Contents Contacts
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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
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Executive Director Andrew Choi
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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
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Media Number 1363
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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 Thank you for taking the time to read the latest edition of our Close Up for Business magazine. As ever we will be taking a look at what our members have been up to, looking in-depth at the work of our policy and representation team and highlighting some excellent cost-saving membership benefits to you. The theme of this quarter’s magazine is energy and environment, an issue which presents both great opportunities and great challenges for the business community. This is also an area in which we can proudly say that our region is world leading, designing the technology which will drive the low carbon transition and providing innovative solutions for the consumer market and for industry. These innovations are essential if we are to realise global ambitions to tackle climate change and reduce carbon emissions, and they also give our economy
31 a distinct and exciting competitive advantage. Capitalising on this advantage could drive growth in our local and regional economy, leading the world in cutting edge technology which will be increasingly in demand. However, there are also significant challenges for the business community to face. The rising cost of energy is putting pressure on margins, and often places our firms at a disadvantage compared to international competitors. It was encouraging to see the Government announce measures to ease this burden in the 2014 Budget, and these are explained in greater detail on our policy page. In particular, capping the carbon price support and extending compensation packages for energy intensive industries will help our businesses remain competitive. As a Chamber member you also benefit from energy management support, and the Chamber will plant a tree for each member who signs up to this offer. We used the service ourselves to identify
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Chamber News Members News Charity News Membership Benefits MY Export Hub International Trade Chamber Policy Chamber Chatter Business of the Month West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency Cover Feature Big Interview Manufacturing & Engineering New Members Patrons View Member Offer of the Month Networking Events Training Events Chamber Connect Last Word Movers & Shakers
over ÂŁ2,000 of savings on gas and electricity for our Wakefield office alone over a 12 month period. The audit and switching was quick and easy although it surprised me that price volatility was so sensitive that tariffs changed in the space of just 24 hours! We encourage you to use your membership benefits to make savings and to win new customers, and on a more general note we are encouraged by the renewed optimism among businesses, illustrated by the many positive contributions to our latest quarterly economic survey.
Andrew Choi Executive Director
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ChamberNews
BitesizeNews Staff update
Walking the talk The Chamber has encouraged member companies to take advantage of Westfield Health’s corporate health cover plans for businesses at every opportunity.
This edition we are saying farewell to one member of staff and welcome to another.
assist with a speedy recovery. This has given us great peace of mind as part of our business continuity planning and has improved staff morale and productivity.”
Rachel Dickie, Membership and Events Assistant is now on maternity leave. Baby Ciara Jane McDerby made her debut at 02:08 on 26th March weighing in at 6lbs 13oz. We hope you will join us in wishing Rachel, her partner Paul and their new arrival all the best and look forward to her return later this year. We’re welcoming Lucy Blackburn to the Chamber as Membership and Events Assistant to work alongside Tracy Smith in membership and Lucy is also assisting Chrissie Slater with the exciting new MY Conferences venture. In Rachel’s absence Lucy will take the reins in membership and can be contacted for any membership, events or conference enquiries. Lucy says of her new role: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to work for the Chamber, a company which is at the heart of Mid Yorkshire Businesses; I am also excited to be a part of the Chamber’s first Mid Yorkshire Conference of the year in June.” Contact Lucy at lucy.blackburn@mycci.co.uk or call 01924 311606.
These are market leading health care solutions, which are amongst the most flexible available in the UK. To demonstrate just how committed we are to Westfield’s excellent health cover products, we have taken up the plan for all employees ourselves. Having implemented the plan last winter, Andrew Choi, Executive Director explained what the investment means to the Chamber workforce: “We decided that the modest weekly cost was both affordable and worth it to help our staff with healthcare. Not only can everyone benefit from a contribution towards a range of everyday treatments such as optical and dental care, but should the worse happen then cover is available to
A number of Chamber employees have already benefited from the health plan including Marketing Manager, Ellie Lyon, who has received money back from dental, optical and chiropractic treatment. Ellie explained: “As a regular contact lens wearer I spend a fortune on optical accessories and was due an upgrade of glasses. As I only occasionally wear my glasses I would usually purchase a basic pair but with the Westfield health plan I was able to get designer glasses and recoup the bulk of the cost back so the total cost to me was just £20!” Rachel Dickie, Membership and Events Assistant, was able to benefit from optical treatment just before her maternity leave. She told us: “Becoming a member of Westfield Health has made life so much easier since it helps massively with healthcare costs. The Westfield staff are really helpful and the process couldn’t be easier or quicker. The money was in my account the same week!” For more information on Westfield Health’s Chamber plan visit www.westfieldhealth.com/chamber.
MY Network welcomes new partner, Chartered Institute of Marketing MY Network is a networking group with a difference; it started life online on LinkedIn and now boasts two monthly meet-ups in Wakefield and Huddersfield. marketing ideas and building wider networks for the future business.”
The events are free, there are no fees and no agenda, just businesses supporting each other. MY Network’s latest partner is the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Andy Sherratt, Chair – Mid Yorkshire branch, Chartered Institute of Marketing attended MY Network, Wakefield in March and commented: “Partnering with MY Network is great for our members in the Mid Yorkshire branch area of CIM, providing opportunities to get together with other like-minded people, sharing business and
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Executive Director of the Chamber Andrew Choi added: “We’re proud that our MY Network initiative with our partners not only provides a great environment for local businesses to connect, but has attracted the Chartered Institute of Marketing as a new member of the collaboration and we look forward to bringing businesses together even more so as a result.” #MYNetworkWakey events are held on the second Friday of every month at The Hop, Wakefield 12:30-13:30 and #MYNetworkHUD is on the third Wednesday of the month at the Media Centre’s Café Ollo, Huddersfield at 9:0011:30. MY Network is brought to you by Barclays, CIM, Copiserv, First Choice Recruitment, Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, Ramsdens Solicitors LLP, Statement, The Media Centre and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.
ChamberNews
Be part of Wakefield Business Week Monday 2nd June sees the start of the second Wakefield Business Week, full of sector specific seminars all run by different businesses with Wakefield Business Conference bang in the middle of the week on Wednesday 4th June. growing private company’s. John Bird, founder of The Big Issue is a globally admired social entrepreneur. The Big Issue is a social business built in the face of adversity and is now published in dozens of countries around the world. Our ‘State of the District’ panel is chaired by Helen Oldham, MD of Johnston Press and is made up of leaders from various sectors across the district including Jeremy Garside of Chadwick Lawrence, Mike Pickles of Really Useful Products and more. Opening Wakefield Business Week with impact, our Leadership Breakfast, hosted by Wakefield First will bring together leaders across the district for panel discussions with Councillor Peter Box CBE. This year, we introduce ‘Meet the Leader’ sessions; a rare opportunity to experience ‘behind the scenes’ visits and connect with key business leaders in Wakefield. These including; Ian Johnson of Coca Cola Enterprises, Sir Rodney Walker of the Theatre Royal and Barbara Winston of the Ridings Centre to name but a few. Places are extremely limited so book now to avoid disappointment. We also have over 30 seminars presented by experts across the district covering topics such as employment, IT, sales/marketing, finance, education/skills.
We will also showcase four local businesses on our main stage through a fast and furious ’20 slides in 20 seconds’ of social media. All events are FREE to attend and we are on track to involve more than 1,000 businesses throughout the week. Visit www.wakefieldbusinessweek.co.uk and follow #WBW14 on Twitter for updates.
Attend the north’s biggest environmental exhibition Eco-Fair returns to the Elland Road stadium 22nd May for its fifth year. Join us, members and environmental businesses exhibiting at the event, as more than 1,000 visitors attend to learn how to save energy and money. Furthermore, Chamber members benefit from a 10% discount when exhibiting. You can also hear from our members and energy management partners Orchard Energy. Director Amar Hussain will address delegates to explain the cost and compliance implications that every business needs to know about ahead of Electricity Market Reform. “The energy industry has been under intense scrutiny in recent years and, as a result, major changes are due to be introduced which will affect all business energy users,” said Amar.
Wakefield Business Conference presents two major UK trailblazers. Martyn Dawes founder of Coffee Nation (now rebranded Costa Express) revolutionised coffee on-the-go and has been ranked year after year as one of the UK’s fastest
MY Export Hub launches new site to help exporters
“The UK electricity sector needs to invest £110 bn over the next decade to replace and upgrade its infrastructure in an effort to keep the lights on, keep energy bills under control and decarbonise energy generation.
To coincide with the start of National Export Week 7th-11th April, the Chamber’s international trade arm, MY Export Hub launched a new site to help connect Yorkshire exporters to local support.
“What many businesses are unaware of is that Electricity Market Reform is set to raise business energy prices by at least 15% a year up until 2020 to help the Government raise the money it needs.”
The new website has been developed to simplify and clearly signpost the help available to small and medium sized firms looking to trade overseas. From help with languages, to funding and logistics, MY Export Hub has brought together local support providers across the region in one place. The Government has targeted growing Britain’s exports to £1 trillion by 2020. This is an ambitious target and achieving this growth will depend upon many more companies exporting their goods and services overseas, as well as growing the volume
of exports from experienced firms. Economy Freight Services are one of the first members to have benefited from MY Export Hub’s new service and explained: “Our aim as a leading UK specialist in global freight logistics is to attract new local businesses and assist them in exporting their goods worldwide. MY Export Hub’s site has helped us promote the services we offer both to new and established businesses.” View the directory at www.myexporthub.co.uk.
He said wholesale electricity prices had already risen by 67% since 2007 and could continue to rise in the coming years with the impact of EMR potentially adding an extra £25 per MWh. “There are lots of things businesses can do to protect their budgets and these include purchasing smartly, reducing consumption and looking into the possibility of generating their own power through renewable energy schemes.” Visit www.eco-fair.co.uk for more information.
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MembersNews
Reliance Precision help to overcome lowest percentage of female engineering professionals The classroom at Kirklees College is a vivid illustration of an issue Business Secretary Vince Cable said earlier this year was an “enormous problem”. He was speaking after a Government report, Tomorrow’s Engineers, said that the UK has the lowest percentage of female engineering professionals in Europe, less than 10%. 21 year old Megan Lunn, the only female in her teaching group, spends one day a week in college and the rest of her time with her employer, Huddersfield based member Reliance Precision Limited. She became an apprentice in 2011 after realising she wanted to learn the skills needed to work in a scientific industry, but didn’t want to spend every day in a classroom.
It gives you real-life experience that you could never get in the classroom.
Megan says that mix of learning and working via her Advanced Modern Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering has been hugely important to her: “The best thing about an apprenticeship is that you learn skills in a real engineering company where products are made for customers around the world and not just for training purposes. It gives you real-life experience that you could never get in the classroom.” Reliance Precision is a specialist engineering company with over 50 years’ experience, supplying major global organisations in the aerospace, defence and scientific instrument industries.
