Thinking Business November 19

• OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR KENT INVICTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • October - November 2019 •

KENT’S HOSPITALITY ECONOMY FLOURISHES n n n n n

Chamber Awards 2020 P4 Patron News P11 The Big Interview with Hever Hotel P22 Economy & Us P31 Chamber Events P42

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Welcome

Welcome & Contents

In praise of the way businesses contribute to the community

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Jo James OBE Chief Executive

Welcome to the latest edition of Thinking Business, one that appears as Brexit continues to cast a long shadow over the UK. It seems remarkable that, more than three years after the Referendum, we should still be talking about Brexit and our politicians have a lot to answer for.

While businesses have stayed calm and found ways to carry on, politicians have allowed internecine feuding to create ever more uncertainty.

It is no surprise that a recent survey showed that the public holds our MPs in such low regard. They cannot be surprised at the findings.

In my view, business must take a lot of the credit for continuing to steady the ship and I am heartened that many businesses in Kent have continued to invest.

Our corporate hospitality feature on page 24 highlights one of the areas for growth.

As the piece indicates,

Contents 4 5 6 9-10 11 12-15 16-21 22-23

Chamber News Legal Update Members News Members News Patron News Members News Sector Focus Property The Big Interview

Our Patrons

Kent is the ideal place for corporate hospitality with some amazing venues in fabulous locations ranging from hotels to castles, sports stadiums to golf clubs and specialist events centres.

One of the reasons why corporate hospitality is worth supporting is the money that it pours into the national and local economy but it’s also important because it maintains the personal touch in an increasingly electronic world.

One business investing is Hever Hotel, which has spent £200,000 on new spa facilities, which opened in mid-September and are designed to widen its all-yearround appeal.

The move is the latest chapter in a story that has seen the hotel transformed from one focusing primarily on conferences three years ago to one offering an allround service mainly for the tourism and leisure market and, in our big interview on page 22, General Manager Lee Crawford explains the thinking behind the move.

24-29 Cover Feature Hospitality 31 The Economy & Us 33 Ask the Expert 35 Members News 36 Business News 37-38 Members News 39 International Trade

Amid all the Brexit uncertainty, stories like this continue to bring a smile to the face and show the contribution that business can make to communities.

That is certainly the case with an initiative involving the Chamber that is outlined on page 4. The Chamber has chosen Demelza Hospice Care for Children as its charity of the year and we will be working to support the organisation as it continues to provide care and emotional support for children with terminal conditions and their loved ones.

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At a time when politicians continue to bicker, it’s a reminder of what really matters.

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I am pleased to announce that our Chamber Business Awards 2020 will open for entry on 28th October 2019.

41 Members News 42-43 Chamber Events 45 The Person Behind the Business 46-47 Business News 48-49 New Members 50 Last Word 50 Movers & Shakers

Editorial and General Enquiries Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford Business Point, Waterbrook Avenue, Sevington, Ashford, Kent.

TN24 0LH Chief Executive: Jo James Tel: 01233 503 838 Fax: 01233 503 687 info@kentinvictachamber.co.uk www.kentinvictachamber.co.uk Media No.1660 Published October 2019 © Benham Publishing

Publisher

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Benham Publishing Limited, Aintree Building, Aintree Way, Aintree Business Park, Liverpool L9 5AQ Ian Fletcher Tel: 0151 236 4141 Fax: 0151 236 0440 admin@benhampublishing.com www.benhampublishing.com

Advertising and Features

Karen Hall Tel: 0151 236 4141 karen@benhampublishing.com

Production Manager

Peter Wilkinson Tel: 0151 236 4141 peter@benhampublishing.com

Disclaimer

Thinking Business is published for Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and is distributed without charge to Chamber members. All correspondence should be addressed to the Editor at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. Views expressed in Thinking Business are not necessarily those of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. Reprinting in whole or part is forbidden except by permission. © 2019. 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.

Cover Image: Guy Hollaway Architects, photography by Charles Hosea

Thinking Business

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Chamber News

Chamber Charity of the Year

Demelza Hospice Care for Children TO PARTNER WITH CHAMBER

Demelza Hospice Care for Children has been chosen as charity of the year by Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce (KICC).

Demelza provides specialist care and emotional support for children with terminal conditions and their loved ones across the region 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, completely free of charge.

Petra Bones, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Demelza, said “We are absolutely delighted Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce have chosen Demelza as their charity of the year and we are looking forward to working with them over the coming months.

“As a charity, we’re almost entirely dependent on the generosity of our supporters to provide the funds that keep

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Thinking Business

our services going so we are grateful to the team at KICC for partnering with us”.

Jo James OBE, CEO of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, said “We are delighted to announce that Demelza is our chosen Charity for 2019/20. We are very much looking forward to working with the team at Demelza over the next year to support the work they do, helping families making lasting memories across Kent”.

Find out more about Demelza at www.demelza.org.uk, follow the charity on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ demelzahospice or @demelzahospice on Twitter.

Chamber Charity of the Year

So you want to be a franchisee…

Legal Update

Girlings’ Commercial Property Partner David Redgate, who has extensive experience working with franchisees in the fast food, beverage and fitness sectors, explains why it pays to do your homework.

There is no doubt that a franchise is a great way to become the boss of a highly successful business, with an established brand and/or product as many of my own clients have proved. Franchisors set out the legal structure of the franchise in slightly different ways but often they follow a general theme: A franchise agreement is a legal contract and there is no such thing as a ‘standard document’ that will fit all businesses. Each is unique and tailored to the requirements of the franchise. It is vitally important to read the small print. The franchise agreement will contain conditions that oblige you to buy your supplies and stock from specific sources – this is often more expensive than on the open market. It will also require you to pay a percentage of your turnover to the franchisor.

Some franchise agreements can be extremely tough, and might require you, for example, to refit your outlet out of your own pocket if the franchisor has rebranded.

An umbrella agreement with a franchisor is the contract framework with terms and conditions that take in potential possibilities within the lifetime of your franchise agreement and beyond. The umbrella agreement will set the exclusivity area in which you are allowed to find suitable sites for your business. Once this is set you will be unable to operate outside this exclusion zone. You will also need to notify the franchisor when you have found a potential site and they will often have the option of claiming the site for themselves - which does happen and which can be extremely disappointing. You might also be denied the site because it is deemed to be too close to another outlet already in the franchise or is not compatible with the franchisor’s brand

positioning. It is important to make sure that your umbrella agreement allows you sufficient room to grow your business as sometimes the only other practical alternative for expansion will be to buy the business of another franchisee, a far more problematic route.

Entering into the Lease is the next step once the site has been agreed.

Lease structures can vary, however, generally the franchisor will insist on having some control over the premises often in the position of a landlord. Alternatively, you can exist as co-tenants but with the more onerous tenant conditions applying only to the franchisee. I have found that even where a franchisee purchases the freehold they may have to grant a head lease to the franchisor and take back an under lease to create the landlord and tenant arrangement between the franchisor and franchisee. The lease will often carry some quite punitive restrictions for when you come to sell the property and or franchise as well as specific clauses relating to your particular business, often designed to give the franchisor control over who the new owner/franchisee will be.

Often as a franchisee you will set up as a company. In this instance, the franchisor will require you as director to enter into personal guarantees for both the franchise agreement and the lease.

Before you enter into a franchise you must do your homework particularly in respect to where the greatest profit lies - open your mind to new entrants in the franchising market, find out what percentage of your profits you will need to hand over and of course make sure you seek legal advice before you sign the contracts.

David Redgate

Partner, Commercial Property

girlings.com

01227 768374

davidredgate@girlings.com Thinking Business

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Members News

A HIDDEN You don’t need A NEW WEBSITE

GEM

Picture this. You’ve just signed a fantastic new deal with a new client.

Your business is growing. Your team is growing, and the shareholders are getting happier by the minute.

Knowing the long process of the last website redesign, you all groan ‘no we don’t, its fine!’ - Deep down you know it’s dated, doesn’t generate many leads, and the content is really old. Especially the team photos...!

We approach this as evolution not revolution.

If your business has a working business model, serves customers well and is working on or selling fantastic projects as you most likely are, it isn’t often an option to put all that through a significant redesign, a makeover or new build of your site. It can also be a large cost up front. What we offer are monthly packages with a focus on safe, gradual growth that is only possible when done right, by experts with a plan for incremental improvement.

UX is not about pretty picture visuals.

The reality is - you don’t always need a new website. Here at Red Bullet we specialise in conversion and user experience (UX) design.

Gut feeling is not enough when it comes to providing an existing business with a design solution that will fit to its current users and

Then your marketing manager says “we need a new website to represent who we are now!”

The Holiday Inn Sittingbourne is a hidden gem of a hotel conveniently situated very close to the M2 and M20 motorways.

It offers extensive conference, meeting and event facilities, a spacious 70 seater light and airy restaurant which caters for all dietary requirements and a welcoming bar.

There is private dining for up to 50 guests and a Ballroom which is ideal for conferences with a capacity for up to 250 guests.

The hotel offers 79 contemporary and spacious bedrooms and a small gym on site, perfect for both corporate and leisure guests.

Standard Wi-Fi is available as is complimentary car parking for up to 100 cars with 2 electric charging points available in the car park.

The weekly ‘all you can eat’ Indian and Italian themed evenings are proving increasingly popular with both our corporate and leisure guests. Sharing platters are now available in the bar which offers a great alternative to restaurant dining.

For businesses still looking for a venue for their Christmas party then look no further! Throughout December we are hosting Ballroom and Christmas Party Nights which includes a 3 course dinner / carvery, DJ and disco at £35.95pp and £29.95pp respectively.

Festive Afternoon Tea, 999 and NHS Party Nights, Christmas Day Lunch, Boxing Day Carvery, New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, New Year’s Eve Family Event and January Party nights are also available to book.

Make it a Christmas to remember and come along to one of our fantastic festive events. Special accommodation rates available for those who would like to stay the night.

For further details, please visit www.HolidayInn.com/Sittingbourne

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Thinking Business

New challenge for Hayley The Inkerman Group has announced that Hayley Spedding has been appointed as its Director of Investigations.

The announcement comes as the company continues with a period of significant growth and business consolidation, particularly within investigations, due diligence and background screening business.

Hayley joins the company with extensive proven experience in investigations, policing, management and commercial expertise at senior levels, including more than 20 years’ experience within the Kent Police, attaining the rank of Detective Chief Inspector/Acting Superintendent.

Specialising in managing complex, serious and high-risk investigations, including cross-border, and

management of investigative and intelligence/research teams, she has also been responsible for the development and delivery of largescale transformational project plans and costed business cases.

In addition, she has substantial strategic and operational experience in developing new business systems, processes and organisational structures to enhance the delivery of key services. More recently, her experience as CEO within the education sector has provided her with additional senior management and valuable commercial and business development responsibilities.

Hayley said: “I am extremely pleased to be joining The Inkerman Group and taking up this post at this exciting and challenging time as the company continues to develop its

business model. We create lasting impact, business growth and better experiences.

Choose a targeted approach.

Choose Red Bullet.

Steve Kreeger is Managing Director of Red Bullet www.redbullet.co.uk

proven capability, expand its client base and specialist product and service lines in the investigations and business risk sector.”

Gerald Moor, CEO of The Inkerman Group, said: “Hayley’s skills and experience are precisely what The Inkerman Group needs going forward at this crucial point in the company’s history. During the past few years, the business has gone through a massive step-change and there is more still to come in assisting companies in the management of their business risks throughout the world.

“Hayley brings a considerable amount of knowledge, experience and expertise in a wide-range of investigations and business risk issues for clients and we are delighted to have her here as part of the team.”

Do what you do best, outsource the rest!

Professional Office Service is run

by Kirstin Miller, who provides Business Support Management to Kent businesses.

With a clear open approach to business and a positive can-do attitude within a short space of time the business started to grow.

Kirstin has more than 20 years’ experience as a Project Manager and Personal Assistant within large corporate companies, and is a knowledgeable professional who works with business owners supporting their day to day office responsibilities.

Kirstin tailors each of the business management services for the individual clients, recognising no two are the same and one size does not fit all. Clients outsource their timeconsuming project, administration and office responsibilities to her so that they can spend more time focusing on doing what they do best which generates more business and increases profitability.

Following research, Kirstin identified a need for the provision of independent business support which could be provided on an ad-hoc, project or scheduled basis.

This gave her the basis to develop a sound business model to help Kent-based organisations. She established Professional Office Service in October 2017.

If you are overwhelmed by your current workload and want to use your time more productively, you can find out more at www.professionalofficeservice. co.uk Kirstin offers a free 30 minute meeting – Skype/Zoom, phone or F2F at her Rochester office. For further information visit http:// professionalofficeservice.co.uk

Kirstin aims to help small businesses succeed by nurturing long term relationships with clients, strengthening their office processes which will enhance their reputation and allow them to develop.

Chamber Charity of the Year

Focus on Finance

Understanding the Structures and Building Allowance

By Matt Reid, senior corporate and business taxes manager, McBrides Chartered Accountants Those of a certain age will remember the days when tax relief was available for the depreciation suffered on factories or other industrial buildings. This was via the Industrial Buildings Allowance regime, which was introduced in 1945, but abolished with effect from 1 April 2011. The then Chancellor stated the allowances ‘are to be withdrawn because they are anachronistic and poorly targeted’.

There was some surprise therefore when the 2018 Budget included draft legislation for the introduction of a new allowance, aimed at providing tax relief for the cost of construction or renovation of commercial premises. This Structures and Buildings Allowance (SBA) has been available since 29 October 2018, though has not received that much attention.

The basics

The SBA is a flat rate 2% allowance, available over a 50-year period, for new non-residential structures and buildings. It is available for works where all the contracts for physical construction, including connected preparatory works, are dated on or after 29 October 2018. To claim SBA, you must have an interest in the land.

The SBA will be based on the original capital cost of construction or renovation, except where a building is acquired unused from a developer. In that case, the capital sum paid is the amount of qualifying SBA expenditure and an apportionment will be required to identify the Plant and Machinery Allowances (PMA), SBA and to separate the ineligible land cost.

SBA will not apply to acquiring land or rights in or over land, including the cost of planning permission, stamp duty and fees. SBA is also excluded for altering land, which includes land reclamation, land remediation and landscaping.

However, the preparation of a site for the construction of a building or structure will qualify for SBA.

SBA will be available when a structure or building first comes into use. It covers various assets including offices, retail and wholesale premises, hotels, nursing homes, factories, warehouses, wall, bridges and tunnels.

In order to claim SBA, the actual amount of qualifying expenditure needs to be identified, otherwise the SBA expenditure is nil. Essentially, estimating is not acceptable, except where a property is acquired unused from a developer (as noted above) where an apportionment will include estimation.

The exclusions

SBA will not be available on dwellings, including university or school accommodation, military accommodation and prisons.

Furthermore, Furnished Holiday Letting (FHL) is not a qualifying activity for SBA purposes.

The communal areas of a dwelling will also be excluded. For a property with commercial space on the lower floors and dwellings above, it will be necessary to split the areas for SBA purposes on a just and reasonable basis.

Evidence

There is also now an ‘allowance statement requirement’, which is a written statement including: • The date of the earliest written contract for the SBA construction, • The amount of qualifying expenditure incurred on the construction or purchase, • The date on which the building or structure is first brought into non-residential use, and

• Such other supplementary information as may be reasonably required by HMRC Commissioners.

If you do not have an allowance statement, then the SBA expenditure is nil. So, for second-hand property, this statement will need to be obtained from the previous owner.

Disposal of property

When a building or structure that has been subject to SBA is sold, the amount of the SBA that has been claimed is added to the consideration received for chargeable gains purposes. This means that for many property investors, the SBA is just a temporary allowance.

Future owners will continue to claim the flat rate 2% if they have a qualifying activity and they have obtained the allowance statement noted above.

• If you would like to discuss the possibility of making a claim, please contact Matt Reid on 0208 309 0011 or matt.reid@mcbridesllp.com

‘Our property services team have vast experience across the sector to help you plan, build and extend your business’

www.mcbridesllp.com

Chamber Charity of the Year

Thinking Business

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EVERY SUPERHERO NEEDS A SIDEKICK Batman has Robin Harry Potter has Hermione Sherlock has Dr Watson Shaggy has Scooby-Doo You’ll find Dr Watson keeping Sherlock on the straight and narrow; Robin next to Batman; Scooby right behind Shaggy.

A strong leading man (or woman) is nothing without a quippy, slightly less attractive partner at their side somebody with an extra bullet or little bit of advice when it’s needed. Which pretty much describes us and our great relationship with accountants.

breakthrough partnership

Our Breakthrough Partnership programme provides R&D Tax Relief assistance designed especially for Accountants.

We can give your team CPD Accredited R&D training at your offices or a nearby venue and full support in submitting returns and the defence of any formal HMRC enquiries.

We’ve completed 750 R&D claims in the last 4 years with a 100% success rate, helping our clients get back £40 million.

Let us help you too.

Email brady@breakthroughgroup.co.uk or find out more at www.breakthroughfunding.com/for-accountants

Members News

New Education Agency kicks off a fresh approach to School Recruitment A team of experienced Education Recruitment specialists have set up a new supply agency to offer schools “something different” by giving back to the schools they work with.

Teachright, a joint venture with HR GO plc, the Kent-based national recruitment and business services group, promises a fresh approach to helping schools find their educational staff. They will use their expert understanding of the Kent teaching market to provide schools with the best local talent, as well as giving free educational solutions back to their schools.

Between them, Directors Sarah Mitchell, Luke Patsalou and Paul Cater have more than 20 years experience in educational recruitment. Paul is a qualified teacher and has taught in Secondary Schools for over 11 years and Luke is a qualified football coach.

Sarah, a Director with RHL, the Technical and Engineering

Division of HR GO plc, was previously Managing Director for one of the UK’s largest Education Recruitment agencies.

She said: “My absolute priority is delivering exceptional customer service to our schools, teachers and support staff. Their combined expertise and experience enables Teachright to do things differently from other educational recruiters.’

We want to meet people, find out what they’re about, what they can give to education, and find the right fit for them. This usually leads to them being more successful and better for the young people. We’re bringing something different to the educational recruitment market.”

