Inspire Business Magazine May 2015 by Benham Publishing Limited

INSPIRE.09

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The business magazine of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce April - May 2015

Circular Economy Conference at Rothamsted Research Why Businesses should attend - page 14 n Inspiring Herts Finalists page 10 n Mitsubishi Electric page 17 n Spotlight on Stevenage Old Town page 18 INSPIRE

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Summer is coming!

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Welcome

Contents Up Front 4-9 Inspiring Herts Awards 10-11 The Circular Economy 14-15 Spotlight on... 18-23 Big Interview 24-25 HR Academy 26-27 Member News 29-31 International Trade 33 New Members 34 -35 Chamber Events 36-39 UH Courses 40 Forum News 41 Work Place 42-43 24 Hours 45 Members News 47 Dacorum 49 Last Word 50 •••• Editorial and General Enquiries Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce MacLaurin Building, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Tel: 01707 398400 Fax: 01707 398430 Email: enquiries@hertschamber.com Web: www.hertschamber.com Chief Executive: Yolanda Rugg Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing 3tc House, 16 Crosby Road North, Crosby, Liverpool L22 0NY Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published April 2015 © Benham Publishing and Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: studio@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1415 •••• Disclaimer Inspire is published for Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in Inspire are not necessarily those of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2015. Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. 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. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

From the Chief Executive Quarterly Economic Survey Evidence from this quarter’s Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) suggests business confidence remains historically high despite a weakened manufacturing and service base recorded in the Qtr1. As the largest business survey in the UK, it is an essential tool for communicating conditions to key policy makers in Government, so your support in completing the survey is paramount in helping us grow our response level and raising the voice of our members. General Election As the General Election draws closer, with one of the most difficult results to predict, we are starting to see an increased level of caution and uncertainty as the business community wait to see the impact from the future government. Whilst the 2015 Qtr1 results do not necessarily point to slower GDP growth, they highlight the continued challenges facing businesses, in key areas of export, domestic markets (relying too heavily on consumer spend), employment balances falling, investment and confidence. Despite the falling balances in our survey, the results support

our view that the UK economy will continue to grow, but more must be done to support exporters accessing finance, and growth must be nourished. International Trade We are continuing to promote increased links with our overseas network, as India’s economy continues to grow by 6% we are pleased to team up with the UK India Business Council to deliver in National export week, trade seminar ‘Access India’, to help our members learn how to the scale and nature of the opportunities presented. More details on page 33. Spotlight on Stevenage Old Town For some of our members that have never been to Stevenage Old Town, do read our Spotlight on Stevenage Old Town, on page 18, and also our big Interview on the CEO of Stevenage Borough, Barry Webber, who along with our local Chamber business forum is keen to help the town promote a more positive image, and work in partnership to raise awareness of the unique vibrant business communities in Stevenage, both on Gunnels Wood road and the Old Town to help businesses attract and retain local talent to the area. Our members March has been a strong month as we welcome 23 new members, including new Patrons PWC in St Albans, along with other Patrons, will help provide our members with a unique ‘Gateway2Growth’ partnership to be launched later this Spring. I was delighted to see a large increase in entries and congratulate all our finalists in the fourth year of our Inspiring Hertfordshire awards. We are so grateful to our Headline sponsors LV and founding hosts Porsche Hatfield and our much valued category sponsors detailed on page 10, which include Ocado, Stevenage Borough Council, HB accountants, Bourne Leisure, Johnson Matthey, Aldwyck housing, Broxbourne council, Handlesbanken,

Serverchoice, Mercury newspaper group, and UK India Business council. I hope many of our members will go on to enter this year’s BCC awards detailed on www.chamberawards.co.uk For many of our members entering their new financial year, I wish you all a very rewarding year ahead, and hope you will take advantage of the many benefits we offer to you, from opening doors see page 6, and helping you grow, to exploiting the expertise in our team, from International trade, and export documentation, Apprenticeships, and skills; whilst protecting your business through free services such as legal helpline and insurance, to ChamberHR, documentations and legal advice line; detailed on page 26. Circular Economy Conference Please do join us for our high profile conference on June 6 at the new state of the art conference centre at Rothamsted Research, Harpenden where academia, Politicians and business leaders will come together to discuss and debate the future of our sustainable economy; detailed on page 14 and 15. Up-skill your workforce Finally, there has never been a better time to invest in your talent as the economy starts to grow, and ensure you have the next generation of leaders in your management team. I am delighted to confirm we have managed to secure for a limited amount of courses, a 25% discount on the training courses at University of Hertfordshire, whether that be a MBA, Leadership, Strategic management, IT, marketing, accountancy, project management, etc. www.herts.ac.uk/apply/ schools-of-study/business As we enter our new financial year, thank you all for your continued and growing support.

Best wishes Yolanda

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Herts Chamber opens Inspiring Young People conference Youth Connexions holds major event for careers education and guidance professionals. IAG Conference 2015 - Inspiring Young People.

“This is an annual event that is very important to Herts chamber in providing a platform to represent the needs of our members in growing local talent and accessing their local labour market. We presented the work on our STEM pilot, and were actively involved in STEM discussion groups.‘’ Yolanda Rugg CEO

On Wednesday 11 March 2015 Hertfordshire County Council’s Youth Connexions held its annual information advice and guidance (IAG) Conference, ‘Inspiring Young People’, for 100 delegates from Hertfordshire schools and colleges. The aim of the day was to support education providers to inspire their learners, raising their students’ aspirations through quality, impartial careers and work-related education, information, advice and guidance. The conference was opened by the Business Development Manager at Herts Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tamsyn Hammond, who set the scene with a local economic overview. This was followed by a fascinating talk about the future of education and work by Rohit Talwar, CEO of Fast Future Research. The afternoon presentation was by Helen Hawxwell of UKCES who gave an overview of the

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labour market trends that affect employment opportunities for young people. After the conference, Helen commented: “I was delighted to attend the Youth Connexions IAG Conference and share some of UKCES’s expert insights into the labour market and employer perceptions. “UKCES data show that over the last 12 months 20% of employers in Hertfordshire have been involved activities which inspire young people about the world of work. These range from offering career talks in local schools through to mentoring and taking part in enterprise days. These activities don’t have to be time and resource intensive for employers, and can make all the difference to young people building their experience and finding their way into work. “It’s through the work of organisations like Youth Connexions that greater links between education and employers can be established

and strengthened, to inspire more young people about the world of work and their future career.” As well as the keynote speeches, delegates could attend up to three workshops from a choice of 10 held on the day. The topics included: • What’s happening with apprenticeships? • Online profiling and job search • New developments in workrelated learning and work experience • Work shadowing information and best practice • Latest resources for careers and work related learning • STEM activities to inspire young people • Supporting aspiring entrepreneurs • Preparing students to succeed in work - employer expectations

Closing remarks were given by the Enterprise and Innovation Manager from the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership, Paul Witcombe, who discussed locality growth sectors and skills gaps.

Tamsyn Hammond

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Driving economic growth in Hertfordshire for 2015 and beyond Chamber roundtable with David Gauke

On 5 March, David Gauke, MP, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury before prorogation, addressed Chamber members - representing infrastructure, finance and business consultancy businesses - on the economic recovery and future economic planning. In the Arnhem Room in the Moor Park Mansion where the Battle of Arnhem was planned, David Gauke reminded Herts Chamber members that the Government inherited the largest deficit since the Second World War. Since then, the Government has made substantial progress on reducing the deficit. “The real economy recovery has been no accident,” he said. “It has been the result of economic policy, of fiscal consolidation. It was about living within our means.” He enumerated the recovery signposts. Firstly, he said, the 2.6 per cent economic growth in 2014 was a world best. The Euro-zone’s economic growth was half, at 1.3 percent, and rest of Europe was 1.7 per cent. Secondly, employment has grown rapidly, particularly in the private sector, now reflecting a net 1.85m more people in work. Thirdly, the progress of business investment growth during 2014 has been the fastest since 2007. The benefits are low inflation and wages going up by 2.1 per cent are now being seen. This means that living standards are now at the same level as at the period before the crash. All this means a real economy recovery. It has been achieved through the control of public spending and reducing our national debt. In 2010, the risk could have been a sovereign debt crisis,

he said, so they had to prepare for difficult years ahead to regain the balance of income and expenditure. David Gauke, with responsibility for the tax policy, reiterated some of the policy aspects: a reduction in corporation tax (soon to be further reduced to 20 per cent - the lowest in the G20), a business rates 2 per cent increase cap for smaller retailers, R&D tax credits to generate investment and the top rate of income tax also reduced. All this, David Gauke said, “signals that the UK is open for business.”

To take 3m low income earners out of income tax to help their cost of living, there had been the biggest increase in the personal tax allowance, he added. To reduce the burden on businesses, he said there must be changes to the regulatory regime in employment law and planning. Furthermore, everything must be done to encourage exports, hence the Government’s investment in UKTI. Of our export activity, he said, 30 per cent is to non-EU markets, and this has to increase.

On skills and education, David Gauke said rigorous exams, particularly in maths, are necessary for driving up standards. On apprentices, 2m have been created in this Parliament, and the Government projects 3m for the next. These were important for jobs creation and getting young people into work. It was important also that schools nurture the future wealth creators. This will make the UK the place to create business opportunities. Hertfordshire, he said in conclusion, is a prosperous and successful county.

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Chamber opens doors Business to Business thanks to Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce 001 Ltd joined the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce in November 2014. 001 Ltd was established in 2001 by John and Jane Hamshere from their home and since then has successfully grown year on year through client recommendations. Over the past 14 years with over 800 businesses, 001 Ltd have saved companies over £21 million, working on a strictly no saving, no fee basis. When Elaine Diviney, Partner with 001 Ltd received the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce list of members, Elaine made contact with Paola Ricotta from Nonna’s Kitchen to introduce herself and 001 Ltd, she also loves Italian Food too! This is what happened when Elaine Diviney, Sunny Glasson Commercial Director with 001 Ltd met with Paola Ricotta and Lucy La Rosa, Office Manager Our relationship with 001 began when Elaine sent me an email, introducing herself and the business. We arranged a meeting at our restaurant, Nonna’s Kitchen, based in Hoddesdon. Nonna’s Kitchen is a Sicilian restaurant, providing fresh traditional recipes for all generations to enjoy. We also have a branch in London and a forthcoming restaurant in Bedford. I was doubtful that 001 would be able to save us any money on our utility bills as we have had bad experiences previously with similar companies. However Elaine and Sunny clearly

explained to myself and Lucy on how the business works and provided us with a printout PowerPoint presentation with all the information we needed to know. They were both extremely friendly yet professional, I particularly liked that they were not your typical sales people. They were very honest and knowledgeable and were able to answer all of our questions. At the time our restaurant had only been open one year, so I was uncertain that they would be able to save us any money.

001 Ltd then carried out a tender process for the utilities to all suppliers to obtain the best possible price.

Myself and the team were shocked when Elaine told us the good news on how much they were able to save us. We are now working closely with 001 for our restaurant in London and other businesses that we have. We look forward to the continuation of our relationship for the future.

Elaine then reported to Paola that a saving of £31,056.32p, these savings where found through supplier rebate and savings on both Gas and Electricity going forward.

When 001 Ltd received the instruction from Nonna’s Kitchen, the back office team began by gathering the data collection on the restaurant and then produced an X-ray for the client.

We both feel that this meeting may not have happened if it had not been for Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and the tireless work which is carried out on a daily basis to help all their members.

Do you have a story you can share of how the Chamber network has helped your business sustain, grow or save money? Please send your articles for future editions of Inspire to Laura Shoobridge

laurashoobridge@hertschamber.com

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Room at the Top Encouraging Diversity in the Boardroom Gen Sir Nicholas Carter the Chief of the General Staff in the Army has said that the Army needs to be restructured to allow more female soldiers to rise to senior posts. Targets can be a key way to encourage diversity within both the public and private sectors and I have seen it work well in both. Diverse boards have been shown to strengthen a company’s talent pipeline and increase innovation, leading to a stronger group performance. However, there must be a concerted effort to make targets work to increase the number of women at senior executive level as this is the direct pipeline to the board of any organisation. Companies need to be more proactive in developing the pipeline of female talent by holding leaders accountable for supporting women’s careers, challenging unconscious bias across talent management processes and making female talent visible.

