Inspire 20, May 2017 by Benham Publishing Limited

INSPIRE.20 The business magazine of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce May - June 2017

Why it makes sense to think global - page 10 n

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2017

Digital Skills shortage

Finalists announced from

We review the impact on

a range of inspiring businesses

business productivity and

across the County - page 6

growth - page 18

Tourism Venues Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce launches its Hertfordshire Chamber Venues, a website of local conference venues - page 19

Welcome

Contents Member Benefits 4 Economy 5 Inspiring Herts 6-9 Hertfordshire Global 10-14 Economic Review 16-17 Digital Skills 18 Tourism Venues 19 Environmental Conference 20 PA Club Launch 21 Patron Focus 25 Chamber Events 26-28 Development 29 New Members 30-31 Members News 32-35 Young Chamber 36-37 Health & Wellbeing 39 Workplace 41 Warner Bros. 42 24 Hours with... 43 Finance 45 Last Word 50 •••• Editorial and General Enquiries Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce MacLaurin Building, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9NE Tel: 01707 398400 Fax: 01707 398430 Email: enquiries@hertschamber.com Web: www.hertschamber.com Chief Executive: Yolanda Rugg Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing 3tc House, 16 Crosby Road North, Crosby, Liverpool L22 0NY Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published May 2017 © 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. 1482 •••• 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. ©2017 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

From the Chief Executive The year is moving as fast as our projects are progressing. We’re announcing a number of new initiatives.

Hertfordshire Global In line with Brexit opportunities we are turning uncertainty into opportunity by rebranding our International Trade division. Hertfordshire Global will be launched formally on 16 June at the Cromwell Hotel, Stevenage, and will be followed by a programme of events for the remainder of the year. We are organising Hertfordshire Global and Brexit events across the county, collaborating with town chambers of commerce. Herts Chamber introduces a Global Membership package to provide member businesses with a digital platform to receive business opportunities, and advice and guidance, to help build a global business, establish partners and reach new markets (see page 11). The team will continue to offer export support (documentation services, seminars, advice) but will augment this with new markets growth strategies. I want to thank the High Commission of Canada for sponsoring a very good event last month that brought together Hertfordshire tech companies with Canadian partners in order to forge business relationships.

Infrastructure to support competitiveness We will be launching a new Infrastructure Group in July to address issues relating to planned infrastructure strategy, and to ensure our thriving business community has the right infrastructure to precipitate growth and support, attracting the right talent to drive competitiveness. Lord Salisbury (Hatfield House, Gascoyne Cecil Estates) is the Hertfordshire Chamber’s Honorary President. He is passionate about the role of place in Hertfordshire’s economy and communities and is keen to support this group. We will be inviting local stakeholders to attend the inaugural meeting. We will be collaborating with representatives of Gascoyne Cecil Estate — working on sustainability and infrastructure issues such as resources, broadband connectivity, road, rail, housing and skills to maximise productivity in the local economy. We are arranging subsequent forums at which specialist speakers will be addressing central issues.

Building a Smarter Future Our Ambition Broxbourne partnership continues to raise exciting opportunities, particularly this year, the Year of the Environment. The conference, Building a Smarter Future, on 26 June at the Lee Valley White Water Centre has a very engaging programme. Expert speakers will be addressing future house and building design, ambitious and bold planning, master-planning for communities, energy-efficient building and the merits of off-site construction methods. One of the speakers will be Michael Pawlyn architect of the Eden Project. Take note, there is an early bird conference fee of £50 for registration before 15 May. Hope to see you there!

Hertfordshire PA Club In every organisation, senior executives’ personal and executive assistants are the essential oils that lubricate the relationships between the executive and internal teams and with the outside world. They pour oil on troubled waters and make things happen. We are launching the Hertfordshire PA Club with an elegant afternoon tea at Luton Hoo Hotel on 25 May. We follow this with a programme of events and seminars based on workplace efficiencies, team building, and enhanced office management practice. Bosses – we urge you to show your appreciation of your PA or EA by supporting their club involvement, and by allowing them a couple of hours every alternate month for a meet-up to share best practice and to transfer knowledge.

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards This year, once again, the judges had a tough task in nominating finalists in each of the 20 categories (see page 6). These Awards would not be possible without our sponsors. Firstly, we thank our headline sponsor Hillier Hopkins, a leading firm of independent Chartered Accountants, our associate sponsor, Volkerwessels UK, a multidisciplinary civil engineering firm, and our media partners, Herts Mercury and Herts Essex Observer. We thank also our category sponsors — Handelsbanken, Ambition Broxbourne, SA Law, Stevenage Borough Council, Longmores Solicitors, Lexus Hatfield, Porsche Centre Hatfield, Motion Media, Aubrey Park Hotel, Gascoyne Cecil

Estates, Austin’s Family Funeral Directors, James Hallam Insurance Brokers, ServerChoice, London Luton Airport, AIM Sales & Marketing, Astute Electronics, DB Sharp & Sons, Hanbury Manor and Veolia.

General election I share the general concern of many business communities that the 8 June parliamentary elections will detract from matters regarding the economy and Brexit preparations. We need to be reassured that the challenges facing the economy will remain top of the agenda.

Stevenage investment We welcome the recent visit to Stevenage by Sir Michael Fallon, Defence Secretary, to discuss a £500m investment in defence technology, a sure sign of confidence in the town.

Digital skills, pronounced shortage Skills shortages do affect productivity; increased staff workload, greater operating costs and meeting customer needs (see page 18).

MBA – enhancing leadership, entrepreneurial skills To support many of our members facing the Apprenticeship Levy who are keen to upskill their leadership team, Chamber members are offered a 20 per cent discount off tutorial fees at University of Hertfordshire (see page 29). We like to say that opportunities begin with Hertfordshire Chamber. Yolanda Rugg Chief Executive Officer Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

INSPIRE

MemberBenefits

Hertfordshire Chamber Member Benefits Chamber HR ChamberHR is a national scheme provided by Qdos Consulting and has been accredited BCC service for over 10 years. ChamberHR offers members’ easy access to essential support for employment law and human resources issues through a 24/7 advice line and website. The advice line provides you with specialist HR advisors to offer hand-holding support through difficult situations with easy and practical advice. The website allows you to download over 500 template documents to help with your HR needs along with keeping you up to date with the latest news and legislation updates. The ChamberHR service is free and included in your membership fee to save you money, give you peace of mind and to help manage your employee relations. To find out more contact 01455 852028 or email sales@qdosconsulting.com

Chamber Energy Solutions

Chamber Energy Solutions provide all members with five free services to help you take control over your utility spend, saving you time, effort and money. • An Energy Health Check • Solve your estimated bill problem • Bill checking service • The Utilitywise Newsletter • Access to the Chamber Energy Solutions utility helpline Contact Chamber Energy Solutions on 0333 000 0132 to speak to a dedicated Account Manager.

Westfield Health

AXA PPP Healthcare

The Chamber Primary Health Plan encourages your staff to think proactively about their health and provides money back towards their healthcare bills. Not only is it good for your staff, but it’s good for your business too. Westfield health can help your business by • Providing a valuable employee benefit and an attractive rewards package • Reduce absenteeism and related costs • Improves staff productivity, motivation and morale as they feel more valued • Helps as part of pay negotiations • Can help with stress related problems Staff can gain money back towards healthcare bills such as Optical, Dental, Consultation and Therapy treatments. Westfield Health also provides Westfield Rewards for Policyholders giving them access to fantastic discounts and offers on a wide range of goods and services at over 450 high street/online retailers. Contact Westfield Health on 0345 602 1629 or email businessenquiries@westfieldhealth.com

AXA PPP healthcare can help you create a healthcare plan that's as unique as your business. A plan to fast track you and your people to diagnosis and treatment. And to support you all back to health, and back to work as quickly as possible. Chamber Business Healthcare Plan, will help get your staff back to health and back to work as soon as possible by giving prompt access to diagnosis and treatment. They will also help out with convenient appointments. Signing up the Chamber Business Healthcare plan will allow you to receive • 50% discount off your Chamber membership for three years. • Free access to Health at Hand – a free 24/7 telephone helpline from a UK land line, offering confidential health information and support from health professionals. For more information call AXA PPP healthcare on 0800 387 754

Chamber Foreign Exchange We have partnered with exchange experts, Moneycorp to provide money saving foreign exchange to chamber members. If you have international payment requirements Moneycorp can help you save hundreds, thousands, even tens of thousands every year to help your business grow internationally. Chamber Foreign Exchange provides you with: • Bank-beating exchange rates – typically as much as 4% better than the banks. • Expert market guidance at the end of a phone - Moneycorp’s professional currency dealers can guide you through the foreign exchange market. • Fast online money transfers 24/7 • Safeguarded client funds - Moneycorp is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide payment services and safeguards all client funds in segregated customer accounts. Get in touch today and call +44 (0)203 823 0526 or email chamberfx@moneycorp.com

100 Free Leads with Experian We have partnered with Experian to help improve your sales lead generation and have negotiated all members 100 free leads along with a 20% discount on further leads required. Experian can benefit your business with these features • Select lists by geography, business size, turnover, activity and credit risk • Available 24/7 means you can build your own lists when convenient for you • Check the data before you buy • No Minimum Order Value • Named Decision makers by Job Function ensuring targeted marketing campaigns • Access to over 600,000 unique emails and over 5 million business records • Instantly downloadable lists – get fast results • All lists are updated daily and are fully validated against DMA suppression files • Full customer support online and by phone • Free registration and free data counts Contact the Chamber team on 01707 502180 to find out how to utilise your 100 free leads

If you want to find out more about your membership, interested in joining the Chamber or want to know more please contact Mary Palmer on 01707 502188 or email marypalmer@hertschamber.com 4

INSPIRE

Economy

Brexit Opportunities for Business Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of British Chambers of Commerce addressed more than 60 people at a Hertfordshire business lunch on 30 March 2017 at Beales Hotel, Hatfield on Brexit opportunities. want to be part of the family!” Dr Marshall’s concern is the obsessing by politicians and media over Brexit. “With so much noise, it’s more difficult at company and also government level to keep an eye on the ball - but we’ve got to. “It’s on the British Chambers of Commerce’s domestic agenda to remind government about what really matters. On March 29 the British pound held steady, but we do expect volatility – but when, we can’t say yet. Will it be at the time of negotiation, arising from emotions?”

Neville Reyner CBE DL, Chairman, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, Yolanda Rugg, Chief Executive, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and Dr Adam Marshall, Director General, British Chamber of Commerce

Yolanda Rugg, CEO of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, introduced the issue: “The British Chambers of Commerce and its Accredited Chambers take a neutral position on Brexit’s for-or-against arguments. However, now that Article 50 has been invoked, we activate our own campaign for global business opportunities for Hertfordshire businesses.” Dr Adam Marshall presented the British Chamber’s perspective of Britain’s situation. “I’ll start with a SWOT analysis,” he said. “Our strengths are strong market indicators and our resilient businesses; they’re pragmatic and adaptable and compared to our competition in the world, are doing well. “Our weaknesses are principally the people problem, the talent pipeline. We can’t recruit enough locally; this is our biggest problem. “Another issue, familiar also, is infrastructure. As a country

we’ve under-invested in business for over 40 years where our world competitors have invested in necessary areas: broadband, transport. On opportunity, Dr Marshall was more optimistic. “Brexit presents us with disruption, which brings change, a catalyst for new business thinking. Such disruption encourages us to find new niches, new opportunities. “Two other very important opportunities are trade liberalisation and lower sterling giving us entry to new or different markets. “Threats we need to be aware of is firstly, the gap between generation wealth; the XYZ and Millennial Generations are unable to accumulate wealth. This is a problem that needs confronting. Another threat is fixation with relationships, he said: “I’ve read the Prime Minister’s letter to The European Council President, Mr Donald Trusk — we want to be best friends, but we don’t

We must also expect inflation as we consider the impact of rising costs. Some politicians are anticipating short-term chaos with mid-term steadiness but Dr Marshall takes the opposite view. He said also: “There is a lot of noise about Trade Agreements, but businesses up and down the country want to know the fundamentals — who we can hire, how do we get our products across borders, what are the terms of trade, what about tax, how will regulation affect my business? “We need maximum clarity that’s how we’ll continue to do business,” he said.