It launched its apprenticeship scheme in the 1960s and currently has 13 engineering apprentices training within the company with more than 40 former apprentices still working with the company at various levels. To find out more contact Kirklees Council’s Business Brokers team on 01484 437075 or e-mail apphub@kirklees.gov.uk.
Yorkshire Water “at the forefront” of tackling climate change Yorkshire Water has been praised as being “at the forefront” of responding to climate change following the publication of the utility’s climate change strategy. Yorkshire Water has set out plans to respond to the changing climate to ensure the security of the water and waste water services it provides to five million customers. The strategy also describes how the company will continue tackling the carbon emissions hidden in its water and waste water services. The strategy is among the most comprehensive and practical produced by any organisation in the UK. Jon Clubb of the Climate Change Partnership for Yorkshire and Humber said: “I am pleased to see Yorkshire Water is among those at the forefront of responding to the serious challenges we face from
extreme weather and the changing climate. The resilience of our critical infrastructure assets are key to the long term vitality of our communities and businesses, whatever the weather.” The company has made some great progress by reducing its leakage to lowest ever levels and reducing its carbon emissions by over 8% since 2010. The strategy describes how the company plans to continue its good progress. The strategy is available online at www.yorkshirewater.com/climatechange.
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CharityNews
Chamber staff join members in major charity mission
Dare to take part in Wakefield Hospice’s Dark Peak Challenge Member Wakefield Hospice are hosting a Tour de France inspired cycle challenge – The Dark Peak, taking place on September 21st 2014. Last year 300 local cyclists took on this immense challenge for Wakefield Hospice and this year it’s Le Tour De Yorkshire themed, in support of the big event. It will begin in Wakefield and cover 72 miles of road including highlights of this year’s Le Tour de Yorkshire route. The Dark Peak is all about cyclists pushing their abilities to the limit, to raise much needed funds for Wakefield Hospice. Challengers last year raised an amazing £14,000 for patient care in Wakefield through their entry fee and sponsorship - can you help support the hospice this year and get on your bike for a good cause? The hospice is also alternatively offering a 48 and 23 mile route – all uniquely as challenging as each other. To take part call 01924 213900 or visit www.wakefieldhospice.co.uk.
Support the Community Foundation for Wakefield Chamber staff joined member companies Ramsdens Solicitors LLP, Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, Kirklees College and other local businesses to take on a new challenge; the British Military Fitness 5k Major Series obstacle course.
It was a brilliant time and I’m up for the 10k next time. We also raised a good amount of money for Forget Me Not which is an added bonus! Naming themselves ‘The Motley Crew’, the group ran 6km to raise more than £350 for the hospice. The event saw Tracy Smith, Membership and Events Manager and Jo Palmer, MY Export Hub Certification Services Manager tackle muddy bogs, freezing river crossings, mud slides and ice crawls to raise money for charity.
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Tracy commented: “We had a fantastic time, its all about teamwork, it’s not just a run, the camaraderie and laughter helps get you through.” Jo added “It was a brilliant time and I’m up for the 10k next time. We also raised a good amount of money for Forget Me Not which is an added bonus!”
Shona Walsh, Chief Executive of The Community Foundation for Wakefield is calling on local businesses for help in becoming a member of the charity’s Supporters’ Club. The Community Foundation for Wakefield is a local independent charity supporting voluntary community groups and charities in Wakefield. They provide grants that make a genuine difference to the lives of local people. Members of the Supporters’ Club, will not only be helping the charity with their work, but will also receive invitations to supporter and networking events, receive an e-newsletter and be able to put forward nominations for Supporters’ Club grants. Corporate members will receive recognition on the Community Foundation for Wakefield website and in their publications. To find out more visit www.communityfoundationwakefield.co.uk.
MembershipBenefits
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top tips to save energy AND money at work
Follow our top tips to save energy and do your bit for the environment: You’ll likely save money for your business in the process too!
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1. Turn your thermostat down:
Boil only what your need:
Reducing your office or room temperature by 1°C could cut your heating bills by up to 10% and typically saves around £75 per year. If you have a programmer, set your heating and hot water to come on only in office hours rather than all the time.
When making the office tea rounds, boil only as much water in the kettle as needed. You could save money and enough electricity in a single year to power the street lights in the UK for more than six months.
2. Turn lights and appliances off: Turn lights, computers, chargers and printers off when you leave the office. Nearly all electrical appliances can be safely turned off at the plug without upsetting their systems.
MY Data is the new membership benefit launched this year offering bespoke data lists to members at half the industry average cost. From just 7p per record or from 15p per record for non-members, companies can purchase data to target marketing campaigns and generate new business.
Make your own energy: Invest in insulation and renewable technologies for long-term benefits to the environment and your pocket. We have a number of environmental consultants and energy efficiency/services members on hand to help. View the membership directory for more details.
Bespoke lists can be targeted from sector,
Source: Energy Saving Trust
Furthermore, the monthly MY Data offer
location, turnover and other categories and can include telephone numbers, postal and email addresses.
introduced in February has taken off with a
3. Reduce your flush: At work there are likely to be many people using the facilities and with about 30% of all water used in dwellings flushed down the toilet every day, low flush and dual-flush toilets can help. They reduce the volume of water used for flushing. They use up to six litres less water per flush than an oldfashioned toilet, saving over 16,000 litres of water per year!
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New membership benefit gets off to a flying start
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For more top tips and to make membership save your business money, contact the membership team at info@mycci.co.uk or go online at www.mycci.co.uk
bang. Monthly offers have included the top SMEs and manufacturers in Yorkshire and the Humber for the discounted rate of just £100 (+VAT) exclusively for members, with only ten sets available each month. For more information contact becky.greenhough@mycci.co.uk or call 01484 483678.
WhatMembershipMeansTo..
Business Doctors prescribe money saving membership “In the past four years we’ve grown significantly, boosted through our membership of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce”, says Neil Kendall, regional director for Business Doctors in West and South Yorkshire. The Chamber marketing team visited Business Doctors; a UK franchise specialising in supporting SMEs with mentoring, coaching and general management support. Neil shared his experience of being an active member of the Chamber which has allowed his business to see considerable savings as well as new business generated. Neil said: “Membership of the Chamber is crucial, particularly to any organisation in a business to
business environment. It certainly helps to have an umbrella of support to turn to, especially as a small business.” Business Doctors has not only benefited from the support of Chamber services, it has saved money in the process too: “A direct saving we receive from the Chamber is when utilising their premises for meetings with clients and hosting events, we save money on venue costs as members.” “Our marketing budget is also assisted through membership through free exposure within the Chamber’s high profile Close Up for Business magazine, as well as coverage across the Chamber’s website and social media channels too.” Neil added: “Throughout networking with the Chamber we’ve found that it is a good source of business for us and we have picked up work from customers that we are now working with on a longterm basis. The membership package represents great value for money. Business Doctors has been a member of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber for four
years now. If you utilise the membership benefits to their full potential as we do, you really see the value for money”. Get access to new business and savings too, join your Chamber today by contacting tracy.smith@mycci.co.uk or calling 01924 311607.
The membership package represents great value for money. Business Doctors has been a member of the Mid Yorkshire Chamber for four years now. If you utilise the membership benefits to their full potential as we do, you really see the value for money.
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MYExportHub
British Chambers of Commerce courses in exporting The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has ten nationally accredited core courses in exporting and international trade.
MY Export Hub awards first Foundation Certificate in Exporting Our international support arm MY Export Hub has awarded its first Foundation Certificate in Exporting. MY Export Hub offers a range of support to exporting companies, including advice and assistance, documentation services, and a full calendar of British Chamber Accredited training in export skills at a highly competitive rate.
Together the courses produce an export curriculum, providing invaluable basic exporting skills for small and large companies alike.
Our marketing team visited Dewsbury manufacturer Minova Ltd who specialise in exporting cloth for men’s tailored suits around the world, dealing with customers in a number of destinations.
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.
Rachel Hakier who has worked as Minova Ltd’s Logistics Administrator for three years, was presented with the first of the awards.
The next six courses are as follows:
Customs Procedures and Documentation: Tuesday 15th April 2014 09:30-16:30
Incoterms (half day): Tuesday 13th May 2014 09:30-12:30
Methods of Payment (half day)
Rachel told the team: “The Chamber and MY Export Hub are very important to Minova Ltd; MY Export Hub especially supports us in quick and efficient processing of export documentation.” In particular, Rachel recommended the benefits of the online e-z Cert system: “It allows us to create express certificates which assists our customers as their orders can be sent within the same day.” Rachel advised how the training has helped her to fulfil her role at Minova Ltd better: “I have vastly improved my knowledge. The courses are a full day with tests at the end of the day which is intense but the course trainer is great at helping you absorb all of the information.”
There are many export training events held at the Chamber’s Huddersfield offices and, with a rolling calendar of training opportunities, businesses can choose six modules to pass the Foundation Certificate in Exporting. To find out more about MY Export Hub and how it can help your business trade internationally visit www.myexporthub.co.uk and follow @MYExportHub on Twitter.
Tuesday 13th May 2014 13:30-16:30
Documentary Letters of Credit Monday 9th June 2014 09:30-16:30
Understanding Import Processes Wednesday 25th June 2014 09:30-16:30
Import Procedures Thursday 10th July 2014 09:30-16:30 Individual full day courses cost £175 (+VAT) for members and £200 (+VAT) for nonmembers and individual half day courses cost £100 (+ VAT) for members and £125 (+ VAT) for non–members. Or book these six courses (half and full day courses) for £850 (+VAT) for members and £1000 (+VAT) for non-members 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/events.
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Chamber Foreign Exchange As part of MY Export Hub’s partnership with exchange experts Moneycorp, members can benefit from money-saving foreign exchange. If you have international payment requirements, Moneycorp can help you save hundreds, thousands, even tens of thousands every year. Furthermore members can benefit from an exclusive member offer. A free foreign exchange health check and free assessment – worth £250 – of your business’s foreign exchange requirements, to help you pin-point where you could improve your margins.
Get in touch To talk to Moneycorp about their services call 0808 1635 138 email chamberfx@moneycorp.com or visit www.moneycorp.com/chamberfx
Chamber Foreign Exchange will assess your: • Exchange rates • Transfer fees • Speed of payments • Impact of currency movements on your payments • Hedging policy • Credit terms • Online capabilities
InternationalTrade
UK Export Finance urges Mid Yorkshire’s SMEs to harness export opportunities Challenging markets should not deter businesses in the oil and gas sectors from powering forward with exporting plans, says Richard Clarke, Export Finance Adviser (EFA) for Yorkshire and the Humber. committed to help, over 100 companies - many of whom are SMEs - to fulfil export contracts worth over £800 million. “With energy and the environment playing ever more important roles, it is important that industries specialising in oil and gas take advantage of the opportunities that have arisen - and will arise internationally. UKEF can help businesses to build the confidence to investigate new and challenging markets, because we can help protect against risk and gain the necessary funding to finance growth.
