such as electrics, plumbing, air handling and general decoration,” states Paul. “The involvement of associated trades to complete the work under our responsibility has proved successful and many clients are long standing due to the good level of trust that has developed over the years.” It was August 2011 that Mike and Jackie decided to retire and hand over the reins to Paul, who has more than 30 years experience in the industry, 20 of which as a supplier to Lyntech Systems. He shares the ownership with Martin Ward, with a 20+ years industry track record, the last five as owner of Aspire Interiors Ltd, another Coventry interior fit out company which is now under the Lyntech Systems umbrella and whose clients are seen as a positive addition to the business.
Office partitioning | Suspended ceilings | Wall storage | Washroom cubicles | Computer access floors
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Says Paul: “We can now build upon the past success with levels of service and expertise that will give customers confidence that we understand their requirements exactly. “We are keen to develop both the industrial side of the business, such as pallet racking and mezzanine floors and the commercial side with office partitioning and suspended ceilings.” With nearly 30 years of success due to client recommendation based upon quality workmanship, attention to detail, and a loyal team of staff, Paul and Martin know everything’s in place for even greater achievements in the future.
“We pride ourselves on our service and we will give that service whether the job is small or large,” stresses Paul. “We are very positive about our future.”
For further information about Lyntech Systems and its services, go to www.lyntechsystems.co.uk or follow us on Twitter To make an enquiry telephone 02476 468 710 or email sales@lyntech-systems.ltd.uk
High quality specia specialists alists in the manufacture and in installation nstallation of single and double skin s steel partitioning system systems ms and associated prod products. ducts.
future
Wee are W are proud proud of ourr long association with Lyntech L yntec yntech ch Systems and wish them everyy success for the future. future.
01384 261412 sales @ baxcrest.co baxcrest.co.uk .uk
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Proud to support Lyntech Systems Email: leicester@cpdplc.co.uk Tel: 0116 255 1585 Fax: 0116 255 1745
Mezzanine floors | Shelving | Pallet racking | Storage systems | Factory partitioning | Refurbishment
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BIRMINGHAM PARTITIONING S U P P L I E S L T D.
We are proud to support Lyntech Systems 54 Rovex Business Park, Hay hall Road, Birmingham B11 2AQ T: 0121-706-0666 F: 0121-708-1355 E: sales@bhampartitions.co.uk
Frontweb Ltd. The Complete Quality Service Services Include: Office refit Office space planning Design, partitioning and office layout Suspended ceilings Decorations Flooring Full range of materials, styles and colours
Plumbing installations Plumbing installations Gas fitting installations Central heating installations
NEVILL LONG
Electrical work
INTERIOR BUILDING PRODUCTS
General power installations Lighting installations Fire alarm installations Voice and data installations
..serving the Interior fit out markets since
1961
Frontweb Ltd are proud to be associated with Lyntech Systems
We are delighted to be associated with Lyntech Systems
38 Providence Street Coventry West Midlands CV5 6ED
Tel: 01604 667440 Fax: 01604 667445 Email: Northampton@nevilllong.co.uk
T: 024 7667 3322 / 024 7767 8907
01636 821122 sales@peaklaminatesupplies.co.uk
www.nevilllong.co.uk
PLS Peak Laminate Supplies We are proud to support Lyntech Systems with our Insulation Solutions and wish them every success for the future
Unit 1-2 | Teeman Place | Old Great North Rd | Sutton-on-Trent Nottinghamshire | NG23 6QL
lyntech systems
Creating a better working environment
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JMSS
OLAR
Established 1978
JMS Solar is part of the established family run specialist roofing company JMS Roofing and Building Ltd which was established in 1978. JMS already had a widely spread client base in both the commercial and domestic sectors, when Jude Kennefick, second generation, decided to build on their existing expertise and move into the rapidly growing field of solar panels, and set up JMS Solar.
Our installations to date average more than 11% annual return, making it one of the best investments available. With the economy being so unstable, the no safer place to put your money. At JMS, they believe that the main beneficiary of solar energy should be the customer, and know from experience that customers want realistic pay back periods and factual feed in tariff estimates, technical assurance and the reassurance of support once the technology has been installed.
The sun is certainly shining on the project, with the company achieving the sought after MCS accreditation in June 2011. This accreditation gives customers access to the government’s feed in tariff which guarantees them a minimum payment for all electricity generated whether you are using it for yourself or not. The tariff (rate) for the electricity exported to the national grid is guaranteed for 25 years. Tariffs are even index-linked so the income will hold its value for the entire life of the installation. This generous tariff scheme is only available for installations installed before 1st April when it is due to decrease, so now is the time! JMS Solar is offering a special deal for all customers who agree to have their installation over the next few months. Winter sun is good for gathering energy too, it is light, not heat, that fuels the panels.
Serving the local community for over 30 years, JMS Solar has earned itself an outstanding reputation for guaranteed workmanship and customer care. So if you are considering Solar Panels, and want to be able to rely on good, honest experienced advice from a well established company, backed by comprehensive insurance guarantees.
JMS JM SS
Contact JMS Solar on 0121 442 4942 or visit their website www.jmssolar.co.uk
O OLAR
Established hed 1978
Save bills generate your own energy
The JMS Solar Team The benefits of solar photovoltaic energy aren’t limited to homeowners – JMS Solar has found that the technology is also a great investment for the commercial and business sector. As well as offering great financial returns, it also has numerous environmental benefits.
0121 442 4942 www.
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WHEN it comes to going green, BNK Solar is the gold standard for advice and service. The Birmingham company has been at the forefront of renewable energy products and energy efficient construction throughout the region for years and shows no sign of slowing the pace.
government-backed Feed-in Tariffs, and its accreditation to ISO 9001 standard and customers know they are in the safe hands of a qualified and experienced team. “We only use panels and equipment supplied by branded manufacturers, such as Sanyo and Schüco, who provide quality products designed to last 25 years and beyond,” adds Josh. “Should the system go into fault, the manufacturer’s guarantees ensure fast and efficient support is available throughout the lifetime of the panels.” Being at the top of the tree means BNK Solar is highly sought-after for its advice and expertise - which it is happy to share, keen to encourage future champions for the planet.
