Lets Talk Business Nov 24 by Benham Publishing Limited

‘If people enjoy work, they do better work’ Chiswick Park’s Jonathan Acott

Welcome to the year-end edition of Let’s Talk Business.

This edition marks the end of my 10th year anniversary of being with the Chamber which has gone through a complete transformation from 300 members in Hounslow to over 2100 members. We now provide services across the three councils of Hounslow, Hammersmith & Fulham and Ealing, linking business both locally and internationally, with a fantastic team of eight and a much larger board representing all our boroughs. It is to our Chamber team, our board and all our members that I say congratulations for another record-breaking year. I wish you a wonderful festive season and success into the new year ahead.

Alan Rides Chief Executive Officer, West London Chambers of Commerce

Enquiries

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Web: www.westlondonchambers.org.uk

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Media No. 2072

Published November 2024

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The benefits of Business Improvement Districts

By Chris Turner Head of Research, Savills Place

Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) are self-help groups whereby businesses come together, by way of a ballot every five years, to contribute into a shared fund to make sure that their district or community is improved in a wide range of different ways.

“It

is ironic

that

the borough of

Hounslow does not have a BID, but we are hoping to remedy that and are are working with Savills to assess the business interest in a BID for Hounslow town centre. Hounslow Council fully backs the initiative. We will keep you posted.”

Smith,

There are now 341 Business Improvement Districts across the British Isles, there are thousands around the world, and over 70 in London. Often people are not aware that they are living working and doing business inside a Business Improvement District but where things are working well, people feel safe and the place feels attractive, they very often are. Most are in high streets and town centres; some are in industrial estates and other commercial areas and there are many in tourist and coastal areas. Some are large, with over a thousand businesses, others are small with only a few hundred, but they all provide the extra service delivery that each business community needs.

Generally, each business contributes some 1.5% of its rateable value every year to allow a fund to be set up to pay for a solution to key local issues that are affecting businesses today. Those issues are services such as safety and security, greening and street attractiveness, street cleaning, graffiti removal, marketing and communications, events and experiences and those extras that make the experience of coming into a town or high street just that little bit better for clients, residents, and customers.

The Business Improvement District is generally set up by a group of businesspeople in a community that want to make a contribution. They gather around them a group of similar businesses, whether independent retailers, solicitors and accountants, restaurants or national chains, who take the Business Improvement District through its first ballot. Before the Business

“I would like to express our gratitude to our Safer Business Marshals. They have been working with Savills, who prepared a feasibility study based on feedback from local businesses, for a BID in Central Hounslow, where unreported crime, monitored by us, is up.”

Alan Rides, CEO, West London Chambers of Commerce

Improvement District is set up a board is formed and the BID becomes a not-for-profit limited company, whose task is to focus on improving the businesses in that community in any way that they want.

It is the board that makes the decisions and the local businessmen and women on that board have a critical role to play in ensuring that it is the business needs of the area that are met. Those business needs have to be met speedily; the huge advantage of a business improvement district is that there is a pot of money that can be spent on the needs of those businesses, and that money can be spent within days, if need be, as long as the board and the local businesses are in agreement.

Thus, across the country, we see high streets and town centres becoming safer, becoming more attractive, having events and displays that bring people into the town, have restaurants and cafes that attract attract clients and customers into the town, who come to enjoy themselves, to feel safe, to do business, and to live, work and play. There are currently some 60 business communities across the country that are working to set up a new Business Improvement District and they are enthusiastic about becoming involved in a project that actually works, that brings the business community together in a very innovative and energetic fashion and allows the business community to feel that it is doing the right thing right and making their business community better than it would otherwise be.

“Having the extra finances which are ringfenced for the BID area, makes a huge difference. The retailers and businesses have a say on where monies can be spent – extra rubbish collections, graffiti removal, security guards and entertainment, ensuring our high streets become destinations, bringing fun back to shopping!”

Jamie Catling, McDonald’s franchisee, Hounslow

Chris Turner speaking at the National BIDs Conference in 2023

Sally

COO, West London Chambers of Commerce

Unlocking your potential

If you own or manage a retail or hospitality business, you’ll be more than aware of the industry’s rapid evolution, driven by shifting consumer expectations, technological advancements, and a growing focus on sustainability. In this dynamic environment, having a well-trained, adaptable workforce and finding the right staff quickly is essential for success.

West London Retail Skills Hub is designed to help businesses tackle these challenges, offering a valuable resource for recruiting and upskilling staff. By providing targeted training and support, the Hub helps businesses enhance their teams’ capabilities and remain competitive in an ever-changing market.

Located at Westfield London, next to John Lewis & Partners, West London Retail Skills Hub is a collaboration between West London College, Spark! and Westfield London, with support from Ethos Farm, Inspire ATA, West London Business, and the West London Chambers of Commerce.

Opened in September 2024, the Hub was developed in response to the West London Local Skills Improvement Plan, which identified a significant skills and labour shortage, as well as the need for focused training in the retail sector. By offering specialist training and recruitment services, the Hub supports businesses in addressing skills gaps, working simultaneously to upskill retail employees and provide jobseekers with opportunities to start their retail careers.

Offering a range of services, from bespoke training programmes to recruitment support, one of the Hub’s key features is its ability to design custom training sessions tailored to specific business needs. A range of pre-made options are also available, including distance learning courses that staff can study at their own pace. Courses such as Equality and Diversity, Mental Health First Aid, and Team Leading are all available to help businesses upskill their teams. Investing in staff not only improves performance and customer experience but increases retention and positively impacts workplace culture.

The Hub also functions as a recruitment platform, connecting businesses with local job-ready candidates. It can help you advertise vacancies and pre-screen applicants who have already received training, giving you access to a pipeline of talent, ready to hit the ground running.

Katie Wyle, Head of Shopping Centre Management at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, said: “We are thrilled to announce the opening of the new Retail Skills Hub at Westfield London, which represents a significant step forward in redefining retail as a dynamic and rewarding career path.”

Karen Redhead OBE, CEO & Principal of West London College, added: “West London College is proud to be a key partner in the West London Retail Skills Hub. This initiative opens invaluable opportunities for the community to gain essential skills for a thriving career in retail. By working with local businesses, the Hub helps inspire economic success through high-quality education and skills development.”

Matt Lent, CEO of Spark!, highlighted how the Hub supports young people entering the retail workforce. “This resource is a game changer for both retailers and young people, connecting employers with future talent and creating employability skills and pathways into rewarding careers.”

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of the new Retail Skills Hub at Westfield London, which represents a significant step forward in redefining retail as a dynamic and rewarding career path.”

In addition to training and recruitment service, West London Retail Skills Hub offers its three studio spaces for hire at competitive prices, ideal for workshops and meetings. These versatile spaces, in the heart of the largest shopping centre in Europe, come equipped with interactive digital boards, with flexible seating options to suit your needs. For businesses, the benefits of engaging with West London Retail Skills Hub are clear. It offers a unique opportunity to upskill staff, as well as access to a pipeline of new talent. If you’re interested in finding out more about how the Hub can support you, please visit: retailskillshub.london or get in touch via email at info@retailskillshub.london

“We

have strong links with our local BIDs and through them access to many retailers. We are very pleased to be working with West London Retail Skill Hub.”

Sally

Smith, COO, West London Chambers of Commerce

Katie Wyle, Head of Shopping Centre Management at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield

SMEs are the beating heart of our high streets and communities

by Seema Malhotra MP Member of Parliament for Feltham and Heston and Minister for Migration and Citizenship

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) shape our communities, boost our economy, and provide work for most people in the country. Every community has its own blend of local businesses. It is in the small business community we find the investors, innovators, entrepreneurs who are the backbone of our economy.

In July, Labour won a landslide election. I was proud to be appointed the Minister for Migration and Citizenship, and to be asked to bring insights from my work as Shadow Business Minister and Shadow Skills Minister to look at how we work to grow our skills base and our economy, reducing dependence over time on migration as the answer to our national skills shortages.

In October last year, two-thirds of SMEs reported that they had a high demand for skills they couldn’t access. We are creating Skills England to bring businesses together with colleges to shape the future skilled workforce and working local communities to better respond to local needs.

Supporting growth and doing so sustainably is a driving mission of the new Labour Government. This needs Government and the private sector working together in partnership, to bring renewal to all our communities across the country. That’s why I am proud of the work that West London Chambers is doing, in accelerating access to

opportunity for local businesses and being a strong voice.

Our SMEs are the beating heart of our high streets and communities. I grew up above our family shop in Osterley and remember as a child learning how to serve customers. Having a small local business is often the main source of family income, but it’s also part of how we build our community and social ties, and through trade, strengthen our links with the rest of the world.

The Labour Budget’s focus on growth was not incidental. It was about fixing the foundations, putting our national finances back on a more secure footing, dealing with a £22bn black hole in in year spending, and building a plan for long term investment alongside stability. Core to this has been a plan for business, with our national

businesses to include payment reporting in their annual reports. We are also legislating for new powers to tackle retail crime.

Finally, the Government’s business rates reforms will introduce permanently lower tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) properties with rateable values below £500,000, along other reforms which will support our small businesses and high streets. We have also committed to cap Corporation Tax at 25% - the lowest in the G7 – for the duration of this Parliament.

SMEs have really suffered in recent years with the pandemic, disruption to supply chains and the impact of the Truss mini budget which wrought chaos, with soaring bills and financial instability. It’s time to turn the page, and to work together to bring opportunity and renewal that our small

Supporting growth and doing so sustainably is a driving mission of the new Labour Government. This needs Government and the private sector working together in partnership, to bring renewal to all our communities across the country.

Seema Malhotra MP

Moving to a cheaper, greener energy system

A recent poll of small businesses showed that nearly two thirds1 of Britain’s business owners and senior decision makers think it’s important to embrace environmental issues, with many also seeing financial benefits as a result.

From those polled, 45 percent say that the changes they have made have saved them money, with 40 percent believing that becoming more sustainable has attracted more customers, as well as enhancing their reputation within the local community (44 percent).

With running costs remaining a concern for many small business owners, one in three polled2 say they are keeping a closer eye on their energy bills. When it comes to managing energy usage and costs, one small step small business owners can take, is to get a smart meter installed. They are the next generation of gas and electricity meters that are being installed in small businesses and households in Great Britain, replacing traditional meters.

When it comes to running a business, even making small changes and improvements can make a big difference, whether it’s saving money or being good for the planet. Getting a smart meter can help owners to understand exactly how much energy they are using and help them to control

energy costs. A smart meter can also help identify ways to reduce energy consumption – which is good for budgets, as well as the planet.

Whether you own or rent your business premises, you may be eligible for a smart meter, and if you are renting, but pay your own energy bills, you can ask your supplier to install one3

SMART METER BENEFITS

Smart meters have lots of benefits for small businesses, including:

• Accurate billing: smart meters measure energy usage in near real-time, so no more manual readings or estimated bills. This means you only pay for the energy you use, which can help with managing cashflow

• Control: the data provided by smart meters can give you more control over your business’ energy spend, helping you monitor energy usage and identify where cost savings can be made

• Access to historic energy usage data: small businesses with a smart meter can request free access to 12 months of data

from their energy supplier. This could help with budgeting and reduce bill shock. It could also help you plan for your next bill by identifying any trends or patterns in your energy use across the year

As well as helping to give you more control of your business budgeting, smart meters are playing an important role in Great Britain’s energy infrastructure upgrade, as we continue to increase our use of cheaper, greener renewable energy sources.

The data smart meters provide is key to this innovation, and will enable us to buy, store and consume energy differently to the way we do today, gathering the information the energy networks need that will help the energy system better manage supply and demand. This will make the whole system more efficient and able to use more renewables such as wind and solar power.

So just by having a smart meter installed, you’re helping to create a smarter, greener energy system that will benefit Britain, the planet - and you.

What small business owners are doing to become more sustainable:

1. Turning off equipment when not in use

2. Recycling old IT equipment

3. Creating a recycling policy

4. Keeping a much closer eye on energy bills

5. Replacing lights with LED alternatives

6. Using environmentally friendly products eg for cleaning

7. Reusing plastic carrier bags

8. Going paperless

9. Using local suppliers

10. Using eco-friendly/ biodegradable packaging

Smart meters give you access to free and regular information on your energy use. Your energy supplier may provide this via an online platform, app, smart meter display or other data tools.

