ChamberFocus
Forthcoming Events 2014 MIXER Chamber Focus is an Altrincham & Sale Chamber publication
Outlining a vision for the future
Editorial and General Enquiries anne@altrinchamchamber.co.uk Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce 17 Regent Road, Altrincham WA14 1RY T: 0161 941 3250 www.altrinchamchamber.co.uk Publisher Benham Publishing 3tc House, 16 Crosby Road North, Crosby, Liverpool L22 0NY T: 0151 236 4141 F: 0151 236 0440 E: admin@benhampublishing.com W: www.benhampublishing.com Published July 2014 © Benham Publishing Advertising and Features Karen Hall T: 07801 788880 E: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Fern Badman T: 0151 236 4141 E: studio@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1382 Event Editorial Algy Cole, Colewrite Copywriting Event Photography Martin Hambleton Disclaimer Chamber Focus is published for Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in Chamber Focus are not necessarily those of Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2014. Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication.
Sue Aldridge President
23 July - 5.45 to 8.00 pm Sponsored by Leavitt Walmsley Associates Venue: The Greek Kitchen, Sale Members £10
BREAKFAST MATTERS
7 August 8.00 to 10.00 am Venue: Cresta Court Hotel Sponsored by the Cresta Court Hotel Members £5 Non members £10
MIXER
y vision for the future Altrincham is to see a thriving destination market town that is vibrant and stable.
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14 August 5.45 to 8.00 pm Sponsored by Hale Grill Venue: Hale Grill Members £10
BREAKFAST MATTERS
Like other towns 100 years ago, Altrincham, once thrived with a host of independent traders - rather than the generic chain stores we now see. To turn my vision into reality we need a good mix of the high street chains inter mingled with independent retailers. I want to see Altrincham regain its status as a destination for visitors where they can shop, enjoy the arts and experience a wide range of quality culinary delights. To achieve this we simply have to work to attract the ‘names’ and the independents and show them that Altrincham is a unique community with lots to offer. I am proud to be President of the Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce, and as my swansong before I hand the position over to my President elect, I fully intend to make this happen. We can all see the transformation starting to happen with the new general hospital due for completion in spring 2015, the interchange progressing at pace and the new market due for completion in summer 2014. The next step has to be to transform our high street. As part of this initiative, I am working with Joan Scott, the Vice Principle of Trafford College to ensure that Altrincham is the first town in the UK to achieve the Worldhost Status. Our aim is to transform customer service standards, and build Altrincham’s reputation as one of the most welcoming destinations in the UK. All of the programmes have been endorsed by Visit England, Visit Scotland, Visit Wales and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board.
Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.
If you would like to be part of the initiative, please contact me on president@ altrinchamchamber.co.uk
In this issue... 4 7 8 10 15 16 18-21 25 26 27 30 31 32 33 34
Chamber News Member News Business Awards Breakfast Matters 60 Seconds Skills Focus Cover Feature Big Interview Member News Getting Started Ask the Expert 24 hours with... Members Loyalty Last Word New members
AUTUMN LUNCH
12 September Reception 12.00 Lunch 12.30 pm Venue: The Mere Sponsored by Darbys Solicitors Members £25 Non members £30
MIXER
25 September 5.45 to 8.00 pm Sponsored by Clark Art, Hale Members £10
2014 BUSINESS AWARDS
16 October Reception: 6.45 pm Dinner 7.30 pm Venue: The Cresta Court Hosted by BBC Presenter, Gordon Burns Cost: £45 per person or book a table of 10 to get one place free!
BREAKFAST MATTERS
6 November 8.00 to 10.00 am Sponsored by the Cresta Court Hotel Venue: Cresta Court Hotel Members £5 Non members £10
BREAKFAST MATTERS
6 December 8.00 to 10.00 am Sponsored by the Cresta Court Hotel Venue: Cresta Court Hotel Members £5 Non members £10
CHRISTMAS PARTY TIME! 12 December Reception 12.00 Lunch 12.30 pm Venue: Mercure Bowdon Hotel Members £25 Non members £30
Prices include VAT unless otherwise stated BOOK EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT www.altrinchamchamber.co.uk
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Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content.
To get the wheels in motion, Randalls Jewellers will be the first business in Altrincham to achieve World Host status, as they have already completed the Digital High Street course and by attending a dedicated course on 9th June they will meet the requirement for 50% of their staff to have completed the training. The Cresta Court have agreed to join the scheme and are bringing the training in house to meet the needs of the large number of staff they employ. This is the first step to differentiating Altrincham.
4 September 8.00 to 10.00 am Venue: Cresta Court Hotel Sponsored by the Cresta Court Hotel Members £5 Non members £10
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ChamberNews
A Letter for Your Journey ike many families, our family has just waved off a much-loved family member as he embarks on a gap year, in his case a two-year round the world adventure. And, like those others, our joy and excitement at this fabulous journey is tempered by many emotions; sadness at him not being around even though we’ll no doubt keep in touch, hope that he’ll have the very best time possible, apprehension that any sticky situations he may encounter will be dealt with well.
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Courage Travelling on your own on a gap year means moving out of your comfort zone, going into places by yourself, eating alone, asking questions, maybe needing help sometimes. Taking advantage of opportunities in order to make the most of the trip means sometimes swallowing hard, saying ‘yes’ and going for it. Your instincts will often support those decisions, provide guidance as to the best way to proceed but courage provides the motivation to keep going when perhaps loneliness, homesickness, feeling a little lost occurs.
Resourcefulness
Susan Leigh is a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist who works with stressed individuals to promote confidence and self belief, with couples experiencing relationship difficulties to improve communications and understanding and with business clients to support the health and motivation levels of individuals and teams. A gap year provides many wonderful opportunities, beyond those that may have initially anticipated. Yes, there is the freedom to travel wherever he wants, to literally be able to turn left or right as the mood takes, but a trip like this offers much more than that. Here are some of the ways that are open for personal development on such a gap year adventure:
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Trust your instincts
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There are times when you will need to make decisions based purely on your instinct or gut reaction. Tuning in to your own innate feelings about another person or situation is an important survival skill when you’re in an unknown place, perhaps out on a limb. Becoming selfsufficient, trusting what feels right or wrong will support you in becoming more confident, self-reliant and able to make calm, realistic decisions.
For those times when you have to find the best way to handle situations with no apparent solutions, options or help available. These are the times when we discover our own inner metal, what we’re made of and can be proud of ourselves. This is the stuff of legend, the stories that we tell our children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews; the stories of slaying dragons, defeating bandits and marauding pirates that pass into family folklore.
Learning About other people, their cultures, traditions, habits, idiosyncracies can happen on a gap year. When you’re on the road, perhaps staying in hostels or
wherever’s available you’re bound to encounter people you’d never normally meet. Learning about them, having discussions and debates, sometimes perhaps having to tolerate, accommodate or compromise over their ways is an important life lesson. It may even be a life-saving lesson if they have especially forceful or vociferous attitudes.
Flexibility The ability to judge a situation, to adapt, change track or give in and go along with things can oil the wheels of a tense situation but may well open new and unexpected doors to interesting and exciting opportunities and experiences. Negotiation skills may need to be flexible, honed to appreciate what’s needed for a desirable outcome. Many people use these gap year travels as an opportunity to ‘find themselves’ It may sound a little cliched but learning about yourself, discovering what you’re capable of, what motivates you when you’re free from the constraints of family and friends, the demands of normal everyday life can truly help you achieve a wealth of insight and understanding about who you really are. And don’t forget to keep in touch, share your stories, let us know you’re safe from time to time!
MemberNews
Law firm expands its team aw firm Slater Heelis LLP has expanded its team based in Timperley in response to the growth in the commercial and residential property market in south Manchester and Cheshire.
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Giving everyone a sporting chance ith the UK gripped by football fever, law firm W Slater Heelis LLP launched a free Summer of Sport policy for employers. While many fans will have booked time off as soon as the World Cup fixtures were announced, others may have been tempted to leave work early to catch the key games or to call in sick after a late night spent watching matches. With most companies keen to strike a balance between flexible working and fair play, many are unclear about what legal guidelines they need to have in place for staff around major sporting events like the World Cup and Wimbledon.
