Inspire November 2016

INSPIRE.17 The business magazine of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce November - December 2016

Remarkable times at London Luton Airport (LLA) as it undergoes one of the most ambitious expansion programmes ever witnessed in the UK aviation sector - page 15 n

Apprenticeship Levy How you can use your contribution to create high-quality apprenticeships - page 10

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Three Rivers District Multi-million pound regeneration programme - page 18

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Airbus Careers which really are rocket science - page 50

Welcome

Contents Up Front Patron Focus Apprenticeship Levy Big Interview Spotlight on....

Members News Chamber Energy Patron Comment Chamber Events Export Event New Members Members News Chamber HR Workplace Health & Wellbeing Young Chamber 24 Hours Finance Hospitality Last Word

4-7 8-9 10-12 15-17 18-21 22 23 25 26-28 29 30-31 32-35 36 37 38-40 41 43 44-45 48-49 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 Nov 2016 © 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: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1479 •••• 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. ©2016 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.

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From the Chief Executive UK Economy outlook Despite previous pessimistic economic forecasts the first official estimate for Q3 2016 growth in UK GDP revealed that the UK economy grew by 0.5% in the third quarter but, down from the growth of 0.7% recorded in the previous quarter.

In annual terms, GDP was 2.3% higher in Q3 2016 compared with the same quarter a year ago.

The US economy grew at an annual rate of 2.9% in Q3 2016, up from the growth of 1.4% recorded in the previous quarter.

Access to finance remains a growing issue for our member businesses who need stability at a time of economic change, particularly at key institutions like the Bank of England. Firms will be reassured that the recent speculation over the timing and nature of Mark Carney's departure has been put to rest. However, the Governor will still be leaving at a sensitive time for the economy - so businesses will want to see a clear and ordered transition plan.

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Brexit roundtable BCC’s Mike Spicer, Director of Policy and Research was pleased to hear from some of our members at a recent Hertfordshire Chamber leader’s roundtable Brexit breakfast discussion, and BCC have consequently adjusted their forthcoming trade survey to take account of the issues raised at our forum.

There was definitely a split in the room between those who were experiencing a windfall from Sterling’s decline and those who were more concerned about increasing costs especially from our members importing components from Europe. We talked about how businesses were adapting to Sterling’s new level: most had not adopted a hedging strategy because of Sterling’s volatility and were waiting until things had calmed down. This was a really valuable discussion because we know that take-up of hedging products by members is very low.

A Boost for Hertfordshire Chamber members We are delighted to celebrate three Herts Chamber member award winners. Firstly, Broxbourne Borough Council, in their most recent award as one of four winners of the Enterprising Britain Awards.

We were delighted to be recognised

by Leader of Broxbourne Council, Cllr Mark Mills Bishop for the contribution our chamber has made as part of the Ambition Broxbourne project ‘to drive and enthuse businesses in the Borough, in making this national award possible.’ See page 5.

Secondly Young Chamber member, Sir John Lawes School was recognised as a regional British Chamber winner scooping up the regional title for Education in People, recognising the value of their employer facing programmes and I wish them well as a finalist at the national chamber awards on November 24th at The Brewery, London.

Thirdly, congratulations to Queens Award winner for Enterprise for International trade, Quanta, presented by her majesty the Queen on 14th July, and the chamber were thrilled to be invited to join them to celebrate at their Berkhamsted HQ on the 7th October. See page 56 for more information.

Apprenticeship Levy There is still much uncertainty amongst employers around the new tax coming into force for employers with a £3 million payroll cost.

Please see pages 10-12 for a comprehensive frequently asked questions fact sheet.

Heathrow expansion After years of prevarication by successive governments, we now have a clear government decision to expand Heathrow.

While there's still much to do to make this political statement into a reality for

business, it's a major step forward.

Heathrow expansion has widespread, but not universal, support across our chamber membership, voicing an expanded hub airport at Heathrow is crucial to connectivity, exports, investment and growth. Yet there were also strong Chamber voices in favour of expansion at Birmingham, Gatwick, and Stansted, amongst others.

Whether it’s connectivity to Heathrow through more domestic flights, rail access to the airport from the west, south and north, or through supply chain opportunities in the multi-billionpound construction phase, this is an infrastructure project that needs to deliver widespread business benefits as it moves from the planning phase to construction and operation.

Luton Airport £110m investment Our Chamber lunch this month is at Beales Hotel, Hatfield and welcomes guest speaker CEO Nick Barton at Luton Airport who will explain more about the £110m investment at the airport, and the future infrastructure plans to support growth across the County and specifically rail connectivity to other airports. Turn to pages 15-17 for a full briefing. BCC will continue its push for Philip Hammond to use his Autumn Statement to boost infrastructure investment - including road, rail and broadband projects that would deliver fast and tangible benefits to local business communities across the UK. Chamber Venues Technology Driven solution One sector that we are very proud of in Hertfordshire is our tourism sector, having run a tourism partnership at the chamber for many years. We are delighted to be launching a new portal for showcasing Chamber Venues in Herts, and specifically the meeting facilities to help local and national meeting planners source some of Hertfordshire’s’ hidden treasures.

For further information please email amyrich@hertschamber.com We hope many of you may join us for our AGM and festivities afterwards at our Christmas lunch at Sopwell house on December 6th, and I would like to personally thank all of our team and our members for their support and encouragement over the last twelve months.

Yolanda Rugg Chief Executive Officer Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce INSPIRE

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Crime prevention courses launched The Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner has launched two free short online training modules for business owners and their staff to help protect themselves and their employees against crime.

Both new courses are free resources to bolster basic awareness and have been put together in consultation with Hertfordshire’s Independent Business Advisory Group (IBAG) and with the expert input of Hertfordshire Constabulary crime prevention officers and cybercrime experts.

Cybercrime and fraud are currently two of the biggest concerns for businesses in the UK and the Government estimates that the impact on the British economy is around £50 billion. Locally, 70% of all fraud in Hertfordshire is committed against businesses.

The Citizens’ Academy online course for business owners will help them to understand the strategic changes they can implement to help protect their organisations.

The separate course designed for business staff will help them to understand common threats, like

phishing emails, password hacking and mandate fraud, and how to avoid them.

Neville Reyner, Chairman of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, also chairs the IBAG. Find the courses online at www.hertscitizensacademy.org

Cybercrime cost UK businesses more than

£1billion in the past year

BCC appoints new Director General The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has announced the appointment of Adam Marshall as its new Director General with immediate effect.

Adam initially took on the role on an acting basis following the resignation of John Longworth in March 2016, and was appointed to the role on a permanent basis following a robust recruitment process.

He has worked at the British Chambers of Commerce since July 2009, initially as Executive Director for Policy and External Affairs. Prior to joining, he helped start up

the Centre for Cities organisation, built transatlantic industry-university links and worked in the broadcast media. He holds a BA from Yale University and MPhil and PhD degrees from the University of Cambridge.

Francis Martin, President of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Adam is the outstanding choice to lead the BCC, at a time when the views of business have never been more important. Adam has a detailed knowledge of the Chamber Network and a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Chamber members across the country. At a time of great political and economic uncertainty, I am confident that Adam has the ability and passion to enable the BCC to thrive under his leadership.”

Adam said: “I am humbled and delighted to have the opportunity to lead the BCC team, and to speak up for Chambers and their many thousands of members all across the UK." "At this time of national transition and change, BCC will ensure that the diverse voices of business are heard - regardless of size, sector, region or nation. We will act to ensure that British businesses get every opportunity to grow and thrive, both here at home and across the world. And we will stand up for the many thousands of dedicated Chamber member companies who combine the best features of business and deep local commitment."

“I am humbled and delighted to have the opportunity to lead the BCC team, and to speak up for Chambers and their many thousands of members all across the UK."

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UpFront

Council service agreement is extended An agreement has been announced which will show the value of public and private sector collaboration to help Broxbourne Borough Council reduce its costs and improve its customer service.

Sopra Steria has announced that the council has joined founding partner Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council on the Hertfordshire Shared Service for the provision of Revenues and Benefits and ICT services.

Broxbourne Borough Council has joined to reduce costs and improve its customer services for Revenues and Benefits, including Housing Benefit payments and Council Tax. The project will realign Broxbourne Borough Council’s systems and operations, ensuring that the two councils will share a single Revenues and Benefits application with shared resources delivering dedicated services to each council Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and Sopra Steria established the Hertfordshire Shared Service in 2009 to improve quality and efficiency of the council’s service delivery The solution was created with the potential for other councils to use the service and Sopra Steria’s local delivery team supports both councils in their day-to-day operation with the backing of experts in ICT and business process services who can be deployed as and when needed.

Sandra Beck, Director of Finance at Broxbourne Council, said: “This is an important move for Broxbourne Borough Council. We were impressed by the consistently high level of services delivered by Sopra Steria for Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and we believe this shared service will benefit our council in the same way.”

Michael Saminaden, Chief Executive Officer of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, said: “Sopra Steria has continued to deliver service improvements to maintain our position as one of the top performing authorities in Hertfordshire. Their flexible approach means the customer-facing services they deliver underpinned by ICT can be adapted to meet changing customer requirements. A testament to the success of our partnership is the fact that we have now welcomed Broxbourne Borough Council into the shared service.”

Tracey Lee, Head of Local Government at Sopra Steria, said: “We are delighted that Broxbourne Borough Council

has joined the Hertfordshire Shared Service. Working in partnership with Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council we have been able to implement business process and technological change, to ensure that services continue to meet the needs of local citizens.

“We look forward to replicating this success with the team at Broxbourne Borough Council, as well as developing new propositions and services with both organisations. We believe this will make the Hertfordshire Shared service an even more attractive proposition and that more councils will be encouraged to join the service.”

“We were impressed by the consistently high level of services delivered by Sopra Steria for Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council and we believe this shared service will benefit our council in the same way.”

Broxbourne wins big at the 2016 Enterprising Britain Awards The UK's 2016 Enterprising Britain Awards results are in and Broxbourne Council is one of the winners – taking top prize in the Promoting Entrepreneurial Spirit category.

The Awards recognise and celebrate the best in developing culture and supporting small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) to grow.

The SME sector contributes to innovation, stimulates competition and creates jobs. The Enterprising Britain Awards honour and celebrate the best public or public/private sector partnership work that promotes SME business development in communities across the UK. It was the Council’s economic development strategy, Ambition Broxbourne, that made it stand out from the crowd.Ambition Broxbourne has evolved into a brand, strategy and mantra to galvanise local and strategic partners. The aim was to create a common vision and delivery plan for creating sustainable employment (6,300 new jobs by 2030) in order to rebalance the economy towards higher paid jobs within the life sciences and creative sector.

The project embedded innovation, enterprise and entrepreneurship within all aspects of community life, including within the new Local Plan, which looks to grow and develop the Borough as a desirable and prosperous place to live, work and visit.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Mark Mills-Bishop was delighted to hear of the win, saying: “This is a fantastic achievement. It’s great to see that all our hard work has been recognised. The Council is committed to supporting the business community so that is can prosper and flourish.

“The entrepreneurial spirit is strong within Broxbourne, backed by robust infrastructure of support services that is well demonstrated by the high attendance at networking events jointly provided by the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. The recent talk on protection from cybercrime illustrates how Broxbourne is determined to stay one step ahead of the competition and how the Chamber is crucial in enabling us to do so. With further collaboration between such key partners, the Council is certain to build upon this and Broxbourne is sure to benefit.”

Small Business Minister Margot James said: “We have 900,000 more small businesses than in 2010 and they have an important role to play in building an economy that works for all. It’s great to see the support available for business owners making a real difference and driving entrepreneurial spirit across the UK. These awards recognise the value of local support and show what can be achieved when people who know their community best make their own decisions.

Congratulations to all winners.”

Further information about the Enterprising Britain Awards can be found online at: www.enterprisingbritainawards.co.uk There will be a ceremony in November,

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Berkhamsted company celebrates its Queens Award Quanta has been awarded a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade.

Following the announcement of the accolade earlier this year and official presentation by Her Majesty the Queen on 14 July, the Quanta team decided to celebrate its success with a presentation

ceremony and luncheon on Friday 7 October.

The event coincided with the unveiling of their new branding and office makeover, with guests given the opportunity to participate in an office tour to observe how the business operates.

The entire Quanta team came together for the special day and were joined by dignitaries including the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, the Countess of Verulam, Deputy Lord Lieutenant Robert Voss CBE, The Worshipful the Mayor and Madam Mayoress of the borough of Dacorum, Cllr Robert McClean and Mrs Wendy McClean and Deputy Madam Mayor of Berkhamsted, Cllr Mrs Carol Green.

They were joined by some of the company’s industry peers and partners and representatives from

the three charities they support (the Pepper Foundation, Thomley and The Silver Line) for the formal presentation of the award, which included a crystal bowl and scroll.

CEO Stephen Trigg accepted the offerings from the Countess of Verulum and spoke of his pride at how far Quanta has come and how pleased he is to have seen such an investment in the company from the Quanta team.

Stephen presented each Quanta team member with a personalised commemorative gift to celebrate the award and their achievements.

Following the formal part of this event, guests and staff members dined out on a hog roast and celebratory drinks as they mingled and chatted amongst themselves and the guests.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are awarded for outstanding

achievement by UK businesses in the categories of innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity. They are the UK’s most prestigious enterprise awards.

Quanta has been successfully recruiting in the life sciences and renewable energy sectors since 1992. It operates in more than 20 countries from its Berkhamsted headquarters.

Herts Chamber member, C S Hodges pledges support for the Armed Forces Covenant C S Hodges of Potter’s Bar, who specialise in building maintenance and refurbishment works throughout London, Hertfordshire and the South East, offers its supports to, and has signed, the Armed Forces Covenant with assistance from Herts Chamber of Commerce.

Left: Mary Sykes (Herts Chamber), V J (James Viljoen) Contracts Manager at C S Hodges & Son Ltd and is ex armed services, Tim Saunders Finance Director C S Hodges and Stan Hodges, Chairman

Stan Hodges, Chairman of C S Hodges met Herts Chamber BDM, Mary Sykes at the Ministry Of Defence Knebworth Barns Employer Breakfast on 13th October and Stan invited Mary to visit their offices the same day to explore how the Herts Chamber of Commerce could assist his business and to help facilitate the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant which was completed.

