Whatever your destination join us on the journey Professional development
Careers boost
A new direction Fresh challenge
Discover a range of part-time business, management and law courses designed to help boost your career options and
Skills update
‹ %JplomB JO MBOBHemeOt StuEJes (%MS) ‹ Master Pf BusJOess AdmJOJstratJPO (MBA) ‹ PostHraduate %JplomB JO )umBO 3esource MBOBHemeOt ()3M) ‹ %PDtor Pf BusJOess AdmJOJstratJPO (%BA) ‹ -FHBM 1SBDUJDF $PVSTF -1$
'MFYJCMF TUVEZ PQUJPOT UP Ä U BSPVOE XPSL BOE GBNJMZ Part-time Open Evening Wednesday 15 January 2014 Find out more at: www.hud.ac.uk/uhbs/opendays For more info contact us at: www.hud.ac.uk/uhbs & NBJM IVCT FORVJSJFT!IVE BD VL 1IPOF
Contents Contacts
04
Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce Stable Block, Brewery Drive, Huddersfield HD4 6EN Telephone 01484 483660
Area office for Wakefield New Commerce House, 168 Westgate, Wakefield WF2 9SR Telephone 01924 311600
Area office for Calderdale Suite 8, The Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre, Hopwood Lane, Halifax, HX1 5ER Telephone 01422 399422
13
Executive Director Andrew Choi
16
Membership and Events Manager Tracy Smith
Marketing Manager Ellie Lyon
Production & Design Benham Publishing Limited Email studio@benhampublishing.com Telephone 0151 236 4141 www.benhampublishing.com
25
Media Number 1333
36
Advertising Telephone 0151 236 4141 Mobile 0784 111 5444 alison@benhampublishing.com
Disclaimer Benham Publishing Limited or the Chamber cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and the Chamber.
Welcome Welcome to the fourth issue of our Close Up for Business magazine in 2013, which coincides with the launch of a new look to our work in support of international trade in the region. MY Export Hub signals important new investment in this vital area of Chamber of Commerce operations as we endeavour to play our part in an export-led recovery and the rebalancing of the UK economy. Behind the vibrant new look, we are doing all we can to deliver additional new services and to look elsewhere in the region and the country for collaboration and added value for our members and customers. You can read more about our evolving working partnership with Leeds City Region through the “We Are International” campaign, and the continuation of our great working relationship with UKTI, elsewhere in the magazine. In addition, we are really keen for you to hear about our new British Chambers of Commerce accredited
41 international trade training programmes, which we have recently launched and are proving popular and highly effective. At a more strategic level, we have contributed member company’s views and expertise into the development of an ambitious Trade and Investment Delivery Plan for the Leeds City Region, which we hope will result in vital new UK and European investment in international trade support, as the city region looks to double the number of exporters and to double the value of export sales. Ambitious targets indeed, which will require concerted effort by everyone in the business support community to focus fully on helping our exporters to succeed. In addition, I am delighted to report that our Enterprise Agency’s work with Jobcentre Plus to help create new start-up businesses has been extended further throughout the whole of 2014 on the back of some impressive performance statistics to date. Since starting the mentor-led initiative in August 2011, we have helped over 3,000 participants with their business ideas and
04 07 08 10 12 13 16 19 20 25 26 28 32 36 39 41 43 46 50 50
Chamber News Members News Charity News Membership Benefits MY Export Hub Training Kirklees Business Conference West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency Chamber Chatter Business of the Month Chamber Policy Cover Feature Big Interview New Members Patrons View Member Offer of the Month Networking Events Training Events Chamber Connect Last Word Movers & Shakers
aspirations, and over 1,200 have gone on to successfully begin trading. Our survival statistics are equally encouraging with 48% still going after 6 months so far - with this figure increasing all the time. I’m encouraged more than ever by the diversity of our efforts and the results that Chamber staff and members are achieving in business formation, business development and business growth. Whilst this particular edition of Close Up focuses on International Trade, we hope to have demonstrated the range, value and importance of our work here also.
Andrew Choi Executive Director
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
3
ChamberNews
BitesizeNews Have You Spotted Our Smart Car?
2013 Annual Dinner Set to be a Great Event Our 2013 Annual Dinner is set to be another great evening event of speakers, entertainers, food and wine!
We’ve recently unveiled our new Chamber and MY Export Hub branded smart car emblazoned in our vibrant colour palette – making it difficult to miss! Have you spotted it around Mid Yorkshire? You’ll generally see it driven by our Policy Correspondent Sam Lewis across Halifax, Huddersfield and Wakefield to raise local businesses awareness of what we do here at the Chamber and within MY Export Hub. If you see it, snap a picture and Tweet it to us @MidYorksChamber and we’ll be sure to say hello!
Over 200 business professionals attended the prestigious event last year and we’re hoping to impress even more this year with a star studded line up of four speakers and entertainers confirmed.
student and inventor of The Lazy Camper, Jacob Hill as business speaker. Two comedians will also take to the stage to entertain delegates including Britain’s Got Talent finalist Jack Carroll and BBC’s Political impressionist Rory Bremner.
This year the Dinner will be held on Thursday 17th October from 6.30pm at the Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Huddersfield.
This year’s Annual Dinner will be the key evening dinner within Kirklees Business Week, with Kirklees Business Conference held on Wednesday 16th October at the John Smith’s Stadium.
It will take the theme of ‘enterprise’ and we’re excited that the line up proves that Mid Yorkshire’s Got Talent, featuring BBC Look North’s morning news presenter, Clare Frisby as compere, alongside young Huddersfield entrepreneur,
View more details on the Dinner and our other events at www.mycci.co.uk/events and look out for photos on our facebook page and in winter’s Close Up for Business magazine.
Your Connections Really Do Count Mid Yorkshire Named Top Tweeters
Our Connections Count business networking event is growing bigger than ever!
We are delighted to have been announced as the British Chamber of Commerce’s (BCC) Top Tweeters during a national brand awareness campaign for two months running.
We’ve seen over 30 delegates at the events since Yorkshire Day 1st August and the event continues to gain great feedback from delegates attending.
The BCC launched the campaign in May this year using the hashtags #WellConnected and #JoinYourChamber. Here at the Mid Yorkshire Chamber we’ve tweeted the most with 168 uses of the hastags, retaining the ‘Top Tweeter’ status amongst the 52 accredited British Chambers since the league table was launched in August. Look out for #WellConnected and #JoinYourChamber to get involved – use the hashtag and tell us how we help you stay #WellConnected as Chamber members.
4
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
Connections Count is our popular networking breakfast event attended by a mix of members and non-members (for just £5.00). Delegates help themselves to pastries, bacon sandwiches and hot beverages, and upon taking their seats, present elevator pitches, with a further opportunity to follow up new leads afterwards. The event runs on the first Thursday of every month from 9:30am – 11:00am rotating between Halifax, Huddersfield and Wakefield. Attendee of September’s Cedar Court, Huddersfield event, and Chamber member Gareth Glendinning of Glendinning Wealth commented “Connections Count is a very positive event with the great opportunity to network; it’s definitely worth paying membership for”.
Tamara Nikitin of new, national member company Northgate Vehicle Hire told us why she attends “Connections Count is an excellent opportunity to increase market awareness, there’s been a great turnout, of a range of different businesses and I’ll definitely be making this a monthly event to attend”. To book a place on our next Connections Count event visit our website www.mycci.co.uk/events or for more information contact rachel.dickie@mycci.co.uk.
ChamberNews
MY Network Goes to the Races It might be unlucky for some, but on Friday 13th September, we took a coach full of MY Network partners, Ramsdens and Barclays, patrons Eaton Smith; and members and local businesses PrintPod, Imagemaker and Fibre Architects to Doncaster St Leger races for networking with a twist which proved to be lucky for some.
Members and Events Caught on Camera! We are excited to announce the launch of our brand new YouTube channel. The channel features networking and training event videos and case studies on what Chamber membership means to likeminded businesses like you. Log on to the channel and view videos on our networking events and 60 Useful Minutes training seminars; as well as case studies including Richard Armitage on what membership means to his design and print company PrintPod. We also feature our international trade arm MY Export Hub on how members Maru, a freighforwarder and Caldervale receive help to export goods overseas. Since launching the channel in August we have already received an extensive viewing audience from as far as Ireland with the Clonmel Chamber’s CEO Brian Cleary getting in touch to hear how we manage our digital presence. Brian commented “I have to say that I am really impressed with your Chamber’s website and all the comms materials. I’ve looked at websites for hundreds of Chambers in the English speaking world and the Mid Yorkshire one is really one of the best.”
Enjoying some brief sunshine, food, drinks and good company, delegates watched the horse racing from the county enclosure.
With over 100 hits already, it’s great publicity for local businesses featuring. New member Nicola Mellor featured in a video for MY Network Huddersfield and explained on camera how the event continues to help her start up business Pepamint Media flourish “It’s helped my business grow and builds up my connections, so I’d definitely recommend it to anyone else”.
Martin Booker from Fibre Architects told us “It was a great day and nice to do something different. The atmosphere was relaxed and I even won 2 bets!”
We would love to hear more of your views on how the Chamber or MY Export Hub has helped you. If you’re interested in featuring as a case study, please contact marketing@mycci.co.uk.
Photo’s of the race day can be found on our Chamber Chatter page 19 and our Facebook page.
View our YouTube channel by searching for Mid Yorkshire Chamber in youtube.com.
We Are International The Chamber’s International Trade arm, MY Export Hub has joined the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership’s “We are International” campaign as a core delivery partner. Working with the LEP and other campaign partners, UKTI Yorkshire and Humber, Chamber International, and Enterprise Europe Network; MY Export Hub will be helping to add £2.6bn to the Leeds City Region economy by encouraging more companies to take advantage of opportunities in overseas markets.
“We are International” aims to enable our economy to punch its full weight internationally, creating more economic growth, more jobs, and more business opportunities for Leeds City Region companies. At the heart of the campaign is a business-led network of experienced export ambassadors, who have agreed to share the secrets of their exporting success with companies looking to break into international markets. The “We are International” Export Network has already been hailed a success, with over 200 businesses benefitting from the first two Network events. Eric Hawthorn, Managing Director of Radio Design Ltd and the LEP’s lead panel member on
international trade, said: “The benefits of exporting are enormous and I’m delighted that We are International is enabling more companies to break into overseas markets. We look forward to working with MY Export Hub to maximise the support offer for businesses in Mid Yorkshire and across Leeds City Region.” Visit www.myexporthub.co.uk, follow updates on Twitter with @MYExportHub and search for MY Export Hub in LinkedIn to join in the business discussions.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
5
MembersNews
Winners at the Law Firm Services Conveyancing Awards Ramsdens are delighted to have won two awards at the recent LFS Conveyancing Awards. winner. The category was judged by some of the best conveyancers in the business, so this is something that I am really proud of. I am very fortunate to have the support of an excellent team here at Ramsdens headed up by Karen James who has been incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout my entire time here at Ramsdens. My colleagues and I work very hard to ensure that we offer a good service to all of our clients. I am very grateful to receive recognition for that.” You can follow Sinéad on Twitter @Ramsdens, Lindsey @LindseyRamsdens and the Conveyancing team @RamsdensConvey.
Lindsey Frith accepting her award Having won 'Best Use of Social Media' last year Ramsdens won silver this year.
Ramsdens were also highly commended in the Law Firm of the Year award at the Yorkshire Lawyer Awards 2013.
Sinéad Sopala, Director of Marketing commented: "We are delighted to have been recognised for a second year in this award category. Social media will continue to evolve and at Ramsdens we will carry continue using it as a tool to engage with our audiences in real time with real people." Lindsey Frith, solicitor in our Wakefield office won the coveted Young Conveyancer of the Year award. Lindsey comments: "I am over the moon to have won this national award and brought a Gold Award home to the Ramsdens Conveyancing Team. The competition was extensive and tough this year, it also included last years’
Sinead Sopala accepting her award
Benefit from Discounted Card Services
Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce members can take advantage of discounted rates for credit and debit card services through First Data Merchant Solutions. First Data Merchant Solutions is part of the global First Data Corporation which currently enables over six million merchants to accept card payments around the world. “We are delighted to still be helping the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce achieve its objective of delivering added value to its members,” said Raj Sond, General Manager, First Data Merchant Solutions. “First Data has been in the UK for over 20 years, and it’s our goal to make card acceptance simple, secure and reliable for our customers.” If you’d like to find out more about our discounted offer through First Data Merchant Solutions, call 0800 652 5808 quoting T961 Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, between 8.30am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday.
Liquid Accounts Raises £600k Funding to Maximise ‘Software as a Service’ Growth in the Cloud Liquid Accounts, the Yorkshire based developer of online Cloud accounting software, delivered as Software as a Service, has raised £600k allowing the company to continue its expansion plans. A proactive Chamber member, Liquid Accounts has developed the most comprehensive cloud accounting solution on the market for SME’s and it is now the product of choice for thousands. Unlike other Cloud based online
bookkeeping systems, Liquid Accounts is a full accounting package at a similar price point as the entry level bookkeeping solutions. The £600k has been raised from existing investors, including the Aspire Fund and 2 new High Net Worth investors. Liquid CEO, Colin Meakin said “This funding represents a major milestone for Liquid, allowing us to pursue our product enhancement and marketing plans to rapidly grow the company. Our efforts to date have proved that there is a
substantial market for our software and this cash injection will allow us to quickly exploit that. It is an endorsement of the quality of the solution and the market potential that we received a number of funding offers from a variety of specialist providers.” Liquid Accounts recently won the August Business of the Month award, view page 21 for more details on this. For more information on Liquid Accounts, visit their website: www.liquidaccounts.net
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
7
CharityNews
Chamber Goes the Extra Mile for Charities Town Foundation Early Kick-Off Scheme We’re delighted to announce that we’ll be sponsoring Hillside Primary school in another year of the successful Early Kick Off scheme’s breakfast club organised by the Town Foundation. Jill Mellor from Hillside Primary school told us “The club has over double the attendees of previous breakfast clubs and has helped the children not only benefit from a healthy breakfast, but also enjoy socialising with their friends and staff members. We have seen certain children ‘blossom’ through attending the club. Their confidence and self-esteem has grown and they have developed a wider circle of friends. Many of our children have speech and language issues and attending the club has helped improve their skills.” Jill continued “The Early Kick-Off Club has proved to be a resounding success and we predict that it will continue to thrive in the future, benefitting not just the children in our school, but the wider community as well. We owe a huge debt of thanks to the Chamber, for sponsoring Hillside Primary in this initiative and are extremely proud and grateful to hear that this will continue.” Read the full article at www.mycci.co.uk/news and follow the town foundation on Twitter @TownFoundation or visit www.htafcfoundation.com.