As the need for environmental awareness becomes more critical, many are looking to save money while reducing their carbon footprint but, confused by the variety of technologies on the market, often don't know what to do. That’s where BNK Solar really demonstrates its credentials, offering independent advice and technical expertise to ensure customers, be they individual homeowners, commercial enterprises of all sizes, schools, housing associations or churches, get the best deals for themselves and their properties. “We offer a ‘whole-house’ approach,” assures renewable energy consultant Josh Kaushal. “We are not a ‘one size fits all’ operation, neither do we isolate and promote particular products without considering the wider impact on our client’s properties and lifestyles, for example, installing solar panels on a roof which is in poor repair and will not be able to handle the load.” Dedicated to increasing the energy efficiency of buildings, BNK Solar, in Brighton Road, Moseley, is a subsidiary of B N Kaushal Ltd, a construction company with more than 35 years’ experience and a multi-million pound turnover. Since it installed its first photovoltaic panel in 2004, it has gained an outstanding reputation for quality and customer satisfaction and has gone on to carry out high-profile projects such as Bournville Village Trust’s award-winning Eco-House, incorporating features such as underfloor heating, a groundsource heat pump and sunpipes, and Medilink’s “i-House” project designed for intelligent living, home automation and energy efficiency. The list of products and services is extensive: Solar photovoltaic and thermal panels; ground-source and air-source heat pumps; heat recovery ventilation; insulation using natural materials; sun pipes; rainwater harvesting; living roof systems; underfloor heating; permeable paving; LED/low energy lighting; double and triple glazing, home automation systems and ‘intelligent design’. Combine these with BNK Solar’s status as an MCS-approved installer for solar photovoltaic panels, allowing access to
PUTTING OUR ENERGY YINTO RENEWABLES
SOLAR THERMAL FLAT PLATE
SOLAR PV SOLAR THERMAL VACUUM TUBES
ASK US ABOUT RENEWABLE SOLUTIONS Graham, Unit 2, Bromford Central, Bromford Lane, Birmingham B8 2SE, Tel: 0121 325 8350 www.graham-group.co.uk
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David Bellamy and Josh Kaushal
It regularly sends representatives to give free classroom talks, which have been especially tailored to a school’s specific installation and also offers free consultations and advice to clients and consumers.
“That includes assistance to architects and designers who need to advise their clients but may not have access to the specialist knowledge which we can provide,” says Josh. “Whether you want to increase your income by generating energy, beat climbing fuel costs by cutting your consumption or play your part in protecting the planet, we have a solution to suit you.”
For further information visit www.bnksolar.com, telephone 0121 449 1244 or e-mail: info@bnksolar.com
4807 1 pg advertorial:CD Engineering 05/12/2011 15:31 Page 69
Contemporary Garden Rooms
EVERYTHING in the garden’s looking lovely for a Shropshire company whose luxurious alternatives to a house extension are proving to be real grand designs with space-seeking homeowners. Such is the demand for the bespoke planning permission-free buildings from Contemporary Garden Rooms, that it has just taken on larger factory premises and opened a sales office on the Oxfordshire/Buckinghamshire border. Even computer behemoth Microsoft eagerly snapped up four of its funky ‘myPod’ units to use as gaming and meeting rooms at a major exhibition this summer. Schools are also showing an interest - the company recently designed, manufactured and installed a garden room classroom for a Swindon school, to glowing plaudits. No longer need something nasty be lurking at the bottom of the garden; instead more and more people are gaining stunning havens of tranquility or architecturally designed eco-friendly modern living spaces.
“We aim to reduce our carbon footprint, be sustainable, use good quality recycled products where possible and have a finished product with very low U value. Each room uses only the very best sustainably sourced materials; from Western Red Cedar which does not rot and needs no further treatment, to tanalized slow-grown Spruce while a recycled rubber roof, with a 50-year lifespan and doesn’t tear, is designed to endure even the harshest of conditions. Altogether, we ensure you'll have years of trouble free use of your garden retreat.” As one of the few garden room manufacturers to use modern techniques in the manufacture and construction of our buildings, Contemporary Garden Rooms is proud of its turn-key rooms with full manufacturing and installation service. “In fact,” smiles Paul, “ the only thing we don’t do is grow the timber!” For further information about the company, which is based at Unit 8, Enterprise Park, Newport , Shropshire, TF10 7DW visit www.contemporarygardenrooms.co.uk To enquire, telephone 01952 825630 or email enquiries@contemporarygardenrooms.co.uk
“Whatever you're looking for a garden office, garden room, playroom or simply an escape, Contemporary Garden Rooms will design and deliver a room that you'll be able to use for years to come and which will impress guests every time they visit,” promises managing director Paul Jones. There are four units: The Box, freestanding; fully insulated and equipped with full electrics, The Graduate, popular with those wanting a home gym, the myPod - used as dining, sleeping or office area, as a games room, artists’ studios or music rehearsal spaces - and The Cube - a perfect outdoor eating or relaxation area. All are built to the highest standards, as one would expect from a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen, to meet the new British building regulations and carefully designed so that no planning permission is required. With the myriad options available no two are alike but Contemporary Garden Rooms also provides a bespoke service, working closely with customers to devise rooms tailor-made to individual lifestyles.
“We can make your garden room designs come to life,” says Paul. “From the initial free site visit through to the final build stage, we listen to your ideas and guide you through the process, we've thought about every tiny detail, which gives us and you the confidence that we deliver a high quality product that can be used for a very long time.” Not only is each building a thing of beauty within the environment, it’s kind to it as well for Contemporary Garden Rooms takes its eco-responsibilities very seriously.
Breathtaking Views ...if you are looking for additional living space . with quality and style, then contact us...
A perfect start to your day Each garden room is individually designed for you. We will position your garden room in the ideal situation, with windows and doors arranged to take full advantage
Contemporary Garden Rooms
of your views and environment.