At a recent meeting with the Secretary of State: Business, Innovation, Energy, Dr Marshall raised British businesses’ competitiveness in a country obsessing about housing shortages when there is also a critical shortage of business premises. In addition, 40 per cent of businesses, countrywide, are highly concerned about business rates increase and business insurance premiums. “Government is taxing business before companies begin making money,” he said. He appealed to businesses considering exporting their products and services in a post-Brexit world to contact their local Chamber, part of an international network of business contacts that opens doors. The British Chambers of Commerce with its Accredited Chamber (Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce), he said, provides businesses with four opportunities - Voice: the means to create change, Trade: the springboard for local and international business growth, Membership: business within a civic community and finally Place: where business is done.

“Brexit presents us with disruption, which brings change, a catalyst for new business thinking. Such disruption encourages us to find new niches, new opportunities.”

INSPIRE

InspiringHertfordshire

Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2017 The Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2017 finalists have been announced and once again represents a range of inspiring businesses across the County. The judging panel, under the moderation of Neville Reyner, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce’s Chairman, reported that the competition was extremely strong and close with the decision being very tough. Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce are extremely grateful for our Sponsors for supporting the awards including our Headline Sponsor, Hillier Hopkins. The Chamber would also like to thank the judges for their time and dedication to the task and to all entrants for taking the time to enter. Yolanda Rugg, CEO of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce said,

‘’This year the judges reported they had an enormously, difficult task deciding on an outright winner in some of the categories where we had an overwhelming increase in submissions- a couple with an outstanding level of performance. There was reported evidence of increased investment into people, technologies and building sustainable growth plans, through exploitation of current business models, and exploration into future new markets. Congratulations to all our entrants, and finalists and we very much look forward to a stellar evening on the 8th June at a stunning new venue, St Albans Cathedral, which I believe tickets have sold out after just three days.‘’

Headline Sponsor Hillier Hopkins Established in 1933, Hillier Hopkins are a leading independent Chartered Accountants covering London and the South-East.

Outstanding Contribution to Business Sponsored by Tate

Associate Sponsor Volkerwessels

Media Partners Herts Mercury and Herts Essex Observer

Achievement in International Business Sponsored by Handelsbanken • Boston Digital • Grace Foods UK • Kelvin Hughes • Blackmores UK 6

INSPIRE

Business of the Year Small to Medium

Business of the Year East Herts

Sponsored by Hanbury Manor

• Pearldrop • KDW Independent Financial Planning • RDT Architects

• Aubrey Park Hotel • DeVere Venues Theobalds Park • Gascoyne Cecil Estates

It’s all about the presentation The beautifully-crafted trophies for the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards have been supplied by Hemel Trophies and Jewellers Ltd and the company can also help you to make your presentation an outstanding day to remember. Hemel Trophies and Jewellers Ltd are a small, highly-experienced team based in Hertfordshire, who can handle everything from the creation of your artwork and incorporating your company logo or personal design ideas to delivery of finished engraved products. With their dedicated and extensive inhouse facilities for engraving and personalisation, they can supply all your award and presentation needs to the highest possible standards. The company has its own in-house jeweller and workshop, with more than 30 years of experience, and their experts carry out manufacturing, repairs, alterations, stone replacement, setting and remodelling to your requirements. From budget medals or trophies for your company golf day or your local football team to a bespoke designed award for your long-serving employees, they will fulfil your requirements. They can also engrave your own items and have made many bespoke awards from items that customers have brought in. They specialise in glass and crystal engraving but also have the facility to engrave wood, leather, plastics, metals and more. Many of the company’s domestic suppliers have more than 100 years of manufacturing skills and the team source many products from within the UK. Robert and Annie Saulters, the current owners, acquired Hemel Trophies and Jewellers in September 1995 and have been working from their retail premises in Hemel Hempstead for more than 20 years. Telephone 01442 255224 email: sales@hemeltrophy.co.uk

We look forward to our Awards Gala Dinner on Thursday 8th June at our stunning new venue, St Albans Cathedral to celebrate the achievements and success of Hertfordshire businesses. INSPIRE

InspiringHertfordshire

Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers

01992 444466 directors@hbaccountants.co.uk www.hbaccountants.co.uk

Expert, Imaginative and Practical Solutions to your business needs

Our passion as a team is to help your business to succeed as well as providing peace of mind on all compliance matters. And all built on strong client relationships and providing outstanding service. •

Annual and Management Accounting

•

Payroll and VAT

•

• •

Audit and Assurance

Wealth Management

Tax Planning and Compliance Business Consulting Business Start-ups

Amwell House, 19 Amwell Street, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire. EN11 8TS 8

INSPIRE

InspiringHertfordshire

Home-Start Hertfordshire are so proud to have been nominated for two awards this year None of it would be possible without the support of local businesses. Adrian Whyle

Justin dance video picture in collaboration with St Albans

Just 18 months ago the charity nearly closed because of serious funding cuts. Instead the organisation embarked on an ambitious and innovative restructure. Part of the new working meant aligning with local businesses. Lara Norris CEO said ‘For us we wanted to change the way we worked with business. Instead of a one-way relationship we wanted to show how partnership benefited both the charity AND the business. Creating symbiotic relationships means that the whole community

benefits. We think of this as investing the future of our communities – together in a sustainable way.’ There are many ways that building a partnership with Home-Start Herts can benefit your business for example; • We are able to raise your brand awareness and reach a far wider audience in areas that you are unlikely to have tapped in to • We can support your staff with volunteer and training opportunities. Giving employees a chance to give back not only helps with morale but can also help staff retention by making employees proud to work for your company • A partnership with a local Children’s charity can help show customers that your business is trustworthy and ethical – did you know that 85% of customers are more likely to use a business that supports a charity? Successful networking has been the key to Home-Start Herts becoming part of the business community.

Suzy Moody Strategic Manager says, ‘We’ve built genuine and positive relationships, person to person. In many cases this has resulted in businesses sharing our passion for what we do and offering valuable support, such as their time and expertise, key contacts or a financial contribution. By getting to know the amazing people behind the businesses, we are building partnerships based on an understanding of what works for them too, to make sure that what we give back to businesses is as valuable to them as what they give is to us.’ Feedback Home-Start Herts has receive from their current business partners is really positive and shows some of ways that businesses can be involved. ‘Home-Start provide exemplary support to families with young children by engaging parents in helping others to be better parents. As a business person I would not hesitate in directing an employee to Home-Start that may be requiring support in facing the demands of

managing both a family and career.’ Adrian Whyle – Chair of Home-Start Herts’ corporate board’. "Since a chance mention at the St Albans Businesses Jelly that Home-Start had harsh funding cuts, little did we know the fun we would have collaborating with other businesses in the area as well as Home-Start to raise funds - from dancing outside our businesses, bowling, darts, golf days, year planners, to naked Christmas Cards - eeks! It's been a hoot. And we cannot wait to officially launch the latest Home-Start "Give It Up For Good (Causes)" Campaign and video - where people are giving up "do-able" and "affordable" things and setting up a monthly direct debit to Home-Start instead." Sue Wybrow founder of The St Albans Businesses group. If you are interested in working in partnership with Home-Start please contact lara@home-startherts.org.uk or suzy@home-startherts.org.uk to discuss how we can work together.

INSPIRE

HertfordshireGlobal

A new horizon for business

Hertfordshire Hertf ordshire Global Get connected G et c onnected world off tto oaw orld o opportunity o pportunity

The role of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce since its inception in 1924 has been to represent the interests of and to create opportunities for - its business members. We believe Brexit is providing a new horizon for business growth through new partnerships and markets.

Europe) is a multilateral network for driving international trade. COBCOE Connects enables businesses to make business contact with potential partners through its online network.

It is in the spirit of this new realism of opportunity that the Chamber is establishing Hertfordshire Global. We are redefining the existing International Services division by retaining its valued portfolio of international trade services and enhancing it with an entirely new and exciting dimension: COBCOE Connects.

Its features are:

COBCOE (Council of British Chambers of Commerce in

It uses its advanced technology to find trusted business contacts around the world. 1. matched results to individual needs 2. technology and personal moderation 3. local knowledge Its business benefit is growth through:

• development of new projects, products or services • new suppliers or service providers Our objective for the rebranding and launch — driven by the Brexit initiative — is to turn uncertainty into opportunity for Hertfordshire businesses. We are so excited about the future, and how we may best prepare ourselves to exploit its opportunities for growth. Hertfordshire Global is a means to build on the positive outlook that grows day by day.

• new markets • increased sales • expanded client base

Yolanda Rugg Chief Executive May 2017

Hertfordshire Global business service Hertfordshire Global is a business service that puts Hertfordshire businesses directly in touch with companies and business opportunities in Europe - and the rest of the world - through the Hertfordshire Chamber’s accredited membership of British Chambers of Commerce (BBC). The BCC sits at the heart of a powerful network of 52 Accredited Chambers of Commerce across the UK that represents thousands of businesses of all sizes and in all sectors. Its Global Business Network connects exporters with nearly 40 markets around the world.

Hertfordshire Global Launch Date:

16th June

Time:

07.30-09.30

Venue:

As a division of Hertfordshire Chamber, Hertfordshire Global will combine its traditional practical services:

Cromwell Hotel Stevenage, High Street, Old Town, Stevenage, SG1 3AZ

Members:

£15.00

• • • • • …

international trade documentation advice: product/standards compliance advice: customs procedures and compliance seminars, training courses translations with a raft of new benefits

Hertfordshire Chamber is launching Hertfordshire Global on 16 June. This rebranding is a new focus on global business prospects presented by Brexit. It is the facilitation with which to connect interested businesses directly with overseas and new markets through a world-wide organisation, and which provides account manager support, advice and service.

• • • • • • •

COBCOE Connect access hands-on support dedicated global account manager useful trade events information and updates discussion forums trade facilitation

Practicalities, opportunities

INSPIRE

Non-Members: £18.00

Calendar of events Other Hertfordshire Global events during the year will be: • black-tie dinner • drinks reception at which to meet Hertfordshire Members of Parliament • global trading subject seminars • forum events to discuss trading issues, options and possibilities

HertfordshireGlobal

COBCOE Connects Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce are excited to announce they are working with COBCOE in enabling businesses to grow their opportunities and enter new markets overseas. “We’re extremely pleased to work with Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce who provides such great support for members wishing to go international. COBCOE Connects makes it easy for Chamber members to find trusted contacts in new markets, whether they’re looking for new distributors, partners, suppliers or professional services, cutting out the time and expense usually involved in setting up international business connections.” Anne-Marie Martin Chief Executive COBCOE The initial registration cost is just €100 (plus tax) to sign up and register the company profile, which entitles businesses to be represented and to search for connections and potential trading partners,

in new markets, which meet their business objectives. There is a subsequent annual fee of €25 to maintain registration. This new, online service, built with advanced technology, makes it easy to reach trusted

business contacts around the world. It is an ideal means by which to diversify into new markets or products and services in order to grow business and to develop valuable business contacts.