Source: Perspectus Global, July 2024, 500 SME owners and senior decision makers across Great Britain

“Treat and pay your staff well, and they will stay”

More than 70 local employers – like Barry Bassett from Acton-based VMI.TV – already pay the London Living Wage, which gives workers enough to support themselves and save.

As well as helping your team, it could help your bottom line too. 94% of accredited businesses say it helps attract customers and leads to better staff recruitment and retention.

And with a new package of incentives from Ealing Council, it’s a great time to get involved.

The London Living Wage - good for business, good for Ealing.

‘It’s nice to be in a position to be a catalyst to get people involved’

Alan Coates, Advisory Director of West London Chambers of Commerce, talks to Sarah Dale about life since retirement and why he loves being able to help the Chamber.

Alan Coates had a long, successful career at United Biscuits, where he worked for more than 30 years.

Following his retirement from his role as Board Director in 2003, he spent seven years at Business in the Community, where he used his knowledge and experience to influence corporate organisations to become more involved in responsible business practice (corporate social responsibility).

Now 76 and living with prostate cancer and angina, Alan has slowed down a little from the days he was out of the house from 7am to 7pm, but he loves people which shines through and loves nothing more than helping different people make meaningful connections.

With his corporate background and knowledge of responsible business practice, plus his warm people skills, Alan is perfect for the role of Advisory Director at West London Chambers of Commerce, which he joined about eight years ago.

“The Chamber is very willing to work in tandem with other people,” says Alan.

“They’re not all about the Chamber, they want to help the community too. It’s the motivation of the Chamber to make sure that the area has more opportunity and more togetherness. Looking back on my days with Business in the Community, I know what these companies want to achieve. And I know a lot of people!”

His contacts’ book is packed and he is good at spotting good fits for roles. John Bason, who became the Chair of the Place Programme, worked with Alan as Finance Director at United Biscuits and Alan introduced him to the programme.

“It’s nice to be in a position to be a catalyst to get people involved,” says Alan.

“I have that kudos; I can listen to what the Chamber needs and then talk to people and go for lunch and reminisce and find out what they need and provide support.”

“I have that kudos; I can listen to what the Chamber needs and then talk to people and go for lunch and reminisce and find out what they need and provide support.”

The Place Programme is a Business in the Community initiative which targets areas that can benefit from links with the business world. Hounslow was chosen as a target area.

“When Business in the Community started to talk more about responsible business practice, they recognised that the business world can support them,” he adds.

“Chris Durkin, the President of West London Chambers of Commerce, was the primary driver in securing Hounslow on the Place Programme, and I got involved.

“The business world can help the Local Authority and work together on the area’s priorities, what is already going on in an area and what should be going on to make it more effective. The LA was facing the issue that lots of young people were not in work

or education and engaging in anti-social behaviour.

“Hounslow is a good example of the power of integrating.

“The Place Programme looks at the key issues and the reasons why and what is needed to change it.

“Large businesses like Sky and SEGRO became more aware of how they could help the community and providing work experience for young people. Inspiring young people and showing them what they can do after school provides added value.”

Alan has sat on a variety of boards since he retired – including being Chair of Park Royal Partnership, Director of Knowledge Peers, Trustee of the John Lewis Partnership Foundation, the BAA Foundation and the charity Fareshare, and Chair of the Ealing and Hillingdon Educational Business Partnership – but now his focus is his family, health and taking things a little bit slower.

“My wife and I live in Windsor and there are some really nice areas in Windsor for a drive out,” says Alan, who has five grandchildren.

“I have prostate cancer and been having radiotherapy, and I have had angina for six or seven years, so I have got to be careful with a balance of getting some exercise. A lot of men my age are going to get hit by prostate cancer and angina but provided you’re sensible you can stay involved with things you enjoy.

“I can’t play football like I used to 30 or 40 years ago, but I’m a Chelsea fan and I like to watch them play at Stamford Bridge.

“I’ve done all sorts since I retired but now the only role I’ve kept on is the one with the Chamber.

“My wife and I have been married 50 years and when I was working, I would be out of the house from 7am to 7pm so I take it easier these days. We like to go on holiday and spend time with our grandchildren. We can spend a lot more time together which is lovely.”

Alan with one of his grandchildren

‘If people enjoy work, they do better work’

Jonathan Acott, Head of Experience at Chiswick Park, talks to Sarah Dale about why focusing on people’s wellbeing at work is a win-win for both employees and employers.

“If people enjoy work, they do better work – if they do better work, you have a better business.’

That is the ethos of Chiswick Park, an awardwinning 1.8 million square foot business campus in West London.

Arranged as a necklace of 12 office buildings with a lake at the centre, Chiswick Park provides a range of facilities and services to the businesses it hosts designed to boost the wellbeing of its guests.

“Wellbeing has been baked into our DNA,” says Jonathan Acott, Head of Experience at Chiswick Park.

“When they designed the park and started conceiving it in the 1990s, the lake came first. It was designed to be groundbreaking and it’s our duty as custodians of the park to be as committed to the wellbeing of the guests now as it was when it was designed.”

Chiswick Park provides large office spaces, from 5-person spaces to 900-person offices, and its guests include Warner Brothers Discovery, Starbucks UK and EMEA, Pernod Ricard, Richmond American University London and large media corporations. Sega is moving in next year.

Facilities and services include free bike, scooter and umbrella hire, laundry service, health checks and other concierge services including bike servicing. The site also boasts 24 hr security cleaning and maintenance call out. There is also a serviced office provision with daily fruit and milk deliveries as well as weekly fresh flowers delivered, and all your IT needs catered for.

There is a running club, sustainability club, book club and kitchen garden club as well as a wide-ranging events programme including an annual 1000ft zip line.

“We run a programme of events to get people out of the office and we have food traders to get people away from their desks,” says Jonathan.

“If people are happy, they do better work. 99% of the 1800 park guests surveyed would recommend Chiswick Park to a friend and 98% of the 1800 said that working at

Chiswick-Park makes work better. 98% said it is a warm, welcoming and safe environment. We’re very proud of these statistics.”

The park hosts 54 businesses not counting the organisations which use the co-working spaces on site at Regus and Venture X. It has won a variety of awards including Business of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2022 and FT’s Top 50 Great Places to Work six times.

“Everything we do, everything we have, is to make people’s lives better and more productive,” he says.

“Our guests can borrow a bike or a scooter. We have emergency ties. feminine hygiene products, tights. You can have your suits laundered and your car valeted. It’s all here.”

The park’s sustainability measures include using No2H2O, which provides waterless and eco-friendly car cleaning, and a sustainable feminine hygiene products provider.

The primary challenge of the business park is to ensure they are continually evolving to meet its guests’ “exacting requirements”.

“People have become more exacting and so too have businesses,” says Jonathan.

“Companies want to create an environment where they attract the best people. Their expectations are higher which means our standards have to be higher.

“It’s a hybrid model and we’re competing with homeworking. In a post-Covid world there have been changing work patterns and a rise of hybrid working and the increased demand for guests to have more perks in their work environments.”

Chiswick Park joined West London Chambers of Commerce as Patron members about three months ago.

“Most people join the Chamber for what they can get out of it, but we joined because of what we can give back,” he says.

“We’re a major employer and space provider for employers. We’re in a very privileged position with our geographical location. We looked at how can we help the wider community and help smaller businesses in

the area and it made sense to approach that from being a Patron and being a sponsor of the Chamber.

“We do everything we can for our guests and if the Chamber has something that could benefit our guests, then we will look into it. They are an obvious conduit.

“There are a million networking groups that you can go to but I find at the Chamber, you’re going to meet fewer people trying to sell you things and more people trying to connect with you and try to help. It’s about making connections and building relationships and looking at challenges together.

“We will host a networking breakfast here. We are very proud of the park and we can show people around.

“It’s an incredible place to work. Where else can you watch a waterfall at work? It is beautiful and offers a better quality of life.”

Find out more at: www.enjoy-work.com

“Sally, Alan and Lisa experienced the zip wire a few summers ago! This sort of thing is natural habitat for Alan and Lisa, for me, however, it was altogether different. Luckily, I am not scared of heights, and it was such fun to do. Thank you, Enjoy-Work! What a brilliant workplace.”

Sally Smith, COO, West London Chambers of Commerce

(please use a magnifying glass! I am in the picture!)

Branduin’s winning formula for helping SMEs grow revenue

Nauzar Manekshaw, Managing Director of Branduin, talks to Sarah Dale about the importance of business owners proactively engaging in the local supply chain to win new business.

With almost 20 years of experience running his own companies and a career spanning the globe, Nauzar knows only too well the highs and lows of business.

Having grown up in a family business of whisky and rum distillers in the Himalayas, Nauzar moved to the UK in 1987 to study for an MSc degree at City University. Since then, he has worked in London, India, Middle East and Africa, and Europe before settling back in the UK with his wife and two sons. In 2006, he established MIERA Consulting Ltd when he spotted an opportunity to help SMEs to prosper by accessing new Government funding.

He co-founded Branduin Business Support in 2011 with a group of like-minded business advisors with extensive knowledge and experience in starting, growing, and running successful businesses. Branduin collaborates closely with Local Authorities and Chambers of Commerce to provide its members and local business communities with access to qualityassured business support to drive economic growth. The Branduin team has a range of skills to assist with business owners from every stage of business development from start-up to exit.

“In 2019 we found that a lot of SMEs wanted to win new contracts but needed help, so we launched our Fit To Bid® supplier development programme” said Nauzar.

“We completed a pilot project with Ealing Council and Heathrow Airport which was remarkably successful. Owing to the pandemic we changed our delivery model and went online, and we haven’t looked back!”

Nauzar is always innovating and expanding the services Branduin offers by adapting to the needs of the SMEs they support, and he is proud that Fit To Bid® is listed as an approved supplier on the UK Government website: https://www. gov.uk/business-finance-support/fit-to-bid

The Branduin team is currently delivering UKSPF Supplier Ready Fit To Bid® programmes for Ealing, Hillingdon, Watford, and Wandsworth Councils; having previously delivered for

Hounslow, Brent, and Hammersmith & Fulham Councils.

The Fit To Bid® programmes are delivered in three different ways: online skills masterclass workshops, 1-2-1 tender advice sessions, and regular in-person Meet The Buyer events.

Other services successfully delivered on behalf of several Local Authorities across London & SE England include GOALMAPPER® business recovery and regeneration programme to help SMEs Reboot, Recover and Grow; Fortuna® Women in Business entrepreneurship support; and SalesMapper® peer groups for scale-ups. New services in the pipeline include Fit For Finance® business resilience; and Fit To Export® to help SMEs grow in international markets.

“We have excellent relationships with many Chambers and local SMEs – which is a key reason to our success,” he said. “Like any business, our strategic challenge is to win new business, in our case, from Local Authorities. The operational challenge is getting more SMEs to come to our programmes. People book and do not turn up. As an SME, I can empathise with that, but you have to allocate time to work on your business. Most SMEs are too involved within their business and become a bit inward-looking. You need to allocate some time for strategy development, ideally with the assistance of an experienced business advisor or mentor.”

“As a business leader, you need to be adaptable and resilient, and you need someone to push you when you need to work on the business in order to grow.

“We have to continue to work on that by engaging with Chamber members. Everyone has at least one critical issue that they want to overcome, and speaking to other Chamber members is good for SME business owners.”

Branduin has a team of around 10 selfemployed advisors, each with their own area of expertise. The company also regularly takes on interns from local universities to

“I

assist with business development and admin support.

“Most of our advisors have been with us for many years, and three procurement experts joined us this year. Fit To Bid® is beginning to take off so we are looking for more advisors to join us.”

Branduin joined West London Chambers of Commerce in 2013. “The Chamber’s leadership and management team is second to none, and they’re great facilitators,” he added. “If you have a sound value proposition they will put you through to the right people. We got to work with Hounslow Council, Ealing Council, and the Heathrow Business Summit through the Chamber.”

Nauzar is enormously proud of what he has achieved with Branduin and feels a great sense of satisfaction in the knowledge that the Branduin team is helping other businesses to grow.