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The Company for All Seasons FIRE and water - famously - don’t mix, until Progressive works its magic. For more than 30 years it has successfully combined the worlds of H20 and flame in such a way that it has become a company for all seasons. And with the arrival of Carl Enticott at the helm, it’s also a company that’s setting out to make a real splash into the future. Once Progressive’s contracts manager and having been with the business for the last eight years, Carl bought the business upon the retirement of his boss and former owner John Taylor. The move, he says, is a natural progression for somebody that’s always taken the lead throughout his career, which has included running a pub and, before that, a busy kitchen as a chef.
Progressive can supply a pool in any size or shape and include a wide range of extras such as a counter current machine, underwater lighting and music, saunas, steam rooms, spas and hottubs. Not all projects are domestic, Progressive teams with architects, builders and developers on commercial pools and has worked extensively on hydrotherapy pools for special schools and health authorities. And once a pool is installed - or refurbished - Progressive can take care of its service and maintenance, with regular checks by its dedicated pool engineers, thus ensuring early detection of any problems and avoiding costly repairs. As comprehensive as the service is, Carl is brimming with ideas to offer even more to customers new and old. “I’m planning to bring things even more up to date, introduce further products and services to move with current trends and expand the swimming pool design and installation side of the business,” he says. “We’ve been extremely busy and I want to get on with it. Watch this space.”
Backed by his loyal team of five - who are delighted at the latest development in the company’s history - Carl is all fired up with plans to move the business forward. Based in Lawford Road, Rugby but covering an approximate 100 miles radius, Progressive has been designing, manufacturing, selling, installing, maintaining and exporting all things swimming pool since 1971. At the same time, it has been supplying and installing quality fireplaces for over 20 years and today, its showroom represents those two facets with half devoted to pumps filters, chemicals and any product to do with swimming pools, while the other features an extensive display of fires and fireplace combinations, such as gas, electric and multi-fuel log burners.
Progressive's owner Carl Enticott (left) with manager Denis Whitehead
There is a sound business logic to the unlikely sounding partnership. Carl explains: “The main swimming pool side runs from March to October and is its busiest time of year. “The fireplaces side of things ticks over all year but its busiest time is in the winter. If we’re not busy on the pools we’re busy on the retail or installation of the fire side.” British summer and swimming pools is another unlikely combination but the decades have seen the country’s demand change dramatically from customers requiring predominantly outdoor, summer pools, to thermally insulated, all-season indoor pool complexes and easy-to-erect above ground pools.
would like to congratulate Company progressive The for All Seasons
on successfully completing 40 years of business and would like to wish Carl all the best for the future 70
For further details about Progressives complete range of services both for swimming pools and fire places, visit www.progressivepools.co.uk. To make an enquiry, telephone 01788 577005 or email progressive@uk2.net.
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In the latest technological advance in “Point of Use Vending” a pioneering new development from Apex Supply Chain Technologies Ltd. that has been sweeping across America and uses cloud computing to give a stock control service in real time, is now available in the UK and Europe. Using cloud technology means that as all the data is stored remotely there’s no need for a complicated on site computer installation. Forget all the glitches that come with standard model computer controlled vending linked to conventional networks, and the often days of problems while your new system is installed; forget any interference with your existing systems, downtime, waiting for engineers to return, delays and hassle. As long as there is a connection point, and a level surface, Apex will carry out the full installation within minutes, straightforward and easy to use, Apex Connect and Go™ Technology makes the implementation simple. No software to install, nothing for your IT department to support, Apex’s exclusive Trajectory cloud based system provides software as a service on demand, coupled with the best vending technology, the Edge Trajectory is a robust solution for any situation, providing reliable dispensing, and stock control.
Although the initial applications for this system were in the industrial and manufacturing areas, a key growth market is the medical field; hospitals and surgeries, pharmacies and laboratories, are finding that secure, hygienic product and sundry supply is invaluable.
In these difficult economic times, it is the businesses that move forward and invest in new technology who are profiting. All companies are looking for ways to cut their costs and improve operating procedures. Apex Supply Chain Technologies Ltd can provide an answer. Telephone 01905 388194, or email info@apexsupplychain.com. Apex Supply Chain Technologies Ltd. Brook Court, Whittington Hall, Whittington Road, Worcester WR5 2ZX
The Apex system of Point of Use vending makes good commercial sense, generating substantial savings, anything from 15%, to, in some cases, as much as 50%. Strategic positioning of the machines around the workplace avoids time wasted while the workforce trip backwards and forwards to “Stores”. Each employee can hold a card so monitoring is straightforward. Stock control is in real time, as an item is removed from the machine a message goes to the central hub, which immediately approves the transaction. All stock is held securely, and pilferage is virtually eliminated. The practice of drawing extra parts which then hang about in the employee’s toolbox, unused and becoming damaged becomes less prevalent, and can be monitored and controlled. The sophisticated controls that the system provides will enable a company to optimize stock levels, control assets, and implement a just in time stock rotation. There are various levels of reports that are available to allow management a detailed overview. There are machines which are suitable for large and small items, from those that need to be checked in and out, such as hand and power tools, specialised tools, laptop computers and technical instruments, to screws and fixings, drill bits and sundries such as wipes and rubber gloves, or combinations of the same. The news about this exciting system is spreading widely among end users and distributors, and word of mouth recommendation is proving a key driver in the UK growth of Apex’s exciting and innovative technology. Supplying distributors, for them to offer the machines free to their clients, is a rapidly growing part of their market, the benefits to the distributor are obvious; it is their product that is being carried, their market share that is being driven. End users who choose to benefit from this system soon find that the cost savings outweigh any initial outlay or leasing costs.
Apex Supply Chain Technologies Ltd. Brook Court Whittington Hall Worcester WR5 2ZX Telephone: 01905 388194 Email: info@apexsupplychain.com
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JBP J B
P A C K A G I N G
Brixham and providing the opportunity for EPS and card boxes to be branded with each client’s logo, contact details and contents (a minimum order quantity is required for this service). And, because of its manufacturing capabilities, JB Packaging may still be able to help if, in the slim likelihood, the wide range of packaging sizes available isn’t quite right for a customer’s specific needs. Large or small orders, local or national deliveries, hot or cold contents. When it comes to packaging, this is a company that really is thinking outside the box.