The Slater Heelis office on Stockport Road in Timperley is now home to an eight strong team and offers full business and private client services. It specialises in conveyancing for private clients, investors and property developers and is headed up by Stephen Locke, formerly of Nicholls Locke. Stephen joined Slater Heelis LLP as a Partner in 2013, making the firm the successor practice of Nicholls Locke, a highly successful property law firm with a strong and loyal client portfolio and one of the leading conveyancing firms in South Manchester.
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...we have an unrivalled understanding of the area and are able to offer a highly personalized service...
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David Slack also joins Stephen’s team from Slater Heelis’ Sale office, enabling the firm to offer a full range of private client services including wills, trusts and probate work from the Timperley office.
Head of Employment at Slater Heelis LLP Tracey Guest has created a free policy for employers to use throughout the summer of sport to make clear to staff what the company policy is on staff behaviour and attendance, addressing areas including requests for annual leave, absence and website or social media use during working hours. Tracey said: “This can be a real grey area for companies who are often caught unawares by sporting events and can end up with a deserted office and no clear guidance on how to manage their staff. “Although the World Cup matches are largely outside
“It is really important to have clear guidance in place to avoid bad feeling or confusion and this policy makes it very clear for both employer and employee as to what the obligations are on both sides.” The policy is based on the basic principle that an employee’s contract of employment requires them to attend for work in order to receive payment, and covers the key issues that employers and employees need to be aware of including: • How to deal with unauthorised absence • How to implement flexibility over working hours during the games • Ensuring staff are aware of the company’s social media policies if planning to watch games online The conciliation group Acas says flexibility from both employers and employees (http://www.acas.org.uk/ind ex.aspx?articleid =2953) during the tournament was key to a productive and engaged workforce. Acas Chair, Sir Brendan Barber, said: “The World Cup is an exciting event for many football fans but staff should avoid getting a red card for unreasonable demands or behaviour in the workplace during this period.
Stephen, who has more than 30 years’ experience in all aspects of residential conveyancing, said: “In spite of the recession, prices and movement of property in south Manchester and the surrounding areas have remained fairly robust and the last couple of years in particular have seen a real growth in confidence. Developments such as Airport City and the tram expansion have meant a growth in both commercial property sales and demand for new homes as people move into the area to fill newly created jobs.
Tracey Guest
“Many businesses need to maintain a certain staffing level in order to survive. Employers should have a set of simple workplace agreements in place before kick off to help ensure their businesses remain productive whilst keeping staff happy, too.”
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“As a firm that has had its roots here for hundreds of years, we have an unrivalled understanding of the area and are able to offer a highly personalized service to help both our commercial and residential clients to move quickly in what is an increasingly fast paced market.” As well as the Timperley office, Slater Heelis now has premises on Deansgate, in Oaklands House on Washway Road in Sale and two offices on School Road in Sale.
traditional office hours there are still a number of issues that arise - how do you deal with someone who may come in after a heavy night drinking; can staff keep up with the tournament on Twitter?
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MemberNews
Altrincham vs Cancer raises over £2000 for The Christie ltrincham Vs Cancer, organised by Pure Gym Altrincham and Altrincham AHQ, raised more than £2,000 for the Christie at an event.
RUNNERS THAT TOOK PART Altrincham Chamber - Sue Aldridge Altrincham Design Studio Mark Winstanley Altrincham FC - Mike Ford Altrincham Forward - Hazel Kimmitt Altrincham HQ - Alex McCann Altrincham Town Centre Partnership Angela Stone Adam Broadhead Sports Therapy Beatnik - Abi Richardson Big Local App Trafford - Alexandra Stevens Clutterfairy - Lesley Spellman
Donations are still coming in on the JustGiving page after the event and the current total raised for The Christie including Gift Aid so far is £2,000.75. The idea behind Altrincham Vs Cancer, thought up by Alex from Social Media company Altrincham HQ, was to bring 28 Businesses and community groups from Altrincham together on the treadmills at Pure Gym to run 140km each taking in a 5km leg. The length of the run was inspired by Twitter. Users of the micro-blogging site write tweets of up to 140 characters. Trevor Holt and Stuart Gibbons of Holt Business Solutions were the first to take to the treadmills and set the timings for each 5k. More used to running businesses than running machines, there was still a hugely competitive streak amongst fellow businesses with the quickest 5K run by Scott Willis, of local building firm Macplan North West, getting his personal best of 20 mins 51 seconds. Many local businesses and residents donated via JustGiving, including Wayne Shaw from The Window Company who hosted a Twitter auction for McBusted tickets and 11-year-old Nathan Spellman,
who donated a week’s pocket money as his mum Lesley Spellman of Clutterfairy UK was one of the runners Sarah Hagan, manager of Pure Gym Altrincham, said: “As a new business coming into the community, it is great to see how strong the community is and how local businesses can come together to raise such a phenomenal amount of money for such a great cause. It is amazing for us to have the support of the local businesses in the area and this is the first of many fundraising events I am sure.” Alex McCann, of Altrincham HQ, said: “Altrincham Vs Cancer went better than we ever imagined. We raised so much money for The Christie, we brought together community groups and businesses together for the cause and we welcomed Pure Gym to that Altrincham spirit. The people of Altrincham have a generosity, a spirit and desire to get things done. “After the success of this event we’re already thinking of our 2nd Altrincham Vs Cancer event which will be taking place in October at Pure Gym. This is something that can grow and grow and what better charity than The Christie to raise money for.” Donations are still being taken on www.justgiving.com/altrinchamvscancer
Costa - Chris Mungodan Dulux Decorator Centre Mark O’Loughin Dunne And Gray - Eamonn Dunne Holt Business Solutions Stuart Gibbons Holt Business Solutions - Trevor Holt Macplan NW - Scott Willis & Thomas McConville Marco Frezza - Graphic Designer Moore Accountancy - Sid Moore Nourish - Thomas Groves Pure Gym - Aaron Smyth & Jack Richardson Silver Blades - Hannah Fitzsimmons, Jake Bennett & Simon McGuinness Slater Heelis - Helen Frankland The Web Studio - David Bellin The Window Co - Wayne Shaw
Forty years of service
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Former editor Phil Fleming joined the newspaper group in 1986, overseeing both SAM and the Stretford and Urmston edition. He looks back on his back on his time in charge with pride and said that highlights included the Sale and Altrincham edition being named the country’s Free Newspaper of the Year in 1988 and 1989. Not to be outdone, the much smaller Stretford paper scooped awards for editorial excellence. Phil said both publications had a ‘great’ rapport with their readers. He added: “We ran some great campaigns and we raised a lot of cash for good causes, most notably the £250,000 for a new Macmillan cancer centre at Trafford General Hospital.”
ChamberFocus
he Sale and Altrincham Messenger has been at the heart of the Trafford community for the past 40 years, reporting on the issues that matter to the people of the borough and giving readers a voice on its letters pages.
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BusinessAwards
2014 BUSINESS AWARDS n 16 October the Cresta Court hotel will play host to our prestigious business awards evening, now in its third year.
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All winners
By popular demand, BBC presenter Gordon Burns will again host the awards evening, which will be held in association with the Sale & Altrincham Messenger and Trafford Business Connect Magazine. The event will commence with a Champagne reception courtesy of the Cresta Court Hotel followed by a delicious three course meal.
2014 Business of the Year winner – Networking in the City
The categories are: • Small Business of the Year • Start Up Business of the Year • Retailer of the Year • Property Team of the Year • Young Apprentice of the Year • Provider of Professional Services • Leisure & Tourism • Charity of the Year • Business of the Year • Employee of the Year This is your opportunity to showcase your business and the work of your staff. Alternatively you can nominate a client, customer or supplier for an award. Tell us in not more than 300 words who you are nominating and why they deserve recognition. Winners and runners up will be announced on the evening and we do hope you will come along and join us for this very exciting event!
The closing date is 31 July 2014 but send your nominations in soon and don’t miss this year’s event.
Gordon Burns
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Nominations on line www.altrinchamchamber.co.uk; by post to Anne Jardine at the Chamber office, 17 Regent Road, Altrincham WA14 1RY or emailed to anne@altrinchamchamber.co.uk
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BreakfastMatters
BREAKFAST MATTERS OF 5 JUNE 2014
IN JUNE, WE HAD AN AWAY-DAY – WITHOUT LEAVING ALTRINCHAM he June “Breakfast Matters” took us from a wet and breezy Altrincham into the balmy climate of the global marketplace. Over 45 Chamber members and guests came to the Cresta Court Hotel to warm up with coffee and rolls before their virtual away-day. There was a definite buzz about the gathering as we chatted before the presentations – and several new members experienced the Chamber’s friendliness and welcome.
