The Masthead July 2017 by Benham Publishing Limited

the

masthead Official Magazine for South East London Chamber of Commerce - Issue 3

• FOCUS ON LONDON BOROUGH OF BROMLEY • • BIG INTERVIEW • CONSTRUCTION • EDUCATION & SKILLS •

Welcome |

find

inside

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6-7

8-12 13

14-15 17-18 19

20-24

News

Economy

Business News

Focus on Bromley Aviation

Big interview

26-27

Construction

News

29 33 34

Chamber Events Arts & Culture

Education & Skills

Ask the Expert Finance for Business New Members and finally...

Welcome The importance of partnerships In the previous edition of the Masthead, forging new partnerships was my theme. Benham Publishing was the first partnership I announced and this issue is the third magazine we have produced together I also announced partnerships with VisitGreenwich – a golf day at Royal Blackheath and Southwark Chamber of Commerce, whom we partnered on an evening boat party. Due to their success, both events will take place in 2018. I can now announce another partnership with one of the Chamber’s Strategic Partners, the University of Greenwich. Over the next few months, Greenwich Bright will refresh our website.

Editorial and General Enquiries South East London Chamber of Commerce Unit TW/45, Trinity Wharf, Harrington Way Warspite Road London SE18 5NR Tel: 020 8317 3365 Email: office@selondonchamber.org www.selondonchamber.org

Business Development Director: Peter Wilson

The Faculty of Architecture, Computing and Humanities joined forces with the Business School to create Greenwich Bright. Based at Mitre Passage on the Peninsula, Greenwich Bright offers a unique range of services to organisations and businesses, by offering a one-stop shop which allows an organisation to partner with the University. Phil Clipsham, Director, Greenwich Bright – Enterprise and Innovation will work with us to develop our project plan and students will have the opportunity to use their skills in a way which will add value to their studies. Another perfect partnership for the Chamber. In this issue, we examine business after the election,

British Chamber of Commerce has said that the UK economy needs a period of stability. We focus on Bromley, with just over £3 million invested in improving Bromley for business, the region will see extensive renewal and regeneration programmes like St Mark's Square development which will create more than 200 jobs in Bromley, and town centres in Bromley and Orpington will thrive connecting business and community. Our big interview is with Will Curtis, Managing Director of London Biggin Hill Airport who reports on the exciting expansion plans for the airport which is celebrating its centenary. The airport is also host to the Big On Business networking

Publisher Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing Limited, 3tc House, 16 Crosby Road North, Crosby, Liverpool L22 0NY Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 Email: admin@benhampublishing.com Web: www.benhampublishing.com Published: July 2017 © Benham Publishing

Advertising and Features Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: karen@benhampublishing.com Production Manager Mark Etherington Tel: 0151 236 4141 Email: mark@benhampublishing.com Media No. 1571 Disclaimer The Masthead is published for South East London Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members.

Photography Warren King Tel: 07779 337765 email: warren@wkphotography.co.uk web: www.wkphotography.co.uk

Front Cover: St. Marks Square courtesy of U & I

Photo: Warren King

To The Masthead - the South East London Chamber of Commerce magazine.

event which will be take place on Friday 18th August, the day before the Festival of Flight and will attract over 300 business owners and directors. The Chamber will have a table where members can meet up. I look forward to seeing you at London Biggin Hill. Enjoy! Helen McIntosh FCIPR President All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at South East London Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in The Masthead are not necessarily those of South East London Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2017 Please note that submitting an article does not guarantee publication. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in this journal, Benham Publishing and its agents can accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributions in advertising or editorial content. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

July 2017

| News

Albany launch campaign to provide a Free Theatre Ticket to every child in Lewisham A Theatre Trip for Every Child, Lewisham has launched a new giving scheme to provide a free theatre ticket for every 5-year-old in the Borough of Lewisham. ‘Every Child’ enables businesses and individuals to give a local child the chance to experience the magic of theatre.

Big On Business Probably the biggest annual networking event this year, Friday 18th August at London Biggin Hill Airport. Small businesses generate more business through their networks than any other marketing channel and for many it is their lifeblood. Big On Business is here to help you build your network and build your business. Big On Business is a full day’s networking event and we expect about 300 business owners and directors to attend. The whole idea is to help you build your network and to find people who can help you grow. We already have Google bringing Digital Garage to the event. They will be delivering two workshops to help you improve your digital marketing. There will also be a number of other workshops throughout the day, as well as speed networking to help you quickly find people and business to start relationships with. Networking is not a quick win. We don’t want you to sell yourselves at the event. We want you to start, and to build, relationships that will help you in the medium to long term. They may become clients, they may become suppliers or they may simply become connections who connect you to others. Whichever they become, they will help you to take your business forward. Finally, with the event being the day before Biggin Hill’s Festival of Flight, you will get to see a number of the aircraft's taking part over the weekend.

For more details, go to www.bigonbusiness.biz

Tickets are just £25 for the whole day.

July 2017

he campaign which launched on 23 June 2017 thanks to funding from the Paul Hamlyn Foundation and Arts Council England, and the support of founding sponsors, L&Q and patron, Jude Law. A parallel project will launch simultaneously at ARC in Stockton-on-Tees. We’re thrilled to announce Jude Law as patron for the campaign. He is a multi-award-winning actor who grew up in Lewisham and went to John Ball school. His TV, film and stage career spans three decades. His exceptional talent and versatility, from leading roles performing Shakespeare in the West End to playing the Pope and Dr. Watson, make him a perfect exemplar for the power of the arts. Jude Law commented: ‘I am delighted to support this terrific initiative which has the potential to positively impact the lives of young children in Lewisham. It is crucial for the future of our communities that we find creative ways to nurture and support the next generation. Theatre has the power to inspire children and we must encourage them to follow their dreams, no matter how big.’ Lewisham is one of the 25 local authority areas in England where poverty and deprivation were found to be greatest with child poverty effecting 34% of children. Those on low incomes often have least access to opportunities in Lewisham, and that

includes arts engagement. A Theatre Trip for Every Child is a tangible strategy aimed at improving access to the arts for children across the borough from an early age. Annabel Turpin, Chief Executive at ARC, Stockton Arts Centre added: ‘Giving children access to incredible arts experiences on their doorsteps creates a sense of possibility and a very special sense of place locally. Discovering the thrill of theatre at an early age is inspirational for many children as they grow and develop, and life changing for some.’ Paul Nehra, Community Investment Manager at L&Q said: ‘By the L&Q Foundation working with ‘Every Child’, we hope to contribute to supporting future entrepreneurs, artists and leaders to reach their full potential. We’re passionate about the area and delighted to invest in the future of this community.’ The campaign has benefitted from considerable support from both Lewisham Council and Vicky Foxcroft, MP for Lewisham Deptford. Sir Steve Bullock, Mayor of Lewisham said: ‘We’re lucky enough to have a thriving arts ecology in Lewisham. This campaign provides a brilliant opportunity for local businesses and individuals to support all of our community to access it and be part of it from a young age.’

Vicky Foxcroft, MP added: Having experienced firsthand the impact of early access to the arts, I’m delighted to be able to support A Theatre Trip for Every Child. It has the potential to make a huge difference to some 400,000 children in our borough each year and to influence their futures in a uniquely positive way.’ Gavin Barlow, Chief Executive at the Albany said: ‘We are passionate about every child having the chance to enjoy high quality theatre in their local area. Early access to the arts contributes significantly to a child’s development, sparking their curiosity and giving them new perspectives on the world. We believe very child should have the opportunity to benefit from that experience.’ A donation of just £10 enables a child to come to the Albany and experience world-class theatre at their local venue and, contributes to making the whole borough of Lewisham a healthier and happier place to live, work and play. There are opportunities to support a whole class, year or even a postcode to experience the magic of theatre. To find out more, please contact Cassie Raine, Campaign Manager at everychild@thealbany.org.uk or visit the crowdfunding page at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/a-theatre-trip-for-every-child.

Jemca Toyota sponsors Big On Business Jemca Toyota one of the sponsors of Big on Business, the biggest business annual networking event in the country, where it will showcase a selection of its hybrid vehicles designed with the company car driver in mind. aking place at Biggin Hill Airport on Friday 18th August, Big on Business attracted over 300 local companies to its event last year. At the event, Jemca Toyota South London, which has centres in Bromley, Croydon and Sidcup, will tackle some of the hottest topics facing company car drivers, the new VED and Benefit in Kind (BIK) which determines the amount of tax a company vehicle attracts. VED changed on 1 April as increasing numbers of cars were falling below the road tax threshold whilst BIK is determined by both the

list price of the vehicle and emissions. Effectively, the lower the CO2, the lower the amount of BIK making such vehicles easier on the pockets of both the company car driver and the business. On display will be the Prius Plug-in hybrid which due to its incredibly low CO2 of 22g/km is exempt from VED and the London Congestion Charge. Its BIK rate is a mere 9% making it one of the most tax efficient vehicles on the road. The Prius Plug-in hybrid delivers the best of both worlds. The car can be charged using domestic supply to enable drivers to run off electric,

hence the low emissions, but charging the car isn’t necessary. Because it’s a hybrid, the car also runs off its petrol engine and switches seamlessly between both petrol and electric which also means there’s no range anxiety often associated with purely electric vehicles. Alongside the Prius Plug-in hybrid, Jemca Toyota will display the new C-HR crossover hybrid SUV and company car favourite the Auris Touring hybrid. We look forward to meeting you there and answering your questions on the brand and company car tax implications.