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Leona Barr-Jones spent 21 years as a senior woman in the Army and has personal experience of this issue both within the Army and now in the corporate sector. She is now a Lieutenant Colonel (Lt Col) in the Army Reserve and runs her own Business consultancy, Barr-Jones Associates which specialises in change management. On top of her private client consultancy work, she still teaches Diversity and Integration within the Army and she was responsible for Diversity advice within the Army in the South East, including the reporting and governance. Here she analyses the situation in the UK and considers the different options available: In January 2015 Germany joined France, Italy and many Nordic countries in opting for mandatory targets of 30% for women on corporate boards. Early analysis appears to show that quotas work and have been highly successful across Europe. This could result in a quota system being considered at EU level. The UK Government currently has its own voluntary target of 25% female directors of FTSE 100 boards by the end of next year - which it is on course to achieve. EU intervention would mean an adjustment to this level. The benefits of diversity are clear. Recent statistics show that between 2005 and 2009, the top quartile of Fortune 500 companies by female boardroom representation outperformed those in the lowest quartile with a 16pc higher return on sales and a 26pc increase in return on invested capital -- numbers which grew to 84pc and 60pc respectively for companies with sustained high representation of women on their boards.

• Diversity must be central to identifying talent within an organisation. Aspirational targets must be set to ensure that the management team is representative and diverse. To become truly diverse, organisations need to look at the widest possible pool of talent. If there are blockages in the pipeline for women wanting to reach senior positions, then analyse where these affect females. • Identify and eradicate unconscious bias as much as possible. Ensure that talent management processes are free of unconscious bias through training and ongoing challenges of gender based assumptions. • Mentoring and sponsorship of women. Ensure talented women are identified and make visible to senior management through sponsorship, mentoring. Powerful sponsors and mentors are often critical in accelerating women’s careers. • Nurture female talent thorough leadership development programmes. Help women to develop leadership styles and ensure that mentors and sponsors buy into this. As a Change Leader and trainer of Diversity, I am not convinced that quotas are the answer. I would prefer to show organisations why a gender diverse board leads a company to better financial performance and lead them to actively drive towards their targets for business reasons. Once a new culture is embedded into an organisation, the benefits quickly become clear.

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To find out more about this issue or for advice on change management, diversity and leadership, please email Leona on leona@barrjonesassociates.com

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New legislation opens up Government business to the East of England as £11.4 billion spent with SMEs Further reforms offer opportunity for East of England firms as over a quarter of government procurement now with SMEs Minister for the Cabinet Office, Francis Maude outlined in February radical new measures that will be welcome news to small businesses in the East of England. The measures, which come into force today, will open up Government contracts to local small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) like never before. Paying businesses on time is critical to the cash flow of small businesses in the East of England where 43% of SMEs see late payment from customers as a hindrance to growing their business. Under these new rules, the public sector is now required to pay undisputed invoices within 30 days, and this requirement will now flow all the way down the supply chain.

Central government spent an unprecedented £11.4 billion with SMEs in 2013-14, as new figures showed that a record 26.1% of government spend went to SMEs. The new data shows that central government spent 10.3% directly with SME’s, and 15.8% indirectly – meeting the aspiration it set in 2010 for 25% of procurement spend to be with SMEs by the end of this Parliament. Research also shows that 36% of SMEs in the East of England don’t know where to look to find new business opportunities. The Government has launched a refresh of its Contracts Finder website, at www.gov.uk/contracts-finder, offering a much improved search including by location. The site covers current and future public sector contracts above £10,000

Long serving Herts Chamber member Duncan Print Group delivers printing and design services to Hertfordshire’s schools via their work with Herts for Learning, the UK’s largest school company. Developed from Hertfordshire Local Authority’s education services, Herts for Learning is not a for profit business owned by Hertfordshire’s schools and the local authority, dedicated to raising standards in teaching and re-investing in Hertfordshire’s children.

Their story Herts for Learning’s print work was tendered in December 2013, and eight local Hertfordshire-based printers were invited to tender (including the incumbent

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in central government and £25,000 in the wider public sector. It’s free to use, including from smartphones and tablets, and so businesses in the East of England will be able to search for contracts close to them. New legislation ensures that: • 30 day payment terms will be mandated down the supply chain – to suppliers and sub-contractors; • Public bodies will have to publish an annual late payment report to sharpen accountability; • The bidding process will be simplified across the wider public sector with complex forms, such as PreQualification Questionnaires, abolished for low value contracts;

print supplier, the council’s internal printing service) Printers were asked to tender and quote for one job initially, and following a competitive pitch, Duncan Print Group was selected. The quality of work and the service received for the job was impressive, and combined with the cost saving made, all Herts for Learning’s corporate print work, including brochures, reports, training material, school newspapers, handbooks, posters and leaflets has now been switched to Duncan Print Group. The move has greatly reduced Herts for Learning’s on-going print costs, which has enabled increased investment back into the products and services offered by Herts for Learning to schools.

• The procurement process for public sector contracts will be accelerated. Yolanda Rugg, CEO Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce says, “Over a quarter of central government spend now goes to SMEs but we know there’s much more to do. Tendering for Government contracts has been incredibly complicated and costly to bid for in the past and we are delighted to see this new legislation which creates a level playing field for SMEs. These businesses need to educate themselves on their rights and explore the Contracts Finder to make sure they can seize that opportunity.”

On the back of the switch, a wider project is now being explored between Herts for Learning and Duncan Print Group, to develop a print portal for Hertfordshire schools, through which they can print all of their corporate literature and benefit from the same cost-effective, high quality printing service. How has working with Herts for Learning helped Duncan Print Group to grow? The increase in turnover for Duncan Print Group provided by working with Herts for Learning has contributed to a steady capital investment plan of over £1.8M in the last 2 years. Added to this are four new apprentice positions and two new account executive roles.

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Small business guide on how to win a public sector contract by Dragon & entrepreneur, Piers Linney 1. USE CONTRACTS FINDER Use Contracts Finder to find public sector contracts in your area that match the goods or services you sell. You can also look up adverts about subcontracting opportunities or identify suppliers that have won contracts so you can approach them directly. Contracts Finder can also help you plan as it contains pipelines as well as live tenders.

We understand that running a business is life consuming. Just keeping on top of your daily activities can leave little time to take a step back, see the bigger picture and capitalise on key opportunities!

2. FOCUS YOUR EFFORTS Be selective and focus your efforts. Don't go for every contract on Contracts Finder that sounds vaguely promising. Streamline your efforts and focus on one or two contracts that you have a realistic chance of getting. Despite the changes, it still requires valuable time and effort to pitch for public sector contracts.

richard pollock business development provide complete strategic solutions and extra resource to help you grow your business at a pace and budget that suits you!! We have proven success across a broad range of industries such as office supplies, corporate merchandising, engineering, exhibition specialists, chiropractors, HR and photographers.

3. BE PROACTIVE The fact-finding element in business development is hugely important, but often neglected. Before you make a formal bid, ring up and speak to the buyer - you will find the contact details you need on Contracts Finder. Ask good open questions. The public sector wants to work with small businesses - they will help you, you just need to ask. Some public sector organisations also run workshops on their procurement process and how to write a bid.

4. COMPLETE THE FORM Give the tender application your full attention. Fill it in properly, answer each question and don't leave blanks. Otherwise you may lose out for no good reason. Don’t waste your time.

5. LEARN FROM EACH BID Ask for feedback every time you tender for a contract - whether you win or not. This will help you to keep refining your bidding technique.

“I REALLY WANT TO GROW MY BUSINESS BUT I’M JUST TOO BUSY RUNNING IT!” Sound Familiar?

But don’t just take our word for it - here’s what our clients are saying;

6. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK No system is perfect. Contracts Finder is a beta website designed to be iterative and agile, so it can be continually updated to suit user needs. If you don’t like something, or if you do, email the team your feedback. The details are on the site. You can also complain anonymously if you need to. If you think a public sector tender has unrealistic or unnecessary demands, call the government's Mystery Shopper service. You can be assured of anonymity because as well as investigating supplier concerns, they also conduct proactive spot checks on buyers. Mystery Shopper works. You just need to use it.

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Now good luck and get bidding!

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InspiringHertsAwards

Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 prestigious Awards Dinner In it's 4th year, the Chamber, on Thursday 14 May at Porsche Hatfield will see the Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 campaign culminate in an evening of celebration and extravagance as our finalists find out which businesses will be crowned the winners.

With a record number of entries, 2015 has seen over 150 businesses take up the challenge and enter Hertfordshire’s most prestigious awards program. The judges faced their toughest mission ever - to find the best of the best. Here are the finalists for Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015:

Achievement in International Business Sponsored by UK India Business Council • FFE Ltd - Hitchin • Grace Foods UK - Welwyn Garden City • Mirage Health Group - Welwyn Garden City

Entrepreneur of the Year Sponsored by Mercury News Group • Justine Perry - Cariad Marketing - Hertford • Catherine Smith - Foxholes Farm Shop - Hertford • Danny Kindell - NBM Distribution - Hemel Hempstead • Joshua Rayner - Rayner Personnel - Bishop’s Stortford • Claire Brindell - Smart10 Limited - Welwyn Garden City • Debbie Pezzani - Teens Unite - Broxbourne

Community Champion Sponsored by Ocado • Debenhams Ottaway - St.Albans • Garden House Hospice - Letchworth Garden City • LV= Retirement Solutions - Hitchin • Muscle Help Foundation - Buntingford • Teens Unite - Broxbourne

Excellence in Customer Service Sponsored by Porsche Centre Hatfield • Aldwyck Housing Group - Houghton Regis • Altro Ltd - Letchworth Garden City • Foxholes Farm Shop - Hertford • Metro Bank - Borehamwood, Hemel Hempstead and St.Albans • Warner Bros. Studios - Leavesden • Westminster Compliance LLP - Borehamwood

Excellence in People Development

Innovation through Technology

Sponsored by Longmores Solicitors • Crane & Staples - Welwyn Garden City • Freedom Communications - Watford • LV= Retirement Solutions - Hitchin • Mitsubishi Electric - Hatfield • Stevenage Leisure - Stevenage

Sponsored by Serverchoice • Cariad Marketing - Hertford • Crane & Staples - Welwyn Garden City • FFE Ltd - Hitchin • N2 Visual Communications Group - Hertford • Software for People - Hitchin • Tusker - Watford

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InspiringHertsAwards Made in Herts

Most Promising New Business

Sponsored by Handelsbanken • Chilfen Ltd - Letchworth • FFE Ltd - Hitchin • Kelvin Hughes Ltd - Enfield

Sponsored by Broxbourne Council and Ambition Broxbourne • Bespoke Verse Ltd - Hemel Hempstead • Himsworths Legal - St.Albans • raterAgent - Bishop’s Stortford • Smart10 Ltd - Welwyn Garden City • Talent HQ - Stevenage • The Cookery - Hoddesdon

Social Enterprise of the Year

The Environmental Award

Sponsored by Aldwyck Housing Group • Muscle Help Foundation - Buntingford • Oaklands College - St.Albans • RECOVER - Welwyn Garden City • Rowan Homes Ltd - Letchworth Garden City • The Gifted - Cheshunt

Sponsored by Johnson Matthey • Foxholes Farm Shop - Hertford • Marriott Hanbury Manor - Ware • LoCO2 Energy - Rickmansworth • Lussmans Fish & Grill Restaurants - St.Albans • Mitsubishi Electric - Hatfield • Newsprinters Ltd - Waltham Cross

The Schools Award for Education in Employment

The Tourism Award

Sponsored by Youth Connexions • Kings Langley School - Kings Langley • Rickmansworth School - Rickmansworth • Sir John Lawes School - Harpenden • St.Albans Girls’ School - St.Albans • The John Warner School - Hoddesdon

Business of the Year Small to Medium Sponsored by Stevenage Borough Council • Barr Jones Associates - Hitchin • Foxholes Farm Shop - Hertford • PubAffairs - St.Albans • P’Zazz - Watford • TSE Productions - Hemel Hempstead • Westminster Compliance - Borehamwood

Further accolades given on the night Young Herts Sponsored by Veolia

Outstanding Contribution to Business Sponsored by LV=

Sponsored by Bourne Leisure Ltd • Aubrey Park Hotel - Redbourn • Holiday Inn Stevenage - Stevenage • Sopwell House - St.Albans • Tewin Bury Farm Hotel - Welwyn

Business of the Year Medium to Large Sponsored by HB Accountants • Aubrey Park Hotel - Redbourn • FFE Ltd - Hitchin • Grace Foods UK Ltd - Welwyn Garden City • LV= Retirement Solutions - Hitchin • The SEC Group - Stevenage • Tusker - Watford “We are delighted to see such a tremendous increase in support from our members both in sponsorship and in entries, which endorses the increase in confidence our members are feeling. Thank you to invaluable headline sponsors LV and Porsche Hatfield, and all this years sponsors. We look forward to another fabulous glittering evening on the 14th May, and whether winners or finalists, well done to you all. We hope you will go on to have a fabulous year ahead, and encourage you to enter the British Chambers of Commerce national awards, deadline 26 June www.chamberawards.co.uk” Yolanda Rugg CEO

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InspiringHertsAwardsFinalists

Hertfordshire - where our people live and work We’re proud to be nominated for two Inspiring Herts Awards, and to support the Herts Chamber of Commerce Investing in and supporting the local community Creating new jobs and developing business skills Providing innovative retirement solutions

Liverpool Victoria Friendly Society Limited: County Gates, Bournemouth BH1 2NF. LV= and Liverpool Victoria are registered trademarks of Liverpool Victoria Friendly Society Limited (LVFS) and LV= and LV= Liverpool Victoria are trading styles of the Liverpool Victoria group of companies. LVFS is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority, register number 110035. Registered address: County Gates, Bournemouth BH1 2NF. Tel: 01202 292333.