The covenant is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. Involving government, businesses, local authorities, charities and members of the public, it has two underlying principles: that members of the armed forces community should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public

and commercial services; and that special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given the most such as the injured or the bereaved.

Any business may qualify to sign the covenant, as the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce has, but C S Hodges has a particularly strong reason for being pleased to have done so, having branded their full fleet of 30 work vehicles with thanks in words “Our Sincere Thanks to all the Men and Women in The Armed Services…

You Make us Proud!”

By signing the covenant, C S Hodges has undertaken to uphold its key principles and to promote the fact that it is an armed forces-friendly organisation.

Call us on 01707 665254 • Email us at enquiries@cshodges.co.uk • Visit us at www.cshodges.co.uk

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UpFront

Autumn Statement: change tone, boost business investment, and improve infrastructure, says BCC Ahead of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement on Wednesday November 23, the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) is urging the Government to use its ‘reset’ of fiscal policy to pursue measures that incentivise business investment, improve infrastructure, and demonstrate the UK government’s continued support for business.

Pre-existing concerns over a slowing economy have been intensified by the political and economic uncertainty that followed the electorate’s historic vote to leave the European Union. The BCC’s recent Quarterly Economic Survey showed that businesses have lowered their expectations for hiring, turnover, and investment in plant, machinery, and training in the coming year.

The BCC believes that the Autumn Statement can create the foundations for the UK to successfully navigate the coming transition period, and remain a great place to do business for firms of all sizes.

The BCC submission, which was handed to the Chancellor when the BCC took a delegation of businesses to meet him at Number 11 in September, proposes seven key measures: • A pledge to introduce no new input taxes or other significant costs on businesses for the remainder of this Parliament – matching the pledge made to voters on income tax, NICs and VAT during the 2015 General Election campaign • Further fundamental reform of business rates – exclusion of plant and machinery from valuations; and bringing forward the switch of the annual uprating from RPI to CPI to 2017, from 2020 • Temporary widening of the Annual Investment Allowance – to include business premises improvements for a period of five years, alongside investments in plant and machinery

• Improving the implementation of the Apprenticeship Levy – levypaying businesses should be able to support high-quality workplace and vocational training, in addition to apprenticeships • Direct investment in ‘quickstart’ infrastructure projects such as housing and broadband – to ‘crowd-in’ private sector investment in infrastructure, regeneration and growth. The Chancellor has already responded in part to this with a new housebuilding programme • Increased resources to directly support SME export plans – direct monetary support for firms to explore new markets or deepen sales abroad • Creation of an indirect tax road map – to give businesses much needed clarity to invest with confidence

Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The Autumn Statement gives the Government a great chance to set the tone for its relationship with British business, by pulling out all the stops to support investment, infrastructure improvements, and business confidence.

“The Chancellor made the right move when he signalled his willingness to use historicallylow interest rates to invest prudently to support growth, and he has a golden opportunity now to use this fiscal flexibility to ‘crowd in’ business investment.

“Plans to lower business costs and support investment would help firms take risks and seize opportunities in spite of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Brexit process. Westminster must do everything in its gift to improve the business environment – and firms will repay that backing with investment, hiring, training and export growth.”

“The BCC’s recent Quarterly Economic Survey showed that businesses have lowered their expectations for hiring, turnover, and investment in plant, machinery, and training in the coming year.”

Yolanda Rugg CEO Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

Francis Martin appointed President of the British Chambers of Commerce The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has announced the appointment of Francis Martin as its new President, succeeding Nora Senior who stands down after three years in post.

Francis, who will be the business group’s first President from Northern Ireland, was officially appointed at the BCC’s Annual General Meeting after serving as Vice President since 2013.

Francis is a Partner in BDO Northern Ireland, and has over 20 years’ experience in corporate finance and business advisory locally and international. Formerly President of Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he was recently awarded Northern Ireland Dealmaker of the Year 2016.

The new BCC President said: “Drawing on the local and regional perspectives of the Chamber network, which represents businesses of all sizes and sectors, supporting over 5 million employees in the UK, the British Chambers of Commerce is a leading commentator on the UK economy.

“I will, during my term as President, be proud to champion the British Chambers of Commerce as an influencer of Government as it shapes policy and legislation at this critical time for the economy of the UK. “As the UK faces unprecedented change, Chambers of Commerce, and the views of the members they represent, are more important than ever before. I look forward to engaging positively with all Chambers in the Accredited Network, which do a wonderful job engaging and supporting their local communities.

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PatronFocus

How Barclays has embraced the digital age Today there are 3.5 billion internet users in the world, 1.1 billion websites and in excess of 2.9 billion Google searches being conducted as we speak.

Today there will also be 132 billion emails sent, 2.7billion blogs written and 400 million Tweets sent….. (source Real Time Statistics)

According to Innovate UK, by 2020, 30 billion devices will be wirelessly connected, supporting a global digital services market worth as much as the entire UK economy!

Digital is here to stay! The internet, computing, mobile ommunications, social media, devices, martphones, finger vein scanning, voice biometrics and contactless payments and many more developments are all having a profound effect on the world that we live in, but do we all feel adequately equipped and skilled to be part of this digital revolution?

Here at Barclays, we have had to examine this very question, recognising our digital skills gaps as an organisation and starting on an on-going journey to empowering all people (colleagues, customers, friends and the general public) to be digitally included and up-skilled.

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Our digital journey started several years ago when we set ourselves the task of becoming “the most digitally savvy workforce in the UK”, providing iPads and wifi into every Barclays branch in the country only to discover that giving colleagues the tools needed for digital inclusion didn’t go hand in hand with digital confidence, knowledge and literacy.

It was through this learning that we created Barclays Digital Eagles – our digital champions who were originally established to bring colleagues up to speed with basic digital topics.

The Barclays Digital Eagles also set themselves the challenge to build a new and innovative learning tool – Barclays Digital Wings (formerly Barclays Digital Driving Licence) that could be used by them and all of our colleagues to learn more about the digital world. We kept

out of the traditional online learning courses and looked to the digital games and mobile environment for inspiration for the tool. The content was initially based on our own knowledge but soon we realized that we had a network of business partners with expertise that would be relevant, so we asked them for their input.

Organisation’s such as Accenture, IBM and Microsoft were our original contributors to modular content on Digital Wings, bringing together a large bank of knowledge, all in one place.

Today we have 36 modules on Digital Wings covering a multitude of subject areas, so whether someone needs to understand Skype or find out the new trends in digital marketing, improve their online security or have an introduction to the internet, Barclays Digital Wings gives them

the guided learning they need, anywhere and at any time.

We now have a network of over 16,000 Digital Eagles in the UK, who help not only colleagues but customers get an introduction and access to some of the technology that is transforming our lives.

Through events such as a Tea and Teach – free sessions hosted by Digital Eagles giving people the opportunity to build confidence in digital skills (not just around banking and managing finances but staying in touch with people or catching up on TV online) and Code Playground - free coding sessions held online or in branches across the UK with the help of a Barclays Digital Eagle that are open to children, parents and grandparents, we keep the enthusiasm to share our knowledge and learning journey with individuals and business

PatronFocus

from all backgrounds and demographics. Digital Wings was an instrumental tool to get enthusiasm and momentum to the digital learning experience, and based on its success with colleagues we decided to launch it externally for anyone to use in 2014.

Barclays Digital Wings is now an innovative learning tool, endorsed

by City and Guilds, to help our colleagues and wider communities build the skills, motivation and trust to go on-line, be digitally capable and make the most of the digital resources that exist in today’s world.

The Digital Wings platform is totally free to use for all – including other companies and we are continually engaging new organisations to partner with us to create new and exciting content.

To date we have over 95,000

users actively utilising Digital Wings and this is growing daily!

“We understand how important digital skills and confidence are because we are on a digital journey too. We are committed to using our insights, expertise and scale to help people feel more digitally confident, in any way we can.” Ashok Vaswani (CEO Barclays UK) We have spent the past two years ensuring that Barclays Digital Wings is part of a successful journey to digitally upskill all individuals regardless of their digital knowhow. With 45.9 million recent internet users in the UK alone (according to the Office for National Statistics) representing 87.9% of the population, the world becomes more digital for everybody everyday! We know that these digital consumers each have distinct learning needs,

individual digital knowledge gaps, some have digital inexperience and some have a thirst to know more.

With Barclays Digital Wings we are ensuring that we leave nobody behind in this digital revolution.

In July 2016, Digital Wings and a new initiative called Financial Wings joined forces to create Barclays Wings. Financial Wings which is built on the same platform as Digital Wings and available at no cost to individuals and organisations, gives you the knowledge and confidence to take control of your money. Whether you’re getting started with your finances, hoping to buy something special, or need a bit of help to get your finances feeling healthy again, Financial Wings can help you.

Soon the Barclays Wings family of initiatives will include Community Wings, a tool created to help organisations understand how it

feels ‘to walk in our customers shoes’, equipping you with the tools and knowledge to raise awareness and understanding, so that we can better support the diverse needs of all your customers.

This suite of initiatives is designed to help colleagues, customers, businesses and individuals become more digitally savvy, more financially resilient and empowered, and more aware of the diverse needs of customers so they can be better supported.

We are excited about how Barclays Wings can help everyone and invite you to come and get involved and find out what you are missing!

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ApprenticeshipFocus

The new Apprenticeship In Spring 2017, the way the Government funds apprenticeships in England is changing.

Some employers will be required to contribute to a new apprenticeship levy and there will be changes to the funding for apprenticeship training for all employers.

Who pays the levy?

Employers with a payroll in excess of £3 million will pay the levy.

How is the ‘paybill’ calculated?

How do the top-ups work?

The government will apply a 10% top-up to the funds you have for spending on apprenticeship training in England.

The levy will be at a rate of 0.5% of the wage bill. The wage bill is defined as the ‘total employee earnings’ of every employee.

Will the funds expire if I don’t use them?

How will employers reclaim the funds?

Funds will expire 18 months after they enter your digital account if you don’t spend them on apprenticeships.

Employers paying the levy will need to hire apprentices to claim back their tax in a form of digital vouchers.

What can I spend levy funds on?

How do I access the levy fund?

The levy can only be spent on apprenticeship training and assessment with approved training providers at an agreed price.

Payments to the provider will be made monthly for the first year of the levy.

Funds will be accessed through a new digital apprenticeship service account and will appear in your account monthly, which will be available for registration in January 2017.

Can I use the allowance to offer Apprenticeships to both new and existing staff?

Yes, you can recruit new staff or train existing staff for an Apprenticeship, as long as it is relevant to their role and is the most appropriate way of developing their skills.

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ApprenticeshipFocus

Levy - how it works “It is important businesses see the Apprenticeship Levy not as a new tax, but a great opportunity to invest in expanding or upskilling their workforce. Apprenticeships now cover all levels of learning from post-16 up to Masters Degree, so they aren’t just for lower-skilled roles or those at the start of their career.”

Julie Newlan MBE Pro Vice-Chancellor Business and International Development

“The apprenticeship levy will increase the number of apprentices and put employers in control of training.”

Zoe Hancock Principal and Chief Executive Oaklands College

The apprenticeship levy requires all employers operating in the UK, with a pay bill of more than £3 million each year, to make an investment in apprenticeships, with the new system coming in from April 6.

You will pay the levy on your entire pay bill at a rate of 0.5%.

However, you will have a levy allowance to offset against this.

The levy allowance is worth £15,000 for each tax year.

This means the levy is only payable on pay bills over £3 million (because 0.5% x £3 million = £15,000).

The levy allowance will operate on a monthly basis and will accumulate throughout the year.

This means you will have an allowance of £1,250 a month.

Any unused allowance will be carried from one month to the next. For example, if your levy liability in month 1 is £1,000 you will not pay the levy and your allowance in month 2 will be £1,500.

If you have some unused allowance in a month, but paid the levy previously in the tax year, you can receive a credit

which you can use to offset against your other PAYE liabilities. The credit will also reduce the amount of levy paid.

If you have multiple PAYE schemes and do not use the full £15,000 allowance, you will be able to offset the unused amount against another one of your schemes once the tax year has ended.

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ApprenticeshipFocus

Examples of what you will pay

that were in place at the time the apprenticeship started.

An employer who would pay the levy An employer with an annual pay bill of £5,000,000: • levy sum: 0.5% x £5,000,000 = £25,000 • subtracting levy allowance: £25,000 - £15,000 = £10,000 annual levy payment An employer who would not have to pay the levy An employer with an annual pay bill of £2,000,000: • levy sum: 0.5% x £2,000,000 = £10,000 • subtracting levy allowance: £10,000 - £15,000 = £0 annual levy payment You will calculate, report and pay your levy to HMRC, through the PAYE process alongside tax and NICs. Any apprenticeship levy payment to HMRC will be allowable for Corporation Tax. Where a group of employers are connected they will only be able to use one £15,000 levy allowance.

Whether you pay the levy or not, the digital apprenticeship service will help you to:

Some industries already operate levy systems, or other collective training arrangements. If you already contribute to one of these, you will still be required to pay the apprenticeship levy.

Once you have declared the levy to HMRC you will be able to access funding for apprenticeships through a new digital apprenticeship service account.

The service will also help you find training providers to help you develop and deliver your apprenticeship programme.

The apprenticeship levy will be introduced on 6 April 2017. The first time eligible employers will have to declare their liability to HMRC will be in May 2017 for levy due on their April payroll.

Apprentices who have been accepted on to an apprenticeship programme before 1 May 2017 will be funded for the full duration of the apprenticeship under the terms and conditions

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• select an apprenticeship framework or standard • choose the training provider or providers you want to deliver the training • choose an assessment organisation • post apprenticeship vacancies From May 2017, if you pay the levy you will also be able to: • see the funds you have available to spend in England • set the price you’ve agreed with your training provider • pay for apprenticeship training and assessment through the digital apprenticeship service By 2020, all employers will be able to use the digital apprenticeship service to pay for training and assessment for apprenticeships.

If you do not pay the levy, you won’t need to use the digital apprenticeship service to pay for apprenticeship training and assessment until at least 2018.

Apprenticeship training can either be on a new apprenticeship standard, or on an existing apprenticeship framework.