WHEN it comes to providing temperature-controlled packaging to carry precious produce from some of the country’s finest meat, fish and organic food producers, JB Packaging comes top of the box. The Brixham business is the specialist of choice for these prestigious companies who require only the very best to ensure their renowned goods arrive in peak condition, safely and undamaged. The last two decades have seen JB Packaging become a leading supplier of recyclable insulated polystyrene (EPS) boxes and other food packaging products including: waxed cardboard, foam liners, ice sheets and pads and sundries. “Outstanding thermal and protective properties make polystyrene boxes ideal for keeping food fresh for longer,” explains distribution manager Martin Stansbie. “EPS is an excellent cushioning material, ideal for protecting fragile produce from shock and vibration. Such boxes are commonly used to carry meat, fish, cheese, cakes and vegetables among other food stuffs but we also supply boxes for specialty markets such as the aquatic, reptile and medical industries.” Founded in 1982, JB Packaging has supplied the South West fishing industry with EPS boxes to transport fresh fish and since becoming a part of SCA Packaging Group, now has increased supply from several manufacturing sites across the country, with fully accredited design and test centres. It’s most recent innovation is a range of Deluxe Thermo EPP boxes which, although lightweight like EPS, are more robust and durable and so can be reused. Ideal for hot or cold catering, JB Packaging expects the range to prove popular for a whole host of functions, such as catering, door to door deliveries, picnic or drinks coolers, lunch box storage, transportation of live bait or pet food.
Whether it’s just a few boxes or a whole truckload, JB Packaging is happy to provide exactly what you need - and bring its years of experience into play to advise those clients who are unsure what would best suit their requirements. “Our deliveries are tailored to suit customers’ needs and are available from stock within 24 or 48 hours with the opportunity to buy smaller quantities on line,” says Martin. “We pride ourselves on our friendly, efficient service and customers can be confident that they will receive the highest standards of product quality.” The personal touch extends to welcoming clients who wish to collect their orders themselves at any of the company sites in Livingston in Scotland, Northampton, Torpoint, in Cornwall, or
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For more information about JB Packaging, its full range of products and to order, go to www.jbpackaging.co.uk.
To make an enquiry, telephone 0800 285 1339 or email sales@jbpackaging.co.uk
www.jbpackaging.co.uk
For all of your temperature controlled packaging needs JBP
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Birmingham’s ‘Zero-to-Landfill’ Zone
LAWRENCE Recycling & Waste Management
Despite the introduction of separate recycling and general waste bins/containers by local councils, up to 80 per cent of general UK waste still consists of mixed recyclables. Waste that has not been separated by businesses or households into separate bins ends up contaminated and has to go through a cleaning process, or will very commonly be sent directly to landfill. When should you review your waste management? With landfill tax rates set to rise imminently in 2012, now is the time for businesses to act by taking simple steps to implement increased recycling in the workplace. Every organisation has a legal responsibility to dispose of their waste safely, ethically and with minimal impact to the environment, the Waste Regulations 2011 emphasise the importance of stating which level of the revised waste hierarchy you have implemented when transferring waste. Recycling and waste management experts Lawrence Recycling & Waste Management, whose Mixed Recycling Facility (MRF) in Kidderminster is the largest in Europe, have the expertise since 1984 to assist local businesses in avoiding landfill tax costs to in turn offer long term costs savings, by managing various waste streams to ensure ‘zero-to-landfill.’ With tailored waste management packages to suit the individual needs of each organisation, Lawrence’s friendly and professional experts can implement a free site waste management audit and advise on all the best options to help other organisations echo this same ‘zero to landfill’ goal.
Benefits to your business
t t t t t
Carbon Footprint Reduction Less Energy Used ‘Zero-to-Landfill’ Potential Cost Savings Increase environmental credentials to achieve accreditation / certification such as ISO 14001 / ISO 18001
To arrange an appointment or for further information about the value of your current waste and recycling or becoming part of Birmingham’s ‘zero-to-landfill’ zone, contact Lawrence Recycling & Waste Management. T: 01562 733712 E: info@lawrencerecycling.co.uk W: www.lawrencerecycling.co.uk
Your Environmental Recycling & Waste Management Partners Since 1984
LAWRENCE Recycling & Waste Management
How does ‘zero-to-landfill’ help our environment? “Our ‘zero-to-landfill’ commitment means Lawrences efficiently separates and processes all valuable waste streams such as card, plastic, glass and paper etc, in order to trade it as a commodity which is in turn reintroduced into the production cycle,” advises Lawrence’s Managing Director David Lawrence. “Higher efficiency in waste management will increase your green credentials and environmental profile in achieving accreditations such as ISO 14001 and ISO 18001 as well as long term cost savings. Have you accounted for the forthcoming additional cost of higher landfill taxes? Have you considered a site audit and plan to minimise the risk of increased cost?” Lawrence Recycling & Waste Management’s experts are advising businesses about the National Waste Strategy and the increasing Government pressures regarding current legislation.