“Branduin is an enabler for businesses to do what they want,” he said. “We help them to identify their key challenges and address them, whether they are a start-up or they need help to grow and scale up. We specialise in helping SMEs achieve revenue growth. What gives us great satisfaction is knowing we have helped so many businesses – and it’s an amazing feeling.”

As well as advisors located across London and the South East, Branduin also has a procurement advisor based in Lancashire who delivers bid skills workshops and 1-2-1 sessions in the North West, North East, and Yorkshire.

“That’s how we want to grow,” said Nauzar. “We have an ambition to license our intellectual property and our proven Fit To Bid® methodology. We first thought about it before Covid but had to pause it. We now want to expand across the UK, and I would also like to talk to large Chambers in the Middle East and India, licence it internationally, and get local advisors and consultants involved to help local SMEs win more contracts.”

am proud of starting up a business, evolving the business model, and winning the Best Business Support & Advice/Service Company award at the West London Chambers of Commerce Business Awards 2023.”

“Most

of our advisors have been with us for many years, and three procurement experts joined us this year. Fit To Bid® is beginning to take off so we are looking for more advisors to join us.”

Nauzar belongs to the Zoroastrian religion, and is proud that he, his wife and two sons all have Master’s degrees. “If you want to do well in your career, invest in yourself and do a Master’s degree,” added Nauzar, who has two granddaughters.

“Personally, my proudest achievement is my family, with special thanks to my wonderful wife Dina who supported me when I had to travel all over the world during my international assignments with multi-national companies.”

“Professionally, I am proud of starting up a business, evolving the business model, and winning the Best Business Support & Advice/Service Company award at the West London Chambers of Commerce Business Awards 2023.”

“I’m also a keen golfer and in Dec 2001 I got a hole-in-one at the prestigious Emirates GC in Dubai – money can’t buy things like that!”

If you want to know more about Branduin and how we can help you achieve your goals, visit www.branduin.co.uk or reach out to us at nauzar@branduin.co.uk.

Are solar panels worth installing in the UK?

With the growing popularity of renewable energy sources, solar panels are increasingly being considered for their potential to generate sustainable power. This article provides a comprehensive overview for electricians, contractors, and consumers on the key considerations for solar panel installations.

Financial benefits of solar panels

Installing solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills. On average, a UK household can break even on the installation costs in approximately 14.1 years and save up to 64% on their electricity expenses. However, the actual costs and savings depend on several factors, including:

• Your location

• Your electricity consumption patterns

• The size of your solar PV system

• Current electricity prices

• Payments received for excess energy exported to the grid

Solar panels are a worthwhile investment if they meet your energy needs and if you plan to stay in your home long enough to recover the installation costs. Additionally, using solar energy helps reduce your carbon footprint and supports environmental sustainability.

Installation costs of solar panels

The cost to install a 4-kW solar PV system in the UK is around £8,000. This price includes the system size, necessary fittings, inverter costs, and labour for installation and testing. Labour costs typically range between £300 and £500 per person, per day, with the installation of a 4-kW system usually taking 1-2 days, resulting in total labour costs between £600 and £1,200.

While higher efficiency panels and those with longer warranties may have higher initial

costs, they often result in greater long-term savings. Larger systems and those with battery storage will also have higher upfront costs but offer increased savings on energy bills. Excess energy can be sold back to the National Grid through the Smart Export Guarantee Scheme (SEG). However, the price per kWh for exported electricity is generally lower than the price you pay for consumed energy.

How many solar panels are needed?

The number of solar panels required varies by house size:

• A one-bedroom house typically needs six panels.

• A three-bedroom house generally requires ten panels.

• A five-bedroom house usually needs fourteen panels to cover approximately 46% of the household’s annual electricity usage.

sufficient for a 3-to-4-bedroom house. The power output depends on the panel type, location, system size, orientation, angle, and sunlight exposure.

Lifespan and warranty

Solar panels usually last between 25 to 30 years, with newer models potentially lasting up to 40 years or more. Most panels come with a manufacturer’s warranty of 10 to 25 years, guaranteeing at least 80% efficiency after 25 years. Modern panels degrade at a rate of around 0.2% to 0.3% per year. Inverters and batteries typically have warranties ranging from 5 to 15 years.

As solar panel technology becomes more affordable and efficient, their potential for long-term energy savings makes them an attractive investment. By considering installation costs, the required number of panels, energy production, and panel lifespan, you can make an informed decision about whether solar panels are right for you.

At Home Ecoearner, we are dedicated to promoting sustainable living through renewable energy solutions. Our mission is to educate and empower our community about the benefits of solar energy and other eco-friendly practices. We believe in a future where every household can achieve energy independence while protecting our planet. Join us on this journey towards a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

Solar panel energy production

Individual solar panels typically generate between 200 to 450 kW of electricity per hour. In the UK, a standard domestic solar panel system comprises 10 to 14 panels, producing 2,600 to 3,700 kWh of electricity annually,

Connect with Home Ecoearner today to start your journey towards clean energy and significant savings and be sure to visit www.homeecoearner.com for the latest news and offers on solar panels and installations.

Your journey to clean energy starts now!

Heathrow relaunches

‘World of Opportunity’ to support budding exporters

Heathrow is calling for SMEs across the South East of England to come forward and pitch their products to the world. The UK’s hub airport is relaunching its World of Opportunity competition which helps new exporters to get their goods and services sold on international markets.

Grants are up for grabs in every nation and region of the country and winners will receive funding to further their exporting ambitions. Previous winners have funded vital trade missions, research and training that has helped them expand into lucrative overseas markets, driving growth in their sales and supporting jobs on home soil. World of Opportunity is delivered in partnership with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), who recently published their SME Export Taskforce recommendations outlining how business and Government can supercharge SME exporting. Winners will be connected to the network of advice via the Export Support Service, offered by the Department for Business and Trade, to assist

in their research and export strategies.

Applications are open 23 September to 23 December and a judging panel of business and government experts will select the most promising company from each of the UK’s 12 nations and regions. Winners will each receive £2,000.

Heathrow connects businesses across the South East to more than 200 destinations. Regions and nations across the UK can access 95% of the global economy within a direct flight from Heathrow. The South East has the highest employment rate of any region, attracting more direct foreign investment than any area outside of London. The region’s economic activity is supported

by its proximity to Heathrow. Advanced manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies rely on 24/7 global supply chains that connect them to lucrative global export market. World of Opportunity seeks to help more businesses across the South East to grow through exporting.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said: “In every corner of the UK there are entrepreneurs who have the potential to be exporters. SMEs in this country make and do fantastic things, selling those products and services on international markets is key to economic growth and supporting jobs at home.

“As the UK’s hub airport and largest port by value, Heathrow is proud to already support thousands of SMEs to grow their business through trade. There is a world of opportunity out there and we want to help even more people benefit.”

To find out more and apply, visit: heathrow.com/world-of-opportunity

London Business Partnership (LBP) delivering free LONDON E-Business Support Programme to empower SMEs

The LONDON E-Business Support Programme is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by Business for London, a long-established consortium of seven business support organisations operating across the city, and LBP.

This Programme received £2,858,421 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to provide this vital support to London’s businesses. LBP is the Business for London consortium partner delivering support to businesses located in the boroughs of Brent, Ealing, Harrow, Hillingdon and Hounslow.

Through a package of free support, including: 121 expert advice; webinars; online tutorials and networking events, the programme will

empower 1,103 business owners across London to maximise their use of digital tools and online marketing to: attract more customers and clients; boost turnover and productivity; improve the efficiency of their operations and sustainability.

The impact of the programme across the capital will mean 825 jobs will be safeguarded and 100 new jobs created across the city.

Once registered, businesses receive 121 advice and support from LBP’s dedicated E-Business Advisers, specifically tailored to the needs of their individual business.

The initial meeting consists of a Digital Audit of the business to identify its current use of digital tools and technology, and from this, a bespoke Digital Action Plan with key recommendations will be created for the business. Further 121 support will assist owners in implementing the suggested actions - which will be focused on areas such as: boosting the business’s online presence; enhancing the effectiveness of social media; improving websites and search engine ranking; using e-commerce and online payments; maximising customer service; utilising better cyber security and I.T. back-up systems.

The programme will empower 1,103 business owners across London to maximise their use of digital tools and online marketing to: attract more customers and clients; boost turnover and productivity; improve the efficiency of their operations and sustainability.

For eligibility & registration information visit: https://londonbp.co.uk/business support-programmes/london-e-business-support-programme

Host your next meeting or event at Hyatt Place London Heathrow, perfectly located near the airport for seamless travel. Our flexible meeting spaces, all-inclusive packages, and exceptional service ensure a successful and stress-free event.

C o n t a c t o u r t e a m a t + 4 4 ( 0 )

Levy Transfer Our Employer Engagement Team can help local businesses to:

Considering hiring apprentices or upskilling existing members of staff.

Whether junior or senior roles, we can help you review job descriptions, create sector specific and inclusive apprenticeships.

Utilise apprenticeship levy support to help SMEs, charities, Community Interest Companies (CIC) and micro businesses hire new talent or upskill existing staff to meet business change.

Understand the benefits of hiring from a diverse community of talent.

Develop managers to successfully mentor apprentices, improving success rates and to retain the best talent.

If you would like to find out if your business is eligible for the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer, please contact Work Hounslow

If you would like to find out if your business is eligible for the Apprenticeship Levy Transfer, please contact Work Hounslow Apprenticeship Levy Transfer

Build workforces for the future, retain talented apprentices, review progression routes and grow your own talent.

Email: work@hounslow.gov.uk

Visit: www.workhounslow.co.uk

Unleash the limitless potential of apprenticeships with Work Hounslow

By hiring apprentices, upskilling or reskilling your current staff, your company can stay ahead of competition with a dynamic, skilled workforce dedicated to growth. You can retain talent, enhance diversity, boost employee satisfaction and more.

Work Hounslow, the Skills and Employment team of Hounslow Council, can help you build these exciting pathways for both new and existing employees, offering free advice and support for hiring and developing apprentices at all levels, from junior to senior roles.

Our dedicated employer engagement team will guide you through every step (see the service roadmap on the left of the page), including how to tap into the apprenticeship levy support from the UK government.

Our dedicated employer engagement team will guide you through every step, including how to tap into the apprenticeship levy support from the UK government.

AJAR Technology, headquartered in Brentford, has seen success through apprenticeships.

The company has been recruiting young people and experienced professionals across the country.

Whether you’re a large corporation, SME, charity, Community Interest Company (CIC) or micro business, the funding can be harnessed to meet workforce needs and drive your business forward.

In addition, Work Hounslow will host a job fair for residents during National Apprenticeship Week in February 2025. Employers are encouraged to participate and support residents to move into good work. Stay tuned for updates on our website: www.workhounslow.co.uk and be sure to register with us.

Take action now and start building your businesses apprenticeship programme with Work Hounslow.

Tara, Sales and Marketing Manager at AJAR Technology, shared her insights for employers:

“They can manage expectations with apprentices when they can explain what the role would look like and what would suit for them and their businesses. If you are an SME or a small business, you can involve apprentices in all sorts of things. We all start somewhere, and no one knows everything from the beginning. Employers can’t build their businesses alone.”

More than 20 employers and education providers, including Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, K10, London Fire Brigade, the University of West London, along with up to 400 Hounslow residents attended the Apprenticeship Marketplace event at Hounslow House last year.

Scan this QR code and register with Work Hounslow as an employer at www.workhounslow.co.uk

Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of Hounslow Council (pictured right) spoke with one of the employers at Work Hounslow’s Apprenticeship Marketplace event in February 2023.

CHEF Cookbook Launch: Supporting young care leavers in Hillingdon, UK

On October 1st, CHEF (Community Health Education Food Project) proudly launched the CHEF cookbook at the Emlea Support Service offices in Hillingdon House.

The cookbook is one of CHEF’s latest projects. Through this cookbook, CHEF aims to equip individuals and families with the skills necessary to prepare nutritious meals on a budget, fostering self-sufficiency and healthier lifestyles.

CHEF is giving out the cookbook with spice packs, giving the recipient an opportunity to make affordable tasty meals.