Economy |

Election creates more uncertainty The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has said that the UK economy needs a period of stability in the wake of the General Election result. r Adam Marshall, Director General of the BCC, said: "After two long years of elections, referenda and wider uncertainty, many businesses were doing their best to ignore the noise of politics – up until the General Election result. "The electorate's split decision generates further uncertainty for business communities, who are already grappling with currency fluctuations, rising costs and the potential impacts of Brexit. “Whilst companies have for many months done their best to screen out political noise in order to focus on their own operations, this result will prove much harder for UK businesses to ignore. “The formation of a workable administration that can give voters and businesses confidence around economic management must be the immediate priority.” On the timetable for Brexit negotiations, Dr Marshall said: “No business would walk into a negotiation without clear objectives, an agreed starting position and a strong negotiating team. It is hard to see how Brexit negotiations could begin without answers on these important questions.” *The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), in partnership with DHL, published its latest Quarterly International Trade Outlook in mid-May, which showed that confidence among UK exporters remained strong during the survey period. The number of businesses reporting improved export sales increased in the first quarter of 2017. Businesses in both manufacturing and services are also more confident that their turnover and profitability would increase in the coming 12 months. The BCC/DHL Trade Confidence Index, which measures the volume of trade documentation issued by accredited Chambers of Commerce, rose by 5.5% on the quarter – and is up 9.06% from the same quarter last year – standing at its second highest level on record.

The results show that businesses are continuing to trade despite political uncertainty. However, currency fluctuations remain a concern. 52% of manufacturers and 25% of services firms say exchange rates are more of a concern to their business than three months ago. The BCC says that to maintain momentum, and to help UK firms succeed beyond Brexit, the Government should develop an expanded trade mission and fairs programme, help businesses build links with key trade partners and underpin deals, and expand funding for front-line assistance to exporters. Key findings from the report: • The BCC/DHL Trade Confidence Index, a measure of the volume of trade documentation issued nationally, rose by 5.5% on the quarter. The Index now stands at 126.55 –up 9.06% on Q1 2016 – and is the second highest level since records began in 2004 • The balance of manufacturers reporting improved export sales rose from +16% to +26%. Looking at services, the balance of firms reporting improved export sales rose from +8% to +10% • The balance of manufacturers reporting improved export orders rose from +13 to +22 in Q4 2016, while in services it fell slightly from +6% to +5% • Looking at expectations of turnover over the next 12 months, the balance of manufacturers confident of an increase held fairly steady, rising from +43% to +44%. In services this rose by four points from +35% to +39% • Confidence that profitability would improve rose to +28% for services companies – up from the +21% in Q4 2016. The balance of manufacturers jumped by ten points, from +22% to +32%

Dr Adam Marshall “Confidence among exporters is strong, which is a timely reminder that businesses are doing their best to ignore the cacophony of political noise around them and focus on the success of their own operations. “While confidence among UK exporters is high, rising costs, recruitment difficulties, and concerns around currency fluctuations could temper their growth if allowed to continue unchecked. Alleviating the burden of upfront costs and addressing the skills gap would increase productivity, investment and growth. “For UK exporters to succeed in the long-term, the Government must deliver not only a Brexit deal which allows for frictionless trade with Europe but also pragmatic and practical support for businesses looking to develop lasting links with new customers and markets around the world.” Ian Wilson, CEO DHL Express UK and Ireland, said: “Despite the many unanswered questions about what a post-Brexit Britain will look like, this latest Quarterly International Trade Outlook demonstrates that UK exporters remain optimistic about what the future holds.”

“

The formation of a workable administration that can give voters and businesses confidence around economic management must be the immediate priority.

”

July 2017

| Business News

A new Bank in Town Handelsbanken brings a local, personal touch to Blackheath. Raff Gallo Branch Manager T: 020 8318 3090 E: raga01@handelsbanken.co.uk

andelsbanken, the fast-growing relationship bank, has opened its doors to its new branch situated in Blackheath, servicing customers across the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Blackheath, Eltham and surrounding areas. Branch Manager Raff Gallo and his team of experienced local bankers have full responsibility for establishing their branch and developing their existing local relationships with individuals and businesses looking for a tailormade service, consistent support and sensible decisions based on their individual circumstances.

Handelsbanken has a reputation as one of the world's strongest banks*, with over 800 branches in more than 20 countries worldwide. During the economic downturn the bank has been able to more than double its British branch network, today supporting customers in 207 communities across the country. Due to its strong focus on longterm relationships and high levels of personal service, the bank has been rated top for customer satisfaction for the eighth year running in an independent survey of British banks’ personal and business customers.** Alongside Raff Gallo, the Handelsbanken Blackheath team includes Corporate Banking Manager, Louise Garratt and Individual Banking Managers, Stuart Cook and Louise Sharples. The team has combined banking experience of 92 years and is already well-known within the local professional community.

Branch Manager, Raff Gallo comments: "South East London is a dynamic and exciting area currently undergoing significant economic regeneration. In Blackheath we are very much open for business and are looking forward to establishing ourselves in the community as a traditional relationship bank, where you will always deal with people you know by name, where decisions are made locally, with the provision of a banking service tailored to your individual needs." All customer-related decisions in Handelsbanken are taken by branches, and each customer

has direct line access to a dedicated relationship manager who is empowered to make decisions. Handelsbanken has maintained a high credit rating and has not needed any government or shareholder support during the recent economic downturn. In fact, the bank has such a strong international reputation that it was named the world’s fourth safest commercial bank, by Global Finance magazine.*

* Global Finance, World’s Safest Banks, November 2016 ** EPSI Rating (Extended Performance Satisfaction Index) is a system created to collect, analyse and disseminate information about how an organisation is perceived by its stakeholders. The assessment is done in terms of image, preferences and perceived quality as well as loyalty and attractiveness by customers, employees and other interested parties. With a system of databases including more than 70,000 indices derived from some 2 million interviews taken during surveys in numerous country studies over almost two decades, ESPI Rating is the European leader in stakeholder management and benchmarking. For more information on EPSI Rating visit www.epsi-rating.com

Chamber to campaign for fairness over crossing Most residents and businesses in South East London and East London must be elated that, after years of traffic misery caused by a lack of river crossings east of Tower Bridge, Sadiq Khan seems to be fully behind the Silvertown Link, adding mightily to traffic resilience on both sides of the Thames. owever, although a new crossing is crucial and welcome, there is a downside. Traffic using the new Silvertown Link and the existing Blackwell Tunnel is to be charged. TfL say that charges will be similar to those at Dartford, these stand at £2.50 for a car in either direction. Effectively, for anyone working on the other side of the Thames to the east of London, at current rates. is going to be charged £25 per week just to go to work. For commercial vehicles it is even more expensive. What this boils down to is an unfair tax on residents and businesses in the relatively poor side of London whilst the rest of the capital cross the river back and forth free of charge. This is unfair.

July 2017

The Chamber feels that the cost of the new crossings should be shared throughout London, with a Pan London River Crossing Toll, charged, at a much reduced rate, through number plate recognition as with the Congestion Charge. It was thought to be fair to charge the outlying boroughs of London for Crossrail, so why not apply the same thinking to the East London Crossings? The main reason that TfL feel charging is inevitable is to control traffic flow in the area. They say: "Were the scheme to be built without a charge being implemented then - rather than removing congestion and making travel in the area much easier- both the Silvertown and Blackwall Tunnels would become clogged up by vehicles travelling into the area seeking a decongested (and charge-free) route across the river.”

Has that worked in the case of the Dartford Crossings? No it hasn’t. Queues and jams are a daily norm there so why would it work in East London? Also why wouldn’t the traffic continue travelling west along the south side of the river to Rotherhithe Tunnel or any of the other 23 crossings on the Thames from there to Chertsey. TfL have stated that the charge will continue after the Silvertown Link has been fully paid for and that the money raised will be used on road projects throughout London. I’m sure that residents of Plumstead will be very happy to hear that monies they pay to use the crossings will help repair roads in Kensington. The Chamber will campaign to achieve a fair outcome to this problem.

What can you do? You can start by writing to the Secretary of State for Transport, Mayor Sadiq Khan and TfL and let them know your feelings. To support this campaign, email Steve Nelson, Board Director: Steve@selondonchamber.org

Business News |

McBrides wins award McBrides Chartered Accountants won “Best Business for Marketing & Social Media’ in the Bexley Business Excellence Awards.

From L - R Shirley Caddock Marketing Executive McBrides Nick Paterno Managing Partner McBrides Becky Ives Heart FM Vikki Rimmer PR for McBrides

he marketing team, headed by managing partner Nick Paterno received the award from Katharine Glass, managing director of White Label Creative, at the gala dinner and awards ceremony held at the Bexleyheath Marriott Hotel.

The Bexley Business Excellence Awards 2017 in association with Ocado recognise and celebrate Bexley’s vibrant business community. McBrides Chartered Accountants were praised by judge Gareth Cairns of ZC Social Media for their high quality submission: “McBrides showed a great campaign and strategy towards all sides of their marketing.” Nick Paterno said: “The award is testament not just to the hard work of the marketing team but also to the larger team at McBrides who write articles pertinent to business and help stimulate our marketing output at the firm.” The 2017 Bexley Business Excellence Awards in association with Ocado, are sponsored by Bexley for Business, the London Borough of Bexley, the Bexley Skills Charter, Bexleyheath BID and a number of Bexley businesses.

Project Manager Essentials n a PricewaterhouseCoopers global project management report, they highlighted an astounding 97% of organizations believe project management is critical to business performance and organizational success. If that’s the case is your business investing in project management? So what is project management, and how can it be critical to business performance and organization success? There are a number of different recognized methodologies in use today, but perhaps the most common is PRINCE2 (PRojects IN Controlled Environments), which is a processbased method for effective project management. PRINCE2 is a de facto standard used by the UK Government, and widely recognised and practised in the private sector in the UK and internationally. The PRINCE2 processes provide the guidelines to help define what we want to do and the best way we can

do it. However, the use alone of a methodology like PRINCE2 does not guarantee project success. So why is it critical to business performance and organizational success? Well we know from experience that unorganised, poorly controlled projects usually go disastrously wrong. An example of this the London Ambulance Service Computer –Aided Dispatch system, which publically experienced massive system failures and huge overspend. Structured project management methods exist to prevent such disasters. Here at Project Manager Essentials we have just launched to members our free one-hour training in ‘understanding the basic key concepts in managing a successful project’.