Apprenticeship standards are the new type of apprenticeship developed by employers. Each standard covers a specific job role and sets out the core skills, knowledge and behaviours an apprentice will need to be fully competent in their job role and meet the needs of employers in the sector. Standards are developed by employer groups known as ‘trailblazers’.

An apprenticeship framework ordinarily involves a series of work-related vocational and professional qualifications, with workplace and classroom based training.

The Goverrnment will phase out frameworks between now and 2020, as they move over to the employer-led apprenticeship standards.

New Degree Apprenticeships at the University of Hertfordshire The University of Hertfordshire is developing an exciting portfolio of Degree Apprenticeship programmes – aimed at supporting businesses in developing their employees and at individuals who would like to gain their degree within a working and practical environment.

From next year, new government funding arrangements will enable employers to support new and existing staff on funded degree apprenticeship programmes,

helping to bridge skills gaps in the workplace and developing a loyal workforce. The University will launch its first two programmes in Digital and Technology Solutions (Jan 2017) and the Chartered Manager Business Qualification in 2017 and are currently looking into Engineering opportunities having recently run an employer led focus group to determine disciplines and models of delivery.

Find out more on our available Degree Apprenticeship programmes, developments and events: go.herts.ac.uk/ degreeapprenticeships.

“There is still much confusion amongst our members. Who will be subject to this levy coming its force in less than 6 months?

We encourage anyone in need of advice to get in touch with the Chamber for further signposting or advice.”

Yolanda Rugg CEO Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

As we went to Press, the Government announced some changes to the system.

The latest changes include: • an extra 20% of funding to train 16- to 18-year-olds • more money for employers to train apprentices in the poorest parts of England • more money for employers who take on apprentices under 24 years old who are in care or who have special educational needs

BigInterview

Airport being transformed by £110 million redevelopment These are remarkable times at London Luton Airport (LLA) as it undergoes one of the most ambitious expansion programmes ever witnessed in the UK aviation sector.

Overseeing the £110m redevelopment to increase capacity by almost 50% to 18 million passengers per year by 2020 is CEO Nick Barton, who says that it heralds an era of unprecedented growth for the airport.

Driving the expansion plans has been a rapid increase in passenger numbers brought about in recent years, Nick says, by the growing

popularity of neighbouring London as a global destination.

He said: “It had become obvious that the airport’s previous planning restriction of 12.6 million passengers a year would have to change and that there was a need to respond to the increasing numbers of people using the airport.

“A big part of that is London, which is, I believe, the best city in the world. Having London in

our name and on our doorstep means that we benefit from that.

“Aviation responds to economic conditions and, although there will always be wobbles in certain parts of the world, GDP has been growing and when GDP grows aviation grows with it.

“London has become the premier global destination and these factors, combined with the fact that the aviation sector worldwide has been growing rapidly, meant

that it was the right time to expand.”

The resulting redevelopment of the airport will include a complete redesign of the terminal. Construction is well under way, with the airport having already opened a new security search area and £1m executive lounge. A 1,700 space multi storey car park with a covered walkway to the terminal is due to open this winter.

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London Luton Airport is also doubling the size of its shopping and dining area for passengers with a further 43 retailers ranging from high-end designers to affordable luxury and high street favourites, and more food and drink options.

In addition, there will be major upgrades to transport links, including better road access to the M1, a remodelled bus and coach interchange and improved rail links to Luton Airport Parkway station.

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In April this year Luton Borough Council unveiled plans for a new £200 million light rail system linking the airport with Luton Airport Parkway station expected to be operational by 2020.

The mass passenger transit (MPT) system, similar to those already in use at Gatwick and Birmingham airports will make it easier and quicker for passengers to reach the airport terminal, improving the journey for more than two million passengers who

presently travel to London Luton Airport (LLA) by train.

The light rail link is part of a broader plan which aims to introduce a 20 minute expressstyle rail service with four fast trains per hour between LLA and central London as part of the upcoming East Midlands rail franchise. LLA is also working with Transport for London to add the airport to the Oyster network which will help ensure smooth connections for passengers travelling by rail.

Nick said: “Improving rail links is a crucial part of LLA’s development, and integral to ensure that we provide the best service possible for all our passengers. The creation of a light rail link between Parkway station and the terminal is a significant milestone in the airport’s transformation and the first step towards creating a world-class air-rail service.

“We will continue to work hard to increase the number of fast train services and add the airport to the Oyster card network.”

BigInterview

Factfiles The airport’s Economic Impact • LLA’s contribution to the national economy is forecast to increase by 77% from £1.3 billion in 2013 to £2.3 billion per annum by 2030 • LLA currently contributes £732 million annually to the Three Counties economy, which is predicted to double to £1.4 billion per annum by 2030.

• In 2013 the airport directly supported £356 million in gross wages for its workers and generated £237 million in tax revenues for the UK Exchequer.

Creating new jobs • The number of jobs supported by the airport in Hertfordshire will increase to 2,765 by 2030 as a result of the redevelopment, up from 1,894 in 2013. The total number of jobs supported in the Three Counties region is set to increase from 15,883 to 22,616.

• Indirectly, the airport supports 27,200 jobs. This will increase by 10,500 to 37,700 by 2030.

The economic contribution of London Luton Airport to Hertfordshire

“We have 22 million people within a two hour drive of the airport, which is a strong position to be in but to take advantage of that we have to ensure that passengers have a good access to the road and rail networks.”

“One of our big strengths is the size of our catchment area. We have 22 million people within a two hour drive of the airport, which is a strong position to be in but to take advantage of that we have to ensure that passengers have a good access to the road and rail networks.”

All the improvements seeks to build on the status of an airport that is already one of the UK’s largest. easyJet, Wizz Air, Ryanair, Monarch, Thomson, EL AL, Blue Air, TAROM, SunExpress, Iberia (Air Nostrum), Vueling, Transavia

and Adria Airways currently operate from the airport and Thomas Cook Airlines will begin flights from 2017.

The airport’s network serves 130 destinations including services to Europe, Africa, and Asia and it indirectly employs more than 9,400 staff and is a key economic driver for the region.

Asked if it can expand further in decades to come, Nick points to the physical constraints of the site. He said: “It is easier for other airports.

• London Luton Airport supports 1,894 jobs in Hertfordshire • In 2013, the airport delivered a GDP contribution of £88 million to Hertfordshire • London Luton is the airport of choice for residents in Hertfordshire with more passengers from the county using LLA than any other London Airport.

• Residents of St Albans District are Hertfordshire’s most frequent flyers from LLA with 310,130 passenger journeys last year.

That’s the equivalent of every St Albans resident flying from the airport twice during 2015. 86% (266,386) were leisure journeys.

• North Hertfordshire residents and Dacorum residents were the next biggest user group from Herts with 220,951 and 216,571 passenger journeys from those areas respectively.

• GDP contribution to Hertfordshire is set to increase to £161million by 2030, almost double the contribution of £88million in 2013.

They just build another terminal but we cannot do that.

“We are doing all this work while keeping the terminal open and I think it is probably the most ambitious redevelopment the UK aviation sector has ever seen.

“As to whether we can expand further, it comes down to a question of policy and whether or not the Government wants to allow extra capacity once considerations like noise, traffic and environment concerns have been taken into account.

“For the moment, we are pressing ahead with expanding to almost double our passenger numbers, which is very exciting.”

Asked if the impending Government decision to increase UK capacity by allowing a new runway at either Gatwick or Heathrow would affect LLA, he said: “Whatever the decision, it will not impact London Luton Airport and we are ambivalent about which airport gets permission for the new runway.

However, we do see the argument for extra capacity.”

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SpotlightOn

Three Rivers District The place to do business

Three Rivers District in South West Hertfordshire straddles the north- west corner of the M25 on the edge of Greater London.

The district is a mixture of beautiful countryside, villages and small towns and the population overall is well educated and affluent. The quality of life in the district is second to none, and with its excellent transport links, it is also easily accessible.

The area has a diverse range of sectors and businesses, home to both the head offices of national and international organisations and vibrant small firms. It is a major centre for the film industry with Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden forming part of a studio cluster

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alongside neighbouring Elstree and Pinewood, a short drive away.

It is the base for national names such as Camelot, Nestle Waters, Skanska, Nissan, Renault, Renewable Energy Systems, Smith and Nephew and Imagination Technologies.

The district ranks highly for business registrations and start-ups with a highly skilled and trained workforce, high employment levels with GVA and weekly earnings above average.

It also has a number of tourism attractions including Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and high quality open spaces, awarded ‘Green Flag’ status (Rickmansworth Aquadrome, Leavesden Country Park and Chorleywood House Estate).

The area also has several golf courses including The Grove, which recently hosted the British Masters (13-16 October 2016).

SpotlightOn

Economic Strategy

Key Development Sites

The Three Rivers District Council’s plans for economic development include:

There are a number of sites which are coming forward for development/regeneration including:

• Supporting and promoting apprenticeships • Supporting training and improving skills for the local workforce in partnership with local agencies • Understanding the needs of businesses and providing practical information and advice • Promoting the local economy, inward investment and tourism • Supporting regeneration and infrastructure.

Three Rivers Business Forum The Council works with local businesses to identify the key issues affecting businesses and ways that we can all work together to help stimulate the local economy.

A core group of about 40 local businesses and support organisations including the chambers of commerce, the Local Enterprise Partnership and training and skills providers meet regularly via the Three Rivers Business Forum. To see notes and presentations from previous discussions, and to register your interest in joining the forum, please go to: www.threerivers.gov.uk/egcl-page/threerivers-business-forum

• SOUTH OXHEY: Work has now commenced on site to deliver this initiative which represents a major opportunity to create a high quality, mixed use development, on a selfcontained site with a direct London Overground connection to central London. The immediate area has a population of 20,000 and a potential annual retail spend of £30m.

The Council’s ambition is to deliver with its partners a comprehensive redevelopment, within the heart of South Oxhey, which will help to attract new residents and dramatically enhance the quality of life for its established existing community. Key outputs include around 500 new homes, a foodstore and local retail facilities, a new public swimming pool and to improve the public realm.

• MAPLE CROSS: A new 4ha employment site, close to the M25, recently allocated in the Local Plan.

• CROXLEY GREEN: Croxley Business Park and the surrounding area are set to benefit from major development and housing projects including the Metropolitan Line Extension and Watford Health Campus.

“The district ranks highly for business registrations and start-ups with a highly skilled and trained workforce, high employment levels with GVA and weekly earnings above average.”

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter

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SpotlightOn Positive about investment Within Three Rivers, there are numerous other major planning proposals in the pipeline including residential and hotel development. The Council is committed to working proactively with developers and landowners to help realise the potential of land and property within the District to help meet future housing and employment requirements. This includes developing a property investment strategy to identify potential opportunities on council and other commercial sites.

The Council has also embarked on a partial review of its Local Plan that will look at addressing housing and employment needs in the district over the next 20 years. If you would like to be involved in that process, including a future ‘call for sites’ exercise, please contact the Council via: trldf@threerivers.gov.uk

Rivertech The Council officially launched ‘Rivertech’ in June 2016, which is a project created for shared work spaces for entrepreneurs,

freelancers and homeworkers from Rickmansworth and the surrounding areas.

The project utilises vacant and under used space at Basing House, a Grade II listed building in Rickmansworth.

The project has already seen 20 local businesses take up residence at Rivertech, covering areas such as graphic design, web development and digital marketing.

Membership is growing rapidly and now the company is looking to expand, including via a 'virtual offer' providing members access to their network of likeminded start-ups and co-workers, in sites across London and the rest of the UK. Members are also able to give something back to the community by taking part in regular events to help share skills and knowledge with local groups, young and old.

Companies or individuals are able to join Rivertech through affordable flexible desk options: these range from renting a ‘flexi desk’ from £65 per month and a ‘fixed desk’ from £95 per month (excluding VAT).

Larger space for small companies is also

available at a higher rate, dependent on size and availability.

Further information, including availability of space and meeting rooms, can be found at: www.rivertech.space In summing up the Three Rivers business environment, Cllr Stephen Giles- Medhurst, Lead Member for Economic Development, Sustainability and Transport said: “Three Rivers is a great place to live, work and visit and we are working hard with local businesses and other partners to promote the local economy, support start-ups, improve training and skills and create quality jobs. We relish the challenge of economic growth in our area but we are also conscious of the need to protect the wonderful environment and amenities that make Three Rivers such an attractive place for investors, right on London’s doorstep.”

For further information, and to discuss business/commercial opportunities, contact Renato Messere, Head of Economic and Sustainable Development on 01923 776611.

Why being local makes sense Hill and Garwood printing Ltd was established in 1961 by John Hill and Alan Garwood.

Being local people, Watford Football Club supporters are scattered throughout the company and when ‘The Hornets’ play at home the company is well represented in the crowd.

Ever since the company moved into the area they have been fortunate to work with corporate accounts and at the same time maintained excellent working relationships with their small to

The company, which is still servicing some of its original clients, is based on its founders’ principles of providing a service with integrity and quality uppermost.

Along with its competitive pricing policy, these principles have enabled the company to steadily grow, by continually investing in the latest technology and it has attracted many new individual and corporate accounts.

They pride ourselves on providing full in house printing facilities including; design, pre-press, litho and digital printing, finishing,

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print management and fulfilment.

The company moved to Watford in 1985 and since then has regarded itself as very much a local business.

They employ most of their staff from the surrounding area, several of whom regularly cycle in to work. They also like to work with local businesses as much as possible, both as suppliers and customers.

This not only reduces their carbon footprint but they feel it also gives them closer control over their work and relations with customers.

medium, local independent neighbours.

They are proud of the fact that they treat all of their clients, great and small, with the same level of service.

The company are active members of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and have found it a good way to promote themselves and to keep in contact with other local businesses.

Three Rivers Chamber of Trade & Commerce is now open!

The Rickmansworth Chamber of Commerce is expanding to become the Three Rivers Chamber of Trade & Commerce following the decision to affiliate with Hertfordshire Chamber and hence the British Chamber of Commerce.

It now represents the business community throughout South West Hertfordshire, including Rickmansworth, Chorleywood and Abbots Langley.