The cost-of-living crisis is leaving many people struggling to afford necessities like food, housing, and utilities, causing financial strain and increased stress. As prices rise, unhealthy eating habits have become more common, with many opting for cheaper, processed foods that are high in sugar and fat. This has worsened health issues like diabetes, which is on the rise due to poor diet and lifestyle choices. The growing burden on both physical and mental health highlights the urgent need for food charities to provide nutritious meals and support communities in accessing healthy, affordable food.

The first recipients of the cookbook will be care-experienced young people who will receive practical tools for successful living, including budgeting tips, healthy eating advice, and quick, easy recipes. Each cookbook will be accompanied by packs of various spices and herbs to enhance their cooking experience.

The cookbooks for the care leavers are a collaboration with CHEF and Emlea Support Services.

This initiative supports young care leavers involved in the Staying Close project, a partnership with the London Borough of Hillingdon, aimed at preparing these individuals for independent living.

CHEF, founded by Sarah Gardner, who also chairs the charity, is dedicated to promoting healthy eating and combating food poverty within the community.

Sarah is the founder and chair of Serving Our Superheroes and Well-being for All, vice chair of the charity project 90/10, a trustee for Hillingdon Rotary Club, the 7th Hillingdon Scouts, and a committee member of Click Rukiga and is also the founder of the network Helping West London. Sarah’s previous roles also include Trustee of the Hounslow Community Food Box (a role she did for 5 years), Vice-Chair of Thamesbank Credit Union and a school governor. Sarah is therefore aware of the needs of the community and the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, motivating her to help those sectors of the community most in need.

• Ongoing Resources: Regularly shares recipes, healthy eating tips, and budgeting advice through our Facebook page, including support for local food banks.

• Cost-of-Living Support: Launched a campaign focused on microwave cooking to save energy, providing affordable, healthy meal solutions, in collaboration with Jennipher Marshall-Jenkinson, chair of the UK’s Microwave Technologies Association (MTA).

Sarah runs CHEF alongside trustees Naomi Youngs and David Youngs, who manage Emlea Support Services. All trustees are also Hillingdon Community Champions, a programme set up by H4All. H4All have been supportive of the CHEF charity and have been supporting the charity since 2021.

Highlights of CHEF’s Community Impact:

• Cookery Classes: Partnered with Bell Farm Christian Centre and H4All to run free cookery classes for Afghan refugees, teaching budgeting and cooking skills while fostering community connections.

• Child Obesity Program: Collaborated with the NHS on a child obesity reduction initiative, providing healthy recipes and budgeting advice for after-school cookery sessions. Contributing towards a cookbook published by the NHS.

• Community Collaborations: Worked with food rescue charities and food banks to redistribute free food and offer recipes tailored to typical food parcels.

In 2023, CHEF was highly commended at the West London Chamber of Commerce Business Awards and has been shortlisted for several categories at the upcoming West London Business Awards, including Best Business for Health and Wellbeing and Best Charity/Social Enterprise.

Through these efforts, CHEF aims to help young care leavers thrive and cultivate a healthier community.

About Emlea Support Service

Emlea Support Service provides comprehensive support for care-experienced young people, ensuring they have the necessary tools for a successful transition into adulthood.

Sarah Gardner, Naomi and Dave Youngs

Wheels and Wheelchairs challenge

12 years ago, a team of French skaters pushed wheelchair users from Paris to London to celebrate the start of the 2012 London Paralympics.

Inspired by the brilliant work they did to bring skaters and wheelchair users together, we decided to set up our own organisation in London, and thus Wheels and Wheelchairs was born.

12 years later, with the 2024 Paralympics taking place in Paris, it was only right that Wheels and Wheelchairs should celebrate 12 years of bringing happiness to wheelchair users. It was decided to go on a huge adventure pushing 4-5 wheelchair users from Brighton to Paris over 5 days. The journey covered more than 121 miles to celebrate the start of the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

This year’s skate was not just a physical challenge but a dynamic team effort, woven with the spirit of inclusivity and endurance. Participants had the unique opportunity to conclude their journey in the festive atmosphere of the Paralympic Games in Paris.

Local business owner and Chamber member, Ash Sanjenbam from Kingfisher SEC, successfully participated and completed in this epic charity event.

This ambitious plan could only have become a reality, due to the kind donations which help fund the trip. We would like to thank everyone who donated and help make this trip one our skaters and wheelchair users will remember.

www.wheelsandwheelchairs.co.uk

Silver Civic Award for The Green Quarter

St George the developers of The Green Quarter in Southall, West London, have received a Commendation at the annual Ealing Civic Awards.

The judges recognised how the company, working alongside JTP architects, had

taken a former brownfield site in the centre of Southall, West London to bring forward in Phase one an impressive selection of quality homes and open spaces alongside the early delivery of a large selection of amenities, community events and activities, for both residents and the wider community, all intwined in a nature rich environment.

A better future for Hounslow

The teams delivering the Highways PFI contract in Hounslow are led by three individuals, who although very different in experience, share the same vision and passion for a better future for Hounslow. We got them together to talk about the project as it nears its mid-way point in 2025.

Why PFI, and why Hounslow?

The UK government wanted to test for “pump priming” investment to recover the backlog in highway maintenance that had built up over decades. The Private Finance Initiative (PFI) principle is to invest strongly, at the right time, to achieve lasting asset management. The then UK government had a competition for local highway authorities to make the case for their roads receiving PFI grants that would allow them to do this. Hounslow made one of the five best cases for this special investment and commitment from the government, and the procurement began.

Rob Gillespie, Chief Executive of Hounslow Highways Services, has worked with Hounslow Council, Ringway and the funders (DfT) who provided the capital investment to the project since before it began in 2013. As Lead Director for the procurement process with Ringway, he then became the Operational Director, guiding the teams through the early years of the project.

Sabeel Khan, Head of Highways PFI for the London Borough of Hounslow, came on board in 2016 during the Core Investment Period (CIP), and now leads the client team for the council working with the client, and the Operating Company (OpCo), Ringway Hounslow Highways (RHH).

Timothy Hurley, the RHH Service Director, started working on the tender in August 2012 before the contract was formally awarded. He is responsible for ensuring delivery of the day-to-day service and supporting nearly 200 members of staff who are striving to support the residents and users of Hounslow’s infrastructure.

They all agree, the PFI project allowed Hounslow to invest in its highway network with upgrade programmes that would not have been possible using council budgets. During the first 5 years of the project (CIP), most of the borough’s roads and footpaths were resurfaced, and approximately 16,000 new energy efficient LED streetlights installed.

We need to be doing the right things at the right time for the benefit of our residents, who we ultimately serve in making our Borough the best it possibly can be.

The contract was forward thinking and as a pathfinder, the ambition was to achieve the best collaborative and innovative outcome between the public and private sector. By bringing together expertise from both sectors, they are achieving excellence in service.

When asked what drives them to deliver such a complex contract, they all agree it’s the people.

Sabeel: My experiences working for the council have shaped me to use a partnership approach, not just for this project, but also with other council services, partners, elected members of the council and residents of the borough. We need to be doing the right

Timothy Hurley, Rob Gillespie and Sabeel Khan

I have seen the massive investment bought in by the PFI which has taken Hounslow from the lowest quartile to the top tier of London boroughs for road condition over the last seven years.

things at the right time for the benefit of our residents, who we ultimately serve in making our borough the best it can be.

Rob: For me it’s all about the people. I have been fortunate over the years to work in great organisations with great clients and suppliers. These joined-up teams become even greater when all the people are welltrained, empowered and valued. This has been a value of ours for many years, and I truly believe the Hounslow PFI has one of the best and closest partnerships.

Tim: Personally, it is the relationships I have formed with colleagues, residents and community groups over the last 12 years which have helped me grow, learn, and appreciate that it is the people that make the place. That means the people I work with and the people we serve, who care so much about where they live and rightly will be vocal about it.

What’s been your most memorable part of the project so far?

Rob: My high points seem small in comparison to the scale of the contract; however, it’s when we meet the public and businesses in local forums and discuss locally their expectations and what can be achieved. Similarly, the services we deliver are front-line. When I see one of our street cleansing operatives taking the time to help a member of the public with things outside of their job, that really warms my heart.

Tim: For me it was the funeral procession for Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II as it came through the borough. The relentless planning and preparations were surrounded by an atmosphere of respect and sense of purpose. The efforts undertaken by all services, boroughs, our teams and partners (including our sister contracts in Ringway) were immense and something I will never forget. Even the morning briefing on the day with a 100 of our operatives being deployed was a solemn but proud moment.

Sabeel: Completing the CIP in 2018, which was a huge achievement of nearly £100 million worth of betterment in the borough. Objectives and milestones were tight, and it required a laser focus from all parties, the council, the service provider and the OpCo, to be determined to deliver it, which we all did.

What are your aspirations for the remaining term of the project?

Tim: For me it is not just a contract. I have seen the investment bought in by the PFI which has taken Hounslow from the lowest quartile to the top tier of London boroughs for road condition over the last seven years. Coupled with the growth and confidence of businesses in the borough there is a real belief that Hounslow is a good place to live and do business.

Sabeel: We cannot let complacency set in. There are still roads to invest in, footways to repair, and environmental improvements to be made. A partnership approach is key as we come towards this phase of the project when we begin hand back. As a council officer, the delivery of the project to the expectations we set ourselves and to which we are held to account by our residents, means the most.

Rob: As we move into the second half of the contract, we want to continue to innovate and bring better services to the right areas and communities. We have a huge challenge in energy transition and carbon reduction, and this will be a focus for everyone through the next 13 years. Preparing for the end of the contract needs work, and we cannot start this early enough, but we will help the council prepare for what their new highway service will look like.

Challenges?

Sabeel: Hounslow, more than most boroughs in London, has an extremely busy network being a gateway in and out of London, to Heathrow and the west of the country. Our roads are always under pressure, so it is up to us to ensure we maintain the high standards we’ve set ourselves to keep the borough moving.

Tim: The population has grown nearly 20% since the start of the contract, which brings pressures on roads, cleansing services and operational resources. We need to direct

resource and investment to the right place at the right time, that means adapting and innovating to find ways to do things efficiently and right first time. We also must adapt as environmental priorities change so we are delivering a greener service by installing rain gardens, working on sustainable travel initiatives like cycle lanes, investing heavily in electric fleet.

Rob: Any long-term contract will face challenges and changes in the direction that the government and local government want to take. Our challenge is to work together to use the parts of the contract that allow us all to change things to meet the prevailing needs. This is a big job, but when everyone is focused on the end goal with common understanding, it can be achieved.

Final words…

Rob: This is my favourite place. The team here joke that it is the place I like to be the most and they are right. It is a privilege to be so close to the workings of a busy urban borough and to hopefully make a difference.

Such long-term projects are referred to as “relational contracts” which brings an emphasis to the need to work closely together to achieve things in an open and transparent way.

All three agree this has been the case in Hounslow and the service cannot deliver and develop without this. And they will carry on.

How did you get involved with the Chambers?

To be in Hounslow for 25 years is a generation and building long-term relationships had to start with investing time and effort with the residential and business communities we serve that provide jobs, opportunities, and investment (just like us) in Hounslow. RHH committed to be the principal sponsor for the Chamber Awards from 2014 and saw clearly how important the chamber has been in supporting businesses and investment in the Borough.

Confidence or confidence trick?

If there’s one word to ensure the success of an economy, it is confidence. Confidence makes companies invest and grow their business. There needs to be confidence in the investment market, both domestically and from overseas and most importantly, confidence in consumers, be they private clients or corporates. This is vital for the service sector of an economy, especially for Britain, where roughly two-thirds of the economy is based on consumer and corporate services, as opposed to manufacturing.

By Justin Urquhart-Stewart

So the key item for our new Chancellor was to ensure that no matter how bitter the economic medicines that she had to prescribe, it was done so in a manner that ensured the confidence of everyone in the country in order to boost the economy, grow profits and increase the returns for investors.

The task for Rachel Reeves was never going to be easy, holding an economic stick in one hand while proffering a dynamic carrot in the other. Any politician in this position should have taken into account the financial and economic quagmire that was left so recently by the fiasco that was the short, sharp and painful political regime under Liz Truss. Whether it was through pride or arrogance, she failed to garner that vital confidence of all those stakeholders from citizens to corporate entities.