To find out more please contact Anthony Francis at info@projectmanageressentials.com or visit our website at www.projectmanageressentials.com

Buying, selling or both? Docklands Solicitors can help you complete all the legal steps, whether you’re buying or selling a property. We take pride in offering a no-nonsense approach to what can sometimes be a frustrating process, helping ensure your transaction is completed as quickly and smoothly as possible. Recognised by the Law Society Conveyancing Quality Accreditation Scheme. This scheme’s logo is your guarantee that our practice will provide you with a professional and quality conveyancing service.

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Certificate of Excellence he Clarendon Hotel, Blackheath has been recognised with a 2017 Certificate of Excellence, based on the consistently great reviews it has earned on TripAdvisor. Well done to General Manager Ken Milton, and his team.

Docklands Solicitors is a trading name of Whitehead Monckton Limited which also has offices in Canterbury, Maidstone and Tenterden. For more details visit our website www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in England & Wales. Registered office 72 King Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1BL. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279. PropSELCC 1/17

July 2017

| Focus on Bromley

St Mark’s Square A new urban lifestyle quarter for Bromley.

n a Public Private Partnership with London Borough of Bromley, U+I plc are transforming St Mark’s Square at the southern end of Bromley town centre, one minute from Bromley South railway station. In spring 2012, the London Borough of Bromley granted planning consent for the scheme and U+I started on site in April 2013. The mixeduse development includes a landscaped public plaza surrounded by a nine screen multiplex VUE cinema, 25,000 sq. ft. of cafés and restaurants including PizzaExpress, Dean’s Diner, Prezzo, Las Iguanas,

Nando’s and Turtle Bay, a 130-bed Premier Inn hotel, 200 private and affordable apartments and a new 400 space secure underground car park. The multiplex and some of the restaurants are due to open in time for Christmas with the rest following in the new year. The residential apartments are completing from October until spring 2018 when the new urban lifestyle quarter will be finished. The development will create over 200 jobs in Bromley, and provide a total of £220 million GVA (Gross Value Added) to the local economy over the next 10 years.

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July 2017

Focus on Bromley |

Westmoreland Road Development

Bromley Means Business A personal commendation from Cllr Peter Morgan, Executive Councillor for Renewal and Recreation romley Council is genuinely committed to working with businesses to ensure that the business community remains healthy and ultimately, to support growth. In this Borough feature, you can read not just the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s views but also the views of some of our partners and investors, in their own words. Encouraging and supporting economic growth is in all our interests and the various sectors, including both private and public, need to play their part, using their respective insights and expertise in a partnership or more accurately, a series of partnerships.

Bromley market

Many positive demographic factors make our Borough a compelling place to locate to and remain in, with good transport links, good schools and a quality housing stock being just some of the factors along with others, including good access to recreational amenities and greenspace.

Many Positive Factors

Bromley is Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest borough, occupying a strategic position in the South East of the capital, with a mix of rural areas, leafy suburbs and urban centres. A strong local economy is key to continuing prosperity in Bromley, underpinning the high quality of life which characterises the borough. Business owners and managers appreciate the boroughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excellent transport links, the availability of skilled staff, low crime levels and green surroundings. The borough enjoys all the benefits of being on the outskirts of Kent but is less than 30 minutes away from central London by rail.

Bromley Scores Highly

We score highly in comparison with the rest of London in terms of our labour market, with high employment levels and high skills. Bromley has one of the largest borough economies south of the Thames with an economic scale above that of major cities such as Reading, Southampton and Oxford. In recent years the number of businesses located in the borough has grown steadily and now exceeds 13,000. The borough has higher than average survival rates for businesses in London. Many of these businesses are small with the average business size being less than nine employees. Most businesses operate in real estate, financial & business services, retail and construction sectors and are mainly clustered in the three main town centres of Bromley, Orpington and Beckenham. However, there are also a number of industrial and business parks, particularly in the Beckenham / Penge area,

Cllr Peter Morgan in the Cray Valley and at Biggin Hill. Bromley has a close proximity to Gatwick airport which is advantageous to businesses with existing international connections. The borough also has its own business airport at Biggin Hill, which is attracting aviation and high tech-related enterprises. As a Council, we have structured our own public service business so that many businesses are partnering with us to provide contracted services.

July 2017

10 10

| Focus on Bromley

Bromley South Station

We are keen to help businesses take the lead in improving their own trading environments, which is why the Council has been such a strong supporter of Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) – with two now operating in the borough – in Orpington and Bromley – and we are now working with business groups in Beckenham and Penge to develop BIDs in those town centres too.

Improving Town Centres

We are improving town centres across the Borough, working with investors, Transport for London and businesses to achieve this. For example, a £4.4m public realm improvement scheme is now underway in Beckenham Town Centre, and a town centre improvement scheme is also ongoing in neighbouring Penge. Improvements are also being implemented in Orpington and Bromley Town Centre and exciting projects, such as the multiplex cinema led scheme in Bromley South, are taking shape. We are looking to drive business opportunities elsewhere too, with plans to bring additional business to Biggin Hill and the Cray Valley for instance. In the rest of this special feature we have collaborated with partner organisations, including developers and our two BID companies to give you a flavour of what’s happening for business in various parts of our Borough. Please do make contact if you believe there are other ways that the Council could improve the way it deals with businesses. We will always listen as this is fundamental to sustaining relationships and businesses which is what we want to do. www.bromley.gov.uk/business

July 2017

Bromley Town Centre thrives under custodianship of YourBromley BID

Whether its retail, food and drink or office premises, Bromley town centre has everything you need for your business to thrive. Bromley – one of only 13 Metropolitan town centres in Greater London – is clean, safe, bustling and vibrant, with a high end shopping centre (The Glades), a wide variety of independents, a street market between Thursdays and Saturdays, and enough restaurants, bars, pubs, clubs and cafes to cater for every palate. Bromley South train station provides fast links between central London (Victoria) and the Kent coast. The London Borough of Bromley is committed to investing some £3.6m capital in regenerating the pedestrianised part of the High St, commencing August 2017. This follows a similar exercise in Bromley Village North, where council investment into a much loved retail area created a charming restaurant, pub and bar destination with more independents and a strong community feel.

A new development at St Mark’s Square opposite the Bromley South Train Station is well underway and will bring the town centre a new landscaped public plaza, a nine screen multiplex cinema, 25,000 sq feet of cafes and restaurants and a 130-bed Premier Inn hotel. Culture and leisure are well catered for in Bromley Town Centre, with the Churchill and Little Theatres. The Bromley Village North cinema provides another reason to visit, while the Pavilion Leisure Centre offers a swimming pool, bowling alley, in addition to state of the art fitness centre. YourBromley BID organises free networking events with key note speakers for town centre businesses in addition to an extensive marketing and events programme to attract footfall. Sign up here www.yourbromley.com to receive monthly E shot bulletins.

Orpington Town Centre – connecting business and community

Orpington is a town centre undergoing huge redevelopment which is offering residents, businesses and investors real opportunities. It is a town with a great history, that is not afraid to look forward, and a town whose community is engaged and positive about its future. Orpington 1st was the first Business Improvement District to be established in the borough of Bromley back in April 2013. It was developed from what was already a strong business forum who along with the local town centre manager saw the opportunity to create a stronger and more sustainable structure in which to make Orpington ‘Better for Business’.

Bromley North streetscape

Orpington, or the ‘London / Kent Gateway’ as it is now commonly referred to, due to its enviable location, offers exceptional transport links which is a major contributor to the increasing interest being shown by investors. Orpington railway station is a transport hub served by South Eastern with a journey time to London of only 16mins making it ideal for both the commuter or the business traveller, who also now has the convenience of a new hotel right in the centre of town. The M25 passes to the south of the town providing easy access and only a 30 minute journey time to Gatwick Airport and the Borough’s own airport, Biggin Hill, can be reached in only 15mins. It is the only Major town centre within Bromley and one of only 35 Greater London centres which are identified as such in the London plan. The BID represents over 300 local businesses including both multinationals and a range of independents. Like lots of high streets we have a growing hospitality sector but unlike others we also have the Hospitality, Catering & Enterprise College offering scope for collaboration between businesses and exciting opportunities for students and employers to work together.

Orpington Odeon

It is this approach to networking that the BID has supported, offering a range of events that bring businesses together such as our regular BID for Business Breakfasts and the annual business exhibition ‘Opportunity Orpington’, or with our calendar of festivals, ranging from vintage with ‘The Big O Festival’, to music with ‘Priory Live’ and food at the new ‘Orpington Flavours Festival’, which all connect businesses with their customers. To connect with Orpington town centre visit www.orpington1st.co.uk

Goya Developments – investing in Orpington and the Cray Valley

We have submitted a planning application on the former Sun Chemicals site for a 14 unit development of circa 150,000 sq ft of urban logistics warehouses with a small element of trade counter on the Cray Avenue frontage opposite the Nugent Retail Park.

Goya Developments At Goya, we have positioned ourselves as building the best quality developments in the best areas, and this will be our third warehouse development in Orpington, so it is an area that we know well, and love. And more importantly so do the tenants! Being so close to St Mary Cray train station, which only takes 25 minutes into Victoria, and so close to the A20 with its great access into London and also out to the M25, whilst being opposite the Nugent Retail Park with all of

Focus on Bromley | the advantages that that has for tenants, makes this one of the most exciting developments we have ever undertaken. We evolve each of the Goya developments every project, and this one will be no different, as we are introducing timber feature panels to accentuate the entrances and office areas, to compliment the silver profiled metal cladding. Finally, Goya have been at the forefront of some of the greenest, most environmentally friendly speculative warehouse developments and some of our occupiers have suggested they believe annual savings of £1psf are achievable with our developments. To find out more about our developments visit www.goyadevelopments.co.uk

Historic Klinger Building to get new lease of life

A planning application to restore and enhance the Grade II listed Klinger building and provide new commercial units was approved in April. The application submitted by Chancerygate (Erdington) Ltd includes partial demolition and redevelopment of the Klinger factory and associated buildings to provide 15 units to be used for B1(c), B2, B8 uses together with associated access and parking.