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As the Chamber’s two “Pillars of Wisdom”, President Sue Aldridge and Office Manager Anne Jardine were away, the almost-as-wise Paul Mirage introduced the presentations. The theme was import/export, trading across the world. It was a real education for all of us. Julie McAlinden of Cardinal Mantime was first. Cardinal is a “Freight Forwarder”, a specialist in international trading. Julie introduced us to:
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• ‘Incoterms’ (which define responsibility for goods at the various stages of transit);
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• the hot markets of BRICS, MINT and CIVETS (these are a great “Pointless question); • the areas of the world where trading is not straightforward (you can probably guess where);
Pictured left to right: Karl Susol, UKTI; Christine Stout, Vice Chair; Julie McAlinden, Cardinal Maritime and Paul Mirage, Membership & Business Development Manager.
BreakfastMatters
• and that our American friends a use slightly different process (no surprise there, then). Julie told us about the help available for trading across the world. She made special mention of the Government’s UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) department and the International Festival of Business in Liverpool in July.
Few of us had done international trading and it was fascinating to hear from Julie and Karl what could be done and the help available. It certainly sparked several discussions during the networking afterwards. As always, this Breakfast Matters closed with the business card draw for the Dinner for Two in Cresta Court’s Dettori’s
That flowed neatly into the next speaker, Karl Susol from UKTI itself. This Government department is jointly funded by the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills, and the Foreign Office. The UKTI operates in 99 countries, backed by Trade Advisers in the UK – we in the North West can call on 30, one of them being Karl.
Restaurant. It was won this time by Helen Drainey of DHF Accounting. Bon appetit!
The UKTI offers impartial advice and strategic support to over 24,000 companies. These are mostly SMEs with a high potential for growth and innovation. This support has resulted in an impressive return on investment by the UKTI: £22 revenue generated for every £1 spent. UKTI generates this return from its range of services: • Helping open doors abroad • Researching markets overseas • Making sure written and visual communication is clear for the target market • Providing access and support for tradeshows. • Offering training and Trade Advisers across the UK
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Helen Drainey, DHF Accounting with Christine Stout.
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BreakfastMatters BREAKFAST MATTERS 8 MAY 2014
ADVICE ON THE TYPICAL HR
TUPE, LITIGATION AND
reakfast Matters, the B Chamber’s monthly update meeting, met at our excellent hosts, the Cresta Court Hotel. Over 45 members and guests came along and enjoyed bacon rolls, coffee and juice whilst they chatted, exchanged news and networked.
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Sue Aldridge, the Chamber’s President opened proceedings. Sue will be doing a Pure Gym charity treadmill run later in May and urged us to join her (that second bacon roll now felt a little heavy). Then she introduced the main speakers for the morning, Jill Bottomley and Janet Hulme from HR Dept.
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HR Dept provides pay-as-you-go HR support for small businesses in the Trafford area. Jill and Janet came to update us on employment law and best practice for managing absence. HR is a complex area, and prone to litigation, so the message was clear: take advice before engaging. To help us, Jill talked about the latest HR legislation: • There are a few changes to TUPE regulation, some quite significant. One that focused our minds was the new power to fine employers who lose at Tribunals. This is aimed at
L-R: Janet Hulme and Jill Bottomley, HR Dept with Sue Aldridge, President.
BreakfastMatters
COCKTAIL –
ABSENCE those who disregard the appeal process, so of course, wouldn’t apply to any Chamber members… • The Health & Work Service is a new, state-funded occupational health assessment, starting in October this year. • The criteria on both Flexible Working and Ante-Natal appointments have been extended, making more employees eligible. Janet then gave some best practice for managing absence, reminding us of the HR equivalent of the legal principle, “the presumption of genuine sickness”. However, there were some tips to help us: • Employees must call, not text or email their absence. By speaking with them, you will get you a much clearer view of what’s wrong. And it will flush out any ham actors. • Always do ‘Return to Work’ interviews, no matter how long they have been off. It’s a chance for you to update them on what’s been happening in the business. • Use the “Bradford Points” system to help identify fraudulent absence. (NB: this is named after an academic, not the town. They are as hard working as anywhere else.) Next was Carl Bridge, Director of the “Village by Village” charity. He told us of their work to improve water and sanitation in African villages. As with all charities, they need continual support and contributions, so sponsorship from Chamber businesses would be most welcome, no matter how small. Before we returned to our informal networking, Sue held the monthly business card draw for the Dinner for Two in Cresta Court’s Dettori’s Restaurant. It was won by Tony Morris of Chafes Solicitors LLP – he’ll enjoy it.
Jill Bottomley.
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Carl Bridge.
Sue Aldridge & Tony Morris.
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MemberNews
Haines Watts wins Accountancy Excellence Award for the third year he Altrincham office of national accountancy T firm Haines Watts won Accountancy Firm of the Year – SMEs at the annual FDs Excellence
Expert gives talk to school girls about healthy skin
Awards. The awards recognise the service providers that support Britain’s finance community using the results of an annual survey, in which FDs and financial decision-makers recorded their opinion. Their ceremony was held in Grosvenor Square, London and hosted by Real Business in association with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and supported by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). Haines Watts beat competition from other UK firms such as KPMG, Grant Thornton, BDO, Baker Tilly and Deloittes. John Whittick, Partner at Haines Watts in Altrincham,said: “It’s great to see Haines Watts win such a prestigious award. This type of award really matters to us because it’s voted for by business people and not by an academic panel of experts. “It’s fantastic that we are the first firm ever to have won an award in three consecutive years. We are proud of all of our staff who do an outstanding job for our clients day to day and who have contributed towards us winning this award.” The award comes on the back of having won Auditor of the Year for the past two years.
Dr Sarah Norman, flanked by (L to R) Jayshwini Sanghani, Kate Gleave, Elizabeth Archer, Scarlett Daly and Aysher Nadeem.
t is never too early to start protecting your skin; that was the key message given by Hale-based skin expert Dr Sarah Norman to the girls in Year 9 at Manchester High School for Girls (MHSG).
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“We were delighted to welcome “
Dr Norman to talk to our students about skin health and skin protection.
A substantial part of Sarah’s talk focussed on the need to wear sun protection, in all weather conditions.
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Sarah, who consults at the BMI Alexandra Hospital in Cheadle and her own BrightNewMe clinic in Altrincham, said: “As a former pupil of MHSG, I was delighted to be invited to educate the girls on matters of skin health and skin protection.
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“Exposure to the sun is the biggest cause of ageing of the skin, and over-exposure can also lead to cancers of the skin. I advised the girls to wear sun protection all year round, as sun damage can occur even on cloudy, wintery days.” Corinna Bennett, Head of Year 9 at Manchester High School for Girls, said; “We were delighted to welcome Dr Norman to talk to our students about skin health and skin protection. The girls found it really useful and interesting, and many went away truly inspired by her expertise.”
SixtySeconds
Education team helps with creation of Academy later Heelis LLP has helped Burnage Media Arts College to convert to Academy status, which was confirmed by the Secretary of State for Education Michael Gove on 1 April.
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The change in status for the South Manchester school comes 80 years after it was founded in 1933 as Burnage Grammar School for Boys, which counts architect Lord Norman Foster among its alumni. The new name - Burnage Academy for Boys – reflects both the school’s history and the ambitions of the current Head Ian Fenn to develop a curriculum and culture that is tailored to the unique needs of the school. Slater Heelis’ Education Team of Geoffrey Blower, Richard Riley, Hannah Al-Shaghana, and Christine Gardiner, advised the Head and Governors in respect of the legal requirements for conversion including establishing the Academy Trust, negotiating the Funding Agreement, and dealing with other commercial and property arrangements for the school. Slater Heelis worked alongside One Education who managed the Human Resources aspects of the conversion. Richard said: “Burnage Media Arts College is one of the best inner city boys schools in the country and now, by becoming an Academy, it will be able to continue to offer a relevant, modern curriculum that enables its students to pursue professional careers. The teaching staff are working tirelessly to inspire pupils, parents and the wider community with the new opportunities that lie ahead and we are delighted to have been able to work so closely with Ian and the Governors to achieve their new status.” Ian Fenn, Head Teacher at Burnage Academy for Boys, said: “Our decision to convert to Academy status was very much driven by our commitment to delivering the calibre of education that we know will most benefit our boys. We are now much more in control of creating and delivering a curriculum that will enable them to achieve their potential and are already working closely with students, parents and staff to put this in place. “The process of converting to an Academy was complex and lengthy and we were very pleased to have Slater Heelis by our side to guide us through the process. The school has a rich history behind it and we know it will have a great future ahead of it.”