Key legislation which must be complied with include: Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 Control of Pollution Act 1989 Controlled Waste Regulations 1992 Environment Act 1995 Environmental Protection Act 1990 Hazardous Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2009 Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste) Regulations 2010 Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2010 Waste (England and Wales) Regulations 2011 Waste Management (England and Wales) Regulations 2006
Achieve ‘zero-to-landfill’ through recycling Integrated Recycling & Waste Management Services
Hazardous Waste Management including WEEE Waste
Commercial Waste Management: - General Waste - Mixed Recycling - Commodities Trading
Best Market Price for Commodities: - Paper & Cardboard - Plastics - Wood - Glass
Internal Systems Office Recycling Confidential Data Destruction
Quality Recycled Soils & Aggregates
Construction & Demolition Waste
E: info@lawrencerecycling.co.uk W: www.lawrencerecycling.co.uk
Europe’s Largest Covered Materials Recycling Facility
T: 0844 800 7713
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FOR a 25th anniversary year it couldn’t be more exciting for Cooper Group UK - expansion of the hire fleet, expansion of the premises, leading to expansion of the workforce - plenty to take the company forward for the next 25 years at least. Ever since Bob Cooper established the company in 1986 upon realising the need for an independent service provider specialising in the repair of refuse collection vehicles, the focus has been on providing a professional reliable service, and dedication to the management of solutions backed by experience, expertise and knowledge of the waste collection industry. Today, it remains a family business, based in Bilston, Wolverhampton, and it has diversified. Cooper Municipal Services handles municipal vehicle breakdown assistance, maintenance and refurbishment, Cooper Hire is the refuse vehicle rental division while Cooper Hiab is the West Midlands authorised service centre for Hiab cranes and multilift demountables; supplying, repairing and maintaining Hiab equipment for practically every user on the western side of the West Midlands. Two years ago Cooper Group invested in a state of the art spray booth and equipment and has continued to offer a high quality Commercial and Municipal paintwork and insurance approved vehicle repairs. Municipal authorities make up the majority of its client base with Birmingham City Council, Bromsgrove DC, Bridgnorth DC, Coventry City Councils, Dudley MBC, Redditch BC, Sandwell, Walsall Metropolitan Borough Councils, Wolverhampton City Council and Wyre Forest District Council just some of those served. Says Jonathan. “We’ve got some good relationships with them and we’re hoping to expand those further and take the company to the next level.” That’s certainly going to happen with Cooper Group due to add another 20 new vehicles to its hire fleet, already at an impressive 95, something it’s planning to headline during its appearance at this month’s Recycling and Waste Management Show at the NEC. “The expansion is partly due to demand,” says Jonathan. “However, Coopers is growing and we want to show both competitors and customers that we supply new vehicles as well as refurbished ones and push the business forward.”
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After Refurb The forward momentum will continue in the next year with the redevelopment of Cooper Group’s two-acre site which will involve renovating its second workshop to include a new office block, canteen facility, external HGV training school and stores area. “We are starting to talk to local colleges about offering training courses dovetailed with some of theirs for HGV mechanics,” reveals Jonathan. “At the moment we have 27 employees but we hope that once the second workshop is completed, it will become a 24-hour facility and once it’s operational, we will be looking at doubling the workforce.” So it’s onwards and upwards. Jonathan reflects: “When you think back to 1986 when Bob started the business and where it has grown now and the potential to where it can grow it’s quite exciting - and we’re busy, which is the most important thing.” Cooper Group are a ISO 9001 accredited company and also have Investors in People status and are actively considering to go for IIP Bronze.
For full details about Cooper Group UK and its services, go to www.Coopergroupuk.com or www.Coopercommercial.co.uk. To make an enquiry, telephone 01902 403826 or email info@coopergroupuk.com
Before Refurb
During Refurb
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Royal visit for
Queen’s Award winner Malvern Instruments
Hot on the heels of a major new product launch in September, there were further celebrations at materials characterisation company Malvern Instruments on 27th October when HRH The Duke of Kent visited the organisation’s global headquarters in Malvern, Worcestershire.
Managing Director Paul Walker accepts Malvern Instruments’ seventh Queen’s Award from HRH The Duke of Kent Proud of public recognition
Examining how systems are assembled and tested There to formally present Malvern Instruments with the 2011 Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the category of International Trade, His Royal Highness spent an hour touring the HQ facility. Scientific understanding Established in the 1970s in the town from which it takes its name, Malvern Instruments designs and manufactures scientific instruments. These are used to measure the physical and chemical properties of many different types of materials, from foodstuffs and pharmaceuticals to asphalt and cement. The company employs a workforce of around 200 at its global manufacturing and commercial headquarters, and 600 people worldwide. Furthermore, it makes an important contribution to UK trade, with more than 90 percent of production destined for overseas markets. Technology tour During their tour of the Malvern headquarters, the Royal Party and civic guests learned about the company, its history and future plans. Along the way they met members of the Malvern team and saw examples of products and operations, including a demonstration of the newly launched, award-winning Mastersizer 3000 particle size analyser. In the applications laboratory His Royal Highness accepted an invitation to start a measurement by adding a few drops of a cream liqueur to the Mastersizer 3000 sampling system and was intrigued to learn about the breadth of applications for particle size analysis - just one of Malvern’s areas of technical and measurement expertise. Then on to the production area where members of the operations team demonstrated how systems are assembled and tested, and through to New Product Introduction to see how Malvern uses Computer Aided Design and Computational Fluid Dynamics in product development. After finding out about Malvern’s approach to industrial design from the marketing and website team, there was a final stop to see the systems and IT infrastructure that support Malvern’s continued growth.
To round off the visit, the whole of the HQ-based team gathered together for the formal presentation of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise. Accepting the award, Malvern’s Managing Director Paul Walker praised Malvern teams worldwide, saying: “It is a great honour to receive such public recognition of our international trading success and I am delighted for everyone in the company. This is our seventh Queen’s Award and follows on from last year’s success in the Innovation category. It really is a tribute to the talent and dedication of Malvern teams across the globe that even in challenging economic times we continue to grow our business both in our established and emerging markets.” Onwards and upwards Outward looking from the start, Malvern Instruments long ago established a global footprint that now includes direct operations in all major European markets, North America, China, Japan and Korea, a joint venture in India, a global distributor network and applications laboratories around the world. In keeping with this world view, the new Mastersizer 3000 was launched around the globe in a single day via a series of live webcasts that moved through different time zones. “It is more than simply our technology that sets us apart, and makes us the preferred supplier in many areas,” comments Paul Walker. “The way we communicate with and support customers and potential customers, wherever they are in the world, is immensely important. We are proud of our reputation and achievements both in our home and international markets and I am very optimistic about the year ahead, which will see us continuing to further extend our international businesses, particularly in areas such as Asia and South America.” “And who knows, maybe we’ll even succeed in our aim to collect Queen’s Award number eight!” Malvern Instruments Ltd Enigma Business Park Grovewood Road Malvern Worcestershire WR14 1XZ Tel: +44 (0) 1684 892456 Fax: +44 (0) 1684 892789 For real-world descriptions of Malvern products in action visit www.malvern.com Read the Malvern blog www.materials-talks.com To find out more about career opportunities visit http://www.malvern.com/LabEng/company/careers.htm
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KIDDERMINSTER protection specialist Beakbane is celebrating the sealing of a major deal that has brought jobs to the region and the potential for even further growth.