Jack Parkinson, HR GO plc Executive Chairman, said: “Teachright is the latest example of our joint venture strategy within the HR GO Group. This is an exciting time for us to be adding to our portfolio of businesses across the UK.”

Paul added: “We feel there is sometimes a disconnection between a school and a recruiter at the end of a telephone line. We’re trying to be more authentic by visiting all our schools to really understand their challenges and culture and to work in partnership with them. We want to give something back, for example, free sports coaching for pupils and behaviour management training for their staff.

“We won’t send candidates to schools on the strength of a CV. We’ve found that isn’t the best way.

Celebrating the launch of Teachright: Jack Parkinson, seated, with, from left, Roddy Barrow (HR GO Group Managing Director), Luke Patsalou, Paul Cater, Sarah Mitchell (Teachright Directors), and John Parkinson (HR GO Group Chief Information Officer)

Brachers private client legal division garners outstanding recognition Accolades have been rolling in for Kent-based law firm Brachers, which has gleaned several recent awards.

Its private client team has been named a leader by Chambers High Net Worth 2019, while news website, eprivateclient, has shortlisted it for top family law firm.

Partners at the firm have also been named as part of the recent round of awards. Head of the private client department, Christopher ErikssonLee was named in the top class of lawyers by Chambers High Net Worth 2019 and is the only lawyer in the top band nominated in Kent.

blind.org.uk

Private wealth specialist Alexandra Gordon has been recognised as a leader in her field by Chambers High Net Worth 2019. She is also shortlisted for Lawyer of the Year – Partner (regional) by Citywealth, as well as a Citywealth 2019 Future Leaders Top 100 – an honour which is given to those under 40 who show potential as leaders of tomorrow. Results are to follow shortly.

Chamber Charity of the Year

Simon Palmer was also named as a leading lawyer for private wealth in the prestigious Chambers High Net Worth 2019 category of Senior Stateperson and is the only lawyer in Kent who was named.

Brachers managing partner, Joanna Worby, said the awards and shortlists are a testament to the strength of the private client team.

She said: “Many of these awards and rankings are based on extensive independent research and feedback from clients and industry peers, so it’s fantastic to see both the firm and our lawyers recognised for their work and receive these fantastic accolades.”

“Clients are at the heart of everything Brachers does, so it’s uplifting to see that Chambers High Net Worth, in particular, praised our attention to detail and accurate and timely work.

This is evidence to just how focused the team are on giving an exemplary service to our clients.”

Thinking Business

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Members News

Trading for more than 40 years Thomas Group are based in Ashford, and have been in the fuel injection business for more than forty years.

As a specialist in diesel fuel injection services, we have partnered all the major manufacturers, Bosch in 1977, and adding Lucas, Delphi, Denso, Stanadyne, Siemens VDO, Parker Racor, Diesel Forward, Fuel Manager and Hopkins Manufacturing.

Successfully taking on a new challenge Unarguably, leaving any job or career can present a daunting and frightening prospect. However, leaving the British Special Forces (SAS) to pursue a yet to be identified career outside of the military was at best terrifying to say the least.

After 15 years of military service, I took the ultimate plunge and freefall jumped into the commercial business sector, armed with only the skills gained during my military service.

Ultimately, heavily relying on my gut instinct and hoping

all would ultimately end well.

Some two decades later, I am pleased to report that my gut instinct proved correct and did in fact serve me well!

I now own and run a specialist security consultancy firm – DPH Business Consulting Ltd, a Kent company providing businesses with bespoke, professional, reliable and affordable security consultancy services at the highest possible level. Our consultants are experts in numerous

Fuel quality is more important than ever. Modern electronic, high pressure fuel systems must have clean fuel that complies to ISO standards. That means buying good quality fuel and filtration systems. Good fuel will extend the life of your engine and diesel fuel system. We can help with that.

Our ethos is quality. Genuine OE (original equipment) parts, manufacturer training, official tools and software combined with first class customer service.

Gaining customer feedback to help us constantly Improve is our continual aim.

If you need technical support with a part, we will try to give you the information you need.

Our markets are anywhere you can find diesel fuel injection.

That could be construction, marine, agriculture, power generation, rail, cars, trucks and so on. We distribute worldwide. www.delphipartsstore.co.uk www.thomasgroupltd.co.uk

www.dieselpartsdirect.co.uk

10 Thinking Business

Employers have a duty of care to their employees and while fear in uncertain times may be a strong motivator, there is now a strong requirement for more specialist, vigilant and military-minded security service providers.

A great benefit of using DPH Business Consulting is that we provide clients with a fresh, unbiased perspective on security issues within their business, ensuring the provision of specialisation and efficiency strengths that ultimately lower risk and save money.

Derek Horne is Founder and Managing Director of DPH Business Consulting Ltd www.dph-consultancy.com

Does your business have a remote chance of success?

Experience, training and a good knowledge of the latest technology is vital in this industry.

From our repair workshops to our parts distribution centre we have that in abundance.

Since the company’s early beginnings, technology and emission standards have been revolutionised, from the smoky seventies to today’s tight legislation. This revolution is not yet over, with ever more efficient engines and systems. This makes your fuel system the sophisticated and expensive heartbeat of your engine.

security fields from video surveillance, developing workplace violence programmes, security plans for expansions and new facilities, site vulnerability testing, risk surveys and improvement recommendations, etc.

Sorry, Dolly, but the days of ‘Working 9 to 5’ in an office are numbered. Employees are swapping their office desks for the comfort of their own home.

Improvements in technology and the advancements made in cloud services now allow businesses to operate efficiently without the need to host all employees on site. Remote working is becoming increasingly popular and can offer numerous benefits for employers and employees.

It was just four years ago the Port of Calais closed for more than three days as a result of a MyFerryLink staff strike which left

thousands of lorries queued for miles on the M20 motorway. Now with Brexit on the horizon, there are growing concerns that there may be a sustained period of heavy congestion around the Channel and Channel Tunnel, which could potentially see the same chaotic issues arise again. With growing concerns over this, we must ask: are businesses prepared for the same potential disruption, and what can they do to minimise the impact?

The short to mid-term answer may be to accommodate effective remote working for employees.

Cost savings are always a priority for businesses of any size and keeping spending to a minimum is first on the agenda, but it’s not always so easy to do in the current economic climate. Housing even a small team in an office involves numerous outgoings and monthly overheads. Remote working can offer a considerable reduction on some of these abovementioned office outgoings.

TaylorHare Architects TaylorHare is an ambitious and energetic RIBAchartered architecture practice based in our newly self-built studio in Ash, near Canterbury.

Founded by Chris Taylor and Tim Hare in 2014, we deliver projects at a variety of scales, from one-off houses for exacting private clients to large mixed-use schemes for private developers and investment groups.

Our select team of architects and designers come from a mix of backgrounds that collectively come together

to form a creative and dynamic studio. We’re known for our expertise working with listed buildings, constrained or challenging sites and unorthodox designs, as well as our knack for navigating the planning process.

Central to TaylorHare’s approach is our relationship with the client, and we work openly to produce innovative design solutions appropriate to the context presented to us. We like to be hands-on, representing our ideas both visually and physically.

Additionally, without a designated office space, there is a greater opportunity for companies to recruit new employees from a geographically wider talent pool, offering a better skillset.

High staff turnover is often the case for businesses that struggle with lack of morale and productivity within the workplace. Does remote working really lift morale and improve productivity? Whilst paranoid managers might argue that working from the comforts of your own home can’t possibly encourage higher employee productivity, numerous studies would prove otherwise.

Cantium can help your business achieve effective and efficient remote working for teams of all sizes. Our innovative IT solutions tailored to your business’ needs, ensure your employees have the technology and resources required to get their job done, regardless of location. www.cantium.solutions

Hand sketches, drawings, perspective images and renders, alongside tactile samples and physical models, enable our clients to clearly visualise their projects as they develop.

Some of the services we can provide are: • Initial Enquiry • Feasibility Studies • Concept Design • 3D Visuals • Presentation Models • Planning & Listed Building Applications • Detailed Design • Building Regulations Approval

Chamber Charity of the Year

• Construction Information • Tender Negotiations • Contract Administration • Site Inspection • Principal Designer (CDM) • Project Management We are excited to be a part of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and look forward to building links with other members.

To find out more about TaylorHare, visit www.taylorhare.com or follow us on Instagram at taylorharearchitects

Business Property Market activity:

Patron News

by Mark Coxon, Director & Head of Commercial Agency According to CoStar, who for more than 20-years has researched and recorded the UK’s commercial property market, in the 12-months to June 2019 office rents in Kent grew at a faster rate than the UK as a whole.

sectors of the knowledge industry.

This is demonstrated by Covéa Insurance who employ 400 staff at their 52,000 sq ft King’s Hill offices.

They have recently renewed their lease, thereby securing a long-term future in the region.

A combination of affordability and easy access to towns such as Sevenoaks, Sittingbourne and Ashford, has underpinned demand.

While Kent’s town centre office market has seen a number of key lettings over the last year it continues to struggle with a shortage of quality new space. This lack of supply has contained rental growth in some locations. The average Caxtons’ prime office rent grew by 4% over the 12-month period to June ‘19, reaching an average of £182m2 (£16.90ft2). This compares with a long run average of less than 1%.

But, those centres able to offer new accommodation, such as Canterbury, Ashford and Maidstone, are seeing greater activity.

Over the past two years, Kent has come to the attention of institutional investors attracted by relatively affordable business space rents with growth potential. This combined with highly accessible markets has changed perceptions and driven activity.

In the office market there is burgeoning demand for space from larger companies, particularly across the knowledge intensive business sectors. Such activity has been limited by a shortage of prime town centre space favoured by some

The county’s business and science parks have witnessed a similar growth in knowledge intensive buisnesses ranging from computing,

engineering and the life sciences.

With the addition of incubation space such as that opened at Kent Science Park and Discovery Park, Kent will be better placed to develop its own knowledge-based ecosystem.

For more information visit www.caxtons.com or contact Mark Coxon (pictured below) on 01474 537733

This pattern is replicated in the industrial sector. Both the industrial market and big box logistics (aka custom warehouse solutions) have seen pressure on available space.

The Caxtons’ average Kent industrial rent rose to £92 per sq ft, with growth of almost 11% over year to June ‘19.

When compared across the same period, this pace of increase is ahead of the other property sectors in the county. And CoStar analysis finds the county has outperformed nationally since 2014.

Stock shortages and the growth in knowledge intensive businesses represented in the industrial market have helped underpin this performance.

Kent Leads the Way with Apples and Pears The 2019 Kent apple harvest is well underway with old and new varieties making a welcome appearance on supermarket shelves across the country.

Fruit farming on the scale needed to feed the UK’s growing population continues to be big business in Kent.

So what’s the story behind the country’s largest apple and pear grower AC Goatham & Son? Based in Hoo with 25 farms across the county, this family business had humble beginnings. Started in 1947

by Arthur and Phyllis Goatham, agricultural contractors from Bearsted - they bought fruit crops from local farms, harvested, packed and sent it to wholesale markets.

It wasn’t until the 1980’s when the ‘son’ in the business - Clive Goatham - took day-to-day control and the business which exists today began to take shape. In 1980, many apple crops around Maidstone were damaged by a devastating hailstorm.

The Goatham’s went to Medway to buy fruit and with it, came the opportunity for Clive to buy their first farm in Hoo and to grow their own fruit for the first time. From 1990, a decade of decline began for the British apple and pear industry and started with 1,400 growers and ended with 500.

Despite tough times, Clive’s vision has always been clear: ‘We believe in doing things differently to all that has gone before’. This vision has created an industry leading farming business supplying top quality apples and pears directly to UK supermarkets.

and distribution facilities, this farm business is also growing new jobs in Medway. It has grown from employing 30 people in 2007 to now employing 250 full time and 700 seasonal workers and contributes an estimated £29 million back into the local economy each year.

In 2007 the sale of farmland for much needed local housing in Medway provided the funding to invest back into the business. Taking it from farming 125 acres to 2,830 acres. This enabled the planting of over two million new fruit trees, the restoration of over 100 miles of native hedging and funded the business infrastructure to support it.

The business has also undertaken the largest new planting of conference pear orchards in the UK in the last 40 years, increasing the market share for British grown pears to 8%. Clearly still plenty of room to grow this market share further.

The investment enables the business to compete with much larger overseas growers and more importantly for the UK to be more self-sufficient in producing its own fruit, putting British apples and pears back into the baskets of UK shoppers.

The Goatham’s could have quite easily sold up and retired after their early business success however Clive’s vision along with the third generation of Goatham and their award-winning senior management team means there is more to come.

All profits continue to be invested back into the business for the future.

By using the most modern orchard planting and growing techniques, investment in new and favourite fruit varieties, cold storage, packing

Chamber Charity of the Year

And combined with innovations such as selling Ripe and Ready to eat pears, it is introducing them to a new, younger audience, helping steer them away from junk food.

This year there will also be a new variety of Pink skinned apple for sale – a first for British growers as similar pink apples are all grown overseas.

The nation’s favourite apple variety Royal Gala continues to be grown

by Goatham’s as well as many others, ensuring British shoppers can buy British apples for nearly 12 months of the year, tasting as fresh as the day they were picked.

and major infrastructure projects, the Goatham’s way of growing fruit makes the best use of the land available here in the South East, growing more fruit per acre than older, less efficient styles of orchards.

The British fruit industry has seen huge changes over the last 30 years to make it more competitive, but it continues to face stiff competition from overseas growers.

As well as issues like the rising cost and supply of seasonal labour and the challenges and costs of investing in and developing new technologies there is also the time it takes to see a return on investment, especially in producing new varieties and using modern growing methods.

Growers rely on the continued support of British shoppers who by choosing British apples and pears can be sure they are getting a quality tasting, sustainable and healthy snack to enjoy throughout the year.

Goatham’s grows one in four of British apples and one in three of the British Conference pears sold in the UK each year. And at a time when landowners are under pressure in Kent and Medway to make land available for housing Thinking Business

11

Members News

VAT change delays are welcome news for some but a headache for others A Government U-turn on imminent VAT changes could prove a headache for some construction sector businesses, warns Kent accountants MHA MacIntyre Hudson, which has offices in Maidstone and Canterbury.

With less than a month to go until a proposed major change in the way VAT is charged and collected in the building industry, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has announced a 12-month delay to its introduction.

Sue Rathmell, Head of VAT in Kent for MHA MacIntyre Hudson, said while the delay to the start of the VAT domestic reverse charge change until 1 October 2020 is a welcome relief, it’s frustrating for businesses which spent time and money to properly prepare.

She said: “For the industry as a whole, the delay will be a relief. Over the last six to 12 months businesses have been spending time and money to ensure they are ready for the changes. There was a serious concern that many subcontractors would go out of business as a result of the new rules.

Agreement –

harmony, accord, consensus Doing business is all about agreement - the price, delivery date, quality, components. Get the agreements right - everybody wins - get them wrong, no one does.

Don’t hope for the best and perhaps have to deal with the worst - get expert advice at the right time regarding your contracts, terms and conditions and agency agreements.

Whitehead Monckton’s Commercial Team can provide you with expert advice and support so contact us today.

Tel: 01622 698047 E-mail enquiries@whitehead-monckton.co.uk www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk Whitehead Monckton Limited (no. 08366029), registered in www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk

England & Wales. Registered office 5 Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under no. 608279.

TB 2/19

12 Thinking Business

“The introduction of Making Tax Digital and the threat of Brexit at the end of October or soon after seem to have convinced HMRC it was too much to expect a key industry sector to implement such significant changes at this time.

“For those who invested the time and money to be ready, it will be frustrating and it will have been costly, but they will be prepared when the charge is introduced next October.

“The worst affected will be those subcontractors who moved to monthly returns to get ahead of the changes.

These sub-contractors will need to reverse their VAT return accounting dates as soon as possible, which HMRC said they will facilitate.

“By remaining on monthly returns sub-contractors may find they have cash flow problems in funding an unexpected VAT payment to HMRC. They are the only ones who need to take immediate action. The rest can breathe a sigh of relief.”

Are you passionate about Medway?

The Medway Champions’ initiative is calling on all Medway businesses and community groups to join them in their mission to promote Medway.

Since its launch last year, the Medway Champion programme has seen Medway’s business communities join forces to promote Medway and further boost the economy by supporting and promoting the Medway story.

More than 100 businesses and organisations have joined, keen to stand up for the area and play a part in raising its profile.

The Medway Champions’ programme is effectively a place network that gives businesses and organisations the chance to come together to learn

about the development of Medway and see how they can support and promote Medway the place, as well as creating relationships that benefit themselves and the area.

The Champions meet every two months with a packed agenda and guest speakers. You will also be granted exclusive access to our online toolkit to help you promote Medway within your organisation.

If you want to get together with other people and organisations that have the passion, enthusiasm, commitment and desire to champion Medway them simply register your interest at https://www.wearemedway.co.uk/ champion-network/ or email us at virginie.giles@medway.gov.uk

Chamber Charity of the Year

We are all in the people business Every business wants increased performance and productivity and often puts pressure on employees to achieve this. However an element to productivity often overlooked is staff engagement.

According to a new meta-analysis of 1.4 million employees conducted by the Gallup Organisation, engaged employees are more likely to be productive on a consistent basis, with Companies with a high level of engagement reporting up to 22% higher productivity. Also according to Forbes, employees engaged at work are more likely

to be motivated and remain committed to their employer, leading to retaining valuable talent and reducing staff turnover and hiring costs.

Developing an effective and productive team will help you stand out from the crowd and maintain your competitive advantage. It cannot be left to chance, but has to form an integral part of the company’s business strategy and vision.

At Can Do Academy we are all about People Development.

With our bespoke, Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) approved Training and Coaching Programmes we

Members News

Helping with GDPR compliance work with you and your team to develop your leadership skills and your team’s talents, helping you build a motivated and engaged team, increasing performance, productivity and profitability.

As a business owner you are left free to creatively lead and grow your business knowing you have a functional team. Our tools of engagement include Workshops, Mastermind Groups, One to One and Group Coaching Sessions, DISC Personality Assessments and the Leadership Game.

For more information visit www.icandoacademy.com

GSE Group proposes investment in spa and leisure at The Hythe Imperial Hotel

The GSE Group has submitted a planning application for a new spa and leisure facility at The Hythe Imperial Hotel, which would offer visitors stunning views over the English Channel.