Global Membership The Global Membership package — the bundle of practical services and benefits for importers and exporters is priced cost-effectively as a small surplus of existing membership tariffs dependent on company size by employee number.

1-10 Employees: £150 + VAT • Dedicated Global Account Member • Free Access to COBCOE Connect Platform • 1 free place at Global Trade Forum Events • Exclusive Global Leaders Events/Roundtable • Discount on courses • Market entry support in market and sector specialisms. • Complimentary trade facilitation support services phone call, including product and standards compliance, customs procedures and compliance and international trade documentation.

11-49 Employees: £250 + VAT • Dedicated Global Account Member • Free Access to COBCOE Connects Platform • 1 free place at Global Trade Forum Events • Exclusive Global Leaders Events/Roundtable • Discount on courses • Market entry support meeting on market and sector specialisms • Complimentary trade facilitation support services meeting on product and standards compliance, customs procedures and compliance and international trade documentation

50+ Employees: £350 + VAT • Dedicated Global Account Member • Free Access to COBCOE Connects Platform • 2 free places at Global Trade Forum Events • Exclusive Global Leaders Events/Roundtable • Discount on courses • Market entry support meeting including market and sector specialisms • Complimentary trade facilitation support services meeting on product and standards compliance, customs procedures and compliance and international trade documentation.

If you would like to find out more or upgrade your business membership to the Global package, please contact the Chamber team on 017070 50 21 80

COBCOE Connects is FREE for the first year, for the first 100 Herts Chamber members* to sign up to register your entry and company profile. If you would like to take advantage of this fantastic benefit, please contact the Chamber on 01707 50 21 80. * Members must have paid their annual membership subscription.

INSPIRE

HertfordshireGlobal

Why it makes sense to think global It has long been said that one of the biggest factors holding UK companies back from taking advantage of international trade is a fear of the unknown. A sense that breaking into new markets is just too difficult. their clients helped them get a foothold in Saudi Arabia. Nick said: “It was an epiphany moment for the company. We had not really considered the international market before then but within 12-18 months we were exporting to Saudi Arabia and we could see the potential elsewhere in the world. “Although 65 per cent of our business is now export, it was very much an evolutionary process as we explored the opportunities over a number of years.

However, according to Nick Michaelson, CEO of Hertfordshire company Silver Fox, there are numerous advantages for those prepared to take on the challenges. Saying that the difficulties are nowhere near as scary as many suggest, he points to the success of his company as an example of what can be achieved. Silver Fox, a leading UK manufacturer of labelling solutions, has been exporting since the mid-nineties, beginning almost by accident when one of

“What we discovered is that there are some truly wonderful opportunities out there and that it is nowhere near as difficult to trade internationally as a lot of people say. The world is much more positive about trading internationally than we are.” The company has proved that with clients ranging from the United States and the Middle East, Australia and Continental Europe. Nick said: “There is a British mindset that that instinctively says ‘it won’t work, it’s too difficult’, which I do not understand.

“We are perfectly happy to jump on a plane to go on holiday in these places but when it comes to doing the same thing for business it’s a different story and yet there are flourishing markets out there.” Silver Fox has developed an international reputation as a leader in labelling solutions using a Plug’N’Play thermal printer or a standard office printer, ensuring fast and efficient identification of cables, wires, optical fibres, panels, pipes and equipment. Silver Fox, which supplies to the energy, power, rail and data and telecoms industries worldwide, saw its commitment to global business recognised in 2005 by the Queen’s Award for Enterprise – International Trade. The company has developed its international trade with the help of UKTI, now part of the Department of Trade and Industry, and Nick said: “They were very supportive. I would recommend any company thinking about trading abroad to seek out their help. “I would also suggest that they go to as many trade shows as they can. What’s more, there are British embassies and consulates

all over the world and they are only too happy to help. “We have been astonished at the opportunities that are out there in the world and I am not particularly worried about Brexit, despite all the talk. “What does worry me are the doubters, the people who say that it will cause problems and the Press who are very negative about it. “Yes, there will be challenges – I am not saying that Brexit will be easy - but it does present plenty of opportunities as well. We just have to let our trade negotiators get on with their job. “Brexit need not necessarily be a bad thing. We have found in our business that when you come across moments of adversity the thing to do is be positive and look for the opportunities.” “There seems to be the widely held notion that we need trade agreements to do trade. This is nonsense! British companies can and do trade all over the globe with or without trade agreements being in place!”

INSPIRE

HertfordshireGlobal

“Herts Chamber has proved to be an invaluable partner in our International business development. Not only providing much of the documentation required, often against very short lead-times, the Chamber is also a vital source of information around legal compliance as well as offering valuable advice and guidance on trading in overseas markets. It is essential to have a partner who both supports and understands our business, and in this Herts Chamber excels – we see them as nothing less than an extension of our own business team.” Grace Foods UK

Ask Trevor Trevor has worked in the Export Department of the Chamber for nearly 20 years and has experience with shipping, International Banking and Export Finance since 1960. He is well versed in arranging the certification, legalisation of all forms of documents used in International Trade.

How do I go about exporting?

CDN High Commission Lunch

Make sure you research your market; determine where your goods fit in, narrow down the choices and don’t try and take on too much at once. Speak to everyone to gain knowledge. Gain an understanding of your competition and develop your hook taking into account shipping costs, exchange rates and documentation costs. Find out if there is there a place for your goods and where you see your product fitting in Where do you see your product fitting in?

Where should I go for advice? Make sure you contact your Chamber of Commerce. If you are a member of a Trade Institute try to find successful exporters you can speak to. Governments Trade Departments (DIT), HMRC, your local forwarding agent, the International Section of your Bank and your local LEP will all be able to support you with advice.

What are the benefits of exporting?

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce were delighted to join the High Commission of Canada for a Roundtable Lunch with Herts Chamber members. Yolanda Rugg,

Chief Executive from Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce was joined by Geoff Hill from Astute Electronics, Nick Michaelson from Silverfox Limited,

Mark Bown from Kelvin Hughes, Jonathan Wiseman from Ocado and Will Huggins from Zoocha. Thank you all for joining us for a fantastic engaging lunch.

Exporting allows you to expand your sales market beyond the UK, increasing revenue and maximising production. You will also be able to keep up to date with modern developments and customer needs. If you have any questions or looking for advice, please contact Trevor Clark on 01707 502191

INSPIRE

InternationalTradeEvents

Brexit

12 months on Are you ready to take on the world? Date: Time: Venue:

Friday 16th June 09.30-11.30 Hitchin Priory, Tilehouse Street, Hitchin, SG5 2DL Free of Charge

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Greater Cambridge Greater Peterborough Enterprise Partnership (LEP) will be joined by the Intellectual Property Office and Department for International Trade (DIT) who will be we covering export, IP, finance and touching on post Brexit.

A presentation on Export Finance including a journey through of the various export payment options, from full payment in advance (full risk on buyer) to payment within 30 days of invoice (full risk on seller) and all the various options including letters of credit.

Included will be an Intellectual Property workshop with case studies on protecting your knowledge, with local exporters present to demonstrate how it can be done.

As well as the presentations, Advisers will be available to talk to delegates individually with any questions and advice they would like.

A Practical Guide to Export Documentation and Procedure

A Practical Guide to Import Documentation and Procedure

Time:

09.30-16.00

Venue:

Date:

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, 4 Bishops Square, Hatfield, AL10 9NE

Cost:

Exporting Post Brexit - What you need to know to turn uncertainty into opportunity • Learn how to protect your business • Increase payment security • Access new markets • Grow Global Business Partners

23rd May 20th September

This seminar allows you to understand how to get your goods to your overseas customers. The focus will give you the opportunity to increase aware and skills needed to trade overseas.

A Practical Guide to Documentary Letters of Credit Date:

20th June 17th October

You will be provided with a step-by-step guide how to deal with Documentary Letters of Credit – from receipt of order to successful presentation. There will be a focus on a real case history of a Letter of Credit giving you the opportunity to increase awareness and skills required.

INSPIRE

27th June 21st November

This course is designed to help you handle your imports more efficiently with minimum financials expense. You will understand the relevance of Licensing, Preferential Duties, Documentation, Commodity Codes, Customs Clearance, Customs Regimes and rejected imports and your options available.

“Training was very clear and covered all relevant areas” Reggiani Ltd

Member:

£360.00

Non-Member: £420.00

“The training course has opened my eyes to export, very informative and helpful information given” Towers Thompson Ltd

INSPIRE

DigitalSkills

Digital skills shortage; impact on business productivity and growth

Hertfordshire Chamber’s chief executive, Yolanda Rugg, says: “In the many conversations I have with business people throughout Hertfordshire, the issue of skills shortages recurs a lot. The momentum towards digital application is not slowing down, and businesses are necessarily becoming more reliant on digital solutions to all kinds of operational processes.” She notes that there is an ever increasing clamour for digital skills, “but like everywhere else, we’re experiencing a shortage as demand for such skills grows, with an inevitable impact on productivity and growth.” This concern is echoed in the new survey (January 2017) by the British Chambers of

INSPIRE

Commerce (BCC), to understand how businesses rate the overall reliability of their broadband connections, and how a more reliable connection could help their businesses. Of the businesses surveyed, 96 per cent were SMEs, 22 per cent operate in the manufacturing sector, and 78 per cent operate in the services sector.

Country-wide survey The survey (1,400+ businesses across the UK) found that 84 per cent of firms say digital and IT skills are more important to their business than two years ago - with half, 51 per cent, saying these skills are significantly more important.

However, the survey also found that more than three-in-four businesses are facing a shortage of digital skills in their workforce, with 52 per cent reporting a slight shortage, 21 per cent a significant one and 3 per cent a critical shortage.

Survey findings The key findings of the survey relate to urgent areas of need, and the effect on staff and operations. The evidence is clear: better digital skills make firms more productive, and a lack of digital skills holds them back. The skills most important to companies are: • basic computer skills 72 per cent • communicating and connecting through digital channels - 71 per cent • digital information management - 69 per cent Skills shortages are having adverse effects including: • increasing workload on existing staff - 52 per cent • higher operating costs 29 per cent • causing difficulties in meeting customer requirements - 28 per cent

Businesses regard these points as the leading barriers to rectifying these shortages: • a lack of time for staff training - 41 per cent • difficulty in identifying appropriate training 32 per cent • the high cost of training 25 per cent Businesses must do more to tackle the digital skills shortages they face — their leaders need to recognise that a failure to tackle this will have bottom-line impact. Too many firms are stuck in an unproductive cycle, where the failure to take action has serious consequences.

Role for training providers and the government Training providers can give organisations a helping hand, by engaging with companies on their digital needs and helping them to free up resources for growth. Government must recognise that some of the high-level digital skills businesses need will come from overseas so a pragmatic immigration system needs to be in place to provide firms with access to the workers required to fill the gaps.

TourismVenues

Hertfordshire Chamber Venues Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce launches its Hertfordshire Chamber Venues, a website of local conference venues. “The value of the events industry is worth £43bn to the UK economy, and the Chamber has had a long established partnership with tourism venues for over 90 years. We understand the importance to our members in attracting new meeting planners to experience their venues and are delighted to boast some outstanding unique centres of excellence across Hertfordshire.” Brocket Hall Its purpose is to bring business tourism to Hertfordshire and to promote Hertfordshire as an excellent destination for all kinds of meetings: interviews, away- from-office meetings, training, seminars, exhibitions and major conferences. This free-of-charge venue promotion website enables Chamber members to profile their conference facilities. Venue owners will be able to load their own content of copy and images, so that they can properly demonstrate everything that their venue offers the meetings organiser. They are offered a full page to showcase their facilities: conference rooms, capacity and delegate prices.