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InspiringHertsAwardsFinalists

Foxholes Farm Shop Foxholes is a third generation, award winning farm in Hertford and has been farming for almost 100 years in rural Hertfordshire. Local is our passion, producing and selling fresh, flavoursome and ethical farm produce, reducing food miles and supporting other local farms and the community. Visit the Foxholes Farm Shop with Butchery and Deli and discover just how passionate we are about ethically rearing the finest quality grass fed-beef and rare breed Saddleback pork. Our Tea Shop specialises in 10 flavours of tea, locally ground coffee and a large choice of lunches made from home and

locally-sourced produce. The afternoon tea is also a real treat and great value for money. Foxholes luxury food hampers make ideal corporate gifts or can be that perfect present for any occasion. Choose from the "Luxury Bread Dipping", hamper to the "Just Add Cheese" hamper and many more!

Finalists in 4 categories of the Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 gala awards. • Excellence in Customer Service • Business of the Year (small to medium) • The Environmental Award • Entrepreneur of the Year.

Open 7 Days A Week Foxholes Farm. London Road, Hertford Telephone 01992 552900 email enquiries@foxholesfarm.com

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The Circular Economy The Circular Economy Conference is about showcasing existing circular economy practice and informing and inspiring business rethinking for a new era of new opportunities.

The Circular Economy Conference Thursday 11 June, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden 08:00 - 13:00 • Join us for this stimulating half day event and engage in discussions about the transformative potential of a circular economy. • Enhance your exposure with a sponsorship package • Showcase your business with an exhibition stand ••••

Speakers include; • David Gauke • Professor Mark Maslin, University College London • Mike Pocock, Head of Physical Assets, Affinity Water • Martin Fahey, Manager, Sustainable Solutions, Mitsubishi Electric • Richard Potter, Director of Innovation, Sopra Steria • Simon Houghton-Dodd, Manager, Sustainabilty Johnson Matthey ••••

If you are interested in attending, sponsoring or exhibiting please contact Laura Shoobridge. laurashoobridge@hertschamber.com 01707398403

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Rothamsted Research

What is a circular economy? We are familiar with the traditional linear economic model of commercial production take, make, dispose - and with its substantial, sometimes irreversible environmental impact.

Remade, repaired, resold or recycled The circular economy is a response to that model’s use of finite resources in the design, manufacture, consumption and life of goods - and to the urgency in reversing its impact.

Remade, repaired, resold or recycled the circular economy is a model that redesigns and re-engineers the manufacture of a product - and moves it through retail to consumption to repair or re-use to recycle.

Cradle to cradle The circular economy is based on healthy products that can be returned to the soil or flow back to industry in a perpetual circular motion. The basis is regeneration, cradle to cradle.

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Conference Products have two components: biological that should be composted, and technical (manmade materials) that should be recycled. Both need recyclability built into design, manufacture, retailing and consumer use.

Circular economy principles The circular economy is based on an industrial economy that relies on renewable energy and eradicates waste through careful design. It optimises systems rather than components; the consumer becomes the user, part of the circular process. There are four basic principles: 1 Waste is food The biological or technical components must be designed as nutrients for repurposing at the end of the product’s lifecycle. 2 Diversity is strength Design must be flexible or modular to adapt to a fast-changing world. 3 Energy: fossil to renewable Energy in making, distributing through retail, and consuming, and energy to repair or re-use must come from sustainable sources. 4 Systems thinking Understanding how elements influence each other is integral to rethinking commercial or industrial effectiveness of systems for production, consumption and repurpose.

Value creation A report Towards the Circular Economy: Economic and business rationale for an accelerated transition (Ellen MacArthur Foundation: 2012) believes that EU manufacturing could achieve a net materials cost savings of up to $630 billion a year by 2025.

Other value creation areas are jobs in product design, engineering, manufacturing processes, supply chain, retailing and recycling sectors as the economy makes its transition from take-make-dispose to remakerepair-recycle.

Opportunities The urgency to conserve our resources by using alternative commercial and industrial systems of production brings new business opportunities for innovation, design, manufacture, supply chains, retail and recycling.

•••• Rothamsted is the longest running agricultural research station in the world. It provides cutting-edge science and innovation for nearly 170 years. The main site in Harpenden is where the bulk of the research and administrative functions occur. It comprises 400ha of land (mainly for wheat research) and a series of state-of-the art facilities for plant bioscience including modern lab space, and facilities for bioimaging, microscopy, molecular analysis, metabolomics and proteomics. Rothamsted also has a unique experimental system. Its archive of soil and plant samples has existed since the mid-19th century. •••• Rothamsted Research

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A speciality chemicals company focused on its core skills in: Catalysts, Precious Metals, Fine Chemicals and Process Technology

Johnson Matthey Orchard Road Royston Hertfordshire SG8 5HE Tel: 01763 253000 Fax: 01763 253492 www.matthey.com

Environmental

Go green and reduce your running costs All successful businesses know the value that reducing overheads can add to the bottom line and having been through a tough period over the past few years, most will have already found the easy ways to do so. Yet one Hatfield company is pointing the way to cutting running costs whilst also showing how to be ‘greener’ by reducing energy consumption, as well as protecting itself from carbon reduction legislation and the long-term rise in energy prices.

Perry Jackson

Hatfield - Mitsubishi Electric has installed power generating Photovoltaic panels which also receive payment from Government incentives

Mitsubishi Electric has occupied its Travellers Lane headquarters since 1989 and is now a market-leader in the UK’s construction industry, providing the equipment that helps heat, cool and ventilate buildings so that we can all enjoy modern standards of comfort as we ‘work, rest and play’. The company’s three-storey glassfronted building is typical of office construction in the late 1980’s when energy conservation and climate change were not as high on the political or the business agenda. “When we started looking at this about 10 years ago, we estimate that the building would have got an ‘E’ energy rating on today’s standards”, explains Perry Jackson, General Manager, Business Support for the company’s Living Environmental Systems division. Both legislation and regulations affecting businesses are due to get tougher, so this energy rating will matter more and businesses will start to see their rates and their rents, reflect the energy efficiency of their building. “As a company operating at the heart of the built environment, we realised that we needed to find ways to increase the efficiency of our building because we can see how this will affect us in future.

“Like all companies though we have to justify any expenditure, so we put in place a programme to upgrade the building services when they need replacement or when additional budget became available,” says Jackson, explaining that the company replaced gas boilers with renewable heat pumps and added power generating Photovoltaic panels to the roof. Old air conditioning was also upgraded to more efficient modern systems and advanced controls were introduced to monitor and regulate energy consumption. “It has been an evolution, rather than a revolution, but it has got us much closer to where we want to be as a company. It has also helped reduce running costs whilst giving us more control over our internal environment”.

Going from ‘E’ to ‘B’ Demonstrating both the business and the financial case for improving the services has transformed the building from an estimated ‘E’ energy rating to a certified ‘B’ rating, using readily available, off-the-shelf technology. “Building regulations are helping to increase efficiency in all the new buildings being constructed, but much of our future built environment already exists”, adds Jackson. “As a nation, we have to find ways of tackling the energy-inefficient properties that will continue to form

the bulk of our building stock for decades otherwise we will fail to meet the stringent carbon reductions targets that government has signed up to. “The beauty is that in looking at your own building to help achieve this, you can make a real difference to your own bottom line and, as we have shown with our own building, it doesn’t have to cost the earth and can be achieved as part of an on-going plan”, explains Jackson. Initial changes to lower the carbon footprint and energy consumption of a building can often be achieved in highly cost-effective ways, such as better insulation or more control over the timing and use of energyconsuming equipment. However, once you have gone through the obvious, it then becomes a matter of looking at the plant and equipment and this is where businesses can face the challenge of justifying any capital outlay.

Lessons to be learnt for all All the changes that Mitsubishi Electric has introduced have been implemented in a controlled, managed and budgeted way that any company could replicate. There are also added benefits such as regular government payments for renewable heating and Photovoltaics which shorten the payback period, and ways of offsetting capital outlay against the annual tax bill.

“We know that there are more things we can do, particularly with regards to the lighting, which we are updating as we refurbish individual parts of the building, but the next step will be to address the building’s cladding which will need major investment”, adds Jackson. “This means that we are unlikely to ever reach an ‘A’ rating as this may simply be a step too far in terms of cost and disruption to the business. However, we have moved a long way to being ‘carbon neutral’ and the added advantage is that this has helped us manage and reduce the monthly energy bill. “For me, the important lesson is not what we have achieved as an individual company, but that we did it with established technology that is available right off the shelf today”, adds Jackson. “If we can get more businesses to replicate this process, then over time, we can help existing buildings to make a considerable difference to the nation’s energy performance, and affect their own individual running costs”. If you would like further information please email perry.jackson@meuk.mee.com Martin Fahey, Manager Sustainable Solutions of Mitsubishi Electric will be speaking at the Circular Economy Conference

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SpotlightOn

Stevenage Old Town Stevenage Old Town is a place that combines a strong sense of its history with a forward-looking philosophy when it comes to developing its economy.

Stevenage history can be traced back for many centuries and is inextricably linked with business. Indeed, It came into being because its location thirty miles north of London made it the ideal first day’s stop for stagecoaches and, therefore, the perfect place for traders. Adding to the trading ethos, the charter fair has been held every year since King Edward I granted its charter in 1281.

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However, the major changes came in the years after World War Two when the Abercrombie Plan called for the establishment of a ring of new towns around London. Stevenage was designated a New Town on 1 August 1946, although the plan was not popular with all local people, many of whom protested. Despite the growth of the New Town, much of the character of

the Old Town remains and the businesses that operate out of the area cite reasons for remaining, that resonate with its history, including good transport links, a strong sense of community and the quality of the workforce. Preserving the ethos of the Old Town is important to the local authority. Sharon Taylor OBE, Leader of Stevenage Council,

said: “The Old Town is really vibrant despite all the recent economic difficulties the country has experienced and I think that is helped by the High Street’s excellent mix of businesses. “The decision to offer three hours’ free parking has helped. Restricting it to three hours means that people cannot just park and head off into London. They have to do business or shopping in Stevenage.

SpotlightOn

- where past meets future

“The introduction of the Farmers’ Market has been a good addition and is an example of how we respect traditional businesses.

names including The Beatles, John Lennon and Mike Oldfield.

“The area is also home to some high quality high-tec businesses, which adds to the economic mix, and I think it helps that we have fantastic transport links, good motorways - you can be in London by train in 20 minutes and access to two airports.I do not think there is a better place in the country in which to do business.”

Eddie has more than 40 years’ experience pioneering recording studio design and sound studio design, working in fields including music, radio, TV and film, post production and theatre. Other clients down the years have included Eric Clapton, Pete Townshend, Trevor Horn, Roundhouse Studios, Trident Studios, Dolby Laboratories, GMG Radio, Virgin, Channel 4 and Carlton TV.

One of the most remarkable businesses in the area is run by Eddie Veale, who designed recording equipment for big

Having initially worked for other companies, he set up Veale Associates in 1971, the year he completed a home studio for

“Despite the growth of the New Town, much of the character of the Old Town remains and the businesses that operate out of the area cite reasons for remaining, that resonate with its history, including good transport links, a strong sense of community and the quality of the workforce.”

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SpotlightOn Continued John Lennon at Ascot and participated in the recording of the hit record Imagine, the biggest selling single of Lennon’s solo career. Eddie, who chose Stevenage over London for his base, said: “There was never really a temptation to work in London. It made more sense economically to be in Stevenage and it is also more peaceful.

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“Proximity to London and other areas is important and Stevenage is well placed for road and road and rail links and when I go abroad, it is easy to get to Luton Airport and fly EasyJet. “Our business is doing OK. This year is better than last year, which was better than the year before. Our sector is very much demand driven and if the broadcasters are busy then so are we.”

“We have been very busy and that is down to confidence, including interest from overseas. In the first three months of the year we helped five overseas businesses set up in the area, three from Japan, one from Italy and one from Turkey. “The quality of the local workforce helps as well. We took on two apprentices two or three years ago as part of our commitment to young people and they have been working their way through their qualifications.” One of the oldest companies in Old Stevenage is Austins Funeral Service, which was originally established in 1700 in Graveley, a small village between Stevenage and Hitchin as builders and undertakers. Builders were often undertakers in those days because they could supply skilled tradesmen, including carpenters to make coffins, as well as labourers to dig the graves. In about 1800, the company moved to premises in Letchmore Road, Old Stevenage, and has remained there to this day, with Managing Director Claire Austin citing a strong sense of community as a key reason.