Forget Me Not Trust Huddersfield Hilly Half Marathon Six Chamber employees donned their running shoes and took on the Huddersfield Hilly Half Marathon 6th October in order to raise money for local members Forget Me Not Trust. Forget Me Not Trust Children’s Hospice supports children with life limiting conditions and their families, in West Yorkshire. Once again Hannah Cockroft, Double Gold Paralympian and Forget Me Not Trust Children’s Hospice Ambassador, started the race with BBC Look North presenter Harry Gration not far behind. Last year Chamber employees contributed to the £5000 raised in total. If you’ve not yet donated, you can still do so by visiting the Chamber’s justgiving page www.justgiving.com/mid-Yorkshire-Chamber-ofCommerce. Keep up to date with Forget Me Not Trust on their website: www.forgetmenotchild.co.uk and follow them on Twitter @ForgetMNotChild
Wakefield Hospice is Holding Some Fun-Filled Christmas Events this December Their 7th annual Santa Dash & first ever Santa Cycle will take place on Sunday 1st December at Pugneys Country Park at 10.30am. The Santa Dash is one lap round Pugneys Lake; run, walk, cycle or jingle all the way! They are non-competitive and open to all ages and abilities, both kindly sponsored by JCT600. On Friday 13th December wear your favourite Christmas jumper to show your support for Wakefield Hospice! Organise a dress down day at work or get together with family and friends for a coffee and a mince pie. All they are asking for in return is a small donation. For more information visit www.wakefieldhospice.org, email fiona.day@wakefieldhospice.co.uk or call 01924 213900.
8
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
MembershipBenefits
5
Ways to Get the Most from MY Export Hub
If you’ve never sold goods overseas exporting can seem a daunting prospect. MY Export Hub, providing the lowest prices for documentation in the North is here to help. Open 5 days a week with bases in Huddersfield and Wakefield, we can answer your questions, help you to understand the ins and outs of exporting and get you trading internationally.
1.
3.
5.
Advice and Support
Speak to an Expert
Whether you have just received your first overseas order, or are an experienced exporter looking to refresh your knowledge; our training, events and seminars will help you build your exporting knowledge and skills.
We are in touch with a network of local experts, able to provide market specific and industry specific advice. We are also connected to an international network of overseas Chambers, who are able to put you in touch with contacts in-market.
Explore New Business Opportunities
4.
2.
Get your Goods to Market
Translations Overcome language barriers and communicate effectively with international customers and suppliers. We are able to offer competitive prices for technical and legal transactions, website localisation, interpretation, transcription, proofreading, editing and certification/notarisation of documents.
10
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
By making the most of our expertise; you’ll be surprised how easy international trade can seem. Getting the right documentation is vital and we can ensure you have the necessary information to ship your goods to the required final destination with ease. Our services are competitively priced and efficient, and with a number of highly reputable local freight companies in Chamber membership, we can put you in touch with fellow members who can help provide the service you need to get your goods to market.
MY Export Hub provides a range of services to help you take advantage of the endless opportunities in international markets. From Trade Missions to seminars and our network of overseas contacts; supporting your understanding of foreign business cultures, MY Export Hub has a wealth of services for members and non-members to grow your overseas business.
For more information on MY Export Hub contact the team at: Huddersfield: 01484 483 660 Wakefield: 01924 311 600 or email export@mycci.co.uk
WhatMembershipMeansTo..
Reopening of Wakefield Depot Helps Caldervale Get Back on the Road The Chamber marketing team met with Caldervale Technology Managing Director Gordon Lilley, to discuss the benefits of the Chamber’s international trade arm, MY Export Hub to them. Caldervale formed in 1992 and are a design, manufacturer and supplier of a range of electro fusion control units and tools, for the merging of plastic based distribution systems for the water, gas and utility industry sectors. Previous to the formation of Caldervale Technology Ltd, they were a small independent company, Calder Technical Services and were acquired by Glynwed International. Gordon told us that “with the purchase of the business from Glynwed International in 2005, the company is amongst the major electro fusion tooling manufacturers in Europe”. He also explained that since the global collapse in 2008/09, the Directors of the company realised the need to explore markets further afield and since they have recently opened an office in Australia. Gordon went on to comment that “Caldervale are proud of their achievements and the need to restructure and improve the facilities at Dewsbury which will only help to increase and enhance the building of new business and secure jobs well in to the future”. Caldervale also hope to increase their production and develop new and emerging markets and plan to do this in a more eco-friendly building. Gordon told us how he benefits from the Chamber’s MY Export Hub in various ways “the Chamber plays a significant role in helping us with documentation, and with advice and expertise on new markets we may pursue” he went on to explain that “there are a variety of useful events and training sessions on offer and we are able to cherry pick the necessary ones significant to our needs”. With the recent opening of the Chamber’s Wakefield offices, Gordon explained “it makes it much more convenient for us, we can be in and out within 15 minutes for documentation”. And with the most competitive prices for documentation in the north, Gordon’s team can get back on the road with minimal time away from the office and cost to Caldervale. Find more information on Caldervale Technology Ltd visit www.caldertech.com and follow them on Twitter @caldertech. To become a member and benefit as Caldervale Technology Ltd have contact rachel.dickie@mycci.co.uk or for more information on MY Export Hub visit www.myexporthub.co.uk.
The Chamber plays a significant role in helping us with documentation, and with advice and expertise on new markets we may pursue. There are a variety of useful events and training sessions on offer and we are able to cherry pick the necessary ones significant to our needs.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
11
MyExportHubTraining British Chamber of Commerce Courses in Exporting The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) now has ten nationally accredited core courses for exporting. Together the courses form an export curriculum providing invaluable basic skills for small and large companies alike. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the subject, with their performance marked by external examiners upon completion of each module and successful candidates will receive a certificate. By completing the final six courses the candidate achieves a nationally recognised Foundation Award in Exporting. The courses are suitable for both experienced and inexperienced exporters. The final six courses are as follows:
Maru Get More from MY Export Hub Training The Chamber’s marketing team recently visited Maru International based in Ravensthorpe, to hear how the Chamber’s MY Export Hub training services have helped the freight forwarder’s to keep up to date with international trading rules and procedures. Gemma attends many of the exporting courses, including the British Chambers of Commerce accredited core courses, introduced to our Chamber this summer “The courses widen our knowledge, again so that we can advise our customers and so we can qualify in as much as possible to gain the knowledge we need to be able to operate globally.”
Incoterms:
Maru International also benefit from being kept up to date with events and information through subscribing to the MY Export Hub news and updates.
Tuesday 5th November 9:30-12:30
Methods of Payment: Tuesday 5th November 13:30 – 16:30
Documentary Letters of Credit: Thursday 21st November 9:30-16:30
Understanding Import Processes: Wednesday 4th December 9:30-16:30
Import Procedures: Tuesday 21st January 9:30-16:30
Agents and Distributors: Tuesday 18th February 9:30-12:30 Individual full day courses cost £175 (+VAT) for members and £200 (+VAT) for nonmembers. Or book these six courses for £850 (+VAT) for members and £1000 (+VAT) for nonmembers to complete the Foundation Award in Exporting. All of the above courses will take place at our Lockwood offices, Huddersfield. For more information and to book, visit our website www.myexporthub.co.uk/event.
Gemma Gill, Import Operations Assistant at Maru International for over 3 years told us “Maru is an international freight forwarder. We have UK transport, warehousing facilities, we deal with Eastern and Western Europe and also have air and sea freight all over the world.” Gemma went on to explain what the future ambitions for the company to achieve are “our goals at Maru are to push the company further, we’d like to expand and are looking at furthering exports and imports and building up the courier and air freight that we do.In order to achieve this she explained that they want to push everybody to the same goal in order for Maru to be as big and successful as it can be”.
12
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
Find more information about Maru International by visiting www.maru.co.uk. To become a member and benefit as Maru International have, contact rachel.dickie@mycci.co.uk and visit www.myexporthub.co.uk for more upcoming export training seminars and events.
Gemma described the importance of Chamber membership and the advice and expertise on offer through MY Export Hub “it’s definitely important to us with the export documents that we do, and it also lets us access the information that we need for each country. There are always people that we can call to provide us with all the information we need to be able to help and advise our customers as well.”
Explore Export this Export Week Join MY Export Hub in attendance at UKTI’s ExploreExport event Tuesday 12th November at The Queens Hotel, City Square, Leeds, LS1 1PJ.
Gemma commented on the services on offer through MY Export hub, “there’s a good set up, nice people who are always on hand to contact and the courses are always good – they’re made entertaining not just your boring day to day courses, so I think it’s really worthwhile.”
This event, held during export week, brings together Commercial Officers from across the world who are specialist in-country experts with the knowledge and expertise to assist you in either gaining your first or next step into the world of exporting. You will also find an exhibition zone where you can meet with intermediary organisations able to assist you with your exporting requirements along
with an interactive zone where you can listen to webinars, browse and download a host of valuable information on a supplied memory stick. Five engaging workshops are running throughout the day. Space is limited and priority will be given to those pre-registered so we advise booking in advance at www.exploreexport.ukti.gov.uk/ content/public/main/Leeds.aspx The cost to attend ExploreExport in Leeds is £50.00 excl. VAT.
KirkleesBusinessConference
Kirklees Business Conference 2013 Held on Wednesday 16th October at the John Smith’s Stadium, we are pleased to be an official partner at this year’s Kirklees Business Conference previously attended by over 700 delegates. As part of our partnership with Hillrich, we are happy to have been able to pass on a exclusive discount to our members who have booked to exhibit at this year’s conference.
Founded 160 years ago, The Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ltd is a membership services company that exists to protect and develop the interests of business in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.
We are a not-for-profit organisation, accountable to the local businesses that make up our membership.
Ramsdens is the leading, award winning full service legal firm in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield with 9 offices, 160 staff and 19 partners. We are proud sponsors of the fourth Kirklees Business Conference and make sure you come and say hi on stand 27 and find out how Ramsdens can help you and your business. You can also speak to The Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust who will
be sharing our stand… and help them fight youth cancer. For all your legal need call Ramsdens on 01484 821 500, email info@ramsdens.co.uk, visit our website at www.ramsdens.co.uk or text LAW to 67777. You can follow us on Twitter @Ramsdens and like us on Facebook/Ramsdens.Solicitors… your local solicitors!
The University values opportunities to work more closely with business and is keen to discuss how together we might help you to find innovative solutions to increase your competitive advantage.
centres. It is also part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Kirklees Council.
Find us on stand 50 to discuss how Chamber membership can help connect and support your We are part of the British Chambers of Commerce national business and give you a voice. Alternatively get in touch with us network that covers the whole of the UK and work with International by visiting www.mycci.co.uk or Chambers of Commerce. emailing info@mycci.co.uk.
We would like to encourage business people from across our region to visit the exhibition free of charge as a delegate to take advantage of the wealth of local businesses exhibiting in one place.
Here our members tell us why you should visit their stand:
Situated in the heart of the valley, Huddersfield’s John Smith's Stadium is a fantastic unique venue for any event that you’re looking to hold. This very venue that you’re enjoying today holds meetings for up to 400 delegates and dinners for up to 350 guests! Visit our stand number 45 and
have a chat about how we can help you and let us wow you with visual demonstrations of each of our flexible event spaces. We also hope you’ll join us for festive celebrations at Christmas & New Year where you can enjoy the best Christmas party in Huddersfield!
P2 Technologies delivers complete managed IT support to professional businesses across the UK acting as the IT department or complementing the in house IT team. Our clients rely on our services to work more efficiently and optimise their systems reliability. Commercially focused, we ensure that every IT function backs up the key aims of its clients. To provide
the unrivalled service that we’re renowned for, we insist on personal and clear communication with all clients. Offering honest advice, outstanding responsiveness, and unrivalled industry expertise, our client’s relationships set us apart from the competition. Visit us at stand 12 to see how we can assist you.
The 3M Buckley Innovation Centre, a wholly owned subsidiary of the University, is a gateway to the University’s key research
The centre also offers meeting and conference facilities kitted out with the latest AV technology to suit all business needs. To find out more, visit stand 28 at the Kirklees Business Conference.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
13
KirkleesBusinessConference
Our friendly staff, comfortable bedrooms, state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated conference and weddings teams, and fully equipped health clubs mean that whatever the reason for your visit to Yorkshire, you're sure to have an enjoyable and relaxing stay. Come and say hello at stand 31.
Hays is the leading global specialist recruitment group, and the market leader in the UK, placing professional candidates into permanent, temporary and interim jobs. We serve over 20 specialisms, covering everything from accountancy and finance to office support, construction, IT, education and healthcare. Every day we help clients simultaneously
dealing with talent shortages in certain markets, while having to reshape workforces in others. The nature of employment is also changing fast, with technological advances driving evolutions in the way people work. We understand these complexities and are uniquely positioned across our markets to solve them. Visit us at stand 26 to see what we can offer.