Fabrications being loaded for delivery to Heller. supplied a special welding jig and brought its engineers from Germany to work closely with Beakbane to qualify it as a supplier. The five jobs were created so that the factory, in Stourport Road, can work a full twin-shift system producing the magazine fabrications. A magazine fabrication undergoing final assembly at Heller. The company, which already has more than 120 workers, has taken on five more after winning the contract from Heller UK to manufacture hundreds of heavy fabrications for machining centre tool magazines. It has already invested about £80,000 on plant and equipment specifically to handle the work, which sees it producing one magazine fabrication a day - and it is already planning to do more. “This shows that we are prepared to make major investments in time and resources to meet customers’ needs,” says managing director Mike Southwell. “We’re delighted that Heller has entrusted us with this major project which adds yet another strand to our portfolio of services and products for machine tool manufacturers.”
Heller UK’s Logistics Manager Tobias Grimm says Beakbane was its natural choice of local supplier. “We started working with Beakbane over 15 years ago when they supplied slideway covers for a previous range of machines, so we knew they were good suppliers,” he adds. “We started giving them fabrications too, more and more complicated work, and they did a good job. When we made a strategic decision to have our centre of competence for chain type magazines here in the UK we wanted a local supplier for the fabrications and naturally thought of Beakbane.”
For further details about the company and its services, visit www.beakbane.co.uk, telephone 01562 820561 email info@beakbane.co.uk
Beakbane is a world-leading specialist in bellows and machinery protection, supplying components such as telescopic metal slideway covers, folding concertina covers for axis drives, slideway wipers, lightweight heavy-duty lamella covers, armoured aprons and roller blinds. These products are used on equipment that includes machining centres, milling machines, boring machines, lathes, grinding machines, laser and waterjet cutting machines, routers and woodworking equipment. It complements this with a contract design and manufacturing service and has been supplying Heller with machine tool components and fabrications since the 1990s. Previously, magazine fabrications were manufactured in Germany but the decision to re-source them in the UK came as part of Heller’s move to make Redditch its worldwide centre of excellence for chain-type tool magazines. Heller UK’s machine tool factory produces four models of four-axis horizontal machining centres which are exported around the globe and the Beakbane manufactured products will be used on all of them. In addition, its fabrications will be incorporated in tool magazines supplied to Heller’s other plants in Germany and Brazil, making it Heller’s sole external supplier of fabrications for magazines. Now Heller only makes in house fabrications for the very largest machines and non-standard items.To handle the contract, Beakbane invested in welding equipment, fume extraction and compressors, as well as the installation of a pit and lift table to allow welding to be carried out safely and easily without platforms or ladders. It also added an overhead crane in one workshop so that the new work could be carried out alongside existing production while Heller
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design to manufacture providing complete outsourced solutions
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Northampton based company, Euro Towers Ltd, who manufacturer aluminum towers and access products, which provide a safer and more efficient way to work at height, are celebrating a triumphant return to growth. At the depth of the recession in 2008, their turnover had dropped by 70%, and when they had to make 36 staff redundant, things were looking pretty bleak. After taking advice and assistance from UKTI (UK Trade and Investment) and MAS (The Manufacturing and Advisory Service) the company has been able to turn the situation around. Sue Verallo, joint owner with husband Roger, who is also the chairman of PASMA, the leading trade association in Europe for the mobile access tower industry, explains: "With UKTI support we were able to translate our websites and brochures into several languages, which helped the company when exhibiting overseas. Support was also available to help with overseas exhibitions, and the great thing was it was all free. The Manufacturing Advisory Service offered us training on our new 3D Computer Aided Design System, which has helped to attract some significant business. They also helped us with financial support to develop a new product." Turnover has now started to increase again, thanks to exporting; which was only one third of the firm's orders but now accounts for 50% of the annual turnover, and the company's order book is continuing to grow. They have built on their success in France and the Middle East by securing over ÂŁ1million in orders from France and Singapore for their aluminum towers and access products, they are also rapidly developing contacts in Italy.
Something that has really thrilled the Verallos, is the reemployment of loyal staff members, who had been made redundant in the dark times. But Sue says, "We are recovering; making profits again and taking on staff. But we have not won the battle yet. We have to work extremely hard: costs of raw materials have gone up but we can't pass this on to customers, so we have had to really look at the company, cut back on any overheads, be lean, look at ourselves and really see where we can save money, be efficient and find new markets overseas."
Euro Towers Ltd Unit 5, Edgemead Close Round Spinney Northampton NN3 8RG Tel: +44 (0)1604 644774 Fax: +44 (0)1604 499544 www.eurotowers.net
EUURO RO TO OWERS WER RS L LTD TD
E ur u r o TTower o w er e s L im iimited it edd Euro Towers owners Sue & Roger Verallo Among all this discussion of the growth of new export markets and business it should not be forgotten that 50% of their business is UK based. Euro Towers are very proud to have retained their UK customers through the recession. Sue Verallo attributes their success here to being a UK based manufacturer that is able to respond quickly to customer requirements.
U n it 5 E d g e m e a d C lo s e Ro und S pinney N o r t h am p t o n N N 3 8 RG Te l: 016 04 64 4 7 74 Fa x : 016 04 4 9 9 54 4 E m a il: s a le s @e u ro t owe rs .c o. uk
w w w. eur otower s.net
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WHEN it comes to the hydraulics sector the services and products supplied by CD Engineering Ltd are, well, manifold. The family orientated company, based in Redditch, has more than 35 years experience within the field and, in that time has evolved into one of the UK’s leading hydraulic manifold suppliers. Initially designing and manufacturing specialised hydraulic equipment to the plastics industry, today it can provide manifolds in standard and bespoke formats.
prototype, that’s no problem for the skilled CD Engineering team who start by using a simple “thumb-nail” sketch or circuit diagram to design a manifold. Designs the exact type of manifold required and uses sing up-to-date Solid modelling software, we are able to create a fully assembled model for the customers appraisal prior to manufacture.