Hanbury Manor, Garden Court

Yolanda Rugg, Chief Executive of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce Website visitors are presented with information on available venues and their benefits, making it easy to decide which venues are suitable for their needs. An interesting feature of the website will be a blog containing the latest information on the tourism industry and also news from the participating venues. Tourism industry guest bloggers will be invited to share their insights and experience. Hertfordshire Chamber will be using social media platforms to boost website traffic as an aid to the marketing of the venues and to help the venues raise their profile and generate bookings. Hertfordshire is the ideal destination for business and leisure activity; we have so many different locations of outstanding beauty, easily accessible from London and surrounding counties, with so many different styles of accommodation and facilities. Make sure you follow us on Twitter: @HertsCVenues Other conference venues in Hertfordshire interested in the Hertfordshire Chamber Venues website should contact Ella Bottoms at ellabottoms@hertschamber.com or visit the website www.hertschambervenues.com Twitter: @HertsCVenues Facebook: www.facebook.com/HertsChamberVenues

• The UK’s events sector value is £42.3bn with conference and meetings being the highest at £21.6bn. • Food, Drink and Leisure is the top sector by turnover and number of companies in Hertfordshire (Grant Thornton – Hertfordshire Limited 2016)

Aubrey Park

Tourism Forum Date: Time: Venue:

Tuesday 16th May 14.00-16.00 Homestead Court Hotel, Homestead Court, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 4LX Members: £10.00 Non-Members: £20.00

Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce business forums and clubs meet regularly and provide an excellent opportunity to share information, showcase products or services and develop collaborative associations. If you are a business involved in the Tourism Industry, make sure you join us to find out how to get the most out of being involved with Hertfordshire Chamber Venues. You will be provided with top tips and advice to increase your income and interest for your venue. To book your place please visit www.hertschamber.com or email bookings@hertschamber.com

INSPIRE

EnvironmentalConference

Building a Smarter Future Conference A lead architect of the world-famous Eden Project in Cornwall heads up an impressive line-up of experts who will speak at the Building a Smarter Future Conference. Date:

Monday 26th June

Time: 10.00-15.00 Venue: Lee Valley White Water Centre, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, Station Rd, Waltham Cross EN9 1AB Cost:

The event has been organised by Broxbourne Council and the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and comes as part of the Borough of Broxbourne’s Year of the Environment – offering thought provoking high level thinking as well as practical ideas for businesses. Leading lights of industry will offer cutting edge insights and inspire thought provoking debate with a focus on the future of building design and planning. Ideas on future solutions to present dilemmas, such as affordable housing, will be at the forefront as speakers with real-world experience of putting innovation into practice share their knowledge with attendees. Key note speaker, Michael Pawlyn, was one of the lead architects at the Eden Project who treated nature as a blueprint to inspire and create an architectural treasure. He believes that for every problem that we face, from generating energy to manufacturing materials, there are examples from nature to give us inspiration. He’s learned that this ‘biomimicry’ is often more profitable than

INSPIRE

£50.00 (early bird price, tickets cost £75 from the 15th May).

traditional approaches, as well as radically reducing the impact on the environment. As well as looking at advances in architecture, design, engineering and materials, Michael will consider the changes that other businesses might face considering the importance of everything from office design to manufacturing technologies and transport. Thought leader in Talent Management, Russell Beck, will also share his insight and passion for his field when he speaks at the conference. Russell is currently Head of Consulting at the large UK recruitment services company Impellam Group and he has worked globally across many industries. He thinks differently, challenges norms, sees better ways of working and shines as a charismatic and inspirational speaker on how to future proof our businesses and careers. Russell has worked with firms as wide ranging as FTSE 100 companies to SMEs to help them practically to better manage their most valuable asset – their people.

“Thought provoking high level thinking as well as practical ideas for businesses.”

Chief Executive of the British house building company Crest Nicholson, Stephen Stone, will share his experience at the top of a company that is tackling housing shortages head on. He has extensive experience as a chartered surveyor with over 30 years’ experience in various position in the construction and house building industry. He is also a Non-Executive Director of the Home Builders Federation and the National House Building Council. Ceri Humphrey, Development Director from engineering firm VolkerWessels UK, a major local employer in the Borough of Broxbourne, will speak on innovations in design and construction.

The firm has just had an innovative application to build 21 new homes and expand its office in Boxwood Park approved by the Council. The designs include inventive and modern pre-fabricated homes. Richard Potter, Director of Innovation at Sopra Steria, will be the host on the day and will also offer his perspective on working with customers to help them turn ideas into results. He advises business leaders in the UK and Europe on a range of digital transformation challenges, but it is building innovative enterprise that is his real passion. To book, visit the events section of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce website at www.hertschamber.com, email bookings@hertschamber.com or call 01707 502180

Experts will tackle the following themes: • Future house and building design • Ambitious and bold planning • Innovative master planning for communities • Energy-efficient building • The affordable housing dilemma

PA ClubLaunch

Hertfordshire PA Club Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce are launching a PA Club for local Hertfordshire Businesses to enable Personal, Executive and Virtual Assistants to network with other like-minded professionals.

Hertf ordshire Hertfordshire P A Club C PA Executive Virtual Ex ecutive V irtual Personal Assistants P ersonal As sistants

Make sure you look out for our Summer and Christmas events too! Hertfordshire PA Club is aimed to be a fun, interactive, social business benefit for all PAs, EAs and VAs to help you become more efficient and proficient in your roles, making your life easier! The PA Club will be a central point of interaction for engagement of PAs through the Chamber’s organisation. You will be able to network with others to share best practices to develop you in your roles. We are delighted to be holding the launch of our Hertfordshire PA Club at Luton Hoo Hotel. If you are a Personal, Executive or Virtual Assistant make sure you join us for Afternoon Tea and to gain new contacts.

Hertfordshire PA Club Launch with Afternoon Tea at Luton Hoo Date:

Thursday 25th May

Time:

12.00-14.00

Venue:

Luton Hoo Hotel, The Mansion House, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3TQ

Members:

Free of Charge

Non-Members:

£10.00*

If you would like to find out more on Hertfordshire PA Club please contact Naomi Powell on 01707 502181 or email naomipowell@hertschamber.com To book your place on the Hertfordshire PA Club Launch visit www.hertschamber.com or email bookings@hertschamber.com

Non-Chamber members who join after attending this event* will have their £10 ticket price deducted from their joining fee. * Membership must be completed within two months

INSPIRE

PatronFocus

Growth combined with quality

DB Sharp and Sons Ltd are a family run building company based in Letchworth, with the capability to provide a fully encompassing service for customers.

Established in 1979 by Derek Brian Sharp, a few years later sons Martin, Richard and David joined the company. Under the careful supervision of the brothers over the past 38 years, the company which was started in the garage at their mother’s house, has seen impressive growth and now owns three of its own industrial units. One of these units has been completely transformed and is now the impressive Sharp House, the new HQ for the company where 16 office staff are based. With a further 70 people onsite DB Sharp and Sons are winning tenders for many of Hertfordshire’s most prestigious projects. The team were successful in the tender to carry out the refurbishment project at the Hermitage Ballrooms, Hitchin, now known as the Hermitage Rd Bar and Restaurant; this was a great project to work on and showcased a huge variety of the company’s skills really thrusting them into the public eye. While the company has grown, it has never forgotten its core

values of providing high quality workmanship delivered with professionalism and reliability. These values are now the foundation on which the company’s success has been built and is clearly, deeply entrenched into its staff. Throughout the management team and all the way through to the onsite teams, there is no exception, quality workmanship and customer satisfaction is paramount. Martin Sharp, Director, said: “As a company this is how we have forged ourself an enviable reputation and no matter how large we become or how big the project is we can never forget that quality comes first.” If further proof were needed that DB Sharp and Sons can deliver on its promise for quality, three of the company’s projects were nominated in the Letchworth Garden City Heritage awards with two of the projects reaching the final and one becoming the eventual winner. Judges said of the winner “they were highly impressed with the quality of the work carried out at the property”, further testament of what is bred into every member of the team, quality is paramount.

In early 2017 DB Sharp and Sons won the titles of “General Builder of the Year” and “Refurbishment Project of the Year” at the Hertfordshire Building and Construction Awards; once again the judges picked up on the companies driving factor to provide high quality workmanship. The company is also a finalist in the Inspire Herts Awards in the category of “Excellence in customer service”. David Sharp, Director, said: “We work tirelessly to provide our customers with not only a quality finish but as pleasant experience working with us as possible. We fully understand that having building or refurbishment work carried out in your home is a hugely testing, stressful time. We take pride in the fact that our whole team do their very best to ensure projects run smoothly with minimum impact on normal life as possible. We constantly monitor the way our customers feel about our service and are quick to react to any issues if we need to.” Eighteen months ago, the company took on its first Business Development Manager to assist with growth and stabilisation of the company. Since joining Chris Watts, has been part of some big changes within the company. He said: “To assist with our growth and to ensure a smooth transition

through our projects we have set up two new companies within DB Sharp. Galapast is our Flooring and Tiling specialists, with its own showroom that we opened in spring 2016. It allows us as a builder to divert customers to our own showroom and take on the tiling and flooring work within a project. “This means that these elements fall into place smoothly and allow us greater control over a project. Galapast not only services DB Sharp, but also generates its own standalone customers. More flooring work has been generated independently through the showroom. The model has been so successful that we have now started our own electrical contractors North Herts Electrical, and plan to launch our own plumbing and heating Contractors later in 2017. “It’s hugely clichéd but we really have made ourselves a one stop shop for both commercial and residential customers.” For those that wish to embrace the journey, it’s an exciting time to be working with DB Sharp and Sons and partnering with the Chamber of Commerce as a Patron will only help to strengthen their brand.

“The chronicle of DB Sharps and Sons is a delightful one – not only because it resonates across the Hertfordshire spirit of vision and business commitment to excellence in service and delivery, but because it is a lovely story of a father and his three sons building a business for future generations. It is stories such as this that I find inspiring. We welcome DB Sharp and Sons as Chamber Patrons.” Yolanda Rugg, Chief Executive Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

INSPIRE

ChamberEvents

May Chamber lunch World economy and capital markets, Brexit threats and opportunities Date: Time: Venue:

18 May 12.00 - 14.00 Beales Hotel, Hatfield, AL10 9NG Member: £27.00 Non-Member: £35.00

Event sponsored by Qatar Airways One of the fastest growing airlines Key note speaker William Hobbs, Head of Investment Strategy UK and

Europe at Barclays examines prospects for the world’s economy and capital markets. He will also be considering Brexit threats and opportunities, the new US administration and a still-cluttered European political calendar. Emma Deering, Qatar Airways, Manager: Corporate Sales (UK, Ireland) will speak briefly on the airline’s global operation and future.

Property and Construction Forum Tour of Local Award Winning Project Date: Time: Venue:

22 June 17.15-19.00 Ten Oaks Farm, Flaunden Lane, Chipperfield, HP3 0PA Member: £18.00 Non-Member: £30.00

The presentation discusses the approach of the design and construction of a unique, traditionally built, zero-carbon dwelling for Dr Ian Mays (former CEO of Renewable Energy Sources) by Procare Construction. It will explain not only the project’s fundamental principles in design and construction, but also how traditional methods may be adopted to zerocarbon affordable homes of the future. This followed by a tour of the newbuild currently under construction.