Name: Company: website:
David Bellin The Web Studio http://thewebstudio.co.uk
Q - In five words or less, what do you do? A – We create websites that work. Q - How long have you been a Chamber member? A – Since 2009. Q - Why did you join? A – Chance to meet other businesses and offer my services when I started my business. Q - What services do you use? A – Breakfast networking mostly and some lunches. Q - What’s the best business/benefit you have won through the Chamber? A – In 2012 won Small Business of the Year at the Chamber awards – this was great for business. Q - Are there any additional services or information you’d be particularly interested in? A – More dedicated help for small and start-up businesses. Q - If you were telling another business person about the Chamber, what’s the first thing you would say?
Q - Where do you read your copy of this magazine? A – Via the copy I’m sent mainly, though often online. Pictured left to right are: Richard Riley, Hannah Al-Shaghana, Geoffrey Blower and Christine Gardiner.
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A – Don’t believe everything you hear – try it for yourself!
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SkillsFocus
Apprenticeships factfile • An Apprenticeship is a way for young people and adult learners to earn while they learn in a real job, gaining a real qualification and a real future • Hiring apprentices helps businesses to grow their own talent by developing a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce. Nearly every employer that takes on an apprentice (96%) reports benefits to their business. 72% of businesses report improved productivity as a result of employing an apprentice • Other benefits reported by apprentice-employers include improved product or service, the introduction of new ideas to the organisation, improved staff morale and better staff retention, each mentioned by around two-thirds of employers • Businesses that offer Apprenticeships view them as beneficial to their long-term development. According to the British Chambers of Commerce, most employ an apprentice to improve the skills base within their business. The average Apprenticeship increases business productivity by £214 per week • Apprenticeships are available at Intermediate, Advanced and Higher (degree) level, covering more than 170 industries and 1,500 job roles, from advertising to youth work via environmental engineering and nuclear decommissioning • More than 100,000 employers are employing or have employed quality apprentices in more than 200,000 locations.
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Source: The National Apprenticeship Service
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More Apprenticeships announced as week proves a success ncreasing numbers of people will be given an opportunity to earn while they learn, after more than 20,000 new Apprenticeships were pledged by employers as part of the recent National Apprenticeship Week.
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Nationally, Lloyds Banking Group committed to hiring 5,000 apprentices, Greene King and Whitbread pledged 2,000 a piece and EE, Mitchells & Butlers and Starbucks each announced 1,000 vacancies. Announcements were been made by hundreds of businesses around the country, not just corporates but many smaller companies with Surrey businesses among those supporting the initiative. Indeed; 47% of the employers creating Apprenticeships are small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). National Apprenticeship Week also saw a boost to the new Traineeships, which give young people the work preparation training, English, maths and work experience they need to get an Apprenticeship or other job. The announcements about the success of National Apprenticeship Week followed new research revealing that nearly half (44%) of employers intend to take on one or more apprentice in the next five years. And research from the Association of Accounting Technicians revealed that apprentices delivered £1.8bn of net economic benefits to UK organisations in the last year. The Week also saw the Prime Minister announce the Government’s commitment to creating two million Apprenticeships over the lifetime of the current Parliament. David Cameron also announced the next round of Trailblazer employers; 29 new groups of employers who will lead the transformation of Apprenticeships. The new trailblazers, spanning sectors from accountancy to aviation, nursing to retail, include small businesses and sector specialists as well as some big
names such as Tata Steel, John Lewis, British Airways and BMW. Other announcements during the Week included the launch of new Higher, degree level, Apprenticeships in Space Engineering and Nursing. Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “The Government is putting an end to the damaging divide between vocational and academic learning. We are committing the biggest ever investment in Apprenticeships and are on track to create two million Apprenticeships over the course of this Parliament. “Apprentices already contribute £1.8 billion to the economy and with these further commitments, thousands more people will now be able to get the practical skills they need to build careers and help firms grow.” Skills and Enterprise Minister Matthew Hancock MP said: “We want to make going to University or into an Apprenticeship the new norm, and over half of young people say they would like to do an Apprenticeship if one were available. So it’s great that as National Apprenticeship Week 2014 comes to a close we can announce that 20,432 new positions are to be created. “Apprenticeships are delivering for employers, young people, adults and the economy and are increasing at a record rate. Nearly every employer that takes on an apprentice reports benefits to their business, including the ability to grow their own talents.” Visit apprenticeships.org.uk or https://bitly.com/Traineeships2014 for more information or ring 08000 150 600.
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BusinessFinance
Helping businesses ac the funding they need aining access to finance is key for many businesses in this area but sometimes it can feel like the help is not there.
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The Government and many other organisations are working to change that and here Chamber Focus runs an eye over some of the options opens to companies operating in this part of the world, be it taking on apprentices, growing the business or breaking into export markets.
Voucher scheme backs research The Growth Vouchers research programme helps small businesses to find strategic advice from private sector suppliers who can help their business to grow. This joint programme between the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) and the Behavioural Insights Team in Cabinet Office was launched in January and will roll out over the next 15 months. Growth Vouchers offer expert advice in areas such as: • raising finance and managing cash flow • recruiting and developing staff
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• improving leadership and management skills
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• marketing • attracting and keeping customers • making the most of digital technology More information is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/collec tions/growth-vouchers-programme
Financial support for apprenticeships In the Budget statement, Chancellor George Osborne, announced new funding packages to further encourage small businesses to take on more apprenticeships and to support degree level and postgraduate apprenticeships. A total of £170 million of additional finance will be made available, made up of £85 million in 2014 to 2015 and £85 million in 2015 to 2016, split across the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills and the Department for Education as the initiative covers the 16 to 24 age bracket. The benefits include: • removing any barriers to smaller businesses taking on new apprentices • employers, who have not had an apprentice in the last year, can receive a £1,500 grant for up to the first ten apprentices they employ in their business • the extension of the grant into 2015 to 2016 will ensure apprenticeship takeup by small businesses continues to be supported. Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “With the appetite for apprenticeships growing, this new £170 million investment and programme expansion will give a boost to smaller businesses and enable us to meet the higher than anticipated demand for the scheme over the next two years.”
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Also, £20 million of new finance is being committed to further support degree level and postgraduate apprenticeships. This is being allocated as £10 million in 2014 to 2015 and £10 million in 2015 to 2016. This investment will part-fund the training of degree level or postgraduate apprentices, with the rest of the cost of the training met by the employer. Vince Cable said: “We want it to be the new norm that young people either choose to go to university or begin an apprenticeship. Additional funding to support degree level apprenticeships will make this a reality and also put universities and vocational education on the same footing.” Matthew Hancock, Minister for Skills and Enterprise said: “From January 2015, the funding will be focused on businesses with fewer than 50 employees, which means we will be able to support those that often face barriers to recruiting apprentices.
More information is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/organ isations/department-for-businessinnovation-skills
The Government’s Regional Growth Fund (RGF) is investing millions in projects across the country which are designed to create jobs and fuel business expansion. The RGF is a government pot to create sustainable employment and growth in a wide range of sectors across the country. It supports areas that are traditionally more reliant on the public sector to increase private sector investment and encourage businesses to expand. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “This is a vital fund that has already helped more than 400 projects and 3,500 small and medium sized enterprises. “We’re seeing very encouraging signs that the British economy is on the road to recovery. Home-grown and British-based businesses are leading that charge for a stronger economy. “The Regional Growth Fund gives businesses a helping hand from government to fuel business expansion and create sustainable employment.” Business Minister Michael Fallon said: “As we work to secure the recovery, every new job and every new pay-packet counts. The Regional Growth Fund is about backing companies and sectors that have the vision and capability to create longterm growth, but need extra support to realise this potential.” More information is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/organ isations/department-for-businessinnovation-skills
continued
ChamberFocus
“Along with going to university, becoming an apprentice should be seen as the new norm for young people. By supporting more businesses in the coming 2 years, we will be able offer even more opportunities for potential apprentices to begin their career in a range of sectors.”