The club can also offer match-bymatch Executive suites, as well as traditional match day packages.
Eaton Smith is an award winning multi-disciplinary law firm. Our solicitors and legal advisors have a wide range of expertise and specialist knowledge. We can provide the best support for our clients in all areas of their business and private lives.
Yorkshire region, the UK and internationally and are known for our sympathetic and friendly approach combined with strong and innovative solutions that get results.
See us at stand 40 for more.
We work with clients across the
Visit our stand, number 47, at Kirklees Business Conference for all your legal needs.
businesses fill the gaps in funding they need for development, where conventional sources of finance are insufficient or unavailable. Our aim is to finance ambitious entrepreneurs and businesses who can demonstrate their ability to successfully grow their businesses, visit us on stand 25.
Sheards is a leading firm of Chartered Accountants, providing accountancy, tax and business advisory services to owner managed businesses and individuals. Sheards is well respected in the area, both for its long established reputation, but also for our fresh, modern and friendly approach in working with our clients.
Visit stand no 51 and find out more about our: • Fixed fees at competitive rates • 100% satisfaction guarantee • FREE accounting software for small businesses • Expert advice in reducing your tax burden • All deadlines met with the minimum of fuss • A holistic approach to advice on your personal and business wealth
After popular demand, this year sees the return of magician extraordinaire John Danbury to The Design Mechanics’ stand to entertain, amaze and educate you on how to get more sales for your company. Stewart will also be on hand to answer all of your questions about how you can generate more leads through your
website, and to apply his more than 20 years’ experience of sales and marketing to your current sales problem. See www.thedesignmechanics.co m/KBC to submit your sales and marketing problem to Stewart before the Conference, or just hunt him down on stand 15 on the day!
Known as “The Yorkshire Club”, Huddersfield Town has one of the proudest histories of any club in English football. Firmly established in the SkyBet Championship, the club continues to build partnerships with our local and regional businesses.
day with ideas such as the Heritage Suite, which combines the club’s past with the future, and our Spring Partners Suite - THE place to be seen on a match day, with its coffee lounge atmosphere.
It offers a premier hospitality experience, putting a new twist on the traditional corporate match
Finance Yorkshire provides seedcorn finance, business loans and equity linked finance ranging from £15k to £2m for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME's*) Businesses must be located in or planning to relocate to Yorkshire, Humber, North or North East Lincolnshire. Our finance packages help
14
For the best hotels in Yorkshire, choose Cedar Court Hotels. With four-star hotels in Harrogate, Huddersfield / Halifax, Leeds / Bradford and Wakefield, and the luxury Cedar Court Grand Hotel & Spa in York - the city's first ever five-star hotel - there's sure to be a Cedar Court for you wherever you need a hotel in Yorkshire.
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
KirkleesBusinessConference
The Business Development and Training Unit of Kirklees College is a dedicated team, within Kirklees College, working with employers to provide access to a wide range of training and development. Our team has extensive experience of sourcing the most appropriate training solution for your staff and business. We have specialist knowledge of government training funding and
will work with you to ensure you get the right support. Training is delivered by qualified professionals and includes both accredited programmes and bespoke business skills training. We also have an excellent business and conference centre offering flexible accommodation for your meetings, training events and conferences. Come and visit us – we’re stand 42.
Northgate Vehicle Hire Huddersfield has experienced phenomenal success since opening its doors in April of this year. The new depot situated on Red Doles Lane on Leeds Road Business Trade Park, attributes its success to the demand for a national vehicle hire provider that can offer non-contract vehicle hire solutions able to mould to the needs of businesses.
Northgate is the leading light commercial vehicle hire business in the UK, Ireland and Spain by fleet size and has been operating in the sector since 1981.
Until now, choosing a firm of accountants actually proved there wasn’t much to choose from; numbers are numbers after all.
us tick: it’s the people, the partnerships and their potential for growth.
At Balance, we think the very best accounting comes from the most successful client relationships, and it’s this that can really help a business to flourish. That’s why it’s never just the numbers that make
Northgate considered the Kirklees Business Conference as a key way of increasing awareness of Northgate amongst the local business community – speak to us at stand 32.
So, if professionalism and integrity delivered with a fresh new approach to accounting sounds like the perfect balance for you or your business, please visit us on stand 8 at Kirklees Business Conference 2013.
Janet Bebb of member company Social Progress is a social media consultant, with a background in business advice, change implementation & training. A qualified coach & mentor, Janet brings her experience of working with SMEs through to the work she undertakes in helping businesses to fully understand and effectively utilize social media markets.
This ever changing medium for engaging with new & existing clients can sometimes feel like a minefield, but Janet’s clear, concise, plain English approach is helping many businesses see some real, tangible benefits to using social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter & Facebook to name a few which is having a positive effect on their bottom line.
Zine is a Digital Media Company with local reach. We operate throughout the UK through our network of locally based agencies. As design and usability specialists, we help SME’s make the most of the internet.
• Search engine optimization (SEO) • Creative design packages • Social Media Marketing • Online marketing strategy services Visit us on stand 33 to learn more and to order your FREE/NO OBLIGATION website review report to learn how well (or not) your website is performing.
What we do: • Fully self-editable, responsive designed, websites • Branding services
The foundation for our business is the growth of the telecoms sector from analogue to digital and into the smart phone era. What sets us apart is our passion for digital technology, our ability identify the benefits and deliver them to our clients. Having integrated digital technology into the heart of our
See Janet on stand number 44.
We also have a free prize draw and a big surprise!!
business we are ideally placed to ensure our clients get the most from their systems. Our specialist teams work closely with clients to make sure they have the right equipment, system, service provider and deal. Then we support them to make sure the technology works how they need it to. See us on stand 43.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
15
WestYorkshireEnterpriseAgency
David Cameron Announces Extension to the New Enterprise Allowance Scheme Following Business Start-up Success! Since the start of the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) scheme in August 2011, The West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency has been delivering the NEA programme in our area and has matched nearly 1,000 start-up businesses to a mentor and more than 600 of those have gone on to start their own business. Following the success of this scheme across the country, Prime Minister David Cameron has announced an extension to the NEA scheme confirming that business mentoring and funding for people who are unemployed but want to start up a business will be extended until the end of 2014. Aspiring entrepreneurs across Britain will get financial backing from the government under a £69 million package of support that will help British entrepreneurs to start a business. This will create tens of thousands of new businesses which is warmly welcomed helping the West Yorkshire economy.
Lisa says ‘I do’ to launching a luxury bridal dress company in Wakefield Lisa Ripley has worked extensively on premium brands throughout her career and spotted a gap in the market for supplying designer wedding gowns delivered with premium customer service without an extortionate price tag. Stocking bridal gowns from designers including Justin Alexander, Benjamin Roberts and Lillian West; Prestige Gowns in Wakefield also offer bespoke Bridesmaids dresses to compliment the Brides dress perfectly. “Even though we are in a recession and people are supposed to be more careful with their money, brides still want to feel amazing on their wedding day and want beautiful, high end dresses as well as top class customer service. Plus this is a growing market, we are seeing an increase in people getting married for the second and third time.” commented Lisa.
Games Developer goes global Arif Majothi is a talented professional games developer who enjoyed a career involved in film and visual effects and CGI (Computer Generated Imagery) and having worked on many successful games and films, has won awards and accolades for his work. Having always loved video games, at the beginning of September Arif decided to pursue his passion and set up his own business, Arif Games. Arif, who lives in Batley, has had huge success from the launch of his very first game. The first game he released called ‘The Daily Feature’ received instant accolades and was recognised by FHM as Game of the Day and also received recognition from E4, Jayls Games, indiegames.com and Blistered Thumbs and he has gone on to win further awards. With a client base ranging from Gaming companies, to Metro transport to schools, Arif has optimistic plans to grow his business from strength to strength.
Lisa has used social media and coupled with working with local suppliers, she has raised a lot of awareness ensuing the launch in early September was a phenomenal success. Paul Minder and Veronica Baldwin have mentored Lisa. “Having a mentor has been really valuable while I have been setting up my business. It’s been great knowing I have the support and I can just pick up the phone or email them a question. Plus, it’s reassuring to know that I can bounce ideas off them and get hints and tips in a safe environment” said Lisa regarding her mentors. For more information or to book a one to one appointment, visit www.prestigegowns.co.uk
When asked about how he promotes his business Arif explained “Social media has been incremental to my success. Twitter has helped me connect with clients across the world, and of course Facebook and online forums where gamers can feedback are key to spreading the word.”
As part of The New Enterprise Allowance scheme, candidates are given access to free start-up workshops to help them write a business plan and then they are matched with a volunteer from the business community who acts as their mentor to help them start their business. These mentors are given training and they use their business experience from a wide variety of industries to help other people.
16
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
Steve Bradley from West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency said: “We are actively looking for volunteers who would like to be a mentor and we offer full support and training. Whether you’re a sole-trader, business owner or experienced professional, your support could make a huge difference to someone who is starting out on their own. This is a rewarding opportunity to share your first-hand experience with someone moving into self-employment as they write their business plan and start trading.”
WestYorkshireEnterpriseAgency
Analyst brings IT and business skills back to Yorkshire After spending 20 years in London managing multi-million pound projects for high-profile clients including JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs and the Bank of England, Halifax born Simon Martin has relocated back and in January 2013 set up Capable IT Consulting Ltd. Simon explained “I have a strong vision to help local enterprises and expanding companies in the region and as an expert in business analysis, I can act as a bridge between growing businesses and technology firms to ensure that IT projects deliver exactly what companies need from them. Skilled business analysis is often seen as the preserve of very large companies. Capable aim to make that expertise available and affordable to firms across Calderdale and the M62 Corridor”. “As a Halifax lad it’s very exciting to be able to play a small part in the regeneration of the area and to contribute to the continuing success of growing local companies”, he added. Simon’s mentor, Andy Lee commented “It’s been great to help someone set up a business and very rewarding. Plus, I’m sure that Simon has a very successful future ahead and it’s been great to be part of that from the start.”
If you would like more information about becoming a mentor or would like to help another mentee, please email info@wyea.co.uk or call 01924 786500.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
17
18
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
ChamberChatter
Social Networking We’ve once again gained a further great following on our social networks, with over 3,200 followers on Twitter, 150 Facebook likes, over 167 LinkedIn group members and almost 350 LinkedIn page followers – this quarter we can also celebrate our 100 YouTube hits after launching videos this summer. Here are our favourite Tweets and Topics from the last quarter…
Stephen_Baxter @Stephen_Baxter
MidYorkshireChamber @MidYorksChamber
Booked tickets to @MidYorksChamber Annual Dinner with amazing line up @rorybremner @fatjacko @ClareFrisby @TheLazyJacob @CedarCourtHotel.
Will you be joining us for #YorkshireHour tonight? Every Wednesday between 8-9pm speednetworking for #Yorkshire #businesses on Twitter!
Retweeted by MidYorksChamber
Liquid Accounts Ltd @liquidaccounts Excited to be picking up award today from @MidYorksChamber at @EatonSmithLLP #BOTM
You can now view our case studies and event videos on our YouTube channel Rebecca Greenhough, Marketing Assistant at Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce Find out how you can benefit from MY Chamber membership in our case studies, have you viewed our networking event videos? You may be included, can you spot yourself? Let us know!
Gareth Glendinning @GarethG_Wealth Great event @MidYorksChamber Connections Count this morning. Lots of new faces and contacts.
The Stars come out at Huddersfield Town Tracy Nelson, Commercial Manager at Huddersfield Town Football Club Stars come out at Huddersfield Town htafccommercial.com An impressive number of stars from the worlds of football, sport and television will descend upon the Club’s prestigious ‘White Rose Club’ before the end of 2013!
‘Like’ us on Facebook by searching for Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce
You can also find us on Google+ and YouTube now too!
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
19
The Business of the Month Award is open to firms in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield; each month a new winner is chosen and all 12 then go through to the annual Business of the Year award. The ceremony will be held in July where an overall winner will be named. News of previous winners can be found on the Eaton Smith and the Chamber’s websites. Contact Ian Greenwood at Eaton Smith on 01484 821389 for more information.
Checkmate Fire Solutions Ltd Checkmate Fire Solutions Ltd, a passive fire protection installer and consultancy based in Brighouse has been awarded the Business of the Month prize for June. The business operates in the market of passive fire protection including materials to protect the steel structure from collapsing, fire walls and doors, and systems put in place to seal gaps which would otherwise allow fire and smoke to easily spread. The company was registered in 2003 and grew steadily working on some prestigious projects including the Channel Tunnel, Hong Kong Airport and the Millennium Dome. Working as a specialist sub-contractor within the construction industry resulted in problems in 2008, with the onset of recession and a sharp decline in business. Checkmate changed focus from new builds to developing and securing work on occupied buildings, which has given the company far more opportunities to secure profitable work with significant orders received from some high profile firms including Burberry, The NHS, University College London and the Australian High Commission. The judges were impressed that this strategy change has resulted in a 10 fold growth rate in new business, securing employment for around 35 staff through what has been a very contracted industry in recent years, but Checkmate have bucked this trend making them well placed to take advantage of the predicted industry upturn from 2014 onwards.
20
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
Alan Oliver, Managing Director said “I am very pleased to accept the award on behalf of everyone at Checkmate in recognition of team effort and their acceptance of changes required to robustly survive what has been a long and sustained recession.”
Pictured left to right: Ellie Lyon
Chamber
Matthew Scholey
Eddisons
Alison Palmer
Eaton Smith
Alan Oliver
Checkmate Fire Solutions
Mark Williams
Checkmate Fire Solutions
Bob Pidgeon
Appleyard Lees
The Business of the Month Award is run by Eaton Smith Solicitors in association with Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and UKTI. It is open to firms in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield to apply.