The Hythe Imperial Hotel already boasts popular spa, gym and leisure facilities, all of which can be enjoyed by hotel guests, members, and non-members who can purchase a day pass from the spa reception.

Design proposals for the scheme have been developed by Guy Hollaway Architects which has designed a number of awardwinning buildings and hotels in Kent. These designs would ensure the new leisure and spa building complements the existing grandeur of The Hythe Imperial, as well as providing improved access for all and enhanced landscaping.

Guests would also be able to indulge in some much-needed pampering time with the new manicure and pedicure room, a relaxation room and seven spa treatment rooms including two double treatment rooms with en-suite facilities.

This will all be topped off with the opportunity to socialise and relax in the all new leisure club members private lounge with access to the serene Japanese gardens.

Darrell Healey, GSE Group Chairman, said: “The new facility would be a welcome addition to the existing amenities available at the Hythe Imperial Hotel. We want to enhance the experiences for our guests to make their time with us even more unforgettable.”

The proposed new facilities will include 10 additional bedrooms and a new bridal dressing room – perfect for those looking to choose The Hythe Imperial as their wedding venue.

For fitness enthusiasts, the project would create new spin and aerobics studios, a separate gym changing room, a 40-machine gymnasium complete with an outdoor swimming pool with Jacuzzi.

Chamber Charity of the Year

Nick Gauntlett, Executive Director of the Hythe Imperial Hotel, said “The hotel has recently undergone an internal and external facelift with a multi-million-pound refurbishment, both including the bedrooms and hotel amenities.

“We have also welcomed Kent’s only Moet & Chandon Champagne Bar, and so I think it is only fitting that we look to enhance the experience of the spa and leisure facilities for our club members, hotel guests and visitors.

“We are very excited about the potential of this new addition, which will not only put Hythe on the Kent map. It is in keeping with our vision for the hotel to become a destination resort where everyone is welcomed, pampered and able to relax.”

Correlate Software was formed in September 2018 as a software development consultancy, providing specialist solutions to manufacturing businesses.

We’ve worked with global corporate businesses but are equally at home collaborating with SMEs looking to improve their business process efficiency through the use of bespoke software. Our core capabilities are the analysis, design and development of web applications, but we’re also able to provide training on these and other specialist areas.

Our aim as a business was to develop our consultancy practice whilst also developing our own software products division. We are excited to share that we are working on a new tool that helps companies with GDPR (and other privacy regulations) from an infrastructure point of view.

We believe that the GDPR and other regulations should be embraced by businesses of all sizes.

Demonstrating compliance with privacy regulations can only serve to bolster consumer confidence in your business. In these times people value the protection of their personal data more than ever, and it’s important to remember that software alone will not guarantee compliance, it’s about inspiring a culture of privacy, which is why we’re developing a range of training to complement our offering.

One of the challenges businesses of any size can face, as we have seen ourselves, is the potential administrative burden when processing requests from data subjects. Our compliance product streamlines the workflow for processing these requests, automatically locating or removing personal data and providing options for employees to process the request in a satisfactory manner.

Website: https://correlatesoftware.com Thinking Business

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Members News

SO WHAT IS EQUITY RELEASE? Equity Release is becoming increasingly popular and will become more so over the coming years for many reasons, but what is Equity Release? Basically, it’s a way that homeowners over 55 can take tax free cash out of their homes, without having to move or make repayments of any kind, unless they choose to.

So why do these people want to consider equity release? Gold-plated Final Salary Pension Schemes are now few and far between.

Personal pension pots are falling short on providing decent income at retirement and life expectancy statistics continue to amaze.

Basically, many people over 55 are starting to realise their retirement may not be as rosy as they had previously hoped. Most know that their biggest asset is their home and many think the only way to access this is to sell and downsize or even sell and rent. So, is Equity Release a viable option?

The majority of Equity Release cases are Lifetime Mortgages, which can offer fixed rates of interest for life, and with many under 3.50% (depending on individual circumstances) now is a great time to consider this if someone has a need for cash, can’t afford to make repayments on things like loans or credit cards and does not want to move home.

Some older readers may have memories of when equity release which didn’t have the best of reputation due to a lack of regulation. However, now we are all regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (providers and advisers alike) and also have a market place “code of conduct” set up by the Equity Release Council. All the plans we recommend are safeguarded by the ERC and have such things as a “No Negative Equity Guarantee” to protect not just the individual but also their beneficiaries.

Independent Advisor Peter Winstanley runs Equity Release Kent For further information visit http://equityreleaseeastkent.co.uk

14 Thinking Business

Cripps Pemberton Greenish works to improve mental health awareness

A group of staff at Cripps Pemberton Greenish have become qualified mental health first aiders, following completion of a training course with West Kent Mind.

Sixteen members of staff from across the business completed the two-day course, which is designed to understand and spot the symptoms of mental ill-health, in order to assist employees who may be experiencing mental health issues in silence.

Mental health problems are common across all sectors of society. It is estimated that in any one year, one in

four British adults will experience at least one diagnosable mental health disorder such as stress, anxiety or depression. However, many individuals still find the subject difficult to talk about, which the course works to address.

Emma Brooks, head of Human Resources (HR) at Cripps Pemberton Greenish, said: “Mental health affects so many people, but people still don’t feel confident speaking about their own concerns or approaching the subject with others.

“Courses such as these are really important in developing more

of an in-depth understanding of mental health issues and removing the stigma surrounding these conversations. Our mental health first aiders now feel confident in starting, what can be, difficult conversations, and feel able to guide people towards appropriate support.”

The firm’s mental health first aiders are now able to understand mental health issues and the factors that can affect wellbeing, and reassure and support a person in distress.

Cripps Pemberton Greenish announced in May that it had raised more than £28,000 for its charity of the year, Rethink Mental Illness, a charity providing advice and information to individuals severely affected by mental illness.

Charity Volunteer and Trustee Advertising Do you often wonder if you can really make a difference? Many of our current issues seem so large, or complex, that it is easy to think I can’t change anything, so why bother.

But what about local issues? Surely, we can all do something to help local organisations who do great charitable work?

I am a member of the Canterbury District Economic Development Group and have been running Kent Recruitment for the past eight years, recruiting for accountancy, finance, and business support roles in Kent. For some time, I have been keen to develop an additional part of the business to recruit for Charitable/ NFP organisations for their employed positions.

To do this, I knew it would be important to build good working relationships and felt that it would

be the right thing to offer Kent charities something first and help me to understand them better.

There is a physical limit to how much volunteering, fundraising or donating that one person can do so I knew that would not be the best approach.

Kent Recruitment has a highly effective recruitment website which can generate excellent responses to vacancy adverts. I, therefore, decided to offer Kent charities the opportunity to advertise their Volunteer and Trustee Vacancies on the Kent Recruitment website free of any charge.

So, if you know a charity that needs new volunteers or trustees, (show me a charity that doesn’t) Kent Recruitment can help.

Whilst I cannot guarantee to fill every vacancy, over recent months we have had amazing results for

some of our charity partners: The Bay Trust, Carers Support, Catching Lives, Communigrow, Demelza, Ellenor, Imago, Kent Wildlife Trust, Pilgrims Hospice, Young Lives Foundation and more.

These are the high-profile ones, but we are also helping smaller organisations such as Necessary Furniture and The Woodchurch Driving Group.

The people of Kent are very generous with their time and find that volunteering brings many benefits in terms of experience, improved skills and great friendships. Everybody is welcome.

For more information, please contact me through www.kentrb.co.uk Tony Line is a Canterbury District Economic Development Group member

Succession – could your employees hold the key?

Castle Corporate Finance is experiencing increasing demand from owner-managers seeking an employee friendly way to exit their businesses, as an alternative to more traditional routes. We are pleased to offer a Masterclass for owner-managers wishing to learn more about one such option – an Employee Ownership Trust, or “EOT”.

EOTs are a Government initiative to encourage long term ownership of businesses by their employees, and offer a tax free exit for shareholders.

Could it be the right solution for you?

Date: 19th November 2019 Time: 8:30 to 10:00

Venue: Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN3 0TG

£20 to KICC members, £25 to non-members To include a full English or continental breakfast buffet Please contact: rebecca.partridge@castlecf.com to book your place.

Chamber Charity of the Year

Why signage is important

FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Signage is so much more than just a cosmetic addition to your business.

It’s one of your key tools for customer acquisition, branding and messaging and it’s among the most costeffective forms of advertising.

In terms of marketing spend, signage is something that you pay for once and then enjoy the benefit of almost indefinitely. It needn’t be confined to your premises; vehicle signage (such as car and van graphics) can essentially turn your existing transport into mobile billboards.

Signage is an ambassador for your company, and it communicates your branding values before customers even reach your premises. We all know that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, but it’s human nature to make subconscious judgements and the quality of your presentation will influence how people see your company.

With this in mind, it’s very important to get your signage right - not only at your place of business but anywhere your company makes a public appearance (such as trade

shows or exhibitions). Great-looking, well-made signs speak volumes about your business and can stand you apart from your competitors.

Without signage, it can be hard for customers to know who you are, what you do and why they can trust you.

Ultimately, great signs can ensure that your business is presented well and that visitors are reassured of your professionalism. www.medashsigns.com

BJF GROUP WINS BEST CONTRACTOR at the South East Construction Awards BJF Group is delighted to announce that they have been awarded Best Construction Contractor at the inaugural South East Construction Awards.

These awards recognise the very best in Construction within the South East of England including apprentices, women in construction and architectural designs.

The Best Construction Contractor award celebrates the region’s most outstanding main contractors, who have carried out exemplary projects in the commercial, residential, industrial and infrastructure subsectors, and who have demonstrated the highest levels of innovation, quality of work, sustainability, health

and safety and well-being, training and development of people The awards ceremony, sponsored

by Willmott Dixon took place at the South of England Events Centre on Thursday 26th September and saw hundreds of construction professionals gather together to appreciate all aspects of construction in the South East.

Barry Foster, Managing Director at BJF said: “This award means the world to us and is testament to both the people within our business and our wider supply chain.

The South East boasts an array of excellent contractors and we were up against some very tough

Young Chamber is the youth branch of the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and focuses on getting young people involved in leadership opportunities and running events.

Interact is the youth branch of the Rotary Club and focuses on charity fundraising and community

New business celebrates the story of coffee Bloss is Ashford’s new coffee roasters. Joel, Emma and Dan roast, brew and sell coffee inside their roastery in Kingsnorth.

Bloss was visioned by Luke and Michael, and looks to share the story of coffee from farmer to consumer, with the end goal of creating generational impact for the farmers.

The word ‘Bloss’ is part of a Gaelic proverb which roughly translates as “even just a small amount can bring great flavour”

competition so to have come away with the award is fantastic.

I would personally like to thank everyone that has been a part of the BJF Group journey so far, your hard work and dedication is what has made us the multi award-winning business we are today.”

For further information visit www.bjfgroup.co.uk

THE LAUNCH OF BOSS ENTERPRISES We are pleased to announce the launch of a new company, Boss Enterprises. This combines Young Chamber and Interact at Invicta Grammar School in Maidstone.

Members News

involvement. This new company will be completely student led and plans to host events throughout the coming year.

For more information or to enquire about sponsorship please contact boss.enterprise@invicta.viat.org.uk

Our co-founder currently lives in Thailand, working with the farmers.

This is how we’re able to guarantee the quality and transparency of where our coffee comes from.

Joel has lived in Ashford since birth, and since marrying Emma in 2017, they’ve travelled to Thailand in 2018 to study and experience the coffee industry. We returned in April to build our roastery and start Bloss.

Bloss brings a story, and with story comes community. We pride ourselves in our coffee and sharing about that, whilst providing a comfortable atmosphere, seems to bring people back for more every day. People can stop by for a coffee and take a bag of beans home to enjoy the same coffee all week long too.

We have a growing online store and B2B partnerships across the UK. In the roastery, we also sell forest grown teas (working against the large deforestation in Northern Thailand) and coffee equipment for brewing at home. Our house baker, Lynne, makes amazing brownies and blondies too! We’re open to the public Tuesday Friday 10-4 and Saturday 10-2. www.andbloss.com

Chamber Charity of the Year

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A new development of high quality trade counter/industrial units

From 1,701 sq ft with (158 sq m) combinations up to 20,173 sq ft Gross External Area (1,874 sq m)

TO LET

Phase 2 now open

phil.hubbard@sibleypares.co.uk matt.sadler@sibleypares.co.uk

phil.hubbard@sibleypares.co.uk matt.sadler@sibleypares.co.uk

stephen.richmond@altusgroup.com tom.booker@altusgroup.com

paul.mussi@knightfrank.com alex.schofield@knightfrank.com

Sector Focus Property

Speculate to Accumulate an agent’s perspective on the industrial market

By Phil Hubbard, Partner at Sibley Pares Speculative development in the Kent area ceased in the recession, but the recovery saw demand building for small industrial units, recognised by the commercial property market and evidenced by rising rents for the limited volume of stock.

April 2019. Their confidence justified with Sibley Pares pleased to be able to confirm 50% of the units now let or under offer.

Developers have returned to the market and there have been a number of new build speculative schemes across Kent, demonstrating an increased confidence.

Gallagher Properties completed the development of Nepicar Park in Wrotham, Sevenoaks, a development of 15 B1, B2 and B8 industrial units, which Sibley Pares brought to the market in 2015. These units were offered on a freehold basis with sales all concluded within 3 months of practical completion, at the time showing record rates per square foot for industrial stock.

The success of this development has been replicated across Kent where demand for this type of product has, to date, continued to be strong.

In Ashford, GSE Group are pushing ahead with Phase 1 of Waterbrook Park, just off junction 10 of the M20 motorway. This will see the extension and relocation of the truck stop providing 600 HGV spaces. In addition, 50,000 sq ft of small industrial units are being speculatively constructed, due to complete in Spring 2020.

We are not surprised to report 11,500 sq ft is already pre-let.

GSE are in discussion with potential occupiers for Phase 2 of Waterbrook. This offers design and build units from 25,000 sq ft and should prove to be another popular and successful development in Ashford for GSE.

The buoyant market has enabled Katana Property to build upon the success of their pre-recession development of Phase 1, 2M Trade Park, Aylesford, built in 2005, and build Phase 2. This is a further 10 industrial and trade counter units, with practical completion taking place in

Chamber Charity of the Year

Tunbridge Wells has seen very little commercial development over recent years and we are excited to report a new scheme at Lamberts Park is currently underway. This will provide 5 units totalling 12,500 sq ft with practical completion due December 2019.

This is a particularly significant new development for Tunbridge Wells and we are anticipating demand to be strong.

However, the market is constantly evolving. On-line retailing, which has killed the High Street, was a boon to warehouse and distribution and even Brexit saw the need for space to stockpile.

Developers need to be aware of the trends and listen to their agents, their interface with the market and perhaps adapt their

product to meet the changing demand. Indeed, we end with a note of caution to this success story. There has now been over 265,000 sq ft of small industrial unit schemes developed across central Kent since 2016 and there is the potential for the supply to outstrip demand. Occupiers can now afford to be more discerning.

There will be a return to emphasis on key factors that enhance value such as parking, access, of course the old adage location, location, location! The developers such as Gallagher, GSE and Katana have built a good product and, in our opinion, speculative development will and should continue across Kent.

“We are not surprised to report 11,500 sq ft is already pre-let. GSE are in discussion with potential occupiers for Phase 2 of Waterbrook.”

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Why choose us?

The benefits of AMC… A direct link to Kent Police An integrated monitoring platform (one platform can monitor a wide range of CCTV systems) Professional accreditation and SIA licensed operators Part of the Kent Public Services Network (easy connectivity for public services) Alarm driven CCTV included Income generated goes back into the local community and to improving your service Bespoke packages available

Dedicated remote CCTV monitoring – there when you need us most Ashford Monitoring Centre (AMC) provides professional 24/7 CCTV monitoring services to private and commercial clients as well as public services. Enjoy the peace of mind in knowing your property is protected.

The AMC monitors a range of sites, including: Town centres Historical buildings Tourist attractions Car showrooms Industrial depots and factories

To find out more and get a free, no obligation quote contact: amc.supervisors@ashford.gov.uk or 01233 642095

Sector Focus Property

Ashford CCTV Monitoring Centre

Whether you are a private company or offer a public service, keeping people safe and keeping your building and contents secure can be difficult but is an absolute necessity.

As well as giving you peace of mind that your business or service is being monitored and protected, CCTV also provides a deterrent against criminal activity by just being there.

Ashford Monitoring Centre (AMC) is part of Ashford Borough Council and provides trusted, reliable and professional 24/7 CCTV monitoring services to a range of private and commercial clients as well as public services.

A monitored system offers tremendous benefits and huge cost savings compared to on-site security staff. Setting up a provider to monitor your CCTV can also reduce insurance premiums.

Furthermore, key holders are not put at risk as your provider will monitor activity on your site and work directly with the emergency services to ensure that prompt and appropriate action is taken.

What monitoring platforms do AMC use?

Ashford borough, it also enabled AMC to expand its offering to over 6,000 other sites in Kent currently on the system. This, of course, means that public services in the county can be easily set up on the KPSN system.

For private and commercial companies…

AMC utilise one platform that can fully integrate with the majority of CCTV systems available within the current market. Even if your particular system is not currently covered by their platform it is highly likely that this can be added.

Who’s sitting behind the screens?

AMC is accredited by the Surveillance Camera Commissioner and all of its operators are trained to Security Industry Authority (SIA) standards so you can feel confident that they are there for you when you need them.

For public services…

What happens if the operators see an incident taking place?

AMC recently switched their monitoring platform to the Kent Public Service Network (KPSN).

This switch not only provided a secure up-to-date platform for the operation of CCTV within the

AMC put your needs at the centre of how you wish to handle an incident. Depending on which protocols you decide to set up AMC can take a range of actions from issuing a verbal challenge

via the camera system, alerting a key holder or security guard or contacting Kent Police.

What about lone workers?

If you have lone working employees you may want to consider utilising AMC’s Lifeline package. Users are supplied with a personal alarm that, when pressed, connects them directly to the monitoring centre where one of their operators can assist. This provides employers and their staff reassurance when they are on site alone.