Another company that appreciates being in Stevenage is chartered accountants Wagstaffs, which was started in The Old Town in 1948 by former wartime bomber crew member Ralph Wagstaff. Current Partner Mark Hubbocks said: “I think Ralph saw the fact that Stevenage was the first of the new towns as ideal for setting up a business. “What keeps us here is location, location, location. There are a lot of good businesses in the area but there is also the proximity to London, access to good rail links and the ease of getting to the motorways.

Claire is the tenth generation of the family to run the business, which closed its building arm in 1978 and now concentrates on funerals, with eight branches across Hertfordshire. She said: “The sense of community is what has kept us in Old Stevenage. We are well embedded in the community

SpotlightOn

“What keeps us here is location, location, location. There are a lot of good businesses in the area but there is also the proximity to London, access to good rail links and the ease of getting to the motorways.”

after 315 years and, although the creation of the new town increased our business, we stayed in the Old Town in the offices we have occupied for more than 200 years. “We like to support local businesses, because that is what we are ourselves. The company offers an all-round service and we use local companies to do things like supply the flowers, do the catering and produce videos if people require them. All our eight branches use a local florist, for example.” One of the newer companies that was attracted to the area was Novella Clinical, with a major

reason being the quality of the workforce. Novella Clinical, a Quintiles company, is a full-service clinical research organisation with dual headquarters in Stevenage and North Carolina, in the United States. Founded in 1998, Novella provides clinical research services for small and mid-sized biopharmaceutical companies and medical device and diagnostics companies. Among its work, Novella supports smaller biopharmaceutical companies focused on oncology. Stevenage is also home to Novella’s staffing division,

Novella Clinical Resourcing, which provides staffing services for clinical research professionals as well as outsourcing for sponsors. Chris Smyth, Ph.D., MBA, Managing Director, European & Asian Operations for Novella Clinical, who is based in Stevenage, said: “Stevenage has served as Novella’s European headquarters since 2008. “We were attracted to Stevenage because we draw on the highly educated talent pool available here, especially those with a drug development background to serve our customers. Also, many of our staff live and commute in

from the surrounding areas and therefore the proximity to excellent road and rail links is important. “In addition to the excellent transport links, Stevenage has a tremendous amount to offer our employees with restaurants and cafes for lunchtime, as well as plenty of shopping within very easy walking distance of the office in the old town. “Finally, as a global company, being close to Heathrow, Luton and Stansted airports is increasingly important.” For Paul Shadbolt, Business Development Director, Lloyds Bank, SME Banking for the East

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SpotlightOn of England, key advantages associated with being based in the area include its location and the skilled workforce. Lloyds Bank’s Commercial Banking has been in the area for at least forty years and Paul said: “For us, the location is important. We have regional and local teams based in Stevenage and they cover a large part of the East of England so we need good transport links. “With some of the areas we cover, you can spend a lot of time in the car but the road and rail links out of Stevenage are superb which means we can get round our patch easily and can also be in London in half an hour, all of which is important to us. “The days of you going to your bank manager have gone and we like to visit our customers to get a feel for what their business is doing.” The presence of skilled local companies is attractive,

according to the bank’s Relationships Director Steve McQueen, who said: “We are very much part of the community and the presence of so many skilled hi-tech companies presents opportunities for us, both in bringing in new business but having access to the skills we need.” Also important to the bank is the strength of the local Stevenage economy and Steve said: “The Stevenage area has a good mix of larger businesses right down to more conventional SMEs, which means that there are plenty of opportunities for us. Paul summarised by saying: “Our lending to SMEs went up five per cent per annum during the recession and in the years since at a time when the industry figure is down two per cent per annum and having access to such a diverse local economy is a big advantage of being based in Stevenage.”

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Resurgent football club seeks to present a positive image At first glance, Barry Webber’s move from Premier League football club West Ham United to become CEO of league two outfit Stevenage might have seemed like a backward step in what had been a successful career. However, Barry does not see it that way, rather viewing it as an exciting move which is allowing him to shape the future of a club that had not packed a lot into its turbulent history until current Chairman Phil Wallace bought the Club in 1999. Driving his philosophy is a desire to improve attendances, attract more young fans, listen and engage with the supporters and play a key role in promoting a positive image of the town. To understand that commitment to the town, it is useful to examine the club’s somewhat chequered history, the vast majority of which was spent in the nonleague game. Football in Stevenage can trace its roots back to 1884 when a number of members of Stevenage Cricket Club formed Stevenage Football Club. In 1896, Stevenage Wanderers FC and Stevenage Rovers FC combined forces to become Stevenage Town Football Club and join the newly-formed North Herts League. Sixty seven years later, in 1963, the club joined the Southern League and turned professional but went under just five years later under a mountain of debt. In 1968, Stevenage Town FC was replaced with Stevenage Athletic FC, another unsuccessful venture into professional football which lasted eight seasons, then a number of volunteers created the present club a few years later. Success followed. In 1994, the club was promoted to the Football Conference, the sport’s fifth tier. After two seasons, Stevenage won the Conference but were denied promotion to the Football League

Barry Webber CEO

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due to a technicality because the Broadhall Way Stadium was deemed non-compliant for the League’s standards. Finally, the dream turned to reality when, in 2010, Stevenage secured their place in the Football League for the first time. They were promoted to League One before coming back down to League Two, where they are currently challenging for promotion. Barry Webber took on the challenge of maintaining the development from nonleague outfit to established Football League club when he became the new CEO in early 2014. Having been Commercial Director at West Ham United since May 2010, he became one of the youngest CEOs in the Football League when he came to Stevenage. He brought a wealth of experience to his new role, having also been Commercial Director at Newcastle United, Sport Commercial Manager at AEG Sponsorship and Sponsorship Sales at the International Tennis Federation. He said: “People wondered why I left a Premier League club to come to Stevenage but I see it as a way of learning my craft in the next stage of my career. “Of course, things are different at Stevenage to the way they were at West Ham and Newcastle. We do not have the resources of bigger clubs or access to the big money from television rights and it can feel like squeezing blood out of a stone at times but we are working hard to increase our income through commercial opportunities and developing young players through our Academy. “The key thing is that you cannot live beyond your income and you have to balance the desire to be successful on the pitch against the need to ensure that the club is financially sustainable. “You cannot rely solely on income through the gates on matchdays but, although we are looking for other opportunities as well, we are also seeking to increase our fan base. “We know how vital the next generation is for this club and we have to keep them close to us. Part of the challenge is recruiting young fans whilst also looking after the current fan base. We know that if

“We know how vital the next generation is for this club and we have to keep them close to us. Part of the challenge is recruiting young fans whilst also looking after the current fan base. We know that if we can get them early and hold on to them, we have Stevenage fans for life.”

we can get them early and hold on to them, we have Stevenage fans for life.

have just been nominated for the Family Club of the Year award.”

“That is why we have introduced £25 season tickets to include a free training top for younger fans. We know that a young person who comes to games with his or her mates will keep coming for a few years but that the number in that group will dwindle.

Barry also sees the club playing a key role in promoting the area as a place to do business, one of the considerations behind the commitment to build a new North Stand.

“Then at sixteen, their parents say that they have to stand on their own feet more and the young person may take the view that they do not want to spend their money on Stevenage, or they may want to take the train into London to see the bigger clubs play. So we have to engage and make our fans feel part of the Club.

Barry sees it as crucial not just for the club but the wider area. “The stand would be the first thing people see as they drive along Broadhall Way to the ground and he said: “The Club has transformed the West Side of the Stadium but the view of the town’s professional Club from the A602, North Stand, is a terrible advert for Stevenage. We want our community to be proud of the Lamex Stadium.

“So as much as possible, everything we say and put into practice here is based on informed opinion. I put great importance on insight - asking the fan what they think and seeking a response in return. “Those of us who are privileged to work in football might think we know what is best, that we have been there and done that, but there is no substitute for feedback from fans who pay their hard earned money to follow the team. “Our matchday crowds are up by four or five hundred to 3,200 and a lot of them are young people and we are delighted that we

“In reality, Stevenage is still suffering from a poor image. In my opinion, the town lacks investment, imagination and opportunities. However, the promotion of a new Iconic North Stand could revolutionise the town. “We want Stevenage FC to lead the way. We have the unique chance, using football, to inspire generations of people. We need to demonstrate progression whilst promoting economic stability. Our iconic new stand will help change perceptions.”

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HRAcademy

HR Academy

- Safeguarding our members and helping them attract and retain their talent

For many of businesses one of their largest costs is often their human resource, so in response we have stepped up our support in this area, to help inform, protect, and provide practical guidance through Chamber HR documentation, and a 24/7 advice line, to enable members to focus on running their business. We will continue to review other benefits and sevices that we can leverage to our members from our members to help Herts businesses thrive. out wherever you need it, to assist you to stay in touch with your customers, prospective clients and suppliers. To activate your free service now, call 0808 129 2004 quoting reference HET.

Chamber HR With your chamber membership you have access to ChamberHR, an employment law and human resource benefit which includes: · Telephone advice - available when you want (24/7) · An online reference manual with hundreds of downloadable documents This means that you never have to face an employment law or human resource issue alone. You don’t have to book a call, you just pick up the phone and call us when you need help and you will receive friendly, down to earth and practical advice helping you every step of the way. With your Chamber membership you also have access to a practical and easy to follow online reference manual in employment law and human resource. The web site has a bank of hundreds of documents which can be downloaded, edited, saved in your ‘My Account’ or in your own filing system. You can download the documents as many times as you need and this is all for free.

Benefits for you and your Employees Health at Hand – AXA PPP Healthcare

Money Savings & Protection for your Business Chamber Legal Expenses As part of your Chamber membership you are entitled to comprehensive legal expenses insurance. This is an exclusive service for Chamber members and comes free as part of your membership, giving more than £670,00 professional fees and awards each year to cover commercial matters ranging from employment disputes and personal injury, to VAT and tax investigations, property disputes, Health & Safety, debt collection, and data protection.

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Legal advice line Chamber members have peace of mind with access to a free legal advice line 0871 423 5239, responding to any legal queries businesses may face. This advice is delivered by legal professionals and is fully backed-up by legal expenses insurance if the issue develops further or you end up in court.

Personal Business Assistance This free service comes as part of your membership for all key decision-makers in the company to ensure business continuity should you be hospitalised or confined to bed due to ill health. Using a dedicated phone number, you will be provided with an office assistant to help

This free service is provided by AXA PPP Healthcare as part of your membership, offering peace of mind for you, your team and their families. Health at Hand is a free phone information service available 24/7. Pick up the phone and you can speak, in total confidence, to experienced health professionals at any time. Specialist medical ‘clinics’ with qualified nurses, pharmacists, counsellors and midwives are available to give you the benefit of their experience and can answer your questions and provide valuable help and information on illnesses, treatments and medications. To activate your free service now, call 0808 129 2004 quoting reference HET.

Chamber Connect Enjoy discounted rates ranging from banking and accountancy services right through to first aid training, fitness, spa days, local hotels and restaurants and places to go. This unique offer

HRAcademy scheme is provided by members for members and their employees. Save time and money and realise new opportunities with other local businesses.

AXA Health Insurance Helps you to reduce sickness absence, retain your best people and recruit the right candidates with this unique and tailored package of benefits specifically for Chamber members. This private medical insurance is tailored for your business needs and comes with an exclusive Telephone Employee Assistance Programme, no claims discounts and a wide range of options to suit your budget. For an instant quote call 0800 38 77 54 quoting HET.

Fleet Assist Whatever the size of a business, it is important to keep company vehicles on the road, since the slightest delay could have far reaching consequences for the business. Chamber Fleet Assist gives members access to a range of breakdown and recovery packages at preferential rates, including: • Roadside Assistance & Relay & Relay Plus – giving you a loan vehicle or hotel accommodation and breakfast for the drive and up to seven passengers. • Home Start • Accident Management – gets your valuable vehicles back on the road quickly and economically • European Cover - including English speaking operators, Roadside Assistance, Spare parts delivery, Vehicle Recovery to UK or Vehicle Collection Costs, Additional Travel Expenses, Additional Accommodation Alternative Driver and Legal Expenses. For further information call 0800 55 11 88 quoting 0360 and your Chamber name, Hertfordshire.