Richard is one of 18 regional EFAs for UK Export Finance (UKEF) - the UK’s Export Credit Agency. UKEF works in partnership with exporters, banks, trade associations and Chambers of Commerce to ensure that companies can grow their order books overseas, drive local job creation and boost economic growth. He explains why UKEF support can be invaluable to the region’s businesses: “A sustained recovery of the UK economy is central to the Government’s economic agenda, with exports expected to be a key driver of growth in the medium term. We are working hard to provide the support for businesses seeking to secure a foothold in international trade and for those already exporting. “We have provided UK business with £4.3 billion of support in 2012/13. Over the past two years, since we re-introduced short-term products (under two years maturity), our Trade Finance and Insurance Solutions team has also helped, or
“By sharing the risk with the banks, UKEF has enabled exporters to reduce their level of risk without restricting their cash flow, increase their working capital facilities and, in some cases, significantly increase their turnover and expand their business. In addition, some exporters have been able to trade in markets where private credit insurance cover was unavailable.
Boost to UK Export Finance to provide greater support to exporters Ahead of the March Budget Mid Yorkshire Chamber’s policy team wrote to the Chancellor urging him to provide greater support for exporters. Calling on the Government to boost funding for UK Export Finance. The Chamber wrote: “Achieving economic growth will rely on continued Government efforts to help rebalance our economy towards manufacturing, together with far more significant interventions to promote exports and reduce our trade deficit so that we can once again become a major economic world powerhouse.” It was encouraging therefore to hear the Chancellor announce that he would be doubling UK Export Finance to £3bn to
“We are very focused on who we help – supporting businesses who are likely to succeed, who may already have a strong order book and are perhaps targeting a risky, new market. Companies looking to trade abroad need to be more competitive and more profitable and we do expect them to have done their homework. It is vital that they realise the risks involved and be aware of the logistics and paperwork issues.
boost UK trade. UK Export Finance is to
“We encourage businesses to engage with us, with UKTI and with local Chambers of Commerce because we can collectively offer market insights, help with due diligence and documentation and support them in securing the funding which will enable them to take their companies further.”
This funding increase marks recognition
If you would like to know how UK Export Finance can help your business contact Richard Clarke by email at richard.clarke@ukef.gsi.gov.uk or telephone on 07815 491133.
increase support available via the Direct Lending programme, relax conditions on loan sizes and will lend at the minimum interest rates allowed by international agreements. These changes will increase the effectiveness of UK Export Finance and strengthen the support available to exporters.
from Government that international trade will be key to achieving sustained economic growth. Exports should remain at the heart of Government business policy, and decision makers now need to focus on how the UK can achieve its export potential and foster an even larger number of world-beating firms.
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MembersNews
Members offered discounted massage With the hectic pace of life today, finding time to invest in our own well being is becoming more difficult for people. TMS Massage Therapy is a Chamber member
injury, or simply to enjoy a relaxing Swedish body
having come through the West Yorkshire Enterprise
massage. To help, Trevor Seymour, founder of
Agency’s New Enterprise Allowance (NEA)
TMS Massage Therapy is offering fellow Chamber
scheme. TMS believe business people should
members a 25% discount per session at just
invest a little time in their health, whether via a
£30.00. The normal price for an hour’s treatment
personal trainer for general fitness training or a
is £40.00, which includes initial client
massage therapist to help recover from a sports
consultation. Chamber Marketing Manager Ellie Lyon benefitted from the deal last month and told us: “I love a
...I could definitely feel a noticeable difference to my flexibility afterwards.
massage but this was so much more. Trevor really works at your muscles and I could definitely feel a noticeable difference to my flexibility afterwards.” For more information visit www.tmsmassagetherapy.co.uk.
Heartbeat celebrates first birthday Heartbeat First Aid Training was founded by Brendan Coleman, formally MY Training, one year ago this April.
Together with his team of highly experienced trainers, Brendan delivers fun and interactive training. Flexibility on pricing, venues and times is just one of the reasons why Heartbeat First Aid are highly popular across the region. Heartbeat believes in making training an enjoyable experience and their pass rate of more than 95% is testament to the quality of the training available. Brendan’s team of trainers can regularly be seen at the Chamber’s Huddersfield and Wakefield offices. They also work throughout West Yorkshire to provide businesses with on site training to ensure your staff are prepared to look out for one another and your customers. In celebration of 12 months trading as Heartbeat, they are offering ‘buy one get one half price’ on all April and May first aid courses. To book, contact Pam King on 01484 541975 or email info@heartbeatfirstaidtraining.co.uk.
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MembersNews
Liquid Accounts launch online accounting software to help SMEs Huddersfield based member Liquid Accounts, the originators of cloud accounting in the UK, has announced an exciting new range of online accounting software for SMEs. After gaining a reputation as specialists in advanced accounting for larger organisations, in 2013, Liquid turned their attention toward the development of attractive, easy to use and intuitive solutions for smaller business. Liquid Accounts have now launched a completely rewritten interface and new product range which includes a bookkeeper package aimed at micro SMEs under the £79,000 VAT threshold. The solution has been well received and hailed as the missing link in the online accountancy marketplace, delivering such functionality, power and ease of use for the industry’s lowest like for like price starting at just £7.95 per month. Benefit from a 30 day free trial by visiting www.liquidaccounts.com/trial.
Copiserv explains reasons to implement a Managed Print Service (MPS) According to Gartner between 1-3% of an organisations revenues are taken up in document production activity and around 90% do not know what they spend on print and associated costs each year. Signs you could benefit from a MPS: • You don’t know your annual printing & copying costs. • You have a variety of printers and copiers around the office & they are different makes & models. • You keep stocks of toner. • You have a dedicated person to fix broken printers and/or order supplies. Benefits of introducing a MPS: • Reduce print and copy costs. • Keep existing devices and replace as needed, helping to minimise capital expenditure. • Refocus staff on more critical tasks. • Improve cashflow • Receive professional support. A Managed Print Service means that all of your in-house printing needs are looked after by an external company and: • Your usage is monitored and new supplies of consumables are only sent out when required • Equipment is monitored and any technical issues are identified & fixed remotely or an Engineer visit is organised • You will receive one easy to read monthly bill is provided to make life nice and simple! Contact sales@copiserv.co.uk for more information.
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ChamberPolicy
Long-term energy and environment policy essential to economic growth As the imperative to arrest climate change places greater pressure on policy makers to frame effective environmental policy, so will this area of policy increasingly impact on the wider economy, and upon businesses throughout the UK. The widespread flooding over recent years, including at a local level in Calderdale, should serve as an important reminder that short-termism in environmental policy can be disastrous. Government rhetoric alone is no longer acceptable, and the recent floods should be taken as a serious warning on wider environmental policy. Long term and cross-party strategy will be essential, covering environmental policy, the future of the UK’s energy mix as well as industrial and transport decisions. Business has a very important part to play in the process of meeting our climate change obligations, in two principal areas of activity: Firstly, by adapting to new technologies through behavioural-change and by reducing dependency on carbon-intensive energy sources. This is a complicated and, by necessity, gradual process which will also depend upon support from Government to assist transition. Punitive taxes and levies on industry would be the least effective way to drive this change and give rise to unintended consequences such as business flight, business closure, and continued industrial inefficiencies. A more likely positive influence on behaviour would be to incentivise change. The Renewables Obligation, for instance, which provides support for renewable electricity generation, and the feed-in tariff scheme which compensates smaller-scale generation are more likely to influence market behaviour than inflating costs for industry through the carbon price floor. Imposing increased costs in the short-term will simply narrow the margins for business, making British industry less competitive and inhibiting economic growth, just when we need it the most. Secondly, business will have a direct role in developing the new clean technologies and processes which will be an essential contributory factor in meeting emission-reduction obligations and reducing our dependency on fossil fuels. In this case the market will be the most effective and efficient
Steven Leigh Head of Policy and Representation
For further details call
07809 658533 or email: steven.leigh@mycci.co.uk driver for developing new technology. Incentives to invest in this technology as well as financial support for research and development will be of paramount importance - not only to facilitate behavioural change but also to help augment Britain’s competitive advantage in fast-growing international markets. Notwithstanding the positive measures in this year’s budget, the lack of a coherent energy policy over that last twenty years has placed the UK in a vulnerable position which needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency. Decision makers are now having to grapple with a dilemma - for the need to achieve carbon-reduction obligations on the one hand, and maintaining power supplies on the other. The reason for this is that a number of nuclear and ‘dirty’ coal-fired electricity power stations are set for closure between now and 2020, and long-term investment in replacement production capacity has not yet been put in place. The most significant capacity shortfall will result from the lack of decisive action to invest in nuclear power stations, which will take at least ten years to design, build and commission. While it is possible to introduce new gas-fired power stations within a shorter time-frame, there has to be very serious consideration given to following that strategy in view of recent world events which have emphasised the great vulnerability facing Britain due to it’s reliance on foreign gas. We simply cannot allow ourselves to be hostages to fortune for the supply and price of gas piped-in from overseas, and for that reason we need to accelerate our plans for an energy production mix which, as far as possible, we can independently manage, control and source from within our own resources. This, in turn, calls for a proper debate about alternative methods of gas production such as fracking, which is now becoming a strategic option which can no longer be discounted from the energy mix, and which has been a central pillar to the recent economic revival in the USA.
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. Members wishing to attend any future meetings will be made to feel most welcome. For upcoming meetings visit www.mycci.co.uk/events.
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ChamberPolicy
Chancellor announces new measures on energy and environment
In his recent March Budget, the Chancellor announced a number of measures to reduce the cost of energy for manufacturers. Our own Quarterly Economic Survey has repeatedly highlighted concern among manufacturing firms over rising input costs, in particular energy, and it is encouraging that in response to see action in this area. As the Chancellor stated: “While UK electricity prices are currently close to the International Energy Agency (IEA) average, a typical Energy Intensive Industry in Britain currently pays almost 50% more for their electricity than they do in France, and the cost to businesses of policies to deliver new low-carbon energy infrastructure is set to increase by around 300% by 2020.” The measures announced in the Budget included: • Capping the carbon price support rate at £18.00 from 2016-2020 to limit any competitive disadvantage facing British companies in the global race;
• Extending the compensation for energy intensive industries for the cost of the Carbon Price Floor and EU Emissions Trading System to 2019-20; • Introducing a Capacity Market to ensure security of supply through incentivising investment in new gas capacity and optimising outputs from existing power plants; • Providing £60million for new low-carbon innovation to support Carbon Capture and Storage developments - to help Britain become a world-leader in this new technology; • Providing £140m additional funding to repair and enhance flood defences throughout the country.