As an additional option, Lifeline can be connected to a building’s fire alarm panel so that if an alarm is triggered, the monitoring centre would be alerted immediately and can check the cameras at the location.

What if I require a bespoke package?

Not every business or service is the same so AMC can create a package adapted to your specific requirements.

Can AMC generate reports on my system?

AMC provides a full range of reporting including activity reports, faults, activations, and audit trails.

To find out more and get a free quote contact amc.supervisors@ashford.gov.uk or call 01233 642095 “Throughout our rigorous search for a CCTV monitoring provider, Ashford Monitoring Centre continue to clearly demonstrate outstanding reasons as to why we chose them as our provider. They are extremely professional, helpful and dependable whenever called upon.

“We have been using AMC for over 15 years and the promise made to us on a quality and reliable service has been delivered 100%. Knowing they are always monitoring our CCTV systems gives us complete peace of mind 24/7. We look forward to continuing many more years of work together.”

Andrew Fowler, Technical Manager, Red Alert Ltd Chamber Charity of the Year

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Sector Focus Property

Downsize your home and live the dream

With an estimated 11m people looking to downsize their

properties and in turn their

financial outgoings in the next

20 years, there has never been a better time to explore the options open to you.

Serenity Parks, a leading provider of park home living, is supporting the increased

demand for community living and homes which allow their owners to free up equity and enjoy all that life has to offer them.

Its Kingsdown Meadow park lies at the heart of leafy Kent midway between the villages of Otford and Eynsford – a chance to escape from it all whilst still just minutes’ drive from the hustle and bustle of Sevenoaks.

It’s perfect for those who want peace and quiet on a daily basis, but will be safe and secure in the rural idyll knowing that they have the support network of neighbours at the park and all in the security of a gated community.

All the home choices available

“We take great pride in elevating park home status and providing quality homes and communities to support the desire, in those aged 45 and over, to downsize or those seeking a more simplistic lifestyle,” said Marie Hanby Marketing Manager Serenity Parks. “By offering a variety of home styles, all of which can be personalised at this stage in the park development process, we are offering a lifestyle and a home that will make our residents wonder why they didn’t downsize and make the move to a Serenity park home sooner.”

for many prospective residents.

at Kingsdown Meadow are two bedrooms and offer a variety of layouts. 40 plots are available in total, and with lower monthly running costs than many more traditional homes, there is most probably savings to be made

Further information can be found by visiting

https://serenityparks.co.uk/ developments/kingsdownmeadow/

Class Q development If you own redundant agricultural and/or commercial buildings then there may be various options available through permitted development rights and the planning process for future uses.

The most typical option is a residential ‘barn conversion’ of a redundant agricultural building which falls within Permitted Development - Class Q. This consists of pre-determined planning permission from your local authority, which is needed

20 Thinking Business

to convert a redundant farm building, providing it meets various conditions.

The rules under Class Q are quite limiting but do provide you with the opportunity to convert buildings (depending on their size, location and other criteria) into one to three larger homes with a combined max floorspace of 465sqm or up to five smaller homes, each less than 100 sqm. A scheme could have a mix of both three larger and two smaller homes.

Under Class Q limited building works are allowed and it can’t involve the demolition that isn’t reasonably necessary, or a rebuild and you can’t extend the footprint or the roof space of the existing building.

This type of prior approval is now increasingly being seen as the starting point for many projects, with many schemes now being refined to allow for increases to the curtilage of the building, substantial structural works or complete replacement in some instances.

There has understandably been quite a bit of interest around the region from self-builders and smaller developers to purchase these ‘oven ready’ schemes, but there can be issues around boundaries and rights of access to resolve before a sale can take place. It is worth making sure all of these legal issues are clarified before marketing a property.

Paul Burbidge can be contacted at p.burbidge@gullands.com www.gullands.com T: 01622 689700.

Chamber Charity of the Year

Kingsdown Meadow will transformMeadow your life Kingsdown Kingsdown Meadow will transform your life Something rather unique is being created in Kent and it could be the start of an altogether better way of living for you.

will transform your life

uniquenew is being created in exclusively Kent and it for could KingsdownSomething Meadow israther a stunning residential park over 45s in a be the start of an altogether better way of living for you. tranquil and picturesque location. Whether you’re looking to release equity from your Something rather unique is lifestyle being created ina Kent and it45scould existing home orMeadow enjoy an that’s only 40-minute commute Kingsdown is aalternative stunning new residential park exclusively for overtrain in a be the start of an altogether better way of living for you. from London, take a closer lookWhether at what’s happening Kingsdown Meadow. tranquil and picturesque location. you’re looking to at release equity from your existing home or enjoy an alternative lifestyle that’s only a 40-minute train commute

Kingsdown Meadow a stunning new residential parkatexclusively for over 45s in a from London,is take a closer look at what’s happening Kingsdown Meadow. tranquil and picturesque location. Whether you’re looking to release equity from your existing home or enjoy an alternative lifestyle that’s only a 40-minute train commute from London, take a closer look at what’s happening at Kingsdown Meadow.

Four Stunning Show Homes Open for Viewings Call us FREE on 0800 644 4499

to book or visit serenityparks.co.uk for open dates Find us at Kingsdown Meadow Residential Park, Romney Street, Knatts Valley, Sevenoaks, TN15 6XW

free on 0800 4499 Call usCall freeuson 0800 644644 4499 Email info@serenityparks.co.uk Email info@serenityparks.co.uk

Call us free on 0800 644 4499

Follow us Parks Follow us@Serenity @Serenity Parks serenityparks.co.uk

serenityparks.co.uk

Follow us @Serenity Parks

The Big Interview

22 Thinking Business

Hever Hotel

The Big Interview

the continuing story There are few business sectors that are more competitive than hospitality, which is why it is crucial that hotels are constantly moving with the times. That is certainly true of Hever Hotel, which has invested £200,000 in new spa facilities, which opened in mid-September and are designed to widen its all-year-round appeal.

The move is the latest chapter in a story that has seen the hotel transformed from one focusing primarily on conferences three years ago to one offering an all-round service mainly for the tourism and leisure market.

Hever Hotel already has a lot going for it. It is situated in the beautiful village of Hever, only minutes’ walk away from the historic Hever Castle and Hever Castle Golf Club and in the middle of a popular tourist area.

General Manager Lee Crawford said: “The idea for our new Shambala spa has been in the pipeline for a while and is part of our continuing story.

“The past three years have seen us developing that idea and the spa is designed to help us to attract people all year round.

“The problem had been that we have tended to be very seasonal.

We are close to some big tourist attractions, which means that we are busy in the summer but less so over the winter because the major attractions close for several months.

“The spa is a way of attracting residents and non-residents to the hotel as well as the spa. All guests are welcome to use all of our facilities, including the restaurant and bar.”

“We are very young as a hotel. If you go back three years, we still dealt mainly with conferences.

The £200,000 has been spent on facilities including a warm plunge pool, a sauna, a steam room and a salt room.

“The hotel would open for a conference then close again until the next event was staged but three years ago we changed into a venue that offers all-round hotel services.

Lee said: “We are excited about our salt room. During our market research, we listened to feedback and that led us to include the salt room in our plans. The benefits

that a salt room offers to the skin and respiratory system is clearly attractive to Spa guests.

“The new spa fits in with our move away from a hotel which primarily dealt with conferences to one that is much more about the leisure industry.

“We still stage conferences but our major emphasis is increasingly on leisure. People can come to us and play golf at Hever Castle Golf Club, which is on our site, and also enjoy relaxing in the new spa.

“We are building on what we have already achieved, which in three years has been quite remarkable.

“Leisure is a very competitive market but we have continued to grow for the past three years and have been gaining traction in the market, increasing our bookings year on year.

“We are very proud that we have gone from effectively nothing to a hotel which is not only growing but

which was recently upgraded from three star to four star.

“Not only have we increased our bookings from people coming to stay in the area to enjoy the tourist attractions but we have also doubled our wedding bookings in the past year, which is an important and growing market for us.

“The investment in the new spa will help us to continue that growth.

In the hotel business, you cannot afford to stand still. You are always looking ahead because if you stand still it does not take long to fall behind your competitors, which is why we have spent the money.

“Conferences are still a part of what we do even though we are moving towards leisure and we do attract business events because the hotel is in an ideal location for business guests, offering easy access to the M25, South London and Gatwick airport.”

“We are very proud that we have gone from effectively nothing to a hotel which is not only growing but which was recently upgraded from three star to four star.”

Chamber Charity of the Year

Thinking Business

23

HOSPITALITY

Cover Feature

Leeds Castle

KENT’S HOSPITALITY ECONOMY FLOURISHES Investment in corporate hospitality can be one of those things that comes under pressure in uncertain economic times but there are some important reasons why it should be continued.

24 Thinking Business

Chamber Charity of the Year

HOSPITALITY

Cover Feature

Chatham Dock

Chilston Park For those businesses that do decide to continue investing in it, Kent is the ideal place with some amazing venues in fabulous locations ranging from hotels to castles, sports stadiums to golf clubs and specialist events centres.

One of the reasons that corporate hospitality is worth supporting is the money that it pours into the national and local economy, securing the future of businesses and creating and safeguarding jobs.

Despite the uncertain economic conditions, the UK hospitality sector seems to be faring well year on year, generating billions of pounds in economic activity and bringing in £38bn of tax for the Exchequer.

It also represents 10% of UK employment, 6% of businesses and 5% of GDP and has grown to become the third largest private sector employer in the UK, double the size of financial services and bigger than automotive, pharmaceuticals and aerospace combined.

According to recent research, the industry nationally continues to grow at a rapid pace and reached more than 100 Billion Euros in 2018 with expectations of more by the end of 2019 despite the Brexit uncertainty.

That money goes to support established and new businesses alike; the number of hosting and food services facilities in the UK alone has grown nearly 20% in the past five years, providing more than 330,000 working opportunities.

The picture is replicated in Kent and the wider South East where there has also been plenty of growth with many attractions and specialist businesses expanding their corporate hospitality offer.

Chamber Charity of the Year

Also, the West Kent region is famous for its award-winning sparkling wine and offers the chance to visit the many beautiful vineyards, a number of which offer fascinating tours and tastings, alfresco terrace dining and stunning scenery.

In addition, take in everything from fun parks to wildlife centres and Kent has much to offer and each attraction provides the opportunity for corporate hospitality investment.

Staging a meeting in a castle or a brewery, for example, offers something different from the usual bland office environment.

It reflects well on Kent and the business hosting the event.

However, the opportunity to attract investment into Kent is just half of the story because there’s another reason why corporate hospitality is so important, and one that reminds us what lies at the core of good business; people.

In an age that seems increasingly reliant on technology, corporate entertainment remains a key business tool because it helps companies to maintain personal relationships with their clients.

In a fast-moving age dominated by the Internet, texting and Cloud Computing, it is very easy to lose touch with people.

However, the personal touch remains highly valued because it is often when client and customer are together, and relaxed, that business is done, that relationships are forged and deals struck.

Eastwell Manor Creating that kind of environment takes many forms, and that is where Kent’s attractions come into their own, both cultural and sporting.

For many companies, good corporate hospitality often revolves around sporting occasions, a trip to the races, a day at the cricket, a spot of motor-racing or maybe a round of golf or a meal followed by watching a football match.

Or it may be a meal at a hotel, a visit to a historic monument or a trip to witness a cultural performance, maybe at a theatre.

There are other options for the more adventurous, daytrips, teambuilding events and extreme sports challenges.

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

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

And that can pay dividends, both in the form of new deals struck, existing relationships secured and money going into the Kent economy.

“In an age that seems increasingly reliant on technology, corporate entertainment remains a key business tool because it helps companies to maintain personal relationships with their clients.”

Thinking Business

25

CHRISTMAS PARTIES This Christmas give your guests and staff an all-you-can-treat celebration to remember.

Whether you want to feast, dance or roller skate, have 10 or 1000 guests, Dreamland has the perfect party night for you.

CHRISTMAS DINING OR RETRO ROLLER NIGHTS FROM £30 PP Full details and prices available on request

DREAMLAND.CO.UK

HOSPITALITY

Cover Feature

Unrivalled level of service

At London Golf Club we pride ourselves on our ability to offer our members and guests an unrivalled level of service and attention to detail in the sumptuous and relaxing environment of our clubhouse.

Westenhanger Castle

right through to the event itself. Every event is unique and therefore we always offer tailored solutions and work with you to achieve amazing results delivered with a level of service which is second to none.

It is an exclusive use venue set within 14 acres of magnificent Kent countryside just outside of Hythe, Kent. The venue itself consists of a Grade 1 listed Manor House, castle turrets and a luxury marquee surrounded by medieval walls.

It is not just about the amazing space, our expert catering team have a wealth of experience and are able to source, prepare and deliver inspired menus that will delight guests and delegates alike.

Whatever the occasion, Westenhanger Castle offers impressive and flexible space which will certainly provide the opportunity to raise the bar on any event. Suitable for both large scale events as well as for smaller groups the possibilities are endless whatever the weather.

All food is freshly prepared on site using the best seasonal ingredients with options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Our experienced team are on hand to offer as much or as little professional guidance as is required from initial enquiry

If you are looking for the perfect venue for your next event please email team@ westenhanger.sonas.email

The perfect location for any occasion be it a Wedding, Private or Corporate event.

Conveniently located just off of Junction 11 of the M20 it is easily accessible with plenty of onsite free parking too.

“It is not just about the amazing space, our expert catering team have a wealth of experience and are able to source, prepare and deliver inspired menus that will delight guests and delegates alike.”

Chamber Charity of the Year

Just 25 miles from Central London, London Golf Club can provide you with a comfortable and enjoyable corporate experience. It is fully equipped and elegantly appointed to hold golfing and nongolfing functions, meetings, presentations, conferences and private dining.

We have a selection of meeting rooms that are all naturally lit and equipped with air conditioning, the latest audio-visual technology and complimentary wireless broadband.

For more information please contact our Meetings & Events team on 01474 875720 or email Meetings@londongolf.co.uk

THE MOST FLEXIBLE VENUE IN KENT Exclusive Discount

to Chamber Members Quote “Kent Invicta” when enquiring We pride ourselves on providing a flexible approach to event planning with a variety of spaces to suit your event.

All inclusive conference packages start from £26.50 per person + VAT or get in contact to discuss a bespoke quote to suit your event.

Conferences | Exhibitions | Meetings | Team Building | Launches To find out more call 01622 630975 or visit www.kenteventcentre.co.uk

Thinking Business

27

HOSPITALITY

Cover Feature

Complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room technology packs and AV equipment come as standard, while 38 beautiful bedrooms make this a wonderful choice for hosting meetings and conferences of varying sizes.

Chilston Park Hotel Chilston Park Hotel is a charming venue in Kent, just moments from the M20 and close to Ashford and Maidstone.

Located 25 miles from London, minutes from the M25/M20 and with quick connections from airports, train stations and the Channel Tunnel, Brandshatch Place Hotel & Spa is easily accessible.

The Friars Serving the Community and Beyond

Over 22 acres of sublime parkland and a feature lake set a tranquil scene, while its accessible location makes it ideal for delegates travelling from London, or the Channel Tunnel.

With 10 meeting rooms holding up to 150 delegates and 53 elegant bedrooms, Chilston Park is a dream venue for hosting meetings and conferences.

Complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room technology packs and AV equipment come as standard, and nourishing delegates with healthy and hearty food takes a top priority.

Brandshatch Place Hotel and Spa

Brandshatch Place Hotel & Spa is an elegant Georgian mansion set in the Kent countryside, boasting twelve acres of stunning private grounds, a health club and spa and six traditional meeting rooms. Each has elegant features and accommodates from 2-160 delegates.

28 Thinking Business

Others come for business meetings or conferences and some simply to soak up the spectacular atmosphere and grounds perhaps even enjoying a picnic. Others have used the premises to hold various events including weddings, celebrations and school proms.

Visitors can enjoy stunning medieval buildings, enjoy walks through the Peace Garden, Rosary Way and grounds where children can feed the ducks or run off some energy.

There are also days of fun to be had such as car shows, summer and Christmas fayres, farmers markets, exhibitions and motorcycle rallies.

If you love history and amazing grounds, you can experience the amazing work of art by Polish artist Adam Kossowski and admire local artisans at work in the pottery.

Covering 42 acres of beautiful Kent countryside, The Friars exists for its heritage, working with schools, prisons, hospitals and vulnerable individuals.

Many thousands come on organised pilgrimages and some for a time of retreat or relaxation, being taken into a unique atmosphere of prayer and peacefulness to escape daily life, leaving it behind for a few days retreat.

Enjoy lunch in our 13th century Pilgrims’ Hall where you can treat yourself to a sumptuous meal made from scratch by our expert chef or the Tea Room offers snacks and homemade cakes. You can end your visit by choosing souvenirs or gifts at The Gift Shop.

You can book to stay in our guest houses in the medieval Priory houses, an 80-bedroom guesthouse unique in style.

Why not make a family weekend of it?

For further information visit www.thefriars.org.uk

Many thousands come on organised pilgrimages and some for a time of retreat or relaxation, being taken into a unique atmosphere of prayer and peacefulness to escape daily life, leaving it behind for a few days retreat.

A Dream Christmas When the temperature dips… bring your friends, family or colleagues to Dreamland Margate for an all-you-cantreat festive celebration to remember.

Get your skates on at the Retro Roller Party night with 70s sounds, disco glamour, roller-boogie under the mirror ball, cocktails and themed buffet. You can hire the Roller Room exclusively from 80 guests or you can join a party (selected dates).

Prices start at £25 per person.

If your dream Christmas features a little less spinning around, the Grade II listed Ballroom offers an elegant setting for lunch or dinner.

Available throughout December, prices start at £46 per person.

Visit dreamland.co.uk/ private-and-corporate-hire or email sales@dreamland.co.uk for more information.

Chamber Charity of the Year

December Thursday 5th • Thursday 12th Friday 13th • Saturday 14th Thursday 19th (SOLD OUT) • Friday 20th

"A LITTLE PARTY NEVER KILLED NOBODY" Join us for our ever popular party nights, they are not to be missed.

Party in style with a glass of fizz on arrival followed by a gourmet 3 course Christmas dinner and finish by dancing the night away.