INSPIRE

All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated. For more information on any event: Sophie Watts, 01707 502182, sophiewatts@hertschamber.com – or www.hertschamber.com

ChamberEvents

Women in Leadership lunch Date: Time: Venue:

6 July 12.00-14.00 Fanhams Hall, Fanhams Hall Road, Ware, SG12 7PZ Member: £25.00 Non-Member: £35.00

Guest speaker: Vicky Ford MEP Vicky Ford is an inspirational successful woman in politics. She will be sharing with us her experiences in getting into Parliament, and what she has achieved. From her own insight and unique experience, she will be responding to our questions about Brexit. She was recently listed as one of the top ten most influential Members of

the European Parliament. She has championed public spending, increased transparency and accountability and the removal of unnecessary costs and red tape for businesses. She is Chairman of the Internal Market and Consumer Affairs Committee in the European Parliament, with responsibilities for the Digital Single Market (DSM), telecommunications and Audiovisual Media Services (AVMS). Vicky has been a lead negotiator for Parliament on the €80 billion Horizon 2020 Fund for Science and Research, offshore oil and gas safety and on reforms to the regulation of international banking.

September Chamber lunch How to build a powerful brand for your business Date: Time: Venue:

18 September 12.00-14.00 Beales Hotel, Hatfield, AL10 9NG Member: £27.00 Non-Member: £35.00

Guest speaker: James Hammond, Brand Doctor James will be demonstrating the fourstep process to building a winning brand and how to harness the power of the five senses to create a total brand experience that will keep your customers coming back for more.

He will also be explaining brand innovation and how to achieve it. He will be examining what a brand is and isn’t. In James’s 35-year career, he has worked with some of the biggest brands including British Telecom, Barclaycard, Yellow Pages, Virgin and EMI, and has helped numerous SMEs and start-ups build powerful brands. He is the author of the Sunday Times international best-seller Branding Your Business. Brand Doctor is the UK’s leading sales, marketing and brand consultancy.

Tourism Forum 16 May (more details on page 19)

Hertfordshire PA Club Launch with Afternoon Tea at Luton Hoo 25 May (more details on page 21)

Hertfordshire Global Launch 16 June (more details on page 10)

Brexit 12 months on 23 June Are you ready to take on the world? (more details on page 14)

Building a Smarter Future Conference 26 June (more details on page 20) INSPIRE

All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated. For more information on any event: Sophie Watts, 01707 502182, sophiewatts@hertschamber.com – or www.hertschamber.com

ChamberEvents

Forthcoming events programme Members Master Classes Join us with Herts Chamber Patron and award winning business Focus7 for our member only masterclasses. Focus7 are a creative business growth agency with solutions to make your business more profitable. Business Planning – 25 May Marketing – 11 July Digital Discovery – 12 September CRM & Systems – 17 October Finance- 28 November Time: 10.00-12.00 Venue: TBC Members only: £10.00

Monthly Business Leader Lunches Join us for our Monthly Lunches which are intended to provide an opportunity for business networking and each month we will invite a guest speaker to inspire and motivate you all. 19 July – Beales Hotel, Hatfield proudly sponsored by Seetec 16 August – Cromwell Hotel, Stevenage 12 October – Beales Hotel, Hatfield 23 November – Hatfield Time: Members: Non-Members:

Beales Hotel, 12.00-14.00 £27.00 £35.00

Property and Construction Forum

Women in Leadership Lunch

The Chamber Property & Construction Forums are held in partnership with Herts and Beds Constructing Excellence and will be particularly informative for businesses with an interest in construction, property or the built environments.

The aim of our Women in Leadership events is to enable Hertfordshire's business women to network with peers and develop their leadership skills as well as provide mentoring, support and inspiration to the County's next generation of women business leaders. Date: 16 November Time: 12.00-14.00 Venue: Lussmanns Fish & Grill Restaurant, Waxhouse Gate, St Albans, AL3 4EW Members: £25.00 Non-Members: £35.00

Tour of BRE Innovation Park - 28 September BRE Bucknalls Lane, Bricket Wood, Watford, WD25 9NH Smart/Sustainable Products - 9 November Venue to be confirmed Time: 17.15-19.00 Members: £18.00 Non-Members: £30.00

Chamber HR Forum Our HR Forums give business professionals the opportunity to meet and connect with others across different sectors to develop smart working practices. Mock Tribunal - 6 September Law Court, University of Hertfordshire De Havilland Campus, Mosquito Way, Hatfield AL10 9UF Stakeholder Engagement -14 November Longmores, 24 Castle Street, Hertford, SG14 1HP Time: 09.00-12.00 Members: £15.00 Non-Members: £18.00

Chamber Christmas Lunch Date: Time: Venue:

5 December 12.00-14.00 Brocket Hall, Hatfield, Welwyn, AL8 7XG Members: £35.00 Non-Members: £42.00

British Chambers of Commerce Events Business and Education Summit, London - 6 July 2017 International Trade Summit, Birmingham - 12 October 2017 Chamber Business Awards, London - 30 November 2017

To find out more about these events or to attend, please contact Sophie Watts on 01707 502182 or email sophiewatts@hertschamber.com

INSPIRE

All prices quotes include VAT at 20% unless otherwise stated. For more information on any event: Sophie Watts, 01707 502182, sophiewatts@hertschamber.com – or www.hertschamber.com

INSPIRE

NewMembers

Welcome to new members Aubrey Homes

In2on

Marlowes Hemel Ltd

Main building contractors for residential projects in Hertfordshire Janelle House, 6 Hartham Lane, Hertford, SG14 1QN 01920 400223 www.ahprojectmanagement.com

Business & Executive Coaching Based in Welwyn Garden City www.johncottrell.coach

Shopping Centre Marlowes Shopping Centre, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1DX 01442 413818 www.themarlowes.co.uk

Bar and Beyond Venue and Bar/Nightclub offering high quality experience Based in Stevenage www.barandbeyond.co.uk

James Hallam Commercial Insurance Brokers and Risk Management Meridian House, 71 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1DS 01923 298410 www.jameshallam.co.uk

LH Notaries Best Digital Digital Design 6 Little Mundells, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 1EW 01707 355700 www.bestdigital.org.uk

Ideas 2 Launch Healthy drinks business Based in Kings Langley 0800 772 3885 www.drinktg.com

INSPIRE

Motion Media Media solutions for promoting businesses in and around Hertfordshire Based in Hertford 0333 305 5212 www.motion-media.uk

Nuffield Health Hemel

Notary public services, translation and legislation 24 Warren Park Road, Hertford, SG14 3JD 07456997854 www.hertfordshirenotaries.co.uk

Offers 31 private hospitals, 112 fitness & well-being gyms and corporate locations Hemel Hampstead Industrial Estate, Maylands Ave, Hemel Hempstead HP2 4NW 01442 282950 www.nuffieldhealth.com

LOM Virtual Solutions

Nuffield Health Hertford

Business administration support and event and project management for SMEs Based in Welwyn Garden City 07835 042977 www.lomvirtualsolutions.com

Offers 31 private hospitals, 112 fitness & well-being gyms and corporate locations Madford Retail Park, Ware Road, Hertford, SG13 7RQ 01992 584765 www.nuffieldhealth.com

NewMembers

Nuffield Health Letchworth

Quick Fund

Offers 31 private hospitals, 112 fitness & well-being gyms and corporate locations Letchworth Ln, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3NP 01462 681075 www.nuffieldhealth.com

Leading provider of alternative financing solutions for small and medium sized businesses in the UK Water Circle, City Meadows, London Stansted, CM22 6DR 01279 759300 www.quickfund.co.uk

Nuffield Health St Albans

RCD Business Acceleration

Offers 31 private hospitals, 112 fitness & well-being gyms and corporate locations Highfield Park Dr, St Albans AL4 0AH 01727 816100 www.nuffieldhealth.com

Management consultancy Based in Hemel Hempstead www.rcdba.co.uk

Powerful Changes Limited

St James's Place Wealth Management

Executive Coaching Based in Welwyn Garden City 07904 098782 www.powerfulchanges.co.uk

Wealth Management Based in London www.jonathanseifert.co.uk

Q Furniture

Vortex Events

Professional designers and products for office furniture Unit 30, Hoddesdon Industrial Centre, Pindar Road, Hoddesdon, E11 0FF 01992 463358 www.qofficefurniture.co.uk

Events equipment hire Unit 8 Sutherland Court, Brownfields Industrial Estate, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire. AL7 1BJ 01707 808408 www.vortexhire.co.uk

INSPIRE

MembersNews

Kingston Smith supports growth plans with Head of Sales appointment

Get back on track! A “novel” Corporate Event, Team Building Events, Corporate Entertainment or Company Outings can sometimes be perceived as “work” and perhaps a little dull!

Kingston Smith LLP, the top 20 firm of chartered accountants and business advisers with an office in St Albans, has announced the appointment of Francis Mainoo as Head of Sales. A UK & International Sales and Business Developer, Francis has nearly two decades of experience in financial and professional services. His expertise includes delivering successful campaigns to multinationals, SMEs and Private Equity-backed businesses. Silvia Vitiello, partner at Kingston Smith’s St Albans office, said: “We are delighted to welcome Francis to Kingston Smith in this newly-created role. He brings with him a wealth of experience in engaging new businesses and building strategic relationships which will be invaluable as we continue to deliver on our growth plans in the South East.” Francis said: “The firm is going from strength to strength and I’m looking forward to identifying and building on new opportunities in the St Albans region for it to grow even further.” The St Albans office has also announced that its Tax team has been selected as a finalist for Best Tax Practice in a Regional Firm at the Tolley’s Taxation Awards for 2017. The award recognises the excellent levels of service, growth, innovation and client satisfaction which mark the practice out from its peers. The winners will be decided by the panel of judges and announced at a ceremony on 18 May at the London Hilton. Yvette Jacobs-Lee, Tax partner at Kingston Smith’s St Albans office, said: “To have been selected as a finalist for this accolade is fantastic news and reflects the outstanding service delivered by our Tax team at St Albans and across our other five London and South East based offices.”

INSPIRE

Not at Rye House Kart Raceway – we can set up a schedule of events with practice qualifying sessions, time challenges and grand prix races and lots more. So whether its communication, leadership, teamwork or just plain fun, Rye House Kart Raceway can provide the answer! The day can be as formal or informal as required by the group and will be entirely geared towards your needs. Call us for ideas and share your needs with us to achieve the

desired results. We have special rates for corporate events. The Rye House Kart Raceways event coordinator and team will make sure your day is perfect. With a solid foundation in event organising, our preparation for corporate events has a proven track record! We are meticulous about how events are run and our Events Co-coordinator will be more than happy to liaise with you on the telephone, or trackside, to discuss the options available to you.

Please email info@rye-house.co.uk for any additional information you may require. We will strive to not only meet, but to exceed the expectations you have for your function. CORPORATE FACILITIES INCLUDE: • Grand Prix format • Alpha Timing – you will know the fastest and slowest kart! • Full use of the venue includes: main hospitality area and spectators balcony viewing area • AV equipment and TV screens for presentations • Pre and post - race hospitality, BBQ menu, snacks and refreshments • Extended opening hours, if required • Excellent rates available For more information or to tailor make a package to suit your budget. www.rye-house.co.uk Call: 01992 460895 Ext 1 to talk us directly

Cut your water bills by up to 25% with the help of Chamber Energy Solutions We’re on a mission to help businesses everywhere make the most of water deregulation now the market is open. Businesses in England are no longer tied to their current water supplier. This increased choice and competition is great news for businesses, and we’re here to help everyone get the best deal out there. Whether you run a car wash in Carlisle or a factory in Folkestone, and whether you use a little or a lot, we could help you save money and get the customer service you deserve. Chamber members can request a quote and find out how much you could save today on 0333 000 0132 or email help@chamberenergysolutions.co.uk

MembersNews

Naomi inspires audience at event At a recent Women in Leadership event, hosted by the Herts Chamber of Commerce; Naomi Connell, Chief Finance Officer of VolkerWessels UK, spoke passionately about the need to nurture future generations into the civil engineering and building industry in order to ease the expected skills shortage over the next decade. Naomi highlighted the underrepresentation of women within engineering and said: “There are some amazing digital and engineering advances and a wealth of commercial and support activities within this exciting and expanding industry. “I was so pleased to be invited by the Chamber to meet with inspirational women from across our Herts business community. We are passionate engineering for all and I wanted to share some of the opportunities that we hope are likely to arise locally”. Mary Sykes, from the Herts Chamber, said: “We were delighted that Naomi was able to take time out of her busy schedule to come and speak at our Women in Business Leadership event.