Millions go into supporting growth
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BusinessFinance Credit scheme helps with exports
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“This will help to ensure the availability of long term financing to support exports of capital and semi capital goods exports and overseas projects.”
UK Export Finance, the UK’s export credit agency, recently launched its £5 billion Export Refinancing Facility (ERF). The ERF will enable UK-based exporters to offer competitive long-term financing to overseas buyers who require loans in excess of £50 million to purchase UK capital goods and services. ERF is targeted at project sponsors in emerging markets who need long-term loans to finance investment-related capital goods and services for high value opportunities such as largescale construction or infrastructure development projects.
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It allows overseas buyers to access the highly competitive funding of the debt capital markets to refinance export finance loans after their initial funding by the banks.
Demand for shortterm funding soars hort-term funding has never been more in demand says Chris Baguley, managing director at specialist short-term finance lender, Bridging Finance.
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As we hit the mid-point of 2014, we look back at a successful first six months, and forward with optimism, to a busy second half of the year. Certainly, the UK’s economy is recovering, confidence is growing and the outlook is brighter for businesses across the country.
Trade Minister Lord Livingston said: “Increasing UK exports and giving UK exporters the support they need is key to our long-term economic plan to promote sustainable growth. The Export Refinancing Facility will help British firms succeed overseas by lowering the cost of finance for buyers who choose UK companies for their major projects.” The new ERF is part of wider UK Export Finance plans to expand the ways in which it supports UK exports. Another example of this is the £3 billion Direct Lending Facility (DLF). The DLF will see UK Export Finance lend directly to overseas buyers at the lowest interest rates allowed by international agreements. David Godfrey, CEO of UK Export Finance, said: “We are being more targeted and innovative in our support of UK exporters. In particular, we are building closer partnerships with banks and professional advisers to ensure UK exporters have the full range of support available for export success.” Jon Coleman, Chairman of the British Exporters Association, said: “This will help to ensure the availability of long term financing to support exports of capital and semi capital goods exports and overseas projects.”
With increased optimism, comes willingness to invest in new opportunities. Business owners and entrepreneurs are starting to invest in order to make better returns, and help from a specialist funder could provide a much needed lift to help turn these opportunities into successes. Bridging Finance isn’t solely for property professionals as some might think. We have helped many company directors who require funding to pay corporate tax, VAT bills or the costs of stock and equipment where suppliers are demanding payment upfront. Of course, anyone interested in using a bridging loan for this purpose should always seek professional advice. In this fast-moving and varied marketplace we ensure that we’re continually updating our bridging finance products and services in-line with our customers’ changing demands. The demand for our services is apparent through the cases that we are completing here at Bridging Finance, and with plans afoot to increase our lending further in 2014, it’s set to be an interesting few months. On top of this, our parent company Jerrold Holdings, recently announced it had secured additional funding to bolster its lending requirements. This increase in financial backing will enable us at Bridging Finance to continue to provide competitive lending products to our customers. As we enter our 10th year of lending the deal will allow us to fund our ambitious growth plans and deliver a wide range of products at competitive rates to benefit our customers, both old and new.”
For more information on Bridging Finance, call 0161 333 1955 or visit: www.bridgingfinance.co.uk
ChamberFocus
Loans from Bridging Finance typically vary from £20,000 to £3m, with an average loan size of £67,500. Funds can be transferred just 24 hours after completion in some instances.
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BigInterview
New confidence help makes new car dealership site a success here’s something unique about the new-look Peugeot Citroen car dealer in Sale, which was unveiled earlier this year.
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Exterior of the dealership
Peugeot 308 - Recently named European Car of the Year
Robins & Day, on Washway Road, had its official opening in February after the showroom was transformed to give it a bright modern look. But there was more to it than that. Previously, the town had separate Peugeot and Citroen dealerships, housed in ageing buildings standing a mile and a half from each other. The building work saw sales of both brands moved onto the same site, the first time the French company had done such a thing at one of its own businesses. It was a gamble given the loyalty that customers have to each brand but the move seems to have worked, according to Glenn Cunnington, general manager at Robins & Day Sale, who is responsible for 45 staff.
“The new site has two showrooms, one for each brand, but previously if someone visited one showroom they then had to travel a mile and a half to the other one, now they only have to walk twenty metres.
“We were not sure how people would react. We always knew that people had a strong loyalty to each brand, that they would come back time and time again for the same type of car because they had just a positive experience with it, and although that has continued to happen on the new site there has also been plenty of crossover. “There are similarities between the brands and people have been looking at both, going to one showroom then into the next.
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The new site has proved itself a success and is going from strength to strength.
“Previously, if they left one showroom we did not really know if they travelled the mile and a half to the other one. Now we can see it happening.
in a new car but also to a trend away from buying vehicles outright and the growing popularity of lease arrangements.
“The decision to create the new site has definitely worked. The car industry in the UK has enjoyed twenty six months of successive growth, making it among the best, if not the best, in Europe and we are sharing in that.
This, said Glenn, made cars seem more affordable and also prompted people to change vehicles more frequently.
“We are significantly up on last year’s sales. Our target was to exceed sales from the two old showrooms. We were confident that it would happen but what has surprised us is how quickly it has happened.” He attributes that partly to the upturn in the economy with people willing to invest
He said: “The new site has proved itself a success and is going from strength to strength. Long may it continue.”
Glenn Cunnington General Manager Citroen Retail Group & Robins and Day Peugeot Sale
ChamberFocus
Glenn, who has worked for the French company for a decade, said: “It was a major project and the first time that something like this had been tried by the company anywhere in the world.
Peugeot RCZ R Special edition
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Citroen DS3 Cabrio Racing in our showroom
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MemberNews
Tony celebrates remarkable achievement s most of you will know, our Chairman Tony Collier set off in mid 2011 to run the six World A Marathon Majors, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, London, New York and Tokyo and at the same time raise funds for the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust. major plus was that fund raising for CAFT has exceeded £11,600 since I started running marathons for them. London was really tough as the unbroken blue sky and unrelenting sunshine with very little shade made for a hot hard race. I think the sun burn hurt more than the legs at the end of the race!
On 13th April Tony finally completed the feat when he finished the London marathon on a hot and sunny spring day. Tony said “Its been a great adventure and a pretty unique way of travelling around the world. The one big negative was the Boston bombings in Spring 2013 but the
Donations can still be made at www.justgiving.com/tonycollier4caft
“I am now very proud to have claimed my World Marathon Majors 6 star certificate. Prior to London there were only 14 people in the UK and 124 worldwide who have one and even after London there are still only just over 20 of us in the UK in this unique club. I am now taking things a bit easier with 14 races (including 5 half marathons) currently booked in the diary for the rest of the year! I am however hatching a plan for a major event next year so watch this space!” Tony completed the London marathon with a number of his Styal Running club mates including Tim Norman (Myersons Solicitors), Claire Northcote, Andy Dooley (another member of the WMM 6 star club) and Louise Weller.
New solicitor for Stowe Family Law in Hale towe Family Law has continued to boost its presence in the North West with the hire of matrimonial solicitor Jane Young.
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The firm, the largest specialist family law practice in the UK, is joined by the trained barrister and family law solicitor at its office on Oxford Road in Hale. Jane Young is very experienced in all aspects of family law, including divorce, matrimonial finance, cases involving children, cohabiting couples’ rights and prenuptial agreements. She was called to the Bar in 2007 and is a Resolution- first for family law, member. Jane is also a Trustee for the charity Trafford Domestic Abuse Services (TDAS) and on the management board since 2008. Known for her empathy, robustness and great client care skills, Jane has specialised in family law since qualifying as a barrister.
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Jane said: “I’m excited to have been given the opportunity to become part of a family law team with such a stellar regional and national reputation. It’s thrilling to join such a well-known firm as Stowe Family Law.”