Three Rivers Chamber is building strong relationships with some larger local organisations and arranges regular networking meetings at venues around the district, where members can

Three Rivers Chamber held a networking lunch at Moor Park Golf Club earlier this year, where VocaLink announced their Business in the Community initiative in conjunction with the Chamber. We are delighted to be working with them for the benefit of local businesses. Included in the picture are Nina Hosking (Chairman, Three Rivers Chamber, right); Yolanda Rugg (CEO, Herts Chamber, left); David Gauke (MP for South West Herts, 2nd left); and Nick Kosanovic (Procurement Manager, VocaLink, centre).

showcase what they do and make new contacts.

The affiliation with Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce means members are able to access significant amount of additional business resources and member offers, including attendance at events at preferential rates.

In addition, it represents the needs of businesses to the

council and local government; for example, two recent campaigns championed by the Chamber featured the case for a review of business rates, and for more commercial space to be made available.

Nina Hosking, its Chairman, says “We are really excited to welcome people from across Three Rivers to join us.

As the voice of local commerce, we’re here to promote your interests.

The Chamber provides a great range of services designed to help you succeed, so if you’re in business in this area, please get in touch”.

Find out more and join us at www.threeriverschamber.co.uk

“Three Rivers Chamber is building strong relationships with some larger local organisations and arranges regular networking meetings at venues around the district, where members can showcase what they do and make new contacts.”

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MembersNews

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team treat 10 VIP boys with Muscular Dystrophy to exclusive day at Brackley HQ. MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team HQ in Brackley, Northamptonshire, was the setting for a special event on Thursday 27th October for 10 lucky young VIP petrolheads, aged between 12 and 22.

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS, winner of three consecutive World Constructors’ Championships, is currently supporting Herts-based family charity, the Muscle Help Foundation (MHF) as a 2016 Official Team Charity partner.

The charity delivers transformational, highly personalised experiences called ‘Muscle Dreams’ for children and young adults with Muscular Dystrophy (MD) and allied neuromuscular conditions.

Throughout the past 18 months, MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS have committed to raising funds and delivering ‘Muscle Dreams’ for MHF and this exclusive event was the culmination of a very special partnership, when the top secret F1 factory was made available to the charity.

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The day began with MHF’s volunteer hosting team and Mercedes’ own charity committee welcoming the boys, who had travelled from across the country, into the main reception area. Getting up close to and having their photos taken with Lewis Hamilton’s 2015 Championship winning racing car, and seeing the team’s many trophies, was a fantastic ice-breaker. The Auditorium provided an intimate and very exclusive setting for refreshments and lunch, including a fascinating talk by Mike Elliott, Head of Aerodynamics, illustrated with some spectacular images and films about the Mercedes family and the team behind their successes.

Some of MHF’s key donors and supporters were also invited to the event, to meet the boys and their families and witness at first-hand the work and impact of the charity.

After lunch, the 10 Muscle Dream beneficiaries departed for an exclusive tour personally hosted by members of the team’s Charity Committee to see the factory, which is not usually open to the public.

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS then provided wonderful goody bags containing an array of memorable gifts.

The event concluded with MHF’s #powerof657 BIG reveal moment that saw the key donors and supporters coming together as a group to collectively present a stunning photograph signed by Lewis Hamilton to each boy: the photographs were personalised by Lewis to each of MHF’s beneficiaries.

With photos taken of some 40 people delivering the charity’s signature ‘Muscle Warrior’ salute, together with MHF’s rallying tribal cry, everyone bid farewell to each other and the day ended with huge smiles, a few tears and some very special memories.

Kim Mander, mum of 12-year-old Muscle Dream beneficiary Jacob, who has SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) type 2 said: “Thank you so much for allowing Jacob to be part of the amazing day at Mercedes. He has not stopped talking about it!! It has created some very special memories for him

and we feel very honoured to have been part of your fabulous organisation”.

MHF’s CEO Michael McGrath, himself diagnosed with MD at the age of 18, said: “On behalf of the charity, I’d like to say an enormous thank you to everyone at MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS for making this such an extraordinary Muscle Dream experience for our boys. From the Mercedes team members who lifted and polished the huge glass display cabinets, to the factory tour hosts, the company’s charity committee, the caterers, the reception staff and the gatehouse and security team, we are extremely grateful for the commitment, effort and time given to ensure that the young people and their families had the best time ever. Their smiles said it all and the feedback received has been truly heart-warming.

You are now all fully-fledged Muscle Warriors - welcome to our tribe!”

For more information on the charity, go to: www.musclehelp.com

ChamberEnergy

Chamber Energy Solutions Are increasing energy costs impacting the growth of your business?

Then Chamber Energy Solutions is the answer.

Chamber Energy Helpdesk A brand new Chamber Energy Solutions Freephone Helpline and Email Helpdesk offers businesses, of all sizes, direct access to energy specialists, answering questions and offering advice on all aspects of energy management.

Discounted Audits, Metering and Monitoring products Through Chamber Energy Solutions, all members can access a range of discounts on audits and across the Utilitywise marketleading suite of monitoring and diagnostic products. Savings can amount to hundreds of pounds, depending on member requirements.

Utilitywise expertise and independence

This business service scheme offered via the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce is provided by award-winning Utilitywise plc, one of the UK’s leading business energy and water consultancies.

It offers an exclusive range of products and services to reduce both energy consumption and associated cost.

As the UK’s leading independent energy consultant, over 17,000 businesses, of every size and sector, rely upon Utilitywise for energy management and cost reduction.

With access to prices from major gas and electricity suppliers, and an extensive purchasing capacity, Utilitywise can independently recommend and secure competitive deals – and help members gain understanding and insight into the energy choices available to them.

Chamber Energy Alliance

‘Price Lock for Five Years’ and advanced contracts

Members joining the Chamber Energy Alliance will be offered a budget portfolio deal, with the security of no price increases for up to two years, which can be fixed 12 months in advance.

Small businesses will command a powerful ‘trading desk’ capability typically only enjoyed by larger companies. Members can also benefit from a rebate on prices if the unit price drops below the portfolio rate.

As you would expect, Chamber Energy Solutions offers members the opportunity to secure energy rates 12 months in advance of current contract end dates. In addition, members can benefit from five year contracts offering peace of mind, protection from exposure to volatilities in the energy markets and unexpected bottom line impact.

These arrangements, coupled with the Chamber Energy Alliance, offer Chamber

“I made a saving of £9,330 on my electricity contract over three years through chamber energy solutions.”

Get a 3 minute online qu ote for your business energy What we have to offer As temperatures begin to fall and the nights are getting darker, most business’ electricity and gas use will begin to rise significantly. Not only do you need more power for lights and heating but staff may be working longer hours and businesses open for longer to maximise sales throughout this period.

Many businesses struggle to keep on top of bills as it is. Prevention is always better than cure, so by making a few changes now, you could help keep your costs down and lower the chance of an expensive bill in the New Year.

Here at Chamber Energy Solutions we'd like to help you to make your business as energy efficient as it can be whilst ensuring your energy bills are competitively priced with our new 3 minute quote.

3 minute quote: No matter what the size or sector of your business, we can get an online business energy quote from Chamber Energy Solutions in just three minutes. All we need to begin the process is a copy of your latest energy bill.

The 3 minute quote will help you: • Save time: a quick and efficient online quote service • Save effort: Chamber Energy Solutions will deal with a range of energy suppliers so you don't have to • Save money: A host of energy efficiency services are available to you • Hassle-free and at no cost: We go the extra mile for your business.

Visit www.chamberenergysolutions.co.uk for further details T: 0800 923 0210 E: help@chamberenergysolutions.co.uk

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PatronComment

Top tips for getting the best insurance In this issue, we caught up with Peter Smits, Managing Director of award-winning Ashbourne Insurance, Herts Chamber Patron, to find out a little more about the company and to find out Peter’s top tips for buying insurance.

Established in 1981, Ashbourne offer a 24 hour claims advisory service and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Personal approach We treat others how we would like to be treated ourselves. We do all the research so that you can rest assured you have the right policy at the right price. Not everyone is comfortable talking to a call centre on a different continent or trading via a faceless website – we bridge that gap, giving you the opportunity to build a relationship with your own personal advisor based at our Hoddesdon office.

Our top-tips for buying business insurance

Why use an insurance broker?

Simple, peace of mind! As an independent broker, we are free to search all the leading insurers to obtain cover tailored to your specific needs at a price to suit your budget.

By using us, you take away the risks. When you buy insurance on-line either direct or through a price comparison site, you effectively become the broker. You may save a bit of money, but how certain can you be that you've got exactly the right cover for your needs? And where would you go if there are errors, omissions or problems with a claim?

Ashbourne offers a winning combination of personal service alongside an in-depth knowledge and understanding of local risks.

This gives us a big advantage over websites or national brokers to help us negotiate better terms with underwriters.

Our independent status means we can provide quality products at competitive rates from our Insurance partners.

• RENEW YOUR COVER ANNUALLY 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 price up or just restrict the options available.

• CONTINUITY IS THE KEY 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 your broker is looking at alternatives; this will keep them on their toes.

• CHEAP QUOTE EQUALS CHEAP COVER If a quote seems too cheap to be true, it is often just the case. Reductions in premium are always attractive, however at what cost?

Remember you only know the true value of your policy when it comes to making a claim, insurance policies, service and claims handling are not the same wherever you go.

• DON’T BUY ONLINE On-line quotations are based on a series of assumptions and are “packaged” policies designed to be “one size fits all”. If you purchase cover on-line you become the broker, who then do you refer to it all goes wrong when it comes to making a claim?

• PROTECT YOUR BUSINESS FROM CYBER ATTACKS When you buy insurance to cover cybercrime, make sure it includes the costs of rectifying your systems so you can put your business back to the way it was before the incident as quickly as possible. Your policy should also include cover against lost profits, investigation and forensic costs, fines which might be imposed by the regulator, and the cost of notifying data protection authorities.

Ashbourne Insurance is pleased to offer Herts Chamber members a complimentary ‘insurance health check’ so please call us on 01992 471001 to discuss or visit www.ashbourneinsurance.co.uk.

Follow us on Twitter at @AshInsServices.

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ChamberEvents

Property & Construction Forum: Let’s Talk Technical Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

16 November 2016 17.15 – 19.00 Woodhouse, 40 Beaconsfield Road, Hatfield, AL10 8BB £18 members £30 non-members

Join us at Woodhouse Workspace's base in Hatfield on Wednesday 16 September for the last Property and Construction Forum of 2016. At this late afternoon event we have invited two guest speakers who will share their knowledge on vital aspects of insurance and fire safety for the property and construction industry.

This is also a great opportunity for you to meet the Woodhouse team, Chamber members and pioneers in the latest work space design.

Carl Nelson, Head of External Surveying Network at CRL Management, will cover the ten most frequent claims areas which the insurance industry encounters in this industry sector; helping builders, contractors and architects to focus on and avoid these ten aspects which in turn may help mitigate insurance claims and, thereby, help keep this specific industry cost at a minimum.

With fire safety, and its costs, a paramount concern for all in the building industry Alex Pollard, from iMist, will demonstrate the benefits of active fire protection and the different types of sprinkler alternatives for domestic fire protection. Traditional sprinklers are well-established but their high cost and disruption explain their low penetration in domestic properties. At this seminar you will learn about alternative fire suppression systems, all designed and installed in accordance with BS8485, which can deliver fire safety compliance cost effectively.

Hotel Forum Understanding the Digital Guest Date: Time: Venue:

Cost:

17 November 2016 14.00 – 15.30 Novotel Stevenage, Knebworth Park, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2AX Free members £20 non-members

Forum to talk about how digital technology is putting brand preference and hotel choice at risk - not just at the point of reservation but during the guest stay too; Christopher will share with us how the Marriott group of hotels is responding to this challenge locally and globally.

The Chamber team will also demonstrate its new and free online search tool for The hotel industry needs to respond to the Hertfordshire conference and meeting new digital demands and expectations of venues. Join us on Thursday, 17 November guests, we’ve invited Christopher Robinson, from 2pm at the newly refurbished Sr Manager Digital Services Europe for Marriott International, to this afternoon Hotel Novotel Stevenage

Please note: This Hotel Forum meeting is open to hoteliers and conference venue providers in Hertfordshire only (employees and owners). If you are not hotel based or simply want to know more about Hotel Forum meetings please contact Carole.

This event is free for hotel and conference venues who are Hertfordshire Chamber members; non-Chamber members who join after attending this event* will have their £20 ticket price deducted from their joining fee.

November Chamber Lunch with CEO of London Luton Airport Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

22 November 12.00 – 14.00 Beales Hotel Hatfield, Comet Way, Hatfield, AL10 9NG £27 members £35 non-members

Join us on Tuesday 22nd November for one of our monthly networking lunches at Beales Hotel in Hatfield.

These lunches are intended to provide an opportunity for business networking and each month we will invite a guest speaker to inspire and motivate you all.

At this event we will be joined by Nick Barton who was appointed CEO of London Luton Airport in 2014.

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Nick is a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society. He has built his career planning, developing and managing investment in commercial and transport infrastructure projects throughout the UK. He also is an experienced airport manager having held a number of directorships within airport operator BAA culminating in holding the post of Managing Director at both Stansted Airport Ltd and Aberdeen Airport Ltd.

Also, at this event we will be joined by a representative from Scottish Widows, sponsors of this event.

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All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated. For more information on any event: Sophie Watts, 01707 39 84 04, sophiewatts@hertschamber.com – or www.hertschamber.com

ChamberEvents

Autumn Statement Seminar - The Budget Date: Time: Venue:

Cost:

29 November 17.00 – 19.00 Aubrey Park Hotel, Hemel Hempstead Road, Redbourn St Albans, AL3 7AF FREE of charge

In partnership with Kingston Smith find out how to make the most of Philip Hammonds' announcements and prepare your business for the 2017 Budget.

You will be provided with an easy to digest summary for SMEs so you don’t have to spend time trawling through the news to find out what matters to you!

You can ask our expert guest speaker, Senior Tax Partner Mike Hayes questions during the seminar or if you prefer, afterwards at our fantastic business networking session.

This seminar will be a great opportunity to understand the Autumn Statement and the changes that are likely to effect your business in 2017. Mike will also include some thoughts on how BREXIT will affect taxes for UK businesses and individuals.