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ChamberChatter
Social Networking Join us and the business community online! We’re proud to boast more than 4,000 followers on Twitter, 185 Facebook likes, 200 LinkedIn group members and 500 LinkedIn page followers. This quarter we also celebrate more than 400 YouTube hits. Here are our favourite Tweets and Topics from the last quarter…
@PepamintMedia: My meeting with @grantshapps has been featured in the @dailyexpressuk Thank you @MidYorksChamber Really Happy! @SLMconsultancy: Thank you to the @MidYorksChamber for a another great networking event @ElsieWhiteley in Halifax yesterday @nlmyorks: Looking forward to @MidYorksChamber Wakefield Business Week in June - More info here wakefieldbusinessweek.co.uk @Jayneperfect: Big thanks to @SocialProgress1 and @MidYorksChamber for the excellent and really useful G+ #60UsefulMins event this morning.
Buy Kirklees event 19th February Ellie Lyon - Marketing Manager at Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce: Join Mid Yorkshire Chamber members Kirklees College as they house the HTEA, where the discussion will centre on "Buy Kirklees" as a topic. Like (5) Comment (2) James Devitt, Alan Kershaw and 3 others like this Kevin Deutsch Coaching sales people to realise their full potential It will be a day of great local networking with the MY Chamber's always popular MYNetwork that morning at Cafe Ollo (Media Centre, Huddersfield) from 9.00 to 11.30am Mark Evans Owner at Better Telecoms Ltd and SMileS SMS Really looking forward to it
‘Like’ us on Facebook by searching for Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce
PPG Announces Sponsorship of Town's Canalside Facility Tracy Nelson - Commercial Manager at Huddersfield Town Football Club:
@GarethG_Wealth: Thanks to @MidYorksChamber and @CedarCourtHotel Wakefield for another great #ConnectionsCount!
Follow @MidYorksChamber on Twitter
One of the region’s largest employers, PPG Architectural Coatings UK and Ireland, has signed an exclusive naming rights deal for Huddersfield Town’s multi-million pound training complex on Leeds Road. Like (2) Comment (2) Kevin Deutsch, Carolyn Atkinson like this Kevin Deutsch Coaching sales people to realise their full potential Great news for an excellent facility for Huddersfield. Carolyn Atkinson Director at Sheards Accountants & Proud Member at BNI Giants: Visited on Wednesday this week and VERY impressed at the quality and facilities available. A real asset for Huddersfield.
You can also find us on Google+ and YouTube now too!
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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.
Crafty work congratulated A local retailer of jewellery and other arts and crafts has been awarded the Business of the Month for February. Formed in September 2012, Crafty Praxis is an art and craft shop based in the Byram Arcade, Huddersfield and run by Elisa Etemad, a jeweler and graduate from the University of Huddersfield. After her graduation, Elisa had the drive and ambition to become self-employed and started out by selling her own designs and a range of arts and crafts from other designers. Initially Elisa was working with 30 designers out of a small retail outlet but growth has now demanded a move to larger premises resulting in her working with around 100 different local suppliers. Elisa has a passion for helping other small businesses too, not only those whom she supports directly from stocking their work, but also by organising a regular art and craft market where small business owners can come and have a stall for the day within the Byram Arcade. The judging panel were impressed by the enthusiasm and dedication to the business showed by Elisa and the fact that she took the brave decision to start a small business during difficult economic times, with little financial backing. Having achieved a steady growth in sales in the initial few months of trading, the business has seen a very impressive 300% increase in sales since and with Elisa always looking for something new to sell which is usually from a local supplier, great credit needs to be given to this enterprising business which is certainly going in the right direction at this early stage.
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Crafty Praxis owner, Elisa Etemad said: “It is a great privilege to have my business win Business of the Month, the past 18 months, while tremendously enjoyable, have been hard work and it feels fantastic to get recognition from a panel of experts from the local business community.� Pictured left to right: Ellie Lyon
The Chamber
Kevin Winterburn
Sheards
Steven Pollitt
Eaton Smith
Alison Palmer
Eaton Smith
Elisa Etemad
Crafty Praxis
Jayne Pearson
Kirklees Council
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
Print specialist has a winning formula Copiserv, a Wakefield based member and partner in MY Network Wakefield has been awarded the Business of the Month for January. This long established business was originally started back in 1975, but was taken over in 2010 by the current Managing Director Gareth Hunt. Copiserv supplies printing equipment and print management software to SMEs across Yorkshire, to help clients reduce costs and increase the quality of their in-house printing services. The judging panel were impressed by the fact that the MD Gareth took over the business during a very difficult economic climate and from a standing start has managed to turn over a reasonable profit margin in the first year of trading. The panel were also impressed with the proactive way the business is promoted. With a business mission, marketing strategy and a focus on building relationships, they aim to ensure that every business within their target area is fully
aware of the company within the next 12 months and so the future looks bright for this growing business.
Pictured left to right: Alyas Hussain
The Chamber
Copiserv Managing Director, Gareth Hunt said: “We would like to thank Eaton Smith, the Chamber and the panel for awarding Copiserv the ‘Business of the Month’ award. We work hard to try to be a little bit different in our approach in such a crowded marketplace and are pleased that this has been recognised. Things are tough out there and to win this award is a great honour and it’s also a great platform to work on moving forward.”
Caroline Priestley
Handelsbanken
Mark Johnston
Handelsbanken
Steven Pollitt
Eaton Smith
Gareth Hunt
Copiserv
Adam James
Copiserv
Richard Hunt
Copiserv
previous year. Having invested heavily in the most advanced industry planning software available, Absolute Media has the tools in place to deliver successful campaigns on a local, regional and a national basis.
www.mycci.co.uk and see how easy it is to
An absolute winner Huddersfield based radio advertising experts and Chamber member, Absolute Media (UK) Ltd, were awarded the Business of the Month prize for December. Based in Lockwood, next door to the Chamber’s Huddersfield office, Absolute Media is a company who specialise in producing commercial radio advertising, booking of radio airtime and a variety of other audio/visual work. The business was formed in 1999 by Alex Mullen and his colleague Rick Fry. Beginning with an office in Aspley, the business grew steadily and so it moved into purpose built, high spec premises in Lockwood Park in 2012, formally the home of Pennine FM. This office move was quite a risk as it was well into the downturn of the UK economy, but since moving the firm has gone from strength to strength, with turnover increasing by 100% during the last 6 months compared to the whole of the
Absolute Media Director, Alex Mullen said: “It is indeed an honour to be recognised. It’s an even bigger honour to be listened to.” Do you have a business in Calderdale, Kirklees or Wakefield that could win the next monthly award? Download an application form today at
apply. Or for more information contact Ian Greenwood on 01484 821300. Pictured left to right: Ellie Lyon
The Chamber
Jason Metcalfe
Hanson Chartered Surveyors
Steven Pollitt
Eaton Smith
Alex Mullen
Absolute Media
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MembersNews
Tackling energy costs for Chamber members The Chamber’s recommended energy consultancy Orchard Energy – which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2014 – works with members to help them tackle the rising cost of energy and minimise the impact on their business budgets. Richard Gage of Orchard Energy said the past 12 months had seen an increase in the number of businesses seeking efficiency advice in addition to consulting on purchasing strategy.
“We keep a close eye on the energy markets and our knowledge and experience means we can give informed advice for intelligent purchasing,” said Richard.
“Energy purchasing will always be high on the agenda for businesses as they strive to overcome the impact of rising gas and power prices and we are now seeing a strong demand for efficiency advice and planning alongside this, a trend that looks set to continue,” he said.
“Businesses of all sizes can benefit from buying gas and electricity on the most competitive terms and at the best time and as an independent energy broker we look at the whole market to find the best supplier and contract for an organisation’s needs.”
Orchard’s energy consultants carry out free energy audits for Chamber members to find out where efficiencies can be made and how they can buy energy more effectively.
What’s more Orchard plants a tree for every Chamber member who signs up for its energy management services. To find out more call 0844 581 0844.
HR consultancy reaching higher Founded in 2012, Rastrick based Reach Higher Human Resources LTD (RHHR) have been members since last July, having seen the support that membership offers through Twitter. Set up to provide HR expertise to businesses, RHHR founder and owner Mark Butterick identified a specific need for flexible HR services to support local small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) who invariably have no specialist HR expertise in-house. As part of RHHR’s own development, the company recently started working with Business Growth Calderdale (BGC) and Calderdale Council. Since taking this step, RHHR has been able to access forums and business relationships that would have otherwise been unavailable. RHHR also recently accepted a place on the Director’s Support Network run by BGC in conjunction with Bradford University Business School. The programme involves a mixture of local businesses from varying backgrounds and provides highly focussed support comprising seven three hour sessions. These sessions
seek to address issues impacting upon business development and the programme promises to be a seminal moment in the ongoing development of RHHR. 2014 will see continued growth for RHHR and the recent launch of a £40 per month support product for SMEs in addition to the government’s business growth voucher scheme means there has never been a better time for local organisations to access RHHR’s bespoke HR services. Visit www.reachhigherhr.co.uk for more information.
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WestYorkshireEnterpriseAgency
Fit for purpose When 26-year-old Kyle Scarborough signed up for the Royal Marines, he wasn’t banking on hitting upon an entirely different career choice nine months later. Kyle, who was born and bred in Halifax, says he joined the Marines after working in Tesco for six years. “I wanted a new challenge so I got myself really fit and got through the Marines basic training,” he says. However, after a couple of months he realised that Marines life wasn’t for him: “I enjoyed it but I wanted control of my own life.” So he decided to do a Level 3 Personal Trainer Diploma and try and find work in a gym. “I had always worked out,” he explains, “and I realized that if I could achieve my own fitness goals I could help others.” He was unable to do his full time training course and also be eligible for Jobseekers Allowance at the same time so it was a bit of a gamble. But a gamble which paid off, at least eventually. “When I signed back on I wanted to get to work immediately,” says Kyle, “so I applied to jobs in Leeds and Bradford and looked around at local gyms.” The job centre recommended he try the NEA (New Enterprise Allowance) scheme and within a week he was sitting down with his mentor, Joe Cahill. “Joe was able to get me through the scheme quickly,” says Kyle “I had a business plan already from doing my course and Joe helped me tweak it. He also gave me loads of hints and tips and talked me through some ideas.” Joe also advised going on some free business workshops held at the Chamber’s offices, such as starting and running your own business workshop, being your own boss and one on social media. Now Kyle has a Facebook business page for his personal training business, SKS Personal Training. He also went on a two-day business course in London to qualify for a licence scheme at one of his local gyms. Two clients contacted him as soon as he launched his Facebook page and he has recently helped Georgina Worthington train for the London Marathon in aid of Muscular Dystrophy Campaign as photographed. SKS Personal Training, says Kyle, offers the full personal training package, from one-to-one sessions to group work, via nutritional advice. He says, “Getting fit is about a whole health and wellbeing approach. It’s about devising a lifestyle to suit the client.” It’s not without its challenges, he says, “I know myself and I know what I am capable of but it’s about getting a rapport with a client and working out what works for them.”