BusinessoftheMonth
Andrew Locke Plumbing Ltd Based in Skelmanthorpe, Huddersfield, Andrew Locke Plumbing, Heating and Tiling Ltd, has been awarded the Business of the Month for July. Andrew, an apprentice trained plumber, set up the business in 1985 after being made redundant. Having been turned down by the banks for a loan to start the business, Andrew borrowed enough money from his mother to get it off the ground and the business has grown steadily over the years by reputation, word of mouth, hard work and long hours. The business operates throughout Yorkshire and beyond on domestic and rented properties, also on a variety of commercial properties including schools and even £1m schemes including the ‘Melting Point Apartments’ in Huddersfield. Andrew has also made the investment in a new bathroom showroom, Bathrooms by Design in Skelmanthorpe. By creating 44 display bays over two floors he has established a one-stop-shop for all bathroom and plumbing services that anyone would need, resulting in an impressive new outlet for the business.
The judges were impressed by the fact that Andrew’s business has grown steadily over the years from nothing to currently employing 18 staff whilst continuing to trade through what has been the longest slump in the building industry for many years. Andrew Locke, Managing Director said “we are very pleased and surprised to win this award, I often think the building trade does not get the reputation it deserves, I believe a thriving building trade is a thriving country. Times have been very tough in the last few years so to win the Business of the Month is a great achievement, we have managed to maintain a solid business and the award is for the whole team”
Pictured left to right: Nick Brook
Tax Assist Accountants
Ellie Lyon
Chamber
Annie Bradley
UKTI
Alison Palmer
Eaton Smith
Andrew Locke
Andrew Locke Plumbing
Sally Locke
Andrew Locke Plumbing
Chris Brown
Andrew Locke Plumbing
Liquid Accounts Ltd Members Liquid Accounts Ltd have been awarded the Business of the Month for August. Liquid Accounts Ltd is a Huddersfield company which helps local businesses save money on accountancy software by providing a simple, easy to use accounting alternative. Their multi-award winning software is fully supported by all the main accreditation groups and offers additional features such as order processing, payroll and stock control. Having started out with two employees, the business has grown dramatically and now has a team of IT developers to enhance the product, a technical support team to help customers and an account management and sales team. Geographically, Liquid covers the whole of the UK and has ambitious plans to expand into a number of European countries and America in the next 18 months. The judges were impressed by the product offering that Liquid Accounts makes available to its clients and were also impressed by the future plans that Liquid has in relation to its business. Clients of
Liquid enjoy the fact that the service can be adapted to the needs of an individual business so that they only pay for what they need. Furthermore, being cloud-based, the software is accessible anytime, anywhere. Colin Meakin, Chief Executive said “The Liquid team are overjoyed to have received this award. It’s a great honour to be acknowledged by the local business community as a robust provider of small to medium sized business accounting solutions. The big boys have had their own way for far too long! Our thanks extends to Eaton Smith, The Chamber of Commerce, the judges and the event organisers”
Pictured left to right: Jo McBeath
UKTI
David Busfield
HSBC
Henryk Zientek
Huddersfield Examiner
Ellie Lyon
Chamber
Alison Palmer
Eaton Smith
Colin Meakin
Liquid Accounts
Emma Rushworth
Liquid Accounts
Alison Cooling
Liquid Accounts
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
21
22
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
MembersNews
From I Train U to Option3 BitesizeNews Malcolm Briggs from formally known photography training company I Train U has rebranded under the name Option3. Malcolm tells us “When using imagery in promotional media why do large businesses only ever use quality images to exceed customer expectations and maintain their market position? Because it works!” Malcolm continued “But without the budget how do smaller businesses compete? Option3 works directly with businesses to determine what is needed to reach the market and give businesses the skills to be able to achieve it. With over thirty years of commercial photography training and production, and for less than the cost of just one
pro shoot, choose Option3 and move your business to where it could be.” For more information on Option3 visit www.optionthree.co.uk and follow on Twitter @chooseoption3.
Northgate Vehicle Hire Return to Huddersfield
Statement’s September Success Wakefield-based design, digital and marketing agency Statement were delighted to have been appointed by Beam as the Web & Marketing Partner for Wakefield Lit Fest. The Wakefield Lit Fest was established in 2012 and is an annual ten day festival celebrating and promoting reading, writing and words. This year the festival ran from the 21st to the 30th of September. Active Chamber members and partners of MY Network Wakefield, Statement have also secured the title as Business of the Month winners for September in a competition run by Eaton Smith in partnership with the Chamber and UKTI. For more information on the awards turn to pages 20-21 and look out for Statement’s win in the Winter issue. For further information on Statement visit www.statementagency.com
Panda IT Solutions Launch New Website Following the successful delivery of its 2013 business growth strategy within the first quarter of this year, new members Northgate Vehicle Hire has returned to Huddersfield to launch a new depot on Red Doles Lane. The new depot, expected to bring 10 new jobs to the area, forms part of Northgate’s plans to expand and provide efficient and effective fleet solutions that meet the needs of local businesses throughout the UK. It features contemporary and comfortable waiting areas for customers, with designated hire desk staff and access to the latest fuel-efficient vehicles. In addition to the opening deals on offer to local businesses. For more information visit their website www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk
New Chamber members Panda IT have recently launched their new website. Panda IT Solutions offer web hosting and design, off site backups and most recently telecoms and superfast fibre optic broadband provision. They have recently launched their new website and are encouraging businesses to take a look at what they can offer. Having recently featured as the Chamber’s Member Offer of the Month for September, Panda IT describe themselves as ‘big enough to be able to deliver these solutions but still small enough to care about the company as an individual’. To view Panda IT Solutions’ new website visit www.pandaitsolutions.co.uk and let them know what you think.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
23
Wakefield Hospice Forthcoming Events Christmas Craft & Gift Fair
Light up a Life
Sunday 17th November, Cedar Court Hotel, 10am – 4pm
Dedicate a light in memory of a loved one. The lights will be illuminated on the Tree of Lights which will be lit at special dedication services, each light shining for those special people being remembered. Services are being held at Trinity Walk (outdoor) on Thursday 5 December, St Austin’s RC Church on Saturday 7 December and Wakefield Cathedral on Sunday 8 December. We hope you can join us and support our Light up a Life appeal.
Free parking & free admission – A huge selection of quality crafts and gifts.
Santa Dash & Santa Cycle Sunday 1st December, starting at Pugney’s Country Park. A lap around the lake on foot or a family cycle to Anglers Country Park. £6 adults, £3 children, includes Santa hat and certificate for all participants.
Christmas Jumper Day Friday 13th December. Donate £1 to wear your favourite Christmas jumper to work, school, college or donate a bag of old clothes to the hospice in support of our Jumper Appeal.
24
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
For further information on all our events and initiatives visit our website www.wakefieldhospice.org or call us on 01924 213900. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
ChamberPolicy
Exports Support Key to Achieving Sustainable Recovery It is pleasing to write this page against a more encouraging economic backdrop. Presently, all the major surveys and financial analyses indicate that the economic recovery is gaining momentum, and that businesses are beginning to feel more confident and optimistic about the future. UK still has a substantial trade deficit - importing a greater volume of goods and services than we export. Perhaps the principal mechanism through which our nation can address this imbalance is by achieving an increase in export sales, stimulating a renewal of British-manufactured supply-chains. In turn, British-made goods in the domestic supply chain instead of imported components will make a huge difference to our balance of payments by reducing the value of imports. This is a very important restructuring initiative which we believe will be essential to the long-term sustainability of our economic growth.
Several economic surveys including the Chamber’s own all indicate growth in the economy and buoyant export figures; and in September these were riding at the highest levels for two-and-a-half years. The Government has now committed to a policy of rebalancing the economy away from consumption driven growth towards a more resilient manufacturing and exports driven model. This is an ambitious project, not least because the
This rebalancing of our economy must now receive full support and attention from Government. Chambers recognise that a drastic culture change on international trade is necessary and that both government and business must make this a priority if we are to sustain an exportled recovery. As a nation, we spend only 0.05% of GDP on promoting British goods and services overseas and in attracting investment to our shores. We must now look to stepping-up this support for existing exporters and for new businesses looking to trade overseas. What this means in practical terms is greater support in key areas to assist exporting firms to win business, visit markets and finance overseas sales. There are great opportunities in overseas markets, but there is a major need not only to assist businesses with the
Steven Leigh Head of Policy and Representation
For further details call
07809 658533 or email: steven.leigh@mycci.co.uk development of new products and processes, but also with the creation and adaptation of products and services to make them suitable for export. Exporting companies are also in need of expert assistance with the identification of potential new overseas markets for their goods, in finding customers, obtaining finance, presenting their goods and services to market and navigating the complexities of different legal systems. The Government must now provide additional funding to overhaul and supplement the Overseas Tradeshow support programme, improve the marketing opportunities for British exporters through more targeted use of diplomatic channels and networked overseas Chambers of Commerce, and through enhancing Government-supported export finance schemes. These must be framed to benefit all British exporters. These financial instruments are vitally important because it is the ready availability of affordable export credit guarantees, insurance, and trade finance which will enable our exporters to take advantage of new global markets ahead of international competition. International trade must now move higher up the agenda. Conditional upon our Government doing everything possible to create the conditions which will incentivise and reward our businesses for exporting, then there is no doubt that our businesses will respond by doing what they do best – creating wealth and jobs, innovating products, processes and services, promoting brand Britain throughout the world and providing a platform for the economic recovery of this country. At every stage, the Chamber will, as ever, be there to assist.
Chamber Joint Area Council Meetings Mid Yorkshire Chamber lunchtime Joint Area Council Meetings for members are held every couple of months throughout the year, and they are an excellent forum for discussion. The next meeting in 2013 will be held at Lockwood Park on Wednesday 27th November, starting with lunch at 12 noon. Members wishing to attend this or any future meetings will be made to feel most welcome. For further details call Steven Leigh on 07809 658533 or email: steven.leigh@mycci.co.uk
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
25
CoverFeature
Chamber Support for International Trade Stronger than Ever Chambers of Commerce have been integral to international trade since their inception. Championing local businesses and the local economy, supporting exporters through international trade services and forging connections with business communities overseas, Chambers have strived to create the best possible conditions for exporting companies. Through its history, the Mid Yorkshire Chamber has rallied against anti-competitive tariffs and duties, advocated for free-trade agreements and directly represented the local business community at World Fairs and tradeshows overseas. The global landscape continues to change, and the pressures and obstacles experienced by exporting firms even 20 years ago are very different to those faced by businesses now. Greater connectivity with emerging markets, rapidly developing communications networks, and the changing nature of global competition means that succeeding in international markets now presents a new set of challenges, as well as new opportunities for businesses. The role of the Chambers of Commerce is changing too, and the Mid Yorkshire Chamber’s international trade arm, MY Export Hub is developing the way we support local businesses to help them to tackle 21st Century international trade challenges. Building on our international offer we have added to the range of services we provide to exporters in the region through MY Export Hub. We have recently started running British Chamber Accredited training (see page 14 for details), offering a more rigorous and structured programme for exporters to develop their international trade skills and knowledge. And with significant discounts for members, as well as for
block bookings, our training is considerably better value than regional competitors. We have also extended the services on offer to exporters, including a range of new events and opportunities, access to expertise and advice, cargo insurance and letters of credit checks. We are partnering with the Leeds City Region to deliver the We are International campaign, and are taking a trade mission to Latvia this autumn. Finally, we have maintained our low prices, ensuring we remain the most competitively priced Chamber for documentation in the region. We understand that margins remain tight, and that the additional costs you face when trading internationally can place pressure on your business, and we endeavour to help you by continuing to offer low cost certification and other services. We look forward to supporting even more local companies to trade overseas over the next year, and will continue to work hard to develop our services to support you further.
...our training is considerably better value than regional competitors. 26
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
CoverFeature
...we have maintained our low prices, ensuring we remain the most competitively priced Chamber for documentation in the region. Services
ATA Carnet Service
Credit Checks
My Export Hub offer a range of services to help you successfully trade in international markets. From expert advice to certification, we are here to help businesses across Yorkshire that wish to globalise their operations and capitalise on international opportunities:
A temporary passport for goods that allows a single document to be used for clearing goods through customs. Our service is fast and reliable.
When trading with customers around the world it’s vital to have an accurate picture of their financial stability. We can run credit checks on businesses all over the world via our partnership with Experian to allow you to make informed decisions when it comes to selling to customers and dealing with other trading partners.
Certification Services We operate a flexible and free of charge appointment system from two offices for your convenience. We are accredited to certify Certificates of Origin (European Community and Arab British), EUR1 documents, ATR movement certificates, invoices and a range of other documents.
Online Export Documentation Service We use e-z Cert World, an online service that enables you to manage international documentation efficiently and accurately from the comfort and convenience of your own office.
Cargo Insurance Cargo insurance covers physical damage to, or loss of, your goods whilst in transit by land, sea and air, and offers considerable opportunities and cost advantages if managed correctly. We can arrange insurance for most goods, to and from the majority of destinations and issue insurance certificates if required.
International Trade Advice Our team is highly experienced and can offer expert advice for a range of international trade queries. We also work in partnership with UKTI to provide market-specific trade information.
Export Training Courses Accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce we can offer a range of international trade training courses, delivered as open courses or tailored to your specific needs. See page 14 and www.myexporthub.co.uk/events for upcoming training opportunities.
Letters of Credit Service
Translation and Interpretation Service
Take the risk out of exporting. Our letter of credit checking service will help you to get your documents accepted upon first presentation, avoiding the costs associated with rejection.
Overcome language barriers and communicate effectively with international customers and suppliers. We are able to offer competitive prices for technical and legal translations, website localisation, interpretation and more.