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Marilyn Stowe, the senior partner at Stowe Family Law, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jane Young to our Hale office. This is a great hire for the firm and a valuable addition to our growing team – I’m sure our clients here in Cheshire will receive the best possible counsel and care. Our international practice will also benefit from her fluency in German, too.” Stowe Family Law opened its first North West office in 2008 and also has offices in London and Yorkshire.
Jane Young
ChamberFeatures
Getting Started John Fisher Boomerang Integration Consultants 0161 834 6112 john.fisher@boomerangconsultants.co.uk www.boomerangconsultants.co.uk
QWhat gives your business ‘the x-factor’?
QWhat has been your greatest business success to date?
We are a niche consultancy offering consultancy services within the social media world. We are able to target our clients’ key consumers, delivering their brand and products directly to them to upscale their interaction with their end consumer, and creating maximum ROI.
Going above and beyond our clients’ expectations, and being able to add some prestigious clients to our ever growing portfolio.
QWhat motivated you to set up the business?
No lows, we constantly stay positive at Boomerang.
Wanted to offer something that not many other business are doing, in terms of social media and rather than selling we consult and manage the client social media platforms. We also pride ourselves on excellent customer service and the fulfilment of seeing how our work helps other organisation reach their online potential.
QWhat has been your lowest moment? of business achievements, where do you want to be within the QInnextterms5 years? The market leader within this industry and branching out into other sectors of the consultancy world. We want to have a large team of dedicated professionals who have the same vision for strategic company growth as the founders.
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would be your top tip to someone thinking of starting up their own QWhat business?
Each day is different and an exciting challenge, and with a start-up you can take your company in the direction you want to channel it. You can also refine on certain areas as the company grows.
Make sure you do your research, check out your competition and understand the market. Network with people within that industry to get ideas and contacts.
What do you like most about working for a start-up?
The University of Salford has always had a business focus, especially when it comes to Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) KTP is one of Europe’s leading programmes combining graduate recruitment with knowledge exchange. The benefit of KTP is proven across a range of measures, whether it be company development and profitability, knowledge exchange between universities and business, or job creation. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships programme is intentionally flexible in its delivery, allowing projects to vary in length from 12 to 36 months and the knowledge base partners eligible to participate.
By participating in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership Businesses and organisations can:
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Access up to 67% grant funding.
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Access expertise and innovative solutions to help your business grow.
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Receive help with the development of new and pioneering technologies.
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Improve your organisation’s operational efficiency.
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Benefit from an increase of over £270,000 in annual profits before tax.
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Create three genuine new jobs.
If you feel that your business or organisation could benefit from the University’s expertise, please contact us on the number below. Janet Morana, University of Salford Partnerships Manager T: 0161 295 2902 E: j.morana@salford.ac.uk W: www.ktp.salford.ac.uk
ChamberFocus
Funded by the Technology Strategy Board along with the other government funding organisations, KTPs are collaborations between academics; a company that needs their expertise and a graduate (Associate) recruited to work on a project central to the requirements of the business, and its development.
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MemberNews
The Jewel in the Crown for receptionists iz Royle, front office manager, and Andrea Richardson, receptionist, at the BEST WESTERN Cresta Court in Altrincham, south Manchester, have received a BEST WESTERN Hotels ‘Jewel in the Crown’ award.
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Success at student market challenge rafford College students had wide range of stalls at the Student TMarket Challenge on Sunday, 18 May. The event was supported by Altrincham Forward, Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce and Trafford Council as part of Love Your Local Market Fortnight. Students competed for a range of prizes. The judges were Dr. Jackie Campbell (Chamber of Commerce Director) and Sue Aldridge (President of the Chamber of Commerce): • Overall Winners: Adorrabella • Best Dressed Stalls: Be Our Guest
Emma said: “It has been so worthwhile as we have been able to get out business out there to the general public and gave us the opportunity to get some honest feedback.” Clare said: “I would highly recommend doing this to anybody. This is just the start of our business plan and we are hoping to take this further in the future. Today has really boosted our confidence and, hopefully, we have got some customers for the future.”
• Best Business Plan: Busy Bees • Sales & Customer Service Award (prize funded by the Chamber): One World Cafe Dr. Campbell said: “It has been a tremendous effort by all of the students, especially the winning team who have put in an extraordinary amount of effort to get this done. They are a credit to the both the College and Altrincham.” General manager Paul Hindley presents Liz Royle (left) and Andrea Richardson (right) with a bottle of Champagne to celebrate their award.
Nominated by guests at the hotel for their exceptional customer service, Liz and Andrea received the award in recognition of their warm and friendly service that went above and beyond guest expectations. BEST WESTERN Hotels operated the staff recognition scheme for its Rewards programme members to highlight great service in their UK hotels.
ChamberFocus
Liz said: “I am absolutely thrilled. We always try to deliver a friendly and attentive service to all our guests, but the fact that one of our guests took the time to nominate Andrea and I for the award made this all the more special.”
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Both ladies proudly wear their ‘Jewel in the Crown’ badge and are receiving 1000 points which they can convert via a staff incentive scheme to hotel stays with BEST WESTERN, plus a bottle of champagne from hotel general manager Paul Hindley with which to celebrate their achievement.
Sue Aldridge said: “The event is an amazing platform for students who want to go into business as it allows them to showcase their skills and to develop their ability to interact with the general public in a professional manner. The students have been fantastic.” The two students who were overall winners with their stand Adorrabella were Emma Parker and Clare Bowland.
Double delight t’s been a good time for Richard Forman and frank virtual Iadvertising and marketing. Councils, Business Growth Hub. This was hard fought business won in competition with a number of agencies. What made it even more satisfying was that when the individual scores for business performance and expertise were circulated, Richard Forman came out top.
The first piece of news was their appointment as one of the preferred marketing agencies for Cumbria County
Hot on the heels of that success came the announcement that the frank virtual campaign to re-launch Eden Estate Agents had been shortlisted in the prestigious Chartered Institute of Marketing awards for budgets under £20,000.
MemberNews
Solicitors raise £1338 for North West Aire Ambulance
Philip Thompson joins Stowe Family Law in Hale
taff at Chafes Solicitors have handed over a cheque for towe Family Law S £1,338.94 to the North West Air Ambulance following a year’s S continues to boost its successful fundraising. The money was raised through a variety of presence in the North West, activities held throughout the year including a ‘wear yellow’ day, a sweet shop and raffle at the Christmas party. Gillian Edwards, Regional Fundraiser at North West Air Ambulance said: “We are so grateful for this donation. The charity operates three helicopters seven days a week and attend between 5 – 10 missions per day. The charity relies entirely on voluntary donations to sustain its service.”
Jon Roberts (centre) Managing Partner at Chafes Solicitors, and some of the team from the Alderley Edge office present a cheque to Gillian Edwards (far right) and Sandra Creaser (second right) from the North West Air Ambulance.
Jon Roberts, Managing Partner at Chafes added: “As a company it’s important to us to support a charity. Our staff felt very strongly about the North West Air Ambulance and the fantastic work that they do so we’re delighted to be able to help them.”
with the hire of Philip Thompson who qualified as a solicitor in 1984 and was formerly at Butcher & Barlow LLP. He is a member of the Law Society Advanced Family Law Panel specialising in Matrimonial Finances and Private Children’s Law matters. Philip has experience of acting in urgent matters and preventing the disposal of assets invested in the UK and abroad involving high net worth cases in particular.
Blackstone Solicitors in Hale achieve excellence lackstone Solicitors, based in Hale, Cheshire, have achieved excellence in B the Investors in People Report. Set up in 2010 by Emma Nawaz the business has grown and flourished and now employs a team of 6. The firm specialises in dispute resolution and all aspects of commercial litigation serving clients throughout the UK. Earlier this year Blackstone were involved in an international story as they acted against several well know high street banks.