With the recent memory of a disastrous Budget that spooked the markets, the Chancellor should have taken these issues into account when delivering her first Budget. However, the result was the highest level of government debt in living memory and was inevitably going to cause

shockwaves. If ever there was a Budget that seemed to reflect the nervousness of Hallowe’en, this was it. And it gave the opportunity for the financial witches and warlocks to show their nervousness and yes – lack of confidence.

This was a wasted opportunity as it failed to provide that key element of economic confidence. A far more constructive way of going about this would have been to focus on the exciting and successful areas of our economy. For example, we are seen internationally as one of the most dynamic economies for technological innovation and development in the world.

These companies are the ones which should have the confidence to grow their value, their profits and in doing so, the amount of tax they pay to the Government. Focusing on the areas of greater potential is far more encouraging for investors in the UK, both domestically and internationally. Any Chancellor therefore could put the economic focus of Britain on to these sectors without any major amounts of government investment.

The Chancellor should offer generous incentives by way of tax breaks such as EIS (Enterprise Investment Scheme) which could be further expanded to companies of any size and in any area, creating not just another EIS scheme – but providing greater regional investment incentives to create an REIS (Regional EIS). The result would have been a far more dynamic economy which would encourage investors’ confidence - and to prove that this was no confidence trick.

Photo by Kirsty O’Connor / Treasury

The Chancellor delivers the Autumn Budget 2024

Discover Fulham Business Awards

in partnership with Huddle and The Fulham Centre

Date: Tuesday 3rd December 2024

Venue: Mercure London Earls Court

Lillie Road, London, SW6 1UD

Discover Fulham in partnership with The Fulham Centre and Huddle are delighted to invite you to join us to celebrate the Best Businesses in the Fulham Broadway Business Improvement District.

Join us at the Mercure London Earls Court for drinks, dinner, dancing and most importantly the presentation of our awards, recognising our best businesses and employees. There are 10 awards up for grabs on the night, and businesses can apply for consideration for any of the awards categories below:

Best Customer Service

Responsible Workplace

Best Retail Business

Hospitality Business of the Year

Best Professional Service Business

Fitness Business of the Year

New Business of the Year

Wellbeing Business of the Year

Best Social Media Employee of the Year

Partnerships with purpose Safer Business Action Day in Fulham

Friday 18th October saw the tackling of business crime in the Discover Fulham area escalate to a new level. Working in partnership with Safer Business Network and the Metropolitan Police, our Safer Business Action Day (SABA) showed the true value of partnership working and what can be done when all objectives are aligned.

The aims of the day of action were to be a visible presence throughout the BID area, focusing on finding prolific offenders, increasing reporting of crime, increasing trust and understanding with the police, reducing anti-social behaviour, promoting our work to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and to raise awareness to support activities in crime prevention.

There was a combined, multi-faceted approach which included a morning briefing with major businesses throughout the area –detailing the days activities and informing of extra support that was included on the day. Patrols and business visits which included Safer Business Network, Discover Fulham Street Wardens, Metropolitan Police (two Sergeants, nine Police Officers, three Police Community Safety Officers), Hammersmith & Fulham Council Law Enforcement Team and CCTV Team, equated to over 30 hours of joint patrols, with over 100 businesses visited. The Police hosted two ‘Coffee with a Copper’ events in areas that are targeted for shoplifting, giving both residents and businesses the opportunity to speak to their local officers and for the officers to build relationships within the community. There was also a stand housed in Fulham Broadway Retail Centre, the highest footfall space within the area, that provided information on a range of crime prevention activities.

The Safer Business Day of Action resulted in one prolific offender being arrested on the day, charged and remanded on three counts of theft. One suspect was arrested for theft, criminal damage and common assault. Four Community Protection Warnings were issued as a request to cease the behaviour that is detrimental to the local community. There were an additional five stop and searches carried out.

The day was deemed a great success by all involved, and all parties want to continue the partnership working by making the Safer Business Action Days a regular activity, focusing on different areas of crime and antisocial behaviour that are being committed in Fulham.

“We thought it was a great initiative - we had much lower incidence of crime on the day, so word definitely got out. Great to see you and the team visiting businesses too. We would definitely support this sort of event in future.”

Branch Manager, National Supermarket

“The recent Action Day in Fulham was like a ‘cherry on the top’ of an already great collaboration. It was amazing to see so many police officers in the area connecting with businesses and making arrests. We’ve heard a lot of positive feedback from the customers as well.”

Branch Manager, National Health and Wellbeing Store

West London’s Andreea Tufescu

Photography wins Silver at Best Businesswomen Awards 2024

The Best Businesswomen Awards recently announced their winners for 2024.

This year’s event was a landmark celebration of the awards’ 10-year legacy of highlighting female-led business success stories. West London creative Andreea Tufescu from Andreea Tufescu Photography won the Best Customer Service - Silver Star Award in this prestigious competition which seeks to find the very best female business talent from across the UK.

Andreea Tufescu is a specialist portrait and event photographer based in Ealing West London, offering Personal Branding, Business and Event Photography. Over the past decade she has been helping business owners, founders and entrepreneurs elevate their professional image and attract their ideal clients with expertly crafted on-brand visuals.

Andreea Tufescu, founder of Andreea Tufescu Photography, expressed her gratitude by saying “I am beyond excited to have been recognised in this prestigious national business award competition for something I’m so passionate about, especially as it comes in the same year that Andreea Tufescu Photography celebrates 10 years in business too! West London Chambers is always pleased to hear about the achievements of our members. Congratulations, Andreea! www.andreeatufescu.com

Grayson Perry exhibition in Ealing

Grayson Perry: The Vanity of Small Differences is exhibiting at Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery in Ealing Green until Sunday 8 December.

For the first time, this exhibition brings the Turner-Prize-winning artist’s six largescale tapestries to a building where William

Hogarth’s A Rake’s Progress, the inspiration behind Perry’s tapestries, were purchased for and displayed.

The set of monumental tapestries offer a contemporary re-reading of William Hogarth’s A Rake’s Progress, a series of eight satirical paintings depicting a riches-to-rags tale of Tom Rakewell in 18th Century London. Hogarth’s original paintings were bought by Sir John Soane’s wife 222 years ago to be displayed at Pitzhanger. The Soanes subsequently moved with their art collections to Lincoln’s Inn Fields. However, Pitzhanger continues to display a full series of framed 18th century engravings of A Rake’s Progress in their original setting of the vibrant red walls of the Soane’s drawing room. Visitors to the exhibition will be in the unique position to be able to compare and contrast both intricately detailed morality tales in the home of Hogarth’s series.

Taking Hogarth’s famed series as a starting point, Perry’s tapestries depict a corresponding fable of class, taste and social mobility. Tickets are £12, concessions from £10, children under 16 free. The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday.

West Kensington house receives blue plaque for its Black history

An historical house in Hammersmith & Fulham which was home to Kenya’s first president, Jamaica’s most outspoken political activist, and leading civil rights figures, has been honoured with commemorative plaques as part of Black History Month.

Between 1928 and 1964, residents of the house at 57 Castletown Road included Jomo Kenyatta, the African statesman and nationalist who went on to become the first Prime Minister, then President, of independent Kenya.

When Kenyatta arrived in London in March 1929, he had nowhere to stay. He was offered space in the house by Nigerian civil rights lawyer and leader of the West African Organisation Ladipo Solanke, who has also been commemorated.

Solanke had been supported in his campaigning for Nigerian rights by Amy Ashwood Garvey, the Jamaican feminist activist who co-founded the influential newspaper Negro World with her husband Marcus Garvey, the Black nationalist.

From March 1928 to October 1929 the house, which is spread across five storeys, was home to Amy and Marcus, regarded as the most significant human rights married couple of the 20th century.

Then, 35 years later, the house became a temporary home for Malcolm X, the African American revolutionary who campaigned for civil rights. He stayed in the house a year before his assassination in New York in 1965, weeks before his 40th birthday.

“It is a great honour for a property to be awarded a blue heritage plaque,” said Dr Jak Beula of the Nubian Jak Community Trust, the largest deliverer of diverse plaques in the world.

“It is rare for a residential property to be the site of two plaques, and almost unprecedented to be connected with three. So to have an address associated with five global figures is practically bonkers!”

Cllr Sharon Holder, H&F Cabinet Member for Public Realm, said it was a “great example” of partnership between H&F and the Trust.

The unveiling was attended by Muhammad Ali Jr, son of the legendary heavyweight boxing champion, and Matthew Marshall, Chair of the Malcolm X Foundation.

Jomo Kenyatta

Andreea Tufescu

NOVOTEL LONDON BRENTFORD

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Christmas Day

Three courses£48pp Threecourses+glassofwineor prosecco £53pp Christmas bookings now being taken

Our contemporary West London hotel lies less than 8 miles east of Heathrow Airport, and the centre of London is easily accessible by rail (Brentford Station) or via the Elizabeth Line (Ealing Broadway) as well as by tube (South Ealing Station).

Visit our Gourmet Bar & Restaurant which offers traditional and modern dining throughout the day. Our 4-star Hotel boast 202 modern bedrooms, seven fully-equipped meeting rooms

catering for up to 60 guests, an indoor heated pool, a saunarium and fitness centre, plus complimentary Wi-Fi throughout.

Family-Friendly Novotel London Brentford is just a short drive from the beauty of Kew Royal Botanical Gardens, the historic avenues of Richmond and the roar of Twickenham Stadium.

Home of Brentford FC is Brentford Community Stadium, a 15 minute walk from the hotel.

Novotel London Brentford is a proud member of West London Chambers of Commerce

Hotel that makes every moment matter

Novotel London Brentford

Great West Road, Brentford. TW8 0GP

T:+44 20 7660 2230 E: H6995@accor.com www.novotel.com

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Meet the Chamber team Aya Nouwailati Business Adminstrator

How long have you worked for the Chamber? 17 months.

What do you do? Describe a ‘typical’ day.

My day always starts with a coffee made by my husband. I am an administrator, so tackling emails, answering queries and reaching out to our members is always a priority. I create content for our social media and email newsletters that go out weekly. I assist my COO Sally Smith with our events. I enjoy running the networking events as it allows me to meet new people and chat face-to-face with our members. There is never a ‘typical day’ as there is always something new going on and we are constantly active.

Career path so far?

My career has mainly been in the sales and marketing sector. My first job was sales assistant and photographer for a photo operations team in London’s biggest attractions. I have come a long way since and every experience I have had has come in handy for my current position.

What has been your proudest moment?

So much time is dedicated to the events we run, so whenever an event is completed and successful, that is a very proud moment. When I see a business flourish because of the services and connections we provide, that is also a proud moment for me.

Do you have a favourite event?

The West London Festival of Business is personally my favourite to organise. It is very time-consuming and can be stressful at times, but I absolutely love seeing the stand-holders in action promoting their businesses. Earlier this year, we had a footfall of 450 visitors at the exhibition, which was a great success! We have our next one running in March 2025.

When you are away from the office, what you do enjoy doing?

I am an artist, so whenever I have free time, I will be working on my art. I am a pyro and stippling artist; my work is centred around our natural world and wildlife. My business is called White Deer Creations. I sell online and I do market stalls seasonally and every piece I sell, 10 per cent will go to selected wildlife rescue and protection organisations. In September, I entered the Landmark’s Art Centre’s Park Art Competition. My submitted piece was shortlisted, won runner-up for the ‘People’s Choice Award’, and was sold!

Tell us something people may not know about you.

I am an art teacher! On Monday afternoons and weekends, I am a teacher for Cygnets Arts Club in Twickenham and Teddington branches. It is something I am quite proud of and really enjoying doing. It is a pleasure seeing my students learn and develop their technical skills and help achieve their best work.

The West London Festival of Business is personally my favourite to organise. It is very time-consuming and can be stressful at times, but I absolutely love seeing the stand-holders in action promoting their businesses. Earlier this year, we had a footfall of 400 visitors at the exhibit, which was a great success! We have our next one running in March 2025.