If you would like to find out more about MY Export Hub and how we can help your company begin trading overseas, get in touch on 01484 483 660, email export@mycci.co.uk or visit www.myexporthub.co.uk. You can also follow export updates on Twitter @MYExportHub
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
27
BigInterview
Taking Advantage of a World of Opportunities There’s never been a better time to trade internationally and the Yorkshire companies that embrace the opportunities are helping to drive the recovery of the UK economy. However, there are still companies who turn down opportunities because they are daunted by the challenges associated with trading overseas. The message from Mark Robson, Regional Director, Yorkshire and the Humber, for the Government-backed UK Trade & Investment, is that there is help out there to secure those new contracts for businesses that are wavering. He said: “There are three ways to grow the economy, one is through domestic consumption but that cannot really be relied on at the moment, the second is through Government spend, which cannot be relied on either, and the third is through companies that trade overseas.
He said that companies trade abroad because either: • they are part of the supply chain of a client that works internationally; he cites the example of an engineering company providing spares; • they follow the market, which may not mean trading with Europe, the closest global market, but looking further afield; he uses the example of a company in the oil and gas sector who may look to Norway but also the oil and gas fields of Asia and the United States; • they respond to direct approaches.
“The statistics show that 40 per cent of GDP growth is coming through international trade, which makes up 20 per cent of total GDP.
Mark believes that some companies, however, turn their back on some of the opportunities.
“UK products and services, including from Yorkshire, are well regarded around the world and there are opportunities out there.
He said: “I think some companies are put off by fear of the unknown, things like the language barrier, the concern about getting paid or of negotiating regulations.
“I always say that the Industrial Revolution began in the hills above Halifax, was carried on by the likes of Sheffield steel and that we are still involved in a revolution through products and services that are high quality and designs that are innovative.”
“For instance, if you have a website, you have a window on the world but we have heard of companies who are approached by foreign companies but who ignore the opportunity.
My message is do not turn these opportunities down because there are people to help you if you have concerns, people like ourselves and the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.
28
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
“One of the reasons is fear of the unknown and another, oddly for Yorkshire, is an unwillingness to be blunt. If you are trading with a company abroad and your big concern is will you get paid, then ask them to pay up front. There is no harm in asking the question. “My message is do not turn these opportunities down because there are people to help you if you have concerns, people like ourselves and the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce.“ UK Trade & Investment, for example, has produced a guide to which encourages UK companies to consider exporting and tells them how to get started. In addition, its advisors help companies tackle regulatory problems, find out more about the practicalities and legal requirements of exporting, advise on getting paid and provide information on restrictions on goods in certain international markets, which can apply to the likes of food and pharmaceuticals, major export areas for Yorkshire. Mark also points to the work done by this Chamber, including MY Export Hub, the Chamber’s international trade support arm. Working from two locations across the region, the hub provides a range of low cost and no cost services to help businesses export. It also provides the most competitively priced documentation service in the North with a 50% discount for Chamber members. Mark said: “There are barriers to international trade and one of them is awareness of the help that is out there. “If the company’s concern is documentation, for example, then the Chamber of Commerce can help.”
BigInterview
the Adam and Aurora brands, the Corby of Windsor trouser press and electrical appliances designed specifically for the Chinese market under the Endeva brand. Fired Up began trading in China in 2005 in response to increasing pressure to reduce production costs, along with continual growth and steady orders from customers. In 2010, following an introduction through its UK bank HSBC, the company began to work with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), exchanging information about ways in which to operate successfully in China.
Mark Robson Regional Director, Yorkshire and the Humber UK Trade & Investment
Welcoming the opening of the Wakefield export depot, he said: “The message from UK Trade & Investment is that international trade contributes to 40 per cent of GDP growth, and there is no reason to believe that Yorkshire will not continue to contribute to that. “The more prepared Yorkshire is for international trade, the more opportunities there are and, if the main barrier is companies’ concerns, then the message is that we can sort those problems.” You can find out more about UK Trade & Investment at www.ukti.gov.uk
Fired Up about exporting to China Mark points to the success of the Fired Up Corporation as an example of what can be achieved by companies prepared to take the opportunities that come their way. The company began life in Huddersfield in 1998 as a small manufacturer of fires and fireplaces. Over the past 15 years, it has grown organically and through acquisition it now employs more than 400 people globally with operating businesses in the UK, USA and China. It is a global manufacturer of products for the home improvement and hospitality industries and its portfolio includes fires and fire surrounds under
The more prepared Yorkshire is for international trade, the more opportunities there are and, if the main barrier is companies’ concerns, then the message is that we can sort those problems. Fired Up also attended networking events and worked with local government officials in Nantou, where its Chinese operations are located. Today, Fired Up has 300 employees in China and 90 per cent of its goods are exported from its factory there, to customers in more than 60 countries. Richard Kaye, CEO of Fired Up Corporation, said: “Our relationship with UKTI has assisted in securing greater exposure, and improving our credibility across the wider region. “We’ve benefited from their support and have been happy to host UKTI delegations from the UK at our factories in China.”
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
29
1 500 A 1,500 Apprenticeships App Appre rre enttiic iceships ce and growing... gro row owing...
Kirklees College w works orks with hundreds hundreds of employ employers emplo yers to giv yers give e apprentices apprentices the bestt job-ready bes job-ready skills in the business. Call today if you are interested in discussing your Apprenticeship needs. Phone: 0800 781 3020 Email: bdtu@kirkleescollege.ac.uk www.kirkleescollege.ac.uk
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
31
NewMembers
Welcome to new members..... Prestige Lease Prestige Lease Yorkshire are one of the leading independent vehicle contract hire and car leasing brokers.
Business Software House Ltd I am a flexible IT Consultant who will get you to achieve your business and IT objectives. I provide the missing link that gets you to make the right IT choice.
Synergos Consultancy We find solutions to your business problems that will allow you to save time, money and as a result make the necessary changes for business improvements and growth. We are here to help your business to flourish.
Graeme Davidson Media Production Graeme Davidson - a creative independent filmmaker specialising in professional video production for corporate and online audiences.
Yorkshire Water Yorkshire Water Services works with businesses on everything connected to their water and waste water use, for example, we helped a local Hospital Trust avoid a £10,000 water bill because our experts identified and swiftly fixed a previously undetected leak.
Linpac Packaging
P2 Technologies P2 delivers complete managed IT support to professional businesses acting as the IT department or complementing the in house IT team. P2’s clients rely on its software and services to work more efficiently and optimise their system reliability.
LINPAC Packaging and its sister company Infia srl are international market leader in the production of primary fresh food packaging and foodservice solutions.
Pepamint Laura Firth Dance and Fitness Laura Firth Dance & Fitness is a freelance company offering a range of Dance & Fitness classes, to a range of ages and abilities, 3+ and beginners to professionals. Achieving results with a smile.
Bob’s Business Bob’s Business® is an eLearning tool which reinforces the importance of information security awareness to employees in a practical and appealing way. The aim of this training tool is to raise awareness of information security and to reduce the risk and frequency of security incidents.
The Lindley Group Situated in the heart of the valley, Huddersfield’s John Smith’s Stadium provides a fantastic venue for a wedding, conference or dinner. With a choice three of the region’s major suites to choose from and each one adaptable dependant on the scale of your specific requirements, our team will ensure you enjoy the specialist of days. The stadium’s facilities are ideally suited to all styles of events and celebrations and can cater for up to 350 guests.
Pepamint provides businesses with creative social media management, consultation and marketing support for businesses that don’t have time to do it themselves.
Social Progress Social Progress offer social media training, coaching and consultancy. Eg. LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook. They currently have access to funding for pre-starts, in-house training for established businesses, and part funded full day workshops for sole traders & companies with less that 250.
Effie and Luca Effie and Luca is an Interior Design business which specializes in window design for the retail sector. Using unique upcycled furniture and handcrafted props, you cannot fail to draw attention to your shop window, resulting in an increase in footfall and sales.
D G Freight Independently owned international freight forwarding company offering export/import european and deep sea freight services by road/sea and air – experienced staff who offer a personal specialised point of contact for all your shipping requirements.
Heath Cottage Hotel The How Academy The How Academy is dedicated to helping small and medium business grow quickly at affordable prices. Everyone can benefit from coaching, but not every coach is right for you. Which is why it costs nothing to meet up for a chat and we offer a 100% satisfaction money back guarantee to everyone we work with.
32
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
NiCHe NiCHe offer HR solutions for the education sector. We offer 3 levels of all round HR service from Advisory to a comprehensive one. We also specialise in Attendance Management of school staff and can offer schools/colleges a complete “hands on” bespoke service not currently offered by any other HR consultancy business.
Originally built in 1850 the hotel is a fine example of early Victorian architecture. The building has been extended to include 28 en-suite bedrooms, conference facilities, christenings, parties and funerals. Heath Cottage Hotel is an approved venue for civil wedding ceremonies and civil partnership. Offering a charming patio and landscape garden providing a beautiful backdrop for wedding pictures.
NewMembers
Colin Ripley FDS Group fds Group is made up of fds Corporate Finance, a boutique corporate finance house, and fds Knowledge, a specialist training and development business.
Freelance NVQ and Apprenticeships Assessor competent to assess in Warehouse and Distribution, Customer Services, Retail, Manufacturing and Data Entry & Analysis.
Capable IT Consulting Ltd Yorkshire Office Group Yorkshire Office Group, established 1998, supply office furniture & supplies from their office/warehouse unit on Denby Dale Rd, close to J39 M1 Wakefield. From initial consultation to design and implementation, Yorkshire Office Group provide the total one stop answer for businesses, charities and government bodies for office furniture, seating & business supplies.
Capable IT provide flexible, expert and affordable Business Analysis to save software companies and their clients time, money and stress on their projects - we’re the bridge between business and technology.
Richard Newton Protection Advice for Life / Health / Mortgage / Income Protection Plans. A Free Initial Review with No Obligation.
Cottage Garden Scents Cottage Garden Scents is a company dedicated to providing the best possible range of perfume fragrance oils, burners, diffusers and all associated goods to the discerning gift shop trade and larger retail outlets
Purrfect Fit Bra Fittings Home Bra measuring service, all your lingerie needs covered.
Spectrum Real Estates We are a multi-disciplinary practise, consisting of Solicitors, Agents and Surveyors specialising in commercial property (including telecoms and renewables).
Panovista Marketing For Businesses Who Want To Increase Sales and Leads. We want to help your business make more money with your marketing. To provide you with actionable marketing strategies that you can use to grow your business beyond anything you ever expected, or even hoped. Please get in touch to see how we can help your business grow.
Melson Property We buy property, refurbish it and then either rent it out or sell it
Pingtek UK Ltd Company business is Global Product Sourcing and Management Services.
Providing professional, legal advice and a friendly service to private individuals and local businesses for over a century.
Progress Drinks Solutions Agent and consultant to manufacturers working within the UK drinks market, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Advising on growth and practice in this sector.
The Trading Bureau Importers and wholesalers of various products, selling to businesses and the general public.
Justladies Second hand fashion retailer.
Trinity complimentary therapies I am a fully qualified mobile massage therapist offering a great choice of therapies to the comfort of your own home.
Bailey Smailes Solicitors
ESG Provider of apprenticeships and vocational qualifications in a variety of sectors including business and commerce, care and hair and beauty.
Northgate Northgate is the leading light commercial vehicle hire business in both the UK, Ireland and Spain by fleet size and has been operating in the sector since 1981.
Transforming Connections Business consultant connecting business with local government.
CJM Polishers Panda IT Solutions Panda IT Solutions offers a Hassle free, Professional and Friendly IT Service for Networks & PC’s to Businesses & Homes. From Network Support and PC Repair to Bespoke Telecoms and Broadband we have you covered with our IT Solutions Packages and fast friendly service.
Experienced French polishing service to trade/general public.
HR blowers UK Manufacturers/suppliers of a range of industrial air blowers and vacuum booster pumps in a range of sizes to suit most customer applications.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
33
Sched duled uled export and import services WESTERN EUROPE
EASTERN EUROPE
>
DAILY LY
Belgium
>
DAILY LY
France
>
Germany
Austria
EASTERN EUROPE CONTD.
>
WEEKLY W EEKLY LY
Bosnia
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
DAILY LY
Bulgaria
>
WEEKLY W EEKLY LY
>
DAILY LY
Croatia
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Belarus
Slovak Rep.
>
T TWICE WICE W WEEKLY EEKL LY Y
Slovenia
>
WEEKLY WEEKL LY Y
Turkey
>
WEEKLY WEEKL LY Y
Ukraine
>
T TWICE WICE W WEEKLY EEKL LY Y
Great Britain >
DAILY LY
Czech Rep.
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Holland
>
DAILY LY
Estonia
>
WEEKLY W EEKLY LY
SCANDINA AVI VA
Ireland
>
DAILY LY
Georgia
>
WEEKLY W EEKLY LY
Denmark
>
T TWICE WICE W WEEKLY EEKL LY Y
Luxembourg >
DAILY LY
Hungary
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Finland
>
WEEKLY WEEKL LY Y
N. Ireland d
>
DAILY LY
Latvia
>
WEEKLY W EEKLY LY
Norway
>
WEEKLY WEEKL LY Y
Switzerland
>
DAILY LY
Lithuania
>
WEEKLY W EEKLY LY
Sweden
>
T TWICE WICE W WEEKLY EEKL LY Y
Macedonia
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Montenegro
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
RT TH AFRICA NOR
Poland
>
TWIC WEEKLY EEKLY TWICE CE W LY
Algeria
>
WEEKL WEEKLY LY Y
Libya
>
WEEKLY WEEKL LY Y
Morocco
>
WEEKLY WEEKL LY Y
Tunisia
>
WEEKLY WEEKL LY Y
SOUTHERN EUROPE >
TWICE W WEEKLY EEKLY TWICE LY
Italy
>
TWICE TWICE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Romania
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Portugal
>
TWICE TWICE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Russia
>
WEEKLY W EEKLY LY
Spain
>
TWICE TWICE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Serbia
>
TWICE TWIC CE W WEEKLY EEKLY LY
Andorra
Freight Freight tto o overr 4 40 0c countries ou t through throug gh one one s smart mart ne network If you a are re se sending ending s shipments hipments tto o anyw anywhere here iin n Eu Europe rope and a are re looking looking ffor or a s safe, afe, re reliable liable and e economical conomical ffreight reight s service, ervice, there’s there’s only yo one ne c call all yo you un need eed tto o make. That’s That’s tto o Re Redhead edhead IInternational. nternational. W Why? hy? Bec Because au use over tthe he last 3 35 5y years ears Redh Redhead has developed ead h as d eveloped ap peerless eerless d distribution istribution n network etwork a across cross the e entire continent ntire c ontinent – in including cluding Ru Russia ussia a and nd the C CIS. IS. Through expansive network we are able ship Thr ough tthis his e xpansive n etwork w ea re a ble to sh ip your consignments consignments ef¾FLHntly ef¾FLHntly and and cost effectively effectively w ith a with ¿exibility you’ll yo ou’ll ¾nd hard hard to to beat. beat. ¿exibility So if if you you want wa ant to to expand expand your export export m arke k ts, So markets, call Redhead Redhead today today for for a smart smart and and simple simple s call solution. olution.