Chamber Christmas Lunch Date: Time: Venue:

Cost:

6 December 2016 12.00 – 14.00 Sopwell House, Cottonmill Lane, St Albans, AL1 2HQ £29.50 members £35.00 nonmembers

Join us for our Christmas Lunch at Sopwell House, St Albans.

This promises to be a truly festive occasion providing guests with

excellent networking opportunities at one of the county's finest hotels.

The lunch will be preceded by the Chamber's AGM, members are invited to join in or they can simply arrive in time to join the Chamber team for lunch.

Non-members are also welcome at this annual and popular, Christmas lunch with networking event.

Do book early as places are

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2017 Launch Evening Date: Time: Venue:

Cost:

19 January 2017 18.00 - 20.00 Aubrey Park Hotel, Hemel Hempstead Road, Redbourne, St Albans, AL3 7AF Free of charge

Always a popular evening event, we hope you can join us on Thursday 19th January for the launch of the 2017 Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards with some

excellent networking amongst Hertfordshire businesses and organisations.

If you thought about entering last year, missed the entry deadline, or simply want to know more about the awards and the Inspiring Hertfordshire campaign, come along to this event and meet past winners, finalists and sponsors.

Book now to join us for what promises to be an enjoyable and informative evening.

INSPIRE All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated. For more information on any event: Sophie Watts, 01707 39 84 04, sophiewatts@hertschamber.com – or www.hertschamber.com

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ChamberEvents

More wonderful events ahead Diarise now: January to September 2017 Chamber Environmental Risk CPD with Index Property Information Date: Venue: Cost:

Wednesday 11th January 2017 Holiday Inn, Stevenage Free of Charge

Chamber Members Master Classes – Business Planning Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Tuesday 24th January 2017 10.00am – 12.00 noon TBC Free of charge for members

Chamber Networking Breakfast - Apprenticeship Levy Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Tuesday 31st January 2017 TBC TBC TBC

Chamber Networking Breakfast with Ambition Broxbourne Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Thursday 2nd February 2017 07.30am – 09.00am TBC TBC

Chamber Members Master Classes – Creative/Strategic Marketing for Growth Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Tuesday 21st February 2017 10.00am – 12.00 noon TBC Free of charge for members

Property and Construction Forum Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

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Thursday 23rd February 2017 17.15 – 19.00 TBC Members £18 Non – Members £30

Chamber Members Master Classes – Digital Marketing Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Tuesday 21st March 2017 10.00am – 12.00 noon TBC Free of charge for members

Chamber Members Master Classes – Tools (CRM / Automated Marketing) Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Tuesday 25th April 2017 10.00am – 12.00 noon TBC Free of charge for members

Property and Construction Forum Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Thursday 27th April 2017 17.15 – 19.00 TBC Members £18 Non – Members £30

Property and Construction Forum Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

Thursday 22nd June 2017 17.15 – 19.00 TBC Members £18 Non – Members £30

Property and Construction Forum Date: Time: Venue: Cost:

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All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated. For more information on any event: Sophie Watts, 01707 39 84 04, sophiewatts@hertschamber.com – or www.hertschamber.com

Thursday 28th September 2017 17.15 – 19.00 TBC Members £18 Non – Members £30

ExportEvent

Championing exports The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) hosted Global Business Network Live 2016 on 1st November at Etc Venues in London.

Their three top tips for SME exporter success: 1) Businesses should target media in countries they want to export with to create a positive impact in order to build a strong relationship.

2) Building better relationships with their local MPs to allow businesses to be come better connected with other exporters whether they are just around the corner or in a completely different time zone.

This all day networking event was based around the subject of export and saw many Accredited Chambers and established businesses from all over the world attending, therefore establishing how important and versatile the export industry really is.

The Global Business Network Live brand was launched by the BCC in 2015 to reflect the globalised impact that the BCC has, and to show how the BCC and their fellow Accredited Chambers within the United Kingdom can help support businesses with their export needs.

The day started off with a networking breakfast which allowed like-minded businesses and Chambers to connect with each other and build strong relationships. The networking was concluded as delegates were ushered in a large seminar space to be welcomed by Francis Martin, President of the BCC, where his main words of encouragement were for businesses and Chambers who export to motivate one another as many businesses may feel discouraged during this time of uncertainty and ambiguity following the EU referendum.

“Businesses that trade internationally are more productive.” Lord Price CVO.

The EU referendum was a huge topic throughout the day with Dr. Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, stating that he wants to see a growth in business relations following the EU referendum. Lord Price CVO, Minister of State for Trade Policy, stated that we are a confident country and the EU referendum result should not let us crawl into our shell. He also stated that businesses that trade internationally are more productive therefore strengthening ties with our European neighbours is vital for these businesses.

He wants Britain to be the passionate champion for free trade, and for our digital ambitions in e-marketing to become even more ambitious.

Lord Deighton, Non-Executive Chairman of Heathrow, wants to get the Heathrow Airport expansion underway as soon as possible to allow businesses and exporters to go abroad to do their exporting practices such as trading and training. He also explained he is aiming to get £50m to £100m of contracts for the expansion underway by the end of 2016.

“Break the boundaries when it comes to export and don’t be scared to take risks.”

Neil Smith, International Sales Director at Polyseam

A panel, which included Neil Kuschel, Vice President of Sales at DHL express, Neil Smith, International Sales Director at Polyseam, Sean Ramsden, CEO of Ramsden International, Chris Daniels, Head of Partnerships & Communications at Hybrid Air Vehicles and Leah Hutcheon, CEO and Founder of Appointedd, discussed secrets to SME exporter success.

3) Break the boundaries when it comes to export and don’t be scared to take risks.

There were many seminars throughout the day focusing from financing exporting services to export opportunities in different countries from South Korea to Cambodia. The day offered a diverse range of opportunities resulting in something for everyone to do which was enjoyed by all. The networking also allowed delegates to be introduced to huge opportunities on a global scale.

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NewMembers

Welcome to new members Ajilon

Esther Kirkpatrick

Home-Start Hertfordshire

Within the Adecco Group delivering both technology and people solutions for customers Solutions House, Crompton Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2EE 0800 1114654 www.ajilon.co.uk

Specialist in branding and illustration 50 Antonine Gate, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4JD www.estherkirkpatrick.com

Family Support Charity

CS Hodges & Son Ltd Repairs, refurbishment, plumbing, electrics, roofing and glazing services Cranbourne Industrial Estate, Cranbourne Road, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire, EN6 3JN 01707 665254 www.cshodges.co.uk

E2B Logistics Logistics for a wide range of our clients’ needs Unit B2, Greatham Road, Industrial Estate, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 2NZ 01923 200080

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Fredereck Sage Co Ltd Family owned and run construction company with 40 years history of delivering first class projects Sage House, New Ford Business Centre, New Ford Road, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, EN8 7PG 01992 782300 www.frederecksage.co.uk

Hertfordshire Society for the Blind Registered charity that support the visually impaired The Woodside Centre, The Commons, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 4SE 01707 324680 www.hertsblind.com

5 Bedwell Park, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 1NB 01438 367788 www.home-startherts.org.uk

IAM Roadsmart Charity making better drivers and riders Building 1, Albany Place, Broadwater Road, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 3BG 0300 303 1134 www.IAMroadsmart.com

Immanuel College Independent School 87-91 Elstree Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 4EB 02089 500604 www.immanuelcollege.co.uk

NewMembers

Inception Events

The Ultimate Health Check

Full event management service Aston House, Queensway Court, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 1LS 01442 217815 www.inceptionevents.com

Diagnostic Healthcare: uses advanced medical technology to help identify and treat illnesses

Jane Ashton Design Qualified Interior Designer with a wealth of real ‘hands on’ experience Gannock Green Farm, Sandon, Hertfordshire, SG9 0RH 07890 134420 www.janeashton.com

Sun Street Branding, design and marketing 20 Well Row, Bayford, Hertfordshire, SG13 8PW 01992 511132 www.sunstreet.net

Tamar Energy Food and Green Waste Recycling Solutions 3rd Floor, The Fire Station, 150 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8SB 02072 557500 www.tamar-energy.com

4-6 Spicer Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4PQ 07852 816444 www.ultimatehealthcheck.com

Westtek Server Based IT Solutions and Support Room 10, Apsley Mills Cottage, Apsley, Hertfordshire, HP3 9RL 0203 195 0555 www.westtek.co.uk

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The business magazine of Her tfordshire

Chamber of Commerce September October 201 6

Woodhouse Workspace Family run business that combines innovation with excellence in construction 40 Beaconsfield Road, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 8BB 01707 255300 www.woodhouseworkspace.com

Trading with th United Arab Eme irates -

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BRE XIT - Opp bec kons in ortu nity the new eco nom ic land scap e

– page 4

I

Glob al Busi Netw ork Liveness exp ert know Even t: adv ice for ledg e and grow th

–

page 9

page 10 I

Dac orum -

A rapi dly evol boro ugh - an ving loca tion for attra ctive busi ness

– page 19

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MembersNews

Council supports the 2016/17 Dragons’ Apprentice Challenge Leadership in the Headlines (FT Publishing) by Andrew Hill: Good leaders walk a tightrope between doing and daring often in the glare of the public spotlight. In Leadership in the Headlines, Andrew Hill, the award-winning Management Editor of the Financial Times, shares his insider insights into the who's and how's of effective leadership.

Packed with practical lessons, this book divides the best of Andrew's wry and insightful columns into eight ‘acts' of leadership, with new commentary enhancing each one. Whether you're new to Andrew Hill's columns or a loyal reader, you'll gain fresh perspectives on the tough job of leading and take away tips about how to refine your own management skills.

Based on personal interviews with business leaders, Andrew Hill's column in the FT is a constant source of good advice. Here, for the first time, is a selection of his most pertinent articles, framed with new commentary and recommendations.

We have one copy of Leadership in the Headlines to give away.

To be in with a chance to secure this copy, just email Karen@benhampublishing.com with your name and address by 14th December 2016.

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The 2016/7 Dragons’ Apprentice Challenge is off to a great start.

Fifteen teams of secondary school students from across Broxbourne and East Herts signed up to this year’s Dragons’ Apprentice Challenge at a launch event held at Hertford Regional College on 3 October.

The teams of 16 and 17 year olds will attempt to turn £100 into £1,000 or more for their nominated charities, with the help of local business ‘Dragons’.

Now in its fourth year locally, the project, delivered by the CVS for Broxbourne and East Herts, is aiming to raise £15,000 for 15 locally based charities and community groups.

At the launch event, the school teams were introduced to their charities and ‘Dragons’ (business mentors) and they presented their initial business ideas.

This year, The Counselling Foundation has been named as one of the charities that will benefit from the Challenge. The Foundation will be partnered with pupils from Cheshunt School and two ‘Dragons’; apprentices Max Jackson and Hamit Kurek from Broxbourne Borough Council.

Becci Murtagh, Head of Marketing at The Counselling Foundation said: “We are delighted to have been chosen for the 2016 challenge. This is a great opportunity for our organisation to work with important groups like the Council and schools within the community in order to continue the promotion of positive mental health that they are already involved in. Our centre for lowcost counselling in Broxbourne sees clients from across East Hertfordshire for our subsidised service and by partnering with the Dragons’ Apprentice

Challenge; we will be able to support more people and their wellbeing.”

During the challenge teams of students from schools and colleges work hard to devise ways of earning money for selected local charities. Each team are given £100 seed money and challenged to turn it into £1,000 or more.

Dragons provide support in the form of advice, and access to resources, to help teams achieve their business goal and funding target.

The teams of 16 and 17 year olds will attempt to turn £100 into £1,000 or more for their nominated charities, with the help of their ‘Dragons’. With support and guidance from their business mentors and charities, the school teams are tasked to generate income through business-based activities, gaining valuable practical experience of planning, time management, teamwork, budgeting and communications, sales and marketing.

With support and guidance from their business mentors and charities, the school teams are tasked to generate income through business-based activities, gaining valuable practical experience of planning, time management, teamwork, budgeting and communications, sales and marketing.

The funds raised by the Cheshunt School students will pay for a collection of videos for the charity’s website and YouTube channel, which will illustrate what counselling is, what to expect in a session and how it can help people feel better.

Becci added: “One in four individuals suffer from ill mental health but not nearly enough seek help. The aim of these videos is to reduce anxiety for those new to the service and encourage more people to try it out.”

The project ends in March 2017 with a presentation and awards event at Hertford Theatre.

MembersNews

Kingston Smith celebrates young filmmakers’ talent with Creative Vision Award Kingston Smith, innovative top 20 chartered accountants and business advisers in St Albans, celebrated the amazing charity films created by some of the UK’s top animation students at their prestigious Creative Vision Award event on 18 October.

The animated short brand films worth £150,000 each were created by the UK’s most talented film students with mentoring support from leading VFX industry experts, for national domestic violence charity Refuge and arts charity Create.

The Creative Vision Award was established by Kingston Smith in conjunction with Bournemouth University to encourage and support success and innovation across two of the firm’s key sectors, charity and media.

The Award reflects Kingston Smith’s commitment to helping charities and entrepreneurs reach their full potential.

Silvia Vitiello, Partner at Kingston Smith in St Albans, comments: “It is a privilege to congratulate the incredibly talented winners of this year’s Creative Vision Award, Alpaca Chinos and Team Pablo, on the creation of these outstanding animations. I have no doubt the films will be of great value to Refuge and Create in communicating their important brand messages sensitively and effectively to new audiences and

generating high levels of awareness and support.”

is trapped and isolated from the outside world by her perpetrator.

For Refuge, the ‘Alpaca Chinos’ team created a toy animation set in a child’s bedroom, which depicts a woman trapped because of domestic violence.

The well-known imagery of a snow globe was chosen to demonstrate the way in which a woman experiencing abuse

As the female character begins to reach out for support, she is assisted by the other toys, which represent Refuge, and breaks free from the globe to begin a new life, free from violence and fear.

The film can be viewed at https://youtu.be/JblJxybRHeE Meanwhile for Create, ‘Team Pablo’ produced an uplifting film reflecting the sense of empowerment that Create’s workshops bring to young carers, who often feel isolated by the responsibility they carry.