Price: From £50 per person (incl. VAT).

To book a table now please contact the LGC Weddings and Events Department on 01474 875720 or email anna@londongolf.co.uk JOIN THE CONVERSATION

TOWERGATE INSURANCE BROKERS

PROPERTY & CONSTRUCTION SPECIALISTS Every construction project, property development is unique, every job has its challenges, and every site carries its own risks.

So why choose a standard policy, when you need a specialist?

Towergate Insurance Brokers has built up many years of experience helping to protect the property development and construction sectors, with customers ranging from small building enterprises to major civil engineering organisations. As one of the UK’s leading insurance intermediaries and with strong insurer relationships, we have the buying power which can help negotiate the most appropriate and cost-effective cover.

For more information or a full review of your insurance needs, please call 0344 892 1300 email: sevenoaks@towergate.co.uk or visit www.towergate.com/locations/Sevenoaks/Ashford

Towergate Insurance Brokers is a trading names of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited.

Registered in England No.4043759. Registered address: 1 Minster Court, Mincing Lane, London EC3R 7AA. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

The Economy & Us

The Economy & Us An Autumn Phantasy The Economy & Us “O wad some Power the giftie gieAn us Autumn Phantasy To see oursels as ithers see us!” Robert Burns, 1786

Nick Rowell

Director of Policy Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce Direct line 01622 753568 Email nicktpbs@cantab.net

“O wad some Power the giftie gie us / To see oursels as ithers see us!” Robert Burns, 1786

Imagine, if you will, that you are

“We could just wait for this debt

for whom the only personal sin is

the leader of the ‘Free World’ to label you a mere ‘regional power’, and get you thrown out of the G8.

“The US and UK contain families, especially second and third generation immigrants seeking acceptance, with fathers overambitious for their sons. For a sensitive boy, a domineering father may force him either to emulate his domineering role model, or collapse into alcoholism or worse.

Some fathers send their sons away to Spartan reform schools where, denied family warmth and disciplined daily, the sensitive harden up into self-regarding bullies. A boy’s natural capacity for inward feeling may be suppressed permanently, weaponising him to achieve power to flatter his selfregard. We see it here too: are not our damaged sensitives the most feared interrogators?

focus the people’s righteous anger into unreasoning hostility, even hate, pulling the whole nation off balance. We have found one with propaganda know-how to target individual citizens, hooking into their hopes and fears with bespoke advertisements that shape their inmost thoughts and attitudes.

And he is sufficiently damaged to deploy this know-how against his own countrymen’s peace of mind.

“British politics are dominated

country, if it exists anywhere,

such disobliging things to their

only crime, ‘lettingcollapsed Prezident.aHowever, if you’d ago. like to extravaganza bloat itself the despot of aifgreat whose Imagine, younation will, that you are the todespot ofinto a greatweakness; nation the whose régime generation flesh out this Phantasy you could the side down’. collapse. But perhaps Judo offers régime collapsed a generation ago.

With colleagues have set about order. A recent bid to take backgoogle control of territory Cadwalladr’s TED talkgranted on a better plan. reimposing It is inexpensive to With colleagues you haveyou set about “Here’s our plan. These 16/4/19 or Facebook’s targeted implement, and may neutralise the reimposing order. A recent bid to take too much independence has prompted the leader of the ‘Free World’ to label you a mere ‘regional power’, Spartanised leaders, if we can ads before the referendum on (eg) West for a generation. back control of territory granted too adequately frame an ‘enemy’, will BBC News website dated 26/7/18. much independence has prompted and get you thrown out of the G8.

You are very miffed. One day your people come to you: “Gaspadin Prezident”, they say, “whom only a fool would offend; we have been studying your wise words about Judo, how victory crowns whoever “We could best just You are very miffed. One day your people comehis to you: “Gaspadin exploits opponent’s tendencies and leanings. We have an idea. wait for this debt Prezident”, they say, “whom only a fool would offend; we have been studying your wise words about Judo, how victory crowns whoever best exploits his opponent’s tendencies and leanings. We have an idea.

extravaganza to with “Many people in the West are angry, especially in the US and UK. In the 35 years since ‘Reaganomics’, bloat itself capitalists free to invent money by lending it on paper to anyone apt to repay it, the ‘haves’ have into been on a collapse.

But binge, creating a cult of “Grab it while you can – you deserve it!”. Meanwhile the ‘have-nots’ can’t get what perhaps Judo offers they want,inlet alone “Britain’s reckless referendum is “Many people the West are what they need. due next year.

Let it be a petri dish a better plan. It’s angry, especially in the US to cultivate our campaign to throw and UK. In the 35 years sincefor this debt extravaganza to bloat “We could just wait itself into collapse.

But perhaps Judo offers atobetter inexpensive the 2017 US presidential election.

‘Reaganomics’, with capitalists plan.

It’s inexpensive Westthefor a generation.

If wethe can upend British, we can free to invent money by lendingto it implement, and may neutralise implement, and may certainly put the US on its back in on paper to anyone apt to repay it, short order too.” neutralise the West the ‘haves’ have been on a binge, “The US and UK contain families, especially second and third generation immigrants seeking acceptance, creating a cult of ‘Grab it while you a generation.”

The people imaginary can – you deserveover-ambitious it!’. Meanwhile with fathers for their sons. For a sensitive boy,in aourdomineering fatherfor may force him either the ‘have-nots’ can’t get what they

to emulate histhey domineering model,usually or collapse into or worse.

Some fathers send their sons may alcoholism of course have said no byrole such persons, men, want, let alone what need. away to Spartan reform schools where, denied family warmth and disciplined daily, the sensitive harden up into self-regarding bullies. A boy’s natural capacity for inward feeling may be suppressed permanently, Thinking Business weaponising him to achieve power to flatter his self-regard. We see it here too: are not our damaged 31 Chamber Charity of the Year

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asktheexpert

Ask the Expert

What should I consider when securing my premises?

We think that they are useful to see how the intruders got in after the event, maybe when you are preparing an insurance claim or assisting with the police investigation, but our experience is that you have to be more proactive when planning your security.

Prevention not detection is our mantra. Thieves are usually part of organised gangs and a few cameras on their own are not enough to keep the criminals out.

When it comes to security, the best methods are often the tried and trusted ones which have stood the test of time. It is not all about the latest gadgets.

That is certainly true of security at commercial premises and our golden rule when planning protection is ‘don’t underestimate the criminals’ – don’t just assume that a few pieces of kit will do the job.

You need to always remember that criminals are skilled operators who can identify weaknesses in security procedures.

They come prepared, work in gangs and can cause huge

damage. In 2017 alone, the construction industry lost an estimated £800m to theft and vandalism.

We would always urge that you employ a specialist security company with a track record and experience to protect your business and, in our case, one that invests in training its people and its guard dogs to the very highest standards.

But why use dogs anyway?

Isn’t that old-fashioned? Won’t technology do the job better? Well, no. Take CCTV as an example.

Much store is placed on CCTV cameras but we do not regard them as much of a deterrent.

We train our dogs from puppies to be fierce with criminals whilst also safe for staff and residents, including children. Our dog handlers are all ex-military and ex-police officers and they are highly trained to deal with intruders and in control of their dogs. The relationship between the dog and the handler is very important. You don’t want a dog that is vicious and doesn’t obey it’s handler.

They need to communicate and understand each other. For example, the dogs are trained to bark differently for intruders or for animals, such as foxes or cats.

This helps the dog handlers to be prepared and respond to incidents quickly.

We argue that employing a security expert makes sound economic sense and we always urge clients to build their security costs into their business plan from the beginning of the project.

Professional security is not cheap but the costs of not having the right security in place is far greater. You not only have to deal with replacing stolen goods, but also with the disruption of your business, missing deadlines, having to pay heavy penalties, internal chaos and anxiety to staff.

We also urge clients to make sure that not only do their managers take security seriously but to ensure that their staff do the same, that they do not inadvertently provide information which may be useful to criminals. Impress on them the need to keep security details to themselves and that they stay vigilant.

Ramona Zamfir is Commercial and Development Director of Bromley-based Guard Dog Security Limited. The company, which works largely on construction sites, specialises in providing highly-trained dogs and handlers and often finds itself called in to provide protection for managers who are at the end of their tether due to repeated incidents.

You can contact Guard Dog Security Ltd at: Tel. Office: 02087209388 e-mail: office@guard-dog-security.com

CONSTRUCTION SECURITY SPECIALISTS

GUARD DOG SECURITY PATROL TO BOOK CALL NOW Chamber Charity of the Year

PROTECT YOUR PREMISES FROM

020 86371406

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SECURITY SERVICES

www.guard-dog-security.com Thinking Business

33

One Ashford Hospital Your Local Private Hospital

One Ashford is Kent’s local private hospital, developed and designed with the patient in mind. We are easily accessible, located just off the M20 at Junction 10 and provide free onsite parking for all patients and visitors.

Why choose One Ashford Hospital?

At One Ashford, you will be treated in a brand new purpose-built hospital where we offer excellent, dignified patient care in a private calm environment.

One Ashford Hospital

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William Harvey Hospital Ashford

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For further information, contact our Reservations team on 01233 885777, or email ashford.info@onehealthcare.co.uk

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P.J.S. Jeer Consultant Orthopaedic Knee Surgeon

*Terms and conditions apply

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‘Visco-supplements are administered as a single injection to the knee as an outpatient. If there is a lot of swelling in the knee then an attempt is made to remove some of that fluid prior to the injection. The product works by reducing inflammation in the knee and risks of complications are very rare. The injection is repeatable, and in my opinion an excellent way of offsetting the requirement for surgery.’

We also offer competitive fixed priced packages on our self-pay procedures, with 0% and low interest finance available*

KE

‘As part of the strategy to deal with arthritic knee joints, a surgeon will always try and exhaust simple conservative measures before resorting to end-stage joint replacement as a curative option. One of the best ways to help arthritic pain in a knee is to perform an injection, for which there are many varieties available. The simplest thing that can be injected into the knee is a combination of local anaesthetic and steroid. I personally try to avoid steroid injections into the knee as they can have an adverse effect in the future when it comes to joint replacement, with an increased potential risk of infection in the joint replacement if there has been a previous steroid injection. My preferred injection would be a visco-supplement and the particular product I use is called Monovisc. This injection can provide up to 50% reduction in arthritic joint pain for up to six months.

We are welcomed and recognised by all major insurers, so if you have private health insurance, it is worth checking your policy to see if your insurer could cover the cost of your stay.

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Consultant Orthopaedic Knee Surgeon, Mr Chan Jeer discusses the benefits of knee injections for the treatment of arthritic pain.

Based in the heart of the community of Ashford and surrounding villages, One Ashford is perfectly placed to serve all its local residents.

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Can knee injections help arthritic pain?

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Kennington Road, Willesborough Ashford, Kent TN24 0YS

ashford.info@onehealthcare.co.uk | 01233 885777 www.oneashfordhospital.co.uk

15 million UK employees ‘suffer emotionally’

Members News

DUE TO INTERNET FAILURES AT WORK’ More than 15 million UK workers displayed negative emotional responses, including greater levels of anger, impatience and worry, as a result of internet failures at work last year, according to a study by Beaming, the business ISP. Beaming’s study, which involved more than 500 UK-based organisations using a range of different internet service providers, indicates that 42% of organisations - the equivalent of 2.4 million companies nationwide suffered at least one major internet failure that prevented them from trading or accessing vital online services in 2018.

Leaders at three quarters (74%) of businesses that experienced outages told Beaming’s researchers that their employees had exhibited one or more negative emotional responses as a result of downtime, with between a third and half of the workforce affected, on average: • Employees displayed greater impatience at a third (32%) of companies suffering internet

downtime. More than half (51%) of people at these firms were affected on average.

• A quarter (24%) of leaders said that internet downtime had made their employees more restless and less able to concentrate. 48% of people were affected on average.

• A fifth (21%) of leaders said internet downtime made their employees more angry. On average, 44% of people displayed more anger than usual at affected companies last year.

• 17% of leaders at companies that had experienced internet downtime said that it made staff members more negative, while 14% said employees became more emotional and more likely to overreact to what others say.

Beaming’s study also revealed that some organisations experienced positive outcomes as a result of staff being unable to use the internet; 13% of leaders at businesses affected by disruptive internet failures said some

employees were visibly more relaxed and actually enjoyed the downtime. A fifth (20%) of leaders said their people spent more time talking to colleagues as a result.

Sonia Blizzard, Managing Director of Beaming, said: “Rock solid, reliable internet connectivity is critical for businesses now. The majority of companies simply can’t manage without it. There can be no surprise that many people respond emotionally when the internet fails because it impacts directly on their productivity and ability to do their jobs.”

“Our research shows that the majority of businesses suffering a disruptive internet failure find large parts of their workforce experience heightened levels of anger, impatience and worry as a result. Downtime damages productivity, it hits morale and harms the working relationships that make organisations successful.

“Communication is crucial for good collaboration, so it is interesting that a fifth of businesses found people

actually spent more time talking to each other without the internet.

These face-to-face conversations should be happening regularly, not just when people are forced to.”

Annemie Ress, founder of PurpleBeach, a consultancy focusing on innovation and people, said: “I’ve worked with several businesses that are wholly reliant on the internet and the frustration is palpable when people are unable to do their jobs due to problems with technology. Connectivity is such an integral part of who we are now, both at work and at home, that being disconnected can be highly detrimental to productivity and morale.”

Working with a mathematician from Imperial College, Beaming has calculated that almost 60 million hours of working time were lost by UK businesses to internet outages in 2018, costing them £742 million in lost productivity and extra overtime.

UK businesses experienced two major outages and 16 hours of downtime each, on average, in 2018.

Breaking through to a new you! no skills or qualifications and was wasting his life away in a popular online game fourteen hours a day.

This lifestyle lead to severe mental health issues and eating himself to a weight of thirty-two stone.

Breakthrough Life coaching was setup up by self-development champion David Breaker, whose mission it is to help others make positive changes in their lives by finding their purpose again.

In the past, David was a very different man. He was unemployed with

Today David has lost more than eighteen stone of this excess weight, retrained in Mental Health awareness and is a qualified Life Coach. He has been on TV and Radio to share his story and help inspire others.

Since starting the business, David has built a strong client base for his Life Coaching, but also extended the business to other areas. Earlier this year, he was pleased to deliver Confidence and Anxiety Workshops for the Metro Charity at Mid Kent

Chamber Charity of the Year

College for their Standout – The Outing event.

David also recently has become a Regional Representative and Ambassador for the Wellness HQ, a website and directory that promotes and supports wellness professionals. This exciting opportunity means David now hosts Networking meetings for Wellness Professionals in Medway, with plans to extend it to other areas in North Kent.

If you feel you need support in finding your purpose again, please visit his website https://breakthroughlifecoaching.life.

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Business News

OFFERING FIRST CLASS ADVICE Jeremy Francis, CEO of Personal & Professional Development Limited, has been a Human Resource Development and Organisation Development Consultant for more than 35 years.

He specialises in the areas of Transformational Leadership, Managing Major Change, Management Development, Employee Performance Management, Talent Development, Customer and Supplier Management and Personal Effectiveness.

Over his career, he has worked with more than 100 blue chip corporates, many of them ‘best in class’ global organisations.

These have included AstraZeneca, BOC,Cognizant, Esso, Kimberly Clark, Lazard Brothers, Oxford University Press, Philips, Pfizer and TNT. He has published five books and more than 140 articles. His YouTube videos have been viewed more than a million times and he holds

a gold medal public speaking medal from LAMDA, equipping him to be a keynote speaker.

Today, Jeremy provides Personal Development Resources, offers Executive Coaching to Directors and Senior Managers, and acts as a Non-Executive Director to Mid-Sized Corporates.

Jeremy has lived in Brompton, Gillingham for the past 40 years. www.jeremyfrancis.co.uk

High demand for new industrial and warehousing development as Maidstone Exchange comes on stream A new industrial and warehousing development in Maidstone is already 60 per cent let as demand for units in the borough continues to rise.

Built by industrial developer and asset manager Chancerygate and located at the Parkwood Industrial Estate, Maidstone Exchange comprises seven new warehousing units and one car showroom totalling 55,296 sq ft.

Units range in size from 3,950 sq ft to 17,060 sq ft and will provide flexible, high-spec industrial space.

The three-acre development is already 60 per cent let; Peugeot occupies the car showroom, whilst other occupiers include Tyrepoint Services and car valeting and detailing business, Your Coachman.

Chancerygate Development Manager Tom Faulkner said: “We identified Maidstone as a strategic location with a burgeoning local economy. Parkwood Industrial Estate is one of the town’s most successful industrial areas. With more residential development nearby we expect greater demand for commercial premises to support the area’s growing population and provide new job opportunities.”

while charging points for electric vehicles have been provided for 20% of the site’s parking spaces.

The development has been commissioned with sustainability in mind and all units will deliver a 12% decrease in CO2 emissions over 2010 Building Regulations, reducing costs to tenants.

Furthermore, the units have been designed with insulated cladding and roofing materials to minimise draughts to reduce heat loss.

To improve natural lighting and further reduce energy costs, each warehouse benefits from a minimum of 15% glazed roof lighting.

John Foster, Maidstone Borough Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “As Maidstone’s population and economy grows, it is vital that we ensure sufficient warehouse space is built to service our growing community. The development at Maidstone Exchange shows that the borough is a destination of choice for developers who are realising the town’s potential as a logistics hub for the South East region.”

Each unit features a fitted first floor office and secure cycle parking,

36 Thinking Business

Chamber Charity of the Year

New ventilation system enhances students’ experience at learning hub

A new cooling and ventilation system has been installed at a world-class London university – thanks to Waterloo.

Due to the number of people in the library and the need for an energy efficient scheme, Jacobs was appointed as designers on behalf of Imperial College London.

The major project to address climate control in the Central Library at Imperial College London started in 2017.

As part of the planning process, specialists from Waterloo were invited to discuss the project, which included the installation of an active chilled beam. In the early stages, architects chose not to have a false ceiling in the new library, but designers still had to create the right aesthetics.

Air distribution products were supplied by expert manufacturers, Waterloo Air Product plc, as part of the four-floor refurbishment.