Visit: Visit: w www.redhead-int.com ww w.r . edhead-int.com
P Phone: hone n :0 01274 1274 4 464646 64646
Email: Email: s sales@redhead-int.com ales@redhead-int.com
ShippingFeature
Silky smooth logistics The extended supply chain - covering many thousands of miles, numerous countries, cultures and prevailing political conditions are far from being a modern phenomenon. They reach back into civilisation’s earliest incarnations, taking root in tales of the Silk Road and Spice Trails of the ancient worlds. Routes that saw goods of every type traded across the globe. territories: “To mitigate the challenges associated with providing an effective freight service to destinations in Eastern Europe and North Africa for example, we utilise our longstanding partnership with Militzer & Munch (M&M). This means that the key elements of flexibility and dependability are in place,” said Redhead’s managing director Tony Suggitt. Such a strategy allows Redhead access to M&M’s 120 offices throughout North Africa and Eastern Europe – including Russia, CIS, Turkey and the Middle East. Doing so ensures there is always a ‘man on the ground’ with a wealth of territorial and local people management knowledge to draw upon. These services will be all the more prevalent as UK companies gain a foothold in these expanding markets and require secure, reliable and adaptable lines of delivery. The adaptability comes on the back Redhead’s years of experience as a Some things never change, as we continue to live in a world of extended logistics. However, whilst the traders of yesteryear may recognise much of what is undertaken today, they would not recognise the complexity, flexibility, efficiency, reliability and timescales worked to by today’s leading logistics companies. Places like Russia, the economies of the Danube valley – Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania - and the Baltic States, these emerging markets have required companies to adopt flexible methods to deal with the situations arising. Although these countries have all been in an accelerated race to catch up with Western Europe,
with not insignificant strides having taken place in
European groupage operator – allowing even
the guise of major infrastructure projects, in areas
relatively small amounts of cargo to be
such as transport, the recent worldwide downturn has slowed down or arrested a number of such developments.
Redhead International Setting the pace amongst such firms is Redhead International one of the UK’s leading logistics
transported when needed. “The ability to rapidly scale up and down to meet specific needs and timeframes is a vital component of such a service. It’s about reassuring the client that whatever the question, you not only have the answer, but the ability to act upon it”, said Suggitt.
companies that specialises in working with
UK manufacturers or distributors wishing to take
businesses in Russia, CIS and North Africa. When
advantage of the benefits of Eastern European or
developing the company’s services into and out of
North African manufacturing rates, with multiple
these regions, it wanted to ensure the level of
sites and suppliers across the continent, can
provision a customer would expect in Western
therefore easily benefit from Redhead’s long
Europe would also be available to them in these
established inter-continent network.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
35
PatronsView
We’re in Import and Export Any size of business can trade on a global basis using current technology. Based on the experience of my clients there are some golden rules to adhere to for both importers and exporters. Importers • Understand the total cost of bringing goods into the UK. In particular, who is paying for carriage, insurance and duty?
David Butterworth Managing Director Wheawill & Sudworth Limited
01484 423691 david.butterworth@wheawills.co.uk www.wheawills.co.uk
• Get lead times agreed in the contract and make sure there is some leeway to avoid you letting down your customers. • Build VAT into your cash flow. Import VAT is generally payable on arrival, but you can apply for deferment subject to guarantees.
• Remember to carry out your money-laundering checks when transferring monies abroad.
• Again, think about VAT. It is a complicated area, particularly if you are supplying services. You
Exporters
might need to register for VAT in
• Getting paid is essential. Consider pro-forma invoices, letters of credit, other bank guarantees together with credit insurance.
another country. For exporters of
• Manage your foreign exchange exposure. Importing and exporting in the same currency can provide a natural hedge. Otherwise, try and stick to sterling or talk to your bank about currency contracts and options.
goods, full documentary proof of export is essential. • Decide whether it is worth appointing some sort of agent or representative in certain territories to help facilitate the whole process from enquiry through to cleared funds.
Rugby League Imports and Exports on Show! On 26th October this year Rugby League World Cup kicks off at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff with England playing host to Australia. Over the next 35 days we will see 14 teams battle it out to be World champions. This is a comparatively small event compared to the Olympics last year, however for the sport it is an opportunity to gain more fans, players and sponsors into the domestic game.
Mark Winder Director of Education Wakefield Wildcats
01924 211611 markwinder@wakefieldwildcats.co.uk www.wakefieldwildcats.co.uk
36
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
The competition has already benefited from the ‘Olympic Effect’ on ticket sales. Tickets for all of the ‘Big Three’ of Rugby League World Cup Final, the Opening Ceremony and the Wembley semi-final doubleheader continue to sell really well and other venues are also contributing to impressive sales figures. Following extraordinary demand for the Early Bird tickets, which sold out over Christmas, organisers extended the deadline to allow more buyers to benefit from the offer. The response has been
overwhelming and nearly all tickets have now gone for the Rugby League World Cup Final. As mentioned we as a club must capitalise on the success and limelight that the sport will be afforded. Despite Wakefield not hosting a game or indeed hosting one of the 14 teams there will be renewed interest in the sport. The Tournament is expected to bring economic benefits to the UK of between £30m- £50m. Over 250,000 people will attend games
and the games will be broadcast in over 120 countries attracting an estimated 20 million viewers worldwide. Therefore, the leisure and business spend in the local economy could be significant to local businesses if utilised properly. Let us hope England are triumphant in the competition to further increase the effect of rugby locally. We only have to look to the Olympics and the Rugby Union victory in 2003 to see the effect that success in sport can bring to us.
PatronsView
International Trade and Expanding Overseas Often when a business considers international trade it needs to also consider an office or presence in the country in which it wishes to generate new business. Last year Regus reported that the more companies expand and diversify outside their domestic markets, the more productive they are likely to be, making a significant contribution to the vibrancy and stability of the global economy. The benefits experienced in Asia and the Far East from export-led growth exemplify this. Foreign expansion makes businesses more productive because it broadens a customer base; serves global clients better; compensates for slow growth at home; means being where competitors are; and lowers the cost base according to a
PwC conducted study, which makes it surprising why only 20% of British businesses are planning to expand their overseas operations. The most common obstacle to overseas expansion is setting up an office in a foreign country because businesses do not know how quickly or slowly they will grow presenting an integration challenge for operations and a financial risk to the business. One way to overcome this is Cloud Computing (where IT is provided as a service that is accessed via the Internet). Cloud Computing removes
the need for expansive networks, equipment and specialist technical staff. With cloud Computing any overseas office is operational as soon as it has an Internet connection and a PC. Cloud Computing is flexible too; no matter how quickly your overseas operations expands, Cloud can cope and you don’t waste money if the operation shrinks or closes down because with Cloud, you only pay for what you use. So if you’re considering expansion overseas, we’d recommend a call to your IT first.
Danny Walker Managing Director IT Farm
0845 600 1652 danny.walker@itfarm.co.uk www.itfarm.co.uk
Know How You’re Trading Internationally International trade can go beyond the direct supply of goods and services outside the UK. Appointing an international agent or distributor or entering an international franchise arrangement is an alternative form of trading internationally. This article briefly sets out the differences between each arrangement.
A distributor buys goods on its own account to resell to its own customers. Commission is generally not paid as the distributor takes a profit on the resale of goods and is itself bound by the terms of the sale with the customer. There is less control exercised by the ultimate supplier where a distributor is appointed. A supplier is unable to control the resale pricing policies of a distributor and will not normally have access to the distributor’s customer lists. An agent is paid commission on the sale of goods and generally has the
power to bind the supplier (its principal). The agent is an intermediary between the supplier and the customer however the agent may be entitled to compensation on termination of the arrangement depending on the rules in the territory in which it operates.
in a territory and would require specific performance criteria to be met by the franchisee. The most appropriate type of franchising arrangement would depend on the taxation of the franchisor and the degree of control and assistance agreed between the parties.
A franchisee, in return for a licence fee (and often further payments), will operate the business in that territory making use the trade names, marks, copyright, know-how and knowledge of the supplier (franchisor). In an international context, most franchises will be granted on an exclusive basis
A supplier may nevertheless benefit from the knowledge of local trading laws of an agent, distributor or franchisee and avoid having to establish a place of business within the territory itself, potentially reducing administrative costs and providing a tax benefit.
Magda Dyson Company Commercial Solicitor Eaton Smith
01484 821384 magdadyson@eatonsmith.co.uk www.eatonsmith.co.uk
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
37
BusinessFeature
Bagnall Hopkins Expands into Huddersfield Bagnall Hopkins, specialists in accountancy and office recruitment, has expanded into Huddersfield at what the company has described as a “hugely exciting” time for the town’s economy. After 6 years successfully recruiting in the Wakefield area for both permanent and temporary staff, Bagnall Hopkins wanted to branch out into another West Yorkshire area and ultimately chose Huddersfield as the right fit.
Haley added: “We are bringing something different to Huddersfield’s recruitment market as specialists in accountancy and office recruitment from senior accountancy and management positions right through to PA’s and administrators”.
Business Manager Haley Florence said “Bagnall Hopkins is a dynamic company and expanding into Huddersfield is a natural progression for us. The region has such an attractive labour pool with a highly skilled and educated workforce – qualification levels outdo any other town in West Yorkshire”.
It’s obvious that the people at Bagnall Hopkins are passionate about what they do. The business was born from a genuine desire to place the right person in the right job, offering an open, honest and knowledgeable service and developing long term business relationships. Current clients in the Huddersfield area include: Wesco Aircraft, Garlock GB Ltd, Paxman Coolers Limited and Millers Oils Ltd.
“With a thriving and diverse economy, Huddersfield and its job market are well placed to bounce back from some tough years and Bagnall Hopkins is proud to be part of the town’s success.” Being born and bred in Huddersfield, Haley has specialist knowledge of the local job market and will be delivering the Bagnall Hopkins work ethic and strong customer service to both clients and candidates in the area.
For more information on our recruitment services for permanent or temporary positions, please call Haley on 01924 365680 or email haley@bagnallhopkins.co.uk. You can also find more information online www.bagnallhopkins.co.uk
Supporting
with innovative packaging design LINPAC Packaging, Wakefield Road, Featherstone, West Yorkshire. WF7 5DE. United Kingdom Tel: 01977 692400 email: info@linpac.com. website: www.linpacpackaging.com.
38
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
MemberOfferoftheMonth
Get Noticed and Benefit from Huge Savings Through the Chamber’s Member Offer of the Month To discuss if your company could take advantage of the Member Offer of the Month and other publicity options available from Chamber membership, contact Becky Greenhough on 01484 483 678.
View the variety of additional member benefits on offer through previous deals: August
September
October
August’s offer provided members with an exclusive £100 discount on exhibiting at Kirklees Business Conference. Not only that, members that booked before 6th September received free editorial on pages 13-15 in this issue of Close Up for Business.
Panda IT offered members FREE web hosting platform for a whole year in September. As well as the opportunity to upgrade onto their Ultimate Web Hosting Package after completing the initial year, for just £30, a 50% discount on the usual cost of £60.
Oval Risk Services, the Chamber’s recommended supplier of Health and Safety Training are offering a 25% discount off a three day IOSH Managing Safely course this October.
To find out more about Kirklees Business Conference and book a place at the 2014 event visit www.kirkleesbusinessconference.co.uk
To find out more about Panda IT and what they have to offer, contact 0845 095 0025 or visit their website www.pandaitsolutions.co.uk
Alan Dobbs from Zine UK, specialists in website design, search engine optimisation & branding design, took advantage of August’s offer to exhibit at one of Mid Yorkshire’s leading business conferences:
Members can take advantage of an exclusive offer of 25% off the cost of a three day Managing Safely course, for health and safety competency in the workplace at just £487.50 plus VAT (usually £650 plus VAT). Contact nicola.wilkinson@theovalgroup.com or 01924 433150 for more information.
Look out for future offers coming soon from:
November
“I booked my exhibition place at Kirklees Business Conference through seeing the offer featured as the Chamber’s Member Offer of the Month in August. I’ve gained a substantial discount of £100.00 off as well as free editorial in Close Up for Business magazine, gaining great exposure for my business.”
December
January
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
39
40
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
NetworkingEvents
What? Come along and enjoy tea, coffee, a light breakfast and an opportunity to make some valuable new contacts. Every delegate will get the chance to introduce their business in a oneminute presentation and then follow-up new leads over breakfast. It’s a great way to make new contacts in a friendly but focused way. You’re also welcome to bring your company literature and banner stands.
When? The first Thursday of every month from 9.30 – 11am.