Chamber Primary Health Plan Westfield Health Help protect you and your staff from as little as £1.10 per employee per week, where employees are able to upgrade their cover and add their partner, with this Health Plan provided by Westfield Health. Chamber members can provide their employees with this quality healthcare plan to help them look after their everyday health. In return for company-paid weekly premiums, the Chamber Plan provides eligible employees with cash benefits (up to set limits) towards a range of routine healthcare including Optical, Dental and Chiropractic treatment, Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Homeopathy and much more. In addition, the Plan’s MRI, CT & PET Scanning benefit provides access to some of the most advanced screening technology available today to help provide early diagnosis of health problems before they become chronic. Plus, its Employee Assistance Programme provides a confidential 24-hour Freephone counselling and Advice Service for a range of medical, legal and domestic issues, including up to 5 face-to-face counselling sessions for the policyholder. Call 0845 602 1629 to find out more.

Grow your Business

Patron Scheme

Networking Events

If you would like to be considered for becoming a Patron of Herts Chamber then please contact us. You will have the opportunity to influence key policies within the County and nationally and your company will gain increased brand awareness and promotion with its alliance to a highly regarded accredited Chamber and successful membership organisation. More details available upon request.

Networking is an important tool for business growth. We can help you to make new business contacts by giving you access to a wealth of potential customers and suppliers. We hold more than 70 events around the County during the year and with the majority of Chamber members joining specifically with the aim of networking with likeminded people, you will have the opportunity to meet your next potential big customer. We offer a wide range of styles of networking, from breakfasts, lunches, brunches, and some evening events, informal gatherings as well as structured networking and speaker events. All event details are listed on the Chamber website.

Education work The Chamber has well-established partnerships with businesses, schools, Colleges and the University to provide work experience placements and mentoring for young people, supporting Diploma lines and Apprenticeships and delivering a Young Chamber scheme across Hertfordshire. We encourage businesses to participate in helping the next generation of young people develop business skills and understand the world of business and enterprise, as well as being a cost effective and creative way of giving your business competitive advantage. To get involved and learn more about our education work, please call the Chamber office.

Up Skilling Workforce In collaboration with the University of Hertfordshire Business School the Chamber is delighted to offer a 25% discount on selected MBA and Leadership Courses. Take time to think about if the people in your business have the knowledge and skills they need to excel.

Sponsorship & advertising opportunities “Inspire”, our Chamber magazine, provides our members with a valuable service, keeping you informed and briefed on all current affairs that are of importance to your businesses and helping raise aspirations by sharing your success. Alternatively, help grow your business and reach a wider audience through sponsorship of an event, banner advertising on the weekly Chamber update, or placing an advert in the bi-monthly Chamber magazine or on our website. Costs available upon request.

Herts Chamber of Commerce Language Service Our aim is to help you evolve and flourish on local and international markets. Using local language professionals we offer help tailored to your business needs and you can be assured that all your linguistic requirements will be met by qualified and experienced specialists in a wide range of subjects and foreign languages. Our Language Services include translations, interpreting, language courses and cultural briefing. We translate websites, company brochures, safety instructions, emails, and any other documents, as well as providing qualified interpreters for conferences, seminars and contract/employment negotiations in or out of the UK. We teach English to non-English speakers and foreign languages to English-speakers and can assist you in gaining vital understanding of local conventions and costumes for the country you are planning to do business with.

Business Awards Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 The Inspiring Hertfordshire campaign was established to focus on and celebrate the expertise, achievements and outstanding contribution that businesses and individuals make. Now into it’s 4th year, 2015 will be bigger than ever and has fast become the business awards that everyone wants to enter.

Representing the Interests of Business HR Forum Our HR Forums brings experts in their field together to share best practice, and facilitate peer to peer networking.

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'8'4; '8'06 *#5 # 274215'u 9*#6 +5 ;1745! The creative people at Hanbury Manor believe that every event must have a purpose. So why not '8'4; '8'06 *#5 # 274215'u 9*#6 +5 ;1745! give them a call and let them know what you are planning. 7KH\ OO ZLOO EH VXUH WR VKRZHU \RX ZLWK ideas and images. Planning an at event is funManor once you know what The creative people Hanbury believe that everyyou evewant! nt must have a purpose . So why not

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to commemorate a milestone or accomplishment

to engage in meaningful dialogue in order to reach a decision to engage in meaningful dialogue in order to reach a decision

to learn new things or acquire new skills

to generate new ideas and develop new ways of thinking to generate new ideas and develop new ways of thinking

to share ideas or meet new people.

to work together to develop a specific output to work together to develop a specific output

to introduce a new offering or promote a new message to introduce a new offering or promote a new message

To find out more please contact the Sales Team on 01920 487722 or email To find out more please contact the Sales Team on 01920 487722 or email Sales.HanburyManor@Marriott.com Sales.HanburyManor@Marriott.com

HANBURY MANOR MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB HANBURY MANOR MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB WARE, HERTFORDSHIRE, SG12 WARE, HERTFO RDS0SD HIRE, SG12 0SD Telephone: 01920 48 77 22; Website: MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk Telephone: 01920 48 77 22; Website: MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk

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MembersNews

Easter Egg Appeal for the children of Lister Hospital Tate recruitment have co-ordinated an EGGStremely generous collection of eggs and Easter treats for the children in Lister Hospital from their clients, candidates and associates dotted around North Herts. In January 2015 four Branch Manager Emma Tarbox and her team were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm embraced by everyone they asked to donate to the cause. Within days of launching the 2015 egg appeal, emails and phone calls were coming in from every side of the county with business pledging their donations – Stevenage Community Trust pulling in 86 Easter eggs from their supporters alone! As new Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce members, Tate immediately felt the benefits of this

brilliant network as fellow members contributed chocolate treats and handmade presents without hesitation. The Major of Stevenage also made a kind donation on hearing of the collection. In addition Tate clients also gave a cash donation, which Tate rounded up to £100 for the fundraising of the new Sensory room, part of suite of specialist play rooms at Lister’s Bluebell ward. Tate is proud to have contributed to the Easter egg collection and looks forward to participating again next year.

National Success for Local Business! Omega Commercial Solutions are a Commercial Mortgage Brokerage based in Stevenage; in its simplest form they arrange finance on behalf of their clients with Lenders of all shapes and sizes, finding the best Mortgage terms available to meet requirements. At the recent Moneyfacts industry awards event, Omega won the prestigious title ‘Commercial Mortgage Introducer of the Year’. The potential nominees for this award included all commercial brokers from across the country, with the final result being decided by a judging panel based on testimonies from Clients, Business Partners & Introducers and Institutional Lenders. What makes this a tremendous accolade for Omega is that the award is not based simply on drumming up votes or marketing exposure (paid or otherwise), but on the testimonies of genuine business partners with whom Omega work on a daily basis, including businesses and property investors who Omega have helped. Mark Jones (Sales Director at Omega) said “We are delighted and also extremely proud to have won this award, it means a lot to us that our hard work is noted and appreciated by our clients, introducers and lending partners alike”

Omega was founded in 1992 and has since grown to be the largest sole Commercial Mortgage Brokerage in the country. They are completely independent, but more importantly, Whole of Market, meaning they work with and access every lender directly, many working from their offices on a weekly basis. David Sampson (Operations Director at Omega) said “We're conscious this recognition represents the result of hard work every single day from both our team and also our business partners. We pride ourselves on the service we deliver to our customers and this award is testament to the quality of that service” Feedback received from clients and lenders, and a significant contributor to their recent success, is that they have a market leading conversion rate, which means Omega deliver a trustworthy and award winning service. Chamber Members benefit from an exclusive agreement with Omega Commercial; through their affiliation with the Herts Chamber of

Commerce, Omega are offering to other Chamber members a reduced arrangement fee! This exclusive is available across all types of Finance, including; Property Investment, both Residential and Commercial, Portfolio refinance and expansion, Property Development, Trading Businesses and Owner Occupied (Office, Retail, Industrial, Leisure &

mixed use) Short-Term and Bridging Finance, in addition to cashflow and asset finance. For more information about Omega please visit www.omegacs.org It’s great to see a local business achieving this national award, and by supporting and working together we hope to see many more successes for Businesses across Hertfordshire.

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MembersNews

Really Karting Something Rye House in Hoddesdon in Hertfordshire is one of the oldest and most respected karting circuits in the UK.

Cariad Marketing's Justine recognised alongside country’s top female technology role models Cariad Marketing’s managing director, Justine Perry, found herself in exalted company when she attended the finals of a prestigious national awards ceremony. Justine, who founded Hertford-based online marketing agency Cariad six years ago, was shortlisted as a finalist in the entrepreneur of the year category at the FDM everywoman in technology awards. The awards are designed to celebrate and inspire women in technology and the judges, made up of leading figures from across the industry, look at a number of criteria including career success, potential for future achievements and support for women in the industry. Cariad Marketing was set up around Justine’s kitchen table in 2009. It now employs 10 people and saw turnover increase by 135% last year. The agency, which is based in Cowbridge, provides bespoke internet marketing services including search engine optimisation (SEO), social media, online marketing campaigns and web design. To reach the final Justine had to go through a rigorous interview process. She was up against stiff competition including senior IT personnel from household name companies. “I am genuinely delighted and thrilled to have made it to the final of such a prestigious event,” said Justine. “Our growth in just five years has been incredible and I couldn’t have done it without my dedicated and professional team who are all as passionate about Cariad as I am.” The agency works mainly with Hertfordshirebased businesses and prides itself on its outstanding customer service and the strong working relationships it develops with clients. www.cariadmarketing.com

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It is also where a young Lewis Hamilton honed the driving skills and techniques that would eventually propel him to become a Formula One World Champion. Today, new generations of karting enthusiasts, young and old, follow in his trail as they, too, experience the thrill and excitement of the challenging Rye House circuit. Lewis said: “Rye House has always been a great circuit run by great people who have been incredibly supportive throughout my career. “This is where I started and let's hope that for every one of you, this could be where your career begins, too." Since taking ownership in 2004, new owners Motorsport World have undertaken an impressive programme of continued investment in Rye House. This has seen the circuit build on its proud karting heritage while offering a wider range of facilities for businesses as well as families. www.rye-house.co.uk

Save the date Chamber Networking at Rye House Kart Raceway Thursday 24 September Rye House, Hoddesdon

MembersNews

George Hay Chartered Accountants Raise £2,820 for Home-Start North Herts George Hay Chartered Accountants recently presented a cheque for £2,820 to Home-Start North Herts, the result of a year’s fundraising by the firm for the charity.

Sherrards Solicitors advise on sale of Modality Systems Ltd to NYSE listed company The corporate law team at mid-tier London and St Albans law firm Sherrards Solicitors acted for Modality Systems Ltd who concluded their acquisition by Atlanta headquartered Premiere Global Services Inc. (PGi) last week. Founded in 2007, Modality Systems Limited (‘Modality’) is a specialist software company that develops solutions based on Microsoft Lync® that help businesses improve collaboration, productivity and business processes through the adoption of Universal Communications. Over the last eight years, Modality has grown to over 75 employees (doubling head-count in the last 12 months) and built a global presence with offices in London, Seattle, San Jose and Sydney. The company’s annual revenues were approximately US$11 million in 2014.

Courtesy of The Comet - left side of cheque: Charmaine Rogers, Senior Organiser at Home-Start. Right side of cheque :Keith Middleton, Partner at George Hay in Letchworth. Right of Keith: Nicky Lamb, Receptionist at George Hay and Volunteer for Home-Start.

George Hay, who have offices in Letchworth, Biggleswade and Huntingdon, took part in a variety of volunteering and fundraising activities throughout the year, including cake sales, dressdown days and a Santa Run in London. Keith Middleton, Partner at the Letchworth office, said

‘Home-Start is a wonderful charity that provides an incredibly valuable service to the less fortunate children and families of North Herts. We are delighted to support them.’ Charmaine Rogers , Senior Organiser at Home-Start, accepted the cheque on behalf of the charity and said ‘We are touched by

George Hay’s fundraising efforts for us. This money can now go towards providing summer holiday outings and activities for the local families we support. It is hugely appreciated’. For more information about Home-Start please visit www.home-start.org.uk

“Home-Start is a wonderful charity that provides an incredibly valuable service to the less fortunate children and families of North Herts. We are delighted to support them.”

Partner, Leigh Head, led the team which included Kiall Bagnell and Joshua Selouk from the Corporate department with specialist employment law support provided by Joanne Perry and Mark Fellows. The team advised the founders of Modality on the sale of the entire issued share capital of the company to a wholly owned subsidiary of PGi, a New York Stock Exchange listed software and services company that employs over 2,100 staff in 25 countries. On the role played by Sherrards’ lawyers, James Rodd, founder and CEO of Modality, comments: “The team at Sherrards have supported Modality for over five years, culminating in the acquisition of the business in February 2015. The whole team demonstrated immense professionalism and dedication to complete the transaction - they really were an asset to the whole process”. Leigh Head of Sherrards adds: “Having worked with the founders of Modality since the early stages of their development, I am delighted that the team have helped them to realise their ambitions to become part of a complimentary group of companies which will help elevate them into a worldwide presence in the unified communications field.”