“The feedback was phenomenal with comments such as ‘motivating’, ‘enlightening’ and ‘engaging’. Our events aim to showcase the incredible talent of business women in Hertfordshire and Naomi is a formidable leader in her sector. She has outstanding credentials with extensive experience, whom our members and visitors were hugely inspired by.” Broxbourne has been the home of VolkerWessels UK, a civil engineering group with a turnover of around £850m, for more than 40 years. Its Hoddesdon site is home to more than 300 staff, and it has a workforce of 2,500 employees, which is constantly growing. Its sites support on average an additional 5,000 jobs in the supply chain in the UK.

The business operates in a number of key infrastructure and building sectors in the UK including highways, airports, rail, marine, industrial and distribution, education and commercial. Whilst VolkerWessels UK is a national business, they undertake some important work within our region which supports its economic development. Its subsidiary, VolkerFitzpatrick is a key contractor for Network Rail on the West Anglian Main Line improvements which will deliver significant benefits in connectivity, and will be a vital precursor to CrossRail 2. VolkerFitzpatrick has also recently completed an important infrastructure project which supports the development of the Watford Health Campus and General Hospital.

VolkerWessels UK’s heart is very firmly planted within Hertfordshire, with about 190 of its head office staff being resident within the county and spending more than £20 million with more than 150 Herts-based suppliers. It is also committed to supporting local communities and plays an active role in Ambition Broxbourne, Skills Makers, the Herts LEP and Love Hoddesdon, as well as supporting numerous Herts based educational and charitable organisations. VolkerWessels UK is set to expand further in the next few years and is exploring innovative modern methods of construction, in the housing sector, drawing on the expertise of its Dutch parent group.

Inaugural Awards a great success The first edition of the Hertfordshire Building & Construction Awards showcased success for more than a hundred of the county's leading individuals and enterprises, as well as raising funds and awareness for those affected by asbestos-related disease. The ceremonial event, held on 10 February at the Letchworth Mercure Hall Hotel, celebrated the very best of tradesmen, building, engineering, innovation and construction work, focusing on projects that took place in Hertfordshire during the past 14 months and the staff who worked on them. The evening also raised awareness for Mesothelioma UK, a charity that supports those suffering from cancer associated with exposure to asbestos. The event was compered by Formula 1 pundit and presenter David Croft. Hannah Rees, Director of marketing support agency and event organiser AIM, said the awards demonstrated the exceptional work to have taken

place in the industry over the past year. The judges were Mary Sykes of the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce; Jim Davin, CEO of Buildnet; Nilu Bhurj of NKB Virtual Assistant and Alison Nicholl, Associate Director of Building Research Establishment (BRE), and the sponsors were The Green Triangle, Dignity LC Services, Oaklands College, Broxbourne Council, Carita Services and Mesothelioma UK,” said Rees. The awards also had support from Hertfordshire LEP, Hertfordshire Constructing Excellence and the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce. There were winners in 17 categories this year.

This year’s full list of winners: • General builder Award: DB Sharp & Sons • Housing Project of the Year: RDT Architects • Highly Commended Award: SEC Interiors • Electrical Contractor of the Year: Parkbrey Ltd. • Women in Engineering Award: Louise Hardy (Sirius Minerals) • Health & Safety Award: Jarvis Contracting • Estate Agency of the Year: Hawk & Chadwick • Property Service Award: DS Property Solutions • Sustainable Build Award: Amcell

• Architect of the Year: RDT Architects • Surveyors Award: Terrain Surveys • Training Skills Provider: BRE Academy • Manager of the Year; Mark Garnham of CHQ • Innovation Award: Asbestosafe • Interior design award: CHQ • Contractor of the Year: Conamar • Refurbishment project of the year: DB Sharp & Sons Entries for the Hertfordshire Building & Construction Awards will be open 1st August 2017. For more details please visit www.HertsBuildingAwards.co.uk

INSPIRE

MembersNews

Have you ever thought about where your office, educational or café furniture comes from?

Peace Hospice Care launches new businesses partnership scheme Watford charity Peace Hospice Care announces the launch of its Peace Businesses Partnership scheme.

It is probably from a company like JPA Furniture, possibly one of the best kept secrets in St Albans, having been here for over 20 years! JPA helps its clients solve complex furniture and space problems and its starting point is maximising all existing resources. Its complete furniture solution encompasses everything from specifying the most relevant items and suggesting colour schemes, finishes and layouts, through to product sampling, delivery, installation and ongoing furniture maintenance. It will even take your unwanted furniture away on delivery of new. For total peace of mind JPA ensure that your new furniture is fit for task, meets all relevant legal, regulatory and flammability standards, is of contract quality to stand the test of time and thereby give best long term value. Its design teams create effective working, learning and eating spaces which enhance communication, workflow and productivity inclusively addressing any H&S issues,

wellbeing, active working and comfort for all stakeholders, It’s no secret that well thought out capital expenditure will have a knock on effect longer term, with reductions across operational, waste, renewals, staff absence and staff turnover spend. JPA can also help spread the cost of furniture investment by leasing, keeping capital intact and taking advantage of tax perks. Sustainability is at the core of the family owned business and JPA is proud to be making the commercial furniture process more sustainable. Its integrated community project DODO reuses and recycles clients’ unwanted furniture at the end of its working life by matching-up businesses that have surplus furniture with local organisations who need it. DODO has been a great success, generating new business and helping those who need it most so everyone benefits. In 2016 JPA rehomed

over 2250 furniture items, saving over 49 local organisations and charities the equivalent of £170,000 in furniture spend. JPA have almost finished re-homing 27 enormous pews for Marlborough Road Methodist Church who are undergoing a wonderful refurbishment. JPA assisted with finding buyers and also with the logistics and organisation, including free local delivery. Most of the pews actually stayed in St Albans which was great. JPA is delighted to be nominated finalists in the St Albans Mayor’s Pride Awards for Commercial Business in the Community. For the rest of 2017 it is looking forward to meeting new people, helping more people and obviously, selling more furniture! For further information contact Fiona Edwards, Commercial Director at JPA.

New grants to help your business grow “What sort of business grant can I get? And can you help me with that?” are the two most popular questions from local businesses to the team at Hertfordshire Growth Hub. Hertfordshire is a great place to start, grow and run a business and has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the UK. But that means we’ve not had access to various government business grants….until now.

Grants to get businesses growing The Growth Hub is a free local support service for SME businesses and has just announced a range of new grant programmes designed

to help businesses flourish. Whether you’re starting a new business, looking to take on an apprentice, develop into new sectors or expand your sales internationally - there is a support scheme to help you achieve it faster. As the central point for business support in the county, the Growth Hub advisers know all the latest programmes and will help local businesses identify which is most suitable for their business and advise them on how to apply.

Get the knowledge you need about the new grant schemes Don’t get left behind; make sure you’re among the first to hear about the latest grant programmes and funding schemes to help your business grow. Email: enquiries@hertsgrowthhub.com or visit www.hertsgrowthhub.com

The scheme enables businesses of all sizes to make regular financial donations to the charity and to receive business benefits in return. Many charity/business partnerships require businesses to make significant financial contributions but with the Peace Business Partnership businesses can donate at different levels starting from £50 a month. In return businesses receive an increasing number of benefits, including: ongoing promotion of their support for the Hospice; networking opportunities; discounted rates for event entry; and access to bespoke volunteering days. Joanna Milton, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Peace Hospice Care, said: “The Peace Business Partnership is designed to enable all businesses, whatever their size, to support us. It’s a great way for businesses to show support for their local community and access a range of business benefits too. Knowing that a regular financial commitment is in place also really helps us to plan our services.” Businesses signing up to the Peace Business Partnership can choose from four levels of commitment depending on financial contribution and fit for the business. The four levels are: Bronze (£50 a month), Silver (£100 a month), Gold (£250 a month) and Purple (£500 a month). Since February 2017, Peace Hospice Care has been liaising with local businesses to help develop and refine the Peace Business Partnership. Those initial discussions have resulted in seven businesses, including international, national and local companies, already joining up. Those businesses, at their respective levels of membership, are: • Purple – DLL • Gold – Bahlsen and Your Tax Returned • Silver – Imperial Auto Services and Myers Clark • Bronze – CloudCustom and SAE Logistics Ltd For more information about Peace Business Partnerships, and to sign up, please visit: www.peacehospicecare.org.uk/ businesspartner or call: 01923 335 348 or email: jmilton@peacehospicecare.org.uk

INSPIRE

YoungChamber

Young Chamber

Sir John Lawes Schools Careers Day

The Annual SJL Careers Day becomes one of the most prestigious in the country for Post 16 students. Microsoft, John Lewis, BBC, Barclays Bank, BT, British Red Cross, Easyjet and the Royal Navy are just a few of the organisations that arrived at Sir John Lawes School on Thursday 23rd March for a Careers Day like no other. Harpenden, the Samuel Ryder Academy in St Albans, the Bushey Academy in Bushey and the Robert Barclay Academy in Hoddesdon. The event was a great success with 70 organisations representing some of the country’s biggest companies and most sought after graduate employers. Mrs Julie Honour-Jones, Sixth Form Manager, Sir John Lawes School, said: “We were delighted to provide our largest Careers Fair to date with so many high calibre companies attending and sharing their opportunities with our students, and those from five other secondary schools. Our students have gained far more knowledge on the choices available to them post A Level both in terms of the actual roles they would like to peruse and also regarding the various entry level options into those companies. Students have come away armed with contacts to support them in the future and a few even managed to secure themselves some work experience.”

Harpenden’s Mayor, Councillor Mrs Nicola Linacre, centre with Sir John Lawes Headteacher, Claire Robins (to her left as you look at the photograph) and Sir John Lawes Sixth Form Manager, Mrs Julie Honour-Jones (to her right as you look at the photograph) with Sixth Form students.

The Careers Day, which has been developed in connection with, the Sir John Lawes Enrichment Programme, provides Year 12 students with a greater knowledge of the opportunities that are available to them at all entry levels, from school leaver programmes and apprenticeships to graduate recruitment schemes, across a broad selection of industries. This year some Year 10 students were also given the opportunity to attend which was in response to Science, Technology,

INSPIRE

Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) based companies wanting to engage with students from an earlier age. This year’s event was the biggest ever with over 850 students attending from six Hertfordshire schools. The students who attended came from Sir John Lawes, Roundwood Park and St Georges schools in

“This year’s event was the biggest ever with over 850 students attending from six Hertfordshire schools.”

YoungChamber “Once again Herts Chamber were delighted to support a large number of excellent careers events, helping connect our members to their future talent.” Yolanda Rugg, CEO of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce

The Nobel School Apprenticeship Opportunities Breakfast

International Women’s Day at St Albans Girls School

Ajilon Technology Competition

Herts Chamber Chief Executive, Yolanda Rugg, was thrilled to be part of the celebrations for International Women’s Day at St Albans Girls School on 7th March. The Year 8 and 12 students were joined by inspirational women to share their career journey during a ‘speed networking’ type event. It was a pleasure to see local Chamber members, SA LAW and 001 Limited join in with the celebrations too!