Chamber international trade update

Alan Rides MIEx (Grad) Chief Executive

Trade with Morocco is up in both directions to £3.6bn, so our Chambers first trade mission to Morocco will take place in November 2024 led by David Billingsby, supported by Samar and Sally. He will take a delegation of eight Chamber members to Casablanca to improve exports to Morocco and inward investment from Morocco.

This mission is to take forward relations made in the visit in early October from Moroccan Agency for Investment & Export Development (AMDIE) whose 30-strong delegation was well received by our Chambers members. A follow-up event was also held at the Grosvenor Hotel where we presented with LCCI, and the Moroccan Embassy. Presentations showed that Morocco is not just a UK tourist destination; the UK is now Morocco’s 4th largest export market with exports up from £500m to over £2.2bn made up mainly of fruit and vegetables. Also, UK exports to Morocco went up from £500m to £1.3bn making up 71% of goods and only 29% of services.

The UK is also investing in Morocco via the XLinks project, where nearly 10% of the UK’s power will be delivered via Solar farms (some the size of Greater London in the Sahara Desert) and Wind Turbines (in the Atlas Mountains) via a subsea electric cable running directly to the UK.

The UK is now Morocco’s 4th largest export market with exports up from £500m to over £2.2bn made up mainly of fruit and vegetables. Also, UK exports to Morocco went up from £500m to £1.3bn making up 71% of goods and only 29% of services.

Alan Rides, Chamber CEO and BExA board member celebrate UK exports at the BExA annual lunch with speeches from UKEF CEO Tim Reid

Congratulations to Dr Renu for winning the International Jurists Award 2024

China trade visit

With China being the world’s largest exporter of goods, Alan Rides, Chamber CEO, visited to understand what is happening in the new COVID-free/ immunised world where tariff barriers are becoming the new sanctions. In recent years, China has been setting some impressive trade numbers. Exports have risen to $2.8tn in 2020, $3.5tn in 2021 and $3.7tn in 2022, but in 2023, exports were down to $3.38tn, so what is happening?

Looking closer to home, China’s exports to the UK in 2023, at £56bn, are down by 20%, compared to UK exports to China at £32bn, down a little from the record year in 2022 of £33bn. It is worth remembering that China has a population of 1.4bn people and exports $3.7tn, compared with the UK having a 65m population (5% of the Chinese population) we export a record setting $1.1tn so person for person we do very well and are the worlds 4th largest exporter behind China, USA and Germany.

Our delegation, consisting of Lord Waverley and Prof Don Lewis, supported by Wei Li (GoGlobal Trade) and myself, was looking to understand post-COVID China and commercial trade opportunities globally, with my focus on trade via West London with the UK, especially Foreign Direct Investment.

We visited 4 Chinese cities in 10 days, including Guangzhou and Shenzhen, with a view of Hong Kong, plus Qingdao and Beijing.

Our mission started in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), where we were part of the opening ceremonies of the 136th Canton Fair, which attracts over 200,000 visitors to see over 2000 exhibitors in an exhibition area of 400,000m2 or four times ExCeL. The mission ended in Bejing.

The visit provided valuable insights into the fast-evolving post-COVID Chinese market and opened opportunities for collaboration with GoGlobal Trade with a range of different local partners linking Chambers of Commerce and Associations led by West London Chambers of Commerce.

I was inspired by the warm receptions, how committed, experienced, passionate and open the delegates were, and the enthusiasm shown to grow globally, now with their own brands instead of simply being a low-cost manufacturing base for Western brands. This is reflected best with cars; Tesla being the international brand made in China, MG being the purchased overseas brand now all made in China and BYD the home grown Chinese brand all made in China.

For help with trade in China we now have exceptional market access and contacts so please be in touch.

Goods exports rise to EU and non-EU countries across different sectors

The volume of UK goods exports surged by 10.8% in August with rises in aircraft sales to Germany, pharmaceutical goods and medicine to Germany, Belgium and the US, and manufactured material goods in India amongst the exports.

The rise completed a three-month period of two double-digit increases either side of a double-digit dip. Sales to the EU rose by 13.2% and to non-EU countries by 8.4%.

Exports to the EU were led by rises in machinery and transport equipment, with aircraft sales to Germany a major driver. Chemicals exports were also strong, chiefly medicines and pharmaceutical goods to Germany and Belgium.

For non-EU countries, demand was high for manufactured material goods in India, mechanical machinery in China, and chemicals exports in the US.

Goods exports values rose by 2.8% from the start of June to the end of August.

On UK goods imports, there was a small increase of 0.2% in volume terms in August, with non-EU imports rising by 2.8%. This was driven by fuel import rises from Norway and increased mechanical equipment imports from China. However, this was offset by a fall in EU imports of 2.4% in volume terms, led by lower car imports from Germany and refined oil from Belgium.

Services exports were estimated to have a steady month with growth of 0.2% in August in both value and volume terms. Services imports to the UK increased slightly by 0.5% in value for August.

William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “The last three months have seen big swings in UK goods exports, with a double-digit fall in sales sandwiched between two doubledigit increases.

“Taking the data from June to August, overall, produces a 2.8% increase in value terms over that period. UK services exports continue to offer stability with modest, but steady, month-on-month growth.

“There are reasons for optimism. The World Trade Organisation forecast a gradual recovery in sales of goods and strong growth in services for the second half of this year.

“The forthcoming Budget, Spending Review and Trade Strategy must all focus on providing the conditions to expand trade as a driver of growth for the UK economy.”

“With the UK being the fourth largest exporter on the planet, and specifically with strong global growth in services, where we are the second largest, being supplied mainly by London companies, there should be many reasons for optimism as we move into 2025.”

Alan Rides, CEO, West London Chambers of Commerce

Photo by UKhub2@ Pixabay

The UK digital bank that bridges you to the world

iFAST Global Bank is a UK Bank authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by both the PRA and Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

It is a UK digital bank that bridges you to the world and is part of the iFAST Corporation Group, a digital banking and wealth management platform headquartered and listed in Singapore (stock code: AIY).

iFAST Corporation was incorporated in the year 2000 in Singapore and today provides a comprehensive range of investments products and services to financial advisory forms, financial institutions, banks, multinational companies, as well as retain and high net worth investors in Asia.

iFAST’s mission is to provide global connectivity and convenience to consumers, corporates and financial institutions through accessible products and services that help them achieve their objectives.

Driven by a highly committed team with the vision, motivation and expertise to pioneer products and services. We create value for our customers, our partners, and our communities by working in partnership, forging new connections,

sharing innovative ideas and removing unnecessary barriers.

iFAST Global Bank is a direct participant of CHAPS (Clearing House Automated Payment System) and a direct participant of Faster Payments. It is therefore a clearer of GBP. It is also a direct participant of SWIFT and can undertake cross border payments. It offers a range of currencies in GBP, USD, EUR, HKD, SGD, CNY and JPN. These can be opened as a single currency account or as a multicurrency account.

The Bank has recently introduced its online FX facility that will allow customers to move funds across accounts that they hold in the above-mentioned currencies.

The ability to provide FX facilities and cross border payments can assist the likes of importers, exporters and logistic companies in relation to their trade payments.

Apart from supporting medium sized enterprises, the bank also supports nonbanking financial institutions such as:

• Payment institutions,

• Wealth management firms,

• Investment management firms

• Brokerage firms,

• Law firms.

iFAST Global Bank is also a member of the Financial Services Compensation Scheme and therefore deposits are protected up to the sum of £85,000, to ensure that you are eligible under the scheme, or if you would like more information, please visit: www.fscs.org.uk

The bank offers a range of fixed term deposits in GBP; for terms & interest rates please see the following link:

www.ifastgb.com/en/corporate-fixedterm-deposits

We also offer these deposits in some of the other currencies we provide, if you are interested in fixed term deposits in other currencies then please contact us at dtbservices@ifastgb.com

To find out more please visit our website www.ifastgb.com

Our vision is an East West digital bank connecting financial institutions, corporates and consumers.

The iFAST DNA is the integration of these three values that fortify our Group.

Integrity

Commitment to the highest standards in all respects

We are committed to the highest standards and operate in an open and honest manner in everyone’s best interest to create a culture of respect and appreciation for all.

Innovation

Add value with continuous development and learning

We are passionate about understandingour customers and responding in a manner that will add value to meet their needs, and thrive for continuous learning and development.

Transparency

Empower stakeholders to make informed decisions

We work hard looking for ways to improve our operations through creativity and in a transparent manner, building a professional multcultural team to connect with our customers.

Mark Garrity

Mark is the General Manager of Digital Transaction Banking and a member of the Bank’s Executive Committee. He spearheaded setting up the Digital Transaction Banking business unit to serve the needs of NBFIs, banks and corporate clients.

Mark is a veteran banker having worked at HSBC and Midland Bank for over 30 years and was Senior International Commercial Manager with HSBC Bank. His passion for understanding and delivering on client needs dates back to his experience as being a branch manager, something that he adds value within the digital banking space realising the importance of effective customer relationship management. He brings a wide range of experience in banking to his clients which includes; International Commercial Banking, Credit Assessments, Business Analysis, Customer Relationships and the Payments Industry.

Mark joined iFAST Global Bank in 2017 and played a key role initially in getting the banking licence, the sale of Bank and then launch of transactional banking services. He is highly motivated and conscientious which is supported with strong tenacity and integrity. He is an approachable individual with a strong Professional Attitude.

Navigating the growing threat landscape

by Chamber Patron Timeless IMS

In the past decade, cyber threats have become more sophisticated and more frequent. Hackers no longer target just large corporations; small businesses are increasingly seen as easy prey due to their often-limited security measures. Phishing, malware, ransomware, and data theft are daily risks.

This evolving threat landscape makes the need for robust IT security clear. However, investing in the right security solutions and providers is a challenge. Business owners must prioritise protecting their digital infrastructure while still maintaining profitability and business growth. The tough choices come down to deciding how much to invest, which services to prioritise, and who to trust with your business’s most valuable data.

Investing in IT security can be challenging for several reasons:

Cost vs. perceived risk:

Many business owners struggle with the cost of security measures. IT security services, ranging from firewalls and antivirus software to advanced monitoring systems and encryption can be expensive. For smaller businesses with tight budgets, the temptation is to allocate funds elsewhere and hope for the best. However, the reality is that the cost of not securing your business far outweighs the investment. A single data breach can result in massive financial loss, legal penalties, and irreparable harm to your reputation.

The complexity of solutions:

The world of IT security is complex and constantly evolving. Business owners often feel overwhelmed by the technical jargon,

numerous options, and rapidly changing threats. From firewalls to cloud security and multi-factor authentication, the range of choices can make it hard to know what is truly necessary. This complexity makes decision-making more difficult, especially for those without a technical background.

Trusting the right provider:

Choosing the right IT security partner is another difficult choice. With many companies offering a wide array of services, it can be challenging to discern which provider will offer the best protection, service, and response times. The wrong choice could leave your business vulnerable.

Protecting your business for the future

As a business owner, you are constantly faced with difficult choices, none more critical than how to protect your company in a rapidly changing digital world. The decisions you make about IT security today will define the future of your business and go along way to safeguarding your business’s longevity.

Choosing the right IT security partner can be challenging, which is why Timeless IMS

perform a Technology Alignment Review (TAM), which includes an End Point Risk Assessment (ERA), so we can understand the prospective company’s current security posture and highlight any vulnerabilities they currently have before we become their partner.

As a business owner, you are constantly faced with difficult choices, none more critical than how to protect your company in a rapidly changing digital world.

IT Support when and where you need it https://www.timelessims.co.uk/contact/ Contact us at sales@timelessims.co.uk or call us on 0800 3282852.

Photo by 123RF

GUNNERSBURY PARK SPORTS HUB

We have something to keep the whole family active and entertained including:

• State-of-the-art gym

• Sports hall

• Fitness studios

• Floodlit 3G pitches

• Floodlit tennis courts

• Football, cricket and rugby pitches

Discover more at better.org.uk/gunnersbury-park

Looking after our wellbeing

Our wellbeing should be important to us all, whether in the workplace or at home. Since the pandemic we are now rethinking and reordering our priorities. This has meant that we are now making our wellbeing a priority and by putting our wellbeing first, we are concentrating on our physical and mental health. All articles are contributed by Chamber members. We thank them!