Showcasing the breadth of creative art forms that Create works in, from photography to music to art, the film shows how the charity’s workshops provide young carers with skills, friendship and confidence, giving them hope for the future.

Their film can be viewed at https://youtu.be/d9SBmLQRUS8 The Kingston Smith Creative Vision Award 2017 is now open for entries, offering two further charities the opportunity to win their own digital brand film.

Please visit www.ks.co.uk/cva

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MembersNews

Cloud Sto-RAGE Against Data Pillage Digital extortion, a novel idea for some but existential in the binary world of internet since 1989 as a crypto virus ransom ware - a malware that attacks your system and demands ransom in return for the pillaged data. And these vector attacks seem to have grown in last 5 years.

Only recently, we received a call from a local business who fell victim to a new breed of these ransom wares - CryptoLocker. With a user easily scammed by a spam email, the vector was allowed access into the machine, initiating a malicious program that ended up encrypting all the critical business data and files.

And This Won’t Be the Last Time You Hear About Them In June 2013, McAfee reported alarming numbers of these ransom ware samples as the figure crossed 250,000 in only the first annual quarter — doubling that from the past year. And we are only talking about “reported cases” from just ONE security suite.

In August 2014, UPS reported that over fifty-one franchised store locations fell victim to such malware attacks - one of the largest logistics companies had their IT defenses breached.

And It Transcends Platform Boundaries CryptoLocker has managed to transcend every platform. So where the previous versions of malware were only confined to the

boundaries of a Window based PC; Apple users now also found their files being encrypted with ransom demands constantly flashing on their screens.

What’s the Solution?

Obviously you can’t lose your data and neither can you trust these scammers with the ransom payment, for they are the evil grinning bunch - there are no guarantees that you won’t be asked for another ransom payment.

Wait for help? Sadly, CryptoLocker sets a payment deadline.

Prevention is the only solution here (at least for now).

But how do we avoid it?

Raging Against the Data Pillage Cloud Storage!

Yes, you can take measures to avoid spam emails but so could the other renowned business organizations, yet they were victimized. There is always a loophole somewhere in there.

As such, your best bet is to create a backup of your data through cloud storage.

Why not creating it on an external hard drive?

Firstly, because an external hard drive won’t be accessible to every user in case of data recovery and, you never know, you may have left your hard drive plugged in while the ransom ware was having a feast.

Cloud storage not only provides automated data back up, but it also the convenience of accessibility from multiple locations, all the while staying secured.

And Cloud Storage is Far More Reliable Where your local IT defense may not be up to standards; cloud storage services are far more reliable in terms of security and offered solutions.

So, even if a CryptoLocker do manage to get access to your machine You can ignore all those ransom calls, delete the entire operating

system, re-install it and have your files back through cloud data backup. Plus with cloud backup services, you can store multiple versions of your files.

Data Wins You Wars You may have started on the equal footing or your business competitor may have a head-start; it’s ultimately the amassed data and how you use it that will eventually win you the race. As such the importance of data for a business can never be overly stressed and the significance of protecting the data should never be undermined.

Buckle up! it’s time to rage against these ransom wares - it’s time to integrate cloud storage within your business model!

TekOne Technologies, based in Stevenage, is a leading provider of affordable technology solutions for businesses. You can contact them at 01438 771000.

Barley Print invests £10,000 in latest ink management system Barley Print has taken delivery of a high-tech computer controlled ink management system that will increase efficiency and reduce wastage at its production plant in Hertfordshire.

The family firm, based in Cuffley, has invested £10,000 in a Digital Ink Preset System (DIPS) to replace its traditional open fountain ink trains in order to provide more precise density control at all press speeds.

The DIPS provides a convenient means of setting ink fountains, acting as a communicator between pre-press workstations and litho presses. It calculates ink coverage from pre-press data,

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converting it into ink preset data and passing it to the press remote control console.

The information enables precise ink fountain presetting of the press, significantly reducing makeready times. Adjustments can still be made on the press and revised settings can be saved and recalled to enable exact colour management for reprinted work.

Glen Middleton, production director at Barley Print, said:

“The DIPS system has enabled us to reduce set-up times by more than 50% and significantly reduce paper wastage used during the set-up process.

“The other advantages included improved ink density, which helps enhance imagery, and increased print accuracy throughout the run.

Together, this produces consistent quality results without the fluctuations that are characteristic of open ink fountains.

“The digital system also means ink is not contaminated with paper dust and grit, resulting in immediate cost savings in ink, paper and maintenance.”

This latest investment by Barley Print follows the arrival earlier this year of a new state-of-the-art Heidelberg XL105-5XL printing press, which has increased print capacity by up to 50%.

MembersNews

Goodbye Marquee, hello The Oak Suite Aubrey Park Hotel, the 4 star and rosette-awarded independent hotel, has opened the doors to ‘The Oak Suite’ their brand new conference and events venue.

Tara Brady, Sales Manager at Aubrey Park Hotel, said: “We’re so excited to be opening ‘The Oak Suite’, which can host up to 200 delegates. This is a great development for our hotel. Its multi-purpose design is flexible enough to host all manner of events such as seminars, large business meetings and staff training days to name just a few.

It contains state of the art facilities that rival any venue out there.”

The range of facilities include a built-in PA system, wireless LCD projector, skyline views, feature

that has been the location for 100s of weddings, parties and events for 13 years.

David Timmis, the Managing Director, said: “The marquee holds memories for so many people within the local and wider community and it is very sad to see it leave us after being with us all these years: yet we’re thrilled to see the positive impact ‘The Oak Suite’ has made on the hotel already.

Call Tara Brady, Sales Manager to find out more 01582 792 105

lighting, 3m built-in screen, private bar to name just a few. ‘The Oak Suite’ also features a brand new, fully landscaped outdoor terrace for a spot of alfresco dining and plenty of seating: perfect for those warmer seasons.

The design of the new venue has drawn on the history of the hotel’s original architecture dating back over 150 years, when the house was owned by the Dunn family: founders of the renowned hatmakers.

Aubrey Park Hotel have said goodbye to their beloved marquee

Welwyn Garden City Golf Club Welwyn Garden City Golf Club is a traditional but progressive members’ golf club – the only one of its type in Welwyn and Hatfield.

The Club provides so much more than just a fantastic yearround golf course. Whilst the course is obviously the most important feature, where the majority of the Club’s money is spent to make it, in our opinion, the best kept course in the county; other areas of the Club have also been improved to make it more welcoming and suitable for all types of members.

With a strong social calendar, and friendly membership, the Club has a significant social membership, comprising those who want to enjoy the various clubs and facilities on offer at the Club – bridge, art classes, snooker – in addition to the sports enthusiasts who come to frequent the sports bar to keep up to date on all the latest action on Sky or BT Sport.

With a multi-purpose function room upstairs offering a fantastic vista overlooking the course, the Club can cater for meetings, dinners, seminars or training courses in a room that can accommodate up to 90 people seated.

The relaxed atmosphere at Welwyn Garden City Golf Club provides the ideal environment for a coffee, or something a little stronger, in the bar – or on the

patio overlooking the course if you are lucky enough to pick a fine day.

Corporate membership at the Club incorporates the best of each of these facilities. Clients and employees can use the course for relaxation or entertaining during the week, while the package offers free room hire for meetings, seminars or entertaining. It also includes a corporate golf day, with an allocated number of green fees free of charge.

Preferential green fee rates for additional golfers, and complimentary social memberships are also included in the competitively priced packages.

If you have not visited the Club before, pop in to find out what you are missing.

A stylish, flexible and local way to recognise and reward your employees hard work and dedication Thinking about rewarding your team this Christmas?

Or looking to motivate them all year round?

The Galleria Corporate Gift Card is your perfect solution, a stylish, flexible and local way to recognize and reward your employees hard work and dedication.

Appreciation never looked so good!

The Galleria Corporate Gift Card provides an experience they can tailor to their interests in a popular local shopping, dining and leisure destination, the card is versatile and can be redeemed at over 70 shops and restaurants.

Available in any denomination between £5–£500.

For more information or orders just call the customer service team today on 01707 256 860 or email thegalleria@landsecurities.com

IBIS Forumnew business lounge, right in the heart of Stevenage The Ibis Forum would like to invite you to drop into our new Business Lounge which is open from 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday.

No reservations required just call in to meet colleagues, arrange interviews or catch up on emails with complimentary Wi-Fi. Coffee/refreshments served throughout the day.

For larger meetings or conferences - our room hire starts from just £50.00.

All our superbly appointed meeting rooms are located in a self-contained area on the first floor, with a range of room sizes and configurations, as well as a dedicated and experienced support team to make your event in Stevenage a success.

Day Delegate rates from just £30.00 per person. 24 hour rates also available. There is a welcome foyer for registrations and refreshments, and break-out syndicate rooms.

Give us a call on 01438 533012 (option 1) to find out more.

Email: fcb@fairviewhotels.com Ibis Forum, Stevenage, Danestrete Stevenage, SG1 EJ

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ChamberHR

Manage Your Employee Relations

SAVE MONEY PEACE O F MIND

Essential HR support that’s included in your membership fee Key features of ChamberHR ChamberHR is an employer focused service it’s on your side!

Advice line • Our Advice Lines are manned by specialist HR advisors

ChamberHR - What is it?

ChamberHR is a national scheme provided

by Qdos Consulting and has been an accredited BCC service for over 10 years.

The service is offered by the majority of UK Chambers of Commerce and over 34,000 businesses now have access to the service.

ChamberHR offers members easy access to essential support for employment law and human resources (HR) issues through two platforms: • ChamberHR advice line • ChamberHR website

How to access ChamberHR Advice line – call 01455 852037 Lines are available 24/7, 365 days a year Please note: to access this service you will need to confirm the name of your Chamber to the advisor

Website – visit www.chamberhr.co.uk and select your Chamber from the links provided, or access through your own Chambers’ website Please note: for full access to this service you will need your unique log in details

If you need additional HR services All businesses are different and some may require a more bespoke service than ChamberHR. You can access a full range of HR solutions through the Qdos team.

Retained services Some businesses require ongoing HR support and a solution that is specifically designed for their business. In this case you

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• Unlimited calls – call as often as you need to • Hand-holding support - advisors offer comprehensive support to guide you through difficult situations • Practical advice – advisors offer practical advice that is easy to understand Website • Huge document library with over 550 downloadable template documents • Includes a basic contract of employment and employee handbook • Online HR Healthcheck – easy to complete with an instant response • My Account area to store your frequently used documents Plus latest news and legislation updates.

And it’s FREE! – The ChamberHR service is included in your membership fee – because your Chamber invests in this service so that your business has access to support and protection when it needs it most. need ChamberHRPlus, which offers short term contracts at exclusive Chamber rates.

All services include the following: • HR Compliance Audit • Specialist Business Partner • Allocated Advisor • Bespoke Contracts of Employment • Bespoke Employee Handbook • Newsletters

What you can call the ChamberHR advice line about You can call the ChamberHR advice line about anything related to employment law or HR. The advisors can help you with any issues or problems you have, but are also happy to answer any questions you have, no matter how trivial you may think they are.

What you can find in the ChamberHR document library It is easy to navigate your way around the ChamberHR website and you will find documents under a number of headings.

They cover the life-span of an employee – from recruitment to exit.

Why you need to use ChamberHR Every business needs to manage its employees because your people can be your biggest asset – they can help your business thrive... but they can also be your greatest liability. Employment disputes are stressful and time consuming and they can completely distract you from achieving your objectives.

However, if you use ChamberHR you will soon see the benefit: • Save money – there is no need to have a separate lengthy support contract to cover your basic HR requirements – ChamberHR is free to access • Peace of mind – help and advice is only a phone call away – you are never alone Manage your Employee relations – don’t be distracted by HR or employment matters – let the ChamberHR team take the strain.

Ad hoc services With an ad hoc service you pay for what you need when you need it. There are no ongoing contracts involved.

If you need to know more about the full range of ChamberHR services please contact the Qdos ChamberHR team: 01455 852028 or email sales@qdosconsulting.com

WorkPlace

What is content marketing?

You will, no doubt, have heard this term bandied about online. The Content Marketing Institute definition is: ‘Content Marketing is a strategic marketing approach focusing on creating and distribution valuable, relevant and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly-defined audience – and, ultimately, to drive profitable action.’

The Hidden Brain Drain The UK is missing out on up to £170bn worth of economic benefits by not having enough women in employment.

The annual ‘Women in Work’ Index from accountants PWC shows that the UK could boost its GDP by 9% (£170bn) if it could increase the number of women in work to match that of Sweden, the highest performing country.

It’s a big opportunity. Office of National Statistics data shows there are over 1.5m women in the UK who want to work more hours than they currently do. Plus a government commission highlighted that the opportunity is significant amongst those with professional and managerial skills.

Conflict of Interests Mothers with young children are a third less likely to be in work than fathers. Amongst the challenges women face is the availability of affordable childcare and logistics of managing family and work. Around 75% of working women with children are the primary carers, so it’s still a female issue.

A Compelling Business Case

Or, more simply put, content marketing is any content that promotes your business digitally, be it blogging, social media posts or videos. It is an effective way of attracting customers with relevant material but without using advertisements.

There is a vast resource on how and when to use content marketing. A good place to start is: http://www.cimmarketingexpert.co.uk/diagra m/44/content-marketing-strategy-andimplementation-your-step-by-step-guide

The main objectives of content marketing align exactly with the aim of marketing itself, which is to increase sales, cut costs and gain more profitable, loyal customers.

The process of creating and sharing content marketing online also increases your SEO ranking and gives your loyal customers content to distribute, which further drives new traffic to your website!

How great is that?

Meanwhile, here are our top five tips for an effective introduction to using content marketing in your business:

One common query is: how much content can I realistically produce in a week?

Perhaps a better question would be: how much content should you create in a week?

One key thing to consider is to develop a content marketing plan to ensure your content is targeted and relevant. You will also need to optimise your content for mobile to satisfy Google’s requirements.

• Create the right balance of written and visual content

• Produce a content marketing plan that aligns with your marketing strategy • Work on developing an authoritative tone of voice • Consider hiring a copywriter if writing is really not your forte

• Ask your friends and colleagues to share it to raise awareness.