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IP - Intellectual Property

Your business has got it. But can you identify it? And ... Is it protected? Page Hargrave, IP specialists, provide advice and assistance to help your business maximise the benefit from your IP. Intellectual Property comprises those intangible assets, which differentiate one business from another, generate goodwill and give you a technical or commercial edge over the competition. The existence and value of IP is frequently overlooked, unrecorded and unprotected, even though it may be key to commercial success. Intellectual Property Rights provide the means to protect and control exploitation of your IP. Important IPRs and Key Actions for businesses include:

• PATENTS to protect inventions and technical innovations in products or processes.

• DESIGN RIGHTS protect the visual appearance of new products. Registered Design protection is quick and easy to obtain for new 3D and 2D Key actions: designs. Unregistered design rights may Keep records of technical innovations, also apply in the EU/UK. which can offer your business a Key actions: commercial advantage; must apply for Keep records of creation of new product patent protection before innovations are designs and dates of first marketing; registration must be applied for within made publicly available. 12 months of first marketing. • TRADE MARKS for brand identifiers, • COPYRIGHT automatically subsists in which distinguish your goods and original literary or artistic works when services from those of your competitors. created. Copyright can also protect software, audio-visual works and Key actions: databases. If copyright works are Register your brands in your main created for you by someone else you markets. Registered trade marks offer will need an assignment or a licence to strong protection and are easier to use them. enforce than unregistered marks. To be Key actions: registrable, a mark must be distinctive Record dates of creation and identify the and not confusingly similar to any earlier originator of copyright works. Mark with mark for the same goods or services. © and date of creation, and get written Identify your registered marks with ® & assignments or licences for works unregistered marks with a (TM). produced for you by others.

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InternationalTrade

International Trade Seminars Export Week: Access India Date: Time: Venue: Member: Non member: Contact: Tel: Email:

Thursday 21 May 09:30 - 11:30am Beales Hotel Hatfield £20.00 £25:00 Jodie Reid 01707398401 jodiereid@hertschamber.com

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and UK India Business Council would like to invite you to this topical seminar on How to do business in India. With the recent election giving a clear mandate to the Narendra Modi - led, BJP party. India is expected to undergo a major transformation in business policy, with a slew of business friendly measures and a longer term view of economic and investment decisions. India’s economy continues to grow at around 6% with several India states expanding at over 10%, there are compelling reasons why India

should prominently figure in every business’ strategy and the potential rewards are significant. However, there are nuances that companies looking at India need to be aware of. The Indian market requires thorough preparation and a long term view. Listen to our knowledgeable speakers share their expertise and offer first-hand advice on key topics; from choosing your Indian business partner, protecting your IP, trade finance, staff recruitment and

adapting your product for an India market. Network with like-minded delegates and experts, participate in a Q&A with UK businesses that are succeeding in doing business India - hear why they chose this market and how they did it. Don’t miss this opportunity to understand the scale and nature of the opportunities India at what promises to be an informative and interactive day.

Agenda 9:00 - 9:30

Registration and coffee

9:30 - 9:40

Welcome and Introduction

9:40 - 10:00

Opportunities and challenges of doing business in India - Siddharth Mukne, UK India Business Council

10:00 - 10:20

Case Study

10:20 - 10:35

Refreshment break

10:35 - 11:00

Ease of doing business in India, including the legal and political framework and business culture - Satyendra Shrivastava, Khaitan Legal Associates

11:00 - 11:30

Q&A and networking

UK India Business Council is the premier business-led organisation supported by UK government and promoting bilateral trade and investment between the UK & India. Our mission is to facilitate an increase in trade between the UK and India through business to business dialogue. In collaboration with chambers & UKTI network, we carry out extensive programmes of UK-based outreach to inform UK businesses about the Indian market opportunities & our support system in UK & India to help businesses to enter into this market smoothly. Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is instrumental in our mission to reach businesses in their region. Recently, Helen Rowe, Commercial Director of the chamber not only organised my meetings with their three prominent members but also accompanied me for the meetings. The intention of meeting was to enrich the knowledge of local businesses about the Indian market, understand available opportunities for their products and guidelines to be successful. All three companies overwhelmed with the opportunities for their products in India market and keen to enter into this promising market. Hertfordshire Chambers of Commerce is a perfect example of how a successful collaboration can work with one accord, to help our British businesses. Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is educating local businesses to think beyond the local markets and to give them a platform to understand the opportunities across borders. I would like to thank you Hertfordshire Chamber for their initiative to promote and encourage businesses to export. Siddharth Mukne Business Adviser UK India Business Council

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NewMembers

Welcome to new members Access Self Storage We provide domestic and Business Storage solutions Former Express Dairy, Rivers End Road, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD, Hertfordshire HP3 9AJ 01442 330 269 www.accessstorage.com

Berryworld

The Consultancy Home Counties Ltd Provider of skills, training and enterprise solutions for young people, adults and employers 2nd Floor, Gresham House, 53 Clarendon Road, WATFORD Hertfordshire WD17 1LA 01923 698430 www.tchc.net

Formed in 1994 to specialise in soft fruit and is owned by fresh produce distributors Poupart Ltd. Turnford Place, Great Cambridge Road, BROXBOURNE, EN10 6NH 01992 471 833 www.berryworld.com

Iguana Creative and Marketing

Onslow St Audrey's School

The Guild of Letting and Management Ltd

Small Secondary Academy School Old Rectory Drive, HATFIELD, Hertfordshire. AL10 8AB 01707 264228 www.onslow.herts.sch.uk

Gorilla Carts and Kiosks LTD Custom design and manufacturer of bars, carts, kiosks and shopfittings. Unit 34, Hoddesdon Industrial Centre, Pindar Road, HODDESDON, Hertfordshire. EN11 0FF 01992 478444 www.gorilla-carts.com

Full service creative and marketing agency, working across B2B and B2C 01 The Maylands Business Centre, Redbourn Road, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD, Hertfordshire HP2 7ES 01442 927272 www.iguana-creative.co.uk

Taking residential lettings & management to new heights of professionalism Building 3, St Cross Chambers, Upper Marsh Lane, HODDESDON. EN11 9LQ 01992 479974 www.guild-let.co.uk

Simple Simon Foods LTD Over 30 years of delivering excellent service in food and drinks Unit 421 Centennial Avenue, ELSTREE. WD6 3TN 07970 481281 www.simplesimon.co.uk

LW Developments Hertfordshire premier period property developer Regency House, White Stubbs Farm, White Stubbs Lane, BROXBOURNE,Hertfordshire. EN10 7QA 01992 447713 www.lwdevelopments.com

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GutterMate Provider of rainwater harvesting solutions Eastway Enterprise Centre, 7 Paynes Park, HITCHIN, Hertfordshire. SG5 1EH 01462 429765 www.guttermate.co.uk

Eastways Enterprise Centre Provider of serviced and virtual offices in addition to other services 7 Paynes Park, HITCHIN, Hertfordshire. SG5 1EH 014624 29700 www.eastwayenterprise.co.uk

The Priory School Education Bedford Road, HITCHIN, Hertfordshire. SG5 2UR 01462 622300 www.priory.herts.sch.uk

Hotel Chocolat British cocoa grower and chocolate maker Mint House, Newark Close, ROYSTON Hertfordshire. SG8 5HL 0870 442 8282 www.hotelchocolat.co.uk

HIT Training Training company for hospitality Unit 81, Wenta Business Park, Colne Way WATFORD, Hertfordshire. WD24 7 07508 908620 sara.mcleese@hittraining.co.uk

Mayer Brown Transport, environment, drainage and design consultancy 26 Turnpike Lane, Ickleford, HITCHIN Hertfordshire. SG5 3XB 01483 750508 ahughes@mayerbrown.co.uk

H.R.Owen Maserati Car Dealer 318 Watford Road, Chiswell Green, ST ALBANS AL2 3DP 03332 407863 www.hrowen.co.uk/maserati

NewMembers

Mercure London Watford

OPES International Ltd

Stowe Family Law

Hotel and Events venue with full leisure facilities A41 Watford Bypass, WATFORD, Hertfordshire WD25 8JH 0844 8159056 www.mercure.com/gb/hotel-8326mercure-london-watfordhotel/index.shtml

Petroleum derivative products

Wills, Trusts, Probate & Family Law Solicitors 3 Hollywell Hill, ST ALBANS, Hertfordshire AL1 1ER 01727 841 875 www.stoewfamilylaw.co.uk

Foxholes Farm Shop Own fresh meat and locally sourced produce. Farm shop and Farmers Markets London Road, HERTFORD, Hertfordshire SG13 7N 01992 552 900 www.foxholesfarm.com

Harbeck House, Kimpton Bottom, KIMPTON Hertfordshire. SG4 8EU 01438 833 648 www.opeslimited.com

The Skin To Love Clinic Medical & Cosmetic team working alongside clinically-proven treatments & cosmetics 13-15 Cheqer Street, ST ALBANS, Hertfordshire AL1 3YJ 01727 837 429 www.theskintoloveclinic.co.uk

Chirp Communications Limited Communications Consultancy & Copyrighting Includes Change Management, Marketing & Social Media 51 Brookside, HERTFORD, Hertfordshire. SG13 7ZJ 07734 106930 www.chirpcomm.co.uk

Hargreaves Owen Accountants Red Sky House, Fairclough Hall, Halls Green, WESTON, Hertfordshire. SG4 7D 01462 791079 www.hargreavesowen.co.uk

The Best of Welwyn & Hatfield Marketing Consultancy 7 Elmwood, WELWYN GARDEN CITY Hertfordshire. AL8 6LD 01707 229807 www.thebestof.co.uk/welwynandhatfield

IPI Searches Limited T/A Index Property Information We provide conveyancing searches and reports to solicitors & conveyancers Alexander House Business Centre, 40 A Wilbury Way, HITCHIN, SG4 0PA 01462 507 005 www.indexpi.co.uk

Thorn Support Services Welham Green Distribution Centre 172 Travellers Lane. WELHAM GREEN, Hertfordshire AL9 7HN 07786631770 www.thornsgroup.com

H&A Lopata Ltd Business Networking Strategists -

Creative Digital Agency

Speaking, Mentoring, Training

Web Developer Digital Agency 4th Floor, 86-90 Paul Street, London, EC2A 4NE 0203 780 0808 www.creativedigitalagency.co.uk

21 Vancouver Road, BROXBOURNE. EN10 6FB 03331 230233 www.lopata.co.uk

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ChamberEvents

Chamber supports the Small Business Marketing Conference Friday 22 May 2015 This increasingly popular fixture for small businesses in Hertfordshire, which is organised by the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) and the University of Hertfordshire, will once again take place at de Havilland Campus, Hatfield.

“This event-packed day presents opportunities to visit companies exhibiting at the conference and to network with your peers over coffee and a buffet lunch.”

The conference rounds off the CIM’s Small Business Week and is a must for any small business owner, or manager, interested in how marketing drives business growth. Expert speakers include Professor Malcolm McDonald, the UK's pre-eminent authority on marketing strategy, together with a leading expert in social media who will explain how to convert likes into leads into customers. Other recognised experts will talk about marketing communications, digital marketing, social media and exporting. You will leave with knowledge of why some areas of your marketing may not be working

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and tools for how to make what is working better. The CIM will also reveal key findings from its latest small business national research survey and new initiatives for support and funding for small businesses. This event-packed day presents opportunities to visit companies exhibiting at the conference and to network with your peers over coffee and a buffet lunch. We are delighted to offer Chamber Members our CIM Member rate. Please phone 01628 427340 and quote promotional code HCCSBM15 (only available for current members of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce).

Yolanda Rugg CEO of Chamber “I encourage our members to come and learn from experts on all areas of marketing, but particularly if you haven’t got a digital strategy and want to learn how to grow your business in this rapidly changing digital era” Registration is from 09:00; the event starts at 09:30 and finishes at 16:00. Places are limited and demand often exceeds supply at this popular event, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Our feedback survey from the previous year indicates that at least 90% of delegates would recommend the event to a colleague!

ChamberEvents

Annual Chairman’s Dinner Join us for our Annual Chairman’s Dinner at Sopwell House Hotel, St Albans on Thursday 1 October Guest speaker: Angus Thirlwell, Hotel Chocolat This prestigious black tie event is attended by over 200 key business people within the county and will include entertainment and a charity raffle.

This is an ideal opportunity to bring along clients and/ or colleagues for what we guarantee will be a superb evening.

Take advantage of our Early Bird rate at £700 + vat for a table of 10 or £75 + vat each.