Is your company working with a local charity?

Historic Klinger building Councillor Peter Morgan, Executive Councillor for Renewal and Recreation said, “This will provide employment opportunities and is very positive news and further evidence of what we have said previously, that there is strong demand for commercial units within our borough, where business is prospering. This is part of the reason that we say that Bromley is a place to locate your business and for investment.” The proposal consists of the demolition the majority of the existing buildings and associated structures on site except for the front elevation and side returns of the listed building which was originally built in 1937 to the designs of the architectural practice Wallis, Gilbert and Partners. The proposal for the redevelopment of the site

for purpose built B1/B2/B8 industrial units includes: • Erection of 13 purpose built industrial units in 3 rows • Small mezzanine to each area • Extension to the Klinger building to provide a selfstorage unit • Detached two storey commercial unit adjacent to the original Klinger building • Amendments to existing vehicular access points and provision of in/out access • Provision of access roads and car parking • Provision of landscaping • Retention of the tower and reinstatement of all exterior details and • Retention and re-use of the original piers and railings Visit www.chancerygate.com to find out more.

YOURBROMLEY.COM

If not, would you like it to be?

Businesses have a lot of resources that can benefit local charities and community programmes. Some businesses in Bromley are providing pro bono services and helping to raise funds for the essential work that is being done by our local charities.

Many provide support for some of the borough’s most disadvantaged, often hidden, residents.

Community Links Bromley can help you to find a local charity that fits with your company’s values and ethos. If you’d like to find out more please contact Sue Lee on 020 8315 1900 suel@communitylinksbromley.org.uk

Doing so can benefit both your business and the charity that you choose to support. July 2017

| Focus on Bromley

News from Bromley Town Centre Led and funded by local businesses, YourBromley Business Improvement District (BID) started a five year term in April 2016 following a successful ballot amongst town centre businesses. Just over £3million will be invested in improving Bromley for business. A programme of exciting events to attract footfall to the town centre is in place, such as a Food Fest trail of restaurants, Wimbledon on the Big Screen in Market Square, a Christmas lights switch on and parade event, together with a Christmas Gift Guide and Business Directory. Coming soon will be an open air cinema in Queens Gardens 17-19 August, Sci Fi Bromley 23 September in Market Square, a Hallowe’en trail for children and Day of the Dead event for adults on 28 October with the Christmas Lights parade on 19 November.

Networking events with guest speakers are organised via Eventbrite every other month. Town centre-wide footfall data, available through the BID team on enquiries@yourbromley.com will help inform business decisions.

ourBromley runs an intelligence sharing website, so businesses can share any security incidents with each other and take preventative action.

An ambassador service welcomes and assists visitors to Bromley and keeps local businesses up to date, while a ‘Keeping Together’ wristband scheme promotes Bromley town centre as a family friendly and safe place.

Check out www.yourbromley.com

Coming soon will be a pilot Street Marshall scheme across the town at the weekends, evening through to early hours. A programme of ‘greening and cleaning’ street improvements to enhance the town centre is underway, involving jetwashing and chewing gum removal. A free recycling service for businesses has recently begun. Coming soon will be BID branded hanging baskets.

July 2017

Allow us to help you with your CSR How a company approaches its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has a significant impact on its customers and its business. Working with local charities sends out a strong message about the values and ethos behind your business. Magpie Dance is a contemporary dance charity for people with learning disabilities. With an emphasis on ability rather than disability, Magpie has carved out a national reputation for its exciting and inspiring approach to inclusive dance and has been benefitting the community in Bromley for over 32 years. Two years ago for Magpie Dance’s 30th Anniversary, Metro Bank, Bailey Ahmad Business Recovery and Clarkson, Wright & Jakes Ltd Solicitors put on a fundraising dinner for 200 guests from the local Bromley business community at The Warren in West Wickham/Hayes Common and raised over £8000 in the one evening. The evening also included performances from Magpie Dance. Simon Wright, Manager of Metro Bank has been supporting Magpie Dance’s sustainability ever since. NatWest in Bromley ran a fundraising bowling evening and raised £2000. FLR Spectron Ltd provides in kind IT support to Magpie for which the charity is really grateful. HQ who own the Churchill Theatre give Magpie its office space free of charge.

There are lots of ways in which businesses can help support local charities – the above are just some. For an informal chat about the local charities that are doing so much to help people across Bromley, call Community Links Bromley on 020 8315 1900 or email suel@communitylinksbromley.org.uk Images supplied by YourBromley

Aviation |

Students attend Royal opening of Bombardier Aviation Service Centre Four of London South East Colleges’ engineering students joined guests at London Biggin Hill Airport for the launch ceremony of Bombardier’s new state-of-the-art service centre.

London South East Colleges staff (Louise Wolsey, Harkesh Ram) and students

he event coincided with the opening of recruitment to the College’s first ever Aerospace course*.

Students Emmanuel Nginamau, Angesom Okubamichael, Kishna Vinayakamoorthy and Cezzar Tenca Filho are all studying Level 1 Performing Engineering operations at the College’s Bromley Campus, with an interest in Aerospace. HRH Prince Michael of Kent was the guest of honour at the event, unveiling a plaque to officially open the new facility. Many other dignitaries attended, representing industry, the local authority and an array of stakeholder groups. Addressing guests, Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Bombardier’s Vice-President & General Manager, explained that Biggin Hill is now a strategic location for business aviation operators. He said: “We are committed to a longterm relationship with Biggin Hill Airport to develop a world-class

aviation hub serving as a catalyst for business aviation growth in the region. We are extremely proud to inaugurate our new facility during the airport’s 100-year anniversary celebration, making this an even more memorable milestone for Bombardier” London South East Colleges is working with London Biggin Hill Airport and the London Borough of Bromley to develop an Aerospace College. This initiative will address the chronic shortage of aerospace engineers and the wider skills needs of the aviation industry. Louise Wolsey, Executive Director of Corporate and Strategic Development at London South East Colleges said: “We are delighted that Bombardier is demonstrating such commitment to working in partnership on the development of the new aerospace college. “This event is a significant development for the college, extending our reach into new sectors. STEM is fast becoming

the focus for future economic prosperity and this project will benefit the local community as well as the wider economy. “We were also very pleased to hear London South East Colleges mentioned by HRH Prince Michael of Kent in his opening ceremony speech!” Bombardier is a key employer partner for the new college, alongside Chair and CEO of London Biggin Hill Airport, CEO of Gatwick Airport, CEO of London City Airport, University of Greenwich, Virgin Atlantic, Airbus, The Royal Aeronautical Society, and the RAF Training Command. The planned Aerospace and Aviation College will provide pathways to accreditation and professional qualifications within aviation. This will help ensure that young people in London have a wealth of opportunities to progress careers in this expanding industry.

Attending the special opening event at London Biggin Hill Airport, student Emmanuel Nginamau said: “I enjoyed how the project manager explained how he became an aircraft engineer and how they order and plan out the maintenance on an aircraft, he gave me a good insight into the aircraft maintenance.” And student Kishna Vinayakamoorthy added: “It was very inspirational to meet and talk engineers as this is the sector I wish to progress in. I learnt how many different industries are required in aircraft maintenance and salaries for technicians” London South East College is recruiting students for this September, see link for more information: www.lsec.ac.uk The College will also be exhibiting at this year’s Biggin Hill Air Show on 19 August, where further information on all courses will be on offer: https://lbhacommunity.co.uk

London South East Colleges students are given a tour by Bombardier staff

July 2017

| Big Interview

“

To support the airport’s continued growth, London Biggin Hill recently has agreed a £15 million finance package with banker HSBC to fund the construction of an additional 140,000 sq ft office, hangar and business aircraft parking facility and the development of a 50-bed four star hotel.

”

Big Interview |

Exciting future beckons for historic airport These are exciting times for one of the UK’s best-known airfields, which has been celebrating its centenary with continued expansion as a base for private air travel. t was on 13th February 1917 that the War Office first established a military camp on the site at Biggin Hill in South London.

the airport was acquired by London Biggin Hill Airport Limited (BHAL) on a 125-year lease with rent and a share of the profits going to the Council each year.

Standing just eleven miles from Canary Wharf, the modern London Biggin Hill Airport has become established as a Gateway to London for the owners of private jets seeking to do business in the Capital.

Will Curtis, Managing Director of London Biggin Hill Airport Limited, said: “We see ourselves as a Gateway for London for business travellers.

Adding to the attraction, the airfield is home to companies specialising in repair and maintenance so that jets can be serviced while their owners are in the Capital. It is the latest chapter in a long and proud story for the airfield, where flying began in the 1920s. In the early 1940s, Biggin Hill was a Battle of Britain air station with Spitfires and Hurricanes and in the 1950s acted as frontline RAF Station hosting squadrons of jet fighters. In the 1960s, following the closure of Croydon Airport, Biggin Hill became a civil airport with light aircraft training and some commercial passenger and cargo flights and in the 1970s, it was acquired from the RAF by Bromley Council. Eventually,

“We do not see ourselves as in competition with the likes of Gatwick or Heathrow because we do not operate any scheduled flights. Instead we focus on private business aviation. “Private business aviation recently underwent a period of strong growth and it has so many advantages not least the amount of time it can take a traveller using Biggin Hill. One major advantage of using private jets is they really save you a significant amount of time. If they use a scheduled flight from one of the bigger airports like Gatwick and Heathrow, they can spend forty minutes just getting out to the plane then having a further wait while they taxi out onto the runway and queue on the airway. We have all been there, sitting on a runway in a queue of ten aircraft waiting to take off.