Kelvin Golding FCIM Chartered Marketer CIM Chairman (Hertfordshire).

There is a clear business case for employers offering greater flexibility. Reducing working hours of a role reduces the salary requirement by 40% or more; a lot can be done in 20-25 hours a week by an experienced person. There’s also an increase in employee satisfaction, retention and business efficiency as flexibility means a closer match of hours and salary to the requirements of a job.

Finding the Win-Win Ten2Two was established ten years ago with a single purpose: to connect local businesses of all sizes with local professionals in their area seeking professional part-time and flexible work. Ten2Two provides a full end-toend service, handling every step of the recruitment process on behalf of their client.

This includes consulting on refining job descriptions and identifying the right parttime working pattern for the job.

The Future’s Flexible New generations of employees think flexibility is a natural aspect of their job. They can connect and work from anywhere and expect a balance between work and play. UK businesses still have some way to go to achieve this position, but in the meantime, Ten2Two is playing a part in bringing people and businesses together, flexibly.

To find out more call 01442 874247 or visit www.ten2two.org

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Health & Wellbeing

Time to talk We know that 1 in 4 people will suffer with a mental health problem this year and 1 in 10 will be diagnosed with a serious mental health condition.

This means that we all know someone who is or has suffered but were we aware?

The number of people experiencing a mental health problem at work has climbed from a quarter to a third in the past 5 years. https://www.mentalhealthtoday At Mind in Mid Herts we want to prevent people from becoming unwell and in order to do this we have developed a comprehensive range of courses and workshops Managing stress; Building courage; Sleeping better; Assertiveness and Self-Acceptance.

The Time to talk campaign on 4 February encourages people to talk about their mental health.

Mental Health awareness training for managers at MiMH is designed

to give managers, supervisors and colleagues the confidence to ask questions and not be frightened of the answer. By engaging in conversations about mental health we can stop problems from escalating and people becoming over whelmed.

This will prevent your friends, colleagues and family becoming unwell, having time off work, leaving good jobs because of stress and to talk about the issues that affect the whole team. Mind in Mid Herts is based in St Albans, Stevenage, Hertford and Welwyn Garden City.

Contact us today to find out how we can support you to build a strong and resilient team. www.mindinmidherts.org.uk

Movember is the time to talk about men’s health The Movember movement has been an international success since it was launched back in 2003. But it seems far too many men are still keeping their health worries to themselves.

“It is well known that men tend to keep things bottled up when it comes to medical issues,” says Consultant Urologist Jacques Roux, “but that really is the worst thing they can do. Popular awareness campaigns like Movember can get people talking and taking action.”

Two of the biggest ‘men only’ killers are prostate and testicular cancer but both are very treatable if they are diagnosed early.

“The key to successful treatment really is early diagnosis and that is down to men facing up to the fact that they might have a problem and seeking medical help as soon as possible,” says Mr Roux, who practices at Spire Harpenden Hospital in Hertfordshire.

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“Campaigns such as Movember do great work getting the ‘conversations’ started but, in the end, it is down to the individuals to take action and make that appointment with their GP.” “There are certain signs that should raise alarm bells around prostate cancer. These include difficulty passing urine or passing urine more frequently than usual, especially at night. Also the feeling of not completely emptying your bladder or having to rush to the toilet to pass urine.

You should also consider having your prostate checked if you have a family history of prostate cancer.”

“However, my advice is not to wait for symptoms but to go and get yourself checked out

once you reach 50. It’s a simple examination that could be followed by a blood test - there is no need to be frightened or embarrassed.”

Symptoms for testicular cancer include swelling or a lump in a testicle, which is usually painless but can become painful as it increases in size or a dull ache or pain, or heaviness in the scrotum.

“Once again men seem to find it difficult to discuss this with others but swift action really can save lives. Don’t wait until it becomes painful, act as soon as you discover a lump, it really can mean the difference between successful and non-successful treatment.”

Mr Roux practices at Spire Harpenden Hospital which is located in a peaceful setting well connected to transport routes, close to the M1 and A1(M). He sees both insured patients, and those funding their own treatment. Find out more on at www.spireharpenden.com.

Health & Wellbeing

Promoting health in the workplace

According to organisations like the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the workplace has a significant impact on people’s health and well-being and poor management of workplace health can lead to work-related ill health and high levels of sickness absence.

This has to be a concern for managers because of the costs involved, the impact on service delivery and the consequences for staff.

According to the HSE, managers must strive to: • create workplaces where health, safety and well-being is protected and promoted • ensure that staff have access to competent occupational health advice and support • improve access to preventative care and treatment for common health problems • enable people to remain in work while health problems are investigated and treated; and support and staff on return-to-work issues.

This approach is high on the Government’s agenda which is working with a range of public and private sector organisations to encourage good management of occupational health.

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They acknowledge that this may seem like a difficult challenge but argue that companies can achieve it by: • The lead given by managers at the top level. Without it, an organisation will not be motivated to take action • Good occupational health programmes • Support for those who are absent due to sickness, which can have a major impact on an individual’s motivation to get back to work According to health experts, prevention is better than cure and it is far better if the problem is prevented from occurring in the first place.

Work-related ill health accounts for 28 million working days lost a year in Great Britain. By far the biggest cause of this – up to half of all work-related absence in the education sector – is stress and related mental health issues.

Health experts say that stress has to be tackled if significant improvements in attendance and productivity are to be made.

How to boost your health at work Taking a few simple steps to improve your health at work can bring about major benefits to employees and employers alike, according to NHS experts.

Health in the workplace has never been afforded a higher priority than today with more and more managers recognising that a healthy workplace means a healthy workforce and a healthy workforce is happier and more productive.

So what can you do to improve things? Here are a few tips

Carry out health checks Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death of working age people in the UK and costs the economy £3.1 billion a year due to days lost to death, illness and the care of people with the disease. Check with your local surgery or hospital about health checks which can be carried out to reduce the risk to your staff.

Lose weight It’s all too easy to put on weight with a hectic modern life but you can change things. By making simple swaps, you can lose weight without giving up the things you love. For example you can swap your high calorie coffee drinks like whole-milk lattes and frappe for drinks made with skimmed milk. Swap your high sugar or fat snacks biscuits and crisps for a healthier food like fruit.

At work, you can swap the lift for the stairs and rather than eating at your desk get up and move about.

Be physically active Being active is good for your mind and body. Employees who are physically active take 27% less days of sick.

You don’t have to join a gym or set up a rigid exercise programme. Walking and cycling to work are good low-cost ways to increase your physical activity and can be fitted into you daily routine.

Many companies encourage their staff to walk and cycle to work.

However, a visit to the gym is a good idea as well and some enlightened companies provide gym membership as part of employment packages for their staff, recognising that healthy workforces benefit everyone.

Eat well Poor nutrition can affect your energy levels, concentration and health and make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.

With almost two thirds of adults overweight or obese in England it is important to ensure that you eat a range of food and cut down on foods high in salt, sugar and fat.

Stop smoking If you are a smoker, stopping is probably the single biggest thing you can do to improve your health. Smokers on average take 4.4 more days off in sickness absence than non-smokers.

Stopping smoking will improve your health and fitness.

YoungChamber

Young Chamber Young Chamber School Sir John Lawes Reach Chamber Awards 2016 Finals Young Chamber in Hertfordshire are delighted that our Inspiring Hertfordshire 2016 award winners Sir John Lawes have been crowned Regional Winners in the Chamber Awards 2016.

They are now through to compete for the National award at the Chamber Awards 2016. We were delighted to present their certificate to them and congratulate them on their fantastic achievements. We now look forward to celebrating with them in London later in the month.

Young Chamber in Hertfordshire are delighted to be working with Herts Chamber member Ajilon in creating an exciting and innovative competition for 9-13 year olds.

What does technology mean to you and what do you think it will look like in 10 years time? We are looking for students to create a new gadget for what they think technology will be like in the future.

With Ajilon we will judge these creations and have some fantastic prizes up worth around £10,000 up for grabs.

We continue to bridge the gap between education and employment working with our Young Chamber Schools.

Many of these schools are already preparing for 2017 and we would be delighted if you could help join us in supporting them’.

•

The John Warner School in Hoddesdon are holding a careers fair on 1st March 2017.

•

The Priory School in Hitchin are holding a careers fair on 19th July 2017.

•

St Albans Girls School in St Albans are holding a careers fair focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths on 24th November 2016.

If you would like to attend and showcase your opportunities to these students or if you are a school and looking to do something similar please contact youngchamber@hertschamber.com

Exciting technology competition with Chamber member Ajilon

Ajilon are a technology solutions company within the Adecco Group.

Would you like to employ more young students?

The winning student will have their artwork populated into a children’s technology book and win a Microsoft Surface Pro. The deadline for the project is around 1st February with prize giving at the end of February.

If your school is interested in this competition and would like some more information please contact courteneyblack@hertschamber.com

Official Opening of the Robert Barclay Academy Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce CEO, Yolanda Rugg was delighted to attend the official opening of Robert Barclay Academy on 11th October 2016.

Yolanda was extremely impressed by the students on the morning and seeing how hard the School has been working who are now part of the Sir John Lawes Academies Trust.

We wish the school and students every success in the future.

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24Hours

24.Hours The personal touch is so important for brand director Andrew For Andrew Bennett, the working day is dominated by a determination that, in an increasingly digital age, his family firm will retain the personal relationships with its clients that have been so important to developing and preserving the strength of the business for more than 30 years.

Andrew is the senior partner and brand director of the fast growing Barley House Group, an award-winning Cuffley-based brand communications agency that he runs with his twin brother Stuart and which specialises in everything from marketing and design to digital, print and display needs.

His working day starts early. He said: “I have always been an early bird so I am in the office by 7am. That means I miss the traffic but, more importantly it gives me clear time to think.

“I will answer any emails that have come in but then I have at least an hour to focus on the key business objectives and ensure that the ship is running smoothly.”

Making time to keep abreast of what his team is working on week-by-week is a priority. “Increasingly, my working day is taken up with meetings, either with staff or clients,” Andrew said. “Our senior people do all get together once a month, but I like to maintain an active involvement and catch up on projects on a regular basis.

“Some of our clients have been with us for more than 30 years and I like to take a personal interest in what is happening with them.”

Maintaining that personal contact with clients means Andrew’s diary is always full.

“I meet clients as often as I can; it is one part of the business that I have always enjoyed. For me, regular communication is key. I have a strong belief that our success is based on practicing what we preach and I do have a concern that a lot of companies are losing contact with their clients.

“They may keep contact online or via email but actual face-to-face contact is declining.

For me though, I do value personal contact with our clients and have always felt that there is nothing better than actually meeting people to maintain a business relationship.

“I will go out to meet them at their offices, but I like new clients to come and visit us so they get the chance to meet and get to know the team and also so that they can see the full range of what we offer.”

With business sectors the length and breadth of the UK still coming to terms with what Brexit might mean for them, Andrew said businesses cannot wait for the dust to settle before putting in place plans to deal with the possible consequences, and marketing will play a crucial role.

“Business is very good at the moment,” he said. “I know that some people expected problems after the Referendum vote but my view is that companies should recognise that they have already come through a recession; they know how to deal with hard times, and they are still here.

“But you have two options in times like this.

You either keep marketing yourself and go forward, or you reign in all your spending, cut costs, stop marketing and risk going backwards instead.”

For Andrew, the working day ends no later than 5.30pm, when he heads back home to his wife Tina and two girls. “To relax, I like my gardening and I also do triathlons, although I have to be careful these days as I like to look after my knees!”

Andrew Bennett Senior Partner and Brand Director Barley House Group

“With business sectors the length and breadth of the UK still coming to terms with what Brexit might mean for them, Andrew said businesses cannot wait for the dust to settle before putting in place plans to deal with the possible consequences, and marketing will play a crucial role.”

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Outsourcing

How ambitious SMEs can harness the power of outsourcing In a competitive market, the pressure is on all businesses to do more for less and find creative ways to stay ahead of their competitors.

As a result, there is growing recognition of the value of outsourcing services. John Playfair, Managing Partner at Playfair Partnerships, looks at how organisations can benefit from external resources and expertise.

Reasons for outsourcing can be financial or time-driven, but often the biggest gains to be had are through access to specialist expertise and experience. In deciding whether outsourcing is right for your business, the first step should be an honest appraisal of skills gaps within your

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organisation in relation to your business plan. Do you have the skills, expertise and capacity to deliver your growth objectives in the short and long term? It is not uncommon to find this first phase challenging. In fact, we will often start a new project by helping clients to define their needs, including how to maximise the impact of our involvement.

Benefits of outsourcing Generally speaking, all organisations will benefit from effective outsourcing in three key areas: • Expertise: The most effective outsourcing services give you access to the right level of expertise at the right time, offering multi-tiered advice and support at the levels your business needs. Outsourced specialists will also bring wide industry knowledge and new ideas to quickly spot opportunities and risks.

• Cost: Having a team of multiskilled advisers at your fingertips can reduce costs, as appropriate

expertise and resources can be directed at the right level of work. It means that senior level expertise, as well as administrative support, is used in the most efficient way. You will also have access to scalable support, so you only pay for the level and quantity of help you need, when you need it.

• Time: By directing expertise at the right level, crucial tasks can be completed quickly and efficiently, with greater precision. This not only reduces pressure and workloads across an organisation, it helps the whole business to run more efficiently.

How to choose and manage outsourced providers The more you put in to finding the right expertise at the outset, the greater the rewards. Do your research and talk to different providers to find out whether they are a good fit for your business.

Remember, cultural fit is as important as expertise.

Everyone will have their own requirements and there are different ways of delivering outsourced services. Our approach at Playfair Partnerships, has always been to work as an extension of our clients’ team, combining working at their office with supporting them on the phone and email, so that a perceived part-time resource is, in practice a full-time service when it is needed. Although most clients don’t require a full time person or team, they do require anytime access to specialist advice.

For SMEs to be among the best in their particular sector, outsourcing can provide an effective solution.

By combining internal and external expertise, you can build a leading team which drives your business forward.

For more information about how outsourcing can help maximise your business potential, visit www.playfairpartnerships.com call: +44(0)1920 444230 or mail@playfairpartnerships.com

Finance

Start up loans give businesses a boost A Government-backed scheme designed to help entrepreneurs create businesses though Start-Up loans has topped £250m in money awarded.