Women in Leadership Networking Lunch On Friday 19 June we continue with our initiative to provide an inspiring platform for Hertfordshire businesswomen to network with their peers, develop leadership skills and provide mentoring, support and inspiration to the next generation of women business leaders. We are delighted to welcome Anna Baptist, Senior Partner at Longmores Solicitors as guest speaker to this networking lunch event which will take place at Homestead Court Hotel in Welwyn Garden City.

This is not a women only event, our male colleagues have a great deal to contribute, based upon their own experiences and career success, and their participation and support is equally sought.

Tickets are on sale now at £25 for our members. INSPIRE

ChamberEvents

Upcoming Events Chamber Networking Breakfast: Ambition Broxbourne - One Year On Date: 30 April Time: 07.30 - 09.00 Venue: Cheshunt Marriott Hotel, Halfhide Lane, Turnford, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, EN10 6NG Cost: £19.20 members £24.00 non-members

Ambition Broxbourne is the Council’s economic growth initiative for 2014 and beyond. Working in collaboration with various partners to support innovation, enterprise and entrepreneurship in every aspect of community life, the Ambition Broxbourne vision is that by 2030 the Borough of Broxbourne will have a thriving, vibrant and prosperous economy that is underpinned by innovation, enterprise and entrepreneurship. Join us to hear an update on Ambition Broxbourne and the plans for the future.

East Herts Business Briefing with WK Connect Hertford Date: 12 May Time: 07.30 - 09.30 Venue: Ponsbourne Park Hotel, Ponsbourne Park, The Drive, Newsgate Street, SG13 8QS Cost: £20.00 members £20.00 non-members

We are delighted to be partnering with Wilkins Kennedy LLP to deliver this breakfast meeting. This event is a great opportunity to interact with other likeminded people where ideas and views can be readily exchanged in a secure and friendly business environment. This seminar will focus on spotting the warning signs, explain how to get the information to assess how serious a business’ difficulties are and how to react to it. Guest Speaker: Stephen Grant, Managing Partner, Wilkins Kennedy LLP.

Made in Herts - Ambition Broxbourne - Tour of Newsprinters Date: 19 May Time: 10.30 - 13.00 Venue: Newsprinters Broxbourne, Great Cambridge Road, Broxbourne, EN10 8DY Cost: £12.50 members £15.00 non members

The world’s largest newspaper plant, based in Herts, is opening its doors once again to Chamber members. This is an amazing opportunity to gain insight on NI’s Newsprinters Ltd, a business that has realised its ambition of building the biggest and greenest newspaper plant, whilst overcoming the challenge of declining print sales. On the day, you will be treated to refreshments, and a chance to meet Group Operations Director Steve Whitehead before learning about the enterprise, and how they arrived at building the innovative complex. Following that, a onehour tour will be given, providing a unique look at the process behind delivering the nation’s newspapers.

Chamber International Trade Seminar – Export Week: Access India Date: 21 May Time: 09.00 - 11.30 Venue: Beales Hotel Hatfield, Comet Way, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NG Cost: £20.00 members £25.00 non-members

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and UK India Business Council would like to invite you to this topical seminar on How to do business in India. We invite you to Listen to our knowledgeable speakers share their expertise and offer first-hand advice on key topics; from choosing your Indian business partner, protecting your IP, trade finance, staff recruitment and adapting your product for an India market. Network with like-minded delegates and experts, participate in a Q&A with UK businesses that are succeeding in doing business India – hear why they chose this market and how they did it.

Lee Valley Olympic Breakfast with Ambition Broxbourne Date: 9 June Time: 09.30 - 11.30 Venue: Lee Valley White Water Centre, Waltham Cross, EN9 1AB Cost: £14.40 members £18.00 non-members

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Lee Valley White Water Centre is a white-water slalom Centre that was constructed to host the canoe slalom events of the 2012 Summer Olympics. For this week only the Centre will be welcoming international athletes to train for the upcoming championships. Come along and networking and take this opportunity to meet with some London 2012 Gold Medalists!

ChamberEvents

Circular Economy Summit Date: 11 June Time: 08.00 - 13.00 Venue: Rothamsted Conference Centre, Rothamsted Research, West Common, Harpenden, AL5 2JQ Cost: £45.00 members £65.00 non-members

A stimulating half day with prominent speakers from both academia and industries and spanning waste management, agriculture, food, energy, design, and manufacturing. Promising greater efficiency and value creation, the Circular Economy offers huge opportunities for businesses and economic growth, and highlights the research and innovation capabilities that will be at the heart of such a paradigm shift.

Women in Leadership Networking Lunch Date: 19 June Time: 12.00 - 13.00 Venue: Homestead Court Hotel Homestead Court, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 4LX Cost: £25.00 members £35.00 non-members

Dates for your Diary •Inspiring Hertfordshire 2015 Gala Awards Dinner - 14 May 2015 •Networking Lunch with Connect Dacorum - 3 June 2015

This initiative has been launched to provide an inspiring platform for Hertfordshire businesswomen to network with their peers, develop leadership skills and provide mentoring, support and inspiration to the next generation of women business leaders. This is not a women only event, our male colleagues have a great deal to contribute, based upon their own experiences and career success, and their participation and support is equally sought. Guest speaker Anna Baptiste, Partner, Longmore's Solicitors

•East Herts Business Briefing with WK Connect Hertford - 1 July 2015 •Chamber Networking Lunch - Network with your Neighbours - 8 July 2015 •Chamber Brunch - Network on the Wild Side - 9 July 2015

•Women in Leadership Networking Lunch - 19 June 2015

•Chamber Clay Pigeon Shooting - 20 August 2015

•East Herts Networking Brunch at Hertford Castle - 25 June 2015

•Chamber Early Riser Speed Networking - 9 September 2015

•Chamber Networking Breakfast: Cybercrime - How to protect your business - 17 September 2015 •East Herts Business Briefing with WK Connect Hertford - 22 September 2015 •Annual Chairmans Dinner 2015 - 1 October 2015 •Customer Experience Conference - 9 October 2015 •East Herts Business Briefing with WK Connect Hertford - 3 November 2015

If you would like to register for an event or would like further information or would like to book on to an event please contact Jodie Reid on 01707 398400 or email jodiereid@hertschamber.com Alternatively visit our website www.hertschamber.com

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Development

Develop your people with the University of Hertfordshire How could new skills, better planning and improved delivery help your business?

“I am delighted to have negotiated a 25% reduction in the cost of any of the UH Courses on the following website for a limited period www.herts.ac.uk/courses” Yolanda Rugg CEO, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

Improve competitive advantage • Maintain an efficient delivery process and win new business • Save time, cost and energy • Identify and establish new markets • Keep your customers happy The University of Hertfordshire offers flexible learning, providing the ideal solution for industry professionals, to improve their skillset and knowledge for efficient product and service delivery.

Our course options vary from: online, Work Based Learning or on campus and we can deliver bespoke training for your organisational needs. We have a selection of courses and modules including the following themes:

• • • • • • • •

International Business Operations Management Project Management Project Management Practice (NCPM) Supply Chain Management Strategic Business and Information Systems Management Marketing

If you would like to book a place or require any further information please contact Laura Shoobridge Laurashoobridge@hertshcamber.com or phone 01707 398400 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 9NE Tel: 01707 398000 Fax: 01707 398430 www.hertschamber.com

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ForumNews

A Hertfordshire Chambers networking event and tour at the Kelvin Hughes’s Enfield HQ sees record attendance On 26th March, Kelvin Hughes hosted a formal networking event at its head office in Enfield, Middlesex, on behalf of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Manufacturing Forum. Kelvin Hughes is a world leader in the design and supply of navigation and surveillance systems. The company has been a front-runner in its industry for over 250 years, supplying advanced navigation solutions and services around the globe. This is Kelvin Hughes’s first major networking event of 2015, and was aimed at inspiring local businesses in areas of selling, marketing, export, apprenticeships and manufacturing.

The networking began with an informal questions and answers session, hosted by Kelvin Hughes’s CEO Russell Gould, and was followed by a guided tour around the site.

Hertfordshire Manufacturing Forum is currently running a number of events across the county at various business premises, featuring a mix of blue chip and smallerprofile companies. Through the initiative, Hertfordshire Manufacturing Forum aims to showcase the world-class capabilities of businesses in Hertfordshire, focusing in particular on the manufacturing capabilities in the region.

The event itself was attended by over 36 people. It featured presentations on the Group itself, its history, and a number of its high-profile products including the SharpEye radar, SharpEye SCV small boat radar, SharpEye SxV and the SMS camera system for land security applications. This all culminated in a tour of Kelvin Hughes’s Waveguide assembly area and its main production area, where attendees were invited to watch a full range of products being assembled and tested.

Speaking about the day, Kelvin Hughes’s CEO Russell Gould commented: “It is a pleasure to have so many local business people attend the event and come see Kelvin Hughes. It is evident how these events enable local businesses to meet and potentially work with each other. I understand we had a significant conversation concerning recruitment as a result of this event”.

““I’d like to thank everyone at Kelvin Hughes for a great morning, inspiring Hertfordshire Chamber members and for sharing the story of their successful history“ Yolanda Rugg Chief Executive Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce.

New Addition to Longmores Commercial Property Team Longmores, one of Hertfordshire’s leading firms of solicitors and a patron of the Chamber, has recently added a high level appointment to their commercial property team. Rachael Spalton joined Longmores in March at partner level. She has spent the last 13 years working in central London, where she has gained extensive experience in all aspects of commercial property transactions, including investment sales and purchases, development site acquisitions, funding, and business leases. Rachael is also experienced in dealing with the property aspects of company sales and purchases. She is used to working with a wide variety of clients including property developers and investors ,business owners and major corporations . Rachael will work alongside Liz Gallop, Victoria Sandberg and Richard Taylor. After 32 years at Longmores Richard retired as a partner at the end of 2014 but he continues as a consultant to the firm. Head of Commercial Property, Liz Gallop, said “At Longmores we are all true specialists and we pride ourselves in offering our clients a level of service second to none. We are excited about Rachael’s addition because it will enhance our already strong Commercial Property team. It is yet another example of the firm’s ability to attract talent away from one of the bigger players”.

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WorkPlace

Is your business properly insured? For over 35 years, Ashbourne Insurance has been providing advice and support to Hertfordshire based businesses from tradesman to professionals and shops to commercial properties. Here are some Top Tips from award-winning Ashbourne Insurance

Review your cover annually

Click, Click…CRASH!

Take time to study the insurance schedule at least once a year, do the sums insured accurately represent your current exposure and are the sections of cover provided in-line with the needs of your business? If you have continually renewed cover without checking over a period of years your cover will be out of date and in some instances you may find that you are paying for cover you don’t need.

Start the process early Whether it is a new “risk” or renewal of an existing policy start the process early, at least 6-weeks in advance. This will give you time to review the current schedule of cover, engage the appropriate supplier(s) and allow them time to analyse the risk to ensure cover tailored to your specific needs at a price to suit your budget.

Build a relationship with your broker Engaging in a single independent broker (supplier), one with access to the full range of markets available is much more effective than engaging multiple brokers. You want your broker to become your advocate and to get insurers fighting each other for your business. Multiple brokers approaching the same insurance markets will force the

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price up or just restrict the options available.

Continuity is the key

IS YOUR BUSINESS PROPERLY INSURED?