“None of that applies at London Biggin Hill. Using London Biggin Hill they can be through and in the air in ten minutes.

“In addition, it means that we are helping to create jobs and providing skilled work for local people, which is good for the local economy.”

“The people who use us are not restricted to where the commercial services go. We operate services to more countries than most of the larger airports and were doing so long before the airlines starting operating scheduled services to these places.”

Part of the approach to developing young talent is the creation of the London Aerospace & Technology College and the provision of flying and engineering apprenticeships for young people.

To cater for the increasing traffic, London Biggin Hill Airport recently introduced extended opening hours. The latest Business Aviation INSIGHT report from WingX Advance showed that since the new operating hours came into effect, the airport has seen a significant increase in business aviation movements year on year with particular interest from customers based in North American and the Middle East. One of the thing that attracts customers is the fact that London Biggin Hill hosts a number of companies specialising in aircraft repair and maintenance. For instance, Canadian aviation company Bombardier recently opened a new service centre in a 52,000 sq ft hangar at Biggin Hill Airport. The centre has received certification from the UK Civil Aviation Authority for maintenance of Learjet 70 and 75, Challenger 300, 350 and 600 series and Global Express 5000 and 6000 and can perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, modifications and avionic installations round the clock. Will said: “The fact that we have these kind of centres is a big advantage for us becuase it means that a business person can fly in on his or her business jet and have any defects fixed while they are doing business in London. “It means that they do not have to look for somewhere else to do the work or risk flying with defects.

Will said: ““Biggin Hill is a big part of the country’s aviation history and we respect the past while also looking to the future. “One of the ways in which we can respect the legacy of The Few who flew from here is by continuing to operate and contributing to the borough and creating jobs for young people. We feel it is what those airman would have wanted.” To support the airport’s continued growth, London Biggin Hill recently has agreed a £15 million finance package with banker HSBC to fund the construction of an additional 140,000 sq ft office, hangar and business aircraft parking facility and the development of a 50-bed four star hotel. The new infrastructure projects will meet steadily growing demand for visiting aircraft and access to the airport’s many world-class aerospace businesses and contribute towards the employment targets of 2,300 new jobs by 2030 set by the airport and the London Borough of Bromley.

Included in the programme to celebrate London Biggin Hill’s centenary year is, a two--day Festival of Flight on the 19th & 20th of August and the opening to the public of heritage areas of the airfield during ‘Battle of Britain’ Week in September. The airfield’s history is also remembered annually at the RAF Chapel which is open to the public. You can find out more at www.bigginhillairport.com

July 2017

Chamber Events |

Making the right connections Each month the Chamber hosts a variety of events which offer members a superb opportunity to meet and chat to fellow business people. Here, we review a few of our past events plus the forthcoming Construction Event at Royal Arsenal Riverside.

Bexley Networking Lunch Thursday 13th April

Venue: The Bexleyheath Marriott Hotel Guest Speakers: Cllr Eileen Pallen, Mayor of Bexley & Raymond Sheehy, CEO Bridge Mental Health Topic: Mental Health & Loneliness

“

Eileen Pallen, Mayor of Bexley & Raymond Sheehy, CEO Bridge Mental Health

Greenwich Breakfast Meeting

”

Thursday 17th May

Venue: DoubleTree by Hilton London Greenwich Guest Speakers: Anna Boss- Community & Business Liaison Manager City Airport. Rachel Ness- Director of Planning & Strategy City Airport And Glen Addis- East London Business Place. Topic: London City Airport Procurement

“

Helen McIntosh – President, S E London Chamber of Commerce, Rachel Ness – Director of Planning & Strategy City Airport, Glen Addis – East London Business Place & Anna Boss – Community & Business Liaison Manager City Airport

”

Lewisham Breakfast Meeting Thursday 15th June

Venue: The Clarendon Blackheath Guest Speaker: Sophi Tranchell – CEO Divine Chocolate Topic: The Divine Chocolate Business model – A Farmer owned Fairtrade business

“ Constructing the Supply Chain Wednesday 27th September

Helen McIntosh – President, S E London Chamber of Commerce, Sophi Tranchell – CEO Divine Chocolate, Steve Nelson – Past President & Board Member S E London Chamber of Commerce

”

18.00 - 20.30

Venue: Royal Arsenal Riverside, Bentham House, Station Way, London, SE18 6N The Chamber is working with Strategic Partner, Berkeley Homes who will host a special free Construction evening event. This is aimed at people working in the supply chain. A Berkeley Director will explain the business. A Project Manager - operations / processes and what to expect. A work Place Manager – apprenticeships and graduate placements and a few supply chain directors to explain how to get on their approved contractor lists.

July 2017

| Chamber Events

EVENT NAME

Bromley Networking Lunch

DATE & TIME

VENUE

Thursday 13th July 12.30 -14.30

BR6 Restaurant, Bromley College, Orpington Campus, The Walnuts, Orpington BR6 0TE

Summer BBQ

Join us for a networking lunch with great food prepared by the students of this catering college. "BR6 opened in February 2015 and is the centrepiece of London South East Colleges’ Hospitality, Food and Enterprise Career College. Led by head chef, Jason Main, our students put the skills and theory they learn in the classroom into practice. They also learn more about running a commercial restaurant and working in a professional environment – which will open up a range of excitingcareer opportunities to them.

Thursday 20th July 12.30 -14.30

The Clarendon Hotel, 8-16 Montpelier Row, London SE3 0RW

Join us for the Chamber Summer BBQ in the lovely grounds of the Clarendon Hotel - Sunshine can't be guaranteed but good food & drinks can. See you there.

Wednesday 26th July 17.30 - 19.30

Woolwich Equitable, General Gordon Place, Woolwich SE18 6AB

Thursday 27th July 07.30 - 09.30

The Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley Hill, Bromley BR1 4JD

Wednesday 2nd August 17.30 - 19.30

Everest Inn, 41 Montpelier Vale, Lewisham, London SE3 0TJ

Friday 18th August 10.30 - 16.00

London Biggin Hill, Airport, Main Rd, Biggin Hill, Bromley TN16 3BH

Greenwich Link 'n Drink

Bromley Networking Breakfast Lewisham Link 'n Drink

Big on Business Bexley Link 'n Drink Greenwich B2B Link 'n Drink

Wednesday 30th August 17.30 - 19.30

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Speaker: Antony Goodger, Work Experience and Career Advantage Manager, London South East Colleges - Bromley campus. Topic: How can employers benefit from developing the employability skills of young people.

Free monthly Informal meeting in a relaxed atmosphere, open to businesses from all boroughs. These meetings happen twice a month, Barnehurst Golf Club, Mayplace taking turns in Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley & Bexley. Chamber host Rd East, Barnehurst DA7 6JU for this event will be Chamber Vice President, Terri Johnson. Don't forget to bring your business cards.

Tuesday 5th September 18.30 - 20.30

The Greenwich Tavern, The Treehouse, 1 King William Walk, Greenwich SE10 9JH

Thursday 7th September 09.00 - 17.00

Cray Valley, Orpington BR5 3JA

Bexley Networking Lunch & AGM

Thursday 21st September 12.00 - 14.00

Bexleyheath Marriott Hotel, 1 Broadway, Bexleyheath DA6 7JZ

Bromley Link 'n Drink

Wednesday 27th September 17.30 - 19.30

The Bromley Court Hotel, Bromley Hill, Bromley BR1 4JD

Constructing the Supply Chain

Wednesday 27th September 18.00 - 20.30

Royal Arsenal Riverside, Bentham House, Station Way, London, SE18 6N

The Chamber is working with Strategic Partner, Berkeley Homes who will host a special free Construction evening event. This is aimed at people working in the supply chain. A Berkeley Director will explain the business. A Project Manager - operations/processes and what to expect. A work Place Manager – apprenticeships and graduate placements and a few supply chain directors to explain how to get on their approved contractor lists.

Tuesday 3rd October 07.30 - 09.30

Novotel, 173-185 Greenwich High Rd, London SE10 8JA

Wednesday 4th October 17.30 - 19.30

Everest Inn, 41 Montpelier Vale, Lewisham, London SE3 0TJ

Thursday 12th October 12.00 - 14.00

The Educational Space, Thames Side Studios,Harrington Way, Warspite Road, London SE18 5NR

Wednesday 25th October 17.30 - 19.30

Barnehurst Golf Club, Mayplace Rd East, Barnehurst DA7 6JU

A Day of Golf

Greenwich Breakfast Lewisham Link 'n Drink

Networking Lunch & Crowd Funding Seminar Bexley Link 'n Drink

July 2017

S E London Chamber of Commerce in Association with Greenwich B2B. Monthly Networking Events with presentation. S E London Chamber of Commerce in Association with Chamber Member Mytime Active, brings you a day of Golf at Cray Valley. Arrival & registration 9am then coffee & a bacon a roll. First Tee Off approx 10.05. There will be a chef's special lunch and prizes for winners. Your hosts for the day will be Chamber Board Director & past President, Steve Nelson & Mytime Active Manager, Chris Pavey. Book now to avoid disappointment. Come and join local businesses for an informal networking buffet lunch, followed by the Chambers' Annual General Meeting with President, Helen McIntosh. Lunch Speaker: Teresa O'Neil. Topic: Bexley's Council's plans for Growth. AGM to commence at 2pm, All attendees are invited to join the AGM meeting if they wish.