On Wednesday 8th March, Herts Chamber were delighted to work with The Nobel School as part of the Young Chamber programme. We were joined by guest speakers from GSK, Focus7 International and MBDA who shared with the students in Sixth Form apprenticeships available, their apprenticeship journey and great advice to consider the Apprenticeship route following Sixth Form.

Careers Fair at The John Warner School

We were delighted to take part in the judging on the day and join to celebrate the fantastic achievements and creativity on the day with money being raised for Brompton Foundation.

We were delighted to see Herts Chamber Members Teens Unite and Solveway on the day, sharing with the students the opportunities they had available. It was fantastic to give the students the chance to gain an insight to the opportunities available and gain crucial contacts.

In association with Ajilon Technology, Herts Chamber were delighted to be involved with a technology competition for school students from Years 5-8. We asked them what they thought technology would look like in the future, with them creating pictures, artwork and ideas to be judged.

On Wednesday 1st March The John Warner School in Hoddesdon were joined by 20 businesses to support the students with their career paths, providing a variety of job roles and opportunities available with most importantly helping them gain invaluable contacts.

It was a delight to see local businesses, chamber members and Stephen McPartland MP there on the day to join us. Well done to all the students involved!

Herts Chamber members including, Volkerwessels, Teens Unite, Evergood Associaties, Blackdog Digital, HB Accountants and Hertford Regional College all joined us to help bridge the gap between education and employment.

If you are interested in supporting Young Chamber activities and local schools or are a local school looking to hold similar activities please contact youngchamber@hertschamber.com and we would be delighted to help. INSPIRE

Health&Wellbeing

Private health care increasingly popular Over the past year, local private hospital, Spire Harpenden has seen a 20% increase in patients enquiring about paying for their own treatment, as more and more people look into the option of accelerating their health-care journey.

For some it may be that the waiting times are just too long, whilst for others their treatment may have been restricted completely.

Chloë Senneck, Head of Sales and Marketing at the hospital told us “There are many reasons why having to wait for medical treatment can be a bleak

prospect. For some they will be in pain or unable to work or have a nagging problem that chips away at their quality of life; whilst for others they simply want to get back to what they love doing.” And for many that don’t have private medical insurance; ‘self-pay’ seems to be an option, especially with finance available to some - subject to terms and conditions. Varicose vein removal, vasectomies and vasectomy reversals and many other operations have been placed on the NHS list of Procedures of Limited Clinical Value (POLCV) which can severely limit access to treatments. The term ‘Procedures of Limited Clinical Value’, refers to procedures that are of value,

but only in the right clinical circumstances – which means treatments with minimal health gain are restricted. Cataract removals and even hip and knee replacements have also made it onto the POLCV list and many people are finding they no longer qualify for treatment or are waiting longer to see a consultant. If paying for your treatment is the pathway you decide on, then at Spire Harpenden Hospital, you will receive fast access to consultants and diagnostics. You will then learn what treatment you need and, importantly, the fixed price for the complete course of that treatment. For further information Tel: 01582 714 420 Visit: www.spireharpenden.com

How to retain your older workers It is one of the most pressing issues for employers – how do you accommodate an ageing workforce which still has much to offer but which may work differently than when it was younger? The issue has been the focus of a three-year project run by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EUOSHA), whose report ‘Safer and healthier work at any age’ has come up with some solutions. EU-OSHA says that the ageing workforce has serious implications for workers, employers and society as a whole and the objectives of the project, carried out at the request of the European Parliament, were to examine the safety and health of older workers. The result of the study, says the organisation, could be policies which would allow companies to retain older staff and look after their well-being at the same time by being more understanding. EU-OSHA says that since the 1960s life expectancy has been increasing throughout Europe while at the same time birth rates have remained low.

As a consequence, it says, Europe’s population is ageing. By 2040 the over-65s are expected to account for nearly 27 % of the population and EU-OSHA says that the trend is reflected in the workforce and that the proportion of older workers (55-64 years) is increasing. Although life expectancy is increasing, says EU-OSHA, the extra years of life are not necessarily spent in good health, partly because the incidence of chronic diseases such as cancers, musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and depression increases with age. EU-OSHA says that an older population with an ageing workforce will have implications for economies, putting pressure on pension systems and health care costs. In addition, it says, many Member States have been raising the official retirement

age but that in itself comes with risks because prolonging working life increases exposure to workplace hazards and can cause increased prevalence of chronic conditions among workers. Measures suggested in the report include: • Management that includes risk prevention and workplace adaptations to prevent chronic illness and disability • Human resources management that places special focus on age • More workplace health promotions • Working conditions that are adapted to the workers’ needs • Implementation of rehabilitation and return-to-work systems to avoid long-term sickness absence and prevent an early exit from work • Provision of structures for vocational training and lifelong learning.

At a time when so many sectors are complaining that not enough young people are emerging from educational institutions with the skills that business needs, holding onto older workers could handsomely repay the investment.

INSPIRE

Workplace

Insights into Corporate Culture and Executive Development Martin Egan is the director at NDC and a specialist in corporate culture and executive development. Who do you mainly work with in organisations? It is usually the key stakeholder who has an appetite and a commitment to make something happen, usually the HR director or the CEO. Less frequently, it can be a section head who wants to align or tighten things up.

Here he answers common questions about the nature of his work and how it helps organisations. What exactly is corporate culture? Every organisation, like every family, has unwritten norms, codes of conduct, and patterns of behaviour. Culture is that invisible force that influences how everybody behaves to fit in. Increasingly ‘Culture Plans’ are being created by organisations for the simple reason that it has the biggest potential to act positively or negatively on your results and reputation. So, it isn’t just about leadership and behaviours? No, even if an organisation has best practices around good behaviours, it does not necessarily mean that they have the culture they require to deliver their goals. There are three drivers of culture; Behaviours, Symbols and Systems (More information in the blog section of our website). How would I know where to start? You have to ask yourself three questions: 1. Which parts of our strategy require us to address elements of our culture? 2. What is our current culture REALLY?! 3. What culture is needed to achieve our strategic direction?

Tell me more about your experience of working with leaders. I find it most satisfying, and productive, when the senior leader is open and committed to a goal and understands that, crucially, for things to change they too have to change. If, as far as they’re concerned, everyone else has to change and not themselves, any outcome we do get is suboptimal.

“Culture is that invisible force that influences how everybody behaves to fit in.”

What size of companies do you work with? We’re best suited with organisations from around 300 people through to multinationals, although we can work on leadership and teamwork with smaller organisations. What has been your biggest challenge? Knowing how much of the truth to tell to people when its things they don’t want to hear, particularly if the truth involves the behaviour of a very senior person. What has been your greatest success? My greatest successes are when the key influencer transforms their own thoughts and behaviour, develop and learn in themselves, and start to create a facilitating environment for others to thrive in. So, how can you help? I can help anywhere where there is room for a leader to get clarity and alignment on where they are going and how to get there, and what culture they need to achieve this. For more information, see www.newdirectionconsulting.co.uk

INSPIRE

WarnerBros

Opening of the Forbidden Forest This spring Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter unveiled an exciting, permanent expansion dedicated to the Forbidden Forest.

“Amongst the imposing trees, visitors encounter a full size model of Buckbeak, which is new to the tour, and have the opportunity to bow to the majestic creature.”

his dark lair, the enormous spider appears along with spiderlings from his family. Created by Nick Dudman, Creature and Make-Up Effects Designer, with help from Production Designer Stuart Craig, Aragog had a leg span of over 18 feet and was even able to crawl out of a hole and deliver dialogue in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Whilst the forest may be strictly off-limits to Hogwarts students, for the first time visitors to Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter defied Professor Dumbledore’s orders and followed the footsteps of Harry, Ron and Hermione deep into the grounds of the Forbidden Forest. Home to magical creatures, the Forbidden Forest offers shelter and protection to Hippogriffs and Acromantula. It is also well known to beloved half-giant Hagrid in his role as Care of Magical Creatures professor. One of Rubeus Hagrid’s original costumes is on display, lantern in hand, to welcome visitors through the Hogwarts gates deep into the forest. Filled with 19 trees each with a diameter of over 12 feet, visitors walk beneath the giant entwined roots on their journey

INSPIRE

and are even able to control the weather using the same techniques created by filmmakers. Amongst the imposing trees, visitors encounter a full size model of Buckbeak, which is new to the tour, and have the opportunity to bow to the majestic creature. They will see up close the incredible detail and craftsmanship that went into creating the magnificent Hippogriff. Each feather has been individually inserted and glued by the Creature Effects team who were busy adding feathers right up until the final moment Buckbeak was needed on set for Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. As visitors venture deeper into the depths of the forest, they come face-to-face with Aragog, the Acromantula. Emerging from

The new, must-see expansion has been designed and built by many of the crew members who worked on the hugely successful magical film series including Oscar® and BAFTA winning Production Designer Stuart Craig, Construction Manager Paul Hayes, BAFTA winning

Creature and Makeup Effects Designer Nick Dudman and BAFTA winning Special Effects Supervisor John Richardson. Sarah Roots, Senior Vice President, Worldwide Tours commented: “We are so excited to have launched the Forbidden Forest expansion at the Studio Tour, especially on the fifth anniversary of our grand opening. It’s great to be working with so many of the original filmmakers who know so much about the wizarding world. There will be an opportunity to take control of the weather and discover the techniques used to create a realistic forest within a film.”

24Hours

24.Hours Why the personal touch remains important in an Internet age “My first job on getting into the office is emails, checking what has come in overnight, what needs to go out, and that can take me anything from half an hour to an hour and a half. “We are among the most heavily regulated industries and it is getting heavier with so many changes being introduced so it is important that I keep on top of the new rules then communicate them to the staff. “I make time every week for carrying out training because as a business we have to make sure that we comply with all the regulations. I would say that 60 per cent of my working week is taken up with regulation and compliance.

Peter Smits Managing Director Ashbourne Insurance Talk to businessman Peter Smits and one thing that immediately shines through is his belief that in an Internet age the human touch remains as important as ever. That is why, despite his many duties as Managing Director of Hertfordshire-based Ashbourne Insurance, he always makes time for networking and meeting clients and prospective clients. Husband and wife Peter and Sarah together with Sarah’s brother Matthew Hunt head up the family run, award-winning business, which was founded 36 years ago by Sarah and Matthew’s father, Richard. When Richard retired in 2008, the trio took over the day-to-day running of the business, which has gone from strength to strength as an independent broker now employing 16 people. As the person with overall responsibility for the running of the company, Peter’s working days can be long ones, starting early and finishing late. Peter said: “I tend to get into the office for 7.30-8am. I try to stick to a regime and have all my work done before I leave for home, otherwise there is a danger that work and life blend into one.

“I plan my week ahead and at least twice a week I like to be out of the office for at least half a day. I believe that that there is still a place for the human touch. “Several years ago with the introduction of internet insurance providers, we could hear people saying that buying insurance online would be so easy that there would not be a place for brokers in the future. The fact of the matter is that when people buy online they become the broker and accept all the responsibility that comes with that. They rarely read all the terms and conditions which often only become important to them when seeking help with a claim or understanding what value a policy really has. I am delighted to report that Ashbourne is growing year on year and we are considered as a trusted advisor to our customers. “People like to buy from people, which is why I attend many local business networking events, including those run by the Herts Chamber of Commerce. I have always believed that our job is to educate our customers so that they can make

informed choices about their insurance options. So I take every opportunity to guest speak at events about matters such as protecting your business against cybercrime, and write a monthly column for our local newspaper. “Each member of our team takes responsibility for account management and I too like to go and see customers whenever I can. “We have a duty of care to our customers and also to our staff so we invest heavily into training and developing our team to handle the needs of our customers. We place a huge emphasis on empowering and developing staff skills. “We work to deliver a high standard of service that always treats customers fairly and we call that ‘The Ashbourne Way’. I dedicate time each week to work alongside our teams to check and double check that we are delivering outstanding personal, customer service to both our retail and commercial customers. There is still a place for businesses that operate the way we do and the future is bright.”