05th December 2013 – Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Lindley Moor Road, Huddersfield, HD3 3RH. Connections Count won’t be running in January due to the New Year break.
How? It’s FREE to members and just £5 to non-members. Book online at www.mycci.co.uk.
More info:
Book your place online or for Where? more information call Rachel We rotate the location to cover the Dickie on 01924 311605 or whole Mid Yorkshire region in the email following order: rachel.dickie@mycci.co.uk. 07th November 2013 – Follow @MidYorksChamber National Coal Mining Museum, and #ConnectionsCount on Caphouse, Colliery New Road, Twitter. WF4 4RH.
MY Network Wakefield
MY Network Huddersfield
What?
What?
MY Network Huddersfield is very informal, just turn up and take advantage of this great opportunity to make some valuable new contacts in a relaxed setting. Join us at this breakfast networking meeting… .... networking made easy! .... networking made easy! This event is run in partnership with Ramsdens Solicitors, The This event is run in partnership with Ramsdens Solicitors, Barclays, Media Centre and Smiles. Copiserv, First Choice, Statement, When? and the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. The third Wednesday of the month from 9am – 11am. When? MY network Huddersfield will be held The second Friday of the month at the John Smith’s Stadium from from 12.30pm - 1.30pm. 12.30 on 16th October due to KBC. MY Network Wakefield has been going for over a year and with ever increasing numbers, this popular informal lunchtime networking meeting provides the ideal opportunity to meet with new and existing business contacts in a friendly setting…
Where?
Where?
The Hop, 19 Bank Street, Wakefield, WF1 1EH.
The Media Centre, Northumberland Street, Huddersfield, HD1 1RL.
How? No need to book, just turn up!
How? No need to book, just turn up!
More info:
More info:
Follow #MYNetwork on Twitter.... #MYNetworkWakey
Follow #MYNetwork on Twitter.... #MYNetworkHUD
What?
Where?
MY Annual Dinner What?
Where?
Attended by almost two hundred local business people the Mid Yorkshire Chamber’s Annual Dinner is a highlight in our events calendar. Join us for an evening featuring guest speakers, a delicious three course meal and a great networking opportunity. This year’s line up features BBC’s Rory Bremner and Clare Frisby from Look North, Huddersfield entrepreneur Jacob Hill and Britain’s got Talent runner-up comedian Jack Carroll.
Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Lindley Moor Road, Huddersfield, HD3 3RH.
When? Thursday 17th October 2013.
How? Members can attend for £50 (plus VAT) and non-members for £65 (plus VAT); secure your place to join us for a great evening celebrating the year’s successes.
More info: For more information call Rachel Dickie on 01924 311605, or Tracy Smith on 01924 311607. Alternatively drop them and email at rachel.dickie@mycci.co.uk or tracy.smith@mycci.co.uk.
These monthly, lunchtime, business Bar Eleven, Harrison Rd, Halifax, networking meetings are very HX1 2AF. informal with everybody just chatting/mixing/mingling and How? making new contacts.
When?
It’s completely free to attend, just turn up and the first drink is on us. There are no fees and no pressure!
The last Friday of the Month 12.30pm – 1.30pm.
More info:
The Last Friday Club will meet on 20th December, rather than the 27th, due to the Christmas break.
Follow @LastFridayClub on Twitter or contact rachel.dickie@mycci.co.uk.
This event is run in partnership with Ramsdens Solicitors, Natwest and Begbies Traynor.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
41
facebook.com/northgatevehiclehire twitter.com/northgatevhire
Flexible Fleet Solutions NO CONTRACT, NO RISK, NO HASSLE! Future proof your fleet with flexible vehicle hire from Northgate, designed to work around you and your business: t t t t t t
Add, remove or change vehicles without penalty Access to the latest fuel efficient vehicles Inclusive maintenance and servicing 24 / 7/ 365 breakdown support and replacement vehicles Specialist equipment supplied and fitted No mileage penalties, no hidden charges and no contract
We will be exhibiting at the Kirklees Business Conference on 16 October 2013, visit us at stand 32 to discuss how we can help you future proof your fleet. Northgate Vehicle Hire Huddersfield Red Doles Lane, Leeds Road Trade Park, Huddersfield, HD2 1YF Tel: 01484 767 064 e: info@northgatevehiclehire.co.uk northgatevehiclehire.co.uk
Flexible Fleet Solutions
TrainingEvents
60 Useful Minutes Our programme of 60 Useful Minutes, run with breakfast and networking from 8.30am and the session commencing 9-10am, ensures that you keep abreast of important business topics delivered by our members in their particular fields of expertise. Autumn 2013 will see following members deliver a popular series of workshops:
19 Nov Hudd Ten Top Tips ‘60 Minute Business Booster’ If you’re looking to take your business to the next level this is a session for you. During the session you will learn how to develop a practical 10 step growth plan for your business through covering topics such as making your business work for you and thinking like a customer as well as learning how to identify opportunities for growth and how to understand your sustainable competitive advantage.
26 Nov Hudd
Get rid of the imagery that is damaging your business Large budget businesses consider what their customer’s expectations are and then exceed them; do you always do this for your customers? Making sure your imagery is an excellent communicator is vital to your success; Option3 will explain what you need to do and why. What would your images look like if you were a large budget business? Because that’s what they should look like now!
Part Funded Leadership and Management Courses For a limited time only, member company Strategy to Succeed are offering part funded places on a variety of Leadership and Management courses. These acclaimed Leadership and Management development programmes have been developed in partnership with renowned training company Jenka and are delivered by Strategy to Succeed. These one-day programmes run from 10am to 4.15pm and thanks to generous support from the Skills Funding Agency you only pay 10% of the normal cost of these £250 programmes. You don’t have to pay the full amount then claim back the subsidy, simply book and pay only £25 per person per programme to benefit from great training at an amazing price. With only a limited number of places available, early booking is advisable. Subject to availability you can book one or more of these programmes, which are as follows: 1. Strategy and Human Resource Management 2. Recruitment and Selection
13 Nov Wake
20 Nov Hudd
3. Developing An Effective Performance Review/Appraisal Process 4. Implementing An Effective Performance Review/Appraisal Process 5. Managing Poor Performance And Conflict
It’s here, it’s now and you have to act: Automatic Enrolment Automatic Enrolment seems to be everywhere – in the newspapers, on billboards, on the radio and on TV. “We’re all in!” is the strapline that is designed to catch your imagination. But what is this thing that are we all in and what does it mean for your business. Can you avoid it? Will it cause you more work/cost/hassle? Gareth Glendinning from Glendinning Wealth will be presenting this session in Wakefield and Huddersfield to tell you exactly what it is, how it works, how & when your business will be affected and more importantly what the effect will be on your bottom line. It has to do with pensions and Gareth will include the obligations that now fall on you, the tasks that you have to undertake and what you can do you avoid the fines that the regulator is likely to impose should you get it wrong.
All 60 Useful Minutes sessions are free for members and just £5 for non members. To view upcoming 60 Useful Minutes programmes and other training events and book, visit www.mycci.co.uk/events
6. Managing Sales And Customer Relationships 7. Managing Teams Effectively 8. Values Based performance Management 9. Developing And Nurturing Organisational Culture 10. Managing Change & Sustaining Motivation 11. Managing Training Including Implementing a Training Needs Analysis 12. Managing Volunteers 13. Managing Time And Prioritisation For more information about these opportunities please visit www.strategytosucceed.co.uk and select ‘Leadership and Management’ from the menu.
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
43
LegalFeature
ARE YOU USING UNPAID INTERNS? Whether or not an individual is an employee will depend on a number of factors. It is often advantageous for both an employer and an individual to classify the individual as a consultant or an independent contractor (instead of an employee) as this classification will allow for tax advantages for both the employer and the individual. However, both the Employment Tribunal and the HMRC will look past the classification and may conclude that the individual is in fact an employee – in which case they will have employment rights (such as the ability to claim unfair dismissal) and income tax and national insurance contributions will be payable. When deciding whether an individual is an employee or not, both the Employment Tribunal and the HMRC will apply a number of factors. The key factors for consideration are as follows:• Whether there is a requirement for the employer to provide work for that individual; • Where there is an obligation on the individual to accept work offered by the employer, or whether the individual can refuse that work; • Whether there is a requirement for the individual to personally perform work for the employer, or whether the individual can delegate work to a substitute; • The degree of control that the employer has over the individual and the way in which the individual carries out their work; • Whether the individual is paid for periods during which work is not carried out e.g. due to holiday or sickness; • Whether the employer or the individual provides the equipment that the individual uses for their work; and • Whether the individual has adopted a degree of financial risk and has the opportunity to profit from their own good performance. The UK Employment Relations Minister, Joe Swinson, has recently given the HMRC a list of 100 companies who are accused of using unpaid interns. The list has been compiled by a campaigning group called Intern Aware who believe that individuals classified as interns are in fact employees or workers and should therefore be paid the National Minimum Wage. The HMRC will apply the above factors to determine whether each intern is an employee or a worker and has the power to order employers to repay wage (and tax) arrears and to impose an additional penalty of 50% of the total underpayment.
Accordingly, if you use any unpaid interns, you are advised to review your arrangements with them and to consider whether they should be in receipt of National Minimum Wage. For more information on this subject or any other queries about employment law, please contact Kate Booth on 01484 821309 or at katebooth@eatonsmith.co.uk
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
45
ChamberConnect
Enjoy Exclusive Long Term Business Discounts What?: Access to a range of offers, negotiated for your business as part of your membership package. You can also participate by offering your own discounted products and services.
How?: Offers are available across a range of categories including Business Travel, IT, Business Services, Cars and Motoring and Lifestyle. You can access all the Connect Card offers via the website.
Why?: Your Connect Card is a value added service that could represent significant savings for your business. By participating as an offer provider you can gain increased brand exposure and create new business opportunities.
Why Mid Yorkshire Chamber?: Mid Yorkshire Chamber is in a unique position to connect you to these benefits, not only via our own membership but that of the British Chambers of Commerce, working at national level.
Please see some of our local offers below
Northgate Vehicle Hire are offering Chamber members the following heavily discounted rates on vehicle hire: • CDV Vehicle Peugeot Partner Diesel - £64.10+vat per week • SWB Transit 280 - £91.20+vat per week • LWB Mercedes Sprinter - £125.80+vat per week • Luton with tail lift - £130.00+vat per week • Ford Tippers - £114.80 +vat per week Contact: 01484 767064 E: tamara.nikitin@northgatevehiclehire.co.uk W: www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk
New printers: first 3 months rental FREE* 26ppm Black & White & Colour Desktop Printer/Copier/Scanner £13.00 Per Month* 26ppm Black & White & Colour Desktop Printer/Copier/Scanner/Fax £15.00 Per Month* *Prices include the machine, delivery, installation and training. All servicing including toner, parts, labour and remote monitoring. Copies charged at 1.2p black & white & 9p colour.
Panda IT Solutions is pleased to offer fellow connect card members an exclusive 15% discount on all IT services, ad hoc or full annual support contracts, web design, off site back ups, web hosting and more. This includes a free, no obligation, consultation, to discuss matching Panda IT’s services to your business needs.
Link Tyre Sales Ltd is a privately owned family company independent of any tyre manufacturer, Established in 1981 we supply all makes of tyre to both the private and commercial user. For Chamber members we are offering 10% off tyres and 20% off service work, applies to nonaccount holders.
Contact: 0845 095 0025 E: Rob@Pandaitsolutions.co.uk W: www.pandaitsolutions.co.uk
Please call 01924 497772 or Email sales@linktyres.co.uk Web www.linktyres.co.uk
Prestige Lease Yorkshire are offering Chamber members a FREE Prestige Lease PAYG Vehicle Maintenance Card which provides discounts of up to 60% on Vehicle Servicing, Tyres and Maintenance* and a FREE Prestige Lease Accident Management Scheme** *Only applies if taken in conjunction with a new vehicle lease or finance agreement through Prestige Lease **Only applies when signing up to either a Prestige Lease pay monthly full maintenance package or when a Prestige Lease PAYG maintenance card is issued.
Contact: 01422 399466 E: yorkshire@prestigelease.co.uk W: www.prestigeleaseyorkshire.co.uk
46
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
Log into the MY Chamber section at
www.mycci.co.uk to view all Connect Card offers
PropertyFeature
Tower Cranes Pierce the Huddersfield Skyline The skyline of Huddersfield is changing with bright yellow tower cranes piercing the autumn skyline. This is a welcome sign and with it comes a general feeling of improvement as Government led schemes have brought forward the development of the new sports centre and swimming pool complex on the former Spring Wood car park. The ever-expanding University of Huddersfield sees the development of a new complex fronting Wakefield Road, whilst the new Kirklees College has opened at the Waterfront. These act as a catalyst to kick start private development and two new student accommodation schemes are well underway in the Firth Street and Wakefield Road areas of the town. This has also helped to breathe new life into the town centre with the conversion and refurbishment of iconic buildings such as the former “Thatchers” store, newly opened as a student residence known as Thread Works. This is causing a movement of occupiers within the town and Hanson Chartered Surveyors has acted on behalf of Louis France Limited in the sale of their Firth Street premises to the University of Huddersfield and acquisition of new leasehold premises in Prospect Street adjacent to the town’s fire station.
The commercial and industrial property market remains difficult with rental incentives being required to achieve deals. However, since February of this year there has been a general feeling of improvement and businesses are willing to take that leap of faith to acquire property to allow expansion and restructuring. Unit B at Castlegate Retail Park has recently come to the market and we are experiencing encouraging interest from restaurant operators. We have recently acquired premises on behalf of PC Specialist, which has retained their workforce within the Huddersfield area. This journey has taken the client three years to find suitable premises and is the first step in an exciting expansion programme.