Business is booming for this small, friendly team which comprises highly technical and highly skilled engineers who use the most updated computer-aided design equipment and stateof-the-art machinery. The result is a company with the flexibility and expertise to accommodating any customer requirement in an everchallenging environment. They then move on to the latest solid modelling software to create a fully assembled model to present to the customer prior to manufacture and which enables them to advise on port sizes, flow rates, suitable working pressures and materials. Also produced is a general assembly layout drawing containing the overall dimensions to ensure the design adapts into the customer’s system without interference. With a range of additional products available and the ability to supply a complete manifold assembly package - a service which includes the supply, installation and flow setting of cartridge valves, cross-hole sealing plugs, where applicable, and full test procedure complete with certificate of conformity - CD Engineering really can cover all your hydraulic manifold needs.
To make an enquiry, telephone 01527 61942
‘Off the shelf’ is not for CD Engineering. It does manufacture a wide range of standard format manifolds but many customers need something specific for their own individual system. By liaising closely with each client, CD Engineering is able to fulfill that requirement, be it in small or large batches. In addition its extensive tooling facility covers an array of cavity formats and, when used in conjunction with the customised Offline CAM system , allows for reduced setting and programming times, which in turn has a cost benefit to the customer. Even if the requirement involves designing a
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MAKO PRECISION A West Midlands precision engineering company, Mako Precision Engineering Ltd has moved into new premises in Bilston. This successful, precision engineering company is bucking the trend, and expanding. Substantial investment in new machinery offering a wider range of services, due to increased demand, means that they need more space. Mako Precision Engineering is a specialist machining and toolmaking company based in the West Midlands region of the UK famously known as the Black Country, and is very proud to be part of the manufacturing heritage of the region. They are a small company of 10 staff, and were formed by a team of very experienced and skilled engineers who had worked previously for a successful precision engineering company. The team realised that they could offer a better, more personal service to customers and decided to set up on their own, thus Mako Precision Engineering was born. The company offers CNC machining, milling, turning, drilling, threading and assembly services to customers in a wide range of industries, including toolmaking and patternmaking, motorsport components, agricultural equipment, automotive, rolling mill components and parts for the hydraulics industry
Mako Precision Engineering constantly strives to ensure that all their manufactured parts, procedures and assemblies consistently match or exceed their customers’ expectations and requirements. Each member of staff is dedicated to providing you, the valued customer, with the service, support and quality you require. Their experienced and highly skilled CNC engineers have the confidence and technical knowledge to work to the tightest of tolerances, regardless of the job specification. They have the flexibility to use traditional programming techniques (i.e. point to point and parametric programming at the machine panel) or to employ the latest DNC linked computer systems and software, giving them the option of producing programs using the quickest methods possible, which puts them in the best position for a quicker turnaround and a more cost effective result. As a team they get great satisfaction from providing their customers with a value for money, quality product. Being based in Bilston Mako Precision Engineers are conveniently located close the to the main motorway network, enabling them to offer their services across the UK. As an ISO 9001 registered firm Mako Precision Engineering, employing a small team of skilled engineers with many years of experience across a wide range of industries, can rise to the challenges that modern industry poses. They can offer precision engineered components in a variety of materials including standard ferrous, stainless steels, tools steels, aerospace grade alloys, non ferrous metals, plastics, nylons and PTFE. So if you are looking for a quality supplier of CNC machining and other precision engineering services don’t hesitate to contact Mako Precision.
Mako Precision Engineering Limited Unit 3, Hare Street, Bilston, WV14 7DX Tel: 01902 219 125 Fax: 01902 498 009 Email: sales@makoprecision.co.uk www.makoprecisionengineering.co.uk
“Everyone here at Q-Fabs would like to congratulate Mako Precision Engineering on the move and wish them success for the future.” AutoCAD Design Structural Steelwork Architectural Metal
Tel: 0121 520 4960 Fax: 0121 557 6214
Fabrications On Site Erection Sheet Metal Work
Email: info@q-fabs.co.uk Web: www.q-fabs.co.uk 79
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become part of an international network, where business units across Europe work together to combine resource and expertise in order to offer more complete solutions.
:C:G<>:H
JC>I:9 @>C<9DB LEE BEESLEY DELIVERS MORE AFTER RE-BRAND TO ACTEMIUM
Lee Beesley, specialists in the design, engineering, installation and commissioning of electrical, mechanical and IT services, has rebranded and will now be known as Actemium. Remaining as part of the Vinci Energies Group, the Lee Beesley business has been integrated into the Group Network brand Actemium, which specialises in industrial engineering solutions and operates from 110 Business Units across Europe, employing more than 5500 employees with a turnover exceeding 580 million euro. Members of the Actemium network share best practice and expertise across a range of industries that include energy, automotive, food and beverage, oil & gas, pulp and paper, pharmaceutical, construction supplies, infrastructure, metal and steel.
Ziyat added: “Not only will Lee Beesley customers continue to deal with a team they already know very well, but they will have access to a range of solutions that have previously only been on offer in Europe. They get access to the all of the members of the Actemium group, who can assist in terms of resources and development, and there have been a lot of tools and methodology developed within the Actemium network that can assist with efficiency and productivity. Overall, it’s about local implementation with a global perspective. Added expertise, added resources and added solutions. The re-branding to Actemium is a name change. The legal entity of Vinci Energies United Kingdom Plc remains and registered company numbers and registered office addresses are unchanged. Similarly, there is no re-structuring associated with this re-brand and all contacts within the organisation will remain unchanged. For further information on Actemium, please visit www.actemium.co.uk
Rochdi Ziyat, Managing Director of Vinci Energies (UK), the parent Company of Actemium, said: “Overall, the change to Actemium is about offering ‘more’. More solutions and expertise for our customers, and more opportunities for our employees. Working within Actemium allows us to be part of a powerful network, and to provide a more collaborative approach with our colleagues who have industry expertise across Europe. Most importantly, we will still operate from the same UK bases acting as a local provider, working closely with our customers.” Under the strapline ‘Solutions for Industry’, Actemium works with some of the world’s most high profile and successful companies, including the likes of EDF, Jaguar Land Rover, Aston Martin, PSA Peugeot Citroën, GSK, Sanofi, Danone, Heineken, Total, Shell, Airbus and Veolia. By integrating with Actemium, Lee Beesley has
From left to right: Tim Hampshire (BU manager of Actemium Walsall), Chris Hutchinson (BU manager of Actemium Nottingham), Barrie Woolley (BU manager of Actemium Merthyr), Ian Scales (BU manager of Actemium Derby), Andrew Hunter (Operations Director of Vinci Energies UK), Rochdi Ziyat (Managing Director of Vinci Energies UK) and Andy Harvey (BU manager of Actemium Coventry).