Earlier this year Blackstone Solicitors won ‘Team of the Year Litigation’ at the Manchester Legal Awards. Commenting on this latest achievement for Emma and the team, Emma Nawaz, Managing Director commented, “We are
Left to right: Charlotte Turner, Sophie Freelove, Sarah Townsend, Emma Nawaz, Daniel Thomas, Kayleigh Lynd.
all absolutely delighted with the Investors in people report. We have a strong team ethic at Blackstone and remain passionate about our clients and building long-term professional relationships. My congratulations go out to the team and I thank them for their continued dedication.” Blackstone Solicitors Campaign House, 8 Cecil Road, Hale, Cheshire. WA15 9PA www.blackstonesolicitorsltd.co.uk
Marilyn Stowe, the senior partner at Stowe Family Law, said: “We are delighted to welcome Philip Thompson to our Wilmslow and Hale practices. This is a great hire for the firm and a valuable addition to our growing team – I’m sure our clients here in Cheshire will receive the best possible counsel and care.” Stowe Family Law opened its first North West office in 2008 and with offices in London and Yorkshire is the UK’s largest specialist family law firm.
ChamberFocus
The Investors in People report clearly shows that the company has developed a clear vision, strategy, direction and purpose, which have been shared with all staff. People in the business are clear about the ambition of the Company and its future plans. The report highlighted that Blackstone Solicitors are lead by a passionate and dynamic leader in Emma Nawaz who recognises that the business depends on the quality and passion of its people. During the interviews within the assessment feedback from staff indicated that exceeding client’s expectations is always paramount to the team.
Having practised in Family Law for many years he has wide experience of dealing with the repercussions of relationship and marital breakdowns, including dealing with cohabitation issues, divorce and civil partnership disputes, domestic violence and financial problems.
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ChamberFeature
Ask the Expert Jill Bottomley The HR Dept Trafford and Warrington 0845 053 3665 jill.bottomley@hrdept.co.uk
Early Conciliation I have heard that if an employee Q or ex-employee wants to take me to an employment tribunal they now have to go through a new process involving ACAS. Is this true and do I have to co-operate? As of 1st May 2014 any employee or exemployee is not able to take their employment claim straight to an employment tribunal, but now has to contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS). Traditionally, the first an employer may have heard about an employment tribunal claim was a correspondence from the employment tribunal itself.
ChamberFocus
The introduction of ACAS early conciliation is an attempt to see if there is an opportunity to settle a claim prior to it entering the tribunal system. Employees who feel aggrieved have to fill out a form and submit it to ACAS who will try to find
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a solution within 30 days. During this period the clock stops so that if a solution isn’t found the claimant still has time to lodge a tribunal claim. An ACAS Early Conciliation Support Officer should telephone the claimant within two days. The ACAS process is free, which leaves cynics believing that a large number of forms will be submitted on the chance that the employer will just pay them to go away. However, neither party has to agree to negotiate, in which case the clock starts again and employers keep their fingers crossed that the employee won’t pay to file a claim. One early issue that has been discovered is the claimant not putting the right contact details for the employer on the form, leaving ACAS unable to contact the business. ACAS is, therefore, unable to discuss the matter and issue a certificate to allow the case to be entered into the system.
Back in July 2013 the government introduced a mandatory fee for employees to pay when taking their employer to a tribunal, hoping this would remove vexatious claims. Following the implementation of the fees there was a sharp drop in employment tribunal claims. However, there is evidence to show an increase in the complexity of claims submitted. Even if you have done everything by the book, an employment tribunal can take up a lot of your time and money, which is rarely budgeted for. Therefore an employer has to think carefully as to what to do next if they receive a call from ACAS in regards to a potential claim from an employee or exemployee. The process is designed to see if there is any opportunity to seek a settlement and avoid the costs and time of litigation. However sometimes, regardless of the circumstances, some people want their day in court. We will have to wait to see in the longer term the impact of early conciliation.
ChamberFeatures
24 Hours with... Wayne Shaw Managing Director — The Window Company
amily time important in working day.
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The company has two teams who install windows mostly in domestic properties and they have an increasingly heavy workload as the upturn in the economy encourages more people to improve their homes. The company is a family-run business that installs Upvc Windows, Upvc Doors, Conservatories and Roofline in the Manchester area. Its range includes bay windows, porches, French doors, sliding patio doors and energy-rated windows and the company has been trading from its showroom in Sale since 1986.
Managing director Wayne said: “We tend to have a briefing for half an hour first thing in the morning, setting up the day, after which the teams can get out and do their thing. “Then I get a couple of hours in the office, catching up with things, talking to my secretary, answering emails, getting back to people. “After that has been done, I am out of the office, meeting prospective customers at their homes and giving them quotes. “As managing director that is my main job, offering the quotes and bringing in the work. “I can do four or five quotes in a day. The company has been busy for about a year now and we are getting busier as people
feel more confident. We have definitely seen an upturn in work as the economy improves. “I’ll do quotes throughout the day but I always make sure that I get home for five in the afternoon so that I can see the children and my wife. “That family time is really important to me and making sure that I am back at that time means that I have the chance to bath the kids and be there as they prepare for bed. “Very often I go out again after that. I’ll go out at six thirty or seven to do some evening calls and, having been home for a couple of hours, it means I can do it without feeling guilty.”
“The company has been busy for about ChamberFocus
a year now and we are getting busier as people feel more confident. We have definitely seen an upturn in work as the economy improves.
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Wayne Shaw’s working day begins at 7.45am when he arrives at the Window Company’s Sale offices to brief his team.
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AMINAH TANDOORI TAKEAWAY/CATERING Aminah Tandoori Takeaway/Catering offer members of the Chamber 20% discount of all food orders including catering for general meetings, parties, anniversaries and all special occasions. Contact Mr Ali on 07709 111926. BRUNTWOOD LTD 25% off your first meeting room booking. 10% thereafter. Two month’s rent free when taking a 12 month term on a virtual office. One month free when taking a minimum three month term on a serviced office. Membership fee waived for our day office card. Video conferencing from £99 per hour up to six attendees. T: 0161 233 7877 enquiries@bruntwood.co.uk Meeting room prices range from £20 per hour for up to 4 people to £150 per hour for 120 people. Cost savings on virtual office space will be either £100 for mail only or £200 for full virtual by signing for 12 months with the rent free. Savings for day office card membership is around £69. Prices exclude VAT. COLEWRITE COPYWRITING 50% discount to write a 60 second “elevator pitch” for use at networking events and other occasions. Cost is £25 (normally £50) Contact Algy Cole, Cole Copywriting 07912 374220 or algy@colewrite.com CRESTA COURT HOTEL 10% Discount off food on any event booked. 15% discount off any accommodation booked direct. T: 0161 972 7272 (Menu prices from £25 and accommodation from £65 per night)
DATABROKER LTD “Impartial business and consumer data experts” 15% off all standard UK and EU B2B data orders – an exclusive offer to Chamber members. Free data audit – your existing client data is vital for your business and you need to know that it’s accurate. Our free data audit will provide you will a detailed report on the accuracy of your client data and what steps can be taken to correct any errors. Savings could be as much as £100 per 1000 records. Contact Gareth Perry T: 0161 941 5700 Mob: 07538 811 017 E: info@data-broker.co.uk W: www.data-broker.co.uk DELTA SOLUTIONS 50% Discount on a consultation to look at your current financial reporting with a report that highlights strengths/weaknesses and gives recommendations. Normal charge £500, cost to you £250 (plus Vat) Tel: 0845 164 5015 Mob: 07796 176817 E: sue@delta-solutions.org.uk
IMAGINE FM Free production of your first commercial saving £300 + VAT T: 016 476 7349 E: louise.heaney@imaginefm.net MERE COURT HOTEL 20% off our Du Jour Menu in the Arboreum Restaurant (3 course menu is £19.95) T: 01565 831000 THE MERE GOLF RESORT & SPA 1 X 4 Ball for price of 3 ball £225 (should be £300) Twilight golf £35 pp; Early Bird £35 pp T: 01565 830155 Saving £75 on a 4 ball betterball MILNER BOARDMAN 15% Discount of the first year’s fees for a new client. T: 0161 927 2727 Fees £2,000 to £2,500 so saving £300 to £375
FADDIES DRY CLEANING 10% Discount off dry cleaning, laundry, shirt valet; leathers & soft furnishings. On your first visit have a suit dry cleaned for free T: 0161 928 7660 GRESHAM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LLP Free initial consultation from a Chartered Financial Planner to all members. T: 0161 973 9150 (Saving of £500) HOMES4U 50% Discount on initial letting fee for any new properties instructed on our Gold + full property management service. T: 0161 941 2323
MINUTEMAN PRESS Digitally produced matt laminate double sided business cards on 350g silk 500 £49 + vat saving £16; 1000 £69 + vat saving £28 Litho produced matt laminate double sided business cards on 400g silk 500 £59 + vat saving £20; 1000 £79 + vat saving £26 Contact Ed or Alison on 0161 928 8826 www.120manchester.minutemanpress.co.uk SAFETYNET IT Free IT system health check saving of £66 + VAT T: 0845 869 8451 SALE & ALTRINCHAM MESSENGER
ChamberFocus
To take advantage of these many savings, please state that you are a member of Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce when you contact the supplier
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Please note: Offers are made by the individual organisations and the Chamber cannot be held responsible for any changes/amendments or withdrawal of these offers.