This shows the scarcity of good quality accommodation. It is this short supply of good quality freehold industrial accommodation that could starve the recovery in Huddersfield. Without more land being made available for industrial development in the town, companies could be lost to outlying districts such as Wakefield, Barnsley and Calderdale. As the recovery continues and the market begins to improve more good quality industrial sites need to be brought forward to meet the needs of the town’s growing manufacturing and engineering companies. Jason Metcalfe is a Director of Hanson Chartered Surveyors
Contact Jason Metcalfe or Abigail Hanson
Unit B Castlegate Retail Park St John's Road Huddersfield
Wheatley Park Mirfield, West Yorkshire
TO LET
FOR SALE
4,673 sq ft
Substantial Business Complex extending to 8,345 sq m (89,830 sq ft)
014 8 4 4 32 0 4 3
Showroom/restaurant on edge of ring road/town centre Other occupiers include Bath Store, Hoults Wine and Laura Ashley On site customer car parking EPC Rating C
01484 432043
INVESTMENT & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY
The Old Gatehouse 68 New North Road Huddersfield HD1 5NE
Featuring high quality contemporary office space and headline income of £360,000 per annum EPC Rating B Joint agent Michael Steel & Co
www.hanson-cs.co.uk
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
47
DEFY CONVENTION
Ultra-Low Carbon Ultra Low Payments
NEW M{zd{ 6 tourer 150ps se diesel
£219*
per month Mazda Contract Hire
NEW M{zd{ 6 saloon 150ps se diesel
£209*
per month Mazda Contract Hire
Thanks to ingenious SKYACTIV Technology, the new Mazda6 delivers outstanding CO2 emissions as low as 108g/km and an impressive 67.3mpg^ from a 2.2-litre 150ps diesel engine. No wonder SKYACTIV Technology was recently awarded the WhatCar? Ultra-low-carbon award. But carbon isn’t the only thing that’s ultra-low. Even with a high level of spec as standard, you get low monthly payments from £209* and with BIK from only £55^^ per month it’ll feel like a pay rise versus the competition in the segment. Having collected Fleet World and Fleet News awards for Best Upper Medium Car, the new Mazda6 isn’t the obvious choice, it’s the smart choice. Order Order ttoday oday a att P Perrys errys M Mazda azda H Huddersfield. uddersfield.
THE NEW M{ZD{ 6. DEFY CONVENTION. CONVENTION.
Perrys Mazda Huddersfield
Northgate, Huddersfield, West Yo Yorkshire HD1 6AP
01484 446 772 www.perryscars-mazda.co.uk
WINNER Best Upper Medium Car
The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the new Mazda6 range: Urban 36.2 (7.8) – 55.4 (5.1). Extra Urban 57.6 (4.9) – 78.5 (3.6). Combined 47.9 (5.9) – 67.3 (4.2). CO2 emissions (g/km) 136 – 108.
The MPG figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results.
*All monthly figures exclude VAT. Offer available to business users for orders received between 01.10.2013 and 31.12.2013. £209 (exc VAT) figure is based on a new Mazda6 Saloon 150ps SE Diesel, without Metallic paint, on a non-maintenance contract hire package over 36 months, 10,000 contract miles per year. Advance payment equal to 6 monthly payments is payable followed by 35 monthly payments. £219 (exc VAT) figure is based on a new Mazda6 Tourer 150ps SE Diesel, without Metallic paint, on a non-maintenance contract hire package over 36 months, 10,000 contract miles per year. Advance payment equal to 6 monthly payments is payable followed by 35 monthly payments. Excess mileage charge applies if contract mileage is exceeded. For full terms and conditions and specification please refer to the Mazda Contract Hire Master Agreement and your local dealer. All quotations are subject to availability, status and agreement. Free Metallic paint is only available in conjunction with Mazda Contract Hire offer and applies to selected models only. Guarantees may be required. Terms are unavailable to existing customers under specific end-user terms with Mazda Motors UK Ltd. Details correct at time of publication and may vary, e.g. if list price changes. Mazda Contract Hire Limited does not offer tax advice to individuals: company car drivers should consult their accountant on their tax position. Contract hire by ALD Automotive Ltd, trading as Mazda Contract Hire, Oakwood Park, Lodge Causeway, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 3JA. Models shown with monthly payment: new Mazda6 Saloon 150ps SE Diesel. OTR £21,995. New Mazda6 Tourer 150ps SE Diesel. OTR £22,795. Models shown feature optional Soul Red Metallic paint (£660). ^Mpg figures shown are combined. ^^BIK values are at 20% rates based on a car with non-Metallic paint and are valid from 1 April 2013. On the road prices include 20% VAT, number plates and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. Test drives subject to applicant status and availability.
EarthtestEnergy
Renewable Heat Payments Confirmed for Ground Source Heatpumps The tariff for the installation of Domestic Ground Source Heat Pumps was announced on July 15th. The domestic tariff rate has been announced as 18.8pence per kilowatt hour. The domestic scheme will pay out for 7 years for every kilowatt hour of heat generated by a domestic heatpump. In addition an annual payment of £230 will be available if the house is metered. The government will be introducing the domestic tariff payments next summer 2014, however they will include any ground source heat installations from this summer 2013 in the new tariff. The Non Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) has been running since last November and Earthtest Energy acquired the first ever RHI for one of our commercial clients. The RHI for commercial and industrial properties has doubled for installations after January 2013 making it an attractive financial proposition to install ground source heat in these premises. The heat produced will not generally be metered, but calculated by the installer on a deemed basis, dependent upon the house type, construction and location. There is an opportunity for home owners with very efficient systems to receive higher tariffs if they agree to the efficiency of their system being metered. A condition of eligibility will be that the house is insulated to economic levels, and there will be loans available through the Green Deal to finance the required insulation. New homes and major renovations will be eligible for Renewable Heat Incentive Tariff payments proved they satisfy the insulation requirements of the current building regulations. The Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive Policy will be published in Autumn 2013 and the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme will be launched in Summer 2014. For a typical existing 4 bedroom house we would expect to install a 12kilowatt heatpump and for this to earn £5,500 per year or £38,500 plus inflation over the 7 year payment period. For an older 4 bedroom house particularly in a rural setting, we would expect to install a 24 kilowatt heatpump, and for this to earn £11,000 per year or £77,000 plus inflation over the 7 year payment period.
Larger houses with indoor swimming pools would need a 45kilowatt system and could expect to earn £24,000 per year or £170,000 plus inflation over the 7 year payment period. Of necessity these predictions are generalised. Send us details of your house and your post code and we will let you have details of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive Tariffs you may receive, and a fully costed proposal for your home FREE of charge. The government sees this scheme as a key part of their strategy to reduce carbon emissions, so we expect the payments to be generous, but they will not be available forever.
Buy early to avoid disappointment! At Earthtest Energy we are available to assist to make the right decisions. earthtest energy is a MCS accredited and registered installer of heat pumps bridge mills, huddersfield road, holmfirth, west yorkshire, hd9 3tw info@earthtestenergy.com www.earthtestenergy.com
Autumn 2013 CLOSEUP
49
LastWord
Movers&Shakers sponsored by
The Last Word Answered by Edward Jennings Business Director & Co Owner of Manrochem Limited
Happily married for 30 years to the inspirational Nancy, proud father of Lucy Jane and Thomas Oliver, Edward is an indentured apprentice trained engineer. He is City and Guilds of London technical certificate trained with 45 years management experience across the whole spectrum of engineering manufacture and site installation. “Having been in manufacturing for the majority of my career, I moved in 2011 into process design joining Manrochem Limited in Huddersfield as Business Development Manager. I became a Director in 2012 and in early 2013 I was proud and excited to front an MBO with two of my talented and trusted colleagues, Andrew Pearson and Dave Wakefield. Manrochem are process design engineers working across a broad spectrum of industry, our strapline is “Making It Possible” and that sums up exactly what we do! I am a proud Yorkshireman who has played a vast array of different sports over the years “The older I get, the better I was” sums up my sporting memories. Life is good, I count my blessings and I am very excited about the future.”
was your first job and what you could do another job what Q.What Q.Ifwould was the pay packet? it be? My first job on leaving school Owner of a small picturesque A.was as a Commis Chef which A.Yorkshire restaurant. earned me the princely sum of £17.00 per week (Approx seven shillings per hour, good old money).
What do you always carry with you to work?
Q.
Wallet, Keys, iPhone, road rage and sense of humour.
A.
is the biggest challenge Q.What facing your business? shortage of quality A.National experienced engineers.
person what are your Q.Asthreea business main qualities?
was your biggest mistake in Q.What business? assuming that A.Mistakenly everyone held my values. I have learned from all my mistakes and have moved on the better for the experience.
Get everything in writing, Know your true costs and be Stop giving money to banks (to squander), instead have a lucky, but by the nature of true entrepreneurs they probably won’t direct system of financing straight listen, they will just “go for it”. to the businesses that require funding for innovation and growth. What do you most admire in
A.
What can you see from your office Q.window? The back of a fantastic listed warehouse which faces the platform of Huddersfield railway station.
A.
50
CLOSEUP Autumn 2013
Poonam Kaur joined fds Group as the Director of Corporate Finance in 2011 and has fast become an essential member of Jo Haigh’s senior management team. A qualified accountant with 12 years of accountancy and auditing knowledge, Poonam is involved with all transactions carried out by fds Corporate Finance. Poonam is now the main point of contact for all ongoing projects. She is the invaluable “go to” numbers person for the company, providing in-depth valuations and transaction support to all clients and interested parties, as well as overseeing staff in the office on a day to day basis.
Eddy Burrows, Marketing, GB Projects Ltd I have recently completed a 4 year BA Management (ind) course at Leeds University which involved a year placement at Waitrose HO. After 2 months of charity work in Uganda I began work at the family business which specialises in the design & manufacture of contract furniture for educational, healthcare, retail and office environments. My aim is to boost our company’s profile using effective marketing channels. The development of a new website was my first project; feel free to take a look www.gbprojects.co.uk.
sense, honesty and A.Common experience.
What advice would you give to If you were Prime Minister, what Q. aspiring entrepreneurs? Q.would be the one thing you would change to help business?
The How Academy is dedicated to helping small to medium businesses improve sales and increase profits. Andrew Miller is a business coach, author (“Hope Won’t Pay the Wages”) and policy advisor to the government on business growth, with almost 20 years experience in running and advising business in the UK and overseas. Many people are nervous about engaging a business coach, so I make it as easy as possible. If it doesn’t work for you after 90 days, I’ll give you your money back, no questions asked. And, with government funding available, the basic cost is affordable for every business. Andrew Miller - Success Coach The How Academy www.howacademy.co.uk/workshops
A.
Q.business?
with good companies A.Dealing and good people who have survived and flourished and proved that if you “do it the right way” you can succeed.
The team over at Re:Work Office Furniture are excited about two new 'ventures' Caroline Wherritt, CEO of the UK's largest social enterprise in the sector, has been working to expand their services and products in line with the growth of the business. The new part-exchange offer of 'swop it and save' allows businesses to get value back for their old furniture when buying their new kit. Put this together with internationally renowned and respected office furniture designers, Gresham, who have now been added to their growing repertoire of products, and Re:Work look a great place to do business.
Cathryn Conboy recently joined Wakefield based design, digital & marketing agency Statement as Client Services Executive. The agency has made several new appointments over the summer as they continue to expand, including Laura Dyson as Ecommerce Executive and Harry Hall and Craig Smith as Designers. Statement Director, Dan Conboy, comments: “We have seen excellent growth over the past year. To support this and maintain high levels of service for our clients, it’s important for us to develop our team. This investment means we are better placed than ever to offer our clients the very best creativity, insight & service.”
s a m t s i r h C t e t a a r r a Celeb and New Ye mith’s S n h o J m u i d a St From Only
00 £12 £ 12 .00 per person
Early Bird Party Start the Festive season with our Early Bird Party. Hot supper with a DJ and Disco till late
£12.00 per person
Friday 13th December
Pamper Party Back by popular demand! 3 course dinner, boutiques, cocktail on arrival and entertainment from BGT’s Craig Harper! One not to be missed. Book early to avoid disappointment Friday 6th December
Mega Christmas Party 3 course dinner, outstanding live music and DJ till late
3 course dinner and Live thriller entertainment
£34.95 per person
Friday 29th No November vember Saturday 30th No November vember
£36.95 per person
Nightmare before Christmas Thriller Themed Party
No Nonsense Christmas Party Hot supper and DJ/Disco till late.
£15.00 per person
Mascott Lunch Christmas Carvery lunch for all the family!
£17.00 per person Sunday 15th December
Huddersfield’ss Big Huddersfield’ New Year’s Year’s Eve Ball 5 Course luxury dinner menu, DJ and Disco. Outstanding live entertainment. Finish 2013 with a bang!
Sunday 15th December TTuesday uesday 17th December Wednesday W ednesday 18th December
£75.00 per person
Clocked out office Christmas Lunch
New Year’s Year’ Eve Family Party
TTuesday uesday 31st December
2 course lunch
3 course meal with a DJ till late.
£34.95 per person
£21.95 per person
£34.95 adults, £16.95 children
Saturday 7th, 14th, 21st December Friday 20th December
TTuesday uesday 17th December Wednesday W ednesday 18th December Thursday 19th December Friday 20th December
TTuesday uesday 31st December
Mistletoe Magic Party 2 course dinner and DJ till late
£25.95 per person Thursday 12th, 19th December Friday 20th December Saturday 21st December
For bookings please call 01484 484 116
--RKQ 6PLWKnV 6WDGLXP RKQ 6PLWKnV 6WDGLXP
1R 1RQVHQVH HYHQWV 1 R 1RQVHQVH HYHQWV
ZZZ MRKQVPLWKVVWDGLXP FRP Z ZZ MRKQVPLWKVVWDGLXP FRP
Why not book our newly refurbished suite for your Private Corporate Party. Party Some great deals for the larger company party. party