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4757 1 pg advertorial:CD Engineering 05/12/2011 12:33 Page 81
SSAB Swedish Steel is the second largest source of supply for organic coated and painted steel in the United Kingdom and Ireland. It is also a market leader in the promotion of Aluzinc corrosion resistant steel. Situated in their own 40,000 sq. ft. freehold premises in Brierley Hill, near Birmingham, the Company is ideally placed at the centre of the motorway system, which enables both fast and efficient distribution. Being a wholly owned subsidiary of Swedish Steel gives the company the exclusive rights to market the mill’s painted steel. Swedish products are renowned for quality and this is why Swedish Steel has built up a specialist service over the years, in pre-painted steel and Aluzinc. They offer cut lengths, blanks, slit coils, shallow profiles and stucco finished in both organic coated steel and Aluzinc, from their own modern steel service centre. This is complemented by ‘just in time’ deliveries which are achieved by holding stock of customers’ pre-finished sizes or offering a fast, bespoke delivery service. They also act as the mill’s agent by selling organic coated steel to profiling companies and composite panel manufacturers. This direct delivery service from mill to customer is supported by extensive stocks held in the company’s factory.
SSAB Swedish Steel is run by a hands-on management team of two directors and a National Sales Manager, who between them have an average of thirty years’ service and experience each in this specialist industry.
SSAB Swedish Steel Ltd Narrowboat Way Hurst Business Park Brierley Hill West Midlands DY5 1UF Tel: 01384 74660 Fax: 01384 77575
Being part of Swedish Steel provides the company with financial stability and the chance to invest in any new facet needed to continually upgrade the quality of both product and service for customers. The entire staff, all British nationals, are committed to customer care and believe in a full after sale service. Thirty years on site management experience in Swedish Steel, high-grade Swedish laboratories and technicians, and quickly arranged visits by Swedish personnel, if needed, provide a total package.
More Than Steel Hardox Domex Weldox Docol Toolox Armox Prelaq
Component manufacturers, who have really taken to their new product “Prelaq Nova” which in a wide variety of colours and substrates can be folded, pressed, roll formed or deep drawn into many different component parts. The latest of these “Nova” finishes is an “Anti-Graffiti” special coating which makes it hard to contaminate and very easy to clean.
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4472 1pg.qxd:Reynolds 05/12/2011 12:38 Page 82
enterprise electrical services Ltd For 25 years a steadily growing number of customers, domestic and commercial, architects and specifiers, have been calling on the experience and expertise of Gerard Duffy and his team at Enterprise Electrical Services, who are celebrating their quarter centenary in business this year.
Enterprise Electrical are well placed to face the challenges of the modern competitive market place, they have moved with the times and are a “one stop shop” renowned in their industry for quality, and service. Enterprise Electrical Services Ltd Unit 7, 129, Western Road, Hockley Birmingham, B18 7QD Telephone: 0121 507 0602 gerard@enterpriseelectrical.co.uk
When Gerard Duffy decided to strike out on his own and started his company in 1986 it was with the determination to offer the best possible service, and to go that “extra mile” for his customers. These founding principles have led to steady growth over the years, with the company becoming limited in 1996. The company’s staff and operatives all share Gerard Duffy’s passion for service. Many of the 22 staff have been with the company from its earliest days; the longest serving member having been with Enterprise for nearly 20 years. Customers, too, stay with the company for many years, relying on the dual benefits of service and experience this friendly professional company is able to offer. It is a testament to the exceptional standards Gerard demands, and his team provide, that the company has such a loyal customer base, some of whom who have been using the company from its inception. They are electrical contractors who offer a wide range of services including electrical design, wiring installations on commercial and domestic premises and reactive maintenance contracts. Although originally much of their work was in the domestic sector, they now more generally deal with larger commercial contracts, and are very proud to have just completed a prestigious contract for the Drayton Manor Park Hotel. Enterprise were awarded the contract to work on the project at Kings Norton Old Grammar School and the Saracen's Head which won the BBC's "Restoration" programme in 2004 and more recently the English Heritage project to restore the silver work factory of JW Evans and Sons based in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter. As listed buildings both of these projects presented new challenges installing modern lighting to current electrical specifications, without disturbing or detracting from the original features. The work was both interesting and rewarding and the JW Evans factory was recently featured on the BBC programme "Britain's Hidden Heritage" Enterprise Electrical is accredited by the NICEIC, the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation and Contracting. The NICEIC has been assessing the technical competence of electricians for over 50 years. Their aim is to protect everyone who uses electricity from unsafe electrical installations anywhere. To achieve this, they maintain a register of qualified, competent electricians, who are re-assessed on a regular basis to ensure high standards. Customers of Enterprise Electrical can be assured of all the benefits that being accredited by the NICEIC brings, safety and competence, compliance with building regulations, an insurance backed warranty, guaranteed standards and an independent complaints procedure.
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Lighting Distributors/Consultants specialising in LED Lighting. Est. 1989
“Premier Lighting Supplies Ltd would like to congratulate Enterprise Electrical on 25 years of business” Telephone: 0121 313 3333 Fax: 0121 313 3334 Email: sales@premierlightingsupplies.co.uk
0121 359 5387 0121 359 0191 sales@cewltd.com cewltd.com Contact Electrical Wholesale Ltd Enterprise Electrical Services Ltd
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