Funded by Government through the British Business Bank, Start Up Loans generate a return on investment to the economy of £3 for every £1 spent. Businesses up and down the country from digital start-ups to recreational centres have benefitted from the scheme.

Business and Energy Secretary Greg Clark said: “Whether you live in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, and whatever your age, everyone should have the chance to turn a great business idea into a reality.

“British entrepreneurs and small businesses are the backbone of our economy. This government will build on the success of Start Up Loans to give entrepreneurs the support and opportunities they need to start a business, grow it in Britain and turn it into a global success story.”

Small Business Minister Margot James said: “Small businesses play a vital role in local communities, bringing them together and giving millions of people good jobs and livelihoods.

With 1 in 5 Start Up Loans going to deprived areas in the UK, they are one of the many tools we have to build an economy that works for all.”

According to the Government, at the start of 2016 there were a record 5.4 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, creating more than 15 million jobs and contributing £1.8 trillion to our economy.

Emma Jones, the founder of business support organisation Enterprise Nation, said: “Start Up Loans have plugged an essential

gap for new businesses looking for funds. We’ve heard from hundreds of start-ups who not only benefit from the money, but also the mentoring that comes with it.

The UK continues to witness record start-up rates and the Start Up Loans Company has been a key enabler of this; helping people across the UK to take an idea and give self-employment a go. We look forward to continuing to support these new found businesses to grow.”

Half of all Start Up Loans for people aged 18 to 24 go to those formerly not in employment, education or training (NEET) and 1 in 5 Start Up Loans go to deprived areas in the UK. Tim Sawyer, CEO of the Start Up Loans Company, said: “SMEs drive our economy, and the role startups play in this shouldn’t be over-looked. Seeing such a great demand for finance from Britain’s would-be micro-business owners is a great indication of the appetite for growth in this sector.

“Hitting our £250 million lending milestone is a significant landmark for Start Up Loans Company. Since the launch almost 4 years ago our loans have helped create more than 45,100 jobs and for every pound invested we have returned £3 to the economy overall.

2016 has proven to be another busy year for microbusinesses, and we’re proud to be able to support this growth.”

The Start Up Loans Company not only offers fixed rate loans of up to £25,000 but also provides access to free business support for people starting out for the first time in business.

“Start Up Loans have plugged an essential gap for new businesses looking for funds.”

Lloyds Banking Group Lloyds Banking Group is committed to helping businesses of all shapes and sizes, giving them the funding and support they need to grow at home and abroad.

In the 12 months to June 2016 we increased our lending to SMEs by £1.2bn, on a net basis and we have achieved 4% year on year net growth in lending to SMEs. Since the start of 2011, we have grown our net lending to SMEs by 28%, while the market has contracted by 13%.

Please contact me if you would like explore whether Lloyds Bank can help your business Paul Shadbolt Area Director SME Banking, Beds & Herts Mob: 07802433988 Email: paul.shadbolt@lloydsbanking.com

Any property given as security, which may include your home, may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage or othr debts secured on it.

All lending is subject to a satisfactory credit assessment and we will need your permission to carry out a credit check on you and your business. You should not apply for an amount that you cannot comfortably afford to repay now and in the future to avoid the possibility of legal action.

Lloyds Bank plc Registered Office: 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Registered in England and Wales no.

2065. Telephone: 0207 626 1500. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority under Registration Number 119278. We subscribe to The Lending Code; copies of the Code can be obtained from www.lendingstandardsboard.org.uk Eligible deposits with us are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). We are covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). Please note that due to FSCS and FOS eligibility criteria not all business customers will be covered.

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Dacorum

Hemel Hempstead reaches high street awards finals Hemel Hempstead has been named as one of the country’s best high streets by being shortlisted in the third annual Great British High Street competition.

This year’s competition saw a record 900 entries across 14 categories. After making the top three in the ‘best town centre’ category, Hemel then needed the public to vote for it to be crowned champion.

There’s still time up until 18 November to cast your vote every day for free at www.thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk The Great British High Street awards celebrate the great work that is being done to revive, adapt and diversify the nation’s high streets.

In Hemel Hempstead, Dacorum Borough Council aimed to transform the town into a vibrant place where people want to shop, work, live, learn and visit with a £30m Hemel Evolution regeneration programme.

Innovations included new familyfriendly features such as the ‘play-on-the-way’ children’s areas along Marlowes and New Town Square central entertainment space – with its surface-jet fountain, large movie screen and colourful Rainbow Stage for live performances.

Hemel Evolution also strengthened connections with

other areas of the town centre to boost footfall: building a modern bus interchange; creating an attractive walkway to the restored Jellicoe Water Gardens; rejuvenating historic Hemel Old Town; and developing the neighbouring Gade Zone – the site of West Herts College’s new tertiary education campus and The Forum shared services centre with state-of-the-art central library.

Investors have since flooded in from independents such as Little Beans and Co play café to Capital and Regional, who acquired The Marlowes Shopping Centre for £53.8 million earlier this year.

Alongside the public’s votes, shortlisted towns will also be inspected by the judging panel – made up of industry leaders from across retail, property and business – including Marks & Spencer, Boots, the Post Office and Holland and Barrett.

Hemel Hempstead finds out in December if it’s won: fingers crossed!

Follow #GBHighSt #Hemel on Twitter.

Herts Start Up offers free advice and training There’s no catch. If you’re a new, start-up or established microbusiness (up to 3½ years old) based in Hertfordshire, 12 hours of free business advice and training are yours thanks to the Herts Start Up Programme.

At Maylands Business Centre situated in the heart of Hemel Hempstead’s main business area, this could include: 1) A one-to-one meeting with an experienced business adviser, providing you with personalised advice and an individual action plan: • covering everything you need to set up your business, from practical, legal and financial information through to a thorough analysis of your business strategy; • evaluating your competitive advantages; • profiling your potential or current customers; • researching your competitors and reviewing your pricing structure;

• developing a marketing plan.

2) A training workshop on topics including Microsoft programmes, finance, marketing, management skills and customer service.

Have a look at courses on offer at www.dacorumlooknofurther.co.uk /workshops 3) Book a follow-up session with your business adviser to check on progress and help you take the next step. Alternatively, you could choose another training workshop.

Dacorum Borough Council, Wenta and Stanta secured funding for this programme from the European Regional Development Fund.

A limited number of small business grants are also available.

For further information or to register, email business@dacorum.gov.uk or call Lesley Crisp on 01442 531003.

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Hospitality

When being hospitable pays off In an age where everyone seems to communicate online, where Twitter and Facebook seem sometimes to have taken over from actual talking, it can be easy to forget that we are basically sociable animals. We thrive on face-to-face contact.

That is why corporate hospitality is so important and remain a key business tool. The main reason is that it can allow companies to maintain personal relationships with their clients and the ideal time to engage in corporate hospitality is Christmas.

Why? Because in a fast-moving technological age, the personal touch remains highly valued because it is often when client and customer are together, and relaxed, that business is done, that relationships are forged and deals struck.

Hertfordshire offers a plethora of fabulous event venues, from the historic Tudor-style Pendley Manor set in 35 acres of parkland, to the majestic Ashridge House nestled in National Trust woodland in the rolling Chiltern Hills, to the purpose built conference and meeting rooms of the Ibis Hotel Stevenage.

However, there are other options for the more adventurous, daytrips, teambuilding events, extreme sports challenges, or for the more cultural, events such as trips to the theatre.

And at this time of year a spot of festive hospitality can go a long way with clients and staff alike, particularly if it staged at an unusual venue.

They may be diverse events in nature but the key to them all is that they represent time spent away from the office and a sense that the company staging the corporate hospitality truly values those whom it has invited, that their presence is seen as important.

Those companies that are prepared to invest in corporate entertainment do so because they can see something to be gained from showing clients and staff alike that there is life after work.

And that can pay dividends.

Frogmore Paper Mill for Inspirational Events In 1803 Frogmore Paper Mill was chosen by Henry and Sealy Fourdrinier as the site for the installation of a revolutionary new paper machine built for them by Bryan Donkin, the world’s first successful machine for making a continuous reel of paper. Still known around the world wherever it is used as a ‘Fourdrinier’ paper machine, such was its success that this type of machine still makes the majority of the world’s paper today.

Since 2002 Frogmore has been operated by the Apsley Paper Trail, a charitable trust dedicated to conservation and education.

The self-financing, not-for-profit organisation exists to preserve the Mill, its historic equipment and the artisan skills of the papermaker for the benefit of the public, the local community as well as national and international visitors.

They provide facilities for conferences of up to 150 delegates, training rooms for 20 or meetings of just ten. They have an auditorium, exhibition space, a number of meeting and break-out rooms and can organise catering to suit all budgets. There is parking for 70 cars and up to three coaches.

All this in a unique historic working environment and as part of a whole day experience they can do mill tours and boat trips too.

Call Maureen or Peter on 01442 234600 to arrange a viewing and make your next conference an inspiring event for staff and delegates.

Christmas at Foxholes Farm Christmas is always a special time at Foxholes Farm. We start the festive season with our annual Christmas tasting extravaganza weekend.

A weekend of delicious delights created especially for you. Our tasting table is situated at the front of our farm shop and you can try lots of artisan products which are available to purchase or to pre-order, helping to make your Christmas feast simple and stress-free.

This year we have some amazing meats reared on our farm and our butchery counter will cater for all your meat requirements.

From cold meats to cooked hams, 28 day hung beef, gammon joints, local game to rib roasts along with pork and lamb. Our free-range bronze turkeys are available this year, reared to the highest standards ready for you to bring to the festive table.

Our Christmas tasting weekend is a FREE event with FREE parking.

Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th November 11am - 3pm.

On the tasting table will be: • Free range bronze turkey • Selection of cold meats • Cooked ham, gammon, beef and pork • Selection of fine cheeses • Mince pies • A selection of chutneys, jams and sauces All washed down with a warm glass of mulled wine.

If you love cheese try our Christmas cheese board, a lovely selection of popular fine British cheeses including Hereford Hop, Somerset Brie, Cropwell Bishop and our popular Snowdonia Black Bomber, accompanied with biscuits. Or order a Cheese Cake, a tiered selection of cheese making cheese the star attraction for any occasion.

Our selection of hampers make great gifts. Our corporate special £34.99 comes beautifully wrapped in a whicker basket with our own Foxholes Farm label, a selection of chutneys, jams, biscuits and sauces. We have hampers to suit both gin and whisky lovers or try our store cupboard selection of a biscuit duo, we have a wide selection of meat boxes and gift vouchers are also available.

For more information including Christmas opening times visit our website www.foxholesfarm.com.

Foxholes Farm would like to wish all our customers a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

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LastWord

Careers which really are rocket science Victoria Lonnon, a Product Assurance Engineer with Airbus Defence and Space Ltd, tells us about this specialist role.

Q What do you do?

I am a Product Assurance Engineer. Essentially this means that I help to ensure that everything used to build a spacecraft conforms to a certain set of requirements to ensure that the end product is of the sufficient level of quality that both our company and our customers can be confident that the product will work as expected.

Q Who do you work for?

I work for Airbus Defence and Space Ltd based in Stevenage (formally Astrium Ltd).

Q Were you encouraged to take STEM subjects at school?

I had always had an interest in science growing up and particularly in Space. While the promotion of “STEM” subjects wasn’t as prevalent when I was at school as it is now, I was fortunate to have good science and maths teachers both for GCSE and A Level.

These teachers, particularly my Physics teachers (both of whom were women and both of whom were Physics graduates themselves) were very supportive throughout.

Q How did you get in to this industry?

The first time I ever heard of Astrium (as it was then) was during my industrial placement year as part of my degree at University of Surrey.

I had already set my sights towards working in the Space industry in some way or another, choosing to study towards a degree in Physics with Satellite Technology. However, it wasn’t until my placement year that I found out about the wide range of opportunities within the industry. I spent that year working in Germany for a company helping develop and test simulators to train spacecraft operators at the European Space Agency’s Space Operations Control Centre. This was where I first became aware of Astrium and of the UK’s involvement in Space.

Q What was your most exciting moment?

By far, the most exciting moment of my ten years at Airbus DS has to be finally seeing the spacecraft I had been working on for a number of years launch into orbit last year in December 2015. This was particularly special because as the Quality Assurance Engineer for the spacecraft, I had accompanied it throughout the test campaign in Munich earlier in the year and throughout the activities at the launch site.

Patrons

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Seeing the launch in Kourou, French Guiana, after working so hard for such a long time to prepare for that moment was a career highlight that will be hard to beat. In fairness, while the launch was exciting, the actual experience of what is called the “launch campaign” which lasts approximately eight weeks and is the last part of the journey on Earth for the spacecraft, was something which I will never forget and something I feel privileged to have experienced first-hand.

From accompanying the spacecraft on the World’s second largest aircraft, the Antonov AN-124 (a thrilling ride of 13 hours across the Atlantic), to performing the final inspection of “Remove before Flight” items and standing at the top of the rocket launch tower while the fairing containing the spacecraft was craned into place, I could go on and on, in short an amazing experience.

Q What training is required for such a specialist job?

For me, I studied A Levels in Physics, Maths and History (my other favourite subject and I particularly love scientific history as for me it is important to understand the social and historical context in which scientific discoveries have been made). I then went on to obtain a degree in Physics with Satellite Technology, including the industrial placement year, at the University of Surrey. From there, I was fortunate to gain a place on the Astrium Graduate Development Scheme in 2006.

Initially I spent the first 5.5 years in what is called an “analyst” role as an AOCS (Attitude and Orbit Control Systems) Engineer – basically designing auto pilots for spacecraft. I then changed roles internally to the Quality division and was fortunate to join the LISA Pathfinder project as the QA (Quality Assurance) Engineer for the spacecraft.

Q What is your biggest career ambition?

Well, right now, the LISA Pathfinder launch experience is gonna be hard to beat! Ten years ago as a fresh faced graduate I dreamed of one day being able to go to a launch in person for something I had worked on. I never imagined at that time that within a decade not only would I be present to see a launch, but that I would actually be responsible as part of the launch team and would get to fly in an Antonov and stand atop the launch tower – and get paid to have these amazing

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