Kyle’s initial business aims are modest but focused. “By the end of the year I would like around 20 regular clients,” he says, “ideally four a day, two in the gym, two outside.” Through it all, says Kyle, his mentor Joe was “an amazing support. It was really a tight deadline due to when I finished my course but from the very first meeting he was really helpful and got me through the process. Going forward I intend to meet up monthly with Joe as he is there to provide advice and support if I need it in my first six months ” To find out more information about the New Enterprise Allowance scheme or for further business start up support contact info@wyea.co.uk or call 01924 786500.
Meet the Team and Mentor Meet Up The MYMentor and WYEA teams will be on hand at our stands at the upcoming series of local business conferences. The first one of the year is Wakefield Business Conference on 4th June 2014. We look forward to seeing you there. Also, we will be hosting an invitation only event for mentors and prospective mentors to catch up with us and network with each other as part of the events surrounding the conference. Keep an eye on your inbox for more details.
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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.
CoverFeature
Entrepreneur reaches for the sky Chris Hopkins is an entrepreneur who has experienced just about everything that the business world can throw at him, including a fruitful appearance on Dragon’s Den, creating a successful company whose eventual collapse he blames on Government cuts and the remarkable rebirth of his career. Through it all, the roofer’s love of working at height has remained, something that he can trace back to his teenage years long before he thought of running his own business. Now 43, the Brighouse-based owner of Ploughcroft Limited, said: “I did not want to be an entrepreneur when I was younger. As a teenager, I wanted to be an architect and design the tallest building in the world. “I was fascinated by buildings like the Empire State Building and the Eiffel Tower and I used to sketch out my own designs. I was obsessed with tall buildings. “I went to Huddersfield Technical College to study architecture so that I could pursue my dream but left after four weeks. I have dyslexia and, although I am good with numbers, I could not handle all the reading.” He became a labourer instead, eventually working as a self-employed roofer, and the event which set him on the road to life as an entrepreneur was a national meeting of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors in 2007. Chris said: “I was the youngest person there so when I suggested that solar panels could be the future, they just laughed at me. “I was determined that I would not be the youngster in the red shirt who was laughed at but the man in the red shirt who became an entrepreneur.
Chris Hopkins, Owner, Ploughcroft Limited
I was determined that I would not be the youngster in the red shirt who was laughed at but the man in the red shirt who became an entrepreneur.
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CoverFeature
“I had seen solar panels in Germany but when I suggested the idea, they said ‘we only have rain here’, which did not make sense because you only need daylight for it to work. It does not need to be sunny.”
After the Dragons’ Den appearance our work grew really quickly. We grew 500 per cent in six months, going from a business turning over £2m a year to one turning over £2m a month.
In the years that followed, Chris built up a business specialising in installing solar roof panels and also devised an NVQ in the technology which is now taught at colleges throughout the country. That was the idea he took to Dragon’s Den in 2011 and which earned him £120,000 backing from panellists Theo Paphitis and Deborah Meaden, who each put in £60,000 (Chris later bought out their share). He was also helped when the last Labour Government introduced a feed-in tariff (FiT) subsidy regime, which paid people towards the cost of installing solar panels on their roofs. He said: “We grew really rapidly and, in those early days, I was just about the only roofer doing it. We became the go-to people for solar roof panels. “I know I should not have put all my eggs in one basket but it was exciting and, looking back, I got carried away. “However, it seemed to make sense. I met David Cameron not long after he became Prime Minister and asked him if it was true that he wanted his government to be the greenest ever and he said yes. “After the Dragons’ Den appearance our work grew really quickly. We grew 500 per cent in six months, going from a business turning over £2m a year to one turning over £2m a month.” Then came the blow which saw the solar panel side of the business collapse and go into administration. Chris, who had been a member of the government’s Green Construction Board, partly blames the collapse of his business on the Government for two reductions in the feed-in tariff in 2011/2012, which killed the business. However, he also attributed some of the problems to winning the backing from Dragons’ Den because it meant that his subsequent high profile led to an explosion in the volume of his business, which he struggled to maintain. Chris said: “We had grown so rapidly that it was not really sustainable. Looking back, we should not have relied solely on the solar side of the business.
“When the first cut in the tariff came, people rushed to get the work done before the money ran out but when the second one came our phone stopped ringing. “We were like a rocket heading for the moon which suddenly became subject to gravity.” Forced to put the solar side of the business into administration, he reconstituted the operation as Ploughcroft Ltd and went back to roofing. But the man who once received the Institute of Directors‘ Yorkshire and Humber Award for entrepreneur of the year, was still having ideas and now his 15-strong team specialises in ‘rooms in the roof‘, converting attics and similar spaces, replacing the roofs and putting in a revolutionary insulation material. He said: “After the freefall of 2012, we have rebuilt the business. We are part of the Green
Deal, which is a Government-backed scheme but it only offers a £1,000 cashback to people getting the work done. The work can cost up to £10,000 which means it is not dependent on Government funding alone. “We have turned things around. Before, we generated green energy, now we keep a lid on energy, preventing it being lost. “The work is done in Victorian houses which lose 2.5 watts of energy per square metre whereas our system reduces that to 0.25. That means we can save a household £500 a year, which means the system pays for itself over a few years. “It has gone well. We employ 15 people and this time next year we hope to employ 30 but and I am much more cautious than I used to be. I have learned that lesson having been forced to put part of the business into administration largely because of a Government decision.”
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BigInterview
Let there be light low energy comes of age The growing awareness surrounding green technologies has shone a light on the need not just to generate renewable energy but also to conserve what we have - literally. “We exhibited earlier this year at the Home Build and Renovate Show in Harrogate and, although all we had was a LED stand, we were just about the busiest exhibitor there. “What has happened is that it has taken the industry time to catch up with demand and now low energy lighting is at an affordable price and quality that matches the old technologies, LED and Induction Lighting being the two most efficient types of lighting on the market today.
Companies like J.G. Harrison & Sons Ltd are taking advantage of the increasing public demand for low energy lighting as technology catches up with the market place. The company, which is an established electrical distributor with more than 60 years experience and has branches in Halifax, Dewsbury, Bradford and Rochdale employing more than fifty people, says homeowners and businesses are getting the message that a lighting change makes economic sense.
To take advantage of the public enthusiasm, the company, one of whose biggest strengths is its lighting department, is in close partnership with manufacturers to be able to offer the latest technologies, putting it at the forefront of the low energy market. Business Development Manager Amanda Speight said: “I think the interest was always there from consumers.
It used to be expensive but now the prices are competitive and, what’s more, with retrofitting all you have to do is replace the bulbs, you do not even need a new light fitting...
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“It used to be expensive but now the prices are competitive and, what’s more, with retrofitting all you have to do is replace the bulbs, you do not even need a new light fitting and people can also see the financial advantages. It is not just about protecting the planet, it also makes economic sense.” Amanda says that the figures speak for themselves. She points to recent work carried out for the Oxford Grange Nursing Home in Dewsbury. The home spent £8,154 on conventional lighting each year but will see that drop to £2,201 with carbon dioxide emissions dropping from 33.90 tonnes to 12.33 tonnes, thanks to the replacement of its conventional lights with LED. Amanda said: “The work that was carried out at the home illustrates the advantages because it will produce a return on investment in eight and a half months. “Low energy lighting is seen as functional and competitively priced and more and more businesses and homeowners are seeing that. “For instance, we have done a survey for fellow Chamber member the Cedar Court Hotel at Ainley Top. We have surveyed the impact on low energy lighting in several of their major rooms.
BigInterview
“It is early days on the project but we estimate that it will save the hotel money once the work is completed.” The technology can be used across many other sectors. For example, Amanda estimates that a factory spending £4,141 on conventional lighting each year could see that drop to £1,586 with new LED lighting, with carbon dioxide emissions dropping from 15.42 tonnes to 7.40 tonnes, producing a return on investment in 14 months. A car showroom spending £2,479 on conventional lighting each year could see that drop to just £913, with carbon dioxide emissions dropping from 8.12 tonnes to 4.26 tonnes and producing a return on investment in 42 months.
And a five-bedroom household spending £740 on conventional lighting each year could see that drop to £76, with carbon dioxide emissions dropping from 2.96 tonnes to 0.36 tonnes. Amanda, who sits on the Calderdale Energy Future Panel and is a member of the Calderdale Carbon Club, said: “My work is all about raising awareness of the benefits of low energy lighting. “Calderdale, for example, has a target of reducing CO2 emissions by 40 per cent by 2020 and 80 per cent by 2050 and businesses will have to play a major part in that. “For them, it ticks all the boxes and more people are recognising the sense in introducing low
energy lighting. What’s more, there is funding available to help them make the change.” One funding scheme which Amanda recommends is the grant programme run by Kirklees Council, with whom she works. More information can be found at www.kirklees.gov.uk/community/ environment/grants/grants.html Amanda herself is happy to carry out site surveys for Chamber members and can be contacted on amanda@jgharrison.co.uk or 07525 370774. This is an offer of a free site survey available before the end of May 2014.
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ManufacturingEngineering
Cummins Turbo Technologies: Engineering in Yorkshire gearing up for investment in a new Yorkshire site Cummins Turbo Technologies is a global engineering leader in turbocharger technology. Extremely proud of its 60 year heritage in Huddersfield, Cummins Turbo Technologies values its commitment to the region and local communities. Despite the recent economic downturn, the Yorkshire manufacturing industry has continued to succeed. Cummins Turbo Technologies plays an important part in this regional success, through a combination of home grown talent in the region and worldwide expertise. Many of the cutting-edge solutions designed, developed and manufactured at the site in Huddersfield are exported to countries around the globe.
Mark Firth, executive director for Product Line Management & Marketing for Cummins Turbo Technologies, said: “The new manufacturing plant will present us with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure the future of the business by fully exploiting market opportunities in North West Europe and ensuring we continue to deliver our high standards of customer service. The company has recently reaffirmed its commitment to the region by announcing the intention to build a new state of the art multi million pound manufacturing plant in the Huddersfield area. The company’s vision is to relocate manufacturing from the current site on St Andrew’s Road to a new location somewhere within a 10 mile radius. Having secured the next phase of the company’s already long history in the region, the move could lead to opportunities to grow the Huddersfield Technical Centre.
Cummins Turbo Technologies leads the way in initiatives to inspire and engage the next generation of engineers to ensure there is a pipeline of talent for the industry. The company participates in activities designed to inspire school pupils into careers in Science, Engineering, Technology and Maths subjects across the region from a grassroots level including initiatives in collaboration with industry organisations such as the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).
In addition, Cummins Turbo Technologies works with Universities around the region, collaborating on research and development of talent.
This offers a fantastic opportunity for Cummins Tubro Technologies to continue bringing to market cutting edge solutions and technologies to maintain its competitive market position.