Speaker: Assembly Member, Len Duvall OBE. Topic: Update on local issues, river crossings, Sadiq’s plans, Brexit etc

Free monthly Informal meeting in a relaxed atmosphere, open to businesses from all boroughs. These meetings happen twice a month, taking turns in Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley & Bexley. Chamber host for this event will be Chamber President, Helen McIntosh. Don't forget to bring your business cards & enjoy the complimentary canapés. Speaker: Chamber member Clive Reffell, Commanche Communications & Marketing. Topic: Crowd Funding. An introduction to the main types and advantages of crowdfunding as a means to startup or scaleup a business. With local examples including specialist retailers, a market stall trader and a business valued at £6m within four years of launching from scratch with crowdfunded equipment and premises. Free monthly Informal meeting in a relaxed atmosphere, open to businesses from all boroughs. These meetings happen twice a month, taking turns in Greenwich, Lewisham, Bromley & Bexley. Chamber host for this event will be Chamber Vice President, Terri Johnson. Don't forget to bring your business cards.

Arts & Culture |

What’s On at the Greenwich Theatre Bookings : 020 8858 7755 ticketing.greenwichtheatre.org.uk Chinese Whispers

Thursday13th - Sunday 23rd July Evening 7.30pm Saturday 3.00pm & 7.30pm Sunday 5.00pm

We Live By the Sea

Friday 14th - Saturday 29th July Evening 7.30pm Saturday 22nd 2.30pm Evening 7.30pm

Goody

Wednesday 30th August 7.30pm Thursday 31st August 9.00pm

Form

Wednesday 30th August 9.00pm Thursday 31st August 7.30pm

Goody

Friday 1st September 7.30pm Saturday 2nd September 9.00pm

Form

Twist

All or Nothing

2.00pm & 7.00pm

Friday 1st September 9.00pm Saturday 2nd September 7.30pm Monday 4th - Thursday 7th September Evening 7.30pm Wednesday 2.30pm & 7.30pm

The Wright Brothers

Saturday 9th September 7.30pm

Howerd’s End

Tuesday 12th - Saturday 23rd September Evening 7.45pm Saturday 16th September 3.00pm Evening 7.45pm Saturday 23rd September 3.00pm Evening 7.45pm

Monday 18th September

Private Lives

Tuesday 19th - Saturday 23rd September Evening 7.30pm Wednesday 20th September 2.30pm Evening 7.30pm

The Hunting of the Snark Sunday 24th September 2.00pm

The Tempest

Wednesday 27th Saturday 30th September Wednesday - Saturday 7.30pm

July 2017

Education & Skills |

BR6 Restaurant scoops national accolade Chamber member London South East Colleges' studentled BR6 restaurant is the first college restaurant in London to be awarded a Highly Commended AA Rosette and a People 1st Gold Accreditation. and the expanding hospitality industry as a whole." Membership Operations Manager at People 1st, Andy Doyle, adds: "The People 1st accreditation system recognises and celebrates excellence in the delivery of training and qualifications, and brings together employers and providers in partnership to help raise the professionalism of the hospitality industry

he AA College Rosette Scheme recognises college restaurants for the quality of food they produce and the level of service delivered. Qualified AA hotel and restaurant inspectors carry out the visits and BR6 impressed in all areas of service, hospitality and kitchen management.

Colleges can only apply for an AA College Rosette if they have achieved People 1st Accreditation. The college's Hospitality, Food and Enterprise Career College was awarded the Gold standard, recognising its excellent training programmes and links with employers. BR6 opened in 2015, the centrepiece of London South East Colleges' Hospitality, Food and Enterprise Career College. Work began on Phase two of the development late last year and the BR6 Bakehouse opened in April, marked with a special visit from Bake Off host Prue Leith.

Gary Farrelly, Director of Career College, Hospitality Food and Enterprise, said: "This Award is testament to the incredibly hard work put in by students and staff here at BR6 over the past two years. "BR6 Restaurant has gone from strength to strength, topping the local Trip Advisor ratings and being consistently booked out for every service. "The AA College Rosette recognises not only the high standard or food and service but also the quality of training we are offering the future generation of chefs and restauranteurs. "Under the watchful eye of our executive head chef, Jason Main, our students are getting first class training in a real life, high quality restaurant which is of benefit to them

"As a flag bearer for excellence in training delivery within our industry, London South East Colleges' Hospitality, Food and Enterprise Career College's ability to produce well trained, well rounded and work ready individuals will ensure that we continue to grow as a sector. "I offer my congratulations to both students and staff at the college on receiving these prestigious accolades. BR6 is an outstanding venture and I wish you all the very best going forward." London South East Colleges offers a range of courses within its Hospitality, Food and Enterprise Career College - from Level 1 to a BA (hons) degree in Culinary Arts and Entrepreneurship (new for September 2017). For more information see www.lsec.ac.uk and come along to an open event.

Join the South East London Chamber of Commerce

for a Business Networking Lunch at BR6, on

Thursday 13th July, 12.30-14.30

How the apprenticeship levy could benefit your business Effective from May 2017, the UK government’s new apprenticeship levy is a real turning point in the quality of apprenticeship training – and as one of south London’s biggest vocational training providers, Lewisham Southwark College can help you maximise the opportunities for your business. The apprenticeship levy is central to the government’s ambitious goal of creating 3 million apprenticeships by 2020. But what are the implications of the levy for your business, and how can you make sure you ‘get out’ as much – or more – than you ‘put in’? In a nutshell, businesses now pay 0.5% of their pay bill into a ‘levy account’, and each employer receives a £15,000 allowance to offset the levy, which means that only companies with a pay bill of over £3 million pay the levy. Companies can use the money in their levy account to pay for high quality training with an approved provider such as Lewisham Southwark College. If your company pays the levy, the good news is that you can recover 100% of this money, while investing in the future of your business through training. In fact, since your credits are topped up by 10% from the government, you can actually spend more than you pay in. Smaller businesses also stand to benefit from the levy, with the government now promising to co-invest 90% of apprenticeship training costs alongside 10% from the employer. At Lewisham Southwark College they have a fantastic track record of training apprentices with many going on to permanent roles with their employers. They’re experts in supporting businesses through the process of recruiting and training apprentices, enabling you to create a dedicated, loyal workforce with the key skills your business needs. To find out more about apprenticeships visit www. LSCollege.ac.uk/ apprenticeships

July 2017

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| Skills

College named as one of the highest quality Higher Education providers Sidcup based Rose Bruford College of Theatre Performance has been awarded a Gold award in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), which was introduced by the Government to recognise and reward excellent teaching in UK higher education providers.

Lamorbey Park Campus – Rose Bruford College

he TEF awards were decided by an independent panel of experts including academics, students and employer representatives. Drawing on national data and evidence submitted by each university or college, the TEF measures excellence in three areas: teaching quality, the learning environment and the educational and professional outcomes achieved by students.

July 2017

Based on the evidence available the TEF Panel (which is made up of students, employers widening participation experts and academics) judged that “Rose Bruford College delivers consistently outstanding teaching learning and outcomes for its students. It is of the highest quality found in the UK.” The gold award is another external validation of the College delivering the highest quality of teaching and standards, following the awarding of Taught Degree Awarding Powers in January 2017 and the UK quality mark by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) standard in November 2014. Principal and Chief Executive, Professor Michael Earley, said: “'The Gold TEF ranking is a major endorsement for Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance and

the kind of teaching and learning excellence that led to our receiving Taught Degree Awarding Powers in 2017. We are in the top rank of UK conservatoires and now rank with the best universities in the Teaching Excellence Framework. The Gold award is something we share with all students, staff and alumni, all of whom delivered this tremendous result.'’ Rose Bruford College Vice Principal, Dr. Andrew Walker, said: “We are thrilled to have received such an award. This reflects the tremendous work undertaken by all of the College’s staff in providing our students with a high quality learning experience during their studies on our wide range of undergraduate programmes – both full-time, part-time, oncampus and online - in our School of Design, Management and Technical Arts and School of Performance.”

Madeleine Atkins, Chief Executive of the Higher Education Funding Council for England, said: “Students invest significant amounts of time and money in their higher education. They rightly expect a high-quality learning experience and outcomes that reflect their potential. The UK already has a high bar for quality and standards, which all universities and colleges must meet. But the TEF judges excellence above and beyond this, clearly showing the highest levels across the sector. “The TEF measures the things that students themselves say they care about: high-quality, engaged teaching and a supportive, stimulating learning environment which equips them with the knowledge and skills they need to achieve their potential, and then to progress to a good job or further study.”

Property Expo |

Property Expo set to inspire the South East A brand new ‘not-for-profit’ property event is coming to Kent in the autumn and is tipped to be Kent, Sussex and Surrey’s preeminent property show. or those interested in the property market, the 12th October is a date to put in your diary. This is the date of the inaugural South East Property Expo taking place at The Hop Farm in Kent.

The average house price in the South East last year was nearly £320,000*, a rise of around 7% per annum. Compare this with the national average of £237,000 and is clear that the housing market across Kent, Surrey and Sussex remains buoyant. In fact, it is the strongest outside of London according to The Office for National Statistics. Given the importance of property to the regional economy, the property experts at Thackray Williams Solicitors,

who are organising the event, feel it’s important that there is a show aimed at celebrating and supporting the people and businesses involved in it. It is clear when buying property either as a home for your family, as a premises for your business or for simply as a secure investment, everyone requires expert help and advice. The Expo aims to bring together, for one day only, buyers and sellers, developers, investors and landlords with trusted suppliers and advisors, providing help and assistance to those with an interest in all things property. Alongside over 50 exhibitors, there is also the chance to attend a range of talks and seminars by respected industry experts

on a wide range of property topics as well as plenty of networking opportunities. However, for tradesmen, investors, suppliers and advisors, who are interested in exhibiting at the South East Property Expo you need to

be quick if you want to get involved. With only a few months left until the big day nearly 50% of the exhibition opportunities have already gone. * The Office for National Statistics

For more information visit about this exciting event visit www.sepropertyexpo.co.uk For further enquires please contact James Bradshaw on 02084616178 or email james.bradshaw@thackraywilliams.com

July 2017

| Construction

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Good quality new stock is attracting significant tenant demand with ten of the new schemes starting construction already achieving leasing success and of the 3.9 million sq ft of completed space, half was pre-let.