SOUTH OF ASHFORD Garden Community joins national programme A cluster of major developments in Ashford have been included in a national government housing building initiative and allocated £150,000 funding to support their delivery.

The Government believes they set a new standard for planning and delivering new settlements at scale that can support a local area’s housing and economic growth ambitions and recognises that delivering them carries costs that go beyond the typical remit of local authorities.

The South of Ashford Garden Community, which includes the Chilmington, Court Lodge and Kingsnorth Green developments, have been named as one of 19 garden villages announced by the government which will receive a share of a £3m fund to help with the next stage of their development.

Minister of State for Housing Kit Malthouse MP said: “Building the homes the country need is vital to the nation’s success – but they need to be homes that will become part of thriving communities; places where the generations who come after us want to live.

Construction at Chilmington is underway while sites at Court Lodge and Kingsnorth Green are allocated for development in the Local Plan to 2030, and planning applications for these sites are due to be considered by the planning committee in the coming months.

“I am confident that South of Ashford Garden Community will do just that, and I congratulate Ashford Borough Council for stepping up to the mark,

The creation of well-planned and designed, locally-led garden communities makes a critical contribution to the government’s ambitions both to build 300,000 homes a year by the mid-2020s, and to provide a stable pipeline of homes for the future.

These places have the potential to become vibrant new communities where people can live and work, and to create a legacy that will be enjoyed and valued by future generations.

In Waterloo’s factory in Kent, in-house specialists demonstrated in the test lab how the active chilled beam, designed to cool large buildings, would work on site.

Members News

Filling the gaps in the scaffolding industry

Andrew Mildon, sales office manager, at Air Systems (SW) Ltd, said: “The installation and performance has proven to be a great success at the Central Library at Imperial College London.” www.waterloo.co.uk demonstrating real determination which helps deliver our ambition of 300,000 new homes a year from the mid-2020s.”

The Garden Communities Programme demonstrates how local partners and central government can work together innovatively to transform local communities. The support will be focused on enabling the creation of Garden Communities that are beautiful and sustainable; that are supported by the right infrastructure; and that benefit new and existing communities alike.

Cllr Neil Shorter, portfolio holder for planning and development, said: “We are pleased to receive this funding from the Government, which will help us to make sure these developments are sustainable and complement each other as they come forward.

“As well as the funding support, we will receive advice from Homes England and cross-government brokerage to resolve strategic policy barriers to delivery. We look forward to discussing this in more detail with them in due course and considering how the funding can be put to best use.”

A recently established Rochesterbased specialised recruitment agency is offering a collaborative opportunity to Kent-based construction and scaffolding companies, as well as others across the South-East of England and around the UK. Scaff-Force Recruitment Ltd is building a unique service within the industry, specialising in filling the gaps in the provision of both temporary and permanent full-time scaffolders.

Where other recruitment agencies have traditionally focused on the very broad-spectrum offering of the construction industry in general, this new company will be focusing solely on the short and long-term recruitment and training needs of the scaffolding industry.

Following up on CITB’s new “Big Six” construction industry recruitment challenges, Scaff-Force will have a special focus on not only providing properly qualified, licenced and experienced scaffolders, but also making sure each one of them understands the true value of customer service and good PR both on and off-site.

If you struggle with catering to the ever-expanding need for qualified access and scaffolding staff, ScaffForce should be your first stop for filling the gaps in your recruitment process.

Scaff-Force will be offering locallysourced, personalised, flexible and cost-effective recruitment solutions, no matter how big or small your organisation might be.

If you are a scaffolder, they will be there for you, too, and all the way through your developing career, supporting you through from your initial training and certification until you reach your highest aspirations within the access and scaffolding industry.

For further information visit www.scaff-force.co.uk

Chamber Charity of the Year

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Members News

How helping others is good for the bottom line

Businesses are being invited to learn how supporting their local community can improve their bottom line at an informal networking event next month.

Corporate social responsibility expert Tracy-Anne Barker will demonstrate how giving to charity and supporting community projects can also boost profits, raise the company’s profile and motivate team members.

Tracy-Anne, from T A Barker Associates, said: “CSR is clearly good for the charities and local organisations that benefit from it, but what is less well known are the benefits that the companies themselves obtain.

“I regularly work with businesses that tell me how much more motivated their staff are after they have linked up with a local good cause, how much the team spirit improves and how that increased goodwill and energy boosts business performance.”

Tracy-Anne will be explaining the benefits of CSR – supported by speakers from charity and business - at an early evening event called CSR 2025 – Fit for the future at Bridgewood Manor Hotel, Rochester on Thursday 17 October.

Representatives from Friends of Wisdom Hospice and We Are Beams will talk about how valuable the support of business partners is to their work, while HR Manager Jenna Wells from specialist electrical group R J Power will outline the way in which setting up a CSR programme has boosted that business.

Jenna said that the company had made CSR activity a key part of employee engagement by choosing initiatives and charities that were close to the hearts of the team.

She said initiatives such as beach cleans, creating bee and butterfly gardens and working with local schools “raises our profile as an employer and helps us attract talented local individuals to contribute positively to our local economy”.

With tender documents increasingly asking businesses to demonstrate what they do to support their local community through CSR activity, Tracy-Anne is expecting places at the event, which runs from 6 to 7.30pm, to be in demand.

“Companies can benefit enormously from putting a CSR policy in place, in terms of both staff motivation and the PR value that comes with supporting local good causes, and this event will show how straightforward it can be,” she said.

Profits from the event, which costs £15 per delegate, will be donated to the Friends of Wisdom Hospice and We Are Beams.

Places are limited and can be booked via Eventbrite at bit.ly/2k98KrP For more information contact Tracy-Anne on 07449 041092 or email tracy-anne@tabarkerassociates.co.uk

38 Thinking Business

London Resort update leads to enthusiasm Caxtons jointly sponsored, organised and hosted the latest Ebbsfleet Executives Club, which meets quarterly at the Kufflink Stadium, Ebbsfleet Football Club.

There was a full agenda and a packed house made up of both local and regional businesses, in particular those involved in the property development and financial sectors.

Speaker Andy Martin from the London Resort Company gave an in-depth presentation on proposals for their entertainment resort, destined for the Swanscombe Peninsula, Dartford.

Reports that more had happened in the past six-months than in the past five-years was welcome news for the 60-strong audience, who greeted it with enthusiasm.

Planned to open in 2024, with consultation and planning application scheduled for 2020, London Resort £3billion pound scheme involves Paramount, ITV and BBC and is lauded as an ‘entertainment resort’, combining ‘the best of Hollywood with the best of British’.

The London Resort site, situated just 17 minutes from London St Pancras via HS1, two-hours from Gare du Nord, Paris and one-hour from Heathrow, is ideally located for easy

access by sustainable transport including the Thames River transport.

London Resort say that this tier one attraction is a first for the UK. It would bring billions of pounds into the UK economy, and it is anticipated the park will result in 10,000 direct jobs, plus many more indirectly from suppliers and ancillary providers, especially during the build phase – which is anticipated to last for approximately two-and-ahalf years.

The project includes provision for e-Sports, a water resort and 2,500 hotel beds, distributed across three hotels, all of which will be open for business from day-one.

In June this year PierreYves (PY) Gerbeau was appointed CEO of London Resort. His track record includes Euro Disney, where he rose to become Vice-President of Park Operations and Attractions, and in 2000 he was appointed

Chief Executive of the Millennium Dome.

London Resort is keen to acknowledge its partnerships with Thames Clippers, Redisson and various utility companies, and confirms that it is working closely with The Highways Agency in order to secure the smooth running of the project. In addition the company is keen to emphasise a strong relationship with Ebbsfleet Garden City (EGC), who are building the homes where it is anticipated employees of the future London Resort will live.

Caxtons sponsored the event in conjunction with accountancy firm Wilkins Kennedy, Gullands Solicitors and Ebbsfleet Football Club.

Hosting guests, were Caxtons’ directors Neil Chatterton (MD), David Gurton and Charlotte O’Laherty, together with Laura O’Donnovan, Tony Martin and Mandy Bearne.

LinkedIn tea party at home of Kent cricket nets £1,000 for leukaemia uk in memory of Ashford teen More than 75 business people were bowled over by a fascinating talk on LinkedIn at the home of Kent cricket – and contributed vital funds to Leukaemia UK in memory of an Ashford teenager.

than £500 for Leukaemia UK, a sum matched by Jack Parkinson, HR GO plc Chairman. He chose this charity after its CEO Angela Smith-Morgan gave a presentation to Ashford Rotary where Jack is a member.

Ashford-based HR GO Recruitment, Wilkins Kennedy and Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce hosted a tea party with sandwiches and cakes in the HR GO Recruitment Harris Room, the main hospitality suite at the Spitfire Ground Canterbury.

Club meetings are held at the Elwick Club in Church Road, Ashford where FFF Catering serves meals and other refreshments.

Ralph Meyer, Global Senior Success Manager at LinkedIn, offered a valuable insight into the wider uses of the social media giant. After questions, a prize raffle raised more

Faversham Golf Club joins the Chamber

Established by Lord Harris on his Belmont Park Estate in 1911 and today, Faversham Golf Club is widely acclaimed by the golfing community as one of the finest parkland courses in Kent.

Golf is not just about scoring, it is a walk in the beautiful surroundings of the Belmont Park Estate with hours of incomparable fun and therapy.

This exceptional golf course measures 6,000 yards from the back tees with a Par of 70. The 18 Holes provide an excellent test of golf for golfers of all abilities.

Manicured tree lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers call for accuracy from the tee. Many plateau and sculptured greens make for demanding approach

David Fournillier, the firm’s owner, sadly lost his 18-year old son Samuel to Leukaemia in 2018, prompting Ashford Rotary President Peter Gammon to choose Leukaemia UK as his chosen charity. The club has already raised £3,700. shots and subtle borrows will test your putting competence. All this is accompanied by delightful views and makes a dramatic backdrop across the adjoining countryside.

Golfers should leave the Course with an irresistible urge to return.

Situated as it is on chalk, it is acknowledged to be one of the best all-weather courses in Kent, offering great golf all year round!

The architecturally designed Clubhouse, built in 1997, is nestled into the hillside adjacent to the 14th tee with spectacular views of the finishing holes and practice area.

The Clubhouse is modern, well appointed and with an extensive bar, lounge and contemporary dining room, looking down the 14th fairway, together with verandas overlooking the course to enjoy the stunning views and watch players completing their rounds. The Club has the usual amenities one would expect in a Private Members’ Club.

Jack said: “The presentation and loss of Sam had a profound impact on us and we are all determined to support the work of the charity.”

Between them, HR GO and Ashford Rotary donated nearly £5,000.

Roddy Barrow, HR GO plc Group Managing Director, based in Ashford, said: “We and our partners were pleased to use the LinkedIn event to raise money for the vital work carried out by Leukaemia UK.” This tranquil course is located below the North Downs in peaceful and beautiful Belmont Park, a mere 8 minutes drive from junction 6 off the M2 motorway.

More importantly, a warm reception awaits Visitors, Societies and Corporate golf days alike, with the promise of idyllic golf in a part of the county where bird and wildlife abound.

For further information please visit www.favershamgolf.co.uk

Chamber Charity of the Year

International Trade

New service launched to open up overseas markets for UK businesses A new online tool has been launched to allow British business to report issues that prevent them from trading around the world.

Barriers include unnecessary legal, regulatory or administrative requirements, labelling restrictions, out-of-date regulations and licensing requirements.

The tool will ensure that British businesses can report such issues and the Government’s trade experts can work to resolve them.

The online form allows any UKbased business to report a barrier that is stopping or hindering their trade and investment overseas.

Once a request is submitted, it is shared with the Department for International Trade’s global team of trade experts who assess

trade barriers and work with other governments to resolve these issues.

The Department will also collect feedback to improve the service offered to businesses.

A study by the OECD suggests that all G20 economies could see increased exports by more than 20% in the long term, if trade barriers were halved globally.

The Government has also announced that it has resolved market access issues to: • Lift the Mexican government’s ban on British exports of food condiments and supplements containing beef.

• Reduce restrictions on Vodka exports to Canada

• Lift a ban on British beef and lamb exports to Japan, allowing exports worth an estimated £130 million over five years.

• Help UK pharmaceutical company’s like GlaxoSmithKline win a £35 million contract in Bulgaria through securing changes to health procurement rules.

• Lift the ban on British pork exports to Taiwan, allowing exports worth an estimated £50 million over five years.

“In the past 12 months, we’ve secured wins to sell beef to Japan, langoustines to China and pork to Taiwan, just to name a few. I urge businesses to make full use of our new market access tool, which will help us to rapidly identify and knock down unnecessary trade barriers.”

British businesses can now directly report barriers preventing them from trading online at great.gov.uk.

International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said: “Opening up new markets for British businesses is a top priority and the Department for International Trade has 1,000 people located around the world to help create more opportunities than ever before.

Efforts to strengthen Asia links continue ahead of Brexit

The Government has continued to develop trade links outside the EU ahead of Brexit with Asia a major focus.

The UK and South Korea recently signed a continuity Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that will allow businesses to keep trading freely after Brexit on Thursday 31 October, safeguarding British jobs in key sectors including manufacturing, technology and professional services.

It will help to further strengthen the trading relationship between the UK and South Korea that has already increased by an average of 12% per year since the EU-Korea Free Trade Agreement was signed in 2011.

Trade continuity agreements signed so far now cover countries accounting for £89 billion of trade, an increase from £39 billion in March 2019.

Secretary of State for International Trade Liz Truss MP

said: “My priority is to make sure that British businesses are fully prepared for Brexit and ready to trade on Thursday 31 October.”

Korean Minister of Trade Yoo MyungHee said: “The signing of the FTA will remove much Brexit uncertainty out of our long, valuable economic partnership.”

The news has been welcomed by businesses in industries such as automotive, technology, renewable energy, retail and ceramics. Some of the fastest growing exports to Korea include the sale of British cars, which increased to £943 million in 2018, up by third on the year before.

Exports of ceramic products from the UK to Korea were £17 million in 2018, an increase of 41% from 2010. Meanwhile, the UK exported £256 million of professional and management consulting services to

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the country in 2018, up by 8% from the previous year.

Bentley’s exports of the British classic luxury car to Korea have gone from strength to strength, with a thirty-fold increase in exports between 2006 and 2015, from ten cars driving on Korean roads in 2006 to more than 380 in 2015.

Warren Clarke, Bentley Brand Manager South Korea, said: “As the first luxury car brand to enter the market in 2006 Bentley Motors sees South Korea as very significant to our future business plans. The stability this FTA brings is very much welcomed and will enable us to continue to promote the very best of British automotive engineering and craftsmanship as we grow our business in South Korea.

With our fantastic business partner here and a very strong and loyal customer base we are very excited about our future plans for the market.”

Also trade links with China were recently strengthened with a trade delegation to the country. Over the past decade, China has been the third biggest contributor to the overall increase in British exports, beaten only by Germany and the USA. UK Minister for Investment Graham Stuart said: “China is a world-leading economy and the UK’s largest trading partner outside of Europe and North America, holding unparalleled opportunities for UK businesses.

“Britain is committed to strengthening the UK-China trading relationship to ensure UK firms are poised to seize the opportunities the region offers as our trading relationship continues to blossom.”

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HUMAN HUMANRESOURCES RESOURCES CONFERENCE/ CONFERENCE/ WORKPLACE WELLBEING WELLBEING WORKPLACE Thursday14 14November November 2019, 2019, 10am Thursday 10am –– 4pm 4pm CanterburyCampus, Campus, University University of Canterbury of Kent Kent Develop the tools you and your team need to boost wellbeing in your

Develop the tools you and your team need to boost wellbeing in your workplace at The University of Kent’s 5th annual HR Conference. workplace at The University of Kent’s 5th annual HR Conference.

During the day speakers will highlight examples of best practice, encourage interaction through

During the sessions day speakers will highlight examples of best practice, interaction through practical and most importantly provide delegates with tipsencourage and tools that can be used in practical sessions andtomost delegates with tips and toolsand thatour candelegates be used in everyday situations helpimportantly improve theprovide wellbeing of colleagues, employees everyday situations to help improve the wellbeing of colleagues, employees and our delegates themselves. themselves.

Alongside presentations delivered by innovative local businesses, the University’s world-leading academics and our guest speakers, our sponsors Hospital be leadingworld-leading a host of Alongside presentations delivered by innovative local KIMS businesses, thewill University’s wellbeing and activities delegates to engage with. academics our for guest speakers, our sponsors KIMS Hospital will be leading a host of

wellbeing activities for delegates to engage with.

£99 per person Refreshments £99 per person and lunch will be provided Find our more andlunch bookwill online here: bit.ly/30tC9MC Refreshments and be provided

Find our more and book online here: bit.ly/30tC9MC

For more information please contact the team on 01227 824 804 or at enterprise@kent.ac.uk

For more information please contact the team on 01227 824 804 or at enterprise@kent.ac.uk The event is kindly sponsored by KIMS Hospital

The event is kindly sponsored by KIMS Hospital

Biddenden Vineyard celebrates 50 years of English wine Biddenden Vineyards’ 50th anniversary year kicked off with a Biddenden sparkling wine and Kentish afternoon tea and evening celebration for more than 400 specially-invited guests who have been part of the vineyards’ journey over the past five decades.

From the initial 1/3 acre planting, the vineyards have now grown to 23 acres with 11 varieties of grapes, including originals such as Ortega, Reichensteiner, Huxelrebe & Scheurebe as well as more recent additions including Bacchus, Pinot Noir and Gamay.

The vineyard, which is family owned and run by the second and third generation of the Barnes family, was established in 1969.

Biddenden produces an awardwinning range of both still and sparkling wines, most notably, Biddenden Ortega. Last year’s bumper crop has meant that in addition to the vineyards’ core range, Biddenden Gamay Noir, produced only a handful of times in the vineyards’ history, has been released in time to celebrate this milestone year, with some exciting limited release wines still to come.

Having originally been home to apple orchards, it was Joyce Barnes, owner Julian’s mother, who suggested a trial planting of vines having listened to a piece on Women’s Hour on English Vineyards at a time when apple prices were dropping and the family were starting to look at ways to diversify.