“Holset turbochargers, which are at the heart of our business in Huddersfield, remain the component of choice for many international automotive customers - thanks to the expertise and experience of our highly skilled workforce, coupled with our versatile approach and in-depth knowledge of the wider engine system.”
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ManufacturingEngineering
Klüber Lubrication develops into the future Speciality lubricants are at the core of the business, and Klüber Lubrication aim to offer their customers expert solutions that are tailor-made directly to their requirements. With a team of highly skilled and competent consultants and a portfolio of over 2,000 different lubricants, many of which have been developed in accordance with a client’s specific wishes, Klüber Lubrication has established a glowing reputation and is seen as the ideal partner across all industries and trades.
the jack-up system on the HGO InfraSea Solutions vessel Innovation was a major coup as this is one of the most technically demanding applications. As well as requiring high performance lubrication, sustainability and biodegradability are key characteristics demanded by the customer and delivered by Klüber Lubrication.
The recent launch of a new website focussed solely on the marine industry provides specific support to marine and shipping companies.
With a combined 80+ years of experience and expertise, coupled with significant certifications and high-performance testing capabilities, they have become a worldwide success. A new location and some exciting new product launches planned means Klüber Lubrication continues to build into the future.
The marine sector continues to grow strongly and this includes supply of their environmentally acceptable speciality lubricants. Supplying Klüberbio LG 39-700 biodegradable lubricant for
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NewMembers
Welcome to new members..... CM Environment 360 Artist Development LLP From writing the score to your theatre production to recording an audio book or radio advert. 360 Artist Development we have all the tools for your business requirements.
AW Consultancy UK Aimed at holiday parks, holiday hotels and coach tour operators, offering an unbiased and professional service, to evaluate all aspects of the entertainment departments within a business.
Barket Travel & Tours IATA accredited, ATOL protected tour operator and international travel agent offering a quality service with competitive prices for all. Specialising in Islamic pilgrimage groups, business travel and visa services.
Andrew Miller Words I am a humour, sentiment and creative copy writer who brings skills, expertise and lots of enthusiasm to every project. I currently freelance in the Gift and Greetings Industry.
A.P Events Planner Event and wedding planner hiring out candy carts, wishing wells, post boxes as well as producing and selling sweet trees, pamper hampers etc.
Arab British Chamber of Commerce A membership organisation that exists to promote economic activity and trade in both directions between the UK and the 22 member states of the Arab-League.
Arthouse 97 Design agency offering a complete suite of symbiotic related creative services for business’ marketing requirements. Includes graphic design, branding, product photography and web design services.
Avanti Corporate Solutions Ltd Consultancy specialising in invoice finance for owner-managed businesses throughout Yorkshire and beyond, advice and consultation is free to all members.
Connexions Property Maintenance Connexions Property Maintenance provides a whole range of building trades to both commercial and private clients in and around the Kirklees area.
Alx Creations Alx Creations is a kiln formed glass business specialising primarily in large scale glass work for architecture. We also work on a range of smaller household items and sculptural works.
Environmental Consultancy supporting SMEs (specialising in the concrete industry) to identify and manage their environmental impacts and legal compliance requirements.
Construction CAD Solutions Over 25 years of CAD and FE/HE lecturing experience offering autoCAD drawing, bespoke autoCAD training and consulting educational services (i.e. internal verification, lead internal verification).
Better Telecoms By gaining an understanding of how you need to communicate with your audience, whether that is customers, prospects, staff or suppliers. Better Telecoms will help with the right blend of technologies at the right price.
Brandon Medical Brandon Medical is an award winning, UK medical technology company. Their medical lighting products, operating theatre lights, video and AV systems are used worldwide supported by an extensive distributor network.
Burrows Mazda Wakefield Part of the Burrows Motor company family, Burrows Mazda are here for all your motoring needs, offering regular Mazda special offers, repair services and a range of business fleet vehicles.
Cassidy’s Maintenance Services An Ossett based company offering painting and decorating, carpet cleaning, patio/driveway jet washing, weed spraying and other general property maintenance.
Cubicle Centre Specialists in the manufacture of washroom panel products with some of the shortest lead times in the cubicle industry. An extensive range of toilet cubicles and washroom systems are available on a manufacture and supply basis.
Dave Dale Dave Dale is a stand up comedian, after dinner speaker and Compere. He has experience ranging from charity to corporate events, and is also available for TV and film work.
Exporter Services Exporter Services is an International Freight Forwarder offering friendly, professional and helpful support in import and export, letters of credit expertise, shipping and knowledge support, customs compliance, training courses and more.
Fantastic media Fantastic Media is a full service marketing agency that works in partnership with you to create winning strategies to exceed your business objectives. Their philosophy is simple; to get to know you!
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NewMembers
FCC Environment One of the UK’s leading waste and resource management companies helping thousands of businesses and communities waste less and recycle more as part of the FCC group.
First Choice Recruitment Leading independent recruitment agency trusted to deliver solutions that really work. Get in touch and let them show you how recruitment really should be.
Gary’s Handyman’s Services Gary offers house and garden maintenance including interior and exterior painting, roof repairs and gutters, all gardening, fencing, decking, walls and patios.
Holme Start Computers Specialists in providing I.T. support for small local businesses in the Holme Valley and Huddersfield area. From PC’s and servers, to email and websites, offering an individual service to fulfil all I.T. needs, from starting up and beyond.
H&WB Ltd Personalised planning, organising and motivational service to ease clients into a healthier lifestyle. Based on the client’s requirements, H&WB researches local services, develops an action plan, monitors progress and helps maintain motivation.
Jacqui Goff Solutions Ghost Communications Design, marketing and PR agency who offer a range of creative services to clients both large and small and publishers of TopicUK Magazine, Wakefield’s community business magazine.
Go Shred Offering confidential shredding of documents, products, uniforms and media. Go Shred are a total waste management solution with a remit to get your company to 100% landfill avoidance.
Growth Accelerator/Winning Pitch Unique service led business by some of the country’s most successful growth specialists where you’ll find new connections, routes to investment and the ideas and strategy to achieve your next phase of business growth.
Grrroomies UK Mobile pet washing and grooming service offering a unique personal service in a fully insured, safe and hygienic environment. Consultations are free with flexible appointment times.
Have it personalised A husband and wife team specialising in gifts for all occasions. Everything is completed in house so can be personalised to suit requirements. Products include mugs and phone cases to clothing and wall art.
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Providing consultancy and project management to organisations wanting to develop locality-based services to address the needs of there community e.g. community cafes and community events.
Never Been Cleaner Huddersfield’s premier environmentally friendly cleaning service specialising in mobile power washing and steam cleaning, outdoors guttering, paving, decking, patios, gardening and much more.
New Car Deals Limited A family run car and van leasing broker providing discounted business and personal contracts, on most makes and models of car and commercial vehicles with fantastic, personal and professional service that every customer deserves.
Nutralogic Limited Assist international and domestic brand owners in the natural products industry in expanding their horizons and realising new and sustainable revenue streams, with experience of launching and developing products in the UK, Europe, Middle East, North America and Asia.
Julie Scrumptious Julie Scrumptious is the perfect place for the professional or home baker, with an expanding range of products to purchase. A variety of cake tins and cake stands can be hired for weddings, anniversaries, christenings, birthday parties and more.
Lightbulb Learning Ltd Learning and development consultancy offering qualifications development, design and delivery of training, workplace coaching and workplace mediation.
Mail Boxes Etc. Offering a mail and parcel receiving solution to meet almost every need with a real physical box and worldwide parcel delivery, postal, print and copy services.
Mid Yorkshire Golf Club Open to members of the general public 7 days a week, Mid Yorkshire Golf Club offers a 18 hole championship standard course alongside functions, conferences and civil weddings.
Orange Tree Electrical Services Ltd Specialists in electrical inspection and testing, electrical condition reporting, thermo graphic surveys, emergency lighting testing, portable appliance testing also providing expert installation and maintenance services.
Quick Shift Services All in one removal and handyman maintenance service including decorating and gardening.
Rahmans Local photography business situated in Huddersfield with services including weddings, portraits, still life/illustration, videos and more, aiming to specialise in black and white.
Ranting Bunny A retailer offering dark products including jewellery, clothing and lingerie with the aim of making the world a darker place.
NewMembers
Shaun Townend plumbing Services Friendly and reliable local plumber, City and
Redvibe Crafts Supplier of decorative gifts and greeting cards featuring vibrant photographic images with a strong emphasis on the landscapes, animals and the architecture of West Yorkshire.
Guilds trained plus (BPEC approved) offering free call outs and quotations. There’s no job too small. Services include all aspects of plumbing, bathroom installation, maintenance and replacements of fittings.
Replan (UK) Ltd Golf, electrical, retail, equestrian and sports store design and shop fitter offering practical experience and creative flair, with a wealth of experience in supporting businesses towards achieving goals.
Source event equipment leaving businesses with no need to trawl the internet to find hire equipment, taking out all the hassle to free up staff and this service won’t cost a penny.
SLM Consultancy With over 25 years business experience offering affordable, effective and targeted sales, marketing, training, consultancy and business services to SMEs, sole traders and not-for-profit
Richard Vallance Music
The Hire Experts
organisations.
A Kippax/Leeds based acoustic instrumental and professional guitar tutor, with lessons tailored for beginner to intermediate musicians.
Suma Wholefoods
The Wonderful Skills Company A people development business with a portfolio including coaching, CV consultancy, recruitment and training, with a passion for skills development, enabling positive change for individuals and organisations.
UK’s largest independent wholefood
RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield + District Branch An independent registered local charity separate from the National RSPCA, rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming hundreds of animals each year, relying heavily on the generosity and support of the local community.
wholesaler/distributor specialising in vegetarian, fairly traded, organic, ethical and natural products, workers’ co-operative committed to ethical business.
Sweetie Memories Offering retro sweets, gifts, and soft toys for those
Sarah.Louise A clothing brand specialising in both women and children’s wear and handmade gifts. All the products are handmade and designed by Sarah herself and can be made to order.
special occasions. Sweet buffets for weddings, parties, and events. Also themed sweet packs, party favours and sweet trees available to order.
The Alternative Board Empowering business owners to overcome
Sasquatch Music Rehearsal and recording studios incorporating various additional band-related services including PA and back-line hire, live recording, tuition and mentoring, web design, CD duplication.
challenges make better decisions and maximise on opportunities with the aim of creating businesses that will deliver for them what they
West Yorkshire Artificial Lawns Supply and install artificial grass throughout the whole of Yorkshire from the UKs largest stocks of premium artificial grass, providing a unique combination of quality, value and service.
Whiterose Yorkshire Lifestyle A Yorkshire lifestyle magazine covering property, restaurants, health & fitness, shopping, weddings, holidays, business, equestrian, reader competitions and much more.
want out of life.