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Construction |

Largest volume of office space delivered in London since 2004 More evidence of London’s construction boom has come with news that the city saw 3.9 million sq ft of new office space completed in just six months, delivering the largest volume of office space in central London for 13 years. he London Office Crane Survey, published by Deloitte Real Estate, recorded 28 new construction starts over the six month period to March, compared to 40 in the previous survey, although there were some signs of a slowdown in some areas.

This added 3.2 million sq ft into the development pipeline, a rise of 13%. Despite this, the total office space currently under construction across the capital is 13.9 million sq ft, a six per cent decrease from the previous survey (14.8 million sq ft). Shaun Dawson, author of the London Office Crane Survey at Deloitte, said: “The sheer volume of completed space is no surprise given the surge in development activity 18 months ago. In total, 4.4 million sq ft completed in 2016 and this momentum has continued into 2017. We expect this year’s annual total delivery to be the highest since 2003.”

The City continues to dominate development activity with ten new schemes totalling 1.9 million sq ft taking the City’s construction pipeline to 8.2 million sq ft. This represents a seven per cent decrease, but comes on the back of a number of large schemes having completed in the past six months. However, the largest decrease in construction activity was recorded in the West End, down 27% in six months. Other markets remain active with Midtown and Southbank’s development activity increasing by 9% and 6% respectively. Occupier demand remains resilient with 43% (six million sq ft) of space currently under construction having already been let. Shaun said: “Good quality new stock is attracting significant tenant demand with ten of the new schemes starting construction already achieving leasing success and of the 3.9 million sq ft of

completed space, half was pre-let. This early leasing activity has softened the impact the volume of space completing has on the market.” Leading the way were new-builds compared to refurbishment projects. New-builds now account for the largest share the new space starting construction 2.6m sq ft, pushing the average size up from 70,000 sq ft to 113,000 sq ft. Nigel Shilton, managing partner at Deloitte Real Estate, said: “The decrease in overall volume of space under construction could suggest that developers have slowed down, yet this is more a result of timing and two years of elevated levels of construction completing rather than developers holding off. “Demolition levels remain high at 7.9 million sq ft, which chimes with the sentiment of our surveyed contractors who expect a rise in workload over the coming 12 months. Looking at the development pipeline,

we forecast around 39 million sq ft to be delivered by 2021. Very few schemes have been cancelled, highlighting continuing developer confidence.” Deloitte Real Estate’s London Office Crane Survey was first published 21 years ago, and is updated every six months. The data covers seven major central London office markets: The City, West End, Docklands, King’s Cross, Midtown, Paddington, Southbank, Vauxhall-Nine Elms-Battersea, White City and Stratford. The crane survey is the definitive review of office construction in central London, and is seen as a barometer of developer sentiment and future office supply. The report measures the volume and impact of office development (new build or significant office refurbishments of 10,000 sq ft or more) currently taking place across central London.

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The sheer volume of completed space is no surprise given the surge in development activity 18 months ago. In total, 4.4 million sq ft completed in 2016 and this momentum has continued into 2017.

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July 2017

Ask the Expert |

Raising finance Mark Grady, partner and corporate finance specialist at McBrides Chartered Accountants, looks at the wide range of funding choices available to businesses today and poses the questions business owners need to ask in order to find the right option for them. he post credit crunch fallout led to an unprecedented number of providers of finance entering the market as a result of the mainstream banks retrenchment in the immediate aftermath of the banking crash. While the banks were nursing their own balance sheet positions, other providers came forward to fill the gap that opened up and now there are a broad range of alternatives to suit all types of funding requirements. And while there is a multitude of options available, there are a number of important considerations businesses should take into account when selecting a finance option:

1. Which funder is best? Current sources of finance range from mainstream â&#x20AC;&#x153;high streetâ&#x20AC;? banking, asset backed lenders (ABL), crowd funders, private equity and other specialist lenders.

The most appropriate method of funding will generally depend on the reason why the funding is required. Longer term or start up funding might lend itself to equity investment. Asset purchases and working capital funding requirements might be best sourced through mainstream or ABL lending. Expect to be asked to make a contribution to the overall funding requirement as well. 2. Be prepared. Understanding the core need for funding and setting out the business case for it is vitally important. Demonstrating the ability to repay the debt by preparing a well thought through business plan provides a funder with confidence in the lending proposition. Demonstrating the strengths of the management team and the ability to repay the debt through forecasts is essential to gaining the confidence of a funder.

3. Security. Funders will expect a level of security against which they will provide the funding. In the case of ABL funding, the security will be the asset against which the funding is provided. Working capital facilities may require the owners/directors to provide guarantees over their personal assets. Unsecured borrowing may form part of an overall package but the secured element will be the dominant proportion. 4. Involve advisers. They can help steer you towards the most appropriate funder and help you build the business case through the preparation of the business plan. Higher risk propositions wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sit well with mainstream banks so comparatively higher cost funding may be required in certain situations. 5. Ongoing monitoring. Ensure your accounting records remain up to date,

both for management purposes but also to support any ongoing reporting to the funder that might form a requirement of the funding package. It is not unusual for banks to set financial and non financial covenants and regular, accurate and timely management reporting will be essential in meeting these requirements.

6. Other funding sources. Consider also the use of the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and the Small Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) where tax reliefs for equity investors such as High Net Worth individuals and friends/family can provide a big incentive for them to provide free funding to your company. McBrides provide assistance with all aspects of corporate finance including raising finance and investment and offer realistic advice on the likelihood of success.

July 2017

| News

Embracing your inner child At Leah Lodge we believe you are never too young or too old to embrace your inner child. That’s why we held a themed event last month based on the classic novel The Secret Garden.

e invited all residents of our boutique care home in Blackheath to bring friends and family to immerse themselves in a day of enchantment, with captivating and creative cuisine. The Secret Garden was written more than 100 years ago by Frances Hogson Burnett but this classic story is a favourite of our residents – many spent their childhoods uncovering the magic with every page turn.

At Leah Lodge, we bring that magic to life. Opened in November 2016 after a major refurbishment by new owners the Cinnamon Care Collection, we’re a community that offers the very best high-quality, tailored residential and dementia care – long term, short term and respite – for 48 people in wonderful surroundings, with landscaped gardens that are a secret world all their own. Hidden from street view, stepping into this haven brings peace, tranquillity and nostalgia.

It’s our own secret nirvana. Our Tasmanian Fern trees also show heritage as their trunks came to Maritime Greenwich on ships like the ‘Cutty Sark’ and these trunks served the purpose of stabilising a cargo full of barrels on the rough seas. The trunks were discarded, but their tropical feather like leaves now wave a ’welcome’ in our garden. The ferns and botanical flowers and shrubs, vegetable plots and pot plants all warmly welcome you to our garden which feels quintessentially English – refined, elegant, understated. It helped make our Secret Garden event – one of many activities and outings here – a huge success. Wonderful props, table decoration and layouts were developed to bring the theme

to life as a multisensory experience that can be fully enjoyed in the moment as well as creating memories to treasure. Guests included Deputy Mayor of Lewisham Alan Smith and President of South East London Chamber of Commerce President Helen McIntosh. Our passionate and highly-motivated team brings the best in care and expertise to Leah Lodge every day. We know we have built a special and close community where new residents flourish and really come into their own, even after a short time. Keep up with our news at www.facebook.com/leahlodgecc

Remarkable discovery during research project An original drawing by Nicholas Hawksmoor, one of England’s most significant architects, has been discovered at Greenwich Heritage Centre during a National Lottery funded research project at St Alfege Church. Hawksmoor, pupil of Sir Christopher Wren and one of England’s most original and significant architects. The present building was constructed between 1712 and 1718, and is one of the key buildings within the Greenwich World Heritage Site. This discovery was made by Richard Hill, of Richard Griffiths Architects, who is working for St Alfege Church as Conservation Architect for the ‘Heart of Greenwich - Place and People’ project, which has been made possible L - R Tracy Stringfellow, Chief Executive Officer, Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust, John Bold, author, Greenwich: An Architectural History, Richard Hill, by the Heritage RG Architects, Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London, Revd Chris Moody, Vicar of Lottery Fund (HLF). St Alfege Church, Helen McIntosh, President of South East London Chamber During a visit to of Commerce, Gill Moody, Chair, St Alfege Church Heart of Greenwich steering group,and Lesley Hodsdon, Greenwich Society the Royal Greenwich t Alfege Church is a Grade 1 listed landmark church in London, the first church built under the Fifty New Churches Act of 1711 and the first complete church project undertaken by Nicholas

July 2017

Heritage Centre, he found the uncatalogued drawing in a box of miscellaneous prints, photos and press cuttings of Greenwich. Greenwich Heritage Centre, part of Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust, is home to the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s museum and archive collections. The drawing, which shows the north elevation of St Alfege Church, is an original ink and wash drawing by Nicholas Hawksmoor himself. Richard Hill said: “I realised that this was a design stage drawing of St Alfege, probably from 1712, and it seemed to be in the hand of Nicholas Hawksmoor. Expert advice was sought and Professor Kerry Downes confirmed that his expert opinion is ‘that the new discovery is from the master's own hand’”

Tracy Stringfellow, Chief Executive Officer, Royal Greenwich Heritage Trust with Helen McIntosh, President of South East London Chamber of Commerce

Tracy Stringfellow, Chief Executive Officer, Greenwich Heritage Centre said: “We are thrilled to be able to share this significant drawing with the community as part of this partnership project with St Alfege Church.” To find out more about St Alfege Church Heart of Greenwich project please visit www.st-alfege.org or telephone 020 8853 0687

LUXURY CARE HOME in Blackheath We are the difference between quality and excellence and between caring at work and caring like family.

| Respite Breaks Residential Care | Dementia Care | Respite Breaks | Respite Breaks

If you need help finding care, we will do whatever we can to be the difference you need. Call our team on 0208 318 2272, visit www.cinnamoncc.com/leah or email leah@cinnamoncc.com

Blessington Road, Blackheath, London, SE13 5EB A Antique Event A

Friday 7th July, 3–5pm Ever wondered what your favourite ornament is worth? Bring along your possessions for the Antiques Expert, Michael Laikin, to value! Refreshments will also be available.