Julian Barnes, Managing Director, said “It is extremely exciting to have

reached our 50th year, not least at a time when there is so much interest in and support for English wine. Whilst it is brilliant to see so many new vines going in the ground locally, we are proud to have such a long history of vine growing and winemaking behind us. This allows us to combine tried and tested techniques with new ideas to create wines which are both consistent in quality but also interesting and varied year on year.”

Biddenden is open to visitors daily, with a self-guided tour taking in the 23 acres of vines and a tasting room where the full range is available to taste & buy.

Open tours run every Saturday until the end of September and private tours are available to book for those wishing for a more personalised experience.

For more information please visit www.biddendenvineyards.com

Wonderful cement their position with award success

Wonderful Creative Agency, based in Maidstone, have confirmed their position as one of the UK’s leading Digital Transformation agencies by winning the Computing ‘Digital Technology Leaders Award’ for ‘Digital Transformation of the Year’ 2019.

The Digital Technology Leaders Awards occupy a special place among industry events as, rather than the platforms and tools, the event is dedicated to the companies and teams driving technology forward in new and innovative ways to change how businesses operate.

The win was followed by Wonderful being announced as finalists in a further two categories in this year’s ‘Wirehive 100’ digital industry awards, which recognise the best agencies across a range of

categories and criteria, celebrating the outstanding creative and technical talent that the South of England has to offer.

Wonderful were named in the coveted ‘Digital Transformation’ category and the Kent-based agency are also nominated for ‘Fastest Growth’.

Managing Director Dan Maudhub explained the company’s approach to implementing technology for business growth, saying: “We consider ourselves a partner who truly understands the impact technology can have on a business, and through following the fundamental framework and pillars upon which digital transformation is delivered, organisations can leverage the benefits of embracing

new technologies to deliver improved customer experiences and operational efficiencies which, ultimately, deliver enhanced profitability and fuel business growth.“ For the award-winning project, a heritage market-leading brand in its centenary year was in much need of a technology overhaul that would identify them as the leader in their field, as well as incorporating a sophisticated eCommerce and reporting platform that would improve their sales process.

Wonderful developed a custom infrastructure build, which delivered a fresh new customer-facing look online, technologically evolved to facilitate a full overhaul of their sales process, stock management and integration with legacy internal systems.

Members News

An inspiring place to work The Nucleus Business and Innovation Centre are proud to be part of The Bridge community providing excellent, spacious, professional offices in the Dartford area.

Companies at The Nucleus work together to inform, enlighten and inspire not just their customers, but each other. You’d be amazed what can happen over just a cup of coffee at our onsite café.

For the small business entrepreneur, not quite yet ready for a private office, we offer a valuable virtual service which gives a business address and professional telephone answering service.

It is not just about office space at The Nucleus. We provide a range of meeting rooms and conference facilities in a professional environment which are perfect for a variety of activity within the Dartford area.

Our impressive, popular meeting rooms are ideally situated near Kent’s major transport links and networks, and come fully equipped for any meeting, board meeting, training session, workshop or networking event. With modern features and natural lighting, our range of space is designed to help you and your team think clearly and get the most out of your venue.

The meeting rooms are aptly named, Castalia and Endymion, after the wartime medical ships that were part of the Joyce Green Hospital who originally occupied the Bridge Estate.

The Nucleus and Oxford Innovation are proud to sponsor The Innovation Award at The Dartford Business Awards for the third year running and look forward to sharing the continued success of all involved.

Chamber Charity of the Year

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Chamber Events

BiSEA Roadshow

Join us to fast track your export growth in South East Asia.

BiSEA is working in close partnership with UK Chambers of Commerce, Trade Associations and DIT teams on a programme of 1-2-1 information sessions with the following delegates: • British Chamber of Commerce Indonesia – Executive Director, Chris Wren

Supporting Mature Employees with National Careers Service Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the National Careers Service would like to invite you to a round table brunch held on Friday 18th October 2019 in the Darwin Suite at the Innovation Centre Medway to discuss the importance of supporting older workers and the free services the National Careers

Service offer with information, advice and guidance to retain, retrain and recruit older workers.

This event has limited spaces available, so register now for free to join like-minded businesses for a mid-morning meeting, discussing topics of true relevance to your business.

• British Chamber of Commerce Philippines – Director, Chris Nelson • British Chamber of Commerce Thailand – Executive Director, Greg Watkins • British Business Group Vietnam – Executive Director, Peter Rimmer

Don’t miss this opportunity book now!!!

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford, TN24 0LH 18th October 2019, 9:00am - 5:00pm Members: Free Non Members: £10 + VAT Refreshments / Buffet Included

18th October 2019, 10:00am - 12:00pm Free Admission Bacon rolls, granola pots, yoghurt and fruit will be available

Lower Thames Crossing Supply Chain School Introduction

Crossing and the wide range of opportunities it presents to local businesses. We’ll give you details of the supply chain school, how to get involved and how it can benefit you, as well as examples from other projects this initiative has been used successfully.

• British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce – Executive Director, Jennifer Lopez • British Chamber of Commerce Myanmar – Executive Director, Peter Crowhurst

Innovation Centre Medway, Chatham, ME5 9FD

Introduction to the Supply Chain School - helping local businesses be best positioned to work on the Lower Thames Crossing project The Supply Chain School can help upskill your business, putting you in the best position to tender for work on the project – skills that will assist in other areas as well. This will help your business

grow and leaves a legacy of a more capable, dynamic and sustainable supply chain. It also helps us keep more of the investment from the project within the local economy.

This event, run in partnership with the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, will give you more detail of the Lower Thames

As we anticipate a lot of interest in this event, we respectfully request no more than two attendees per business.

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Ashford, TN24 0LH 25th October 2019, 8:30am – 12:30pm Free Admission

Saudi Arabia Trade Mission This Mission will be led by David Lloyd OBE, a renowned Saudi Arabia expert.

As a former member of HM Diplomatic Service, David spent 5 years living and working in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and maintains a wide range of business and political contacts across the Kingdom.

Following on from our successful mission in November 2018,

Pathfinder Trade and Invest will once again be organising a trade mission to the Kingdom offering you the opportunity to explore and succeed in the Saudi market.

The Saudi market continues to grow from strength to strength and opportunities await for businesses in all sectors who are keen to increase their exports into new markets.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

30th November 2019, 8:00am – 2nd December 2019, 5:00pm Free Admission

For further information on all events please contact events@kentinvictachamber.co.uk or call 01233 503838 42 Thinking Business

Chamber Charity of the Year

If You Think Your Business Is Too Small To Be Hacked…Then You’re Probably A Cybercriminal’s No. 1 Target!

In a world of rampant cybercrime, hackers thrive on the blind faith of their targets. Despite high-profile digital security breaches, most people assume they’re safe from attack.

They think that while giant corporations like J.P. Morgan, Sony and Tesco Bank have lost millions to data breaches, my business is far too small to justify a hacker’s attention…right?

Wrong. According to StaySafeOnline. org, attacks on small businesses now account for over 70% of data breaches. Ransomware attacks alone have skyrocketed a 250% since 2016, as reported by Media Planet.

Owners of small businesses might be excused for erroneously believing themselves safe. After all, the hundreds of little guys paying out thousands in digital ransoms each and every day are a lot less newsworthy than the 143 million sensitive customer records stolen in the recent Equifax fiasco. This lack

44 Thinking Business

of visibility can easily lull us into a dangerous false sense of security.

But why would hackers hunt a small business when they could target a giant like Google? Well, it’s easier to target — a house which the owners leave unlocked while they’re on holiday, or the bank in the center of a busy town. Hackers are gutting small businesses with ransoms that can be up to £250,000 for a single attack, according to one TechRepublic analysis.

Any small business owner will struggle to afford the security measures implemented by giant corporations.

However, there is a balance to be struck between affordability and vulnerability. With just a little research, it’s easy to find robust and comprehensive digital security

solutions to protect your company.

Such programs can turn your business from low-hanging fruit into an impenetrable fortress.

If you’ve managed to make it through the past few years without a data breach, statistically, hackers will come for your business one day.

It’s important to be prepared. Just because your car hasn’t broken down since you bought it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t maintain it and invest in car insurance. And just like your car, your network security requires regular maintenance to stay effective. If you grab the cheapest security software, install it and forget it, you’re only marginally safer than you were before. Cyber security isn’t something you purchase to tick a box and forget. It’s an investment in your company’s future, the safety of

your customers, and the longevity of your livelihood.

If your business isn’t too small to attract the attacks of hackers, then it’s precious enough to protect.

Cybercriminals will come for your business, but equipped with a set of up-to-date, powerful security protocols, you’ll send them away empty handed.

To book a free assessment, call 01634 766055 or email info@innovo-it.com

Chamber Charity of the Year

The Person behind the Business

Growing demand for organisation that gives asylum seekers a voice There has rarely been a time when the issue of asylum seekers has occupied a higher place on the news agenda, bringing with it a myriad of challenges.

That means that organisations working in the field have never been more in demand, which is why the workload for one Dover-based Social Enterprise in particular is continuing to rise.

Established by the charity Migrant Help, Clear Voice Interpreting Services helps people from abroad, mostly asylum seekers, to access the support that they need when they arrive in the UK. All its profits go into its parent charity to support refugees and victims of trafficking and modern slavery.

The organisation, which has just been named as a finalist in the Tech for Good: Technology Social Enterprise category of the national Social Enterprise UK awards, offers high quality interpreter and translation services and is the only not-for-profit service of its kind in the UK. Overseeing the rapid growth of the organisation is Director Anna Ware, who runs a team of 470 professional interpreters specialising in telephone and face-to-face interpreting as well as translation services which run on a very strongly ethical basis.

By supporting fair pay for its interpreters and translators, Clear Voice positions itself as the ethical

choice for organisations in need of interpreting and/or translation services, everyone from charities referring asylum seekers to businesses in the UK and trading abroad.

Anna said: “With everything that is happening around the world, there is a growing demand for the services we offer.

“Most of the people we support are asylum seekers who come to this country often having no English at all and needing help to deal with the likes of healthcare and the immigration process.

“Many of them are very vulnerable, having been victimised in their own countries and maybe being homeless in the UK, so our interpreters help them work their way through the system. Many of our team have experience of the migration process themselves.

“We are dealing with a range of different cultures and challenges, which is why we operate to a very strong ethical code to ensure that all our interpreters work professionally.

They are all vetted thoroughly before they start working for us.”

One of the big areas for the team is the problems faced by LGBTQ asylum

Chamber Charity of the Year

seekers, whose way of life may be frowned upon by their cultures.

To help Clear Voice deal with the challenges, the organisation recently partnered with MicroRainbow, a charity which offers specialist support services to LGBTQ people.

According to both organisations, the process of applying for asylum as an LGBTQ person can be very daunting. Not only are you in a new country, surrounded by new norms, new people, and new experiences, but you may also be struggling to communicate in a new language.

In addition, speaking through an interpreter can be fraught with fear and misunderstanding.

Anna said “LGBTQ asylum seekers face a range of different challenges and we do everything we can to

ensure that our interpreters operate in an independent and professional manner when dealing with them.

Partnering with MicroRainbow is an extension to what we do and one which has been driven by demand.”

The team, which speaks every language from Albanian to Zulu, also works with businesses seeking language experts, some of them as they come to terms with Brexit.

Anna said: “Brexit is a concern for many of the businesses whom we deal with and we are helping them talk to companies and organisations in Europe. It’s also a concern for us as, although our interpreters are based in the UK, a number of them come from European countries and we need to ensure that they will be OK when Brexit takes place.”

“Most of the people we support are asylum seekers who come to this country often having no English at all and needing help to deal with the likes of healthcare and the immigration process.”

Thinking Business

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Business News

Success for Chamber’s campaign to simplify trade procedures as Government acts to issue EORI numbers It is great news for Kent’s exporters that the Government have listened to the voice of business and will be automatically issuing businesses who export an EORI number. Many of our exporters who trade exclusively with the EU at present have not had to apply for an EORI number, therefore may not be aware of the importance. But if they wish to continue to import or export goods to the EU or rest of the world in a no deal Brexit scenario, then it will be needed to simply customs processes.

Planning bears fruit for Kent strawberry producer A European first for the strawberry industry is already delivering on its promise of increased yields of higher quality fruit for a Kent producer.

Natural Beauty. The proposals incorporated planting of native species trees, hedgerows and conifers under a landscaping scheme.

Charlton Farms, one of the county’s largest family-owned soft and top fruit producers, has invested £5m and built 30 acres of fully retractable greenhouses developed by Canadian company Cravo, to protect its crops, reduce its environmental impact and deliver early and late bearing strawberries to its customers.

Despite the local Parish Council opposing the scheme on the grounds of landscape impact and the accumulative effect of the new Cravo greenhouses and other nearby polytunnels on the Greensand Ridge, the application secured the officer’s recommendation for approval.

Maidstone-based planning experts DHA secured planning permission for the retractable greenhouses, as well as storage buildings, water storage tanks, drainage system and a 24,980m3 reservoir on land at Ulcombe in Kent.

Historic England raised no objection on the proposal’s impact on the setting of the historic church and permission was granted by Maidstone Borough Council.

DHA undertook a pre-application consultation with Historic England due to the site’s close proximity to the grade 1 listed All Saints Church and attended Parish Council meetings during the application process to keep the local community informed of progress.

The site, on the Greensand Ridge, was deemed by the council to be a landscape of local value but not designated as an Area of Outstanding

Sorting EORI numbers is only a first step. For many firms, it will trigger more questions. Businesses still need clarity on many other crossborder trade issues, such as customs procedures at borders following a no deal exit and when the Government will launch an official database to provide ease of access to information on tariffs and quotas. The government must urgently provide answers to these questions, and ramp up both guidance and support for businesses.

46 Thinking Business

Sean Charlton, Managing Director at Charlton Farms, said:

“The system also allows us to very accurately measure humidity, evaporation and all other aspects of the strawberries’ physiology, which meant we could improve our already very high levels of consistent high-quality fruit.”

Planning for growth L-R Sean Charlton, Charlton Farms and DHA’s Eric Przyjemski

Government updates planning rules to secure biodiversity improvements Tim Spicer, Associate Director at DHA, which has offices in Maidstone and Crawley, said: “The Government has stipulated that measurable biodiversity net gain will be a mandatory requirement for all major planning applications. This will require developers to assess the biodiversity of their sites at the time of the application and then demonstrate that it will deliver a measurable 10 per cent net improvement when the development is completed.

This step is long overdue, yet welcome nonetheless. We have campaigned for many months for government to issue EORI numbers to businesses, rather than simply wait for them to apply.

This common sense step will prompt more of our businesses to prepare for change, and consider what else they need to do to be ready for an unwanted ‘no deal’ scenario.

Businesses do not want a messy and disorderly ‘no deal’ Brexit on 31 October, but given the ticking clock, it’s prudent that both government and industry be as prepared as possible. The proportion of firms applying for EORI numbers was concerningly low, and automatic issuance will help ease the administrative burden facing companies in the weeks and months ahead.

The Cravo system is used extensively around the world in warm and hot climates as the retractable roofs allow fruit and vegetables to be produced during times of the year when it is difficult to grow. After a small-scale trial, Charlton Farms saw the opportunity to use the system to help extend their growing season and at the same time produce greater volumes of high-quality berries.

“The retractable roofs and sides, all fully automated, combine with the weather station and mean we can mitigate the risk of late frosts and rain, protecting our crop and harvesting our table-top grown strawberries between May and November.

“As with any amendment to policy, it often takes a period for the precise implications of the changes to be fully understood and how the rather ambiguous wording within the NPPF is to play out in practice.”

The Government has announced changes to the planning system which will require developers to improve their environmental performance and follows greater public awareness of the impact of climate change, according to environmental planners at DHA.

The team at DHA is increasingly being asked to provide evidence to demonstrate measurable net gains using the Defra Biodiversity Metric, with the latest version available on Natural England’s website. This is set to become widespread following the introduction of the mandatory 10% net gain to be introduced by Defra as part of planning policy.

The latest changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) will make it mandatory for developers to improve the biodiversity of their sites by 10 per cent for their projects. The move coincides with the combined efforts of David Attenborough, interest in tackling plastics waste and rise of Extinction Revolution.

Tim said: “A number of our clients have already been investigating options for providing greater biodiversity mitigation for developments as part of their social and environmental responsibilities. These new measures will seek to confirm what a number of responsible developers are already doing.”

The metric calculates the value of a habitat type present within a site in terms of ‘biodiversity units’ by attributing it a numerical value (0-8) multiplied by the area it occupies. It then calculates the relative loss of a habitat in comparison to the proposed replacement habitat types being created or restored and managed, which is presented as a numerical value e.g. a net gain of numerical biodiversity units or a net loss.

Tim Spicer said: “With any system that tries to simplify a complex real-world situation the metric is not without its flaws, but irrespective of its shortfalls, the approach demanded by the metric often requires larger areas of habitat creation than would typically be expected in order to demonstrate net gain.

“We believe it is prudent to engage an ecologist who is familiar with the metric to define areas needed to achieve net gain early in the project design. This will help prevent delays later in the project and the implications of having to retrofit a scheme later in the process or even after submission.

“Whilst off-site biodiversity offsetting remains an option in theory, the mechanism through which to secure this either doesn’t exist or is more convoluted.”

DHA recommends the use of the metric to its clients at the earliest possible stage of the design process.

Chamber Charity of the Year

South East could deliver Government’s Freeport ambitions The prospect of 10 new Freeports in the UK signals a strong commitment by the Government to support the country’s international trade, according to the South East Local Enterprise Partnership.

International Trade Secretary Liz Truss has announced a new Freeports Advisory Panel to advise the Government on the establishment of up to 10 Freeports.

The Government believes that the Freeports could transform the country’s ports and airports just as freedoms transformed London’s Docklands in the 1980s, in order to sustain the country’s international trade position after the UK leaves the EU.

Freeports are normally an area of a country where its taxes and tariffs do not apply, allowing companies to import goods, store them and re-export them without paying tax in the country. Companies can also undertake manufacturing or other work on imported components and re-export them without paying UK duties. The most successful Freeports around the world attract businesses and create jobs for local people through liberalised planning laws.

Christian Brodie, Chair of SELEP, said the South East’s ports are uniquely placed, and the Government could think big and recognise the potential for the Thames Estuary and Channel ports to become Freeports.