Service House Limited T/A Admiral Security Services A dedicated team providing immediate assistance to all of clients by responding to their needs night or day. Services include manned security, mobile patrol, key holding response and open/lock services.
Tripkits Ltd Lightweight and flexible packs of useful information including lesson plans, activities and resources to give overseas volunteers a healthy start in teaching under challenging circumstances.
The Design Tree A friendly craft business specialising in supplying crafters with the tools they need stocking both practical and decorative items, all available online.
Wow Thank You Limited Liberation management for businesses and individuals; coaching, mentoring, training and down to earth advice on marketing, business and personal development. Operating a pay fair policy ensuring clients pay what they consider fair.
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PatronsView
Fit for business There are plenty of good reasons for local businesses to ‘go green’ and save energy wherever possible. Alongside environmental preservation, there are a range of finance and tax incentives to spur them on.
David Butterworth Managing Director Wheawill & Sudworth Limited
01484 423691 david.butterworth@wheawills.co.uk www.wheawills.co.uk
• Funding
expenditure including plant and
with a CO2 emission of no more
There are various grants and soft
machinery, equipment, IT kit and
than 95 g/km and on new and
loans available to finance the
commercial vehicles, this means
unused zero emission goods
installation of both energy and
such expenditure qualifies for tax
vehicles. Company car drivers can
water-saving equipment. The banks
relief in full in the year of
avoid a taxable benefit in kind if
also have finance specialists able to
expenditure. There is another 100%
driving a car which cannot emit
advise on energy-efficient projects
allowance available for spending on
CO2.
and renewable technologies.
qualifying capital items including
• Capital tax allowances The annual investment allowance
energy/water-saving devices, see the HMRC website for details.
• Other tax breaks ‘Green’ activities may also qualify for other tax breaks including R&D
has been raised from £25k to
• Green motoring
tax relief and a lower rate of
£250K until 31st December 2014.
Further 100% allowances are
corporation tax under the Patent Box
Available for most types of capital
available for expenditure on cars
tax regime.
Doing our bit for the (match-day) environment At the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats we recycle and take our responsibilities to the environment seriously. Similarly, a number of steps have been taken over the last six months to cut our energy usage and thus costs accordingly, given the financial position the club faced when Chairman, Michael Carter took over the club.
Andy Morgan Media and Marketing Manager Wakefield Wildcats
01924 211611 andymorgan@wakefieldwildcats.co.uk www.wakefieldwildcats.co.uk
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It is the matchday environment we create for our supporters that I would look at in my role. Any sports club that thinks it is simply competing with the other teams in their league to get people through the gate is being a little naive. Of course people want to come and watch a winning team but for the family that’s looking for a day out, they’re choosing from far more than just Wakefield Wildcats and Huddersfield Giants to spend their money. The sport of rugby league is outstanding value for money and the
80 minutes of action on the field rarely disappoints. But there’s more to it than that and it is the whole experience of the day that will keep supporters coming back or indeed choosing to spend their money elsewhere.
We actively promote the ‘Respect’
This season we have introduced a blanket ban on all smoking within the Rapid Solicitors Stadium including electronic cigarettes. We’re by far from being the first sports club to do so and it’s hardly a groundbreaking step but it’s a significant one to making our matchday environment more welcoming for all.
come to watch a game.
campaign to attempt to cut out bad language at matches and are working with other clubs within Super League on setting standards that people can expect when they
Working out of a stadium that is over a century old provides its challenges for creating the ideal matchday environment but it’s certainly not stopping us from trying to offer the best we can to supporters old and new.
PatronsView
Paradoxes of technology The effects of technology, especially science-based technology, have offered the promise of a better world through the elimination of disease and material improvements to standards of living. On the other hand, resource extraction, emission of dangerous materials and pollution of air, water, and soil have created conditions for unprecedented environmental catastrophe and have already caused irreversible damage to the biosphere. While the future might promise a vast acceleration of technological innovation, the scale and impact of environmental degradation may reflect this vast acceleration as well. Not every recent technological advancement is causing more environmental damage! Cloud
computing is different. When organisations move applications to the Cloud, energy use and their carbon footprint per user is reduced by at least 30 percent. For small businesses the result can be even more dramatic, with potential carbon savings of up to 90 percent per user. The main reason for the dramatic carbon and energy saving is that Cloud services are provided from modern, efficient, eco-friendly data centres and once on Cloud small businesses can switch-off old and power hungry servers.
The environmental benefits are just one of the many reasons making Cloud popular. Spiceworks.com recently reported that Cloud services are now used by 62% of medium sized and small businesses, up from 48% in the first half of 2013. The stats are not surprising to those inside the industry, because whether they know it or not, most people already use cloud-enabled services such as email, social media, online gaming etc and most of us want to protect the environment.
Danny Walker Managing Director IT Farm
0845 600 1652 danny.walker@itfarm.co.uk www.itfarm.co.uk
The impact of fracking on your property There is an increasing focus on energy consumption and from where our energy is obtained. One of the more controversial “new” sources of energy is shale gas extracted via the hydraulic fracturing or fracking. The process involves the drilling down into strata of suitable rocks. High pressure water and chemicals are forced down splitting the rocks and releasing the gas within the shale strata. The Government owns all of the shale gas and is granting exploration licences to a number of operators. In addition these operators are seeking planning consent for their works. At present the operators cannot access strata under land without landowners’ consent. To do so would amount to trespass. Unfortunately, the operators can
apply for a right of access to reach the gas. This process is similar to compulsory purchase and the landowner is entitled to compensation equivalent to the value of the rights lost, often minimal.
• ability to obtain finance • availability/cost of insurance • increased maintenance/construction costs Given the limited area currently being explored and the age of the technology it is difficult to be certain
Proximity to extraction sites and the
which, if any, of these factors will
physical impact of extraction from
impact on UK property. However a
under land may cause potential issues for landowners including (but by no means limited to): • diminution in value of the property • marketability
prudent purchaser, developer or investor may wish to bear in mind the likelihood of fracking and factor this into the due diligence and financial planning when looking at the acquisition of a site.
Andrew Pedley Associate Solicitor Commercial Property Department Eaton Smith
01484 821402 andrewpedley@eatonsmith.co.uk www.eatonsmith.co.uk
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PatronsView
What a difference a year makes How do you budget for the weather? April is usually the end of our severe cold weather period and when we consider that our undersoil heating system will no longer be required for the current year.
Gareth Davies Managing Director Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd
01484 484128 gareth.davies@ksdl.org.uk www.johnsmithsstadium.com
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The undersoil heating system consists of a gas boiler, pumps, and 28,000 metres of polythene pipe which was installed at a constant depth of 300mm below the surface. Not too dissimilar to your central heating at home! It is fully automatic, using both the air and ground temperature to detect when the heating system is required to keep the surface of the ground free from frost and ice.
Last year (2013), the country had one of the longest cold weather periods on record, which resulted in the heating system being used more than we have ever used it before in the twenty years the Stadium has been open. From the 11th of January until the 11th April, we used 649,328 KWH of Gas. When you consider that our normal annual site consumption is just over 3,000.000 KWH (which includes the health and fitness centre in the North stand), then the pitch used nearly 22% of the total cost of the heating, which in financial terms was around ÂŁ20,000 for that four month period.
Twelve months later and we have a totally different weather pattern! Yes it’s been extremely wet, but generally mild. In addition to savings on our water bill, we have not had to use any gas for the undersoil heating system, saving the company a substantial amount of money. However, trying to estimate what our energy usage is going to be from one year to the next is extremely difficult and can lead to levies being imposed on us by the energy suppliers for under or over-estimated consumption. There is no easy answer to this, other than many years of accumulated experience.
MemberOfferoftheMonth
Benefit from free publicity and huge savings through the Chamber’s Member Offer of the Month To discuss how your company could take advantage of the Member Offer of the Month and other publicity opportunities, contact Chamber Marketing Assistant Becky Greenhough on 01484 483 678.
View the variety of additional member benefits on offer through previous deals: February
March
April
Absolute Media (UK) Ltd, offered members Moore Finance offered a 50% discount on their flexible finance solutions in February and remains on hand to help members sort financial service fees.
half price air time and the production of voice commercials to help you advertise on radio. Absolute can help source the best prices all year round and can be contacted on
Contact Matt Cork on 07554 983 067.
01484 532677.
Dan Sharp of member company Orchard Energy benefitted from January’s Member Offer of the Month with discounted Huddersfield Town Stripes Gym membership; “I was recently in a car accident and the Chamber’s January Member
Throughout April, the man behind the camera for our own professional shots, John Dean at Imagemaker is offering members a 40% discount on a one hour photo shoot (to be used by end June 2014) usually £150, now just £90, at a location of your choice, including a DVD of your favourite snaps. For more information on how to benefit from exclusive member offers and more, log in to MY Chamber at www.mycci.co.uk.
Look out for future offers coming soon from: May Provide your staff with harder working health cover, from the leading provider of corporate health insurance from just £1.10 per employee, per week.
June Maximise your marketing the eco friendly way with discounts on PrintPod’s recycled paper products.
Offer of the Month helped me dramatically speed up the process of getting back on my feet with affordable gym membership. I’m still not
July
back to 100% but I am much closer because of this offer.”
To coincide with the launch of Liquid’s full range of software, this deal will help you manage your accounts for less.
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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 one-
th
05 June – Wakefield, please go online at www.mycci.co.uk/events for venue information.
breakfast. It’s a great way to
03rd July – Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Lindley Moor Road, Huddersfield, HD3 3RH.
make new contacts in a friendly
How?
minute presentation and then follow-up new leads over
but focused way. You’re also
MY Network Wakefield 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 event.
This event is run in partnership with Barclays, CIM, Copiserv, First Choice, Ramsdens Solicitors, Statement, and the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats.
literature and banner stands.
The second Friday of the month from 12.30pm-1.30pm.
When?
More info:
Where?
The first Thursday of every month
Book your place online or for more information call Tracy Smith on 01924 311607 or email tracy.smith@mycci.co.uk.
from 9.30am–11.00am.
Where? We rotate the location to cover the following order:
Follow @MidYorksChamber and #ConnectionsCount on Twitter.
What?
Where?
These monthly, lunchtime,
Bar Eleven, Harrison Rd, Halifax, HX1 2AF.
the whole Mid Yorkshire region in
business networking meetings are very informal with everybody just
How?
making new contacts.
It’s completely free to attend, just turn up and the first drink is on us. There are no fees and no pressure!
This event is run in partnership
More info:
chatting/mixing/mingling and
with Barclays, CIM and Ramsdens Solicitors.
When? The last Friday of the Month 12.30pm–1.30pm.
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Follow @LastFridayClub on Twitter. For further information and to book visit www.mycci.co.uk/events or contact tracy.smith@mycci.co.uk / 01924 311607.
MY Network Huddersfield
Join us for MY Network Wakefield every second Friday of the month. Very informal and relaxed, come along and make some new contacts in a relaxed setting, the first drink is even on us!