Smart eating strategies to overcome the afternoon energy dip

We’ve all been there, around 3 pm, energy plummets, focus fades, and productivity takes a hit. The midafternoon slump can be challenging, especially on days when you need to be at your best. Did you know that your dietary choices can significantly impact your energy levels?

What Causes the Mid-Afternoon Slump?

The slump often stems from fluctuating blood sugar levels. A carb-heavy lunch or sugary snacks can cause blood sugar to spike, offering a brief burst of energy, followed by a crash. To avoid this, I have four simple tips for you.

1. Start Your Day with a Power Breakfast

A balanced, savoury breakfast that includes protein sets the foundation for sustained energy by keeping you fuller for longer. I recommend eggs with avocado on wholegrain toast or oats with nuts and berries.

2. Snack Smart

It’s tempting to reach for something sugary between meals, but these can destabilise your blood sugar and energy levels. Instead, opt for Greek yoghurt with berries, hummus with veggie sticks, unsalted nuts, or one square of dark chocolate (>70% cocoa) if you need a treat.

3. Hydrate

Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue and reduced concentration. Sip water consistently throughout the day. I recommend 2 litres daily (add soup, kombucha, or herbal teas for added benefit).

4. Eat Mindfully

Overeating, even on healthy foods, can make you sluggish, as your body diverts energy to digestion. Whether at work socials or enjoying subsidised lunches in the canteen, be mindful of portion sizes, and chew each mouthful 20-30 times to prevent overeating. Ruchi Bhuwania Lohia is a BANT-registered nutritional therapist, health coach, and founder of Wellness with Ruchi www.wellnesswithruchi.com.

Her practice is dedicated to guiding busy individuals towards a nutrition and wellness path that empowers them to live vibrant, fulfilling lives.

Ruchi’s mission is to help you reclaim your mental and physical well-being and age healthily through a personalised, sciencebacked, and sustainable approach based on the principles of functional medicine. She takes pride in creating nutrition and lifestyle strategies that are simple and seamlessly integrate into busy lives.

Infrared Light Therapy changed my life

Over 10 years ago Allison Huff suffered a back injury that left her with slipped discs and damaged vertebrae. ‘I was looking at a lifetime of injections and pharmaceuticals,’ she recalls. ‘Then, while visiting my parents in Texas, I went to an Infrared Sauna studio. After three visits the pain had gone: I was so inspired that I decided to bring the concept to London.’

The health and wellbeing benefits that come from raising our core temperature, kickstarting the body’s natural healing processes, have long been scientifically proven. ‘We have already built partnerships with traditional practitioners – dermatologists, rheumatologists, cardiologists, physical therapist’s personal trainers – all of whom recognise how Infrared Light Therapy can increase the chances of living a healthy, active life,’ says Allison.

Photo by Wesual Click on unsplash.com

Photo by Bluewater Sweden on unsplash.com

Ruchi Bhuwania Lohia

While a traditional sauna uses hot air to heat the body from the outside in, infrared light heats from the inside out. ‘We have four single infrared pods and one premier twoperson cabin-style sauna,’ explains Allison. ‘Clients lie down in the pod and trap the hot air with a towel: then, it’s simply a case of enjoying a deep tissue sweat for 30 minutes while always breathing fresh air.

‘We recommend integrating regular visits into a wellness regime. Everyone on the team is very friendly and we make the experience, which will be new for most, comfortable, and relaxing. For me, Sweat Lounge is more than a business. Infrared Light Therapy changed my life l am passionate about how it can help others: if you would like to find out more, come and see us.’

Right at Home: Leading the way in elderly care and community well being in West London

At Right at Home Ealing, Hounslow, Hammersmith & Fulham, we are committed to enhancing the quality of life for the elderly in our community by offering a range of exceptional homecare services. Our mission is to deliver compassionate, personalised care that promotes independence, dignity, and overall well-being for each of our clients.

We provide Dementia Care for those needing specialised support, helping individuals maintain their independence and quality of life. Our Personal Care services assist with daily tasks like bathing and dressing, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. For elderly individuals, we offer Elderly Care, designed to focus on comfort, health, and emotional well-being.

In addition, we provide Respite Care, giving primary caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring that their loved ones receive the highest quality care. For those requiring constant care, our Live-In Care service ensures round-the-clock support from a dedicated

CareGiver. We also offer Companionship & Support to combat loneliness and encourage social interaction, fostering emotional wellbeing.

Our Hospital-to-Home Care ensures a smooth recovery after hospital stays, and our Specialised Care services are designed for those with specific medical needs, including cancer care and end-of-life care. At Right at Home, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier care services that truly make a difference.

Beyond our exceptional care services, we believe in fostering well-being within the wider community. We run Memory Cafés across West London, including weekly and monthly sessions at Lampton Leisure Centre and St. Leonard‘s Church. These cafés provide a safe, welcoming space for elderly individuals to socialise, play games, engage in art activities, and share their life experiences. They also offer Chair Yoga, a gentle form of exercise that enhances flexibility, reduces stress, and improves overall wellbeing for the elderly.

We have expanded our Memory Café initiative with Silver Screenings at Chiswick Cinema, where classic films spark nostalgia and joy, and a new Memory Café at Chiswick Medical Centre, running twice a month. These programs are invaluable for fostering social connection and improving mental health.

The Director, Sanjay Vadhera, is also the Chair of the Alzheimer’s Society, playing a key role in raising dementia awareness during Dementia Awareness Week. We actively educate the community and offer support in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society. Additionally, we sponsor local events, including a local football tournament promoting mental health awareness, with proceeds donated to Mind Charity. Our involvement in community events like Healthy Hounslow and Macmillan Cancer Support showcases our dedication to making a positive impact on health and well-being in West London.

www.rightathome.co.uk/ealingandhounslow

health & wellbeing

Healthy living in a time of uncertainty

In times of uncertainty, when rising costs make healthy living feel like a luxury, finding balance can seem out of reach.

As a wellbeing coach, I’m committed to helping you prioritise your health without breaking the bank. Yes, eating well can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be out of your budget if you approach it differently. Start small and start at home. Growing your own food can be one of the most rewarding and affordable steps you take. Consider perennial greens and groundnuts (packing a punch with protein) —plant them once, and they’ll keep coming back. If you don’t have much space, window boxes or balcony pots can do the trick. Picking your greens for the week is quick, easy, and can become a Sunday routine.

For those wanting an even simpler start, microgreens and sprouted legumes can be grown on your windowsill in no time, delivering a powerful nutrient punch. Seeds are cheap, and tools like sprouting towers can be found online.

Another budget-friendly option is buckwheat bread. It’s protein-rich and helps reduce blood sugar spikes. Organic buckwheat groats can make several loaves, which can be frozen for convenience.

Consider joining a health food membership, where for a small yearly fee, you get access to organic pantry essentials at warehouse prices.

When you’re running a business and you don’t have much time or spare cash these are surefire ways you can stay on top of your health game, keeping firing on all cylinders, sleep well at night and have enough energy for both work and home life.

As a Chamber member, I’m here to share resources like these so you can thrive—even on a budget. You can find more ideas at www.bravenewgirlmedia.com

events Past Events

A look back at some of our recent Chamber events

We were really pleased with the Ealing Festival of Business on 17th October. The day started with the Stakeholders Breakfast, with the following keynote speakers, Professor Peter John CBE, Vice Chancellor & President of UWL, Cllr Peter Mason, Leader of Ealing Council, Rupa Huq, MP for Ealing Central & Acton and Deidre Costigan, MP for Ealing Southall. At the Festival itself there were 40 high calibre stands ranging from WPA Healthcare to Renault Retail Group, 270 people came through the doors, the Meet the Buyer seminar was extremely well attended. Thank you to all our sponsors: Ealing Council, UWL, Heathrow, West London College and Currie Motors.

“Ealing Festival of Business was amazing. We enjoyed every second of it from the breakfast briefing session in the morning to the very end. The workshops were extremely relevant, and we met loads of businesses we could support with our services and partner with. A 5-star event and we will be back in 2025. Can’t wait.“

Bidemi Alabi (Ealing TV)

Hounslow

Park Royal Business Breakfast – 11th September

Summer drinks at Linden House – 22nd August Acton Bid Business

Black History Month - 23rd October

Lookers Jaguar Landrover evening - 3rd October

Acton Bid Business Breakfast - 18th October

Forthcoming Events

Trade Mission to Morocco 11th –15th November, 2024

Acton BID Business Breakfast

The George and Dragon, 183 High Street, London W3 9DJ 15th November, 2024 | 8:30am – 10:30am

Changchun China Delegation

Trade Reception

Friday 15th November, 2024 | tbc

Business Awards 2024

Gtech Community Stadium, Lionel Road South, Brentford TW8 0RU

21st November, 2024 | 6:30pm - 11:30pm

KEZAD UAE Webinar

27th November, 2024 | tbc

Quiz Night

Venture X Chiswick Park, Building 7, 566 Chiswick Park, Chiswick High Rd, Chiswick, London W4 5YG

28th November, 2024 | 6:00pm - 9:00pm

Women in Business Christmas Event

Linden House, Upper Mall, London W6 9TA 4th December, 2024 | 5.00 pm - 8.00 pm

Fulllers Brewery tour & Christmas jolly

Fullers Brewery, Chiswick Lane South, London W4 2QB 5th December, 2024 | 4.00 pm - 9.00 pm

West London Chambers of Commerce

Dates for your diary - 2025

West London Festival of Business

7th March, 2025

Regeneration Conference 8th May, 2025 (tbc)

Charity Golf Day 12th June, 2025

Ealing Festival October, 2025

Business Awards 21st November, 2025

Please contact Sally Smith on sallysmith@westlondonchambers.org.uk or 07879 813817 or visit www.westlondonchambers.org.uk for more information.

21st November 2024, at 6.30 pm at the Gtech Community Stadium,

Lionel Road South, Brentford TW8 0RU

AWARD CATEGORIES

Business Enabler of the Year

Diversity and Inclusion Award

League of their own Award

Unsung Heroes Award

Best Business for Health & Wellbeing

Best Business for Hospitality & Leisure

Best Business for Marketing & Social Media

Best Charity/Social Enterprise

Best Entrepreneur

Best Exporter of the Year

Best Green Business

Best New Business (company must be under two years old)

Best Restaurants and Retailers

Best Small Company under 50 Employees

Best Tech Business

Creative Business of the Year

Education & Training Provider of the Year

Employer of the Year

Business of the Year

Chamber of Commerce Recognition Award

AWARD FINALISTS

Aciers UK Limited

Abex Infoway (Europe) Ltd

Action West London

Anchor Counselling

Andreea Tufescu Photography

AVA SEO Ltd.