“I have always believed that our job is to educate our customers so that they can make informed choices about their insurance needs.”

INSPIRE

Specialist lending for businesses in Hertfordshire CommercialFinance

Businesses in Hertfordshire could be missing out on opportunities due to a lack of finance or delays in funding, warns specialist lender Together. Together’s regional development director for Hertfordshire, Jon Elliott, said: “There is a general lack of awareness amongst SMEs regarding the funding options available, other than the mainstream banks, which can often mean missed opportunities for businesses.

“At Together, we have greater flexibility than mainstream lenders and are able to act fast. This can often allow businesses to move quickly on a purchase or investment, and ensure they don’t miss out because of tight deadlines.”

With more flexibility to consider cases on their individual merits, alternative finance providers,

Commercial finance

like Together, have experienced increased demand in recent times, helping small businesses that may not fit within the more rigid criteria set out by mainstream lenders, to access the funding they need.

For businesses looking to grow, specialist finance is able to deliver the essential funds needed whether it’s for short-term cash flow or a major investment.

Jon, who has over 37 years’ experience in banking added: “I work with clients across Hertfordshire, bringing Together’s common sense approach to the region and giving the professional sector the opportunity to enhance their offering and to receive reciprocal business.

“We have a broad network of professional introducers including accountants, solicitors, banks and financial advisors, who will refer clients to us knowing that they can be assured of excellent service and a speedy decision. “2016 was a very positive year for the alternative finance sector and indicates that whilst the landscape of the finance market may have changed dramatically, there are many options available for both businesses and individuals to find the finance that’s right for

Advertisement feature

them – it’s just about knowing where to look. “Our figures are testament to our success - we have a current loan book of £2 billion, and total new lending in 2016 stood at just under £1.1 billion.” Together is a specialist lender with over forty years’ experience in the financial services industry and offers a wide range of finance including short-term finance, auction finance, buy-to-let, residential and commercial mortgages and secured loans.

Visit www.togethermoney.com/southeast for more information, call Jon on 01432 486 065 or email jon.elliott@togethermoney.com

Bridging finance Auction finance Commercial mortgages Buy-to-Let mortgages Development funding

Long-established experts... in short term lending As a principal lender, with over 40 years’ experience, we’re dedicated to working closely with our professional sector partners. Our expert team is here to support you and your clients in a range of short-term property funding requirements. Taking a common-sense approach, we aim to put your clients in the best possible position to complete.

Contact Jon Elliott the Regional Development Director for the South East. Call us on - 0143 248 6065 or visit togethermoney.com/southeast This advertisement is intended for professional intermediary use only and must not be distributed to potential clients.

INSPIRE

Finance

How crowdfunding can help businesses grow Many a bright business idea has foundered due to lack of money. Yet for small businesses in particular, finding that funding can be difficult, if not impossible. We live in an age when many banks are cautious when it comes to lending money to small businesses and, for a lot of entrepreneurs, the idea of getting into bed with venture capitalists does not appeal. However, a solution may be at hand with the increasing popularity of crowdfunding, whereby business-people go out to the wider population, bringing in lots of small investments rather than one large investor. There are many examples of companies either starting up, or advancing to the next level in their development, thanks to crowdfunding finance and plenty of cases where more than £1m has been raised. Indeed, one American site has generated more than $1bn across 700,000 crowdfunding campaigns in the past nine years. However, success is not guaranteed and anyone launching a campaign still has to do all the planning that they would do if they were approaching a bank or venture capitalist. Industry experts say that the best campaigns succeed because they keep it simple so that people understand exactly what they are being asked to invest in. The majority of the biggest campaigns seen in the UK, Europe and the US are crowdfunding for a particular product. The past few years have seen a move from crowdfunding campaigns designed to develop an idea or general concept to those which already have a fully working prototype or product. That way, investors have a clear idea where their money is going.

Industry experts believe that crowdfunding is changing the world of business because it represents a great opportunity for a more diverse range of entrepreneurs to raise finance, including those who have failed with previous ventures. It is worth bearing in mind that success is not guaranteed. While there might be a tendency to think that you can simply launch a crowdfunding campaign and wait for the money to start rolling in, the reality can be very different. Many businesses fail to hit their target or don’t raise any cash whatsoever: But that does not mean that the idea should be abandoned. Plenty of people will fail first time round but succeed second time after a bit more preparation, marketing and pre-launch marketing. There are many crowdfunding successes in Hertfordshire, including Chamber members,

Kate and Ben Marston, owners of The Puddingstone Distillery in Wilstone, Tring. In 2014, they decided to establish the region’s first gin distillery after travelling to countries and tasting excellent gin. The Marston’s decided to opt for crowdfunding to start up The Puddingstone Distillery. Kate said: “Crowdfunding for u s was as much about building the Puddingstone Distillery / Campfire Gin brand as it was raising start-up capital. “We chose the rewards-based platform over equity based for two reasons. Firstly, we were keen to retain complete ownership of the business in the early stages and, secondly, individuals and indeed organisations pledging money in return for gin were, by their very action, most likely had an interest in that drink sector or what we were doing as a business.

“The launch of the campaign, which ran for two months, through to the official opening, took just over one year during which time we continued to promote the brand and more importantly retain a dialogue with crowdfunders and a growing newsletter subscriber base. “Marketing activity included the photographic, film and copy featured on the Crowdfunder website, events, screening of our video at local cinema, press articles, lots of social media activity and radio appearances. “The end result was that we exceeded our target and the average conversion and donation rates usually seen on the Crowdfunder website.” The crowdfunding industry is now worth £3.2billion in the UK, there’s really no better time to start crowdfunding for the business, project or venture you’re working on than now. Visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk to start crowdfunding now.

INSPIRE

Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers

Business growth solutions The complete package to help your business succeed Accounting & Tax

Growth & Profitability

Smart & Cloud Accounting

Local Connections

Knowledge & News

As a leading firm of chartered accountants and business advisers based in St Albans, we offer commercially savvy solutions to not for profit organisations, entrepreneurial and owner-managed businesses, based on your needs and aspirations now and in the future. We are ideally placed to offer invaluable strategic business advice, tax, compliance and general accounting services to help your business grow and support you through all stages of your business lifecycle. Kingston Smith LLP 4V Victoria ictoria Square St Albans, AL1 3TF T: 01707 896 000 E: ks@ks.co.uk

INSPIRE

www.ks.co.uk/st-albans www.ks.co.uk/st-albans

Business engagement in East Herts East Herts is the most rural district in Hertfordshire, offering a highly skilled and well educated work force alongside good transport links into London from the main towns of Bishop’s Stortford, Hertford, Ware and Sawbridgeworth. As part of a new economic vision, East Herts Council is significantly enhancing direct contact with local business, especially SME’s in order to become a stronger business facing organisation. Chris Smith, Business Engagement Manager, will be leading this work and will be the face of the council for local business. Chris is not from a local government or public sector background but has spent the last few years running his own SMEs in the county. We felt this was a crucial requirement for the role in order to communicate in the same language as many of the SMEs operating locally. Over the next few months Chris will be out and about in the district speaking to various different businesses, promoting a recently agreed business rates’ grant scheme, improving our presence

on platforms such as LinkedIn and identifying actions to promote growth. This new activity will complement the existing programmes supported by the Council including – • The Eastern Plateau Rural Development Programme which provides investment support to rural business and other projects in East Herts, North Herts, Uttlesford and Epping Forest • The My Incubator programme delivered by Wenta from premises at Hertford Regional College in Ware which provides advice and business incubation facilities to start-up and early stage business • Stimulation of the visitor economy through the destination management work provided by Visit Herts

• Herts Growth Hub provided by Herts Local Enterprise Partnership delivering support to businesses with the capacity to grow • Town centre initiatives in Bishop’s Stortford and Hertford designed to create a business friendly environment • An economic forum involving key business support and investment partners focusing upon coordinating delivery and planning future services to business Chris Smith Business Engagement Manager chris.smith@eastherts.gov.uk Mobile: 07712 512489 Direct Dial: 01992 531581

INSPIRE

LastWord

Developing talent the key to success Mark Schipper General Manager Beales Hotel Q What do you do? Look after the day to day running of the hotel, making sure that all aspects work as well as they can, which varies from Revenue management to Operations and human resources and anything in between. I am very fortunate to have a team around me of very talented people. I, therefore, spend a lot of my time as a leader supporting and developing them, making sure they stay engaged and help them achieve their ambitions whether that is with us or not. Q Who do you work for? Beales Hotels, a family business since 1769 with currently two hotels, Beales Hotel in Hatfield and Westlodge Park in Hadley Wood, which couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be more different from each other, West Lodge being a stunning country retreat perfect for your afternoon tea or relaxing stays and Beales in Hatfield a modern contemporary hotel aimed more at the corporate market with 53 functional bedrooms and eight flexible meeting spaces for up to 300 guests. Because the hotels are so different they make for a complete business and cater for most needs and, therefore, complement each other very well.

Patrons

INSPIRE

Q Why did you join the Chamber? As a small family business competing with some of the large corporates, it is great to have an organisation that can help us all to make sure the area stays attractive for business and helps us to stay competitive, which is in everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest and which we must support. Q What you do get from it? The many services that it offers i.e. the recently-launched hospitality platform that helps other companies find us if they require meeting space or somewhere for their employees to stay. Q How has it helped your business network? The B to B relationships which we have been able to forge with the help of the chamber, not only to gain for ourselves but also services that we have been looking for or just being able to help others. Q What advice would you give someone starting out? Think big, set out what you want to achieve and keep that goal in front of you. When you have almost reached, it move the posts. Once business starts coming in, it is very easy lose sight of what you actually set out to do and started for in the first place. As the day to day running takes over, it is very

easy to forget about that one goal you want to achieve. Make sure you set some time aside daily to asses if you have come any closer; if not, change your approach. Make sure you share your goal with anyone involved they can all help you to achieve it.

Q What do you think is the biggest challenge affecting running and growing a business? I believe skills are, and will, stay as a challenge across all sectors; we need to look far ahead to assess what skills we need and start preparing and training our own teams and identify who within our company could potentially fill that skills gap and invest in them. With Brexit coming and a far more global labour market, the availability of skilled people is likely to decrease rather than increase. For every challenge, there is an opportunity somewhere else to help you get through it; make sure you see those and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t become too negative by only focusing on challenges. When you have overcome one, celebrate big. Q What support do you want from government? In one word clarity; the many uncertainties are holding businesses back. We understand that things like the Brexit deal

are immensely complicated and takes a lot of negotiating and might not always turn out the way we wanted to but at least the government should outline what they want to achieve in order for businesses to start preparing.

Q How confident are you that your organisation/ business will grow in 2017? Very, demand is strong at the moment and we have a good quality product here combined with a very enthusiastic team in which we continue investing. By doing things slightly differently, I am confident we can continue to attract new clients whilst making sure we also keep our loyal customer base engaged and continue to be their first choice. I believe that Hatfield and Hertfordshire in general have a great opportunity to grow with great transport links to London and the north. London prices are becoming increasingly more expensive not only for business to thrive but also for employees to find a place to live that is commutable, I can only see more businesses settle here. For the longer term, we now need to make sure Hertfordshire keeps investing in infrastructure and attractive places to live.