Continuity of insurer is a benefit to getting a competitive premium year-in, year out. It is always worthwhile having your broker complete a full market exercise, however don’t be too keen to change insurer for a fiver! If insurers see that there has been continuity over a 3-5 year period they are more likely to give you their most competitive rate. It doesn’t hurt

the existing insurer to know that service and claims handling are not the sameInsurance wherever you go. your broker is Forlooking over at35 years, Ashbourne alternatives;has this will keep them been providing Don’t advice buy andon-line support on their toes.to Hertfordshire based businesses from On-line quotations are based tradesman andofshops to on a series assumptions and Cheap quote equals to professionals commercial properties.are “packaged” policies designed cheap cover to be “one size fits all”. If a quote seems too cheap to If youand purchase coverofon-line For a no obligation quote a review be true, it is often just the case. you become the broker, who your business callyou 01992 Reductions in premium are needs please then do refer471001 to it all goes (quote HCC15 to receive free key insurance) wrong when it comes to always attractive, however at making a claim? Ashbourneyou search leading insurers to what cost? Remember only all the getvalue you the right policyFor at the right price. know the true of your more information or a policy when it comes to making quotation please contact David a claim, insurance policies, or Matthew 01992471001

Call us on 01992 471001 or visit www.ashbourneinsurance.co.uk 50 Amwell Street, Hoddesdon, Herts EN11 8UA

WorkPlace

Herts Chamber Apprentice Sophie Watts - my Journey so far I am currently five months into my Higher Business Administration (level 4) Apprenticeship at the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce; I play a pivotal role in the events and administration team. Throughout my apprenticeship I have been fortunate to lead on social media channels, creating content and ensuring we interact with our thousands of followers. I have also organised an event targeted at head teachers to learn about the opportunities available to their school pupils, and how to work with businesses to jointly tackle the skills shortage. I was also given the opportunity to share my journey and the reason behind my decision to become an apprentice with business people and teachers. This event gave me an insight into what it's like to manage an event and through this experience I was able to discover what I am really passionate about. I recently had the privilege to join MBDA's apprentices to take part in a personal development course in Wales; this was a valuable experience in which I came away knowing more about myself and how to work and communicate with others. Additionally, I was able to enhance my confidence and gain further skills in communication. The programme introduced me to subjects such as project management, negotiation and leadership, as well as learning how to deliver high impact

presentations. This course has given me the confidence to speak with business people and share with them my experience and knowledge. As a result of my apprenticeship, I have gained new skills, made new friends and challenged myself in ways I didn't know were possible. I am already starting to feel like a new person with limitless possibilities and it has given me back the drive to learn myself further and learn new skills. I am excited and looking forward to experience new challenges that lie ahead and push myself to my full potential. Gareth Humphreys MBE, HR adviser for education at MBDA

"Throughout her time with us, Sophie has shown the important spark for innovative thinking that means she has the potential to be an inventive Business Person. Added to this, she's a nice person who is enthusiastic about the job. Everyone who works with Sophie says the same thing" Yolanda Rugg, CEO, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;We were very fortunate to have been guided by Gareth in recruiting a Higher Apprentice, and as an Ambassador of the National Ambassador Apprenticeship Network, I feel we are able to fully appreciate and be an advocate for the

value apprentices bring to the business. We were very grateful to NHC for introducing us to Sophie, and for Oaklands College as our trainer provider at Level 4. Sophie has made an excellent start on the first rung of the ladder, but with her willingness to learn, her can-do attitude and very friendly personality, she is a great team player, and will be climbing the ladder to develop new skills, and take on greater responsibility over the coming months. If any business would like more information about how to explore embarking on apprenticeships, please contact myself or Tamsynhammond @hertschamber.com â&#x20AC;&#x153;

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24Hours

24.Hours Looking to the future key for Perry Perry Jackson has a job that combines a focus on the nuts and bolts of daily working life with a strong emphasis on planning for the future. After 14 years working for Mitsubishi Electric, he is General Manager Business Support for the company’s air conditioning and heating division, based in Travellers Lane, Hatfield – a post he assumed in November 2014. With a history that can be traced back more than 90 years, Mitsubishi Electric is a world leader in the manufacture, marketing and sales of electrical and electronic equipment. The Hatfield-based company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, employs around 300 people and the division Perry works for is responsible for marketing the advanced ventilation, heating and air conditioning systems that help keep our buildings comfortable in some of the most energy efficient ways possible. Perry, who has worked for Mitsubishi Electric since 2001 in senior posts in areas including photovoltaics and automotive components and is now one of four general managers for the division, said: “My basic hours are eight until six but it does not always work out like that, I have to remain flexible around the business needs. “I like to start my day by doing some admin, slaying the email beast, then my day can often be taken up with a succession of meetings. The key to making these productive, though, is to ensure everyone leaves the

meeting knowing what needs to be done next. “Every week we will have a general management meeting which deals with the nuts and bolts of running the business, making sure that our people have what they need, but we also make time for strategy. “Looking to the future is important to us and every other week we have a dedicated business strategy meeting. There will be six to seven of us in the room and the meeting can last the best part of a day as we consider ideas around the idea of ‘Living in the Future’. “Mitsubishi Electric has used its position as a provider of the energy consuming equipment that help keep our buildings comfortable to point the way to a more sustainable future. The company has also used its own 1980s headquarters to show how even existing buildings can be made more energy efficient by using the technology and equipment that is available right now. “The strategy discussions, as you can imagine, will be business confidential and we will bring other people in only when the time is right and we think the concepts are ready to be developed, either by project teams or a different part of the business.” As part of that commitment to the future, Perry also has responsibility for bringing through the company’s talent.

He said: “Part of my job is overseeing our Academy in Hatfield, which is not just about bringing in bright new talent but also developing the people that we already have. It is something that I am passionate about. “The company realised some time ago that some of our skilled people felt like the only way to progress their careers was by going into management. However, not all of them wanted to manage people, which could be

detrimental to them and the business, so our Academy looks at ways to keep them doing what they do best but also help develop their roles. “The Academy looks at everything from improving their skills, including technical skills, to developing sales and encouraging leadership. “The company has always invested in its people and the Academy is a good way of making best use of our talent”.

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MembersNews

Father & Son get the tandem pedals turning in a 60 mile cycle ride to celebrate Stevenage Community Trustâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25th Anniversary Robert Stewart, Founder of Stevenage Packaging Ltd & Chairman of The Stevenage Community Trust spent his 50th Birthday on Wednesday 8th April 2015 cycling 60 miles on a 30 year old tandem, along with his son, Callum Stewart, who turns 25 this year, to celebrate the Stevenage Community Trust 25th Anniversary.

Callum Stewart, Sherma Batson MBE DL CC and Robert Stewart outside Stevenage Borough Council Offices.

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MembersNews

“Having achieved their first target, their stretch goal was to raise a massive £25,000 to celebrate the 25th anniversary and contribute towards the £100,000 the Trust will be giving away to those in need within the community in 2015.”

Work Matters provides professional Human Resources advice to both employers and employees. It specialises in Employment Law, Employee Development, Employee Relations and other HR issues that each party encounters. Human Resources : improve HR systems & procedures. Recruitment : comprehensive advice & support. Legal : ensuring legal compliance for any sized company. For further information visit us at

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Robert & Callum Stewart left their home in Cambridge City Centre at 6.30am & arrived in Mr Stewart’s childhood town & workplace, Stevenage, at the Stevenage Borough Council offices for 9.50am where 25 years ago, Hilda Lawrence, Mayor of Stevenage, founded the Stevenage Community Trust. This story comes with a twist they completed the 60 mile round trip, not only on a 30year old bike but in their business suits. Here is a short video clip that highlights their journey from Cambridge to Stevenage http://youtu.be/8CKOFlwpqXw Once they completed a day’s work, they departed Stevenage to arrive back in the City Centre of Cambridge at 9.50pm. So far they have broken the record amount raised for one single event totalling over £12,000 to date.

Barclays Bank has also pledged to donate £1,000 in the coming weeks.

m: 07711 613153

e: Carolinebrode@gmail.com

Amberley, 18 Oakwood, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 3NQ

Having achieved their first target, their stretch goal was to raise a massive £25,000 to celebrate the 25th anniversary and contribute towards the £100,000 the Trust will be giving away to those in need within the community in 2015. The trust has an amazingly lean business model with one part-time employee, 16 volunteer Trustees, cost free premises and virtually every pound raised goes straight back to those who are in need within our community. If you would like to donate and support the Trust, it would be truly appreciated www.virginmoneygiving.com/S tevenagecommunitytrust

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Would Would you you like like more more productive productive people? people? Pitman Training is a leader in providing training that gets results. Our team in Watford has long experience in helping improve the skills of people at work. A Accountancy ccountancy

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Do you know? The University of Hertfordshire can provide access to a wide range of expertise that will enable your business to grow.

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Dacorum

It’s all happening in Hemel Have you been to Hemel Hempstead recently? Businesses, shoppers, residents and visitors are all talking about the town centre transformation currently in full swing. Dacorum Borough Council’s £30 million Hemel Evolution scheme is now well underway: updating the 1950s New Town legacy, and building on designer Geoffrey Jellicoe’s original idea of a town within a park. With the historic character of the Old Town already preserved, attention has turned to the main Marlowes pedestrianised shopping area. Businesses here have remained open throughout the work, while the Council carries out major improvements. Director of Regeneration Mark Gaynor explains: “High streets up and down the country are increasingly social places where people go in person to enjoy experiences they don’t get when shopping online. So to encourage them to choose

Hemel Hempstead, we’re making it as attractive as possible to different groups.” • Families will be attracted by a new series of ‘play on the way’ children’s areas. • Local workers on their lunch breaks will appreciate new sociable seating areas. • Shoppers and local residents can relax and enjoy the new trees, paving and feature fountain. • Events in the new community events space will bring everyone together, including visitors from outside Dacorum. Areas are being opened as soon as they are finished, with work on track to finish by this autumn. Businesses are already giving the transformation the thumbs up. David Robinson, Manager at Riverside Shopping Centre on Marlowes, says: “Any investment in public realm is a welcome boost to the local economy so it is extremely pleasing to see modernisation works in the town centre, helping Hemel to attract additional shoppers and potential new retailers to add to our strong retail offer.” Meanwhile, the Hemel Evolution ripples are spreading still further through the town: • The town’s Jellicoe Water Gardens are being restored to their former glory this spring.

Artist’s impression of the new Forum

• Site preparations have begun on The Forum, a purpose-

built, energy-efficient new home uniting Dacorum Borough Council with teams from the police, the county council and voluntary organisations – all focused around a state-of-the-art library. • Work is just starting on a new bus interchange and taxi rank. Mark Gaynor offers businesses an open invitation: “Regeneration is repositioning our town so that businesses, residents and visitors benefit equally in its bright future. If you’re considering relocating, expanding or investing, look no further. Our door is always open.”

Find out mo re and get involved: • Call Dacorum on 01442 228000 ask for the ‘town centre team’ • Sign up for the monthly ‘About Town’ e-newsletter by emailing towncentre@dacorum.gov.uk • Find out more online at www.dacorum.gov.uk/hemelevolution • Like facebook.com/dacorum and follow @dacorumBC #HemelEvo

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LastWord Name: John Playfair Company: Playfair Partnerships Ltd Job title: Managing Partner Q Who do you work for ? We work with privately owned businesses across a number of sectors including professional services, construction, healthcare and manufacturing. We’re working with a growing number of law firms and are looking to develop our business in the media and technology sectors. Our clients see us as part of their management team and that relationship is hugely important to us and vice-versa, as we really get to understand their business and work in partnership to deliver the right outcomes.

Q What do you do? We work with clients to drive their business forward, whether it’s providing strategic advice and planning, helping struggling businesses to get back on track, or supporting a company to develop robust financial controls and effective management accounting systems. We use our experience and expert analytical skills to ensure our clients receive a first class service, be it in business turnaround, Financial Director services, or financial control and management. By providing these services on an outsourced basis, our clients benefit from senior level expertise at an economic price and flexible support tailored to meet their particular needs.

Patrons

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Q Why did you join the chamber? We joined to build relationships with like-minded people and potential clients, gain a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the Hertfordshire economy and to work collectively with other businesses to ensure we have a stronger voice regionally and nationally. More recently I have been appointed as a nonexecutive director to the Chamber, which means I can feed into management decisions and champion the views of local businesses. Q What do you get from it? There’s access to a wide range of services, advice, information and networking opportunities more than I first realised. If you put the effort in and take advantage of what’s on offer, there are all sorts of potential

Q What do you think is biggest benefits to your business. As a challenge affecting running director, it helps me to keep my and growing a business? finger on the pulse so I am more aware of what’s going on The fast pace of change is a locally and nationally. Plus, it’s major challenge for most good to put something back into businesses. New technologies, changing business methods, an organisation that’s working to shifting challenges and promote the local business emerging opportunities are community. evolving at an ever-increasing Q How has it helped your rate. Staying ahead of the game business network? by anticipating market and As well as meeting a wider client needs and continuing to group of businesses who might offer exceptional service is key need our services, we’ve gained to ensuring your business access to a diverse pool of survives and prospers. expertise. There’s such a lot of talent in Hertfordshire and while Q What support do you want from Government? we may work in different Action to encourage a businesssectors, we often share some friendly environment which common issues and goals so supports businesses to do well, you can gain valuable insight including an incentivised tax from others around you. system and the appropriate Q What advice would you give national infrastructure to ensure someone starting out? businesses and society can operate more effectively. Starting up and running a business can be fantastically Q How confident are you your rewarding but please don’t business will grow in 2015? underestimate the amount of We are very positive about the time and energy that it will future. We are confident that consume, which can often have our business will continue to a significant impact on your grow by ensuring we meet the family. Put together a clear plan needs and ambitions of our to focus your priorities and clients through sound financial ensure you fully understand your controls and helping to provide product and market – then clear strategic direction. Far strive to offer the best possible from being complacent, service to ensure you gain a however, we are proactively competitive advantage. Lastly, evolving as a company to ensure surround yourself with good we embrace new opportunities people – choose colleagues and that will deliver more benefits to advisers wisely so that you have our clients and we’re really good quality support and advice looking forward to what lies ahead. to help you grow your business.

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