AZ Design

Blue Crystal Property Management

Brentford Voice Community Interest Company

CBA Rope Access Ltd

CHEF

Serving Our Superheroes

Well-Being for All

Clayton Hotel Chiswick

Cookie Girl Ltd

Dads House

Denova GloSoft Limited

Discover Fulham

Dogs Delight

Double Tree by Hilton London Ealing

Ealing Hearing Centre

Earls Court Development Company

Edwards Removals

Eggs Invest

Flame & Fire restaurant

(KO Catering & Event Co Ltd)

Focused Futures Consultancy LTD

Garner & Hancock Solicitors

Genuine Restaurants

Sam’s Waterside

Gethsemane Ltd

Good Bakes Ltd

Gunea Luthra

Gurve Foundation

Hampton Brands

Hearing Well

Heavenly Desserts Hounslow

Hyatt Place London Heathrow Airport

Jacqueline Douglas Design

Jungle Versatile Indoor Play Ltd

K4 Group Services

Kingfisher SEC

Koffeeklatch Ltd

Lampton

LG PLANNING Ltd

L&S Fernandes Ltd

LeadTracker

Lula’s Patties

NJS Consulting t/a Auditel

McDonalds- SMASH operations

Magenta Security Services

Muddy Barkers Ltd

Olsights

OOGL Consultancy

Peckish Goose

PinkSEO Limited

Plane Saver Credit Union Ltd

Podcast Introduction

Ringway Hounslow Highways

Rocket Restaurants Ltd

Russell Finex

Shewise

Shiuli Restaurants Ltd

Simon Inc Ltd

Simplified Solutions & Co Ltd

SNAK Restaurants Limited t/a McDonald’s

State Bank of India UK

StoryBeyondLines

Stylus Networks

TAI UK- Think about it Ltd

TalonX

Tea For You T4 Acton

TechStart

The Confident Voice Incl, Shakespeare Today

The Village trading store

The WILDE Foundation

The University of West London (UWL)

The Upper Room

Thorns London

Walfinch Chiswick, Hammersmith and Kensington

West London Queer Project

West London Venues

West Thames College

Westgrove Support Services

Wild Bush

Woodford Tools

WSI Digital Advisors

Wyke Green Golf Club

Anne Valluy Photography

Photography

Anne Valluy www.annevalluy.com

Avant Healthcare Services Ltd

Care services

Sally Graham www.avanthomecare.co.uk

Brentford FC Conference & Events

Events

Katherine Hume www.events.brentfordfc.com

Chelsea Alliance

Risk and damage evaluation

Kapil Kumar

CJPixel

Web design & development

Christian Panter

www.cjpixel.dev

Communicoms Media Group Ltd

Media, marketing & comms

Bidemi Alabi www.communicomsmediagroup.co.uk

E.R Expert Ltd

Mediation services

Rachel Brownbill www.erexpert.co.uk

Expeed Software Ltd

Software solutions

Bineesh Thomas www.expeed.com

Feda Homes Ltd Real Estate

Emmanuel Adeboye

GB ESS Electric

Wholesale of household appliances

Karwan Raza www.gbelectric.co.uk

H&T Engineering

Scientific & technical consulting

Saad Tokatly

InnerVisions ID

Business coaching

Sapna Pieroux www.innervisions-id.com

Jostec Ltd

Building regulations & compliance services

Adam Honig-Joselyn www.jostec.co.uk

KT People

HR consultancy

Karen Tappin www.ktpeople.co.uk

Laudation Training

Education

Filsan Ahmed

London Media Lounge Ltd

Visual & audio production

Steve Parker www.londonmedialounge.co.uk

Magenta Storage Storage

Lana Meakin www.magentastorage.co.uk

Market & Me

Business growth

Sophie Eglin www.marketandme.co.uk

Master Your Finances

Financial services

Leticia Fonseca www.masteryourfinances.co.uk

Millenium Hotels (West London) Management Ltd

Hotel

Sally Raith-Riches www.millenniumhotels.com

Nick Evans Technology IT/technology/infrastructure

Nick Evans www.nickevans.it

Peter Graves Growth & Investment Ltd

Financial services

Peter Graves www.pggi.co.uk

Raise Design Ltd

Home design

Marta Jordan www.raisedesign.co.uk

Recovery Advisers

International debt collection

Laszlo Varnai www.recoveryadvisers.com

Renault Retail Group

Car dealership

Andrew Bennett-Fisher www.retailgroup.co.uk

RIF Worldwide PLC

Logistics

Steffan James www.rifgroup.co.uk

RWR Holding Private Ltd

Accountancy & financial services

Kenneth Roberts www.rwrholding.com

SC Consulting

Business packaging

Sergii Savytskyi www.savitskiy.biz

Sheila Bennett Ltd

Business support

Sheila Bennett www.sheilabennett.com

SSW Business Management Ltd

Management consultancy

Samandeep Wadhwa

SweatLounge

Infrared light therapy studio

Allison Huff www.sweatlounge.co.uk

Tax Assist Accountants

Accountancy & financial services

Kam Nagpal www.taxassist.co.uk/accountants/ shepherds-bush

Unique People Consult

Management consultancy

Thais Altgott website under construction

Uno Hotels Hotel

Sudhakar Balakrishnan www.unohotels.com

Visiativ UK Ltd

International professional services and consultancy

Chris Barker www.visiativ.co.uk

Wellness With Ruchi

Nutritional Therapist & Health Coach Ruchi Lohia www.wellnesswithruchi.com

Wendy’s Voice Ltd

Voice over artist

Wendy Okoroma www.thevoiceofwendy.com

West London property market remains resilient

By Anthony Coyle-Dowling Director, The Estate Agency and member of West London Chambers of Commerce

West London, as a key part of the broader London property market, has shown several noteworthy trends in recent months. The area, which includes soughtafter boroughs such as Ealing, Hammersmith, and Kensington & Chelsea, continues to attract both homebuyers and investors due to its mix of residential appeal, strong transport links, and proximity to major business hubs.

Price Stability and Growth

The property market in West London has remained relatively stable, with moderate price growth compared to other areas. According to recent reports, house prices in the area have experienced slight upward momentum, particularly in more affordable boroughs like Ealing, where prices remain lower than the central zones but have strong potential for future appreciation. The outer boroughs of West London are also seeing increased interest from buyers looking for better value while remaining close to central London. This trend has been further supported by improved transport links such as Crossrail, which continues to boost demand for properties in areas like Acton and West Drayton.

Buy-to-Let Appeal

For buy-to-let investors, West London offers promising rental yields, particularly in areas popular with young professionals and students. Ealing, for example, has a high demand for rental properties due to its proximity to universities, making it an attractive area for landlords. Additionally, rental prices in parts of West London have remained strong due to limited supply and continued high demand for rental accommodation, particularly in wellconnected locations.

New Developments and Regeneration

West London is also benefiting from significant regeneration projects and new developments. Areas like White City and Brentford have seen substantial investment in recent years, with new residential and mixed-use developments attracting both domestic and international buyers. These regeneration efforts are helping to revitalise these areas, making them increasingly attractive to buyers looking for modern, well-connected living spaces.

Conclusion

In summary, the property market in West London remains resilient, with steady price growth, strong rental demand, and ongoing regeneration projects enhancing the appeal of the area. Whether for personal residence or buy-to-let investment, West London continues to offer opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The outer boroughs of West London are also seeing increased interest from buyers looking for better value while remaining close to central London. This trend has been further supported by improved transport links such as Crossrail, which continues to boost demand for properties in areas like Acton and West Drayton.

Glazbury Rd, London by John Lord

5 minutes with... Rona Tait

TDS Commercial

Ltd

Who are you?

My name is Rona Tait. I own and manage TDS Commercial Ltd. I am also a supportive Chamber member and when my schedule allows, I come to a number of networking events.

What’s your business all about?

TDS Commercial Ltd is an independent commercial laundry, based in Isleworth. We specialise in servicing four and five star boutique hotels, beauty spas, exclusive private households and elite sports teams. We offer a linen hire service as well as a laundry service of client’s own goods.

Three words to describe yourself?

Ambitious, Resilient and Passionate

Ideal customer?

Three star plus hotels that require a high quality 100% reliable service. Elite sports teams. Customers that have unusual requirements. Our most unusual projects recently have included 25-yard table cloths with a very specific folding requirement. We now process these every week as they are used for State banquets. And anthem jackets for the RFU that are very creased but can’t be ironed with a hot iron. We have found a solution and the jackets look great, which of course they need to, as they are worn on the pitch while the anthems are being sung.

Biggest achievement?

Building a successful business and supportive environment for our staff.

Biggest gripe?

No support from the UK government for SME businesses to help navigate towards net zero.

Your inspiration?

My mum Professor Joyce Tait CBE, FRSE, FSRA, she is a multi-disciplined social scientist. Her achievements are too many to list here, but she is currently working with British Standards institute on achievable standards to help businesses achieve net zero. A goal I am determined TDS must reach.

Philosophy in business?

A work environment should be happy, supportive and safe for all staff. I believe if you create the right environment staff will thrive and will be better at their job.

Sporting hero?

Andy Murray, for his sheer dogged determination

Biggest tip for success?

Be honest with your clients and staff, work as hard as your team and always keep an eye on the financials.

A work environment should be happy, supportive and safe for all staff.

I believe if you create the right environment staff will thrive and will be better at their job.

Celebrate the Magic of Christmas at Novotel London West!

Located in the heart of Hammersmith (W6 8DR), let us help you this festive season to create unforgettable memories with your colleagues, friends, and family!

Join us for our exclusive Christmas offering designed to bring joy and cheer to your celebrations.

At Novotel London West, we’re ready to celebrate with you!

Festive Highlights:

Party Packages: Slip on your dancing shoes and get ready to sing your heart out to all your favourite Christmas classics with friends & colleagues!

Delicious Dining: Indulge in a festive buffet, crafted by our talented chefs using the finest seasonal ingredients. Perfect for both group dinners and family gatherings.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Ring in the New Year with style and flair!

Celebrate the countdown with a fabulous evening of dining and festivities.

Accommodation Deals: Make it a night to remember! Special rates for overnight stays ensure you can relax after the festivities.

Dates Available: November 22nd, 2024 – January 5th 2025

Festive Parties

Three course festive menu

@ £ 72.00 pp

Half bottle of wine & DJ included

Bowl & finger food

@ £52.00 pp

Two drinks per person ( wine beer & soft drinks) & novelties included

Festive carvery lunches & dinner

£30.00 per adult

All prices are excl. VAT

Scan the QR code to view our Christmas brochure

Christmas Day dinner – buffet

£49.50 per adult

Complimentary glass of Prosecco included

New Year’s Eve – buffet

£43.00 per adult

Complimentary glass of Prosecco included.

For more information on our festive parties and offers, please contact us on:

T: 020 8237 7407 E: H0737-SB@ACCOR.COM

For restaurant festive bookings, Christmas day evening and New Years Eve, please contact us on:

T: 07721 459 314 E: H0737-FB1@ACCOR.COM

Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, Hammersmith, London W6 8DR

Lets Talk Business Nov 24

Welcome to the year-end edition of Let’s Talk Business.

The benefits of Business Improvement Districts

Unlocking your potential

SMEs are the beating heart of our high streets and communities

Moving to a cheaper, greener energy system

SMART METER BENEFITS

‘If people enjoy work, they do better work’

Branduin’s winning formula for helping SMEs grow revenue

Are solar panels worth installing in the UK?

How many solar panels are needed?

Solar panel energy production

Heathrow relaunches

‘World of Opportunity’ to support budding exporters

London Business Partnership (LBP) delivering free LONDON E-Business Support Programme to empower SMEs

Unleash the limitless potential of apprenticeships with Work Hounslow

CHEF Cookbook Launch: Supporting young care leavers in Hillingdon, UK

Wheels and Wheelchairs challenge

Silver Civic Award for The Green Quarter

A better future for Hounslow

Why PFI, and why Hounslow?

Challenges?

Confidence or confidence trick?

Discover Fulham Business Awards

in partnership with Huddle and The Fulham Centre

Partnerships with purpose Safer Business Action Day in Fulham

West London’s Andreea Tufescu

Photography wins Silver at Best Businesswomen Awards 2024

Grayson Perry exhibition in Ealing

West Kensington house receives blue plaque for its Black history

NOVOTEL LONDON BRENTFORD

Hotel that makes every moment matter

Meet the Chamber team Aya Nouwailati Business Adminstrator

Chamber international trade update

China trade visit

Goods exports rise to EU and non-EU countries across different sectors

The UK digital bank that bridges you to the world

Integrity

Innovation

Transparency

Mark Garrity

Navigating the growing threat landscape

Trusting the right provider:

Protecting your business for the future

GUNNERSBURY PARK SPORTS HUB

Looking after our wellbeing

Smart eating strategies to overcome the afternoon energy dip

Infrared Light Therapy changed my life

Right at Home: Leading the way in elderly care and community well being in West London

health & wellbeing

Healthy living in a time of uncertainty

events Past Events

Forthcoming Events

AWARD CATEGORIES

AWARD FINALISTS

West London property market remains resilient

Price Stability and Growth

Buy-to-Let Appeal

New Developments and Regeneration

Conclusion

5 minutes with... Rona Tait

TDS Commercial

Ltd

Who are you?

What’s your business all about?

Three words to describe yourself?

Biggest achievement?

Your inspiration?

Philosophy in business?

Sporting hero?

Celebrate the Magic of Christmas at Novotel London West!

Festive Highlights:

Festive Parties

Articles inside

Ltd

West London property market remains resilient

events Past Events

health & wellbeing Healthy living in a time of uncertainty

Right at Home: Leading the way in elderly care and community well being in West London

Smart eating strategies to overcome the afternoon energy dip