It’s FREE to members and just £5 to non-members. Book online at www.mycci.co.uk.
welcome to bring your company
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01st May – Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre, Hopwood Lane, Halifax, HX1 5ER.
When?
The Hop, 19 Bank Street, Wakefield, WF1 1EH.
This event is run in partnership with CIM, Ramsdens Solicitors, Smiles and The Media Centre.
When? The third Wednesday of the month from 9.00am–11.00am.
Where? The Media Centre, Northumberland Street, Huddersfield, HD1 1RL.
How?
How?
No need to book, just turn up!
No need to book, just turn up!
More info:
More info:
Follow @MidYorkshireNet and #MYNetworkWakey on Twitter.
Follow @MidYorkshireNET and #MYNetworkHUD on Twitter.
Golf 29th May - Low Laithes Golf Club Following a successful inaugural year of Wakefield Business Golf, we are proud to sponsor the groups 2014 events. The first tee will be 1.30pm and every 10 minutes thereafter until everyone is out. The cost is £30 per person, the dates are as follows: • • • •
Thursday Thursday Thursday Thursday
29th 26th 24th 28th
May – Low Laithes Golf Club June – Waterton Park Golf Club July – Wakefield Golf Club August – Normanton Golf Club.
For further information and to book your place please contact: steven@tjfklaw.co.uk or gareth@copiserv.co.uk.
TrainingEvents
60 Useful Minutes Our popular programme of 60 Useful Minutes continues and the first MY Conference takes place in the middle of an exciting Wakefield Business Week.
22 Apr Hudd Budget 2014 update - Gareth Glendinning Wealth Management Gareth will provide a summary of the salient points of the Budget 2014 Statement made by George Osborne, covering areas such as pension and the new flexibility at retirement, savings and investments, Individual taxation, business taxation and Capital Taxes.
22 May Wake
27 May Hudd
eCommerce: How to successfully sell online and grow your business – Statement Are you considering selling your products or services online but don’t know where to start? Are you currently selling online but your online store isn't performing as well as you would like it to? Dan Conboy from Wakefield based member company Statement, will discuss the fundamentals of successfully trading online from the initial stages of planning and researching your market, through to choosing the right platform and developing an effective market plan.
All 60 Useful Minutes events are held at the Chamber’s Huddersfield/Wakefield offices and are FREE to members and just £5.00 to non-members. A light breakfast will be provided from 8.30am with the session commencing 9.00am-10.00am. Book your place at www.mycci.co.uk/events
Debt recovery - Chadwick Lawrence This 60 minutes will give a background to bringing a debt recovery claim. It will focus on what to do to prevent the debt getting out of hand and how to deal with a debtor who will not pay.
03 Jun Wake How to change your business value – FDS Corporate Finance Selling your business is a daunting task and achieving the best price to reflect your years of hard work and sacrifice is something member FDS Corporate Finance, as experienced corporate financiers, know will be of paramount importance. FDS Corporate Finance can show ways to improve your business value in preparation for a successful sale now, or in the future.
Le Tour is coming to Yorkshire 5th-6th July Showcase your business with the exciting opportunities the Tour De France presents. It is expected to put our area on the map and highlight what Yorkshire businesses have to offer.
Wakefield Business Week 2nd-6th June - Cedar Court, Wakefield Monday 2nd June will see the kick-off of the second Wakefield Business Week – an 'open source' programme of sector specific seminars run by
The route will pass our very own Huddersfield office as well as travel through our membership area of Calderdale. For more information on how your business can benefit from the worlds leading free event, visit Welcome to Yorkshire’s letour.yorkshire.com.
different businesses, which are all free to attend. The main event, the conference will take place on Wednesday 4th June at Cedar Court, Wakefield. Visit www.wakefieldbusinessweek.co.uk for more information on exhibiting, holding a seminar and attending the conferences and events as a delegate.
For more information and to book visit www.mycci.co.uk/events
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LegalFeature
Are Terms & Conditions worth the cost? When I am out and about at business start-up events for either speaking or Q&A purposes, one of the most frequent questions I am asked is “Do I need terms and conditions? What are they about?” If you rephrased the question to “Should I have a document that I can put in place between my business and my customer that will give certainty to our transaction, comfort to my customer that we are a credible business and may serve to reduce as far as possible our liability if something goes wrong?”, I think you can see that my answer is going to be a resounding “Yes”. Every business wants certainty and T&Cs go a long way towards bringing just that. As business owners will know, there are a whole host of laws that govern the operation of their businesses and plenty that operate purely to govern the relationship between the business and the customer. Having a set of terms and conditions will bring all the relevant issues into one document in a way that both business and customer will understand and will help to set the expectations of both parties from the outset. So, if having terms and conditions is important, what would they cover? Well, they will differ from sector to sector, from business to business and whether they are B2B or B2C but, pure legalities aside, they can deal with the following: • Detail on how and when you will deliver, together and any specific details concerning delivery • Specifically what rights of redress the customer has in the event of faulty or latedelivered goods or poorly delivered services
• Scenarios that may entitle you to terminate your activities under the contract or to suspend deliveries
• Limiting the contractual remedies available to your customer in certain circumstances
• Limiting your liability under the contract if things go wrong
• When the title (ownership) to any goods passes - you may want to “retain title” and impose certain obligations with regard to the handling of the goods until you have been paid in full
• There may be circumstances totally outside your control that, if they happen, you would want to raise as being circumstances that entitle you to an extension of time for delivering under the contract, rather than allowing your customer to terminate for late delivery
• You’ll of course want paying for your side of the deal - use the terms and conditions to set out how the price has been agreed and when and how payment is to be made. Late payment can lead to interest being payable on that late payment - a useful incentive to encourage payment on time
comes to internet purchases so this is an area to get right. The distance selling regulations are currently undergoing an overhaul thanks to the Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013 which come into force on 13 June 2014. The issues set out above are only intended to be indications of issues to consider. If you do want terms and conditions drawing up, please do get in touch on 01484 821300 or at christaylor@eatonsmith.co.uk.
And, of course, there will need to be sales route considerations - for example, if via the internet or the telephone where your customer doesn’t have the opportunity of examining your goods, then the distance-selling regulations will come into play. Consumers are pretty savvy at their rights when it
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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 NEW
Avanti Corporate Solutions Ltd is a consultancy specialising in invoice finance for owner-managed businesses throughout Yorkshire and beyond and are exclusively offering advice and consultations free to all members. Contact graham@avanti-cs.com for more information.
Offering businesses of all sizes an ‘on demand’ marketing service whether it be becoming the company’s virtual marketing department or conducting ad hoc marketing project work, Sarah is pleased to offer Connect Card holders a 10% discount when you commit to 10 hours or more (usually hourly rate = £45.00). Time can be used for any marketing work. Free, no obligation consultation to discuss your requirements also included. Email sarah@sarahainslie-marketing.co.uk call 01924 821863 or visit www.sarahainslie-marketing.co.uk
Business Doctors offer a free business health check worth up to £1000.
Copiserv provide cost effective photocopying/desk top printing solutions
Are you a successful business owner? Striving to achieve growth?
to SMEs across Yorkshire. For Chamber members, we guarantee to
Frustrated by slow progress and poor staff performance? It’s tough
reduce your existing photocopying equipment TCO by at least 10%,
taking your business to the next level but we’re here to help.
and OR save you at least 15% on your desktop printing costs.
For an independent, positive and practical view of your growth
For more information please call 01924 298926 or email
challenges call 08452938456.
sales@copiserv.co.uk
Log into the MY Chamber section at Members can benefit from a flat, all inclusive day rate for of £350 per day on HR services, as apposed to the usual £500 day rate, for the first three months of any service provision. For more information visit Reach Higher HR’s website and submitting an enquiry form or call 07805 468101.
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www.mycci.co.uk to view all Connect Card offers
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CLOSEUP Spring 2014
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 this summer 2014, however they will include any ground source heat installations from last 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
Spring 2014 CLOSEUP
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LastWord
Movers&Shakers sponsored by
The Last Word Answered by Barbara Butler University of Huddersfield The Business School, Enterprise Development Manager
I studied languages at university and worked in Europe for a short while before settling into a career in finance in London. A house move to Cambridge led to me getting involved in the world of higher education and I joined Huddersfield University in 2009 after a 10 year diversion via the University of Leeds. Since living in Yorkshire, I have developed a taste for walking and enjoying the countryside – on condition that the route includes a tea shop and a piece of cake at some point!
What was your first job and what was the pay packet?
Q.
If you could do another job what would it be?
Q.
A Saturday job on the Pick & Pilot – but I’m very A.Mix counter at Woolworths. The pay packet was very small but A.shortsighted unfortunately. meant a lot to me.
Q.
person, what are your Q.Asthreea business main qualities?
umbrella and A.Handbag, phone.
hardworking and A.Reliable, realistic.
What do you always carry with you to work?
is the biggest challenge Q.What facing your business? The changing political landscape affecting higher education.
A.
If you were Prime Minister, what Q.one thing would you change to
help business?
– reduce it for small A.Taxation businesses, enforce it for large businesses.
would expect from a town centre based university!
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CLOSEUP Spring 2014
Wonderful People The Wonderful Skills Company is a people development business based in Halifax. The company was set up by Julie Brown and Karen Muscat-Baron who bring together their broad portfolio of expertise to offer services to individuals and organisations. Their experience spans HR, recruitment and selection, training and development, leadership development, coaching and mentoring and organisation development functions across a range of business sectors. Their shared philosophy is the development of positive working relationships with all of their clients to empower positive change. Visit the website at www.thewonderfulskillscompany.c o.uk to see their range of people focused solutions.
was your biggest mistake in Q.What business?
Rashmi Dubé, founder of Legatus Law
others to do the right A.Trusting thing.
Leeds and London-based Legatus Law was founded by lawyer, mediator and business mentor Rashmi Dubé to support small and medium sized businesses.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Q.
in yourself and give it A.aBelieve go.
What can you see from your office do you most admire in Q.window? Q.Who business? The canal, some lovely trees, A.the odd barge – not what you
Independent Operator Sue Wright is an international trade specialist who enjoys success in the manufacturing sector. With over 25 years of extensive hands on knowledge in the manufacturing and shipping industries, Sue now operates independently through Exporter Services. Sue shares her knowledge and expertise in the import and export world through training and seminars whilst operating a functional shipping team for her client base to ensure trade compliance.
Entrepreneurs who believe in themselves and give it a go.
A.
Its creation came after a 20-year career including running her own firm, Liquid Recovery, for four years and working for major law firms Irwin Mitchell and Walker Morris. The firm offers services related to commercial law tailored for the SME market, such as establishing contracts, employer, supplier and shareholder agreements and restructuring. Rashmi also has specialist experience in construction law. She spent four years supporting SMEs in collecting debt, tightening their trading terms and working to protect their assets before launching Legatus Law.