‘Market Your Business’ - Up to a 15% discount on your first advertisement in the Sale and Altrincham Messenger including the Business Page – saving from £30 off a front page or £53 off a Business Profile and £55 off a full page. For this offer and more long term campaigns contact keith.morris@nqnw.co.uk Tel 0161 908 3413. SEND OUT CARDS Offer all Chamber members one free card as a gift to send to a recipient of your choice. Please contact Natalie at
sendoutcards@live.co.uk
For enquiries telephone Natalie on 07834 76647.
LastWord
Gareth Thomas OTONE Audio Ltd Managing Director
SPIRE MANCHESTER CLINIC HALE Non-surgical cosmetic treatment offer with Spire Manchester Clinic Hale - Altrincham Chamber members can receive £25 off any non-surgical cosmetic treatments when they spend up to £150 and £50 off if you spend over £150. This offer is exclusively for Altrincham Chamber members and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. For further information, terms and conditions or to book please call 0161 232 2303 (quote AC1001). Varicose or prominent veins - Altrincham Chamber members can receive a scan and consultation with Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Mr Ferdinand Serracino Inglott at our Clinic in Hale for prominent or varicose veins for £150 (usual price £200). This offer is exclusively for Altrincham Chamber members and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. For further information, terms and conditions or to book please call 0161 232 2303 (quote AC1002). TOLL OPTICIANS 15% Discount and a free second pair of spectacles to Chamber members. Contact: Sarah Haughian T: 0161 928 0566 E: tollopticians@aol.com TRAFFORD SURVEYORS 10% off all home improvement packs and domestic energy performance certificates. 15% off all surveys, valuations and commercial energy performance certificates. T: 0161 929 8257 THE WINDOW COMPANY 20% off our full range of products, windows, doors and conservatories saving between £100 and £3000. Contact Wayne Shaw T: 0161 962 8570 Email: info@the-windowco.co.uk THE ZIPYARD 15% off all alterations and repairs at The Zipyard, 14 Lloyd Street, Altrincham WA14 2DE T: 0161 929 4848 Alterations and repairs start from £10 up £100+
ADDITIONAL OFFERS... AA AFFINITY SCHEME Members/staff discounts off AA Breakdown Cover. Get the AA’s best prices at enrolment plus 10% at renewal – on average 10% cheaper than the AA.com. To get a quote and join, please call 0800 048 0075 and quote reference ‘F0706’. THE FUELCARD PEOPLE
M
As part of this team I became exposed to the technical aspects of product development, leading me to change roles and companies and peruse an interest in product management at Belkin. After five years of managing the booming mobile phone and iPod accessories categories, I wanted to get involved in speakers which is when I took a new role specialising in internet and DAB radios and docks. It is these 15 years in FMCG that have given me experience in product development, marketing, advertising and branding as well as keeping my hand in on the operations side but in my eyes these were all just my foundation years for the building and launching of Otone Audio. What was your first job and Q what was the pay packet? I worked as a fruit picker on a local farm, I can’t remember the pay but it was paid by the crate so it was all about getting process right; picking, sorting and packing as quickly as possible, with minimum damage – the better the process the better the money!
everyone else and you can feel the working day wake up and relax at the end – I certainly get than from my window. If you could do another job Q what would it be? I’m a keen biker and use it as a way of unwinding at the weekend, so perhaps a Moto GP rider.
As a business person, what are What do you always carry with Q your three main qualities? Q you to work? I think self-belief (both in Chargers and power adaptors – everything drains power these days. What is the biggest challenge Q facing your business? Building brand recognition
myself and the quality of our products), perseverance and planning. For a smaller, new company all of these are vitally important.
What was your biggest mistake Q in business? Not starting earlier! Having
and confidence with trade, the CE market is very competitive so it is difficult to convince buyers to move away from established brands and try different (potentially better) new brands.
said that, all the years with other companies have really helped give me foundations for Otone.
If you were Prime Minister, Q what one thing would you change to help business?
What advice would you give to Q aspiring entrepreneurs? In today’s market you need to
In the electricals industry, as in many others, one of the biggest problems is counterfeit goods, so I would clamp down on the import of those as it really damages not only the sales but also the perception of genuine goods.
provide something unique, offer the customer something they can’t find elsewhere, whether that be a product, a service or simply knowledge.
What can you see from your Q office window? Unfortunately my view
considered as one of the smartest businessmen of recent times. His vision was what drove Apple to their current success and his ability to impart his enthusiasm to his followers was second to none.
consists of the car park but I was once told that you should try to feel the ‘pulse’ of the day, meaning arrive slightly earlier and leave later than
Who do you most admire in Q business? I think Steve Jobs has to be
ChamberFocus
Members will receive: • Typical savings of up to 5p per litre on national average pump prices, with fixed weekly pricing • Savings of up to 10p per litre on motorway refuelling • Free credit for up to two weeks – and the same price, wherever you refuel • Just one weekly invoice, paid by direct debit, to cover all transactions for all your vehicles • Easy reclaiming of VAT • Own named, dedicated account manager to answer any queries • Easy access, 24/7/365, to your account information – including transactions not yet invoiced • Access to major brand diesel or petrol from over 7000 sites nationwide • Leading-edge security features • Each fuel card, linked to a vehicle or driver, is useless to anyone else if lost or stolen Tel: 0844 870 6938 Email: rcarr@thefuelcardpeople.co.uk Website: www.thefuelcardpeople.co.uk
y career started out in logistics and distribution for telecoms company Orange, it was there I joined the project team for new product introduction.
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NewMembers
We Welcome New Members Avid Business Solutions Ltd Nikki Robinson T: 0161 244 8194 E: nikki@avidbusinesssolutins.co.uk W: www.avidbusinesssolutions.co.uk Web Design/Digital Solutions
Leavitt Walmsley Associates Ltd Les Leavitt T: 0161 905 1801 E: les@lwaltd.com W: www.lwaltd.com Accountants
Boomerang Integration Consultants Ltd John Fisher T: 0161 834 6112 E: john.fisher@boomerangconsultants.co.uk W: www.boomerangconsultants.co.uk Consultancy
Munsamy Photographic Tobias Pearson T: 07737 247476 E: tobiaspearson@googlemail.com W: www.imaginelooksee.com Photographer R W Signs
Chelsea Harrison LLP Shaun Harrison T: 0161 870 6409 E: info@chelseaharrison.co.uk W: www.chelseaharrison.co.uk Accountancy
David Burgess T: 0161 864 2688 E: office@rwsigns.co.uk W: www.rwsigns.co.uk Signage
Innov8 Conference Services James Caldwell T: 0161 300 6396 E: james@innov8-conferences.co.uk W: www.innov8-conferences.co.uk Events
Stephensons Solicitors LLP Janet Walsh T: 01942 774246 E: jwa@stephensons.co.uk Solicitors
JWC PR John Warburton T: 061 381 0185 E: john@jwcpr.com W: www.jwcpr.com PR
Timperley Sports Club Colin Taylor T: 0161 980 4397 E: info@timperley-sports.com W: www.timperley-sports.com Sports Club
K&R Badges Ltd Richard Guite Tel: 0161 929 2440 E: richard@kr-badges.co.uk W: www.kr-badges.com Badge Manufacturer
‌..Changes Alyx Gerrards has changed her business name from Dynamic HR to Clearpoint HR
ChamberFocus
Tel: 07769 975994 E: alyx@clearpointpr.co.uk
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Not yet a Chamber Member? Join today – Possibly the best investment you can make this year! Contact Paul Mirage Tel: 07708 987518 Email: paul@altrinchamchamber.co.uk