Christian said: “We have made a success of our Enterprise Zones and are confident there would be the ambition among our port owners and their customers to examine how we could establish a network of Freeports locally.

“The nine ports in our area are the lifeblood of the UK, each supporting specific industries and keeping trade flowing between us and the rest of the world.

“I am sure that many of them would be interested in examining the opportunities presented by Freeport status. As a Local Enterprise Partnership we will be seeking to ensure that the business voice of our ports is heard loudly in Westminster and Whitehall.”

IMMIGRATION PROPOSALS

‘could exacerbate labour shortages’ More than half of UK businesses with staff from outside the UK would be negatively impacted by government proposals for the UK’s future immigration system, according to research released by the British Chambers of Commerce and global job site Indeed.

At a time of record low unemployment, when businesses are reporting critical levels of recruitment difficulties, the proposals in the Immigration White Paper would add to the cost and barriers employers face in accessing the skills they need.

According to a survey of 380 businesses that currently employ non-UK nationals, 53% report they would be negatively impacted by proposals requiring all skilled migrant workers to earn a minimum annual salary of £30,000 once the UK leaves the EU.

The leading business group is calling for proposals that ensure firms in all regions and sectors can continue to access skills at every level, when they are unable to recruit locally.

A total of 57% of employers say they would be adversely affected by plans to impose a 12-month work and residency limit on lower skilled migrants, requiring workers to leave the UK for at least a year once their visa had expired.

More than a third of firms (34%) would be negatively impacted by an extension of the Immigration Skills Charge to EU nationals.

The charge is currently paid by businesses for each migrant worker they recruit from outside the EU, adding to the upfront costs of employment.

Businesses also report a need for access to foreign language skills. 23% of respondents say German and Mandarin Chinese will be important to their business in the next five years, and 20% say French and Spanish will be – highlighting both the importance of ensuring native speakers are available and improving language skills in the UK workforce.

The ending of free movement will present significant costs and challenges for employers. The Prime Minister must take a fresh look at the immigration restrictions and charges to ensure firms can access the workers they need without undue bureaucracy and costs.

When businesses are unable to recruit skills and labour at a local or national level, the UK’s new immigration system must allow them to access non-UK workers quickly and cost effectively. The survey results reflect the extent of business concerns about future restrictions, charges and thresholds, as these will exacerbate recruitment costs and barriers.

While companies are investing more in homegrown skills, they will continue to need access to migrant skills, at all levels, for the foreseeable future in order to thrive. Salary thresholds and visa restrictions must reflect economic realities. It’s vital that the Migration Advisory Committee’s review into the salary threshold takes into

Chamber Charity of the Year

account the needs of different sectors and regions.

Business communities are calling on the Prime Minister to ensure the UK’s future immigration policy has the right balance of flexibility and controls to alleviate their concerns.

Record high employment and declining interest of European jobseekers in British jobs mean businesses in many sectors are finding it increasingly difficult to hire workers with the right skills. Like in any open economy, migration flows are one way to release that pressure valve but as our survey found, new proposals do not appear to flex and breathe depending on employers’ needs.

Nowhere in the UK labour market is this need for suppleness more pertinent than in healthcare and construction, which have a high dependency of non-UK workers.

Communication at work remains essential and language skills, in particular, have become vital in a connected world in which more businesses than ever operate across borders. While research suggests fewer UK students are learning foreign languages, our data reveals the importance of learning new spoken skills. German recently overtook French as the most sought-after language by UK employers but demand for Chinese languages has rocketed over the past year as businesses consider future trading relations.

Business News

£1m to bring back town centre properties to life

No Use Empty Commercial, an initiative to bring vacant and derelict commercial property back into use for business and homes has secured £1m from The Growing Places Fund (GPF) following a successful bid to the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP) by Kent County Council.

The money will be used to help redevelop eight commercial units and 28 residential above them in the town centres of Dover, Folkestone and Thanet by March 2022.

Christian Brodie, Chair of SELEP, said: “This is an innovative scheme that will really make a difference to how our town centres look, and also their economic performance.

“We all know that many town centres have struggled to respond to the competition from large retailers and they in turn are finding it hard to compete against online traders.

“The result has been a reduction in footfall making many secondary streets in our town centres unsustainable, leaving pockets of empty shops, making those areas even less attractive to shop in and further damaging the trade of other retailers.”

Thanks to No Use Empty Commercial, funding is available to provide shortterm secured loans to return empty commercial properties to use for alternative commercial or mixed-use purposes.

Cllr Mark Dance, KCC Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “The beauty of the project is the revolving nature of the loan funding, with repayments being returned to the central pot for reallocation to new projects.

“With the loans secured against the property it means there little or no risk to the public purse, so it is a win-win for everybody.

“As a result, there’s the opportunity to kick-start and sustain ongoing regeneration in our hard-pressed town centres.”

The No Use Empty Commercial scheme will build on the success of the No Use Empty residential scheme which is delivered in partnership with all 12 district councils.

Subject to the level of funds available, interest bearing loans over two-years are available to help developers bring forward projects which are of a larger scale, either as a top-up or to fund the whole scheme.

The loans are secured and administered on a phased basis and interest is charged at market rates.

For further information of the No Use Empty Commercial scheme visit https://www.no-use-empty.org.uk/ or contact: Steve Grimshaw, Kent County Council Steve.Grimshaw@Kent.gov.uk Thinking Business

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New Members

Welcome to our new members ABI Consultancy Ltd

Castle Corporate Finance Ltd

Agrell Architectural Carving Ltd

CooperVision

Whitstable 07725 107335 www.alsconsultancy.co.uk Business and Insurance Consultancy Mersham 07450 357990 www.agrellcarving.co.uk High End Architectural Wood Carving

AP Cost Consultants (Kent) Ltd Ramsgate 01843 610787 www.apcostconsultants.co.uk Quantity Surveying and Cost Management Practice

Bloss Coffee Company Ashford 07547 010276 www.andbloss.com Coffee Roasters

Breakthrough Lifecoaching Gillingham 07568 057777 breakthroughlifecoaching.life Life Coaching

C.Scope International Ltd Ashford 01233 629181 www.cscope.co.uk Manufacture of Metal Detectors, Utility Tracing Locators, Security Metal Detectors

Cafe Couture

Rochester 01634 735444 www.cafe-couture.co.uk Coffee & Vending

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Tunbridge Wells 01732 400123 castlecf.com Corporate Finance

Ashford 01233 646599 www.coopervision.co.uk WorldĂ­s Leading Manufacturers of Soft Contact Lenses and Related Products and Services

Copia Digital Ltd

Chatham 07708 390874 www.copiadigital.co.uk Website Development

CPA Property Services Ltd

Gravesend 01474 814455 cpapropertyservices.co.uk Electrical & Mechanical Contractors

Demelza Hospice Care for Children Sittingbourne 01795 845200 www.demelza.org.uk Charity - Children’s Hospice

Domiciliary Care Experts

Gillingham 01634 581133 www.domiciliarycareexperts.co.uk Domiciliary Care Services

Gold Standard Pest Solutions Ltd

Gravesend 0800 910 1179 www.goldsps.co.uk Pest Control, Proofing, Waste Disposal

Holiday Inn Sittingbourne

Sittingbourne 01795 412188 www.HolidayInn.com/Sittingbourne Accommodation, Corporate Conference & Events Facilities, Gym, Weddings

Horizon International Cargo Ltd Aylesford 0845 230 3950 www.hicargo.com Freight Forwarding and Supply Chain

Hydraulic & Engineering Services Ltd

Rochester 01634 295650 www.hydraulicandengineering.co.uk Engineering Company Specialising in the Repair, Supply and Manufacture of Hydraulic Cylinders

Keene Marsland (Parfitt Cresswell)

Tunbridge Wells 01753 271640 www.keenemarsland.co.uk Legal Services

Kent Space Ebbsfleet Ltd Northfleet 01474 555300 www.kentspace.co.uk Serviced Offices, Self Storage, Mailboxes, Meeting Rooms

Kentec Electronics Ltd

Dartford 01322 222121 www.kentec.co.uk Life Safety Systems Manufacturers

LEBC Group Ltd

West Malling 0333 136 2260 www.lebc-group.com Financial Advice for Private Individuals and Corporates

Chamber Charity of the Year

New Members

Enhance MAB (Kent) Ltd

Sittingbourne 01795 411575 www.mortgageadvicebureau.com/ mabkent Mortgage & Mortgage Protection

Magnus Search Ltd

Protect QM Recycled Energy Ltd

The Friars

Real Print and Media

The Merit Group

Select Technology Systems Ltd

The Specialist Generalist Ltd

West Malling 01732 521025 www.qmre.ltd Oil Recycling

Maidstone 01622 200123 www.realprintandmedia.com Printing and Design

Maidstone 01622 391150 www.magnussearch.com Staffing & Recruitment

Major Fabrications (Kent) Ltd

Deal 01304 614541 www.majorfabrications.com Welding Fabrications & Sheet Metal Work

Marriott Hotel, Bexleyheath

Bexleyheath 020 8298 2425 www.bexleyheathmarriott.co.uk Hotel, Restaurant, Bar, Fitness Centre

MPR Technical Services Ltd Ashford 0800 030 2050 www.mpr-ts.co.uk Technical Services, Data cablings, CCTV, Access Control, AV Installer

Pendle Vehicle Contracts Ltd Brentwood 01277 549500 www.pendlelease.co.uk Leasing of Cars and Vans

Paddock Wood 01892 830140 www.select-technology.co.uk Business IT Support, Managed Service Provider

Sun God Solar Ltd

Ramsgate 01227 913398 www.sgs-energy.co.uk Renewable Energy Systems

TDLC Training

Chatham 01634 712999 www.tdlc.co.uk Government Funded Training Provider

The Alpha Group

Bexley 01322 727027 www.the-alpha-group.biz Business Growth Advisors

Picksabbex Ltd

Maidstone 01622 370291 picksabbex.co.uk Destination Point For Searching and Posting Work Experience & Sabbaticals

Chamber Charity of the Year

Connect

The First Aid Team

Sutton Valence 01622 844239 www.thefirstaidteam.co.uk First Aid Training

Aylesford 01622 717272 www.thefriars.org.uk Hospitality Rochester 0800 210 0175 www.themeritgroup.co.uk Office Installations & Relocations, Building Services, Insulation Supply Canterbury 07733 306155 www.specialistgeneralist.co.uk Leadership & Team Development

Thomas Auto Injection Centre Ltd

Ashford 01233 642816 www.thomasautos.co.uk Specialists in Diesel Fuel Injection Systems & Fuel Additives

Vermillion Growers

Gravesend 07815 719676 www.vermilliongrowers.com Tomato Grower

Weald Creative Ltd

Tonbridge 07521 425478 www.wealdcreative.com Creative Technology Production and Consultancy

Wellbeing Training Solutions Chatham 07947 036156 www.wellbeingts.co.uk Training, Well Being & Soft Skills

Thinking Business

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Last Word Steve Kreeger Red Bullet Managing Director I’ve always been into how things work, and interested in technology and design. As a digital business leader, I help companies grow by helping them communicate with their customers better and increasing user engagement.

I’m married with 3 kids, including twins.

I’m a coach for a girls football team and I also love playing sport, do a little running and cycling, and am an avid music and sports photographer. When I’m not doing so much(!) I love a speciality coffee.

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

I worked as a Christmas bag packer at ASDA in East London! I earned about £5ph. The tips were surprisingly good though! I became an expert at packing bags!

What do you always carry with you to work?

I always carry a notepad and pen.

My world is digital, but there is nothing like writing ideas down and evolving sketches and creative ideas on paper.

What is the biggest challenge facing your business?

Keeping relevant to our clients’ needs amid the incredibly fast-paced changes in our industry. But I love a challenge!

If you were Prime Minister, what one thing would you change to help business?

Reduce business rates! Offer better support for entrepreneurs and business owners. We’re penalised in credit and tax worlds for being a company owner, it’s crazy.

What can you see from your office window?

Trees on one side, and Canterbury Cathedral (just!) on the other. We have a glass roof too, so we can see the sky!

If you could do another job what would it be?

The team photographer for West Ham United! I’m a big hammers fan.

Also a passionate music and sports photographer.

As a business person, what are your three main qualities?

Seeing the big picture. Breaking down complex problems to find meaningful solutions. Having a balanced mix of creative and business mindset.

What was your biggest mistake in business?

Assuming that others think like you do.

Assuming someone else is going to do or act on something can prevent momentum and business growth and impact.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Always have a plan & regularly review it.

Build a team and culture to shape and carry that plan passionately into all you do together. Be nice to people.

Who do you most admire in business?

People who leave full time roles to start their own businesses. Hi-Fives to you all - you’re the future of our country and economy!

Plus Steve Jobs and Simon Sinek.

50 Thinking Business

Brachers shortlisted for top accolade at Family Law Awards Kent-based law firm, Brachers, has been shortlisted for ‘Family Law Firm of the Year: South’ in the Family Law Awards.

Considered to be one of the most prestigious awards in its field, the Family Firm of the Year award is divided into four regional categories.

Brachers is one of five firms shortlisted for the Southern region and the only Kent firm to feature.

The family team is no stranger to accolades, being ranked as a Top Family Law Firm by eprivateclient for several years in a row.

Mei-Ling McNab, Partner and joint Head of Family, said the recognition

was a testament to the strength of the team, adding: “Clients are at the heart of everything we do, so it’s incredible to be recognised for this hard work by being shortlisted for such a prestigious award. This is evidence to just how focused the team is on providing an outstanding quality of legal service to our clients through our collaborative teamwork.”

Mark Leeson, Partner and joint Head of Family, added: “We know that it is this quality of the service we provide to clients that will make us really stand out as a firm, which this shortlist in the Family Law Awards demonstrates.”

Movers and Shakers The judging panel was made up of 12 highly regarded industry experts, including representatives of the Family Law Bar Association, Resolution, the Association of Lawyers for Children, and CILEx along with Family Law editors and publishing executives. Judges used the following criteria to base their decision for the shortlisted firms: • Quality of legal services offered

• Recent reported cases in which the firm had acted • Pro bono initiatives or services benefiting the local community • Range of training and career progression of employees

The winners will be selected by an independent judging panel and announced at a ceremony at the Ballroom Southbank in London, on 27 November.

FIRMS ANNOUNCE INCORPORATION As part of Hatten Wyatt’s expansion plans, it has announced that Bailey & Cogger Solicitors of Tonbridge has incorporated with the business.

Now with five offices across Kent, incorporating the team at Bailey & Cogger will ensure clients receive the most comprehensive and specialist legal advice from each of the offices, whilst maintaining their local presence and expertise.

A firm of 17 staff, Bailey & Cogger is a thriving high street legal practice with clients across Kent, Sussex and further afield.

Mirroring that of the values and services provided by Hatten Wyatt, they act on behalf of local businesses and individuals, offering an extensive range of legal services from conveyancing to family law, to an outstanding standard.

Based in a former bank building on Tonbridge high street, the firm holds a well-founded presence within the community and is well respected by clients throughout Tonbridge and its surrounding areas.

Hatten Wyatt now offers ten partners and more than 80 staff across its own offices in Gravesend, Morlings Solicitors in Maidstone, Pengelly & Rylands in Tenterden, Stephens & Son in Chatham and now, Bailey & Cogger in Tonbridge.

Senior Partner Graham Beach LLB and Partner Jeremy Woodford, are both thrilled to be joining under the umbrella of Hatten Wyatt and are excited to expand their offering to clients.

Jasvinder Singh Gill, Senior Partner at Hatten Wyatt since 2003, said: “We are overjoyed to welcome Bailey & Cogger into Hatten Wyatt. Both firms work to the same set of values and have a clear vision of what they want for the future and for their clients.

Mr Beach said: “Incorporating Bailey & Cogger with Hatten Wyatt means we will be able to give our clients access to a much wider range of legal expertise, whilst maintaining our local, friendly, but business-like approach. Feedback from both staff and clients has been extremely positive thus far and we are excited to see what the future has in store for the firm.”

Thomas Hall joins Brachers as Chief Operating Officer

Leading Kent law firm Brachers has announced that Thomas Hall has joined the firm as Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Thomas will work alongside the managing partner and board to achieve the firm’s strategic initiatives to help drive growth and change.

He took up the new position on 1 July, following six years at international law firm, Eversheds Sutherland LLP.

“Expansion of the group ultimately means we are able to provide a greater remit of legal services to communities across Kent, and we look forward to the knowledge and expertise that Bailey & Cogger will bring.”

For a full and detailed list of all services offered, please visit www.hatten-wyatt.com Managing Partner to drive commercial decisions and improve profitability.

Managing partner, Joanna Worby, said: “Brachers is excited to welcome Thomas to our team and is fortunate to have the benefit of his experience and expertise. We are an ambitious firm and want to be renowned for our people, performance and relationships, as well as be the best we possibly can.”

Moving back to the UK in 2016, Thomas took on the role as Head of Finance Change, driving global digital finance transformation and process improvement at Eversheds Sutherland working closely with the Finance Director. Qualified with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), Thomas also has a PRINCE2 project management certification.

Thomas has worked in both the finance and legal sectors and has a keen interest in technology. He joined Eversheds Sutherland as a Senior Performance and Planning Manager before moving to Hong Kong as Regional Head of Finance where he worked closely with the Asia

Thomas said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me to share my skills and experience with my new Brachers colleagues and I look forward to being a positive asset to the firm and our clients, as well as helping drive further innovation within the organisation.”

Chamber Charity of the Year

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Fellgrove Fellgrove Fellgrove Unit 75, Canterbury Canterbury Innovation Unit Innovationcentre centre Unit 75, Canterbury Innovation centre University Way University University CanterburyWay Canterbury Canterbury Kent Kent Kent CT2 7FG 7FG w: 01227 806547 CT2 w:fellgrove.co.uk fellgrove.co.uk t: t: 01227 806547e: info@fellgrove.co.uk e: info@fellgrove.co.uk CT2 7FG w: fellgrove.co.uk t: 01227 806547 e: info@fellgrove.co.uk

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t: +44 1732 700 700 e: shambala@heverhotel.co.uk shambalaspa.co.uk

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