JULY’S EVENTS

French Bistro

Everyone’s welcome at Leah Lodge!

Friday 14th July, 3–5pm

In addition to our extensive activity programme we also have regular events, which are open and free to all and are a great way to meet like-minded people and new friends. The more the merrier, so relatives and carers are very welcome to join in too!

Jewellery Auction Wednesday 26th July, 2–5pm Join us for our special Jewellery Auction! There will be many beautiful and unique pieces of jewellery to buy, with all proceeds going to the Alzheimer’s Society.

We’re transforming our beautiful home into our very own French Bistro! Enjoy a delicious selection of cheese and wine as well as live entertainment from an accordion musician.

For your journey Ser vices: • Audit and Assurance • Business Advisory • Cloud Accounting Services • Corporate Finance • Financial Planning • Forensic Accounting and Expert Witness • Human Resources • Outsourced Bookkeeping and Payroll • Restructuring and Recovery • Software Consultancy • Tax Planning Offices across Kent Ashford T 01233 629 255 E ashford@wilkinskennedy.com Canterbury T 01227 454 861 E canterbury@wilkinskennedy.com Maidstone T 01622 690 666 E maidstone@wilkinskennedy.com Orpington T 01689 827 505 E orpington@wilkinskennedy.com Sandwich T 01304 249 997 E sandwich@wilkinskennedy.com

For more information www.wilkinskennedy.com

Finance for Business |

Funding available for research into robotics and artificial intelligence Up to £16 million is being made available to UK business in two competitions designed to support research into technologies and systems that can operate in extreme and challenging environments. nnovate UK is making the funding available to companies working in areas including deep mining, nuclear energy, space and off-shore energy. The competitions, part of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, aim to develop robotics technologies that can take people out of dangerous work environments and go beyond human limits. In the first phase of the competition, projects should focus on technical feasibility studies of technologies, systems or subsystems. Phase 2 will run in 2018 and focus on experimental developments of fullyintegrated systems that will be tested and demonstrated in realistic, extreme environments. To be considered to lead a project in phase 2, a company must apply in phase 1. The Government says that projects should demonstrate a potential step-change in capabilities and examples include: • innovative materials or systems, for example, actuators, sensors and telecommunications • improved robotic capabilities, such as structural and radiation tolerance • improved machine vision systems • improved situational awareness, navigation, localisation and mapping • more energy-efficient devices and systems

• miniaturised systems, for example, sensors, components and integrated sub-systems • systems engineering including verification and validation tools and methodologies • mission planning and risk management The competitions are part of an initiative that saw the Government recently announce that the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund would commit more than £1 billion over the next four years. Driving the initiative is an acknowledgment that the UK leads the world in a number of sectors and that ensuring that opportunities are taken is crucial as the country prepares to leave the European Union. Government officials have worked with businesses and academics to identify areas where research and innovation can help unlock markets and industries of the future in which the UK can become worldleading. Funds include an investment of £246 million to help UK businesses take advantage of opportunities in the low carbon economy, including the development of batteries for the electrification of vehicles. Also being supported through an investment of £197m are first-of-a-kind technologies for the manufacture of medicines that will speed up patient access to new drugs and treatments, plus investment in driverless car technology, a sector predicted to be worth £63 billion by 2035.

Among other companies being supported are those operating in manufacturing and developing future materials through a new £26 million fund for research and development programmes, plus those in the UK’s civil aerospace industry, a sector which employs more than 230,000 people. Funds will be made available to develop the next generation of affordable light-weight composite materials for aerospace, automotive and other advanced manufacturing sectors.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond, said: “As we leave the EU, we are determined to help Britain’s innovators compete with the best and seize the opportunities ahead, and this money will help advance our position as a global leader in developing cutting-edge technologies.” You can find out more about the robotics and Artificial Intelligence competition at https://apply-for-innovationfunding.service.gov.uk /competition/25/overview

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Government officials have worked with businesses and academics to identify areas where research and innovation can help unlock markets and industries of the future in which the UK can become world-leading.

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July 2017

| New Members

And Finally…

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Welcome to our new members Care21stcentury Ltd

Nicole Johnston Communications

Carers Lewisham

PPM International (London) Ltd

T: 07734 264006 E: info@care21stcentury.co.uk Contact: Priscilla Mangwana T: 020 8699 8686 E: luisa@carerslewisham.org.uk Contact: Luisa Depaoli

CKB Estate Agents

T: 020 3701 2822 E: Cengiz@ckbestateagents.co.uk Contact: Cengiz Kemal

Conran Estates

T: 020 8312 8312 headoffice@conranestates.co.uk Contact: Simon Hughes

CSB Logistics Ltd

T: 020 8293 1282 E: dom.barker@csblogistics.com Contact: Dom Barker

CSBF Common Sense Business Funding Ltd T: 020 7616 6605 E: susi@assec.co.uk Contact: Josef Sucharewicz

Infinity Loop Consulting Ltd T: 0796 9004857 E: steven.charlton@infini-loop.com Contact: Steven Charlton

Liam Smith Photography

T: 07931 695155 E: liam@liamsmithphotography.com Contact: Liam Smith

London Housing Trust

T: 020 8469 8032 E: winsome@londonhousingtrust.org Contact: Winsome Chambers-McKenzie

Neela’s Home Ltd

T: 0784 6168542 E: info@neelashome.co.uk Contact: Farzana Hossain Neela

T: 07810 048858 E: nicole@njcommunications.uk Contact: Nicole Johnston

T: 020 3872 8080 E: jimmy.ping@ppmilondon.co.uk Contact: Jimmy Ping

Rendall And Rittner

T: 020 7702 0701 E: office@rendallandrittner.co.uk Contact: Emma Chetwode

Russell King Associates Limited T: 020 8859 0511 E: kaan.azmi@russellkingassociates.com Contact: Kaan Azmi

Samuri Ltd

T: 07912 892188 E: musa.aru@hotmail.co.uk Contact: Abdul Alim

Solutions 08

T: 07900 193139 E: casandra@solutions08.com Contact: Cassandra Akintoye

The Albany

T: 020 8692 4446 E: Robert.fellman@thealbany.org.uk Contact: Robert Fellman

The Stroke Association London Community Team T: 020 7940 1356 E: Beth.brown@stroke.org.uk Contact: Elizabeth Brown

The Village Map Co

T: 07950 324192 E: dan@mapmyvillage.net Contact: Dan Synge

As a member of our Chamber, you are joining a unique organisation with a strong campaigning voice for business to local and national government. You can access a range of services, networking events and support to help your business do better. Importantly, you can also access other members to find new suppliers, promote your business services, or join forces on new opportunities. Find out how to join and learn how others are benefiting from their membership. For more information telephone: 020 8317 3365 email: office@selondonchamber.org

July 2017

Photo: Warren King

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As a member you're well connected with access to our range of benefits and services, including our directory of local member businesses

Name : Vicki Sims Company: Lady Bug Pest Control Job title: Director

What was your first job and what was the pay packet?

I was 15yrs old when I got a Saturday job in a fruit & veg shop, I got paid £10 and my hours were 7.30am – 5.30pm. It was fun as my great grandfather ran a fruit & veg stall down Surrey Street in Croydon.

What would you do with your last pound? Give it to someone who needed it more than me.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

As I set up Lady Bug pest control with very little money, less than a £1,000, my biggest challenge is raising the finances to be able to grow the company. Don’t get me wrong I do have work coming in and it is steady. However buying the stock isn’t cheap, most orders are over £1,000 and that’s not for many products. I look at my bank account and think the balance is healthy so I think about employing another pest controller and putting another vehicle on the road, then I realise my stock is low so I have to order more stock, so the balance reduces, or I may have a quiet week. I also use Sub contractors for more specialist jobs so I don’t make much margin on this work. If I was able to employ the specialists I could make more profit, so juggling finances is a real challenge.

If you were Prime Minister, what would be your first decision?

I’m not a lover of politics, however, I would like to make it easier for small businesses and start-ups to be able to expand their business. It shouldn’t always be based on a credit rating, as a poor credit rating could have been caused by a past issue. It doesn’t mean you are that same person now, people can change with the right support and guidance in place. Maybe the services of a free business support manager for 2 years to help businesses grow and expand, with financial guidance it might mean that you don't to need to borrow money from the bank. Being in debt is the worse feeling possible, I know I’ve been there. I am now very cautious with my spending. I look at something and I say to myself is it a need or a want, it helps me be disciplined with spending. I think small business should have free banking for 2 years too, not all banks offer this facility.

If you could do another job what would it be? I love my job, so unless there were no pests in the world to control and I had to make a choice, I would love to work for Metro Bank. Why? Well like me, they do things differently in their industry, they think outside the box, they think about their customers first and try to help them, their stores are open Monday – Sunday, all the staff I have met are so friendly, no one looks stressed, no one forces you to open up accounts etc, it’s just nice, plain and simple banking, and with an attitude like that of course you will want to get a mortgage with them and you are going to want to open up different accounts with them, because it’s your decision no one is forcing you to make that choice.

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